Glomerulonephritis Glomeruli is the name of tiny filters present in the kidneys that are responsible for removing waste materials and excess of fluid from the blood. As the unwanted particles passes through these filters (glomeruli) it becomes the essential part for the function of kidney. If there is swelling of glomeruli it disrupts the normal purification function done by the kidneys thereby causing more damage to it.
Glomerulonephritis is the inflammation (swelling) of tiny filters called glomeruli of the kidneys that interrupt its normal function. There are many conditions and illness that can cause glomerulonephritis. It needs to be treated promptly failing which it can cause damage to your kidneys.
Symptoms :
Glomerulonephritis can occur suddenly (acute) or as a gradual process (chronic). If there is direct damage to the filters or glomeruli it is called as primary glomerulonephritis. In case if the functions of filters get blocked due to long-term diabetes or other illnesses, it is secondary glomerulonephritis. Signs and symptoms of this disease differ as per its type. It can cause fluid retention in your body leading to swelling of legs, face and hands.
The color of the urine may be dark brown or pink indicating presence of red blood cells in it. For some people, urine can become foamy due to proteinuria (excess of protein). It can cause increase in blood pressure and extreme tiredness. Chronic form of glomerulonephritis would proceed silently causing no symptoms. This type can also cause high blood pressure, excess of urination during night time, swelling of face, foamy urine and abdominal pain.
Causes :
For some people, exact cause of glomerulonephritis is not known, and it is idiopathic. Infectious diseases can affect the filters causing inflammation of glomeruli. People who have got strep throat infection or skin infection can develop glomerulonephritis, due to excess of antibodies produced by the immune system. Children with low immunity have chance to get streptococcal glomerulonephritis quickly.
For some people bacteria can gain entry into the blood causing heart problems like endocarditis. This problem can create inflammation of glomeruli. Glomerulonephritis can be caused due to viral infections like HIV or hepatitis B infection. Chronic inflammatory diseases like systemic lupus can affect your kidneys. Similarly, Goodpasture’s syndrome and IgA nephropathy can cause glomerulonephritis. Some kinds of vascular disorders like polyarteritis and Wegener granulomatosis can cause this problem.
Tiny filters of glomeruli can get scarred due to hypertension and prolonged diabetes also. In severe cases glomerulonephritis can cause acute kidney failure or chronic kidney problems and high blood pressuer. Too much of protein discharge in urine can lead to nephritic syndrome.
Tests :
For some people, chronic glomerulonephritis is detected during urine analysis done for other reasons. If there are signs of dark urine or frequent urination your doctor may request for complete urine test, blood test (to check the levels of creatinine), and imaging tests like X-ray or CT scan of kidneys and kidney biopsy.
Treatment :
The method of treatment differs according to the type of glomerulonephritis and severity of symptoms. Some types of glomerulonephritis caused due to strep infection would resolve without any treatment whereas other types may need antibiotics. In case high blood pressure is the root cause for the problem, your doctor would prescribe suitable diuretics and ACE inhibitors for managing it.
For managing lupus and similar chronic conditions, corticosteroids are prescribed. For treating Goodpasture’s syndrome, a special method is used for removing antibodies from the blood which is then replaced with suitable plasma from the donor. Only for final stages of kidney failure, dialysis and transplant surgery is done.
Lifestyle Changes :
For people diagnosed with glomerulonephritis, follow the instructions of your dietician with regard to salt intake. Limit the intake of potassium and protein contents in food. Manage your weight and blood pressure. Do regular exercises.
Showing posts with label Lifestyle Changes. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Lifestyle Changes. Show all posts
Monday, March 30, 2015
Aortic Aneurysm
Aortic Aneurysm Though aneurysm can occur in any blood vessel of the body, it often develops in aorta. Aorta is the largest blood vessel artery in the body that transports oxygenated blood from the heart to all parts of the body. Obviously since it carries volumes of blood each minute, weak spots can develop in the artery. Aortic aneurysm can develop either in thoracic cavity or abdominal cavity. The weakened area of the artery forms a bulge resembling a bag like structure which is filled with blood. In rare cases, this bag ruptures tearing away the arterial wall to empty the blood into the tissue.
Thoracic aortic aneurysm can develop in the upper portion of the chest and abdominal aneurysm can occur in any part of the abdomen. Generally aortic aneurysm of small size does not cause any threat. But if its size is large there are more chances for the aneurysm to rupture and dissect the artery wall. Sometimes plaque like substance gets accumulated in the site of aneurysm which would further weaken the wall of artery. There is chance for the formation of blood clot or thrombosis which can dislodge from the original spot causing complications. Large sized aneurysm can exert pressure to the neighboring organs causing pain.
Causes :
Symptoms :
Generally small sized aortic aneurysms show no symptoms. Aneurysms can cause symptoms only if the size is large or it has ruptured. In such cases, it can cause chest pain, pain in the shoulder or arms, shortness of breath, repeated cough, hoarseness in voice, difficulty in swallowing, and in severe cases shock or even stroke.
You should seek immediate medical attention if you have severe chest pain, back pain with shortness of breath. If the thoracic aneurysm has ruptured inside it can cause symptoms like trouble in breathing, sudden intense chest pain, reduced blood pressure, loss of consciousness and difficulty in speaking and even paralysis.
Tests :
Small aneurysms often go undetected and sometimes get noticed during other medical tests. Your doctor can diagnose aortic aneurysm by chest X-ray, echocardiogram and CT scan. In case if aneurysm runs in your family, you can screen for thoracic or abdominal aneurysm by doing regular imaging tests and echocardiogram.
Treatment :
It is enough for you to keep a wait full watch if you are diagnosed with small sized aortic aneurysm. Your doctor may do regular screening and echo test to check if the aneurysm has grown bigger in size. No medications are required to be given. For streamlining blood pressure your doctor may prescribe angiotensin inhibitors like Diovan or Olmesartan and Beta blockers like metoprolol. Statins like atorvastatin or lovastatin are effective in controlling cholesterol level in blood.
If the size of aneurysm is large (more than 6 cm) your doctor may consider operating it. It can be done through various procedures. In open heart surgery the surgeon would remove the damaged portion of the aorta and replace it with graft. In endovascular surgery, a synthetic graft is attached to one end of the catheter which is sent through one of the major arteries of your leg into the damaged aorta. Subsequently this graft is placed at the weak spot and tied with suitable pins. This graft would prevent further bulging of aneurysm and rupturing. Depending on the factors like age, health condition and complications of aneurysm, your doctor would decide whether you are suitable for surgery.
Lifestyle Changes :
You should follow the instructions of your doctor with regard to exercise and diet, once you are detected with aortic aneurysm. Do not lift heavy weight or engage in vigorous exercise since it can put additional pressure on the weak spots of aneurysm.
You need to keep blood pressure under control by taking regular medications prescribed by your doctor. If you are smoking or drinking quit these habits. Take cholesterol free diet and include plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables daily. Go for regular screening tests as advised by your doctor.
Thoracic aortic aneurysm can develop in the upper portion of the chest and abdominal aneurysm can occur in any part of the abdomen. Generally aortic aneurysm of small size does not cause any threat. But if its size is large there are more chances for the aneurysm to rupture and dissect the artery wall. Sometimes plaque like substance gets accumulated in the site of aneurysm which would further weaken the wall of artery. There is chance for the formation of blood clot or thrombosis which can dislodge from the original spot causing complications. Large sized aneurysm can exert pressure to the neighboring organs causing pain.
Causes :
- Exact cause of aortic aneurysm is not known.
- Building up of plaque like particles (atherosclerosis) can harden the arteries and they become stiff and eventually bulge and break.
- Having high blood pressure and increased cholesterol level can cause formation of aortic aneurysm.
- People with connective tissue problems like Marfan syndrome are at risk of developing aortic aneurysm.
- Individuals with leakage in heart valves have high risk of getting thoracic aortic aneurysm. People with prolonged infection like syphilis or salmonella can develop aortic aneurysm.
- Local trauma or injury to the artery during vehicle accident can cause weak spots on the artery which gradually develops into aneurysm.
Symptoms :
Generally small sized aortic aneurysms show no symptoms. Aneurysms can cause symptoms only if the size is large or it has ruptured. In such cases, it can cause chest pain, pain in the shoulder or arms, shortness of breath, repeated cough, hoarseness in voice, difficulty in swallowing, and in severe cases shock or even stroke.
You should seek immediate medical attention if you have severe chest pain, back pain with shortness of breath. If the thoracic aneurysm has ruptured inside it can cause symptoms like trouble in breathing, sudden intense chest pain, reduced blood pressure, loss of consciousness and difficulty in speaking and even paralysis.
Tests :
Small aneurysms often go undetected and sometimes get noticed during other medical tests. Your doctor can diagnose aortic aneurysm by chest X-ray, echocardiogram and CT scan. In case if aneurysm runs in your family, you can screen for thoracic or abdominal aneurysm by doing regular imaging tests and echocardiogram.
Treatment :
It is enough for you to keep a wait full watch if you are diagnosed with small sized aortic aneurysm. Your doctor may do regular screening and echo test to check if the aneurysm has grown bigger in size. No medications are required to be given. For streamlining blood pressure your doctor may prescribe angiotensin inhibitors like Diovan or Olmesartan and Beta blockers like metoprolol. Statins like atorvastatin or lovastatin are effective in controlling cholesterol level in blood.
If the size of aneurysm is large (more than 6 cm) your doctor may consider operating it. It can be done through various procedures. In open heart surgery the surgeon would remove the damaged portion of the aorta and replace it with graft. In endovascular surgery, a synthetic graft is attached to one end of the catheter which is sent through one of the major arteries of your leg into the damaged aorta. Subsequently this graft is placed at the weak spot and tied with suitable pins. This graft would prevent further bulging of aneurysm and rupturing. Depending on the factors like age, health condition and complications of aneurysm, your doctor would decide whether you are suitable for surgery.
Lifestyle Changes :
You should follow the instructions of your doctor with regard to exercise and diet, once you are detected with aortic aneurysm. Do not lift heavy weight or engage in vigorous exercise since it can put additional pressure on the weak spots of aneurysm.
You need to keep blood pressure under control by taking regular medications prescribed by your doctor. If you are smoking or drinking quit these habits. Take cholesterol free diet and include plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables daily. Go for regular screening tests as advised by your doctor.
Tuesday, June 10, 2014
Lupus Rash
Lupus Rash Lupus rash is a type of autoimmune disorder in which the body’s own immune system will attack and destroy tissues and organs. Inflammation of the skin occurs in many parts of the body affecting every joint. Lupus rash is characterized by the presence of distinctive rashes on the face resembling a butterfly. The shape of the rash may be similar to that of the wings of the butterfly and is present on both the cheeks.
Most of the cases diagnosed with lupus will not have any major problem except for minor discomfort. In rare cases, lupus can affect vital organs significantly causing lifelong disability. It can impair the functions of kidneys, brain and even the heart making life more serious. There is no specific treatment for lupus rash but the symptoms can be managed by effective medications.
Types :
Two kinds of lupus rash are being recognized :
One is discoid lupus DLE and it affects the skin that is overly exposed to powerful ultra violet rays of the sun. It causes skin lesions and leaves scars on the surface of the skin after it has healed completely.
Second type of lupus is systemic lupus erythematosus which is very serious. It can affect the functions of internal organs and it produces the distinctive symptom of butterfly shaped rashes on the cheeks. The connective tissues of the various joints and muscles are badly damaged and in some cases it can also affect the membranes of the lungs and heart and even the brain. It will not spare blood vessels also. This type can cause painful lesions on the skin more on the fingers. The normal blood flow to the extremities can get seriously affected causing numbness on the toes and fingers.
Symptoms :
An individual affected with lupus rash may not have the same signs like that of other person. The symptoms may flare on certain periods and remission follows immediately. The intensity of the symptom can vary certainly on the extent of weakened immunity and also on the part of the body which has been affected.
Some of the common signs of lupus rash are fever, joint pain, stiffness on the joints, butterfly shaped rashes on the cheeks, lesions on the skin, pain on the fingers and toes (more during winter time) and fatigue. They become extremely sensitive to sunlight and can cause unexplained weight loss. It can cause chest pain, painful sores on the mouth and throat and enlargement of lymph nodes on the throat and mouth. Some people may get severe headache, loss of memory and confusion of thoughts if the brain tissues are affected by lupus.
Causes :
Exact cause of lupus remains a mystery. It is an autoimmune disease in which the body’s immune system will attack its own tissues and muscles. It can be due to hormone imbalance, genetic factor and also due to environmental factor. An individual with a history of lupus rash from his parents is predisposed for inheriting this disorder.
A person who is overly exposed to sunlight can develop lupus rash. Similarly a person who is consuming neurological medications for managing seizure can also get lupus. Lupus affects more number of women than men for reasons unknown. People who are in the age group of 15-40 years have increased risk for developing lupus. This disease is common in certain race like Hispanics, African American and Asians.
Complications :
In severe cases, lupus can infect the kidneys leading to renal failure. In some cases, the tissues surrounding the brain are affected causing various brain related problems. Lung inflammation is common among people who have lupus rash for long period. Having lupus rash for long time puts you under high risk for getting various infectious diseases and even cancer. Pregnant women suffering from lupus can develop complications of preterm birth.
Diagnosis :
It is difficult to diagnose lupus rash since the symptoms are vague and similar to other diseases. After considering the symptoms of the patient, the doctor may order for complete blood test for measuring the RBC, WBC and platelets. It is useful for find the erythrocyte sedimentation rate.
He would also check whether the kidney and liver functions are normal to ensure that lupus has not affected any vital organ. Increased level of protein in urine indicates lupus has affected kidneys. Your doctor may also ask for imaging tests like X-ray of the chest to rule out lung inflammation and for Echo to assess the function of the heart.
Treatment :
The mode of treatment is not the same for all people affected with lupus rash. Your doctor will decide the course of treatment depending on the intensity of the symptoms and your health condition. Anti-inflammatory medications (non-steroid) like Ibuprofen or naproxen is prescribed for getting relief from pain and fever. Hydroxychloroquine is also a good medicine for controlling lupus.
For more severe cases, corticosteroids are prescribed but this would produce some undesirable effects if continued for long term. Since the disease is caused by weakened immunity immunosuppressant like cytoxan, imuran and arava are prescribed.
Pictures of Lupus Rash :
Images, Pics, Pictures and Photos of Lupus Rash
Lifestyle Changes :
Lupus rash is not a simple disease that can be managed overnight. It takes enough time for the medications to control the symptoms. Flaring and remissions are common with lupus and hence one has to bear with it. Get enough rest as and when you require it since you may become extremely tired due to weakened immunity. Avoid going out in hot sun since it can worsen your skin condition. Eat a well balanced diet and do regular exercises to get enough strength to fight the disease.
Some people are using alternative medicine like flaxseed, fish-oil and dehydro-epiandro-sterone for managing flare-ups. It may be a shock to know that you have lupus, but try to understand that you are not alone. Know more information about the disease and identify the period of remissions and flare-ups. Find a support group and stay connected with them.
Most of the cases diagnosed with lupus will not have any major problem except for minor discomfort. In rare cases, lupus can affect vital organs significantly causing lifelong disability. It can impair the functions of kidneys, brain and even the heart making life more serious. There is no specific treatment for lupus rash but the symptoms can be managed by effective medications.
Types :
Two kinds of lupus rash are being recognized :
One is discoid lupus DLE and it affects the skin that is overly exposed to powerful ultra violet rays of the sun. It causes skin lesions and leaves scars on the surface of the skin after it has healed completely.
Second type of lupus is systemic lupus erythematosus which is very serious. It can affect the functions of internal organs and it produces the distinctive symptom of butterfly shaped rashes on the cheeks. The connective tissues of the various joints and muscles are badly damaged and in some cases it can also affect the membranes of the lungs and heart and even the brain. It will not spare blood vessels also. This type can cause painful lesions on the skin more on the fingers. The normal blood flow to the extremities can get seriously affected causing numbness on the toes and fingers.
Symptoms :
An individual affected with lupus rash may not have the same signs like that of other person. The symptoms may flare on certain periods and remission follows immediately. The intensity of the symptom can vary certainly on the extent of weakened immunity and also on the part of the body which has been affected.
Some of the common signs of lupus rash are fever, joint pain, stiffness on the joints, butterfly shaped rashes on the cheeks, lesions on the skin, pain on the fingers and toes (more during winter time) and fatigue. They become extremely sensitive to sunlight and can cause unexplained weight loss. It can cause chest pain, painful sores on the mouth and throat and enlargement of lymph nodes on the throat and mouth. Some people may get severe headache, loss of memory and confusion of thoughts if the brain tissues are affected by lupus.
Causes :
Exact cause of lupus remains a mystery. It is an autoimmune disease in which the body’s immune system will attack its own tissues and muscles. It can be due to hormone imbalance, genetic factor and also due to environmental factor. An individual with a history of lupus rash from his parents is predisposed for inheriting this disorder.
A person who is overly exposed to sunlight can develop lupus rash. Similarly a person who is consuming neurological medications for managing seizure can also get lupus. Lupus affects more number of women than men for reasons unknown. People who are in the age group of 15-40 years have increased risk for developing lupus. This disease is common in certain race like Hispanics, African American and Asians.
Complications :
In severe cases, lupus can infect the kidneys leading to renal failure. In some cases, the tissues surrounding the brain are affected causing various brain related problems. Lung inflammation is common among people who have lupus rash for long period. Having lupus rash for long time puts you under high risk for getting various infectious diseases and even cancer. Pregnant women suffering from lupus can develop complications of preterm birth.
Diagnosis :
It is difficult to diagnose lupus rash since the symptoms are vague and similar to other diseases. After considering the symptoms of the patient, the doctor may order for complete blood test for measuring the RBC, WBC and platelets. It is useful for find the erythrocyte sedimentation rate.
He would also check whether the kidney and liver functions are normal to ensure that lupus has not affected any vital organ. Increased level of protein in urine indicates lupus has affected kidneys. Your doctor may also ask for imaging tests like X-ray of the chest to rule out lung inflammation and for Echo to assess the function of the heart.
Treatment :
The mode of treatment is not the same for all people affected with lupus rash. Your doctor will decide the course of treatment depending on the intensity of the symptoms and your health condition. Anti-inflammatory medications (non-steroid) like Ibuprofen or naproxen is prescribed for getting relief from pain and fever. Hydroxychloroquine is also a good medicine for controlling lupus.
For more severe cases, corticosteroids are prescribed but this would produce some undesirable effects if continued for long term. Since the disease is caused by weakened immunity immunosuppressant like cytoxan, imuran and arava are prescribed.
Pictures of Lupus Rash :
Images, Pics, Pictures and Photos of Lupus Rash
Lifestyle Changes :
Lupus rash is not a simple disease that can be managed overnight. It takes enough time for the medications to control the symptoms. Flaring and remissions are common with lupus and hence one has to bear with it. Get enough rest as and when you require it since you may become extremely tired due to weakened immunity. Avoid going out in hot sun since it can worsen your skin condition. Eat a well balanced diet and do regular exercises to get enough strength to fight the disease.
Some people are using alternative medicine like flaxseed, fish-oil and dehydro-epiandro-sterone for managing flare-ups. It may be a shock to know that you have lupus, but try to understand that you are not alone. Know more information about the disease and identify the period of remissions and flare-ups. Find a support group and stay connected with them.
Tuesday, April 1, 2014
Mental Illness
Mental Illness “Mental illness” is the general term given to various kinds of mental disorders that affect the thinking and behavior of a person. It can be anything ranging from mild anxiety to most severe forms of schizophrenia. Some types of mental illness can seriously affect the quality of your life disturbing your relationships in office and in your family. Any medical condition that affects the normal functioning of thinking and feeling interrupting the daily activities can be called as mental illness. A mental illness can make life miserable by causing problems and affecting relationships at office or family.
Some of the common mental illness is bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, eating disorder, major depression, panic disorder and anxiety disorder. It is possible to cure all illnesses with continued medications or psychotherapy.
Causes :
What exactly causes mental illness is still a mystery. Certain conditions or combination of factors can produce such illness according to the opinion of medical experts. Genetics play a role in causing mental illness because certain types of disorders run in families and passed on from parents to their offspring. Genes are the fundamental units that decide how you think and act in a given situation.
Biological factors like abnormal functioning of neurotransmitters can affect the normal thinking of a person causing mental illness. Neurotransmitters act as communication receptors of the brain sending and receiving signals. Any change or chemical reactions in the neurotransmitters can affect normal thinking pattern. Psychological factors like child abuse, emotional trauma or sudden loss/death can affect the brain causing mental illness.
Symptoms :
Symptoms of mental illness are not the same for all disorders. It varies considerably according to the nature and intensity of the disorder. For example depression can produce sadness, anxiety disorder can produce restlessness and excessive fears, borderline personality disorder can impair the normal thinking causing poor concentration and confused thinking, avoidant personality disorder can produce social phobia and anxiety, eating disorder can produce major changes in one’s eating habits etc.
Some of the common symptoms of mental illness include extreme mood swings, excess of fear/worries, guilt feelings, withdrawal from family/friends, confused thinking, change in behavior, detachment from reality, hypersensitivity, loss of sleep and extreme tiredness. In many cases mental illness can cause physiological changes causing headache, back pain and unexplained pain on many parts of the body.
When to see a doctor?
Any feeling or behavior affecting normal functioning of life can be mental illness. Mental illness can become worse if not treated on time. Most of the personality disorder and other illnesses can be treated by effective psychotherapy. Some people can develop suicidal thoughts due to major depression. Nonverbal communication and body language can reveal their intention of committing suicide. In such cases it is necessary to consult your doctor immediately.
Who are at risk?
Any person can develop mental illness. But there are certain factors which make you prone to mental illness. Having parents or close relatives with schizophrenia or other disorder, exposure of fetus to drug abuse or excess of alcohol in the womb, experiencing traumatic childhood, getting neglected as a child, serious injury on the brain and having chronic physical illness like cancer/AIDS etc. makes one prone to develop mental illness.
Tests :
Your doctor may get complete medical history and order for few lab tests including blood profile, hormone tests etc. He may refer you to mental health provider for evaluating the nature of disorder. Psychologists or therapists would ask you series of questions and determine about your state of mind by the way in which you are answering them.
Types :
Treatment :
Psychiatrist or psychologist will examine the concerned person and check the severity of the illness. Treatment methods vary according to the nature of disease and intensity of the mental illness. Often, combination of medications and psychotherapy is effective in treating many disorders.
Medications are given depending on the symptoms of the patient. Antidepressant drugs are given for treating symptoms of hopelessness, helplessness and lack of interest. Mood stabilizing drugs are given for bipolar disorder, anxiety medications are useful for giving relief from irrational fear and anxiety and antipsychotic drugs are given for controlling more serious forms of mental illness like schizophrenia.
Psychotherapy :
Most of the mental illness responds well to psychotherapy. A therapist will make you talk freely about your inner feelings giving let-out for the pent up feelings to explore problems in inner mind. The therapist will establish rapport with the client making him/her comfortable so that he can ventilate the feelings without any inhibition. She would use total relaxation technique and psychoanalysis to explore your inner state of mind. Slowly the client will be able to overcome the stress and learn the ways to cope up with the problem. Even serious types of mental illness like phobias and anxiety can be treated by psychotherapy.
For some people doctor would use brain stimulation methods like electroconvulsive therapy and magnetic stimulation methods. For more severe cases, the patient will be hospitalized requiring residential treatment. To recover from alcohol or substance abuse, combined treatments of medications and psychotherapy is given.
Lifestyle Changes :
It is difficult to accept that you have some problem. But you can get well soon if you cooperate with your family/friends to overcome the issue. Follow the instructions of your doctor/therapist and stick on to the treatment schedule. Do exercises regularly and eat healthy foods. Go for a walk or join a gym to stay healthy and active. Don’t stop any medication without consulting your doctor. If you are not able to make important decisions get help from your family or friends. Be optimistic in approach and try to accept changes.
Prevention :
Nobody can prevent mental illness. It is not certain that mental illness develops only on weak-minded person and not on others. Some changes in chemical reaction on the brain can cause significant changes in your thinking and behavior. Don’t ignore warning signals if you suspect any symptoms. Talk to your therapist freely and get medical checkups done regularly.
Some of the common mental illness is bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, eating disorder, major depression, panic disorder and anxiety disorder. It is possible to cure all illnesses with continued medications or psychotherapy.
Causes :
What exactly causes mental illness is still a mystery. Certain conditions or combination of factors can produce such illness according to the opinion of medical experts. Genetics play a role in causing mental illness because certain types of disorders run in families and passed on from parents to their offspring. Genes are the fundamental units that decide how you think and act in a given situation.
Biological factors like abnormal functioning of neurotransmitters can affect the normal thinking of a person causing mental illness. Neurotransmitters act as communication receptors of the brain sending and receiving signals. Any change or chemical reactions in the neurotransmitters can affect normal thinking pattern. Psychological factors like child abuse, emotional trauma or sudden loss/death can affect the brain causing mental illness.
Symptoms :
Symptoms of mental illness are not the same for all disorders. It varies considerably according to the nature and intensity of the disorder. For example depression can produce sadness, anxiety disorder can produce restlessness and excessive fears, borderline personality disorder can impair the normal thinking causing poor concentration and confused thinking, avoidant personality disorder can produce social phobia and anxiety, eating disorder can produce major changes in one’s eating habits etc.
Some of the common symptoms of mental illness include extreme mood swings, excess of fear/worries, guilt feelings, withdrawal from family/friends, confused thinking, change in behavior, detachment from reality, hypersensitivity, loss of sleep and extreme tiredness. In many cases mental illness can cause physiological changes causing headache, back pain and unexplained pain on many parts of the body.
When to see a doctor?
Any feeling or behavior affecting normal functioning of life can be mental illness. Mental illness can become worse if not treated on time. Most of the personality disorder and other illnesses can be treated by effective psychotherapy. Some people can develop suicidal thoughts due to major depression. Nonverbal communication and body language can reveal their intention of committing suicide. In such cases it is necessary to consult your doctor immediately.
Who are at risk?
Any person can develop mental illness. But there are certain factors which make you prone to mental illness. Having parents or close relatives with schizophrenia or other disorder, exposure of fetus to drug abuse or excess of alcohol in the womb, experiencing traumatic childhood, getting neglected as a child, serious injury on the brain and having chronic physical illness like cancer/AIDS etc. makes one prone to develop mental illness.
Tests :
Your doctor may get complete medical history and order for few lab tests including blood profile, hormone tests etc. He may refer you to mental health provider for evaluating the nature of disorder. Psychologists or therapists would ask you series of questions and determine about your state of mind by the way in which you are answering them.
Types :
- Mental illnesses are of many types with varying intensity.
- Mood disorders are one that affect your thinking, behavior and emotions like major depression, bipolar disorder etc.
- Anxiety disorders are one that causes frequent worries, fears and uncomfortable feeling like panic disorder, OCD and phobias.
- Disorder caused by substance/drug/alcohol abuse.
- Psychotic disorders are one that causes delusions and hallucination affecting daily activity of a person. Example: schizophrenia that makes one to lose touch with reality.
- Cognitive disorder that affects one’s reasoning ability and thinking like dementia and delirium and Alzheimer’s disease.
- Developmental disorders (autism/ADHD), personality disorders (paranoid personality, avoidant personality) and other disorders can also seriously affect one’s quality of life.
Treatment :
Psychiatrist or psychologist will examine the concerned person and check the severity of the illness. Treatment methods vary according to the nature of disease and intensity of the mental illness. Often, combination of medications and psychotherapy is effective in treating many disorders.
Medications are given depending on the symptoms of the patient. Antidepressant drugs are given for treating symptoms of hopelessness, helplessness and lack of interest. Mood stabilizing drugs are given for bipolar disorder, anxiety medications are useful for giving relief from irrational fear and anxiety and antipsychotic drugs are given for controlling more serious forms of mental illness like schizophrenia.
Psychotherapy :
Most of the mental illness responds well to psychotherapy. A therapist will make you talk freely about your inner feelings giving let-out for the pent up feelings to explore problems in inner mind. The therapist will establish rapport with the client making him/her comfortable so that he can ventilate the feelings without any inhibition. She would use total relaxation technique and psychoanalysis to explore your inner state of mind. Slowly the client will be able to overcome the stress and learn the ways to cope up with the problem. Even serious types of mental illness like phobias and anxiety can be treated by psychotherapy.
For some people doctor would use brain stimulation methods like electroconvulsive therapy and magnetic stimulation methods. For more severe cases, the patient will be hospitalized requiring residential treatment. To recover from alcohol or substance abuse, combined treatments of medications and psychotherapy is given.
Lifestyle Changes :
It is difficult to accept that you have some problem. But you can get well soon if you cooperate with your family/friends to overcome the issue. Follow the instructions of your doctor/therapist and stick on to the treatment schedule. Do exercises regularly and eat healthy foods. Go for a walk or join a gym to stay healthy and active. Don’t stop any medication without consulting your doctor. If you are not able to make important decisions get help from your family or friends. Be optimistic in approach and try to accept changes.
Prevention :
Nobody can prevent mental illness. It is not certain that mental illness develops only on weak-minded person and not on others. Some changes in chemical reaction on the brain can cause significant changes in your thinking and behavior. Don’t ignore warning signals if you suspect any symptoms. Talk to your therapist freely and get medical checkups done regularly.
Monday, March 17, 2014
What is Multiple Sclerosis
What is Multiple Sclerosis Myelin is the outer protective sheath covering the nerves in your body. When the body’s immune system gets affected it destroys this outer layer of the nervous system thereby disturbing the communication signals between the brain and other parts of the body. This condition is called as multiple sclerosis. It is a potentially serious disorder and the effect of this disease can cause irreversible damage to the nerves. People affected with multiple sclerosis may have difficulty in speaking and walking. In some cases, the disorder would affect the normal thinking ability of the person concerned. This disorder cannot be cured but the symptoms can be managed with medications and therapy.
Once the outer protective sheath covering the nerves is destroyed it exposes the underlying nerves. The body’s immune system destroys the nerves forming plaque like tissues on the brain which is known as sclerosis. Hence this disorder is called multiple sclerosis. The process of destroying the myelin sheath is known as demyelination. Once the myelin sheath is destroyed the brain cannot transmit the signals as before causing various problems.
Symptoms :
Some of the common symptoms of multiple sclerosis include tingling sensation or numbness in the limbs, partial loss of vision/pain while moving the eyes, blurred vision or double vision, intense shock like sensation while making head movements, slurred speech, and difficulty in walking, fatigue, and lack of coordinated thinking, loss of balance, dizziness and extreme heat sensitivity.
The symptoms of multiple sclerosis may vary depending on the extent of damage caused to the nerves. Some people may have benign type of multiple sclerosis wherein the symptoms are mild and will not progress. For some others, the symptoms get worse within few months or even weeks. Very often, the initial symptoms of multiple sclerosis begin as tingling sensation in limbs or a burning pain in some part of the body. Most of them will have bladder problems compelling one to visit the restroom often.
Causes :
Multiple sclerosis occurs due to the damage caused to the myelin sheath (outer protective layer of the nerves). When the myelin sheath gets affected it leads to the formation of plaque like tissue on the nerves making it difficult to transmit signals from the brain. This causes unusual delay in communicating signals from the brain leading to abnormal symptoms.
Genetics play a role in causing multiple sclerosis since it can be inherited by birth. Research indicates that certain viruses like Epstein Barr and Varicella Zoster is likely to cause MS but this theory is not proved. What exactly triggers auto-destruction of myelin sheath is not known clearly.
Risk Factors :
People of age group 20-40 are more prone to develop multiple sclerosis than elderly adults. The number of women affected with multiple sclerosis is double when compared with men. This disorder tends to run in families and the person has more chance for developing multiple sclerosis if one of the parents has this problem.
A person affected with infectious diseases like Epstein Barr virus is likely to get multiple sclerosis. This disorder is common in certain geographical regions like Canada, Europe and northern United States. Similarly an individual with autoimmune disorder like diabetes or thyroid problem is more prone to get this disorder. In severe cases, the affected person may develop spasms, paralysis, and serious problems in bladder. Some people may develop forgetfulness and can develop depression or other mental health problems.
Diagnoses :
The doctor will conduct physical exam of the affected person and collect complete medical history from him/her. He may request for diagnostic procedures like blood test, lumbar puncture and imaging tests like CT/MRI scan for detecting any abnormal changes in brain caused by destruction of myelin sheath. Electrical signals transmitted by the brain is measured using evoked potential test to study and diagnose lesions or nerve damage in the spinal cord or optical nerves.
Treatment :
Multiple sclerosis has no cure, but the symptoms of the disorder can be reduced by medications. Drugs like Aubagio, Betaseron, Gilenya, Copaxone and Novantrone can slow down the progression of the disease. These drugs act by suppressing the body’s immune system thereby decreasing the attack on myelin sheath. Many people use these drugs to improve the quality of life and doctors would start with one of the above medications once the patient is diagnosed with multiple sclerosis.
You may not require any treatment if the symptoms are mild. Corticosteroids are commonly prescribed for decreasing the swelling that occurs during a relapse. Prednisone or methylpredinisolone are given depending on the intensity of symptoms. Plasmapheresis is a method by which certain volume of blood is removed from the affected person’s body. The removed blood cells are mixed with replacement solution for plasma exchange and the person is injected to the person again.
This method is highly useful for controlling the relapse in affected people. Beta interferons like Avonex or Betaseron are given to slow down the progress of symptoms thereby reducing the number of attacks. Some doctors use Copaxone in the place of interferons for blocking the immune system that attacks the myelin sheath. There are some side effects of these drugs and hence the health of the patient is to be monitored continuously after this drug therapy is started. Similarly Tysabril is also used for reducing the attacks and is recommended for people who cannot tolerate other drugs.
Immunosuppressant like Mitoxantrone is given to reduce the intensity of symptoms and attacks but this drug can be given only for severe patients since it can produce adverse effect to your heart. Physiotherapy is given for people for improve their walking style. It gives lot of benefit by doing stretching exercises daily for affected people. Ampyra is another drug given for improving the speed of walking but it can cause seizures.
Baclofen or Zanaflex is given for reducing muscle stiffness on your legs. Fatigue can be managed by amantadine. The person affected with severe multiple sclerosis should be under the care of doctor continuously for monitoring any changes in bladder or stomach. Stem cell transplantation is done for many patients for injecting healthy stem cells into their blood.
Alternative Therapies :
Deep brain stimulation is a procedure used for treating people with tremors related with multiple sclerosis. In this method electrodes are placed inside the thalamus region of the brain for stimulating the affected part and destroying the inactivate parts of the brain. This method is advantageous when compared with surgery and the position of stimulation can be adjusted easily without conducting another surgery. The stimulator electrode can be switched off if the patient starts responding to other therapies. The tremor caused by this disorder can be managed by deep brain stimulation.
Acupuncture is effective in treating the symptoms of muscle spasms and bladder related problems. Some remedy can be obtained by taking linoleic acid found in sunflower seeds. The patient affected with MS should maintain healthy balanced diet to prevent bladder control problems.
Lifestyle Changes :
The affected person should get plenty of rest avoiding stressful activities. Doing regular exercises can be beneficial for controlling weight and improving muscle strength. Keep your body cool by running plain water on the wrists or (if possible) stay inside the air-conditioned room since the symptoms of multiple sclerosis may worsen when the body temperature rises. Practice yoga and meditation techniques and listen to music so that it gives you great relief from stress.
Once the outer protective sheath covering the nerves is destroyed it exposes the underlying nerves. The body’s immune system destroys the nerves forming plaque like tissues on the brain which is known as sclerosis. Hence this disorder is called multiple sclerosis. The process of destroying the myelin sheath is known as demyelination. Once the myelin sheath is destroyed the brain cannot transmit the signals as before causing various problems.
Symptoms :
Some of the common symptoms of multiple sclerosis include tingling sensation or numbness in the limbs, partial loss of vision/pain while moving the eyes, blurred vision or double vision, intense shock like sensation while making head movements, slurred speech, and difficulty in walking, fatigue, and lack of coordinated thinking, loss of balance, dizziness and extreme heat sensitivity.
The symptoms of multiple sclerosis may vary depending on the extent of damage caused to the nerves. Some people may have benign type of multiple sclerosis wherein the symptoms are mild and will not progress. For some others, the symptoms get worse within few months or even weeks. Very often, the initial symptoms of multiple sclerosis begin as tingling sensation in limbs or a burning pain in some part of the body. Most of them will have bladder problems compelling one to visit the restroom often.
Causes :
Multiple sclerosis occurs due to the damage caused to the myelin sheath (outer protective layer of the nerves). When the myelin sheath gets affected it leads to the formation of plaque like tissue on the nerves making it difficult to transmit signals from the brain. This causes unusual delay in communicating signals from the brain leading to abnormal symptoms.
Genetics play a role in causing multiple sclerosis since it can be inherited by birth. Research indicates that certain viruses like Epstein Barr and Varicella Zoster is likely to cause MS but this theory is not proved. What exactly triggers auto-destruction of myelin sheath is not known clearly.
Risk Factors :
People of age group 20-40 are more prone to develop multiple sclerosis than elderly adults. The number of women affected with multiple sclerosis is double when compared with men. This disorder tends to run in families and the person has more chance for developing multiple sclerosis if one of the parents has this problem.
A person affected with infectious diseases like Epstein Barr virus is likely to get multiple sclerosis. This disorder is common in certain geographical regions like Canada, Europe and northern United States. Similarly an individual with autoimmune disorder like diabetes or thyroid problem is more prone to get this disorder. In severe cases, the affected person may develop spasms, paralysis, and serious problems in bladder. Some people may develop forgetfulness and can develop depression or other mental health problems.
Diagnoses :
The doctor will conduct physical exam of the affected person and collect complete medical history from him/her. He may request for diagnostic procedures like blood test, lumbar puncture and imaging tests like CT/MRI scan for detecting any abnormal changes in brain caused by destruction of myelin sheath. Electrical signals transmitted by the brain is measured using evoked potential test to study and diagnose lesions or nerve damage in the spinal cord or optical nerves.
Treatment :
Multiple sclerosis has no cure, but the symptoms of the disorder can be reduced by medications. Drugs like Aubagio, Betaseron, Gilenya, Copaxone and Novantrone can slow down the progression of the disease. These drugs act by suppressing the body’s immune system thereby decreasing the attack on myelin sheath. Many people use these drugs to improve the quality of life and doctors would start with one of the above medications once the patient is diagnosed with multiple sclerosis.
You may not require any treatment if the symptoms are mild. Corticosteroids are commonly prescribed for decreasing the swelling that occurs during a relapse. Prednisone or methylpredinisolone are given depending on the intensity of symptoms. Plasmapheresis is a method by which certain volume of blood is removed from the affected person’s body. The removed blood cells are mixed with replacement solution for plasma exchange and the person is injected to the person again.
This method is highly useful for controlling the relapse in affected people. Beta interferons like Avonex or Betaseron are given to slow down the progress of symptoms thereby reducing the number of attacks. Some doctors use Copaxone in the place of interferons for blocking the immune system that attacks the myelin sheath. There are some side effects of these drugs and hence the health of the patient is to be monitored continuously after this drug therapy is started. Similarly Tysabril is also used for reducing the attacks and is recommended for people who cannot tolerate other drugs.
Immunosuppressant like Mitoxantrone is given to reduce the intensity of symptoms and attacks but this drug can be given only for severe patients since it can produce adverse effect to your heart. Physiotherapy is given for people for improve their walking style. It gives lot of benefit by doing stretching exercises daily for affected people. Ampyra is another drug given for improving the speed of walking but it can cause seizures.
Baclofen or Zanaflex is given for reducing muscle stiffness on your legs. Fatigue can be managed by amantadine. The person affected with severe multiple sclerosis should be under the care of doctor continuously for monitoring any changes in bladder or stomach. Stem cell transplantation is done for many patients for injecting healthy stem cells into their blood.
Alternative Therapies :
Deep brain stimulation is a procedure used for treating people with tremors related with multiple sclerosis. In this method electrodes are placed inside the thalamus region of the brain for stimulating the affected part and destroying the inactivate parts of the brain. This method is advantageous when compared with surgery and the position of stimulation can be adjusted easily without conducting another surgery. The stimulator electrode can be switched off if the patient starts responding to other therapies. The tremor caused by this disorder can be managed by deep brain stimulation.
Acupuncture is effective in treating the symptoms of muscle spasms and bladder related problems. Some remedy can be obtained by taking linoleic acid found in sunflower seeds. The patient affected with MS should maintain healthy balanced diet to prevent bladder control problems.
Lifestyle Changes :
The affected person should get plenty of rest avoiding stressful activities. Doing regular exercises can be beneficial for controlling weight and improving muscle strength. Keep your body cool by running plain water on the wrists or (if possible) stay inside the air-conditioned room since the symptoms of multiple sclerosis may worsen when the body temperature rises. Practice yoga and meditation techniques and listen to music so that it gives you great relief from stress.
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