Warts on Tongue Warts are small lesions or bumps that can develop anywhere in the body and even inside the mouth. It can develop on the lips and tongue also but often they are painless and harmless. Tongue warts occur either as single or in groups. They are irregular in shape, size and texture. Warts are tiny and discrete bumps which are rough in shape and white or red in color. Warts on tongue are caused by viral infection and often they are transmitted through oral sex. Treatment is available in various forms from topical creams to laser therapy.
Risk Factors :
Oral warts are at high risk of developing in people who have sexually transmitted diseases. People with weak immunity are more prone to develop warts on tongue than others. Certain ethnic groups like Asians and black people are at high risk of developing oral warts. Those who are involved in meat industry like handling and processing meat are at high risk of developing oral warts. Oral warts are common in any age group but are high in young adults.
Causes :
It is the HPV virus that causes warts on tongue. There are hundreds of strains of human papilloma virus causing oral warts and genital warts. Among them HPV2, HPV13 and HPV32 are identified causing warts on tongue. The main method of spreading is through kissing the genitals. A person having poor genital hygiene can easily transmit the virus to their partners.
Symptoms :
When a person develops warts on tongue he would develop irritation while eating food and there can be difficulty in chewing food. It can cause painful sores on the tongue varying in shape and size. The presence of warts on tongue can cause discomfort and pain to the person. Some people will have problems in speaking due to irritation and discomfort. Warts appear as lesions or raised tiny section on the tongue.
Diagnosis :
No special test is required for detecting oral warts. It can be identified on physical exam.
Treatment :
Treatment of warts on tongue can be difficult due to its tiny size and location on the tongue. Topical creams and antiviral ointments can be applied on the warts which would destroy the virus and prevent further development of warts. Oral medications are given for managing pain and irritation. Some people believe that applying tea tree oil with cotton swab on the wart will destroy the virus gradually. Similarly you can get remedy by rubbing the banana peel or crushed potatoes on the warts for getting relief from irritation. Garlic is considered to have antiseptic properties and hence you can smash some garlic or use garlic paste on the warts to destroy them.
Surgical methods of removing warts include cryotherapy (by freezing the wart with liquid nitrogen), laser therapy (destroying it with laser beam), and injection (by injecting interpheron alpha) and gently cutting and removing it using specially sterilized instruments. Often the warts on tongue would recur on the same person. Avoid pricking or cutting the warts on your own since this can lead to complications of bleeding. Eat only soft and crushed foods that are soothing to the tongue.
Prevention :
You can prevent developing warts on tongue by wearing condoms while doing oral sex. Alternatively you can apply dental dams to prevent such infection. But even the above methods cannot guarantee total protection. You need to avoid having any type of sexual contact with the person having infection.
Showing posts with label Prevention. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Prevention. Show all posts
Monday, March 30, 2015
Avascular Necrosis
Avascular Necrosis Necrosis is the term used for denoting tissue death in the body. Death of tissue can occur due to insufficient blood supply or complete cut-off from blood supply. It can occur due to radiation, sudden injury and exposure to chemicals. The damage caused by necrosis is irreversible. If the tissue death occurs in the bone it is known as Avascular necrosis. It can cause tiny fractures inside the bone which may eventually cause bone collapse.
Blood supply to particular section of a bone would stop leading to avascular necrosis. In some cases the joint of particular bone gets dislocated causing necrosis. This can occur due to prolonged use of steroids and alcoholism. Often, the hip joint is affected by avascular necrosis and sometimes it can affect the upper leg, upper arm or knee bones. Bone needs continuous blood supply since it is a living tissue. Any interruption of blood can cause death of bone tissue. Avascualr necrosis is also called as osteonecrosis or aseptic necrosis.
Symptoms :
Pain in the joint is the only symptom of avascular necrosis. In the initial stages there will not be any sign, but as the disease progresses, the joint may get affected causing intense pain while making movements. Avascular necrosis does not occur overnight. It is a process that happens gradually causing tissue death in the bone. It might take months together or sometimes even a year for tissue death on the bone. It can affect hip joints, shoulder, upper arm or leg and even your foot. Severe pain is felt in the groin or thighs and you can feel the pain in both sides of the body.
Causes :
When normal blood supply to the bone is restricted or slowed down it can cause avascular necrosis. This can happen due to sudden trauma or injury and due to dislocation of joint. People who undergo hip joint surgery are prone to develop avascular necrosis. People who are taking chemo therapy for cancer can develop avascular necrosis since radiation can weaken the bones and joints interrupting regular blood supply.
Chronic (long term) use of corticosteroids is likely to cause avascular necrosis. Over consumption of alcohol can deposit fat particles into the blood vessels thus restricting normal blood flow to the bones. Inflammation on the arteries and blood clots inside can restrict blood supply to the bone leading to avascular necrosis. Certain medical conditions like Gaucher’s disease, pancreatitis, HIV infection and other autoimmune disorders can cause necrosis in bones.
Risk Factors :
Anyone can develop avascular necrosis, but is common in age group of 30-50 years. People who are alcoholic or involved in binge drinking, people who use steroid drugs for long duration and those who take osteoporosis medications like biphosphonates are prone to develop avascular necrosis. Certain medical issues like lupus, HIV, diabetes and autoimmune diseases can trigger avascular necrosis. Undergoing cancer treatment, undergoing dialysis and kidney transplant surgery makes you prone to avascular necrosis.
Tests :
Your doctor will check the affected joint by gently applying pressure over it. He would look for tenderness of joint. He may order for imaging tests like X-ray or bone scanning to get clear picture of tissue death in the bone.
Treatment :
Bone loss that has already occurred cannot be reversed, but by giving timely treatment, you can prevent further damage to the affected joint and bone. Your doctor may prescribe NSAIDs like Aleve or Advil to get quick relief from joint pain and inflammation. Osteoporosis drugs like Fosamax or Binosto can be given to reduce bone loss. Cholesterol controlling medications is given to prevent blood clots in the blood vessels.
For severe cases surgical procedures like bone transplantation, core decompression or osteotomy can be done. This method is effective in strengthening the affected bone. For some people, joint replacement surgery is done using plastic parts.
Home Remedies :
Your doctor may advice you to take complete rest if you have avascular necrosis. You should avoid putting extra pressure on the affected bone or joint to prevent further damage. Practice certain stretching exercises recommended by your therapist to improve the joint motion. Electrical current can be given on the affected bone to promote fresh bone growth.
Prevention :
One cannot prevent avascular necrosis but can reduce the risk factors like drinking excess of alcohol and reducing weight.
Blood supply to particular section of a bone would stop leading to avascular necrosis. In some cases the joint of particular bone gets dislocated causing necrosis. This can occur due to prolonged use of steroids and alcoholism. Often, the hip joint is affected by avascular necrosis and sometimes it can affect the upper leg, upper arm or knee bones. Bone needs continuous blood supply since it is a living tissue. Any interruption of blood can cause death of bone tissue. Avascualr necrosis is also called as osteonecrosis or aseptic necrosis.
Symptoms :
Pain in the joint is the only symptom of avascular necrosis. In the initial stages there will not be any sign, but as the disease progresses, the joint may get affected causing intense pain while making movements. Avascular necrosis does not occur overnight. It is a process that happens gradually causing tissue death in the bone. It might take months together or sometimes even a year for tissue death on the bone. It can affect hip joints, shoulder, upper arm or leg and even your foot. Severe pain is felt in the groin or thighs and you can feel the pain in both sides of the body.
Causes :
When normal blood supply to the bone is restricted or slowed down it can cause avascular necrosis. This can happen due to sudden trauma or injury and due to dislocation of joint. People who undergo hip joint surgery are prone to develop avascular necrosis. People who are taking chemo therapy for cancer can develop avascular necrosis since radiation can weaken the bones and joints interrupting regular blood supply.
Chronic (long term) use of corticosteroids is likely to cause avascular necrosis. Over consumption of alcohol can deposit fat particles into the blood vessels thus restricting normal blood flow to the bones. Inflammation on the arteries and blood clots inside can restrict blood supply to the bone leading to avascular necrosis. Certain medical conditions like Gaucher’s disease, pancreatitis, HIV infection and other autoimmune disorders can cause necrosis in bones.
Risk Factors :
Anyone can develop avascular necrosis, but is common in age group of 30-50 years. People who are alcoholic or involved in binge drinking, people who use steroid drugs for long duration and those who take osteoporosis medications like biphosphonates are prone to develop avascular necrosis. Certain medical issues like lupus, HIV, diabetes and autoimmune diseases can trigger avascular necrosis. Undergoing cancer treatment, undergoing dialysis and kidney transplant surgery makes you prone to avascular necrosis.
Tests :
Your doctor will check the affected joint by gently applying pressure over it. He would look for tenderness of joint. He may order for imaging tests like X-ray or bone scanning to get clear picture of tissue death in the bone.
Treatment :
Bone loss that has already occurred cannot be reversed, but by giving timely treatment, you can prevent further damage to the affected joint and bone. Your doctor may prescribe NSAIDs like Aleve or Advil to get quick relief from joint pain and inflammation. Osteoporosis drugs like Fosamax or Binosto can be given to reduce bone loss. Cholesterol controlling medications is given to prevent blood clots in the blood vessels.
- Surgery :
For severe cases surgical procedures like bone transplantation, core decompression or osteotomy can be done. This method is effective in strengthening the affected bone. For some people, joint replacement surgery is done using plastic parts.
Home Remedies :
Your doctor may advice you to take complete rest if you have avascular necrosis. You should avoid putting extra pressure on the affected bone or joint to prevent further damage. Practice certain stretching exercises recommended by your therapist to improve the joint motion. Electrical current can be given on the affected bone to promote fresh bone growth.
Prevention :
One cannot prevent avascular necrosis but can reduce the risk factors like drinking excess of alcohol and reducing weight.
Peritonitis
Peritonitis Peritonitis is a type of fungal infection of the abdominal wall caused by swelling of peritoneum (a soft membrane lining of the stomach). It would cause bloated feeling and abdominal cramps. Peritonitis needs to be treated immediately failing which it can cause complications like organ failure and even death. To prevent any serious complications, it should be treated promptly. It can be treated and controlled by antibiotics and in severe cases it has to be surgically operated.
Symptoms :
Some of the common signs of peritonitis are moderate to severe abdominal pain, tenderness, nausea, vomiting, fever, bloating sensation, diarrhea or inability to pass stool and extreme tiredness. For people who are doing peritoneal dialysis it can cause cloudy fluid and white strands of fibrin during dialysis. If you have severe abdominal pain with problems in passing urine or stool, then you need to seek immediate medical advice.
Causes :
Risk Factors :
Peritonitis infection can occur to people who undergo peritoneal dialysis. Hence it is necessary to use sterile surgical instruments during dialysis. If left untreated, it can cause sepsis (internal infection) which can lead to organ failure.
Diagnosis :
Your doctor will complete the physical exam and look for the above symptoms. He will collect your medical history and check for cloudy fluid during dialysis in case you are a patient of dialysis therapy. He may order for series of tests including blood profile, peritoneal fluid analysis, and imaging tests like X-ray or CT scan to check the condition of your abdomen.
Treatment :
Prevention :
Take enough steps while doing peritoneal dialysis to maintain proper hygiene. The nurse and surgeon should thoroughly wash their hands before using any catheters. The skin area around the catheter should be cleaned with antiseptic solution. The entire team should use proper sterile instruments during the procedure. It is necessary to take antibiotics prescribed by your doctor in case you have spontaneous peritonitis before due to underlying medical conditions.
Symptoms :
Some of the common signs of peritonitis are moderate to severe abdominal pain, tenderness, nausea, vomiting, fever, bloating sensation, diarrhea or inability to pass stool and extreme tiredness. For people who are doing peritoneal dialysis it can cause cloudy fluid and white strands of fibrin during dialysis. If you have severe abdominal pain with problems in passing urine or stool, then you need to seek immediate medical advice.
Causes :
- Any sudden perforation (rupture) of the abdominal wall can cause peritonitis. The soft membrane of the abdomen peritoneum can get broken due to several factors.
- Certain type of medical procedures like peritoneal dialysis can cause perforation in peritoneum. Using poor hygienic instruments during dialysis can cause infection of peritoneum leading to peritonitis.
- It can occur during the process of gastrointestinal surgery.
- Bacteria can easily enter into the peritoneum during the above procedures.
- Pancreatitis can also lead to peritonitis if the bacteria could migrate outside pancreas.
- Any infection in the digestive tract can cause rupture of the abdominal wall causing peritonitis. Any sudden injury to the stomach can cause this condition.
- Certain types of liver disease can cause peritonitis.
- Primary peritonitis is caused by liver cirrhosis and kidney failure.
- Secondary peritonitis can be caused due to pelvic inflammatory disease, Crohn’s disease, diverticulitis, any surgical procedure and trauma.
Risk Factors :
Peritonitis infection can occur to people who undergo peritoneal dialysis. Hence it is necessary to use sterile surgical instruments during dialysis. If left untreated, it can cause sepsis (internal infection) which can lead to organ failure.
Diagnosis :
Your doctor will complete the physical exam and look for the above symptoms. He will collect your medical history and check for cloudy fluid during dialysis in case you are a patient of dialysis therapy. He may order for series of tests including blood profile, peritoneal fluid analysis, and imaging tests like X-ray or CT scan to check the condition of your abdomen.
Treatment :
- Depending on the condition of the patient, he/she may be hospitalized for treating peritonitis infection.
- The doctor will start Intravenous fluids and give suitable antibiotics to prevent the bacterial infection.
- If the condition is critical surgery is done to remove the infected or dead tissue from the abdomen.
- For people who undergo peritoneal dialysis extreme care should be taken to prevent any infection.
- Until the infection heals completely, the dialysis therapy is given through alternative methods.
Prevention :
Take enough steps while doing peritoneal dialysis to maintain proper hygiene. The nurse and surgeon should thoroughly wash their hands before using any catheters. The skin area around the catheter should be cleaned with antiseptic solution. The entire team should use proper sterile instruments during the procedure. It is necessary to take antibiotics prescribed by your doctor in case you have spontaneous peritonitis before due to underlying medical conditions.
Chlamydia
Chlamydia Chlamydia is the most common type of sexual disease transmitted by sex partners. It can cause vaginal discharge and burning sensation while passing urine. This infection is common for both men and women and this bacterial infection is transmitted through sexual intercourse from affected partner. Chlamydia can be treated fully with effective antibiotics.
Symptoms :
You may not have any symptom as soon as you receive the Chlamydia infection. It might take a week or even more for you to notice some symptoms. It can cause pain in genitals while having sex, burning pain while urination, vaginal discharge in women and pain in testicles in men. It can also cause abdominal pain, bleeding between periods, itching sensation on the genitals, mild fever and painful urination. In men the tip of the penis develops swelling and it can cause cloudy discharge.
Causes :
Chlamydia is a bacterial infection that spreads through sex. You can receive the infection while having oral sex or anal sex also. In rare cases, the pregnant mother can transmit this infection to the fetus during delivery.
Who are at risk?
People who have multiple sex partners, who start with having sex in early ages, and those employed as sex workers have increased risk of getting Chlamydia. Often Chlamydia does not cause any complications but sometimes it can cause pelvic inflammation in women and prostate gland infection in men. In rare cases it can cause infertility in women. If left untreated, Chlamydia can lead to ectopic pregnancy for women.
Tests :
The centre for prevention and control of disease in the USA recommends yearly screening for Chlamydia for all sexually active people of young ages and pregnant women to avoid any complications. Men and women with multiple sex partners have high risk of getting Chlamydia infection even with using condoms.
Your doctor would do a swab test obtained from the discharge of vagina to test it on the lab. For men discharge from the penis is collected or sample is taken from urethra for testing. A simple urine test can also be done to diagnose Chlamydia infection.
Treatment :
Antibiotics are given in suitable doses for Chlamydia. Your doctor will give instructions about continuing antibiotics for few days or even weeks. Avoid having sex while you are diagnosed with infection since you can pass on the infection to your sex partner. Even if you don’t have any symptoms given above there is still the chance of spreading the infection to others while having sex.
Prevention :
Symptoms :
You may not have any symptom as soon as you receive the Chlamydia infection. It might take a week or even more for you to notice some symptoms. It can cause pain in genitals while having sex, burning pain while urination, vaginal discharge in women and pain in testicles in men. It can also cause abdominal pain, bleeding between periods, itching sensation on the genitals, mild fever and painful urination. In men the tip of the penis develops swelling and it can cause cloudy discharge.
Causes :
Chlamydia is a bacterial infection that spreads through sex. You can receive the infection while having oral sex or anal sex also. In rare cases, the pregnant mother can transmit this infection to the fetus during delivery.
Who are at risk?
People who have multiple sex partners, who start with having sex in early ages, and those employed as sex workers have increased risk of getting Chlamydia. Often Chlamydia does not cause any complications but sometimes it can cause pelvic inflammation in women and prostate gland infection in men. In rare cases it can cause infertility in women. If left untreated, Chlamydia can lead to ectopic pregnancy for women.
Tests :
The centre for prevention and control of disease in the USA recommends yearly screening for Chlamydia for all sexually active people of young ages and pregnant women to avoid any complications. Men and women with multiple sex partners have high risk of getting Chlamydia infection even with using condoms.
Your doctor would do a swab test obtained from the discharge of vagina to test it on the lab. For men discharge from the penis is collected or sample is taken from urethra for testing. A simple urine test can also be done to diagnose Chlamydia infection.
Treatment :
Antibiotics are given in suitable doses for Chlamydia. Your doctor will give instructions about continuing antibiotics for few days or even weeks. Avoid having sex while you are diagnosed with infection since you can pass on the infection to your sex partner. Even if you don’t have any symptoms given above there is still the chance of spreading the infection to others while having sex.
Prevention :
- Have always safe sex by using condoms.
- Avoid having sex with multiple partners.
- Go for regular screening tests if you are sexually active with many partners, even if you don’t have any symptoms.
- Women should avoid douching since cleaning the vagina very often can increase the risk of getting infected.
Neurosarcoidosis
Neurosarcoidosis Sarcoidosis is described as a peculiar inflammatory disorder affecting the lungs and it occurs mostly between 20-40 years. It can affect many organs in the body since it is caused due to deposits of plaque like substance in the nervous system. Neuro-sarcoidosis is the term given to sarcoidosis that affects the nervous system. Often it affects the facial nerves and cranial nerves like pituitary gland and the hypothalamus.
People who have sarcoidosis have increased risk for developing neurosarcoidosis. Initial symptom of this disease is the Bell’s palsy causing weakness of optical (pertaining to eye) and auditory (ear) nerves. It can develop suddenly and also a slow process. Swelling of nerves can occur in any part of the body like brain or spinal cord or any other part of the nerves. The effects of this disease can be managed by taking corticosteroid drugs.
Causes :
Neurosarcoidosis is a chronic (long term) disorder affecting many organs and system of the body. It can affect particular area of nerves or the spinal cord as a whole. This disease develops due to the deposit of dead cells in the nerves thus disrupting its normal function.
Symptoms :
Muscle weakness in your face is the first symptom of neurosarcoidosis. The nerves of the face muscles can get affected causing intense pain or numbness in these areas. It can cause reduced vision, trouble in hearing and loss of smell and taste if the auditory and optical nerves gets affected. In case if the nervous system of the pituitary gland gets affected it can cause symptoms like excess of thirst, extreme tiredness, changes in menstrual cycle (for women) and increased urine output.
For some people it can cause symptoms like confusion, loss of memory, delirium, dizziness, blurred vision, headache, loss of taste or smell, seizures and stroke. If the peripheral nerves get affected due to this disorder, it can cause loss of sensation or abnormal sensation and reduced movement in particular part of the body.
Diagnosis :
Your doctor will complete physical exam after listening to your symptoms. He may then gather complete medical information and order for series of tests like blood profile, imaging tests like X-ray, CT or MRI scan of the brain. He may also perform lumbar puncture to collect cerebrospinal fluid inside and testing it in the lab. In case of inflammation of nerves the results would show increased levels of angiotensin converting enzyme.
Treatment :
Prognosis :
The outlook of this disease varies from one person to another. Age, health condition and intensity of nerves affected determine the prognosis. For some people the symptoms can be managed with effective doses of medications but for others the disease may progress repeatedly. For severe cases, it can cause permanent disability and even death. With progressive damage done to the brain nerves, there would be increased complications that can be serious.
Prevention :
You cannot totally prevent getting neurosarcoidosis. But if you are diagnosed with sarcoidosis, you need to get intense treatment for the disease so that it does not affect your nerves anymore.
People who have sarcoidosis have increased risk for developing neurosarcoidosis. Initial symptom of this disease is the Bell’s palsy causing weakness of optical (pertaining to eye) and auditory (ear) nerves. It can develop suddenly and also a slow process. Swelling of nerves can occur in any part of the body like brain or spinal cord or any other part of the nerves. The effects of this disease can be managed by taking corticosteroid drugs.
Causes :
Neurosarcoidosis is a chronic (long term) disorder affecting many organs and system of the body. It can affect particular area of nerves or the spinal cord as a whole. This disease develops due to the deposit of dead cells in the nerves thus disrupting its normal function.
Symptoms :
Muscle weakness in your face is the first symptom of neurosarcoidosis. The nerves of the face muscles can get affected causing intense pain or numbness in these areas. It can cause reduced vision, trouble in hearing and loss of smell and taste if the auditory and optical nerves gets affected. In case if the nervous system of the pituitary gland gets affected it can cause symptoms like excess of thirst, extreme tiredness, changes in menstrual cycle (for women) and increased urine output.
For some people it can cause symptoms like confusion, loss of memory, delirium, dizziness, blurred vision, headache, loss of taste or smell, seizures and stroke. If the peripheral nerves get affected due to this disorder, it can cause loss of sensation or abnormal sensation and reduced movement in particular part of the body.
Diagnosis :
Your doctor will complete physical exam after listening to your symptoms. He may then gather complete medical information and order for series of tests like blood profile, imaging tests like X-ray, CT or MRI scan of the brain. He may also perform lumbar puncture to collect cerebrospinal fluid inside and testing it in the lab. In case of inflammation of nerves the results would show increased levels of angiotensin converting enzyme.
Treatment :
- No clear treatment is available for neurosarcoidosis. The intensity of symptoms can be managed by effective drugs and therapies.
- Drugs that contain corticosteroid are prescribed for controlling swelling of nerves.
- Immunosuppressant drugs are also given for managing the symptoms.
- For people who have muscle weakness in particular part like hands or legs, physiotherapy is given for muscle relaxation.
- TNF alpha inhibitors are given to reduce inflammation of arthritis is effective in treating neurosarcoidosis.
Prognosis :
The outlook of this disease varies from one person to another. Age, health condition and intensity of nerves affected determine the prognosis. For some people the symptoms can be managed with effective doses of medications but for others the disease may progress repeatedly. For severe cases, it can cause permanent disability and even death. With progressive damage done to the brain nerves, there would be increased complications that can be serious.
Prevention :
You cannot totally prevent getting neurosarcoidosis. But if you are diagnosed with sarcoidosis, you need to get intense treatment for the disease so that it does not affect your nerves anymore.
Rectal Pain
Rectal Pain Anus or rectum is the area through which feces are expelled from your body. Having rectal pain occasionally is not a matter of concern since it would resolve within few minutes. Many factors like anal fissure, fistulas and chronic constipation can cause rectal pain. If there is rectal bleeding accompanied with severe pain you need to get medical advice. Rectal pain can be managed by effective therapy or medical treatment depending on the cause.
Causes :
Number of factors given below can cause rectal pain :
Symptoms :
Rectal or anal pain can range from mild to severe. Getting spasm on the anal sphincter muscles can cause sudden fleeting pain. The pain would last for few minutes only but it can be stabbing pain on the rectum. Some people would feel tight pressure building up on the rectal region. This can be due to levator ani syndrome. The pain is felt while you are sitting and it improves while standing.
Hemorrhoids can cause mild pain and discomfort on the rectum. But if there is hemorrhoid thrombosis (blood clot) it can cause throbbing pain. Developing anal fissure can cause acute intense pain as though someone is tearing your bottom with knife. The pain may range from mild to severe. It is often accompanied with bleeding from the rectum. The pain would be more intense while passing stool since the bowel would have to tear off the skin for coming out of the rectum. If you have rectal pain with other symptoms like bleeding you can seek medical advice.
Tests :
Your doctor will listen to the symptoms and perform rectal examination using special instrument. Anal fissure or hemorrhoids can become evident during physical exam. If required, he may order for imaging tests.
Treatment :
If you have mild recta pain it can be due to spasm of anal sphincter muscle. You can wait for few minutes to check if the pain has reduced. You can try home remedies like sitting in hot water bath for few minutes. Gently massage the anal muscles so that the muscle spasm gets reduced. Over the counter painkillers like Advil or Ibuprofen can provide immediate relief.
For pain due to hemorrhoids, you can apply creams that contain hydrocortisone. Eat soft foods and include lot of fiber content so that your stool gets soft and passes quickly. Drink plenty of water. Sitting in lukewarm water for 20 minutes can reduce the pain and discomfort caused by hemorrhoids. Your doctor would prescribe anti-inflammatory drugs and medications for relaxing the muscle to manage rectal pain caused by Levator Ani syndrome.
For severe cases of hemorrhoids on the rectum, your doctor may surgically remove it after giving a shot of anesthetic on the rectal region. For treating severe cases of anal fissure, sphincterectomy is done. This would reduce the muscle tone thereby decreasing the spasms.
Prevention :
Most of the rectal pain are mild and can be managed by taking plenty of fiber and water in your diet. By eating soft foods your bowel movement becomes easy causing no trauma to the rectum. Avoid constipation by eating more fiber foods and drinking water. If you have constant constipation you need to consult your doctor.
Causes :
Number of factors given below can cause rectal pain :
- Development of fissure on the anal canal can trigger rectal pain. It can tear off the soft lining of the anal canal causing pain. Having anal sex or having frequent constipation can weaken the area inducing pain.
- Fistulae can develop on the anal region triggering pain.
- Some serious medical conditions like rectal cancer, colon cancer, Crohn’s disease, and rectal ulcer can cause pain with other symptoms also.
- Hemorrhoids can cause inflammation of veins in the anus region causing rectal pain. If the nerve endings of the rectum gets damaged it causes severe pain.
- Perianal hematoma and perianal abscess and itching can cause rectal pain.
- Sometimes, the sphincter muscles of the anal region can develop spasms causing fleeting pain on the bottom.
Symptoms :
Rectal or anal pain can range from mild to severe. Getting spasm on the anal sphincter muscles can cause sudden fleeting pain. The pain would last for few minutes only but it can be stabbing pain on the rectum. Some people would feel tight pressure building up on the rectal region. This can be due to levator ani syndrome. The pain is felt while you are sitting and it improves while standing.
Hemorrhoids can cause mild pain and discomfort on the rectum. But if there is hemorrhoid thrombosis (blood clot) it can cause throbbing pain. Developing anal fissure can cause acute intense pain as though someone is tearing your bottom with knife. The pain may range from mild to severe. It is often accompanied with bleeding from the rectum. The pain would be more intense while passing stool since the bowel would have to tear off the skin for coming out of the rectum. If you have rectal pain with other symptoms like bleeding you can seek medical advice.
Tests :
Your doctor will listen to the symptoms and perform rectal examination using special instrument. Anal fissure or hemorrhoids can become evident during physical exam. If required, he may order for imaging tests.
Treatment :
If you have mild recta pain it can be due to spasm of anal sphincter muscle. You can wait for few minutes to check if the pain has reduced. You can try home remedies like sitting in hot water bath for few minutes. Gently massage the anal muscles so that the muscle spasm gets reduced. Over the counter painkillers like Advil or Ibuprofen can provide immediate relief.
For pain due to hemorrhoids, you can apply creams that contain hydrocortisone. Eat soft foods and include lot of fiber content so that your stool gets soft and passes quickly. Drink plenty of water. Sitting in lukewarm water for 20 minutes can reduce the pain and discomfort caused by hemorrhoids. Your doctor would prescribe anti-inflammatory drugs and medications for relaxing the muscle to manage rectal pain caused by Levator Ani syndrome.
For severe cases of hemorrhoids on the rectum, your doctor may surgically remove it after giving a shot of anesthetic on the rectal region. For treating severe cases of anal fissure, sphincterectomy is done. This would reduce the muscle tone thereby decreasing the spasms.
Prevention :
Most of the rectal pain are mild and can be managed by taking plenty of fiber and water in your diet. By eating soft foods your bowel movement becomes easy causing no trauma to the rectum. Avoid constipation by eating more fiber foods and drinking water. If you have constant constipation you need to consult your doctor.
Achilles Tendonitis
Achilles Tendonitis The term ‘Achilles’ refers to the bone surrounded by group of tissues connecting the muscles of the lower leg to your heel. Any injury to the tendon of Achilles can cause inflammation leading to Achilles tendonitis. It is a common phenomenon that occurs in adults who over use this tendon tissues only for a day or two of the week. There are people who play basketball or any kind of sports only on Sundays or weekends. This can cause swelling of tendon causing intense pain. Often the pain can be managed by self care methods but in severe cases the tendon may get rupture inside requiring surgery.
Causes :
Symptoms :
Who are at risk?
For reasons unknown, men are more prone to develop Achilles tendonitis than women. Elderly people, people with physical problems in their foot, obese people, people who use ill fitting shoes, people who suddenly take part in any sports events, people with certain medical issues like hypertension or diabetes and prolonged use of antibiotics like fluoroquinone can get Achilles tendonitis. In rare cases the tendon can become weak causing internal rupture leading to severe pain that demands surgical correction.
Diagnosis :
Any intense pain on the back of your heel area can be Achilles tendonitis. Your doctor will apply little pressure on the area to feel any swelling or tenderness. He may request for X-ray of tendon or imaging tests like CT/MRI scanning to get accurate picture of the tendon.
Treatment :
Mild form of Achilles tendonitis does not require any treatment. Applying hot pack on the area can give relief from pain and swelling. You can get comfort by taking pain killers like Ibuprofen or naproxen for few days. Your doctor may prescribe strong doses of anti-inflammatory agents and pain killers depending on the symptoms. Physiotherapy exercises like stretching can facilitate healing of muscles and give strength to the injured tendon. Using orthotic instruments like wedge or shoe insert can reduce inflammation of the tendon and relieve extra pressure on it.
Surgery is the option if there is rupture of tendon. Rupture/tear of tendon can occur in any age group but is more particular in old age people. Sports personalities who are taking part in football or running events can develop rupture of tendon. Any injury or sudden fall can cause sudden stretching of tendon leading to rupture. Your surgeon will repair/correct the tendon and you need to take complete rest until the injury heals.
Home Remedies :
Prevention :
Don’t start vigorous practice on the very first day. Always increase the duration of activity gradually to prevent sudden inflammation of the tendon. Avoid running in rugged terrain and wear shoes that are comfortable to your heels giving extra cushion. Practice stretching exercises regularly to strengthen your calf muscles.
Causes :
- Vigorous practice of sports activities like running or jumping can cause injury of Achilles tendon muscles.
- Participating in a marathon race without any practice can cause injury to the soft muscles and tissues that surrounds the tendon.
- Using poorly fitting shoes and footwear and putting extra tension on the foot muscles can cause inflammation of Achilles tendon.
- Using certain antibiotics like ciprofloxacin can affect the tendon muscles leading to easy rupture of tendon.
- Increasing age can also contribute for Achilles tendonitis since the tendon would become weak with age.
Symptoms :
- Mild to moderate injury of Achilles tendon can cause stiffness and pain. Often the pain reduces when you start walking but sometimes the pain can increase if you perform any vigorous action involving foot muscles.
- It can cause tenderness and swelling of tendon. Palpitation can be felt on the tendon. There would be intense pain while you move the ankle joint.
- Achilles tendonitis can cause mild pain in the lower leg just above the heel portion after you have completed running or any sports activity.
- Some people can feel intense pain after climbing stairs. Morning stiffness is common with this problem which would improve after you start walking.
Who are at risk?
For reasons unknown, men are more prone to develop Achilles tendonitis than women. Elderly people, people with physical problems in their foot, obese people, people who use ill fitting shoes, people who suddenly take part in any sports events, people with certain medical issues like hypertension or diabetes and prolonged use of antibiotics like fluoroquinone can get Achilles tendonitis. In rare cases the tendon can become weak causing internal rupture leading to severe pain that demands surgical correction.
Diagnosis :
Any intense pain on the back of your heel area can be Achilles tendonitis. Your doctor will apply little pressure on the area to feel any swelling or tenderness. He may request for X-ray of tendon or imaging tests like CT/MRI scanning to get accurate picture of the tendon.
Treatment :
Mild form of Achilles tendonitis does not require any treatment. Applying hot pack on the area can give relief from pain and swelling. You can get comfort by taking pain killers like Ibuprofen or naproxen for few days. Your doctor may prescribe strong doses of anti-inflammatory agents and pain killers depending on the symptoms. Physiotherapy exercises like stretching can facilitate healing of muscles and give strength to the injured tendon. Using orthotic instruments like wedge or shoe insert can reduce inflammation of the tendon and relieve extra pressure on it.
Surgery is the option if there is rupture of tendon. Rupture/tear of tendon can occur in any age group but is more particular in old age people. Sports personalities who are taking part in football or running events can develop rupture of tendon. Any injury or sudden fall can cause sudden stretching of tendon leading to rupture. Your surgeon will repair/correct the tendon and you need to take complete rest until the injury heals.
Home Remedies :
- For managing mild pain on the tendon or lower foot area you can try any of the following techniques.
- Avoid doing any exercises for few days so that the inflammation completely heals.
- Apply ice pack on the area for few minutes and this can be repeated soon after you complete exercise or sports.
- Wearing compression bandage on your foot can reduce tension.
- Keep the foot well elevated to reduce swelling.
Prevention :
Don’t start vigorous practice on the very first day. Always increase the duration of activity gradually to prevent sudden inflammation of the tendon. Avoid running in rugged terrain and wear shoes that are comfortable to your heels giving extra cushion. Practice stretching exercises regularly to strengthen your calf muscles.
Postpartum Depression
Postpartum Depression Lot of changes happens to a woman when she becomes pregnant and subsequently gives birth to a child. In addition to physical changes, she also undergoes emotional and mental changes. Ranging from excitement to anxiety she experiences fear also. This might land up in postpartum depression. Depression arising from childbirth is known as postpartum depression. It is quite common for most of the new moms to experience mood swings for some time. But this would not continue for long.
In the case of postpartum depression, it becomes long lasting and may continue for several months or even years after childbirth. It can interrupt her daily activities and many times the mother will not even bother about her new baby due to depression. Postpartum depression has nothing to do with character of mother. It is neither weakness nor “baby blues” but it occurs as a result of bundle of hormonal changes in the brain. It is a rare and severe form of mental illness that occurs after childbirth. In extreme cases, postpartum depression develops into more severe form called postpartum psychosis which is a medical emergency. Postpartum depression can be treated but early intervention is essential for complete recovery.
Symptoms :
Prominent symptom of postpartum depression is feeling hopeless and sad each day and losing interest in pleasurable activities. Intensity of symptoms of PPD may vary from one mother to another, but these are the general signs of this disorder. A mother having “baby blues” might show symptoms of mood swings, sadness, anxiety, irritability and trouble sleeping, but these symptoms would go within few days or weeks after childbirth. The major difference in PPD is the symptoms grow intense day by day and it can significantly interfere with her daily tasks.
Loss of appetite, trouble in sleeping, increased irritation/anger, extreme tiredness, lack of interest in life/sex, severe mood swings, feeling of guilt/shame and withdrawal from family are some of the symptoms of PPD. The mother may have difficulty bonding with the child and she would completely ignore the baby, without caring to feed. Some mothers would harm their baby assuming that it is the reason for their sadness.
In severe cases they get thoughts about suicide/death. They may gain or lose weight and feel restless or sit quietly for hours together. A woman with postpartum psychosis may show symptoms of confusion, delusions and hallucinations (seeing/hearing non-existing things) and severely doubting others. She may not be able to recognize day or night and the place where she lives. Most of these symptoms may develop within few weeks after childbirth.
Causes :
Still experts cannot pinpoint the right cause of PPD and one cannot say why certain mothers develop this disorder and others not. It is believed to occur due to plenty of physical and emotional changes that happen to pregnant woman. Lots of hormonal changes occur in the body of pregnant women and after delivery there will be considerable drop in hormone levels.
It can cause dramatic changes in her metabolism, leaving her extremely tired and weak. It can also cause mood swings leading to postpartum depression. A new mother cannot sleep properly and may have trouble in handling her baby. She may feel that she is worthless and lost control. Such feelings can contribute for postpartum depression. A mother delivering stillborn baby or a child with serious illness can develop PPD.
Who are at risk?
Any woman can develop PPD after childbirth. But there are certain factors that increase the risk. Financial trouble, lack of care/love from spouse, poor support from family, increased stress and sudden death of husband are some of the factors that makes a woman prone to develop PPD.
Having a sick child, undergoing depression during pregnancy and family history of bipolar disorder increases the risk of developing this disorder. A child born for postpartum depression mother can have behavioral problems in life. If left untreated, PPD can develop further to postpartum psychosis.
Tests :
According to DSM, PPD is a kind of major depression. To be classified under PPD, a new mother should have at least 3-4 of the symptoms like depressed mood every day, lack of interest in any activity, loss of appetite, trouble in sleeping, restlessness, fatigue, difficulty to make decisions and think clearly and repeated thoughts about suicide/death.
Treatment :
Medications are given to reduce the symptom of depression and individual counseling and therapy are effective for postpartum depression. Based on your symptoms, your doctor would refer to a psychiatrist or psychologist for counseling. Family counseling is helpful in building relationships. Antidepressant drugs are prescribed with precaution for new mothers. Your psychiatrist would start with low doses since you would be breast-feeding.
If your hormone levels are imbalanced, suitable hormone therapy is given. Often, most of the symptoms of PPD go away with effective treatment, but you should follow the instructions of your doctor in taking medicines to prevent relapse. If you can afford, engage a full-time helper for your baby. Spend quality time for yourself. Eat healthy foods and do regular exercises which can help in regulating your mood.
Prevention :
You can do nothing to prevent PPD since it is not your fault. However if you have a family history of depression you can consult your doctor once you become pregnant. He might give suitable antidepressants to prevent worsening of symptoms.
In the case of postpartum depression, it becomes long lasting and may continue for several months or even years after childbirth. It can interrupt her daily activities and many times the mother will not even bother about her new baby due to depression. Postpartum depression has nothing to do with character of mother. It is neither weakness nor “baby blues” but it occurs as a result of bundle of hormonal changes in the brain. It is a rare and severe form of mental illness that occurs after childbirth. In extreme cases, postpartum depression develops into more severe form called postpartum psychosis which is a medical emergency. Postpartum depression can be treated but early intervention is essential for complete recovery.
Symptoms :
Prominent symptom of postpartum depression is feeling hopeless and sad each day and losing interest in pleasurable activities. Intensity of symptoms of PPD may vary from one mother to another, but these are the general signs of this disorder. A mother having “baby blues” might show symptoms of mood swings, sadness, anxiety, irritability and trouble sleeping, but these symptoms would go within few days or weeks after childbirth. The major difference in PPD is the symptoms grow intense day by day and it can significantly interfere with her daily tasks.
Loss of appetite, trouble in sleeping, increased irritation/anger, extreme tiredness, lack of interest in life/sex, severe mood swings, feeling of guilt/shame and withdrawal from family are some of the symptoms of PPD. The mother may have difficulty bonding with the child and she would completely ignore the baby, without caring to feed. Some mothers would harm their baby assuming that it is the reason for their sadness.
In severe cases they get thoughts about suicide/death. They may gain or lose weight and feel restless or sit quietly for hours together. A woman with postpartum psychosis may show symptoms of confusion, delusions and hallucinations (seeing/hearing non-existing things) and severely doubting others. She may not be able to recognize day or night and the place where she lives. Most of these symptoms may develop within few weeks after childbirth.
Causes :
Still experts cannot pinpoint the right cause of PPD and one cannot say why certain mothers develop this disorder and others not. It is believed to occur due to plenty of physical and emotional changes that happen to pregnant woman. Lots of hormonal changes occur in the body of pregnant women and after delivery there will be considerable drop in hormone levels.
It can cause dramatic changes in her metabolism, leaving her extremely tired and weak. It can also cause mood swings leading to postpartum depression. A new mother cannot sleep properly and may have trouble in handling her baby. She may feel that she is worthless and lost control. Such feelings can contribute for postpartum depression. A mother delivering stillborn baby or a child with serious illness can develop PPD.
Who are at risk?
Any woman can develop PPD after childbirth. But there are certain factors that increase the risk. Financial trouble, lack of care/love from spouse, poor support from family, increased stress and sudden death of husband are some of the factors that makes a woman prone to develop PPD.
Having a sick child, undergoing depression during pregnancy and family history of bipolar disorder increases the risk of developing this disorder. A child born for postpartum depression mother can have behavioral problems in life. If left untreated, PPD can develop further to postpartum psychosis.
Tests :
According to DSM, PPD is a kind of major depression. To be classified under PPD, a new mother should have at least 3-4 of the symptoms like depressed mood every day, lack of interest in any activity, loss of appetite, trouble in sleeping, restlessness, fatigue, difficulty to make decisions and think clearly and repeated thoughts about suicide/death.
Treatment :
Medications are given to reduce the symptom of depression and individual counseling and therapy are effective for postpartum depression. Based on your symptoms, your doctor would refer to a psychiatrist or psychologist for counseling. Family counseling is helpful in building relationships. Antidepressant drugs are prescribed with precaution for new mothers. Your psychiatrist would start with low doses since you would be breast-feeding.
If your hormone levels are imbalanced, suitable hormone therapy is given. Often, most of the symptoms of PPD go away with effective treatment, but you should follow the instructions of your doctor in taking medicines to prevent relapse. If you can afford, engage a full-time helper for your baby. Spend quality time for yourself. Eat healthy foods and do regular exercises which can help in regulating your mood.
Prevention :
You can do nothing to prevent PPD since it is not your fault. However if you have a family history of depression you can consult your doctor once you become pregnant. He might give suitable antidepressants to prevent worsening of symptoms.
Preeclampsia
Preeclampsia Preeclampsia is a condition that occurs to some pregnant women, during which there would be high blood pressure and high protein level in the urine. Often it occurs during the third trimester of pregnancy (30-35th week) and in rare cases it can occur after delivery. Preeclampsia can cause sudden seizures during pregnancy which can affect the normal growth of fetus. Not all the pregnant women would develop preeclampsia. And in case any pregnant woman has this condition, the doctor would closely monitor her health and fetus health.
Causes :
Why only some pregnant women develop preeclampsia and others not? There is no clear reason to explain this question. Not having proper nutritious diet during pregnancy can cause this problem. It is believed to occur when there is not sufficient blood supply in the uterus. Women who have weak immunity have increased risk of developing preeclampsia during pregnancy.
Who are at risk?
Teenage women who are pregnant have more chance to develop preeclampsia, since the uterus would not have developed fully preparing itself for the growing fetus. Women with a family history of this problem have high risk. If a pregnant woman already has blood pressure she may develop preeclampsia. Women with immune disorders like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus before pregnancy may get preeclampsia.
Symptoms :
Preeclampsia is a condition and not a disease. It can cause increase in blood pressure, increase in the level of protein, and increase in weight. It is quite common for pregnant women to have weight gain due to the growing fetus. But if this weight gain is due to rapid increase in the level of bodily fluids it may be due to preeclampsia.
Some women may show symptoms of dizziness, confusion, tiredness and headache due to preeclampsia. Normal urine outflow may get decreased during this stage. In case any pregnant woman develops sudden weight gain with blurring of vision and decreased urine output, it can be due to preeclampsia. It is wise to monitor your health regularly if you are pregnant and report any changes in blood pressure to prevent further damage.
Tests :
If your doctor suspects preeclampsia, she may order for urine analysis. Increased level of protein in urine and increased blood pressure can indicate this condition. She may order for complete blood tests to confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment :
No medications are available to treat preeclampsia. Treatment can be given only for managing the symptoms. Often, the symptoms of preeclampsia will resolve after childbirth without any treatment. Blood pressure can be controlled using suitable drugs if there is sudden increase in blood pressure. As a protective measure, the doctor would give steroid medications to improve the growth of fetus properly with the condition of preeclampsia.
Women with this condition should be careful in managing their health as well as the fetus. Taking complete rest can help in controlling blood pressure. For women who develop seizures due to preeclampsia, Lorazepam can be given. If the doctor feels that baby’s growth is complete, she may consider making C-section delivery if the pregnant women has completed 34th week.
In severe cases, the women would be hospitalized and given emergency treatment until the completion of delivery. In rare cases, preeclampsia can affect the growth of fetus with sudden decrease in blood flow to the uterus. Hence both the women and the baby’s health will be monitored closely by the doctor. In rare cases placenta can get cut off from the uterus leading to abrupt stoppage of fetus growth. In that case, surgical procedure is done to save the life of the baby. Kidney or liver of the fetus can get damaged due to severe types of preeclampsia.
Prevention :
You can do nothing to prevent preeclampsia. But you can always be more careful when you are pregnant. Visit your doctor regularly and report any changes to her. Check your blood pressure and monitor your weight and tell your doctor if you find any abnormalities. With little care and close monitoring of your health, you can avoid complications caused by preeclampsia.
Causes :
Why only some pregnant women develop preeclampsia and others not? There is no clear reason to explain this question. Not having proper nutritious diet during pregnancy can cause this problem. It is believed to occur when there is not sufficient blood supply in the uterus. Women who have weak immunity have increased risk of developing preeclampsia during pregnancy.
Who are at risk?
Teenage women who are pregnant have more chance to develop preeclampsia, since the uterus would not have developed fully preparing itself for the growing fetus. Women with a family history of this problem have high risk. If a pregnant woman already has blood pressure she may develop preeclampsia. Women with immune disorders like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus before pregnancy may get preeclampsia.
Symptoms :
Preeclampsia is a condition and not a disease. It can cause increase in blood pressure, increase in the level of protein, and increase in weight. It is quite common for pregnant women to have weight gain due to the growing fetus. But if this weight gain is due to rapid increase in the level of bodily fluids it may be due to preeclampsia.
Some women may show symptoms of dizziness, confusion, tiredness and headache due to preeclampsia. Normal urine outflow may get decreased during this stage. In case any pregnant woman develops sudden weight gain with blurring of vision and decreased urine output, it can be due to preeclampsia. It is wise to monitor your health regularly if you are pregnant and report any changes in blood pressure to prevent further damage.
Tests :
If your doctor suspects preeclampsia, she may order for urine analysis. Increased level of protein in urine and increased blood pressure can indicate this condition. She may order for complete blood tests to confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment :
No medications are available to treat preeclampsia. Treatment can be given only for managing the symptoms. Often, the symptoms of preeclampsia will resolve after childbirth without any treatment. Blood pressure can be controlled using suitable drugs if there is sudden increase in blood pressure. As a protective measure, the doctor would give steroid medications to improve the growth of fetus properly with the condition of preeclampsia.
Women with this condition should be careful in managing their health as well as the fetus. Taking complete rest can help in controlling blood pressure. For women who develop seizures due to preeclampsia, Lorazepam can be given. If the doctor feels that baby’s growth is complete, she may consider making C-section delivery if the pregnant women has completed 34th week.
In severe cases, the women would be hospitalized and given emergency treatment until the completion of delivery. In rare cases, preeclampsia can affect the growth of fetus with sudden decrease in blood flow to the uterus. Hence both the women and the baby’s health will be monitored closely by the doctor. In rare cases placenta can get cut off from the uterus leading to abrupt stoppage of fetus growth. In that case, surgical procedure is done to save the life of the baby. Kidney or liver of the fetus can get damaged due to severe types of preeclampsia.
Prevention :
You can do nothing to prevent preeclampsia. But you can always be more careful when you are pregnant. Visit your doctor regularly and report any changes to her. Check your blood pressure and monitor your weight and tell your doctor if you find any abnormalities. With little care and close monitoring of your health, you can avoid complications caused by preeclampsia.
Plague Disease
Plague Disease Plague is a rare bacterial infection causing multiple complications of organs like pneumonia, blood infection and swollen glands. Bacteria by name Yersinia pestis causes plague which is transmitted to humans through rodents and fleas. It was during the 14th century plague disease killed millions of people around the world, called as “black death”. Of late, in 1900 there was a plague outbreak in San Francisco. There were few cases of plague reported in the Western United States each year.
Symptoms :
Severe form of plague disease can affect any part of your body like lymph nodes, lungs and even your blood. Symptoms of plague vary according to the part of body affected. Bubonic plague is one in which the lymph nodes of neck and armpit are affected. Buboes is the name given to lymph nodes and it can cause symptoms like swollen lymph nodes on your neck and armpit. The area becomes tender and warm and the size of nodes can be roughly the size of an egg. It can also cause fever, chills, fatigue and muscle pain.
Septicemic plague infects your blood which can cause symptoms like abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, fever, bleeding from nose or rectum and blackening of skin tissue in extremities (fingers and toes) indicating death of tissue. Pneumonic plague is the one that affects your lungs. It is the most severe form of plague that can spread from humans to humans through droplets of air. It can cause signs like shortness of breath, persistent cough, fever, weakness, nausea and vomiting. As the infection progresses, it can cause shock and respiratory failure which can be fatal.
Causes :
Yersinia pestis is the bacterium that causes plague. Rats and other rodents are infected by bacteria which are then transmitted to humans through fleas that feed on infected rodents. Fleas carry the bacteria which can enter your body through cut or injury in the skin. It can also infect human when he touches the blood of infected animal. Pneumonic plague can easily spread through air via fine droplets of cough.
Risk Factors :
Tests :
Plague can be detected by physical examination of lymph nodes. If you have doubt, your doctor would take a fluid sample from the lymph nodes and test it in the lab for the presence of bacteria. Blood test can be done if blood infection is suspected.
Treatment :
Plague can be treated by powerful antibiotics like gentamicin or ciprofloxacin. You need to complete the course of antibiotics as prescribed by your doctor, even if there is improvement of symptoms.
Prevention :
You can prevent plague by preventing rodents into your home. Keep the house warm and clean and remove unwanted junk regularly. If you have pets check with your vet about flea control products.
Symptoms :
Severe form of plague disease can affect any part of your body like lymph nodes, lungs and even your blood. Symptoms of plague vary according to the part of body affected. Bubonic plague is one in which the lymph nodes of neck and armpit are affected. Buboes is the name given to lymph nodes and it can cause symptoms like swollen lymph nodes on your neck and armpit. The area becomes tender and warm and the size of nodes can be roughly the size of an egg. It can also cause fever, chills, fatigue and muscle pain.
Septicemic plague infects your blood which can cause symptoms like abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, fever, bleeding from nose or rectum and blackening of skin tissue in extremities (fingers and toes) indicating death of tissue. Pneumonic plague is the one that affects your lungs. It is the most severe form of plague that can spread from humans to humans through droplets of air. It can cause signs like shortness of breath, persistent cough, fever, weakness, nausea and vomiting. As the infection progresses, it can cause shock and respiratory failure which can be fatal.
Causes :
Yersinia pestis is the bacterium that causes plague. Rats and other rodents are infected by bacteria which are then transmitted to humans through fleas that feed on infected rodents. Fleas carry the bacteria which can enter your body through cut or injury in the skin. It can also infect human when he touches the blood of infected animal. Pneumonic plague can easily spread through air via fine droplets of cough.
Risk Factors :
- Plague is a very rare disease and chance of getting infected is low. In each year, only few hundreds of people develop plague.
- People who frequently travel to rural areas of Africa where there is poor sanitation and plenty of rodents.
- Doctors and helpers who handle the infected animals can get transmitted through infected blood of the animals.
- In rare cases, if you are bitten by plague infected rats and cat you can get infected.
- Plague in severe form can cause gangrene (tissue death), meningitis (brain fever) and death.
Tests :
Plague can be detected by physical examination of lymph nodes. If you have doubt, your doctor would take a fluid sample from the lymph nodes and test it in the lab for the presence of bacteria. Blood test can be done if blood infection is suspected.
Treatment :
Plague can be treated by powerful antibiotics like gentamicin or ciprofloxacin. You need to complete the course of antibiotics as prescribed by your doctor, even if there is improvement of symptoms.
Prevention :
You can prevent plague by preventing rodents into your home. Keep the house warm and clean and remove unwanted junk regularly. If you have pets check with your vet about flea control products.
Monday, June 23, 2014
How to Prevent Hair Loss or Alopecia | Preventing Hair Fall
How to Prevent Hair Loss or Alopecia | Preventing Hair Fall
In women, hair loss often begins at the scalp on top of the frontal and parietal lobes while it begins at the temple and the scalp on top of the frontal lobes in men.
Still, that is just the common pattern as others experience hair loss in other areas than in the ones mentioned above.
There are cases when hair loss is expected, as in chemotherapy and other treatment options. Pregnancy is also one of the factors causing hair loss. Still, there are many other possible reasons why hair loss occurs, including poor nutrition, hormonal changes, diseases like diabetes, scalp infections, hair treatment chemicals, and pattern baldness.
Stopping hair loss depends on why the reasons why the patient is losing it in the first place. If the patient is losing it due to chemotherapy for example, he or she will need to wait till the treatments are over before he or she can expect hair to grow back again.
There is nothing that one can do to prevent the loss of hair during this treatment but there are preventive measures that one can use for other hair loss problems.
Hair loss is among the most common problems affecting the hair of people worldwide. Although men are the ones who are more prone to experiencing hair loss, a lot of women also have to deal with this problem. It can start as hair fall which could lead to thinning of some parts of the scalp. Without treatment, the hair fall could lead to widespread hair loss, often seen at the top of the head in men. Serious hair loss can lead to total baldness.
In women, hair loss often begins at the scalp on top of the frontal and parietal lobes while it begins at the temple and the scalp on top of the frontal lobes in men.
Still, that is just the common pattern as others experience hair loss in other areas than in the ones mentioned above.
There are cases when hair loss is expected, as in chemotherapy and other treatment options. Pregnancy is also one of the factors causing hair loss. Still, there are many other possible reasons why hair loss occurs, including poor nutrition, hormonal changes, diseases like diabetes, scalp infections, hair treatment chemicals, and pattern baldness.
Prevention
Stopping hair loss depends on why the reasons why the patient is losing it in the first place. If the patient is losing it due to chemotherapy for example, he or she will need to wait till the treatments are over before he or she can expect hair to grow back again.
There is nothing that one can do to prevent the loss of hair during this treatment but there are preventive measures that one can use for other hair loss problems.
- If the patient is losing hair due to excessive styling and use of styling equipment and products, the only way to stop from losing more hair is to give hair a rest. Stop using hot irons, blow dryers, hair products, and hair colors and chemicals on the hair to give it time to recuperate and to rest the scalp from the continuous abuse it is getting.
- Prevent hair loss from stress by doing exercises that will relieve stress build-up. Try to practice yoga or meditation to help ease stress. One can also try to unwind in a spa or get a massage to ease the stress away.
- Prevent hair loss from fungal infections by treating these problems as soon as one notices them.
How to Remove Razor Bump at Home With Natural Remedies
How to Remove Razor Bump at Home With Natural Remedies
Folliculitis Barbae is an inflammatory skin condition better known as razor bumps. They are very common in shaved areas of the skin.
Causes
Risk Factors for Developing Razor Bumps Include:
Some shaving techniques can also lead to razor bumps.
Techniques to be avoided include:
The following treatments can be used to deal with razor bumps.
When razor bumps, it is also important to:
Prevention
Aside from treating razor bumps, it is also very important to know how to know how to prevent them, some preventive methods include:
Folliculitis Barbae is an inflammatory skin condition better known as razor bumps. They are very common in shaved areas of the skin.
Beards and legs are common places for razor bumps
They appear as small red, raised papules
They can be painful, but the main concern with razor bumps is how is they look
Almost anyone can get Razor bumps, but they are most common among men and women who have thick, coarse, or curly hair.
Studies have shown that razor bump reports are more common in men of African descent.
Treatment is going to involve patient education regarding the prevention of Folliculitis Barbae
Causes
The main cause of a razor bump is hair that goes back into the skin after a shave
This can lead to irritation and infections forming the red raised bumps on the skin
Risk Factors for Developing Razor Bumps Include:
Gender
Males are prone to razor bumps on the face because of beard shaving
Females are more prone to razor bumps on the legs, also because of shaving
Hair Type
Certain hair types can make razor bumps more common, they include:
Coarse hair
Curly Hair
Some shaving techniques can also lead to razor bumps.
Techniques to be avoided include:
Shaving too fast
Shaving with the wrong razor
Shaving with a blunt razor
Shaving with dry skin
Shaving against the grain of the hair
Shaving with a dirty razor
Not using aftershave
Razor Bumps Remedy
The following treatments can be used to deal with razor bumps.
Tea Tree Oil – has antimicrobial properties that help with the infection
Mild Exfoliant that contains Salicylic Acid – Salicylic Acid also has antimicrobial properties
Antibacteria/Antifungal soaps and washes
Aloe Vera – helps to relieve the symptoms
Topical hydrocortisone cream – helps to address the inflammation
When razor bumps, it is also important to:
Give the skin rest from shaving for a week or a couple of days
Avoid irritating the skin any further
Prevention
Aside from treating razor bumps, it is also very important to know how to know how to prevent them, some preventive methods include:
Use appropriate shaving techniques
Avoid multi-blade shavers
Use clean shavers, disinfect before and after use
Using a straight razor instead of multi-blade shavers
Using an electric shaver instead of a regular one
Moisturize the skin before shaving, use shaving creams or shave after a shower.
Don’t shave dry skin
Use aftershave – has antimicrobial properties that can help prevent bumps
Use Depilatories – common used for shaving legs or armpits, these are chemical solutions or creams that remove hair from the skin without shaving.
Sunday, June 22, 2014
What are the Causes and Symptoms of Red Eyes in the Morning?
What are the Causes and Symptoms of Red Eyes in the Morning?
Red eyes in the morning occur from a number of reasons. If the symptom occurs on its own it can be because of stress. If it is accompanied by other signs, it can be due to an infection. Treatment is usually highly dependent on the cause of the problem.
Also referred to a ‘Blood Shot Eyes’, this symptom is caused by the enlargement of the blood vessels in the sclera making them more pronounced.
Most of the time, bloodshot eyes are pain free, but they can also be painful or irritated.
Some of the possible causes of red eyes in the morning include the following:
Red eyes usually occur on their own with no other symptoms, but in some instances they can occur with the following:
These signs could indicate the presence of an infection and will not go away unless mediated by therapy.
Prevention
Red Eyes in the Morning
Red eyes in the morning occur from a number of reasons. If the symptom occurs on its own it can be because of stress. If it is accompanied by other signs, it can be due to an infection. Treatment is usually highly dependent on the cause of the problem.
Also referred to a ‘Blood Shot Eyes’, this symptom is caused by the enlargement of the blood vessels in the sclera making them more pronounced.
Most of the time, bloodshot eyes are pain free, but they can also be painful or irritated.
Red Eyes in the Morning Causes
Some of the possible causes of red eyes in the morning include the following:
Fatigue, not getting enough sleep can lead to red eyes and feeling tired in the morning.
Eye strain, this can occur prior to sleep and may be caused by watching TV from a wrong angle, reading in the wrong light, or staring into a computer screen for a long time.
Alcohol intake, alcohol intake before going to bed or a few minutes before bed can lead to dehydration, which can cause dry and red eyes.
Dry Eye Syndrome, people with chronically dry eyes are going to have red eyes on waking up.
Irritants, mascara and other cosmetics can irritate the eye area. Be careful about cleaning the skin near the eyes and make sure that no irritating residue remains before sleeping.
Tight sleep masks, people who wear sleep masks may find red eyes when they make up. This could cause red eyes, it is recommended to try using a different mask to see if there is any difference.
Allergies, allergy flare-ups during the morning can lead to red, watery, and itchy eyes. Sneezing and a runny nose may also be present.
Conjunctivitis, this can be bacterial or viral. It is usually accompanied by itching and excessive tearing. Crusting can occur during the night and patients may observe a thick yellowish or greenish discharge from the eyes.
Red Eyes in the Morning Symptoms
Red eyes usually occur on their own with no other symptoms, but in some instances they can occur with the following:
Itching
Watery eyes
Swelling of the surrounding eye area
These signs could indicate the presence of an infection and will not go away unless mediated by therapy.
Prevention
Sleep at least 7.5 or 9 hours every night.
Avoid drinking too much alcohol.
Avoid irritating or rubbing the eyes when waking up.
Remove all makeup with a gentle facial wash before bed.
Tuesday, June 10, 2014
Itchy Bottom
Itchy Bottom Itchy bottom is called as Pruritus ani in medical terms. It causes persistent itchy feeling around the anus. You will feel like scratching the anus all the time and it is more after using toilet. The soft skin around the anus area will get damaged and subsequently you may develop skin infection. It can be treated by soothing ointment and topical corticosteroids.
Causes :
Itchy bottom is actually a symptom and not a disease. It can develop due to known causes and unknown causes as well. Skin disease like eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis can cause itchy bottom. You can develop this condition if you rub the anal area strongly or if there is excess of moisture in the anus or if you use strong perfumes or soaps on that area. Certain type of infections like thrush, scabies, herpes and sexually transmitted diseases can spread itchy bottom.
Certain diseases like anal fissure, piles and use of some medications for diarrhea can cause itchy bottom. In some cases the exact cause of itchy bottom is not known. In case you have itchy anus you may gently scrap it or use a scented soap for cleaning it. This may worsen the condition causing severe itching as the skin around the anus develops inflammation. This process is called vicious circle and pruritus ani.
Symptoms :
Some of the common symptoms of itchy bottom are persistent itching on the anus, inflammation of the skin around the anus and formation of red patches in that area.
Risk Factors :
Itchy bottom is common for both sexes and is more for those who are not practicing good hygiene. For no apparent reason it is more prevalent in men than women. An individual who rubs his anal area more frequently can develop itchy bottom.
Diagnoses :
Your doctor can detect the disease by listening to your symptoms. No specific test is needed.
Treatment :
Home Remedies :
You need to keep your private parts clean and dry to avoid itchy bottom. For that you need to bath daily, avoid wearing tight fitting underwear, avoid using perfumed soaps and avoid taking bubble baths. Trim your fingernails regularly so that it does not hurt your anus when you are washing it. Choose only cotton underwear so that it absorbs moisture. Change your panties if you feel it is not dry or clean. Keep a cotton tissue handy so that you can put it in your underwear to keep the anus dry.
Though it is difficult to control the urge of itching, still you need to avoid scratching the bottom often. Avoid taking spicy foods, nuts, chocolate, dairy products and excess of coffee/tea. Avoid taking sweets often. Include high quantity of fiber diet like grains, whole-wheat breads, oats and pulses. Drink plenty of liquids and add fresh fruits and vegetables in your daily diet.
Medications :
Antifungal cream is given for treating fungal infections or thrush. In case of bacterial infection your doctor may prescribe antibiotics. Separate treatment is given for anal fissure. For mild to moderate itchy feeling, your doctor may give antihistamines either orally or in the form of creams. For severe cases, ointments that contain corticosteroids are prescribed.
Prevention :
You should practice good hygiene while using toilet. Always use plain unscented toilet tissue. Avoid allergic foods. Keep your anus area dry and clean. Wear cotton underwear so that it can absorb moisture. Do not scratch the area since it can make things worse. Remember to trim your fingernails regularly.
Causes :
Itchy bottom is actually a symptom and not a disease. It can develop due to known causes and unknown causes as well. Skin disease like eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis can cause itchy bottom. You can develop this condition if you rub the anal area strongly or if there is excess of moisture in the anus or if you use strong perfumes or soaps on that area. Certain type of infections like thrush, scabies, herpes and sexually transmitted diseases can spread itchy bottom.
Certain diseases like anal fissure, piles and use of some medications for diarrhea can cause itchy bottom. In some cases the exact cause of itchy bottom is not known. In case you have itchy anus you may gently scrap it or use a scented soap for cleaning it. This may worsen the condition causing severe itching as the skin around the anus develops inflammation. This process is called vicious circle and pruritus ani.
Symptoms :
Some of the common symptoms of itchy bottom are persistent itching on the anus, inflammation of the skin around the anus and formation of red patches in that area.
Risk Factors :
Itchy bottom is common for both sexes and is more for those who are not practicing good hygiene. For no apparent reason it is more prevalent in men than women. An individual who rubs his anal area more frequently can develop itchy bottom.
Diagnoses :
Your doctor can detect the disease by listening to your symptoms. No specific test is needed.
Treatment :
Home Remedies :
You need to keep your private parts clean and dry to avoid itchy bottom. For that you need to bath daily, avoid wearing tight fitting underwear, avoid using perfumed soaps and avoid taking bubble baths. Trim your fingernails regularly so that it does not hurt your anus when you are washing it. Choose only cotton underwear so that it absorbs moisture. Change your panties if you feel it is not dry or clean. Keep a cotton tissue handy so that you can put it in your underwear to keep the anus dry.
Though it is difficult to control the urge of itching, still you need to avoid scratching the bottom often. Avoid taking spicy foods, nuts, chocolate, dairy products and excess of coffee/tea. Avoid taking sweets often. Include high quantity of fiber diet like grains, whole-wheat breads, oats and pulses. Drink plenty of liquids and add fresh fruits and vegetables in your daily diet.
Medications :
Antifungal cream is given for treating fungal infections or thrush. In case of bacterial infection your doctor may prescribe antibiotics. Separate treatment is given for anal fissure. For mild to moderate itchy feeling, your doctor may give antihistamines either orally or in the form of creams. For severe cases, ointments that contain corticosteroids are prescribed.
Prevention :
You should practice good hygiene while using toilet. Always use plain unscented toilet tissue. Avoid allergic foods. Keep your anus area dry and clean. Wear cotton underwear so that it can absorb moisture. Do not scratch the area since it can make things worse. Remember to trim your fingernails regularly.
Ringworm Fungal Infections
Ringworm Fungal Infections Ringworm is a fungal infection on the skin that causes rashes on the top layer of the skin. It is marked by lesions that are clearly defined with a red circular border. In medical terms ringworm fungal infection is called as tinea corporis. It can be treated by antifungal creams and medications.
Symptoms :
Initially ringworm infection develops as small scaly patches on the skin. These patches will have a clear defined area that has a red circular border. The shape of the ring can be either circular or irregular or sometimes like a wavy outline. It can be itchy for some and not for others.
Causes :
Ringworm infection is caused by fungus which thrives on the cells of human beings. It can either spread by human to human contact (direct skin contact) or by animal to human contact (through pet animals) or by object to human contact (touching the clothing, combs or towels of infected person). In rare cases if you accidentally touch the contaminated soil that contains fungi you can get this infection.
Who are at risk?
Children below 15 years of age, those living in moisture area or in humid climate, those having close contact with animals (like farmers, cattle workers), those who share clothing of infected person, and those have weakened immunity are prone to develop ringworm fungal infection.
Tests :
Simple physical examination of the body is enough to detect ringworm infection.
Treatment :
Treatment is simple for ringworm fungal infection. Lifestyle changes and over the counter antifungal creams are used for treating the symptoms. Medications or creams that contain terbinafine, clotrimazole or miconazole are highly effective in controlling the symptoms. Within few days or a week, the rash will disappear.
For more severe infections, your doctor may prescribe mild steroid cream for some days along with antifungal oral pills. You need to complete the full course of medication if you have severe infection. Some of the common drugs used for treating ringworm fungal infection are terbinafine (lamisil), Azoles (diflucan), Griseofulvin and Tinactin. For moderate infection with itching, clotrimazole (Lotrisone) is effective.
Ringworm Fungal Infections Pictures :
Images, Pics, Pictures and Photos of Ringworm Fungal Infections
Prevention :
Ringworm infection is contagious and before you plan it can infect you. Instruct your children about the way of playing with pets and practicing good hygiene. Wash your hands thoroughly before taking food. Stay in a cool room and avoid too much of sweating. Avoid sharing personal items like clothing or towels or combs with others.
Symptoms :
Initially ringworm infection develops as small scaly patches on the skin. These patches will have a clear defined area that has a red circular border. The shape of the ring can be either circular or irregular or sometimes like a wavy outline. It can be itchy for some and not for others.
Causes :
Ringworm infection is caused by fungus which thrives on the cells of human beings. It can either spread by human to human contact (direct skin contact) or by animal to human contact (through pet animals) or by object to human contact (touching the clothing, combs or towels of infected person). In rare cases if you accidentally touch the contaminated soil that contains fungi you can get this infection.
Who are at risk?
Children below 15 years of age, those living in moisture area or in humid climate, those having close contact with animals (like farmers, cattle workers), those who share clothing of infected person, and those have weakened immunity are prone to develop ringworm fungal infection.
Tests :
Simple physical examination of the body is enough to detect ringworm infection.
Treatment :
Treatment is simple for ringworm fungal infection. Lifestyle changes and over the counter antifungal creams are used for treating the symptoms. Medications or creams that contain terbinafine, clotrimazole or miconazole are highly effective in controlling the symptoms. Within few days or a week, the rash will disappear.
For more severe infections, your doctor may prescribe mild steroid cream for some days along with antifungal oral pills. You need to complete the full course of medication if you have severe infection. Some of the common drugs used for treating ringworm fungal infection are terbinafine (lamisil), Azoles (diflucan), Griseofulvin and Tinactin. For moderate infection with itching, clotrimazole (Lotrisone) is effective.
Ringworm Fungal Infections Pictures :
Images, Pics, Pictures and Photos of Ringworm Fungal Infections
Prevention :
Ringworm infection is contagious and before you plan it can infect you. Instruct your children about the way of playing with pets and practicing good hygiene. Wash your hands thoroughly before taking food. Stay in a cool room and avoid too much of sweating. Avoid sharing personal items like clothing or towels or combs with others.
Reactive Arthritis
Reactive Arthritis Arthritis refers to swollen joints. Reactive arthritis is the condition in which inflammation of genital parts or gastro intestinal systems take place. It often develops after a person had genital infection or problems in bowel movement. The symptoms of reactive arthritis are similar to that of psoriatic arthritis and ulcerative colitis. This condition can occur in any part of the joint but often affects the eyes, mouth and the urinary tract. In rare cases it can infect the heart. Treatment is given for reducing the intensity of stiffness in the joints.
Reactive arthritis is marked by three conditions namely :
This disease was also known as ‘Reiter’s syndrome’ in olden days. This type of chronic arthritis affects the people of age group 30-40 years largely but can occur in any age group.
Symptoms :
The signs of reactive arthritis occur often after an infection. The initial symptoms can occur anywhere from 1-3 weeks of urinary or eye infection. There will be intense joint pain due to swelling of joints in the knees and ankles. Some people may develop joint inflammation on the lower back. Swelling of eyes is common in reactive arthritis. Many people will develop urinary problems and there will be compulsive urge for urinating frequently. The extremities are swollen and there will be difficulty in writing and walking.
Causes :
Exact cause of arthritis is unknown. It is believed to be autoimmune disorder. People who are frequently infected have increased chance of getting reactive arthritis. Genetics play a role in causing this disease. The presence of HLA B27 genes is indicative of developing this disease in later ages. Bacterial infection can cause reactive arthritis. It can be caused by Chalmydia, shigella or salmonella bacterium.
Though this disease is not contagious still there is every chance for contacting it through unsafe sex. Chlamydia trachomatis is the bacterium causing venereal infections which is followed by reactive arthritis in many cases. An individual with infectious dysentery can develop this problem after few weeks of infection.
Risk Factors :
For reasons not known, men are more prone to develop reactive arthritis than women. People with HLA B27 genes inherited from parents have increased risk. A person having sex with multiple partners and having dysentery infection often have more chance for getting reactive arthritis.
Diagnosis :
The doctor may physically examine the body to check the signs of warmth and swelling. He may request for blood test and joint fluid test for confirming his diagnoses. A thin needle is inserted to the inflamed joint to draw sample of fluid for testing the WBC and infectious organisms.
Treatment :
No specific medications are available for treating reactive arthritis. But drugs are helpful to manage joint pain and further inflammation. Antibiotics are prescribed for controlling bacterial infection. Nonsteroidal anti inflammatory drugs like Indocin is given for getting quick relief from joint pain. For severe pain corticosteroid is injected directly into the joints which will considerably reduce swelling.
Stiffness of joint can be reduced by rheumatoid arthritis medications like sulfasalazine or methotrexate drugs. Regular physiotherapy can make mobility easier for people affected with joint pain. Practicing strengthening exercise will give flexibility to joint muscles and reduce stiffness. People with autoimmune disorder like AIDS and severe viral infections have to be more precautious than others. Eye inflammation or conjunctivitis is treated with suitable anti-inflammatory eye drops.
Prevention :
You cannot do anything to prevent reactive arthritis. But you can always reduce the chance of getting bacterial and viral infection. Practice safe sex and always wear condoms while having sex with strangers. Eat healthy foods and fully cooked stuff to prevent bacterial infection. Do not send your child to school or day care center if he has developed dysentery since infection can spread to other children.
Reactive arthritis is marked by three conditions namely :
- Inflammation of joints
- Swelling of eyes or conjunctivitis
- Inflammation of urinary and genitals and gastrointestine
This disease was also known as ‘Reiter’s syndrome’ in olden days. This type of chronic arthritis affects the people of age group 30-40 years largely but can occur in any age group.
Symptoms :
The signs of reactive arthritis occur often after an infection. The initial symptoms can occur anywhere from 1-3 weeks of urinary or eye infection. There will be intense joint pain due to swelling of joints in the knees and ankles. Some people may develop joint inflammation on the lower back. Swelling of eyes is common in reactive arthritis. Many people will develop urinary problems and there will be compulsive urge for urinating frequently. The extremities are swollen and there will be difficulty in writing and walking.
Causes :
Exact cause of arthritis is unknown. It is believed to be autoimmune disorder. People who are frequently infected have increased chance of getting reactive arthritis. Genetics play a role in causing this disease. The presence of HLA B27 genes is indicative of developing this disease in later ages. Bacterial infection can cause reactive arthritis. It can be caused by Chalmydia, shigella or salmonella bacterium.
Though this disease is not contagious still there is every chance for contacting it through unsafe sex. Chlamydia trachomatis is the bacterium causing venereal infections which is followed by reactive arthritis in many cases. An individual with infectious dysentery can develop this problem after few weeks of infection.
Risk Factors :
For reasons not known, men are more prone to develop reactive arthritis than women. People with HLA B27 genes inherited from parents have increased risk. A person having sex with multiple partners and having dysentery infection often have more chance for getting reactive arthritis.
Diagnosis :
The doctor may physically examine the body to check the signs of warmth and swelling. He may request for blood test and joint fluid test for confirming his diagnoses. A thin needle is inserted to the inflamed joint to draw sample of fluid for testing the WBC and infectious organisms.
Treatment :
No specific medications are available for treating reactive arthritis. But drugs are helpful to manage joint pain and further inflammation. Antibiotics are prescribed for controlling bacterial infection. Nonsteroidal anti inflammatory drugs like Indocin is given for getting quick relief from joint pain. For severe pain corticosteroid is injected directly into the joints which will considerably reduce swelling.
Stiffness of joint can be reduced by rheumatoid arthritis medications like sulfasalazine or methotrexate drugs. Regular physiotherapy can make mobility easier for people affected with joint pain. Practicing strengthening exercise will give flexibility to joint muscles and reduce stiffness. People with autoimmune disorder like AIDS and severe viral infections have to be more precautious than others. Eye inflammation or conjunctivitis is treated with suitable anti-inflammatory eye drops.
Prevention :
You cannot do anything to prevent reactive arthritis. But you can always reduce the chance of getting bacterial and viral infection. Practice safe sex and always wear condoms while having sex with strangers. Eat healthy foods and fully cooked stuff to prevent bacterial infection. Do not send your child to school or day care center if he has developed dysentery since infection can spread to other children.
Spinal Meningitis
Spinal Meningitis The brain and the spinal cord are surrounded by soft membranes to protect the inner tissues. Spinal meningitis occurs when these membranes get swollen due to some reason and develops inflammation. An important feature of meningitis is high fever with a stiff neck. Meningitis is caused by viral infection or fungal infection. The disease can be treated by medications and early intervention but sometimes it can be serious and life threatening.
Symptoms :
Early signs of meningitis will be high fever or flu like symptoms. For this reason many people fail to recognize the disease leading to complications. Meningitis symptoms can develop within hours or few days depending on the intensity of infection.
Some of the important signs of spinal meningitis are:
In some cases, the affected person may get sudden seizures or skin rashes and he becomes sensitive to light.Spinal meningitis may develop in infants and newborns also. If the infant develops sudden high fever accompanied with stiff neck then you must rush to the doctor immediately.
Some infants will have symptoms like excess of sleepiness, inactivity, trouble in feeding and constant crying with irritation. In some cases a soft bulging may appear on the baby’s head and it has great discomfort.When compared with bacterial meningitis, viral meningitis is better since the symptoms can improve even without treatment. Delay in taking treatment can cause complications or severe brain damage. In severe cases meningitis can cause death.
Causes :
Meningitis can be caused by viral or bacterial infection. Bacterial infection is more serious and life threatening than viral infection.
Bacterial Infection :
Bacteria can enter the bloodstream through ear/sinus infection or sometimes it can directly attack the meninges (membranes that envelops the brain/spinal cord) causing infection. Streptococcus pneumoniae (which causes ear infection/throat infection), Neisseria meningitides (that cause respiratory infection), Haemophilus influenzae Type B and Listeria monocytogenes (present in hot dogs and cheese) are some of the bacterium that causes spinal meningitis.
Viral Meningitis :
Viral meningitis is often mild and symptoms can improve on their own. Enteroviruses are often responsible for causing spinal infection. Herpes simplex virus, West Nile virus and mumps are some of the viral infections that cause meningitis. Chronic meningitis can develop when the organisms invade the cerebrospinal fluid. Acute form of meningitis can develop suddenly but chronic form may take weeks together. In rare cases fungus can cause meningitis. Sometimes strong drug allergy, chemical reactions and other infectious diseases can cause spinal meningitis.
Who are at risk?
A child who skips his scheduled vaccine may develop meningitis in later ages. Infants and newborns are prone to bacterial infections at high rate. Individual living in community setting like that of military camps, dormitories, boarding schools or colleges have increased risk of developing contagious meningococcal meningitis. Pregnant women (with weakened immunity) have risk of developing listeriosis leading to meningitis.
In general, people with weakened immunity are vulnerable to many diseases including meningitis. Meningitis can cause various complications if not given proper treatment in time. Some of them may develop hearing loss, brain damage, learning disability, seizure and various other brain damage.
Diagnosis :
The doctor will look for the above symptoms and check for ear/nose/throat infections and skin rashes. Since the symptoms of meningitis are confusing it is difficult to detect spinal meningitis. He may order for blood profile to detect growth of micro-organisms, imaging tests (like X-ray, CT scan), and lumbar puncture. He would collect small amount of cerebrospinal fluid from the spine using spinal tap procedure and test it in the laboratory. Any abnormal increase in the WBC count can be due to meningitis. To diagnose viral meningitis your doctor may request for polymerase chain reaction test.
Treatment :
Firstly the doctor should make sure about the type of microorganisms that has caused meningitis. The treatment may vary depending on the infection the person/child has. Antibiotics are prescribed for treating bacterial meningitis. In severe infection, your doctor may give steroid medications (in high doses) and taper it slowly. The root cause of bacterial infection like ear infection or sinus should be treated.
Viral infections cannot be treated with antibiotics and the symptoms will improve within a week. Simple home remedies like drinking plenty of fluids and taking complete rest can give some relief. In severe cases, antiviral medications are prescribed. Antifungal drugs are given for meningitis caused by fungus.
Prevention :
Meningitis develops through infections and hence one should always practice good hygiene both at home and at workplace. Children should be instructed to wash the hands thoroughly before they eat and after using toilet. Avoid sharing foods and personal items with others. Cover your mouth while sneezing.
Vaccinations are available to prevent bacterial meningitis. Do not skip the doses of vaccination and follow instructions of your pediatrician for your children. Meningococcal conjugate vaccine is given in single dose for children of 11-12 years followed by booster shot at 16 years.
Symptoms :
Early signs of meningitis will be high fever or flu like symptoms. For this reason many people fail to recognize the disease leading to complications. Meningitis symptoms can develop within hours or few days depending on the intensity of infection.
Some of the important signs of spinal meningitis are:
- Stiffness in neck region
- High fever (occurs suddenly)
- Muscle spasm, joint pain and more intense pain in spine region
- Difficulty in concentrating or confusion of thoughts
- Extreme tiredness
- Severe headache/nausea/vomiting
- Trouble in getting quality sleep and difficulty in waking up
In some cases, the affected person may get sudden seizures or skin rashes and he becomes sensitive to light.Spinal meningitis may develop in infants and newborns also. If the infant develops sudden high fever accompanied with stiff neck then you must rush to the doctor immediately.
Some infants will have symptoms like excess of sleepiness, inactivity, trouble in feeding and constant crying with irritation. In some cases a soft bulging may appear on the baby’s head and it has great discomfort.When compared with bacterial meningitis, viral meningitis is better since the symptoms can improve even without treatment. Delay in taking treatment can cause complications or severe brain damage. In severe cases meningitis can cause death.
Causes :
Meningitis can be caused by viral or bacterial infection. Bacterial infection is more serious and life threatening than viral infection.
Bacterial Infection :
Bacteria can enter the bloodstream through ear/sinus infection or sometimes it can directly attack the meninges (membranes that envelops the brain/spinal cord) causing infection. Streptococcus pneumoniae (which causes ear infection/throat infection), Neisseria meningitides (that cause respiratory infection), Haemophilus influenzae Type B and Listeria monocytogenes (present in hot dogs and cheese) are some of the bacterium that causes spinal meningitis.
Viral Meningitis :
Viral meningitis is often mild and symptoms can improve on their own. Enteroviruses are often responsible for causing spinal infection. Herpes simplex virus, West Nile virus and mumps are some of the viral infections that cause meningitis. Chronic meningitis can develop when the organisms invade the cerebrospinal fluid. Acute form of meningitis can develop suddenly but chronic form may take weeks together. In rare cases fungus can cause meningitis. Sometimes strong drug allergy, chemical reactions and other infectious diseases can cause spinal meningitis.
Who are at risk?
A child who skips his scheduled vaccine may develop meningitis in later ages. Infants and newborns are prone to bacterial infections at high rate. Individual living in community setting like that of military camps, dormitories, boarding schools or colleges have increased risk of developing contagious meningococcal meningitis. Pregnant women (with weakened immunity) have risk of developing listeriosis leading to meningitis.
In general, people with weakened immunity are vulnerable to many diseases including meningitis. Meningitis can cause various complications if not given proper treatment in time. Some of them may develop hearing loss, brain damage, learning disability, seizure and various other brain damage.
Diagnosis :
The doctor will look for the above symptoms and check for ear/nose/throat infections and skin rashes. Since the symptoms of meningitis are confusing it is difficult to detect spinal meningitis. He may order for blood profile to detect growth of micro-organisms, imaging tests (like X-ray, CT scan), and lumbar puncture. He would collect small amount of cerebrospinal fluid from the spine using spinal tap procedure and test it in the laboratory. Any abnormal increase in the WBC count can be due to meningitis. To diagnose viral meningitis your doctor may request for polymerase chain reaction test.
Treatment :
Firstly the doctor should make sure about the type of microorganisms that has caused meningitis. The treatment may vary depending on the infection the person/child has. Antibiotics are prescribed for treating bacterial meningitis. In severe infection, your doctor may give steroid medications (in high doses) and taper it slowly. The root cause of bacterial infection like ear infection or sinus should be treated.
Viral infections cannot be treated with antibiotics and the symptoms will improve within a week. Simple home remedies like drinking plenty of fluids and taking complete rest can give some relief. In severe cases, antiviral medications are prescribed. Antifungal drugs are given for meningitis caused by fungus.
Prevention :
Meningitis develops through infections and hence one should always practice good hygiene both at home and at workplace. Children should be instructed to wash the hands thoroughly before they eat and after using toilet. Avoid sharing foods and personal items with others. Cover your mouth while sneezing.
Vaccinations are available to prevent bacterial meningitis. Do not skip the doses of vaccination and follow instructions of your pediatrician for your children. Meningococcal conjugate vaccine is given in single dose for children of 11-12 years followed by booster shot at 16 years.
Monday, April 7, 2014
Shigellosis
Shigellosis Shigellosis is a bacterial infection causing fever, diarrhea (bloody stool) and severe abdominal cramps. Most of the time, the symptoms will resolve on its own without wanting any treatment. Shigella can be contracted by other members by touching the fecal particles that contains bacteria. People working in day care centers are prone to pass on this infection by not washing hands properly while changing diapers. Children of age group 2-4 are more prone to get this bacterial infection. The infection can be fully treated by powerful antibiotics.
Causes :
Shigella is a group of bacteria that causes shigellosis infection. This family of microbe was first discovered by Japanese scientist Shiga and hence this name. Though there are many kinds of shigella bacteria like Shigella sonnei, Shigella flexneri etc. it is the “Group B” shigella bacteria that cause this infection.
There are 3 possible ways by which a child/person contracts this infectious bacterium.
Symptoms :
The initial symptoms of Shigellosis begin in a day or two after getting infected. Some of the prominent symptoms of this disease are mild fever, headache, diarrhea (that contains bloody stool) and abdominal cramps. Many people may not have any symptoms but still may carry the infectious bacteria in their feces.
Tests :
Having diarrhea with blood discharge is the best way to identify this infection. Your doctor may order for testing of stool sample to confirm the diagnoses.
Who are at risk?
Toddlers (who are not toilet trained), people who are working in day care centers (handling diapers), workers employed in hospitals, nursing homes, and any group of people who have close contact with others (like those in jails and military barracks are likely to spread infection even if one person is infected) and gay population who are sexually active with other men with infection have increased risk of getting infected.
Complications :
Shigellosis does not create any complications and the symptoms would clear up within a week or two even without any treatment. In rare cases it may cause dehydration (due to continuous diarrhea), seizures (due to high fever), rectal prolapse (due to excess of strain caused by bowel movements), toxic megacolon and reactive arthritis.
Treatment :
For mild form of infection, no treatment is required. In moderate cases you will be given antibiotics like amphicillin trimethoprim or sulfamethoxazole or ciprofloxacin. Sometimes the bacteria become resistant to antibiotics when the infection spreads in a community.
It is true that affected child/adult will get back to normalcy within a week, but the bowel habits may take some time to become normal. For some it may take several weeks or month for getting back the right bowel habit. Some people may develop joint pains due to infection of shigella which is known as post infectious arthritis. Good news about shigellosis is any person who gets this disease become resistant to this particular type of bacteria and hence will not get infected again for several years.
Home Remedies :
If you are a healthy adult it is enough if you drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and to arrest diarrhea. In case of children Pedialyte can be given to balance the loss of water.
Prevention :
Causes :
Shigella is a group of bacteria that causes shigellosis infection. This family of microbe was first discovered by Japanese scientist Shiga and hence this name. Though there are many kinds of shigella bacteria like Shigella sonnei, Shigella flexneri etc. it is the “Group B” shigella bacteria that cause this infection.
There are 3 possible ways by which a child/person contracts this infectious bacterium.
- One is by touching the eyes/nose or mouth after changing the diaper for children and not washing the hands properly. The bacteria is present in the feces of the child which gets into the body by direct skin contact. Toddlers who are not toilet trained may not wash their hands properly and pass on the infection to other children who play with them.
- Second is by eating contaminated food. In restaurants and hotels, people (with this infection) can pass on the infectious bacteria to many people while handling food.
- Third method of transmitting the infection is by drinking contaminated water that contains shigella infection.
Symptoms :
The initial symptoms of Shigellosis begin in a day or two after getting infected. Some of the prominent symptoms of this disease are mild fever, headache, diarrhea (that contains bloody stool) and abdominal cramps. Many people may not have any symptoms but still may carry the infectious bacteria in their feces.
Tests :
Having diarrhea with blood discharge is the best way to identify this infection. Your doctor may order for testing of stool sample to confirm the diagnoses.
Who are at risk?
Toddlers (who are not toilet trained), people who are working in day care centers (handling diapers), workers employed in hospitals, nursing homes, and any group of people who have close contact with others (like those in jails and military barracks are likely to spread infection even if one person is infected) and gay population who are sexually active with other men with infection have increased risk of getting infected.
Complications :
Shigellosis does not create any complications and the symptoms would clear up within a week or two even without any treatment. In rare cases it may cause dehydration (due to continuous diarrhea), seizures (due to high fever), rectal prolapse (due to excess of strain caused by bowel movements), toxic megacolon and reactive arthritis.
Treatment :
For mild form of infection, no treatment is required. In moderate cases you will be given antibiotics like amphicillin trimethoprim or sulfamethoxazole or ciprofloxacin. Sometimes the bacteria become resistant to antibiotics when the infection spreads in a community.
It is true that affected child/adult will get back to normalcy within a week, but the bowel habits may take some time to become normal. For some it may take several weeks or month for getting back the right bowel habit. Some people may develop joint pains due to infection of shigella which is known as post infectious arthritis. Good news about shigellosis is any person who gets this disease become resistant to this particular type of bacteria and hence will not get infected again for several years.
Home Remedies :
If you are a healthy adult it is enough if you drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and to arrest diarrhea. In case of children Pedialyte can be given to balance the loss of water.
Prevention :
- No vaccine is available for preventing shigellosis.
- One can take precautions for not getting infected by shigella.
- Workers employed in day care centers should wash their hands thoroughly to prevent spreading infection to others.
- Children should be instructed to wash their hands with soap water after using toilet.
- People who are working in restaurants should abstain themselves from duty if they have diarrhea.
- Do not send your child to school or day care center if they have diarrhea.
- Avoid drinking contaminated water.
Tuesday, April 1, 2014
Sleeping Sickness
Sleeping Sickness In medical terms, sleeping sickness is called as “African Trypanosomiasis” which is caused by parasites that is distributed by tsetse fly. This disease is currently restricted to rural African regions and some areas of Saharan Africa. Each year, more than 10,000 fresh cases are being reported by World Health Organization and it is considered that more numbers go unnoticed. Sleeping sickness can be treated by medications.
How it is contracted?
A person will get infected with African trypanosomiasis when he is bitten by tsetse fly that carries the parasite by name Trypanosoma brucei. In some cases, the infection received from the fly can be transmitted to the baby by pregnant mother and by way of blood transfusion. Two types of trypanosomiasis are being recognized namely East African and West African trypanosomiasis.
Causes :
Sleeping sickness is caused by parasite Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense or Trypanosoma brucei gambiense. Tsetse flies are considered to be the carriers of these parasites and the person gets infected by the parasite when being bitten by tsetse flies.
Who are at risk?
People living in the regions of Central Africa and those who are frequently traveling to affected countries are prone to get this infection. Tsetse fly lives in the restricted areas of Africa and infects only selected population. Tsetse fly is abundant in the woodland and savannah regions of Africa. Hence tourists and hunters who are visiting that area are prone to get infection when bitten by tsetse fly. It is advised that visitors should not spend more time in the thick bushes and river-side since they have chance of getting bitten many times.
Symptoms :
There is an incubation period for the parasite which is the interval between the bite of tsetse fly and the initial onset of symptoms. It can be anywhere from 1-4 weeks when the person is infected with East African trypanosomiasis and it can take months together for a person who is infected with West African trypanosomiasis. The symptoms of sleeping sickness include fever (mild to moderate), anxiety, dizziness, headache, loss of quality sleep, mood swings, feeling overly sleepy, excess of sweating, and fatigue. For many people the place (spot) where the fly bites will become red and swollen and may cause pain due to the formation of sores.
Once the disease progresses, it can cause serious symptoms like confusion of thoughts, changes in personality, slurred speech, epilepsy, and difficulty in walking. This occurs when the central nervous system gets affected. At this stage, the person should receive treatment immediately, failing which it can become fatal causing death.
When to see the doctor?
If you think you are infected with African trypanosomiasis or bitten by tsetse fly, having some of the symptoms above, you need to consult your doctor without any delay.
Diagnoses :
Your doctor will inspect the bitten area of the skin checking for painful sores or swollen lymph nodes. He would order for blood tests, skin biopsy and biopsy of the tissue from spinal cord. He will collect the fluid sample from the lymph nodes (known as lymph nodes aspiration) that become swollen due to infection. Once cerebrospinal fluid is collected, the lab technician would check for specific IgM level for confirming the presence of parasite.
Treatment :
The method of treatment varies with individuals depending on the intensity of the symptoms. Treatment should begin immediately if the symptoms are severe and medical reports confirm the diagnoses. Medications like Eflornithine, Pentamidine, Melarsoprol and Suramin are prescribed for treating sleeping sickness. Many patients will be hospitalized and put on IV fluids for arresting the growth of parasite inside the body. Follow up care and testing of spinal tap is necessary for at least 2 years if the diagnosis is confirmed. The infected person will not become immune to the parasite and hence he/she has every chance of getting infected again.
Prevention :
At present, no vaccination is available to prevent sleeping sickness. You can follow some of the preventive tips to avoid getting bitten by tsetse flies. You can avoid traveling to areas which are abundant with these insects. Use insect repellant creams liberally, wear long sleeved clothing that is thick. Do not use bright colored clothing since flies are attracted with dark/bright colors. In case you are sleeping in that area, use fool-proof netting. Avoid visiting bushy areas.
What happens when you are not treated?
Sleeping sickness can cause death due to cardiac arrest within 6 months, if the person is not taking treatment. The parasite will spread throughout the body releasing more of toxins causing heavy sleep and damage to the nervous system. The infected person may go into coma and eventually die.
How it is contracted?
A person will get infected with African trypanosomiasis when he is bitten by tsetse fly that carries the parasite by name Trypanosoma brucei. In some cases, the infection received from the fly can be transmitted to the baby by pregnant mother and by way of blood transfusion. Two types of trypanosomiasis are being recognized namely East African and West African trypanosomiasis.
Causes :
Sleeping sickness is caused by parasite Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense or Trypanosoma brucei gambiense. Tsetse flies are considered to be the carriers of these parasites and the person gets infected by the parasite when being bitten by tsetse flies.
Who are at risk?
People living in the regions of Central Africa and those who are frequently traveling to affected countries are prone to get this infection. Tsetse fly lives in the restricted areas of Africa and infects only selected population. Tsetse fly is abundant in the woodland and savannah regions of Africa. Hence tourists and hunters who are visiting that area are prone to get infection when bitten by tsetse fly. It is advised that visitors should not spend more time in the thick bushes and river-side since they have chance of getting bitten many times.
Symptoms :
There is an incubation period for the parasite which is the interval between the bite of tsetse fly and the initial onset of symptoms. It can be anywhere from 1-4 weeks when the person is infected with East African trypanosomiasis and it can take months together for a person who is infected with West African trypanosomiasis. The symptoms of sleeping sickness include fever (mild to moderate), anxiety, dizziness, headache, loss of quality sleep, mood swings, feeling overly sleepy, excess of sweating, and fatigue. For many people the place (spot) where the fly bites will become red and swollen and may cause pain due to the formation of sores.
Once the disease progresses, it can cause serious symptoms like confusion of thoughts, changes in personality, slurred speech, epilepsy, and difficulty in walking. This occurs when the central nervous system gets affected. At this stage, the person should receive treatment immediately, failing which it can become fatal causing death.
When to see the doctor?
If you think you are infected with African trypanosomiasis or bitten by tsetse fly, having some of the symptoms above, you need to consult your doctor without any delay.
Diagnoses :
Your doctor will inspect the bitten area of the skin checking for painful sores or swollen lymph nodes. He would order for blood tests, skin biopsy and biopsy of the tissue from spinal cord. He will collect the fluid sample from the lymph nodes (known as lymph nodes aspiration) that become swollen due to infection. Once cerebrospinal fluid is collected, the lab technician would check for specific IgM level for confirming the presence of parasite.
Treatment :
The method of treatment varies with individuals depending on the intensity of the symptoms. Treatment should begin immediately if the symptoms are severe and medical reports confirm the diagnoses. Medications like Eflornithine, Pentamidine, Melarsoprol and Suramin are prescribed for treating sleeping sickness. Many patients will be hospitalized and put on IV fluids for arresting the growth of parasite inside the body. Follow up care and testing of spinal tap is necessary for at least 2 years if the diagnosis is confirmed. The infected person will not become immune to the parasite and hence he/she has every chance of getting infected again.
Prevention :
At present, no vaccination is available to prevent sleeping sickness. You can follow some of the preventive tips to avoid getting bitten by tsetse flies. You can avoid traveling to areas which are abundant with these insects. Use insect repellant creams liberally, wear long sleeved clothing that is thick. Do not use bright colored clothing since flies are attracted with dark/bright colors. In case you are sleeping in that area, use fool-proof netting. Avoid visiting bushy areas.
What happens when you are not treated?
Sleeping sickness can cause death due to cardiac arrest within 6 months, if the person is not taking treatment. The parasite will spread throughout the body releasing more of toxins causing heavy sleep and damage to the nervous system. The infected person may go into coma and eventually die.
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.
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