Monday, October 14, 2013

Pain between Shoulder Blades – Causes and Treatment

Pain between Shoulder Blades – Causes and Treatment

Pain between Shoulder Blades Causes


There are numerous causes of pain in between the shoulder blades – some serious and others not so much.


Heart Attack
One of the definitive symptoms of an actual or impending heart attack especially in men is sharp pain in the shoulders, while women rather normally report scapular pain.


If anyone experiences scapular pain, together with below listed symptoms, call your primary care physician or 911 directly as your life could be at risk.



  • Pressure or squeezing chest pain

  • Sweating

  • Problems breathing

  • Chest discomfort that is recurring

  • Chest tightness

  • Indigestion as well as gas pain

  • Vomiting and nausea

  • Dizziness

  • Pain radiating to neck, arms or shoulders

  • Unexplained fatigue or weakness

  • Sense of impending doom

  • Pain/discomfort in between shoulder blades


Gallstones/Gallbladder Disease
Although most pain caused by the gallbladder is usually felt in the upper right abdomen, it also can manifest as scapular pain or pain under the shoulder blade on the right.
The usual treatment for gallbladder problems is removal of the gallbladder by a procedure referred to as a “laparoscopy cholecystectomy”. This is the more popular method for the removal of the gallbladder due to the less pain post-surgery and its shorter stay in the hospital.



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Liver Cancer
Cancer of the liver or growth of cells in the liver that are abnormal, comes in two (2) kinds:



  • Primary – cancer that begins in the liver

  • Secondary – that begins elsewhere in the body and migrates to the liver


Cancer of the Esophagus
Cancer of the esophagus develops as tumors or growth of abnormal cells in the esophagus which is the passageway connecting the throat to the stomach. This cancer normally does not have any symptoms until the problem has advanced to the stage where it is too late to be cured. The major symptom is problem swallowing any food. There is a sensation occurring frequently of food becoming stuck in the chest or throat. And pain between the blades of the shoulder is another frequent symptom.


Naturally, scapular pain can just be caused by a muscle that is strained from working on the computer too long, stress, sleeping in the wrong position, or muscle injury due to sports, normal aches and pains or injury from exercise. It could even be a bra that is worn to tightly.


Pain between Shoulder Blades Treatment


The treatment of any pain, no matter where it occurs is to find the reason for the pain and treat that underlying cause. So the 1st step with any pain in the back or between the shoulder blades is to start eliminating what could be the cause and that should start with your sleep habits. Associated with that is making certain that you have a pillow that properly supports your neck.


Next is to reduce the amount of stress in your life that you might have had for years. Massage, yoga and exercise are all ways to reduce stress and perhaps pain in the back.


If stress relief and having proper sleeping habits do not solve the pain in the neck, back or between the shoulder blades, it might be best to at this time schedule an appointment with a medical professional. Your primary care physician can look for any severe underlying condition that could be causing the pain.


Pain is something affecting your entire being and the finding the remedy quickly is extremely important to the quality of your life.












Back Shoulder Pain – Symptoms, Causes, Treatment, Relief

Back Shoulder Pain – Symptoms, Causes, Treatment, Relief

Back Shoulder Pain Symptoms


There are a few ways to test if you are one of many individuals afflicted by this problem.



  • The onset of pain in the subscapular region when a person stretches upward. This can vary in severity. Some people may complain of a slight discomfort while others may not be able to raise their arm fully.

  • Pain in the area when posture is adjusted. This may occur when a person straightens out their pose. There will be a recurrent pain in the area that may even throb in some individuals. The level of pain may also depend on the pain threshold of the person.

  • A feeling of discomfort as the arm is rotated. Pain is usually greater when the arm is rotated in an inward direction. Many have reported that they have trouble rotating outwardly as well.

  • Throbbing discomfort in the area when you hunch forward. This is common to those who have spinal irregularities like scoliosis.


Causes of Back Shoulder Pain


There are many factors that can lead to this condition. Many individuals forget that their lifestyles, occupations and habits may cause or exacerbate the problem.


Incorrect posture
We often forget to pull our shoulders back. This results in a hunched posture that leads to pain from various points in the back. Imagine hunching forward while lifting a heavy load. This incorrect stance has caused severe injury to those who do not correct themselves.


Sleep habits
Those who make it a habit to sleep to one side without changing positions may become main-stays at their local chiropractor’s clinic. Picking a favorite side has many people waking up with an aching back. Try a few variations like sleeping on your back every other night.


Lack of stretching
Athletes make it a point to perform warm-ups or stretches before they start training. This warms up their system and keeps their muscles pliant and flexible for the exercises. The lack of this vital step may result in torn, inflamed or achy muscles.


Job Related Reasons
This occurs in individuals with jobs that require them to constantly lift their arms past their heads. This includes painters, carpenters, swimmers, volleyball players and football players to name a few. These people are prone to back shoulder pain.

Back Shoulder Pain Treatment


There are many ways to rehabilitate the area. Individuals opt for a number of treatments to make back shoulder pain a thing of the past.



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Hot and Cold Therapy
Athletes and their coaches rely on this procedure at the onset of back an shoulder pains. They use ice that is covered in a moist towelette because direct contact to the skin can cause burns. The towel is applied to the area for 20 minutes every 2 hours to ease discomfort. When the area is less sensitive to movement, a hot water bottle is applied to the area or roughly 15 to 16 minutes. This can be performed before stretching and exercises to strengthen the area. It would be best if the person refrain from exercises or chores that require mobility of the region.


Flexibility Exercises
They can be done to stretch out the area as long as the pain is bearable. A popular remedy is putting the arm parallel to the wall and directing your body to face away from it. This helps the area gain flexibility and may relieve the pain.


Shoulder Strengthening Work-outs
Your trainer at the local gym can come up with a variety of exercises that aim to strengthen your shoulder muscles. Buchberger exercises are commonly prescribed for back shoulder pain. This should not be attempted without the consent of your chiropractor.


NSAID Treatment
Your doctor may prescribe Non-steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs. They have an analgesic effect which results to lesser pain levels in the affected area. It has anti-pyretic properties that can lower your body temperature upon the onset of a fever. Higher doses have anti-inflammatory qualities which battles inflammation in the region of concern. Naproxen, aspirin and ibuprofen are common examples. Remember to stick to the dose your physician prescribed.


Cortisone Injections
These are often administered as a last resort. The patient is given a shot right under the shoulder blade. The pain may worsen in the next 48 hours. But it usually resolves gradually with time. Patients must remember that this should not become a habit. Receiving multiple shots can cause the breakdown of the rotator cuff tendon. This is administered to those who have a severe injury like subscapular bursitis which is the inflammation of the bursa.


Surgical Procedures
Should all the non-operative treatments fail in a patient with subscapular bursitis, arthroscopic surgery will be performed. This involves excising the bursa under the scapula or shoulder blade. Rehabilitative therapy is then done at a later date. This will help the patient regain strength and movement of the area.


Back Shoulder Pain Relief


Some simple Procedures to Relieve the Area:



  • Minimal stretching can be done to relieve stress in the region. This can be done alone or with a personal trainer. This will help lessen the stress in that particular area. Always consult a physician before you decide to go back to the gym.

  • Massage therapy can be beneficial to those that suffer from back shoulder pain. It should be performed by a licensed physical therapist as opposed to a rookie at a spa. The area may hurt during the procedure but that is expected.

  • Cold therapy can provide some relief during the onset of the symptoms. The cooling properties of ice works by numbing the area of concern.

  • Pain relievers might help but it would be best if you did not depend on them so much. Taking them to often may desensitize you and lead you to increase you dosage. This may produce severe if not fatal effects.


Important Note :


Before trying any instant relief medications, please seek the advice of a physician to avoid any ill effects. Back shoulder pain can be a bane to your existence but it can be relieved and prevented from coming back again.












Pain in Arch of Foot – Causes and Treatment

Pain in Arch of Foot – Causes and Treatment

Pain in Arch of Foot Causes


A lot of contributing factors are involved in foot arch pain. The simple foot imbalance may cause it. Foot strain from overuse and work can precipitate pain. Direct trauma such as a blunt force contributes to the tenderness. A single, uncomplicated fracture may provoke stress and emit pain in the feet. Feet overuse can be the cause of this, like bringing up too much pressure on the feet and leaving out rest while you still can. People who usually work in areas that require no sitting suffer this from this situation. If it is accompanied by wrong shoes, then it can worsen the possibility of pain in arch of foot.
Foot arch pain is quite common to obese persons. The body weight can make the arch of the foot restless and be a source of strain. Regular rest should be done with overweight people so to avoid foot arch pain.



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A condition called plantar fasciitis (from plantar fascia –structure of the foot that is found on the bottom surface of the foot) is a sport-causing injury. This is caused by improper use of methods during sports events. This usually occurs when stretching exercises are neglected before doing some activities in sports. Overstretching of the feet can lead to plantar fasciitis. The pain is described as extreme and usually felt during rest. Plantar fasciitis can complicate if not given early medical attention. A heel spur, an outgrowth of bony structure of the heel, would develop if left unattended.


Pain in Arch of Foot Treatment


The very first intervention in treating foot arch problems is to alleviate pain. Manage the pain so you can work further. Application of an ice pack can soothe the pain in the arch of your foot. After 30 minutes, a warm pad can continue the work. Anti-inflammatory drugs, such as gels, are usually prescribed by doctors. These would assist in relieving the discomfort. If unresponsive, one must consult the doctor for further tests.


One should avoid pain-causing instances. If you have identified the cause of the arch pain, it is advisable that you avoid them. For one, if you are to have your regular exercise, warming up is a must. One should avoid straining the foot and by this it would greatly help. Regular exercise which is mild but can increase foot strength and stability is quite useful. Make use of proper and well-fitted footwear when doing your usual sport events. The use of orthotics for sports-related circumstances is usually prescribed by doctors. The more it can be convenient to you as an athlete and as well to your body. Additional comfort measures can be applied such as adding heel pads or cushions when you do your usual day work or exercise. Give it a rest. Yes, never exhaust yourself in your work. Attend occupational activities if you have an underlying structural imbalance. Help yourself and make the most out of your body. If you are overweight or obese, you should consult an exercise program to assist you in losing weight.












Sharp Pain in Head – Causes and Treatment

Sharp Pain in Head – Causes and Treatment

Causes of Sharp Pain in Head


The below are key reasons for severe or sharp pain in the head.


Migraine
This is the type headache that is normally on only one side of the head and can be severe to mild. Often the pain is throbbing and so intense that the individual is not able to do any daily activities and will just have to go to bed. This sharp pain in the head also can be accompanied by other symptoms such as nausea, sensitivity to sound or light, or vomiting. A migraine headache is commonly seen more often in women and they may last for a number of hours as well as in extreme cases for days.


Sinusitis/Sinus infections
The pain in the head that is sharp behind ears or behind eyes can be caused by sinusitis. Amid the varied types of sinusitis, sphenoid sinusitis usually causes pain sharp in the head from behind the eyes while others, such as ethmoid or frontal sinusitis can cause pain behind the eye or ear. Sharp or constant pain in the head when bending down is often seen in those individuals having chronic sinusitis.


Encephalitis
This is an uncommon but lethal disease and is the swelling of the brain caused by a virus. The most commonly recognized symptom is pain that is sharp in the head. Besides the headache, other symptoms or signs are nausea, seizures, convulsions, and vomiting. Encephalitis can result in passing away because of respiratory arrest.
Meningitis
This is caused by meninges – tissues around the brain and the spinal cord – that are inflamed. Meningitis is often fatal and is normally cause by either a viral or bacterial infection. Pain can be sharp in the entire head accompanied by a stiff neck and are the most common signs of meningitis. Also, vomiting, nausea, seizures, sensitivity to light, unconsciousness or loss of appetite can also be seen. At times, together with meningitis, other complications like faster heart rate and gangrene have been seen.



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Brain tumor
Symptoms of a brain tumor can be the sudden onset of sharp and severe pain in the head. As the tumors grow this pain increases and eventually becomes unbearable. Sudden headaches that cause sharp pain with no history of headaches can be an indicator of the possibility of a brain tumor. Other symptoms and signs seen are convulsions, seizures, loss of mental alertness as well as confusion. Brain injury that is traumatic due to any reason may also cause pain that is sharp in the head.


Apart from these major headache causes, severe headaches can be caused by withdrawal, hangover, coital cephalalgia, vascular or spinal problems. Headaches caused by hormonal problems due to changes in hormones are usually experienced in one side of the head. Headaches in the back of the head are normally due to mental tension, stress, improper posture, and depression. It is mostly the kind of pain that is sharp in the head that comes and goes.


Sharp Pain in Head Treatment


An individual needs to find medical attention if the headache is:



  • The “worst headache of your life”. This wording is frequently seen in course books as a sign for medical professionals to contemplate making the diagnosis of a “subarachnoid hemorrhage due to a ruptured cerebral aneurysm”. The extent of pain will usually be considered along with how the individual looks as well as other symptoms and signs.

  • Unlike any previous headaches.

  • Begins abruptly or is intensified by coughing, exertion, sexual activity or bending over.

  • Accompanied by nausea and vomiting that is persistent.

  • Accompanied by stiff neck or fever.

  • Accompanied by seizures.

  • Occurs after a fall or new head trauma.

  • Accompanied with modifications in behavior, speech or vision.

  • Accompanied with variation in sensation or weakness.

  • Is not reacting to management techniques and is becoming worse.

  • Needs in excess of advised dose for pain of OTC (over the counter) medicines.


It is essential to identify which kind of headache an individual is suffering from so that the treatment given is correct. The common categories of headaches include:



  • Tension

  • Cluster

  • Sinus

  • Rebound

  • Migraine












Cramping During Early Pregnancy – Symptoms, Causes, Treatment

Cramping During Early Pregnancy – Symptoms, Causes, Treatment

Cramping During Early Pregnancy Symptoms


The cramping can be compared to what is felt when a woman is menstruating. Others may even not notice the cramping but they would feel heavy in the pelvic area. This is pain that we can identify as normal. But others tend to panic, especially when they have minute knowledge about pregnancy. It is safe to note that cramping is a sign of pregnancy. These are the symptoms associated with cramping during the early stage of pregnancy:



  • Lower back pain

  • Uterine pain

  • Pain in the groin area

  • Pain intensifies when one shifts from sitting or lying position to standing position

  • Minimal vaginal discharges

  • Minimal spotting or bleeding, light colored

  • Does not last long


All of these are in a form of discomfort that should not worsen. Once it worsens, it is not to be ignored and be let off. There could be an underlying cause of such symptom and medical assistance is needed.


What to know to indicate otherwise:



  • There is excessive bleeding, dark colored

  • Pain is very much intolerable


Causes of Cramping During Early Pregnancy


One should not panic when cramping is felt during the early stage of pregnancy. It is a normal process that occurs in order for the body to be ready for the baby’s growth inside the womb. It is hormonal and is triggered in preparation for the incoming months that the fertilized egg grows.


After fertilization, when egg unites with the sperm, the fertilized egg will implant itself in the uterine cavity. This process is called implantation, and it usually associated with mild cramping and spotting. A woman, who has been trying to be pregnant and has missed a period, can now check or consult a doctor if this is experienced. This is common sign and one should not be alarmed.


Since the body will compensate for the growing fetus inside the mother’s womb, there would be period-like cramps sensation. This is because; the uterus is expanding and trying to accommodate the increasing size of the fetus. These cramps should not be intolerable, and if it is – this is the time you consult the doctor.
The uterus is composed of regions, layers, and ligaments. These are the primary support for the preparation of pregnancy. One support system is the round ligaments of the uterus. As the womb expands, the ligaments follow to bear the weight.



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As you can see, these causes are in preparation and in assistance for the baby. But once the cramping is localized and has become severe. An ectopic pregnancy might have been the cause. This is associated with severe cramping and bleeding that is unrelieved by rest. A miscarriage can also be inevitable once it has exceeded the normal limits of pain. Going to the emergency room is a must to avoid sepsis and shock.


Cramping During Early Pregnancy Treatment


This type of cramping is not far from what a woman experiences during their period. What women usually do is go back to their comfort zone. So to relieve the pain, application of heating pad, warm is recommend, on the lower abdomen is advisable. During menstrual period, prescription of NSAIDs is alright. But during early pregnancy, NSAIDs are contraindicated for it can give unfavorable birth outcomes. It is suggested that you consult the doctor for pain relievers that can bring no harm to the mother and unborn child.


Others are relieved by drinking lots of water in the day. Getting suitable amount of rest and food would help the mother. Increase fiber in diet, so that digestion is still in normal context and that it would not increase the discomfort felt when the cramping comes.


Walking can help an expectant mother. This is to relieve any gas formation that can be an additional distress to the pregnant woman. Small amount of tolerable exercise is another form of relief, like by exercising the perineal area thus strengthening your pelvic muscles. In this way, you help yourself for the future in giving birth.


Sexual intercourse can be of discomfort when a pregnant woman is expecting. It is harmless to the mother and child, but can induce cramping.


Call the doctor if the cramping lasts longer than expected, past the sixth week or the spotting has gone to severe bleeding. This can be a probable sign of miscarriage or labor, that medical assistance is direly needed.












Vaginal Dryness – Symptoms, Causes, Treatment, Natural Remedies, Menopause

Vaginal Dryness – Symptoms, Causes, Treatment, Natural Remedies, Menopause

Vaginal Dryness Symptoms


Dryness of the vagina can go along with symptoms and signs consisting of:



  • Burning

  • Itching

  • Pain or any light bleeding with sex

  • Soreness

  • Urgency or frequent urinating


Dryness of the vagina happens to all females, but frequently they do not bring the subject up with their physicians. If this is affecting your life, especially your sex life and the association with your partner, think about seeing your physician about this problem. Living with dryness of the vagina that is unpleasant does not need to be a part of becoming older.


Vaginal Dryness Causes


A layer that is thin and consists of fluid that is clear coats the walls of the vagina. The majority of this lubricant leaks thru the blood vessel walls especially the blood vessels that encircle the vagina. Any change in hormones during a menstrual cycle or as a female ages can affect the consistency and amount of this fluid. There are various conditions which can contribute to dryness of the vagina. They comprise:


Reduced levels of Estrogen
A reduction of the level of estrogen is usually the main reason for dryness in the vagina. Estrogen is a hormone that helps keep the tissue in the vaginal region healthy by managing normal lubrication of the vagina, elasticity of the tissue as well as acidity. These are the factors that create a defense system against urinary tract as well as vaginal infections. However when levels of estrogen reduces so does this natural protection leading to less elastic, thinner as well as more fragile lining of the vagina. Estrogen levels fall for numerous reasons:



  • Childbirth

  • Perimenopause or menopause

  • Breast-feeding

  • Effects on ovaries from cancer therapy, including hormone therapy, radiation therapy as well as chemotherapy

  • Removal of ovaries by surgery

  • Cigarette smoking

  • Immune disorders


Medications
Cold and allergy medications and some antidepressants may decline the moisture in numerous parts of the body, including the vaginal area. Anti-estrogen drugs such as any for the treatment of breast cancer can also result in dryness of the vagina.


Sjogren’s syndrome
This is an autoimmune disease where the immune system can attack healthy tissue. Additionally it causes the symptoms of dry mouth, dry eye, and it is another cause for dryness in the vaginal region.


Douching
This method of vagina cleansing with a liquid solution disturbs the chemical balance which is normal in the vagina and causes inflammation known as vaginitis. This can cause the vaginal area to feel irritated or dry.


Vaginal Dryness Treatment


Vaginal estrogen therapy
Generally, treating dryness of the vagina is most nominal with topical estrogen for the vagina rather than estrogen orally. Estrogen which is used in the vaginal area can still reach the blood system but the quantity is very nominal. Vaginal estrogen does not lessen testosterone levels – vital for sexual function to be healthy – the way estrogen taken orally can.
Vaginal estrogen treatment comes in numerous kinds:



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Vaginal estrogen cream – known as Estrace, Premarin
This cream is inserted directly into the vagina by applicator, normally at bedtime. The physician will tell you the amount of cream to be used and how frequently to use it. It is normally a daily routine for the first several weeks and 2 or 3 times each week afterwards.


Vaginal estrogen ring – known as Estring
This is a flexible, soft ring introduced into the upper area of the vagina by you or your physician. The ring will release a steady amount of estrogen and has to be exchanged every 3 months.


Vaginal estrogen tablet – known as Vagifem
This is a one-use applicator used to place a vaginal estrogen dose in the vagina. The physician will advise you how frequently to insert a dose – usually daily for the 1st 2 weeks and then two times a week after that.


If dryness of the vagina is linked with indications of menopause, such as having moderate or severe hot flashes, the physician will probably advise estrogen pills, gel, patches or a higher dosage estrogen ring along with progestin.


Natural or Home Remedies


Use a moisturizer or lubricant
Try an over the counter product as a remedy for dryness of the vagina:


Lubricants such as Astroglide or K-Y
Lubricants that are water-based can lubricate the vagina for many hours. It is applied to the opening of the vagina or to the partner’s penis prior to intercourse.


Moisturizers such as Lubrin or Replens
These are products that imitate the normal moisture of vagina and can get rid of dryness for about 3 days thru a single use. This can be used on an ongoing basis for protection of dryness or irritation to the vagina.


Pay consideration to sexual desires
Often vaginal dryness for the duration of intercourse can mean you are not getting sufficiently aroused. Take time to be intimate with your partner letting the body become adequately aroused as well as lubricated. It could help to speak with your partner around what sensations are good for you. Having interaction on a steady basis also can help with improving vaginal lubrication.


Avoid certain products
Evade using the following merchandises to treat dryness of the vagina, as they can aggravate that area:



  • Hand lotions

  • Yogurt, vinegar or other douches

  • Bubble baths

  • Soaps












Bladder Infection Symptoms in Women

Bladder Infection Symptoms in Women

Symptoms


Infections of the bladder do not always cause any symptoms or sign but when they are symptoms they may include:



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  • A persistent, strong need to urinate

  • A sensation when urinating that feels like burning

  • Frequent passing of amounts of urine that are small

  • Urine that may appear cola colored or bright pink – symptom of blood in the urine

  • Cloudy urine

  • Pelvic pressure in women

  • Urine that is strong-smelling

  • Discomfort in the lower abdomen

  • Urine with foul odor

  • Bladder spasms

  • Chills and fever

  • At night there is a lack of urinary control

  • Fever, bed-wetting as well as irritability in a child


The physician will diagnose a bladder infection based on symptoms and also the individual‘s medical history. Usually a physical exam is done and a urine specimen caught mid-stream is collected in order to identify any evidence of inflammation, as well as the type of bacteria that could be causing the infection.


The physician will also advise fluid intake be increased, especially cranberry juice, which is known to help prevent infections. Avoid alcohol and caffeine and drink 6 to 8 glasses of water daily.


It is important that proper treatment is received for any symptoms of bladder infection in women – as soon as the symptoms have manifested themselves. This allows the individual to avoid having chronic tract infections which can in some cases lead to kidney failure.