A Simple Guide to Acne Rosacea
-----------------------------------------------
What is Acne Rosacea?
----------------------------------
Acne Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory disease of the skin which typically redness of the cheeks with maculopapular rashes.
Who Gets Acne Rosacea?
-----------------------
Acne Rosacea occurs more in females than in males.
It is also more common in the middle ages.
It is rare in children
What causes Acne Rosacea?
-------------------------------------
The cause of Acne Rosacea is unknown.
Some possible causes are:
1.menopause with flushing of the face due to hormonal
2.Excessive sebum production in the sebaceous glands
3.stress aggravate the condition
4.Alcohol and certain foods(seafood with its high histamine content, spicy food) can cause flushing
What are the symptoms of Acne Rosacea?
-------------------------------------------------
Onset is sudden or gradual.
They may last weeks or months and be recurrent.
Frequently they become chronic.
The typical rash of Acne Rosacea is well-defined :
1.red (rosy cheek)
2.small blood vessel seen in rashes
3.hypertrophic sebaceous glands without blockage of ducts
4.papular rash.
5.Typically on forehead, cheeks, nose, chin or center of face
6.Associated seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp(dandruff)and eyelids (blepharitis)
7.Eye lesions may include:
tearing of eyes
photophobia
visual disturbances
corneal infections
conjunctivitis
How does Acne Rosacea affects the Patient?
-----------------------------------------
All types of Acne Rosacea can affect a person’s quality of life.
1.Appearance of face
2.Blood vessel on nose
3.papular rashes on the face
What is the Treatment of Acne Rosacea?
-----------------------------------
Treatment depends on the severity and type of Acne Rosacea.
1.mild cases may not require any treatment
2.Avoid food that can cause flushing such as alcohol, spicy foods, hot drinks
3.Avoid stress and tension
Treatments:
1.Topical Medicines include:
sulphur containing creams and shampoo to dry the oil from the skin
2.Systemic antibiotics like tetracycline or erythromycin
3.Phototherapy (with ultraviolet B, psoralen with ultraviolet A radiation)
4.Avoid corticosteroids which usually make the condition worse
5.Surgical treatment of rhinophyma and laser treatment of dilated blood vessels
At the present moment there is no known cure for Acne Rosacea.
Medicines have been able to reduce the severity of inflammation and improve the quality of life.
What is the Prognosis of Acne Rosacea?
-----------------------------------------------
There is generally no cure for Acne Rosacea.
Treatment is good with prolonged antibiotic therapy.
Lifelong treatment may be necessary to control signs and symptoms.
Showing posts with label inflammation. Show all posts
Showing posts with label inflammation. Show all posts
Saturday, September 27, 2008
Thursday, September 4, 2008
A Simple Guide to Lichen Planus
A Simple Guide to Lichen Planus
-----------------------------------------------
What is Lichen Planus?
----------------------------------
Lichen Planus is a chronic inflammatory disease of the skin which typically consists of red small papules that joined together to from rough scaly patches.
It is often associated with lesions of the mucosal membranes.
What are the types of Lichen Planus?
--------------------------------
There are 2 main types:
1.Skin Lichen Planus is the most common type of Lichen Planus.
About 80% of people have red small papules that joined together to from rough scaly patches.
The skin usually grows very more quickly and are thicker than usual.
2.Mucosal Lichen Planus (small, red papular lesion of the mouth and mucous membranes)
Who Gets Lichen Planus?
-----------------------
Lichen Planus occurs more in females than in males.
It is also more common in the middle ages.
It is rare in children
What causes Lichen Planus?
-------------------------------------
The cause of Lichen Planus is unknown.
1.allergic reactions to medications for high blood pressure(methyl dopa) and arthritis (chloroquine and salicylates),arsenic, gold.
2.chronic hepatitis C virus infection
3.stress aggravate the condition
4.Allergic reactions to amalgam and gold filling can cause oral lesions
What are the symptoms of Lichen Planus?
-------------------------------------------------
Onset is sudden or gradual.
They may last weeks or months and be recurrent.
Frequently they become chronic.
The typical rash of lichen planus is well-defined :
1.pruritic,
2.planar,
3.purple,
4.polygonal
5.papules.
When seen under the microscope the papules have characteristic network of white lines(Wickham's striae)
Lesions are symmetrical, usually on flexor surfaces of the arm near the wrist and the ankle.
Nails are frequently involved with pitting and thinning of the nail plate.
Oral lichen planus occurs in 50% of patients:
1. reticular form - most common rash, occurs as white streaks on the mucosa (known as Wickham's striae) or papules with small raised area .
The lesions are present on the gums, the tongue, palate and lips.
The lesions are present on both sides of the mouth
2. bullous form - fluid-filled vesicles
3. erosive form - erythematous (red) areas which are ulcerated.
This form may become malignant.
Microscopic appearance is typical of lichen planus:
1.Hyperparakeratosis or thickening of the granular cell layer
There is a typical saw-tooth appearance of the rete pegs
2.Degenerated basal cell layer
3.Inflammatory cells present in subepithelial layer of connective tissue
Lichen planus may involve the glan penis and vulvovaginal mucosa
Lichen planus rarely involve the eosophagus where it can cause erosive esophagitis and stricturing.
How does Lichen Planus affects the Patient?
-----------------------------------------
All types of Lichen Planus can affect a person’s quality of life.
Itching, soreness, and ulcers of the mouth are common.
What is the Treatment of Lichen Planus?
-----------------------------------
Treatment depends on the severity and type of Lichen Planus.
1. mild cases may not require any treatment
2.severe Lichen Planus have lesions that affects most of the body and hospitalization is required.
3.Most cases of Lichen Planus lie in between.
Treatments:
1.Topical Medicines include:
topical steroids.
tar lotions, ointments, creams, and shampoo
2.Systemic therapy (oral drugs that affect the whole body system):
cyclosporins, methotrexate
immunosuppressant medications
Oral retinoids
Oral corticosteroids
hydroxychloroquine
tacrolimus
dapsone
3.Phototherapy (with ultraviolet B, psoralen with ultraviolet A, radiation)
4.Combined therapy are frequently used.
5.new therapies such as the biologic agents has improved the condition
At the present moment there is no known cure for lichen planus.
Medicines have been able to reduce the severity of inflammation and improve the quality of life.
Other medicines are used to treat symptoms:
1.Antihistamines for itch
2.Oral topical steroids for mouth ulcers
What is the Prognosis of Lichen Planus?
-----------------------------------------------
There is generally no cure for lichen planus.
Lichen planus may become dormant after being treated.
Recurrences are common even years after being dormant.
Lifelong treatment may be necessary to control signs and symptoms.
-----------------------------------------------
What is Lichen Planus?
----------------------------------
Lichen Planus is a chronic inflammatory disease of the skin which typically consists of red small papules that joined together to from rough scaly patches.
It is often associated with lesions of the mucosal membranes.
What are the types of Lichen Planus?
--------------------------------
There are 2 main types:
1.Skin Lichen Planus is the most common type of Lichen Planus.
About 80% of people have red small papules that joined together to from rough scaly patches.
The skin usually grows very more quickly and are thicker than usual.
2.Mucosal Lichen Planus (small, red papular lesion of the mouth and mucous membranes)
Who Gets Lichen Planus?
-----------------------
Lichen Planus occurs more in females than in males.
It is also more common in the middle ages.
It is rare in children
What causes Lichen Planus?
-------------------------------------
The cause of Lichen Planus is unknown.
1.allergic reactions to medications for high blood pressure(methyl dopa) and arthritis (chloroquine and salicylates),arsenic, gold.
2.chronic hepatitis C virus infection
3.stress aggravate the condition
4.Allergic reactions to amalgam and gold filling can cause oral lesions
What are the symptoms of Lichen Planus?
-------------------------------------------------
Onset is sudden or gradual.
They may last weeks or months and be recurrent.
Frequently they become chronic.
The typical rash of lichen planus is well-defined :
1.pruritic,
2.planar,
3.purple,
4.polygonal
5.papules.
When seen under the microscope the papules have characteristic network of white lines(Wickham's striae)
Lesions are symmetrical, usually on flexor surfaces of the arm near the wrist and the ankle.
Nails are frequently involved with pitting and thinning of the nail plate.
Oral lichen planus occurs in 50% of patients:
1. reticular form - most common rash, occurs as white streaks on the mucosa (known as Wickham's striae) or papules with small raised area .
The lesions are present on the gums, the tongue, palate and lips.
The lesions are present on both sides of the mouth
2. bullous form - fluid-filled vesicles
3. erosive form - erythematous (red) areas which are ulcerated.
This form may become malignant.
Microscopic appearance is typical of lichen planus:
1.Hyperparakeratosis or thickening of the granular cell layer
There is a typical saw-tooth appearance of the rete pegs
2.Degenerated basal cell layer
3.Inflammatory cells present in subepithelial layer of connective tissue
Lichen planus may involve the glan penis and vulvovaginal mucosa
Lichen planus rarely involve the eosophagus where it can cause erosive esophagitis and stricturing.
How does Lichen Planus affects the Patient?
-----------------------------------------
All types of Lichen Planus can affect a person’s quality of life.
Itching, soreness, and ulcers of the mouth are common.
What is the Treatment of Lichen Planus?
-----------------------------------
Treatment depends on the severity and type of Lichen Planus.
1. mild cases may not require any treatment
2.severe Lichen Planus have lesions that affects most of the body and hospitalization is required.
3.Most cases of Lichen Planus lie in between.
Treatments:
1.Topical Medicines include:
topical steroids.
tar lotions, ointments, creams, and shampoo
2.Systemic therapy (oral drugs that affect the whole body system):
cyclosporins, methotrexate
immunosuppressant medications
Oral retinoids
Oral corticosteroids
hydroxychloroquine
tacrolimus
dapsone
3.Phototherapy (with ultraviolet B, psoralen with ultraviolet A, radiation)
4.Combined therapy are frequently used.
5.new therapies such as the biologic agents has improved the condition
At the present moment there is no known cure for lichen planus.
Medicines have been able to reduce the severity of inflammation and improve the quality of life.
Other medicines are used to treat symptoms:
1.Antihistamines for itch
2.Oral topical steroids for mouth ulcers
What is the Prognosis of Lichen Planus?
-----------------------------------------------
There is generally no cure for lichen planus.
Lichen planus may become dormant after being treated.
Recurrences are common even years after being dormant.
Lifelong treatment may be necessary to control signs and symptoms.
Friday, August 22, 2008
A Simple Guide to Hydrocoele
A Simple Guide to Hydrocoele
-----------------------------
What is Hydrocoele?
--------------------
Hydrocoele is the excess accumulation of fluid inside the sac containing your testis.
What causes Hydrocoele?
------------------------
The causes of Hydrocoele are mostly due:
A.Congenital:
----------------------
Children are born with with enlarged testicular sac with fluid which communicate with abdominal cavity through a patent duct which should be closed at birth.
B.Infections:
---------------------
Infections of the testicle can cause inflammation of the cavity surrounding the testicle and its appendages.
c. Obstruction to fluid flow:
Obstruction to lymphatic and venous flow in the testicular cavity prevents the fluid in the testicular cavity from being re-absorbed into the general system.
What are the symptoms of Hydrocoele?
-------------------------------------
The Symptoms of Hydrocoele are:
1.heaviness anf fullness of the scrotum
2.enlargement of scrotum usually on 1 side
3.usually painless except when inflammed or infected
Signs:
1.redness and swelling of the scrotum
2.enlargement of the scrotum on 1 side
5.Inguinal lymph nodes may be swollen and painful if there is severe infection(rare)
What are the complications of Hydrocoele?
-----------------------------------------------
1.Abscess formation
2.torsion of the testicle(rare)
How is diagnosis of Hydrocoele confirmed?
------------------------------------------
1. clinical features and trans-illumination of scrotal swelling
3. Ultrasound scan of the scrotal swelling to exclude any tumors of the testicle or torsion.
What is the treatment of Hydrocoele?
------------------------------------
1. Aspiration of the fluid in the scrotal cavity usually helps to reduce swelling but recurrences are common
2.Rest and support of the scrotum with loose underwear
3. surgery with drainage of fluid from scrotum.
The scrotal cavity is opened up and the fluid drained.
If the testicle is normal it should be left alone.
If the testicle is disease and shrunken, it is usually removed.
What is the Prognosis of Hydrocoele?
------------------------------------
Most cases of Hydrocoele usually will recover with surgical treatment.
Aspiration is a temporary measure as recurrences are common.
Congenital cases of Hydrocoele usually resolve spontaneously
What are the Preventive measures for Hydrocoele?
----------------------------------------------------
Avoid too tight underwear which can obstruct the lymphatic or blood vessels of the scrotum.
/span>
-----------------------------
What is Hydrocoele?
--------------------
Hydrocoele is the excess accumulation of fluid inside the sac containing your testis.
What causes Hydrocoele?
------------------------
The causes of Hydrocoele are mostly due:
A.Congenital:
----------------------
Children are born with with enlarged testicular sac with fluid which communicate with abdominal cavity through a patent duct which should be closed at birth.
B.Infections:
---------------------
Infections of the testicle can cause inflammation of the cavity surrounding the testicle and its appendages.
c. Obstruction to fluid flow:
Obstruction to lymphatic and venous flow in the testicular cavity prevents the fluid in the testicular cavity from being re-absorbed into the general system.
What are the symptoms of Hydrocoele?
-------------------------------------
The Symptoms of Hydrocoele are:
1.heaviness anf fullness of the scrotum
2.enlargement of scrotum usually on 1 side
3.usually painless except when inflammed or infected
Signs:
1.redness and swelling of the scrotum
2.enlargement of the scrotum on 1 side
5.Inguinal lymph nodes may be swollen and painful if there is severe infection(rare)
What are the complications of Hydrocoele?
-----------------------------------------------
1.Abscess formation
2.torsion of the testicle(rare)
How is diagnosis of Hydrocoele confirmed?
------------------------------------------
1. clinical features and trans-illumination of scrotal swelling
3. Ultrasound scan of the scrotal swelling to exclude any tumors of the testicle or torsion.
What is the treatment of Hydrocoele?
------------------------------------
1. Aspiration of the fluid in the scrotal cavity usually helps to reduce swelling but recurrences are common
2.Rest and support of the scrotum with loose underwear
3. surgery with drainage of fluid from scrotum.
The scrotal cavity is opened up and the fluid drained.
If the testicle is normal it should be left alone.
If the testicle is disease and shrunken, it is usually removed.
What is the Prognosis of Hydrocoele?
------------------------------------
Most cases of Hydrocoele usually will recover with surgical treatment.
Aspiration is a temporary measure as recurrences are common.
Congenital cases of Hydrocoele usually resolve spontaneously
What are the Preventive measures for Hydrocoele?
----------------------------------------------------
Avoid too tight underwear which can obstruct the lymphatic or blood vessels of the scrotum.
/span>
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
A Simple Guide to Mastitis
A Simple Guide to Mastitis
-----------------------------
What is Mastitis?
--------------------
Mastitis is inflammation or infection of the breasts, resulting in pain and swelling.
What causes Mastitis?
------------------------
The causes of Mastitis are mostly due:
A.Hormonal:
----------------------
1.In babies whether male or female, the painless swelling of the breast may occur due to the effects of the mother's female hormones.The swelling usually subsides after a few weeks.
2.At Puberty for girls the development of breasts may cause some pain and swelling. It may occur first on one side and then subsequently on the side.
The nipples may be red and tender andthis may cause worry for the adlolescent girl and her mother.
3.Premenstrual pain and swelling of breasts may occur
B.Infections:
---------------------
Infections of the breasts may occur due to
1.poor skin hygiene
2.Injuries or wounds allowing microganism to enter the wound
3.Breastfeeding as a result of the baby sucking the nipple incorrectly or as a result of blockage of the milk ducts. In either case bacteria can enter through the injured nipple or the inflammation of the blocked milk ducts may cause suppuration and abscess formation.
4.Mastitis may occur as a rare complication of mumps.
5.Most common bacteria infection is staphyloccus aures.
6.Other rare causes of mastitis are tuberculosis, syphlis or actinomycosis
What are the symptoms of Mastitis?
-------------------------------------
The Symptoms of Mastitis are:
1.Pain usually present in all cases except in babies
2.swelling of the breasts or the nipple area
3.Pus discharge from the nipple
Signs:
1.redness of the nipple or areola
2.red, warm swelling of the breast tissue may indicate presence of formation of abscess.
3.Local tenderness of inflammed area
4.Fever and genral malaise
5.Axillary lymph nodes may be swollen and painful
What are the complications of Mastitis?
------------------------------------
1.Abscess formation
2.Cystic formation
3.Chronic mastitis or fibroadenosis
How is diagnosis of Mastitis confirmed?
------------------------------------------
1. clinical features
2. Mammograms to exclude malignant tumors
3. Ultrasound scan of the breasts
What is the treatment of Mastitis?
------------------------------------
1. antibiotics are given to cure the infections.
The antibiotics may need to be taken for 10 days by mouth.
They must not be stopped just because the discomfort stops, or the infection will NOT be cured.
2. Painkillers may be given if there is pain
3.Rest and support of the breasts with soft bras
4.Warm water bottle to apply to areas of inflmmation due to blocked milk to soften the milk and induce flow.
5. surgery with drainage of abscess if antibiotic do not work.
Aspiration of cysts may also be nessary
6.Reassurance in hormonal cases of mastitis
What is the Prognosis of Mastitis?
------------------------------------
Most cases of mastitis usually will recover with proper treatment.
What are the Preventive measures for Mastitis?
----------------------------------------------------
Practice good personal and skin hygiene
Wash hands frequently
Clean the beasts properly before and after breastfeeding
Patients should be taught to do breast self examination and to do it frequently
-----------------------------
What is Mastitis?
--------------------
Mastitis is inflammation or infection of the breasts, resulting in pain and swelling.
What causes Mastitis?
------------------------
The causes of Mastitis are mostly due:
A.Hormonal:
----------------------
1.In babies whether male or female, the painless swelling of the breast may occur due to the effects of the mother's female hormones.The swelling usually subsides after a few weeks.
2.At Puberty for girls the development of breasts may cause some pain and swelling. It may occur first on one side and then subsequently on the side.
The nipples may be red and tender andthis may cause worry for the adlolescent girl and her mother.
3.Premenstrual pain and swelling of breasts may occur
B.Infections:
---------------------
Infections of the breasts may occur due to
1.poor skin hygiene
2.Injuries or wounds allowing microganism to enter the wound
3.Breastfeeding as a result of the baby sucking the nipple incorrectly or as a result of blockage of the milk ducts. In either case bacteria can enter through the injured nipple or the inflammation of the blocked milk ducts may cause suppuration and abscess formation.
4.Mastitis may occur as a rare complication of mumps.
5.Most common bacteria infection is staphyloccus aures.
6.Other rare causes of mastitis are tuberculosis, syphlis or actinomycosis
What are the symptoms of Mastitis?
-------------------------------------
The Symptoms of Mastitis are:
1.Pain usually present in all cases except in babies
2.swelling of the breasts or the nipple area
3.Pus discharge from the nipple
Signs:
1.redness of the nipple or areola
2.red, warm swelling of the breast tissue may indicate presence of formation of abscess.
3.Local tenderness of inflammed area
4.Fever and genral malaise
5.Axillary lymph nodes may be swollen and painful
What are the complications of Mastitis?
------------------------------------
1.Abscess formation
2.Cystic formation
3.Chronic mastitis or fibroadenosis
How is diagnosis of Mastitis confirmed?
------------------------------------------
1. clinical features
2. Mammograms to exclude malignant tumors
3. Ultrasound scan of the breasts
What is the treatment of Mastitis?
------------------------------------
1. antibiotics are given to cure the infections.
The antibiotics may need to be taken for 10 days by mouth.
They must not be stopped just because the discomfort stops, or the infection will NOT be cured.
2. Painkillers may be given if there is pain
3.Rest and support of the breasts with soft bras
4.Warm water bottle to apply to areas of inflmmation due to blocked milk to soften the milk and induce flow.
5. surgery with drainage of abscess if antibiotic do not work.
Aspiration of cysts may also be nessary
6.Reassurance in hormonal cases of mastitis
What is the Prognosis of Mastitis?
------------------------------------
Most cases of mastitis usually will recover with proper treatment.
What are the Preventive measures for Mastitis?
----------------------------------------------------
Practice good personal and skin hygiene
Wash hands frequently
Clean the beasts properly before and after breastfeeding
Patients should be taught to do breast self examination and to do it frequently
Wednesday, August 15, 2007
A Simple Guide to Gastroenteritis
A Simple Guide to Gastroenteritis
-------------------------------------
What is Gastroenteritis?
---------------------------
Gastroenteritis is an inflammation of the lining of the intestines caused by a virus, bacteria or parasites resulting in leakage of fluid from the cell into the intestine(diarrhea),abdominal pain and vomiting.
What are the causes of Gastroenteritis?
--------------------------------------------
Viral Gastroenteritis:
The most common cause of Gastroenteritis is Viral.
Rota virus is the leading cause among children 3 to 15 months old and the most common cause of diarrhea in children under the age of 5 years.
Adenovirus occurs mainly in children under the age of 2 years.
Caliciviruses especially the norovirus cause infection in people of all ages.
Astrovirus also infects primarily infants, young children, and the elderly.
Bacterial Gastroenteritis:
The most common cause is the E. coli bacteria, usually mild with diarrhea, abdominal pain and occasional vomiting. It rarely cause fever.
Salmonella, Shigella ,Vibrio cholerae, are more serious bacterial infection causing diarrhea and high fever.
Parasitic Gastroenteritis:
Most common is amoebic dysentery,common in India and Africa.
Other parasitic infection are giardiasis and threadworms.
What are symptoms of Gastroenteritis?
----------------------------------------------
The main symptoms of gastroenteritis are
1. watery diarrhea
2. abdominal pain
3. vomiting
4. headache
5. fever.
6.loss of appetite and energy
Symptoms usually appear within 4 to 48 hours after exposure to the germ and last for 1 to 2 days, though symptoms can last as long as 10 days.
How is Gastroenteritis transmitted?
------------------------------------------
Gastroenteritis can be highly contagious. The germs are commonly transmitted by people with unwashed hands.
People can get the germs through close contact with infected individuals by sharing their food, drink, or eating utensils, or by eating food or drinking beverages that are contaminated with the germs.
Noroviruses in particular, are typically spread to other people by contact with stool or vomit of infected people and through contaminated water or food—especially oysters, prawns, crabs, lobsters, cockleshells from contaminated breeding waters.
How is the diagnosis of Gastroenteritis made?
-----------------------------------------------------
Doctors generally diagnose gastroenteritis based on the symptoms and a physical examination. Your doctor may ask for a stool sample to test for rotavirus or to rule out bacteria or parasites as the cause of your symptoms.
How is Gastroenteritis treated?
-------------------------------------
Most cases of viral gastroenteritis resolve without specific treatment.
Antibiotics are not effective against viral infections.
The primary goal of treatment is to reduce the symptoms which may include an antispasmodic drug to stop abdominal cramps, medicine to harden the stools such as kaolin and slow down the intestinal movement (lomotil or loperamide).
Prompt treatment may be needed to prevent dehydration which is the loss of fluids from the body. Important salts or minerals, known as electrolytes, can also be lost with the fluids. Dehydration can be caused by diarrhea, vomiting, excessive urination, excessive sweating, or by not drinking enough fluids because of nausea, difficulty swallowing, or loss of appetite.
The symptoms of dehydration are
excessive thirst
dry mouth
little or no urine or dark yellow urine
sunken eyes
severe weakness or lethargy
dizziness or lightheadedness
Mild dehydration can be treated by drinking liquids.
Severe dehydration may require intravenous fluids and hospitalization.
Untreated severe dehydration can be life threatening especially in babies, young children and the elderly.
The following steps may help relieve the symptoms of gastroenteritis.
1.Allow your gastrointestinal tract to settle by not eating for a few hours.
2.Sip small amounts of clear liquids or suck on ice chips if vomiting is still a problem.
3.Give infants and children oral rehydration solutions to replace fluids and lost electrolytes. 4.Gradually reintroduce food, starting with bland, easy-to-digest food, like porridge or soups.
5.Avoid dairy products, caffeine, and alcohol until recovery is complete.
6.Get plenty of rest.
How is Gastroenteritis prevented?
----------------------------------------
You can avoid infection by:
1.washing your hands thoroughly for 20 seconds after using the bathroom or changing diapers
2.washing your hands thoroughly for 20 seconds before eating
3.disinfecting contaminated surfaces such as counter tops and baby changing stations
4.Avoid eating or drinking foods or liquids that might be contaminated
-------------------------------------
What is Gastroenteritis?
---------------------------
Gastroenteritis is an inflammation of the lining of the intestines caused by a virus, bacteria or parasites resulting in leakage of fluid from the cell into the intestine(diarrhea),abdominal pain and vomiting.
What are the causes of Gastroenteritis?
--------------------------------------------
Viral Gastroenteritis:
The most common cause of Gastroenteritis is Viral.
Rota virus is the leading cause among children 3 to 15 months old and the most common cause of diarrhea in children under the age of 5 years.
Adenovirus occurs mainly in children under the age of 2 years.
Caliciviruses especially the norovirus cause infection in people of all ages.
Astrovirus also infects primarily infants, young children, and the elderly.
Bacterial Gastroenteritis:
The most common cause is the E. coli bacteria, usually mild with diarrhea, abdominal pain and occasional vomiting. It rarely cause fever.
Salmonella, Shigella ,Vibrio cholerae, are more serious bacterial infection causing diarrhea and high fever.
Parasitic Gastroenteritis:
Most common is amoebic dysentery,common in India and Africa.
Other parasitic infection are giardiasis and threadworms.
What are symptoms of Gastroenteritis?
----------------------------------------------
The main symptoms of gastroenteritis are
1. watery diarrhea
2. abdominal pain
3. vomiting
4. headache
5. fever.
6.loss of appetite and energy
Symptoms usually appear within 4 to 48 hours after exposure to the germ and last for 1 to 2 days, though symptoms can last as long as 10 days.
How is Gastroenteritis transmitted?
------------------------------------------
Gastroenteritis can be highly contagious. The germs are commonly transmitted by people with unwashed hands.
People can get the germs through close contact with infected individuals by sharing their food, drink, or eating utensils, or by eating food or drinking beverages that are contaminated with the germs.
Noroviruses in particular, are typically spread to other people by contact with stool or vomit of infected people and through contaminated water or food—especially oysters, prawns, crabs, lobsters, cockleshells from contaminated breeding waters.
How is the diagnosis of Gastroenteritis made?
-----------------------------------------------------
Doctors generally diagnose gastroenteritis based on the symptoms and a physical examination. Your doctor may ask for a stool sample to test for rotavirus or to rule out bacteria or parasites as the cause of your symptoms.
How is Gastroenteritis treated?
-------------------------------------
Most cases of viral gastroenteritis resolve without specific treatment.
Antibiotics are not effective against viral infections.
The primary goal of treatment is to reduce the symptoms which may include an antispasmodic drug to stop abdominal cramps, medicine to harden the stools such as kaolin and slow down the intestinal movement (lomotil or loperamide).
Prompt treatment may be needed to prevent dehydration which is the loss of fluids from the body. Important salts or minerals, known as electrolytes, can also be lost with the fluids. Dehydration can be caused by diarrhea, vomiting, excessive urination, excessive sweating, or by not drinking enough fluids because of nausea, difficulty swallowing, or loss of appetite.
The symptoms of dehydration are
excessive thirst
dry mouth
little or no urine or dark yellow urine
sunken eyes
severe weakness or lethargy
dizziness or lightheadedness
Mild dehydration can be treated by drinking liquids.
Severe dehydration may require intravenous fluids and hospitalization.
Untreated severe dehydration can be life threatening especially in babies, young children and the elderly.
The following steps may help relieve the symptoms of gastroenteritis.
1.Allow your gastrointestinal tract to settle by not eating for a few hours.
2.Sip small amounts of clear liquids or suck on ice chips if vomiting is still a problem.
3.Give infants and children oral rehydration solutions to replace fluids and lost electrolytes. 4.Gradually reintroduce food, starting with bland, easy-to-digest food, like porridge or soups.
5.Avoid dairy products, caffeine, and alcohol until recovery is complete.
6.Get plenty of rest.
How is Gastroenteritis prevented?
----------------------------------------
You can avoid infection by:
1.washing your hands thoroughly for 20 seconds after using the bathroom or changing diapers
2.washing your hands thoroughly for 20 seconds before eating
3.disinfecting contaminated surfaces such as counter tops and baby changing stations
4.Avoid eating or drinking foods or liquids that might be contaminated
Saturday, August 11, 2007
A Simple Guide to Ankylosing Spondylosis
A Simple Guide to Ankylosing Spondylosis
What is
----------
Anklyosing
-------------
Spondylosis?
----------------
Ankylosing Spondylosis is a chronic inflammatory disease of the joints of the spine. manifested by fusion(ankylosing) and inflammation(spondylosis) of some or all of the joints and bones of the spine.
It is a painful progressive disease affecting mainly the spine. It can also affect other joints, tendons,ligaments, also other areas such as eyes,lungs,bowels and heart.
Who get Ankylosing Spondylosis?
---------------------------------------
Every one can get Ankylosing Spondylosis.The age of onset is usually in the late teens or early 20's.
It is also more common in men than women about 5:1.
In men the spine and pelvis are most affected.
In women the pelvis,hips,knees,wrists and ankles are more common.
How does Ankylosing Spondylosis occur?
------------------------------------------------
Inflammation occurs at the attachment of the ligaments and tendons to the bone.
Erosion of the bones occur at the site.
When the inflammation subside, new bone develop and replaces the elastic tissues of the ligaments or tendons.
Fusion of bones occur leading to restriction of movement. This usually starts in the vertebra of the spine followed by the pelvis, then upwards to the chest wall and neck.
What are the Symptoms?
-----------------------------
The onset is usually gradual with occasional back pain over weeks or months.
Early morning stiffness and pain occurs,then wears off during the day.
It gradually becomes worse ,affecting the lower back first then upwards to to the neck, resulting in stiffening of the whole back.
Chest expansion can become limited because of the the stiffness of the bones.
Sometimes peripheral joints such as shoulders and hips are affected.
Weight loss and fatigue may occur in the early stages.
The blood Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate is raised in most cases.
The blood Rheumatoid Arthritis factor is not present.
Does Ankylosing Spondylosis occur in other organs?
-------------------------------------------------------------
It can sometimes affect the eyes, heart and lungs.
These effects are not life-threatening and they can be treated with relative ease.
Inflammation of the iris of the eye(Uveitis) occur in 5% of cases with blurring of vision. Occasionally it may affect the heart causing the aortic valve to leak.
The rib joints and muscles are also affected resulting tightness of the chest making breathing painful.
How is Ankylosing Spondylosis diagnosed?
--------------------------------------------------
Classical features of symptoms with stiffening of spine and back pain usually suggest the diagnosis.
Confirmation is usually by an x-ray of the spine and pelvis.
How to treat Ankylosing Spondylosis?
--------------------------------------------
Not every patient suffer the same degree of symptoms. Some may be very mild requiring only exercises or mild pain killers.
Others may be more severe requiring strong NSAIDSor anti-rheumatoid drugs such as sulphasalazine .
Ankylosing Spondylosis is a chronic inflammatory disease of the joints of the spine. manifested by fusion(ankylosing) and inflammation(spondylosis) of some or all of the joints and bones of the spine.
It is a painful progressive disease affecting mainly the spine. It can also affect other joints, tendons,ligaments, also other areas such as eyes,lungs,bowels and heart.
Who get Ankylosing Spondylosis?
---------------------------------------
Every one can get Ankylosing Spondylosis.The age of onset is usually in the late teens or early 20's.
It is also more common in men than women about 5:1.
In men the spine and pelvis are most affected.
In women the pelvis,hips,knees,wrists and ankles are more common.
How does Ankylosing Spondylosis occur?
------------------------------------------------
Inflammation occurs at the attachment of the ligaments and tendons to the bone.
Erosion of the bones occur at the site.
When the inflammation subside, new bone develop and replaces the elastic tissues of the ligaments or tendons.
Fusion of bones occur leading to restriction of movement. This usually starts in the vertebra of the spine followed by the pelvis, then upwards to the chest wall and neck.
What are the Symptoms?
-----------------------------
The onset is usually gradual with occasional back pain over weeks or months.
Early morning stiffness and pain occurs,then wears off during the day.
It gradually becomes worse ,affecting the lower back first then upwards to to the neck, resulting in stiffening of the whole back.
Chest expansion can become limited because of the the stiffness of the bones.
Sometimes peripheral joints such as shoulders and hips are affected.
Weight loss and fatigue may occur in the early stages.
The blood Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate is raised in most cases.
The blood Rheumatoid Arthritis factor is not present.
Does Ankylosing Spondylosis occur in other organs?
-------------------------------------------------------------
It can sometimes affect the eyes, heart and lungs.
These effects are not life-threatening and they can be treated with relative ease.
Inflammation of the iris of the eye(Uveitis) occur in 5% of cases with blurring of vision. Occasionally it may affect the heart causing the aortic valve to leak.
The rib joints and muscles are also affected resulting tightness of the chest making breathing painful.
How is Ankylosing Spondylosis diagnosed?
--------------------------------------------------
Classical features of symptoms with stiffening of spine and back pain usually suggest the diagnosis.
Confirmation is usually by an x-ray of the spine and pelvis.
How to treat Ankylosing Spondylosis?
--------------------------------------------
Not every patient suffer the same degree of symptoms. Some may be very mild requiring only exercises or mild pain killers.
Others may be more severe requiring strong NSAIDSor anti-rheumatoid drugs such as sulphasalazine .
ANTI-TNF drugs( a new therapy) has also been found to help improve the Rheumatoid Arthritis patients and also Ankylosing Spondylosing patients.
What is the prognosis of Ankylosing Spondylosis?
----------------------------------------------------------
Symptoms comes and go.
With exercise and NSAIDSpain is reduced considerably and flexibility of the spine is improved especially with regular exercise and proper posture.
What is the prognosis of Ankylosing Spondylosis?
----------------------------------------------------------
Symptoms comes and go.
With exercise and NSAIDSpain is reduced considerably and flexibility of the spine is improved especially with regular exercise and proper posture.
Ankylosing Spondylosis is never life threatening and can be controlled but not cured.
Tuesday, August 7, 2007
A Simple Guide to Osteoarthritis
A Simple Guide to Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis
------------------
What is Osteoarthritis ?
----------------------------
Osteoarthritis
is a degenerative condition of the joints in the human body.
It is the most common form of arthritis.
The cartilage lining of the joint are worn down such that the underlying bone come in contact with each other.
In addition bone spurs may form and joint fluid is reduced.
------------------
What is Osteoarthritis ?
----------------------------
Osteoarthritis
is a degenerative condition of the joints in the human body.
It is the most common form of arthritis.
The cartilage lining of the joint are worn down such that the underlying bone come in contact with each other.
In addition bone spurs may form and joint fluid is reduced.
This causes mechanical and chemical reactions giving rise to the symptoms of Osteoarthritis.
What causes Osteoarthritis ?
----------------------------------
1. Genetics
has found to have role in the predisposition of Osteoarthritis.
Genes on chromosome 2q,4 & 16 have been linked with Osteoarthritis.
2. Aging
is a risk factor of Osteoarthritis.
More than 80% of those above 65 years suffer from Osteoarthritis.
3. Excessive physical activity is a potentially correctable cause of Osteoarthritis.
Activities like long distance running and other high endurance sports may place
the joints under high stress for prolonged periods resulting in overuse injuries and
accelerated wear and tear.
4. Gender plays a role in Osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis is more common in men for a
cohort of under 50 years and more common in women in the cohort of 50-80 years.
5.Trauma is a common cause of Osteoarthritis in the younger age groups.
What are the symptoms of Osteoarthritis?
-------------------------------------------------
Most common symptom are pain and swelling:
Stiff,painful and swollen joints after a workout
Stiffness in the joints in the mornings which can last about half an hour
Loss of flexibility in one's joints
Bony lumps at the base of the thumb or on the middle of the end joints of the fingers
Pain in the joints after repeated use
Osteoarthritis is often associated with joint surgery or related injury
What are the complications of Osteoarthritis ?
-------------------------------------------------------
Osteoarthritis is the top cause of disability in older women and ranks second in older men.
Besides pain and swelling, quality of life suffers in patients with Osteoarthritis due to their loss of mobility and depression.
The loss of mobility is progressive with age.
Where does Osteoarthritis occur ?
----------------------------------------
It can affect the any joint of the body although the most commonly affected joints are the weight bearing joints:
knee
hip
ankle
spine.
Other non-weight bearing joints such as
shoulder ,
elbow,
fingers
can also be affected.
How do you treat Osteoarthritis ?
----------------------------------------
Osteoarthritis is not curable and the purpose of treatment is to:
1. improve functions and
2. reduce pain and discomfort.
Treatment of Osteoarthritis can be broadly classified into:
1. Non-interventional
a. non-pharmaceutical
Weight loss is an effective way to reduce the stress on the joints and minimise the pain
Walking sticks are useful ways to offload the stress on the affected weight bearing
joints such as hips or knee. The walking aids should be used on the opposite side.
It can be in the form of a sturdy umbrella instead of a crutch.
Hot packs are useful aids in the morning to soften a stiff arthritic joint whereas braces
and knee guards are useful supports to give some comfort to the knee.
Exercises that improve strength, agility and flexibility are useful to minimise
the disability of Osteoarthritis.
A range of motion exercises is useful to keep the joints supple and mobile .
Water based exercises are a good alternative form of aerobic workout by patients afflicted
by Osteoarthritis. The warm water especially is a good medium for joint mobility and
together with the buoyancy of water it helps to minimise the body weight impact
on the joints.
b. pharmaceutical
There are 2 main types of drugs:
1. symptom modifying drugs help to alleviate the symptoms but do not change the
natural history of the conditions.
Examples are Non-steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs(NSAIDs) like diclofenac.
2. disease modifying drugs such as glucosamine has been shown to slow down the
wear and tear of the cartilage but it does have the ability to grow new cartilage.
It has also being found to work better with chondroitin.
2. Interventional:
a. non-surgical
Joint aspiration is a procedure where fluid from the swollen joint is removed,
helping to decompress the tension and bring relief for a while .
Vasosupplementation is a procedure whereby a lubricant is injected into the affected
joint thus reducing the the frictional wear of the joint surfaces.
In addition the lubricant has anti inflammatory properties to reduce the inflammation in the
lining of the joints and may ease the pain for months in early osteoarthritic cases .
b.surgical
Surgical intervention is usually the last resort when all other above treatment fail and in
advanced cases:
Debridement is an arthroscopic (keyhole) procedure to clean the joint of torn cartilages,
loose pieces of bones, etc.
Its main use is to remove the worn out debris which may cause pain and can mechanically
cause friction.
High tibial Osteotomy is a procedure to correct the alignment of deformed legs which
then reduce the stress on the joint.
Prosthetic joint replacement is a procedure to replace the diseased portion of the joint
with a prosthesis or artificial joint allowing painless good range of movement.
It is more suitable for older patient because there is a shelf life to these implants.
Unicondylar joint replacement can now be performed in which part of one of
the bone of the diseased joint is removed instead of a total joint replacement which
involved removal of part of both bones of a joint.
The choice of treatment depends on the stage of the disease and whether there are associated complication.
In general non-interventional methods are more suitable at the early stage of the illness and interventional modalities are more suitable for the later stage of Osteoarthritis.
What causes Osteoarthritis ?
----------------------------------
1. Genetics
has found to have role in the predisposition of Osteoarthritis.
Genes on chromosome 2q,4 & 16 have been linked with Osteoarthritis.
2. Aging
is a risk factor of Osteoarthritis.
More than 80% of those above 65 years suffer from Osteoarthritis.
3. Excessive physical activity is a potentially correctable cause of Osteoarthritis.
Activities like long distance running and other high endurance sports may place
the joints under high stress for prolonged periods resulting in overuse injuries and
accelerated wear and tear.
4. Gender plays a role in Osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis is more common in men for a
cohort of under 50 years and more common in women in the cohort of 50-80 years.
5.Trauma is a common cause of Osteoarthritis in the younger age groups.
What are the symptoms of Osteoarthritis?
-------------------------------------------------
Most common symptom are pain and swelling:
Stiff,painful and swollen joints after a workout
Stiffness in the joints in the mornings which can last about half an hour
Loss of flexibility in one's joints
Bony lumps at the base of the thumb or on the middle of the end joints of the fingers
Pain in the joints after repeated use
Osteoarthritis is often associated with joint surgery or related injury
What are the complications of Osteoarthritis ?
-------------------------------------------------------
Osteoarthritis is the top cause of disability in older women and ranks second in older men.
Besides pain and swelling, quality of life suffers in patients with Osteoarthritis due to their loss of mobility and depression.
The loss of mobility is progressive with age.
Where does Osteoarthritis occur ?
----------------------------------------
It can affect the any joint of the body although the most commonly affected joints are the weight bearing joints:
knee
hip
ankle
spine.
Other non-weight bearing joints such as
shoulder ,
elbow,
fingers
can also be affected.
How do you treat Osteoarthritis ?
----------------------------------------
Osteoarthritis is not curable and the purpose of treatment is to:
1. improve functions and
2. reduce pain and discomfort.
Treatment of Osteoarthritis can be broadly classified into:
1. Non-interventional
a. non-pharmaceutical
Weight loss is an effective way to reduce the stress on the joints and minimise the pain
Walking sticks are useful ways to offload the stress on the affected weight bearing
joints such as hips or knee. The walking aids should be used on the opposite side.
It can be in the form of a sturdy umbrella instead of a crutch.
Hot packs are useful aids in the morning to soften a stiff arthritic joint whereas braces
and knee guards are useful supports to give some comfort to the knee.
Exercises that improve strength, agility and flexibility are useful to minimise
the disability of Osteoarthritis.
A range of motion exercises is useful to keep the joints supple and mobile .
Water based exercises are a good alternative form of aerobic workout by patients afflicted
by Osteoarthritis. The warm water especially is a good medium for joint mobility and
together with the buoyancy of water it helps to minimise the body weight impact
on the joints.
b. pharmaceutical
There are 2 main types of drugs:
1. symptom modifying drugs help to alleviate the symptoms but do not change the
natural history of the conditions.
Examples are Non-steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs(NSAIDs) like diclofenac.
2. disease modifying drugs such as glucosamine has been shown to slow down the
wear and tear of the cartilage but it does have the ability to grow new cartilage.
It has also being found to work better with chondroitin.
2. Interventional:
a. non-surgical
Joint aspiration is a procedure where fluid from the swollen joint is removed,
helping to decompress the tension and bring relief for a while .
Vasosupplementation is a procedure whereby a lubricant is injected into the affected
joint thus reducing the the frictional wear of the joint surfaces.
In addition the lubricant has anti inflammatory properties to reduce the inflammation in the
lining of the joints and may ease the pain for months in early osteoarthritic cases .
b.surgical
Surgical intervention is usually the last resort when all other above treatment fail and in
advanced cases:
Debridement is an arthroscopic (keyhole) procedure to clean the joint of torn cartilages,
loose pieces of bones, etc.
Its main use is to remove the worn out debris which may cause pain and can mechanically
cause friction.
High tibial Osteotomy is a procedure to correct the alignment of deformed legs which
then reduce the stress on the joint.
Prosthetic joint replacement is a procedure to replace the diseased portion of the joint
with a prosthesis or artificial joint allowing painless good range of movement.
It is more suitable for older patient because there is a shelf life to these implants.
Unicondylar joint replacement can now be performed in which part of one of
the bone of the diseased joint is removed instead of a total joint replacement which
involved removal of part of both bones of a joint.
The choice of treatment depends on the stage of the disease and whether there are associated complication.
In general non-interventional methods are more suitable at the early stage of the illness and interventional modalities are more suitable for the later stage of Osteoarthritis.
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