Measles

Measles Symptoms Signs Definition Infectious Diseases Tips Facts Health Fitness Care Healthy Measles Symptoms Children

Measles, a highly infectious disease, is very common in childhood. It is so common at this stage of life that nearly all children everywhere in the world go through this brief period of red spots. The disease appears in epidemic form, often in the winter season.

Measles Symptoms Signs:-

(1) The first symptoms which appear during 7 to 14 days after exposure to the virus are feverishness, cold, watering of the eyes and dry cough.

(2) Rashes appear on the skin in three to five days after the onset of these signs.

(3) These rashes, which consist of small rounded spots with reddened skin in between, initially appear on the sides of the face and the neck and then gradually spread all over the body, appearing last on the extremities. Initially pink in color, these rashes grow darker as time passes.

(4) Measles is usually accompanied with slight fever and diarrhea. In rare cases of great severity, high fever and delirium may occur.

(5) Complications which can arise from this disease include pneumonia, bronchitis, and ear abscess. One serious but rare complication is the inflammation of the brain.

Swine Flu

SWINEFLU UPDATE

 

This article is intended only for informative & educational purposes. It is not intended to replace the advice of your G.P or a specialist.

On the 29th April 2009 we sent an email to some of our clients with email addresses. In that email, we discussed what the swine flu is all about and discouraged them to rush to have an anti-viral jab against the swine flu. Please read on to find out why we are not in favour of the anti-viral jabs. On the 27h May, we sent a mail shot to all our existing clients. This article is an update with certain modifications.

What is the Swine Flu?

It is a respiratory disease affecting pigs that is caused by Type A influenza.
Most outbreaks occur during late Fall and winter months similar to those influenza outbreaks in humans. The current strain A(H1N1) is a new variation of an H1N1 virus which causes seasonal flu outbreaks in humans. Swine flu viruses that cause diseases in pigs rarely affect humans. But sporadic human infections with swine flu have occurred and there are documented cases of human to human spread of swine flu. On Wednesday 29th April, 09, the World health organization raised its pandemic alert level to five on its six level threat scale. By raising the level to five, it means that there are reasons to believe that the virus is capable of human to human transmission. Not long after that, the level was raised to Level 6.

But Level six, will not necessarily mean that there is a World wide crisis with scores of people dying! All that a pandemic mean is that a new infectious disease spreading throughout the World. So far the Swine Flu has claimed the lives of 332 people (as of July 1st, 2009). Of these 116 were from Mexico. It is relevant and appropriate to note that the greater majority, if not all those who died already had major health complications! As a result of the increased alert level, a fast track swine flu vaccine was promptly ordered and will be ready as early as July 2009.

Many health Organisations are probably celebrating the arrival of the new vaccine. But there is no reason why you should join in the celebrations. As a matter of fact, you should have more reasons to fear the new vaccine than the actual swine flu itself.

With the fast track program, there is virtually no time to have sufficient clinical trials to ensure the safety of the new vaccine nor as we submit, sufficient time to properly identify what is the appropriate vaccine! In consequence, our children and those in the health service may be the first line of guinea pigs to receive the vaccine.

On 4th July, 2009, The Daily Mail in England reported that the Swine Flu can kill up to 40 people a day in the U.K and predicts that millions will be affected by the end of August.

The common symptoms of the swine flu may include some or all of the following:

Fever
Coughing
Running nose and or sore throat
Joint aches
Severe ache
Vomiting and or diarrhoea
Lethargy
Lack of appetite.

As can be seen, the symptoms often resemble that of either a common cold or a flu.

The pandemic flu panic has a very strong impact on the people in Mexico, America and also part of Asia such as Hong Kong. In Hong Kong, people rush to their pharmacies to stock up tamiflu and other anti-viral drugs. The declarations of public emergency only go to help the pharmaceutical companies in the pandemic flu business.. Behind the scene, many governments and health officials are preparing the way for future quarantine and mass vaccinations that have been approved by the FDA regulations.
A public health emergency has become the pretext to rush to market experimental drugs and vaccines that are not subject to product liability in the American Civil courts!

The following is appropriate considerations:

There are more people dying from the regular flu than the swine flu. At least 13,000 people die each year from the regular flu in the U.S. alone. Those who died from the swine flu already have some sort of health complications.

The last swine flu threat happened in 1976; it resulted in massive swine flu vaccine. But within a few months there were claims totalling $1.3 billion from victims who had suffered with some form of paralysis from the flu vaccine. Several hundred people developed crippling the Guillian-Barre Syndrome after their injections.

The Swine Flu jabs when ready no will Tamiflu give a cure against the Swine Flu; it only shorten the recovery time by a day or so. If that is the case, why take the risk of having a jab when there are more appropriate alternatives that do not bring about unnecessarily risks?

For a very long time, I have become very sceptical of the media and also certain researches conducted by so called professors and so called scientists. Many of these researches are sponsored by the drug industry and are therefore very biased!

We urge you not to rush into having an anti-viral jab without being fully informed and after having completed your own research. The internet offers a wealth of information. Before you rush into having an anti-viral jab, consider that there are more natural ways to stay healthy. These include washing your hands frequently, drinking plenty of pure water, getting enough exercises, rest and sunshine, lowering stress and above all, consider the importance of certain supplements. We shall delve into this after we have finished with our discussion of the swine flu.

The anti-viral jab may or may not help!

So what if I am personally infected with the Swine flu? Will I rush to get an anti-viral jab? The answer is clearly No!. I will get plenty of rest, drink lots of pure water and most importantly ensure that I take all the supplements that I described in this article. The sauna and the steam room in a gym provide much relief than the anti-viral jab. Needless to say, if you catch the Swine Flu, it is our advice that unless you have a sauna at home you should stay at home and not pass it on.

You would remember the SARS outbreak 5 – 6 years ago. Because the illness was caused by a virus, there was no definitive treatment. Worldwide, there were more than 2700 cases but only about a hundred deaths. Those who died were already in poor health or had another unrelated serious illness of some sort!

Likewise, consider that this is the hay fever season. Many of the hay fever syndrome usually occurred during late Spring or early Summer. Many “cold” and “flu” cases are easily suspected to be Swine Flu; again the Media capitalises on it and had it blown out of proportion.

Most people will not know this! All H1N1 flu’s are descendants of the 1918 pandemic flu strain! The reason why the flu shot may or may not work from year to year is due to mutations. Mutations means changes over time. In view of mutations, there is no vaccine currently available for this current hydrid flu strain. Not too long ago, scientists found that the 1918 flu pandemic that killed more than 50 million people worldwide in a matter of 18 months was not due to the flu itself! Instead they discovered that the cause of the deaths was due to strep infections. People with influenza often get what is known as a “super infection” with an accompanying bacterial agent. In 1918, it appears to have been Streptococcus pneumoniae.

Even our own National Health Service (NHS) Website made only very modest claim about the efficacy for Tamiflu and Relenza saying that they can relieve some of the symptoms of the swine flu and reduce the time of your illness by about a day and reduce the potential for complications.

Consider that Mexico is heavily polluted at this time of year with heavy pollution and that its standard of hygiene is amongst some of the lowest in the World. What this mean is that in order for the bird flu or the swine flu to turn into a human pandemic, it has to find an environment similar to Mexico City that favours both deadly virulence and ease of transmission. Likewise, crowded chicken farms, slaughterhouse and congested markets of Eastern Asia similar to that of the GuangDong Province in Southern China 6 years ago provided the impetus for the SARS disease!

As such therefore, with an excellent health care system such as in the U.K, we doubt if this strain will kill 40 people a day in the U.K! You would remember the bird flu scare not too long ago. Despite warnings that it could kill millions of people, only 257 people died over a period of 5 years. Surely, in itself, this does not constitute an emergency deserving much attention, let alone fear.

Bear in mind that the greater majority of the reported have very mild symptoms. Those infected are usually those with other accompanying health issues. During late Spring and early Summer, the hay fever season is on and there are allergies of all sorts. There are many suspected cases with similar symptoms and can easily be passed off as the Swine Flu.

Worldwide, each dose of Tamiflu costs about £70. The profits can be astronomical if 100 million people world wide received the jab! No wonder the stock index shows the soaring price of the drug industry.

Very honestly, I will ask of you to be more concerned with irritable bowel syndrome, gastro-intestinal diseases, heart problems, cancer & diabetics than the swine flu pandemic. Gastro intestinal diseases such as crohn’s and ulcerative colitis can contribute to a much higher incidence of bowel cancer! Heart problems & cancer cause more deaths.

As stated in the New York Times, flu experts have no idea whether the present flu shot will offer much protection against this exotic mutant (swine flu) and it will take many months for the drug companies to develop a new drug that could be effective against this brand new mutant!

Therefore, to get a shot now would not only offer you no protection but could potentially lead to more harm. Most anti-viral drugs are likely to be loaded with mercury as a preservative in most flu vaccines!

Many of you have a regular flu shot for the seasonal flu just before the beginning of the Winter season. Here again, I will ask of you to do your research to find out how effective this may be.
To sum up, we have very strong reservation against most forms of anti-viral jabs.

USE OF CERTAIN SUPPLEMENTS TO ENHANCE YOUR IMMUNE SYSTEM.

We may have the common cold but we have not caught the flu for many years now. This is because we are always on supplements and enzymes. We are also enjoying very good health! As such therefore, we are not afraid of the Swine Flu. We would not deliberately try to catch it and even if we did catch it, we know that there is nothing to fear. Below is a list of supplements that we would recommend that you take if you are to enhance your immune system. If you got the flu, it will definitely shorten the time of recovery and will definitely minimises the discomfort and pain with it.

1. Vitamin D3. This is a sunshine vitamin. Most people lack sunshine and do not have sufficient exposure to the sun. Optimising your Vitamin D levels is a very good strategy. But you cannot afford to over-dose on vitamin D. I would recommend that you start with a dosage of 4,000 IU to “jump start” your body for a week and then stick with 2,000 I.U daily. But if you are already down with a flu (not just the common cold), you can take at least 20,000 IU for about 4 days before gradually reducing the dosage to about 2,000 IU daily. Take those that are distributed either by Nutri or Lambert or if you need any, do not hesitate to give us a call.

2. A good Probiotic. This is absolutely essential as probiotic cleanses the gut and eliminates bad bacteria inside the gut. It can also help with irritable bowel syndrome. 80% of our immune system lies with our gastro-intestinal tract and it will help therefore to maintain a healthy gastro intestinal function. For therapeutic purpose, do not follow the instructions on the label but take a dosage that is at least 6 times above the recommend dosage.

3. Turmeric: Most flu patients have pain in the neck, shoulders and back. A high dosage of turmeric will help to reduce the inflammatory process and the pain.

4. Super Garlic: Take higher dosage for a therapeutic purpose. Garlic works like a broad spectrum antibiotic against bacteria, virus and protozoa in the body. But unlike antibiotic, no resistance can be built up so it is extremely safe to take.

5. A good brand of fish oil such as Eskimo 3. Fish oil balances the ratio between your saturated and unsaturated fat and lubricates your tissues and cells. It is to us, a multi-purpose type of supplement. Again, take a dosage that is at least 3 – 4 times above the prescribed dosage as recommended for therapeutic purpose.

If there is a financial constraint, we would recommend that you just take Vitamin D3 and probiotic and fish oil.

Minimise the intake of sugar and processed food and drink lots of pure water. Have regular exercise, even just a brisk 20 minute walk. The above recommended supplements and avoiding sugar and anti-viral jabs will be your recipe not just to combat the swine flu but will help you to maintain good health all year round.

Your Appropriate Blood Pressure

The traditional reading for a “normal” blood pressure” is 120/80. Anything above it is considered high blood pressure. For example, if your reading is 140/90, your doctor would prescribe blood pressure tablets (or medication) in an effort to bring your blood pressure back down to 120/80. Many developed countries have since made an adjustment to the 120/80 criteria; unfortunately the U.K sticks to 120/80 as the criteria.

I disagree with 120/80 as the criteria. To put a patient on prescribed medication (blood pressure pills) simply because his blood pressure chart is 140/90 without investigating if it was his/her appropriate blood pressure is definitely wrong.

 Your blood pressure can be as high as 160/100 and if it is your appropriate blood pressure, do not do anything to disrupt it or try to bring it down with drugs (prescribed medication) What I am trying to say is this: If your chart reads 160/100 and you also have other complications, you should have it checked out by your doctor. True high blood pressure must be attended to by your G.P or specialist until such time you are able to adjust your life style with dietary adjustments and supplements.

 High blood pressure and if it is not your appropriate blood pressure can be extremely dangerous; it can cause stroke and other health complications. Bear in mind too that here is also such a thing as secondary high blood pressure. This usually happens when the kidneys are not well or that there is a general hardening of the renal artery. Also, if there is hypothyroidism, there is a tendency to have secondary high blood pressure. Therefore, it is wrong diagnosis to automatically put a patient on high blood pressure medication without first ascertaining if it was secondary high blood pressure to start with! Space & time does not allow us to write more on secondary high blood pressure.

To reinforce the point, let me cite an example. There is no such thing that if you are 5 feet 8”, you must be ten stone in weight. Our body density and bone mass varies from one individual to another; again it can vary from sex to race.

Your appropriate pulse pressure.
 We place more emphasis on pulse pressure than high blood pressure. Pulse pressure is the true measurement of how far gone your arteries are. The higher it is the stiffer your arteries are; the more strain on your heart, hence the higher likelihood of health problems.

Measurement of pulse pressure
Subtract your bottom blood pressure number (diastolic pressure) from the top number (systolic pressure).

"Say your blood pressure is 170/110 and Ray is 170/70. Ray is likely to have cardiac failure. (Heart failure, stroke or some other adverse event). In this example your pulse pressure would be 60 Ray would be an alarming 100."

What’s normal pulse pressure?
40 or lower is fine. Higher reading to that can be indicated as having stiff arteries. Conventional blood measurements are ideal for selling drugs. In order to reduce your pulse pressure meaningfully all you need is physical exercise, generous intake of fish oil alpha lipoic acid, folic acid, vitamin b3,   L-Arginine and intelectol. These supplements’ will only make your arteries softer and reduce the pulse pressure but will give you a general feeling of well being and good health. Intelectol is a powerful memory enhancer that will increase blood flow to your brain.

Cholesterol
Most people would hurry to take prescription drugs to lower their cholesterol upon learning that that they have high cholesterol. This is a gross mistake and a folly. Not all cholesterol is bad – unfortunately, space limit does not enable me to delve into details. Suffice to add, not all fats are bad. There are the saturated fats ( bad fats) and unsaturated fats (good fats) Most people and even doctors do not realize that cholesterol is essential to the body for many functions. It forms part of the cell membrane, the outer layer of every cell in your body. It helps transport and packs the major components of the cell membrane, called “phospholipids” that are made from essential fatty acids (EFAs). Without sufficient cholesterol, we would die because our tissues are constantly being repaired and replaced with new cells. Our body produces several thousand milligrams of cholesterol per day to carry out these essential functions, and each day the excess of cholesterol is supposed to be naturally recycled. If your body does not have sufficient new cholesterol each day, you cannot repair and replace your cell membrane and they will eventually degenerate.

 

The Dangers of Cholesterol lowering drugs.
Serious side effects have been reported for most cholesterol lowering drugs – the so called STATINS. The prescription of these drugs is based on the discredited hypothesis that high cholesterol can cause heart attacks.

This is false and misleading! Read on! The cholesterol myth has been one of the most long lived falsehood around – probably it has been excellent business for the big pharma - drug industry (“Big Pharma” for short)

Side Effects
In an article that appeared in “Life After Lipitor” in the newspaper “Tahoe World” on January 27th, 2004, Tahoe City (California) resident Doug Peterson began having serious neuromuscular problems after taking Statins for two years. He began losing muscular co-ordination and slurring words when he spoke. Then he lost balance, followed by loss of fine motor skills – he also had difficulty writing! These adverse side effects have begun appearing in peer-reviewed medical journals and numerous people have reported similar symptoms at public adverse websites such as medications.com. People have reported trouble at swallowing, trouble talking, feeling fatigued all the time, motor neuropathy which mimics ALS, nausea, vertigo, disorientation, memory loss, extremely dry eyes, muscle pain and so on.

How could Statins and the other cholesterol lowering drugs have so much of side effects? Statin drugs inhibit the production of cholesterol in order to lower LDL cholesterol counts. By limiting the production of cholesterol, statins may be directly causing membrane degeneration in neural and muscle tissues. Plus, statins may also inhibit of the liver to produce good cholesterol.
There are twenty million people in the U.S alone on all types of statin drugs. Statin drugs can actually increase heart disease and can cause extensive damage to one’s liver!

Your doctor could have advised you that, 2000 – 3000 milligrams of good vitamin C plus Fish oil in higher dosage could be the answer to lowering bad cholesterol without the side effects. L-Arginine besides helping to boost sex drive would complement Vitamin C to help reduce bad cholesterol.

Recommended Nutritional Therapy:  Depending on your weight,  We recommend Esterol, Ester C or a good brand of Vitamin C with bioflavonoid. Supplemented this with Eskimo 3(a good fish oil), Niacin (Vitamin B3) and also L’Arginine.  Alpha Lipoic acid will also help.

Anti-depressant drugs: On December 13th, 2006, the FDA announced that anti-depressant drugs prescribed to young adults are risky. Besides the enormous side effects, they cause suicidal thoughts in young adults. The Agency proposed a change to include a new label warning with a suggestion that patients of all age groups be carefully monitored, particularly when starting antidepressant treatment.


Urinary Incontinence: Cymbalta and some types of anti depressant drugs have been used by doctors for chronic liver diseases and urinary incontinence.  On October 17th 2005, Eli Lilly expanded its warning about liver related problems with the use of its drug, Cymbalta and cautioned doctors about using it for chronic liver disease. The warning came after a review of cymbalta found that 11 of nearly 9000 women taking it for urinary incontinence tried to commit suicide. But the lists of side effects are too many to mention.
The FDA approved of cymbalta in August of 2004 as an anti-depressant but it is not approved in the United States to treat urinary incontinence.

If your prescribed medication for depression and urinary incontinence is not mentioned in the list here, you can take it from me that they still carry an enormous amount of side effects. Please refer to the internet; all you need to do is to click onto the name of the drug. Google is a better search engine. Also all prescribed drugs for urinary incontinence carries with it an enormous amount of side effects.

It is my view that all anti depressant drugs can be habit forming. In addition, they blur the brain. For those taking statin drugs, proper blood testing is of paramount importance because an excessive dose and abusive use can cause permanent muscle and liver damage

In general, most forms of prescribed medication can deplete nutrients in the body. Classic example of this are diuretic drugs used to treat hypertension (blood pressure) whilst diuretic drugs are cost effective in reducing blood pressure, they deplete the body of essential minerals like magnesium and potassium.

As the side effects of urinary incontinence drugs are enormous and the list too many to mention, I would encourage you to research the internet for further information.

A further Word of caution:  Coumadin is a drug prescribed by cardiologists to prevent blood clots. Prednisone one of the NSAID (Non Steroid Anti-Inflammatory drug) is prescribed by doctors to relieve an inflammatory process for example, asthma and other flu like conditions.  Lupron is prescribed for prostate problems. Abusive use of each of these drugs can deplete bone mineral density but when all three are taken together, rapid osteoporosis can be induced.

The harsh reality today is that today’s large pharmacies sell anything that is legal. They are in the business to make money – they are not in the business to better humankind.

If you are observant, just pay attention to those who frequent the pharmacies. They look sickly; on the other hand if you pay close attention to those who frequents a health food shop, they look better and healthier. Do not trust your doctor to know everything about nutrition, nutritional therapy is usually not within the scope of their training. If you pay close attention to many of our obese doctors and nurses with a pot belly and who light up in the hospital’s corridors or car parks, you would know what I mean. This comment is not intended to discourage you from staying away from your doctor.

Recommended Supplements for a depressive disorder:  Before I start talking about heart problems and cancer, I want to let you know that 5 HTP which improves the serotonin level in your blood can be very effective in mood balancing. It may also help you to sleep better. It has virtually no side effects. When I lost my mother almost four years ago, I was on 5HTP nightly @ 50 mg per capsule x 4 (200 mg) for almost a year to help me get over with the extremely difficult period of my life. Another most advanced mood elevating therapy available today is SAMe (S-Adenosylmethionine).

We carry 5HTP but not SAMe but we can order it for you. SAMe has shown efficacy to relieving depressive symptoms but can also help in fighting liver’s disease, relieving arthritis pain and even supporting healthy endothelial functions. Never take sleeping pills or anti-histamine to help you sleep. If you wish, you may try 5HTP and melatonin together. It will help you sleep very soundly.

          


Heart Problems: When we hear about a sudden cardiac (heart) death in an adult, it is generally linked to atherosclerosis or clogging of the arteries. During vigorous exercises, if the blood flow to the heart muscle becomes blocked, the heart can stop working resulting in death. In children, however, the problem is usually due to a congenital abnormality of the heart muscle. A child may play sports for many years without any apparent problem. But these defects which often involve abnormal rhythm can cause the heart to stop pumping at anytime – particularly during heavy exercises. I would recommend that all young children be given an EKG (electro cardiogram) – the typical examination by your doctor using a mere stethoscope won’t be able to detect most congenital heart defects. Here at our Clinic, we use both the stethoscope and The Chinese pulse diagnosis. If we are uncertain, we would refer the client back to his G.P with an explanation that he/she should be referred to a cardiologist.

Having said that, we have seen many patients who are needlessly prescribed heart tablets. When we examine the patient, we often find that the patient has heart burn, acid reflux or aortic aneurysm and these conditions often transmit a false signal that there is a heart problem. These may include distant murmurs, irregular heartbeats and angina. Before we forget, oral chelation is extremely effective in removing a blockage in a heart artery or any arteries. We do not stock chelation tablets but we shall be happy to order it for you.

Recommended Nutritional Therapy for the heart:  Again, it’s good fish oil (Eskimo 3), Co-Enzyme Q 10, at least 100 mg per day, alpha lipoic acid, Vitamin E & L’Arginine, folic acid, niacin. Oral Chelation is a very effective therapy.

On the co-relationship between cholesterol and heart problems, do bear in mind that the majority of people who have heart attacks have normal cholesterol levels. Cholesterol in itself doesn’t cause heart disease and it won’t stop a heart attack.  It has never been conclusively shown that lowering of cholesterol saves lives. In fact, several studies have shown that that lowering cholesterol into the range currently recommended is co-related with an increased risk of dying, especially of cancer.

Pheochromocytoma

Pheochromocytoma is a tumour of the adrenal gland. The tumour is generally a benign one. These tumours produce excess of hormones like adrenaline. They are very vascular. A patient may also have a special nuclear medicine scan. A CT scan, an x-ray that uses a computer to make a picture of the inside of a part of the body or an MRI scan, which uses magnetic waves to make a picture of the abdomen, may also be done. Most of the time, a pheochromocytoma is noncancerous (benign), and treatment can return blood pressure to normal. A pheochromocytoma can develop at any age, but most commonly occurs in people between ages 40 and 60. Basically, these cells secrete too much epinephrine, norepinephrine and dopamine, and that causes the clinical signs and symptoms we will discuss below. Pheochromocytomas may also develop in people who have von Hippel-Lindau disease and in those who have neurofibromatosis (von Recklinghausen's disease).
Pheochromocytoma is a tumor of the adrenal gland that causes excess release of epinephrine and norepinephrine, hormones that regulate heart rate and blood pressure. Because of excessive catecholamine secretion, pheochromocytomas may precipitate life-threatening hypertension or cardiac arrhythmias. You have two adrenal glands, one just above each of your kidneys. Your adrenal glands produce hormones that give instructions to virtually every organ and tissue in your body. Pheochromocytomas often cause the adrenal glands to make too many hormones called catecholamines. The extra catecholamines cause high blood pressure (hypertension), which can cause headaches, sweating, pounding of the heart, pain in the chest, and a feeling of anxiety. Some people who develop pheochromocytomas have a rare inherited condition, called multiple endocrine neoplasia, that makes them prone to tumors in the thyroid, parathyroid, and adrenal glands (see Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia Syndromes ). They are responsible in part for that feeling of an “ad-renal-ine” rush you feel when you are afraid. It is these cells that are involved in a pheochromocytoma.
Pheochromocytoma is a rare catecholamine-secreting tumor derived from chromaffin cells. If the diagnosis of a pheochromocytoma is overlooked, the consequences could be disastrous, even fatal; however, if a pheochromocytoma is found, it is potentially curable. pheochromocytoma (fe-o-kro-mo-si-TOE-muh) is a rare tumor that develops in the core of an adrenal gland. A pheochromocytoma (also phaeochromocytoma , UK spelling) is a neuroendocrine tumor of the medulla of the adrenal glands originating in the chromaffin cells, which secretes excessive amounts of catecholamines , usually adrenaline and noradrenaline ( epinephrine and norepinephrine in the US). Cells in the adrenal glands make important hormones that help the body work properly. Usually pheochromocytoma affects only one adrenal gland. They are complex endocrine ( hormone secreting) glands. Depending on which area you focus on inside them, you find cells that do different things. There is an area where the cells secrete cortisol , a hormone similar to cortisone. A pheochromocytoma may be life-threatening if unrecognized or untreated.

Causes of Pheochromocytoma

The common Causes of Pheochromocytoma :

• Dopamine antagonists
• People with this rare multisystem disorder are at high risk of pheochromocytoma, kidney cancer, and brain and eye tumors.
• Others occur randomly, or are a symptom of other syndromes as mentioned above.
• Cold medications
• Radiographic contrast media
• Pheochromocytomas can occur in a small percentage of people with NF1, a syndrome that includes multiple tumors in the skin (neurofibromas), pigmented skin spots, tumors of the optic nerve of the eye, and bone lesions
• Drugs that inhibit catecholamine reuptake, such as tricyclic antidepressants and cocaine

Symptoms of Pheochromocytoma

Some common Symptoms of Pheochromocytoma :

• Headaches
• Palpitations
• Nausea
• Rapid heart rate
• Changes in body position
• Abdominal pain
• Sweating
• Vomiting
• Flushing
• Weight loss
• Chest pain
• Excessive sweating
• Irregular heartbeat (palpitations)

Treatment of Pheochromocytoma

Here is the list of the methods for treating Pheochromocytoma :

• The definitive treatment is removal of the tumor by surgery.
• Start alpha blockade with phenoxybenzamine 7-10 days preoperatively to allow for expansion of blood volume.
• After surgery, it is necessary to continually monitor all vital signs in an intensive care unit in the case of an inoperable tumor, management with medication is necessary. Radiation therapy or chemotherapy have not been effective in curing this kind of tumor.
• Prior to surgical removal, the high blood pressure will need to be brought under control, using first the medication phenoxybenzamine, followed by beta-blocking antihypertensive agents.
• Use an arterial line, cardiac monitor, and Swan-Ganz catheter administer stress-dose steroids if bilateral resection is planned.
• If a pheochromocytoma is cancerous (malignant), treatment may go beyond medication and surgery to include radiation, chemotherapy or destroying the function (ablation) of arteries that supply blood to the tumor.
• Chemotherapy is called a systemic treatment because the drug enters the bloodstream, travels through the body, and can kill cancer cells throughout the body.

Corneal Abrasion

Corneal abrasion is a painful scrape or scratch of the surface of the clear part of the eye. This transparent window covers the iris, the circular colored portion of the eye. The cornea has several layers that protect the eye. Some corneal abrasions may form a scar and permanently impair vision. A corneal abrasion is an injury (a scratch, scrape or cut) to the epithelium. Abrasions are commonly caused by fingernail scratches, paper cuts, makeup brushes, scrapes from trees or limbs, and rubbing the eye. Some eye conditions, such as dry eye, increase the chance of an abrasion. It is comprised of three layers and the membranes that separate these layers. It is very difficult to penetrate past the epithelium or top layer of the cornea. The cornea is normally devoid of blood vessels yet has many sensory nerves. When any trauma to the corneal epithelium occurs, cells are lost or destroyed and pain is immediately sensed. When a corneal abrasion occurs, the conjunctiva, or the white of the eye, turns red, as new blood vessels form and those present enlarge, in an attempt to increase blood flow to the eye as it attempts to bring to the eye those cells needed for the healing of the cornea. A corneal abrasion heals by the movement of neighboring epithelial cells, which slide over the wounded area, and through a cell division process called mitosis, which fill in the abraded area with new epithelial cells. Within two to three days of trauma to the cornea, these new cells start to adhere to the underlying membrane of the epithelium, called the basement membrane and within seven to eight days the abraded area usually heals completely without scarring.

Causes of Corneal Abrasion

The common Causes of Corneal Abrasion :

• Minor injury.
• Occurs when a foreign object is scraped across the cornea.
• Chemicals.
• Contact lenses.
• Blow to the eye.

Symptoms of Corneal Abrasion

Some common Symptoms of Corneal Abrasion :

• Tearing .
• Discharge of tears.
• Sensitivity to light.
• Eye pain.
• Blurred vision.
• Redness.
• Discomfort in the eye.
• Headache.

Treatment of Corneal Abrasion

• Antibiotic eye ointment, such as Polymyxin-bacitracin.
• Occlusion of the eyelid with a patch (keep the eye closed).
• Examination is done after using an anaesthetic.
• A 'patch' may be put on the eyes.
• Antibiotic used to prevent infection.
• Relief of pain with medication.
• At times, cycloplegic drops (paralyzes the ciliary muscle that controls the iris size).
• In selected cases, other medication such as steroids might be used.

Conjunctivitis

Conjunctivitis, is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, the clear membrane that covers the white part of the eye and the inner surface of the eyelids. Conjunctivitis, commonly known as "pink eye," is most often caused by a virus but also can be caused by bacterial infection, allergies (e.g., cosmetics, pollen) and chemical irritation. Conjunctivitis is the most common eye disease in the western hemisphere and varies in severity from mild inflammation with tearing to a severe inflammation that causes tissue injury and tissue death. Bacterial conjunctivitis presents with a red eye, pus discharge, a gritty sensation, and occasionally sticking shut of the eyelids. Viral conjunctivitis follows an upper respiratory infection such as the common cold. While pinkeye can sometimes be alarming because it may make the eyes extremely red and can spread rapidly, it's a fairly common condition and usually causes no long-term eye or vision damage. But if your child shows symptoms of pinkeye, it's important to see a doctor. Some kinds of pinkeye go away on their own, but other types require treatment.
Acute conjunctivitis is redness and soreness (inflammation) of the clear covering (the conjunctiva) which coats the white of the eye and lines the inside of the eye lids. Conjunctivitis can be caused by a virus, bacteria, irritating substances (shampoos, dirt, smoke, and especially pool chlorine), allergens (substances that cause allergies) or transmitted diseases (STDs). Pink eye caused by bacteria, viruses, and STDs can spread easily from person to person, but is not a serious health risk if diagnosed promptly.

Causes of Conjunctivitis

The common Causes of Conjunctivitis :

• The commonest cause is infection with bacteria.
• Allergic reactions, eg hayfever , may cause conjunctivitis, but do not usually cause a sticky discharge.
• Virus infection may also occur.
• Air pollution or chemical irritants may lead to conjunctivitis.
• A partially blocked tear duct is a possible cause.

Symptoms of Conjunctivitis

Some common Symptoms of Conjunctivitis :

• The eye is itchy or painful.
• Blurred vision
• Sensitivity to light
• Redness in the eyes
• Tearing.
• Itching of the eye
• Red, irritated eye.
• Swelling of the conjunctiva and eyelids.

Treatment of Conjunctivitis

• Over the counter eye cleansing solution can also soothe the eyes, but in the presence of a bacterial infection, you need to see the doctor as antibiotic eye drops or ointment are necessary. In some rare infections, antibiotics are also given by mouth.
• If the patient's eyes are sensitive to light, keep the room dark or suggest that he wear dark glasses.
• To prevent further spread of inclusion conjunctivitis, wash your hands thoroughly before and after administering eye medications.
• Use warm or cool water compresses to reduce discomfort.
• If your doctor thinks that the problem is allergic, then you may be prescribed antihistamines , sodium cromoglycate eye drops, or nedocromil eye drops.
• Be sure to wash hands with soap and water before and after using eye medication.
• If the problem is a virus infection, then it will not respond to antibiotics, and your body will have to fight off the infection.

Lung abscess

lung abscess is a pus-filled cavity in the lung surrounded by inflamed tissue and caused by an infection. A common mechanism is aspiration of stomach contents by vomiting and aspiration of part of the vomitus with all the bacteria from the pharynx, or gastrointestinal tract. Infections and neoplasms are the most common causes. The formation of multiple small (<2 cm) abscesses is occasionally referred to as necrotizing pneumonia or lung gangrene. Before the availability of antibiotics, the etiology of a typical abscess was complications after oral surgical procedures (ie, tonsillectomy), resulting in aspiration of infected material into the lungs. Both lung abscess and necrotizing pneumonia are manifestations of a similar pathologic process. The process is usually surrounded by a fibrous reaction, forming the abscess wall. Multiple small abscess formation may occur and is sometimes referred to as necrotising pneumonia. In children, the most vulnerable patients are those with weakened immune systems, malnutrition , or blunt injuries to the chest.
Lung Abscess is defined as a localized suppurative necrotizing collection occurring within the pulmonary parenchyma. Acute abscesses are less than 4-6 weeks old, whereas chronic abscesses are of longer duration. Several processes, either respiratory or systemic, can lead to abscess formation. Most abscesses are primary, meaning they result from necrosis in an existing parenchymal process (usually an infectious pneumonia). Lung abscesses can be classified based on the duration and the likely etiology. Aspiration into the lungs may be due to impaired normal swallowing mechanisms, esophageal disorders (e.g., acid Reflux ), altered consciousness levels, or absent gag reflex. Signs and symptoms usually begin at least 2 weeks before presentation and include cough, hemoptysis, fever, chills, night sweats, anorexia, pleuritic chest pain, and weight loss. The availability of effective antibiotic therapy for primary lung abscess has drastically modified the natural history of the disease and diminished the role of surgery. A pneumonitis develops which progresses to abscess formation over a period of 1–2 weeks.

Causes of Lung Abscess

The comman causes of Lung Abscess include the following :

• A lung abscess is usually caused by bacteria that normally live in the mouth or throat and that are inhaled into the lungs, resulting in an infection.
• Choking/near-drowning/ aspiration.
• Individuals with an inability to protect their airways because of an absent gag reflex, such as during coma, loss of consciousness, or general anesthesia and sedation.
• Severe periodontal disease.
• The remaining cases are caused by a mixture of anaerobic and aerobic (air breathing) bacteria.
• An abscess may occur secondary to carcinoma of the bronchus; the bronchial obstruction causes postobstructive pneumonia, which may lead to abscess formation.
• Stroke / cerebral palsy /cognitive impairment/impaired consciousness leading to increased risk of aspiration.

Symptoms of Lung Abscess

Some sign and symptoms related to Lung Abscess are as follows :

• The patient usually is sick for several weeks or months with a lack of appetite and the resulting weight loss.
• Cough with foul smelling sputum.
• Coughing pus.
• Poor dental hygiene is common.
• Chills and fever.
• Sweating.
• Productive cough.
• Rapid pulse ( heart rate).
• Foul-smelling cough.
• Bluish discoloration of the skin caused by lack of oxygen.

Treatment of Lung Abscess

Here is list of the methods for treating Lung Abscess:

• Lung abscess is treated with a combination of antibiotic drugs, oxygen therapy, and surgery.
• Penicillin intravenously.
• Cefoxitin is a second-generation cephalosporin that has gram-positive, gram-negative, and anaerobic coverage. This agent may be used when a polymicrobial infection is suspected as cause of lung abscess.
• Clindamycin intravenously.
• Standard treatment of an anaerobic lung infection is clindamycin (600 mg IV q8h followed by 150-300 mg PO qid).
• Patients may receive special antibiotics to treat organisms that may live in the mouth.
• Surgery is very rarely required for patients with uncomplicated lung abscesses.

Heart Block

Heart Block is a condition in which there is failure in the conduction of electrical impulses from the naturalpacemaker (Sinoatrial node) through the heart, which can lead to a slowing of the pumpaction.In some cases, a pacemaker is implanted to treat the abnormally slow heartbeat that may result from this condition. Third degree heart block , also known as complete heart block , is a disease of the electrical system of the heart , in which the impulse generated in the top half of the heart (typically the SA node in the right atrium ) does not propagate to the left or right ventricles. Thus, the ventricles beat very slowly—less than 50 beats per minute and sometimes as slowly as 30 beats per minute. Third-degree heart block is a serious arrhythmia that can affect the heart's pumping ability. Fatigue, dizziness, and fainting are common. When the ventricles beat faster than 40 beats per minute, symptoms are less severe.
A heart block denotes a disease in the electrical system of the heart. In this condition, the electrical signals that stimulate heart muscle contractions are partially or totally blocked between the upper chambers (atria) and the lower chambers (ventricles). Electrocardiographically, some P waves are not followed by a QRS complex. However, the disorder also occurs in people with rheumatic fever, sarcoidosis that affects the heart, or other structural heart diseases. Heart rate and rhythm are normal, and there may be nothing wrong with the heart. Certain heart medicines such as digitalis can slow conduction of the impulse from the atria to the ventricles and cause first-degree AV block. In second-degree heart block, only some electrical impulses reach the ventricles.The heart may beat slowly, irregularly, or both. Some forms of second-degree heart block progress to third-degree heart block.This condition is less common than Type I, but is generally more serious.
Heart block occurs when there is an interruption in the electrical conduction of the heart.First-degree heart block, or first-degree atrioventricular (AV) block, is defined as prolongation of the PR interval on the ECG to more than 200 msec. First-degree heart block rarely causes any symptoms or problems, and well-trained athletes may have this. Medications can contribute to the condition. No treatment is generally necessary for first degree heart block. Second-degree heart block, or second-degree atrioventricular (AV) block, refers to a disorder of the cardiac conduction system in which some atrial impulses are not conducted to the ventricles. This signal spreads across the muscles of these chambers, making them contract, squeezing blood into the ventricles or lower chambers. Third degree heart block is when the electrical signals don't travel between the upper and lower chambers of the heart. It's most common in adults with heart disease, and can have serious complications, such as heart attack, if it's not treated with a pacemaker. This means they do beat and pump blood, but at a slower rate and more inefficiently than if by an impulse from the upper chambers.

Causes of Heart Block

The common Causes of Heart Block :

• Mobitz I block can occur in infants and young children with structural heart disease (eg, tetralogy of Fallot) and in individuals of any age following valvular surgery (especially mitral valve).
• Class Ic antiarrhythmics (eg, flecainide, encainide, propafenone)
• Mobitz I block can occur in individuals with high vagal tone, such as athletes or young children.
• Heart attack
• Coronary artery disease
• Valvular heart disease (disease of the heart valves).
• Sinus node disease
• Coronary thrombosis (sudden blockage in the heart blood vessels)
• Myocarditis (inflammation of the muscle in the wall of the heart)
• Drugs (especially those drugs that increase the refractory time of the AV node, thereby slowing conduction)

Symptoms of Heart Block

Some are common Symptoms of Heart Block :

• Syncope (fainting)
• shortness of breath
• Slow heartbeat
• palpitations (when you notice the irregular heartbeat)
• Arrhythmias
• Lightheadedness or dizziness
• fainting or light-headedness Dizziness or feeling light-headed.
• Fainting.
• Palpitations, which can be skipping, fluttering or pounding in the chest
• Fatigue

Treatment of Heart Block

• If the patient is symptomatic, standard advanced cardiac life support (ACLS) guidelines for bradycardia, including the use of atropine and transcutaneous pacing, is indicated.
• Patients with suspected myocardial ischemia should be treated with an appropriate anti-ischemic regimen.
• A temporary pacemaker may be used in an emergency until a permanent one can be implanted.
• Treatment may include adjusting the medications or in certain cases, such as Mobitz type II block and complete heart block, a pacemaker may be necessary.
• This treatment involves using drugs such as streptokinase or tissue plasminogen activator to dissolve blood clots and increase the flow of blood to the heart.
• Some institutions recommend insertion of a transvenous pacemaker for all new Mobitz type II blocks, although this practice varies greatly from institution to institution.

Ischaemic Heart Disease

Ischaemic Heart Disease is defined as an episodic disease resulting in a temporary stoppage of blood in the coronary arteries and ischaemia of the heart muscle. A distinction should be made between myocardial ischemia and myocardial infarction. Ischemia means that the amount of oxygen supplied to the tissue is inadequate to supply the needs of the tissue.When the myocardium becomes ischemic, it does not function optimally. When large areas of the myocardium becomes ischemic, there can be impairment in the relaxation and contraction of the myocardium. The symptoms commonly associated with a heart attack include: severe chest pain that is not relieved by rest or GTN spray. Other symptoms include shortness of breath, sweating, rapid or an irregular pulse, feeling of nausea or vomiting and clamminess. About one in three people who have a TIA eventually have a stroke, with about half occurring during the year after the can serve as both a warning and an opportunity - a warning of an impending stroke and an opportunity to take steps to prevent it.
Ischemic cardiomyopathy is a term that doctors use to describe patients who have congestive heart failure due to coronary artery disease .While the symptoms and signs of coronary heart disease are noted in the advanced state of disease, most individuals with coronary heart disease show no evidence of disease for decades as the disease progresses before the first onset of symptoms, often a "sudden" heart attack , finally arise.The heart will pump blood around the body less effectively. Scarred heart muscle can also become thin.Very occasionally this scarred area can bulge out during each heartbeat causing an aneurysm. An aneurysm will also reduce the hearts pumping action and efficiency. As the heart is the pump that supplies oxygenated blood to the various vital organs, any defect in the heart immediately affects the supply of oxygen to the vital organs like the brain, kidneys etc. The symptoms of ischemic heart disease are often first noted during times of increased workload of the heart. For instance, the first symptoms include exertional angina or decreased exercise tolerance.
Ischemia (is-KE'me-ah) is a condition in which the blood flow (and thus oxygen) is restricted to a part of the body. After decades of progression, some of these atheromatous plaques may rupture and (along with the activation of the blood clotting system) start limiting blood flow to the heart muscle . While it was originally believed that the growth of atheromatous plaques was a slow, gradual process, some recent evidence suggests that the gradual buildup of plaque may be complemented by small plaque ruptures which cause the sudden increase in the plaque burden due to accumulation of thrombus material. The aneurysm can be removed or resected (aneurysmectomy) as part of a surgical procedure that is usually combined with coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). An aneurysmectomy should help improve the hearts pumping function. The artery may go into spasm due to certain reactions to medication, external stress factors, but often the reason is not known.

Causes of Ischaemic Heart Disease

The common Causes of Ischaemic Heart Disease :

• Ischemic cardiomyopathy is a common cause of congestive heart failure.
• Ischemic cardiomyopathy results when the arteries that bring blood and oxygen to the heart are blocked.
• But in contrast to a stroke, which involves a more prolonged lack of blood supply and causes some permanent damage to your brain tissue, a TIA doesn't leave lasting effects to your brain.
• Blood clot traveling to the brain from somewhere else in the body (e.g., heart)
• Patients with this condition may at one time have had a heart attack, angina , or unstable angina .
• Injury to blood vessels
• Underlying medical conditions are other medical conditions that may possibly cause Ischemic heart disease.

Symptoms of Ischaemic Heart Disease

Some are common Symptoms of Ischaemic Heart Disease :

• Sensation of feeling the heart beat ( palpitations )
• Shortness of breath , especially with activity
• Shortness of breath that occurs after lying down for a while
• Fatigue , weakness , faintness
• Chest pain
• Orthopnoea
• Slurred or garbled speech or difficulty understanding others
• Dizziness, loss of balance or loss of coordination
• lack of coordination
• falling (caused by weakness in the legs)
• cough
• decreased alertness or concentration

Treatment of Ischaemic Heart Disease

Here is the list of the methods for treating Ischaemic Heart Disease :

• These treatments can improve blood flow to the damaged or weakened heart muscle.
• If you smoke or drink alcohol excessively, stop doing so, because these habits increase the stress on the heart.
• Patients with this disorder usually will have a cardiac catheterization performed to see if they are candidates for bypass surgery or angioplasty ("balloon procedure").
• A heart transplant may be recommended for patients who have failed all the standard treatments and still have very severe symptoms.
• These medications make your platelets, one of the circulating blood cell types, less likely to stick together.
• Depending on a patient's medical history and the results of a medical examination, the doctor may recommend drug therapy or surgery to reduce the risk of stroke in people who have had a TIA.
• Aspirin is the most commonly used medication; others include dipyridamole, clopidogrel, Aggrenox or heparin, coumadin, or other similar medications.
• Surgery ( carotid endarterectomy , removal of atherosclerotic plaque from the carotid arteries in the neck) may be appropriate for some people, particularly those with carotid artery stenosis of greater than 70% of the artery and without coexisting terminal disease or dementia .

Cardiac Arrest

Cardiac Arrest is defined as the failure and stopping of the pumping action of the heart. A heart attack can lead to cardiac arrest by triggering an unstable heart rhythm. In many cases, sudden cardiac arrest may be the first indication of heart problems. If there is no response, the rescuer turns the person on his back and uses the "look, listen, and feel" approach to determine whether breathing has stopped: looking to see whether the chest moves up and down, listening for sounds of breathing, and feeling for air movement over the person's mouth. This generally involves administration of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), shock treatment to your chest to reset your heart's rhythm (defibrillation) and advanced life support. Restoring circulation as fast as possible improves your chances of survival.
Cardiac arrest is the sudden, abrupt loss of heart function.Cardiac arrest refers to a sudden, profound disturbance in the heart 's rhythm that causes the heart to stop beating completely or slow to the point where the life is unsustainable. Cardiac arrest is not the same as a heart attack. The resulting lack of blood supply results in cell death from oxygen starvation.Cerebral hypoxia, or lack of oxygen supply to the brain, causes victims to lose consciousness and to stop breathing , which in turn causes the heart to stop Sudden cardiac arrest usually results from a severely abnormal heart rhythm that interferes with the pumping action of your heart and causes the immediate cessation of blood flow from the heart to the rest of your body.
During a heart attack, there may be disturbances in the heart rhythm. Sometimes a person can be revived during the first several minutes after suffering cardiac arrest. However, the more time that passes, the less likely it is that the person can be revived and, if revived, the more likely it is that he will have brain damage. The victim may or may not have diagnosed heart disease. It's also called sudden cardiac arrest or unexpected cardiac arrest. A heart attack, on the other hand, occurs when a sudden blockage in the coronary artery prevents blood flow to part of your heart muscle, causing dysfunction in the affected part and possible tissue death. Experts generally recommend that people make lifestyle changes to prevent the conditions that could trigger cardiac arrest, including atherosclerosis , which is the leading cause of coronary artery disease. Lifestyle changes may include losing weight , reducing LDL cholesterol levels, eating a heart - healthy diet and getting adequate exercise. A heart attack , yet who have extensive muscle damage, may be at risk for sudden cardiac death due to the heart's inability to pump enough blood. If the person is not breathing, the rescuer checks for airway blockage by looking into the mouth and throat for any visible objects.

Causes of Cardiac Arrest

The common Causes of Cardiac Arrest :

• Dramatic slowing of heart rate due to failure of its pacemaker or severe heart block (interference with electrical conduction)
• Choking or drowning
• Electrocution
• Sudden loss of blood pressure
• Sudden stopping of the heart and collapse (cardiac arrest)
• Death of heart tissue (myocardial infarction or heart attack)
• Ventricular fibrillation – a rapid, irregular heart rhythm preventing any circulation of blood (most common cause of sudden cardiac arrest)

Symptoms of Cardiac Arrest

Some are common Symptoms of Cardiac Arrest :

• Chest pain
• Weakness
• Lasts for a more than a few minutes or comes and goes
• Back pain or upper abdominal pain
• May feel like pressure, squeezing, fullness
• Unexplained shortness of breath
• Loss of consciousness
• Cold sweat
• Nausea
• Pounding in the chest
• Feeling faint

Treatment of Cardiac Arrest

• Rapid defibrillation using an automated external defibrillator (AED), found in many large public places and in commercial airplanes
• Treatment of specific problems like heart attack, stroke, or trauma by specialized medical teams
• CPR combines artificial respiration, which supplies oxygen to the lungs, with chest compressions, which circulate oxygen to the brain and other vital organs by forcing blood out of the heart.

Hypotension

Hypotension and shock are not synonymous. While shock is always associated with low BP, a previously hypertensive patient may be in shock despite BP being within normal limits. Hypotension may occur in the absence of shock. Many people who have low blood pressure (hypotension) are healthy and have no signs or symptoms related to lower than normal readings. But for others, low blood pressure can cause dizziness and fainting or indicate serious heart, endocrine or neurological disorders. Hypotension is a medical concern only if it causes signs and/or symptoms such as dizziness, fainting, or, in extreme cases, shock .
Shock is defined as the state of widespread serious reduction of tissue blood flow, which if prolonged leads to generalised reduction of cell functions. Postprandial hypotension can cause dizziness, light-headedness, faintness, and falls. If an older person experiences these symptoms after eating, doctors measure blood pressure before and after meals to determine if postprandial hypotension is the cause. Hypotensive drugs include blood pressure drugs, diuretics (water pills), heart medications (especially calcium antagonists- nifedipine Procardia, beta blockers-propranolol Inderal and others), depression medications (such as amitriptyline Elavil), and alcohol. For example, vital organs (particularly the brain) may be starved of oxygen and nutrients if the blood pressure is too low for that particular individual.
Low blood pressure is an abnormal condition in which a person's blood pressure (the pressure of the blood against the walls of the blood vessels during and after each beat of the heart) is much lower than usual. Just a few decades ago, doctors thought a blood pressure reading of 160/95 millimeters of mercury (mm Hg) was an acceptable target rate for most Americans. Hypotension, or low blood pressure, means that the pressure of blood circulating around the body is lower than normal, or lower than expected, given the environmental conditions. It may be caused by hypovolemia (a decreased amount of blood in the body), resulting from the excessive use of diuretics, vasodilators, or other types of drugs, dehydration, or prolonged bed rest. The disorder may be associated with Addison's disease, atherosclerosis (build-up of fatty deposits in the arteries), diabetes, and certain neurological disorders including Shy-Drager syndrome and other dysautonomias.
Orthostatic hypotension is particularly common among older people. Is more likely to occur in people who have high blood pressure or disorders that impair the brain centers controlling the autonomic nervous system (which regulates internal body processes). For example, it rises during physical exertion and drops in extreme heat. Hypotension, or low blood pressure, means that the pressure of blood circulating around the body is lower than normal, or lower than expected, given the environmental conditions. Neurologic conditions that can lead to low blood pressure include changing position from lying to more vertical (postural hypotension), stroke , shock, lightheadedness after urinating or defecating, Parkinson's disease, neuropathy and simply fright. For some people, walking after a meal helps improve blood flow, but blood pressure may fall when they stop walking.

Causes of Hypotension

The common Causes of Hypotension :

• Medications used for surgery
• Anti-anxiety agents
• Treatment for high blood pressure or coronary heart disease (CHD)
• Heart failure
• Involvement of the intermediolateral cell column with the loss of small sympathetic neurons has been observed in some patients.
• Heart attack
• Some antidepressants
• Narcotic analgesics
• Alcohol
• Heart medicines
• Allergic reaction to certain drugs or chemicals
• Histopathologically, alpha-synuclein immunostaining demonstrates glial cytoplasmic inclusions.
• Addison's disease (where the adrenal glands fail to produce sufficient blood pressure-maintaining hormones).

Symptoms of Hypotension

Some are common Symptoms of Hypotension :

• Weakness
• Blurred vision
• Nausea
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Cold, clammy, pale skin
• Rapid, shallow breathing
• Depression
• Fatigue
• Confusion
• Feeling faint or weak

Treatment of Hypotension

Here is the list of the methods for treating Hypotension :

• Discontinue antihypertensive medications and other medications known to lower blood pressure, if feasible.
• Slowly and gradually performing positional changes, such as standing up.
• Other pharmacologic treatment options are directed toward symptomatic relief only (See Medication section below).
• Low blood pressure symptoms that do not go away very quickly upon sitting or lying down can be a medical emergency, and immediate medical attention is needed
• Stopping a medicine or changing the dose if the medicine is causing the hypotension.
• These garments drive blood from the legs to the heart and brain and help blood circulate through the body.
• Doctors traditionally have used the drug midodrine to raise standing blood pressure levels in people with orthostatic hypotension.

Mitral stenosis

In normal adults the Mitral valve between the left atrium and left ventricle, has an orifice of 4-6 sq.cm. When the orifice is less than half of the normal, blood flow between left atrium and left ventricle is significantly obstructed. A characteristic finding of mitral stenosis is a localized middiastolic murmur low in pitch whose duration varies with the severity of the stenosis and the heart rate. Because it is thickened, the valve opens in early diastole with an opening snap. The sound is sharp, is widely distributed over the chest, and occurs early after A2 in severe and later in milder varieties of mitral stenosis. In severe mitral stenosis with low flow across the mitral valve, the murmur may be soft and difficult to find, but the opening snap can usually be heard. If the patient has both mitral stenosis and mitral regurgitation, the dominant features may be the systolic murmur of mitral regurgitation with or without a short diastolic murmur and a delayed opening snap.
Mitral stenosis is a narrowing of the orifice of the mitral valve of the heart . In mitral stenosis, blood flow through the narrowed valve opening is reduced. The mitral valve lies between the left atrium (the heart's upper chamber) and the left ventricle (the heart's lower main pumping chamber). The enlarged left atrium often beats rapidly in an irregular pattern (a disorder called atrial fibrillation). As a result, the heart's pumping efficiency is reduced. The reason the blood flows in the proper direction is that, during this phase of the cardiac cycle, the pressure in the left ventricle is less than the pressure in the left atrium, and the blood flows down the pressure gradient . Patients often do not recall a history of rheumatic fever, and clinically apparent mitral stenosis frequently does not develop for more than 20 years after such an episode. Less common etiologies of mitral stenosis include infective endocarditis, severe calcification of the mitral annulus, tumors, systemic lupus erythematosus, and carcinoid. This in turn means there is a reduced amount of blood that is pumped out into the body from the left ventricle.If surgery is indicated, a cardiac surgeon meets with the patient to thoroughly discuss surgical options and, in most cases, can perform the surgery the following day -- if that is the patient's preference. Because Mayo Clinic is a major medical center that conducts clinical trials and research on various aspects of heart valve disease, some patients may be eligible to participate in trials or take part in research programs at Mayo Clinic.
Mitral stenosis is usually caused by rheumatic involvement of the mitral apparatus. As a result, the volume and pressure of blood in the left atrium increases, and the left atrium enlarges. MS obstructs blood flow into the LV, elevating left atrial pressure in proportion to severity of the stenosis.The normal mitral valve is a complex apparatus composed of an annulus and two leaflets that are attached by chordae tendineae to two papillary muscles. This, in turn, restricts pulmonary venous return to the left atrium, elevating pulmonary vascular and, consequently, right heart pressures. If mitral stenosis is severe, pressure increases in the blood vessels of the lungs, resulting in heart failure with fluid accumulation in the lungs and a low level of oxygen in the blood. In normal cardiac physiology, the mitral valve opens during left ventricular diastole , to allow blood to flow from the left atrium to the left ventricle . Left untreated, mitral stenosis will damage the heart, cause irregular heartbeats and possibly heart failure or other serious complications, including stroke, heart infection, pulmonary edema (water on the lungs) and blood clots. This obstruction results in the development of a pressure gradient across the valve in diastole and causes an elevation in left atrial and pulmonary venous pressure. If you have mitral stenosis, the narrowed valve can not open properly and obstructs the flow of blood from the left atrium to the left ventricle. In the case of mitral stenosis, the valve does not open completely, so the left atrium has to have a higher pressure than normal to have the blood overcome the increased gradient caused by the mitral valve stenosis.

Causes of Mitral Stenosis

The common Causes of Mitral Stenosis :

• Deposits of calcium ('calcification') in parts of the valve. This sometimes occurs in older people.
• Mitral stenosis prevents the valve from opening properly and blocks the blood flow from the left atrium to the left ventricle.
• As the valve area becomes smaller, less blood flows forward to the body.
• The atrium swells as pressure builds up and blood may flow back into the lungs, resulting in pulmonary edema (fluid in the lung tissue).
• Infection of the valve (endocarditis).
• A complication of various uncommon diseases.
• However, prevalence of MS in offspring of family members (especially the mother) with left ventricular outflow tract obstruction is increased.
• Congenital mitral stenosis is more often part of a complex heart deformity.
• Symptoms may begin with an episode of atrial fibrillation or may be triggered by pregnancy or other stress on the body such as infection (in the heart, lungs, etc.) or other cardiac disorders.

Symptoms of Mitral Stenosis

Some are common Symptoms of Mitral Stenosis :

• Shortness of breath, especially with physical exertion (exercise) or when the person lies down
• Swollen feet or ankles
• Increases with activity, decreases with rest
• May have blood in the sputum ( hemoptysis )
• Swelling of feet or ankles
• Coughing up blood stained sputum may occur due to the congestion of blood and fluid in the lungs.
• Radiates to the arm, neck, jaw, or other areas
• Sensation of feeling the heart beat ( palpitations )
• Fatigue , tired easily
• Chest pains (angina) may develop if there is a reduced blood flow to the coronary arteries.

Treatment of Mitral Stenosis

Mitral stenosis may be present for a lifetime with few or no symptoms, or it may become severe in a few years. In most cases, there is a long asymptomatic phase, followed by subtle limitation of activity. Pregnancy and its associated increase in cardiac output and the transmitral pressure gradient often precipitate symptoms. The onset of atrial fibrillation often precipitates more severe symptoms, which usually improve with control of the ventricular rate or restoration of sinus rhythm.
Here is the list of the methods for treating Ischaemic Mitral Stenosis :

• ACE Inhibitors are medicines which help to reduce the amount of work the heart does and ease symptoms of heart failure.
• Warfarin ('anticoagulation') is usually advised if you develop atrial fibrillation. This helps to prevent blood clots from forming.
• Valve repair (valvotomy) may be an option in some cases.
• Some patients may need heart surgery to repair or replace the valve.
• Replacement valves can be made from different materials, some of which may last for decades and others which can wear out and require replacement.
• During monitoring, if your doctor detects increased pressure in your heart and lungs, increased narrowing of the valve, or if your symptoms become severe, your mitral valve will need to be repaired or replaced.
• A balloon on the tip of the catheter is inflated, widening the mitral valve and improving blood flow.
• Patients with chronic uncontrolled atrial tachyarrhythmias should be on anticoagulant therapy.
• This procedure is less likely to work in patients with severely damaged mitral valves.
• Patients with associated congenital cardiac anomalies are at a higher risk of early death after mitral valve surgery.

 

Top 10 Deadliest Diseases

One of the most tragic parts of being human is being afflicted by diseases with high morbidity and mortality. Here is our list of top 10 deadliest diseases ever known to man.
1.    AIDS; 25 million from 1981 to present
AIDS is a mix of infections and complications as a result of progressive damage to the body’s immune system caused by HIV. AIDS is now considered a pandemic.

2.    Influenza; 36,000 deaths annually
Influenza, which is more commonly known as flu, is a highly infectious disease that is caused by influenza virus. Transmission of the disease is by airborne and through physical contact.

3.    Spanish Flu, 1918-19; 100 million deaths
The flu pandemic that happened in 1918 is termed as a category 5 flu pandemic which was caused by the flu virus strain A with subtype H1N1.


4.    Bubonic Plague; 250 million deaths
This disease outbreak was mainly caused by fleas and rodents infected with Xenopsylla cheopsis. Humans were infected after being bitten by an affected rodent.

5.    Malaria; 2.7 million deaths annually
Malaria is an infectious disease which is vector-borne. The causative agent is the protozoan parasites. It is a common disease in the sub-tropics and tropical regions.


6.    Ebola; 160,000 deaths from 2000 to present
The Ebola virus was first isolated in1976 from the dual outbreaks that occurred in Zaire and Sudan. It is a zoonotic disease as it affects lowland apes as well as humans.

7.    Cholera; 12,000 deaths from 1991 to present
The epidemic or Asiatic cholera is a very serious type of diarrheal ailment caused by Vibrio cholera. The mode of transmission is by ingesting contaminated food and water.

8.    Smallpox; Population drop from 12 million to 235,000
Smallpox is a highly contagious viral disease that has two variants. The V major has a 35% mortality rate while the less severe V minor has a 1% mortality rate.

9.    Polio, 10,000 deaths from 1916 to present
Polio or infantile paralysis is a viral disease that is transmitted through the fecal-oral course.


10. Black Death; 75 million deaths
The Black Plague is the one of the most serious pandemic outbreak in modern history. It was believed to have started in Central Asia and affected Europe during the 13th century.

Rhinitis

 

Rhinitis is inflammation and swelling of the mucous membrane of the nose, characterised by a runny nose and stuffiness and usually caused by the common cold or and an allergy.

The nose is the most commonly infected part of the upper airways. Rhinitis may be acute or chronic. Acute rhinitis commonly results from viral infections but may also be a result of allergies or other causes. Chronic rhinitis usually occurs with chronic sinusitis (chronic rhinosinusitis).

Viral Rhinitis

• Acute viral rhinitis (the common cold) can be caused by a variety of viruses
• Symptoms consists of runny nose, congestion, post nasal drip, cough, and a  low-grade fever.
• Stuffiness can be relieved by taking phenylephrine as a nasal spray or pseudphedrine by mouth. These drugs, available by over the counter, cause the blood vessels of the nasal mucous membrane to constrict. Nasal spray should only be used for only 3 or 4 days because  after that period of time, when the effects of the drugs wear off, the mucous membrane often swells even more that before. This phenomena is called as rebound congestion.
• Antihistamines help  control runny nose but cause drowsiness and other problems, especially in older people.
• Antibiotics are not effective for acute viral rhinitis.

Allergic Rhinitis

• Allergic rhinitis is caused by a reaction of the body's immune system to an enviromental trigger. The most common environmental triggers include dust, molds, pollens, grasses, trees, and animals.
• Symptoms include sneezing, runny nose, stuffiness, and itchy, watery eyes.
• A doctor may diagnose  allergic rhinitis based on a person's history of symptoms. Often, the person has a family history of allergies.More detailed information may be obtained using blood tests or skin testing.
• Avoiding the substance that triggers the allergy prevents symptoms but is often not possible.
• Nasal corticosteroid sprays decrease nasal inflammation caused by many sources and are relatively safe for long-term use.
• Antihistamine help prevent the allergy reaction and thus symptoms.
• Antihistamines dry the mucous membrane of the nose but many of them also cause sleepiness and other problems, especially in older  people.
• Never ones require a prescription but do not have these side effects.
• Allergy shots (desensitization) help to build long therm tolerance to specific  environmental triggers, but they may take months  or years to become fully effective.
• Antibiotic do not relieve the symptoms of allergic rhinitis.

Atrophic Rhinitis

• Atrophic rhinitis is a form of chronic rhinitis in which  the mucous membrane thins (atropies) and hardens, causing the nasal passages to widen and dry out.
• The cells normally found in the mucous membrane of the nose - cells that secrete mucus and have hairlike projections to move dirt particles out - are replaced by cells like those normally found in the skin.
• The disorder can develop in someone who had sinus surgery in which a significant amount of intranasal structures and mucous membranes were removed. 
• A prolong bacterial infection of the lining of the nose is also a factor.
• Crust form inside  the nose, and an offensive odour develops.
• A person may have recurring severe nosebleeds and can lose his sense of smell (anosmia).
• Treatment is aimed at reducing the crusting, elimination the odour, and reducing infections. 
• Topical antibiotics, such as bacitracin applied  inside the nose, kill bacteria.
• Estrogens and vitamins A and D sprayed into the nose or taken by mouth may reduce crusting by promoting mucosal secretions.
• Other antibiotics, given by mouth or intravenously, may also be helpful.
• Surgery to narrow the nasal passages may reduce crusting became the decreased airflow prevents drying if the thinned mucous membrane

Vasomotor Rhinitis

• Vasomotor rhinitis is a form of chronic rhinitis.
• Nasal stuffiness, sneezing, and a runny nose - common allergic symptoms - occur when allergies do not appear to be present.
• In some people, the nose reacts strongly to irritants, perfumes, and pollution.
• The disorder comes and goes but is worsened by dry air.
• The swollen mucous membrane varies fro bright red to purple.
• Sometimes, people also have slight inflammation of the sinuses.
• When persistent, endoscopy of the nose or CT scan of the sinus is not significant.
• Treatment is aimed at relieving symptoms.
• Avoiding smoke and irritants and using a humidified central heating system or vaporizer to increase humidity may be beneficial.

Mouth Sores

Mouth sores vary in appearance and size. Some may be raised, usually filled with fluid (in which case it is called as a vesicle or bulla); others may be ulcers. An ulcer is a hole that forms in the lining of the mouth when the top forms in the lining of the mouth, when the top layer of cells breaks down and the underlying tissue shows through. An ulcer appears white because of the dead cells and food debris inside the hole. Sores can affect any part of the mouth, inside and outside. Canker sores/aphthous ulcers and cold sores are perhaps the most well know, but there are many other types and causes of mouth sores. Any sore that lasts for 10 days or more must be examined by a dentist or doctor to ensure that it is not cancerous or precancerous.
Aphthous ulcers are very common. The cause is unknown, but stress seem to play a role - for example, a BMS student may get aphthous ulcers during final exam week.

• Aphthous ulcer appears as a round white spot with a red border. The ulcer almost always forms on soft, loose tissue on the inside of the lip or cheek; on the tongue, the floor of the mouth, or soft palate; or in the throat.
• Small aphthous ulcers (less than 1/2 inch in diameter) often appear in clusters of two or three; generally, they disappear by themselves within 10 days and do not leave scars.
• Larger ulcers are less common, they are irregularly shaped, can take many weeks to heal, and frequently leave scars.
• People with AIDS often have large ulcers that persist for weeks.
• Many people who get aphthous ulcers get them repeatedly - often several times a year.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

• The main symptoms of aphthous ulcers is pain - far more than would be expected from something so small.
• The pain, which lasts 4 to 7 days, worsens if the tongue or food rubs the sore or if hot or spicy foods are eaten.
• Severe ulcers can cause fever, swollen lymph nodes in the neck, and a generally run-down feeling.
• A doctor or dentist identifies aphthous ulcers by its appearance and the pain it causes.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

• Treatment consists of relieving the pain until the sore heals by itself.
• An anesthetic such as dyclonine or lidocaine may be used as a mouth rinse.
• However, because these mouth rinses numb the mouth and throat and thus may make swallowing difficult, children using them should be watched to ensure that they do not choke on their food.
• Lidocaine in a thicker preparation (viscous lidocaine) can also be swabbed directly on the aphthous ulcers.
• A protective coating gel of carboxymethylcellulose, often combine with a corticosteroid (such as triamcinolone or betamethasone), may be applied to protect the ulcers and temporarily relieve pain.
• Finally, for the most severe cases, a corticosteroid may be prescribed as a dexamthasone mouth rinse or, rarely, as predisone tablets taken by mouth.
• However, before prescribing as corticosteroid, a doctor ensures that the person does not also have oral herpes simplex infection, which can be further spread by corticosteroid given in gel form , so the side effects may be a concern.

Oral Herpes Simplex/Cold Sores

Infection of the mouth with herpes simplex virus causes recurring sore (often called cold sores), in which small fluid-filled sore develop on the skin, lips, or mouth in single or multiple clusters.

• The 1st eruption of sores due to infection with oral herpes simplex virus is called primary herpes. It is usually contracted in childhood. Primary herpes may be mild or severe, but it often affects large areas of the mouth and always the gums.
• Any subsequent eruption of the sores is called secondary herpes. Secondary herpes is a reactivation of the virus rather than a new infection.
• There are at least two forms of herpes simplex virus. In the past, herpes simplex virus type I only caused sores above the waist, and type 2 only below the waist (genital herpes).
• Now however, either type can cause sores anywhere on the body because of sexual behavior etc. Herpes simplex 2 tends to be more severe than type I.
• Typically, a previously uninfected child acquires the virus from contact with an adult who has a cold sore. In rare cases, a person first acquires herpes simplex virus in adulthood, also after contact with someone with a cold sore.
• A person is capable of spreading the infection (contagious) from the time the tingling sensation that proceeds the development of a sore (the prodorome) is experienced to the time at which the sore has completely crusted over. It is unknown whether herpes can be spread by sharing a glass or touching something that an infected person has touched.

Symptoms 

When primary herpes is acquired in childhood, the infection causes gum inflammation and extensive mouth soreness. Fever, swollen lymph nodes in the neck, and general discomfort may develop.

• A child may be cranky and cry continually. However, many cases are mild and go unrecognized. Parents often mistake the problem for teething or another illness. In more severe cases, small blisters form in the child's mouth. These blisters may not be noticed because they rupture within a day or two, leaving many ulcers. The ulcers may occur anywhere in the mouth but always include the gums. Though the child get better in a week to 10 days, the herpes simplex virus never leaves the body.
• When a primary herpes is acquired in adulthood, symptoms are usually more severe and include multiple rapidly developing painful sores on the gums an other parts of the mouth.
• Unlike primary herpes, which causes widespread mouth soreness, the flare-ups of secondary herpes usually produce a single raw, weeping open sore on the outer lip that later crusts over before healing within 2 or 3 weeks. The sore is sometimes called a cold sore or fever blister. Less commonly, a cluster of blisters (vesicles) forms on the roof of the mouth. These small blisters run together and quickly break down into a sore. There is no crusting stage.
• Flare-ups are commonly triggered by sunburn on the lips, certain foods, anxiety, a cold (hence the name 'cold sore'), fever, or anything that lowers the body's resistance to infection. Certain dental procedures can cause a flare-up as well; if a cold sore already exists, dental visits should be postponed until the sore heals.
• Although merely a painful annoyance for most people, flare-ups of oral herpes simplex infection can be life-threatening for a person with an impaired immune system. Impairment of the immune system can be caused by diseases (such as AIDS), chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or a bone marrow transplant. In such people, large, persistent sores in the mouth can interfere with eating; spreading of the virus to the brain can be fatal.

Treatment

• Treatment for primary herpes aims to relieve the pain so that the person can sleep, eat, and drink comfortably. Pain may keep a child from eating and drinking, which, combined with a fever, can quickly lead to dehydration. Thus, a child should drink as much fluids as possible. An adult or older child can use a prescribed anesthetic mouth rinse such as lidocaine to reduce pain. A mouth rinse containing baking soda may also be soothing.
• Treatment for secondary herpes works best when started before the sore erupts - as soon as the person has the sensation (the prodorome) that an attack is starting. Taking vitamin C (1,000 to 2,000 milligrams per day) during the prodrome may make the attack less severe. A doctor may prescribe penciclovir cream or amlexanox paste, which is applied during the prodorome to shorten the duration and severity of the outbreak. The virus itself cannot be permanently eliminated.
• Protecting the lips from direct sunlight by wearing a wide-brimmed hat or by using lip balm containing sunscreen can reduce the possibility of of a flare-up. Also, a person should avoid activities and food that are know to cause flare-ups. Anyone who suffers frequent, severe flare-ups may try taking lysine (available at food stores) indefinitely.
• Levaisole, available by prescription, is another drug that seems to reduce recurrences.
• For people with severe herpes simplex and for people with and impaired immune system, acylovir or penciclovir capsules may be prescribed to prevent or limit the severity of the infection. Corticosteroids are not used for herpes simplex because they may allow the infection to spread.