What is it?
Alzheimer's disease is the most common cause of a condition called dementia. Dementia is a general decline in mental ability, such as memory, language skills, judgment, and concentration. Alzheimer’s is a progressive disease, which means symptoms occur gradually and become worse over time. It is named for the German doctor who first described it, Alois Alzheimer.
Who gets it?
Alzheimer’s disease affects most commonly affects those over the age of 65, although it has been diagnosed in people in their 40s and 50s.
What causes it?
The degeneration of parts of the brain, which destroys brain cells, causes the symptoms of Alzheimer’s. However, at this time researchers are not sure what causes this degeneration. Those with a family history of Alzheimer’s are more likely to develop the disease as they age, so there is a gene abnormality that causes the disease in some people. Researchers are looking for links between Alzheimer’s disease and the environment, lifestyle, nutrition, and viruses.
What are the symptoms?
Alzheimer’s usually progresses in three stages, with each lasting anywhere from one to several years. The first symptom of Alzheimer’s disease is usually mild forgetfulness. Someone in the early stages may find him or herself unable to find the right word, recall where something was placed, or recall someone’s name. It may be difficult to concentrate. At this point, symptoms are so general that they do not signal a serious problem or have a great impact on day-to-day functioning. As the disease progresses to the second stage, the forgetfulness becomes worse, making it difficult to function at work, remember directions, or to even make it through the day without difficulty. The person may be restless and unable to sleep at night. His or her personality may change considerably, with increasing anxiety and decreasing emotions. By the late stages of Alzheimer’s, patients suffer from extreme confusion and memory loss. They are unable to recall the names of close friends and family or recent events, and cannot function socially or perform basic daily personal care. Late-stage Alzheimer’s patients may have hallucinations and delusions.
How is it diagnosed?
Alzheimer’s disease is diagnosed by taking a complete medical history and performing a thorough physical examination. Alzheimer’s is generally suspected when there is a gradual deterioration in mental ability. The doctor will perform tests, such as blood tests and brain scans, to rule out other possible causes of the symptoms. The doctor will also ask the patient a series of questions to test his or her mental status. One type of test of mental status is called neuropsychological testing, which is a standardized test of memory, concentration, and visual-spatial skills. Because a definite diagnosis can only be made by performing an autopsy after death, patients are diagnosed with “probable” Alzheimer’s. An autopsy of brain tissue, however, will show areas of abnormal tissue, called plaques, made up of abnormal proteins; a loss of nerve cells; and areas of tangles in the nerve cells that remain in patient’s with Alzheimer’s disease.
What is the treatment?
At this time, there is no cure for Alzheimer’s disease. Treatment focuses on maintaining the best possible quality of life for the patient by providing a supportive environment. Memory aids, such as calendars and other daily reminders of time and place, can help the patient feel more secure and reduce confusion. There are some medications that, when used in the early stages of this disease, can slow memory loss in some patients for a limited amount of time. However, these drugs are used with caution because of potential side effects. Other drugs may be prescribed to treat anxiety, sleeplessness, depression, and hallucinations, as necessary. In the early stages of Alzheimer’s, it is important to help the patient maintain as much independence as possible. As the disease progresses, it may be necessary to seek the help of a home healthcare aid, an adult daycare, or nursing home. While there is currently no treatment to prevent or stop the progression of Alzheimer’s, researchers are continuing to study this disease and test new drugs. There is a possibility that certain types of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may slow the progression of Alzheimer’s.
Self-care tips
A diagnosis of probable Alzheimer’s is devastating for someone who has been accustomed to living an independent life. It is important to provide the patient with emotional and physical support as he or she adjusts to living with this disease. Keeping the daily routine consistent and as stress free as possible is helpful. Because depression is so common in the early stages of Alzheimer’s, you should be aware of the signs of depression and seek help for the patient as soon as possible. Caring for someone with Alzheimer’s can be demanding and discouraging, especially when the loved one does not remember who you are. Your doctor or local social services agency can direct you to support services to help make this time a little easier. Also seek legal advice so it is clear who has the power to make medical and financial decisions once your loved one is no longer able to do this for him or herself. If you have a family history of Alzheimer’s disease, see your doctor for regular checkups. An early diagnosis is important, especially as the medical community learns more about this disease and its treatment. While there is no way to prevent this disease, you can lower your risk and protect yourself from many illnesses by following a healthy diet that is high in fiber and antioxidants and low in saturated fat, and participating in regular physical exercise. Performing activities that stimulate your brain on a regular basis, such as crossword puzzles, word searches, or memory games, may also help maintain mental ability longer.
Saturday, March 7, 2009
Alport’s Syndrome
What is it?
Alport’s syndrome is a hereditary disease that affects kidney function and can also cause hearing and vision disorders.
Who gets it?
Alport’s syndrome is primarily seen in men. While this syndrome can cause some symptoms in childhood, first symptoms usually occur in men in their twenties and thirties.
What causes it?
Alport’s syndrome is caused by a defective gene carried on the X chromosome. Women have two X chromosomes, so those who carry the defective gene usually have milder symptoms than men because their second normal X chromosome can serve as backup for the abnormal one. Women, however, can pass the defective gene on to their sons. Men have one X and one Y chromosome, so a defective gene on the X chromosome will cause symptoms. In some cases, however, Alport’s syndrome occurs spontaneously, with no family history of the disease. This is called a spontaneous genetic mutation.
What are the symptoms?
One of the first symptoms of Alport’s syndrome is usually hematuria, or blood in the urine. Tests also may reveal high levels of protein and white blood cells in the urine and waste products such as urea in the blood (called uremia). Eventually, the kidneys are unable to perform the function they should -- to filter waste products from the blood and rid them from the body. Other symptoms may include hearing loss, particularly sounds at high frequencies; vision problems, such as cataracts, involuntary eye movements, and abnormalities of the cornea; nerve problems, such as polyneuropathy; skin problems; and low blood platelet counts that can compromise blood clotting. Although it is unusual, some patients develop nephrotic syndrome, which can cause high protein levels in the urine, low levels of a protein called albumin in the blood, and swelling, usually in the legs and/or abdomen. While women can live with Alport’s syndrome and have no noticeable symptoms other than a slight hearing loss or occasional blood in the urine, men are more likely to die from complications of this disease by middle age.
How is it diagnosed?
To diagnose Alport’s syndrome, your doctor will take a complete medical history and perform a thorough physical exam. He or she will order a urinalysis, a test in which a sample of the urine is studied for signs of blood or proteins, blood tests to check for low platelet counts, and a kidney biopsy. A kidney biopsy is a procedure in which a small sample of kidney tissue is removed with a long, thin needle and examined under a microscope for abnormalities. The biopsy is performed under a local anesthetic so the patient is awake but feels no pain. Genetic tests also are available that can determine whether a person has the defective Alport’s gene.
What is the treatment?
There is no cure for Alport’s syndrome, but treatment is available to ensure the kidneys can function as fully as possible. This includes limiting your intake of salts and fluids, high amounts of which put too much strain on the kidneys. Your doctor will also recommend that you take steps to control your blood pressure and potassium levels. If you have nephrotic syndrome, your doctor will recommend lowering your fluid intake; taking medications called diuretics, which help the kidneys eliminate wastes from the body by increasing urinatation; and eliminating all salts from your diet. You may also need to receive a transfusion of albumin. In cases where the kidneys begin to fail completely, you will need to undergo kidney dialysis or a kidney transplant.
Self-care tips
Because Alport’s syndrome has a genetic link, you may want to seek genetic counseling if you are planning to have children and there is a family history of the disease.
Alport’s syndrome is a hereditary disease that affects kidney function and can also cause hearing and vision disorders.
Who gets it?
Alport’s syndrome is primarily seen in men. While this syndrome can cause some symptoms in childhood, first symptoms usually occur in men in their twenties and thirties.
What causes it?
Alport’s syndrome is caused by a defective gene carried on the X chromosome. Women have two X chromosomes, so those who carry the defective gene usually have milder symptoms than men because their second normal X chromosome can serve as backup for the abnormal one. Women, however, can pass the defective gene on to their sons. Men have one X and one Y chromosome, so a defective gene on the X chromosome will cause symptoms. In some cases, however, Alport’s syndrome occurs spontaneously, with no family history of the disease. This is called a spontaneous genetic mutation.
What are the symptoms?
One of the first symptoms of Alport’s syndrome is usually hematuria, or blood in the urine. Tests also may reveal high levels of protein and white blood cells in the urine and waste products such as urea in the blood (called uremia). Eventually, the kidneys are unable to perform the function they should -- to filter waste products from the blood and rid them from the body. Other symptoms may include hearing loss, particularly sounds at high frequencies; vision problems, such as cataracts, involuntary eye movements, and abnormalities of the cornea; nerve problems, such as polyneuropathy; skin problems; and low blood platelet counts that can compromise blood clotting. Although it is unusual, some patients develop nephrotic syndrome, which can cause high protein levels in the urine, low levels of a protein called albumin in the blood, and swelling, usually in the legs and/or abdomen. While women can live with Alport’s syndrome and have no noticeable symptoms other than a slight hearing loss or occasional blood in the urine, men are more likely to die from complications of this disease by middle age.
How is it diagnosed?
To diagnose Alport’s syndrome, your doctor will take a complete medical history and perform a thorough physical exam. He or she will order a urinalysis, a test in which a sample of the urine is studied for signs of blood or proteins, blood tests to check for low platelet counts, and a kidney biopsy. A kidney biopsy is a procedure in which a small sample of kidney tissue is removed with a long, thin needle and examined under a microscope for abnormalities. The biopsy is performed under a local anesthetic so the patient is awake but feels no pain. Genetic tests also are available that can determine whether a person has the defective Alport’s gene.
What is the treatment?
There is no cure for Alport’s syndrome, but treatment is available to ensure the kidneys can function as fully as possible. This includes limiting your intake of salts and fluids, high amounts of which put too much strain on the kidneys. Your doctor will also recommend that you take steps to control your blood pressure and potassium levels. If you have nephrotic syndrome, your doctor will recommend lowering your fluid intake; taking medications called diuretics, which help the kidneys eliminate wastes from the body by increasing urinatation; and eliminating all salts from your diet. You may also need to receive a transfusion of albumin. In cases where the kidneys begin to fail completely, you will need to undergo kidney dialysis or a kidney transplant.
Self-care tips
Because Alport’s syndrome has a genetic link, you may want to seek genetic counseling if you are planning to have children and there is a family history of the disease.
Alopecia Areata
What is it?
Alopecia areata is a disease in which hair is lost suddenly, creating distinct bald patches, usually on the head or other parts of the body commonly covered with hair.
Who gets it?
People with a family history of alopecia areata are more likely to develop it. In children, it usually appears during the school years.
What causes it?
The cause of alopecia areata is unknown. However, researchers believe it is linked to the autoimmune system.
What are the symptoms?
Alopecia areata results in smooth, round or oval bald areas. There are usually no signs of inflammation. Symptoms can vary from bald patches (patchy alopecia areata), to complete scalp baldness (alopecia totalis), to loss of all scalp and body hair (alopecia universalis). People with this condition are otherwise in generally good health.
How is it diagnosed?
A skin specialist called a dermatologist may be able to diagnose your condition through a visual examination. In some cases, he or she may want to remove a small sample of skin, called a skin biopsy, to examine under a microscope.
What is the treatment?
Patchy alopecia areata usually clears up on its own within several months to several years. However, it is common for this condition to recur. It is less common for hair to grow back if hair loss is widespread, as in alopecia totalis or alopecia universalis. Some alopecia areata patients respond well to drugs that promote hair regrowth, such as those containing minoxidil and finasteride. A cream or ointment containing anthralin has also been found to stimulate new hair growth in those with mild cases of alopecia areata. Cortisone pills may be prescribed in cases of substantial hair loss.
Self-care tips
Check with your dermatologist before trying any home treatment for baldness. There are many forms of alopecia, some caused by disease, so it is important to determine the type of alopecia before treating the condition. People with all forms of alopecia usually find support groups dedicated to their condition helpful.
Alopecia areata is a disease in which hair is lost suddenly, creating distinct bald patches, usually on the head or other parts of the body commonly covered with hair.
Who gets it?
People with a family history of alopecia areata are more likely to develop it. In children, it usually appears during the school years.
What causes it?
The cause of alopecia areata is unknown. However, researchers believe it is linked to the autoimmune system.
What are the symptoms?
Alopecia areata results in smooth, round or oval bald areas. There are usually no signs of inflammation. Symptoms can vary from bald patches (patchy alopecia areata), to complete scalp baldness (alopecia totalis), to loss of all scalp and body hair (alopecia universalis). People with this condition are otherwise in generally good health.
How is it diagnosed?
A skin specialist called a dermatologist may be able to diagnose your condition through a visual examination. In some cases, he or she may want to remove a small sample of skin, called a skin biopsy, to examine under a microscope.
What is the treatment?
Patchy alopecia areata usually clears up on its own within several months to several years. However, it is common for this condition to recur. It is less common for hair to grow back if hair loss is widespread, as in alopecia totalis or alopecia universalis. Some alopecia areata patients respond well to drugs that promote hair regrowth, such as those containing minoxidil and finasteride. A cream or ointment containing anthralin has also been found to stimulate new hair growth in those with mild cases of alopecia areata. Cortisone pills may be prescribed in cases of substantial hair loss.
Self-care tips
Check with your dermatologist before trying any home treatment for baldness. There are many forms of alopecia, some caused by disease, so it is important to determine the type of alopecia before treating the condition. People with all forms of alopecia usually find support groups dedicated to their condition helpful.
Insect Venom Allergy
What is it?
Insect venom allergy is a harmful reaction to insect stings that occurs in people who have an abnormally high sensitivity to insect venom. It is an acquired trait, which is not present at the first exposure to the venom, but sensitization can occur after the first or subsequent exposures. Animals classified as insects usually have three main body segments (head, thorax and abdomen), six legs and a pair of sensory antennae. Winged insect species have two sets of wings, such as mosquitoes, bees, and wasps. Other biting or stinging insects include fleas, lice, and ants. Many other related animals that are frequently mistaken for insects such as ticks, spiders and mites also bite human beings. They can transmit infectious diseases or cause poisoning but generally do not cause allergic reactions. Allergic reactions to the venom of some stinging insects, such as honey bee, yellow jacket, hornet, wasp or fire ant can be life threatening.
Who gets it?
Anyone can experience an allergic reaction to an insect bite or sting. However, only a small number of people with insect bite or sting allergies suffer fatal reactions.
What causes it?
An allergic reaction occurs when the immune system produces antibodies and other disease fighting cells in response to an allergen, in this case the insect venom. The antibodies release chemicals that actually injure the surrounding cells and cause the physical symptoms of an allergic reaction. Certain antibodies release histamines, which affect the skin, mucous membrane, mucous gland, and smooth muscle cells. Life-threatening allergic reactions can occur without any previous symptoms of allergy. In fact, most people with insect bite or sting allergies do not experience a severe reaction with their first bite. Multiple bites or stings increase the risk of an allergic reaction, but just one bite will cause serious symptoms for someone who is severely allergic.
What insects are usually involved?
Most serious allergic reactions to insect venom are caused by stinging insects, such as bees, yellow jackets, hornets, wasps and imported fire ants. As natives of the tropics, fire ants can live only in the warmer climate of the southern states and cannot survive in Pennsylvania. They are extremely aggressive and sting exposed parts of the skin when they feel threatened. Bites or stings from other insects usually do not cause allergic reaction.
What are the symptoms?
Symptoms of insect venom allergy often begin within 15 to 30 minutes and arise distant from the site of sting. The first symptom is often itchiness that can affect all or any part of the skin, the eyes and the nose. As symptoms progress, the patient begins to sneeze, cough and wheeze, feel congested, and develop hives or swelling. These symptoms may be warning signs of a dangerous condition called anaphylaxis. Symptoms of anaphylaxis include sudden anxiety and weakness, difficulty breathing, tightness in the chest, lightheadedness and palpitation, and loss of consciousness. Anaphylactic shock can occur within minutes and result in death. Anaphylaxis is a medical emergency that needs immediate medical treatment, and any delay may reduce the chance of survival.
How is it diagnosed?
Insect venom allergy is suspected based on a constellation of suggestive symptoms that follow an insect sting. The diagnosis is confirmed by performing a skin test with the venom of specific insects, such as honey bee, yellow jacket, hornet, wasp or fire ant that may be the culprit of the allergic reaction.
What is the treatment?
If you have been bitten or stung by an insect, carefully remove the stinger, if it is left behind. Wash the bite/sting area gently with soap and water. Apply ice to the site of sting. People who are allergic to insect bites should, of course, avoid situations in which they are likely to get stung or bitten. Mild reactions, such as pain, itching, and swelling, can be treated with an over-the counter antihistamine, pain reliever and topical corticosteroid creams. Anaphylactic shock is treated with an injection of epinephrine, a hormone that stimulates the heart and relaxes the airways. This may be combined with an injection of an antihistamine, which counteracts the histamine produced by the immune cells during an allergic reaction. Those who are known to have severe insect venom allergies should carry a self-injection kit, including antihistamine tablets, for emergency treatment. However, they should still seek emergency medical care after any type of reaction to an insect bite or sting.
People who are severely allergic to the venom of stinging insects, such as bees, yellow jackets, hornets, wasps or fire ants may, undergo a desensitization. First, skin testing is performed by an allergy specialist to determine the type of insect that responsible for the venom allergy. Then the patient receives a series of injections of the venom from the same insect(s). Starting dose is minute but increasingly larger doses are given until the venom doses several times larger than a single insect sting can be tolerated. This type of program must be administered by an allergy specialist, and it usually takes 20 weekly injections to eliminate this abnormal and exaggerated sensitivity. These are followed up with monthly booster shots and continued for 3 to 5 years to consolidate the cure.
Self-care tips
There are many ways you can help prevent insect bites and stings. Don’t use flowery colognes, soaps, or lotions, or wear brightly colored clothing, which attract insects. Do not keep open garbage or food that attract stinging insects when you are outdoors. Avoid drinking sweet beverages especially from open cans that have been left unattended and may harbor insects. Wear light, protective clothing such as long sleeves top and long pants whenever you will be outside for longer periods of time. Wear work gloves when you are gardening. Do not walk barefoot on the grass where insects are difficult to detect and can be stepped on. If an insect is near you, move away. Do not swat at the insect, which may awaken its defensive instincts and trigger aggressive behavior. Make sure any insect nests around your home are removed and destroyed.
Insect venom allergy is a harmful reaction to insect stings that occurs in people who have an abnormally high sensitivity to insect venom. It is an acquired trait, which is not present at the first exposure to the venom, but sensitization can occur after the first or subsequent exposures. Animals classified as insects usually have three main body segments (head, thorax and abdomen), six legs and a pair of sensory antennae. Winged insect species have two sets of wings, such as mosquitoes, bees, and wasps. Other biting or stinging insects include fleas, lice, and ants. Many other related animals that are frequently mistaken for insects such as ticks, spiders and mites also bite human beings. They can transmit infectious diseases or cause poisoning but generally do not cause allergic reactions. Allergic reactions to the venom of some stinging insects, such as honey bee, yellow jacket, hornet, wasp or fire ant can be life threatening.
Who gets it?
Anyone can experience an allergic reaction to an insect bite or sting. However, only a small number of people with insect bite or sting allergies suffer fatal reactions.
What causes it?
An allergic reaction occurs when the immune system produces antibodies and other disease fighting cells in response to an allergen, in this case the insect venom. The antibodies release chemicals that actually injure the surrounding cells and cause the physical symptoms of an allergic reaction. Certain antibodies release histamines, which affect the skin, mucous membrane, mucous gland, and smooth muscle cells. Life-threatening allergic reactions can occur without any previous symptoms of allergy. In fact, most people with insect bite or sting allergies do not experience a severe reaction with their first bite. Multiple bites or stings increase the risk of an allergic reaction, but just one bite will cause serious symptoms for someone who is severely allergic.
What insects are usually involved?
Most serious allergic reactions to insect venom are caused by stinging insects, such as bees, yellow jackets, hornets, wasps and imported fire ants. As natives of the tropics, fire ants can live only in the warmer climate of the southern states and cannot survive in Pennsylvania. They are extremely aggressive and sting exposed parts of the skin when they feel threatened. Bites or stings from other insects usually do not cause allergic reaction.
What are the symptoms?
Symptoms of insect venom allergy often begin within 15 to 30 minutes and arise distant from the site of sting. The first symptom is often itchiness that can affect all or any part of the skin, the eyes and the nose. As symptoms progress, the patient begins to sneeze, cough and wheeze, feel congested, and develop hives or swelling. These symptoms may be warning signs of a dangerous condition called anaphylaxis. Symptoms of anaphylaxis include sudden anxiety and weakness, difficulty breathing, tightness in the chest, lightheadedness and palpitation, and loss of consciousness. Anaphylactic shock can occur within minutes and result in death. Anaphylaxis is a medical emergency that needs immediate medical treatment, and any delay may reduce the chance of survival.
How is it diagnosed?
Insect venom allergy is suspected based on a constellation of suggestive symptoms that follow an insect sting. The diagnosis is confirmed by performing a skin test with the venom of specific insects, such as honey bee, yellow jacket, hornet, wasp or fire ant that may be the culprit of the allergic reaction.
What is the treatment?
If you have been bitten or stung by an insect, carefully remove the stinger, if it is left behind. Wash the bite/sting area gently with soap and water. Apply ice to the site of sting. People who are allergic to insect bites should, of course, avoid situations in which they are likely to get stung or bitten. Mild reactions, such as pain, itching, and swelling, can be treated with an over-the counter antihistamine, pain reliever and topical corticosteroid creams. Anaphylactic shock is treated with an injection of epinephrine, a hormone that stimulates the heart and relaxes the airways. This may be combined with an injection of an antihistamine, which counteracts the histamine produced by the immune cells during an allergic reaction. Those who are known to have severe insect venom allergies should carry a self-injection kit, including antihistamine tablets, for emergency treatment. However, they should still seek emergency medical care after any type of reaction to an insect bite or sting.
People who are severely allergic to the venom of stinging insects, such as bees, yellow jackets, hornets, wasps or fire ants may, undergo a desensitization. First, skin testing is performed by an allergy specialist to determine the type of insect that responsible for the venom allergy. Then the patient receives a series of injections of the venom from the same insect(s). Starting dose is minute but increasingly larger doses are given until the venom doses several times larger than a single insect sting can be tolerated. This type of program must be administered by an allergy specialist, and it usually takes 20 weekly injections to eliminate this abnormal and exaggerated sensitivity. These are followed up with monthly booster shots and continued for 3 to 5 years to consolidate the cure.
Self-care tips
There are many ways you can help prevent insect bites and stings. Don’t use flowery colognes, soaps, or lotions, or wear brightly colored clothing, which attract insects. Do not keep open garbage or food that attract stinging insects when you are outdoors. Avoid drinking sweet beverages especially from open cans that have been left unattended and may harbor insects. Wear light, protective clothing such as long sleeves top and long pants whenever you will be outside for longer periods of time. Wear work gloves when you are gardening. Do not walk barefoot on the grass where insects are difficult to detect and can be stepped on. If an insect is near you, move away. Do not swat at the insect, which may awaken its defensive instincts and trigger aggressive behavior. Make sure any insect nests around your home are removed and destroyed.
Bee Sting Allergy
What is it?
Bee sting allergies occur in people who have an abnormally high sensitivity to bee stings, which cause a physical reaction. Allergic reactions to bee stings can be life threatening.
Who gets it?
Anyone can suffer allergic reactions to bee stings. Although more people die from severe allergic reactions to bee stings each year than from snake bites, only a small number of people with bee sting allergies suffer these types of fatal reactions.
What causes it?
An allergic reaction occurs when the immune system produces antibodies and other disease fighting cells in response to an allergen, in this case the bee sting. The antibodies release chemicals that actually injure the surrounding cells and cause the physical symptoms of an allergic reaction. Certain antibodies release histamines, which affect the skin, mucous membrane, mucous gland, and smooth muscle cells. Life-threatening allergic reactions can occur without any previous symptoms of allergy. In fact, most people with bee sting allergies do not experience a severe reaction with their first sting. Multiple stings increase the risk of an allergic reaction, but just one sting will cause serious symptoms for someone who is severely allergic.
What are the symptoms?
Bee sting allergy symptoms often begin with a dry cough. Then, the eye area begins to itch and swell. As symptoms progress, the patient begins to sneeze and wheeze, and develop hives that itch. These symptoms may be warning signs of a dangerous condition called anaphylaxis. Symptoms include sudden anxiety and weakness, difficulty breathing, tightness in the chest, very low blood pressure, loss of consciousness, and shock. Anaphylactic shock can occur within minutes and result in death. A patient in anaphylactic shock needs immediate medical treatment.
How is it diagnosed?
Bee sting allergies are diagnosed according to the specific symptoms that follow a bee sting.
What is the treatment?
People who are allergic to bee stings should, of course, avoid situations in which they are likely to get stung. Anaphylactic shock is treated with an injection of epinephrine, a hormone that stimulates the heart and relaxes the airways. This may be combined with an injection of an antihistamine, which counteracts the histamine produced by the immune cells during an allergic reaction. Those who are known to have severe bee sting allergies should carry a self-injection kit, including antihistamine tablets, for emergency treatment. However, they should still seek medical care after any type of reaction to a bee sting. People who are severely allergic may undergo a desensitization program, in which a series of injections of bee venom are given in increasingly larger doses until the body shows that it can be tolerated. This type of program must be administered by an allergy specialist and it may take anywhere from 15 to 20 weeks to develop an immunity. These are followed up with monthly booster shots.
Self-care tips
There are many ways you can help prevent bee stings. Don’t use flowery colognes, soaps, or lotions, or wear brightly colored clothing, which attract bees. If a bee is near you, move away. Do not swat at the bee, which may aggravate it. Make sure any bee or wasp nests around your home are removed and destroyed
Bee sting allergies occur in people who have an abnormally high sensitivity to bee stings, which cause a physical reaction. Allergic reactions to bee stings can be life threatening.
Who gets it?
Anyone can suffer allergic reactions to bee stings. Although more people die from severe allergic reactions to bee stings each year than from snake bites, only a small number of people with bee sting allergies suffer these types of fatal reactions.
What causes it?
An allergic reaction occurs when the immune system produces antibodies and other disease fighting cells in response to an allergen, in this case the bee sting. The antibodies release chemicals that actually injure the surrounding cells and cause the physical symptoms of an allergic reaction. Certain antibodies release histamines, which affect the skin, mucous membrane, mucous gland, and smooth muscle cells. Life-threatening allergic reactions can occur without any previous symptoms of allergy. In fact, most people with bee sting allergies do not experience a severe reaction with their first sting. Multiple stings increase the risk of an allergic reaction, but just one sting will cause serious symptoms for someone who is severely allergic.
What are the symptoms?
Bee sting allergy symptoms often begin with a dry cough. Then, the eye area begins to itch and swell. As symptoms progress, the patient begins to sneeze and wheeze, and develop hives that itch. These symptoms may be warning signs of a dangerous condition called anaphylaxis. Symptoms include sudden anxiety and weakness, difficulty breathing, tightness in the chest, very low blood pressure, loss of consciousness, and shock. Anaphylactic shock can occur within minutes and result in death. A patient in anaphylactic shock needs immediate medical treatment.
How is it diagnosed?
Bee sting allergies are diagnosed according to the specific symptoms that follow a bee sting.
What is the treatment?
People who are allergic to bee stings should, of course, avoid situations in which they are likely to get stung. Anaphylactic shock is treated with an injection of epinephrine, a hormone that stimulates the heart and relaxes the airways. This may be combined with an injection of an antihistamine, which counteracts the histamine produced by the immune cells during an allergic reaction. Those who are known to have severe bee sting allergies should carry a self-injection kit, including antihistamine tablets, for emergency treatment. However, they should still seek medical care after any type of reaction to a bee sting. People who are severely allergic may undergo a desensitization program, in which a series of injections of bee venom are given in increasingly larger doses until the body shows that it can be tolerated. This type of program must be administered by an allergy specialist and it may take anywhere from 15 to 20 weeks to develop an immunity. These are followed up with monthly booster shots.
Self-care tips
There are many ways you can help prevent bee stings. Don’t use flowery colognes, soaps, or lotions, or wear brightly colored clothing, which attract bees. If a bee is near you, move away. Do not swat at the bee, which may aggravate it. Make sure any bee or wasp nests around your home are removed and destroyed
Rhinitis
Also known as: Allergic Rhinitis, hay fever
What is it?
Rhinitis is inflammation of the nasal mucous membranes. Allergic rhinitis is rhinitis caused by allergies to airborne substances, such as pollen, dust, animal dander, or molds. The substances that cause allergic reactions are called allergens. Allergic rhinitis can be a seasonal or year-round (perennial) condition. The same person can have both types.
Who gets it?
Allergic rhinitis is an extremely common type of allergy that can affect anyone, and develop at any age. Allergies are not inherited, but it has been found that if a family member has a sensitivity to a certain substance, other family members are more likely to have the same or similar sensitivity.
What causes it?
Seasonal allergic rhinitis, while called hay fever, is actually caused by airborne pollens from grasses and trees. Dust mites, mold spores, animal dander, and feathers commonly cause perennial allergic rhinitis. However, other causes can include perfumes, chemicals, cigarette smoke, cleansers, and cosmetics. An allergic reaction occurs when the immune system produces antibodies and other disease fighting cells in response to an allergen. The antibodies release chemicals that actually injure the surrounding cells and cause the physical symptoms of an allergic reaction. Certain antibodies release histamines, which affect the skin and mucous membranes. This is why an allergic person experiences swelling, redness, itching, and runny nose.
What are the symptoms?
Allergic rhinitis affects the nose, causing sneezing, a clear discharge, and itching. The eyes may also be red, watery, and itchy. The throat may become irritated from nasal drip and coughing. Swelling in the sinuses causes congestion. Some patients with allergic rhinitis have headaches and feel tired because their symptoms make sleep difficult. Symptoms of seasonal allergic rhinitis occur in the spring, summer, and early fall and flare up after spending time outside. Symptoms of perennial allergic rhinitis flare up indoors.
How is it diagnosed?
If you have cold symptoms that last longer than a week, you doctor will test for a bacterial infection by studying a sample of your nasal discharge, called a nasal smear. He or she will also examine your nose for any abnormalities that could be causing your symptoms. If other possible causes are ruled out, your doctor may perform further tests for allergies, or refer you to a specialist called an allergist. A diagnosis of allergic rhinitis can usually be made without further tests if rhinitis symptoms come and go with the seasons. Tests for allergies include blood and skin tests, and nasal smears. Another type of test, called a provocation test, involves exposing the patient to very small amounts of possible allergens, either through swallowing or inhaling, to see if there is an allergic response.
What is the treatment?
If you have allergic rhinitis, your doctor will recommend that you avoid the substances that are known allergens for you. When rhinitis is seasonal or involves substances that are hard to avoid, medication can be prescribed to relieve symptoms. The most commonly used drugs are antihistamines, decongestants, corticosteroid sprays, and cromolyn nasal sprays. Immunotherapy is a type of desensitizing treatment in which a series of injections of a known allergen are given in increasingly larger doses until the body shows that it can be tolerated. An allergy specialist must administer this type of program and it may take a long period of time to develop an immunity. These injections are followed by periodic booster shots. There are many alternative treatments for allergic responses, most of which involve diet and lifestyle. Your doctor can discuss these with you and help you determine whether any are right for you.
Self-care tips
If you have allergic rhinitis, there are ways to reduce your exposure to allergens. For example, use an air conditioner and air purifier during the seasons when pollen levels are high. Keep your house as free of dust as possible by damp mopping and using a vacuum cleaner with a special filter designed to trap fine particles. Avoid contact with animals, or keep your pets bathed and well groomed.
What is it?
Rhinitis is inflammation of the nasal mucous membranes. Allergic rhinitis is rhinitis caused by allergies to airborne substances, such as pollen, dust, animal dander, or molds. The substances that cause allergic reactions are called allergens. Allergic rhinitis can be a seasonal or year-round (perennial) condition. The same person can have both types.
Who gets it?
Allergic rhinitis is an extremely common type of allergy that can affect anyone, and develop at any age. Allergies are not inherited, but it has been found that if a family member has a sensitivity to a certain substance, other family members are more likely to have the same or similar sensitivity.
What causes it?
Seasonal allergic rhinitis, while called hay fever, is actually caused by airborne pollens from grasses and trees. Dust mites, mold spores, animal dander, and feathers commonly cause perennial allergic rhinitis. However, other causes can include perfumes, chemicals, cigarette smoke, cleansers, and cosmetics. An allergic reaction occurs when the immune system produces antibodies and other disease fighting cells in response to an allergen. The antibodies release chemicals that actually injure the surrounding cells and cause the physical symptoms of an allergic reaction. Certain antibodies release histamines, which affect the skin and mucous membranes. This is why an allergic person experiences swelling, redness, itching, and runny nose.
What are the symptoms?
Allergic rhinitis affects the nose, causing sneezing, a clear discharge, and itching. The eyes may also be red, watery, and itchy. The throat may become irritated from nasal drip and coughing. Swelling in the sinuses causes congestion. Some patients with allergic rhinitis have headaches and feel tired because their symptoms make sleep difficult. Symptoms of seasonal allergic rhinitis occur in the spring, summer, and early fall and flare up after spending time outside. Symptoms of perennial allergic rhinitis flare up indoors.
How is it diagnosed?
If you have cold symptoms that last longer than a week, you doctor will test for a bacterial infection by studying a sample of your nasal discharge, called a nasal smear. He or she will also examine your nose for any abnormalities that could be causing your symptoms. If other possible causes are ruled out, your doctor may perform further tests for allergies, or refer you to a specialist called an allergist. A diagnosis of allergic rhinitis can usually be made without further tests if rhinitis symptoms come and go with the seasons. Tests for allergies include blood and skin tests, and nasal smears. Another type of test, called a provocation test, involves exposing the patient to very small amounts of possible allergens, either through swallowing or inhaling, to see if there is an allergic response.
What is the treatment?
If you have allergic rhinitis, your doctor will recommend that you avoid the substances that are known allergens for you. When rhinitis is seasonal or involves substances that are hard to avoid, medication can be prescribed to relieve symptoms. The most commonly used drugs are antihistamines, decongestants, corticosteroid sprays, and cromolyn nasal sprays. Immunotherapy is a type of desensitizing treatment in which a series of injections of a known allergen are given in increasingly larger doses until the body shows that it can be tolerated. An allergy specialist must administer this type of program and it may take a long period of time to develop an immunity. These injections are followed by periodic booster shots. There are many alternative treatments for allergic responses, most of which involve diet and lifestyle. Your doctor can discuss these with you and help you determine whether any are right for you.
Self-care tips
If you have allergic rhinitis, there are ways to reduce your exposure to allergens. For example, use an air conditioner and air purifier during the seasons when pollen levels are high. Keep your house as free of dust as possible by damp mopping and using a vacuum cleaner with a special filter designed to trap fine particles. Avoid contact with animals, or keep your pets bathed and well groomed.
Alcoholism and Alcohol Abuse
Also known as: Alcohol dependence
What is it?
Alcoholism is a disorder that is characterized by an excessive dependence upon and craving for alcoholic beverages. This dependence affects every aspect of the alcoholic’s life - socially, personally, and professionally – and can lead to physical and psychological harm to the alcoholic and often to those around him or her. Many people consider alcoholism and alcohol abuse to be the same. However, a person who abuses alcohol does not crave alcohol or become dependent on it. The alcohol abuser has a pattern of excessive drinking that results in poor judgment and recurring social, legal, or professional consequences of the abuse. Prolonged alcohol abuse often leads to alcoholism.
Who gets it?
Anyone who drinks alcohol can fall into the trap of alcoholism. However, people who have a family history of alcohol abuse disorders are more likely to also have this disorder. Men are more likely to become alcoholics than women. Adolescents are at higher risk for alcohol abuse because of the tendency to binge drink.
What causes it?
Many factors can contribute to alcoholism and alcohol abuse. These can include depression, a disruptive home life, peer pressure, and job problems. Those with a family history of alcoholism may have a genetically inherited lower sensitivity to alcohol, which means they can drink more without feeling the effects. It is difficult to separate the effects of environment and heredity as a cause of alcoholism.
What are the symptoms?
Alcoholics have an uncontrollable craving for alcohol. While they may recognize that their use of alcohol is self-destructive and hurts others, they are unable to resist the compulsion to drink and are unable to control the amount of alcohol they drink at one time. With time, alcoholics need to drink more and more to feel good because they develop a tolerance for alcohol. An alcoholic who suddenly stops drinking will develop withdrawal symptoms, similar to a drug addict. These might include weakness, tremors, sweating, and nausea. More serious withdrawal symptoms include seizures, hallucinations, and delirium tremens (DTs). The DTs is a severe onset of anxiousness, confusion, and delirium, accompanied by high fever, that can be fatal if untreated. Untreated alcoholism can damage just about every organ in the body. Complications of alcoholism can include liver damage (cirrhosis), brain damage, heart failure, persistent tremor, depression, malnutrition, stomach ulcers, high blood pressure, decreased sex drive, bleeding in the esophagus, and certain cancers, particularly of the throat, liver, pancreas, and esophagus. Many alcoholics have a thiamine deficiency, which can cause Korsakoff’s and Wernicke’s syndromes.
With Korsakoff’s, the patient cannot remember recent events. Wernicke’s is characterized by a loss of coordination and abnormal eye movements. Abusing alcohol can also result in nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, memory loss, slurred speech, and difficulty with coordination. Pregnant women who drink are more likely to have children with birth defects (fetal alcohol syndrome), and drunken drivers are more likely to cause accidents that may result in death. Alcoholics are also more likely to commit suicide, or physically harm another person. People who abuse alcohol, but are not alcoholics, drink to the point where their good judgment is impaired. These people usually have a pattern of letting drinking interfere with personal or professional responsibilities, binge drinking, or drinking and driving. These patterns are also true of alcoholics.
How is it diagnosed?
Doctors define moderate alcohol use as up to two drinks per day for men and one drink per day for women and the elderly. To diagnose alcoholism or alcohol abuse, your doctor will ask you about your drinking habits. How often do you drink? How many drinks do you have per day or week? How do you feel if you don’t drink? Do you drink in the morning to relieve a hangover? The doctor will want to know why and when you are more likely to drink, if you have felt guilty about your drinking, if you ever experience withdrawal symptoms as a result of not drinking alcohol, if you find yourself choosing to drink over other activities, and if your drinking has had an effect on your job performance and personal relationships, or has resulted in legal problems. The doctor will take your medical history and perform a physical examination. He or she may order blood tests.
What is the treatment?
Someone who is an alcoholic or abuses alcohol regularly must stop drinking all together. There is no cure for alcoholism that allows the patient to drink socially without relapses into old habits. Successful treatment requires behavioral therapy and a strong support system. Because of this, treatment programs must have family participation, if possible. During treatment, your doctor will monitor your progress. Treatment begins with detoxification, which is a medically supervised program to rid the body of the toxic effects of the alcohol. Detoxification results in mild to severe withdrawals symptoms. Patients suffering severe withdrawal symptoms may be treated in a hospital setting with sedative medications to help relieve symptoms and intravenous (IV) fluids to replace those lost through nausea and vomiting. These fluids often include essential nutrients, such as thiamine, that are typically low in alcoholics. Detoxification is followed by rehabilitation, which helps restore the patient’s physical and mental health. Most alcoholics benefit from a program, such as Alcoholics Anonymous, that provides peer support and step-by-step guidance for abstaining from alcohol. Some patients take a prescription drug, such as disulfiram, which causes extremely unpleasant side effects if combined with alcohol, or naltrexone, which helps curb alcohol craving. People who are not alcoholics, but abuse alcohol, are also treated with behavioral therapy to help them examine the reasons they drink, face the consequences of their drinking, and find ways to avoid those situations.
Self-care tips
People who are diagnosed alcoholics or alcohol abusers face a life-long recovery process. While it is not uncommon to experience a relapse, it is important to seek the support you need to continue to be alcohol-free. Because teenagers are in the highest risk group for alcohol abuse, it is extremely important for parents to educate their children about the dangers of alcohol consumption and provide a model of healthy behavior in terms of alcohol use.
What is it?
Alcoholism is a disorder that is characterized by an excessive dependence upon and craving for alcoholic beverages. This dependence affects every aspect of the alcoholic’s life - socially, personally, and professionally – and can lead to physical and psychological harm to the alcoholic and often to those around him or her. Many people consider alcoholism and alcohol abuse to be the same. However, a person who abuses alcohol does not crave alcohol or become dependent on it. The alcohol abuser has a pattern of excessive drinking that results in poor judgment and recurring social, legal, or professional consequences of the abuse. Prolonged alcohol abuse often leads to alcoholism.
Who gets it?
Anyone who drinks alcohol can fall into the trap of alcoholism. However, people who have a family history of alcohol abuse disorders are more likely to also have this disorder. Men are more likely to become alcoholics than women. Adolescents are at higher risk for alcohol abuse because of the tendency to binge drink.
What causes it?
Many factors can contribute to alcoholism and alcohol abuse. These can include depression, a disruptive home life, peer pressure, and job problems. Those with a family history of alcoholism may have a genetically inherited lower sensitivity to alcohol, which means they can drink more without feeling the effects. It is difficult to separate the effects of environment and heredity as a cause of alcoholism.
What are the symptoms?
Alcoholics have an uncontrollable craving for alcohol. While they may recognize that their use of alcohol is self-destructive and hurts others, they are unable to resist the compulsion to drink and are unable to control the amount of alcohol they drink at one time. With time, alcoholics need to drink more and more to feel good because they develop a tolerance for alcohol. An alcoholic who suddenly stops drinking will develop withdrawal symptoms, similar to a drug addict. These might include weakness, tremors, sweating, and nausea. More serious withdrawal symptoms include seizures, hallucinations, and delirium tremens (DTs). The DTs is a severe onset of anxiousness, confusion, and delirium, accompanied by high fever, that can be fatal if untreated. Untreated alcoholism can damage just about every organ in the body. Complications of alcoholism can include liver damage (cirrhosis), brain damage, heart failure, persistent tremor, depression, malnutrition, stomach ulcers, high blood pressure, decreased sex drive, bleeding in the esophagus, and certain cancers, particularly of the throat, liver, pancreas, and esophagus. Many alcoholics have a thiamine deficiency, which can cause Korsakoff’s and Wernicke’s syndromes.
With Korsakoff’s, the patient cannot remember recent events. Wernicke’s is characterized by a loss of coordination and abnormal eye movements. Abusing alcohol can also result in nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, memory loss, slurred speech, and difficulty with coordination. Pregnant women who drink are more likely to have children with birth defects (fetal alcohol syndrome), and drunken drivers are more likely to cause accidents that may result in death. Alcoholics are also more likely to commit suicide, or physically harm another person. People who abuse alcohol, but are not alcoholics, drink to the point where their good judgment is impaired. These people usually have a pattern of letting drinking interfere with personal or professional responsibilities, binge drinking, or drinking and driving. These patterns are also true of alcoholics.
How is it diagnosed?
Doctors define moderate alcohol use as up to two drinks per day for men and one drink per day for women and the elderly. To diagnose alcoholism or alcohol abuse, your doctor will ask you about your drinking habits. How often do you drink? How many drinks do you have per day or week? How do you feel if you don’t drink? Do you drink in the morning to relieve a hangover? The doctor will want to know why and when you are more likely to drink, if you have felt guilty about your drinking, if you ever experience withdrawal symptoms as a result of not drinking alcohol, if you find yourself choosing to drink over other activities, and if your drinking has had an effect on your job performance and personal relationships, or has resulted in legal problems. The doctor will take your medical history and perform a physical examination. He or she may order blood tests.
What is the treatment?
Someone who is an alcoholic or abuses alcohol regularly must stop drinking all together. There is no cure for alcoholism that allows the patient to drink socially without relapses into old habits. Successful treatment requires behavioral therapy and a strong support system. Because of this, treatment programs must have family participation, if possible. During treatment, your doctor will monitor your progress. Treatment begins with detoxification, which is a medically supervised program to rid the body of the toxic effects of the alcohol. Detoxification results in mild to severe withdrawals symptoms. Patients suffering severe withdrawal symptoms may be treated in a hospital setting with sedative medications to help relieve symptoms and intravenous (IV) fluids to replace those lost through nausea and vomiting. These fluids often include essential nutrients, such as thiamine, that are typically low in alcoholics. Detoxification is followed by rehabilitation, which helps restore the patient’s physical and mental health. Most alcoholics benefit from a program, such as Alcoholics Anonymous, that provides peer support and step-by-step guidance for abstaining from alcohol. Some patients take a prescription drug, such as disulfiram, which causes extremely unpleasant side effects if combined with alcohol, or naltrexone, which helps curb alcohol craving. People who are not alcoholics, but abuse alcohol, are also treated with behavioral therapy to help them examine the reasons they drink, face the consequences of their drinking, and find ways to avoid those situations.
Self-care tips
People who are diagnosed alcoholics or alcohol abusers face a life-long recovery process. While it is not uncommon to experience a relapse, it is important to seek the support you need to continue to be alcohol-free. Because teenagers are in the highest risk group for alcohol abuse, it is extremely important for parents to educate their children about the dangers of alcohol consumption and provide a model of healthy behavior in terms of alcohol use.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
