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Importance Of Fat In Our Body
Importance of fat in our body Fats are an important part of your diet but some types are healthier than others. Choosing healthy fats from vegetable sources more often than less healthy types from animal products can help lower your risk for heart attack, stroke, and other major health problems. What Are Fats? Fats are a type of nutrient that you get from your diet. It is essential to eat some fats, though it is also harmful to eat too many. The fats you eat give your body the energy that it needs to work properly. During exercise, your body uses calories from the carbohydrates you have eaten. But after 20 minutes, exercise then depends on calories from fat to keep you going. You also need fat to keep your skin and hair healthy. Fat also helps you absorb vitamins A, D, E, and K, the so-called fat-soluble vitamins. Fat also fills your fat cells and insulates your body to help keep you warm. The fats your body gets from your food give your body essential fatty acids called linoleic and linolenic acid. They are called "essential" because your body cannot make them itself or work without them. Your body needs them for brain development, controlling inflammation, and blood clotting. Fat has 9 calories per gram, more than 2 times the number of calories in carbohydrates and protein, which each have 4 calories per gram. All fats are made up of saturated and unsaturated fatty acids. Fats are called saturated or unsaturated depending on how much of each type of fatty acid they contain. Types of fat Saturated fats raise your LDL (bad) cholesterol level. High LDL cholesterol puts you at risk for heart attack, stroke, and other major health problems. You should avoid or limit foods that are high in saturated fats. Keepsaturated fatsto less than 6% of your total daily calories. Foods with a lot of saturated fats are animal products, such as butter, cheese, whole milk, ice cream, cream, and fatty meats. Some vegetable oils, such as coconut, palm, and palm kernel oil, also contain saturated fats. These fats are solid at room temperature. A diet high in saturated fat increases cholesterol buildup in your arteries (blood vessels). Cholesterol is a soft, waxy substance that can cause clogged, or blocked, arteries. Eating unsaturated fats instead of saturated fats can help lower your LDL cholesterol. Most vegetable oils that are liquid at room temperature have unsaturated fats. There are two kinds of unsaturated fats: Mono-unsaturated fats, which include olive and canola oil Polyunsaturated fats, which include safflower, sunflower, corn, and soy oil Trans fatty acidsare unhealthy fats that form when vegetable oil hardens in a process called hydrogenation. Hydrogenated fats, or "trans fats," are often used to keep some foods fresh for a long time. Trans fats are also used for cooking in some restaurants. They can raise LDL cholesterol levels in your blood. They can also lower your HDL (good) cholesterol levels. Trans fats are under review for their health effects. Experts are working to limit the number of trans fats used in packaged foods and restaurants. You should avoid foods made with hydrogenated and partially hydrogenated oils (such as hard butter and margarine). They contain high levels of trans-fatty acids. It is important to read nutrition labels on foods. This will help you know what kinds of fats, and how much, your food contains. You can book a health specialist at Quickobook.com and clear your queries at your earliest convenience
Read MoreWhat Are The Specific Kinds Of Thyroid Disorders?
What are the specific kinds of thyroid disorders? There are specific kinds of thyroid disorders which include: Hyperthyroidism Hypothyroidism Goiter Thyroid nodules Thyroid cancer Hyperthyroidism Hyperthyroidismdescribes excessive production of thyroid hormone, a less common condition than hypothyroidism. Symptoms of hypothyroidism usually relate to increased metabolism. In mild cases, there may not be apparent symptoms. Symptoms and signs of hyperthyroidism can include: Tremor Nervousness Fastheartrate Fatigue Intolerance for heat Increase in bowel movements Increasedsweating Concentration problems Unintentionalweight loss Some of the most common causes of hyperthyroidism are: Graves' disease Toxicmultinodular goiter Thyroid nodules that overexpress thyroid hormone (known as "hot" nodules) Excessive iodine consumption Hypothyroidism Hypothyroidism results from the thyroid gland producing an insufficient amount of thyroid hormone. It can develop from problems within the thyroid gland, pituitary gland, or hypothalamus. Symptoms of hypothyroidismcan include: Fatigue Poor concentration or feeling mentally "foggy" Dry skin Constipation Feelingcold Fluid retention Muscle and joint aches Depression Prolonged or excessive menstrual bleeding in women Some common causes of hypothyroidism include: Hashimoto'sthyroiditis(an autoimmune condition that causes inflammation of the thyroid gland) Thyroid hormone resistance Other types of thyroiditis (inflammation of the thyroid), such as acute thyroiditis and postpartum thyroiditis Goiter Goitre simply describes an enlargement of the thyroid gland, regardless of cause. Goiter is not a specific disease per se. Goiter may be associated with hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, or normal thyroid function. Thyroid nodules Nodules are lumps or abnormal masses within the thyroid. Nodules can be caused by benigncysts, benign tumors, or, less commonly,cancersof the thyroid. Nodules may be single or multiple and can vary in size. If nodules are excessively large, they may cause symptoms related to compression of nearby structures. Thyroid cancer Thyroid canceris far more common among adult women than men or youth. About 2/3 of cases occur in people under age 55. There are different kinds of thyroidcancer, depending upon the specific cell type within the thyroid that has become cancerous. Most cases of thyroidcancerhave a good prognosis and high survival rates, especially when diagnosed in its early stages. How are thyroid disorders diagnosed? In addition to thorough medical history and physical exams, specialized tests are used to diagnose thyroid disorders. Blood tests are typically done to measure levels of thyroid hormones and TSH. Blood tests to identify antibodies against thyroid tissue may also be ordered by your doctors, such as titers of anti-thyroglobulin, anti-thyroperoxidase, orTSH receptorstimulating antibodies. Imaging tests are commonly used when thyroid nodules or enlargement are present.Ultrasoundcan visualize the consistency of the tissue within the gland and can often reveal cysts or calcifications. Ultrasound examination cannot distinguish a benign from amalignantprocess. Thyroid scans using radioactive iodine are often performed to evaluate the function of thyroid nodules. The thyroid is the only location in the body that takes up iodine, so when radioactively labeled iodine is given, it is taken up by the thyroid gland. An imaging test typically shows the uptake of radioactive iodine by normal thyroid tissue. Areas or nodules that are producing excess hormone (referred to as hyperfunctioning) will show increased uptake of iodine. These are referred to as "hot" nodules or areas. By contrast, the so-called "cold" nodules represent areas with decreased iodine uptake. "Cold" nodules do not produce excess hormone and can sometimes representcancer. Fine needle aspiration and biopsy are techniques that remove a sample of cells or tissue from the thyroid gland for examination and diagnosis by a pathologist, who is a physician trained in the diagnosis of conditions based on tissue samples. Fine needle aspiration (FNA) uses a long, thin needle to withdraw a sample of cells from the thyroid. FNA can be performed in the doctor's office. Sometimes, ultrasound imaging is used to guide the FNA procedure. A biopsy is the surgical sampling of tissue. You can book a thyroidologist at Quickobook.com and get yourself checked up before the condition becomes severe. What is the treatment for thyroid disorders? Thyroid disorders can be treated by medications or, in some cases, surgery. Treatment will depend on the particular disease of the thyroid. Thyroid medications Medications can be given to replace the missing thyroid hormone in hypothyroidism. Synthetic thyroid hormone is given in pill form by mouth. When hyperthyroidism is present, medications can be used to decrease the production of thyroid hormone or prevent its release from the gland. Other medications can be given to help manage thesymptoms of hyperthyroidism, such as increased heart rate. If hyperthyroidism is not controlled with medications, radioactive ablation can be performed. Ablation involves giving doses of iodine labeled with radioactivity that selectively destroys the thyroid tissue. Thyroid surgery Surgery can be used to remove a large goiter or a hyperfunctioning nodule within the gland. Surgery is necessary when there is a possibility of thyroid cancer. If the thyroid gland is removed entirely, the individual will need to take synthetic thyroid hormone for life. Thyroid surgery can also be used in Graves ‘disease (subtotalthyroidectomy) and was the treatment of choice prior to RAI therapy and anti-thyroid medications. It is not used much now.
Read MoreTypes Of Fracture
Types of Fracture There is a range offracture types, they are: An avulsion fractureis a muscle or ligament pulls on the bone, fracturing it. A comminuted fractureis when the bone is shattered into many pieces. Compression (crush) fracturegenerally occurs in the spongy bone in the spine. For example, the front portion of a vertebra in the spine may collapse due to osteoporosis. Fracture dislocationis when a joint becomes dislocated, and one of the bones of the joint has a fracture. Greenstick fracturehappens when the bone partly fractures on one side but does not break completely because the rest of the bone can bend. This is more common among children, whose bones are softer and more elastic. A hairline fractureis a partial fracture of the bone. Sometimes this type of fracture is harder to detect with routine x-rays. An impacted fractureis when the bone is fractured; one fragment of bone goes into another. An intraarticular fracturehappens where the break extends into the surface of a joint Longitudinal fractureis the break is along the length of the bone. An oblique fractureis a fracture that is diagonal to a bone’s long axis. Pathological fractureis when an underlying disease or condition has already weakened the bone, resulting in a fracture (bone fracture caused by an underlying disease/condition that weakened the bone). A spiral fractureis a fracture where at least one part of the bone has been twisted. A stress fractureis more common among athletes. A bone breaks because of repeated stresses and strains. Torus (buckle) fractureis when bone deforms but does not crack. More common in children. It is painful but stable. A transverse fractureis a straight break right across a bone. Say goodbye to confusions and book your nearest Orthopedist at Quickobook.com.
Read MoreWhat Are Cavities?
What are cavities? A cavity, also called tooth decay, is a hole that forms in your tooth. Cavities start small and gradually become bigger when they’re left untreated. Because many cavities don’t cause pain in the beginning, it can be hard to realize that a problem exists. Regular dental appointments can detect tooth decay early. Finding out that you have a cavity might come as a surprise. This is especially true if you think you have a good oral hygiene routine. However, even if your dentist delivers this news, there are ways to treat a cavity and prevent new ones from forming. Symptoms of tooth cavities The symptoms of a cavity depend on the severity of the decay. They include: tooth sensitivity tooth pain a visible hole in your teeth blackorwhite stainingon your teeth Causes of tooth cavities Tooth cavities are caused by plaque, a sticky substance that binds to teeth. Plaque is a combination of: bacteria saliva acid food particles Everyone has bacteria in their mouth. After eating or drinking foods with sugar, bacteria in your mouth turn sugar into acid. Plaque starts forming on your teeth soon after eating or drinking anything sugary. This is whyregular brushingis important. Plaque sticks to your teeth, and the acid in plaque can slowlyerode tooth enamel. Enamel is a hard, protective coating on your teeth that protects against tooth decay. As your tooth enamel weakens, the risk for decay increases. Everyone is at risk for cavities, but some people have a higher risk. Risk factors include: too many sugary or acidic foods and drinks a poor oral hygiene routine, such as failing to brush or floss daily not getting enough fluoride dry mouth eating disorders, such asanorexiaandbulimia acid reflux disease, which can result in stomach acid wearing down your tooth enamel Treatment options for tooth cavities Tell your doctor about uncomfortable symptoms like tooth sensitivity or pain. Your dentist can identify tooth decay after an oral exam. Treatment options depend on severity. There are several ways to treat a cavity. Tooth fillings A dentist uses a drill and removes decayed material from a tooth. Your dentist then fills your tooth with a substance, such as silver, gold, or composite resin. Crowns For more severe decay, your dentist may place a custom-fit cap over your tooth to replace its natural crown. Your dentist will remove decayed tooth material before starting this procedure. Root canal When tooth decay causes the death of your nerves, your dentist will perform a root canal to save your tooth. They remove the nerve tissue, blood vessel tissues, and any decayed areas of your tooth. Your dentist then checks for infections and applies medication to the roots as needed. Finally, they fill the tooth, and they might even place a crown on it. Early-stage treatment If your dentist detects a tooth cavity in its early stage, a fluoride treatment may restore your tooth enamel and prevent further decay. Dealing with pain Cavities and tooth decay can be the cause of a lot of pain and discomfort. You may want to find ways to soothe irritation while you wait for your dentist appointment. Keep up your oral hygiene routine. Continue to brush and clean all parts of your mouth, including any sensitive areas. Try over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers. Check with your doctor if you can use OTC anesthetics. Watch what you eat. Stay away from extremely hot or cold foods when eating or drinking. Are you looking for a Dentist? If yes, then book your appointment at Quickobook. It’s easy and trustworthy.
Read MoreWhy Do You Need Carbohydrates?
Why do you need carbohydrates? Carbohydrates are your body's main source of energy: They help fuel your brain, kidneys, heart muscles, and central nervous system. For instance, fiber is a carbohydrate that aids in digestion, helps you feel full, and keeps blood cholesterol levels in check. Your body can store extra carbohydrates in your muscles and liver for use when you're not getting enough carbohydrates in your diet. A carbohydrate-deficient diet may cause headaches, fatigue, weakness, difficulty concentrating, nausea, constipation, bad breath, and vitamin and mineral deficiencies. What are some healthy sources of carbohydrates? To reap the benefits of carbohydrates, you should choose carbohydrates loaded with nutrients. Christie Ferriell, a registered dietitian and nutrition manager at Reid Health, recommends you get at least half of your carbohydrates from whole grains. Ferriell notes that "whole grains provide fiber that helps you feel full and satisfied with smaller portions." Ferriell recommends you try makingquinoa pilaf with tofu and vegetablesa heart-healthy recipe containing fiber- and protein-rich quinoa from Reid'sI Heart Cookingprogram. Healthy carbohydrate-rich foods (containing 12 grams of carbohydrates or more per serving) include Whole grains: quinoa, amaranth, barley, brown rice, oatmeal, whole-grain pasta, and whole-grain breakfast cereals Fruits: berries, citrus fruits, melons, apples, pears, bananas, and kiwifruit Starchy vegetables: sweet potatoes, yams, corn. peas and carrots Legumes: lentils, black beans, pinto beans, navy beans, chickpeas, and soybeans Milk products: low-fat milk, plain yogurt, and soy yogurt Healthy foods lower in carbohydrates (less than 10 grams per serving) include Nonstarchy vegetables: leafy greens, spinach, cabbage, asparagus, tomatoes, broccoli, cauliflower, green beans, cucumbers, peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms Nuts and seeds: pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, almonds, cashews, walnuts, peanuts, and pistachios Soy milk and tofu How many grams of carbohydrates do you need? TheDietary Guidelines for Americans 2010suggest that most adults get 45 to 65 percent of their calories from carbohydrates. Since carbohydrates contain four calories per gram, you should consume 225 to 325 grams of carbohydrates on a daily basis if you're following a 2000-calorie diet. According to theUnited States Department of Agriculture,you should consume at the very least the recommended dietary allowance (RDA) of carbohydrates which is 130 grams for adults 175 grams for women who are pregnant, and 210 grams for women who are breastfeeding. According to the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, women should consume 25 grams of fiber daily, while men should consume 38 grams of fiber daily. What if I have diabetes? If you havediabetes, you should see a doctor or dietitian who can help you plan meals to control your blood sugar. Though your daily carbohydrate requirements are the same as those for someone without diabetes, it's important to avoid eating too many carbohydrates in one sitting. TheAmerican Diabetes Associationsuggests you should limit your intake to about 45 to 60 grams of carbohydrates at each meal. Looking forward to get yourself checked up? Login to Quickobook.com and book your doctor's appoinment now!
Read MoreHow To Relieve Itchy Skin?
How to relieve itchy skin? Rashescan be maddeningly itchy, no matter what the cause. We all know not to scratch. That only makes it worse and may cause infection. Doctors are likely to prescribe creams, lotions, or antihistamines for relief. They may also suggest cold compresses or other home remedies. Here are some relief measures to try, along with information about why they might work. 1. Cold compress One of the fastest and easiest ways to stop the pain and itch of a rash is to apply cold. Whether you choose a cold compress, cool showers, or damp cloth, cold water can bring immediate relief and can help stop swelling, ease itching, and slow the progression of a rash. Consider making or purchasing fabric bags stuffed with ice. They freeze well, and they can be heated for other uses. 2. Oatmeal bath The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the use of oatmeal in suspension (colloidal oatmeal) as a skin protectant in 2003. Today there are many over-the-counter skin products containing oatmeal. Colloidal oatmealdissolved in a bath can relieve itchiness. Commercial brands of oatmeal baths, like Aveeno, come in ready-to-use packets, measured for a single bath. Or you can very finely grind regular oatmeal in a food processor or blender and add 1 cup to bathwater. 3. Aloe Vera (fresh) Thealoe veraplant has been used forcenturies Trustedas an aid to health and skincare. You may be familiar with its use to promote the healing of small cuts in the kitchen. In addition to wound healing, aloe has been used as an anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antiviral, and antioxidant. Although it’s widely used, much of the evidence for its effectiveness is anecdotal, and more studies are needed. 4. Coconut oil Coconut oil, extracted from the meat and milk of coconuts, has been used for centuries in tropical countries as a cooking oil and skin moisturizer. It’s high in saturated fats and has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. People allergic to coconut should test it first on one spot on the inner arm. If no reaction occurs within 24 hours, it should be safe to use. Discontinue use if irritation develops. 5. Tea tree oil The tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) is native to Australia where it was originally used by the aboriginal people as an antiseptic and anti-inflammatory. It’s an essential oil that is steam-distilled from the plant. Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) is an old household remedy for itchy skin — rashes, poison ivy, or bug bites. 7. Indigo Naturalis Indigo Naturalis is a dark-blue powder made from a dried Chinese herb. Indigo Naturalis may be effective as a topical treatment for mild to moderate psoriasis and conditions caused by inflammation. 8. Apple cider vinegar Apple cider vinegar is a centuries-old remedy for skin and other ailments known for having antimicrobial properties Trusted Sourceas well. There’s plenty of anecdotal evidence for its use, but only a limited number of scientific studies. 9. Epsom salts (or Dead Sea salts) Epsom salts (magnesium sulfate) has traditionally been used in a warm bath to soothe muscle aches and pains. Butsoaking in Epsom saltsor magnesium- and mineral-rich Dead Sea salts may also help relieve itching and scaling. 10. Plant oils Many different plant oils can be used effectively to moisturize itchy skin. These include olive oil, safflower seed oil, argan oil, jojoba, and chamomile. These oils have different compounds and different effects on the skin. Still got queries, login to Quickobook.com and book an appointment forthe best Dermatologists in the valley.
Read MoreWhen Should I See A Doctor For A Cold Or Flu?
When Should I See a Doctor for a Cold or Flu? You already know that a scratchy throat, annoyingcough, and lots ofsneezingare part of the game. You can also probably count on a stuffy nose and some aches and pains. But when is it time to put down the chickensoupand get some advice from a pro? Take stock of your symptoms and see if they fit into one of these patterns: You havetrouble breathingorchest pain. Your cold orflushouldn't make you short of breath or cause your chest to hurt. If that's happening to you, it could be a sign of a more serious problem, such asheart disease,asthma, orpneumonia. Call your doctor or go to the emergency room. Your fever doesn't get better. If it won't go away it might mean you've got another infection in your body that needs treatment. Generally, a fever for an adult is a temperature over 100.4 degrees F. You can't keep anything down. Your body needs fluids to work right. If you can't drink anything withoutvomiting, you may need to go to your doctor's office or the hospital to get fluids through an IV. It hurts to swallow. That's not normal. Although asore throatcan make it hurt a little to swallow, severe pain can be a sign of an infection or injury that needs to be treated by a doctor. You can't get rid of yourcough. If it doesn't go away, it's likely due topostnasal drip-- mucus that moves from your nose into your throat. It can be treated withantihistamines. But it could also be related toasthmaorGERD(gastroesophageal reflux disease). Your doctor can tell you what to do about it. A lasting, severecoughis also the main symptom ofwhooping cough, a disease that's become more common in many parts of the U.S. So if you've been hacking away for more than 2-3 weeks, your doctor may give you a test to see if you've got it. Your congestion andheadachewon't go away. Coldsandallergiesthat block your nose with mucus can lead to asinus infection. If your cold medicine doesn't give you relief, see your doctor for more treatment. If you are facing any of these issues, then immediately consult a doctor. Book your appointments at Quickobook and get the best doctors in the valley.
Read MoreBenefits And Sources Of Calcium
Benefits and sources of calcium Calcium is a nutrient that all living organisms need, including humans. It is the most abundant mineral in the body, and it is vital for bone health. Humans need calcium to build and maintain strong bones, and99%of the body’s calcium is in the bones and teeth. It is also necessary for maintaining healthy communication between the brain and other parts of the body. It plays a role in muscle movement and cardiovascular function. Calcium occurs naturally in many foods, and food manufacturers add it to certain products. Supplements are also available. Alongside calcium, people also needvitamin D, as thisvitaminhelps the body absorb calcium. Vitamin D comes fromfish oil, fortified dairy products, and exposure to sunlight. This article looks at why the body needs calcium, which foods are rich in calcium, what happens if the body does not have enough, and the pros and cons of taking supplements. Why we need calcium Calcium plays various roles in the body. These include the following: Bone health Around 99% of the calcium in the human body is in the bones and teeth. Calcium is essential for the development, growth, and maintenance of bone. As children grow, calcium contributes to the development of their bones. After a person stops growing, calcium continues to help maintain the bones and slow down bone density loss, which is a natural part of the aging process. Females who have already experiencedmenopausecan lose bone density at a higher rate than males or younger people. They have a higher risk of developingosteoporosis, and a doctor may recommend calcium supplements. For queries login to Quickobook.com and book a specialist now!
Read MoreThe Importance Of Vitamins To Your Body
The Importance of Vitamins to Your Body What are the health benefits of vitamin D? The human body produces vitamin D as a response to sun exposure. A person can also boost their vitamin D intake through certain foods or supplements. VitaminD is essential for several reasons, including maintaining healthy bones and teeth. It may also protect against a range of diseases and conditions. Despite its name, vitamin D is not a vitamin, but a prohormone, or precursor of a hormone. Vitamins are nutrients that the body cannot create, and so a person must consume them in the diet. However, the body can produce vitamin D. In this article, we look at the benefits of vitamin D, what happens to the body when people do not get enough, and how to boost vitamin D intake. Benefits Vitamin D has multiple roles in the body. It assists in: promoting healthy bones and teeth supporting immune, brain, and nervous system health regulatinginsulinlevels and supportingdiabetesmanagement supporting lung function and cardiovascular health influencing the expression of genes involved incancerdevelopment
Read MoreSymptoms Of Astigmatism
Symptoms of astigmatism The symptoms of astigmatism may differ from person to person. Some people don’t have any symptoms at all. The symptoms of astigmatism include: blurry, distorted, fuzzy vision at all distances difficulty seeing at night eyestrain squinting eye irritation headaches Consult a doctor if you have symptoms of astigmatism. Book your appointment at Quickobook. Some symptoms may also be due to other health or vision problems.
Read MoreWhat Is Astigmatism?
What is astigmatism? Astigmatism is a common vision problem caused by an error in the shape of thecornea. With astigmatism, the lens of the eye or the cornea, which is the front surface of the eye, has an irregular curve. This can change the way light passes, or refracts, to yourretina. This causes blurry, fuzzy, or distorted vision.Farsightednessandnearsightednessare two other types of problems with the way light pass to your retina. Farsightedness is called hyperopia. Nearsightedness is called myopia. What are the types of astigmatism? The two main types of astigmatism are: Corneal Lenticular. Corneal astigmatism happens when your cornea is misshapen. Lenticular astigmatism happens when your lens is misshapen. What causes astigmatism? It’s not known what causes astigmatism, but genetics is a big factor. It’s often present at birth, but it may develop later in life. It may also occur as a result of an injury to the eye or after eye surgery. Astigmatism often occurs with nearsightedness or farsightedness.
Read MoreColour Blindness
What is colour blindness? An inherited condition where the ability to distinguish between certain colors get reduced. Mostly men are more affected than women. Other causes include certain eye diseases and medication. This usually involves the inability to distinguish between shades of red and green and there is no treatment for such inherited color blindness. Colour-blindness treatment Although there is no cure for colour-blindness but some coping strategies may help you function better in a colour-oriented world. Most people are able to adapt to colour vision deficiencies without too much trouble. But some professions, such as graphic design and occupations that require handling various colours of electrical wiring, depend on accurate colour perception. If you become aware early in life that you are colour-blind, you may want to choose a career that does not require accurate colour perception. Diagnosing colour vision deficiency early also may prevent learning problems during school years, particularly because many learning materials rely heavily on colour perception. If your child is suffering from colour deficiency, be sure to speak this matter with his or her teachers about it, so they can plan their lessons and presentations accordingly.
Read MoreTension Headaches
If you are suffering from chronic or recurrent headaches, you should consult your doctor and they may conduct physical and neurological exams to pinpoint the type and cause of your headaches using these approaches. For this you need to undergo certain diagnosis and in this your doctor will help you to understand about the headache and a description of your pain. Pain characteristics.Does your pain pulsate? Or is it constant and dull? Sharp or stabbing? Pain intensity.A good indicator of the severity of your headache is how much you're able to function while you have it. Are you able to work? Do your headaches wake you or prevent you from sleeping? Pain location.Do you feel pain all over your head, on only one side of your head, or just on your forehead or behind your eyes? Imaging tests If you are suffering from some serious, unusual and complicated headaches, then your doctor may order some tests to rule out serious causes of pain such as tumor and other issues. Two common tests used to image your brain include: Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).An MRI scan combines a magnetic field, radio waves and computer technology to produce clear images. Computerized tomography (CT).A CT scan is a diagnostic imaging procedure that uses a series of computer-directed X-rays to provide a comprehensive view of your brain. Treatment Generally human beings suffering from headaches don’t take it seriously and don’t seek any medical attention and try some natural or home remedies to get rid of it. Intake of over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers can result hazardous for health in the later age Acute medications Both OTC and prescribed medicines are available to reduce the pain of a headache which is included in the variety of medications. Pain relievers. the first line of treatment for reducing headache pain are simple OTC pain relievers are usually. These include the drugs aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others) and naproxen (Aleve). Prescription medications include naproxen (Naprosyn), indomethacin (Indocin) and ketorolac (Ketorolac Tromethamine). Combination medications.Aspirin or acetaminophen or both are often combined with caffeine or a sedative drug in a single medication. Combination drugs may be more effective than are single-ingredient pain relievers. Many combination drugs are available OTC. Triptans and narcotics.For people who experience both migraines and episodic tension headaches, a triptan can effectively relieve the pain of both headaches. Opiates, or narcotics, are rarely used because of their side effects and potential for dependency. Preventive medications if you have frequent or chronic headaches that aren't relieved by pain medication and other therapies then your doctor may prescribe medications to reduce the frequency and severity of attacks, especially if you have frequent or chronic headaches that aren't relieved by pain medication and other therapies. Following are included: Tricyclic antidepressants.Tricyclic antidepressants, including amitriptyline and protriptyline, are the most commonly used medications to prevent tension headaches. Side effects of these medications may include constipation, drowsiness and dry mouth. Other antidepressants.There also is some evidence to support the use of the antidepressants venlafaxine (Effexor XR) and mirtazapine (Remeron). Anticonvulsants and muscle relaxants.Other medications that may prevent tension headaches include anticonvulsants, such as topiramate (Topamax). More study is needed. Don't get frustrated if you haven't seen improvements shortly after you begin taking the drug because preventive medications may require several weeks or more to build up in your system before they take effect Monitoring of your treatment will be done by your doctor to see how the preventive medication is working. Do not have overuse of pain relievers for your headaches cause this can lead to other health related problems in the long run. Instead book a specialist at Quickobook.com now, and get your confusions cleared out!
Read MoreThinning Hair: Can Medications Help?
Thinning Hair: Can Medications Help? There can be many reasons which cause women to lose morehairthan normal: genetics, illness, stress, medical conditions or hormonal imbalance, aging, and even what you eat. The very first step is to consult with a doctor to find out what's causing the problem and get a solution for it. There are treatments that help restore your locks. Minoxidil: No Prescription Needed Pros:Minoxidil(Rogaine,Ronoxidil) can stop hair fall and get thinner. It also helps some women regrowhairon the top of their heads. Very good studies show that it’s effective and gets the hair root or follicle to become larger. Minoxidil OTC comes in 5% and 2% solutions and is considered safe for most women of the different age range. The 2% solution is the onlyhair losstreatment for women approved by the FDA. It should be applied on the scalp as prescribed. Prescription Possibilities Two drugs aren't approved to treat women's hair loss, but doctors sometimes use them in women with hair loss.Finasteride(Propecia,Proscar) is an oralmedicationapproved for hair loss in men, but not for women. That, says Mirmirani, is because it affects the hormone testosterone. If a woman takes it and getspregnant, it can cause birth defects in male children. The risk is so high that a pregnant woman is not even supposed to touch the drug. But some doctors prescribe it to women when minoxidil doesn’t work or when they have reached their menopause age. Spironolactone(Aldactone) is used to treathigh blood pressure, and some women take it to stop hair loss. It can cause high levels ofpotassiumto build up in the body, so it's not the first thing a doctor would use for hair loss. Like Propecia, spironolactone can cause birth defects in male children. Pregnant women or women at childbearing age shouldn't take it or must usebirth controlwhen using this medication. A potentantiandrogen, Flutamide,has been used with some success. Concerns over liver failure have limited its use. Not having a proper diet can be one of the major reason for hair loss. Although your mom might tell you otherwise; taking a daily multivitamin improves hair growth but there is no such proof. Maintain your hair is equally important as the body. Drinking lots of water and having a balanced diet can help in hair growth. One should oil and shampoo twice a week and must take care whether the shampoo used is a paraben-free and sulfate-free one.
Read MoreHigh Blood Pressure (hypertension) Medications
HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE (HYPERTENSION) MEDICATIONS There are several classes ofblood pressuremedications in which each class lowersbloodpressureindifferent ways. DIURETICS Reduction of sodium and fluid takes place due to diuretics in the body which increases urination. This helps in lowering blood pressure as it lowers the blood volume. Diuretics are mostly used in combination with other high blood pressure medication and can cure mild hypertension issues. Examples of diuretics include: Bumetanide(Bumex) Chlorthalidone(Hygroton) Chlorothiazide (Diuril) Ethacrynate (Edecrin) Furosemide(Lasix) Hydrochlorothiazide HCTZ (Esidrix, Hydrodiuril,Microzide) Indapamide (Lozol) Methyclothiazide(Enduron) Metolazone(Mykroz,Zaroxolyn) Torsemide(Demadex) There are also some combinations of diuretics, which include a potassium-sparing agent and a traditionaldiuretic. These includeamiloride hydrochlorideand hydrochlorothiazide HCTZ (Moduretic), spironolactone and HCTZ (Aldactazide), and triamterene, and HCTZ (Dyazide, Maxzide). BETA BLOCKERS Intakes of beta-blockers directly help in lowering blood pressure and also reduces heart rate and force of pumping as well as reduce blood volume. Beta-blockers include: Acebutolol (Sectral) Atenolol(Tenormin) Bisoprololfumarate (Zebeta) Carvedilol(Coreg) -- Combined alpha/beta-blocker Esmilol (Brevibloc) Labetalol (Trandate, Normodyne) -- Combined alpha/beta-blocker Metoprolol tartrate (Lopressor) and metoprolol succinate (Toprol-XL) Nadolol(Corgard) Nebivolol (Bystolic) Penbutolol sulfate (Levatol) Propranolol(Inderal) Sotalol(Betapace) HCTZ and bisoprolol (Ziac) is a beta blocker plus diuretic ACE INHIBITORS Reduction of angiotensin which is a hormone that causes narrowing of blood vessels in the body is being carried out with angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE). ACE inhibitors decrease the production of the hormone angiotensin and result in lowering blood pressure. Examples of ACE inhibitors include: Benazeprilhydrochloride (Lotensin) Captopril(Capoten) EnalaprilMaleate (Vasotec) Fosinopril sodium (Monopril) Lisinopril(Prinivil,Zestril) Moexipril (Univasc) Perindopril (Aceon) Quinaprilhydrochloride (Accupril) Ramipril(Altace) Trandolapril (Mavik) ANGIOTENSIN II RECEPTOR BLOCKERS Prevention of angiotensin from binding with the receptors on the blood vessels is been carried out by Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers. Angiotensin II receptor blockers include: Azilsartan (Edarbi) Candesartan (Atacand) Eprosartan mesylate (Teveten) Irbesarten (Avapro) Losartin Potassium (Cozaar) Olmesartan (Benicar) Telmisartan (Micardis) Valsartan(Diovan) CALCIUM CHANNEL BLOCKERS The increase in the strength and force of contractions in the heart and blood vessels is due to calcium. In order to reduce this effect blocking the entry is needed to smooth muscle tissues. Examples of calcium channel blockers include: Amlodipinebesylate (Norvasc,Lotrel) Clevidipine (Cleviprex) Diltiazem hydrochloride (Cardizem CD,CardizemSR,Dilacor XR,Tiazac) Felodipine(Plendil) Isradipine (DynaCirc,DynaCirc CR) Nicardipine (CardeneSR) Nifedipine(AdalatCC,Procardia XL) Nimodipine (Nimotop,Nymalize) Nisoldipine (Sular) Verapamil hydrochloride(Calan SR,IsoptinSR,Verelan, CoveraHS) ALPHA BLOCKERS Dilation of blood vessels is caused by the Alpha blockers and these medicines are used to treat prostate enlargement in men. Alpha blockers includedoxazosinmesylate (Cardura),prazosinhydrochloride (Minipress), andterazosinhydrochloride (Hytrin). ALPHA-2 RECEPTOR AGONIST One of the oldest blood pressure medications, introduced some 50 years ago is Methyldopa; formerly known under the brand name Aldomet is considered the first-line of treatment. It works in the central nervous system to lower blood pressure. CENTRAL AGONISTS There are some hypertension medications that work in the central nervous system instead of the cardiovascular system. A central agonist is one of those medications thus has a tendency to cause drowsiness. Drugs in this class includeclonidinehydrochloride (Catapres) andguanfacine hydrochloride(Tenex). VASODILATORS Relaxation of artery wall muscles is done by Vasodilators and that causes blood pressure to drop. Generally, these drugs are used only in severe hypertension not used alone. Hydralazine (Apresoline) and minoxidil (Loniten) are vasodilators. Still confused, login to Quickobook.com and book a specialist now!
Read MoreNeed For Water In Our Body
Need for water in our body Being attentive to the amount of water you drink each day is important for optimal health. Most people drink when they’re thirsty, which helps regulate daily water intake. People get about20 percentof their daily water intake from food. The rest is dependent on drinking water and water-based beverages. So, ideally, men would consume about 100 ounces (3.0 liters) of water from beverages, and women, about 73 ounces (2.12 liters) from beverages. You’ll have to increase your water intake if you’re exercising or living in a hotter region to avoid dehydration. Other ways to assess hydration include your thirst and the color of your urine. Feeling thirsty indicates your body is not receiving adequate hydration. Urine that is dark or colored indicates dehydration. Pale or non-colored urine typically indicates proper hydration. 1. It helps create saliva Water is a main component of saliva. Saliva also includes small amounts of electrolytes, mucus, and enzymes. It’s essential for breaking down solid food and keeping your mouth healthy. Your body generally produces enough saliva with regular fluid intake. However, your saliva production may decrease as a result of age or certain medications or therapies. If your mouth is drier than usual and increasing your water intake isn’t helping, see your doctor. 2. It regulates your body temperature Staying hydrated is crucial to maintaining yourbody temperature. Your body loses water through sweat during physical activity and in hot environments. Your sweat keeps your body cool, but your body temperature will rise if you don’t replenish the water you lose. That’s because your body loses electrolytes and plasma when it’s dehydrated. If you’re sweating more than usual, make sure youdrink plenty of waterto avoid dehydration. 3. It protects your tissues, spinal cord, and joints Water consumption helps lubricate and cushion your joints, spinal cord, and tissues. This will help you enjoy physical activity and lessen the discomfort caused by conditions likearthritis. 4. It helps excrete waste through perspiration, urination, and defecation Your body uses water to sweat, urinate, and have bowel movements. Sweat regulates body temperature when you’re exercising or in warm temperatures. You need water to replenish the lost fluid from sweat. You also need enough water in your system to have a healthy stool and avoid constipation. Your kidneys are also important for filtering out waste through urination. Adequate water intake helps your kidneys work more efficiently and helps to prevent kidney stones. 5. It helps maximize physical performance Drinking plenty of water during physical activity is essential. Athletes may perspire up to6 to 10 percent Trusted Sourceof body weight during physical activity. Hydration also affects your strength, power, and endurance. You may be more susceptible to the effects of dehydration if you’re participating in endurance training or high-intensity sports such as basketball. Negative effects of exercise in the heat without enough water can include serious medical conditions, like decreased blood pressure andhyperthermia. Extreme dehydration can cause seizures and even death. 6. It helps prevent constipation Eating fiberisn’t the only way to preventconstipation. It’s also important to maintain your water intake so your bowel movements contain enough water. If you don’t consume enough water, magnesium, and fiber, you may be more likely to experience constipation. If you’re already constipated, you may find that drinkingcarbonated water from Trusted Source, as well as plain water,can help ease your symptoms. 7. It aids in digestion Contrary to what some believe,experts confirmdrinking water before, during, and after a meal will help your body break down the food you eat more easily. This will help you digest food more effectively and get the most out of your meals. Research showsTrusted Sourcethe body adapts to changes in the consistency of food and stomach contents, whether more solid or more liquid. 8. It helps with nutrient absorption In addition to helping with food breakdown, water also helps dissolve vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients from your food. It then delivers these vitamin components to the rest of your body for use. 9. It helps you lose weight Studies have linked body fat and weight loss with drinking water in both overweightgirls Trusted Sourceandwomen. Drinking more water while dieting and exercising may just help you lose extra pounds. 10. It improves blood oxygen circulation Water carries helpful nutrients and oxygen to your entire body. Reaching your daily water intake will improve your circulation and have a positive impact on your overall health. 11. It helps fight off illness Drinking enough water can help preventcertain medical conditions Trusted Source. These include: constipation kidney stones exercise-induced asthma urinary tract infection hypertension Water also helps you absorb important vitamins, minerals, and nutrients from your food, which will increase your chances of staying healthy. 12. It helps boost energy Drinking water may activate your metabolism. A boost in metabolism has been associated with a positive impact on energy levels. 13. It aids in cognitive function Proper hydration is key to staying in tip-top cognitive shape.Research Trustedindicates that not drinking enough water can negatively impact your focus, alertness, and short-term memory. 14. It helps improve mood Not getting enough water can also affect your mood. Dehydration may result in fatigue and confusion as well as anxiety. 15. It helps keep skin bright Adequate water intake will help keep your skin hydrated and may promote collagen production. However, water intake alone isn’t enough to reduce the effects of aging. This process is also connected to your genes and overall sun protection. 16. It prevents overall dehydration Dehydration is the result of your body not having enough water. And because water is imperative to so many bodily functions, dehydration can be very dangerous. Severe dehydration can result in a number of severe complications, including: swelling in your brain kidney failure seizures Make sure you drink enough water to make up for what’s lost through sweat, urination, and bowel movements to avoid dehydration.
Read MoreWays To Get Rid Of Pimples
These days acne has become a common issue among the youths. Food habits, pollution, and chemical treatments are responsible for acne problems. Acne is a common skin disease that affects an estimated 85% of people at some point in their lives. Symptoms include pesky pimples that can be frustrating and difficult to get rid of. While conventional treatments can get rid of pimples, they’re often associated with adverse effects, such as skin irritation and dryness. As such, a lot of people have turned to natural alternatives to get rid of pimples fast. However, while there are a lot of natural acne remedies out there, only a handful is scientifically proven to help. Here are 4 natural ways to get rid of pimples fast, although they may have limited research supporting their effectiveness for this purpose. 1. Spot treat with tea tree oil Tea tree oil is extracted from the leaves of the treeMelaleuca alternifolia, which is native to Australia and works wonders in the treatment. It’s well known for its ability to fight bacteria and reduce skin inflammation. Specifically,tea tree oilhelps fightP. acnesandS. epidermidis, two types of bacteria that can cause pimples. The tea tree oil treatment also resulted in fewer adverse effects, including dryness, irritation, and burning. It’s important to note that tea tree oil is very potent and can cause redness and irritation when applied directly to the skin. For this reason, it should be diluted with acarrier oil. Carrier oil, also known as base oil or vegetable oil, is used to dilute essential oils and absolutes before they are applied to the skin in massage and aromatherapy. 2. Spot treat with other essential oils In addition to tea tree oil, many other essential oils with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties can help clear up pimples quickly. A large scientific review found that essential oils of cinnamon, rose, lavender, and clove fight the acne-causing bacteriaS. epidermidisandP. acnes. Rosemary and lemongrass were also shown to inhibitP. acnes. Like tea tree oil, theseessential oilsare very concentrated and can cause irritation if applied directly to the skin. Be sure to dilute all essential oils with carrier oil, perform a test patch before regular use, and discontinue use should irritation develop. 3. Apply green tea to the skin A lot of people drink green tea forits health benefits, but it can also be helpful when applied directly to the skin. Green tea contains flavonoids and tannins, which are known to help fight inflammation and the bacteria that may cause pimples. It’s also high in the antioxidant epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), which has been shown to fight inflammation, reduce sebum production, and inhibit the growth ofP. acnesin people with acne-prone skin There are a handful of skincare products on the market that contain green tea, but it’s very simple and cost-effective to make your own mixture at home. 4. Moisturize with aloe vera Aloe verais a tropical plant with leaves that produce a clear gel. When applied to the skin, aloe vera gel has been shown to help fight bacteria, reduce inflammation, and promote wound healing. Because of this, it’s a popular treatment for a variety of skin conditions, includingpsoriasis, rashes, cuts, and burns. There are limited studies on the ability of aloe vera to fight pimples specifically, but existing research is promising. Aloe vera contains lupeol, salicylic acid, urea nitrogen, cinnamonic acid, phenols, and sulfur, all of which inhibit bacteria that might cause pimples. In one study, varying concentrations of aloe vera gel were added to clove-basil oil and evaluated for anti-acne properties. The higher the concentration of aloe vera in the lotion, the more effective it was at reducing pimples. Another study found that using 50% aloe vera gel with tretinoin cream was significantly more effective at clearing up pimples than tretinoin cream alone.Tretinoincream is an acne medication derived from vitamin A. Although aloe vera gel on its own was not effective at treating pimples, it enhanced the anti-acne effects of clove-basil oil and tretinoin cream. While aloe vera gel may help clear up pimples on its own, it may be more effective when combined with other remedies or medications. Worried about the fact from where to get these? Don’t worry! You can now easily get quality products from Quickobook. Book your appointment
Read MoreWhat Is A Down Syndrome?
Down syndrome What is Down syndrome? Down syndrome (sometimes called Down’s syndrome) is a condition where a child is born with an extra copy of their 21st chromosome. Hence it’s another name, trisomy 21. This causes physical and mental developmental delays and disabilities. Many of the disabilities are lifelong, and they can also shorten life expectancy. However, people with Down syndrome can live healthy and fulfilling lives. Recent medical advances, as well as cultural and institutional support for people with Down syndrome and their families, provides many opportunities to help overcome the challenges of this condition. What causes Down syndrome? In all cases of reproduction, both parents pass their genes on to their children. These genes are carried in chromosomes. When the baby’s cells develop, each cell is supposed to receive 23 pairs of chromosomes, for 46 chromosomes total. Half of the chromosomes are from the mother, and half are from the father. In children with Down syndrome, one of the chromosomes doesn’t separate properly. The baby ends up with three copies, or an extra partial copy, of chromosome 21, instead of two. This extra chromosome causes problems like the brain and physical features develop. According to theNational Down Syndrome Society (NDSS), about 1 in 700 babies in the United States is born with Down syndrome. It’s the most common genetic disorder in the United States. Types of Down syndrome Following are the types of Down syndrome: Trisomy 21 Trisomy 21 means there’s an extra copy of chromosome 21 in every cell. This is the most common form of Down syndrome. Mosaicism Mosaicismoccurs when a child is born with an extra chromosome in some but not all of their cells. People with mosaic Down syndrome tend to have fewer symptoms than those with trisomy 21. Translocation In this type of Down syndrome, children have only an extra part of chromosome 21. There are 46 total chromosomes. However, one of them has an extra piece of chromosome 21 attached.
Read MoreCardiac Disorders
Theheartis a muscular organ about the size of a fist, located just behind and slightly left of the breastbone. Theheartpumps blood through the network of arteries and veins called the cardiovascular system. Heart disease Heart and blood vessel disease (also calledheart disease) includes numerous problems, many of which are related to a process calledatherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis is a condition that develops when a substance called plaque builds up in the walls of the arteries. This buildup narrows the arteries, making it harder for blood to flow through. If a blood clot forms, it can block the blood flow. This can cause a heart attack or stroke. Heart attack Aheart attackoccurs when the blood flow to a part of the heart is blocked by a blood clot. If this clot cuts off the blood flow completely, the part of the heart muscle supplied by that artery begins to die. Most people survive their first heart attack and return to their normal lives, enjoying many more years of productive activity. But experiencing a heart attack does mean that you need to make some changes. Themedicationsandlifestyle changesthat your doctor recommends may vary according to how badly your heart was damaged, and to what degree of heart disease caused the heart attack. Stroke Anischemic stroke(the most common type of stroke) occurs when a blood vessel that feeds the brain gets blocked, usually from a blood clot. When the blood supply to a part of the brain is cut off, some brain cells will begin to die. This can result in the loss of functions controlled by that part of the brain, such as walking or talking. Ahemorrhagic strokeoccurs when a blood vessel within the brain bursts. This is most often caused by uncontrolledhypertension(high blood pressure). Some effects of stroke are permanent if too many brain cells die after being starved of oxygen. These cells are never replaced. The good news is that sometimes brain cells don’t die during the stroke — instead, the damage is temporary. Over time, as injured cells repair themselves, previously impaired function improves. (In other cases, undamaged brain cells nearby may take over for the areas of the brain that were injured.) Either way, strength may return, speech may get better and memory may improve. This recovery process is what stroke rehabilitation is all about. Heart failure Heart failure, sometimes called congestive heart failure, means the heart isn’t pumping blood as well as it should. Heart failure does not mean that the heart stops beating — that’s a common misperception. Instead, the heart keeps working, but the body’s need for blood and oxygen isn’t being met. Heart failure can get worse if left untreated. If your loved one has heart failure, it’s very important to follow the doctor’s orders. Arrhythmia Arrhythmiarefers to an abnormal heart rhythm. There are various types of arrhythmias. The heart can beat too slowly, too fast, or irregularly. Bradycardia, or a heart rate that’s too slow, is when the heart rate is less than 60 beats per minute.Tachycardia, or a heart rate that’s too fast, refers to a heart rate of more than 100 beats per minute. An arrhythmia can affect how well your heart works. With an irregular heartbeat, your heart may not be able to pump enough blood to meet your body’s needs. Heart valve problems When heart valves don’t open enough to allow the blood to flow through as it should, a condition called stenosis results. When the heart valves don’t close properly and thus allow blood to leak through, it’s called regurgitation. If the valve leaflets bulge or prolapse back into the upper chamber, it’s a condition called prolapse. Discover more about theroles your heart valves play in healthy circulation. If you are facing any of these problems then do not delay much. Book your appointment on Quickobook and consult the best cardiologists. .
Read MoreHeadache: A Common Issue
Headaches can be more complicated than most people realize. Different kinds can have their own set of symptoms, happen for unique reasons, and need different treatments. Common Types of Headaches Following are the types of headaches: TensionHeadaches Tension headachesare the most common type of headache among adults and teens. They cause mild to moderate pain and come and go over time. They usually have no other symptoms. MigraineHeadaches Migraine headaches are often described as pounding, throbbing pain. They can last from 4 hours to 3 days and usually happen one to four times a month. Along with the pain, people have other symptoms, such as sensitivity to light, noise, or smells; nausea or vomiting; loss of appetite; and upset stomach or belly pain. When a child has a migraine, they may look pale, feel dizzy, and have blurry vision, fever, and an upset stomach. A small number of children's migraines include digestive symptoms, like vomiting, that happen about once a month. Cluster Headaches These headaches are the most severe. You could have intense burning or piercing pain behind or around one eye. It can be throbbing or constant. The pain can be so bad that most people with cluster headaches can’t sit still and will often pace during an attack. On the side of the pain, the eyelid droops, the eye reddens, the pupil gets smaller, or the eye makes tears. The nostril on that side runs or stuffs up. They’re called cluster headaches because they tend to happen in groups. You might get them one to three times per day during a cluster period, which may last 2 weeks to 3 months. Each headache attack lasts 15 minutes to 3 hours. They can wake you up from sleep. The headaches may disappear completely (your doctor will call this remission) for months or years, only to come back later. Men are three to four times more likely to get them than women. Chronic Daily Headaches You have this type of headache 15 days or more a month for longer than 3 months. Some are short. Others last more than 4 hours. It’s usually one of the four types of primary headache: Chronic migraine Chronic tension headache New daily persistent headache Hemicrania continua Sinus Headaches With sinus headaches, you feel a deep and constant pain in your cheekbones, forehead, or on the bridge of your nose. They happen when cavities in your head, calledsinuses, get inflamed. The pain usually comes along with other sinus symptoms, like a runny nose, fullness in the ears, fever, and a swollen face. A true sinus headache results from asinus infectionso the gunk that comes out of your nose will be yellow or green, unlike the clear discharge in cluster or migraine headaches. Posttraumatic Headaches Posttraumatic stress headachesusually start2-3 days after ahead injury. You’ll feel: A dull ache that gets worse from time to time Vertigo Lightheadedness Trouble concentrating Memory problems Tiring quickly Irritability Headaches may last for a few months. But if it doesn’t get better within a couple of weeks, call your doctor. And now it is easy to get an appointment with doctors via Quickobook sitting at your house.
Read MoreWhat Is A Fracture?
A bone fracture is a medical condition where the continuity of the bone is broken. A significant percentage of bone fractures occur because of high force impact orstress. However, a fracture may also be the result of some medical conditions which weaken the bones, for example, osteoporosis, somecancers, or osteogenesis imperfecta (also known as brittle bone diseases). A fracture caused by a medical condition is known as a pathological fracture. Fractures can occur in any bone of the body. The word “break” is commonly used by lay (non-professional) people. Among doctors, especially bone specialists, such as orthopedic surgeons, “break” is a much less common term when talking about bones. A crack (not only a break) in the bone is also known as a fracture. Fractures can occur in any bone in the body. There are several different ways in which a bone can fracture; for example, a break to the bone that does not damage surrounding tissue or tear through the skin is known as a closed fracture. On the other hand, one that damages the surrounding skin and penetrates the skin is known as a compound fracture or an open fracture. Compound fractures are generally more serious than simple fractures, because, by definition, they are infected. Most human bones are surprisingly strong and can generally stand up to fairly strong impacts or forces. However, if that force is too powerful, or there is something wrong with the bone, it can fracture. The older we get, the less force our bones can withstand. Because children’s bones are more elastic, when they do have fractures they tend to be different. Children also have growth plates at the end of their bones – areas of growing bone – which may sometimes be damaged. Types There is a range offracture types, including: Avulsion fracture– a muscle or ligament pulls on the bone, fracturing it. Comminuted fracture– the bone is shattered into many pieces. Compression (crush) fracture– generally occurs in the spongy bone in the spine. For example, the front portion of a vertebra in the spine may collapse due to osteoporosis. Fracture dislocation– a joint becomes dislocated, and one of the bones of the joint has a fracture. Greenstick fracture– the bone partly fractures on one side but does not break completely because the rest of the bone can bend. This is more common among children, whose bones are softer and more elastic. Hairline fracture– a partial fracture of the bone. Sometimes this type of fracture is harder to detect with routine x-rays. Impacted fracture– when the bone is fractured, one fragment of bone goes into another. Intraarticular fracture– where the break extends into the surface of a joint Longitudinal fracture– the break is along the length of the bone. Oblique fracture– a fracture that is diagonal to a bone’s long axis. Pathological fracture– when an underlying disease or condition has already weakened the bone, resulting in a fracture (bone fracture caused by an underlying disease/condition that weakened the bone). Spiral fracture– a fracture where at least one part of the bone has been twisted. Stress fracture– more common among athletes. A bone breaks because of repeated stresses and strains. Torus (buckle) fracture– bone deforms but does not crack. More common in children. It is painful but stable. Transverse fracture– a straight break right across a bone. Symptoms Symptoms of a bone fracture can vary wildly depending on the affected region and severity. The signs and symptoms of a fracture vary according to which bone is affected, the patient’s age and general health, as well as the severity of the injury. However, they often include some of the following: pain swelling bruising discolored skin around the affected area angulation – the affected area may be bent at an unusual angle the patient is unable to put weight on the injured area the patient cannot move the affected area the affected bone or joint may have a grating sensation if it is an open fracture, there may be bleeding When a large bone is affected, such as the pelvis or femur: the sufferer may look pale and clammy there may be dizziness (feeling faint) feelings of sickness and nausea. If possible, do not move a person with a broken bone until a healthcare professional is present and can assess the situation and, if required, apply a splint. If the patient is in a dangerous place, such as in the middle of a busy road, one sometimes has to act before the emergency services arrive. Causes Most fractures are caused by a bad fall or automobile accident. Healthy bones are extremely tough and resilient and can withstand surprisingly powerful impacts. As people age, two factors make their risk of fractures greater: Weaker bones and a greater risk of falling. Children, who tend to have more physically active lifestyles than adults, are also prone to fractures. People with underlying illnesses and conditions that may weaken their bones have a higher risk of fractures. Examples include osteoporosis, infection, or tumor. As mentioned earlier, this type of fracture is known as a pathological fracture. Stress fractures, which result from repeated stresses and strains, commonly found among professional sportspeople, are also common causes of fractures. Diagnosis and treatment The medical intervention focuses on supporting the bone as it heals naturally. A doctor will carry out a physical examination, identify signs and symptoms, and make a diagnosis. The patient will be interviewed – or friends, relatives, and witnesses if the patient cannot communicate properly – and asked about circumstances that caused the injury or may have caused it. Quickobook brings you the ease of getting appointments with the best doctors sitting at your home.
Read MoreWhat Are Rashes?
Rashesare abnormal changes inskincolor or texture. They usually result from skininflammation, which can have many causes. There are many types of rashes, includingeczema,granuloma annulare,lichen planus, andpityriasis rosea. Eczema Eczemais a general term that describes several different conditions in which skin is inflamed, red, scaly, and itchy. Eczema is a common skin condition, andatopic dermatitis(also called atopic eczema) is one of the most commonforms of eczema. Eczema can affect adults or children. The condition isn’t contagious. Causes We don’t know for sure what causes atopic eczema, but the condition often affects people with afamily historyofallergies. If you have eczema, you may also havehay feverand/orasthma, or have family members with those conditions. Some things can trigger a flare-up of eczema or make eczema worse, but they don’t cause the condition.Eczema triggersincludestress, skin irritants (including soaps,skincare products, or some fabrics), allergens, and climate/environment. Symptoms The way eczema looks can vary from person to person. In adults, eczema most often affects the hands, elbows, and "bending" areas like the inside of the elbows and back of your knees. In young children, eczema often shows up inside the elbows, behind the knees, and on the face, back of the neck, and scalp. Signs and symptoms of atopic eczema include: Itchiness Skin redness Dry, scaly, or crusted skin that might become thick and leathery from long-term scratching Formation of small, fluid-filledblistersthat might ooze when scratched Infection of the areas of broken skin If you are facing any of these symptoms then there is nothing much to worry about. Quickobook is here to help you get an appointment with the best doctors.
Read MoreAllergies: Symptoms, Causes And Treatment
Allergies An allergy is an immune system response to a foreign substance that’s not typically harmful to your body. These foreign substances are called allergens. They can include certain foods, pollen, or pet dander. Your immune system’s job is to keep you healthy by fighting harmful pathogens. It does this by attacking anything it thinks could put your body in danger. Depending on the allergen, this response may involve inflammation, sneezing, or a host of other symptoms. Your immune system normally adjusts to your environment. For example, when your body encounters something like pet dander, it should realize it’s harmless. In people with dander allergies, the immune system perceives it as an outside invader threatening the body and attacks it. Allergies are common. Several treatments can help you avoid your symptoms. Symptoms of allergies The symptoms you experience because of allergies are the result of several factors. These include the type of allergy you have and how severe the allergy is. If you take any medication before an anticipated allergic response, you may still experience some of these symptoms, but they may be reduced. For food allergies Food allergiescan trigger swelling, hives, nausea, fatigue, and more. It may take a while for a person to realize that they have a food allergy. If you have a serious reaction after a meal and you’re not sure why see a medical professional immediately. They can find the exact cause of your reaction or refer you to a specialist. For seasonal allergies Hay fever symptomscan mimic those of a cold. They include congestion, runny nose, and swollen eyes. Most of the time, you can manage these symptoms at home using over-the-counter treatments. See your doctor if your symptoms become unmanageable. For severe allergies Severe allergies can causeanaphylaxis. This is a life-threatening emergency that can lead to breathing difficulties, lightheadedness, and loss of consciousness. If you’re experiencing these symptoms after coming in contact with a possible allergen, seek medical help immediately. Everyone’s signs and symptoms of an allergic reaction are different. Allergies on skin Skin allergies may be a sign or symptom of an allergy. They may also be the direct result of exposure to an allergen. For example, eating a food you’re allergic to can cause several symptoms. You may experience tingling in your mouth and throat. You may also develop a rash. Contact dermatitis, however, is the result of your skin coming into direct contact with an allergen. This could happen if you touch something you’re allergic to, such as a cleaning product or plant. Types of skin allergies include: Rashes.Areas of skin are irritated, red, or swollen, and can be painful or itchy. Eczema.Patches of skinbecome inflamedand can itch and bleed. Contact dermatitis.Red, itchy patches of skindevelop almost immediately after contact with an allergen. Sore throat.Pharynx or throat is irritated or inflamed. Hives.Red, itchy, andraised weltsof various sizes and shapes to develop on the surface of the skin. Swollen eyes.Eyes may be watery or itchy and look “puffy.” Itching.There’s irritation or inflammation in the skin. Burning.Skin inflammation leads to discomfort and stinging sensations on the skin. Rashes are one of the most common symptoms of a skin allergy.
Read MoreEverything You Need To Know About Scurvy
Everything you need to know about scurvy Scurvy is the name for a vitamin C deficiency. It can lead to anaemia, debility, exhaustion, spontaneous bleeding, pain in the limbs, and especially the legs, swelling in some parts of the body, and sometimes ulceration of the gums and loss of teeth. Scurvy has been known since ancient Greek and Egyptian times. It was often associated with sailors in the 15th to 18th centuries, when long sea voyages made it hard to get a steady supply of fresh produce. Many died from the effects. It also occurred during the Irish potato famine in 1845 and the American Civil War. The most recent documented outbreak was in Afghanistan in 2002, following war and a drought. Modern cases of scurvy are rare, especially in places where enriched breads and cereals are available, but itcan still affectpeople who do not consume enoughvitaminsC. What is scurvy? Scurvy happenswhen there isa lack of vitamin C, or ascorbic acid. The deficiency leads to symptoms of weakness, anaemia,gum disease, and skin problems. This is because vitamin C is needed for makingcollagen, an important component in connective tissues. Connective tissues are essential for structure and support in the body, including the structure of blood vessels. A lack of vitamin C will also affect the immune system, absorption of iron, metabolism ofcholesteroland other functions. Symptoms stOne of the more notable symptoms of scurvy is the loss of and damage to teeth Vitamin C is a necessary nutrient that helps the body absorb iron and produce collagen. If the body does not produce enough collagen, tissues will start to break down. It is alsoneeded forsynthesizing dopamine, norepinephrine, epinephrine, and carnitine, needed for energy production. Symptoms of vitamin C deficiency can start to appear after 8 to 12 weeks. Early signs include a loss of appetite, weight loss,fatigue, irritability, and lethargy. Within1 to 3 months, there may be signs of: anaemia myalgia, or pain, including bone pain swelling, oredema petechiae, or small red spots resulting from bleeding under the skin corkscrew hairs gum disease and loss of teeth poor wound healing shortness of breath mood changes, anddepression In time, the person will showsignsof generalized edema, severejaundice, destruction of red blood cells, known as hemolysis, sudden and spontaneous bleeding,neuropathy,fever, and convulsions. It can be fatal. Infants with scurvy will become anxious and irritable. They may experience pain that causes them to assume a frog-leg posture for comfort. Theremay also besubperiosteal hemorrhage, a type of bleeding that occurs at the ends of the long bones. Animal studieshave shownthat vitamin C deficiency in a woman during pregnancy can lead to problems with fetal brain development. Quickobook is here to help you get appointments with the best doctors.
Read MoreBreast Cancer And Its Treatments
Breast Cancer and its Treatments Breast cancer is cancer that forms in the cells of the breasts. After skin cancer, breast cancer is the most common cancer diagnosed in women in the United States. Breast cancer can occur in both men and women, but it's far more common in women. Substantial support for breast cancer awareness and research funding has helped create advances in the diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer. Breast cancer survival rates have increased, and the number of deaths associated with this disease is steadily declining, largely due to factors such as earlier detection, a new personalized approach to treatment, and a better understanding of the disease. Types Angiosarcoma Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) Inflammatory breast cancer Invasive lobular carcinoma Lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS) Male breast cancer Paget's disease of the breast Recurrent breast cancer Symptoms Nipple changes Open pop-up dialog box Signs and symptoms of breast cancer may include: A breast lump or thickening that feels different from the surrounding tissue Change in the size, shape, or appearance of a breast Changes to the skin over the breast, such as dimpling A newly inverted nipple Peeling, scaling, crusting, or flaking of the pigmented area of skin surrounding the nipple (areola) or breast skin Redness or pitting of the skin over your breast, like the skin of an orange When to see a doctor If you find a lump or other change in your breast — even if a recent mammogram was normal — make an appointment with your doctor for prompt evaluation. Book your appointment in Quickobook.
Read MoreGallstones: Cause And Treatment
Gallstones: Cause and Treatment ERCP Open pop-up dialog box Tests and procedures used to diagnose gallstones and complications of gallstones include: Abdominal ultrasound.This test is the one most commonly used to look for signs of gallstones. Abdominal ultrasound involves moving a device (transducer) back and forth across your stomach area. The transducer sends signals to a computer, which creates images that show the structures in your abdomen. Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS).This procedure can help identify smaller stones that may be missed on an abdominal ultrasound. During EUS your doctor passes a thin, flexible tube (endoscope) through your mouth and through your digestive tract. A small ultrasound device (transducer) in the tube produces sound waves that create a precise image of surrounding tissue. Other imaging tests.Additional tests may include oral cholecystography, a hepatobiliary iminodiacetic acid (HIDA) scan, computerized tomography (CT), magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) or endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). Gallstones discovered using ERCP can be removed during the procedure. Blood tests.Blood tests may reveal infection, jaundice, pancreatitis or other complications caused by gallstones. Treatment Laparoscopic cholecystectomy Open pop-up dialog box Most people with gallstones that don't cause symptoms will never need treatment. Your doctor will determine if treatment for gallstones is indicated based on your symptoms and the results of diagnostic testing. Your doctor may recommend that you be alert for symptoms of gallstone complications, such as intensifying pain in your upper right abdomen. If gallstone signs and symptoms occur in the future, you can have treatment. Treatment options for gallstones include: Surgery to remove the gallbladder (cholecystectomy).Your doctor may recommend surgery to remove your gallbladder, since gallstones frequently recur. Once your gallbladder is removed, bile flows directly from your liver into your small intestine, rather than being stored in your gallbladder. You don't need your gallbladder to live, and gallbladder removal doesn't affect your ability to digest food, but it can cause diarrhea, which is usually temporary. Medications to dissolve gallstones.Medications you take by mouth may help dissolve gallstones. But it may take months or years of treatment to dissolve your gallstones in this way, and gallstones will likely form again if treatment is stopped. Sometimes medications don't work. Medications for gallstones aren't commonly used and are reserved for people who can't undergo surgery. Quickobook is here to help you get the best diagnosis and treatment. Book your appointments and get rid of the sufferings
Read MoreWhat Is Acne?
Acne is a skin condition that occurs when your hair follicles become plugged with oil and dead skin cells. It causes whiteheads, blackheads or pimples. Effective acne treatments are available, but acne can be persistent. The pimples and bumps heal slowly, and when one begins to go away, others seem to crop up. Depending on its severity, acne can cause emotional distress and scar the skin. The earlier you start treatment, the lower your risk of such problems. For many women, acne can persist for decades, with flares common a week before menstruation. This type of acne tends to clear up without treatment in women who use contraceptives. Acne is most common among teenagers, though it affects people of all ages. Symptoms Acne signs vary depending on the severity of your condition and usually appear on the face, forehead, chest, upper back and shoulders. Whiteheads (closed plugged pores) Small red, tender bumps (papules) Pimples (pustules), which are papules with pus at their tips Large, solid, painful lumps under the skin (nodules) Blackheads (open plugged pores) Small red, tender bumps (papules) Painful, pus-filled lumps under the skin (cystic lesions) When to see a doctor? If self-care remedies don't clear your acne, see your primary care doctor. If acne persists or is severe, you may want to seek medical treatment from a doctor who specializes in the skin (dermatologist or pediatric dermatologist) and Quickobook is here to get you the best solutions.
Read MoreWhat Is Insomnia?
What Is Insomnia? Insomniais asleep disorderin which you have trouble falling and/or staying asleep. The condition can be short-term (acute) or can last a long time (chronic). It may also come and go. Acute insomnia lasts from 1 night to a few weeks. Insomnia is chronic when it happens at least 3 nights a week for 3 months or more. Types of Insomnia There are two types ofinsomnia: primary and secondary. Primary insomnia:This means your sleep problems aren’t linked to any other health condition or problem. Secondary insomnia:This means you havetrouble sleepingbecause of a health condition (likeasthma,depression,arthritis,cancer, orheartburn);pain;medication; or substance use (likealcohol). Insomnia Causes Causes ofprimary insomniainclude: Stressrelated to big life events, like a job loss or change, the death of a loved one, divorce, or moving Changes to your sleep schedule likejet lag, a new shift at work, or bad habits you picked up when you had other sleep problems Things around you like noise, light, or temperature Causes ofsecondary insomniainclude: Mental healthissues likedepressionandanxiety Medications for colds,allergies, depression,high blood pressure, andasthma Pain or discomfort at night Hyperthyroidismand other endocrine problems Other sleep disorders, likesleep apneaorrestless legs syndrome Caffeine,tobacco, or alcohol use Symptoms of insomnia include: Sleepiness during the day Fatigue Grumpiness Problems with concentration or memory Are you suffering from any of these symptoms? Don’t worry! Quickobook is here to serve you the required help in treatment facility. Now you can sit at your home and book appointments.
Read MoreBack Pain: Causes And Symptoms
A common reason for absence from work and for seeking medical treatment is Back Pain. It can be uncomfortable and debilitating. It can be the result of injury, activity and some medical conditions. Back pain can affect people of any age, for different reasons. When people grow older, the chance of developinglower back pain increases, due to factors such as previous occupation and degenerative disk disease. Lower back pain can be the result of bony lumbar spine, discs between the vertebrae, ligaments around the spine and discs, spinal cord and nerves, lower back muscles, abdominal and pelvic internal organs, and the skin around the lumbar area. Pain in the upper back may be due to disorders of the aorta, tumors in the chest, and spine inflammation. Causes The human back is composed of a complex structure of muscles, ligaments, tendons, disks, and bones, which work together to support the body and enable us to move around. The segments of the spine are cushioned with cartilage-like pads called disks. Problems with any of these components can lead to back pain. In some cases of back pain, its cause remains unclear. Damage can result from strain, medical conditions, and poor posture, among others. Strain Back pain commonly begins from strain, tension, or injury. Frequent causes of back pain are: strained muscles or ligaments a muscle spasm muscle tension damaged disks injuries, fractures, or falls Activities that can lead to strains or spasms include are lifting something improperly, lifting something that is too heavy and making an abrupt and awkward movement Symptoms The main symptom of back pain is an ache or pain anywhere in the back, and sometimes all the way down to the buttocks and legs. Some back issues can cause pain in other parts of the body, depending on the nerves affected. The pain often goes away without treatment, but if it occurs with any of the following people should see their doctor: weight loss fever inflammation or swelling on the back persistent back pain, where lying down or resting does not help pain down the legs pain that reaches below the knees a recent injury, blow or trauma to the back urinary incontinence difficulty urinating fecal incontinence, or loss of control over bowel movements numbness around the genitals numbness around the anus numbness around the buttocks When to see a doctor You should seek medical helpif you experience any numbness or tingling, or if you have back pain and Quickobook is there in your own city to help you.
Read MoreSlipped Disc
What is a slipped disc? A spinal column is made up of a series of bones (vertebrae) stacked onto each other. From top to bottom, the column includes seven bones in the cervical spine, 12 in the thoracic spine, and five in the lumbar spine, followed by the sacrumand the coccyxat the base. These bones are cushioned by discs. The discs protect the bones by absorbing the shocks from daily activities like walking, lifting, and twisting. Each disc has two parts: a soft, gelatinous inner portion and a tough outer ring. Injury or weakness can cause the inner portion of the disc to protrude through the outer ring. This is known as a slipped, herniated, or prolapsed disc. This causes pain and discomfort. If the slipped disc compresses one of your spinal nerves, you may also experience numbness and pain along the affected nerve. In severe instances, you may require surgery to remove or repair the slipped disc. What are the symptoms of a slipped disc? An individual can have a slipped disc in any part of your spine, from your neck to your lower back. The lower back is one of the more common areas for slipped discs. Your spinal column is an intricate network of nerves and blood vessels. A slipped disc can place extra pressure on the nerves and muscles around it. Symptoms of a slipped disc include: pain and numbness, most commonly on one side of the body pain that extends to your arms or legs pain that worsens at night or with certain movements pain that worsens after standing or sitting pain when walking short distances unexplained muscle weaknesses tingling, aching, or burning sensations in the affected area Suffering these from symptoms? Don’t worry; Quickobook is here to help you get the best diagnosis and treatments sitting in your place.
Read MoreSexual Dysfunction In Males And Females
Types or categories of Sexual Dysfunction Desire disorders These disorders mostly affect the sexual desire and interest in sex, also known as libido disorders or low libido. Low estrogen and testosterone levels can cause decreased libido, as can hormonal changes, medical conditions (like diabetes and heart disease), relationship problems, sexual inhibitions, fatigue, fear, depression, and anxiety, among other things. Arousal disorders These disorders are the difficult or impossible to become physically aroused during sexual activity; which can occur both in male and female. The most common type in male is erectile dysfunction. When a person has arousal disorder, he or she may be interested in sexual activity, but be unable to get any physical satisfaction from it. Orgasm disorders These involve the absence of orgasm or delayed orgasm, are a common problem with women, but they can also occur in men. Pain during sexual activity, stress, fatigue, hormonal changes and reduced libido can all lead to delayed or absent orgasm. Pain disorders These involve pain during intercourse; can affect both men and women. In women, pain may be caused by vaginal dryness, vaginismus (a condition that affects the vaginal muscles), urinary tract infections (UTIs), hormonal changes during menopause, and other conditions. In men, pain may be caused by Peyronie's disease (physical damage to the penis), infections like UTIs, prostatitis and yeast infections, genital herpes and skin conditions. If you have signs or symptoms of any type of sexual dysfunction, talk to your doctor. Book your appointment in Quickobook and consult your doctor. There are treatments available that may be able to help.
Read MoreGoiter: Symptoms, Causes And Treatment
Goiter A condition that increases the size of your thyroid is called a goiter and may develop in anyone, but ismore common in women. Sometimes, it affects the way the thyroid functions. Symptoms difficulty swallowing or breathing dizziness when you raise your arm above your head coughing hoarseness in your voice Causes The main cause of Goitre is Iodine deficiency. There are other causes responsible for this, they are: Graves’ disease Graves’ diseaseoccurs when your thyroid produces more thyroid hormone than normal, which is known as hyperthyroidism. The excessive production of hormones makes the thyroid increase in size. Hashimoto’s thyroiditis When you have Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, also known asHashimoto’s thyroiditis, it predisposes thyroid to not being able to produce enough thyroid hormone, causing hypothyroidism. The low thyroid hormone causes the pituitary gland to make more thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), which causes the thyroid to enlarge. Inflammation Some people developthyrodities, an inflammation of the thyroid that can cause a goitre. This is different than Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. One example is viral thyroiditis. Nodules Solid or fluid-containing cysts may appear on the thyroid and cause it to swell. Thesenodulesare often noncancerous. Thyroid cancer Cancer may affect the thyroid, which causes swelling on one side of the gland.Thyroid cancerisn’t as common as the formation of benign nodules. Pregnancy Being pregnant can sometimes cause the thyroid to become larger. Types of goitres Goiters have many causes. As a result, there are different types. These include: Colloid goitre (endemic) A colloid goitre develops from the lack of iodine, a mineral essential to the production of thyroid hormones. People who get this type of goitre usually live in areas where iodine is scarce. Nontoxic goitre (sporadic) The cause of a nontoxic goitre is usually unknown, though it may be caused by medications like lithium.Lithiumis used to treat mood disorders such asbipolar disorder. Nontoxic goitres don’t affect the production of thyroid hormone, and thyroid function is healthy. They’re also benign. Toxic nodular or multinodular goitre This type of goitre forms one or more small nodules as it enlarges. The nodules produce their own thyroid hormone, causinghyperthyroidism. It generally forms as an extension of a simple goitre. How is goitre treated? Your doctor will decide on a course of treatment based on the size and condition of your goiter, and symptoms associated with it. Treatment is also based on health problems that contribute to the goiter. Medications If you have hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism, medications to treat these conditions may be enough to shrink goitre. Medications (corticosteroids) to reduce your inflammation may be used if you have thyroiditis. Surgeries Surgical removal of your thyroid, known asthyroidectomy, is an option if yours grows too large or doesn’t respond to medication therapy. Radioactive iodine In people with toxic multinodular goitres, radioactive iodine (RAI) may be necessary. The RAI is ingested orally, and then travels to your thyroid through your blood, where it destroys the overactive thyroid tissue. Home care Depending on your type of goitre, you may need to increase or decrease your iodine intake at home. When goitre is small and doesn’t cause any problems, you may require no treatment at all.
Read MoreDehydration: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment, Prevention
Dehydration occurs when more water and fluids leave the body than enter it. Even low levels of dehydration can cause headaches, lethargy, and constipation. Although water is constantly lost throughout the day as we breathe, sweat, urinate, and defecate, we can replenish the water in our body by drinking fluids. The body can also move water around to areas where it is needed most if dehydration begins to occur. A sophisticated water management system keeps our water levels balanced, and our thirst mechanism tells us when we need to increase fluid intake. The human body is roughly 75 percent water. Without this water, it cannot survive. Water is found inside cells, within blood vessels, and between cells. Most occurrences of dehydration can be easily reversed by increasing fluid intake, but severe cases of dehydration require immediate medical attention. Symptoms The first symptoms of dehydration include thirst, darker urine, and decreased urine production. In fact, urine colour is the best indicators of a person’s hydration level. Clear urine means you are well hydrated and darker urine means you are dehydrated. As the condition progresses to moderate dehydration, symptoms include: dry mouth lethargy weakness in muscles headache dizziness Severe dehydration (loss of10-15 percentof the body’s water) may be characterized by extreme versions of the symptoms above as well as: lack of sweating sunken eyes shrivelled and dry skin lowblood pressure increased heart rate fever delirium unconsciousness Symptoms in kids: in babies – a sunken fontanel (soft spot on the top of the head) dry tongue and mouth irritable no tears when crying sunken cheeks and/or eyes no wet diaper for 3 or more hours Causes The basic causes of dehydration are not taking in enough water, losing too much water, or a combination of both. Sometimes, it is not possible to consume enough fluids because of our hectic schedule, lack the facilities or strength to drink, or are in an area without potable water (while hiking or camping, for example). Additional causes of dehydration include Diarrhoea, Vomiting, Sweating, Diabetes, Frequent urination, Burns. Treatments Dehydration must be treated by replenishing the fluid level in the body. This can be done by consuming clear fluids such as water, clear broths, frozen water or ice pops, or sports drinks (such as Gatorade). Some dehydration patients, however, will require intravenous fluids in order to rehydrate. People who are dehydrated should avoid drinks containing caffeine such ascoffee, tea, and sodas. Underlying conditions that are causing dehydration should also be treated with the appropriate medication. This may include medication available to purchase over-the-counter or online, such asanti-diarrhoea medicines,anti-emetics(stop vomiting), andanti-fevermedicines. Prevention Prevention is really the most important treatment for dehydration. Consuming plenty of fluids and foods that have high water content (such as fruits and vegetables) should be enough for most people to prevent dehydration. People should be cautious about doing activities during extreme heat or the hottest part of the day, and anyone who is exercising should make replenishing fluids a priority. Since the elderly and very young are most at risk of being dehydrated, special attention should be given to them to make sure they are receiving enough fluids.
Read MoreA Nervous System Disorder: Parkinson's Disease
Parkinson's disease is a progressive nervous system disorder that affects movement. Symptoms start gradually, sometimes starting unnoticed tremor in just one hand. Parkinson's disease symptoms worsen as your condition progresses over time. Tremors are common, but the disorder also commonly causes stiffness or slowing of movement. In the early stages of Parkinson's disease, your face may show little or no expression. Your arms may not swing when you walk. Your speech may become soft or slurred. Although Parkinson's disease can't be cured, medications might significantly improve your symptoms. Occasionally, your doctor may suggest surgery to regulate certain regions of your brain and improve your symptoms. Symptoms Parkinson's disease signs and symptoms differ from one to another. Early signs may be mild and barely noticeable. Often symptoms begin on one side of your body and usually remain worse on that side, even after symptoms begin to affect both sides. Parkinson's signs and symptoms may include: Slowed movement (bradykinesia).Over time, Parkinson's disease may slow your movement, making simple tasks difficult and time-consuming. Your steps may become shorter when you walk. It may be difficult to get out of a chair. You may drag your feet as you try to walk Tremor.A tremor, or shaking, usually begins in a limb, often your hand or fingers. You may rub your thumb and forefinger back and forth, known as a pill-rolling tremor. Your hand may tremble when it's at rest. Loss of automatic movements.You may have a decreased ability to perform unconscious movements, including blinking, smiling or swinging your arms when you walk. Rigid muscles.Muscle stiffness may occur in any part of your body. The stiff muscles can be painful and limit your range of motion. Impaired posture and balance.Your posture may become stooped, or you may have balance problems as a result of Parkinson's disease. Speech changes.You may speak softly, quickly, slur or hesitate before talking. Your speech may be more of a monotone rather than have the usual inflections. Writing changes.It may become hard to write, and your writing may appear small. Complications Parkinson's disease is often accompanied by these additional problems, which may be treatable: Thinking difficulties.You may experience cognitive problems (dementia) and thinking difficulties. These usually occur in the later stages of Parkinson's disease. Such cognitive problems aren't very responsive to medications. Depression and emotional changes.You may experience depression, sometimes in the very early stages. Receiving treatment for depression can make it easier to handle the other challenges of Parkinson's disease. You may also experience other emotional changes, such as fear, anxiety or loss of motivation. Doctors may give you medications to treat these symptoms. Swallowing problems.You may develop difficulties with swallowing as your condition progresses. Saliva may accumulate in your mouth due to slowed swallowing, leading to drooling. Chewing and eating problems.Late-stage Parkinson's disease affects the muscles in your mouth, making chewing difficult. This can lead to choking and poor nutrition. Sleep problems and sleep disorders.People with Parkinson's disease often have sleep problems, including waking up frequently throughout the night, waking up early or falling asleep during the day. People may also experience rapid eye movement sleep behaviour disorder, which involves acting out your dreams. Medications may help your sleep problems. Bladder problems.Parkinson's disease may cause bladder problems, including being unable to control urine or having difficulty urinating. Constipation.Many people with Parkinson's disease develop constipation, mainly due to a slower digestive tract. Some other complications are: Blood pressure changes.You may feel dizzy or lightheaded when you stand due to a sudden drop in blood pressure (orthostatic hypotension). Smell dysfunction.You may experience problems with your sense of smell. You may have difficulty identifying certain odors or the difference between odors. Fatigue.Many people with Parkinson's disease lose energy and experience fatigue, especially later in the day. The cause isn't always known. Pain.Some people with Parkinson's disease experience pain, either in specific areas of their bodies or throughout their bodies. Sexual dysfunction.Some people with Parkinson's disease notice a decrease in sexual desire or performance. Prevention Because the cause of Parkinson's is unknown, proven ways to prevent the disease also remain a mystery. Some research has shown that regular aerobic exercise might reduce the risk of Parkinson's disease whereas people who consume caffeine — which is found in coffee, tea and cola — get Parkinson's disease less often than those who don't drink it. Green tea is also related to a reduced risk of developing Parkinson's disease. However, it is still not known whether caffeine actually protects against getting Parkinson's, or is related in some other way. Currently there is not enough evidence to suggest drinking caffeinated beverages to protect against Parkinson's. When to see a doctor? See your doctor if you have any of the symptoms associated with Parkinson's disease — not only to diagnose your condition but also to rule out other causes for your symptoms. Quickobook is here to help you get the best specialist in your own city.
Read MoreArthritis-types And Symptoms
Arthritis: types and symptoms Arthritis is the swelling and tenderness of one or more of your joints. The main symptoms of arthritis are joint pain and stiffness, which typically worsen with age. The most common types of arthritis are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Osteoarthritis causes cartilage — the hard, slippery tissue that covers the ends of bones where they form a joint — to break down. Rheumatoid arthritis is a disease in which the immune system attacks the joints, beginning with the lining of joints. Uric acid crystals, which form when there's too much uric acid in your blood, can cause gout. Infections or underlying disease, such as psoriasis or lupus, can cause other types of arthritis. Treatments vary depending on the type of arthritis. The main goals of arthritis treatments are to reduce symptoms and improve quality of life. Types Ankylosing spondylitis Gout Osteoarthritis Psoriatic arthritis Septic arthritis Reactive arthritis Rheumatoid arthritis Thumb arthritis Juvenile idiopathic arthritis Symptoms The most common signs and symptoms of arthritis involve the joints. Depending on the type of arthritis you have, your signs and symptoms may include: Pain Stiffness Decreased range of motion Swelling Redness Suffering from any of these symptoms? Quickobook is here to avail you with the best specialists in your own city.
Read MoreWhat Is Blood Pressure?
What is blood pressure? Blood pressure is the force of your blood pushing against the walls of your arteries. Each time your heart beats, it pumps blood into the arteries. Your blood pressure is highest when your heart beats, pumping the blood. This is called systolic pressure. When your heart is at rest, between beats, your blood pressure falls. This is called diastolic pressure. Your blood pressure reading uses these two numbers. Usually the systolic number comes before or above the diastolic number. For example, 120/80 means a systolic of 120 and a diastolic of 80. How is high blood pressure diagnosed? High blood pressure usually has no symptoms. So the only way to get diagnosed is to get regular blood pressure checks from health care provider where a gauge, a stethoscope or electronic sensor, and a blood pressure cuff will be used. He or she will take two or more readings at separate appointments before making a diagnosis. For children and teens, the health care provider compares the blood pressure reading to what is normal for other kids who are the same age, height, and sex. What are the different types of high blood pressure? The two main types of high blood pressure are primary and secondary high blood pressure. Primary,or essential, high blood pressure is the most common type of high blood pressure. For most people who get this kind of blood pressure, it develops over time as you get older. Secondaryhigh blood pressure is caused by another medical condition or use of certain medicines. It usually gets better after you treat that condition or stop taking the medicines that are causing it. Why do I need to worry about high blood pressure? When your blood pressure stays high over time, it causes the heart to pump harder and work overtime, possibly leading to serious health problems such asheart attack,stroke,heart failure, andkidney failure. What are the treatments for high blood pressure? Treatments for high blood pressure include; Heart-healthy lifestyle changesandmedicines. Heart-healthy eating and exercise can be very effective. May need to take medicine. There are different types of blood pressure medicines. If your high blood pressure is caused by another medical condition or medicine, treating that condition or stopping the medicine may lower your blood pressure. Still in confusion!! No worry, Quickobook is here to resolve all your queries by connecting you with the best specialists.
Read MoreUnderstanding Thyroid
Understanding Thyroid The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland that sits low on the front of the neck. Thyroid lies below the Adam’s apple, along the front of the windpipe. It has two side lobes, connected by a bridge (isthmus) in the middle. When the thyroid is in its normal size, it can’t be felt. Brownish-red in color, the thyroid is rich with blood vessels. The thyroid secretes several hormones, collectively called thyroid hormones. Thyroxine is the main hormone, also known as T4. Thyroid hormones act throughout the body, influencing metabolism, growth and development, and body temperature. During infancy and childhood, adequate thyroid hormone is crucial for brain development. What Causes Thyroid Problems? All types ofhyperthyroidismare due to an overproduction of thyroid hormones, but the condition can occur in several ways: Graves' disease: production of too much thyroid hormone. Toxic adenomas: secretion of thyroid hormones due to the development of nodules in thyroid gland upsetting the body's chemical balance; some goiters may contain several of these nodules. Subacute thyroiditis: Inflammation of the thyroid that causes the gland to "leak" excess hormones, resulting in temporary hyperthyroidism that generally lasts a few weeks but may persist for months. Pituitary gland malfunctions or cancerous growths in the thyroid gland: Although such cases are rare, hyperthyroidism can also develop from these causes. Hypothyroidism, by contrast, stems from an underproduction of thyroid hormones. Since your body's energy production requires certain amounts of thyroid hormones, a drop in hormone production leads to lower energy levels. Following are the causes of hypothyroidism: Hashimoto's thyroiditis: In this autoimmune disorder the production of hormones gets stopped by attacking the thyroid tissue of the body, the body attacks thyroid tissue. The tissue eventually dies and stops producing hormones. Removal of the thyroid gland: The thyroid may have been surgically removed or chemically destroyed. Exposure to excessive amounts of iodide: Cold and sinus medicines, the heart medicineamiodarone, or certain contrast dyes given before some X-rays may expose you to too much iodine. You may be at greater risk for developing hypothyroidism if you have had thyroid problems in the past. Lithium:This drug has also been implicated as a cause of hypothyroidism. If untreated for long periods of time, hypothyroidism can bring on amyxedema coma, a rare but potentially fatal condition that requires immediate hormone treatment. Quickobook is here to help you get the best diagnosis in your very own city. Don’t worry!! Book an appointment today if you are facing any of these symptoms. We are available to serve you better.
Read MoreWhat Is Migraine
What is migraine? Migraine is a neurological condition that can cause multiple symptoms. It’s frequently characterized by intense, debilitating headaches. Symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, difficulty speaking, numbness or tingling, and sensitivity to light and sound. Migraines often run in families and affect all ages. The diagnosis of migraine headaches is determined based on clinical history, reported symptoms, and by ruling out other causes. The most common categories of migraine headache are those without aura (previously known as common migraines) and those with aura (previously known as classic migraines). Migraines can begin in childhood or may not occur until early adulthood. Women are more likely than men to have migraines. Family history is one of the most common risk factors for having migraines. Migraine symptoms Migraine symptoms may begin one to two days before the headache itself. This is known as the prodrome stage. Symptoms during this stage can include: food cravings depression fatigue or low energy frequent yawning hyperactivity irritability neck stiffness In migraine with aura, the aura occurs after the prodrome stage. During an aura, you may have problems with your vision, sensation, movement, and speech. Examples of these problems include: difficulty speaking clearly feeling a prickling or tingling sensation in your face, arms, or legs seeing shapes, light flashes, or bright spots temporarily losing your vision The next phase is known as the attack phase. This is the most acute or severe of the phases when the actual migraine pain occurs. In some people, this can overlap or occur during an aura. Attack phase symptoms can last anywhere from hours to days. Symptoms of a migraine can vary from person to person. Some symptoms may include: increased sensitivity to light and sound nausea dizziness or feeling faint pain on one side of your head, either on the left side, right side, front, or back, or in your temples pulsing and throbbing head pain vomiting After the attack phase, a person will often experience the postdrome phase. During this phase, there are usually changes in mood and feelings. These can range from feeling euphoric and extremely happy, to feeling very fatigued and apathetic. A mild, dull headache may persist. The length and intensity of these phases can occur to different degrees in different people. Sometimes, a phase is skipped and it’s possible that a migraine attack occurs without causing a headache. Migraine pain People describe migraine pain as: pulsating throbbing perforating pounding debilitating It can also feel like a severe dull, steady ache. The pain may start out as mild, but without treatment will become moderate to severe. Migraine pain most commonly affects the forehead area. It’s usually on one side of the head, but it can occur on both sides, or shift. Most migraines last about 4 hours. If they’re not treated or don’t respond to treatment, they can last for as long as 72 hours to a week. In migraines with aura, pain may overlap with an aura or may never occur at all. Migraine nausea More than half of the people who get migraines havenauseaas a symptom. Most also vomit. These symptoms may start at the same time the headache does. Usually, though, they start about one hour after the headache pain starts. Nausea and vomitingcan be as troubling as the headache itself. If you only have nausea, you may be able to take your usual migraine medications. Vomiting, though, can prevent you from being able to take pills or keep them in your body long enough to be absorbed. If you have to delay taking migraine medication, your migraine is likely to become more severe. Treating nausea and preventing vomiting If you have nausea without vomiting, your doctor may suggest medication to ease nausea called anti-nausea orantiemetic drugs. In this case, the antiemetic can help prevent vomiting and improve the nausea. Treating nausea and vomiting together Rather than treating the nausea and vomiting separately, doctors prefer to ease those symptoms by treating the migraine itself. If your migraines come with significant nausea and vomiting, you and your doctor may talk about starting preventive (prophylactic) medications. Migraine tests Doctors diagnose migraines by listening to your symptoms, taking a thorough medical and family history, and performing a physical exam to rule out other potential causes. Imaging scans, such as aCT scanorMRI, can rule out other causes, including: tumors abnormal brain structures stroke Migraine treatment Migraines can’t be cured, but your doctor can help youmanage themso you get them less often and treat symptoms when they occur. Treatment can also help make the migraines you have less severe. Your treatment plan depends on: your age how often you have migraines the type of migraine you have how severe they are, based on how long they last, how much pain you have, and how often they keep you from going to school or work whether they include nausea or vomiting, as well as other symptoms other health conditions you may have and other medications you may take Your treatment plan may include a combination of these: self-caremigraine remedies lifestyle adjustments, includingstress managementandavoiding migraine triggers OTC pain or migraine medications, such asNSAIDsor acetaminophen (Tylenol) prescriptionmigraine medicationsthat you take every day to help prevent migraines and reduce how often you have headaches prescription migraine medications that you take as soon as a headache starts, to keep it from becoming severe and to ease symptoms prescription medications to help with nausea or vomiting hormone therapy if migraines seem to occurin relation to your menstrual cycle counseling alternative care, which may includebiofeedback,meditation, acupressure, oracupuncture Migraine remedies You can try a few things at home that may also help remedy the pain from your migraines: Lie down in a quiet, dark room. Massage your scalp or temples. Place a cold cloth over your forehead or behind your neck. Migraine medication Medications can be used to either prevent a migraine from happening or treat it once it occurs. You may be able to get relief with OTC medication. However, if OTC medications aren’t effective, your doctor may decide to prescribe other medications. These options will be based on the severity of your migraines and any of your other health conditions.Medication options include both those for prevention and those for treatment during an attack. Medication overuse headache The frequent and recurring use of any kind of headache drugs can cause what’s known asmedication overuse headacheTrusted Source(previously called a rebound headache). Persons with migraine are at higher risk of developing this complication. When determining how to deal with your migraine headaches, talk to your doctor about the frequency of your medication intake and alternatives to medications. Migraine surgery There are a couple of surgical procedures that are used to treat migraine. However, they haven’t been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The procedures include neurostimulation procedures and migraine trigger site decompression surgery (MTSDS). The American Migraine Foundation encourages anyone considering migraine surgery to see a headache specialist. A headache specialist has completed an accredited headache medicine fellowship or is board certified in headache medicine. Neurostimulation surgeries During these procedures, a surgeon inserts electrodes under your skin. The electrodes deliver electrical stimulation to specific nerves. Several types of stimulators are currently being used. These include: occipital nerve stimulators deep brain stimulators vagal nerve stimulators sphenopalatine ganglion stimulators Insurance coverage for stimulators is rare. Research is ongoing as to the ideal role of nerve stimulation in the treatment of headaches. MTSDS This surgical procedure involves releasing nerves around the head and face that may have a role as trigger sites for chronic migraines. Onabotulinumtoxin A (Botox) injections are typically used to identify the trigger point nerves involved during a migraine attack. Under sedation, the surgeon deactivates or decompresses the isolated nerves. Plastic surgeons usually perform these surgeries. The American Headache Society doesn’t endorse treatment of migraine with MTSDS. They recommend that anyone considering this procedure have an evaluation by a headache specialist to learn the risks first. These surgeries are considered experimental until further studies show they work consistently and safely. They may however have a role for people with chronic migraines that haven’t responded to other treatment.So, is plastic surgery the answer to your migraine woes? What causes migraines? Researchers haven’t identified a definitive cause for migraines. However, they have found some contributing factors that can trigger the condition. This includes changes in brain chemicals, such as a decrease in levels of the brain chemicalserotonin. Other factors that may trigger a migraine include: bright lights severe heat, or other extremes in weather dehydration changes inbarometric pressure hormone changesin women, such as estrogen and progesterone fluctuations duringmenstruation,pregnancy, ormenopause excess stress loud sounds intense physical activity skipping meals changes in sleep patterns use of certain medications, such asoral contraceptivesor nitroglycerin unusual smells certain foods smoking alcohol use traveling If you experience a migraine, your doctor may ask you to keep a headache journal. Writing down what you were doing, what foods you ate, and what medications you were taking before your migraine began can help identify your triggers. Foods that trigger migraines Certain foods or food ingredients may be more likely to trigger migraines than others. These may include: alcohol or caffeinated drinks food additives, such as nitrates (a preservative in cured meats), aspartame (an artificial sugar), or monosodium glutamate (MSG) tyramine, which occurs naturally in some foods Tyraminealso increases when foods are fermented or aged. This includes foods like some aged cheeses, sauerkraut, and soy sauce. However, ongoing research is looking more closely at the role of tyramine in migraines. It may be a headache protector in some people rather than a trigger. There are many types of migraines. Two of the most common types are migraine without aura and migraine with aura. Some people have both types. Many individuals with migraines have more than one type of migraine. Migraine without aura This type of migraine used to be called common migraine. Most people with migraine don’t experience an aura. According to the International Headache Society, people who have migraine without aura have had at least five attacks that have these characteristics: Headache attack usually lasting 4 to 72 hours if it’s not treated or if treatment doesn’t work. Headache has at least two of these traits: it occurs only on one side of the head (unilateral) pain is pulsating or throbbing pain level is moderate or severe pain gets worse when you move, like when walking or climbing stairs Headache has at least one of these traits: it makes you sensitive to light (photophobia) it makes you sensitive to sound (phonophobia) you experience nausea with or without vomiting or diarrhea Headache isn’t caused by another health problem or diagnosis. Migraine with aura This type of migraine used to be called classic migraine, complicated migraine, and hemiplegic migraine. Migraine with aura occurs in 25 percent of people who have migraines. According to the International Headache Society, you must have at least two attacks that have these characteristics: An aura that goes away, is completely reversible, and includes at least one of these symptoms: visual problems (the most common aura symptom) sensory problems of the body, face, or tongue, such as numbness, tingling, or dizziness speech or language problems problems moving or weakness, which may last up to 72 hours brainstem symptoms, which includes: difficulty talking or dysarthria(unclear speech) vertigo(a spinning feeling) tinnitus or ringing in the ears hypacusis (problems hearing) diplopia(double vision) ataxia or aninability to control body movements decreased consciousness eye problemsin only one eye, including flashes of light, blind spots, or temporary blindness (when these symptoms occur they’re calledretinal migraines) An aura that has at least two of these traits: at least one symptom spread gradually over five or more minutes each symptom of the aura lasts between five minutes and one hour (if you have three symptoms, they may last up to three hours) at least one symptom of the aura is only on one side of the head, including vision, speech, or language problems aura occurs with the headache or one hour before the headache begins Headache isn’t caused from another health problem and transient ischemic attack has been excluded as a cause. An aura usually occurs before the headache pain begins, but it can continue once the headache starts. Alternatively, an aura may start at the same time as the headache does. Chronic migraines Chronic migraineused to be called combination or mixed headache because it can have features of migraine and tension headaches. It’s also sometimes called severe migraine and can be caused bymedication overuse. People who have chronic migraines have a severe tension or migraine headache more than 15 days a month for 3 or more months. More than eight of those headaches are migraines with or without aura. Compared to people who have acute migraines, people with chronic migraines are more likely to have: severe headaches more disability at home and away from home depression another type of chronic pain, like arthritis other serious health problems (comorbidities), such as high blood pressure previous head or neck injuries Acute migraine Acute migraineis a general term for migraines that aren’t diagnosed as chronic. Another name for this type is episodic migraine. People who have episodic migraines have headaches up to 14 days a month. Thus, people with episodic migraines have fewer headaches a month than people with chronic ones. Vestibular migraine Vestibular migraineis also known as migraine-associated vertigo.About 40 percentof people who have migraines have some vestibular symptoms. These symptoms affect balance, cause dizziness, or both. People of any age, including children, may have vestibular migraines. Neurologists typically treat people who have difficulty managing their migraines, including vestibular migraines. Medications for this type of migraine are similar to ones used for other types of migraine. Vestibular migraines are also sensitive to foods that trigger migraines. So you may be able to prevent or easevertigoand the other symptoms by making changes to your diet. Your doctor may also suggest you see a vestibular rehabilitation therapist. They can teach you exercises to help you stay balanced when your symptoms are at their worst. Because these migraines can be so debilitating, you and your doctor may talk about taking preventive medications.Keep reading about vestibular migraine. Optical migraine Optical migraine is also known as eye migraine,ocular migraine, ophthalmic migraine, monocular migraine, andretinal migraine. This is a rarer type of migraine with aura, but unlike other visual auras, it affects only one eye. The International Headache Society defines retinal migraines as attacks of fully reversible and temporary vision problems in only one eye. The symptoms may include: flashes of light, called scintillations a blind spot or partial loss of vision, called scotomata loss of vision in one eye These vision problems usually occur within an hour of the headache. Sometimes optical migraines are painless. Most people who have an optical migraine have had another type of migraine before. Exercisemay bring on the attack. These headaches aren’t caused from an eye problem, such as glaucoma. Complex migraine Complex migraine isn’t a type of headache. Instead, complex or complicated migraine is a general way to describe migraines, though it’s not a very clinically accurate way to describe them. Some people use “complex migraine” to mean migraines with auras that have symptoms that are similar to symptoms of a stroke. These symptoms include: weakness trouble speaking loss of vision Seeing a board-certified headache specialist will help ensure that you get a precise, accurate diagnosis of your headaches. Menstrual migraine Menstrual-related migraines affect up to60 percent of womenwho experience any type of migraine. They can occur with or without an aura.They can also occur before, during, or after menstruation and during ovulation. Research has shown that menstrual migraines tend to be more intense, last longer, and have more significant nausea than migraines not associated with the menstrual cycle. In addition to standard treatments for migraines, women with menstrual-related migraines may also benefit from medications that affect serotonin levels as well as hormonal treatments. Acephalgic migraine or migraine without headache Acephalgic migraine is also known as migraine without headache, aura without headache, silent migraine, and visual migraine without headache. Acephalgic migraines occur when a person has an aura, but doesn’t get a headache. This type of migraine isn’t uncommon in people who start having migraines after age 40. Visual aura symptoms are most common. With this type of migraine, the aura may gradually occur with symptoms spreading over several minutes and move from one symptom to another. After visual symptoms, people may have numbness, speech problems, and then feel weak and unable to move a part of their body normally. Hormonal migraines Also known as menstrual migraines and exogenous estrogen withdrawal headaches,hormonal migrainesare linked with the female hormones, commonly estrogen. They include migraines during: your period ovulation pregnancy perimenopause the first few days after you start or stop taking medications that have estrogen in them, such as birth control pills or hormone therapy If you’re using hormone therapy and have an increase in headaches, your doctor may talk with you about: adjusting your dose changing the type of hormones stopping hormone therapy Stress migraine Stress migraine isn’t a type of migraine recognized by the International Headache Society. However,stresscan be a migraine trigger. Therearestress headaches. These are also calledtension-type headachesor ordinary headaches. Cluster migraine Cluster migraine isn’t a migraine type defined by the International Headache Society. However, there arecluster headaches. These headaches cause extreme pain around and behind the eye, often with: tearing on one side nasal congestion flushing They can be brought on by alcohol or excessive smoking. You may have cluster headaches as well as migraines. Vascular migraine Vascular migraine isn’t a migraine type defined by The International Headache Society. Vascular headache is a term that some people may use to describe a throbbing headache and pulsation caused by a migraine. Migraines in children Children can have many of the same types of migraines as adults.Childrenandteens, like adults, can also experiencedepression and anxiety disordersalong with their migraines. Until they’re older teens, children may be more likely to have symptoms on both sides of the head. It’s rare for children to have headache pain in the back of the head. Their migraines tend to last 2 to 72 hours. A few migraine variants are more common in children. These include abdominal migraine, benign paroxysmal vertigo, and cyclic vomiting. Abdominal migraine Children withabdominal migrainemay have a stomach-ache instead of a headache. The pain can be moderate or severe. Usually pain is in the middle of the stomach, around the belly button. However, the pain may not be in this specific area. The belly may just feel “sore.” Your child may also have a headache. Other symptoms can include: lack of appetite nausea with or without vomiting sensitivity to light or sound Children who have abdominal migraine are likely to develop more typical migraine symptoms as adults. Benign paroxysmal vertigo Benign paroxysmal vertigo can occur in toddlers or young children. It occurs when your child suddenly becomes unsteady and refuses to walk, or walks with their feet spread wide, so they’re wobbly. They may vomit. They may also experience a headache. Another symptom is rapid eye movements (nystagmus). The attack lasts from a few minutes to hours. Sleep often ends the symptoms. Cyclic vomiting Cyclic vomiting often occurs in school-age kids. Forceful vomiting may occur four to five times an hour for at least one hour. Your child may also have: stomach pain headache sensitivity to light or sound The symptoms may last for 1 hour or up to 10 days. In between vomiting, your child may act and feel completely normal. Attacks can occur a week or more apart. The symptoms may develop a pattern of occurrence that becomes recognizable and predictable. The symptoms of cyclic vomiting may be more noticeable than other migraine symptoms that children and teens experience. Migraines and pregnancy For many women, their migraines improve during pregnancy. However, they may become worse following delivery due to sudden hormonal shifts. Headaches during pregnancy need special attention to make sure that the cause of the headache is understood. Research is ongoing, but a recentsmall studyshowed that women with migraine during pregnancy experienced a higher rate of having: preterm or early delivery preeclampsia a baby born withlow birth weight Certain migraine medications may not be considered safe during pregnancy. This can include aspirin. If you have migraines during pregnancy, work with your doctor to find ways to treat your migraine that won’t harm your developing baby. Migraine vs. tension headache Migraine andtension headache, the most common type of headache, share some similar symptoms. However, migraine is also associated with many symptoms not shared by tension headaches. Migraines and tension headaches also respond differently to the same treatments. Both tension headaches and migraines can have: mild to moderate pain a steady ache pain on both sides of the head Only migraines can have these symptoms: moderate to severe pain pounding or throbbing an inability to do your usual activities pain on one side of the head nausea with or without vomiting an aura sensitivity to light, sound, or both Migraine prevention You may want to take these actions to helpprevent a migraine: Learn whattriggers your migrainesand avoid those things. Stay hydrated. Per day, Men should drink about 13 cups of fluids and women should drink 9 cups. Avoid skipping meals. Getquality sleep. A good night’s sleep is important for overall health. Quit smoking. Make it a priority toreduce stress in your lifeand learn to cope with it in helpful ways. Learnrelaxation skills. Exercise regularly. Exercise may help you not only reduce stress but also lose weight. Experts believeobesity is linked to migraines. Be sure to start exercising slowly to warm up gradually. Starting too fast and intensely can trigger a migraine. Talk to your doctor Sometimes the symptoms of a migraine headache can mimic those of astroke. It’s important to seek immediate medical attention if you or a loved one has a headache that: causes slurred speech or drooping on one side of the face causes new leg or arm weakness comes on very suddenly and severely with no lead-in symptoms or warning occurs with a fever, neck stiffness, confusion, seizure, double vision, weakness, numbness, or difficulty speaking has an aura where the symptoms last longer than an hour would be called the worst headache ever is accompanied by loss of consciousness Make an appointment on Quickobook to see your doctor if your headaches start to affect your daily life. Tell them if you experience pain around your eyes or ears, or if you have multiple headaches a month that last for several hours or days. It’s easy and budget friendly.
Read MoreImportance Of Protien
Importance of protein Protein is an important nutrient for an individual, not just athletes and body builders. That doesn’t mean you need to start drinking protein shakes every day. Most people can get the protein that they need from a healthy and balanced diet. Following are the details why protein is important, perfect amount to intake, and some great protein-rich foods. What is protein? Protein is one of three primary macronutrients (the others being carbohydrate and fat). Macronutrients are the chemical compounds that humans ingest the most of, and which provide us with most of our energy. Proteins consist of amino acids, and are the most commonly found molecules in cells. Our bodies can produce most of the amino acids we need to stay healthy, but there are nine amino acids that we cannot produce, and must consume through diet. The nine amino acids that our body cannot produce are called essential amino acids. Why is protein important? Humans can’t survive without all nine essential amino acids. Protein is essential to building bones, and body tissues, such as muscles, but protein does much more than that. Protein participates in practically every process of a cell. It plays a part in metabolic reactions, immune response; protein provides a source of energy, assists in cellular repair, form blood cells, and more. How much protein do you need? Protein provides the same energy density as carbohydrates. However, the body does not store proteins in the same way it stores carbohydrates and fats. This means that you need to consume protein every day. There are differing opinions about just how much protein you need each day, however. This is due in part to the number of things that affect how much protein your body needs. The amount of energy your body uses, your age, sex, body weight, activity levels, health conditions, and a number of other factors influence how much protein you need. This makes it difficult to try and establish an exact number for how much protein someone should consume on a daily basis. Still in confusion!! No worry, Quickobook is here to resolve all your queries by connecting you with the best specialists.
Read MoreBirth Control
Birth control It is the use of various devices, drugs, agents, sexual practices, or surgical procedures to prevent conception or pregnancy. Enables people to choose when they want to have a baby. A range of devices and treatments are available for both men and women that can help prevent pregnancy. Some methods are more reliable than others. The contraceptive pill, for example, used correctly, is over 99% effective. However, because people make mistakes, as many as 9 women each year will become pregnant while using it. This article will look at a range of methods of preventing pregnancy. It gives the actual rates of effectiveness, which take into account the possibility of human error. Natural methods Traditional birth control does not involve any type of device or medication. Abstinence: Celibacy or sexual abstinence means avoiding sexual intercourse. Withdrawal: known as coitus interrupts; this is when the man removes the penis from the vagina so that ejaculation occurs outside of the vagina. In theory, this prevents the sperm from being deposited in the vagina. According to the United States Health and Human Services (HHS) Office for Population Affairs, each year, for every 100 women who use this method, 20 may become pregnant. In other words, withdrawal is about80 percent effective, but this depends on how carefully and how consistently it is used. The penis does not need to enter the vagina for pregnancy to occur. It can happen if sperm enters the vagina during foreplay, for example. Devices Barrier devices prevent the sperm from meeting the egg. They may be combined with spermicide, which kills the sperm. Male condom The male condom forms a barrier and prevents pregnancy by stopping sperm from entering the vagina. It is placed over the penis before sexual intercourse begins. A condom is made of polyurethane or latex. It can also help to prevent the spread of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Condoms are available from drugstores, supermarkets, and many other outlets. Health providers also supply them, sometimes for free and can alsopurchase them online. Female condom The female condom, or femidom, is made of polyurethane. It has a flexible ring at each end. One fixes behind the pubic bone to hold the condom in place, while the other ring stays outside the vagina. Spermicides may be placed in the vagina before intercourse. A spermicide kills sperm chemically. The product may be used alone or in combination with a physical barrier. The female condom is79 percent effective and round 21 women will become pregnant each year with this method. The femidom is less easy to find than the male condom. Only the FDA-approvedFC2 is availablein the United States. Health providers may supply them, or you can get them from a drugstore on prescription. Youcan also get them online from Amazonor from theFC2 website. Sponge A contraceptive sponge is inserted into the vagina. It has adepressionto hold it in place over the cervix. Foam is placed into the vagina using an applicator. The foam is a spermicide that destroys the male sperm, and the sponge acts as a barrier to stop the sperm from reaching the egg. Between12 and 24 womenout of every 100 who use the sponge may become pregnant. It is less likely to work if a woman has already had a baby. The diaphragm A diaphragm is a rubber, dome-shaped device that is inserted into the vagina and placed over the cervix. It fits into place behind the woman’s pubic bone and has a firm but flexible ring that helps it press against the vaginal walls. Cervical cap A cervical cap is a thimble-shaped, latex rubber barrier device that fits over the cervix and blocks sperm from entering the uterus. The cap should be about one-third filled with spermicide before inserting. It stays in place by suction. Injections The contraceptive injection, or “the shot,” is a progestin-only, long-acting, reversible, birth-control drug. The name of the drug is Depo-Provera, also known as the Depo shot or DMPA. The shot is injected every 3 months at a doctor’s office. It prevents pregnancy by stopping the woman from releasing an egg. Pharmaceutical types These range from pills you can take to devices that are inserted by a doctor. You need to see a health provider to obtain most of these types of birth control. The intrauterine device (IUD) The intrauterine device (IUD), or coil, is a small, flexible T-shaped device that is placed in the uterus by a physician. There are two types: A copper IUDreleasescopper, and this acts as a spermicide. It can last up to 10 years. A hormonal IUDcontains progestin. It prevents the sperm from reaching and fertilizing the egg by thickening the cervical mucus and thinning the wall of the uterus. It stays in place as long as pregnancy is not desired. Contraceptive patch This is a transdermal patch that is applied to the skin. It releases synthetic estrogen and progestin hormones. The patch is worn each week for 3 consecutive weeks, generally on the lower abdomen or buttocks. No patch is worn in the fourth week, to allow for the menstrual period. The patches are readily available. Vaginal ring The contraceptive vaginal ring is a flexible, plastic ring that releases a low dose of progestin and estrogen over 3 weeks. It prevents ovulation and thickens the cervical mucus, so that sperm cannot move easily. The woman inserts the ring into the vagina for 3 weeks, and then she removes it for one week, during which she will experience a menstrual period. It is also known as NuvaRing, the trade name for a combined hormonal contraceptive vaginal ring manufactured by Organon. The implant An implant is a rod with a core of progestin, which it releases slowly. It is inserted under the skin of a woman’s upper arm. The implant is effective forup to 4 years, but it can be removed at any time, and then pregnancy is possible. It is99 percent effectivein preventing conception, but it will not protect against an STI. Emergency “morning after” contraception Emergency contraceptive pills, or the “morning-after pill,” may prevent pregnancy after intercourse. It prevents ovulation, fertilization, or implantation of an embryo. It is different from medical methods of termination, because these act after the egg is already implanted in the womb. Emergency contraception can be used up to 72 hours after unprotected sex. It is95 percent effectiveduring the first 24 hours, falling to 60 percent by 72 hours. Emergency contraception should only be used when primary methods fail. Bottom of Form Permanent contraception Sterilization is a permanent method of sterilization. In females Tubal ligation: This is a form of female sterilization. The surgeon will cut, block, or burn the fallopian tubes, or a combination of these methods, to seal them and prevent future fertilization. Tubal implant: A coil is placed in the female’s fallopian tubes. Tissue grows around it, blocking the tubes. It can take 3 months to work. Female sterilization is over99 percent effective. In males Vasectomy:This is surgery to make a man sterile. The tubes through which sperm pass into the ejaculate are cut or blocked. It isover 99 percent effective. It is sometimes reversible, but with a higher abundance of abnormal sperm, possibly resulting in lower fertility or birth defects. Myths about birth control Myths about birth control have proliferated throughout history, but science has put right some common misconceptions. You cannot get pregnant while you are on your period: It is not true that a woman cannot get pregnant during her menstrual period. She may be less fertile for the first few days of menstruation, but pregnancy is possible, as sperm can live inside the female body for several days. You cannot get pregnant if you have sex in a hot tub: Sexual intercourse in a hot tub or swimming pooldoes not preventpregnancy. There is also no sexual position that prevents pregnancy. Urinating or douching after sex prevents pregnancy: Douching with any substance after sexual intercoursedoes not preventpregnancy. Non-medical spermicide: Putting toothpaste or seeds in the vagina does not prevent pregnancy and should never be used as a contraceptive. Sex without penetration, ejaculation, or orgasm is safe: Even if the man does not ejaculate, the woman can become pregnant. Pregnancy is possible any time the penis—or even sperm during foreplay—enters the vagina. A woman can become pregnant whether or not she has an orgasm or is in love with the man. Breastfeeding protects against pregnancy: A woman can become pregnant while breastfeeding, although the chance is lower. Using two condoms offers extra protection: Using two condoms or using a tight condom does not offer better protection than one. Using a male and female condom together may increase the risk of pregnancy, as they can shear and tear. Disease protection Contraception is a powerful tool both for preventing unwanted pregnancy. Some methods, such as the male condom, can also reduce the risk of an STI. However, it must be used correctly to do so. No method of birth control is 100 percent effective. Combining two methods, for example, the pill with a condom, offers extra protection as well as some protection against STIs. It is important to be informed and to use birth control wisely. Quickobook is here to help you get the best doctor’s recommendation in your own city.
Read MoreUnderstanding Hormonal Imbalance
Understanding hormonal imbalance Hormones are the body’s chemical messengers. Produced in the endocrine glands, these powerful chemicals travel around the bloodstream instructing tissues and organs what to do. They help to control many of the body’s major processes, including metabolism and reproduction. When there is a hormonal imbalance, either you have too much or too little of a certain hormone. Even tiny changes can have serious effects throughout your whole body. Think of hormones like a cake recipe. Too much or too little of any one ingredient affects the final product. While some hormone levels fluctuate throughout lifetime and may just be the result of natural aging, other changes occur due to endocrine glandsget the recipe wrong. Signs or symptoms of a hormonal imbalance Hormones play an integral role in your overall health. As a result, there’s a broad range of signs or symptoms that could signal a hormonal imbalance. Symptoms will depend on which hormones or glands aren’t working properly. Common hormonal conditions affecting both men and women could cause any of the following signs or symptoms: weight gain a hump of fat between the shoulders unexplained, and sometimes sudden, weight loss fatigue increased thirst increased hunger decreased sex drive depression nervousness,anxiety, orirritability blurred vision muscle weakness muscleaches, tenderness, andstiffness pain,stiffness, orswellingin your joints increased or decreased heart rate frequent urination infertility thinning hairor fine, brittle hair dry skin puffy face rounded face purpleor pink stretch marks sweating increased sensitivity tocoldorheat constipationormore frequent bowel movements Signs or symptoms in females In females of reproductive age, the most common hormonal imbalance ispolycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Normal hormonal cycle also changes naturally during these stages: puberty pregnancy breastfeeding menopause Symptoms of a hormonal imbalance specific to females include: heavyorirregularperiods, includingmissed periods,a stopped period, ora frequent period hirsutism, or excessive hair on the face, chin, or other parts of the body acneon the face, chest, or upper back vaginal dryness vaginal atrophy pain during sex night sweats headaches hair loss darkening of the skin, especially along neck creases, in the groin, and underneath the breasts skin tags Signs or symptoms in males Testosteroneplays an important role in male development. If you aren’t producing enough testosterone, it can cause a variety of symptoms. Symptoms of hormonal imbalance in adult males include: gynecomastia, or the development of breast tissue breast tenderness loss of bone mass, otherwise known asosteoporosis difficulty concentrating hot flashes erectile dysfunction (ED) decrease inbeard growthand body hair growth loss of muscle mass Signs or symptoms in children Boys and girls start producing sex hormones duringpuberty. Many children with delayed puberty will go on to experience normal puberty, but some have a condition calledhypogonadism. Boys with hypogonadism may experience: lack of development of muscle mass a voice that doesn’t deepen excessive growth of the arms and legs in relation to the trunk of the body body hair that grows sparsely impaired penis andtesticulargrowth gynecomastia For girls with hypogonadism: menstruation doesn’t begin the growth rate doesn’t increase breast tissue doesn’t develop Causes of a hormonal imbalance There are many causes of a hormonal imbalance. Causes differs, depending on which hormones or glands are affected. Common causes of hormonal imbalance include: hormone therapy cancer treatments such aschemotherapy tumors, whethercancerousorbenign pituitary tumors medications pituitary tumors eating disorders stress injury or trauma While the conditions below may be initially caused by hormonal imbalances, having the conditions can also lead to further hormonal imbalances: diabetes(type 1 and type 2) diabetes insipidus hypothyroidism, or an underactive thyroid hyperthyroidism, or an overactive thyroid hyperfunctioningthyroid nodules thyroiditis hypogonadism Cushing syndrome, or high levels of cortisol congenital adrenal hyperplasia, which causes low levels of cortisol and aldosterone Addison’s disease hypogonadism Causes unique to women Many causes of hormonal imbalance in women are related to reproductive hormones. Common causes include: menopause primary ovarian insufficiency, which is also known aspremature menopause pregnancy breastfeeding PCOS hormone drugs such asbirth control pills Tests and diagnosis There’s no single test available for doctors to diagnose a hormonal imbalance. Begin by making an appointment with your doctor for aphysical exam. Be prepared to describe your symptoms and the timeline along which they’ve occurred. Bring a list of all medications, vitamins, and supplements you’re currently taking. Your doctor may ask you questions such as: How often are you experiencing symptoms? Does anything help relieve your symptoms? Are you more stressed than usual? When was your last period? Are you planning to get pregnant? Have you lost or gained weight recently? Do you have trouble getting or maintaining an erection? Do you have vaginal dryness or pain during sex? Depending on your symptoms, doctor may suggest one or more diagnostic tests. One can also request that your doctor perform these tests. Blood test Your doctor will send a sample of your blood to a lab for testing. Most hormones can be detected in the blood. A doctor can request ablood testto check yourthyroidand your levels ofestrogen,testosterone, andcortisol. Pelvic exam If you’re female, your doctor may perform aPap smearto feel for any unusual lumps, cysts, or tumors. If you’re male, your doctor may check your scrotum for anylumps or abnormalities. Ultrasound Anultrasoundmachine uses sound waves to look inside your body. Doctors may request an ultrasound to get images of theuterus, ovaries,testicles,thyroid, or pituitary gland. Additional tests Sometimes more advanced tests are required. These can include: biopsy MRI thyroid scan X-ray sperm count test At-home tests If you’re experiencing symptoms of a hormonal imbalance, you may also consider using a home testing kit. They’re available for a variety of conditions. Home testing kits for menopause measurefollicle-stimulating hormone (FSH)in your urine. FSH levels increase when you enter menopause. Levels also rise and fall during a normal menstrual cycle. Other factors, such as the use of hormonal birth control, can also affect your FSH levels. As such, these kits can give you an indication of whether menopause has started, but they can’t tell you conclusively. Your healthcare provider’s confirmation may be necessary. Home testing kits typically use saliva or blood from the fingertip to measure your levels of cortisol, key thyroid hormones, and sex hormones such asprogesteroneand testosterone. Some tests may require a urine sample. Treatment options for a hormonal imbalance Treatment for a hormonal imbalance will depend on what’s causing it. Some common treatment options are described below. Estrogen therapy If you’re experiencinghot flashesor otheruncomfortable symptoms of menopause, your doctor may recommend a low dose ofestrogen. Be sure to discuss the risks and benefits ofhormone replacement therapy (HRT)with your doctor. If you don’t already have a provider, you can browse doctors in your area through theHealth line Find Care tool. Vaginal estrogen If you’re experiencing vaginal dryness or pain during sex, you may want to try applying an estrogen cream, tablet, or ring. Using this local therapy treatment helps eliminate many of the risks associated with systemic estrogen, or estrogen that travels throughout the bloodstream to the appropriate organ. Hormonal birth control Hormonal birth controlcan help regulate your menstrual cycles. Types of hormonal birth control include the: birth control pill birth control patch vaginal ring birth control shot intrauterine device (IUD) It may also helpimprove acneand reduce extra hair on the face and body. Anti-androgen medications Androgens are male sex hormones that are present in both women and men. Women with high androgen levels may choose to takemedication that blocks the effects of androgens. These effects include: hair loss facial hair growth acne Testosterone therapy Testosterone supplementscan reduce thesymptoms of low testosteronein men. In adolescents with delayed puberty, it stimulates the start of puberty. It’s available in many forms, includinginjections, apatch, andgel. Thyroid hormone therapy If you have hypothyroidism, the synthetic thyroid hormonelevothyroxine(Levoxyl, Synthroid, Unithroid) can bring hormone levels back into balance. Metformin Metforminis a type 2 diabetes medication that may help some women with PCOS symptoms. The FDA hasn’t approved it to treat PCOS, but it might help lower androgen levels and encourageovulation. Flibanserin (Addyi) and bremelanotide (Vyleesi) Addyiand Vyleesi are the only medications that are FDA approved for the treatment oflow sexual desirein premenopausal women. Addyi is a pill, and Vyleesi is a self-administered injectable medication. These drugs may come with some serious side effects, such as severenauseaand changes in blood pressure. Talk to your doctor to see if either one could be right for you. Eflornithine (Vaniqa) This prescription cream is designed specifically for excessive facial hair in women. Applied topically to the skin, it helps slow new hair growth, but it doesn’tget rid of existing hair. ANSWER OUR SURVEY Natural remedies and supplements There are many nutritional supplements on the market that claim to treat menopause and hormone imbalance. However, few of them are backed up by scientific evidence. Many of these supplements contain plant-derived hormones. These are sometimes called“bioidentical” hormonesbecause they chemically resemble the body’s natural hormones. There’s no evidence to suggest that they work better than regular hormone therapy, though. Some people find thatyogahelpstreat symptoms of hormonal imbalance. Yoga is excellent for your strength, flexibility, and balance. It may alsoaid in weight loss, which can help regulate your hormones. You can also make the following lifestyle changes: Lose weight.A10 percent reduction Trusted Sourcein body weight in women may help make your periods more regular and increase your chances of getting pregnant. Weight loss in men may helpimprove erectile function. Decrease vaginal discomfort.Uselubesor moisturizers free of parabens, glycerin, and petroleum. Avoid hot flashes.Try to identify things that commonlytrigger your hot flashes, such as warm temperatures, spicy foods, or hot beverages. Eat well.Abalanced dietis an important part of overall health. Remove unwanted hair.If you have excess facial or body hair, you can use hair removal cream,laser hair removal, orelectrolysis. Hormonal imbalance and acne The primarycause of acneis excess oil production, which leads to clogged pores. Acne is most common in areas with many oil glands, including the: face chest upper back shoulders Acne is often associated with pubescent hormonal changes, but there’s actually a lifelong relationship between acne and hormones. Acne and menstruation Themenstrual cycleis one of the most common acne triggers. For many women, acne develops the week before they get their period and then clears up. Dermatologists recommend hormonal testing for women who have acne in combination with other symptoms, such as irregular periods and excess facial or body hair. Acne and androgens Androgens contribute to acne by over stimulating the oil glands. Both girls and boys have high levels of androgens during puberty, which is why acne is so common at that time. Androgen levels typically settle down in a person’s early 20s. Hormonal imbalance and weight gain Hormones play an integral role in metabolism and your body’s ability to use energy. Hormone disorders, such asCushing syndrome, can cause you to become overweight or developobesity. People with Cushing syndrome havehigh levels of cortisol in their blood. This leads to an increase in appetite and fat storage. Hypothyroidism, if the condition is severe, can also lead to weight gain. During menopause, many womengain weightbecause the metabolism slows down. You may find that even though you’re eating and exercising like normal, you still gain weight. The only way to treat weight gain from a hormone disorder is to treat the underlying condition. Hormonal imbalance and pregnancy During a normal, healthy pregnancy, your body goes throughmajor hormonal changes. This is different than a hormonal imbalance. Pregnancy and PCOS Hormonal imbalances, such as PCOS, are among the leading causes of infertility. With PCOS, the hormonal imbalanceinterferes with ovulation. You can’t get pregnant if you’re not ovulating. Pregnancy isstill possibleif you have PCOS. Losing weight can make a big difference in your fertility. There are alsoprescription medicationsavailable that can stimulate ovulation and increase your chances of becoming pregnant. In vitro fertilization (IVF)is also an option if medication doesn’t work. As a last resort, surgery can temporarily restore ovulation. PCOS can cause problems during pregnancy for both you and your baby. There are higher rates of: miscarriage gestational diabetes preeclampsia cesarean delivery high birth weight admission to and time spent in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) Pregnancy and hypothyroidism Babies born to women with untreated hypothyroidism havea higher riskforbirth defects. This includes serious intellectual and developmental problems. Hormonal imbalance and hair loss Most hair loss, such asmale pattern baldness, is hereditary and unrelated to hormonal changes. However, hormonal changes and imbalances can sometimes cause temporary hair loss. In women, this is often related to: pregnancy childbirth the onset of menopause An overproduction or underproduction of thyroid hormones can also cause hair loss. Other complications Hormone imbalances are associated with many chronic, or long-term, health conditions. Without proper treatment, you could be at risk for several serious medical conditions, including: diabetes(type 1 and type 2) diabetes insipidus kidney damage depressionandanxiety endometrial cancer breast cancer osteoporosis high blood pressure high cholesterol heart disease neuropathy obesity sleep apnea loss of muscle mass urinary incontinence infertility sexual dysfunction Hormones are responsible for many of your body’s major processes. When hormones get out of balance, the symptoms can be extremely varied. Hormonal imbalance can cause a variety of serious complications, so it’s important to seek treatment as soon as possible. Be sure to discuss the risks and benefits ofhormone replacement therapy (HRT)with your doctor. If you don’t have a provider, you don’t have to worry as Quickobook is here to provide you with the best consultants.Top of Form
Read MoreEverything You Need To Know About Heart Disease
Everything you need to know about Heart Disease: Heart disease means any condition affecting the heart. There are many types in which some are preventable. Unlike cardiovascular disease, which includes problems with the entire circulatory system, heart disease affects only the heart. According to the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), in the United States, heart disease is the leading cause of death. Around4 deathsin the U.S. occur due to heart disease, and it affects all genders as well as all ethnic and racial groups. Symptoms The symptoms of heart disease depend on the specific type a person has. Also, some heart conditions cause no symptoms at all. The following symptoms may indicate a heart problem: angina, or chest pain difficulty breathing fatigue and lightheadedness swelling due to fluid retention, oredema In children, the symptoms of a congenital heart defect may include cyanosis, or ablue tingeto the skin, and an inability to exercise. Some signs and symptoms thatcould indicateheart attack include: chest pain breathlessness heart palpitations nausea stomach pain sweating arm, jaw, back, or leg pain a choking sensation swollen ankles fatigue an irregular heartbeat Heart attack can lead to cardiac arrest, which is when the heart stops and the body can no longer function. A person needs immediate medical attention if they have any symptoms of heart attack. If cardiac arrest occurs, the personwill need: immediate medical help (call 911) immediate cardiopulmonary resuscitation a shock from an automated external defibrillator, if available Causes Heart disease develops when there is: damage to all or part of the heart a problem with the blood vessels leading to or from the heart a low supply of oxygen and nutrients to the heart In some cases, there is a genetic cause. However, some lifestyle factors and medical conditions can also increase the risk. These include: high blood pressure high cholesterol smoking a high intake ofalcohol overweight andobesity diabetes a family history of heart disease dietary choices age a history ofpreeclampsiaduring pregnancy low activity levels highstressandanxietylevels TheWorld Health Organization (WHO)mention poverty and stress as two key factors contributing to a global increase in heart and cardiovascular disease. Treatments The treatment options will vary depending on the type of heart disease a person has, but some common strategies include making lifestyle changes, taking medications, and undergoing surgery. The following sections will look at some of these options in more detail. Medications Variousmedicationscan help treat heart conditions. The main options include: Anticoagulants:Also known asblood thinners, these medications can prevent clots. They include warfarin (Coumadin). Antiplatelet therapies:These includeaspirin, and they can also prevent clots. Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors:These can help treat heart failure and high blood pressure by causing the blood vessels to expand. Benazepril (Lotensin) is one example. Angiotensin II receptor blockers:These can also control blood pressure. Valsartan (Diovan) is one example. Angiotensin receptor neprilysin inhibitors:These can help open up narrowed arteries to treat heart failure. Cholesterol-lowering medications:Statins, such asatorvastatin (Lipitor), and other types of drug can help reduce levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol in the body. Digitalis:Preparations such as digoxin (Lanoxin) can increase the strength of the heart’s pumping action. They can also help treat heart failure and arrhythmias. Beta-blockers:Atenolol (Tenormin) and other medications in this class can reduce the heart rate and lower blood pressure. They can also treat arrhythmias and angina. Calcium channel blockers: These can lower blood pressure and prevent arrhythmias by reducing the pumping strength of the heart and relaxing the blood vessels. One example is diltiazem (Cardizem). Diuretics:These medications can reduce the heart’s workload, lower blood pressure, and remove excess water from the body. Furosemide (Lasix) is one example. Vasodilators:These aremedications to lower blood pressure. They do this by relaxing the blood vessels. Nitroglycerin (Nitro Stat) is one example. They can also help ease chest pain. A doctor will work with the individual to find a suitable option. Surgery Undergoing heart surgery can treat blockages and heart related issues when medications are not effective. Some common types of surgeryare: Coronary artery bypass surgery:This allows blood flow to reach a part of the heart when an artery is blocked. Coronary artery bypass grafting is the most common surgery. A surgeon can use a healthy blood vessel from another part of the body to repair a blocked one. Valve replacement or repair:A surgeon can replace or repair a valve that is not functioning properly. Device implantation:pacemaker, balloon catheters, and other devices can help regulate the heartbeat and support blood flow. Laser treatment:Transmyocardial laser revascularization can help treat angina. Repair surgery:A surgeon can repair congenital heart defects, aneurysms, and other problems. Maze surgery:A surgeon can create new paths for electrical signals to pass through. This can help treat atrial fibrillation. Heart transplant is another option. However, it can be tough to find a suitable donor at the right time. Prevention Some lifestyle measures can help reduce the risk of heart disease. These include: Eating a balanced diet:Opt for a heart-healthy diet that is rich in fiber and favors whole grains and fresh fruits and vegetables. Also, it may help to limit the intake of processed foods and added fat, salt, and sugar. Exercisingregularly:This can help strengthen the heart and circulatory system, reduce cholesterol, and maintain blood pressure. Quitting or avoiding smoking:Smoking is a major risk factor for heart and cardiovascular conditions. Maintaining a moderate body weight:A person can check their body mass index (BMI) here.. Limiting alcohol intake:Females should consume no more than one standard drinkper day, and males should consume no more than two standard drinks per day. Managing underlying conditions:Seek treatment for conditions that affect heart health, such as high blood pressure, obesity, and diabetes. These steps can help boost overall health and reduce the risk of heart disease and its complications.
Read MoreMaintaining A Healthy Lifestyle
Maintaining a Healthy Lifestyle Only Physical fitness is not the sole basis of being healthy; being healthy means even more, being mentally, emotionally and socially fit. Being healthy should be part of one’s overall lifestyle. Living a healthy lifestyle can help prevent chronic diseases and long-term illnesses. Feeling good about yourself and taking care of your health is important for your self-esteem and self-image. One should keep this in mind that by maintaining a healthy lifestyle by doing what is right for your body. Power of Attitude A positive attitude can heighten your inner strength, boost your energy, inspire others, and garner the fortitude to meet difficult challenges. Exercise & Physical Therapy Strength and balance exercise, advice on aerobic, and flexibility help manage and reduce PN symptoms. Nutrition Good nutrition is often the first line of defense to avoid many diseases, including peripheral neuropathy.One should find advice for keeping a healthy diet, shopping and managing drug side effects. Self-Care & Coping Skills It is important to advice for daily care of your physical needs and managing the stress of dealing with peripheral neuropathy. Assistive Devices A sampling of the products made available to help you remain as independent as possible, and maintain your own safety when living with a physical disability. Caregiver Tips Tips needed for being a caregiver and needing a caregiver for yourself or a loved one. Maintain a regular exercise routine: No, you do not have to force yourself into intense workouts at the gym but you need to keep as active as possible. You can stick to easy floor exercises, swimming, walking, or simply keep yourself moving by doing some household chores. Do what your body allows you to do. What is important is that you continue exercising. Give at least twenty to thirty minutes a day to exercise at least three to five times a week. Have a routine; see to it that you have enough physical activity each day. Be conscious in your diet: To maintain a healthy lifestyle, you need to eat and drink healthy. Intake more fruits and vegetables in your diet and avoid excess carbohydrates, high sodium and unhealthy fat. Avoid eating junk food and sweets. Avoid skipping a meal—this will only make your body crave more food the moment you resume eating. You should remember to burn more calories than you eat. Engage in the things you are passionate about: Every now and then, to keep the stress and the demands of life from taking over, take a break to do something you love doing. Surround yourself with positive energy: In order to have a sound mental, emotional and social state, you must surround yourself with positive energy. Yes, not all problems can be avoided. But it helps to face such obstacles with an optimist outlook. Surround yourself with encouraging friends and people that will provide you with constructive criticism every once in a while to help you improve. Make it a habit to always look at the brighter side of life even if you find yourself in the worst situation. There is always an upside to it—something good and positive so dwell on these things instead. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is nothing difficult, nor does it require a lot of work. Just keep doing what makes you happy and apply the staying healthy tips listed above—surely you will be a well-rounded individual in no time. Still confused? Here is Quickobook with all solutions to your confusion. The doctors and nutritionist are always ready to help you get rid of any physical or mental difficulties.
Read MoreSymptoms And Medication Of Diabetes
Diabetes Diabetes: A condition where body gets impaired and ability to process blood glucose, otherwise known as blood sugar becomes difficult As per records, the number of people over 18 years of age with diagnosed and undiagnoseddiabetesis30.2 million. The figure represents between 27.9 and 32.7 percent of the population. Without ongoing, careful management, diabetes can lead to a build-up of sugars in the blood, which can increase the risk of complications that can be dangerous, leading tostrokeandheart disease. Different kinds of diabetes can occur at any stage of life and managing the condition depends on the type. All forms of diabetes does not stem from a person being overweight or leading an inactive lifestyle. In fact, some are present from childhood. TYPES: Three major diabetes types can develop: Type 1, type 2, and gestational diabetes. Type I- diabetes:known as juvenile diabetes, this type occurs when the body fails to produceinsulin. People withtype I diabetesare insulin-dependent, which means it is mandatory for them to take artificial insulin daily to stay alive. Type 2- diabetes:this type diabetesaffects the way the body uses insulin. While the body still makes insulin, unlike in type I, the cells in the body do not respond to it as effectively as they once did. According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Disease, this is the most common type of diabetes, and it hasstrong linkswithobesity. Gestational diabetes:This type occurs in women during pregnancy when the body can become less sensitive to insulin. Gestational diabetes does not occur in all women and usually resolves after giving birth. SYMPTOMS: Doctors refer to some people as having prediabetes or borderline diabetes when blood sugar is usually in the range of 100 to 125 milligrams per decilitre (mg/dL). Normal blood sugar levels sit between 70 and 99 mg/dL, whereas a person with diabetes will have a fasting blood sugar higher than 126 mg/dL. The prediabetes level means that blood glucose is higher than usual but not so high as to constitute diabetes. People with prediabetes symptoms are, however, at risk of developing type 2 diabetes, the risk factors for prediabetes and type 2 diabetes are similar. They include: being overweight a history ofhigh blood pressure a family history of diabetes having gestational diabetes or giving birth to a child with a birth weight of more than 9 pounds a history of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) having a high-density lipoprotein (HDL)cholesterollevel lower than 40 mg/dL or 50 mg/dL\ Exercise and diet tips When a person is diagnosed with any of these types of diabetes, they will often recommend making lifestyle changes to support weight loss and overall health. A doctor may refer a person with diabetes or prediabetes to a nutritionist and consulting a specialist can help a person with diabetes lead an active, balanced lifestyle and manage the condition. Healthy diet can help prevent, reverse, or manage diabetes. Following are the steps a person can take to embrace a lifestyle with diabetes include: Eating a diet high in fresh, nutritious foods, including whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins, low-fat dairy and healthy fat sources, such as nuts. Avoiding high-sugar foods that provide calories that do not have other nutritional benefits or empty calories such as sweetened sodas, junk food, and high-sugar desserts. Refraining from drinking excessive amounts of alcohol or keeping intake to less than one drink a day for women or two drinks a day for men. Engaging oneself with exercise for at least 30mins a day on at least 5 days of the week, such as of walking, aerobics, riding a bike, or swimming. Understanding signs of low blood sugar when exercising, including dizziness, confusion, weakness, and profuse sweating. Using insulin People with type I diabetes and some people with type 2 diabetes may need to inject or inhale insulin to keep their blood sugar levels from becoming too high. Various types of insulin are available, and most are grouped by how long their effect lasts. There are rapid, regular, intermediate, and long-acting insulin’s. Some people will use a long-acting insulin injection to maintain low blood sugar levels consistently. Some people may use short-acting insulin or a combination of insulin types. Whatever may be the type, a person will usually check their blood glucose levels using a finger stick. This method of checking blood sugar levels involves using a special, portable machine called a glucometer. A person with type I diabetes will then use the reading of their blood sugar level to determine how much insulin they need. Self-monitoring is the only way a person can find out their blood sugar levels. Assuming the level from any physical symptoms that occur may be dangerous unless a person suspects extremely low glucose and thinks they need a rapid dose of glucose. The discovery of insulin was fascinating and controversial. How much is too much? Insulin helps people suffering with diabetes live an active lifestyle. However, it can lead to serious side effects, especially if a person administers too much. Excessive insulin can lead a person suffer from hypoglycaemia, or extremely low blood sugar, and lead to nausea, sweating, and shaking. It is essential that people measure insulin carefully and eat a consistent diet that balances blood sugar levels as much as possible. Other medications In addition to insulin, other types of medication which are available can help a person to manage their condition. Metformin For type 2 diabetes, a doctor may prescribe metformin in pill or liquid form. It contributes to: lowering blood sugar making insulin more effective It can also help in weight loss and having a healthy weight can reduce the impact of diabetes. As well as in diabetes, a person may also have other health risks, and they may need medication to control these. A doctor will advise the individual about their needs. It is important for any individual to go for a check up through a diabetic expert. Hence, it is always useful to book a doctor through any online platform such as Quickobook in order to get the best diagnosis.
Read MoreNeed Of A Balanced Diet
What do you mean by Balanced diet? A “Balanced diet” is a balanced proportion of food with proper quantities needed to maintain health or growth. According to the information, the people who have the highest diet quality scores also have higher intakes of vitamins and minerals important for health. Therefore an individual must aim for more variety within each of the healthy or “core” food groups, which includes vegetables, fruits, whole grains, lean sources of animal or vegetarian protein (meat, poultry, seafood, eggs, nuts, legumes) and dairy foods (cheese, milk, yoghurt). Important nutrients found in thefive “core” food groupsinclude calcium, iron, zinc, folate, B vitamins, vitamin C, beta-carotene, fibre andphytonutrients. It makes sense that eating a large variety of core foods each week leaves less room on your plate for unhealthy energy-dense, nutrient-poor foods, calleddiscretionary choices. Why balanced diet is needed? The importance of a balanced is directly proportional to a healthy lifestyle.An individual can attain healthy lifestyle by maintaining a balanced dietand keeping into consideration to meet all the essential nutrients required by the body. A planned meal helps an individual attain ideal body weight and reduces the risk of making prone towards chronic diseases likediabetes cardiovascular and other types ofcancer. Having a healthy diet is all about feeling great, gaining energy, improving health, and boosting one’s mood. Good nutrition, physical activity, and healthy body weight are essential parts of an individual’s overall health. There’s no questioning the importance of healthy food in your life. It is very important for an individual to maintain a proper diet for being healthy in order to keep distance from diseases, infection, or exhaustion. The importance of nutritious food for children especially needs to be highlighted otherwise they may end up being prone to several growth and developmental problems. Some of the common health issues that arise due to lack of a balanced diet are heart disease, cancer, stroke, anddiabetes. Being physically active manages many health problems and improves mentalhealthby reducing stress, depression, and pain. Regular exercise helps to prevent metabolic syndrome,stroke,high blood pressure,arthritis, and anxiety. What falls under a balanced diet? Following are the list of healthy food group for a balanced diet: Fruits that include whole fruits, frozen or fresh fruits but not canned ones dipped in syrup Protein such as lean beef and pork, fish, chicken, beans, legumes and peas. Dairy products such as low-fat milk, yogurt, cottage cheese, and soy milk Grains such as whole grains and refined grains. For example, quinoa, brown rice, oats, barley, and buckwheat Vegetables like leafy starchy vegetables, greens, legumes like beans and peas, red and orange vegetables, and others like eggplant. A wide variety for the selection of food choices should be from each of five food groups in the specific amounts recommended. These food sources from each food group provide a similar amount of key micro and macro-nutrients to meet the body requirements. A balanced diet comprises of 50 to 60 percent carbohydrates, 30 percent fat and 12 to 20 percent protein. All the tissues and organs need proper nutrition to work effectively by consuming the right amount of nutrients and calories to maintain an ideal weight. The overall health of a person depends on good nutrition, physical exercise, and healthybody weight. Aproper meal is a complete combination of food items, food ingredients, and quantities required for breakfast, lunch, snack, and dinner for each specific age group. All you need is protein for your muscle mass and blood cells which brings oxygen and nutrients to your muscles. The body requires quality lean protein, carbohydrates, essential fats and fluids accompanied by regularexercisein maintaining physical health and well-being. These are effective in preventing excess weight gain or in maintainingweight loss but healthier lifestyles are also associated with improved sleep and mood. Physical activity particularly improves brain-related function and outcomes and making small changes in your diet can go a long way to attain the ideal body weight. Consuming the right kind of carbohydrates is important. Many people rely on the simple carbs found in sweets and processed foods. Fruits and vegetables are rich sources of natural fiber, vitamins, minerals, and other compounds that your body needs to function properly. They’re also low in calories and fat. Unsaturated fats may help reduce inflammation and provide calories. For keeping yourself wrapped with a balanced diet it is significant to understand its core through a nutritionist or a doctor. The best way to get in touch is to avail online doctor booking service such as Quickobook who helps to find you the best doctors in your own locality.
Read MoreTreatment Of Giardiasis
Giardia lamblia is both the most common intestinal parasite in the United States and a frequent cause of diarrheal illness throughout the world. In spite of its recognition as an important human pathogen, there have been relatively few agents used in therapy. This paper discusses each class of drugs used in treatment, along with their mechanism of action, in vitro and clinical efficacy, and side effects and contraindications. Recommendations are made for the preferred treatment in different clinical situations. The greatest clinical experience is with the nitroimidazole drugs, i.e., metronidazole, tinidazole, and ornidazole, which are highly effective. A 5- to 7-day course of metronidazole can be expected to cure over 90% of individuals, and a single dose of tinidazole or ornidazole will cure a similar number. Quinacrine, which is no longer produced in the United States, has excellent efficacy but may be poorly tolerated, especially in children. Furazolidone is an effective alternative but must be administered four times a day for 7 to 10 days. Paromomycin may be used during early pregnancy, because it is not systematically absorbed, but it is not always effective. Patients who have resistant infection can usually be cured by a prolonged course of treatment with a combination of a nitroimidazole with quinacrine. Giardia lamblia, also calledGiardia duodenalisorGiardia intestinalis, is a protozoan parasite of the small intestine that causes extensive morbidity worldwide. It was first described in the late 17th century by the Dutch microscopist Antonie van Leeuwenhoek62, and research into its epidemiology, pathogenesis, and treatment has intensified sinceG. lambliawaterborne outbreaks were reported in Europe and the United States during the 1960s and 1970s53,81,123,128,174.Giardiainfects approximately 2% of the adults and 6 to 8% of the children in developed countries worldwide and is currently responsible for the largest number of waterborne outbreaks of diarrhea in the United States54,139. Despite the recognition ofG. lambliaclinical illness for the last 40 years, the nearly 5,000 people hospitalized with giardiasis annually in the United States149, and the millions infected worldwide, there have been few reviews of therapy for this infection and no definitive treatment protocols have been published58,113,150,165,261. In addition, only a handful of agents have been used in therapy, and the agents which are available may have adverse effects or be contraindicated in certain clinical situations. Also, resistance may play a role in some infections. This paper will review the agents currently used for the treatment of giardiasis. The history, mechanism of action, in vitro and clinical studies, and adverse effects are detailed for each drug class. In addition, special clinical situations are discussed and recommendations for therapy are made. BACKGROUND The life cycle ofG. lambliahas two forms: the trophozoite (Fig.1) and the cyst. The cyst is the infectious form and is ingested in contaminated water or food or directly from fecal-oral contact. As few as 10 cysts may establish infection206. After ingestion, excystation occurs. Excystation is thought to be initiated by contact with acidic gastric contents, followed by a highly coordinated sequence of events leading to the release of one or two trophozoites27,109,210. A parasite-derived protease may be activated during the excystation process252. The trophozoite infects the duodenum and upper intestine, which have a favorable alkaline pH, and gives rise to the clinical sequelae. As trophozoites pass through the small intestine to the colon, encystation occurs. Encystation can be initiated in vitro by culture of parasites in a reduced concentration of bile salts and cholesterol followed by culture in an increased concentration of bile at an alkaline pH156. Cyst wall proteins are then transcribed, secreted into encystment-specific vesicles, and transported to the newly forming cell wall over 14 to 16 h75. Open in new tab Download powerpoint Fig. 1. Ventral surface of aGiardia lambliatrophozoite imaged by scanning electron microscopy. It demonstrates the disk and flagella. A second trophozoite is seen behind it. Magnification, ×8,100. Photo courtesy of David Dorward, Rocky Mountain Laboratory, National Institutes of Health, Hamilton, Mont. The wide variety of clinical presentations, from severe disease to an asymptomatic carrier state, makes the definitive determination of pathogenesis difficult. However, several theories have been put forward83,115. Some of the most likely include the ability of the protozoan to cause direct damage to the intestinal mucosa via adherence with the disk, disaccharidase enzyme reduction following brush border damage, the release fromGiardiaof cytopathic substances such as thiol proteinases and lectins, and the stimulation of a host immune response with release of cytokines and mucosal inflammation41,48,61,78,83,106,110,157,259. Additionally, it is likely that there are genetic differences betweenGiardiaisolates which may confer virulence115,173,182,190. The surface ofGiardiamay also undergo antigenic variation in the human host and thus evade immune detection181. Given these multiple potential mechanisms, a multifactoral process is likely. G. lambliais found primarily in mammals including humans, cats, dogs, beavers, and cattle40,74,77,257. Transmission of theG. lambliacyst to humans occurs most commonly following ingestion of contaminated water139. Transmission via surface water is facilitated by the relative resistance of the cyst to chlorination and its ability to survive in cold water for weeks59,122. Transmission by food22,152,187, by direct fecal-oral contact among children in day care28,224,237or in developing-world settings96,159, and by sexual practices which include oral-anal contact168represent other common modes of transmission113.G. lambliais also seen as a cause of prolonged diarrhea in travelers37,66,125,136,205; N. Fiumara, Letter, N. Engl. J. Med.288:1410–1411, 1973). Worldwide, the majority of patients infected withG. lambliaare asymptomatic. However, typical clinical symptoms of giardiasis usually begin 1 to 3 weeks after ingestion of cysts and are marked by diarrhea, malaise, flatulence, greasy stools, and abdominal cramps113,256. Other symptoms commonly include bloating, weight loss174, and anorexia. Vomiting and fever are less common, and blood- or mucus-tinged feces are rare. Illness can last several months if untreated and can be characterized by continued exacerbations of diarrheal symptoms. With chronic illness, malabsorption of fat, lactose, vitamin A, and vitamin B12are reported, and failure of children to thrive has been noted86,112,149,184,227. Giardiasis should be considered in the differential diagnosis of many diarrheal syndromes. A careful history, which notes any risk factors such as recent travel, wilderness exposure, or situations involving poor fecal-oral hygiene, and a physical examination are essential. Infection withG. lambliacan often be distinguished from bacterial and viral infections because of the longer duration of illness, 7 to 10 days by the time of presentation, and the presence of weight loss113. Parasitic diarrhea withCryptosporidiumorCyclosporacan have similar features in the immunologically normal host and would need to be distinguished by specific diagnostic testing50,99. Several methods exist for detection of the parasite. Demonstration of trophozoites or cysts in the stool, called the ova and parasite (O&P) examination, is the traditional means of diagnosis167. One stool sample will allow the detection of 60 to 80% of infections, 2 stool samples will allow the detection of 80 to 90%, and three stool samples will allow the detection of over 90%97,111. However, in some instances, because of intermittent or low levels of shedding, it is necessary to examine more than three stool samples. The desire for more sensitive and specific, as well as faster and reproducible, diagnostic testing has led to the development of immunoassays. Fecal antigen detection using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays, nonenzymatic immunoassays, or fluorescein-tagged monoclonal antibodies can be superior diagnostic methods to the O&P examination7,89,90,161,262. It is particularly helpful in assessing cure or in screening forGiardiainfection. However, when other parasites are in the differential diagnosis, a stool sample for O&P examination should still be ordered. In the unusual patient for whom a diagnosis cannot be made by O&P examination of stool, endoscopy with duodenal fluid sampling and biopsy may be performed82,113,185,256. An instance in which this may be helpful is the human immunodeficiency virus-infected patient with diarrhea, whose illness has multiple potential etiologies. Culture and sensitivity testing is available only in research settings120,138. DNA probes have been generally limited to detection of parasites in water samples134,158, and serologic testing is most useful in epidemiologic surveys118,119,170. Figure2outlines an approach to the diagnosis and management of suspected cases of giardiasis and is discussed further below (see “Recommendations”). Open in new tab Download powerpoint Fig. 2. Outline of the diagnosis and management of suspected cases of giardiasis. THERAPY OF GIARDIASIS When evaluating the clinical efficacy of agents used againstGiardia, it is difficult to compare studies. They vary as to entry methodology (whether randomization was done and if treatment was blinded or open), population studied (children, adults, symptomatic and/or asymptomatic patients), outcome measures (clinical efficacy and/or stool negativity), and duration of follow-up. Nevertheless, conclusions may be drawn from the studies when viewed as a whole, and statements can be made about the relative efficacy of the agents. Classes of Agents and Clinical Properties Nitroimidazoles.The nitroimidazoles class of agents used to treatG. lambliainfection includes metronidazole, tinidazole, ornidazole, and secnidazole. This class was discovered in 1955 and was found to be highly effective against several protozoan infections240. Metronidazole [1-(β-hydroxyethyl)-2-methyl-5-nitroimidazole; Flagyl] was determined to be therapeutic againstTrichomonas vaginalisandEntamoeba histolyticafollowing its discovery in the late 1950s67, and in 1962 Darbon et al. reported that it could be used to treat giardiasis57. Since this discovery, metronidazole and other nitroimidazoles have been used by clinicians as the mainstay of therapy of giardiasis. Of the nitroimidazoles, the mechanism of killing ofGiardiaby metronidazole has been the most thoroughly studied. Metronidazole utilizes the anaerobic metabolic pathways present inGiardia. The drug enters the trophozoite, and once it is within the cell, electron transport protein ferredoxins from the parasite donate electrons to the nitro group of the drug223,238,244. The drug becomes “activated” by reduction of this nitro group223,238,240, and a gradient favoring the intracellular transport of metronidazole is established by this reduction reaction. Reduced metronidazole serves as a terminal electron acceptor which binds covalently to DNA macromolecules72,177. This results in DNA damage in the form of loss of helical structure, impaired template function, and strand breakage, with subsequent trophozoite death95. In addition to this effect, metronidazole inhibits trophozoite respiration81,189. The reductive activation of metronidazole may also lead to toxic radicals, which react with essential cellular components244. Trophozoites within cysts may be less affected by nitroimidazoles, possibly because of poor penetration of drug through the cyst wall236. Resistance to metronidazole has been induced in vitro29. It correlates with decreased activity of parasite pyruvate:ferredoxin oxidoreductase, which is required for reductive activation of nitroimidazoles239,247. Metronidazole is quickly and completely absorbed after oral administration and penetrates body tissues and secretions such as saliva, breast milk, semen, and vaginal secretions240. The drug is metabolized mainly in the liver and is excreted in the urine147. In vitro assays for nitroimidazole drug susceptibility have been performed withG. lambliasince 1980112. Using microscopic evaluation of parasite morphology and mobility, Jokipii and Jokipii first demonstrated that metronidazole and tinidazole were effective129. Subsequently, morphology13,166,175, growth inhibition56,69,94,116,160,225, [3H]thymidine incorporation32,117,164, serum killing114, vital-dye exclusion114,235, inhibition of adherence21,55,79,166,192, metabolic228, and colorimetric133assays have been employed to measure the in vitro response of the drug to many therapeutic agents. However, as indicated by the variety of assays used, there is no standard for in vitro testing, making it difficult to compare results and apply in vitro findings to the clinical setting. Of the nitroimidazoles, tinidazole and metronidazole have consistently demonstrated the greatest in vitro activity; tinidazole possesses a slight advantage30,32,55,101. More highly substituted nitroimidazoles, such as miconazole, clotrimazole, itraconazole, and ketoconazole, were developed for their antifungal activity and are not effective agents againstG. lamblia55. Sensitivity to nitroimidazoles can vary depending on the stocks and clones ofG. lambliaused in testing29,31,79,160. In the United States, metronidazole is the only member of the nitroimidazole class available to treat giardiasis; it is also the most common drug used for treatment worldwide. In spite of its widespread and accepted use againstGiardia, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has never approved it for this indication. Clinical trials have employed dosing two and three times daily (usually 250 mg/dose) for 5 to 10 days and short-course (1 to 3 days), daily single-dose therapy (2.0 or 2.4 g/dose)261. In the 5- to 10-day schedules the efficacy ranges from 60 to 100% in adult and pediatric patients, with a median efficacy in both groups of 92% (Table1)20,49,68,91,92,100,127,132,135,150,151,191,201,202,232,256. In general, this schedule is well tolerated, with most side effects involving gastrointestinal upset and metallic taste (Table2).
Read MoreComplexity Of Healthcare
Across all disciplines, at all levels, and throughout the world, health care is becoming more complex. Just 30 years ago the typical general practitioner in the United Kingdom practiced from privately owned premises with a minimum of support staff, subscribed to a single journal, phoned up a specialist whenever he or she needed advice, and did around an hour's paperwork per week. The specialist worked in a hospital, focused explicitly on a particular system of the body, was undisputed leader of his or her “firm,” and generally left administration to the administrators. These individuals often worked long hours, but most of their problems could be described in biomedical terms and tackled using the knowledge and skills they had acquired at medical school. You used to go to the doctor when you felt ill, to find out what was wrong with you and get some medicine that would make you better. These days you are as likely to be there because the doctor (or the nurse, the care coordinator, or even the computer) has sent for you. Your treatment will now be dictated by the evidence—but this may well be imprecise, equivocal, or conflicting. Your declared values and preferences may be used, formally or informally, in a shared management decision about your illness. The solution to your problem is unlikely to come in a bottle and may well involve a multidisciplinary team. Not so long ago public health was the science of controlling infectious diseases by identifying the “cause” (an alien organism) and taking steps to remove or contain it. Today's epidemics have fuzzier boundaries (one is even known as “syndrome X”): they are the result of the interplay of genetic predisposition, environmental context, and lifestyle choices. But the machine metaphor lets us down badly when no part of the equation is constant, independent, or predictable. The new science of complex adaptive systems may provide new metaphors that can help us to deal with these issues better.In this series of articles we shall explore new approaches to issues in clinical practice, organisational leadership, and education. In this introductory article, we lay out some basic principles for understanding complex systems. Complex adaptive systems: some basic concepts Definitions and examples A complex adaptive system is a collection of individual agents with freedom to act in ways that are not always totally predictable, and whose actions are interconnected so that one agent's actions change the context for other agents. Examples include the immune systema colony of termites the financial market,and just about any collection of humans (for example, a family, a committee, or a primary healthcare team). Fuzzy, rather than rigid, boundaries In mechanical systems boundaries are fixed and well defined; for example, knowing what is and is not a part of a car is no problem. Complex systems typically have fuzzy boundaries. Membership can change, and agents can simultaneously be members of several systems. This can complicate problem solving and lead to unexpected actions in response to change. For example, Dr Simon (box) cannot understand why staff is so resistant to a small extension of surgery opening hours. Perhaps it is the fact that the apparently simple adjustment to working arrangements will play havoc with their own lunchtime involvements with other social systems—be these meeting a child from school, attending a meeting or study class, or making contact with others who themselves have fixed lunch hour Agents' actions are based on internalised rules In a complex adaptive system, agents respond to their environment by using internalised rule sets that drive action. In a biochemical system, the “rules” are a series of chemical reactions. At a human level, the rules can be expressed as instincts, constructs, and mental models. “Explore the patient's ideas, concerns, and expectations” is an example of an internalised rule that might drive a doctor's actions. These internal rules need not be shared, explicit, or even logical when viewed by another agent.For example, another doctor might act according to the internalised rule “Patients come to the doctor for a scientific diagnosis.” In the example in the box Dr Simon's partners and staff probably do not share her implicit behaviour rule—“Try to accommodate patients' desire to be seen outside standard surgery hours.” The mental models and rules within which independent agents operate are not fixed. The fourth article in this series—on complexity and education—will explore this point in more detail. The agents and the system are adaptive Because the agents within it can change, a complex system can adapt its behaviour over time. At a biochemical level, adaptive micro-organisms frequently develop antibiotic resistance. At the level of human behaviour, Mr Henderson (see box) seems to have learnt that the surgery is somewhere he can come for a friendly chat. As this example illustrates, adaptation within the system can be for better or for worse, depending on whose point of view is being considered. Systems are embedded within other systems and co-evolve The evolution of one system influences and is influenced by that of other systems.Dr Simon and Mr Henderson have together evolved a system of behaviour; they have both contributed to the pattern of frequent visits we now observe. The health centre is also embedded within a locality and the wider society, and these also play a part in Mr Henderson's behaviour. A subsequent article in this series will explore how medical care for people with diabetes is embedded in wider social and other systems.Our efforts to improve the formal system of medical care can be aided or thwarted by these other more informal “shadow systems.”Since each agent and each system is nested within other systems, all evolving together and interacting, we cannot fully understand any of the agents or systems without reference to the others. Tension and paradox are natural phenomena, not necessarily to be resolved The fact that complex systems interact with other complex systems leads to tension and paradox that can never be fully resolved. In complex social systems, the seemingly opposing forces of competition and cooperation often work together in positive ways—fierce competition within an industry can improve the collective performance of all participants. Many will sympathise with Dr Simon's uneasiness about evidence based medicine. There is an insoluble paradox between the need for consistent and evidence based standards of care and the unique predicament, context, priorities, and choices of the individual patient. Whereas conventional reductionist scientific thinking assumes that we shall eventually figure it all out and resolve all the unresolved issues, complexity theory is comfortable with and even values such inherent tension between different parts of the system. Interaction leads to continually emerging, novel behaviour The behaviour of a complex system emerges from the interaction among the agents. The observable outcomes are more than merely the sum of the parts—the properties of hydrogen and oxygen atoms cannot be simply combined to account for the noise or shimmer of a babbling brook.The next article in this series considers the application of complexity thinking in healthcare organisations; it will describe how the productive interaction of individuals can lead to novel approaches to issues.The inability to account for surprise, creativity, and emergent phenomena is the major shortcoming of reductionist thinking.
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