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Ovarian Cancer, the Silent Killer

October 14, 2010 by admin Leave a Comment

Ovarian cancer is known as the silent killer because it often isn’t found and diagnosed until it has metastasized, or spread, to other areas of the body. And once a cancer has spread it is more difficult to treat. The good news is that physicians and patients are beginning to understand that the disease does show symptoms in the earliest stages -and now that awareness of these symptoms is growing more people are being diagnosed sooner and getting more effective treatment.

One of the reasons ovarian cancer is so difficult to diagnose is because the symptoms are mostly general and rather common. Typical symptoms include abdominal pressure or “fullness,” needing to urinate frequently, and pelvic pain. Some women also experience changes in their bowel habits, low back pain and other symptoms. Most women have symptoms like these from time to time. The key to identifying them as possible symptoms of ovarian cancer is that the symptoms never really go away -and tend to worsen over time.

Scientists don’t yet know what causes ovarian cancer, though they do suspect genetics can make a woman more susceptible to the disease. Those who have a strong family history of ovarian cancer or breast cancer are considered to be more at risk. Interestingly, women who have been pregnant at least once have a lower risk of getting ovarian cancer. Conditions such as obesity and infertility, and having had hormone replacement therapy, can increase your risk.

To treat ovarian cancer, a patient will need surgery. The surgeon will remove as much of the tumor and surrounding tissue as possible. Surgery will be followed by chemotherapy to kill any cancer cells that might remain. Women who are diagnosed and treated in the early stages of the disease have a 93 percent five-year survival rate.

There is not a lot a woman can do to prevent ovarian cancer. Using oral contraceptives or having at least one baby can reduce your risk somewhat. The best advice is to be aware of the symptoms and make healthy lifestyle choices.

Filed Under: Health Care, Medication, Patient Tagged With: Cancer, Health, Ovarian cancer, Symptom

Genetic Testing

October 10, 2010 by admin Leave a Comment

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Before you undergo genetic testing, it’s important you realize the tests have limitations. A positive result does not always mean you will develop the particular genetic disorder. A negative result doesn’t mean you are guaranteed not to get a disease. It is an imperfect science.

There are several things you should do before your genetic testing appointment. The genetic counselor you meet with will ask many in-depth questions about your family health history. Gather as much of this information as you can from your mother, father, grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins. Talk to your family about why you are being tested and whether or not they should consider testing, too. Finally, genetic testing is often not covered by health insurance, so make sure you know before your appointment what the cost will be and how you will pay for it.

Different types of medical tests are needed to gather the necessary samples. The type of medical test you experience depends on what you are being tested for. A medical professional may need to draw your blood for testing, or you may only need to have the inside of your cheek swabbed. If your unborn baby is being tested, a sample of amniotic fluid or the placenta may be required. You samples are then sent off for analysis.

When your results come in, they will be provided to your physician or your genetic counselor. He or she will schedule an appointment with you to discuss the results and any future health care or planning needs.

People choose genetic testing for a variety of reasons. Some are concerned they are at risk for breast cancer because of their family history. Some are worried about passing genetic mutations on to their future children. Prenatal testing can be done on an unborn child when there is concern the baby may be sick with a condition such as Down syndrome.
Before you undergo genetic testing, it’s important you realize the tests have limitations. A positive result does not always mean you will develop the particular genetic disorder. A negative result doesn’t mean you are guaranteed not to get a disease. It is an imperfect science.
There are several things you should do before your genetic testing appointment. The genetic counselor you meet with will ask many in-depth questions about your family health history. Gather as much of this information as you can from your mother, father, grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins. Talk to your family about why you are being tested and whether or not they should consider testing, too. Finally, genetic testing is often not covered by health insurance, so make sure you know before your appointment what the cost will be and how you will pay for it.
Different types of medical tests are needed to gather the necessary samples. The type of medical test you experience depends on what you are being tested for. A medical professional may need to draw your blood for testing, or you may only need to have the inside of your cheek swabbed. If your unborn baby is being tested, a sample of amniotic fluid or the placenta may be required. You samples are then sent off for analysis.
When your results come in, they will be provided to your physician or your genetic counselor. He or she will schedule an appointment with you to discuss the results and any future health care or planning needs.

Filed Under: Health Care, Medication, Patient Tagged With: Genetic counseling, Genetic Tests, Health, Health care

Children With Autism

September 21, 2010 by admin Leave a Comment

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Autism is a disorder that causes some children to experience the world differently than other children do. Children with autism often have a hard time communicating with people. Autism is considered a complex developmental disability and it affects a child’s communication and social skills.

Some children will experience mild symptoms while others have severe symptoms. No two people though, have the same symptoms. A child with autism will have trouble communicating with others, and may often appear clumsy with their interactions with peers. They will often be defensive or even off-the-wall with some of the comments they make.

Children with autism will often make little or no eye contact, and their teachers and healthcare workers must work to teach them early on that eye contact is very important. A child with autism has a hard time sympathizing with others. Many do not like to be touched or cuddled with like other children do. They also frighten at the sound of a loud noise or a sudden change in smell, light or temperature.

Children with autism may have trouble speaking, depending on the severity of the autism. Some children with autism may not speak at all, while others often repeat words or phrases they hear, which is known as echolalia.

Children experiencing autism like predictable events. They like and accept routine and the same motions day to day are the best and most comfortable for them. Some children with autism may experience tics or other body spasms. These are usually jerky movements and can go from a few seconds long to a very long time.

Filed Under: Disease, General, Health Care, Insurance, Patient Tagged With: Autism, Autism spectrum, Health, Mental health

What is a Migraine?

September 19, 2010 by admin Leave a Comment

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A migraine, once thought to be a headache, is now considered to be a neurological disease. Migraines can be caused by many factors and have many symptoms. People taking regular headache medicine for a migraine can make the pain worse and more intense.

Symptoms of a migraine include sensitivity to light, mind-numbing pain, seeing spots and difficulty speaking. There are many factors that can trigger a migraine. Something as simple as a weather change can bring on a migraine in some, while in others it could be the menstrual cycle pattern. Food could play a part in someone getting a migraine. Certain foods may trigger the disease to activate.

These disabling headaches are most likely caused from problems with nerves and blood vessels in the head. Certain chemicals in the brain (dopamine and serotonin) may also cause migraines. These neurotransmitters may cause blood vessels to act abnormally if there are too many of them. Five phases of migraines have been identified: Prodome, Auras, Headache, Headache Termination and Postdrome.

Prodome is a series of warning symptoms that a migraine is coming on. Some may experience tiredness or tense muscles before a migraine arrives. Auras are common in people about to experience a migraine. Some see patterns, hallucinations or even have blind spots before a migraine occurs. When experiencing the Headache phase, many people feel pain on both sides of their head. Throbbing pain, nausea and vomiting may occur during this phase, which can last anywhere from 4 to 72 hours. Headache Termination can occur even if the person does not have their migraine treated. If able to fall asleep, that will get rid of the headache symptoms. The Postdrome phase occurs and may make a person feel ill and not up to their usual self. Being tired and having problems thinking are common in this phase.

Filed Under: Disease, General, Insurance, Medication, Patient Tagged With: Headache, Health, Migraine, Neurological disorder, Vomiting

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

September 17, 2010 by admin Leave a Comment

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Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) is a disorder in which the patient has extreme fatigue that doesn’t get better with rest. This disorder often worsens during physical or mental activities and the cause of chronic fatigue syndrome is still unknown.

There are nine symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome: extreme tiredness, less of memory, enlarged lymph nodes, sore throat, muscle pain that cannot be explained, muscle pain that moves around, headaches, unable to sleep, and general fatigue. Other symptoms have also been reported, such as diarrhea, dizziness, earache, chills and shortness of breath.

The cause of chronic chronic fatigue syndrome is still a mystery, but many people think it may have a link to other disorders such as depression, allergies, hypotension, hypoglycemia or an immune system dysfunction. Chronic fatigue syndrome is common for people in their 40s and 50s, and more women are more likely to be diagnosed with this disorder than men. Chronic fatigue syndrome can lead to depression, missing work and social isolation, as well as other factors.

When seeing a doctor for this condition, make sure to write down any symptoms you are experiencing so that the doctor can better diagnose you. Also write down any questions you may have for the doctor. In order to be diagnosed with chronic fatigue syndrome, you must have unexplained fatigue for six or more months, and must also be suffering from four of the nine symptoms outlined above.

There is no specific testing done for chronic fatigue syndrome, so the doctor must rule out what else the problems could be from. Once diagnosed, there is no specific treatment other than a combination of treatments and lifestyle changes. You will need to learn how to reduce your fatigue by eliminating negative factors in your life such as stress. You will also want to make sure you get plenty of sleep and exercise. Keep your diet healthy and try not to overdo anything. Only you know how much your body can handle.

Filed Under: Disease, General, Health Care, Medication, Patient Tagged With: Chronic fatigue syndrome, Fatigue (medical), Headache, Health

Psoriasis

September 15, 2010 by admin Leave a Comment

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Psoriasis is a skin condition that causes redness and irritation. In people with psoriasis, skin cells grow too fast, which results in thick red skin with white-silvery patches of flaky skin called scales. While there is no cure, many treatments exist for people suffering from psoriasis. Psoriasis can be embarrassing to some, especially teens, but this condition is mostly just a nuisance to many.

Symptoms of psoriasis include: dry and cracked skin that may bleed when irritated, stiff joints, and itching or burning skin. Areas of skin that are affected by psoriasis can range from small dandruff-like areas to large areas of skin that erupt with the redness and dryness.

There are many types of psoriasis that can occur. Plaque psoriasis is the most common and causes dry, red skin with silvery scales. These patches can occur anywhere on the body, even in the mouth. Nail psoriasis affects the fingernails and toenails causing discoloration and abnormal nail growth. Nail psoriasis may cause the nail to fall off or even crumble in some cases.

Guttate psoriasis occurs in people under 30 years of age and usually starts when there is a bacterial infection in the body, such as strep throat. This condition is characterized by water-drop shaped sores on the arms, legs and scalp. Inverse psoriasis affects the skin in the groin area and the armpits. It is common in overweight people and is often triggered by sweat and friction. Pustular psoriasis is uncommon, but can quickly develop when pus-filled blisters form on the body. Erythrodermic psoriasis is not common at all, but it can cover your entire body in a red, peeling rash that can intensely itch. Psoriatic arthritis can occur in the joints on top of the already itchy, red, irritated skin. This condition can also lead to other conditions, such as conjunctivitis. It can also cause stiffness of the joints as well as muscle pain.

Filed Under: General, Health Care, Medication, Patient Tagged With: Health, Psoriasis, Research, Skin

What is Claustrophobia?

September 13, 2010 by admin Leave a Comment

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Claustrophobia is a disorder in which a person suffers anxiety over the intense fear of being in enclosed or confined spaces. Symptoms of claustrophobia include shaking, nausea, dizziness, fainting, sweating, increased heart rate and hyperventilation.

People suffering from claustrophobia will immediately walk into a room and scan the area for the nearest exits. They will be less likely to take an elevator or even walk into a basement or closet. A claustrophobic attack can also occur when in a crowded room. Claustrophobia can be treated and able to be managed through therapy. A person suffering from claustrophobia should visit a psychologist in order to determine the best treatment possible.

Many people suffering from claustrophobia had a traumatic experience in their life that associated danger with small spaces. They experience fear at not being able to escape or breathe, which then causes anxiety and triggers a number of symptoms. There are many treatments available for those with claustrophobia.

Medicinal drugs are an option for those with this disorder. While they may have unwanted side effects, they will work to help control the anxiety that occurs with claustrophobia. However, these types of drugs only mask the symptoms. They do not solve the underlying problem about what is causing claustrophobia. Natural remedies are also available which will help soothe the symptoms of anxiety. Many herbs have a calming effect and can reduce overall anxiety. These natural remedies can be taken with no risk of negative side effects.

Relaxation techniques are also useful in treating claustrophobia. Learning meditation, deep breathing or even relaxing your muscles can greatly benefit a person in times of need. Meditation helps clear the mind of all unwanted fears and anxieties.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is the most common way to treat claustrophobia. It involves slowly putting one’s self in the fearful situation. A person suffering claustrophobia may be asked to put themselves in a situation that makes them fearful or anxious. This may seem like the worst route to take, but a person will gradually adapt to these situations and may overcome their claustrophobia.

Filed Under: Disease, General, Health Care, Medication, Patient Tagged With: Claustrophobia, Health, Mental health

What is Pinkeye?

September 11, 2010 by admin Leave a Comment

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Pinkeye, also known as conjunctivitis, is an infection of the eye lid lining. Pinkeye is one of the most common ailments affecting children, even though it can affect anyone of any age. Pinkeye is usually caused by a virus, bacteria or allergies.

Pinkeye is characterized by being a redness in the whites of an eye. A virus infection is the most common way to get pinkeye. Viral pinkeye usually has more of a watery discharge and a person can have cold-like symptoms. Viral pinkeye is very contagious and can last one to two weeks. People with viral pinkeye should see a doctor, as this could turn into a cornea infection.

Bacterial pinkeye can cause symptoms such as redness, swelling and pain in the eye. Discharge in the eye usually occurs after sleeping. Bacterial pinkeye can be treated by applying warm washcloths to the eyes as well as a trip to the doctor to get eye drops or antibiotic ointment.

Allergy pinkeye is most commonly associated with itching and swelling of the eyes. Pollens, dust and dander are the main causes of this type of pinkeye and it typically causes the usual allergy symptoms such as sneezing, coughing and itching. Cold washcloths to the eyes and over-the-counter eye drops work well to give relief. If you find that you or someone you know constantly has pinkeye, that may be a sign of a more serious problem.

While cold washcloths applied to the eyes and eye drops will help to relieve the symptoms, you should visit your doctor to make sure that the infection doesn’t become more serious. Since pinkeye is very contagious, you will need to take steps to avoid passing the infection on. Wash your hands frequently and avoid touching the area around the eye. Throw away any tissues or handkerchiefs that you have used, and make sure to disinfect countertops, doorknobs and sink areas.

Filed Under: General, Health Care, Insurance, Patient, Society Tagged With: Bacteria, Conditions and Diseases, Health

Types of Allergy Medications

September 7, 2010 by admin Leave a Comment

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Allergies can cause many problems both physically and emotionally. Having allergies can make you feel like you lose a day, when all you want to do is sleep and get better. Runny nose, itchy eyes, achy bones; those are all symptoms of allergies. There are medications out there that can relieve some of your symptoms, but you need to find out which one is right for you by doing the research.

Antihistamines are broken down into two groups; first-generation and second-generation. First-generation drugs can usually be bought over-the-counter, like Benadryl, and are classified as histamine-receptor blockers. These types of drugs can make you drowsy,but they are cheaper than other medications out there. Second-generation medications cause less drowsiness, such as Claritin or Zyrtec, but may require a prescription to obtain.

Decongestants are another type of medication that can help allergy sufferers. Decongestants work to relieve nasal and sinus pressure by shrinking the blood vessels. Some doctors don’t like to prescribe these medicines too much because of the side effects such as heart palpitations, high blood pressure and increased heart rate.

Leukotriene Receptor Blockers is a newer type of allergy medication that blocks leukotrienes, which is what contributes to many allergy symptoms.

Intra-Nasal Steroids are anti-inflammatory medicines that block cells being produced in the immune system. These types of medications, such as Flonase or Nasonex, require a prescription. These types of nasal sprays can only be used for a few days though, or else they will recontaminate the body and cause congestion symptoms all over again.

Finding the right allergy medication may take time, but it will all be worth it in the end when you have relief from your symptoms. Research each treatment and see which one is right for you. If your symptoms become worse after using one of these options, stop taking it and immediately go see your doctor.

Filed Under: General, Health Care, Medication, Patient Tagged With: Allergies, Blood pressure, Conditions and Diseases, Health

Bed Bugs

September 5, 2010 by admin Leave a Comment

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Bed bugs are quickly becoming a problem once again. The recent outbreak of bed bugs has many people wondering what they are and how to get rid of them.

Bed bugs are tiny insects that feed off of human blood. Bed bugs will usually hide in mattresses, and come out in the middle of the night to feed off of you. Bed bugs will mainly come out once a week to bite, but can go as long as six months without needing to feed. While bed bugs hang out in mattresses, many can hide in linens, box springs, or even other places people sleep, such as couches, books and telephones.

Bed bugs aren’t dangerous, but they can cause a skin rash or irritation in a person when bitten. Each bed bug can lay anywhere from four to five eggs a day, so they can reproduce rapidly if left untreated. There are a few ways to tell if you have bed bugs. You may notice dark spots on your sheets or in your seams or box spring, which could be feces or blood. They can even leave behind shed skin or eggs.

Another way to tell if you have bed bugs is to look at your skin. If you see little red bites and have no idea where you got them from, you may have bed bugs. You can also try laying double-sided carpet tape around your bedding area or on the sides of your mattress. After a few days, you will notice bed bugs stuck in the tape.

There are natural remedies you can try in order to get rid of bed bugs. Vacuuming and cleaning regularly will help to get rid of the problem. You may even want to use a steam cleaner to get rid of the bugs. You might also have to try these remedies a few times before they effectively work, as bed bugs are able to hide in small areas.

Filed Under: General, Health Care, Medication, Patient Tagged With: Bedbug, Human