Here’s how vaccination helps prevent rotavirus

Here’s how vaccination helps prevent rotavirus

A rotavirus infection triggers diarrhea and vomiting in children. In fact, before the vaccine for this virus was developed, most children would be affected at least once by the age of 5. Doctors usually recommend giving children rehydration fluids to replenish all the water lost due to diarrhea. Other than that, there are no major treatments unless the infection triggers health complications linked to rotavirus. Herein, we discuss how getting a vaccine helps prevent rotavirus. Prevention of rotavirus Rotavirus is ranked among the top infectious diseases that majorly affects children under the age of 5. It remained the leading cause of diarrhea among infants up until 2006, when the first vaccine was introduced. Rotavirus is highly contagious infection that mostly spreads through hand and mouth contact. Along with a vaccination, good handwashing habits and overall hygiene will ensure that this disease doesn’t not rapidly spread. Adults must also ensure commonly touched surfaces are disinfected on a regular basis so that the child is not infected by contaminants on surfaces. Vaccination for rotavirus There are two approved vaccines that are given at a gap of two months. The first dose of the oral-drop vaccine is given to the child at the age of 15 weeks and both doses are completed before the child is 8 months old. The two approved vaccines for use are RotaTeq® The RotaTeq® vaccine is given three times: starting first at the age of 2 months, then at 4 months, and then 6 months Rotarix® Starting first at the age of 2 months and once at 4 months, the Rotarix® vaccine is given only twice. Note that the number of doses varies with these two approved brands. Statistics and studies indicate that vaccination protects almost 9 out of 10 children from severe form of the rotavirus disease.
All You Need to Know about Post Nasal Drip Cough

All You Need to Know about Post Nasal Drip Cough

Post nasal drip cough is a common condition among children and adults. This condition can affect the normal functioning of a person’s life by causing sleeplessness and severe exhaustion. With the right diagnosis and early treatment, this condition can be brought under control. What is post nasal drip cough? The glands that line the nose, airways, throat, and the stomach produce mucus every day. Mucus helps keep foreign objects away from the nose and throat by trapping and destroying any bacteria or viruses. It also greases and cleans the passages leading from the nose to the body. Usually, this mucus mixes with the saliva and trickles down the throat, and a person might barely notice it. However, when the body produces more mucus due to an allergy or infection, the mucus begins to thicken. The excess mucus comes out of the nose, and this condition is commonly referred to as a runny nose. Some of the mucus drains at the back of the throat, resulting in a condition known as post nasal drip. A post nasal drip cough occurs due to the thickened mucus blocking the throat. It can affect a person for eight weeks or more if not treated properly. It is important to check with your doctor about the best treatments available. Symptoms and causes of post nasal drip cough A post nasal drip cough can cause severe irritation to the throat and nose. You may constantly experience a feeling of clearing your throat, and this feeling may be accompanied by pain while swallowing, headaches, an ear infection, a sinus infection, a hoarse voice, a scratchy feeling in the throat, a shortness of breath, and, in serious cases, it may even lead to coughing up blood. There are several possible causes for this condition. Some of the causes are flu, allergies, sinus infection, certain types of medications for treating blood pressure and birth control, changing weather, dry or cold air, an object caught in the nose of a child, spicy food, or inhaling smoke or chemical fumes.
Symptoms of Bipolar Mania You Cannot Ignore

Symptoms of Bipolar Mania You Cannot Ignore

Formally defined as manic depression, bipolar disorder is a form of a major affective or a mood disorder that is usually characterized by manic or hypomanic episodes. These episodes cause a change in one’s normal mood accompanied by high energy states. Bipolar mania symptoms are often the result of the very serious bipolar disorder that plagues people. This bipolar mania can affect an individual for many days, which may include other symptoms like long-term sleeplessness, psychosis, hallucinations, paranoid rage, or superlative delusions. Moreover, research shows that depressive episodes may be more devastating and harder to treat in people who never have manias or hypomanias. Bipolar disorder and mania Thought to stem from a combination of genetic and non-genetic factors, bipolar disorder is a complex disorder. It is divided into two parts based on the severity: bipolar 1 and bipolar 2. Bipolar 1 comprises mood episodes that are associated with clinical depression or mania. Mania refers to the condition of high energy and extreme elation with interspersed periods of normal mood and energy in between the episodes. The severity of the mood swings may range from very mild to extreme. They may develop over time or can occur very suddenly and unexpectedly. Rapid cycling is the process wherein discrete mood episodes occur over four or more times per year, and it should not be confused with very frequent moment-to-moment based changes in the mood. The latter often points towards bipolar disorder or another disorder known as the borderline personality disorder. Patients with bipolar disorder may additionally have disturbances in thinking apart from or along with manic or depressive episodes. Impairment in social functioning and distortions of perception may also occur. Causes of bipolar disorder The causes of bipolar disorder, much like other mood disorders, are not known very well. The only concrete information available is that bipolar disorder involves the deregulation of brain functioning and may have a genetic component since it can run in families.
Causes and symptoms of chronic myeloid leukemia

Causes and symptoms of chronic myeloid leukemia

Chronic myeloid leukemia is a form of cancer that affects the White Blood Cells (WBCs) in the bone marrow. Chronic means the disease grows and spreads gradually, comparatively slower than acute forms of leukemia. This type of cancer is usually diagnosed in older adults and is rare among children, but it can affect people at any age. This article discusses the condition’s causes and symptoms, understanding which can facilitate early diagnosis and ensure timely treatment. What causes chronic myeloid leukemia? This form of leukemia develops due to a genetic mutation. While it isn’t quite understood what sets it off, how it progresses to cancer has been discovered. Humans have 23 pairs of chromosomes. In people with chronic myeloid leukemia, a part of the 9th chromosome switches places with a section of the 22nd chromosome, resulting in an extra-short 22nd chromosome (aka the Philadelphia chromosome) and an extra-long 9th chromosome. The Philadelphia chromosome is found in up to 90 percent of chronic myeloid leukemia patients. The DNA swapping between the two chromosomes leads to the formation of a new fusion gene called BCR-ABL. BCR-ABL causes the myeloid cells to produce an abnormal enzyme called tyrosine kinase, which allows WBCs to grow uncontrollably. These abnormal WBCs multiply rapidly and do not leave room for the healthy cells, leading to the development of chronic myeloid leukemia. What are the symptoms of chronic myeloid leukemia? Chronic myeloid leukemia shares symptoms with several other conditions, making diagnosis difficult. Additionally, the condition may not always cause symptoms and is usually detected in a blood test. That said, the signs may include the following when they do appear: Fatigue or weakness A person may experience tiredness, fatigue, and shortness of breath while doing everyday activities. Abdominal swelling Patients may experience abdominal discomfort and swelling, usually in the upper left part of the abdomen.
Simple Remedies You Must Know For Natural Treatment Of Enlarged Prostate

Simple Remedies You Must Know For Natural Treatment Of Enlarged Prostate

Enlarged prostate is a condition medically termed as BPH (benign prostatic hyperplasia) that causes difficulties in urination among men. Apart from medical help and diagnosis, it’s imperative to learn how to use a few simple remedies for natural treatment of enlarged prostate Prostate is a muscular gland that produces semen, and is responsible for carrying sperms out of the system during ejaculation. The prostate gland is placed below the urethra and behind the bladder in the male reproductive system. Enlargement of the prostate gradually occurs with age, especially after the age of 40 to 50 years, and is often associated with hormonal changes that occur during this time. However in some cases, this condition may also prevail at a younger age. Enlargement of the prostate gland can cause pressure on the urinary tract causing it to narrow, and resulting in many difficulties during urination such as increased frequency of urination especially in the night, lack of sleep, feeling of incomplete emptying of the bladder, dribbling urine, strained urination, abdominal pain and sometimes even blood in the urine. There are other urinary tract infections that patients already suffering from enlarged prostate can become susceptible to. Treatment of an enlarged prostate involves prescribed medication after diagnosis, such as terazosin (a drug that helps in the relaxation of the prostate muscles), as well as antibiotics which are recommended for men experiencing chronic prostatitis, and sometimes even surgery to remove the excess tissue of the enlarged prostate. One can also opt for natural remedies that could help the patient without having to pay several visits to the doctor. The following are a few simple ways that help in the natural treatment of enlarged prostate. Pelvic Strengthening Exercises By doing certain pelvic strengthening exercises (also known as Kegel exercises) patients can seek relief from pain in the abdomen due to the enlarged prostate.
Dry Eyes – Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

Dry Eyes – Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

Tears provide moistures and keep the eyes lubricated. Generally, tears contain water, oil, mucus and special proteins which protect from eye infections. In contrast dried eyes mean the eyes are deprived of the essential tears. Dry eyes don’t have adequate moisture. Those who suffer from dry eyes experience different symptoms such as itching, redness, and blurred vision. The eyes of people with dry eye syndrome fail to maintain a normal layer of tears which coat the eyes. It prevents the keeping away of the eye irritants. In some cases dry eyes also result in excess tears which are known as reflex tearing. Low moisture content causes irritation in the eye and asks the nervous system for more lubrication. In response to tears are generated to make up for the dryness in eyes. Tears keep the eyes protected and wash the dust and grime from the eye. Causes of dry eyes There are different causes of dry eyes. Occasionally deviations in the tear-flow system could be the probable causes of dry eyes. Heaters, air conditioners and several other environmental factors around us can also cause the eye to dry out. Drugs such as antihistamines, birth control pills, nasal decongestants may even cause side-effects on the eyes contributing to dry eyes. Gradual progression of age and menopause likely can cause dry eyes. Certain diseases such as collagen vascular disease, rheumatoid arthritis, and Sjogren’s syndrome also impact the ability of the eye to generate tears. Certain lifestyle habits such as working on the computer and reading for long hours can worsen the problem if you suffer from dry eyes. People who suffer from dry eyes are generally susceptible to bacterial infections which can cause scarring in the eye cornea. In some cases, the problem worsens, which can cause permanent blindness. The tears in human eye have three layers.
Eczema – Types, Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Eczema – Types, Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

The skin is the largest organ of the body by weight making about one-sixth of our total body weight. It’s a complicated structure and consists of three layers namely; epidermis the outermost one, the dermis which is a layer beneath the epidermis and the subcutaneous layer the deepest one. Eczema commonly called as ‘dermatitis’ is a skin disorder characterized by inflammation and intense itching. People suffering from eczema have extremely dry skin which is highly susceptible to bacterial, fungal or viral infections. The affected skin is not a smooth, protective barrier but patches of skin with rashness, red lumps or blisters. Eczema can affect people of all age group from infants or adults and continue to have symptoms throughout their life depending on the severity. Normally in infants, itchy rashes appear on the skin. The eczema photos show that these rashes can produce oozing, crusty condition majorly on the child’s scalp and face. Eczema is a recognizable health condition among a number of skin diseases and can be prevented by keeping the skin moisturized, nourished and healthy. Types of eczema Eczema is not considered as a contagious disease and cannot catch when in close contact. While the exact cause of eczema is unknown, researchers suggest that people develop eczema because of a combination of genes and environmental triggers. When an allergen gets activated, skin cells behave like a foreign agent causing an eczema flare-up. There are eight different types of eczema like atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, dyshidrotic eczema, hand eczema, neurodermatitis, nummular eczema, seborrheic dermatitis, and stasis dermatitis. It is possible to identify the types by looking for eczema photos online. Atopic dermatitis, which is severe and long-lasting is the most common one and can occur in combination at a time. All types of eczema cause itching, redness or blisters.
What Nobody Wants You to Know about Cancer Immunotherapy Treatment

What Nobody Wants You to Know about Cancer Immunotherapy Treatment

Is this new treatment option as “promising” or “revolutionary” as it is touted to be? Here’s what they do not want you to know about Cancer Immunotherapy treatment. According to the National Cancer Institute , approximately 1.6 million new cases of cancer were diagnosed in 2015, while around 600,000 people are likely to die of the disease this year. The most common cancers in 2015 were breast cancer, lung and bronchus cancer, prostate cancer, colon and rectum cancer, bladder cancer, melanoma of the skin, non-Hodgkin lymphoma, thyroid cancer, kidney and renal pelvis cancer, endometrial cancer, leukemia, and pancreatic cancer. However, the statistics also show that the number of people who will live beyond a cancer diagnosis will touch 19 million by 2024. This indicates an improvement in early detection techniques as well as cancer treatment options. The newest treatment option is that of cancer immunotherapy treatment. Touted to be a “revolutionary” approach to solving the cancer problem, and one of the most “promising” and “encouraging” treatment options out there, here’s the truth about cancer immunotherapy treatment that you ought to know. What is cancer immunotherapy treatment? Also known as biologic therapy, cancer immunotherapy treatment is a type of treatment that is designed to improve the body’s immune system and natural defenses to fight cancer. Unlike most other diseases, cancer is not an invading disease. In case of invader diseases, the body’s immune system is designed to fight and target the foreign cells. However, because cancer cells are the body’s own cells that have gone rogue, the immune system is not designed to target them as they are not recognized as foreign cells at all. Cancer immunotherapy treatment uses immunotherapy drugs to switch the immune system back on and target the cancerous cells as they would other foreign bodies. What are the main types of cancer immunotherapy treatment?
Narcissistic Personality Disorder- All You Need to Know

Narcissistic Personality Disorder- All You Need to Know

Many people think that Narcissism is just a phase, but that’s not the truth. Although it is human nature to be selfish and proud, a narcissist takes this to a whole new level. You can identify a narcissist by someone with an extremely high sense of importance and belief that they’re special, unique, or better than the others. About 6% of the entire population suffers from this disorder at least once in their lives and is more common in men than in women. If you think you or someone else has the characteristics of a narcissist, then read further to find out more about this personality disorder. An Overview The hallmark of a narcissist lies in their lack of understanding of someone else’s emotions or pain. They carry a highly inflated notion of themselves, but behind this, they have a relatively low self-esteem which can crack with the slightest bit of criticism. They find the need to be first in everyone’s life. This behavior can become incredibly annoying to people, often leading to the criticism of the narcissist. Symptoms Of Narcissistic Personality Disorder There are several symptoms of a narcissist, some of which are listed down below. A high sense of self-importance. They exaggerate their achievements, talents, and brilliance and expect praise for them even if they haven’t achieved anything that matches to their notion. Always preoccupied with fantasies of unlimited power, fame, success, beauty, etc. Believe that they are special or unique compared to others. Needs constant and excessive praise or admiration. Consider themselves to be entitled to significant privileges and special treatment. Exploits or takes advantages of others needs or beliefs. Most times, they have unreasonable expectations of people. Lacks the power of empathy or fails to understand the emotions or needs of others. Is envious of people.
The What and Why of Strep Meningitis

The What and Why of Strep Meningitis

Meningitis is a disease characterized by the inflammation of the lining around the brain and spinal cord. The second most common type of meningitis is bacterial meningitis. Acute bacterial meningitis is caused by several strains of bacteria such as Streptococcus pneumoniae (pneumococcus), Neisseria meningitidis (meningococcus), Haemophilus influenzae (Haemophilus), and Listeria monocytogenes (listeria). What is strep meningitis? Strep Meningitis, also known as streptococcus meningitis or pneumococcal meningitis, is a disease caused by bacteria called Streptococcus pneumoniae. The Streptococcus pneumoniae bacteria spread and multiply in the ‘meninges’ in the brain, hence, the name meningitis. The meninges are the membrane surrounding the brain and spinal cord, filled with cerebrospinal fluid, to protect the brain tissues from damage. When the meninges are infected by any kind of bacteria, toxic substances are produced in the cerebrospinal fluid, which results in inflamed and swollen brain tissue. Types of Strep Meningitis Strep Meningitis can be of two kinds. The two types of bacteria responsible for strep meningitis are Group A Streptococcal, also known as GAS, and Group B Streptococcal, known as GBS. A Group A streptococcal infection is caused by GAS bacteria, found on the inside of the throat and the skin’s surface. GAS bacteria are less harmful than GBS bacteria and cause issues like a sore throat, skin, ear and sinus infections. When the bacteria penetrate the body, the threat becomes more serious as they can cause septicemia, or blood poisoning, or lung infection AKA pneumonia. Meningitis caused by gas is rare but is still a possibility. GBS bacteria are also called Streptococcus agalactiae. These bacteria are found in the vagina, intestines, and sometimes in the throat. There is a very slight chance of these bacteria being transferred from the mother to the child during childbirth. In newborn babies, this condition is called neonatal meningitis. Many of us are the carriers of bacteria responsible for strep meningitis.
Common Symptoms and Treatments for Varicose Veins

Common Symptoms and Treatments for Varicose Veins

No one would like to spot some blue or dark purple colored veins on his or her legs or any other body parts. If you find such veins sneaking through your skin, you should talk to a dermatologist. This disorder is known as varicose veins and they form due to some faulty valves that pass blood in the wrong direction. The disorder can be found in adults and aged people. Apart from this, pregnant women are vulnerable to this vein disorder. Spider veins, swollen ankles, and aching legs are some of the symptoms one can experience when under the varicose vein disorder. Various treatments are available for varicose veins. You can opt out for home remedies, but if the condition is beyond your control, you should talk to a specialist, as the disorder can lead to varicose ulcers on your skin. Here, we will talk about the symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment for varicose veins. Symptoms In most of the cases, patients do not experience any pain at the beginning for their varicose veins disorder. Have a look at some of the most common symptoms of varicose veins. Twisted and lumpy and swollen veins Minor injuries lead to heavy bleeding Legs feel heavy after any physical activity Swollen ankles Skin discoloration in affected areas Venous eczema Leg cramps after prolong standing Restless legs syndrome Skin shrinking Diagnosis of varicose veins The process of diagnosis involves a physical examination by doctors, where they will check for swelling. If you have any aching or hard pain in your legs, you should mention it during the process. Doctors can also perform an ultrasound test to ensure proper functioning or valves in the veins. They will also search for the evidence of blood clot in your veins. In a noninvasive test, experts will use a hand-held device against your skin or the affected area to examine the cause of this disorder.
A Brief Discussion of Effective Hemorrhoid Cures

A Brief Discussion of Effective Hemorrhoid Cures

Experiencing pain or a burning sensation after every bowel movement? Well, this can be an indication of hemorrhoid or piles. Not only pain but also you may experience bleeding during bowel movements. Almost half of the entire population in the country are suffering from hemorrhoids and are looking for a cure to tackle this condition. Though piles can be cured within a couple of weeks or so, in most of the cases, it is a chronic problem that can occur at any time. If you are also suffering from piles related issues, you can either get the problem diagnosed by a doctor or you can try a few natural cures yourself. Hemorrhoid diagnosis and cure Consult a doctor once you experience any of the hemorrhoid symptoms and get yourself properly diagnosed. When it comes to medical diagnosis, you may like to know that the measures vary depending on the type of piles. While the piles formed externally are easily visible with the naked eye or felt during digital examination, piles that are formed internally are softer and require to be examined by sigmoidoscope, proctoscope or anoscope. Medical cure for hemorrhoids Like the diagnosis, treatment to varies depending on the type of piles as well as severity of the condition. In case of mild problems, doctors generally recommend some pills or ointments for your relief. However, in cases of a bigger growth, injection might be required for shrinking the extra mass causing problem. Though injections are the least painful way to treat hemorrhoids, it might not be effective for bigger growth. In such cases, doctors may require rubber band ligation or laser removal. Both the treatment procedures, may cause bleeding, pain and temporary discomfort in the patient but can cure piles completely. Yet, there are cases, in which the entire growth is not removed by rubber band ligation or laser rays.