Symptoms of Scoliosis and Ways to Treat It

Symptoms of Scoliosis and Ways to Treat It

Any kind of abnormal curvature of the spine is called as scoliosis. For any person, the spine has one curve at the top of the shoulder and one curve at the lower back. But if you see anyone having a curve from side to side, in the shape of C or S, then that condition is called as scoliosis. There are can be many reasons for this problem like genetic conditions and birth defects and it can also be due to the neurological abnormalities. These kinds of changes of the curvature occur during the stage of growth like puberty. Symptoms of scoliosis The symptoms of scoliosis will depend on the degree of the problem or curvature a person has. The scoliosis treatment will also depend on the degree and symptoms of this problem. Here is a list of symptoms that you can see in a person having this problem. The shoulders of the person suffering from scoliosis are going to be uneven. The shoulder blade of one shoulder appears to be higher than the other shoulder blade. The shoulder blade of one shoulder sticks out than the other shoulder blade. The spine rotates. Severe back pain. The functioning of the lungs is disturbed as the chest space is reduced due to the spine curvature. One hip appears to be higher than the other hip and they appear uneven. Usually, you should consult a doctor when you see any of these symptoms. Your doctor is going to work toward controlling the symptoms from getting worse. You need to get started with the scoliosis treatment as soon as possible in order to avoid any complications. Treatment of scoliosis In most of the cases, scoliosis treatment is not required for the children as the curves are mild. The doctor will keep checking them for every 3 to 6 months in order to make sure that the curve is not getting worse.
Symptoms and Treatment Methods for Pneumonia

Symptoms and Treatment Methods for Pneumonia

Pneumonia is the infection caused in one or both the lungs. It can be caused due to viruses, fungus, or bacteria. The disease causes your lungs to be filled with fluid or pus, thus making it difficult to breathe. The symptoms that you might experience for pneumonia are coughing with mucus, sweating and chills, shortness of breath, and chest pain. Pneumonia can be caused due to germs or location and the treatment of each disease depends on a variety of factors. Most of the pneumonia is known to be contagious. However, you can get cured with the right treatment for pneumonia. Symptoms of pneumonia The symptoms of pneumonia essentially vary from being mild to severe. It also depends on your age as well as health. The most common symptoms of pneumonia include mild or high fever, shaking chills, cough, and falling short of breath while doing hectic activities. Some other additional symptoms of pneumonia can also include a stabbing chest pain that gets worse when you are breathing heavily. You might experience a headache, a very clammy skin, and excessive sweating in some cases. Your doctor will recommend the correct treatment for pneumonia based on your symptoms and diagnosis. When the condition gets worse you might feel a loss in your appetite and in energy accompanied by fatigue. Older people might also experience confusion. As pneumonia can be bacterial and viral, the associated symptoms also vary accordingly. In case you have bacterial pneumonia, your temperature might go as high as 105 degrees Fahrenheit. This type of pneumonia is known to cause sweating and a rapid increase in the pulse rate and breathing. Due to the lack of oxygen, the lips and nail beds can turn blue. The patient might also feel a loss of focus. When it comes to viral pneumonia, the symptoms are similar to influenza.
Common Signs and Symptoms of Seizures

Common Signs and Symptoms of Seizures

Seizures can be defined as significant changes in the brain’s electrical activity. These changes result in noticeable symptoms in one’s body such as jerky movements of the arms and legs or violent shaking. The signs of seizures can range from mild to severe. They should be taken seriously, as even mild seizures may be a sign of a significant underlying medical condition. Consequently, it is important to seek instant medical help if one experiences them. Types of Seizures Broadly, the seizures can be classified into the following types: Non-epileptic seizures These occur as a result of an injury, where the head suffers a major blow. These seizures can be cured with effective treatment. Normally, they do not come back after treatment. Partial seizures Also known as focal, temporal lobe and Jacksonian seizures, partial seizures occur if one is suffering from epilepsy. Epilepsy is a condition that triggers repeated seizures. This type of seizures only occurs in one side of the brain. Consequently, only one side of the body is affected. Generalized seizures These kinds of seizures occur when nerve cells in both sides of the brain fail to function, thus affecting both sides of the body. Such seizures can make one have muscle spasms, black out or even fall. Generalized seizures are further divided into 6 types: Tonic-clonic/grand mal seizures These are the most noticeable type of seizures that can last up to 3 minutes. In this, the entire body stiffens, shakes and the person loses consciousness. It can even lead to breathing problems or loss of bladder or bowel control. Clonic seizures In this, the muscles experience spasms, making face, arms or neck jerk in time. Tonic seizures This is more common in people suffering from epilepsy. The muscles in the arms, legs or trunk tense up, and a result the person loses balance and falls down.
Anemia – Causes and Symptoms

Anemia – Causes and Symptoms

Iron deficiency or anemia is one of the most common forms of anemia and affects many people. It is the result of an inadequate amount of healthy red blood cells in the body. Red blood cells carry oxygen to the tissues in the body and are vital to the healthy functioning of the body as well. As the name suggests, a deficiency in iron leads to the onset of the disease. Your body cannot produce healthy red blood cells without sufficient amounts of iron. Iron deficiency or anemia may result in you feeling tired at all times and suffering from a shortness of breath. You need to maintain a healthy diet rich in iron to get back on track or correct your iron deficiency by taking iron supplements. You may need additional tests to determine the true nature of the disease, especially if you are bleeding internally. Here are some of the symptoms of iron deficiency or anemia: Symptoms of iron deficiency or anemia The onset of the disease is so mild that it generally goes unnoticed. The signs and symptoms of the disease gather pace once the deficiency of iron starts having a telling impact on the body. The signs and symptoms of iron deficiency or anemia include the following: Pale skin Weakness Extreme fatigue Chest pain Fast heartbeat Shortness of breath Dizziness, headaches, or light-headedness Cold hands and feet A poor appetite Unusual cravings for substances like starch, dirt, and ice Brittle nails If you end up suffering from these symptoms, it suggests the likelihood of iron deficiency or anemia. The worst you can do at this stage is do a self-diagnosis and find a treatment for yourself. While it seems simple to take iron supplements or drastically change your diet to incorporate more iron, overloading the body with iron can be extremely dangerous as well.
The Symptoms of Vitamin B12 Deficiency

The Symptoms of Vitamin B12 Deficiency

The food we consume every day mostly consists of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. However, there are other essential organic and inorganic constituents, which are equally important for our health. Vitamins are one such organic component of food. Although we only need to include minute quantities of these in our everyday diet, they play a significant role in maintaining an individual’s growth and metabolism. Any person’s healthy appearance comes not only from energy-yielding proteins, carbohydrates, and fats but also from other components like vitamins, minerals, and water. Sources of vitamins Vitamins are a protective food that is essential to ensure that the human body functions normally. Vitamins are crucial since they cannot be synthesized in the human body. Therefore, whenever there is disequilibrium in its quantity, one needs to take supplements to ensure a balanced intake. Since plants can synthesize vitamins, animal foods like meat, fish, eggs, liver, and milk can be a good way to replenish a vitamin imbalance. When humans eat animals that feed on plants, vitamins are transferred to the human body. Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, cannot be found in foods of plant origin. Animal-based foods are an abundant source of this vitamin. Vitamin B12 that is synthesized by the intestinal bacteria in humans is not enough to meet the daily requirements. In such cases, vitamin B12 supplements are a lifesaver. Kinds of vitamins Vitamins are of two types, fat-soluble and water-soluble. The B complex groups of vitamins like thiamine, niacin, folic acid, riboflavin, cobalamin, riboflavin, and biotin are water-soluble. Hydroxycobalamin, chlorocobalamin, cyan cobalamin, and nitro cobalamin are few active forms of vitamin B12. Functions of vitamin B12 All vitamins which are a part of vitamin B-Complex act as coenzymes and vitamin B12 is no exception. Vitamin B12 acts as coenzymes in different chemical reactions in the body, in the form of cobamide, which is involved in the formation of DNA.
Symptoms and Diagnosis of a Pulmonary Embolism

Symptoms and Diagnosis of a Pulmonary Embolism

A pulmonary embolism can have many symptoms that are associated with other medical conditions like heart disease. However, if you do identify any of these symptoms in yourself or others, contact your nearest medical emergency services as it can be a life-threatening situation. What is a Pulmonary Embolism? A pulmonary embolism is a block in blood vessels associated with your lungs. These blockages can restrict blood supply to the lungs and deplete oxygen levels in the body because the lungs are affected. It can also lead to other complications. Mostly, pulmonary embolism is caused by blood clots, and a major cause of these blood clots is deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Deep Vein Thrombosis DVT is a condition in which a blood clot develops in a vein that is deep in your body and not near the surface. These blood clots commonly begin at the calf muscles or thighs. However, these deep-vein blood clots can also begin somewhere else in the body. Wherever they begin, they can travel through the bloodstream and reach vital organs in your body, like your lungs. When the block occurs in a blood vessel that is connected to the lungs, it is a pulmonary embolism. Some of the most common causes of DVT are as follows: A leg fracture that damages a blood vessel which leads to blood clotting Obesity which can exert pressure on your legs A catheter inserted into a vein Hereditary – Other members of your family, previous generations, have had DVT Smoking Hormone medications Hormone fluctuations like pregnancy Being seated for a long time Some medical conditions like cancer, heart disease, and irritable bowel syndrome Surgery can also result in blood clots Pulmonary Embolism Symptoms and Diagnostic Tests A pulmonary embolism is caused by a blockage in the arteries that supply blood to your lungs.
Causes and Symptoms of Allergy Cough

Causes and Symptoms of Allergy Cough

An allergic cough involves bronchi inflammation. This inflammation is mainly caused either by any allergen or by something you are allergic to. Most of the times, airway irritants like dust, mold, and pollen can trigger the allergy cough symptoms. This coughing caused by the allergy can not only last for quite a long time but also keep recurring. When allergic bronchitis lasts longer than almost three months, it is often known as chronic bronchitis. Along with the emphysema, this chronic bronchitis is also a part of the COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease). However, patients may sometimes confuse this allergic reaction with the common cold. Without diagnosing the proper reasons behind the coughing, the right treatment is not possible. Hence, whenever you are experiencing a recurring cough that lasts for a long time, get an appointment with a healthcare professional for the best results. Here is a list of some of the causes behind this allergic cough along with some common allergy cough symptoms. Causes for coughing from allergies Usually, the coughing from allergies is caused by the overactive immune system that responds excessively to some specific substances to which the body becomes exposed! When your body mistakes the harmless substances for the harmful ones, it initiates the defense system of the body to ward off those substances resulting in the release of histamine, a chemical that is responsible for coughing, runny nose, nasal passage swelling, and sneezing. As a result, you start to experience the symptoms of having a cold without even catching a cold. If your family already has a history of allergies, you are most likely to develop this allergic cough. According to various medical study reports, if one of the parents has the allergy, there is a 33% chance that the children will have an allergy too.
Symptoms and Treatment Methods for MRSA

Symptoms and Treatment Methods for MRSA

MRSA is an infection caused by bacteria that are resistant to most common antibiotics. These skin infections can be painful and it can even lead to other complications if the bacteria enter the bloodstream. However, this condition can be treated, if identified quickly. Read on to find how to treat MRSA. What is MRSA? Staphylococcal Aureus is a bacteria that is part of the microflora in the human body. It is present in the respiratory tract, the nose, and the skin. MRSA or Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA) is a form of the Staph aureus that has become highly resistant to many of the common antibiotics that are used in treating bacterial infections. If you have any cuts or abrasions on the skin, this bacteria can cause a skin infection which is also referred to as MRSA. MRSA can be a Healthcare-Acquired condition or Community Acquired. In HA-MRSA, people who are admitted to hospitals for surgery or other procedures like IV tubing are vulnerable to this condition. In community-acquired or CA-MRSA, the bacteria spread through contact, i.e skin to skin. Children at school, childcare workers, people who work in crowded environments can be at risk. However, this is not a cause for panic, because most people have this staph bacteria in their body without getting or causing an infection. In fact, CA-MRSA is much milder than HA-MRSA. According to recent data, both HA and CA MRSA are on the decline. But, it is still a common skin infection and is also one of the most common causes of infections in the bloodstream. MRSA can be treated with certain select antibiotics. Symptoms of MRSA Symptoms of MRSA are red bumps on the skin that are painful to touch. They may be swollen and filled with fluids that begin to leak out.
Causes and Symptoms of Bipolar Mania

Causes and Symptoms of Bipolar Mania

Formerly known as manic depression, bipolar disorder refers to a mental health condition wherein the patients have extreme moods swings, from emotional highs (bipolar mania/hypomania) to emotional lows (depression), with such mood swings occurring multiple times a year. Such mood swings (which are symptoms of bipolar disorder) tend to affect the patient’s ability to think clearly, perform daily activities, and exercise good judgment. It is typically diagnosed in the teenage years or early twenties. However, these bipolar mania symptoms can continue throughout the patient’s life. In bipolar mania, a person tends to demonstrate extreme behavior, particularly an abnormally good mood, strong bursts of energy, hyperactivity, and strongly increased creativity or aggression. The bipolar mania symptoms manifest differently in different people and can last for anywhere from days to a week. Sometimes, attacks might last as long as a few months; usually, they require hospitalization or medication to be kept in check. Manic episodes are often interspersed with periods of depression where the person suffers from exhaustion, hopelessness, and sadness, in other words, the opposite of mania. These are also strong symptoms to watch out for. Bipolar patients may also experience hypomania, which is a milder form of mania and, generally, a more manageable symptom. What are its causes? While some people have a genetic predisposition to developing bipolar disorder, research shows that there is no clear-cut cause for it. Some studies indicate that abnormal thyroid functioning, imbalances in neurotransmission, disturbances in the circadian rhythm, and high levels of the cortisol hormone could be the possible causes. There are also environmental and psychological factors that could trigger episodes of bipolar mania. Some of them are as listed: Substance abuse : While substance abuse does not actually cause bipolar disorder, drugs such as ecstasy, cocaine, and amphetamines can trigger attacks of mania.
12 Symptoms of Adult ADHD

12 Symptoms of Adult ADHD

ADHD or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder is a neurobehavioral disorder that can cause physical and mental problems if left untreated. The disease could take a toll on one’s life by causing problems in relationships and at the workplace as well. According to the American Psychiatric Association, 5% of all children in the country have ADHD, and almost half of those children carry the disease to adulthood. Thus, with time, this condition could disappear for some patients. However, in other cases, though the symptoms begin in childhood, ADHD continues through teenage and adulthood. It then becomes important to understand and know the signs and symptoms. Adults who have ADHD are often not aware that they suffer from this condition, and so they don’t consider it essential to treat it. However, if they wish to live a normal and healthy life, it is best to watch out for some obvious and less obvious symptoms. Hyperfocus Adults with ADHD tend to focus intently on things, and this is one of the prominent symptoms of this condition. These adults can get so engrossed in doing or watching something that they might completely ignore everything else happening around them. It can lead to strained relationships and erratic work life. Lack of focus People who have ADHD get distracted easily and have a short attention span. They have trouble listening to other people in a conversation or and are not able to pay attention to details. It is the opposite of hyperfocus where the patient is excessively focused on one topic of their interest. Lack of organization At some point or the other, life may seem chaotic to everyone. However, for ADHD patients, life seems disorderly all the time because of their state of mind. ADHD could make one’s life seem disorganized and chaotic. Problems with time management Poor time management skill is one of the symptoms of adult ADHD.
Allergies- Types, Symptoms, and Treatments

Allergies- Types, Symptoms, and Treatments

An allergy is a disease caused when our immune system becomes hypersensitive due to contact with any foreign substance. These allergic reactions vary from person to person –while some allergies are less complicated with rashes or redness on skin some can be fatal like sending you into an anaphylactic shock where you find it difficult to breathe. Based on the different types of allergies, you need the best allergy medicine which can help your immune system to recover. Food allergy Although more popular among kids and infants, it can also affect adults at any point in time. The concerning thing about food allergies is that it can even occur suddenly after eating food you have been consuming for long. While allergies can happen after consuming anything from eggplant to prawns, the 8 foods that trigger 90% of allergic cases include eggs, soy, milk, wheat, tree nuts, peanuts, fish, and shellfish. Sesame or mustard seeds can also trigger allergies. Symptoms include a swollen tongue, breathing problems, dizziness, wheezing, vomiting, repetitive cough, pale or flared skin etc. Severe symptoms include anaphylactic shock with a sudden drop in blood pressure, unconsciousness and blockage in the air passage. The best way to avoid food allergy is to avoid those foods or products that contain this food in them. In case of Anaphylaxis, injecting an EpiPen initially will help followed by medical attention. Drug allergy Drug allergies can occur after you take a medicine and your immune system gets sensitized with the ingredients of the medication, regardless of whether they are in liquid, tablet, capsule or are transfused through injections. The common triggers of this allergy can be attributed to Anticonvulsants, Penicillin and Penicillin-based antibiotics, Sulfa Drug based antibiotics, chemotherapy drugs and NSAIDs like Aspirin and Ibuprofen. The symptoms include hives, itching, rashes, swelling, wheezing and other breathing complications and in severe cases, anaphylaxis.
Key Symptoms and Treatments of Arthritis

Key Symptoms and Treatments of Arthritis

Arthritis can be described as an autoimmune disorder that leads to chronic inflammation of the joints. Generally, body parts like the knees, hands, and fingers are mainly affected by this chronic disease. The disease begins with mild symptoms that often lead to a bigger systemic illness affecting the different portions of the human body. The arthritis pain symptoms differ from one individual to another, and it may change on a day-to-day basis. Arthritis pain can be identified with the help of its symptoms. You must remember that the symptoms may vary from person to person, and you have to get a detailed idea to deal with this chronic disease. Here are some of the basic symptoms and treatment methods of rheumatoid arthritis that’ll give you an idea of what it is. Fatigue Fatigue is one of the most common symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis pain in almost all phases. Fatigue results from the active inflammation of joints, anemia, medication habits, and poor sleep. Patients feel uneasy and often report a lack of energy. Moreover, it can affect their emotions, occupation, sex drive, relationship, mood, happiness, creativity, productivity, and attentiveness. Many experts have revealed that fatigue and rheumatoid arthritis also have a connection with weight loss and poor appetite. Joint pain Joint pain is another common symptom of rheumatoid arthritis, and it results from the inflammation of joints. A large number of people suffering from rheumatoid arthritis often face severe joint pain, and you should consult a doctor if you feel joint pain due to any reason. It is important to remember that past rheumatoid arthritis can result in damaged ligaments, bone, and cartilage, and the patients feel severe pain while using the damaged joints. Joint tenderness A large number of people also face problems of joint tenderness in rheumatoid arthritis. The inflamed joint lining tissue irritates the nerves on the joint capsule, and this leads to pain.