A Brief Overview of Huntington’s Disease

A Brief Overview of Huntington’s Disease

Huntington’s disease where the mental ability of the individual gets affected is a genetic disorder. It is characterized by neurodegeneration that leads to a gradual loss of neurons. Uncoordinated body movement, degradation in the reasoning ability, and memory loss are other common symptoms of this disease. It is named after George Huntington, who conducted extensive research to give a more accurate description of this disorder. A dominant mutation in the Huntington gene causes this disease which belongs to the noncurable category. Proper treatment can only alleviate the problem and make it more manageable. The onset of Huntington’s disease usually takes place after the age of 30 years. However, a patient having a family history of this ailment may show signs even before 20 years of age. The symptoms of Huntington’s disease include: Initial stage – In the beginning, there can be slight uncoordinated movements, decreased cognitive ability, aggression, and depression. A person may make mistakes while performing even the simplest of tasks. This stage often gets ignored due to lack of awareness. Intermediate stage – By the time the individual finds out abnormalities in his behavior, the disease reaches the second stage. The symptoms get aggravated and include involuntary actions (chorea), sleep disorders, and distorted speech. Trouble in swallowing may also be experienced. Final stage – This stage is marked by complete dependence on caretakers. Acute weight loss, inability to speak, difficulty in comprehending the situation, and seizures are some of the symptoms in this stage. A person may also suffer from severe memory loss. It is extremely important to diagnose Huntington’s disease before it reaches the final stage. The following methods may be used to diagnose Huntington’s disease: Physical examination – It helps in gauging the outset of the disease through a thorough examination of the abnormalities in physical behavior such as chorea.
All You Need to Know about Diabetic Nerve Pain

All You Need to Know about Diabetic Nerve Pain

Diabetes has turned out to be a common problem that is suffered by a lot of people these days. If you are a diabetic patient and have been experiencing burning, shooting, and pricking feels in your hands and feet, then it is the case of diabetic peripheral neuropathy, which is also called as diabetic nerve pain. It is mainly caused due to poor diabetes management and is a common problem among people suffering from diabetes. Nerve pain is known to be a pain that is non-protective. It is caused due to damage to nerves due to injury or diabetes. The nerves send signals to the brain. Even though the nerve damage cannot be resolved, controlling of blood sugar can be done easily so that further damage can be avoided. It is important to talk to your doctor if you come across of the symptoms of this problem. Symptoms The usual symptoms of diabetic nerve pain include burning, shooting, numbness, feeling of pricking of needles or pins, feel of electric shock, tingling, throbbing, stabbing, stinging, sensitivity to touch and radiating. The patients could also experience urination problems, vaginal dryness among women and erectile dysfunction among men. Depression and weight loss are often combined with diabetic nerve pain. Causes Diabetic nerve pain is a complication relating to diabetes that has become common among people who have had diabetes for more than about 20 years. This problem is caused due to many factors mentioned below. Nerve inflammation due to an over-reactive immunity system Damage to the nerves due to trauma or medical complications like rheumatoid arthritis Inherited weakness to nerve damage Damage to the blood vessels, which supply oxygen and various other nutrients to the nervous system Factors like low insulin level, high blood pressure, high lipid levels etc. Lifestyle factors like smoking, excess alcohol consumption, obesity etc.
Know the Common Causes and Symptoms of Meningitis

Know the Common Causes and Symptoms of Meningitis

The listed symptoms for meningitis are among those that are often difficult to diagnose. This results in a much critical condition for a patient that could be life-threatening if it is not timely addressed. Meningitis is often mistaken for a less critical condition because of its symptoms that are synonymous with symptoms of other illnesses. Therefore, it becomes very important to spot the common symptoms for meningitis to prevent this from becoming serious enough to be a threat to one’s life. The early signs of meningitis are same as that of a common seasonal flu. In fact, the disease begins like the flu or infection at the start. So, it is common for doctors too to fail to recognize it or mistake it for other common infection. If one knows how to detect if someone might be suffering from among the common or listed symptoms for meningitis, a lot of lives could be saved. There are many commonly listed symptoms for meningitis. Bacterial meningitis is quick to develop; it can take hours or a few days to develop. Moreover, viral meningitis is also quick to develop. It is important to know that there are two types of meningitis: viral meningitis and bacterial meningitis. Bacterial meningitis is more than the former. Viral Meningitis can be cured easily without much complication, but bacterial meningitis is most likely to remain uncured and can become more serious. The commonly listed symptoms for meningitis include fever, headache, and a stiff neck. However, there are more commonly listed symptoms for meningitis such as the following. – Vomiting – Nausea – Confusion – Drowsiness – Sensitivity to bright light – Poor appetite – Seizure – Patients may also go into a coma in more serious cases. Infants can show symptoms such as fever, poor feeding, lethargy, and irritation.
Effective Techniques to Cure Premature Ejaculation

Effective Techniques to Cure Premature Ejaculation

A considerable number of the male population suffers from premature ejaculation; however, most of them fail to get it checked from a good sexologist. It is a serious issue that can demean the self-esteem of an individual and make him feel inferior. The individual is not able to hold the semen inside that is characterized by the untimely emission of semen during sexual intercourse. The individual faces difficulty in holding the semen inside the penis even for a short period of time post-penetration. It is somewhat involuntary in nature and is caused majorly due to anxiety. Premature ejaculation can be cured using various kinds of therapies that influence the behavior and psychology. Medicine for this problem should be the last resort treatment. This condition can lead to distress among the individuals due to lack of performance. It is, therefore, essential to educate them about the normalcy of the condition and that it can be treated. Most of the time, premature ejaculation is experienced later in life. However, it can be a lifelong ailment if acquired genetically. Premature ejaculation is a common phenomenon faced by individuals when they indulge in sexual intercourse for the first time. It can also be situational, that is, depending on the partner and the level of sexual activity. This condition is primarily a result of psychological factors. It can also be caused by a certain change in hormones or an injury in the pelvic region. Many individuals encounter premature ejaculation as an ill effect of medicines. Doctors diagnose the issue through physical examination, with or without tests. The tests help in identifying any underlying medical disease. Counseling is also conducted to find the root cause of the problem. There are several remedies available and a combination of them can be used to cure premature ejaculation. These are as follows:
Quick Tips to Get Relief from Headache

Quick Tips to Get Relief from Headache

A headache is one of the most common chronic pains. If a person is suffering from a headache, it will not only drain away the energy but will also result in health deterioration eventually. However, if precautionary measures are taken, a person can get some relief and return to the normal course of work they might be doing. Below are listed some headache relief tips that can be practiced to get relief from head pain which might otherwise bring lethargy in a person’s approach to daily tasks. Headache treatment through medications There is a range of over the counter headache medications which can be used to cure a headache. Medication which contains either ibuprofen, aspirin or naproxen can be taken after guidance from a registered medical practitioner. Similarly, medications containing a combination of aspirin, caffeine or acetaminophen can also be used for getting some relief from persisting headache. However, in cases where a person suffers from regular bouts of a headache a dose of the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug as naproxen or ibuprofen is recommended. However, in cases when these over-the-counter headache relief medicines are frequently used, these can lead to dependence on these drugs. Headache relief tips In most cases, the headache can be cured without the use of medications. These below-listed headache relief tips will help you in reducing the intensity of a headache and over the counter medicines will only be needed in severe cases of a headache. Closing the eyes to get some rest This is one of the easiest headache relief tips. It will help in case of a migraine headache and can also help a person get some immediate relief in case of a headache, which arises due to tension related issues. The person suffering from a headache needs to sit in a room which is dark.
Points to Consider When Choosing the Best Diaper Rash Cream

Points to Consider When Choosing the Best Diaper Rash Cream

Often touted to be a sign of parental neglect, diaper rash is a very common problem amongst infants and babies and is wrongly proclaimed to be a sign that parents are not effectively taking care of their infant. Diaper rash is a very common kind of contact dermatitis that can get more infected by a yeast or bacteria that is normally present on the skin. In most cases, topical ointments containing antibiotics work very effectively and are used as a very common therapy for through the use of the best diaper rash cream available in the market. A diaper rash is a general term that indicates any condition of skin irritation, regardless of the causing factor, which often grows and perpetuates in the region that is covered by a diaper. Some other synonyms for the condition known as a diaper rash include: – Napkin or nappy dermatitis – Diaper dermatitis – Ammonia dermatitis The word dermatitis refers to the inflammation of the skin. There are very many categories that list the causes of a diaper rash or diaper dermatitis, but the most common cause is contact dermatitis. It is a misleading term thought to affect only babies and infants and toddlers, when it can affect any individual who wears a diaper, like an incontinent adult or a menstruating person. The main preventative measure for diaper rash includes changing the diaper frequently and keeping the area clean and dry. Dry here refers to freshness, not lack of moisturization. Some of the most effective treatments for curing diaper rash include: – Using topical barriers like petroleum jelly or skin-friendly moisturizers such as some of the best diaper rash creams for babies. – Changing diapers frequently. – Topical anti-fungal or antibiotic ointments to be used according to a doctor’s prescription. – Hydrocortisone creams for babies that are of low potency.
Things You Need to Know about Meningitis Vaccine Shots

Things You Need to Know about Meningitis Vaccine Shots

Meningitis vaccine shots are used to provide immunization against the bacteria called as meningococcus that can cause meningitis and meningococcemia. The bacterium is round, and it forms pairs. Hence it is also known as diplococcus. There are five serogroups of this bacteria: A, B, C, W, and Y. According to experts, at least 1 in 10 people is a carrier of this bacteria. However, they do not show any symptoms or signs of the disease. It has been observed that in nearly 10% of meningitis cases, there might be the possibility of developmental impairment. Risk factors of meningitis The following groups of people are at a high risk of contracting meningitis. Infants, teenagers, and young adults are more prone to meningitis. A large group of people, especially in a community setting such as a college campus or, are at a risk of contracting meningitis. People who lack a spleen in their body, have a deficiency of a complement component, or are infected with HIV have a high possibility of getting meningitis. The sub-Saharan African region is known common and frequent outbreaks of meningitis. People who travel to this area may be at a risk of getting this disease. How does a person contract meningitis? Meningitis can spread through saliva or spit, mostly through secretions from the throat or the respiratory system. The contact has to be close and for a long duration. It is does spread through breathing the same air as a person affected by meningitis or by casual contact. However, the people who live with the person with meningitis are at a high risk of contracting the disease. It is recommended that people, who are in the same living space as the person with meningitis, should receive antibiotics treatment to avoid contracting meningitis. Prevention of meningitis Meningitis can be easily prevented with antibiotics and meningitis vaccine shots.
Foods to Avoid in Multiple Sclerosis Diet Plans

Foods to Avoid in Multiple Sclerosis Diet Plans

Multiple sclerosis is a disease with a potentially disabling effect that attacks the central nervous system. In this condition, the nerve fibers are affected due to damage to the myelin coating. The myelin acts as a protective and active sheath but is attacked by the immune system. When the nerve fibres are damaged, there is an interference in the transmission of signals between the brain, spinal cord and rest of the body parts. The communication process is tampered and this also causes varied symptoms and signs that are accompanied with multiple sclerosis. If the condition is not diagnosed and treated in time, the nerves undergo further damage and can cause a permanent effect over time. There are various effects that are caused by multiple sclerosis. However, it entirely depends on the extent of damaged nerves. Moreover, the symptoms and signs will be determined based on the types of nerves that are affected. The signs and symptoms are experienced will differ from person to person. While one may feel fatigue regularly, another patient may find it difficult to move certain body parts. The most common symptoms that are seen in the patient include abnormal thinking and constant forgetfulness. Apart from this, certain patients may also go through a loss of vision in both or one eye, depending on the severity of the nerve damage. Also, in most cases, people feel a sudden sensation in different parts of the body and this can be described as piercing a needle or pins into the skin. There are some factors that increase the risk of one developing multiple sclerosis. It is likely to affect someone who is in the age bracket of 15 to 60 years. However, family history or genes can play a major role in the contraction of this disease. Also, women are at a higher risk as compared to men.
Best Mouthwashes for Gum Diseases among Adults and Children

Best Mouthwashes for Gum Diseases among Adults and Children

A gum infection or a disease can be very painful for you, no matter what the reason for it is. You must believe that if you have a good dental hygiene then you might be away from these conditions, but unfortunately, that is not true. You can be exposed to gum diseases even if you practice good oral health care; it can be due to a number of factors. One way to keep them away is by using one of the best mouthwashes for gum disease. Some of us like keeping our mouth excessively clean and do many things to maintain the level of hygiene. However, in some cases, it can backfire. Let us look at things that you must avoid. Do not use toothbrushes that have hard bristles; this can cause trouble to your gums as well as your teeth. Moreover, if you have sensitive gums, you must definitely keep away from hard-bristle toothbrushes. Similarly, excessive or rough brushing can be harmful to your gums and teeth. You might be using a soft toothbrush, but if you brush in a rough or hard manner, you can still end up hurting your gums. Only use high-quality products. You would not want to compromise on the quality of products you use for healthcare as a side effect can be fatal for you. If you encounter a gum disease, you must visit a doctor and get the necessary treatment to get your oral health back. Along with the medication and operation, if required, your doctor is most likely to suggest a pair of toothbrushes that are best suited for your teeth and gum type. Along with that, they would also suggest a couple of best mouthwashes for your gum disease. Let us look at some of the best mouthwashes for gum disease for adults:
Different Types of Rotator Cuff Repair Surgeries

Different Types of Rotator Cuff Repair Surgeries

Rotator cuff repair is the term given to the surgical process where a torn tendon in the shoulder is repaired through the operation. There are three different kinds of surgeries to treat rotator cuff tears. These are open repair, arthroscopic repair and mini-open repair. The last one combines both arthroscopic and open techniques. Open Rotator Cuff Surgery This surgical procedure involves a several centimeters long incision over the shoulder. The surgeon to get near to the torn tendon to repair it has to separate the shoulder muscle. Open Rotator Cuff Repair is suggested for: Patients with complicated and large tears Patients who need tendon transfers and other reconstruction procedures Severe rotator cuff injuries are treated with the tendon transfer option. It happens since the damaged tendons could not be reattached to the top of the humerus. In such situations, a tendon from a different part of the body, preferably the latissimus dorsi, present in the back, is put to use to repair the rotator cuff. The surgeon may even remove bone spurs during the operation. Osteophytes are a sign of osteoarthritis which causes shoulder pain. It also affects shoulder joint function. Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair Patients those who have small to medium sized tears, which is about three centimeters or smaller are suggested arthroscopic rotator cuff repair. It is an outpatient surgery and is the least invasive of the different rotator cuff repair procedures. Arthroscopic surgery is done by making small incisions, each not more than a centimeter long. This means less pain, shorter recovery period and a reduced risk of complications for the patient. This procedure requires the doctor to insert surgical instruments and a small camera through small incisions. Mini-Open Rotator Cuff Repair This procedure uses both open surgery and arthroscopic techniques. Arthroscopy is used to assess the injury, for bone spurs trimming and lose cartilage removal.
Deep Vein Thrombosis and Its Symptoms

Deep Vein Thrombosis and Its Symptoms

Sitting in a single position for a long time at the office or elsewhere can result in having deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Deep vein thrombosis is the formation of a blood clot or thrombus in a single or more, deep veins in the body, mostly the thighs or lower legs, but can also come up in other areas of the body. It is a serious condition which occurs with leg pain, swelling, redness or warmness but may also occur without any symptoms. What is a blood clot? It is a gelatinous lump of blood in a solid state. Scientifically, DVT can be explained as the interplay of three processes which are changes to the blood vessel wall, an increased tendency to clot (hypercoagulability) and a decreased blood flow rate (venous stasis). It can be life threatening when the clot caused by DVT travels and makes it way to the lungs; this is also called pulmonary embolism. This can lead to many more complications. The symptoms of deep vein thrombosis include the following: Severe leg pain is the most common symptom for DVT that usually begins with the calf but later may spread to your entire legs. Pain alone cannot be a determinant for DVT though it is an important one. Swelling in the feet, leg or ankle mostly on one side is also a sign of a development of DVT in your body. Some areas of the leg feel warmer than the other parts of the body, though this may be temporary in some cases and the person may not think much of it, but it is a factor that many doctors when asked, get a positive revert from the patients. Discolouration or redness-blueness on the area affected is some of the very few visible symptoms of DVT. Distention of surface veins can occur.
The Underlying Causes of Joint Pain

The Underlying Causes of Joint Pain

Joints are essential parts of the skeletal system that knit all the bones inside the body into one single structure. They are of paramount importance as they are responsible for the smooth movement of limbs. Most joints are freely movable, like the knee. Some allow minimal or no movement, such as those in the brain. Also, there is a particular type of fluid present between the bones that are united in the joint region, to prevent friction. An individual suffers from joint pain when these joints get damaged due to various reasons. The severity of the pain depends on the type and level of inflammation. Injury to the joints is a common phenomenon experienced by those who regularly participate in sports and other physical activities. Temporary conditions such as sprains and strains can be easily cured, whereas, conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and bursitis can turn into lifelong ailments. Joint pain can cause a dip in the level of body movement followed by complexities in executing daily chores. Moreover, exertion can exacerbate the illness. Usually, muscular activity is restricted until the joint pain subdues to prevent the condition from getting aggravated. The problem of joint pain stems from a number of reasons such as: Obesity People who are obese face a higher probability of contracting arthritis. Obesity or increased body weight can exert pressure on the joints making them weak over time. Osteoarthritis is a common type of joint inflammation encountered by obese individuals. It becomes essential to fight obesity as it saves the individual from other lethal diseases as well. Old age As an individual grows old, his/her joints and ligaments tend to get fragile. Senior citizens wearing cervical collars is a common sight. Also, with old age, the synovial fluid diminishes. This contracts the cushion between cartilages resulting in increased abrasion between the bones.