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high cholesterol | for high cholesterol, how to prevent high cholesterol? | You can�t control the genetic risk factors for high cholesterol. However, lifestyle factors can be managed.
To lower your risk of developing high cholesterol:
Eat a nutritious diet that�s low in cholesterol and animal fats, and high in fiber.
Avoid excessive alcohol consumption.
Maintain a moderate weight.
E.xercise regularly.
Avoid smoking.
Follow your doctor�s recommendations for routine cholesterol screening. If you�re at risk of high cholesterol or coronary heart disease, they will likely encourage you to get your cholesterol levels tested on a regular basis. |
high cholesterol | for high cholesterol, takeaway? | In most cases, high cholesterol has no symptoms. But without treatment, high cholesterol can cause serious health issues. The good news is that your doctor can help you manage this condition, and in many cases, can help you avoid complications.
To learn if you have high cholesterol, ask your doctor to test your cholesterol levels, especially if you�re 20 years or older. If they diagnose you with high cholesterol, ask them about your treatment options.
To lower your risk of complications from high cholesterol, practice healthy lifestyle habits and follow your doctor�s recommended treatment plan.
Eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and avoiding tobacco products may help you achieve and maintain healthy cholesterol levels. It could also help lower your risk of complications from high cholesterol. |
infectious disease | what is infectious disease? Tell me about infectious disease? What kind of disease is infectious disease? Can you elaborate on infectious disease? What can you tell me about infectious disease? Could you describe what infectious disease is? I�d like to know more about infectious disease. Can you help? What information do you have on infectious disease? Could you provide information on infectious disease? | What is acute respiratory infection?
Acute respiratory infection is an infection that may interfere with normal breathing. It can affect just your upper respiratory system, which starts at your sinuses and ends at your vocal chords, or just your lower respiratory system, which starts at your vocal chords and ends at your lungs.
This infection is particularly dangerous for children, older adults, and people with immune system disorders. |
infectious disease | for infectious disease, what are the symptoms of acute respiratory infection?? | The symptoms you experience will be different if it�s a lower or upper respiratory infection. Symptoms can include:
congestion, either in the nasal sinuses or lungs
runny nose
cough
sore throat
body aches
fatigue
Call your doctor if you experience:
a fever over 103�F (39�C) and chills
difficulty breathing
dizziness
loss of consciousness |
infectious disease | for infectious disease, what causes acute respiratory infection?? | There are several different causes of acute respiratory infection.
Causes of upper respiratory infection:
acute pharyngitis
acute ear infection
common cold
Causes of lower respiratory infection:
bronchitis
pneumonia
bronchiolitis |
infectious disease | for infectious disease, who is at risk for acute respiratory infection?? | It�s almost impossible to avoid viruses and bacteria, but certain risk factors increase your chances of developing acute respiratory infection.
The immune systems of children and older adults are more prone to being affected by viruses.
Children are especially at risk because of their constant contact with other kids who could be virus carriers. Children often don�t wash their hands regularly. They are also more likely to rub their eyes and put their fingers in their mouths, resulting in the spread of viruses.
People with heart disease or other lung problems are more likely to contract an acute respiratory infection. Anyone whose immune system might be weakened by another disease is at risk. Smokers also are at high risk and have more trouble recovering. |
infectious disease | for infectious disease, how is acute respiratory infection diagnosed?? | In a respiratory exam, the doctor focuses on your breathing. They will check for fluid and inflammation in the lungs by listening for abnormal sounds in your lungs when you breathe. The doctor may peer into your nose and ears, and check your throat.
If your doctor believes the infection is in the lower respiratory tract, an X-ray or CT scan may be necessary to check the condition of the lungs.
Lung function tests have been useful as diagnostic tools. Pulse oximetry, also known as pulse ox, can check how much oxygen gets into the lungs. A doctor may also take a swab from your nose or mouth, or ask you to cough up a sample of sputum (material coughed up from the lungs) to check for the type of virus or bacteria causing the disease. |
infectious disease | for infectious disease, how is acute respiratory infection treated?? | With many viruses, there are no known treatments. Your doctor may prescribe medications to manage your symptoms while monitoring your condition. If your doctor suspects a bacterial infection, they may prescribe antibiotics. |
infectious disease | for infectious disease, what are potential complications of acute respiratory infection?? | Complications of acute respiratory infection are extremely serious and can result in permanent damage and even death. They include:
respiratory arrest, which occurs when the lungs stop functioning
respiratory failure, a rise in CO2 in your blood caused by your lungs not functioning correctly
congestive heart failure |
infectious disease | for infectious disease, preventing acute respiratory infection? | Most causes of an acute respiratory infection aren�t treatable. Therefore, prevention is the best method to ward off harmful respiratory infections.
Getting the MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) and pertussis vaccine will substantially lower your risk of getting a respiratory infection. You may also benefit from influenza vaccination and pneumovax. Talk to your doctor about getting these.
Practice good hygiene:
Wash your hands frequently, especially after you�ve been in a public place.
Always sneeze into the arm of your shirt or in a tissue. Although this may not ease your own symptoms, it will prevent you from spreading infectious diseases.
Avoid touching your face, especially your eyes and mouth, to prevent introducing germs into your system.
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You should also avoid smoking and make sure you include plenty of vitamins in your diet, such as vitamin C, which helps boost your immune system. Vitamin C is maintained in immune cells, and a deficiency has been linked to higher susceptibility to infection. While research is unclear if Vitamin C can prevent an acute respiratory infection, there is evidence that it can shorten the length of time and or severity of some infections. |
COPD | what is COPD? Tell me about COPD? What kind of disease is COPD? Can you elaborate on COPD? What can you tell me about COPD? Could you describe what COPD is? I�d like to know more about COPD. Can you help? What information do you have on COPD? Could you provide information on COPD? | COPD is a disease that damages your lungs over time. It may start with mild symptoms and then get worse. Treatment can help symptoms and slow disease progression. |
COPD | for COPD, what is copd?? | Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, commonly referred to as COPD, is a group of progressive lung diseases.
The most common of these diseases are emphysema and chronic bronchitis. Many people with COPD have both of these conditions.
Emphysema slowly destroys air sacs in your lungs, which interferes with outward air flow. Bronchitis causes inflammation and narrowing of the bronchial tubes, which allows mucus to build up.
It�s estimated that about 30 million people in the United States have COPD. As many as half are unaware that they have it.
Untreated, COPD can lead to a faster progression of disease, heart problems, and worsening respiratory infections. |
COPD | for COPD, what are the symptoms of copd?? | COPD makes it harder to breathe. Symptoms may be mild at first, beginning with intermittent coughing and shortness of breath. As it progresses, symptoms can become more constant to where it can become increasingly difficult to breathe.
You may experience wheezing and tightness in the chest or have excess sputum production. Some people with COPD have acute exacerbations, which are flare-ups of severe symptoms.
Early symptoms
At first, symptoms of COPD can be quite mild. You might mistake them for a cold.
Early symptoms include:
occasional shortness of breath, especially after exercise
mild but recurrent cough
needing to clear your throat often, especially first thing in the morning
You might start making subtle changes, such as avoiding stairs and skipping physical activities.
Worsening symptoms
Symptoms can get progressively worse and harder to ignore. As the lungs become more damaged, you may experience:
shortness of breath, after even mild forms of exercise like walking up a flight of stairs
wheezing, which is a type of higher-pitched noisy breathing, especially during exhalations
chest tightness
chronic cough, with or without mucus
need to clear mucus from your lungs every day
frequent colds, flu, or other respiratory infections
lack of energy
In later stages of COPD, symptoms may also include:
fatigue
swelling of the feet, ankles, or legs
weight loss
Symptoms are likely to be much worse if you currently smoke or are regularly exposed to secondhand smoke.
Learn more about the symptoms of COPD.
Emergency treatment
Immediate medical care is needed if:
you have bluish or gray fingernails or lips, as this indicates low oxygen levels in your blood
you have trouble catching your breath or can�t talk
you feel confused, muddled, or faint
your heart is racing
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COPD | for COPD, what causes copd?? | Most people with COPD are at least 40 years old and have at least some history of smoking. The longer and more tobacco products you smoke, the greater your risk of COPD is.
In addition to cigarette smoke, cigar smoke, pipe smoke, and secondhand smoke can cause COPD. Your risk of COPD is even greater if you have asthma and smoke.
Other causes
You can also develop COPD if you�re exposed to chemicals and fumes in the workplace. Long-term exposure to air pollution and inhaling dust can also cause COPD.
In developing countries, along with tobacco smoke, homes are often poorly ventilated, forcing families to breathe fumes from burning fuel used for cooking and heating.
There may be a genetic predisposition to developing COPD. Up to an estimated 5 percent
of people with COPD have a deficiency in a protein called alpha-1-antitrypsin.
This deficiency causes the lungs to deteriorate and also can affect the liver. There may be other associated genetic factors at play as well. |
COPD | for COPD, diagnosing copd? | There�s no single test for COPD. Diagnosis is based on symptoms, a physical exam, and diagnostic test results.
When you visit the doctor, be sure to mention all of your symptoms. Tell your doctor if:
you�re a smoker or have smoked in the past
you�re exposed to lung irritants on the job
you�re exposed to a lot of secondhand smoke
you have a family history of COPD
you have asthma or other respiratory conditions
you take over-the-counter or prescription medications
Exam and tests
During the physical exam, your doctor will use a stethoscope to listen to your lungs as you breathe. Based on all this information, your doctor may order some of these tests to get a more complete picture:
Spirometry is a noninvasive test to assess lung function. During the test, you�ll take a deep breath and then blow into a tube connected to the spirometer.
Imaging tests, like a chest X-ray or CT scan. These images can provide a detailed look at your lungs, blood vessels, and heart.
An arterial blood gas test. This involves taking a blood sample from an artery to measure your blood oxygen, carbon dioxide, and other important levels.
These tests can help determine if you have COPD or a different condition, such as asthma, a restrictive lung disease, or heart failure.
Learn more about how COPD is diagnosed. |
COPD | for COPD, treatment for copd? | Treatment can ease symptoms, prevent complications, and generally slow disease progression. Your healthcare team may include a lung specialist (pulmonologist) and physical and respiratory therapists.
Oxygen therapy
If your blood oxygen level is too low, you can receive supplemental oxygen through a mask or nasal cannula to help you breathe better. A portable unit can make it easier to get around.
Surgery
Surgery is reserved for severe COPD or when other treatments have failed, which is more likely when you have a form of severe emphysema.
One type of surgery is called bullectomy. During this procedure, surgeons remove large, abnormal air spaces (bullae) from the lungs.
Another is lung volume reduction surgery, which removes damaged upper lung tissue. Lung volume reduction surgery can be effective at improving breathing, but few patients undergo this major, somewhat risky procedure.
Lung transplantation is an option in some cases. Lung transplantation can effectively cure COPD, but has its many risks.
There is a less invasive method of improving the efficiency of airflow in people with severe emphysema called endobronchial valves (EBV), which are one-way valves that divert inspired air to healthy lungs and away from non-functioning, damaged lungs.
In 2018, an EBV device called the Zephyr Endobronchial Valve
was approved by the FDA and has been shown to improve lung function, exercise capacity and quality of life for patients living with emphysema.
Lifestyle changes
Certain lifestyle changes may also help alleviate your symptoms or provide relief.
If you smoke, quit. Your doctor can recommend appropriate products or support services.
Whenever possible, avoid secondhand smoke and chemical fumes.
Get the nutrition your body needs. Work with your doctor or dietician to create a healthy eating plan.
Talk to your doctor about how much exercise is safe for you.
Learn more about the different treatment options for COPD. |
COPD | for COPD, medications for copd? | Medications can reduce symptoms and cut down on flare-ups. It may take some trial and error to find the medication and dosage that works best for you, but these are some of your options:
Inhaled bronchodilators
Medicines called bronchodilators help loosen tight muscles in your airways. They�re typically taken through an inhaler or nebulizer.
Short-acting bronchodilators last from 4 to 6 hours. You only use them when you need them. For ongoing symptoms, there are long-acting versions you can use every day. They last about 12 hours.
For people with COPD who experience shortness of breath or trouble breathing during exercise, the American Thoracic Society strongly recommends a long-acting-beta-agonist (LABA) combined with a long-acting muscarinic antagonist (LAMA).
These bronchodilators work by relaxing tightened muscles in the airways, which widens your airways for better air passage. They also help your body clear mucus from the lungs. These two types of bronchodilators can be taken in combination by inhaler or with a nebulizer.
Here�s a list of recommended LABA/LAMA bronchodilator therapies:
aclidinium/formoterol
glycopyrrolate/formoterol
tiotropium/olodaterol
umeclidinium/vilanterol
Corticosteroids
Long-acting bronchodilators are commonly combined with inhaled glucocorticosteroids. A glucocorticosteroid can reduce inflammation in the airways and lower mucus production.
The long-acting bronchodilator can relax the airway muscle to help the airways stay wider. Corticosteroids are also available in pill form.
Phosphodiesterase-4 inhibitors
This type of medication can be taken in pill form to help reduce inflammation and relax the airways. It�s generally prescribed for severe COPD with chronic bronchitis.
Theophylline
This medication eases chest tightness and shortness of breath. It may also help prevent flare-ups. It�s available in pill form.
Theophylline is an older medication that relaxes the muscle of the airways, and it may cause side effects. It�s generally not a first-line treatment for COPD therapy.
Antibiotics and antivirals
Antibiotics or antivirals may be prescribed when you develop certain respiratory infections.
Vaccines
To lower risk of other respiratory infections, ask your doctor if you should get a yearly flu shot, pneumococcal vaccine, and a tetanus booster that includes protection from pertussis (whooping cough).
Learn more about the drugs and medications used to treat COPD. |
COPD | for COPD, diet recommendations for people with copd? | There�s no specific diet for COPD, but a healthy diet is important for maintaining overall health. The stronger you are, the more able you�ll be to prevent complications and other health problems.
Choose a variety of nutritious foods from these groups:
vegetables
fruits
grains
protein
dairy
Also, remember to go easy on the salt. It causes the body to retain water, which can strain breathing.
Liquids
Drink plenty of fluids. Drinking at least six to eight 8-ounce glasses of non-caffeinated liquids a day can help keep mucus thinner. This may make the mucus easier to cough out.
Limit caffeinated beverages because they can interfere with medications. If you have heart problems, you may need to drink less, so talk to your doctor.
Weight management
Maintaining a healthy weight is important. It takes more energy to breathe when you have COPD, so you might need to take in more calories. But if you�re overweight, your lungs and heart may have to work harder.
If you�re underweight or frail, even basic body maintenance can become difficult. Overall, having COPD weakens your immune system and decreases your ability to fight off infection.
Eating habits
A full stomach makes it harder for your lungs to expand, leaving you short of breath. If you find that this happens to you, try these remedies:
Clear your airways about an hour before a meal.
Take smaller bites of food that you chew slowly before swallowing.
Swap three meals a day for five or six smaller meals.
Save fluids until the end so you feel less full during the meal.
Check out these 5 diet tips for people with COPD. |
COPD | for COPD, living with copd? | COPD requires lifelong disease management. That means following the advice of your healthcare team and maintaining healthy lifestyle habits.
Since your lungs are weakened, you�ll want to avoid anything that might overtax them or cause a flare-up. Here�s a list of things to consider as you adjust your lifestyle.
Avoid smoking. If you�re having trouble quitting, talk to your doctor about smoking cessation programs. Try to avoid secondhand smoke, chemical fumes, air pollution, and dust.
Work out. A little exercise each day can help you stay strong. Talk to your doctor about how much exercise is good for you.
Eat a diet of nutritious foods. Avoid highly processed foods that are loaded with calories and salt, but lack nutrients.
Treating other conditions. If you have other chronic diseases along with COPD, it�s important to manage those as well, particularly diabetes mellitus and heart disease.
Clean house. Clear the clutter and streamline your home so that it takes less energy to clean and do other household tasks. If you have advanced COPD, get help with daily chores.
Be prepared for flare-ups. Carry your emergency contact information with you and post it on your refrigerator. Include information about what medications you take, as well as the doses. Program emergency numbers into your phone.
Find support. It can be a relief to talk to others who understand. Consider joining a support group. The COPD Foundation provides a comprehensive list of organizations and resources for people living with COPD. |
COPD | for COPD, what are the stages of copd?? | One measure of COPD is achieved by spirometry grading.
There are different grading systems, and one grading system is part of the GOLD classification. The GOLD classification is used for determining COPD severity and helping to form a prognosis and treatment plan.
There are four GOLD grades based on spirometry testing:
grade 1: mild
grade 2: moderate
grade 3: severe
grade 4: very severe
This is based on the spirometry test result of your FEV1. This is the amount of air you can breathe out of the lungs in the first second of a forced expiration. The severity increases as your FEV1 decreases.
The GOLD classification also takes into account your individual symptoms and history of acute exacerbations. Based on this information, your doctor can assign a letter group to you to help define your COPD grade.
As the disease progresses, you�re more susceptible to complications, such as:
respiratory infections, including common colds, flu, and pneumonia
heart problems
high blood pressure in lung arteries (pulmonary hypertension)
lung cancer
depression and anxiety
Learn more about the different stages of COPD. |
COPD | for COPD, is there a connection between copd and lung cancer?? | COPD and lung cancer are major health problems worldwide. These two diseases are linked in a number of ways.
COPD and lung cancer have several common risk factors. Smoking is the number one risk factor for both diseases. Both are more likely if you breathe secondhand smoke, or are exposed to chemicals or other fumes in the workplace.
There may be a genetic predisposition to developing both diseases. Also, the risk of developing either COPD or lung cancer increases with age.
It was estimated in 2009 that between 40 and 70 percent
of people with lung cancer also have COPD. This same 2009 study
concluded that COPD is a risk factor for lung cancer.
A 2015 study
suggests they may actually be different aspects of the same disease, and that COPD could be a driving factor in lung cancer.
In some cases, people don�t learn they have COPD until they�re diagnosed with lung cancer.
However, having COPD doesn�t necessarily mean you�ll get lung cancer. It does mean that you have a higher risk. That�s another reason why, if you smoke, quitting is a good idea.
Learn more about the possible complications of COPD. |
COPD | for COPD, copd statistics? | Worldwide, it�s estimated that about 65 million
people have moderate to severe COPD. About 16 million
adults in the United States have a diagnosis of COPD.
Most people with COPD are 40 years of age or older.
The majority of people with COPD are smokers or former smokers. Smoking is the most important risk factor that can be changed.
In up to 5 percent
of people with COPD, the cause is a genetic disorder involving a deficiency of a protein called alpha-1-antitrypsin.
COPD is a leading cause of hospitalizations in industrialized countries. In the United States, COPD is responsible for a large amount of emergency department visits and hospital admissions.
In the year 2000, it was noted that there were over 700,000 hospital admissions
and approximately 1.5 million
emergency department visits.
COPD is the third leading cause of death in the United States. More women than men die from COPD each year.
It�s projected that the number of patients diagnosed with COPD will increase by more than 150 percent from 2010 to 2030. Much of that can be attributed to an aging population.
Check out more statistics about COPD. |
COPD | for COPD, what�s the outlook for people with copd?? | COPD generally reduces life expectancy, though the outlook varies considerably from person to person.
People with COPD who never smoked may have a modest reduction in life expectancy
, while former and current smokers are likely to have a larger reduction.
COPD tends to progress slowly. You may not even know you have it during the early stages.
Once you have a diagnosis, you�ll need to start seeing your doctor on a regular basis. You�ll also have to take steps to manage your condition and make the appropriate changes to your daily life.
Early symptoms can usually be managed, and certain lifestyle choices can help you maintain a good quality of life for some time.
As the disease progresses, symptoms can become increasingly limiting.
People with severe stages of COPD may not be able to care for themselves without assistance. They�re at increased risk of developing respiratory infections, heart problems, and lung cancer. They may also be at risk of depression and anxiety.
Besides smoking, your outlook depends on how well you respond to treatment and whether you can avoid serious complications. Your doctor is in the best position to evaluate your overall health and give you an idea about what to expect.
Learn more about the life expectancy and prognosis for people with COPD.
Read this article in Spanish. |
kidney failure | what is kidney failure? Tell me about kidney failure? What kind of disease is kidney failure? Can you elaborate on kidney failure? What can you tell me about kidney failure? Could you describe what kidney failure is? I�d like to know more about kidney failure. Can you help? What information do you have on kidney failure? Could you provide information on kidney failure? | Kidney failure occurs when your kidneys lose the ability to filter waste from your blood sufficiently. It may not cause symptoms in the early stages.
Your kidneys filter your blood and remove toxins from your body. These toxins go to your bladder and are eliminated when you urinate. When this doesn�t work properly, you can get kidney failure.
If your kidneys aren�t able to function properly, toxins can overwhelm your body. This can lead to kidney failure, which can be life threatening if left untreated.
Keep reading as we break down everything you need to know about kidney failure, including symptoms, stages, treatment, and the typical outlook. |
kidney failure | for kidney failure, types of kidney failure? | Acute kidney failure occurs when your kidneys suddenly stop working properly while chronic kidney failure occurs over time. Doctors typically divide kidney failure into five types.
The types of kidney failure include:
Acute prerenal kidney failure: Insufficient blood flow to the kidneys can cause acute prerenal kidney failure. Doctors can usually cure this type once they determine the cause of the decreased blood flow.
Acute intrinsic kidney failure: Acute intrinsic kidney failure can result from direct trauma to the kidneys, such as physical impact or an accident, toxin overload, and ischemia, which is a lack of oxygen to the kidneys.
Chronic prerenal kidney failure: When there isn�t enough blood flowing to your kidneys for an extended period of time, the kidneys can shrink and lose the ability to function.
Chronic intrinsic kidney failure: This happens when there�s long-term damage to the kidneys due to intrinsic kidney disease. Intrinsic kidney disease develops from direct trauma to the kidneys, such as severe bleeding or a lack of oxygen.
Chronic post-renal kidney failure: A long-term blockage of the urinary tract prevents urination. This causes pressure and eventual kidney damage.
Acute post-renal kidney failure: This type of kidney failure can occur due to stones or another blockage in the urinary tract. |
kidney failure | for kidney failure, symptoms of kidney failure? | Early-stage kidney failure often doesn�t cause noticeable symptoms. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
, about 90% of people with chronic kidney disease don�t know they have it.
As kidney disease progresses, symptoms may include:
reduced amount of urine
swelling of your legs, ankles, and feet from fluid retention
shortness of breath
trouble sleeping
muscle cramping at night
excessive drowsiness or fatigue
persistent nausea
confusion
chest pain or pressure
seizures
coma
Early signs of kidney failure
Symptoms of early-stage kidney disease may be subtle and hard to identify. They may include:
decreased urine output
swelling in limbs
shortness of breath
Kidney failure urine color
The color of your urine doesn�t tell you much about the state of your kidney function until damage to the kidneys has progressed.
Still, urine color changes may be an early indicator of some issues.
Urine color Indication
clear or pale yellow well-hydrated
dark yellow or amber dehydrated
orange dehydration or bile in the bloodstream
pink or red blood in the urine or having eaten certain foods, like beets
foamy contains a lot of protein; potentially an indicator of kidney disease |
kidney failure | for kidney failure, causes of kidney failure? | Kidney failure can result from various causes. According to the National Kidney Foundation, the two most common include high blood pressure and diabetes.
People who are most at risk usually have one or more of the following:
Loss of blood flow to the kidneys
A sudden loss of blood flow to your kidneys can prompt kidney failure. Some causes include:
heart attack
heart disease
scarring of the liver or liver failure
dehydration
severe burns
allergic reactions
severe infection, such as sepsis
High blood pressure and anti-inflammatory medications can also limit blood flow.
Urine elimination problems
When your body can�t eliminate urine, toxins build up and overload the kidneys. Some cancers can block the urine passageways, such as:
prostate
colon
cervical
bladder
Other conditions can interfere with urination and possibly lead to kidney failure, including:
kidney stones
enlarged prostate
blood clots within your urinary tract
damage to the nerves that control your bladder
Other causes
Other factors that may lead to kidney failure include:
a blood clot in or around your kidneys
heavy metal poisoning
drugs and alcohol use
vasculitis, an inflammation of the blood vessels
lupus, an autoimmune disease that can cause inflammation of many body organs
glomerulonephritis, an inflammation of the small blood vessels of the kidneys
hemolytic uremic syndrome, which involves the breakdown of red blood cells following a bacterial infection, usually of the intestines
multiple myeloma, a cancer of the plasma cells in your bone marrow
scleroderma, an autoimmune condition that affects your skin
thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura, a disorder that causes blood clots in small vessels
chemotherapy drugs that treat cancer and some autoimmune diseases
dyes used in some imaging tests
certain antibiotics
unmanaged diabetes |
kidney failure | for kidney failure, who gets kidney failure?? | People of all ages develop kidney failure, but the risk increases
with age. According to the CDC, 14%
of U.S. adults have chronic kidney failure.
You may have a higher risk if you have:
diabetes
high blood pressure
heart disease
a family history of kidney failure
The longer you�ve had these conditions, the greater your risk
of chronic kidney failure. |
kidney failure | for kidney failure, diagnostic tests? | Doctors use several tests to diagnose kidney failure. Common tests include:
Urinalysis: A urine sample can show how much protein or sugar is in your urine. A urinary sediment examination looks for red and white blood cells, high levels of bacteria, and high numbers of cellular casts.
Urine volume measurements: Measuring urine output can help diagnose kidney failure. Low output may suggest that kidney disease is due to a urinary blockage.
Blood samples: Blood tests can measure substances filtered by your kidneys, such as blood urea nitrogen and creatinine. A rapid rise in these levels may indicate acute kidney failure.
Imaging: Tests like ultrasounds, MRIs, and CT scans provide images of your kidneys and urinary tract to identify issues.
Kidney tissue sample: Doctors use a kidney biopsy to collect and examine tissue samples. |
kidney failure | for kidney failure, chronic kidney disease stages? | Kidney disease is classified into five stages. These range from very mild (stage 1) to complete kidney failure (stage 5). Symptoms and complications increase as the stages progress.
Stage 1
You may experience no symptoms and have no visible complications. But some kidney damage is present.
Stage 2
Stage 2 kidney disease is still considered mild, but detectable issues like protein in the urine or physical damage to the kidneys may be more obvious.
It�s also a good idea to talk with a doctor about risk factors that could make the disease progress more rapidly, such as:
heart disease
inflammation
blood disorders
Stage 3
At this stage, your kidneys aren�t working as well as they should.
Stage 3 kidney disease is sometimes divided into stages 3a and 3b. A blood test that measures the amount of waste products in your body helps doctors differentiate between the two.
Symptoms may become more apparent. Swelling in hands and feet, back pain, and changes to urination frequency are likely.
A doctor may consider medications to treat underlying conditions that could speed kidney failure.
Stage 4
Stage 4 kidney disease is considered moderate to severe. The kidneys aren�t working well, but you�re not in complete kidney failure yet. Symptoms can include complications like:
anemia
high blood pressure
bone disease
A doctor will likely develop a treatment plan to slow kidney damage.
Stage 5
In stage 5, your kidneys are nearing or in complete failure. Symptoms of the loss of kidney function will be evident, such as vomiting and nausea, trouble breathing, and itchy skin.
You�ll need regular dialysis or a kidney transplant.
The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases
estimates that approximately 1 in 500 Americans has stage 5 kidney failure. |
kidney failure | for kidney failure, treatment? | The type of treatment you need depends on the cause and stage of your kidney failure.
Dialysis
Dialysis filters and purifies the blood using a machine to performs the function of the kidneys. Depending on the type of dialysis, you may be connected to a large machine or a portable catheter bag.
Along with dialysis, you may need to follow a low potassium, low salt diet.
Dialysis doesn�t cure kidney failure, but going to regularly scheduled treatments can extend your life.
Kidney transplant
A transplanted kidney can work fully, so you no longer need dialysis.
There�s usually a long wait to receive a donor kidney that�s compatible with your body. If you have a living donor, the process may go more quickly.
Transplant surgery might not be the right treatment option for everyone. It is not always successful.
You must take immunosuppressant drugs after the surgery to prevent your body from rejecting the new kidney. These drugs have their own side effects, some of which can be serious.
You can talk with a doctor about whether you�re a good candidate for a kidney transplant.
Lifestyle modifications
Minimizing your intake of alcohol and making dietary changes may help prevent kidney failure from progressing.
At the early stages and beyond, it�s possible to manage and slow progression with lifestyle factors such as:
Dietary changes
The guidelines for what you eat will often depend on the stage of kidney disease you have and your overall health. Some recommendations might include:
Limiting sodium and potassium: Aim to eat less than 2,000 milligrams per day of both sodium (salt) and potassium.
Limiting phosphorus: Try to stay below 1,000 milligrams
of phosphorus.
Following protein guidelines: In early and moderate kidney disease, you might want to cut back on protein consumption. But you may eat more protein in end-stage kidney failure, depending on your doctor�s recommendations.
Beyond these general guidelines, a doctor may also ask you to avoid certain foods.
Lowering alcohol intake
If you have kidney failure and drink alcohol, your kidneys must work harder than they already do. Alcohol doesn�t metabolize out of your system, so if you have complete kidney failure, you�ll feel its effects until you receive dialysis to filter it from your blood.
Beer, ale, and wine also contain large amounts of phosphorous. Severe heart issues and death are possible if your kidneys cannot filter it out.
If you have kidney failure or late-stage kidney disease, a doctor may recommend you limit alcohol. Eliminating alcohol from your diet, if possible, may be best. |
kidney failure | for kidney failure, diabetes and kidney failure? | Diabetes is the most common cause of kidney failure. About one-third of adults
with diabetes have kidney disease.
Without management, high blood sugar can damage your kidneys. The damage can worsen over time.
Diabetic nephropathy, or kidney damage caused by type 1 or type 2 diabetes, can�t be reversed. Steps to prevent or limit kidney damage can include:
managing your blood sugar
managing blood pressure
taking medications as prescribed
If you have diabetes, a doctor will likely perform regular screenings to monitor for kidney failure. Your risk for diabetic nephropathy increases the longer you live with diabetes. |
kidney failure | for kidney failure, complications? | Kidney failure can lead to various complications. These can include:
anemia
bone weakness, due to an imbalance of phosphorus and calcium
fluid retention (edema)
heart disease
high potassium levels (hyperkalemia)
metabolic acidosis, when the blood becomes too acidic
Many people with kidney failure develop secondary complications. These can include:
depression
liver failure
fluid buildup in the lungs
gout
nerve damage
skin infections |
kidney failure | for kidney failure, kidney failure outlook? | It�s not possible to know precisely how long a person with kidney failure will live, as it can depend on many factors.
These include:
the underlying cause
how well that underlying cause is managed
any complicating factors, like high blood pressure or diabetes
stage of kidney disease at diagnosis
age
The National Kidney Foundation says that a person on dialysis can expect to live for an average of 5 to 10 years as long as they follow their treatment. Some people live for more than 20 or 30 years.
Once you reach end-stage kidney failure, you will need dialysis or a kidney transplant to live. Missing even one dialysis treatment can decrease your life expectancy.
Proper treatment and healthy lifestyle changes may improve your outlook, such as avoiding certain foods. |
kidney failure | for kidney failure, kidney failure prevention? | You can take steps to lower the risk of kidney failure.
Follow directions when taking over-the-counter medications. Taking doses that are too high, even of common drugs like aspirin, can create high toxin levels quickly. This can overload your kidneys.
Many kidney or urinary tract conditions lead to kidney failure without prompt treatment.
You can help lower your risk of kidney failure by:
eating a balanced diet
maintaining a moderate weight
taking prescribed and over-the-counter medications as directed and not taking more medication than is safe
keeping conditions, such as diabetes and high blood pressure, well managed and following a doctor�s advice |
kidney failure | for kidney failure, the bottom line? | Kidney failure can develop suddenly or from long-term damage. Possible causes of kidney failure can include diabetes, high blood pressure, and kidney trauma.
Kidney disease is classified into five stages, ranging from mild to complete kidney failure. Symptoms and complications increase as the stages progress.
If you have kidney failure, you can work with a doctor to determine the best treatment options. |
dementia | what is dementia? Tell me about dementia? What kind of disease is dementia? Can you elaborate on dementia? What can you tell me about dementia? Could you describe what dementia is? I�d like to know more about dementia. Can you help? What information do you have on dementia? Could you provide information on dementia? | Dementia is a neurodegenerative disease that has several different forms, symptoms, and causes. There�s currently no cure, but researchers are looking into effective treatments and ways to prevent it.
Dementia is a decline in cognitive function. To be considered dementia, mental impairment must affect at least two brain functions. Dementia may affect:
Dementia may be caused by a variety of illnesses or injuries. Mental impairment may range from mild to severe. It may also cause personality changes.
Some types of dementia are progressive. This means they get worse over time. Some types are treatable or even reversible. Some experts restrict the term �dementia� to irreversible mental deterioration. |
dementia | for dementia, dementia signs and symptoms? | In its early stages, dementia can cause symptoms, such as:
Not coping well with change. Someone may have a hard time accepting changes in schedules or environment.
Subtle changes in short-term memory making. Someone can remember the events of 15 years ago like it was yesterday, but they can�t remember what they had for lunch.
Reaching for the right words. Word recollection or association may be more difficult.
Being repetitive. Someone may ask the same question, complete the same task, or tell the same story multiple times.
Confused sense of direction. Places someone once knew well may now feel foreign. They may also struggle with driving routes they�ve taken for years because it no longer looks familiar.
Struggling to follow storylines. Someone may find following a person�s story or description difficult.
Changes in mood. Depression, frustration, and anger are not uncommon for people with dementia.
Loss of interest. Apathy may occur in people with dementia. This includes losing interest in hobbies or activities that they once enjoyed.
Confusion. People, places, and events may no longer feel familiar. Someone might not remember people who know them.
Difficulty completing everyday tasks. A person in the early stages of dementia may have trouble recalling how to do tasks they�ve done for many years. |
dementia | for dementia, what causes dementia?? | Dementia has many causes. In general, it results from the degeneration of neurons (brain cells) or disturbances in other body systems that affect how neurons function.
Several conditions can cause dementia, including diseases of the brain. The most common causes are Alzheimer�s disease and vascular dementia.
Some of the more common causes of dementia include:
Neurodegenerative diseases
�Neurodegenerative� means that neurons gradually stop functioning or function inappropriately and eventually die.
This affects the neuron-to-neuron connections, called synapses, which arehow messages are passed along in your brain. This disconnect can result in a range of dysfunction.
Alzheimer�s disease
Parkinson�s disease with dementia
vascular dementia
chronic alcohol use disorder
Another cause is frontotemporal lobar degeneration. This is a blanket term for a range of conditions that cause damage to the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain. They include:
frontotemporal dementia
Pick�s disease
supranuclear palsy
corticobasal degeneration
Other causes of dementia
Dementia has other causes, including:
structural brain disorders, such as normal pressure hydrocephalus and subdural hematoma
metabolic disorders, such as hypothyroidism, vitamin B12 deficiency, and kidney and liver disorders
toxins, such as lead
certain tumors or infections of the brain
medication side effects
Some of these types of dementia may be reversible. These treatable causes of dementia may reverse symptoms if they�re caught early enough. This is one of the many reasons why it�s important to contact your doctor and get a medical workup as soon as symptoms develop. |
dementia | for dementia, types of dementia? | Most cases of dementia are a symptom of a specific disease. Different diseases cause different types of dementia. The most common types of dementia include:
Alzheimer�s disease. The most common type of dementia, Alzheimer�s disease makes up 60 to 80 percent of dementia cases, according to the Alzheimer�s Association.
Vascular dementia. This type of dementia is caused by reduced blood flow in the brain. It may be the result of plaque buildup in arteries that feed blood to the brain or a stroke.
Lewy body dementia. With Lewy body dementia, protein deposits in nerve cells prevent the brain from sending chemical signals. This results in lost messages, delayed reactions, and memory loss.
Parkinson�s disease. Individuals with advanced Parkinson�s disease may develop dementia. Symptoms of this particular type of dementia include problems with reasoning and judgment, as well as increased irritability, paranoia, and depression.
Frontotemporal dementia. Several types of dementia fall into this category. They�re each affected by changes in the front and side parts of the brain. Symptoms include difficulty with language and behavior, as well as loss of inhibitions.
Other types of dementia exist. However, they�re less common. In fact, one type of dementia, Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease, occurs in only 1 in 1 million people. |
dementia | for dementia, stages of dementia? | In most cases, dementia is progressive, getting worse over time. That said, dementia progresses differently in everyone. However, most people experience symptoms of the following stages of dementia.
Mild cognitive impairment
Older adults may develop mild cognitive impairment (MCI) but may never progress to dementia or any other mental impairment. People with MCI commonly experience forgetfulness, trouble recalling words, and short-term memory problems.
Mild dementia
At this stage, people with mild dementia may be able to function independently. Symptoms include:
short-term memory lapses
personality changes, including anger or depression
misplacing things or forgetfulness
difficulty with complex tasks or problem solving
difficulty expressing emotions or ideas
Moderate dementia
At this stage of dementia, people affected may need assistance from a loved one or care professional. That�s because dementia may now interfere with daily tasks and activities. Symptoms include:
poor judgment
increasing confusion and frustration
memory loss that reaches further into the past
needing help with tasks like dressing and bathing
significant personality changes
Severe dementia
At this late stage of dementia, the mental and physical symptoms of the condition continue to worsen. Symptoms include:
inability to maintain bodily functions, including walking and eventually swallowing and controlling the bladder
inability to communicate
requiring full-time assistance
increased risk of infections
People with dementia will progress through the stages of dementia at different rates. |
dementia | for dementia, dementia testing? | No single test can confirm a dementia diagnosis. Instead, a doctor will use a series of tests and exams. These include:
a thorough medical history
a careful physical exam
laboratory tests, including blood tests
a review of symptoms, including changes in memory, behavior, and brain function
a family history
Doctors can determine if you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of dementia with a high degree of certainty. However, they may not be able to determine the exact type of dementia. In many cases, symptoms of dementia types overlap. That makes distinguishing between types difficult.
Some doctors will diagnose dementia without specifying the type. In that case, you may wish to visit a doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating dementia. These doctors are called neurologists. Some geriatricians also specialize in this type of diagnosis. |
dementia | for dementia, dementia treatment? | Two primary treatments are used to alleviate symptoms of dementia: medications and non-drug therapies. Not all medications are approved for each type of dementia, and no treatment is a cure.
Medications for dementia
Two main types of medication are used to treat symptoms of Alzheimer�s disease and other dementia-causing conditions:
Cholinesterase inhibitors. These drugs increase a chemical called acetylcholine. This chemical may help form memories and improve judgment. It may also delay worsening symptoms of Alzheimer�s disease.
Memantine. This drug is used to delay the onset of cognitive and behavioral symptoms in people with moderate or severe Alzheimer�s disease. Memantine may let people with Alzheimer�s disease maintain their usual mental functions for a longer period of time.
These two drugs may also be prescribed together. Side effects can occur. Other medications may be prescribed to treat related symptoms, such as impaired sleep, mood changes, and more.
Aducanumab (Aduhelm)
Aducanumab is another medication approved to treat Alzheimer�s and may slow the progression of the disease, though research is ongoing. Aducanumab is an anti-amyloid antibody therapy delivered intravenously. It targets a specific protein fragment that can disrupt communication between nerve cells in the brain.
Non-drug therapies
These therapies may help reduce symptoms of dementia and alleviate some of the manageable complications of the condition. Common non-drug treatments for dementia include:
Modifying your environment. Clutter, noise, and overstimulation may reduce focus.
Modifying common tasks. You can work with a therapist or other healthcare professional to break down everyday activities, such as showering or grooming, into manageable tasks.
Occupational therapy. Occupational therapists are specialized healthcare professionals who can help you learn to be safer and more secure with tasks including walking, cooking, and driving. |
dementia | for dementia, dementia prevention? | For decades, doctors and researchers believed dementia could not be prevented or cured. However, new research suggests that may not be the case.
A 2017 review found that more than one-third of dementia cases may be the result of lifestyle factors. Specifically, the researchers identified nine risk factors that may increase a person�s chance of developing dementia. They include:
midlife hypertension
midlife obesity
hearing loss
late-life depression
diabetes
physical inactivity
smoking
social isolation
lower levels of education
The researchers believe that targeting these risk factors with treatment or intervention could delay or possibly prevent some cases of dementia.
A 2019 retrospective study
looked at nearly 200,000 participants of European ancestry. The study suggested that lifestyle factors such as smoking status, physical activity, diet, and alcohol consumption could potentially contribute to the risk of dementia.
These findings suggest that working with your doctor to maintain a healthy and active lifestyle could help prevent or delay the onset of dementia. |
dementia | for dementia, dementia life expectancy? | Individuals living with dementia can and do live for years after their diagnosis. It may seem that dementia is not a fatal disease because of this. However, late-stage dementia is considered terminal.
It�s difficult for doctors to predict life expectancies in people with dementia. Likewise, factors that influence life expectancy may have a different impact on the length of life in each person.
In one 2015 study
, women diagnosed with Alzheimer�s disease lived an average of 5.7 years after diagnosis. Men lived 4.2 years. Life expectancies, the study found, may be shorter for individuals with other types of dementia.
Certain risk factors increase the likelihood of death in people with dementia. These factors include:
increased age
being born male
decreased capabilities and functionality
additional medical conditions, diseases, or diagnoses, such as diabetes or cancer
However, it�s important to remember that dementia doesn�t follow a specific timeline. You or your loved one may progress through the stages of dementia slowly, or the progression may be rapid and unpredictable. This will affect life expectancy. |
dementia | for dementia, dementia vs. alzheimer�s disease? | Dementia and Alzheimer�s disease are not the same. Dementia is an umbrella term used to describe a collection of symptoms related to memory, language, and decision making.
Alzheimer�s disease is the most common type of dementia. It causes difficulty with things like:
short-term memory
depression
disorientation
behavioral changes
Dementia causes symptoms such as:
forgetfulness or memory impairment
loss of sense of direction
confusion
difficulty with personal care
The exact constellation of symptoms will depend on the type of dementia you have.
Alzheimer�s disease can also cause these symptoms, but other symptoms of Alzheimer�s may include depression, impaired judgment, and difficulty speaking.
Likewise, treatments for dementia depend on the type you have. However, Alzheimer�s disease treatments often overlap with other nonpharmacological dementia treatments.
In the case of some types of dementia, treating the underlying cause may be helpful in reducing or stopping the memory and behavior problems. However, that is not the case with Alzheimer�s disease.
Comparing the two may help you tell the difference between symptoms you or a loved one may be experiencing. |
dementia | for dementia, dementia from alcohol? | Alcohol use may be the most preventable risk factor for dementia. A 2018 study
found that the majority of early onset dementia cases were related to alcohol use.
The study found that nearly one-third
of early onset dementia cases were directly linked to alcohol. Plus, 18 percent of people in the study had been diagnosed with an alcohol use disorder.
Alcohol use disorders, the researchers discovered, increase a person�s risk of dementia threefold
.
Not all drinking is dangerous to your memories and mental health. Moderate levels of drinking may even be beneficial to your heart�s health. This includes no more than one glass per day for women and two glasses per day for men. |
dementia | for dementia, isn�t forgetfulness a normal part of aging?? | It�s absolutely natural to forget things once in a while. Memory loss by itself does not mean you have dementia. There is a difference between occasional forgetfulness and forgetfulness that is cause for serious concern.
Potential red flags for dementia include:
forgetting who someone is
forgetting how to do common tasks, such as how to use the telephone or find your way home
inability to comprehend or retain information that has been clearly provided
Get medical attention if you experience any of the above.
Getting lost in familiar settings is often one of the first signs of dementia. For example, you might have trouble driving to the supermarket. |
dementia | for dementia, how common is dementia?? | According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 55 million people
have dementia worldwide, with around 10 million new cases reported each year.
The number of people receiving dementia diagnoses or living with dementia is increasing. This increase is due partly to increasing life expectancy.
By 2030, the size of the population 65 years of age and older in the United States is expected to almost double from 37 million people in 2006 to an estimated 74 million by 2030, according to the Federal Interagency Forum on Aging-Related Statistics.
The rates of dementia will likely increase with this larger population of people older than 65. |
dementia | for dementia, what research is being done?? | Scientists all over the world are working to gain a better understanding of the many different aspects of dementia. This might help to develop preventive measures, improved early detection diagnostic tools, better and longer-lasting treatments, and even cures.
For example, 2018 research on mice suggests a common asthma drug called zileuton might slow, stop, and potentially reverse the development of proteins in the brain. These proteins are common in people with Alzheimer�s disease.
Another 2021 review suggests deep brain stimulation could be an effective way to limit symptoms of Alzheimer�s in older adults. This method has been used to treat symptoms of Parkinson�s disease, such as tremors, for decades.
Even simple blood tests have now been developed that can detect Alzheimer�s, according to a 2021 study
. As well, researchers are looking at the possibility of slowing the progression of Alzheimer�s.
Scientists are investigating a variety of factors they think might influence the development of dementia, including:
genetic factors
various neurotransmitters
inflammation
factors that influence programmed cell death in the brain
tau, a protein found in neurons of the central nervous system
oxidative stress, or chemical reactions that can damage proteins, DNA, and lipids inside cells
This research can help doctors and scientists better understand what causes dementia, and then discover how best to treat and possibly prevent the disorder.
According to a 2019 study
, there is also increasing evidence that lifestyle factors may be effective in decreasing the risk of developing dementia. Such factors might include getting regular exercise and maintaining social connections. |
dementia | for dementia, outlook? | Currently, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says that Alzheimer�s disease is the seventh most common
cause of death in the United States. That said, people with dementia will progress through the illness at varying speeds and experience different symptoms.
There is currently no cure for dementia, but plenty of research is still being done. Hopefully, one day, outlooks will improve.
If you�re experiencing memory issues or any other symptoms that point to dementia, talk with your doctor as soon as possible. Early diagnosis can help people with dementia and their families plan for the future. |
osteoarthritis | what is osteoarthritis? Tell me about osteoarthritis? What kind of disease is osteoarthritis? Can you elaborate on osteoarthritis? What can you tell me about osteoarthritis? Could you describe what osteoarthritis is? I�d like to know more about osteoarthritis. Can you help? What information do you have on osteoarthritis? Could you provide information on osteoarthritis? | Arthritis is an inflammation of the joints that may affect one joint or multiple joints. The symptoms of arthritis usually develop over time, but they may also appear suddenly.
There are more than
100 different types of arthritis, with different causes and treatment methods.
Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common type of arthritis
in the United States. Other common types
include:
The typical age for developing rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is between ages 30 and 50. It can, however, affect children, teens, and younger adults.
Osteoarthritis (OA) commonly develops after the age 50 or 60 years, but there are studies that reveal radiographic evidence of OA occurring in women in their 40s. It also tends to be more prevalent in individuals who are overweight.
Join others who understand what you�re going through, and discover a safe space for community, guidance, and support to manage PsA symptoms together. |
osteoarthritis | for osteoarthritis, what are the symptoms of arthritis?? | Joint pain, stiffness, and swelling are the most common symptoms
of arthritis. Your symptoms may also feel worse in the morning when you get out of bed or upon standing up after you�ve been resting.
Other symptoms of osteoarthritis include:
limited range of motion that sometimes goes away after movement
clicking or popping with bending
muscle weakness around the joint
instability or buckling of the joint
bony growths in the fingers
grating or scraping feeling in the knees
Other symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis include:
morning stiffness that can last 30 minutes or more
more than one affected joint
onset in smaller joints like feet and hands
same joints on both sides of the body are affected
fatigue
low-grade fever
inflammation of the eyes and mouth
inflammation of the heart muscle and blood vessels
low red blood cell count |
osteoarthritis | for osteoarthritis, what causes arthritis?? | Arthritis may be caused by
:
wear and tear of a joint from overuse
age (OA is most common in adults over age 50)
injuries
obesity
autoimmune disorders
genes or family history
muscle weakness
Osteoarthritis
Normal wear and tear causes OA, one of the most common forms of arthritis. An infection or injury to the joints can exacerbate this natural breakdown of cartilage tissue.
Cartilage is a firm but flexible connective tissue in your joints. It protects the joints by absorbing the pressure and shock created when you move and put stress on them. A reduction in the normal amount of this cartilage tissue causes some forms of arthritis.
Your risk of developing OA may
also be higher if you have a family history of the disease.
Rheumatoid arthritis
Another common form of arthritis, RA, is an autoimmune disorder. It occurs when your body�s immune system attacks the tissues of the body, resulting in inflammation to joints as well as other body organs.
In the joints, this inflammatory response affects the synovium, a soft tissue in your joints that produces a fluid that nourishes the cartilage and lubricates the joints, eventually destroying both bone and cartilage inside the joint.
The exact cause of the immune system�s attacks is unknown. But scientists have discovered genetic markers that increase your risk of developing RA fivefold. |
osteoarthritis | for osteoarthritis, how is arthritis diagnosed?? | Seeing your primary care physician is a good first step if you�re unsure who to see for an arthritis diagnosis. They will perform a physical exam to check for fluid around the joints, warm or red joints, and document the range of motion in the joints. Your doctor can refer you to a specialist if needed.
If you�re experiencing severe symptoms, you may choose to schedule an appointment with a rheumatologist first. This may lead to a faster diagnosis and treatment.
Documenting inflammation levels in your blood and aspirating and analyzing joint fluids, if present, can help your doctor determine what kind of arthritis you have.
Blood tests that check for specific types of antibodies like anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide (CCP), rheumatoid factor (RF) and antinuclear antibody (ANA) are also common diagnostic tests.
Doctors commonly use imaging scans such as X-ray, MRI, and CT scans to produce an image of your bones and cartilage. This helps them rule out other causes of your symptoms, such as bone spurs.
If you need help finding a primary care doctor, then check out our FindCare tool here. |
osteoarthritis | for osteoarthritis, how is arthritis treated?? | The main goal of treatment is to reduce the amount of pain you�re experiencing and prevent additional damage to the joints. You�ll learn what works best for you in terms of managing pain.
In general, treatment for arthritis involves
a combination of:
medications and supplements
physical therapy
occupational therapy
nutrient-rich diet
regular exercise
weight loss, if needed
heat and cold compresses
mobility assistance devices, such as canes or walkers
Improving your joint function is also important. Your doctor may prescribe a combination of treatment methods to achieve the best results.
Medications
A number of different types of medication treat arthritis:
Analgesics, such as hydrocodone (Vicodin) or acetaminophen (Tylenol), are effective for pain management, but do not help decrease inflammation.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen (Advil) and salicylates, help manage pain and inflammation. Salicylates can thin the blood, so they should not be used with additional blood thinning medications.
Menthol or capsaicin creams. These creams block the transmission of pain signals from your joints.
Steroids, like prednisone, help reduce inflammation but should be used cautiously and for brief periods of time.
Immunosuppressants and biologics. Immunosuppressants and biologics are prescribed for moderate to severe inflammatory arthritis like RA.
If you have RA, your doctor may recommend corticosteroids or disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), which suppress your immune system.
DMARDs and biologics are being prescribed earlier in the course of RA. Methotrexate is now a first-line drug for treatment.
There are also many medications to treat OA available over the counter or by prescription.
Supplements
While clinical evidence and safety data
are lacking for many herbs and supplements marketed for arthritis, there are a few supplements that may be beneficial. For example, avocado and soybean unsaponifiables (ASU) may help OA symptoms. Fish oil and turmeric supplements may help reduce inflammation in RA.
However, you should talk with your doctor before taking any supplements for arthritis to make sure they are safe for you and will not interact with any medications you�re currently taking.
Surgery
Surgery to replace your joint with an artificial one may be an option. This form of surgery is most commonly performed to replace hips and knees.
If your arthritis is most severe in your fingers or wrists, your doctor may perform joint fusion. In this procedure, the ends of your bones are fused, eliminating the joint and therefore eliminating the site of inflammation.
Physical therapy
Physical therapy involving exercises that help strengthen the muscles around the affected joint is a core component of arthritis treatment.
Outside of your appointments, your physical therapist will likely recommend a plan of care that includes daily movement along with exercises you can complete on your own at home. Collectively, these can help build strength, flexibility, and balance to improve mobility while also preventing falls. |
osteoarthritis | for osteoarthritis, what lifestyle changes can help people with arthritis?? | Losing any excess weight and maintaining a moderate weight reduces the risk
of developing OA and can reduce symptoms if you already have the condition.
Eating a nutrient-dense diet is important for weight loss. Choosing a diet with lots of antioxidants, such as fresh fruits, vegetables, and herbs, can help reduce inflammation. Other inflammation-reducing foods include fish and nuts.
Foods that should be limited or avoided if you have arthritis include:
fried foods
processed foods
dairy products
a high intake of meat
Some research
also suggests that gluten antibodies may be present in people with RA. A gluten-free diet may improve symptoms and disease progression. A 2015 study
also recommends a gluten-free diet for all people who receive a diagnosis of undifferentiated connective tissue disease.
Regular exercise can keep your joints flexible. Swimming is often a good form of exercise for people with arthritis because it does not put pressure on your joints the way running and walking do. Staying active is important, but listening to your body when it�s signally resting and avoiding overexerting yourself are just as essential.
At-home exercises you can try include:
the head tilt, neck rotation, and other exercises to relieve pain in your neck
finger bends and thumb bends to ease pain in your hands
leg raises, hamstring stretches, and other easy exercises for knee arthritis |
osteoarthritis | for osteoarthritis, complications? | When left untreated, symptoms of arthritis may worsen and affect your day-to-day life. Below are some of the possible complications associated with this condition:
Reduced mobility. As arthritis progresses, you may experience less comfortable movement. This can interfere with your daily routine and may keep you from your favorite activities as well as socializing.
Possible weight gain. This is attributed to decreased movements, as well as discomfort that keeps you from exercising.
Increased risk of metabolic disorders. Being overweight with an inflammatory condition like arthritis may increase your chances of developing type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and heart disease.
Inflammation in other areas of your body. If your arthritis is attributed to an autoimmune disease like with RA, the inflammation can spread and affect your skin, eyes, blood vessels, and lungs.
Risk of falls. According to the Arthritis Foundation, people with OA are more likely to experience falls and possible fractures. This is primarily caused by related muscle weakness, but dizziness from pain medications can also lead to falls.
Decreased ability to work. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that about 60 percent
of people with arthritis are working age. Arthritis may affect your ability to move around in the workplace or even get from your mode of transportation to your job site.
Effects on mental health. Arthritis may increase the risk of anxiety and depression due to ongoing pain, inflammation, and social isolation.
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osteoarthritis | for osteoarthritis, risk factors? | The overall risk factors for arthritis
include:
Obesity. Particularly associated with OA, being overweight puts added stress on weight-bearing joints in the body, such as your knees and hips. Losing excess weight can help reduce your risk of developing arthritis, and it may also help if you already have the condition.
Age and gender. The risk of developing arthritis increases with age. Also, women are more likely
than men to develop most forms of arthritis. The exception is gout, which is more prominent in men.
Overuse injuries. Repetitive stress injuries incurred during exercise, your job, or other activities may increase your risk of developing OA in the affected joint(s) later in life.
Your genes. A family history of autoimmune diseases as well as certain inherited genes may increase your risk of RA and other related types of arthritis.
Smoking. Your risk of developing RA may increase if you smoke
, and smoking can in turn make this autoimmune disease worse. |
osteoarthritis | for osteoarthritis, what is the long-term outlook for people with arthritis?? | While there�s no cure for arthritis, the right treatment can greatly reduce your symptoms.
In addition to the treatments your doctor recommends, you can make a number of lifestyle changes that may also help you manage your arthritis. |
anxiety disorder | what is anxiety disorder? Tell me about anxiety disorder? What kind of disease is anxiety disorder? Can you elaborate on anxiety disorder? What can you tell me about anxiety disorder? Could you describe what anxiety disorder is? I�d like to know more about anxiety disorder. Can you help? What information do you have on anxiety disorder? Could you provide information on anxiety disorder? | Anxiety affects everyone in different ways. Sometimes, the feelings of fear and dread don�t go away or get worse over time. Here, you can learn about anxiety, who it affects, and how to manage it. |
anxiety disorder | for anxiety disorder, what is anxiety?? | Anxiety is your body�s natural response to stress. It�s a feeling of fear or apprehension about what�s to come. For example, going to a job interview or giving a speech on the first day of school may cause some people to feel fearful and nervous.
But if your feelings of anxiety are extreme, last for at least 6 months, and are interfering with your life, you may have an anxiety disorder. |
anxiety disorder | for anxiety disorder, what are anxiety disorders?? | It�s normal to feel anxious about moving to a new place, starting a new job, or taking a test. This type of anxiety is unpleasant, but it may motivate you to work harder and do a better job. Ordinary anxiety is a feeling that comes and goes but doesn�t interfere with your everyday life.
In the case of an anxiety disorder, the feeling of fear may be with you all the time. It�s intense and sometimes debilitating.
This type of anxiety may cause you to stop doing things you enjoy. For example, it may prevent you from entering an elevator, crossing the street, or even leaving your home in extreme cases. If left untreated, the anxiety will keep getting worse.
Anxiety disorders are the most common form of emotional disorder and can affect anyone. But, according to the American Psychiatric Association, women are more likely than men to receive a diagnosis of an anxiety disorder. |
anxiety disorder | for anxiety disorder, what are the types of anxiety disorders?? | Anxiety is a vital part of several different disorders. These include:
Panic disorder. This means you experience recurring panic attacks at unexpected times.
Phobia. This is an excessive fear of a specific object, situation, or activity.
Social anxiety disorder. This is an extreme fear of being judged by others in social situations.
Obsessive-compulsive disorder. This means you have recurring irrational thoughts that lead you to perform specific, repeated behaviors.
Separation anxiety disorder. This means you have a fear of being away from home or your loved ones.
Illness anxiety disorder. This is anxiety about your health (formerly called hypochondria).
In addition, a number of mental health and medical conditions may feature anxiety as a symptom. These include:
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This is anxiety following a traumatic event.
Major depressive disorders. A strong relationship exists between depression and anxiety.
Chronic disease. Managing conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and diabetes may result in anxiety symptoms.
Inflammatory conditions. Anxiety can lead to chronic inflammation and diseases such as arthritis
Substance use disorders: many people with anxiety may try to self-medicate to help manage their symptoms.
Chronic pain. Anxiety is often found
in those with chronic pain disorders. |
anxiety disorder | for anxiety disorder, what are the symptoms of anxiety?? | Anxiety feels different depending on the person experiencing it. Feelings can range from butterflies in your stomach to a racing heart. You might feel out of control like there�s a disconnect between your mind and body.
You may have a general feeling of fear and worry, or you may fear a specific place or event. In some cases, you may experience a panic attack.
Symptoms
of anxiety can include:
anxious thoughts or beliefs that are difficult to control
restlessness
trouble concentrating
difficulty falling asleep
fatigue
irritability
unexplained aches and pains
Your anxiety symptoms might be different from someone else�s. That�s why it�s essential to know how anxiety can present itself. Read about the many types of anxiety symptoms you might experience. |
anxiety disorder | for anxiety disorder, what is a panic attack?? | A panic attack is a feeling of intense fear that comes on suddenly and peaks within 10 to 20 minutes. The initial trigger of the fear can be known or unknown.
The physical symptoms can mimic a heart attack. Once you�re experiencing a panic attack, the symptoms may get worse if you believe you may be having a heart attack or having a mental health emergency. Another common fear that may exacerbate a panic attack is the fear that you might be judged negatively if you�re having an attack in public.
Panic attacks can vary greatly, and symptoms may differ among individuals. In addition, the many symptoms of anxiety don�t happen to everyone, and they can change over time.
Common symptoms
of a panic attack include:
chest pain
feeling of choking
fear of losing control
feeling of impending doom
sweating, chills, and hot flashes
shaking
numbness and tingling of hands, feet, or face
nausea or upset stomach
shortness of breath
fear of dying
When you experience repeated panic or anxiety attacks, you may have a panic disorder. |
anxiety disorder | for anxiety disorder, what causes anxiety?? | Experts aren�t sure of the exact cause of anxiety. But it�s likely that a combination of factors play a role.
The causes of anxiety may include:
stress
other medical issues such as depression or diabetes
first degree relatives with generalized anxiety disorder
environmental concerns, such as child abuse
substance use
situations such as surgery or occupational hazard
In addition, researchers believe that it stems from the areas of the brain responsible for controlling fear and the storing and retrieval of emotional and fear-related memories. |
anxiety disorder | for anxiety disorder, who is at risk of anxiety disorders?? | With each type of anxiety, there are different risk factors. But there are some general influences
, including:
Personality traits. This includes shyness and nervousness in childhood.
Life history. This includes being exposed to negative or stressful live events.
Genetics. Of those who have a diagnosis of anxiety, 25 percent
have a first degree relative who also has a diagnosis of anxiety.
Other health conditions. Thyroid problems and other health conditions can make you prone to anxiety.
Stimulants. Consuming caffeine
, specific substances, and medications can worsen your symptoms. |
anxiety disorder | for anxiety disorder, are there tests that diagnose anxiety?? | A single test can�t diagnose anxiety. Instead, an anxiety diagnosis requires a lengthy process of physical examinations, mental health tests, and psychological questionnaires.
Some doctors or healthcare professionals may conduct a physical exam, including blood or urine tests to rule out underlying medical conditions that could contribute to the symptoms you�re experiencing.
Several anxiety tests and scales are also used to help a doctor assess the level of anxiety you�re experiencing. Reach about each of these tests. |
anxiety disorder | for anxiety disorder, what are treatments for anxiety?? | Once you�ve received a diagnosis of anxiety, you can explore treatment options with a doctor.
But treatment can help you overcome the symptoms and lead a more manageable day-to-day life.
Treatment for anxiety falls into three categories:
Psychotherapy. Therapy can include cognitive behavioral therapy and exposure response prevention.
Complemental health techniques. Mindfulness, yoga, and self-management strategies such as stress management are ways to treat your anxiety using alternative methods.
Medication. Doctors prescribe antianxiety and antidepressant drugs.
Meeting with a therapist or psychologist can help you learn tools to use and strategies to cope with stress when it occurs.
The Mental Health Resources page can provide tips on finding a psychiatrist, or a doctor who specializes in mental health, to fit your needs.
Medications typically used to treat anxiety include benzodiazepines for short-term symptom relief, but they�re avoided if possible due to the high risk of dependence. Other antianxiety or antidepressant medications such as escitalopram effectively alter your brain chemistry to improve mood and reduce stress.
Some other commonly used medications include:
Selective serotonin uptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Escitalopram, fluoxetine, and paroxetine are common SSRIs.
Selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). Duloxetine and venlafaxine are common SNRIs.
Antipsychotics. Quetiapine and aripiprazole are common antipsychotics.
Benzodiazepines. Diazepam and clonazepam are common benzodiazepines.
Anxiolytics. Buspirone is a common anxiolytic.
Online therapy options
Please read our resource on finding online therapy that takes your insurance to find the right therapist for you.
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anxiety disorder | for anxiety disorder, what natural remedies are used for anxiety?? | Lifestyle changes can effectively relieve some of the stress and anxiety you may cope with every day. Most natural �remedies� consist of caring for your body and participating in healthy activities while eliminating unhealthy ones.
These include:
getting enough sleep
meditating
staying active and exercising
eating a healthy diet
avoiding alcohol
avoiding caffeine
quitting smoking cigarettes if you smoke
If these lifestyle changes seem like a positive way to help you eliminate some anxiety, read about how each one works�plus, get more great ideas for treating anxiety. |
anxiety disorder | for anxiety disorder, anxiety and depression? | If you have an anxiety disorder, you may also be experiencing depression. While anxiety and depression can occur separately, it�s not unusual for mental health disorders to happen together.
Anxiety can be a symptom of clinical or major depression. Likewise, worsening symptoms of depression can become triggered by an anxiety disorder.
You can manage symptoms of both conditions with many of the same treatments: psychotherapy (counseling), medications, and lifestyle changes. |
anxiety disorder | for anxiety disorder, how to help children with anxiety? | Anxiety in children is natural and expected. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 9.4%
of children and adolescents ages 3 to 17 have had a diagnosis of anxiety.
As children grow up, they should outgrow the worries and fears they felt when they were younger. It may be considered an anxiety disorder if they�re afraid to be away from their parents, exhibit extreme fear, and other anxiety symptoms that interfere with their day-to-day lives.
Anxiety in children can also become chronic and persistent, with uncontrolled anxiety leading them to avoid interacting with their peers or family members.
Symptoms of an anxiety disorder
in children might include:
anger
irritability
trouble sleeping
feelings of fear
fatigue
headaches
stomachaches
Anxiety treatment for children includes cognitive behavioral therapy (talk therapy) and medications. Learn more about the symptoms of an anxiety disorder and techniques to help calm your child�s anxiety. |
anxiety disorder | for anxiety disorder, how to help teens with anxiety? | Teenagers may have many reasons to be anxious. Tests, college visits, and first dates all pop up in these important years. But teenagers who feel anxious or experience anxiety symptoms frequently may have an anxiety disorder.
Symptoms of anxiety in teenagers may include nervousness, shyness, isolationist behaviors, and avoidance. Likewise, anxiety in teens may lead to unusual behaviors.
For example, they may act out, perform poorly in school, skip social events, and even engage in substance or alcohol use.
In some teens, depression may accompany anxiety. Diagnosing both conditions is essential so that their treatment can address the underlying issues and help relieve symptoms.
The most common treatments for anxiety in teenagers are talk therapy and medication. These treatments also help address depression symptoms. |
anxiety disorder | for anxiety disorder, anxiety and stress? | Stress and anxiety are related but different. Stress is a typical and healthy reaction to an identifiable event that�s making you nervous, such as an upcoming test, presentation, wedding, or other major change in your life.
Stress will go away once the trigger goes away. Anxiety, on the other hand, persists beyond any trigger and may exist without a known trigger. A person may need treatment for anxiety to go away.
Both anxiety and stress respond well to physical activity, good sleep hygiene, and a well-balanced diet. But if your anxiety and stress don�t respond well and you feel your day-to-day functioning is impaired, a mental health professional can help you determine a treatment plan.
Physical symptoms of anxiety
When you experience symptoms of anxiety, they can manifest as physical symptoms such as:
dizziness
tiredness
heart palpitations
muscle aches and tensions
shaking
dry mouth
excessive sweating
stomachache
headache
insomnia
Neither stress nor anxiety is always bad. Both can provide you with a boost or incentive to accomplish the task or challenge before you. But if these feelings become persistent, they can begin to interfere with your daily life. In that case, it�s important to get treatment.
The long-term outlook for people with untreated depression and anxiety includes chronic health issues, such as heart disease. Learn why anxiety and stress occur and how you can manage the conditions. |
anxiety disorder | for anxiety disorder, anxiety and alcohol? | If you�re anxious frequently, you may decide you�d like a drink to calm your nerves. After all, alcohol is a sedative. In addition, it can depress the activity of your central nervous system, which may help you feel more relaxed.
Some people with anxiety disorders abuse alcohol or other drugs regularly to feel better, creating dependency and addiction.
It may be necessary to treat an alcohol or drug problem before doctors can address the anxiety. But chronic or long-term use can ultimately worsen the condition. Read more to understand how alcohol can worsen anxiety symptoms. |
anxiety disorder | for anxiety disorder, can foods treat anxiety?? | Doctors commonly use medication and talk therapy to treat anxiety. But lifestyle changes, such as getting enough sleep and regular exercise, can also help. In addition, some research suggests the foods you eat may have a beneficial impact on your brain if you frequently experience anxiety.
These foods include:
flax and chia seeds
fatty fish such as mackerel and salmon
turmeric
vitamin D
magnesium
tryptophan
Read more about how these foods can boost your brain health and lower your anxiety. |
anxiety disorder | for anxiety disorder, anxiety prevention? | Children and teens
It�s not known why anxiety develops in children and teenagers. But there are excellent public health approaches that work to prevent the disorder, and they include:
suicide prevention
bullying prevention
youth violence prevention
child maltreatment prevention
mental health programs
As parents, you can communicate openly and honestly with your child while ensuring they�re making healthy decisions.
To learn more about how to support your child�s mental health, please check out the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) resource page
.
In addition, in cases of children and teens experiencing anxiety in response to something happening within their family or in their home, it�s a good idea to get family therapy. This is important especially because children and teens may not find it so easy to talk about their feelings or be aware of their anxiety.
Adults
There are many ways to prevent anxiety and its symptoms. Please see the below options:
Avoidance. Avoiding people, places, and situations can lessen your stress and anxiety. But this would be a short-term strategy. In the long term, it�s better if you get treatment so you no longer need to avoid a trigger.
Stress management and mindfulness. Practicing stress management and mindfulness prevents strain.
Restrict caffeine. Caffeine can worsen anxiety symptoms.
Support groups. Speaking with others is an opportunity to share coping strategies and experiences.
Therapy. Speaking with a therapist can help you develop more effective ways to cope with fears and stress that lead to anxiety.
Speak with a doctor about your medications. Regularly speaking with a doctor about your medications� dosing, effectiveness, and side effects ensures any health condition is treated adequately and monitored for any possible anxiety-related side effects. |
anxiety disorder | for anxiety disorder, outlook? | You can treat your anxiety with medication, psychotherapy, or a combination of the two.
But some people who have a mild anxiety disorder, or a fear of something they can easily avoid, decide to live with the condition and don�t get treatment.
Avoiding the trigger, however, can actually make anxiety worse in the long term. Treatment can help you overcome the need to avoid a trigger.
It�s important to understand that anxiety disorders can be treated, even in severe cases. Although anxiety usually doesn�t go away, you can learn to manage it and live a happy, healthy life. |
sepsis | what is sepsis? Tell me about sepsis? What kind of disease is sepsis? Can you elaborate on sepsis? What can you tell me about sepsis? Could you describe what sepsis is? I�d like to know more about sepsis. Can you help? What information do you have on sepsis? Could you provide information on sepsis? | Sepsis is a life threatening illness caused by your body�s response to an infection. Your immune system protects you from many illnesses and infections, but it�s also possible for it to go into overdrive in response to an infection.
There are approximately 1.7 million cases of sepsis each year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
. In addition, this type of infection kills nearly 270,000 people in the United States every year.
Keep reading to learn more about sepsis symptoms, treatment, and complications. |
sepsis | for sepsis, what is sepsis?? | Sepsis develops when an existing infection triggers an extreme immune system response in your body.
When you experience an infection, your immune system responds by releasing proteins and other chemicals to fight it. Sepsis occurs when this response gets out of control, triggering extensive inflammation.
Most infections that cause sepsis are bacterial. But other infections � including COVID-19, influenza, and fungal infections � can also lead to sepsis.
Sepsis causes fever, a rapid heart rate, and difficulty breathing, among other symptoms. It�s a serious condition that requires swift medical treatment.
Severe sepsis can lead to septic shock, a medical emergency. Septic shock is associated with a significant drop in blood pressure, organ failure, and widespread tissue damage. If left untreated, it can be fatal.
Stages of sepsis
There are three stages of sepsis:
Sepsis. An infection gets into your bloodstream and causes inflammation in your body.
Severe sepsis. The infection and inflammation is severe enough to start affecting organ function.
Septic shock. Septic shock is a severe complication of sepsis that causes a significant drop in blood pressure. This can lead to many serious complications including:
organ dysfunction
respiratory or heart failure
stroke
possible death
While sepsis often occurs in hospital settings, it can also happen in other locations. In some cases, you might not even know you have an infection that could potentially lead to sepsis. |
sepsis | for sepsis, what are the symptoms of sepsis?? | It�s important to seek immediate medical attention if you have any symptoms of sepsis. The earlier you seek treatment, the greater chance you have of recovering.
Signs and symptoms of sepsis
Symptoms of sepsis can include:
fever and/or chills
confusion or disorientation
difficulty breathing
fast heart rate or low blood pressure (hypotension)
extreme pain
sweaty skin
It�s possible to mistake the symptoms above for those of another condition, like pneumonia, COVID-19, or cancer.
In addition, sepsis symptoms can be particularly hard to identify in infants, children, and people with:
communication challenges
learning disabilities
dementia
It�s best to seek medical assistance right away if you suspect sepsis. A health professional can examine you or the person you care for to make a diagnosis.
Signs and symptoms of severe sepsis
Severe sepsis is characterized by organ failure. You must have one or more of the following signs to be diagnosed with severe sepsis:
difficulty breathing
bluish discoloration of the skin, especially lips, fingers, toes
chills due to a drop in body temperature
decreased urination
dizziness
changes in mental ability
extreme weakness (asthenia)
low platelet count (thrombocytopenia)
abnormal heart functions
unconsciousness
Signs and symptoms of septic shock (septicemia)
Sepsis can advance very quickly to severe sepsis and septic shock. As it transitions, it becomes more life threatening.
Some severe sepsis and septic shock symptoms can overlap, like severe difficulty breathing, acute confusion, and bluish skin. Another key symptom of septic shock is very low blood pressure.
If you need help finding a primary care doctor, then check out our FindCare tool here. |
sepsis | for sepsis, what causes sepsis?? | Any infection can trigger sepsis, but the following types of infections have a higher risk of causing sepsis:
pneumonia
abdominal infections
kidney infections
blood poisoning
According to the National Institute of General Medical Sciences
, the number of sepsis cases in the United States increases every year. Possible reasons for the increase include:
an aging population, due to the fact that sepsis is more common in seniors
an increase in antibiotic resistance, which happens when an antibiotic medication loses its ability to resist or kill bacteria
an increase in the number of people with illnesses that weaken their immune systems |
sepsis | for sepsis, who is at risk for sepsis?? | Although some people have a higher risk of infection, anyone can get sepsis. People who are at the highest risk include:
young children and seniors
people with weaker immune systems, including people with HIV or those undergoing chemotherapy treatment for cancer
people in intensive care units (ICUs)
people exposed to invasive devices, like intravenous catheters or breathing tubes |
sepsis | for sepsis, newborns and sepsis? | Neonatal sepsis occurs when a baby gets a blood infection within the first month of life.
Neonatal sepsis is classified based on the timing of the infection, according to whether the infection was contracted during birth (early-onset) or after birth (late-onset). This helps the doctor decide what kind of treatment to administer.
Low birth weight and premature babies are more susceptible to late-onset sepsis because their immune systems are immature. While symptoms can be subtle and nonspecific, some signs include:
listlessness
not breastfeeding/feeding well
low body temperature
apnea (gaps in breathing)
fever
pale color
poor skin circulation with cool extremities
abdominal swelling
vomiting
diarrhea
seizures
jitteriness
yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes (jaundice)
Neonatal sepsis is still a leading cause of infant death. With early diagnosis and treatment, most babies can recover completely and have no other problems.
In addition, universal maternal screening and proper neonatal testing have significantly reduced the risk of neonatal sepsis. |
sepsis | for sepsis, seniors and sepsis? | The immune system tends to weaken with age. According to a 2017 review, around 40 to 50 percent of all bacteremia cases occur in older adults, which can lead to sepsis.
But age isn�t the only factor that puts seniors at an increased risk. Older adults are also more likely to have existing chronic illnesses, like diabetes, kidney disease, cancer, or high blood pressure.
Other risk factors pertinent to seniors include increased use of medication, malnutrition, and imbalances in intestinal microbiota.
Older adults can contract sepsis from common infections, like pneumonia or urinary tract infections (UTIs). Infections from pressure sores can also lead to sepsis.
Finally, sepsis symptoms like confusion and disorientation may be particularly difficult to identify in older adults with dementia. |
sepsis | for sepsis, how is sepsis diagnosed?? | If you have sepsis symptoms, your doctor will order tests to diagnose and determine the severity of your infection. One of the first tests is a blood test. Your blood is checked for complications like:
infection
clotting problems
abnormal liver or kidney function
decreased amount of oxygen
an electrolyte imbalance, which affects the amount of water in your body and the acidity of your blood
Depending on your symptoms and the results of your blood test, your doctor may order other tests, including:
a urine test (to check for bacteria in your urine)
a wound secretion test (to check an open wound for an infection)
a mucus secretion test (to identify germs responsible for an infection)
If your doctor can�t determine the source of an infection using the above tests, they may order an internal view of your body using one of the following:
chest x-rays to view the lungs
CT scans to view possible infections in the appendix, pancreas, or bowel area
ultrasounds to view infections in the gallbladder or ovaries
MRI scans, which can identify soft tissue infections |
sepsis | for sepsis, sepsis criteria? | There are two sets of criteria doctors use to determine the severity of sepsis. One set of criteria is for systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS).
SIRS is defined when you meet two or more of the following criteria:
a fever of more than 100.4�F (38�C) or less than 96.8�F (36�C)
a heart rate of more than 90 beats per minute
a respiratory rate of more than 20 breaths per minute or arterial carbon dioxide tension (PaCO2) of less than 32 millimeters of mercury (mm Hg)
an abnormal white blood cell count
Another tool is the quick sequential organ failure assessment (qSOFA). It uses the results of three criteria:
low blood pressure reading (systolic blood pressure of less than 100 mm Hg)
high respiratory rate (greater than 22 breaths per minute)
Glasgow coma scale score of 14 or less to determine your level of consciousness
A positive qSOFA occurs when two or more of the above measurements are abnormal. Some physicians prefer using qSOFA because, unlike the SIRS criteria, qSOFA doesn�t require laboratory tests.
The results of either of these assessments will help your doctor determine the best course of treatment. |
sepsis | for sepsis, how is sepsis treated?? | Sepsis can quickly progress to septic shock and death if it�s left untreated. Doctors use a number of medications to treat sepsis, including:
intravenous (IV) antibiotics to fight the infection
medications to increase blood pressure
insulin to stabilize blood sugar
corticosteroids to reduce inflammation
pain relievers to help with discomfort
Severe sepsis may also require large amounts of IV fluids and a respirator for breathing.
Dialysis might be necessary if the kidneys are affected. Your kidneys help filter harmful wastes, salt, and excess water from your blood. With dialysis, a machine performs these functions.
In some cases, surgery may be needed to remove the source of an infection. This may include draining a pus-filled abscess or removing infected tissue.
Treatment options may vary slightly for older adults, depending on their risk factors. According to a 2016 review
, older adults may be more sensitive to medications that increase blood pressure and antibiotics.
Additionally, seniors are more likely to develop delirium in the ICU and should be regularly screened for sepsis symptoms. |
sepsis | for sepsis, is sepsis contagious?? | Sepsis isn�t contagious. But the pathogens responsible for the original infection, like viral pneumonia or COVID-19, can be contagious.
Sepsis spreads within a person�s body from the original source of infection to other organs through the bloodstream. |
sepsis | for sepsis, recovery from sepsis? | Recovering from sepsis depends on the severity of your condition and any pre-existing health issues you might have. While many people make a full recovery, others report lasting effects.
The UK Sepsis Trust reports that it can take up to 18 months before people who�ve had sepsis start feeling like their usual selves again.
According to the Sepsis Alliance, around 50 percent of sepsis survivors deal with a condition called post-sepsis syndrome (PSS). This condition includes long-term effects like:
damaged organs
insomnia
nightmares
disabling muscle and joint pains
fatigue
poor concentration
lowered cognitive functioning
lowered self-esteem |
sepsis | for sepsis, sepsis prevention? | You can reduce your risk of sepsis by preventing the spread of infection. In the current COVID-19 pandemic, this is more important than ever.
Severe COVID-19 infections cause symptoms similar to sepsis. In addition, contracting COVID-19 puts you at an increased risk of developing another infection. A 2021 review
reported that up to 17 percent of people admitted to the ICU with COVID-19 had additional infections.
You can help prevent both COVID-19 and other infections by taking the following precautions:
Stay up to date on your vaccinations. Get vaccinated for COVID-19, the flu, pneumonia, and other common infections.
Keep your distance from people outside your household. Avoid non-essential travel and activities, and stay 6 feet away from people you don�t know.
Wear a mask. Masks help protect you and others from respiratory infections. Wear a mask in indoor public spaces, like grocery stores and movie theaters.
Practice good hygiene. This means practicing proper wound care, hand-washing, and bathing regularly.
Get immediate care if you develop signs of infection. Every minute counts when it comes to sepsis treatment. The sooner you get treatment, the better the outcome. |
sepsis | for sepsis, sepsis complications? | Sepsis symptoms can range from mild to severe. Complications are more likely in severe cases. These complications can include:
blood clots
an increased risk of infection
tissue death (gangrene)
organ damage
organ failure, particularly the kidneys, heart, and lungs
Severe cases of sepsis can be fatal. A 2020 review
found that the mortality rate for sepsis after 90 days was 32.2 percent. The mortality rate for septic shock after 90 days was 38.5 percent. |
sepsis | for sepsis, the bottom line? | Sepsis is a life threatening illness caused by your body�s response to an infection. Sepsis occurs when your body�s immune system response gets out of control, triggering extensive inflammation.
Sepsis isn�t contagious. But bacterial, viral, and fungal infections that can trigger sepsis can be spread from person to person. COVID-19 is an example of one such infection that can lead to sepsis. Those at the highest risk of sepsis include newborns, seniors, and people with pre-existing health conditions.
Among other symptoms, sepsis causes fever or chills, a rapid heart rate, confusion, and difficulty breathing. Sepsis is a medical emergency.
Seek immediate medical attention if you suspect that you have sepsis, especially if you have a known infection.
Read the article in Spanish. |
rash | what is rash? Tell me about rash? What kind of disease is rash? Can you elaborate on rash? What can you tell me about rash? Could you describe what rash is? I�d like to know more about rash. Can you help? What information do you have on rash? Could you provide information on rash? | Many viral rashes clear up on their own as the infection clears, but some may require antiviral medication. |
rash | for rash, what is a viral rash?? | Viral infections are illnesses caused by a virus rather than bacteria or fungi. Many viral infections, especially those that tend to affect toddlers and children, can cause skin rashes.
While they can look alarming, these rashes usually aren�t a cause for concern, and they disappear once the infection clears up. Viral rashes are caused by either an immune response to the virus or damage to skin cells from the virus.
Read on to learn more about the symptoms of viral rashes, including when you should reach out to a healthcare professional. |
rash | for rash, types of viral rashes? | The characteristics of viral rashes can vary greatly. However, most look like splotchy red spots on lighter skin or purplish spots on darker skin.
These spots might come on suddenly or appear gradually over several days. They can also appear in a small section or cover multiple areas. For example, a measles-related rash starts on your cheeks before eventually spreading to your torso and limbs.
Viral rashes might also feel itchy or painful to the touch. The best way to identify a viral rash is to check for any symptoms of a viral infection, such as:
fever
chills
body aches
fatigue
Measles
Measles is a highly contagious viral infection. It can cause many symptoms, including a rash that starts on the face and spreads to the body. phichet chaiyabin/Shutterstock
Measles is a highly contagious disease among people who are not protected by a vaccine. It can be dangerous in young children and infants.
The measles rash generally starts off as a red, blotchy rash on the face. Over the course of a few days, it can spread to the torso and then the rest of the body.
The rash typically consists of flat pink or red spots that appear 3 to 5 days
after infection. On darker skin, it can be flesh-colored to slightly purplish-gray, with flat to slightly raised bumps.
The rash occurs because your immune system detects the virus as it travels through your bloodstream. Immune cells then release chemicals to destroy the virus. However, these chemicals also cause skin inflammation, resulting in a rash.
Symptoms of measles infection may include:
high fever with spikes of more than 104� F (40� C)
cough
runny nose
conjunctivitis, a condition where the eyes become red and watery
blotchy rash that spreads from the face to the body
German measles (rubella)
Rubella is a viral illness that causes a rash on the face that spreads to the rest of the body. Akkalak Aiempradit/Shutterstock
The rubella virus, also known as German measles, typically causes mild illness in both children and adults. However, this can cause stillbirth or miscarriage and severe birth defects in developing babies.
People with rubella can pass the virus to others by sneezing and coughing as well as through their saliva. They may be contagious for a full week before they develop a rash. They�ll usually continue to be contagious for another week after the rash appears.
The rash caused by German measles typically starts on the face, and within 3 days, it spreads to the rest of the body. The rash can appear red on light skin. It may be hard to see on darker skin but feel rough or bumpy to the touch.
Symptoms of German measles can include:
low-grade fever
headache
swollen lymph nodes
cough or runny nose
Mononucleosis (mono)
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Infectious mononucleosis is caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). This virus is common in teenagers and young adults but can occur at any age. A rash may occur with infection, though it is not the primary symptom.
Like its nickname � the kissing disease � suggests, mono is passed through bodily fluids like saliva.
Mono can have three different types of rashes. Mono rashes can appear as:
A generalized rash. This looks like generalized red spots on lighter skin to pinkish-purple on darker skin, and it can be either flat or small bumps.
A drug rash. Mono is caused by a virus and isn�t treated with an antibiotic. Someone may be mistakenly diagnosed with strep throat and treated with an antibiotic, which may result in a drug rash. The rash is usually temporary, and it will likely be itchy, raised, and splotchy.
Petechiae. These can look like small reddish-purple dots on the skin or inside the mouth. They happen from broken capillaries. When you apply pressure, petechiae stay the same color.
Symptoms of mononucleosis may include:
fatigue
fever of 101�F (38.3�C) to 104�F (40�C)
sore throat
swollen lymph nodes
rash
Chickenpox
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Chickenpox, caused by the varicella-zoster virus, causes a rash with fluid-filled pustules. This virus is highly contagious to those who have not been vaccinated.
You can catch chickenpox by coming into contact with the saliva of a person who has the virus, such as when they sneeze or cough. You can also get the disease by touching the blisters or the liquid inside the blisters. Pregnant people can also pass chickenpox to their babies before birth.
For those who have received one or two doses of the chickenpox vaccine, milder breakthrough cases can occur, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
.
The chickenpox rash typically has three phases:
Raised bumps appear on the skin. Depending on the color of your skin, they may appear pink, red, brown, or purplish.
These bumps then become fluid-filled blisters.
The blisters eventually burst and scab over.
Symptoms of chickenpox may include:
itchy rash
fever
tiredness and feeling unwell
headache
loss of appetite
Shingles
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Shingles infection is caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox. If you have had chickenpox, you are at risk of developing shingles.
The risk of reactivating the virus increases with age, and 1 out of every 2 people in the United States will develop shingles in their lifetime, according to the CDC
.
You can get shingles from direct contact with blisters or the fluid inside them.
Shingles involves a reactivation of the chickenpox virus that�s lying dormant in your nerves. When the virus reactivates, it travels down your nerves to your skin. As the virus spreads there, the shingles rash begins to form.
Though similar to chickenpox spots in children, the shingles rash and illness are often more severe in adults. Older adults may also be at risk for complications such as nerve pain, blindness, and neurological conditions.
People who develop shingles often note that pain occurred at the site where the rash develops. Unlike the rash caused by a chickenpox infection, a shingles rash typically occurs on one side of the body, often in a single area or stripe.
Symptoms of a shingles infection may include:
rash that can occur in a single area of the skin
fever
headache
fatigue
chills
photosensitivity (sensitivity to light)
upset stomach
Hand, foot, and mouth disease
Hand, foot, and mouth disease is a common infectious disease that�s caused by the coxsackievirus. adriaticfoto/Shutterstock
Hand, foot, and mouth disease is caused by viruses in the enterovirus family. It commonly affects children under age 5, but it can affect people of any age.
It can be very contagious but does not typically cause serious illness. You can get hand, foot, and mouth disease by coming into contact with the bodily fluids of a person who has the virus. This includes:
saliva
mucus
feces
the fluid inside of their blisters
Like its name suggests, the rash associated with hand, foot, and mouth disease often occurs on those parts of the body.
People with the virus can develop painful sores on the back of the mouth and a rash on their skin. This rash can look like flat, red to purple spots or liquid-filled blisters.
While it often appears on the palms of the hands and the soles of the feet, it can show up on other parts of the body as well. Per the CDC
, this might include the:
knees
elbows
buttocks
genital area
Symptoms of hand, foot, and mouth disease can include:
fever
flu-like symptoms
rash
mouth sores
sore throat
headache
reduced appetite
malaise or generally not feeling well
Fifth disease
Fifth disease is a viral illness caused by parvovirus, which can cause a �slapped cheek� rash. Kardelen Yang?n via Wikipedia
Fifth disease is a viral illness that can cause a red rash on the cheeks or limbs. It is also known as slapped cheek disease.
In children, fifth disease can be mild, but it may be more severe for:
adults
people who are pregnant
people with weakened immune systems
This virus spreads through bodily fluids, such as the respiratory particles in saliva and mucus, when a person with the virus coughs or sneezes. It can also be passed during pregnancy to an unborn child and by blood.
The rash caused by fifth disease more commonly appears in children, per the CDC
. It may be itchy or go through periods of itchiness. Some people may develop a second rash on another part of the body a few days later.
Symptoms of fifth disease can include:
fever
rash
runny nose
headache
joint pain and swelling
Roseola
Roseola is a common viral illness in small children. It causes a rash that usually occurs after a fever. phadungsak sawasdee/Shutterstock
Roseola, also known as sixth disease, is a contagious illness that typically affects children 6 months to 2 years old. The virus enters the body through the nose and mouth from the respiratory droplets of a person with the virus.
Children with roseola often experience a rash after symptoms of high fever and mild respiratory illness.
The rash caused by roseola tends to first appear on the trunk of the body before spreading to the arms and legs.
The spots can appear pink or slightly darker tones, depending on the color of the child�s skin. When touched, the spots may become lighter in color, a sign that the small capillaries are dilated. On darker skin, this may be harder to see.
The rash often appears as the fever decreases.
Symptoms of roseola include:
respiratory symptoms
sudden high fever
fever that continues for 3 to 4 days
swelling of the eyelids
irritability
rash
West Nile virus
West Nile virus can cause a rash that may resemble rashes from other viral illnesses. Sejvar JJ. (2014). Clinical manifestations and outcomes of West Nile virus infection. https://www.mdpi.com/1999-4915/6/2/606
The West Nile virus is caused by the bite of an infected mosquito. It can affect people of all ages.
Many people who have this virus don�t develop any symptoms of the disease. But 1 in 5 people
may develop a fever that occurs with other symptoms, including a rash.
The West Nile virus can cause a maculopapular rash, with both flat discolored spots and raised bumps. It tends to appear on the trunk and limbs 5 days
after other symptoms, such as fever and fatigue, begin.
Symptoms of the West Nile virus include:
fever
fatigue
headache
body aches
joint pain
vomiting
diarrhea
rash
Some people with the West Nile virus develop a serious and sometimes fatal illness that affects the central nervous system. Severe symptoms may include:
high fever
disorientation
stiff neck
coma
tremors
paralysis
Zika virus
Zika virus is a recently discovered viral illness that can cause rash. Koenig KL, et al. (2016). Identify-isolate-inform: A tool for initial detection and management of zika virus patients in the emergency department. https://escholarship.org/uc/item/72w2v02d
The Zika virus is mostly spread by Aedes mosquitos that have the virus. A person who contracts the virus while pregnant can also pass the virus to their child, which may cause birth defects.
The Zika virus rash often appears as red spots and blotches that start on the face. It then spreads to the torso and limbs, including the palms of the hands and soles of the feet.
According to a 2020 study, itchiness also tends to occur with an infection.
Symptoms of Zika infection may include:
rash
itchiness
joint pain
headache
fever
muscle weakness
conjunctivitis (pink eye)
Dengue fever
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Dengue fever is a disease transmitted by an infected mosquito. It can cause either mild or severe illness.
Rash may occur in two phases of the disease. It can first appear as facial flushing that feels warm to the touch. A second rash can also occur 3 days to 1 week
following the fever.
This rash has flat pinkish or red spots that can merge together. There may be circular areas where the skin is clear and central pinpoint spots that bleed, often called white islands in a sea of red.
Symptoms of dengue fever can include:
fever
rash
nausea and vomiting
pain behind the eyes
muscle, joint, or bone pain
Warning signs of severe dengue usually begin 24 to 48 hours
after the fever has gone down and can include:
pain in the abdomen
bleeding from the nose or gums
blood in vomit, which can appear like coffee grounds
blood in stool, which may appear like red blood or black stool |
rash | for rash, treatment options? | Viral infections often have to run their course. Unlike bacterial infections, they don�t respond to antibiotics, so treatment usually focuses on relieving symptoms.
You can try to speed up the healing process by drinking lots of fluids and allowing your body plenty of rest.
If you have a fever or body aches, you can take medications such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen (Advil). Parents should not give aspirin to children under age 3 without consulting a doctor.
If you have an itchy viral rash, you can try applying a cool compress or calamine lotion to the affected area. Try to avoid scratching it if you can.
For some viral infections, such as shingles, your doctor might prescribe an antiviral medication. |
rash | for rash, when to contact a doctor? | While it�s always a good idea to talk with a doctor when you notice a new rash, you should definitely make an appointment if you have a rash that:
lasts longer than a week, especially if it doesn�t seem to be improving
starts to blister
spreads rapidly or is all over your body
shows signs of redness, swelling, and oozing
is painful |
rash | for rash, takeaway? | Many viral infections can cause a skin rash. Most viral infections clear up on their own, but some may require antiviral medication. Contact your doctor if the rash doesn�t seem to be getting any better after a week.
You should also reach out to a healthcare professional if you have a rash and live in or have recently visited a tropical or subtropical climate. Viruses spread by insects tend to be more common in these areas and may require antiviral medication. |