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felitazaira · 3 years ago

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What if Juvenon BloodFlow-7 fails to work on you?

What are the symptoms of low estrogen levels?

The first thing that comes to mind when talking or reading about low estrogen levels, also known as hypoestrogenemia , is related to the physiological process of menopause. However, it is necessary to clarify certain basic terms, as well as to understand that clinical signs of hypoestrogenemia may occur without a direct relationship with menopause.

What are estrogens

They are steroid-type sex hormones. There are several types known as estrone, estriol and estradiol, with some variations in biosynthesis and function, but which are generally produced mainly at the ovarian level.

Other tissues such as the adipose, placental and adrenal glands are capable of producing estrogens in a lower proportion compared to the ovaries.

What is the role of estrogens

Estrogens participate in multiple functions, being fundamental in the reproductive aspect. They exert direct effects on the uterus at the cavity and cervical level, favoring the proliferation and growth of endometrial cells (cells that line the inside of the uterus), necessary for the implantation and maintenance of pregnancy.

Likewise, it acts at the ovarian level to favor the development of a follicle that will later ovulate, being equally necessary the adequate levels of another very important hormone that acts in conjunction with estrogens known as progesterone.

Estrogens are also capable of acting at the level of the Central Nervous System through an endocrine regulatory function of its own levels (known as feedback) and of the levels of other hormones and neurotransmitters in order to maintain a necessary balance for proper functioning. of the organism.

Estrogens are closely related to the development and generation of secondary sexual characteristics in women, such as breast and genital development, the appearance of pubic hair, changes in fat distribution, including changes related to behavior and personality once reached adolescence and early adulthood.

Likewise, it is important to note that they not only affect the reproductive system, but also estrogen levels have an influence on the cardiovascular, muscular, urinary, bone, nervous and immune systems.

Under what conditions is it possible to have low estrogen levels?

As we mentioned at the beginning of this article, not only does menopause generate a decrease in estrogen levels, which, as we already know, is a physiological or natural process.

There are also pathological situations such as early ovarian failure, which either for genetic, immunological or pathological reasons leads to the loss of ovarian activity with a drastic decrease in estrogen levels, mainly generating infertility problems.

Other pathological conditions that can damage or affect estrogen levels are neoplastic pathologies (cancer) both centrally (hypothalamic - pituitary) and gonadal, directly in the ovary, radiation being required in some cancer treatments that can damage and affect the ovarian reserve severely and with it, its endocrine and reproductive function.

The decrease in estrogen levels may be associated with some therapies. There are some medications such as those used in fertility and cancer treatment that can affect estrogen levels.

Obviously, estrogen levels also decrease in ovarian surgery, when both ovaries must be removed (surgery known as bilateral oophorectomy).

Signs of hypoestrogenemia

Just as the consecutive elevation of hormonal levels at the beginning of puberty produces different changes in the adolescent, the decrease in estrogens is also perceived by women through secondary signs and symptoms.

Among the most common are menstrual changes (irregularity in terms of days of onset of the rule as in the duration and amount of bleeding), the presence of hot flashes or hot flashes (sudden changes in the perception of temperature), emotional lability and alterations in the state of mind, decreased libido (sexual desire).

Also, it brings changes in the color of the nipples and areola, as well as a decrease in breast and genital turgor, with an equal decrease in lubrication that produces discomfort at the time of sexual intercourse, favoring prolapses (descent of pelvic organs) that are a consequence of the decrease in collagen synthesis and decrease in the resistance of the pelvic connective tissue, which secondarily generates an increase in the frequency of genital and urinary infections.

Finally, there are consequences of the decrease in estrogen levels that occur after a long period (greater than two years), such as the decrease in bone resorption (loss of bone mass or osteopenia) that can even become a a real problem when the bone is greatly weakened and is a risk factor for spontaneous fractures.

The risk of cardiovascular disease also increases due to the increase in the formation of atheroma plaques (occlusion of blood vessels), as well as the risk of cerebrovascular accidents.

Circulation, or the flow of blood throughout our bodies, is important for good health. Normal circulation promotes all of our biological systems by delivering oxygen throughout the body and helping to eliminate waste. When circulation is inadequate, or the blood does not flow vigorously, symptoms can include tired or heavy legs, cold fingers and toes as well as low energy and even dull skin. An easy way to boost circulation is with exercise. BloodFlow-7

#BloodFlow-7

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silvokrent · 5 years ago

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Auratic Diseases

Overview

An Auratic disease (colloquially known as “soul sickness”) is an adverse condition that typically affects a person’s Aura, and by extension, their Semblance. Certain diseases can occasionally lead to the patient acquiring secondary complications, such as immunodeficiency. Unlike other infectious illnesses, Auratic diseases can’t be spread between people; instead, the disease is transmitted from infected Grimm to humans and Faunus. As apneumatic (soulless) organisms, Grimm are immune to the diseases they host and are thus impervious to any complications. It’s currently unknown what pathogens (if any) cause the diseases, though the prevailing theory is that they’re transmitted through a phenomenon known as “Auratic contamination.” When Grimm are infected with an Auratic disease, a black, smoke-like substance known as miasma [1] trails off of their bodies. Miasma differs from moribund vapor (the black gaseous matter that Grimm hemorrhage when injured) in that the former is not a byproduct of physical damage, and the latter has no role in disease transmission. When people come into contact with symptomatic Grimm, it’s speculated that the miasma at close proximity “pollutes” a person’s Aura, analogous to how a smokestack pollutes the air around it by emitting toxic chemicals. It’s impossible to tell what disease an infected Grimm has until post-transmission symptoms begin to manifest in the patient.

While there aren’t any genetic or epigenetic factors that predispose a person to these illnesses, certain parts of the population tend to be statistically more susceptible to infection. Huntsmen disproportionately have the highest number of cases per year, followed by people living in extraregnal settlements. Unlike traditional diseases caused by organic pathogens (viruses, bacteria, fungi, arthropods, and parasitic worms), Auratic diseases can’t be vaccinated against. The most effective countermeasures include education, public awareness, and reduced exposure to Grimm. In cases where preventive measures are ineffective or difficult to implement, medical intervention is the next step. Out of all the known Auratic diseases, only one is directly fatal, while the others have mortality rates attributed to secondary effects. Disease symptoms and conditions range from temporarily inconvenient to permanently debilitating, depending on the disease and whether or not the patient receives timely medical care.

History

The history of Auratic diseases is checkered and incomplete, in part due to the collapse of past civilizations, and the loss of any archives that might have been buried with them. Collaborative interdisciplinary research between epidemiologists and anthropologists places the earliest written accounts circa 1200 AB. [2] At the time, the only consensus was that Auratic diseases were related to Grimm; causes and treatments were virtually unknown. Ancient societies which believed Grimm were the spirits of tortured animals assumed that Auratic diseases were curses. Similarly, cultures that practiced archotherolatry, or Grimm worship, believed these conditions to be signs of divine judgment and exiled anyone that was symptomatic.

In the following centuries, focus shifted toward remedying the worst of the effects and finding potential cures. Before it was understood that Auratic diseases can’t be transmitted between people, infected patients were usually quarantined. The deceased had their remains cremated, and the ashes were often buried in designated “disease pits” outside the settlement. Treatment methods included, but weren’t limited to: exposing the patient to burning incense; prescribing plant-based oral drugs; starving or inducing emesis in the patient to detoxify or “cleanse” the body; and even feeding patients the blood of people that had recovered from the same disease, in order to transfer their resistance.

It wasn’t until 300 AB when pathologist and surgeon Cinchona Rigel made a connection between Auratic diseases and Dust. Specifically, Rigel noticed that patients exposed to Dust had their symptoms go into remission. At certain concentrations, patients had a greater likelihood of being completely cured. This observation aligned with the ancient practice of people ingesting Dust to alleviate symptoms. While patients of antiquity had to deal with the unintended side effects of acute Dust poisoning, according to early medical records, the treatment seemed to work. Rigel concluded that there must have been a specific property of Dust that radiated the patient’s Aura field and stimulated its recovery. He spent the remainder of his career applying his research to his patients and fine-tuning the procedures, with incredible success. His work gave rise to the next generation of Dust-integrated Aura regenerative medicine, and earned Rigel the moniker “Father of Pneumatophysics.”

Today, fatalities are less common, and the quality of life for those affected by Auratic diseases has significantly improved thanks to new developments in medicine. The Kingdom of Atlas is the world’s foremost leader on Aura regeneration, courtesy of technological advancements made in the last eight decades, and access to naturally-occurring Dust deposits in Solitas. The number of cases per year has steadily been in decline as a result of programs that discriminately target and kill plague-type Grimm.

Plague-type Grimm

While all species of Grimm are vectors for Auratic diseases, diseases are primarily transmitted via archotheronotic species (plague-type Grimm) such as Ravagers (Mimochiroptera confluens), Swarmers (Pantomenos asticum), Rotweilers (Haemocyon morbifer), Pestilice (Aspidentomon chiliades), Virovultr (Auredax solfur), and Wringwyrms (Echidnascolex constrictor). Plague-type Grimm are defined by strict epidemiological characteristics. In order to be classified as archotheronotic, the species must:

Be capable of transmitting ≥ 5 Auratic diseases.

Have more than 75% of the population infected at any given time. [3]

Be capable of transmitting the disease among Grimm that aren’t conspecifics.

To reiterate: All Grimm species can become infected and transmit diseases to humans and Faunus, but only plague-type Grimm can transmit diseases to other Grimm.

Treatment

Modern treatment is based on a combination of diagnostics and EMF Dust-stimulation therapy. Pathologists detect abnormalities in the patient’s Aura by performing a pneumatophysioscopy—an imaging technique that uses electromagnetic radiation to obtain real-time images of a patient’s Aura field. The device is capable of recording both inactive and dormant (or unlocked) Auras, and measuring field fluctuations (a phenomenon known as “flickering”).

Once a patient’s infection has been verified, and their disease has been ID’d through symptom diagnosis, physicians can begin treatment. Patients are placed within a Dust vortex generator, or EMF-DS grid. The machine generates a charge and uses electromagnetic radiation to stimulate Dust crystals. The charge radiates the Dust at a threshold below Rigel’s number to activate its Auratic-regenerative properties without triggering a volatile reaction. The Dust types involved, the number of crystals, and the strength of the current passed through them vary according to the disease. Success rates are often contingent on the amount of time that’s lapsed between exposure and seeking out medical attention.

Diseases

The 11 diseases mentioned below are the most common or well-researched. This list doesn’t preclude the existence of undiscovered diseases.

Note: All of the diseases listed below can affect individuals with unlocked Auras, but only five can affect individuals with dormant (locked) Auras. Those five are denoted by [†].

auralysis (Gr. aúra, soft breeze, + -lysis, lúsis, destruction) A disease that prevents a person’s Aura from regenerating. The patient will not be able to activate it, and by extension, won’t be able to use their Semblance. Auralysis is characterized by the Aura field erratically flickering whenever the patient attempts to engage it. Onset usually begins 5 days post exposure, and can last anywhere from 2 weeks to 1 month. In severe cases where a patient has repeat exposure to infected Grimm and doesn’t seek out treatment, the disease can last far longer, and rarely, become permanent. Deaths attributed to this disease are usually secondary in nature; ex. a Huntsman in the field is unaware of the fact that they’re infected, is unable to engage their Aura during combat, and dies as a result of injury. By far the most common Auratic disease, with over 5,000 cases reported every year.

[†] archotherianthropy (Gr. archo-, arkhós, ruler, + -ther-, thḗr, beast, + -anthropy, ánthropos, man) An incredibly rare disease, with less than 45 documented cases in the last century. Onset is estimated at 3 weeks post exposure. The disease is characterized by a sudden, dramatic change in behavior. The patient typically displays the following symptoms: agitation, aggression, confusion, fear of Dust, and restless movement. Late-stage symptoms include a tendency to provoke verbal or physical fights with others, and an outwardly withdrawn or disengaged appearance. This process culminates in the patient’s identity becoming completely subsumed by the disease, leaving behind a single-minded compulsion to seek out and kill other humans or Faunus. At this stage, the patient loses their ability to communicate. Clinicians advise euthanasia as the most humane option for alleviating suffering, as there is currently no cure.

[†] CAD (Chronic Aura Degradation) An uncommon disease that’s sometimes referred to as soul siphoning. CAD causes the patient’s Aura to gradually begin to deteriorate at 5 weeks post exposure. The pathognomonic sign used for diagnosing CAD is the distinctive gaps in the patient’s projected Aura. These “holes” have black edging, like burns on a sheet of paper, and can no longer extend protection to the sections of the body where the Aura has eroded. As the disease progresses, the patient can acquire secondary symptoms, such as paralysis in the limbs where Aura has deteriorated, or immunodeficiency. While there is no cure, the disease process can be slowed down or halted through weekly EMF-DS therapy. Patients may sometimes wear specialized medical accessories—bracelets, pendants, etc—made with Dust crystals to provide additional treatment. Gaps in the Aura start out small and expand with time, which can make this disease easy to overlook or misdiagnose until symptoms begin to worsen. [4]

cataegida (Gr. kataigída, storm) A disease that disables the thermoregulatory properties of Aura. The disease is diagnosed by a patient’s sudden ability to feel extreme heat or cold even while their Aura is engaged. Onset can begin as early as 2 days post exposure, making this disease potentially life-threatening if the patient is in a location with hazardous weather phenomena, such as drought or blizzards. Infected people caught unaware can succumb to hypothermia, heat stroke, dehydration, and other complications as a result of exposure. Every year, cataegida-induced thermoregulatory failure kills upward of 200 people in Solitas, northern Anima, and western Sanus. Clinicians have found that Fire and Ice Dust are the most effective at treating this disease.

[†] dustblight A disease that causes allergic reactions in the patient when exposed to Dust. Symptoms include urticaria, rhinitis, conjunctivitis, bronchoconstriction (if Dust powder is accidentally inhaled), and inflammation of the sinus. Extreme cases can cause anaphylaxis. Onset begins at 1 week and can last up to 6 months. If treatment is not sought out during this time and symptoms are allowed to worsen, the disease can potentially become permanent. Patients must take antihistamines in order to receive EMF-DS therapy.

esthesiosis (Gr. esthesio-, aísthēsis, sensation, + -osis, -ōsis, a condition or disease) A disease more commonly known as Auratic blindness because it disables a person’s extrasensory capabilities, and dulls their perception of their surroundings. Onset occurs between 7 to 10 days post exposure and can last for five weeks. Patients with this disease are seldom diagnosed, despite cases being estimated at 250 per year. This is likely because people outside of Huntsmen Academies are rarely trained to refine or hone this skill.

Huntsman’s disease A disease that causes a patient’s Aura to revert back to its dormant state. Unlike auralysis, Dust-based therapy is largely ineffective and considered a waste of time and resources. After onset occurs at 4 days post exposure, patients are advised to immediately seek out someone who can unlock it for them. If the patient’s Aura is not unlocked again within three weeks of contracting the disease, the condition becomes permanent. The disease was named because it tends to inconvenience Huntsmen the most. Researchers debate whether Huntsman’s disease is a separate illness, or simply a more advanced version of auralysis, given the overlap of symptoms.

inertia pulveris (L. inertia, inactivity; pulveris (SG.GEN.MASC), dust) A disease that renders the patient unable to activate Dust with their Aura. This disease tends to be harder to diagnose, as most people rely on technology that uses already-activated Dust-integrated mechanisms. Onset occurs 1 week post exposure, and tends to be noticed by patients that either use it in raw/less refined forms (crystalline), or who work in professions where Dust is handled frequently (such as in Dust mines). This disease can be a hassle for Huntsmen that extensively use Dust for fighting, but for some, it can be unexpectedly profitable. In recent years the Schnee Dust Company has begun to target patients at clinics or hospitals and offer them jobs working in their warehouses and mines. This business practice has sparked controversy, with more and more people petitioning the Council to investigate this behavior on the grounds of being “predatory and exploitative.”

[†] proselkia (Gr. prosélkysi, attraction) A disease that causes nearby Grimm to prioritize attacking the infected individual. Onset usually begins 9 to 15 days post exposure. Diagnosis is nearly impossible without pneumatophysioscopy, as pathognomonic signs aren’t visible to the naked eye. Imaging techniques reveal that a person’s Aura field—whether unlocked or dormant—exudes vaporous emissions that trail behind the patient. These vapors are often likened to pheromones, and can compel even cautious species like the Goliath (Archaeotherium vagum) to attack on sight. While the disease only lasts for three months (without treatment), it can result in social ostracization due to fear of the patient drawing in Grimm.

[†] psychosomaticide (E. psychosomatic, relating to the body and mind, + L. -cide, -cīda, one who cuts) A poorly-understood and highly stigmatized disease. While anyone can contract it, the effects of psychosomaticide tend to impact people with depression, anxiety, PTSD, or other debilitating psychiatric disorders more intensely. Once onset begins at 20 days post exposure, it can lay dormant for years with the patient completely unaware of their infection. The symptoms of the disease are only triggered in the direct presence of Grimm. When confronted by a Grimm, the patient is inundated with a sudden, overpowering sense of despair and anguish. The patient then willfully lowers their weapon (if wielding one) and lies down, allowing the Grimm to tear them apart. Unless another person is close enough to intervene, the end result is always death. Survivors of these encounters often require social interaction and psychological treatment, in addition to Dust-based therapy. The willpower-draining scream of the Apathy (Lorem ipsum) is considered a more potent, weaponized form of this condition.

therapistasis (Gr. therapeíā, medical treatment, + -stasis, stásis, cessation) A disease that disables the innate healing factor of Aura. The disease is diagnosed by a person’s sudden ability to sustain injuries even while their Aura is engaged. Onset can begin as early as 3 to 4 days post exposure. While the patient is still capable of activating their Semblance and using other Aura-related abilities (thermoregulation, extrasensory perception), they can take damage as if their Aura were already broken. The disease can last for up to a month. Fatalities as a result of this disease are more common among newly-licensed Huntsmen and Academy students, who tend to overestimate their skills, and assume that they can still fight despite being susceptible to lethal attacks.

Notes

[1] The term miasma is an allusion to miasma theory, an obsolete medical theory that tried to explain how illnesses were formed and transmitted. Up until the late nineteenth century, the medical community believed that infectious diseases were caused by a noxious form of “bad air.”

[2] Because RWBY doesn’t have a canon calendar era (like the Before Common Era/Common Era used today), I decided to make my own: AB, or antebellum, refers to before the Great War; IB, or intrabellum, refers to the 10-year period during the Great War; and PB, or postbellum, is the last 80 years after the Great War.

[3] The reason not all Grimm are visibly infected/have miasma is due to a retcon I made with RWBY’s animation. During V1 - 3, the Grimm didn’t have that black vapor trailing off of their bodies. After the V4 Character Short the Grimm were restyled to have that smoke effect. But here’s the thing: it’s inconsistent. The Manticores and Sphinx in V6E01, for example, don’t have it. I decided to liberally interpret that to mean that black vapor is a sign of Auratic disease, but not all Grimm are actively infected. It also explains the inconsistency between the Grimm in V1 - 3 and V4 onward—the Grimm that the kids encountered while they were at Beacon just so happened to not be infected.

[4] CAD is based on Pietro Polendina’s condition. We have no confirmation of this in canon, but I think that donating a percentage of his Aura (his god damn soul) to Penny has slowly chipped away at his health. Technically, Pietro would have a manmade version of CAD.

#rwby #rwby thought dump #rwby worldbuilding #grimm #aura #auratic disease #semblance #my posts #i speak #epidemiology #all good magic systems in fantasy have drawbacks and limitations #so it made sense that rwby should have its own set of diseases #aura in canon is op and i wanted a way to nerf it #so there

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the-diagnosis-archive · 5 years ago

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Typhus

Typhus is a disease caused by infection with one or more rickettsial bacteria. Fleas, mites (chiggers), lice, or ticks transmit it when they bite you. Fleas, mites, lice, and ticks are types of invertebrate animals known as arthropods. When arthropods carrying around rickettsial bacteria bite someone, they transmit the bacteria that causes typhus. Scratching the bite further opens the skin and allows the bacteria greater access to the bloodstream. Once in the bloodstream, the bacteria continue to reproduce and grow.

There are three different types of typhus:

epidemic (louse-borne) typhus is a rare variety spread by infected body lice. It’s unlikely to happen outside of extremely crowded living conditions. One type of epidemic typhus can be spread by infected flying squirrels, again, very rare.

endemic (murine) typhus is passed by fleas to people if the fleas bite infected animals, mainly rats. Most U.S. cases have been reported in California, Hawaii, and Texas

scrub typhus is spread by infected chiggers, or mites, mainly found in rural parts of Southeast Asia, China, Japan, India, and northern Australia.

All three kinds of typhus can cause serious illness, so get immediate treatment if you think you might have been exposed to it.

Causes:

Typhus is not transmitted from person to person like a cold or the flu. There are three different types of typhus, and each type is caused by a different type of bacterium and transmitted by a different type of arthropod. The type of typhus you are infected with depends on what bit you. Arthropods are typically carriers of a typhus strain unique to their species. Insects and other parasites spread murine and epidemic typhus when they bite you and leave bacteria-laden feces on your skin. When you scratch the itching bug bite, you can spread the infested feces into the open bite wound or other cuts on your skin’s surface. That deposits typhus bacteria into your bloodstream. You can get scrub typhus if a mite infected with the bacterium bites you, even if you don’t scratch the bite. The disease is transmitted by the human body louse, which becomes infected by feeding on the blood of patients with acute typhus fever. Infected lice excrete rickettsia onto the skin while feeding on a second host, who becomes infected by rubbing louse fecal matter or crushed lice into the bite wound. There is no animal reservoir.

Typhus outbreaks usually only occur in developing countries or in regions of poverty, poor sanitation, and close human contact. Typhus is generally not a problem in the United States, but you may become infected while traveling abroad. Untreated typhus can lead to serious complications, and it’s potentially fatal. It’s important to see your doctor if you suspect that you may have typhus

Typhus fever occurs in colder (i.e. mountainous) regions of central and eastern Africa, central and South America, and Asia. In recent years, most outbreaks have taken place in Burundi, Ethiopia and Rwanda. Typhus fever occurs in conditions of overcrowding and poor hygiene, such as in prisons and refugee camps. The risk of being infected with typhus is very low for most travelers. Humanitarian relief workers may be exposed in refugee camps and other settings characterized by crowding and poor hygiene.

Symptoms:

Typhus is a series of acute infectious diseases that appear with a sudden onset of headache, chills, fever, and general pains, proceed on the third to fifth day with a rash and toxemia (toxic substances in the blood), and terminate after two to three weeks. It is caused by different species of rickettsia bacteria that are transmitted to humans by lice, fleas, mites, or ticks. The insects are carried person to person or are brought to people by rodents, cattle, and other animals. The onset is variable but often sudden, with headache, chills, high fever, prostration, coughing and severe muscular pain. After 5–6 days, a macular skin eruption (dark spots) develops first on the upper trunk and spreads to the rest of the body but usually not to the face, palms of the hands or soles of the feet. The case–fatality rate is up to 40% in the absence of specific treatment. Louse-borne typhus fever is the only rickettsial disease that can cause explosive epidemics. With any kind of typhus, you’ll start to feel ill about 10 days to 2 weeks after the typhus bacteria get into your body. At first, you’ll feel chills, run a fever, and develop a severe headache. You may start to breathe fast and get full-body muscle aches like what you’d have with the flu. Stomach pain and vomiting are common, too. A few days later, you might notice a spotted rash on your chest and midsection, which often spreads to other parts of your body. With scrub typhus, you might see a dark scab on the area where the chigger bit you. Complications from untreated typhus can include conditions such as pneumonia, meningitis, or septic shock.

Symptoms vary slightly by the type of typhus, but there are symptoms that are associated with all three types of typhus, such as:

headache

fever

chills

rash

Symptoms of epidemic typhus begin within 2 weeks after contact with infected body lice. Signs and symptoms may include:

Confusion

Cough

Eye sensitivity to bright lights

Fever and chills

Headache

High fever (above 102.2°F)

Low blood pressure (hypotension)

Nausea

Rapid breathing

Rash that begins on the back or chest and spreads

Severe headache

Severe muscle pain

Stupor and seeming out of touch with reality

Vomiting

Brill-Zinsser disease

Some people can remain infected, without symptoms, for years after they first get sick. Rarely, these individuals can have a relapse in disease, called Brill-Zinsser disease, months or years following their first illness. When this happens, it often occurs when the body’s immune system is weakened due to certain medications, old age, or illness. The symptoms of Brill-Zinsser disease are similar to the original infection, but are usually milder than the initial illness.

The symptoms of endemic typhus last for 10 to 12 days and are very similar to the symptoms of epidemic typhus but are usually less severe. They include:

dry cough

nausea and vomiting

diarrhea

Symptoms seen in people with scrub typhus include:

swollen lymph nodes

tiredness

red lesion or sore on the skin at the site of the bite

cough

rash

The incubation period for the disease is five to 14 days, on average. This means that symptoms won’t usually appear for up to five to 14 days after you are bitten. Travelers who get typhus while traveling abroad may not experience symptoms until they are back home. This is why it is important to tell your doctor about any recent trips if you have any of the above symptoms.

Diagnosis:

The symptoms of epidemic typhus are similar to symptoms of many other diseases. See your health care provider if you develop the symptoms listed above following travel or contact with animals.

I f you suspect that you have typhus, your doctor will ask about your symptoms and your medical history. To help with the diagnosis, tell your doctor if you:

are living in a crowded environment

know of a typhus outbreak in your community

have traveled abroad recently

have had contact with flying squirrels or their nests.

Diagnostic tests for the presence of typhus include:

skin biopsy: a sample of the skin from your rash will be tested in a lab

Western blot: a test to identify the presence of typhus

immunofluorescence test: uses fluorescent dyes to detect typhus antigen in samples of serum taken from the bloodstream

other blood tests: results can indicate the presence of infection

Laboratory testing and reporting of results can take several weeks. Your health care provider may start treatment before results are available.

Treatment:

Antibiotics most commonly used to treat typhus include:

doxycycline (Doryx, Vibramycin): the preferred treatment

chloramphenicol: an option for those not pregnant or breastfeeding

ciprofloxacin (Cipro): used for adults who are unable to take doxycycline

The most effective therapy for all three kinds of typhus is the antibiotic doxycycline. A single dose of doxycycline has proven effective against epidemic typhus. Doxycycline also works quickly on other strains of the disease. For the best results, you should take it as soon as possible after your symptoms start.

If you’re allergic to doxycycline or if it doesn’t work, doctors may choose another antibiotic such as ciprofloxacin (Cipro). Epidemic typhus should be treated with the antibiotic doxycycline. Doxycycline can be used in persons of any age.

Prevention

There is no vaccine that can protect you from typhus. But basic hygiene helps. This includes very simple things like bathing at least once a week and changing your clothes on a regular basis. Wash louse-infested clothing at least once a week. Machine wash and dry infested clothing and bedding using hot water (at least 130°F), and dry on high heat when possible. Clothing and items that are not washable can be dry-cleaned OR sealed in a plastic bag and stored for 2 weeks. You should also keep a safe distance from wild animals known to carry typhus, such as rats, flying squirrels, and opossums. Don’t leave food waste or other trash in your yard where it could attract them.

For murine typhus protection, you may also want to spray flea-control products on your furry pets and in your yard, and don’t let your pets share your bed. If you travel to places where murine typhus or scrub typhus are found, use an insect repellent that contains 20% to 30% DEET.

Do not share clothing, beds, bedding, or towels used by a person who has body lice or is infected with typhus. Treat bedding, uniforms, and other clothing with permethrin. Permethrin kills lice and may provide long-lasting protection for clothing for many washings. See product information to learn how long the protection will last. If treating these items yourself, follow the product instructions carefully. Do NOT use permethrin products directly on skin. They are intended to treat clothing not people.

sources: x x x x x

#typhus #tw: pregnancy #cw: louse #long post

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neoretina · 4 years ago

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Eye Diseases: Symptoms & Causes of Common Retinal Diseases

Eyes deliver four-fifths of the information that our brain receives. However, when it comes to eye diseases, one might miss marking any symptoms, since they are not easily detected or may be painless. There are several common and rare eye conditions which affect vision. A healthy retina is essential for clear vision. Retinal diseases are common as they can affect any part of the eye retina. As retinal diseases affect the vital eye tissue, it causes serious problems, affects vision, some even leading to blindness.

Common types of Retinal problems

Some common types of retinal diseases include:

1) Floaters

Floaters are generally small, black shapes which appear as squiggles, spots or threads in vision. They appear to float along with the movement of the eyes.

Symptoms:

Symptoms of floaters may include:

Small shapes in the vision that appear as dark specks, transparent strings of floating material.

Small shapes, threads or strings which drift out of the line of vision.

Floaters are noticeable when you look at a plain bright background.

Causes:

Floaters occur when the vitreous layer, which is normally clear, a gel-like substance located in the centre of the eye becomes more liquid and clumps cast a shadow on the retina. They can be:

Age-related: Some eye conditions like severe near-sightedness, Vitreous haemorrhage, Inflammation in the back of the eye, bleeding in the eye etc. cause floaters.

2) Retinal Tear

A retinal tear is a condition that occurs when the vitreous layer shrinks and peels away from the thin layer of tissue with enough traction to cause a tear or damage in the retina.

Symptoms:

Sudden onset of floaters in the eye.

Photopsia or flashes of light

In some patients, a retinal tear may not show any noticeable symptoms.

Causes:

By birth, the vitreous is attached to the retina. However, the gel separates from the lining of the retina as a normal ageing process. In the majority of the people, this process happens without any issue. However, people with "sticky" vitreous face retinal tear once the vitreous layer separates from the retina.

3) Retinal detachment

A condition where the retinal layer separates from the back of the eye, and this occurs when the fluid vitreous passes through a retinal tear. It distances the retina away from its normal position.

Symptoms:

Although retinal detachment itself is painless, here are some warning symptoms which almost always appear before it occurs:

The sudden appearance of floaters in the vision field

Flashes of light in the affected eye

Blurred vision

Reduced peripheral vision

A curtain-like shadow over the field of vision.

Causes:

Age-related changes in the eye

An eye injury

Short-sightedness/myopia

Lattice degeneration

Previous eye surgery for cataracts

A family history of retinal detachment.

4) Diabetic retinopathy

A condition like Diabetic retinopathy is caused by high blood sugar levels that damage the blood vessels of the light-sensitive retina.

Symptoms:

Diabetic retinopathy, in its early stages, is painless and hard to notice. It doesn't show any noticeable symptoms until it's further advanced. As diabetic retinopathy progresses, it shows the following signs:

Gradually worsening of vision

Floaters

Sudden loss of vision

Impaired colour vision

Blurred vision or empty areas in your vision

Causes:

In this condition, there is an abnormal growth of blood vessels from the retina that causes scarring and bleeding. The blood vessels deteriorate and leak fluid into and under the retina. This leads to retinal swelling, which eventually blurs or distorts the vision.

5) Epiretinal membrane

Epiretinal membrane is a thin, delicate, transparent tissue-like scar or membrane that forms over the macula. The membrane pulls the retina and distorts the vision.

Symptoms:

The epiretinal membrane does not cause total blindness, but it typically affects the central vision. However, the peripheral vision of the affected eye remains unaffected.

Blurring of vision

A distorted central part of the vision.

Causes:

Epiretinal membrane is caused by the formation of a thin and delicate sheet of fibrous tissue on the macula. This membrane acts as a film, obstructing the vision. It can contract like the scar tissue and can pull the retina, causing puckering of the macula. All this leads to distorted vision or swelling of the retina.

6) Macular hole

It is a small gap or defect in the centre of the retina (macula). It may develop from abnormal traction between the vitreous and the retina, or due to an eye injury. A macular hole is very common in people aged 50 to 70.

Symptoms:

Affected central vision

Difficulty in reading

Black or grey spots in the vision

Black areas in the vision

Blurring or distorted vision.

Straight lines of poles, text lines etc. appear bent or wavy.

Causes:

As a normal process of ageing, the vitreous gel present inside the eye shrinks naturally. During this process, it pulls away from the retina with no problems. Occasionally, the vitreous gel can stick on the retina, causing the macula to stretch and create a hole.

7) Macular degeneration

In macular degeneration, the centre of the retina (macula) begins to deteriorate.

Symptoms:

Blurred central vision

Blindspot in the centre of the visual field

Changed or reduced colour perception.

Causes:

The exact cause of macular degeneration is still unknown. Changes occur in the retina as we age. It is also suspected that genetic and environmental factors are involved in the development of this retinal disease.

8) Retinal Vein Occlusion

Also known as 'eye stroke', this is a condition in which one of the veins carrying blood from the retina to the heart gets blocked.

Symptoms:

Blurred vision

Empty blank spaces in the vision

Floaters

Eye pain

Pressure in the eye

Causes:

A vein gets blocked generally as a result of a blood clot. This blockage obstructs the flow of blood. Although the exact cause of this is still unknown, certain conditions like glaucoma, high cholesterol, diabetes, and high blood pressure make it more likely.

Source:https://neoretina.com/blog/eye-diseases-symptoms-causes-of-common-retinal-diseases/

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bandbacktogether · 6 years ago

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Postpartum Depression Resources

New Post has been published on https://www.bandbacktogether.com/master-resource-links-2/mental-illness-resources/postpartum-depression-resources/

Postpartum Depression Resources

Postpartum psychosis should be considered a medical emergency requiring immediate medical attention. Call 911 if you or someone you love is experiencing postpartum psychosis.

What is Postpartum Depression?

If you’ve just had a baby, you understand the mood swings that go along with your postpartum hormones. No matter how you love your child, how long you’ve wanted a baby, a new baby is stressful. Period. Lack of sleep, new important responsibilities, and a distinct lack of personal space and time to yourself, both parents can experience the baby blues. It’s extremely normal, but once symptoms of the baby blues last for a few weeks or worsen, you may be coping with postpartum depression.

Approximately 15% of new mothers and fathers will experience what is classified as postpartum depression (PPD). Symptoms may occur a few days after delivery or sometimes as late as a year later. People who experience postpartum depression will have alternating good days and bad days. Symptoms can be mild or severe, usually lasting for over 2 weeks.

There are lots of ways to help women suffering from postpartum depression, and remember that this is common, and you are never alone, no matter how you feel.

Is This Postpartum Depression or Is This The Baby Blues?

We know that you’ve just had a baby, and you’re expecting to be basking in the glory of a new life into this world. You thought you’d be celebrating with loved ones and enjoying every single second. But you’re not. In fact, you feel like crying or hiding away.

You thought you’d be joyous and excited, not weepy, exhausted, and anxiety-ridden. While you may not have intended this, you should know that mild depression, anxiety, and mood swings are totally normal. So normal that we can refer to them as the Baby Blues.

Approximately 50% to 75% of all new mothers will experience some negative feelings after giving birth. Normally these feelings occur suddenly four to five days after the birth of the baby.

Most women – to a greater or lesser extent – experience some symptoms of the baby blues after giving birth; the hormones that kept you pregnant are replaced by new hormones, lack of sleep, delivery, social isolation, major sleep loss, and stress, and it’s natural to notice them. Some women report that they feel emotionally fragile, sad, and overwhelmed. Generally the Baby Blues occur within a couple days of your delivery, last a week, and taper off by the second postpartum week.

What Are The Symptoms of Postpartum Depression?

In stark contrast from the baby blues, postpartum depression is a serious medical issue that should not be ignored. But how do you know the difference between postpartum depression and the Baby Blues?

PPD, as it’s often abbreviated, can look like the baby blues, so much so that they share many of the same symptoms, however the symptoms of postpartum depression last longer and are more severe. You may also feel hopeless and worthless, and lose interest in the baby. You may have thoughts of hurting yourself or the baby. Very rarely, new mothers develop something even more serious – postpartum psychosis – may have hallucinations or try to hurt themselves or the baby. They need to get treatment right away, often in the hospital.

The difference is that with postpartum depression, the symptoms are more severe (such as suicidal thoughts or an inability to care for your newborn) and longer lasting. Symptoms of postpartum depression begin either during pregnancy or within four weeks after having a baby.

The symptoms of postpartum mood disorders don’t differ from the non-postpartum mood disorders except that the feelings of guilt and inadequacy about being an incompetent mother feed a person’s worries about being less than an adequate parent.

You might find yourself withdrawing from your partner or being unable to bond well with your baby.

You might find your anxiety out of control, preventing you from sleeping—even when your baby is asleep—or eating appropriately.

You might find feelings of guilt or worthlessness overwhelming or begin to develop thoughts preoccupied with death or even wish you were not alive.

Feelings of profound sadness, emptiness, emotional numbness, irritability, or anger.

A tendency to withdraw from relationships with family, friends, or from activities that are usually pleasurable for the PPD sufferer

Constant fatigue or tiredness, difficulty sleeping, overeating, or loss of appetite

A strong sense of failure or inadequacy

Intense concern and anxiety about the baby or a lack of interest in the baby

Thoughts about suicide or fears of harming the baby

People with postpartum depression feel guilty about being depressed at a time when they are supposed to be happiest and may be reluctant to discuss their feelings.

People with postpartum depression often experience a loss of appetite, leading to extreme weight loss.

People with postpartum depression often report an increased yearning for sleep, sleeping heavily, but awakening (and unable to get back to sleep) the moment their baby makes a noise.

The distinguishing feature in postpartum depression is irritability. Episodes of irritability may be unprovoked or provoked by the slightest infraction. These episodes of irritability are often directed at the significant other or baby and may escalate to violent outbursts or uncontrollable sobbing.

People with severe postpartum depression often have terrible panic attacks, severe anxiety, and spontaneous crying, long after the duration of the “baby blues.”

These people with PPD may feel jealous of their infant and have difficulties bonding with their babies.

These are all red flags for postpartum depression.

The Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale is a screening tool designed to detect postpartum depression. Follow the instructions carefully. A score greater than 13 suggests the need for a more thorough assessment because you could have postpartum depression.

If you’re a new mother or father, please don’t hesitate to bring up these feelings with your doctor. Don’t let your doctor brush it off. If s/he does, find another doctor.

Signs And Symptoms of Postpartum Psychosis:

Postpartum psychosis is a rare, but extremely serious disorder that can develop after childbirth, characterized by loss of contact with reality. Because of the high risk for suicide or infanticide, hospitalization is usually required to keep the mother and the baby safe.

Postpartum psychosis (PPP) is the most severe form of postpartum depression, but fortunately it is the rarest form. It occurs in 1 to 2 out of every 1,000 pregnancies. The onset is very sudden and severe, normally within 2 to 3 weeks after giving birth. Postpartum psychosis develops suddenly, usually within the first two weeks after delivery, and sometimes within 48 hours.

Symptoms are characterized by a loss of touch with reality and can include:

Bizarre, erratic behavior

Thoughts of hurting the baby

Thoughts of hurting yourself

Rapid mood swings

Hyperactivity

Hallucinations (seeing things that aren’t real or hearing voices)

Delusions (paranoid and irrational beliefs)

Extreme agitation and anxiety

Suicidal thoughts or actions

Confusion and disorientation

Inability or refusal to eat or sleep

Thoughts of harming or killing your baby

Postpartum psychosis should be considered a medical emergency requiring immediate medical attention. Call 911 if you or someone you love is experiencing postpartum psychosis.

What Causes Postpartum Depression?

Just as in all types of depression, there is no single reason to point to as the definitive cause of postpartum depression. A variable combination of lifestyle, physical, and emotional factors can all play a part.

There’s no single reason why some new mothers develop postpartum depression and others don’t, but a number of interrelated causes and risk factors are believed to contribute to the problem.

Hormonal changes. After childbirth, women experience a big drop in estrogen and progesterone hormone levels. Thyroid levels can also drop, which leads to fatigue and depression. These rapid hormonal changes—along with the changes in blood pressure, immune system functioning, and metabolism that new mothers experience—may trigger postpartum depression.

Physical changes. Giving birth brings numerous physical and emotional changes. You may be dealing with physical pain from the delivery or the difficulty of losing the baby weight, leaving you insecure about your physical and sexual attractiveness.

Stress. The stress of caring for a newborn can also take a toll. New mothers are often sleep deprived. In addition, you may feel overwhelmed and anxious about your ability to properly care for your baby. These adjustments can be particularly difficult if you’re a first-time mother who must get used to an entirely new identity.

Risk Factors For Postpartum Depression:

Several factors can predispose you to postpartum depression:

The most significant is a history of postpartum depression, as a prior episode can increase your chances of a repeat episode to 30-50%.

Mood Disorders: A history of non-pregnancy related depression or a family history of mood disturbances is also a risk factor.

Addiction: People with any history of depression, anxiety, alcohol or another substance use disorder prior to the pregnancy are at risk for developing depression during the pregnancy or within a few weeks after delivery.

Prenatal depression – Depression during pregnancy may be the strongest predictor for later suffering from PPD.

Prenatal anxiety

History of previous depression – Although not as strong a predictor as a depressive episode during the pregnancy, it appears that women with histories of depression previous to conception are also at a higher risk of PPD than those without

Examples of specific illnesses that have been associated with being associated with the potential to develop postpartum depression include any form of major depression, such as premenstrual dysphoric disorder, bipolar disorder, and generalized anxiety disorder.

Maternity blues – Especially when severe, the blues may herald the onset of PPD.

Recent stressful life events

Inadequate social supports

Poor marital relationship – One of the most consistent findings is that among women who report marital dissatisfaction and/or inadequate social supports, postpartum depressive illness is more common.

Low self-esteem

Childcare stress – Difficult infant temperament

In addition, three factors are less definitively predictive, but still arise consistently as factors that increase a woman’s risk of PPD, especially in combination with one or more of the factors listed above:

Single marital status

Unplanned or unwanted pregnancy

Lower socioeconomic status

What Is The Treatment For Postpartum Depression?

Postpartum depression (PPD) sometimes goes away on its own within three months of giving birth. But if it interferes with your normal functioning at any time, or if “the blues” lasts longer than two weeks, you should seek treatment. About 90% of women who have postpartum depression can be treated successfully with medication or a combination of medication and psychotherapy. Participation in a support group may also be helpful. In cases of severe postpartum depression or postpartum psychosis, hospitalization may be necessary. Sometimes, if symptoms are especially severe, electroconvulsive (ECT) therapy may be used to treat severe depressions with hallucinations (false perceptions) or delusions (false beliefs) or overwhelming suicidal thoughts

Untreated postpartum depression can affect your ability to parent. You may:

Not have enough energy

Have trouble focusing on the baby’s needs and your own needs

Feel moody

Not be able to care for your baby

Have a higher risk of attempting suicide

Feeling like a bad mother can make depression worse. It is important to reach out for help if you feel depressed.

Researchers believe postpartum depression in a mother can affect her child throughout childhood, causing:

Delays in language development and problems learning

Problems with mother-child bonding

Behavior problems

More crying or agitation

Shorter height and higher risk of obesity in pre-schoolers

Problems dealing with stress and adjusting to school and other social situations

Postpartum depression, like other mental illnesses, presents along a continuum, and the type of treatment selected is based on the severity of the depression and type of symptoms present. However, before beginning psychiatric treatment, medical causes for mood disturbance (such as, thyroid dysfunction, anemia) must be excluded. Initial evaluation should include a thorough history, physical examination, and routine laboratory tests.

Non-pharmacological therapies are useful in the treatment of postpartum depression, including CBT, ITP, and couples counseling.

In a randomized study, it was shown that short-term cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) was as effective as treatment with fluoxetine (Prozac) in women with postpartum depression.

Interpersonal therapy (IPT) has also been shown to be effective for the treatment of women with mild to moderate postpartum depression. Not only is IPT effective for treating the symptoms of depression, women who receive IPT also benefit from significant improvements in the quality of their interpersonal relationships

These non-pharmacological interventions may be particularly attractive to those reluctant to use psychotropic medications (such as women who are breast-feeding) or for people with milder forms of depressive illness. Women with more severe postpartum depression may choose to receive pharmacological treatment, either in addition to or instead of, these non-pharmacological therapies.

Only a few studies have systematically assessed the pharmacological treatment of postpartum depression. Conventional antidepressant medications have shown efficacy in the treatment of postpartum depression at standard antidepressant doses were effective and well tolerated.

The choice of an antidepressant should be guided by the person’s prior response to antidepressant medication and a given medication’s side effects.

Specific serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are ideal first-line agents, as they are anxiolytic, non-sedating, and well tolerated (examples include: fluoxetine, sertraline, fluvoxamine, and venlafaxine)

For women who cannot tolerate SSRIs, bupropion (Wellbutrin) may be an alternative; although one pilot study suggests bupropion may not be as effective as SSRIs.

Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) are frequently used and, because they tend to be more sedating, may be more appropriate for women who present with prominent sleep disturbance.

Given the prevalence of anxiety symptoms in this population, adjunctive use of a benzodiazepine (e.g., clonazepam, lorazepam) may be very helpful.

Can I Breastfeed My Child If I’m On Medication?

The nutritional, immunologic, and psychological benefits of breastfeeding have been well documented. Women who plan to breastfeed must be informed that all psychotropic medications, including antidepressants, are secreted into the breast milk. Concentrations in the breast milk appear to vary widely. The amount of medication to which an infant is exposed depends on several factors, including dosage of medication, rate of maternal drug metabolism, and frequency and timing of feedings (Llewelyn and Stowe).

Over the past five years, data have accumulated regarding the use of various antidepressants during breastfeeding (reviewed in Newport et al 2002). Available data on the tricyclic antidepressants, fluoxetine, paroxetine, and sertraline during breastfeeding have been encouraging and suggest that significant complications related to neonatal exposure to psychotropic drugs in breast milk appear to be rare. While less information is available on other antidepressants, there have been no reports of serious adverse events related to exposure to these medications.

For women with bipolar disorder, breastfeeding may be more problematic.

First is the concern that on-demand breastfeeding may significantly disrupt the mother’s sleep and thus may increase her vulnerability to relapse during the acute postpartum period. Second, there have been reports of toxicity in nursing infants related to exposure to various mood stabilizers, including lithium and carbamazepine, in breast milk. Lithium is excreted at high levels in the mother’s milk, and infant serum levels are relatively high, about one-third to one-half of the mother’s serum levels, increasing the risk of neonatal toxicity. Exposure to carbamazepine and valproic acid in the breast milk has been associated with liver damage in the nursing infant.

Can We Prevent PPD?

While it is difficult to reliably predict which women in the general population will experience postpartum mood disturbance, it is possible to identify certain subgroups of women (i.e., women with a history of mood disorder) who are more vulnerable to postpartum affective illness. Current research indicates that prophylactic interventions may be instituted near or at the time of delivery to decrease the risk of postpartum illness.

Several studies demonstrate that women with histories of bipolar disorder or puerperal psychosis benefit from prophylactic treatment with lithium either prior to delivery (at 36 weeks gestation) or no later than the first 48 hours postpartum.

For women with histories of postpartum depression, several studies have described a beneficial effect of prophylactic antidepressant (either TCAs or SSRIs) administered after delivery. Patients with postpartum psychiatric illness are offered a variety of services by clinicians with particular expertise in this area:

Clinical evaluation for postpartum mood and anxiety disorders

Medication management

Consultation regarding breastfeeding and psychotropic medications

Recommendations regarding non-pharmacological treatments

Referral to support services within the community

Coping With Postpartum Depression:

The most important task of infancy is the bonding process between the infant and parents, as the success of this wordless relationship enables a child to feel secure enough to develop fully, and affects how the child will interact, communicate, and form relationships throughout life.

A secure attachment between parent and child is formed when the parent responds warmly and consistently to your baby’s physical and emotional needs. When your baby cries, you quickly soothe him or her. If your baby laughs or smiles, you respond in kind. You and your child are in synch. You recognize and respond to each other’s emotional signals.

Postpartum depression can interrupt this bonding. Depressed parents may be loving and attentive sometimes, but others may react negatively or not respond at all. Sadly, parents with postpartum depression tend to interact less with their babies, and are less likely to breastfeed, play with, and read to their children. They may also be inconsistent caregivers.

However, learning to bond with your baby not only benefits your child, it also benefits you by releasing endorphins that make you feel happier and more confident as a parent.

Make yourself and your baby the priority. Give yourself permission to concentrate on yourself and your baby – there is more work involved in this 24/7 job then in a full-time job.

Try to remember that we, as human beings are naturally social. Positive, happy, and supportive social contact relieves stress faster and more efficiently than any other means of stress reduction. Historically and from an evolutionary perspective, new parents received help from those around them when caring for themselves and their infants after childbirth. In today’s world, new mothers often find themselves alone, exhausted, and lonely for supportive adult contact.

When you’re feeling depressed and vulnerable, it’s more important than ever to stay connected to family and friend – even if you’d rather be left alone. Isolating yourself will only make your situation feel even bleaker, so make your adult relationships a priority. Let your loved ones know what you need and how you’d like to be supported.

In addition to the practical help your friends and family can provide, they can also serve as a much-needed emotional outlet. Share what you’re experiencing – all of it – with at least one other person, preferably face to face. It doesn’t matter who you talk to, so long as that person is willing to listen without judgment and offer reassurance and support.

Even if you have supportive loved ones, you may want to consider seeking out other women who are dealing with the same transition into motherhood. It’s very reassuring to hear that other mothers share your worries, insecurities, and feelings. Good places to meet new moms include support groups for new parents or organizations such as Mommy and Me. Ask your pediatrician for other resources in your neighborhood.

One of the best things you can do to relieve or avoid postpartum depression is to take care of yourself. The more you care for your mental and physical well-being, the better you’ll feel. Simple lifestyle changes can go a long way towards helping you feel like yourself again.

Studies show that exercise, for some people, may be just as effective as medication. But don’t to overdo it: a 30-minute walk each day can work wonders. Stretching exercises such as those found in yoga have shown to be especially effective. Make certain that you’re cleared by your OB/GYN before you begin to exercise.

A full eight hours may seem like an unattainable luxury when you’re dealing with a newborn, but poor sleep makes postpartum depression worse. Do what you can to get plenty of rest – enlist the help of your partner or family members to catching naps when you can.

Make some time to relax and take a break from your parental duties. Find small ways to pamper yourself, like taking a bubble bath, savoring a hot cup of tea, or lighting scented candles. Get a massage. Splurge on a pedicure.

When you’re depressed, nutrition often suffers, because you may not have any appetite. As you know, what you eat has an impact on mood, as well as the quality of your breast milk, so do your best to eat well.

Sunlight lifts your mood – and prevents vitamin D deficiency – so try to get at least 10 to 15 minutes of sun per day.

More than half of all divorces take place after the birth of a child. For many people, the relationship with their partner is their primary source of emotional expression and social connection. The demands and needs of a new baby can get in the way and fracture this relationship unless couples put some time, energy, and thought into preserving their bond.

The stress of sleepless nights and responsibilities can leave you feeling overwhelmed and exhausted. And since you can’t take it out on the baby, it’s all too easy to turn your frustrations on your partner. Instead of finger pointing, remember that you’re in this together. If you tackle parenting challenges as a team, you’ll become an even stronger unit.

Many things change following the birth of a baby, including roles and expectations. For many couples, a key source of strain is the post-baby division of household and childcare responsibilities. It’s important to talk about these issues, rather than letting them fester. Don’t assume your partner knows how you feel or what you need.

It’s essential to make time for just the two of you when you can reconnect. But don’t put pressure on yourself to be romantic or adventurous (unless you’re both up for it). You don’t need to go out on a fancy date to enjoy each other’s company. Even spending 15 or 20 minutes together—undistracted and focused on each other— can make a big difference in your feelings of closeness and togetherness.

Help! My Loved One Has Postpartum Depression!

If your loved one is experiencing postpartum depression, the best thing you can do is to offer support. Give her a break from her childcare duties, provide a listening ear, and be patient, and understanding.

If your partner has PPD, remember that you also need to take care of yourself. Dealing with the needs of a new baby is hard for all involved. If your significant other is depressed, you are dealing with two major stressors.

Don’t wait, just offer help around the house. Chip in with the housework and childcare responsibilities. The person may not feel it is appropriate to ask for any help from anyone.

Encourage talking about feelings, which can be awkward, but is necessary for your loved one. Listen to your loved one without judging or offering solutions. Instead of trying to fix things, simply be there for your loved one to lean on.

Make sure your loved one takes time for themselves. Rest and relaxation are important. Encourage the parent to take breaks, hire a babysitter, or schedule some date nights.

Go for a walk together. Getting exercise can make a big dent in depression, but it’s hard to get motivated when you’re feeling low.

Additional Resources For Postpartum Depression:

Postpartum Health Alliance is a non-profit organization dedicated to raising awareness about perinatal mood and anxiety symptoms and disorders and providing support and treatment referrals to women and their families.

If you are struggling or have questions, please call our warmline at 619-254-0023. Our trained volunteers can provide you with support and referrals.

If you need immediate support please call the San Diego Access and Crisis Line at 1-888-724-7240. The toll-free call is available 24-hours a day, 7-days a week

Postpartum Depression International: source of great information about all types of Postpartum Mood Disorders and also offers women resources for where to go for local help. Call or Text our HelpLine

They offer online support groups for mom’s and dad’s with PPD.

Call 1-800-944-4773 (4PPD) English and Spanish

Text 503-894-9453

Available 24 hours a day, you will be asked to leave a confidential message and a trained and caring volunteer will return your call or text. They will listen, answer questions, offer encouragement and connect you with local resources as needed.

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cleverwordsandotherstuffilike · 7 years ago

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10 Warning Signs Of Age-Related Eye Problems

A flood of spots and floaters in your field of vision. Usually, eye floaters are due to a benign, age-related condition called vitreous detachment. This occurs when the eye's gel-like interior liquefies and separates from the retina, the light-sensitive inner lining of the back of the eye. But a sudden onset of spots and floaters also can be caused by a serious, sight-threatening tear or detachment of the retina. If you suddenly see a shower of spots and floaters, visit your optometrist or ophthalmologist immediately. A sensation that a dark curtain has settled across your field of view. This could be caused by a retinal detachment, which occurs when the retina separates from the underlying layer of nourishing blood vessels (choroid). If the retina is not reattached within hours, vision loss can be permanent. Sudden eye pain, redness, nausea and vomiting. These symptoms can signal a sudden (acute) attack of narrow-angle glaucoma, which can permanently damage the eye's optic nerve. Immediate treatment is required to prevent permanent vision loss. Double vision, double images or "ghost" images. Double vision can be caused by many eye conditions. In some cases, double vision also can signal an underlying health emergency such as a stroke. If you have a sudden onset of double vision, see your eye doctor or family physician immediately. Sudden blurry vision in one eye. If you are over 60, your chance of developing a macular hole in the part of the retina where fine focusing occurs increases. Because macular holes can worsen and cause permanent loss of vision, it's important to visit your eye care practitioner for a diagnosis and prompt treatment (if necessary). A narrowing of your field of view. A reduction of your ability to see objects off to the sides could be a sign of glaucoma. Without intervention, peripheral vision loss could continue to worsen, leading to tunnel vision or even blindness. A gradual loss of central vision, including distortions such as straight lines appearing wavy. These symptoms may be caused by macular degeneration (AMD), a leading cause of blindness among older Americans. In the past, there was no effective treatment for macular degeneration. But today, new medical treatments sometimes can halt or limit AMD-related vision loss. Cloudy and blurred eyesight, "halos" around lights at night, loss of bright color vision. These vision changes may be due to cataracts. Cataracts tend to worsen gradually over time and are not a medical emergency. Nevertheless, as your eye's natural lens continues to cloud with aging, your vision will continue to deteriorate unless you have cataract surgery that replaces your cloudy lens with a custom intraocular lens (IOL). If you wait too long for cataract surgery, you increase your chance of complications such as glaucoma. Also, if cataract surgery is postponed too long, the cloudy lens can harden and become more difficult to remove. Blind spots in your field of view, accompanied by eye floaters and unexplained blurred vision. If you have diabetes, these vision problems may be due to the onset of diabetic retinopathy. Regular eye exams are essential for diabetics, particularly if you are over age 60. By evaluating the condition of your retina, your eye doctor can provide valuable information to your general physician about the control and severity of your diabetes. "Scratchy" or irritated sensation, eye surface pain, tearing. These signs and symptoms are most commonly due to dry eye syndrome. Dry eyes usually are more of a nuisance than a sight-threatening condition. But symptoms can be severe, particularly as you grow older and your body produces fewer tears or your tear chemistry changes. Consult your eye care practitioner for advice about remedies, which may include over-the-counter or prescription eye drops. http://www.allaboutvision.com/over60/warning-signs.htm

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newsrecording · 4 years ago

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How To Help Someone Through Drug or Alcohol Withdrawal During the COVID-19 Outbreak

Originally posted on Eleanor Health

As the COVID-19 outbreak continues to put a strain on the nation’s healthcare system at-large, it also puts people with addiction at a greater risk for serious health problems, including withdrawal from alcohol, opioids and other drugs. In light of stay-at-home orders and the need to practice social distancing, some people with addiction may be unable to access substances. Others may think this is a good time to “go cold turkey” and quit their substance use.

In reality, suddenly stopping substance use, either involuntarily or voluntarily, can lead to withdrawal. Depending on the substance and severity of the addiction, withdrawal symptoms can be mild, moderate, severe, or potentially fatal. Withdrawal is especially high-risk for people with pre-existing medical conditions and pregnant women.

With many hospitals’ resources already exhausted, it may be difficult to seek timely medical help for withdrawal, especially if people are hesitant to leave their homes at this time. Here is what you need to know about withdrawal, some ways to manage withdrawal symptoms at-home and when to seek medical help.

Alcohol Withdrawal

In an effort to stop the spread of the novel coronavirus, most states have classified restaurants and bars as non-essential businesses, requiring them to shut their doors to patrons for the foreseeable future. Certain states have even required liquor stores to close. For people with an addiction to alcohol, these circumstances can pose a serious risk and increase their likelihood of withdrawal symptoms occurring.

For people who drink excessively, over time, the brain becomes used to the high level of alcohol being consumed. When the body’s level of alcohol suddenly drops, the brain becomes overstimulated, which causes uncomfortable physical and mental effects of withdrawal. Symptoms can begin within a few hours of a person’s last drink and peak usually peak around 72 hours after the last drink. The symptoms can include:

Trembling (body shakes, often most noticeably in the hands)

Headache

Nausea

Vomiting

Loss of appetite

Chest pain

Fever

Sweating (most noticeably from the palms or face)

Insomnia

Anxiety

The most severe syndrome of alcohol withdrawal is delirium tremens, which develops due to sudden and severe changes in the central nervous system. Often referred to as the DTs, the symptoms usually begin within 48 to 96 hours after the last drink but in some cases, may occur 7 to 10 days following the last time alcohol was consumed. After the initial onset, symptoms may worsen very quickly and can include:

Seizures

Confusion

Vivid hallucinations (seeing, feeling, or hearing things that aren’t there like bugs crawling on the skin)

Rapid mood changes and sudden bursts of energy

Fatigue and sleepiness

Tremors

Delirium tremens is the most severe withdrawal syndrome and could result in serious health problems or death if untreated. If a person develops any symptoms of delirium tremens, they should seek medical attention right away. During this time of the COVID-19 outbreak when it may be difficult to leave the house or see a medical professional in-person, telehealth can be an appropriate way to seek help. Due to the virus outbreak, many telehealth services are waiving co-pays at this time.

Benzodiazepines Withdrawal

Benzodiazepines are a group of medications, which like alcohol, are central nervous system depressants. They are used to treat anxiety, panic disorders, insomnia, and seizures. Often referred to as benzos, some of the most familiar brand names include Valium, Xanax, Ativan, and Klonopin.

This class of medication can be habit-forming, even when prescribed at therapeutic doses. The body can become physically dependent on the medication, in as little as 30 days of use, which is why it is generally only prescribed for short-term use. As soon as physical dependency sets in, withdrawal can occur whenever a person reduces their dose or abruptly stops taking it altogether.

Depending on the specific benzodiazepine, the timeframe for experiencing withdrawal symptoms can begin in as little as 8 hours or as long as a week. With shorter-acting drugs like Xanax and Ativan, symptoms typically begin with 24 hours and peak after 72 hours. For longer-acting drugs like Klonopin and Valium, withdrawal usually begins within 48 hours to one week after the last dose. Because benzodiazepines work in the same part of the brain as alcohol, symptoms of benzo withdrawal are the same as alcohol withdrawal and can include:

Seizures

Muscle spasms and tremors

Dizziness and lightheadedness

Ringing in the ears, blurred vision, and sensitivity to light

Anxiety, panic attacks, and depression

Insomnia

Headache

Like alcohol withdrawal, the most severe form of benzo withdrawal is delirium tremens (see earlier in this article). The dTs are more likely to develop in individuals who have become dependent on shorter-acting benzodiazepines like Xanax and Ativan, but can also develop in those using longer-acting benzos. If a person develops any symptoms of delirium tremens as a result of benzodiazepine withdrawal, they should seek medical attention right away.

Opioid Withdrawal

Opioids are a class of drugs used to treat pain, which can be divided into two categories: opiates and synthetic opioids. Opiates are drugs that originated from the opium poppy plant and include morphine, codeine, heroin, and opium. Synthetic opioids are prescription drugs manufactured in laboratories, like Oxycontin, Vicodin, and Dilaudid, but have similar effects to the drugs naturally derived from opium poppies.

Both categories of opioids can cause physical dependence and addiction. The longer a person takes opioids, the more their body needs to feel the same effects. If opioid usage is stopped suddenly, a person could begin to feel withdrawal symptoms within 24 hours of their last use, including:

Muscle aches

Restlessness

Anxiety, irritability, or agitation

Watery eyes and runny nose

Sweating

Insomnia

As time progresses, symptoms may change and become more intense-feeling after the first day. They include:

Diarrhea and stomach cramping

Nausea and vomiting

Rapid heartbeat and high blood pressure

Blurry vision

Goosebumps on the skin

At-Home Treatment for Withdrawal

To avoid developing severe symptoms of withdrawal, an individual should gradually reduce the amount of the substance used whether that is alcohol, benzodiazepines or opioids. For example, if you typically drink a bottle of vodka daily, rather than stopping cold turkey, you would slowly reduce your drinking over several days — drinking ¾ of a bottle on day 1, half a bottle the second day and ¼ of the bottle on the third day.

While serious withdrawal symptoms require immediate medical attention, many of the milder symptoms can be treated at home with over-the-counter medicines or home remedies.

For nausea and vomiting: antacids (TUMS, Milk of Magnesia, Alka-Seltzer) and bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol, Kaopectate)

For diarrhea: bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol, Kaopectate) and loperamide (Imodium)

For muscle aches: ibuprofen (Advil) or acetaminophen (Tylenol)

For dehydration: water or Pedialyte/Hydralyte

For high blood pressure and checking vital signs: a blood pressure cuff (can be purchased from a drugstore or online retailer)

Withdrawal can be a stressful situation, made even more overwhelming by the virus outbreak. This may cause certain people to experience significant emotional changes as they go through the withdrawal process, including intense feelings of helplessness and suicidal thoughts.

Receiving emotional support and reassurance during withdrawal can make a world of difference in a person’s outlook. To access help while practicing social-distancing, there are a variety of hotlines and online resources that can help make withdrawal feel less overwhelming, including:

We the Village

Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255

Crisis Text Line: 741741

Even with the unusual circumstances caused by the COVID-19 outbreak, it is still possible to seek treatment for addiction. If you or someone you love is going through withdrawal, we’re here to help.

About Eleanor Health – Durham

Our mission at Eleanor Health is to help people struggling with addiction live amazing lives. As an integrated, multidisciplinary team, we’re focused on delivering whole-person, comprehensive care. We are passionate about transforming the quality, delivery, and accessibility of addiction treatment. Every member of our team works together integrating care and coordinating services to improve our members’ quality of life.

Contact Eleanor Health – Durham

3711 University Drive Durham NC 27707 United States

919-752-4028

Website: https://www.eleanorhealth.com/locations/north-carolina/durham

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newsperception · 4 years ago

Text

How To Help Someone Through Drug or Alcohol Withdrawal During the COVID-19 Outbreak

Originally posted on Eleanor Health

Alcohol Withdrawal

Trembling (body shakes, often most noticeably in the hands)

Headache

Nausea

Vomiting

Loss of appetite

Chest pain

Fever

Sweating (most noticeably from the palms or face)

Insomnia

Anxiety

Seizures

Confusion

Vivid hallucinations (seeing, feeling, or hearing things that aren’t there like bugs crawling on the skin)

Rapid mood changes and sudden bursts of energy

Fatigue and sleepiness

Tremors

Benzodiazepines Withdrawal

Seizures

Muscle spasms and tremors

Dizziness and lightheadedness

Ringing in the ears, blurred vision, and sensitivity to light

Anxiety, panic attacks, and depression

Insomnia

Headache

Opioid Withdrawal

Muscle aches

Restlessness

Anxiety, irritability, or agitation

Watery eyes and runny nose

Sweating

Insomnia

As time progresses, symptoms may change and become more intense-feeling after the first day. They include:

Diarrhea and stomach cramping

Nausea and vomiting

Rapid heartbeat and high blood pressure

Blurry vision

Goosebumps on the skin

At-Home Treatment for Withdrawal

While serious withdrawal symptoms require immediate medical attention, many of the milder symptoms can be treated at home with over-the-counter medicines or home remedies.

For nausea and vomiting: antacids (TUMS, Milk of Magnesia, Alka-Seltzer) and bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol, Kaopectate)

For diarrhea: bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol, Kaopectate) and loperamide (Imodium)

For muscle aches: ibuprofen (Advil) or acetaminophen (Tylenol)

For dehydration: water or Pedialyte/Hydralyte

For high blood pressure and checking vital signs: a blood pressure cuff (can be purchased from a drugstore or online retailer)

We the Village

Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255

Crisis Text Line: 741741

About Eleanor Health – Durham

Contact Eleanor Health – Durham

3711 University Drive Durham NC 27707 United States

919-752-4028

Website: https://www.eleanorhealth.com/locations/north-carolina/durham

The post How To Help Someone Through Drug or Alcohol Withdrawal During the COVID-19 Outbreak appeared first on NewsPerception.

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midwestregister · 4 years ago

Text

How To Help Someone Through Drug or Alcohol Withdrawal During the COVID-19 Outbreak

Originally posted on Eleanor Health

Alcohol Withdrawal

Trembling (body shakes, often most noticeably in the hands)

Headache

Nausea

Vomiting

Loss of appetite

Chest pain

Fever

Sweating (most noticeably from the palms or face)

Insomnia

Anxiety

Seizures

Confusion

Vivid hallucinations (seeing, feeling, or hearing things that aren’t there like bugs crawling on the skin)

Rapid mood changes and sudden bursts of energy

Fatigue and sleepiness

Tremors

Benzodiazepines Withdrawal

Seizures

Muscle spasms and tremors

Dizziness and lightheadedness

Ringing in the ears, blurred vision, and sensitivity to light

Anxiety, panic attacks, and depression

Insomnia

Headache

Opioid Withdrawal

Muscle aches

Restlessness

Anxiety, irritability, or agitation

Watery eyes and runny nose

Sweating

Insomnia

As time progresses, symptoms may change and become more intense-feeling after the first day. They include:

Diarrhea and stomach cramping

Nausea and vomiting

Rapid heartbeat and high blood pressure

Blurry vision

Goosebumps on the skin

At-Home Treatment for Withdrawal

While serious withdrawal symptoms require immediate medical attention, many of the milder symptoms can be treated at home with over-the-counter medicines or home remedies.

For nausea and vomiting: antacids (TUMS, Milk of Magnesia, Alka-Seltzer) and bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol, Kaopectate)

For diarrhea: bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol, Kaopectate) and loperamide (Imodium)

For muscle aches: ibuprofen (Advil) or acetaminophen (Tylenol)

For dehydration: water or Pedialyte/Hydralyte

For high blood pressure and checking vital signs: a blood pressure cuff (can be purchased from a drugstore or online retailer)

We the Village

Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255

Crisis Text Line: 741741

About Eleanor Health – Durham

Contact Eleanor Health – Durham

3711 University Drive Durham NC 27707 United States

919-752-4028

Website: https://www.eleanorhealth.com/locations/north-carolina/durham

The post How To Help Someone Through Drug or Alcohol Withdrawal During the COVID-19 Outbreak appeared first on Midwest.

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newstvstation · 4 years ago

Text

How To Help Someone Through Drug or Alcohol Withdrawal During the COVID-19 Outbreak

Originally posted on Eleanor Health

Alcohol Withdrawal

Trembling (body shakes, often most noticeably in the hands)

Headache

Nausea

Vomiting

Loss of appetite

Chest pain

Fever

Sweating (most noticeably from the palms or face)

Insomnia

Anxiety

Seizures

Confusion

Vivid hallucinations (seeing, feeling, or hearing things that aren’t there like bugs crawling on the skin)

Rapid mood changes and sudden bursts of energy

Fatigue and sleepiness

Tremors

Benzodiazepines Withdrawal

Seizures

Muscle spasms and tremors

Dizziness and lightheadedness

Ringing in the ears, blurred vision, and sensitivity to light

Anxiety, panic attacks, and depression

Insomnia

Headache

Opioid Withdrawal

Muscle aches

Restlessness

Anxiety, irritability, or agitation

Watery eyes and runny nose

Sweating

Insomnia

As time progresses, symptoms may change and become more intense-feeling after the first day. They include:

Diarrhea and stomach cramping

Nausea and vomiting

Rapid heartbeat and high blood pressure

Blurry vision

Goosebumps on the skin

At-Home Treatment for Withdrawal

While serious withdrawal symptoms require immediate medical attention, many of the milder symptoms can be treated at home with over-the-counter medicines or home remedies.

For nausea and vomiting: antacids (TUMS, Milk of Magnesia, Alka-Seltzer) and bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol, Kaopectate)

For diarrhea: bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol, Kaopectate) and loperamide (Imodium)

For muscle aches: ibuprofen (Advil) or acetaminophen (Tylenol)

For dehydration: water or Pedialyte/Hydralyte

For high blood pressure and checking vital signs: a blood pressure cuff (can be purchased from a drugstore or online retailer)

We the Village

Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255

Crisis Text Line: 741741

About Eleanor Health – Durham

Contact Eleanor Health – Durham

3711 University Drive Durham NC 27707 United States

919-752-4028

Website: https://www.eleanorhealth.com/locations/north-carolina/durham

The post How To Help Someone Through Drug or Alcohol Withdrawal During the COVID-19 Outbreak appeared first on News TV Station.

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lakeviewgazette · 4 years ago

Text

How To Help Someone Through Drug or Alcohol Withdrawal During the COVID-19 Outbreak

Originally posted on Eleanor Health

Alcohol Withdrawal

Trembling (body shakes, often most noticeably in the hands)

Headache

Nausea

Vomiting

Loss of appetite

Chest pain

Fever

Sweating (most noticeably from the palms or face)

Insomnia

Anxiety

Seizures

Confusion

Vivid hallucinations (seeing, feeling, or hearing things that aren’t there like bugs crawling on the skin)

Rapid mood changes and sudden bursts of energy

Fatigue and sleepiness

Tremors

Benzodiazepines Withdrawal

Seizures

Muscle spasms and tremors

Dizziness and lightheadedness

Ringing in the ears, blurred vision, and sensitivity to light

Anxiety, panic attacks, and depression

Insomnia

Headache

Opioid Withdrawal

Muscle aches

Restlessness

Anxiety, irritability, or agitation

Watery eyes and runny nose

Sweating

Insomnia

As time progresses, symptoms may change and become more intense-feeling after the first day. They include:

Diarrhea and stomach cramping

Nausea and vomiting

Rapid heartbeat and high blood pressure

Blurry vision

Goosebumps on the skin

At-Home Treatment for Withdrawal

While serious withdrawal symptoms require immediate medical attention, many of the milder symptoms can be treated at home with over-the-counter medicines or home remedies.

For nausea and vomiting: antacids (TUMS, Milk of Magnesia, Alka-Seltzer) and bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol, Kaopectate)

For diarrhea: bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol, Kaopectate) and loperamide (Imodium)

For muscle aches: ibuprofen (Advil) or acetaminophen (Tylenol)

For dehydration: water or Pedialyte/Hydralyte

For high blood pressure and checking vital signs: a blood pressure cuff (can be purchased from a drugstore or online retailer)

We the Village

Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255

Crisis Text Line: 741741

About Eleanor Health – Durham

Contact Eleanor Health – Durham

3711 University Drive Durham NC 27707 United States

919-752-4028

Website: https://www.eleanorhealth.com/locations/north-carolina/durham

The post How To Help Someone Through Drug or Alcohol Withdrawal During the COVID-19 Outbreak appeared first on LakeviewGazette.

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mountainpostgazette · 4 years ago

Text

How To Help Someone Through Drug or Alcohol Withdrawal During the COVID-19 Outbreak

Originally posted on Eleanor Health

Alcohol Withdrawal

Trembling (body shakes, often most noticeably in the hands)

Headache

Nausea

Vomiting

Loss of appetite

Chest pain

Fever

Sweating (most noticeably from the palms or face)

Insomnia

Anxiety

Seizures

Confusion

Vivid hallucinations (seeing, feeling, or hearing things that aren’t there like bugs crawling on the skin)

Rapid mood changes and sudden bursts of energy

Fatigue and sleepiness

Tremors

Benzodiazepines Withdrawal

Seizures

Muscle spasms and tremors

Dizziness and lightheadedness

Ringing in the ears, blurred vision, and sensitivity to light

Anxiety, panic attacks, and depression

Insomnia

Headache

Opioid Withdrawal

Muscle aches

Restlessness

Anxiety, irritability, or agitation

Watery eyes and runny nose

Sweating

Insomnia

As time progresses, symptoms may change and become more intense-feeling after the first day. They include:

Diarrhea and stomach cramping

Nausea and vomiting

Rapid heartbeat and high blood pressure

Blurry vision

Goosebumps on the skin

At-Home Treatment for Withdrawal

While serious withdrawal symptoms require immediate medical attention, many of the milder symptoms can be treated at home with over-the-counter medicines or home remedies.

For nausea and vomiting: antacids (TUMS, Milk of Magnesia, Alka-Seltzer) and bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol, Kaopectate)

For diarrhea: bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol, Kaopectate) and loperamide (Imodium)

For muscle aches: ibuprofen (Advil) or acetaminophen (Tylenol)

For dehydration: water or Pedialyte/Hydralyte

For high blood pressure and checking vital signs: a blood pressure cuff (can be purchased from a drugstore or online retailer)

We the Village

Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255

Crisis Text Line: 741741

About Eleanor Health – Durham

Contact Eleanor Health – Durham

3711 University Drive Durham NC 27707 United States

919-752-4028

Website: https://www.eleanorhealth.com/locations/north-carolina/durham

The post How To Help Someone Through Drug or Alcohol Withdrawal During the COVID-19 Outbreak appeared first on Mountain Post.

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neoretina · 4 years ago

Text

20 Symptoms that can Indicate Eye Problems

As the process of ageing starts, the signs and symptoms of the body’s wear and tear become more visible and eyes are no exception. Age-related eye conditions and changes start to occur. Some people find it difficult to focus and have blurred vision. The not-so-serious refractive problems can be corrected with the help of glasses. However, serious eye diseases can affect the eyes drastically at any age and if left untreated can lead to vision loss.

Warning Symptoms that Indicate Eye Problems

If you experience these common eye problems or changes, immediately book an appointment with your ophthalmologist:

1. Red shots: Eyes are supplied with nutrients with the help of small blood vessels. Sometimes, due to infection or irritation, these tiny vessels of blood may expand or even burst to cause red shots in the eye. Generally, this symptom is not serious and goes away without any sort of treatment. However, an eye injury, glaucoma, or scratches on the cornea of the eye could be serious. So, it is better to check with your ophthalmologist if this condition in the eye hurts, causes pain or doesn't go away in a day or two. Red shots can also be a sign of diabetes and if it is left untreated, this can eventually lead to poor vision or even blindness.

2. Dry eyes: This symptom is common and is generally a side effect of excessive screen or computer usage and also a side effect of several medications. In some cases, autoimmune diseases can also lead to dry eyes.

3. Burning sensation: Stinging or burning sensation in the eyes is often considered as a sign of tired or irritated eyes. Burning sensation in the eyes can also be a sign of blepharitis which is a buildup of bacteria causing dandruff-like flakes on the eyelids. Burning sensation can also indicate more serious issue like keratitis which is inflamed cornea.

4. Crust: Crust is the sticky material which is a result of drying of tears or oil on the eyelids or lashes. It is normal to find a bit of the crust when you wake up. However, you need to schedule an appointment with your ophthalmologist if it is excessive in quantity or is greenish or yellow in colour as it may indicate a contagious pink-eye condition.

5. Blurred vision: Serious eye conditions like Cataract, Uveitis, Macular hole, etc can lead to blurred vision. It can worsen and cause permanent vision loss.

6. Flashes of light: Sudden flashes of light could indicate retinal tear formation which in turn can lead to retinal detachment.

7. Red growth over the eye: If you see a triangular growth starting at the nasal corner of the eye and encroaching the black part of the eye, it may indicate formation of pterygium (abnormal fibrous growth of the conjunctiva). This can be removed surgically for better eye comfort and cosmesis.

8. Puffy eyes: Puffy eyes can be due to allergies, inflammation, pink eye, or another infection. In many cases, puffy eyes may be due to thyroid problems.

9. Watery eyes: Tears keeps the eyes moist and wash out unwanted particles. Watery eyes can be a result of infection, scrape, cut or blocked tear ducts. See your ophthalmologist if your eyes hurt or vision is affected.

10. Twitching: Twitching or blinking of eyes is a small, unintended movement. Twitching of eyelids is quite common. It generally stops when you cut back on caffeine or take rest. Visit ophthalmologist if the twitching lasts for hours or involves one half of your face.

11. Lump: Styes are painful red-coloured lumps caused by bacteria. It occurs on eyelashes or under the eyelid. Some lumps are a painless swollen bump. It is called as ‘chalazion’, and it occurs on the lids of the eye because of a clogged oil gland. Painful red lumps can be treated with medication but chalazia require surgical removal.

12. Yellow eyes: When the white part of the eyes looks yellow in colour, it is an indication of jaundice. Yellow spots in the eyes can be due to pinguecula (abnormal fat deposition on the surface of the eye).

13. Oddly sized pupils: Sometimes, a pupil of the eye appears to be stuck. When it is wide open, it is called as ‘mydriasis’, and when it is small, it is called as ‘miosis’. In some cases, both the pupils of an individual are of different sizes. See an ophthalmologist as this may indicate an underlying neurological problem.

14. Crossed eyes: Also known as ‘turned eyes’. It is a condition in which the eyes fail to point in the same direction. In this condition, both the eyes send different images to the brain. This may indicate poor vision in one or both eyes and this condition can be treated with glasses or surgery depending on the age of the patient and severity of the condition.

15. Droopy eyelids: Over a period of time, an eyelid that has fallen or hangs, blocks the sight. When droopy eyelids appear suddenly, it could be a symptom of a brain tumour, stroke or muscle disease.

16. Dark curtain sensation: Generally, it is a sign of a retinal detachment. If the retina is not reattached as soon as possible, it can lead to permanent vision loss.

17. Double images: Many eye conditions can lead to double images and it can be an underlying health emergency.

18. Narrowing of vision field: If you find it difficult to see or focus on objects near or off to the sides, it may be a symptom of optic nerve disease.

19. Cloudy eyesight: One of the main reasons for the cloudy eye eyesight is a cataract. Though it is not a medical emergency, it worsens over a period of time.

20. Blind spots: People with diabetes can experience blind spots and their vision can be compromised. It can be because of the onset of diabetic retinopathy.

Regular eye examinations help to detect and treat the early signs and symptoms of several vision problems. Also, being aware of certain signs and symptoms can help take appropriate steps to maintain clear vision. Hence, it is important to pay attention to warning signs and symptoms that can indicate eye problems.

Source: https://neoretina.com/blog/20-symptoms-that-can-indicate-eye-problems/

#eye problems

0 notes

dailyposttribune · 4 years ago

Text

How To Help Someone Through Drug or Alcohol Withdrawal During the COVID-19 Outbreak

Originally posted on Eleanor Health

Alcohol Withdrawal

Trembling (body shakes, often most noticeably in the hands)

Headache

Nausea

Vomiting

Loss of appetite

Chest pain

Fever

Sweating (most noticeably from the palms or face)

Insomnia

Anxiety

Seizures

Confusion

Vivid hallucinations (seeing, feeling, or hearing things that aren’t there like bugs crawling on the skin)

Rapid mood changes and sudden bursts of energy

Fatigue and sleepiness

Tremors

Benzodiazepines Withdrawal

Seizures

Muscle spasms and tremors

Dizziness and lightheadedness

Ringing in the ears, blurred vision, and sensitivity to light

Anxiety, panic attacks, and depression

Insomnia

Headache

Opioid Withdrawal

Muscle aches

Restlessness

Anxiety, irritability, or agitation

Watery eyes and runny nose

Sweating

Insomnia

As time progresses, symptoms may change and become more intense-feeling after the first day. They include:

Diarrhea and stomach cramping

Nausea and vomiting

Rapid heartbeat and high blood pressure

Blurry vision

Goosebumps on the skin

At-Home Treatment for Withdrawal

While serious withdrawal symptoms require immediate medical attention, many of the milder symptoms can be treated at home with over-the-counter medicines or home remedies.

For nausea and vomiting: antacids (TUMS, Milk of Magnesia, Alka-Seltzer) and bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol, Kaopectate)

For diarrhea: bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol, Kaopectate) and loperamide (Imodium)

For muscle aches: ibuprofen (Advil) or acetaminophen (Tylenol)

For dehydration: water or Pedialyte/Hydralyte

For high blood pressure and checking vital signs: a blood pressure cuff (can be purchased from a drugstore or online retailer)

We the Village

Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255

Crisis Text Line: 741741

About Eleanor Health – Durham

Contact Eleanor Health – Durham

3711 University Drive Durham NC 27707 United States

919-752-4028

Website: https://www.eleanorhealth.com/locations/north-carolina/durham

The post How To Help Someone Through Drug or Alcohol Withdrawal During the COVID-19 Outbreak appeared first on Daily Post Tribune.

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