Marburg virus disease (MVD) - Marburg hemorrhagic fever

This blog has moved to a new website
Nutrition, Health & Wellness

Marburg virus disease (MVD)

Home › What is Ebola virus disease › Marburg virus disease (Marburg hemorrhagic fever) symptoms

What is Marburg virus disease?

Marburg virus disease, also known as Marburg hemorrhagic fever, is a severe and highly fatal disease caused by the filoviruses. The two filoviruses are Marburg virus (MARV) and Ravn virus (RAVV). The clinical symptoms are similar to Ebola virus disease. The typical symptoms are high fever, severe headache, malaise and severe haemorrhagic manifestations. The haemorrhagic symptoms include petechiae, purpura, hematomas, maculopapular rash and bleeding from multiple sites. The fruit bats in the endemic regions are considered to be carriers and reservoirs of the Marburg hemorrhagic fever virus. both MARV and RAVV have been isolated from bats.

The most common methods of diagnosis of Marburg virus disease are reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and antigen-capture enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Presently there is no effective treatment for Marburg virus disease. Early supportive treatment, care and hydration may help in the survival of the patient. Death occurs due to multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS), previously known as multiple organ failure (MOF).

Popular topics: Horseradish root | Physical health definition | Syzygium aromaticum uses | Kidney stones and beer | World Health Organisation definition | Amla fruit | Neonatal teeth

Marburg hemorrhagic virus is transmitted among humans by direct contact with the body fluids, skin and tissues of the infected individuals. There is no evidence of marburgviruses getting transmitted by aerosol in MVD outbreaks. The medical personnel must strictly follow barrier nursing techniques while caring and treating Marburg virus disease patients. They should wear disposable face mask, gloves, goggles and gown. Many cases of Marburg hemorrhagic fever were reported in visitors to bat-infested mines or caves. Avoiding visit to caves and avoiding skin contact with bats, primates and their excretions in endemic regions is highly recommended.

Popular topics: What is malaria disease | Major diseases caused by smoking | Does teething cause fever | Baby teething rash on face | Primary teeth | Baby teething age

Marburg virus disease was first identified in 1967 epidemics in Marburg and Frankfurt in Germany and Belgrade in the former Yugoslavia. Of the 31 people infected seven died. The Marburg hemorrhagic fever was contracted from infected monkeys imported from Uganda. During the 1998–2000 outbreak in Congo, Of the 154 people who contracted Marburg virus, 128 died. During the 2004–2005 outbreak of hemorrhagic fever in Angola, Of the 252 people who contracted Marburg virus, 227 died.

Symptoms in clinical phases of Marburg Hemorrhagic Fever

A general list of observed symptoms as the hemorrhagic fever infection progresses is given below. Please note that the disease progression symptoms may vary among patients in respect to earlier health status.

Incubation: Incubation period of the hemorrhagic fever is usually 5-9 days. Variation in this period range from 2 days to 21 days.

Clinical onset of symptoms (1-5 days): The onset of the hemorrhagic fever symptoms are sudden with high fever and severe headache. The patient may also suffer from symptoms like serious bouts of chills and shivering followed by malaise and fatigue. Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, muscular pain, nonproductive cough, pharyngitis, relative bradycardia and abdominal pain may be present in Marburg virus disease. As the Marburg hemorrhagic fever progresses, symptoms like diffuse erythematous, non pruritic maculopapular rash may appear on the skin.

Symptoms of early organ phase: This phase of Marburg hemorrhagic fever may last from day 6 to day 13 from the day of clinical onset. The hemorrhagic fever symptoms include conjunctivitis, edema, shortness of breath and widespread rash. Central nervous system disease with symptoms like encephalitis, tremors, slurred speech, seizures, confusion, muscle fasciculations, delirium, apathy, paralysis and aggression may appear in Marburg viral disease. By the end of the early organ phase, hemorrhagic symptoms like blood in stools, bleeding from skin puncture sites, mucosal & visceral hemorrhaging appear.

Symptoms of late organ phase: From day 14 to day 21 the hemorrhagic fever survivors will go into convalescence phase. They may suffer from symptoms of fibromyalgia and hepatitis. In fatal Marburg virus disease cases the health continues to deteriorate, leading to symptoms like diffuse coagulopathy, convulsions, altered level of consciousness, coma, shock and death.

Treatment and management of the hemorrhagic fever

There is no standard treatment for the hemorrhagic infection. Early detection, diagnosis and providing supportive care may save lives. Some of the supportive measures for Marburg hemorrhagic fever are:

• balancing the patient's fluids and electrolytes of patients with symptoms
• maintaining blood pressure
• supporting breathing
• pain management in patients with symptoms
• administration of anticoagulants early in infection
• replacing lost blood and clotting factors of patients with the symptoms
• treatment for opportunistic infections in patients of the hemorrhagic fever disease

Risks of contracting Marburg virus

The following are are high-risk factors in contracting MVD:

• skin contact with patients with the symptoms of Marburg virus disease
• direct skin contact with the hemorrhagic fever patients
• direct contact with body fluids, excretions, tissues of the patients with symptoms
• handling blood and secretions of Marburg hemorrhagic fever patients
• direct contact with equipment, beddings, utensils etc of the patients
• placing of intravenous lines in patients
• inserting catheters and using suction devices on Marburg virus disease patients
• handling the dead bodies in the endemic zone
• handling ill or dead fruit bats, monkeys and other wild animals
• accidental infection of workers in any facility investigating the virus
• handling contaminated injection equipment
• accidental needle injuries

Prognosis

The average fatality is 60%. In outbreaks fatality was as high as 80%. In the surviving patients, recovery may be protracted and many systemic ailments may linger on.

Popular topics: Lysosomal storage disorders | Loneliness and health | Pregnancy-related pelvic girdle pain | Chronic low back pain | Coping with dry skin in winter | Pneumonia in elderly people

Though the surviving Marburg hemorrhagic fever patient develops antibodies, the virus is known to persist in seminal fluids and breast milk and cause secondary infection and disease. No approved vaccines are available to prevent the spread of Marburg infection.

Related topics in health and fitness tips:
Baby teething overview.
Symptoms of blocked tear ducts in newborn.
Side effects of hypothyroidism.
Back pain from heavy backpacks.
Health benefits of barley grass.
Magnetic resonance imaging uses.
Frequent headaches.
What causes sensitive teeth.
Diesel engine exhaust causes cancer.
Spices for diabetes.

References:
1.http://www.who.int/csr/disease/marburg/en/
2.http://www.cdc.gov/vhf/marburg/
3.https://www.gov.uk/marburg-virus-disease-origins-reservoirs-transmission-and-guidelines

Interesting topics in health and fitness tips:
Pneumonia in children and infants.
Newborn tears.
Social anxiety depression.
Chronic sinusitis treatments.
Health benefits of celery juice.
Aspirin for cancer prevention.
What is Yo-yo effect.
Exercise and summer.
Potential child hazards at home.
Hearing damage by loud music.

Current topic in health and fitness tips: Marburg virus disease (Marburg hemorrhagic fever) causes, symptoms and treatment.

Baby teething fever - Does teething cause fever or diarrhea?

This blog has moved to a new website
Nutrition, Health & Wellness

Does teething cause fever or diarrhea?

Home › Teething babies › Teething age › Does teething cause fever or diarrhea in babies?

Teething in babies does not cause high fever or severe diarrhea. Teething is being incorrectly attributed to be the cause of several childhood ailments. Some of the symptoms of teething are swollen gum, decreased appetite for solid foods, irritability, drooling, rash on face, ear rubbing, gum rubbing, crying, pain, biting and sucking.

High body temperature, severe nasal discharge, persistent cough, persistent vomiting, decrease in urine output and severe diarrhea may require medical attention and are not classic symptoms of eruption of primary teeth.

In a survey of 550 parents in Udaipur, India, regarding parental beliefs about teething in babies, Gauri Kakatkar et al, found that "teething was incorrectly attributed to fever (70%), diarrhea (87.5%), and sleep disturbances (48.2%)". The research work was published in the journal 'Brazilian Oral Research' in 2012 Mar-April.

R.S.Ispas et al conducted a cross-sectional survey of seven groups of health professionals in New Zealand on persisting misconceptions about signs and symptoms of teething. The research work was published in 'the New Zealand dental journal' in March, 2013. The researchers concluded that one-third of participants incorrectly attributed fever to teething. 27% of participants attributed primary teeth eruption as cause of diarrhea.

These findings show that there is a common lack of knowledge about baby teething among parents as well as prevalence of misconceptions about the symptoms of teething in health professionals. There is an urgent need to educate parents regarding the teething process and its management and to dispel misconceptions about fever and diarrhea. Some health professionals may have to update their concepts about the causes of childhood illnesses like fever and diarrhea.

Does teething cause high fever in babies?

The primary tooth eruption may give discomfort, pain and stress to the baby for a week.

Primary teeth Neonatal teeth Amla fruit Celery nutrients Barley grass Newborn tears

Four days prior to emergence of tooth and three days post-emergence are important in tooth eruption. In some babies, due to stress, pain and gum inflammation, there may be slightly elevated body temperature which is considered as low-grade fever (less than 102°F). Mild fever in babies may also be due to infection in the split gum. Injuries to gum while biting on objects can also give rise to mild infection and elevated temperature and fever.

The age at which deciduous teeth erupt also coincides with the decline in antibody supply from the mother as well as exposure to infections. Parents must pay attention to any fever greater than 102°F and seek medical advice. They should not dismiss high fever as a symptom connected with primary teeth eruption. High fever, above 102°F, may be due to some underlying serious illness.

Does teething cause severe diarrhea in babies?

Babies tend to bite or chew any object they can lay their hands on during teething. Lack of hygiene or proper parental care can lead to infections of gastrointestinal system. Sometimes babies may injure their own gums and have infections. In such situations babies may have fever and diarrhea. Excessive salivation and swallowing the saliva may also cause mild diarrhea.

If the baby suffers from severe diarrhea, medical advice must be sought. Severe diarrhea can lead to dehydration and many health complications. Most common cause of severe diarrhea is viral gastroenteritis. Certain types of bacteria or parasites can also cause diarrhea. If the teething baby affect by diarrhea has dry skin, dry mouth, sunken eyes or cries without tears, it is symptom of severe dehydration and immediate medical aid is required.

Related topics on health and fitness tips: Causes of bedwetting in adults. Mental health definition. Social anxiety disorder causes. Public health definition. Charles-Edward Amory Winslow. Tips to improve sleep hygiene. Knee pain remedies. Beer and kidney stones. How to prevent muscle cramps. How to stop chocolate cravings.

Interesting topics on health and fitness tips: Teething rash. Causes of pneumonia in elderly people. Social health definition. History of soft drinks. Soft drinks and obesity. Causes of frequent daily headaches. Physical health definition. Soft drinks and health effects. Causes of sensitive teeth. Sugar beet and beet sugar.

References: 1.Ispas RS, Mahoney EK, Whyman RA. Teething signs and symptoms: persisting misconceptions among health professionals in New Zealand. N Z Dent J. 2013 Mar;109(1):2-5. 2.Sood S, Sood M. Teething: myths and facts. J Clin Pediatr Dent. 2010 Fall;35(1):9-13. 3.Owais, A., Zawaideh, F. and Bataineh, O. (2010), Challenging parents’ myths regarding their children’s teething. International Journal of Dental Hygiene, 8: 28–34. 4.Gauri Kakatkar, Ramesh Nagarajappa, Nagesh Bhat, Vikas Prasad, Archana Sharda, Kailash Asawa. Parental beliefs about children's teething in Udaipur, India: a preliminary study. Braz Oral Res. 2012 Mar-Apr;26(2):151-7.

Current topic in health and fitness tips:
Does teething cause fever or diarrhea in babies?

Pneumonia in elderly people - Causes, symptoms & treatment

This blog has moved to a new website
Nutrition, Health & Wellness

Pneumonia in elderly people

Home > Pneumonia in children and infants - Signs, symptoms & causes > Causes, symptoms and treatment of pneumonia in elderly people

Pneumonia in elderly people, unlike younger patients, may have very subtle symptoms and by the time diagnosis is done and treatment is commenced the situation may become very serious and life threatening. Pneumonia is an inflammation of the lungs followed by fluid accumulation in alveoli air sacs and is usually caused by viruses, bacteria, fungi, parasites and other organisms. The inflammation and fluid accumulation in alveoli causes reduced blood flow to the affected part as well as reduced oxygen uptake.

In general elderly patients have feeble organ level and body level responses to any infection. Unfortunately, most of the elderly people and their caregivers are unable to understand the symptoms of pneumonia and by the time action is taken the condition turns serious.

Causes of pneumonia in elderly people

Though pneumonia is caused by viruses, bacteria, fungi and other organisms, in elderly, Streptococcus pneumoniae bacteria account for most of the infections and are the major cause of death. The infection can start with flue like symptoms of the upper respiratory tract and can spread fast to the lower respiratory tract and the lungs. Damage of lung tissue can occur and the infection may spread to the blood causing bacteremia. If most areas of the lungs are involved acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) may be caused.

The complications of pneumonia in the elderly can be life-threatening, apart from the possibility of bacteremia, meningitis, kidney failure and heart failure can occur. The lung infections triggered by viruses are generally milder but there is always the risk of opportunistic bacterial infections including Streptococcus pneumoniae.

In elderly people, aspiration pneumonia is caused by difficulties in swallowing leading to mouth secretions and food going to the lungs and causing infection and pneumonia. Issues with swallowing are common in elderly patients which require treatment.

Symptoms of pneumonia in elderly people

General symptoms of pneumonia are:

• week feeling
• lethargy
• productive cough
• greenish or yellowish sputum
• chills
• difficulty in breathing
• symptoms of shallow breathing
• chest pain
• muscle pain
• fever
• symptoms of skin and nails turning bluish
• confusion
• nausea
• abdominal pain and diarrhea
• decreased level of consciousness.

In elderly persons the pneumonia symptoms may be fewer and fever may not be present. Symptoms like Chest pain, shallow breathing, decreased appetite, feeling cold and difficulty in breathing may be observed. All the symptoms may not be present and observed symptoms can be pieced together to get a clearer picture of the situation. Symptoms like slightly confused state of mind together with changes in their behavior and appearance can also indicate the underlying problem.

Pneumonia - Tests and diagnosis
Simple diagnosis by listening to the patient's lungs can confirm pneumonia. Typical rales (clicking, rattling, or crackling noises) and rhonchus ( coarse rattling sound) can be picked up by a stethoscope signalling lung infection and inflammation. A chest x-ray or CT scan can confirm the disease and give us the location of inflammation. Blood and sputum analysis can tell us about the pathogen involved in pneumonia so that it can be treated.

Treatment of pneumonia in elderly people

Medical care must be sought for treatment if in the elderly person symptoms like have breathing problem or lung infection is suspected.
The cause of the pneumonia has to be found out for the treatment. Bacterial pneumonia is treated with antibiotics. Antibiotic treatment should carried out as per the advice of the doctor.

In rare cases antiviral medication is given for viral pneumonia. For the treatment of aspiration pneumonia corticosteroids may be prescribed. To reduce the fever antipyretic medicine may be prescribed. Unless necessary cough suppressants are avoided in the treatment.

Sufficient rest can help in alleviating the symptoms and also help in the treatment of pneumonia. Drinking plenty of fluids helps in loosening the lung secretions and their removal by coughing. With proper treatment the patient will recover in about two weeks.

Pneumonia - Risk factors in elderly people

Many habits and health conditions increase the risk of lung infections and pneumonia. Some of the risk factors are:

• chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), cystic fibrosis, asthma, bronchiectasis
• heart, lung, spleen or kidney diseases
• health conditions like stroke, diabetes, dementia and Alzheimer's, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)
• untreated illness
• decreased ability to cough
• decreased productive cough
• bad oral hygiene
• inactivity
• spending too much time in bed
• malnutrition
• use of narcotics, antihistamines
• intoxication
• alcohol
• weakened immune systems
• long-term use of immunosuppressant drugs
• chemotherapy treatment for cancer
• smoking
• using inhaled corticosteroids
• exposure to air pollution or toxic fumes
• HIV/AIDS

Pneumonia - Prevention with vaccination

Yearly vaccination for seasonal flu can go a long way in the prevention of pneumonia in elderly. Influenza virus can predispose an elderly person for developing bacterial pneumonia. Influenza itself can move on to the lungs and cause viral pneumonia.

As for bacterial lung infection, doctors recommend a one-time shot of pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PPSV) against Streptococcus pneumoniae for elderly people above 65 years. The prevention vaccination may have to be repeated after 5-6 years.

In the United States, PPSV is recommended for elderly people above 65 years of age as a prevention. Adults having symptoms of poor health and also long-term serious health problems are also advised to get vaccinated with PPSV as prevention. PPSV is recommended as prevention for smokers and children above two years of age having serious health problems. Adults and elderly people suffering from  asthma, COPD, congestive heart failure, Severe renal problems,  liver diseases, diabetes requiring medication, HIV/AIDS and asplenia do require vaccination as prevention and protection against pneumonia.

Very important: If an elderly person under your care appears to have symptoms like difficulty in breathing, cough, chest pain or lethargy immediately seek medical help without delay for proper treatment to prevent complications and save life.

Related topics in Daily Health News & Tips:
Pneumonia in children and infants - Signs, symptoms & causes.

Interesting topics in Daily Health News And Tips:

1. tears in newborn.
2. Tear ducts - Blocked tear ducts in newborn - Dacryostenosis causes, symptoms and treatment.
3. Social anxiety depression - Social anxiety disorder causes.
4. Horseradish roots - Horseradish juice - Health Benefits.
5. Severe hypothyroidism - side effects of hypothyroidism disorder.
6. Chronic sinusitis treatment - balloon sinuplasty.
7. Cloves (Syzygium aromaticum) - Health benefits of cloves.
8. Prevention back pain in children from heavy backpacks.
9. Celery juice nutrients - Health benefits.

Reference:
1. Höffken G, Halank M, Gillissen A. Treatment of severe pneumonia--community-acquired and "early onset" nosocomial Med Klin (Munich). 2004 Jul 15;99(7):362-71.
2. Schmidt-Ioanas M, Lode H. Treatment of pneumonia in elderly patients. Expert Opin Pharmacother. 2006 Apr;7(5):499-507.

Current topic: Causes, symptoms and treatment of pneumonia in elderly people

Social anxiety depression - Social anxiety disorder causes

This blog has moved to a new website
Nutrition, Health & Wellness

Social anxiety depression disorder

Home > Mental health definition > Causes of social anxiety disorder and depression.

Social anxiety is a persistent and intense fear of being judged in social situations and the disorder causes depression and a sense of embarrassment. In this type of anxiety disorder, the affected individuals have the constant fear and anxiety of being observed, scrutinized, evaluated and judged. This disorder causes feelings of inferiority, self-blame, nonperformance, incompetence, ineffectiveness, ineptness and unfitness and leads to mental depression.

This disorder and related depression has become a common behavioral problem. Millions of people all over the world are going through this agonising psychological trauma of this disorder and related depression every day. Epidemiological studies have shown that 7-8% of the population of the United States suffer from some form of social anxiety. It is the third largest psychological disorder in the country.

The causes of the disorder and depression may be generalized or specific to certain situations. In the generalized form all life situations can give rise to anxiety. The affected people may experience psychological stress at one or many of the following situations.

• Requiring to make a speech
• On being introduced to people
• On being criticized
• Discomfort with co-travellers
• Eating or drinking in front of others
• Becoming a center of attraction
• Doing something when somebody is looking on
• The thought that somebody is observing
• Meeting people considered very important
• Requiring to lead a group

The anxiety depression causes manifestation of many physical symptoms like, stuttering, trembling, nausea, urge to use toilet, racing heart, sweating, stammering or rapid speech, blushing and muscle twitches. Behavioral symptoms caused by depression are cognitive distortions, excessive social avoidance, avoidance behaviors, compulsive lying behavior, avoidance of eye contact, fight-or-flight response and cringing.
Though the affected persons know that their behavior is irrational and abnormal, they are unable to overcome the thoughts and feelings of anxiety and connected depression.

Possible causes of social anxiety disorder

• Causes of social anxiety are wide-ranging and the onset is typically between 10 to 13 years.
• The most common cause is emotional or physical abuse by peers or parents in the young age.
• There may be a genetic cause, as a child has greater chances for developing anxiety disorder if one of the immediate family member is affected.
• The genetic association as one of the causes is further strengthened by studies of twins adopted into different families. If one of them developed social anxiety disorder, the other child has 30-50% chances for developing the condition.
• If a family member is affected, a child may acquiring anxiety depression through the processes of observational learning.
• Insecure attachment with their mother as infants can cause children developing the condition in their adolescence.
• 'Behavioural inhibition' in infants can cause them to have inhibited or fearful nature as they grow up.
• Negative social experiences of self and observed or heard negative experiences of others may have a negative impact and lead to anxiety depression.
• Excessive use of other's opinions and also shame as a disciplinary strategy by the parents can affect a child.
• Living in thinly populated places reduces social contacts and this can cause behavioral problems.
• Some studies have related these conditions are caused by hyperactivity in some areas of the brain and also imbalances in some neurochemicals.

Treatment for social anxiety depression
Cognitive-behavioral therapy is found to be very effective in treating social anxiety and related depression. Getting over anxiety problems is very difficult, but not impossible. Many people have overcome it. A psychologist who investigates and understands the individual situations of his patients can help them to get over it. Along with cognitive behavior therapy, antidepressants may be prescribed to overcome depression.

Untreated social anxiety can cause related psychological disorders like, major depressive disorder (MDD), Personality disorders, alcohol dependence, bulimia nervosa, anorexia nervosa, binge eating and substance abuse.

Interesting topics in Daily Health News & Tips:

1. Horseradish roots - Horseradish juice - Health Benefits.
2. Severe hypothyroidism - side effects of hypothyroidism disorder.
3. Chronic sinusitis treatment - balloon sinuplasty.
4. Cloves (Syzygium aromaticum) - Health benefits of cloves.
5. Prevent back pain in children from heavy backpacks.
6. Celery juice nutrients - Health benefits.

Research reference:
1. Franklin R. Schneier, M.D., Anissa Abi-Dargham, M.D., Diana Martinez, M.D., Mark Slifstein, Ph.D., Dah-Ren Hwang, Ph.D., Michael R. Liebowitz, M.D., and Marc Laruelle, M.D. (2009). "Dopamine Transporters, D2 Receptors, and Dopamine Release in Generalized Social Anxiety Disorder". Depression and Anxiety. 2009; 26(5): 411–418.

Current topic in Daily Health News and Tips:
Causes of social anxiety disorder - Social anxiety depression

Frequent headaches -Daily headaches - Causes

This blog has moved to a new website
Nutrition, Health & Wellness

Frequent daily headaches Home > Frequent headaches -Daily headaches - Causes

Nearly 5% of the adults suffer from chronic daily or frequent headaches caused by a myriad of factors. In some cases the causes for daily occurrence are not well understood and are idiopathic in nature. Daily or frequent headaches require a medical evaluation. There can be a systemic cause for which the present condition is only a symptom.

Possible causes of frequent and daily headaches

    One of the cause of frequent episode is the disturbance in the processing of pain signals in the brain. The pain signals may have been interpreted with exaggerated response. Excess caffeine (in tea and coffee), sulfides (in red wine), allergic reactions, defective eye sight, eye strain, chronic ear infections and carbon monoxide poisoning may also cause daily occurrence. The following secondary causes may also be considered during evaluation.

Image: daily frequent headache
Overdose of medication and rebound effect
    In many cases of frequent headaches the cause have been found to be frequent use of pain-killers. Use of analgesics for three days in a week or nine days in a month can cause rebound effect and daily headache. A vicious cycle occurs whereby frequent headaches cause the person to take frequent medication. In such cases treatment becomes difficult as the treatment itself becomes the cause of malady.

Frequent migraine
    In people with migraine, the episodes occur 1-3 times a month or less. In some the occurrence becomes frequent or daily. To get over it proper preventive treatment is necessary.

Chronic tension (stress)
    People who are prone to tension headaches can slowly develop daily episodes. Tight contractions of muscles in the head, neck and shoulders due to anxiety, stress or lack of sleep usually are the causes. Treating the condition and preventing the underlying cause may bring relief.

New Daily Persistent Headache (NDPH)
    Some people, who never had headache of any type suddenly develop persistent daily headache. International Headache Society (IHS) has classified it as a Primary Headache Disorder by the ICHD-2 classification system. NDPH is unique and is continuous daily pain. It may be varying in intensity and very rapidly build up to continuous and unremitting pain. There is no specific treatment for this condition.  It often does not respond to preventive or abortive medications. In some small studies preventive individual treatments with gabapentin, topiramate and doxycycline have been found to successful.

Sinusitis
    The inflammation of sinus (sinusitis) creates pressure and precipitate frequent headaches. Sinusitis due to infections in the sinus. In chronic sinusitis the pain becomes a daily feature and is severe when the affected person bends down. Treating and curing sinusitis with anti-inflammatory drugs and antibiotics can bring relief from pain.

Traumatic head & neck injuries
    If a person suffers from frequent headaches after a head or neck injury, it could be a serious condition. If a sensation of whirling and loss of balance (vertigo) also accompanies then it is an emergency situation requiring thorough medical investigation. There is a great possibility of damage to nerve tissues of the brain or spine.

Meningitis
    Persons suffering from meningitis also have daily or frequent headaches. Meningitis is a bacterial infection of the meninges membranes covering the brain and spinal cord. Other symptoms of meningitis are fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, confusion and seizures. The health condition of the patient with meningitis deteriorates quickly requiring immediate medical care. There is also viral meningitis with similar symptoms.

Dehydration
    Dehydration, especially chronic dehydration is found the cause daily headaches. As children are more prone to dehydration, they may also suffer from this condition. Over consumption of coffee or alcohol, diuretics, strenuous exercise, antihistamines and calcium channel blockers can cause loss of considerable amount of water and electrolytes from the body. Taking sufficient water will solve this problem. Excess loss of body salts through profuse sweating can also produce this pain and one may have to take sports drinks.

Hormones effects
    The monthly fluctuations in the levels of estrogen and progesterone hormones can cause frequent headaches in women. During the menopause frequent headaches are produced as there is fluctuation in the levels of hormones and also there is a drop in the levels of estrogen.

Seek medical help if the daily episode is accompanied by the following symptoms like,

• getting worse over days,
• vision changes,
• nausea or vomiting,
• numbness and tingling,
• pain in the ear or eye,
• confusion or convulsions
• or pain and stiffness in the neck are present.

    Seek medical help and have your frequent headache evaluated. The cause could be an underlying serious health condition.

Daily Health News & Tips topic of interest:
Exercise and summer - Exercising in the heat




Image courtesy:
 http://www.flickr.com/photos/exalthim/ by Mr.Thomas under (CC BY-SA 2.0).

References:
1. Fumal A, Schoenen J. Tension-type headache: current research and clinical management. Lancet Neurol. 2008:7(1):70-83.
2. Scottish Intercollegiate Guideline Network (November 2008). Diagnosis and management of headache in adults. Edinburgh. ISBN 978-1-905813-39-1.
3. Halker RB, Hastriter EV, Dodick DW. Chronic daily headache: an evidence-based and systematic approach to a challenging problem. frequent causes. Neurology. 2011;76(7 suppl 2):S37-S43.

Dental sensitivity - What causes sensitive teeth?

This blog has moved to a new website
Nutrition, Health & Wellness

What causes sensitive teeth? Soft drinks and health effects > Sensitive teeth - causes

Tooth sensitivity (dentin hypersensitivity) is characterized by short, sharp pain caused from exposed teeth in response to stimuli, typically thermal (hot and cold), evaporation (cold air), tactile, osmotic or chemical (sweet or sour foods). Though teeth sensitivity can affect individuals of any age, it is more common in the age group of 30-40 years. Relatively more women are affected than men. The most affected teeth are canines and premolars of both the upper and lower arches equally.

Exposed dentin is the basic cause of sensitive teeth

To know clearly the causes of sensitivity, we should know the structure of tooth. Tooth consists of upper visible crown region and lower invisible root region inside the gum. A layer of enamel protects the crown region and cementum protects the root region. At the center is the region called pulp having soft tissues, blood vessels and nerves. In between the outer enamel/cementum layer and inner pulp is another layer called dentin. Dentin consists of microscopic dentinal tubules and integrally connected to pulp. The physiological reaction in either dentin or pulp affects the other. Odontoblasts are the major cell components of dentin and pulp. The extensions of odontoblasts called odontoblastic processes extend through the entire thickness of dentin from pulp to enamel and also occupy the dentinal tubules. Inside the dentinal tubules odontoblastic processes are surrounded by dentinal fluid which accounts for nearly 20% of dentin volume. Dentinal fluid is formed from pulp blood supply and is the communication medium between the outer regions of the dentin and pulp.

Tooth sensitivity is due to fluid movement and fluid force inside dentinal tubules. Not all exposed dentin cause sensitive teeth. There are wider dentinal tubules with no smear layers or thinner smear layers in sensitive dentin when compared to non-sensitive dentin. Pain or sensitivity perception is by the activation of dentinal nerve fibers (A-fibres) present on the pulpal wall. The stimuli activating these nerves are, rapid outward flow caused by capillary forces, contraction and outward flow due to cold and hydrodynamic flow caused by sweetness and sourness.

Causes leading to dentin exposure and sensitive teeth

The erosion of enamel and exposure of dentin may be due to a number of causes. Once the protective enamel or cementum are damaged pressure, temperature and other stimuli cause the teeth to become sensitive.

Poor oral hygiene
Poor oral hygiene causes food decay in the mouth and causes plaque and tartar formation on the teeth leading to caries, cavities, gum recession and dentin exposure.

Faulty tooth brushing
Brushing too hard erodes enamel and exposes dentin. Vigorous brushing, excessive forces and use of hard-bristled brush can erode the enamel and cause recession of gum tissue, exposing the underlying dentin .

Cracked or chipped teeth
Cracking and chipping of teeth exposes the dentin and causes bacterial infections.

Diseases of gum and teeth
Certain inflammations and diseases of gum like pyorrhea, gingivitis and periodontal diseases may cause sensitivity by exposing and damaging the dentin.

Erosive agents
Acidic foods like pickles, yogurt, sour tasting fruits and carbonated soft drinks can cause enamel erosion and expose the dentin. Some tooth whitening products and pastes and some mouth-washes can be acidic in nature and erode enamel. Exposure to stomach acids may occur in gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and the enamel may get eroded.

Causes of teeth attrition
Attrition due to grinding of teeth affects teeth structure, initially affecting the enamel and then the underlying dentin. Once past the enamel, attrition can quickly destroy the softer dentin. The most common cause of attrition is bruxism. Normal functional actions like biting and chewing do not erode enamel.

Routine clinical procedures
Clinical procedures like cleaning, crown placement, filling, root canal treatment, orthodontics or restoration can cause temporary sensitivity which may last for 4-5 weeks.

Recent trends in management of tooth sensitivity

Foremost thing in the management of sensitive teeth is good oral hygiene. A soft bristled brush with a small head must be used to keep the gums healthy and prevent gums from recession. Brushing must be done in a small circular movement for each tooth without excessive use of force covering all the surfaces of the tooth. Highly abrasive tooth powder or pastes should not be used.

The sensitivity will persist unless the exposed open tubular apertures are sealed by a smear layer or any other sealant. In the management of sensitivity, the method used should not cause pain or irritation, should not stain the teeth and should be easy in application.
At-home treatments include desensitizing pastes, gels and chewing gums containing fluoride, strontium chloride, potassium citrate or potassium nitrate which have been found effective in the control of sensitivity.
In-office treatments at a clinic include sealants, fillings over the exposed roots and applying fluoride varnishes, sodium monofluorophosphate, fluorosilicates, sodium fluoride, stannous fluoride, potassium oxalate, conventional dentin bonding agents (DBA), hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA), bioglass, calcium silicate cement, lasers, casein phosphopeptide or amorphous calcium phosphate.

By removing the etiological factors and causes and with proper treatment, occurrence and recurrence of sensitivity of teeth can be even prevented.

Topic of interest:
Child hazards - Potential hazards at home
Current topic:
Causes of sensitive teeth



References:
1.Miglani S, Aggarwal V, Ahuja B. Dentin hypersensitivity: Recent trends in management. J Conserv Dent 2010;13:218-24
2.Brännström M. Etiology of dentin hypersensitivity. Proc Finn Dent Soc. 1992;88 Suppl 1:7-13.

Causes of bedwetting in adults

This blog has moved to a new website
Nutrition, Health & Wellness

Causes of bedwetting in adults A small percentage (2-3%) of adults suffer from bedwetting (nocturnal enuresis). This involuntary voiding of urine during sleep in many cases indicate a urological disorder and it can be treated in most cases if the causes are known.

Weakened muscles are causes of bedwetting in adults

Weakening of urethral sphincter muscles and pelvic floor muscles due to old age, lack of exercise or prolonged illness requiring rest, may lead to involuntary voiding of urine during sleep. In such situation the affected person may have difficulty in holding urine in the daytime also and in some cases urine may keep dripping in the daytime.

Insufficient antidiuretic hormones - causes of bedwetting in adults

Urine production in the night is slowed down by antidiuretic hormone produced by the body. In some cases there may be imbalances in the hormone production due to varied reasons and result in bladder filling beyond its capacity in the night resulting in voiding of urine in sleep.

Diabetes - causes of bedwetting in adults

In persons suffering from diabetes the body increases the urine output to eliminate the excess of blood sugar. In such cases the bladder gets filled up fast and in night and may void during sleep.

Diuretic medicines causes of bedwetting in adults

In certain health disorders diuretic medicines are prescribed to get the body rid off excess fluid and/or sodium. In such persons taking diuretic medicines in the evening or night causes nocturnal enuresis.

Diseases of the urinary tracts

Infection or cancer in the urinary tract or bladder causes frequent and urgent need for urination and the bladder may void during sleep.

Certain diets and beverages are causes of bedwetting in adults

Caffeine in coffee and other beverages has diuretic effects. Alcohol also has diuretic effects and may stimulate voiding bladder during sleep. Higher doses of vitamins like vitamin B₆ and C and minerals like potassium have diuretic effects and may cause nocturnal enuresis.

Psychological causes of bedwetting in adults

Stress, trauma, anxiety, fear, emotional imbalance, Alzheimer's disease or psychological disorders can result in nocturnal enuresis.

Pressure on bladder - causes of bedwetting in adults

In pregnancy, prostate gland enlargement or cancer, chronic constipation or obesity, continuous pressure may be exerted on the bladder and this may result in nocturnal enuresis.

Genetic predisposition - causes of bedwetting in adults

It is found that some people are genetically predisposed for nocturnal enuresis. Children of parents suffering from nocturnal enuresis have greater risk of getting nocturnal enuresis. Some persons with genetic predisposition start nocturnal enuresis in their childhood and continue through their adulthood.

Obstructive sleep apnea - causes of bedwetting in adults

In obstructive sleep apnea, the affected persons hold their breath for brief periods during their sleep. In such adults increased urine production as well as pressure on the abdomen causes bedwetting.

Causes of bedwetting

This blog has moved to a new website
Nutrition, Health & Wellness

Causes of bedwetting Bedwetting is the most common pediatric problem and the causes are many. One of the most common causes of bedwetting is the delay in neurological development.
The nervous system may be slow in developing and may be slow in processing the sense of full bladder. The development of the endocrine function in production of antidiuretic hormone may be slow and urine may be produced at the same rate both in the day and night. Genetic mark up also plays a big role and causes bedwetting in children.

Children of parents who had bedwetting problems are at the high risk of bedwetting. Lack of bed-time hygiene like urinating before going to bed and avoiding drinking too much liquids before bed-time can lead to nocturnal enuresis. The causes listed above are usually associated with primary nocturnal enuresis (PNE) and in secondary nocturnal enuresis (SNE), infections, diseases, physical abnormalities or psychological disorders may be the causes.

Infections and diseases of the urinary bladder can lead to secondary nocturnal enuresis with impaired bladder control and increased chances of even daytime enuresis. There can be urinary tract abnormality or smaller than normal bladder in some persons which causes secondary nocturnal enuresis. In many instances this type of physical abnormality can be corrected by surgical procedures.

In some children chronic constipation causes bedwetting due to pressure on the bladder. Use of diuretic medicines and chemicals, alcohol or caffeine increases the chances for secondary nocturnal enuresis. The abnormal function of hypothalamus in production of preprohormone precursor or its storage in vesicles at the posterior pituitary can affect the production of antidiuretic hormone (ADH).

Insufficient production of antidiuretic hormone (ADH), Arginine vasopressin (AVP), can lead to uniform rate of production of urine both in the day and night which causes secondary nocturnal enuresis. Psychological issues, especially in children, like death in the family, physical abuse or extreme ill-treatment may lead to secondary bedwetting in children.

Life stresses like moving to a new place, conflict in the family, divorce in the family, new school, newborn in the family or loss of pet can be the causes of bedwetting. It is very likely that children with ADHD (Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) show secondary bedwetting.

Secondary nocturnal enuresis is one of the symptoms of pediatric neuropsychological disorder called PANDAS (Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal infections). Persons affected by sleep walking in many instances also suffer from secondary nocturnal enuresis and may even urinate while sleepwalking. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), a condition characterized by abnormal pauses in breathing, sometimes causes secondary bedwetting.