WHAT IS HEADACHE?
A headache or cephalgia is pain anywhere in the region of the head or neck. It can be a symptom of a number of different conditions of the head and neck.The brain tissue itself is not sensitive to pain because it lacks pain receptors. Rather, the pain is caused by disturbance of the pain-sensitive structures around the brain. Several areas of the head and neck have these pain-sensitive structures, which are divided in two categories: within the cranium (blood vessels, meninges, and the cranial nerves) and outside the cranium (the periosteum of the skull, muscles, nerves, arteries and veins, subcutaneous tissues, eyes, ears, sinuses and mucous membranes).There are a number of different classification systems for headaches. The most well-recognized is that of the International Headache Society. Treatment of a headache depends on the underlying etiology or cause, but commonly involves analgesics.
WHAT THE CAUSES OF HEADACHE?
Typical causes
The commonest types of headache are the "primary headache disorders", such tension-type headache and migraine. They have typical features; migraine, for example, tends to be pulsating in character, affecting one side of the head, associated with nausea, disabling in severity, and usually lasts between 3 hours and 3 days. Rarer primary headache disorders are trigeminal neuralgia (a shooting face pain), cluster headache (severe pains that occur together in bouts), and hemicrania continua (a continuous headache on one side of the head).
Secondary causes
Headaches may be caused by problems elsewhere in the head or neck. Some of these are not harmful, such as cervicogenic headache (pain arising from the neck muscles). Medication overuse headache may occur in those using excessive painkillers for headaches, parodoxically causing worsening headaches.
A number of characteristics make it more likely that the headache is due to potentially dangerous secondary causes; some of these may be life-threatening or cause long-term damage. A number of "red flag" symptoms therefore means that a headache warrants further investigations, usually by a specialist. The red flag symptoms are a new or different headache in someone over 50 years old, headache that develops within minutes (thunderclap headache), inability to move a limb or abnormalities on neurological examination, mental confusion, being woken by headache, headache that worsens with changing posture, headache worsened by exertion or Valsalva manoeuvre (coughing, straining), visual loss or visual abnormalities, jaw claudication (jaw pain on chewing that resolves afterwards), neck stiffness, fever, and headaches in people with HIV, cancer or risk factors for thrombosis."Thunderclap headache" may be the only symptom of subarachnoid hemorrhage, a form of stroke in which blood accumulates around the brain, often from a ruptured brain aneurysm. Headache with fever may be caused by meningitis, particularly if there is meningism (inability to flex the neck forward due to stiffness), and confusion may be indicative of encephalitis (inflammation of the brain, usually due to particular viruses). Headache that is worsened by straining or a change in position may be caused by increased pressure in the skull; this is often worse in the morning and associated with vomiting. Raised intracranial pressure may be due to brain tumors, idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH, more common in younger overweight women) and occasionally cerebral venous sinus thrombosis. Headache together with weakness in part of the body may indicate a stroke (particularly intracranial hemorrhage or subdural hematoma) or brain tumor. Headache in older people, particularly when associated with visual symptoms or jaw claudication, may indicate giant cell arteritis (GCA), in which the blood vessel wall is inflamed and obstructs blood flow. Carbon monoxide poisoning may lead to headaches as well as nausea, vomiting, dizziness, muscle weakness and blurred vision. Angle closure glaucoma (acute raised pressure in the eyeball) may lead to headache, particularly around the eye, as well as visual abnormalities, nausea, vomiting and a red eye with a dilated pupil.
WHAT TREATMENT WITH BPATIENT HEADACHE?
Acute headaches:Not all headaches require medical attention, and most respond with simple analgesia (painkillers) such as paracetamol/acetaminophen or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like aspirin, ibuprofen, or diclofenac.[citation needed] Chronic headaches:In recurrent unexplained headaches keeping a "headache diary" with entries on type of headache, associated symptoms, precipitating and aggravating factors may be helpful. This may reveal specific patterns, such as an association with medication, menstruation or absenteeism or with certain foods. It was reported in March 2007 by two separate teams of researchers that stimulating the brain with implanted electrodes appears to help ease the pain of cluster headaches.Acupuncture has been found to be beneficial in chronic headaches of both tension type and migraine type. Whether or not there is a difference between true acupuncture and sham acupuncture however is yet to be determined.One type of treatment, however, is usually not sufficient for chronic sufferers and they may have to find a variety of different ways of managing, living with, and seeking treatment of chronic daily headache pains. There are however two types of treatment for chronic headaches meaning acute abortive treatment and preventive treatment. Whereas the first is aimed to relieve the symptoms immediately, the latter is focused on controlling the headaches that are chronic. From this reason, the acute treatment is commonly and effectively used in treating migraines and the preventive treatment is the usual approach in managing chronic headaches. The primary goal of preventive treatment is to reduce the frequency, severity, and duration of headaches. This type of treatment involves taking medication on a daily basis for at least 3 months and in some cases, for over 6 months. The medication used in preventive treatment is normally chosen based on the other conditions that the patient is suffering from. Generally, medication in preventive treatment starts at the minimum dosage which increases gradually until the pain is relieved and the goal achieved or until side effects appear.To date, only amitriptyline, fluoxetine, gabapentin, tizanidine, topiramate, and botulinum toxin type A (BoNTA) have been evaluated as "prophylactic treatment of chronic daily headache in randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled or active comparator-controlled trials. Antiepileptics can be used as preventative treatment of chronic daily headache and includes Valproate. Psychological treatments are usually considered in comorbid patients or in those who are unresponsive to the medication.
hye there~ we r frenz since we noe what is kpjic college.shana,lynn,seha and wanie are members in anonymous nymph~ hee!
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
MORE POWER IN GARLIC
From treating colds to acne, garlic has now been discovered as a potential drug to fight cancer and heart disease.IT’S so pungent that it’s said to ward off vampires. But the humble garlic certainly keeps diseases at bay. Garlic is a pharmaceutical goldmine. It has countless sulfur compounds that can do magical things when they reach targets in the tissues and organs. Now, let us understand garlic a little.
Recognised for its healing powers in ancient times, garlic is now being rediscovered by scientists, who have new evidence of its efficacy against cancer and heart disease. Dr Richard Rivlin of New York-Presbyterian Hospital/Weill Cornell Medical Center, is guest co-editor of a special March peer-reviewed supplemental issue of The Journal of Nutrition. It has 35 articles representing the latest research on garlic — findings that were first presented at a symposium held last year at Georgetown University.
“Medical texts from China, India, Egypt, Greece and Italy mention medical applications of garlic,” says Dr Rivlin, professor of medicine at Weill Cornell Medical College, attending physician at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital/Weill Cornell Medical Center, and director of the Nutrition Center at the Strang Cancer Prevention Laboratory. “Cultures that developed independently came to the same general conclusions, namely, that garlic could be administered to provide strength and to increase work capacity. Hippocrates, considered the Father of Medicine, used garlic as an essential component of one of his therapies.”
Complementary medicine.Rivlin believes that while much promising research has been made pointing to the disease-preventive and therapeutic effects of garlic, it should be considered complementary medicine, not alternative therapy. “The rapid advances in garlic research provides evidence that garlic has significant potential as a complement to established therapies.”
The health benefits and medicinal properties of garlic have long been known. It has long been considered a herbal “wonder drug”, with a reputation in folklore for preventing everything from the common cold and flu to the feared plague. Garlic has also been used extensively in herbal medicine. Raw garlic is used by some to treat the symptoms of acne, fungal infection and there is evidence that it can assist in managing high cholesterol levels.
New compounds.
Recently, exciting compounds in garlic have been shown to have powerful effects on the prevention of cardiovascular disease linked to the metabolic syndrome or better known as Syndrome X. These compounds are vinyldithiins and sulfides. These vinyldithiins sulfides (particularly dillyldisulfide and triallytrisulfide) have a powerful effect in inhibiting the enzyme HMG-CoA reductase — the enzyme implicated in cholesterol synthesis. Indeed, many major cholesterol lowering drugs work by also inhibiting this same enzyme. Vinyldithiins, in particular, have strong potential as anti-thrombotic (anti-clot forming agents).
In the field of molecular biology, the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) are a group of nuclear receptor proteins that function as transcription factors regulating the expression of genes. PPARs play essential roles in the regulation of cellular differentiation, development, and metabolism (carbohydrate, lipid, protein), and tumorigenesis of higher organisms. PPARs have a powerful indirection on insulin and inflammation. Vinyldithiins have the ability to affect PPARs in the liver by up to 40 per cent. Ultimately, this affects the deposit of fats in the cells and in critical organs. It may also help quell inflammation and improve the overall symptoms of Syndrome X.
Belgian research
Research on these valuable compounds found in garlic is making great progress in the heart of Europe. Belgian scientists have recently developed superior high-yielding varieties of garlic. These new varieties yield higher actives of garlic like vinyldithiins and sulfides. Again, these compounds which are also pungent are easily lost as they are volatile. This is especially so when they are subjected to higher heat and pressures that typical extraction protocols would expect.
As such, the garlic mixture is extracted using super critical fluid extraction technology. Extraction happens at very low temperatures using liquid carbon dioxide and nitrogen. At these extremely low temperatures, where nitrogen and carbon dioxide are liquid, they are mixed with the pulverised garlic and “extracted”. As the temperature warms, the liquid nitrogen or carbon dioxide basically move from liquid to gas phase. The extracted high value garlic compounds remain. This extract is naturally rich in vinyldithiins and sulfides.
On the shelf
The unique vinyldithiins and sulfides are now available in pharmacies. These compounds are not found in most garlic supplements. If they are, they are usually in small quantities when you actually need to consume more than 280mg. Look for supplements from unique high-yielding garlic species. Also, look for garlic supplements that are super critically extracted. Look for actual label claims for vinyldithiins and sulfides. Garlic is more than just food, spice and herb. The way things are, it may end up as a pharmaceutical drug.
EDEMA
WHAT IS EDEMA?
Edema (American English) or oedema (British English; both words from the Greek οἴδημα, oídēma "swelling"), formerly known as dropsy or hydropsy, is an abnormal accumulation of fluid beneath the skin or in one or more cavities of the body. Generally, the amount of interstitial fluid is determined by the balance of fluid homeostasis, and increased secretion of fluid into the interstitium or impaired removal of this fluid may cause edema
CLASSIFICATION
Generalized
A rise in hydrostatic pressure occurs in cardiac failure. A fall in osmotic pressure occurs in nephrotic syndrome and liver failure. It is commonly thought that these facts explain the occurrence of edema in these conditions. However, it has been known since the 1950s that the situation is more complex and it is still far from completely understood.Causes of edema which are generalized to the whole body can cause edema in multiple organs and peripherally. For example, severe heart failure can cause pulmonary edema, pleural effusions, ascites and peripheral edema.Although a low plasma oncotic pressure is widely cited for the edema of nephrotic syndrome, most physicians note that the edema may occur before there is any significant protein in the urine (proteinuria) or fall in plasma protein level. Fortunately there is another explanation available. Most forms of nephrotic syndrome are due to biochemical and structural changes in the basement membrane of capillaries in the kidney glomerulae, and these changes occur, if to a lesser degree, in the vessels of most other tissues of the body. Thus the resulting increase in permeability that leads to protein in the urine can explain the edema if all other vessels are more permeable as well.
WHAT THE ORGAN SPECIFIC WILL INVOLVE?
Edema will occur in specific organs as part of inflammation, as in pharyngitis, tendonitis or pancreatitis, for instance. Certain organs develop edema through tissue specific mechanisms.
Examples of edema in specific organs:Cerebral edema is extracellular fluid accumulation in the brain. It can occur in toxic or abnormal metabolic states and conditions such as systemic lupus. It causes drowsiness or loss of consciousness.Pulmonary edema occurs when the pressure in blood vessels in the lung is raised because of obstruction to removal of blood via the pulmonary veins. This is usually due to failure of the left ventricle of the heart. It can also occur in altitude sickness or on inhalation of toxic chemicals. Pulmonary edema produces shortness of breath. Pleural effusions may occur when fluid also accumulates in the pleural cavity.Edema may also be found in the cornea of the eye with glaucoma, severe conjunctivitis or keratitis or after surgery. It may produce coloured haloes around bright lights.
Edema surrounding the eyes is called periorbital edema or eye puffiness. The periorbital tissues are most noticeably swollen immediately after waking, perhaps due to the gravitational redistribution of fluid in the horizontal position.Common appearances of cutaneous edema are observed with mosquito bites, spider bites, bee stings (wheal and flare), and skin contact with certain plants such as Poison Ivy or Western Poison Oak,[2] the latter of which are termed contact dermatitis.Another cutaneous form of edema is myxedema, which is caused by increased deposition of connective tissue. In myxedema (and a variety of other rarer conditions) edema is due to an increased tendency of the tissue to hold water within its extracellular space. In myxedema this is because of an increase in hydrophilic carbohydrate-rich molecules (perhaps mostly hyaluronan) deposited in the tissue matrix. Edema forms more easily in dependent areas in the elderly (sitting in chairs at home or on aeroplanes) and this is not well understood. Estrogens alter body weight in part through changes in tissue water content. There may be a variety of poorly understood situations in which transfer of water from tissue matrix to lymphatics is impaired because of changes in the hydrophilicity of the tissue or failure of the 'wicking' function of terminal lymphatic capillaries.In lymphedema abnormal removal of interstitial fluid is caused by failure of the lymphatic system. This may be due to obstruction from, for example, pressure from a cancer or enlarged lymph nodes, destruction of lymph vessels by radiotherapy, or infiltration of the lymphatics by infection (such as elephantiasis). It is most commonly due to a failure of the pumping action of muscles due to immobility, most strikingly in conditions such as multiple sclerosis, or paraplegia. Lymphatic return of fluid is also dependent on a pumping action of structures known as lymph hearts. It has been suggested that the edema that occurs in some people following use of aspirin-like cyclo-oxygenase inhibitors such as ibuprofen or indomethacin may be due to inhibition of lymph heart action.
Six factors can contribute to the formation of edema:
1.It may be facilitated by increased hydrostatic pressure or,
2.reduced oncotic pressure within blood vessels;
3.increased tissue oncotic pressure
4.by increased blood vessel wall permeability as in inflammation;
5.by obstruction of fluid clearance via the lymphatic system; or,
6.by changes in the water retaining properties of the tissues themselves. Raised hydrostatic pressure often reflects retention of water and sodium by the kidney.[3]
Edema (American English) or oedema (British English; both words from the Greek οἴδημα, oídēma "swelling"), formerly known as dropsy or hydropsy, is an abnormal accumulation of fluid beneath the skin or in one or more cavities of the body. Generally, the amount of interstitial fluid is determined by the balance of fluid homeostasis, and increased secretion of fluid into the interstitium or impaired removal of this fluid may cause edema
CLASSIFICATION
Generalized
A rise in hydrostatic pressure occurs in cardiac failure. A fall in osmotic pressure occurs in nephrotic syndrome and liver failure. It is commonly thought that these facts explain the occurrence of edema in these conditions. However, it has been known since the 1950s that the situation is more complex and it is still far from completely understood.Causes of edema which are generalized to the whole body can cause edema in multiple organs and peripherally. For example, severe heart failure can cause pulmonary edema, pleural effusions, ascites and peripheral edema.Although a low plasma oncotic pressure is widely cited for the edema of nephrotic syndrome, most physicians note that the edema may occur before there is any significant protein in the urine (proteinuria) or fall in plasma protein level. Fortunately there is another explanation available. Most forms of nephrotic syndrome are due to biochemical and structural changes in the basement membrane of capillaries in the kidney glomerulae, and these changes occur, if to a lesser degree, in the vessels of most other tissues of the body. Thus the resulting increase in permeability that leads to protein in the urine can explain the edema if all other vessels are more permeable as well.
WHAT THE ORGAN SPECIFIC WILL INVOLVE?
Edema will occur in specific organs as part of inflammation, as in pharyngitis, tendonitis or pancreatitis, for instance. Certain organs develop edema through tissue specific mechanisms.
Examples of edema in specific organs:Cerebral edema is extracellular fluid accumulation in the brain. It can occur in toxic or abnormal metabolic states and conditions such as systemic lupus. It causes drowsiness or loss of consciousness.Pulmonary edema occurs when the pressure in blood vessels in the lung is raised because of obstruction to removal of blood via the pulmonary veins. This is usually due to failure of the left ventricle of the heart. It can also occur in altitude sickness or on inhalation of toxic chemicals. Pulmonary edema produces shortness of breath. Pleural effusions may occur when fluid also accumulates in the pleural cavity.Edema may also be found in the cornea of the eye with glaucoma, severe conjunctivitis or keratitis or after surgery. It may produce coloured haloes around bright lights.
Edema surrounding the eyes is called periorbital edema or eye puffiness. The periorbital tissues are most noticeably swollen immediately after waking, perhaps due to the gravitational redistribution of fluid in the horizontal position.Common appearances of cutaneous edema are observed with mosquito bites, spider bites, bee stings (wheal and flare), and skin contact with certain plants such as Poison Ivy or Western Poison Oak,[2] the latter of which are termed contact dermatitis.Another cutaneous form of edema is myxedema, which is caused by increased deposition of connective tissue. In myxedema (and a variety of other rarer conditions) edema is due to an increased tendency of the tissue to hold water within its extracellular space. In myxedema this is because of an increase in hydrophilic carbohydrate-rich molecules (perhaps mostly hyaluronan) deposited in the tissue matrix. Edema forms more easily in dependent areas in the elderly (sitting in chairs at home or on aeroplanes) and this is not well understood. Estrogens alter body weight in part through changes in tissue water content. There may be a variety of poorly understood situations in which transfer of water from tissue matrix to lymphatics is impaired because of changes in the hydrophilicity of the tissue or failure of the 'wicking' function of terminal lymphatic capillaries.In lymphedema abnormal removal of interstitial fluid is caused by failure of the lymphatic system. This may be due to obstruction from, for example, pressure from a cancer or enlarged lymph nodes, destruction of lymph vessels by radiotherapy, or infiltration of the lymphatics by infection (such as elephantiasis). It is most commonly due to a failure of the pumping action of muscles due to immobility, most strikingly in conditions such as multiple sclerosis, or paraplegia. Lymphatic return of fluid is also dependent on a pumping action of structures known as lymph hearts. It has been suggested that the edema that occurs in some people following use of aspirin-like cyclo-oxygenase inhibitors such as ibuprofen or indomethacin may be due to inhibition of lymph heart action.
Six factors can contribute to the formation of edema:
1.It may be facilitated by increased hydrostatic pressure or,
2.reduced oncotic pressure within blood vessels;
3.increased tissue oncotic pressure
4.by increased blood vessel wall permeability as in inflammation;
5.by obstruction of fluid clearance via the lymphatic system; or,
6.by changes in the water retaining properties of the tissues themselves. Raised hydrostatic pressure often reflects retention of water and sodium by the kidney.[3]
Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids are part of the human anatomy of the anal canal. They become pathological or piles when swollen or inflamed. In their physiological state they act as cushions composed of arterio-venous channels and connective tissue that aid the passage of stool. The symptoms of pathological hemorrhoids depend on the type present. Internal hemorrhoids usually present with painless rectal bleeding while external hemorrhoids present with pain in the area of the anus.Recommended treatment consists of increasing fiber intake, oral fluids to maintain hydration, NSAID analgesics, sitz baths, and rest. Surgery is reserved for those who fail to improve following these measures.
Classification
Direct view of a hemorrhoid as seen by sigmoidoscopyThere are two types of hemorrhoids external and internal which are differentiated via their position with respect to the dentate line.
External
External hemorrhoids are those that occur outside the anal verge (the distal end of the anal canal). Specifically they are varicosities of the veins draining the territory of the inferior rectal arteries, which are branches of the internal pudendal artery. They are sometimes painful, and often accompanied by swelling and irritation. Itching, although often thought to be a symptom of external hemorrhoids, is more commonly due to skin irritation. External hemorrhoids are prone to thrombosis: if the vein ruptures and/or a blood clot develops, the hemorrhoid becomes a thrombosed hemorrhoid.
Internal
Internal hemorrhoids are those that occur inside the rectum. Specifically they are varicosities of veins draining the territory of branches of the superior rectal arteries. As this area lacks pain receptors, internal hemorrhoids are usually not painful and most people are not aware that they have them. Internal hemorrhoids, however, may bleed when irritated. Untreated internal hemorrhoids can lead to two severe forms of hemorrhoids: prolapsed and strangulated hemorrhoids. Prolapsed hemorrhoids are internal hemorrhoids that are so distended that they are pushed outside the anus. If the anal sphincter muscle goes into spasm and traps a prolapsed hemorrhoid outside the anal opening, the supply of blood is cut off, and the hemorrhoid becomes a strangulated hemorrhoid.
Internal hemorrhoids can be further graded by the degree of prolapse.
Grade I: No prolapse.
Grade II: Prolapse upon defecation but spontaneously reduce.
Grade III: Prolapse upon defecation, but must be manually reduced.
Grade IV: Prolapsed and cannot be manually reduced.
Signs and symptoms
Classical appearance of an external hemorrhoid.Hemorrhoids are usually benign. In most cases, symptoms will resolve within a few days. External hemorrhoids are painful while internal hemorrhoids usually are not.
The most common symptom of internal hemorrhoids is bright red blood covering the stool, a condition known as hematochezia, on toilet paper, or in the toilet bowl. They may protrude through the anus. Symptoms of external hemorrhoids include painful swelling or lump around the anus.
Causes
A number of factors may lead to the formations of hemorrhoids including irregular bowel habits (constipation or diarrhea), exercise, gravity, nutrition (low-fiber diet), increased intra-abdominal pressure (prolonged straining), pregnancy, genetics, absence of valves within the hemorrhoidal veins, and aging.Other factors that can increase the rectal vein pressure resulting in hemorrhoids include obesity, and sitting for long periods of time.During pregnancy, pressure from the fetus on the abdomen and hormonal changes cause the hemorrhoidal vessels to enlarge. Delivery also leads to increase intra abdominal pressures.Surgical treatment is rarely needed as symptoms usually resolve post delivery.
Pathophysiology
This section requires expansion. Hemorrhoid cushions are a part of normal human anatomy and only become a pathological disease when they experience abnormal changes. There are three cushions present in the normal anal canal.These cushions support distal anastomoses between the superior rectal arteries and the superior, middle, and inferior rectal veins. They also contain a subepithelial smooth muscle layer, contributing to the bulk of the cushions. Normal hemorrhoidal tissue accounts for approximately 15-20% of resting anal pressure and provides important sensory information, enabling the differentiation between solid, liquid, and gas.Most people contain 3 of these cushions. Although classically described as lying in the right posterior (most common), right anterior, and left lateral positions, this combination is found in only 19% of patients. Hemorrhoids can be found at any position within the rectum.
Prevention
The best way to prevent hemorrhoids is to keep stools soft so they pass easily, thus decreasing pressure and straining, and to empty bowels as soon as possible after the urge occurs. Exercise, including walking, and increased fiber in the diet help reduce constipation and straining by producing stools that are softer and easier to pass. Spending less time attempting to defecate and avoiding reading while on the toilet have been recommended.
Diagnosis
Endoscopic image of internal hemorrhoids seen on retroflexion of the flexible sigmoidoscope at the ano-rectal junctionA visual examination of the anus and surrounding area may be able to diagnose external or prolapsed hemorrhoids. A rectal exam may be performed to detect possible rectal tumors, polyps, an enlarged prostate, or abscesses. This examination may not be possible without appropriate sedation due to pain.Visual confirmation of internal hemorrhoids is via anoscopy. This device is basically a hollow tube with a light attached at one end that allows one to see the internal hemorrhoids, as well possible polyps in the rectum.
Differential
Many anorectal problems, including fissures, fistulae, abscesses, colorectal cancer, rectal varices and itching,diverticulosis,polyps have similar symptoms and may be incorrectly referred to as hemorrhoids.
Treatments
Conservative treatment typically consists of increasing dietary fiber, oral fluids to maintain hydration, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID)s, sitz baths, and rest. Increased fiber intake has been shown to improve outcomes and may be achieved by dietary alterations or the consumption of fibre supplements .While many topical agents and suppositories are available for the treatment of hemorrhoids there is little evidence to support their use. Preparation H may improve local symptoms but does not improve the underlying disorder and long term use is discouraged due to local irritation of the skin.
Procedures
Rubber band ligation is a procedure in which elastic bands are applied onto an internal hemorrhoid at least 1 cm above the dentate line to cut off its blood supply.Within 5–7 days, the withered hemorrhoid falls off. If the band is placed too close to the dentate line intense pain results immediately afterwards. Cure rate has been found to be about 87%.Sclerotherapy involves the injection of a sclerosing agent (such as phenol) into the hemorrhoid. This causes the vein walls to collapse and the hemorrhoids to shrivel up. The success rate at four years is 70%.A number of cautery methods have been shown to be effective for hemorrhoids. This can be done using electrocautery, infrared radiation, or cryosurgery.
A number of surgical techniques may be used if conservative medical management fails. All are associated with some degree of complications including urinary retention, due to the close proximity to the rectum of the nerves that supply the bladder, bleeding, infection, and anal strictures.
Hemorrhoidectomy is a surgical excision of the hemorrhoid used primary only in severe cases. It is associated with significant post operative pain and usually requires 2–4 weeks for recovery.
Doppler guided transanal hemorrhoidal dearterialization is a minimally invasive treatment using an ultrasound doppler to accurately locate the arterial blood inflow. These arteries are then “tied off” and the prolapsed tissue is sutured back to its normal position. It has a slightly higher recurrence rate however has less complications compared to a hemorrhoidectomy.Stapled hemorrhoidectomy is a procedure that involves resection of soft tissue proximal to the dentate line, disrupting the blood flow to the hemorrhoids. It is generally less painful than complete removal of hemorrhoids and was associated with faster healing
Classification
Direct view of a hemorrhoid as seen by sigmoidoscopyThere are two types of hemorrhoids external and internal which are differentiated via their position with respect to the dentate line.
External
External hemorrhoids are those that occur outside the anal verge (the distal end of the anal canal). Specifically they are varicosities of the veins draining the territory of the inferior rectal arteries, which are branches of the internal pudendal artery. They are sometimes painful, and often accompanied by swelling and irritation. Itching, although often thought to be a symptom of external hemorrhoids, is more commonly due to skin irritation. External hemorrhoids are prone to thrombosis: if the vein ruptures and/or a blood clot develops, the hemorrhoid becomes a thrombosed hemorrhoid.
Internal
Internal hemorrhoids are those that occur inside the rectum. Specifically they are varicosities of veins draining the territory of branches of the superior rectal arteries. As this area lacks pain receptors, internal hemorrhoids are usually not painful and most people are not aware that they have them. Internal hemorrhoids, however, may bleed when irritated. Untreated internal hemorrhoids can lead to two severe forms of hemorrhoids: prolapsed and strangulated hemorrhoids. Prolapsed hemorrhoids are internal hemorrhoids that are so distended that they are pushed outside the anus. If the anal sphincter muscle goes into spasm and traps a prolapsed hemorrhoid outside the anal opening, the supply of blood is cut off, and the hemorrhoid becomes a strangulated hemorrhoid.
Internal hemorrhoids can be further graded by the degree of prolapse.
Grade I: No prolapse.
Grade II: Prolapse upon defecation but spontaneously reduce.
Grade III: Prolapse upon defecation, but must be manually reduced.
Grade IV: Prolapsed and cannot be manually reduced.
Signs and symptoms
Classical appearance of an external hemorrhoid.Hemorrhoids are usually benign. In most cases, symptoms will resolve within a few days. External hemorrhoids are painful while internal hemorrhoids usually are not.
The most common symptom of internal hemorrhoids is bright red blood covering the stool, a condition known as hematochezia, on toilet paper, or in the toilet bowl. They may protrude through the anus. Symptoms of external hemorrhoids include painful swelling or lump around the anus.
Causes
A number of factors may lead to the formations of hemorrhoids including irregular bowel habits (constipation or diarrhea), exercise, gravity, nutrition (low-fiber diet), increased intra-abdominal pressure (prolonged straining), pregnancy, genetics, absence of valves within the hemorrhoidal veins, and aging.Other factors that can increase the rectal vein pressure resulting in hemorrhoids include obesity, and sitting for long periods of time.During pregnancy, pressure from the fetus on the abdomen and hormonal changes cause the hemorrhoidal vessels to enlarge. Delivery also leads to increase intra abdominal pressures.Surgical treatment is rarely needed as symptoms usually resolve post delivery.
Pathophysiology
This section requires expansion. Hemorrhoid cushions are a part of normal human anatomy and only become a pathological disease when they experience abnormal changes. There are three cushions present in the normal anal canal.These cushions support distal anastomoses between the superior rectal arteries and the superior, middle, and inferior rectal veins. They also contain a subepithelial smooth muscle layer, contributing to the bulk of the cushions. Normal hemorrhoidal tissue accounts for approximately 15-20% of resting anal pressure and provides important sensory information, enabling the differentiation between solid, liquid, and gas.Most people contain 3 of these cushions. Although classically described as lying in the right posterior (most common), right anterior, and left lateral positions, this combination is found in only 19% of patients. Hemorrhoids can be found at any position within the rectum.
Prevention
The best way to prevent hemorrhoids is to keep stools soft so they pass easily, thus decreasing pressure and straining, and to empty bowels as soon as possible after the urge occurs. Exercise, including walking, and increased fiber in the diet help reduce constipation and straining by producing stools that are softer and easier to pass. Spending less time attempting to defecate and avoiding reading while on the toilet have been recommended.
Diagnosis
Endoscopic image of internal hemorrhoids seen on retroflexion of the flexible sigmoidoscope at the ano-rectal junctionA visual examination of the anus and surrounding area may be able to diagnose external or prolapsed hemorrhoids. A rectal exam may be performed to detect possible rectal tumors, polyps, an enlarged prostate, or abscesses. This examination may not be possible without appropriate sedation due to pain.Visual confirmation of internal hemorrhoids is via anoscopy. This device is basically a hollow tube with a light attached at one end that allows one to see the internal hemorrhoids, as well possible polyps in the rectum.
Differential
Many anorectal problems, including fissures, fistulae, abscesses, colorectal cancer, rectal varices and itching,diverticulosis,polyps have similar symptoms and may be incorrectly referred to as hemorrhoids.
Treatments
Conservative treatment typically consists of increasing dietary fiber, oral fluids to maintain hydration, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID)s, sitz baths, and rest. Increased fiber intake has been shown to improve outcomes and may be achieved by dietary alterations or the consumption of fibre supplements .While many topical agents and suppositories are available for the treatment of hemorrhoids there is little evidence to support their use. Preparation H may improve local symptoms but does not improve the underlying disorder and long term use is discouraged due to local irritation of the skin.
Procedures
Rubber band ligation is a procedure in which elastic bands are applied onto an internal hemorrhoid at least 1 cm above the dentate line to cut off its blood supply.Within 5–7 days, the withered hemorrhoid falls off. If the band is placed too close to the dentate line intense pain results immediately afterwards. Cure rate has been found to be about 87%.Sclerotherapy involves the injection of a sclerosing agent (such as phenol) into the hemorrhoid. This causes the vein walls to collapse and the hemorrhoids to shrivel up. The success rate at four years is 70%.A number of cautery methods have been shown to be effective for hemorrhoids. This can be done using electrocautery, infrared radiation, or cryosurgery.
A number of surgical techniques may be used if conservative medical management fails. All are associated with some degree of complications including urinary retention, due to the close proximity to the rectum of the nerves that supply the bladder, bleeding, infection, and anal strictures.
Hemorrhoidectomy is a surgical excision of the hemorrhoid used primary only in severe cases. It is associated with significant post operative pain and usually requires 2–4 weeks for recovery.
Doppler guided transanal hemorrhoidal dearterialization is a minimally invasive treatment using an ultrasound doppler to accurately locate the arterial blood inflow. These arteries are then “tied off” and the prolapsed tissue is sutured back to its normal position. It has a slightly higher recurrence rate however has less complications compared to a hemorrhoidectomy.Stapled hemorrhoidectomy is a procedure that involves resection of soft tissue proximal to the dentate line, disrupting the blood flow to the hemorrhoids. It is generally less painful than complete removal of hemorrhoids and was associated with faster healing
Sunday, August 15, 2010
HEART ATTACK
What Is a Heart Attack?
A heart attack occurs when blood flow to a section of heart muscle becomes blocked. If the flow of blood isn’t restored quickly, the section of heart muscle becomes damaged from lack of oxygen and begins to die.
What is heart attack?
Heart attack is a leading killer of both men and women in the United States. But fortunately, today there are excellent treatments for heart attack that can save lives and prevent disabilities. Treatment is most effective when started within 1 hour of the beginning of symptoms. If you think you or someone you’re with is having a heart attack, call 9–1–1 right away.
How its happen?
Heart attacks occur most often as a result of a condition called coronary artery disease (CAD). In CAD, a fatty material called plaque (plak) builds up over many years on the inside walls of the coronary arteries (the arteries that supply blood and oxygen to your heart). Eventually, an area of plaque can rupture, causing a blood clot to form on the surface of the plaque. If the clot becomes large enough, it can mostly or completely block the flow of oxygen-rich blood to the part of the heart muscle fed by the artery. Heart With Muscle Damage and a Blocked Artery.During a heart attack, if the blockage in the coronary artery isn’t treated quickly, the heart muscle will begin to die and be replaced by scar tissue. This heart damage may not be obvious, or it may cause severe or long-lasting problems.
Severe problems linked to heart attack can include heart failure and life-threatening arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats). Heart failure is a condition in which the heart can’t pump enough blood throughout the body. Ventricular fibrillation is a serious arrhythmia that can cause death if not treated quickly.
Get Help Quickly
Acting fast at the first sign of heart attack symptoms can save your life and limit damage to your heart. Treatment is most effective when started within 1 hour of the beginning of symptoms.
The most common heart attack signs and symptoms are:
Chest discomfort or pain—uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness, or pain in the center of the chest that can be mild or strong. This discomfort or pain lasts more than a few minutes or goes away and comes back.
Upper body discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw, or stomach.
Shortness of breath may occur with or before chest discomfort.
Other signs include nausea (feeling sick to your stomach), vomiting, lightheadedness or fainting, or breaking out in a cold sweat.
A heart attack occurs when blood flow to a section of heart muscle becomes blocked. If the flow of blood isn’t restored quickly, the section of heart muscle becomes damaged from lack of oxygen and begins to die.
What is heart attack?
Heart attack is a leading killer of both men and women in the United States. But fortunately, today there are excellent treatments for heart attack that can save lives and prevent disabilities. Treatment is most effective when started within 1 hour of the beginning of symptoms. If you think you or someone you’re with is having a heart attack, call 9–1–1 right away.
How its happen?
Heart attacks occur most often as a result of a condition called coronary artery disease (CAD). In CAD, a fatty material called plaque (plak) builds up over many years on the inside walls of the coronary arteries (the arteries that supply blood and oxygen to your heart). Eventually, an area of plaque can rupture, causing a blood clot to form on the surface of the plaque. If the clot becomes large enough, it can mostly or completely block the flow of oxygen-rich blood to the part of the heart muscle fed by the artery. Heart With Muscle Damage and a Blocked Artery.During a heart attack, if the blockage in the coronary artery isn’t treated quickly, the heart muscle will begin to die and be replaced by scar tissue. This heart damage may not be obvious, or it may cause severe or long-lasting problems.
Severe problems linked to heart attack can include heart failure and life-threatening arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats). Heart failure is a condition in which the heart can’t pump enough blood throughout the body. Ventricular fibrillation is a serious arrhythmia that can cause death if not treated quickly.
Get Help Quickly
Acting fast at the first sign of heart attack symptoms can save your life and limit damage to your heart. Treatment is most effective when started within 1 hour of the beginning of symptoms.
The most common heart attack signs and symptoms are:
Chest discomfort or pain—uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness, or pain in the center of the chest that can be mild or strong. This discomfort or pain lasts more than a few minutes or goes away and comes back.
Upper body discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw, or stomach.
Shortness of breath may occur with or before chest discomfort.
Other signs include nausea (feeling sick to your stomach), vomiting, lightheadedness or fainting, or breaking out in a cold sweat.
Saturday, August 14, 2010
Health: Urgent need for sex education
As a campaign to address issues of unplanned pregnancies is launched, PRASANNA RAMAN learns from experts why sexual and reproductive health education is pertinent
“Most of the time when I get such young patients, it's already too late to do anything. Had this girl known about sexual and reproductive health and been armed with the right knowledge, she could have avoided this unwanted pregnancy,” says Jamiyah who has, in the past 10 years, been actively educating both health care providers and the public on the need for sexual and reproductive health to be discussed openly.
The 13-year-old is just one of the hundreds of teens in the country who’re sexually active and perhaps pregnant.
“When young adolescents are empowered with the knowledge of sexual and reproductive health, they stand a better chance of making the right decisions when faced with passion-fuelled situations,” adds Jamiyah, who is also a council member of the Asia Pacific Council of Contraception.
She believes that it’s imperative that sexual and reproductive health education be taught at home first, before continuing it in schools and colleges. So how should parents go about discussing a topic that turns many a face scarlet red? “Start them young. When they’re five or six, they learn that boys and girls’ private parts are different. This is when parents should tell boys that they cannot touch a girl’s private part and girls be told that they shouldn’t touch the boys’ too. That’s all you need to tell them at that age,” she says.
Welfare Department figures show that since 2005, there have been 407 abandoned babies in the country.
All parties — from parents, teachers and healthcare providers to society at large — will need to eventually, openly discuss sexual health and reproduction. The subject of an unwanted pregnancy is not just someone’s skeleton in the closet.
Jamiyah says if a teenager asks about contraception, parents should not assume that their child wants to start a sexual relationship. “Teenagers have curious minds and a rebellious streak. They may have heard about contraceptives and are just curious. Explain to them what these are,” she says. However, she is also quick to point out that many parents themselves are not equipped with all the right information to openly discuss sexual and reproductive health with their children. She suggests that spouses talk to each other first to find out if one knows more than the other and to learn from each other to make the communication with the child easier. Should they really lack the knowledge, then they should turn to doctors who can provide the answers. As fingers are usually pointed at young girls who get pregnant out of wedlock, it’s unfair that boys can get away with it. “Most of the time, the boys run away from their responsibilities once the girl gets pregnant. As much as we educate the girls, boys should also be told of the consequences,” stresses Nor Ashikin. Dr Mohamad Farouk Abdullah agrees. The consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist and the president of the Obstetrical and Gynaecological Society of Malaysia, says boys should be always included in any sexual and reproductive health education campaign. “Ignorance is not a crime. Perpetuating ignorance is the crime. As such, awareness, acceptance and access is important,” he says.
Jamiyah explains: “Just as parents would like to see their daughter ‘safe’, they should also teach boys to respect girls and not do anything irresponsible. They should tell the boys to treat a girl right, just as they would want their sister to be treated.” Jamiyah, who has spoken at over 50 conferences and seminars as well as on TV and radio, will be one of the medical professionals in the recently launched Yes, I Can campaign roadshow travelling to key universities and colleges in the Klang Valley. The campaign seeks to empower women of every age to make informed and inspired choices about their sexual health and contraceptive options, address and tackle the issues of unplanned pregnancies and abandoned babies, as well as facilitate open conversations between young women and their healthcare providers on the role of contraception in reducing unplanned pregnancies.
Oh yes, you can TODAY, you can, with just a click of a button and a scroll of the mouse, learn all about sex and sexual health issues. However, with easy access to such information, ignorance is still rampant among young girls about protecting themselves against unwanted pregnancies. To help educate more young people on ways to prevent an unwanted pregnancy, the Yes, I Can campaign was launched recently by the The Asia Pacific Council of Contraception (Apcoc), the Obstetrical and Gynaecological Society of Malaysia (OGSM), Health Associations Malaysia (FRHAM) and Bayer Schering Pharma Malaysia. Its main objective is to curb unplanned pregnancies and abandoned babies in the nation by creating awareness and education. The campaign was recently launched by Datuk Aminah Abdul Rahman, the director general of the National Population and Family Development Board of the Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development. First and foremost, a specially designed campaign (website — www.yesican.com.my) with links to Twitter and Facebook will provide a conducive online platform for young women to discuss topics related to family, love and relationship. Lending their expert opinions are healthcare professionals who will provide advice on the various topics online. The website will also be a source of information on topics such as women’s health issues, modern contraception and up-to-date information on campaign initiatives.
Second, a campus roadshow will bring the campaign to young women through visits to key universities and colleges in the Klang Valley. Each campus visit will feature talks on sexual health and contraception by healthcare professionals, sharing sessions by Deborah Henry (one of the three campaign ambassadors identified for the campaign) on unplanned pregnancies. There will also be educational games and leaflets on the campaign and on unplanned pregnancies and contraception methods distributed. Third, Malaysians nationwide can channel their creativity toward addressing a good cause and stand to win RM10,000 in cash through the Yes, I Can Challenge. The challenge calls on Malaysian adults aged 18 and above to support and be advocates for the challenge. The challenge comprises a team or individual proposal (in 1,000 words or less) on how the issue of unplanned pregnancies can be resolved and a poster designed to accompanying the proposal.
Participants can submit their proposal and design via the Yes, I Can website by 4pm on Oct 24.
Yes, I Can will call for young people to make a pledge to take responsibility for their sexual health. A mobile Yes, I Can pledge board will travel with the campaign campus roadshow to encourage young people to support the cause and pledge to do their part to help reduce the incidence of unplanned pregnancies. Online pledges can also be made at the campaign website. Finally, there’s the Spot The Sticker contest. The campaign also seeks to engage the media to shed light on these issues through educational articles in key publications.
Read more: Health: Urgent need for sex education http://www.nst.com.my/nst/articles/Health_Urgentneedforsexeducation/Article#ixzz0waLj6vXD
SEATED in the gynaecologist's clinic and sticking out like a sore thumb, is a 13-year-old girl. As many expectant mothers there break into little conversations with other soon-to-be-mothers, the young teen sits sullen, with an older woman, who seems to have accompanied her there. They sit there, incommunicado, each adrift in their own thoughts. Once in a while, the girl tugs at her blouse to reveal the outline of a little blooming tummy. Still a child herself, shockingly, this girl is pregnant. Even for Professor Jamiyah Hassan, a consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist at the University Malaya Medical Centre, who has counselled a number of underage pregnant girls over the past few years, this girl’s age comes as a shocker. Sadly, she tells me, the young girl’s predicament is not a result of rape, but of consensual sex.
“Most of the time when I get such young patients, it's already too late to do anything. Had this girl known about sexual and reproductive health and been armed with the right knowledge, she could have avoided this unwanted pregnancy,” says Jamiyah who has, in the past 10 years, been actively educating both health care providers and the public on the need for sexual and reproductive health to be discussed openly.
The 13-year-old is just one of the hundreds of teens in the country who’re sexually active and perhaps pregnant.
The Cabinet was recently informed that there were 21 recorded cases of students who got pregnant out of wedlock between 2006 and now. Statistics from the Welfare Department found that this year alone, from January to April, 111 young girls were pregnant. The figure, however, is just the tip of the iceberg as many cases go unreported and pregnancies terminated. A two-year survey done by the National Family Planning Development Board by end 1996 showed that more and more teens were having sex at a younger age. With no help from the family, and no means to support oneself and the baby financially, baby dumping becomes an easy option out of fear of admonishment from family and the emotional and physical responsibilities that come with raising a child.
“When young adolescents are empowered with the knowledge of sexual and reproductive health, they stand a better chance of making the right decisions when faced with passion-fuelled situations,” adds Jamiyah, who is also a council member of the Asia Pacific Council of Contraception.
She believes that it’s imperative that sexual and reproductive health education be taught at home first, before continuing it in schools and colleges. So how should parents go about discussing a topic that turns many a face scarlet red? “Start them young. When they’re five or six, they learn that boys and girls’ private parts are different. This is when parents should tell boys that they cannot touch a girl’s private part and girls be told that they shouldn’t touch the boys’ too. That’s all you need to tell them at that age,” she says.
When the child starts school, and learns a little bit more about his body, he may be curious about where babies come from. It is then, she adds, that parents should talk about reproductive organs, and their differences between boys and girls. But there is no need to go into details about the birds and the bees. Children at this age, agree psychologists and authors of parenting books, need not be given in-depth details as they take in only the information they are capable of processing. “It’s when they reach puberty, when their hormones make them feel more feminine or masculine and they develop sensual feelings and attraction for the opposite sex that a discussion about what’s right and what’s not should be had,” says Jamiyah, who’s also a faculty member in Universiti Malaya. She adds they should be told about health issues too, such as sexually-transmitted infections (STIs), sexually transmitted-diseases (STDs), and HIV/AIDS . Most teenagers, she adds, don’t need lessons on sexual intercourse per se as they would have heard about it from friends, seen enough of it on TV, in movies and music videos as well as from all the graphic details available freely on the Internet. Datuk Nor Ashikin Mokhtar, a senior obstetrician and gynaecologist, and founder of PrimaNora Medical Centre, can’t agree more. “Research shows that today's teenager is exposed to some 20,000 sex scenes annually. Even flashing lights, as one would see in music videos, or in pubs and discos, for example, can turn on the hormones,” she says, adding that with all these stimuli, it may seem impossible to keep teens away from sex. She recalls a recent incident when a caring teacher brought in a pregnant schoolgirl who was at a loss of what to do about her unwanted pregnancy. “Without an option of what to do with her baby, and the emotional support, she would have just hidden the pregnancy. Eventually, it would be one more abandoned baby making the headlines in newspapers.” Jamiyah and Nor Ashikin know that education on sexual and reproductive health can help deter unwanted pregnancies among teens. What’s most important, they say, is to teach abstinence. “Most girls are fooled into thinking that the only way they can prove their love for a boy is to sleep with him. That’s not love. Love is when you are mature enough, financially independent and have found the right partner to enter the sacred institution of marriage and start a family. So until you satisfy these conditions, abstinence is the way to go,” adds Jamiyah. Contraceptive methods are not the solution as teenagers should be taught the consequences of their actions and the responsibilities that come with pregnancy.
Welfare Department figures show that since 2005, there have been 407 abandoned babies in the country.
All parties — from parents, teachers and healthcare providers to society at large — will need to eventually, openly discuss sexual health and reproduction. The subject of an unwanted pregnancy is not just someone’s skeleton in the closet.
“It costs taxpayers. In the United States, for example, the teen pregnancy crisis costs taxpayers an estimated US$6.9 billion (RM21.7 billion) in lost tax revenues and increased spending on public assistance, health care, foster care and the criminal justice system. As a nation, we cannot afford the consequences of teen pregnancy. The costs are staggering. Teen mothers are less likely to complete their schooling or get married," explains Nor Ashikin. Furthermore, she adds, the odds are stacked against children of teen parents from birth. “Their health is poorer, their cognitive development slower, and their behavioural problems worse than their peers. Teen pregnancy robs youngsters of their childhood and their future as productive adults. It also robs their children, and their children’s children,” she stresses.
Jamiyah says if a teenager asks about contraception, parents should not assume that their child wants to start a sexual relationship. “Teenagers have curious minds and a rebellious streak. They may have heard about contraceptives and are just curious. Explain to them what these are,” she says. However, she is also quick to point out that many parents themselves are not equipped with all the right information to openly discuss sexual and reproductive health with their children. She suggests that spouses talk to each other first to find out if one knows more than the other and to learn from each other to make the communication with the child easier. Should they really lack the knowledge, then they should turn to doctors who can provide the answers. As fingers are usually pointed at young girls who get pregnant out of wedlock, it’s unfair that boys can get away with it. “Most of the time, the boys run away from their responsibilities once the girl gets pregnant. As much as we educate the girls, boys should also be told of the consequences,” stresses Nor Ashikin. Dr Mohamad Farouk Abdullah agrees. The consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist and the president of the Obstetrical and Gynaecological Society of Malaysia, says boys should be always included in any sexual and reproductive health education campaign. “Ignorance is not a crime. Perpetuating ignorance is the crime. As such, awareness, acceptance and access is important,” he says.
Jamiyah explains: “Just as parents would like to see their daughter ‘safe’, they should also teach boys to respect girls and not do anything irresponsible. They should tell the boys to treat a girl right, just as they would want their sister to be treated.” Jamiyah, who has spoken at over 50 conferences and seminars as well as on TV and radio, will be one of the medical professionals in the recently launched Yes, I Can campaign roadshow travelling to key universities and colleges in the Klang Valley. The campaign seeks to empower women of every age to make informed and inspired choices about their sexual health and contraceptive options, address and tackle the issues of unplanned pregnancies and abandoned babies, as well as facilitate open conversations between young women and their healthcare providers on the role of contraception in reducing unplanned pregnancies.
Oh yes, you can TODAY, you can, with just a click of a button and a scroll of the mouse, learn all about sex and sexual health issues. However, with easy access to such information, ignorance is still rampant among young girls about protecting themselves against unwanted pregnancies. To help educate more young people on ways to prevent an unwanted pregnancy, the Yes, I Can campaign was launched recently by the The Asia Pacific Council of Contraception (Apcoc), the Obstetrical and Gynaecological Society of Malaysia (OGSM), Health Associations Malaysia (FRHAM) and Bayer Schering Pharma Malaysia. Its main objective is to curb unplanned pregnancies and abandoned babies in the nation by creating awareness and education. The campaign was recently launched by Datuk Aminah Abdul Rahman, the director general of the National Population and Family Development Board of the Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development. First and foremost, a specially designed campaign (website — www.yesican.com.my) with links to Twitter and Facebook will provide a conducive online platform for young women to discuss topics related to family, love and relationship. Lending their expert opinions are healthcare professionals who will provide advice on the various topics online. The website will also be a source of information on topics such as women’s health issues, modern contraception and up-to-date information on campaign initiatives.
Second, a campus roadshow will bring the campaign to young women through visits to key universities and colleges in the Klang Valley. Each campus visit will feature talks on sexual health and contraception by healthcare professionals, sharing sessions by Deborah Henry (one of the three campaign ambassadors identified for the campaign) on unplanned pregnancies. There will also be educational games and leaflets on the campaign and on unplanned pregnancies and contraception methods distributed. Third, Malaysians nationwide can channel their creativity toward addressing a good cause and stand to win RM10,000 in cash through the Yes, I Can Challenge. The challenge calls on Malaysian adults aged 18 and above to support and be advocates for the challenge. The challenge comprises a team or individual proposal (in 1,000 words or less) on how the issue of unplanned pregnancies can be resolved and a poster designed to accompanying the proposal.
Participants can submit their proposal and design via the Yes, I Can website by 4pm on Oct 24.
The panel of judges for the challenge comprises representatives of Apoc, OGSM and FRHAM. Six proposals will be shortlisted and put up for public voting. The selected participants will then be given a chance to present their ideas at the campaign finals in November. Further details are available at www.yesican.com.my.
Yes, I Can will call for young people to make a pledge to take responsibility for their sexual health. A mobile Yes, I Can pledge board will travel with the campaign campus roadshow to encourage young people to support the cause and pledge to do their part to help reduce the incidence of unplanned pregnancies. Online pledges can also be made at the campaign website. Finally, there’s the Spot The Sticker contest. The campaign also seeks to engage the media to shed light on these issues through educational articles in key publications.
Friday, August 13, 2010
bronchitis
This topic provides information about acute bronchitis in otherwise healthy people. If you have a long-term (chronic) respiratory disease, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), acute bronchitis may be treated differently. For more information, see the topics Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) and Pneumonia.
What are bronchitis and acute bronchitis?
Bronchitis is inflammation of the tubes that carry air to the lungs (bronchial tubes). When these tubes are inflamed, they swell and produce mucus (sputum). The swollen tubes and increased mucus trigger coughing and may make it more difficult for you to breathe. There are two types of bronchitis:
• Acute bronchitis usually develops rapidly and lasts 2 to 3 weeks in otherwise healthy people. Most healthy people who develop bronchitis get better without any complications. See an illustration of acute bronchitis.
• Chronic bronchitis recurs and becomes long-term, especially in people who smoke. A cough that produces too much mucus and is present most days during a 3-month period for at least 2 years in a row suggests chronic bronchitis. Chronic bronchitis is a form of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
This topic focuses on acute bronchitis. It affects both children and adults.
What causes acute bronchitis?
Acute bronchitis is usually caused by a virus. It is more common during the winter months, and you often develop it after having an upper respiratory tract illness such as influenza (flu) or a cold. Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) may be a cause, especially in adults older than 65. Acute bronchitis is caused by bacteria about 10% of the time. 1
Acute bronchitis can also be caused by exposure to smoke, chemicals, or air pollution, all of which can irritate the bronchial tubes, or it can develop from accidentally inhaling (aspirating) food, vomit, or mucous material.
What are the symptoms?
The main symptom of acute bronchitis is a cough that often brings up clear, yellow, or green mucus. A mild fever, usually less than 101° (38.3°), may also be present. You may feel tired and short of breath, and you may wheeze when breathing. Symptoms usually begin 3 to 4 days after an upper respiratory tract infection and last 2 to 3 weeks in otherwise healthy people. However, more than 20% of people with acute bronchitis have a cough that lasts more than 4 weeks. 2
What are bronchitis and acute bronchitis?
Bronchitis is inflammation of the tubes that carry air to the lungs (bronchial tubes). When these tubes are inflamed, they swell and produce mucus (sputum). The swollen tubes and increased mucus trigger coughing and may make it more difficult for you to breathe. There are two types of bronchitis:
• Acute bronchitis usually develops rapidly and lasts 2 to 3 weeks in otherwise healthy people. Most healthy people who develop bronchitis get better without any complications. See an illustration of acute bronchitis.
• Chronic bronchitis recurs and becomes long-term, especially in people who smoke. A cough that produces too much mucus and is present most days during a 3-month period for at least 2 years in a row suggests chronic bronchitis. Chronic bronchitis is a form of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
This topic focuses on acute bronchitis. It affects both children and adults.
What causes acute bronchitis?
Acute bronchitis is usually caused by a virus. It is more common during the winter months, and you often develop it after having an upper respiratory tract illness such as influenza (flu) or a cold. Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) may be a cause, especially in adults older than 65. Acute bronchitis is caused by bacteria about 10% of the time. 1
Acute bronchitis can also be caused by exposure to smoke, chemicals, or air pollution, all of which can irritate the bronchial tubes, or it can develop from accidentally inhaling (aspirating) food, vomit, or mucous material.
What are the symptoms?
The main symptom of acute bronchitis is a cough that often brings up clear, yellow, or green mucus. A mild fever, usually less than 101° (38.3°), may also be present. You may feel tired and short of breath, and you may wheeze when breathing. Symptoms usually begin 3 to 4 days after an upper respiratory tract infection and last 2 to 3 weeks in otherwise healthy people. However, more than 20% of people with acute bronchitis have a cough that lasts more than 4 weeks. 2
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