What is Malaria?

What is Malaria?

by | Jul 31, 2024 | Seasonal Diseases

Malaria is a deadly disease transmitted by a mosquito infested with microscopic parasites. When the insect bites, it injects malaria parasites into your circulation. Malaria is caused by parasites rather than a virus or bacteria. Malaria, if not treated, can cause severe health issues such as seizures, brain damage, difficulty breathing, organ failure, and death. 

Malaria occurs all across the world, but is more common in developing countries and locations with warm temperatures and high humidity, such as:
  • Africa.
  • Central and southern America.
  • Dominican Republic, Haiti, and other Caribbean islands.
  • Eastern Europe.
  • South and Southeast Asia.
  • Islands in the Central and South Pacific Ocean.

What are the symptoms of Malaria?

Malaria symptoms are similar to flu symptoms. They include the following:
  • Fever and sweating.
  • Chills that shake your whole body.
  • Headache and muscle aches.
  • Fatigue.
  • Chest pain, breathing problems and cough.
  • Diarrhea, nausea and vomiting.
  • As malaria gets worse, it can cause anemia and jaundice.

Malaria symptoms often occur 10 days to one month after the person is infected. Symptoms may be minimal, depending on the parasite. Some people do not feel sick for up to a year following a mosquito bite. Parasites can sometimes stay in the body for years without creating symptoms. Some kinds of malaria, depending on the parasite, can recur. The parasites remain inactive in your liver before being discharged into your bloodstream years later. When the parasites resume their circulation, the symptoms return.

What really causes malaria?

When a mosquito bites someone with malaria, the mosquito becomes infected. When a mosquito bites another person, it transmits a parasite into their circulation. There, the parasites multiply. Humans can be infected with five different forms of malaria parasites.

In rare situations, pregnant women with malaria might transmit the disease to their infants before or during birth. Malaria can be transmitted by blood transfusions, organ donations, and hypodermic needles, however this is extremely unusual. 

How is malaria diagnosed?

Your health care practitioner will evaluate you and inquire about your symptoms and travel histories. Your provider will draw a blood sample and send it to a lab to determine whether you have malaria parasites. The blood test will inform your doctor whether you have malaria and which sort of parasite is causing your symptoms. This information will be used by your provider to decide the best course of therapy.

Can Malaria Be Prevented?

Medications can significantly minimize the odds of contracting malaria. You should also take care to prevent mosquito bites. To decrease your risks of contracting malaria, you should:
  • Apply mosquito repellent with DEET to any exposed skin.
  • Drape mosquito net over the mattresses.
  • Install screens on windows and doors.
  • Permethrin is an insect repellent that can be applied to clothing, mosquito nets, tents, sleeping bags, and other materials.
  • To keep your skin covered, wear long pants and sleeves. 

Malaria, a severe parasite disease caused by mosquitos, is common in warm, humid climates. Flu-like symptoms such as fever, chills, and exhaustion may emerge 10 days to a month after infection. Early detection and treatment are critical for avoiding consequences like seizures and organ failure. While medication can dramatically lower infection risk, preventative measures such as insect repellents and bed nets are critical. Remember that malaria is treatable, but taking preemptive measures is essential for remaining safe.

 Dengue 101: A Beginner’s Guide

 Dengue 101: A Beginner’s Guide

by | Jul 29, 2024 | Seasonal Diseases, Viral Diseases

Dengue fever is a sickness caused by the bite of a mosquito carrying one of four varieties of dengue virus (DENV) – DEN 1, DEN 2, DEN 3, or DEN 4 – that occurs in tropical and subtropical regions around the world. The virus is most typically found in tropical and subtropical areas such as Central and South America, Africa, sections of Asia, and the Pacific Islands. Mild dengue fever results in a high fever and flu-like symptoms. The severe type of dengue fever, commonly known as dengue hemorrhagic fever, can result in severe bleeding, an abrupt decline in blood pressure (shock), and death. Dengue fever is not communicable from person to person, except when transmitted from a pregnant woman to her child. 

Dengue fever is most prevalent in Central and South America, Africa, sections of Asia, and the Pacific Islands. Research suggests that about 400 million people get infected with dengue each year, yet most (about 80%) exhibit no symptoms.

What are the signs and symptoms of Dengue fever to look out for? 

The majority of dengue infections are symptomless. If you experience any symptoms, a high fever (104°F/40°C) is usual, as well as:

  • Rash.
  • Severe pain behind your eyes.
  • Vomiting or nausea.
  • Joint, bone, and muscle aches.

The symptoms of dengue fever can linger for three to seven days and begin four to ten days after a mosquito bite. 

What causes Dengue fever?

Of the four dengue viruses, one is responsible for dengue fever. The dengue virus can enter your bloodstream and replicate when you are bitten by a mosquito carrying the virus. Blood clot-forming components and blood vessel structure can be destroyed by the virus. This, along with some chemicals produced by your immune system can cause blood to flow out of your vessels and cause internal bleeding. This results in the potentially fatal symptoms of severe dengue. 

What is Dengue Hemorrhagic fever?

Severe dengue or Dengue Hemorrhagic fever is the potentially fatal escalation of dengue fever symptoms. Severe dengue warning signals typically appear 24 to 48 hours after the fever has subsided.

It is a potentially lethal medical emergency. If you have dengue or reside in a dengue-prone area, get help as soon as possible if you encounter any of the following symptoms:
  • Abdominal or stomach ache.
  • Throwing up often.
  • Vomiting blood or getting blood in your stool.
  • Bleeding gums or nosebleeds.
  • Excessive exhaustion, agitation, restlessness or irritation. 

How is Dengue fever diagnosed?

Blood testing is used to diagnose dengue fever. To check for dengue virus symptoms, your healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein and send it to a lab. In addition, it can reveal which of the four versions you have. A blood test might be used by your medical expert to search for additional infections that may be causing your symptoms.

How is Dengue fever treated?

Dengue fever cannot be treated with medication. Symptom management is the sole treatment available for dengue fever. Pay attention to the advice given by your healthcare provider, which may include:
  • Consuming an adequate amount of water and other liquids to stay hydrated.
  • Resting as much as you can.
  • Solely using acetaminophen to treat pain.
  • Take no aspirin or ibuprofen. Your risk of potentially fatal internal bleeding may rise as a result. 

Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne illness that can range in severity from mild to fatal. A high fever and flu-like symptoms are typical, however most people don’t feel anything. Severe dengue hemorrhagic fever can cause shock and internal bleeding. It’s critical to identify warning indicators early on, such as intense stomach pain or recurrent vomiting. While there isn’t a known treatment, symptoms can be managed with the use of appropriate pain medicines like acetaminophen, lots of rest, and staying hydrated. As soon as possible, seek medical advice from a physician if you suspect dengue.

Understanding Appendicitis

Understanding Appendicitis

by | Jul 22, 2024 | Appendicitis

Appendicitis is the inflammation of the appendix. The appendix is a finger-shaped pouch that extends from the colon on the lower right side of the abdomen. Appendicitis produces discomfort in the lower right abdomen. Most patients, however, experience pain around the belly button that gradually spreads. Discomfort related to Appendicitis usually worsens as the inflammation worsens, finally becoming severe.

Some symptoms of Appendicitis may include:

  • Sudden pain on the right side of the lower abdomen.
  • Sudden pain around the navel that frequently spreads to the lower right abdomen.
  • Pain worsens when coughing, walking, or doing other jarring activities.
  • Nausea and vomiting.
  • Loss of appetite.
  • Low-grade fever, which may increase as the illness progresses.
  • Constipation and/or diarrhea.
  • Abdominal bloating.
  • Gas. 

Appendicitis is most commonly caused by a blockage in the appendix’s lining. This obstruction can result in an infection. The germs multiply quickly, causing the appendix to become inflamed, bloated, and pus-filled. If not treated immediately, the appendix can rupture.

Who is at risk?

The majority of appendicitis cases occur between the ages of ten and thirty. A family history of appendicitis may increase your risk, particularly if you are male. For a child, having cystic fibrosis appears to increase the likelihood of developing appendicitis.

How is Appendicitis diagnosed?

Your healthcare professional will inquire about your previous health and conduct a physical assessment. He or she may also require you to undergo the following tests:

  • Blood tests: Look for symptoms of infection, such as a high white blood cell count.
  • Urine tests: To determine if you have a urinary tract infection.

You could also have various imaging tests, including:

  • Abdominal ultrasound: Allows the doctor to examine internal organs in action and determine how blood flows through different blood veins.
  • CT scans: They provide detailed images of any area of the body, including bones, muscles, fat, and organs.
  • MRI: In place of a CT scan, an MRI is sometimes used to diagnose appendicitis, particularly in pregnant women. 

What are some complications that might come up?

Appendicitis can lead to significant problems, including:

  • A ruptured appendix: A ruptured appendix spreads infection throughout the belly, causing peritonitis. This potentially life-threatening illness necessitates prompt surgery to remove the appendix and clean out the abdominal cavity.
  • A pus pocket develops in the abdomen: If your appendix ruptures, you may develop a pocket of infection known as an abscess. In most situations, a surgeon will drain the abscess by inserting a tube through your abdomen wall into it. The tube is left in place for around two weeks while you are given antibiotics to treat the infection.

What kind of treatment can you expect for Appendicitis?

The appendix is likely to explode, resulting in a serious and fatal infection. As a result, your physician will recommend that you have surgery to remove your appendix.

The appendix can be removed surgically or by laparoscopy:

  • Open (traditional) surgery technique: You’re given an anaesthetic. A cut (incision) is made on the lower right side of your abdomen. The surgeon discovers the appendix and removes it. If the appendix has ruptured, a tiny tube (shunt) may be inserted to drain pus and other fluids from the abdomen. The shunt will be removed in a few days, once your surgeon believes the infection has resolved.
  • Laparoscopic method: The laparoscopic approach involves anaesthesia. To see inside your belly, this operation makes multiple small cuts (incisions) and utilises a camera (laparoscope). The surgical tools are inserted through a few tiny incisions. The laparoscope is inserted through another incision. Even if the appendix has ruptured, a laparoscopy is frequently performed.

If your appendix has not ruptured, recovering from an appendectomy will only take a few days. If your appendix has ruptured, your healing period will be prolonged, and you will require antibiotic medication.

Appendicitis is an inflammation of the appendix that causes severe lower right abdomen discomfort that intensifies over time and is frequently accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and fever. While a blockage in the appendix lining is the most prevalent reason, if left untreated, it can rupture, spreading infection and necessitating emergency surgery. If you encounter these symptoms, get medical help immediately to avoid consequences.

Five Myths and Facts about Asthma

Five Myths and Facts about Asthma

by | Jun 24, 2024 | Asthma

1. Myth: Asthma treatments are addictive, harmful, and lose their effectiveness over time.

Fact: Asthma drugs are safe and necessary for asthma treatment. They keep the condition under control, allowing patients to live regular lives that include sleeping through the night and no emergency department visits. The chronic condition of asthma necessitates a specific long-term treatment regimen. This is not to say that these medications are addictive. While numerous drugs may be required to control asthma, no asthma medication is habit-forming. No asthma drug has been demonstrated to lose effectiveness in patients even after long-term use.

2. Myth: Individuals with asthma should avoid exercise, sports, and gym class.

Facts: Asthmatics are urged to live an active lifestyle, which includes sports and exercise classes. A physically active lifestyle keeps you and your lungs in good health. It may aid with weight control, which is critical for asthma management. Exercise has been demonstrated to improve lung function. Your doctor may advise you to use an inhaler before exercising and keep it on hand during exercise. Warm up before physical activity and cool down afterward.

3. Myth: If you don’t wheeze, you don’t have asthma.

Fact: Asthma symptoms frequently include wheezing. It’s a whistling sound caused by air flowing through a restricted airway. Wheezing occurs when breathing becomes difficult owing to inflammation and tightness of the airways. The absence of wheeze does not imply that asthma is inactive. Wheezing is normally audible, but it can also be heard using a stethoscope. Wheezing may not occur if the flare is severe and limits air passage in a portion of the lung. 

4. Myth: Asthma is a condition of childhood that is generally outgrown.

Fact: Asthma is most commonly diagnosed in children. It is very rarely outgrown. Asthma typically remains into adulthood. It can occur for the first time in some adults. As your lungs grow and your immune system adapts, your asthma may improve. However, a familial history of asthma and sensitivity to allergens as a symptom trigger continue to exist, as does asthma.

5. Myth: Asthma is a minor condition that may be readily treated.

Fact: All asthma is serious, and any flare can be life-threatening in seconds. Each individual has a unique asthma diagnosis. It is influenced by a variety of elements such as age, family background, race, gender, living conditions, workplace, environmental influences, immune system development, and overall health. Obtaining a precise diagnosis and devising a treatment plan are critical initial steps. Asthma can be effectively controlled with the right doctor, drugs, education, and management techniques. 

While some myths portray asthma treatments as addictive and asthma itself as a transient childhood ailment, the reality is that asthma requires ongoing treatment with safe and effective medications to avoid serious flare-ups and allow patients to live active, full lives. Don’t be afraid to speak with your doctor about any issues you have and to develop a specific asthma care strategy.

Asthma Triggers and How to Control them

Asthma Triggers and How to Control them

by | May 30, 2024 | Asthma

Asthma triggers are materials, circumstances, or activities that aggravate asthma symptoms or produce an asthma flare-up. Asthma triggers are prevalent, which is exactly what makes them so problematic. In some circumstances, it can be difficult to avoid all of your asthma triggers. With a little planning, you may learn to avoid your triggers and lower your chances of having an asthma attack.

Pollen, air pollution, cigarette smoke, and odours from burning plants can all trigger asthma attacks. Pollen is most bothersome in the spring and fall, despite flowers, weeds, and grass blooming all year. 

Pets and animals, while charming, might cause an asthma attack in those who are allergic to them. Proteins contained in an animal’s saliva, feces, urine, hair, or skin can cause asthma. The easiest method to avoid a flare-up caused by these triggers is to avoid the animal completely. If you aren’t ready to say goodbye to a cherished family pet, try to keep the animal out of your bedroom, off of furniture, and outside as much as possible.

Dust mites, a common allergy, enjoy hiding away in places and rooms we frequent, such as bedrooms, living rooms, and offices. Get dust-proof covers for your mattress, box spring, and sofa. Purchase dust-proof pillow wraps that go between your pillow and your pillowcase. Carpets and rugs are also known to attract dust. If you have carpeting in your home, it may be time to say goodbye and install hardwood flooring instead.

Mold and mildew are major asthma causes. You can avoid flare-ups caused by these triggers by being aware of wet areas in your kitchen, bathroom, basement, and yard. High humidity promotes the growth of mold and mildew. Cockroaches and their droppings might aggravate asthma. If you see a cockroach infestation, take action to exterminate it. Cover, store, and dispose of any open water or food containers. Vacuum, sweep, and mop any locations where cockroaches are visible.

Perfumes and highly scented products can irritate your airways. Stress, worry, and other powerful emotions can cause rapid breathing. Sinus infections and acid reflux, as well as certain medications, can exacerbate asthma symptoms.

If you suspect you have allergic asthma, talk to your doctor about undergoing an allergy test. This allows you to determine which allergens cause your asthmatic flare-ups.

Asthma is not curable, but it can be controlled. Consult with your doctor to determine your asthma triggers. Avoiding them whenever feasible will help you feel better and avoid flare-ups.