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Four Common Misconceptions About Parkinson’s Disease

Sir_William_Richard_Gowers_Parkinson_Disease_sketch_1886
Sir William Richard Gowers Parkinson Disease sketch, 1886. Public Domain

Previously, we discussed the medical facts associated with Parkinson’s Disease and since 7 to 10 million people currently have this illness, it would be appropriate to pay attention to the misconceptions that are abundant in the social circles and beyond.  

Only then can there be more consideration to assisting those who are inflicted.

The following are a few of these faulty facts:

  • Parkinson’s is an Old Age Disease

It is generally believed that Parkinson’s is a disorder that afflicts the elderly because of their weakened systems or poor health. It is generally believed that anyone who is 60 or above is at risk of developing this disease.  

Parkinson’s is not just an old age disease. Many people are diagnosed with it when they are only in their 40’s. In some cases, people can also be in their late 30’s when they are diagnosed with it, known as YOPD – young on-set of Parkinson’s disease.

The main reason why people believe it is an old age disease is that the average age for the diagnosis is 60. Similarly, many doctors also believed in this misconception which often results in misdiagnosis of young-onset of Parkinson’s disease. Luckily, more doctors now understand that age is not a factor with this disorder.

  • It Starts with a Tremor

Parkinson’s is widely known to be a neurological disorder that impacts motor functions. This is why people usually look at getting a tremor as the first sign of it. In fact, it is considered to be one of the most well-known signs of Parkinson’s.

During the early stages of Parkinson’s, a person might experience slurred or soft speech as well as lose facial expressions. The following are some signs of Parkinson’s disorder, apart from having a tremor:

  • Muscle Rigidness – Stiff muscles can cause pain or make certain actions difficult. These can occur anywhere on the body.
  • Impaired Balance and Posture – It might be difficult for someone to maintain their balance even when standing still. Their posture will also be greatly stooped. They might also face difficulties in standing up from a sitting position.
  • Loss of Unconscious Movements – Unconscious movements include blinking, smiling or even swinging your arms while walking. A person might have decreased functions in this aspect. They will also have to consciously make an effort to make these actions.
  • Change in Reflexes – Reflex actions might also become slower in a person. Apart from their reflexes, they might find it difficult to perform functions such as being able to write, knit or draw and more.
  • Depression or Moodiness – A person can experience major mood swings and depression when they have undiagnosed Parkinson’s. This leads to a lot of confusion, hurt and shame that they are unable to perform regular functions with ease. Depression can worsen Parkinson’s, making a person more prone to indulge in unhealthy behavior that allows the disease to progress faster.
  • Constipation or Urinary Incontinence – Bodily functions might also become out of order with a person needing to urinate more frequently. Similarly, they might experience constipation for a large number of days.

  • Diagnosis is Not Easy

Diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease is not easy at all and can take a lot of time. Extensive tests need to be completed and no two Parkinson’s disorder cases are the same. An individual might also experience Parkinson’s in a different manner which means that they won’t experience the same symptoms as someone else. In many cases, while the tremor might be the first symptom, others might not show tremors until years later.  

Similarly, for some, slowness in walking as well as difficulty in expressing emotions might be the first symptoms whereas, for others, it might not be the case. For this reason, a person can’t be said to be a patient of Parkinson’s based on symptom comparisons alone. It is always best to go to a doctor to get the symptoms examined and have proper tests run on you.

Doctors also have to run careful tests to discount other conditions that could be responsible for causing the decline in motor skills. After a process of careful elimination, they can then diagnose the patient with Parkinson’s. For some patients, this can mean that they get properly diagnosed four years after they start showing the symptoms.  

  • It’s Hereditary?

Parkinson’s disorder is not hereditary unless you have family members who have this affliction. Even then, the odds of you developing it are low. If you have a family history of the disease with multiple family members who have or had it, then you might have an increased chance of inheriting the condition. However, unlike other disorders, this isn’t limited to a person’s genes.

On the other hand, just because you have Parkinson’s doesn’t mean that your life is over. Sure, there is no cure for the disorder but there is a medication that can make the condition easier to deal with. Similarly, it is better to keep indulging in healthy activities such as yoga, going on walks, spending time with loved ones and more. You don’t have to put your life on hold just because you have this disorder. Another thing you should opt to do is sign up for a support group.

Parkinson’s can be very hard to deal with and each day, you can experience certain symptoms that might make you feel like you have taken two steps forward and ten steps back. With a strong support system, you can easily ensure that you don’t get depressed, especially on days when your symptoms are extremely bad.

A Look into Circumcision and Why it is Important

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You may have heard the terminology circumcised or circumcision at one point or another. Circumcision is basically the removal of the foreskin that envelopes the head of the flaccid penis. Males are born with a layer of skin, which is also referred to as prepuce, at the front of their genitalia i.e. the glans. The procedure whereby this film of extraneous skin is eliminated from their unerect penis is called circumcision.

Insight

The amount of skin attached to the anterior varies from one male to another. While one newborn may have a virtually nonexistent foreskin, another child may have enough that it protrudes from their glans. This is what causes the erection of certain males to display a loose foreskin that peeks from the head of their penis.

In uncircumcised males, the head of their manhood is a shade of pink. This becomes clear when the head of their genitalia emanates in the process of an erection. This inadvertently gives the penis a two-tone image.

With regards to newborns, their foreskin is attached to the area beneath their penis and gradually detaches in the first few years of their lives in the vast majority of cases. When the procedure is performed, the foreskin disconnects simply through a number of different surgical techniques.

Cost-Benefit Analysis

In most cases, if a disease or disorder develops in an individual, it is understood that they will seek treatment with the hope of improving their health. In this particular instance, circumcision is often a choice. In fact, religion is one of the foremost reasons for the performance of circumcisions.

The rules and regulations of both Islam (Khitan) and Judaism (Brit Milah) dictate that newborns must be circumcised. Another rationale for circumcisions includes personal decisions, aesthetic preference, and reduction of health risks.  

Pros

Nevertheless, circumcision is a unique medical proposition based on the fact that we can discuss its benefits and drawbacks. First of all, there are several advantages to the operation. Infants who undergo the procedure are less likely to develop urinary tract infections (UTIs) for one. This is particularly true in the first few months post birth. UTI is a recurring disease in newborn males and those who remain uncircumcised are 10 times more likely to contract this affliction.  

Furthermore, circumcision also diminishes the risk of penile cancer. Research has also indicated that those who are subjected to this procedure are less prone to sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) such as Chlamydia, Gonorrhea and Genital Herpes.

Concerns pertaining to the penis, such as agitation, swellings, and infections are also more common in uncircumcised males. Also, circumcised genitalia is considered more sanitary, since it is more effortless to keep it clean compared to uncircumcised ones.

Cons

On the other hand, there are a few risks attached to circumcision, a caveat that applies to all medical procedures. Fortunately, these disadvantages are fundamentally insignificant, although there are cases where complications may arise. For example, any circumcision-related predicaments in newborns are only found in between 0.2% to 2% of cases. Out of these, the most common are minor bleeding and infections. Thankfully, both concerns can be rectified with the adequate treatment.

Another issue with circumcision is that the procedure can prove painful for newborns. This is precisely why pain relief medication is administered to babies when they are circumcised. However, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) suggests that newborns who are circumcised should be given anesthesia, which has since become standard practice.

There are two main categories of local anesthetic that may be used on newborns to manage their discomfort. One is a topical ointment, which is applied to their penis and warrants around half an hour before it is entirely effective. The other is provided through an injection and needs less time to be active. Also, acetaminophen is administered by some pediatricians. It is known to have a longer lasting effect and may last hours after the circumcision has been performed.  

Preparation and Performance

Jewish Circumcision
The New Testament relates how after his birth, Jesus was circumcised according to Jewish tradition (Luke 2: 21)

Now we will discuss the prerequisites and practice of circumcision. In major cases, the procedure is completed while the newborn is still admitted to the hospital. There are multiple practitioners who have the training to perform a circumcision, such as pediatricians and obstetricians.  

It is mandatory for parents to sign a consent form before the operation. This is par for the course and is really a formality. In cases involving children and adults too, a circumcision is scheduled in a hospital or surgical center on an outpatient basis. This is defined as a situation where the patient is discharged on the same day.

We can delve into the actual procedure as well. It is performed by the usual suspects, such as pediatricians, who are doctors that deal exclusively with cases involving children. Other trained personnel that may do a circumcision include surgeons and urologists. Like we mentioned before, circumcisions that are done owing to religious reasons may be completed by those who are skilled in the matter, since the method may possibly differ based on the religion.

As far as newborns are concerned, they are placed tenderly on their backs and their arms and legs are kept at a distance from their genitals. The anesthetic is then administered via cream or injection so that it is numb.

Doctors performing the procedure may use one of several methods at their disposal. This is typically determined by the physician’s choice. The most popular techniques that are executed are called the Gomco clamp, Plastibell device, and the Mogen clamp.

All three of the aforementioned approaches involve slashing the circulation of blood to the foreskin so that there is no bleeding when the doctor slices the foreskin. The entire process of circumcision takes a total of 15 to 30 minutes maximum.

A Brief Overview of Pregnancy Complications

”pregnant woaman on a beach"

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Pregnancy and childbirth are a miracle of nature. A woman is able to bear a child for a specific duration before the child is born. It is nothing short of a biological marvel! Given the seriousness of the pregnancy, it becomes imperative for all concerned parties i.e. the woman especially, their doctor and midwife to proceed with caution and care.

Even so, there are innumerable instances where women experience difficulty when they are expecting. Despite exercising due diligence, pregnancy complications may introduce various intricacies to the equation. These obstacles can affect the mother’s health and the well-being of the fetus. Such issues can make childbirth a high-risk procedure and be a concern for those involved.

So what are the potential predicaments that pregnant women may encounter? Let’s take a look.

Miscarriage

Delayed or missed miscarriage at 13 weeks
Delayed or missed miscarriage at 13 weeks
As the name suggests, miscarriage is defined as the loss of pregnancy from natural causes in the first twenty weeks. 10 to 20% of identified pregnancies end in the unfortunate event of a miscarriage. Additionally, the vast majority of miscarriages occur in the first twelve weeks of a pregnancy i.e. the primary trimester. These are generally provoked by chromosomal anomalies in the fertilized egg, which disable the embryo from evolving sufficiently.

Furthermore, in terms of symptoms, the first indication of a miscarriage is that vaginal spotting or bleeding may appear. Regardless of the potential advent of a miscarriage, a pregnant female should consult a gynecologist at the first instance if there is bleeding. If the specialists suspect a miscarriage is underway, they may order an immediate ultrasound to gauge if the uterus is stable.

According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, a miscarriage is the most frequent cause of pregnancy loss. Research has shown that chemical pregnancies account for up to 75% of all miscarriages. This scenario transpires in the aftermath of implantation which gives rise to excessive bleeding when the woman experiences her period.

Causes of miscarriage include, but are not limited to hormonal problems and maternal health concerns. Also, a woman’s lifestyle and ill-conceived choices may be the reason for a miscarriage. For instance, if a woman who is expecting does not abandon her smoking habit, has a poor diet or does not kick drug use could lead to a miscarriage. Malnutrition and abundance of caffeine are other potential reasons. So are maternal age and maternal trauma.  

Likewise, there is no definitive list of symptoms that a pregnant woman may exhibit. However, the most common red flags include different degrees of back pain, which may be considerably worse than menstrual cramping. Weight loss is another potential signal and so are regular contractions, which may occur every five minutes or so.

Preeclampsia

Preclancia being diagnosed by a doctorThis is a condition that transpires exclusively when a woman is expecting and entails extraordinarily high blood pressure and protein in their urine or liver. Also, they may have kidney abnormalities in the second trimester.

Preeclampsia is a severe ailment that affects roughly 5% of all pregnant women. Typically, most females who are expecting a child develop moderate signs as their due date approaches. However, with adequate care and conservative measures, both the mother and her newborn child do not suffer any consequences.

If not diagnosed properly and left unchecked, preeclampsia can cause deterioration of the woman and baby’s health quickly. It may incite organ issue and potentially life-threatening scenarios as well. This may cause an early delivery or a caesarian section, a medical procedure where surgical equipment is used to deliver a child.

Moreover, females who are in line to become mothers for the first time are most susceptible to contracting preeclampsia. Those with a track record of suffering from preeclampsia or gestational hypertension may also be prone to the affliction.

In addition, pregnant women who are carrying more than one child or those who are aged 40 and above may also face complications. The same rules apply to females with high blood pressure and those who are obese also.

For the mother, the possible impact of preeclampsia includes liver or renal failure and probable cardiovascular concerns at some point in the future. The potential damage is far greater for the unborn child. They may suffer from diminished oxygen and nutrition. This transpires when preeclampsia restricts the placenta from obtaining ample blood. This may result in the child being born with significantly lower weight.

Gestational Diabetes

In the United States, between 2 and 10 percent of expectant mothers contract gestational diabetes. Although the numbers may sound promising, this disease must not be underestimated, given that its severity may increase. Pregnant women are frequently tested in a glucose screening to observe if they are not victims of gestational diabetes.

In cases where the screening has a negative result, pregnant women are monitored by professionals. With the proper care, a majority of women are able to maintain their blood sugar levels with the right diet and exercise (there is a specific exercise regimen that can be adhered to during pregnancy). This allows them to deliver a healthy child eventually.

Mothers who suffer from gestational diabetes are also at greater risk of developing Type 2 diabetes in the future as well. Warning signs of gestational diabetes are the presence of sugar in urine. Obviously, it is not apparent to the naked eye but a test at the doctor’s office can determine its presence. Excessive thirst, considerable exhaustion and the feeling of nausea are other symptoms of gestational diabetes.

Placenta Previa

Another case of pregnancy-related issues is called placenta previa. The placenta lies lower than usual in the uterus which is how it covers part of the cervix. The placenta severs from the uterine wall while the cervix starts to dilate during labor.

Symptoms of placenta previa vary on a case by case basis but the most frequent signal is pain-free bleeding during the third trimester of pregnancy. Additionally, premature contractions, the child’s irregular position in the womb are also signs of placenta previa.

Common Sexually Transmitted Diseases


”Man with STD sign"
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Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs), which are also known as Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) and Venereal Diseases (VD), are part of the same family of diseases or infections that develop from sexual contact between two individuals. 

About Sexually Transmitted Diseases

The activity can vary from vaginal intercourse, oral and anal sexual interaction. In addition, there are some sexually transmitted infections that may spread by way of unsterilized or unsanitary injections commonly used by drug addicted individuals. STDs may also be carried from the mother to her newborn during the process of childbirth and breastfeeding can also result in the transmission as walla some blood transfusions.

Moreover, sexually transmitted diseases rank among the most infectious ailments known in the United States today. In fact, The Center for Disease Control estimates that a staggering 20 million new STD cases emerge on an annual basis in America. Half of these transpire in youngsters aged between 15 and 24. That number gives us a strong indication that suggested precautions are not taken and that those affected may not act with heed.

There are more statistics which delineate a damning indictment of sexually transmitted diseases in the country. According to the CDC, every other sexually active person is likely to contract some type of STD by the time they are 25 years old.

Unfortunately, these numbers are only scratching the surface of a predicament that has swept the nation. While young people represent nearly half of all sexually transmitted diseases, a concern for specialists and professionals is that recent surveys have shown that only 12% of individuals with STDs were actually tested. Essentially, that means that most individuals with such infections ignore medical attention. Logic would suggest that in some cases, their condition may worsen.

Last but not least, the health care industry in the United States is burdened considerably by the prevalence of sexually transmitted diseases. The total cost of STDs in America each year is approximately a whopping 16 billion dollars!  

Common Causes of Sexually Transmitted Diseases

What causes the infection depends on the disease. However, the most frequent reasons are generally the same. The most common determinants are viruses, bacteria, and parasites. For each of the aforementioned categories, there are several sexually transmitted diseases that occur due to the presence of these microorganisms.

Types of Sexually Transmitted Diseases

Chlamydia

Chlamydia is one of the most common.. It is caused by a bacteria known as Chlamydia trachomatis, a bacteria that affects only humans and can affect both genders. While men contract chlamydia in their urethra, rectum or throat, women may get infected in their cervix, rectum, and throat.

Symptoms of chlamydia for men include a white and water like discharge from their genitals, which must not be confused with sperm. They may feel excruciating pain when they urinate and their testicles may have cause for concern since most men who are chlamydia patients tend to have discomfort there.Chlamydia in the US by age and sex
Women may experience a notable augmentation in the excretion from the vaginal cavity, which is caused by an inflamed womb i.e. cervix. Additionally, they may also feel a painful sensation when they urinate and the same applies when they participate in sexual intercourse. Other red flags include aches in their lower abdominal area, specifically during sex and excessive bleeding during their periods.

In 2015, The Center for Disease Control stated that chlamydia ranked among the most reported STDs in the country, along with gonorrhea and syphilis (which we will discuss below). There were nearly 1.5 million cases of chlamydia, which was the highest number ever recorded by health care agencies across the United States.

Gonorrhea

Another popular sexually transmitted disease is Gonorrhea. It is a disconcerting STI since it can lead to infertility in both men and women. Fortunately, there is adequate treatment and preventative measures for this affliction, although scientists have recently discovered that a new strain of the ailment has emerged which has proven resistant to all antibiotics utilized by doctors.

Gonorrhea is also borne by a bacteria called Neisseria gonorrhoeae, which can infect the genital tract, mouth or anus. The disease can be contracted through vaginal, oral and anal sexual activity with a partner who is infected. Also, a pregnant woman may pass the condition onto their child during birth.

Gonorrhea in the male - a practical guide to its treatment (1911) (14593196220)
Gonorrhea in the human male
Youngsters accounted for 50% of all gonorrhea diagnosed in the United States in 2015. What is more disconcerting is the fact that a sharp increase in cases of gonorrhea has been observed in recent years. In the 2013-2015 period, cases increased on a year by year basis, leading up to almost four hundred thousand cases in 2015.

Syphilis

Another disease caused by bacteria, more specifically the Treponema pallidum, syphilis is spread by sexual contact with an infected person who has the syphilis lesion. When an individual comes into contact with open sores during sexual intercourse, the illness is disseminated from the affected person to their partner.

Syphilis affects the genital area, lips, and anus of both genders. The incubation period once the disease is transmitted lasts up to 90 days (3 months) with the average time being three weeks. That is when symptoms begin to manifest themselves. While some patients exhibit no signs of the ailment, others may have mild signals. Perhaps the most disconcerting cases of syphilis are those where the warning signs dissipate gradually but the bacteria is still present inside the individual’s body. In this instance, the presence of germs can cause issues at a later stage.

If left untreated, syphilis can even incite damage to the brain, nervous system and blood infections. There have also been unfortunate cases where syphilis has been fatal as well. Syphilis is a prevalent disease in the United States. For instance, in 2015, the rates of syphilis in both sexes showed considerable augmentation in every region of the country.

Initial stages of syphilis are identified by small and largely innocuous sores. These sores may induce an inflammation in the lymph nodes. If patients do not seek immediate medical attention, a skin rash may develop, usually on their hands and feet.

(Genital) Herpes

Herpes is a sexually transmitted disease that is caused by a virus called the herpes simplex virus (HSV). Genital herpes is a frequent STD that affects a multitude of people. An unsettling fact about herpes is that a high number of affected individuals are not aware that have the disease at all.

There is no discernible cure for herpes but scientists have devised a treatment that can abate the symptoms of herpes and also greatly diminish the chances of spreading the ailment on to others if the individual is sexually active.

There are two main forms of herpes. One is called the HSV 1 and it causes cold sores around the mouth and lips of the affected person. The other is known as HSV 2 and also causes cold sores around the genitals and rectum of patients, which is why it is aptly called genital herpes. The affected areas are used to distinguish between type 1 and type 2 herpes.

Herpes is known to create sores in the genital and rectal area, buttocks and thighs of those who contract the disease. It may be spread from engaging in vaginal, oral and anal sexual activity with an infected person. Additionally, the virus is capable of distribution even if sores are not apparent and akin to other sexually transmitted diseases, a mother may infect their children during childbirth.

If you feel you have a sexually transmitted disease, contact your medical professional immediately. If you feel you would like to learn more about STDs or have questions, you can contact the Planned Parenthood U.S. National Sexual Health Hotline at 1-800-230-PLAN (7526). 

What Does Eczema Entail?

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The word eczema is derived from a Greek term and its meaning can be interpreted as “to boil.” Eczema or atopic dermatitis as it is also known is an inflammatory condition of the skin, which makes its origin quite apt, since the patients may feel a boiling sensation if they contract this disease. It is essentially a change in the foremost layer of the skin which involves redness, blistering, scaling, and thickening, although not all of the above transpire contemporaneously.

The label atopic is used to depict conditions such as eczema, asthma, and rhinitis, all of which may have a genetic basis. This condition typically manifests in the first few weeks post birth. That makes it a common occurrence in children since at least 10% of infants develop the ailment at some stage. There are seldom cases where eczema may develop in adults as well.

Forms of Eczema

Eczema on the Hand
https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Eczema.png
There are several variations of eczema and we will highlight some of the most prevalent types below.

Atopic Dermatitis

First and foremost, we will focus on the most frequent archetype i.e. atopic dermatitis. Signs of this affliction generally appear in childhood and also get milder or completely subside as the patient ages. Dermatologists refer to atopic dermatitis as part of the atopic triad, which means it is one of three diseases, the other two being asthma and hay fever. The triumvirate is likely to affect patients simultaneously.

Rashes usually form in the creases of an individual’s elbows or knees and the affected skin is likely to change color and become thicker as well. If the eczema stains are scratched profusely, they may discharge fluid also. Infants usually get rashes on their scalp and cheeks. Atopic dermatitis happens when the skin’s natural fortification against elements such as irritants and allergens is depleted. This allows the aforementioned unwarranted agents to wreak havoc.

Contact Dermatitis

As the name suggests, contact dermatitis is caused by being exposed to substances that incite a reaction where the skin may aggravate and turn red. This form of eczema is divided into two main categories namely allergic contact dermatitis, which is an immune system reaction to irritants like metal and irritant contact dermatitis, which begins when agents like chemicals provoke the skin.

The patient’s skin generally turns red and stings considerably as well. Itchy bumps called hives may develop on the surface of the skin and so can blisters which might discharge fluids if grazed. If the illness is not treated, the patient’s skin may also thicken over time and feel scaly.

Dyshidrotic Eczema

Dyshidrotic eczema involves the nativity of small blisters on the patient’s hands and feet. It generally affects women more than men. Also, the condition can be gauged by the presence of blisters that develop on the individual’s fingers, toes, palms and the soles of their feet as well. Another attribute of these cysts is that they itch significantly.

Hand Eczema

Another title that is self-explanatory is hand eczema. The patient’s hands are the solitary part that is affected by this particular sickness. People who are employed in jobs like hairdressing and cleaning are more likely to catch hand eczema than the general public, since their hands may be subjected to products and chemicals that adversely affect their skin. Hand eczema is typified by red, itchy hand and cracks also.

Neurodermatitis

The fifth type of eczema is similar to atopic dermatitis. It causes the patient to develop dense and rough patches on their skin. These thick spots may appear on their arms, legs, nape, scalp, soles, and genitals as well. In a nutshell, neurodermatitis can cover almost all parts of the body. Besides, the affected skin is highly susceptible to episodes of itching, especially when the individual is composed or even asleep. Also, if patients respond to the itching by scratching the spots, it may bleed or worse, get infected.

Nummular Eczema

Nummular eczema is distinguished by the round spots that appear on the skin. These blemishes resemble coins, which is what nummular means in Latin. Besides the different appearance, nummular eczema also involves severe itching.

Stasis Dermatitis

The final classification of eczema is called stasis dermatitis. This transpires when there is a fluid discharge out of weaker veins into the patient’s skin. The fluid incites swelling, redness, and discomfort. In stasis dermatitis, the lower part of the legs may be inflamed, particularly when the patient is ambulatory during the day. As a result, the legs may feel heavy or ache considerably. A side effect of stasis dermatitis is that those affected may also develop varicose veins, which are damaged veins that appear blue when they are severed. The skin above the broken veins becomes considerably dry.

Complications

Naturally, there are instances where a bout of atopic eczema may flare up and cause further irritation. There are several determinants in the environment a patient inhabits that can cause negative reactions. These include exposure to heat and dust for example. Coming in direct contact with agents that irritate the skin, like a specific soap or detergent may incite an episode of eczema as well.

If the patient is already suffering from another ailment, even if it is minor like a common cold, it may end up making matter worse if they also suffer from an eczema attack. The latter is likely to flare up if the former is active.

Infections that are induced by the presence of bacteria or viruses can also create complexities. If the patient is subjected to the bacteria called Staphylococcus, which is an infection, then their skin may turn yellow and crusty. Likewise, cold sores or herpes simplex virus can cause eczema to flare and disseminate on to other parts of the body. Lastly, dryness and stress have also been known to agitate eczema cases.

Diagnosis

An eczema examination starts with the dermatologist, who is a skin specialist, analyzing the patient’s skin for symptoms. If they assume that the condition is active and bound to spread, they may conduct a patch test to corroborate its presence beyond a reasonable doubt.

The test involves patches that contain allergens being placed on the patient’s back. They are placed there for 48 hours before they can be removed. Once that happens, dermatologists are able to ascertain if there are signs of an allergic reaction.

In some cases, a biopsy may be carried out. This usually happens when specialists are not content with the outcome of a patch test. A skin lesion biopsy is scheduled to ensure that any health condition is not causing eczema. This procedure usually involves displacing a sample of the affected skin and sending it to the laboratory for conclusive trials.

Treatment

Eczema is not considered a dangerous disease, although the patient may be uncomfortable while they have it, but it can get worse with repeated scratching. There are several medications that provide aid and relief for eczema patients. For instance, there are multiple creams that control itching and help restore the skin to a state of normalcy. A corticosteroid cream may be prescribed by dermatologists. Calcineurin inhibitors may also be used by patients to minimize itching. These ointments must be applied after moisturizing the skin.

Moreover, specialists may also ask patients to consume oral antibiotics for a few days to treat the infection. In cases of extraordinary severity, doctors will prescribe oral corticosteroids such as prednisone for short-term use.

The Best Foods to Eat to Minimize High Blood Pressure

Fresh vegetables

In our previous articles, we have discussed hypertension in great detail, with periodic mention of the right foods to eat. In this article, we will elaborate on the proper diet to follow that will help maintain good blood pressure levels.

According to the numbers furnished by the American Heart Association, more than 100 million US citizens are currently suffering from high blood pressure. Experts call the condition of high blood pressure a quiet pathway to death. Many people affected by this circulatory system irregularity don’t consider it a disease. However, it is a gateway to multiple illnesses of the heart and other organs, such as the kidneys. Stroke is also one of the possible outcomes of high blood pressure. So, treating high blood pressure as a non-issue is not a healthy move by any means.

Pressure greater than 120 over 80 and less than 140 over 90 is considered normal levels. For anything higher, you should consult your physician, but as the commercial says: “The more you know, the better we look”, you can change that to The more you know, the better you will look (or feel), so let’s assemble some facts.

For starters, watch this great animated video of exactly what blood pressure is and what happens when it goes over the normal limits.

It is Not always in One’s Control (but could be)

It is important to mention that some of the risk factors associated with high blood pressure are not under our control. Age, genetics, family, and racial background play a key role in the prevalence of hypertension. However, aggravating this condition is surely in one’s hands. For instance, carelessness in dietary routine can make the matters worse for patients suffering from high blood pressure. Similarly, obesity and stagnant physical activity also add insult to injury.

Food to the Rescue

Here we will talk about how the right foods can help reduce your high blood pressure. As mentioned earlier, we can’t stop the process of aging. Nor do we have the capabilities to change our genetic makeup (at least not for now). Nevertheless, we can control and minimize high blood pressure through diet adjustments with the inclusion and exclusion of some food items. In this article, we will discuss some of these foods that can help in lowering high blood pressure.

Leafy Greens

Leafy Greens help reduce sodium in your body

Arterial blood pressure shoots up as sodium is being circulated in the blood. Therefore, try to consume foods that are not rich in sodium. With the inclusion of different leafy greens in your diet, you can get rid of excess sodium in circulation through urine.

Potassium, which is abundantly present in leafy green vegetables, actually helps in driving out extra sodium from the body. Kale, lettuce, spinach, turnip greens, beet greens, arugula, and Swiss chard are some of the easily available leafy greens that you can add to your staple diet to minimize high blood pressure. Try to get fresh greens instead of the canned ones because the latter are often processed with sodium for flavor enhancement. Leafy greens also help in weight management since they only contain good nutrients.

NOTE: It should be noted that people who are on blood thinners, such as coumadin and other medications should consult their physician if it is OK to eat these vegetables.

Berries

Strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries look and taste good. But more importantly, their regular use also results in lowering high blood pressure. As per research studies, the pigment (flavonoids) present in berry fruits help in normalizing blood pressure. You can easily get any of the berries all through the year. Hypertension patients who are not suffering from type-2 diabetes can add fresh berries to their daily breakfast cereals or just eat them as a natural dessert for their health benefits.

Skim Milk

Dairy products are an essential part of our staple diets. A little adjustment in their consumption can prove to be beneficial in lowering down blood pressure. Instead of using full cream milk, opt for skim milk that is low in fat and high in calcium. It has been studied that the continuous use of skim milk can reduce the chances of developing the issue of hypertension by 20 percent in the female population.

Aside from its benefits against hypertension, skim milk is good against many other physical ailments including obesity. People who can’t consume milk in its pure form can go for yogurt as an alternative.

Oatmeal

Oatmeal is widely used as a standard breakfast meal. It is rich in fiber, low in sodium and fats, and thus healthy for people suffering from high blood pressure. Its good satiety value also helps individuals who are embroiled in the bad habit of excessive eating.  

Seafood

SalmonThere are many among us who love meat-based meals in our daily dietary routine. However, people suffering from hypertension shouldn’t go overboard with the use of red meat.  Excessive use of beef and pork is strongly linked to high blood pressure. So, all those individuals who are vying to lower their blood pressure, but also don’t want to stick to a vegetarian diet can include seafood in their meals.

There are some fish meats (Salmon and mackerel) that proactively help in reducing high blood pressure because they are rich in omega-3 fatty acids. The addition of seafood to your daily diet will fulfill your need for proteins while maintaining lower blood pressure.

Bananas

Cavendish banana from MaracaiboAs mentioned earlier, potassium-rich foods help in offsetting the negative effects of sodium in the body. So, the addition of any potassium-rich food item can eventually help in minimizing blood pressure. They are easily available and you can eat them at any time of the day.

Garlic

Garlic is a root vegetable that is usually used as a flavor enhancer in the preparation of many meals. But some recent studies suggest that the constant use of garlic can indirectly help in reducing the condition of hypertension. Garlic contains traces of nitric oxide. Scientists have studied that the presence of nitric oxide in the body is attributed to vasodilatation. To put it in simple words, nitric oxide increases the arterial diameter which cancels out the increased value of blood pressure.

Olive Oil

Olive oil, in general, is considered a healthy substitute for palm and other cooking oil variants. In addition, the use of olive oil also results in lowering blood pressure with its polyphenol action. Polyphenols are compounds that can resist inflammatory reactions and in so doing, help in lowering blood pressure.

Besides leafy greens, berries, seafood, bananas, and garlic, unsalted seeds, and pomegranate are also known for their physiological effects in reducing blood pressure, but if you really want to remain healthy, put the brakes on the excessive use of salt and alcohol.

Preventing High Blood Pressure and its Related Health Consequences

Heart Attack With no symptoms, high blood pressure (HBP) can sneak up on a person and escalate to any number of diseases that could cause result in death.

Without being tested for HBP by a healthcare professional, a patient might never know that HBP, also called hypertension, may be damaging his/her arteries, heart, and other organs.

A recent study from the American Heart Association found that keeping systolic blood pressure below 140  mmHg reduces the risk of stroke for people age 60 years and older. The study looked at the new systolic blood pressure target, which was 150 mmHg as recommended for older people who don’t have chronic kidney disease or diabetes, but determined that raising the target could put the population at a greater risk of stroke.

“We started this analysis very soon after [the JAMA paper] came out … because we were concerned about the recommendation’s potential effect on stroke prevention,” study author Ralph L. Sacco, MD, professor, and chair of neurology at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, said in a statement.

Diagram of the Human Heart
The study looked at 1,750 people who were free of stroke, diabetes, and chronic kidney disease. Participants with a systolic blood pressure of 140 to 149 mmHg had an elevated stroke risk that was equal to participants with systolic blood pressure greater than 150 mmHg. And the risk of increased stroke was most notable among Hispanics and blacks.

According to Dr Sacco, more aggressive treatment of blood pressure, especially among blacks and Hispanics, is even more critical. He added that the findings support the American Heart Association’s guidelines that call for treating blood pressure that is above 140 mmHg.  

“The findings suggest one should not liberalize or change the treatment threshold for blood pressure in people older than 60 without chronic kidney disease or diabetes,” Dr. Sacco said. “For stroke prevention, maintaining a blood pressure target of 140 mmHg is important.”

Blausen 0486 HighBloodPressure 01HBP does not have any symptoms except in the extreme case of a hypertensive crisis. However, there are many misconceptions. For example, there is no actual evidence that HBP causes headaches.

In addition, nervousness, sweating, difficulty sleeping, and facial flushing are not signs of HBP either. Other symptoms that are sometimes thought to be signs of HBP, but have no scientific link, include nosebleeds, blood spots in the eyes, and dizziness.

Don’t wait for symptoms before taking care to prevent or get diagnosed with high blood pressure. Left untreated, hypertension can cause heart attacks, heart disease, heart failure, stroke, vision loss, memory loss, and kidney disease, among other health consequences.

Getting diagnosed is quick and painless—healthcare professionals use a blood pressure monitor, a cuff placed on the upper arm and inflated. The cuff momentarily stops blood flow, then slowly releases. Optimal blood pressure is less than 120/80 mm Hg.

Some patients are at a higher risk of developing HBP. Certain groups have a higher risk—for instance, African Americans have a higher risk than other racial groups and after age 65, women are more likely to have HBP than men.

Risk factors for developing hypertension include family history, advanced age, lack of physical activity, poor diet and a diet high in salt, being overweight or obese, heavy and regular use of alcohol, stress, smoking, and sleep apnea.

However, some of the factors can be controlled. While there isn’t much that can be done about family history, race, or age, the other risk factors can be treated.

Wheat Grain in a FieldIf you are diagnosed with HBP, medication is not the only method that can reduce high blood pressure. Losing weight (even as little as 10 pounds); exercising regularly (at least 30 minutes multiple days a week); eating a diet rich in whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and low-fat dairy products; reducing alcohol intake; quitting smoking; and either limiting or better coping with stress are all factors that are under your control. So why wait? With a little willpower, you can make these changes!  

Bone Marrow Transplantation

Bone marrow is a soft, gelatinous tissue that resides in the centers of a person’s bones. When diseases such as leukemia, lymphoma and sickle cell anemia inhibit the functionality of the bone marrow, a transplant of healthy marrow could be the best treatment option; for some patients, it is the only cure.

619 Red and Yellow Bone Marrow
A bone marrow transplant is a surgical procedure necessary to replace a damaged bone marrow that has been affected by a disease, infection or in rare cases, chemotherapy. The actual process involves the relocation of stem cells, which are spread to the bone marrow. They are meant to help in the creation of new blood cells and encourage the growth of a new marrow.

Definition

The bone marrow is fatty tissue that is found inside the bones. It is significant since it creates a number of agents for the blood that is distributed throughout the human body. Red blood cells are cells which distribute oxygen and nutrients that are vital to all parts of the body. White blood cells are meant to combat disease whereas platelets are important for the formation of clots.

Furthermore, a bone marrow also consists of undeveloped blood cells, also known as hematopoietic stem cells (HSC). Most of these cells are not alike in nature and only exist for duplication.

More specifically, if these cells are damaged, then a bone marrow transplant may be administered. The surgery will introduce healthy blood cells and oust impaired ones. A transplantation will enable the patient’s body to function properly again. For instance, the body will be able to produce sufficient red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets if their bone marrow transplant is successful.

There are two ways of obtaining healthy stem cells. The first method is through a donor while the second includes acquiring them from within the patient’s own body. In the latter scenario, stem cells can be harvested if need be. For example, if the patient is suffering from cancer and is scheduled to undergo chemotherapy or radiation, then harvesting stem cells becomes mandatory.

procedure of Bone Marrow.

Objective

Now that we understand what a bone marrow transplant involves, we can assess cases where the performance of a transplant may be necessary. Generally, a bone marrow transplant becomes mandatory when the existing marrow is unable to function adequately.

Reasons for a transplant include aplastic anemia. This is a disorder where the marrow no longer produces new blood cells. In addition, there are several types of cancers that can have an impact on the bone marrow too. Leukemia, lymphoma and multiple myeloma are relevant examples that make a transplant necessary.

Also, as we mentioned earlier, chemotherapy is also another possibility where a bone marrow transplant may be needed. There are cases where the bone marrow may erode since the body is in a weakened state during chemotherapy. The same rules apply to radiation as well.

Moreover, congenital neutropenia, a hereditary disorder in which the patient develops multiple illnesses, is another potential reason for a transplant to be conducted. So is sickle cell anemia, which is also inherited genetically and involves the presence of distorted red blood cells.

Finally, thalassemia is yet another case which may require bone marrow transplantation. When the body develops an abnormal form of hemoglobin, which is a vital component of healthy red blood cells, then that means the individual is suffering from thalassemia and needs surgery.

Types

Prior to surgery, a patient must undergo chemotherapy or radiation, depending on the requirement. This is determined by two distinct methods, the first of which is called Ablative (myeloablative) treatment.

This occurs when a high dosage of chemotherapy is administered. It is typically accompanied by radiation also. The treatment is done to eradicate the presence of cancerous cells in the body. A side effect of ablative treatment is that all the bone marrow that is healthy is also eliminated, which is why a transplant becomes mandatory once chemotherapy is completed.

The other method is called Reduced Intensity treatment (mini-transplant). In essence, this is the opposite of ablative treatment and the patient is exposed to lower doses of chemotherapy and radiation. This procedure is meant to cater to older individuals or patients whose bodies may not respond well to ablative treatment.

Additionally, there are also two basic classifications of bone marrow transplantation, which are stated as follows:

Bone Marrow Transplant

Autologous Bone Marrow Transplant

The transplanted stem cells originate from the body of a child who undergoes the procedure. Once the cells are obtained, surgeons store them safely. Then, these stem cells are inserted back into the affected child’s body when the destructive cells are removed through another procedure.

In case the child undergoes an autologous transplant, a donor is not required. Instead, the child’s own stem cells are used. They are exposed to bone marrow harvesting or stem cell mobilization before the actual transplant takes place.

The main advantage of using a child’s own stem cells is that they are no serious consequences such as graft versus host disease. This transpires when white blood cells are fighting against a child’s healthy cells. This happens because the cells may be donated by another person and do not agree with the child’s body.

Allogeneic Bone Marrow Transplant

Naturally, there are certain diseases which warrant stem cells to be used by a donor. This process is called an allogeneic transplant. This may prove to be a viable alternative for patients as well. Allow us to demonstrate why.

If the cells found inside the child’s body are considerably affected, then there is no likelihood that they may be replaced at a later stage. When the stem cells are beyond repair, an allogeneic transplant is a logical conclusion.

Likewise, stem cells which are donated may be more accustomed to eradicate the patient’s impacted cells. These are just some examples where undergoing an allogeneic transplantation can increase a child’s chances of being healthy in the long run.

However, the procedure is conditional. An allogeneic transplant is a riskier proposition in contrast to autologous transplants. This is because the cells of a donor and the recipient may not mix well at all, which can result in graft versus hold disease in the child. The feasible option in this instance is to locate a donor who is related to the child. For example, using stem cells from a parent or sibling can yield better results once the surgery is complete.

Hodgkin’s Disease

”Hodgkins Sign"
Photo by Sohel_Parvez_Haque – yayimages.com

What exactly is Hodgkin disease? For starters, it is a form of cancer that impacts the lymphatic system, which is an integral component of the immune system.  It is also known as Hodgkin Lymphoma. 

Description of Hodgkin’s Lymphoma

The advent of abnormal cell growth signals the beginning of this disease. Once they expand beyond a required level, they begin to spread. Lymphomas are cancers that start in white blood cells known as lymphocytes. In essence, there are two fundamental types of lymphoma i.e. Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma (less common). Cells in the lymphatic system exhibit abnormal growth and can spread beyond its capacity. It is most common in adults between 20 and 40 years of age.

What is a Lymphoma?

To gain satisfactory knowledge of Hodgkin’s, it is imperative to grasp what lymphoma is. Only when we comprehend the latter can we begin to understand this disease better. The lymphatic system is part of the body’s immune system, which is designed to tackle infections and ailments. (You may have heard of them as lymph nodes). Another function of the lymph system is that it aids the flow of fluids throughout the body.

The lymph system is mainly comprised of cells called lymphocytes. This is a kind of white blood cell. In total, there are two basic lymphocytes:

  1. B lymphocytes (B cells): These establish proteins called antibodies to safeguard the body from the presence of germs, bacteria and the like
  2. T lymphocytes (T cells): These are more complex and there are different types of T cells inside the body. While some perform the function of obliterating viruses and abnormal cells in the body, others help boost the activity of immune system cells.

Hodgkin’s lymphoma usually occurs in B cells.

The Formation of Hodgkin’s Lymphoma

Diagram showing the lymph nodes lymphoma most commonly develops in CRUK 311Unfortunately, lymph tissues are found in multiple parts of the human body, which means Hodgkin’s can begin anywhere.

Let’s focus on the most likely locations where the disease can manifest itself.

Lymph nodes

These nodes are the size of a bean and are essentially a collection of lymphocytes and other cells spread throughout the body including areas such as the chest, abdomen, and pelvis. A network of lymphatic vessels connects these together. The existence of lymph nodes is normal, but if they swell, this may indicate inflammation or an infection.  

Spleen

The spleen is an organ that is situated beneath the lower ribs on the left-hand side of the body. They make lymphocytes and other immune system cells. The spleen also has a cache of healthy blood cells while filtering damaged ones. It also refines bacteria and wastage from cells.

Bone Marrow

This is a sponge-like tissue that is found inside specific bones. The development of brand new blood cells is conducted in the bone marrow.

Thymus

The thymus is a small organ behind the upper breastbone and in front of the cardiac organ. It is significant since it aids the development of T lymphocytes.

Adenoids & Tonsils

Both the labels given above represent an accumulation of lymphoid tissues at the back of the throat i.e. pharynx. They are designed to keep antibodies at bay and encourage the fight against all sorts of germs that are either breathed in via the nose or swallowed through the mouth.

Digestive Tract

The stomach, intestine and other organs in the digestive system and adjoining areas also contain lymph tissues.

Various Kinds of Hodgkin’s Lymphoma

Hodgkin lymphoma cytology large
Micrograph of Hodgkin lymphoma abbreviated HL. Lymph node FNA specimen. Wikipedia
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Hodgkin’s is divided into two main categories, namely Classical Hodgkin Lymphoma and Nodular lymphocyte predominant type, respectively.

Classical Hodgkin Lymphoma

This is the most frequent form and makes up the vast majority of cases that are diagnosed by doctors. There are four main types of classical cases, all of which contain abnormal cells called Reed-Sternberg cells. They are B cells that can turn cancerous.

  1. Nodular Sclerosing is the most common out of the four. It occurs particularly in young adults and can be detected at an early stage since patients develop an inflammation in their neck owing to their lymph nodes becoming enlarged.
  2. Mixed cellularity can affect groups of lymph nodes, which contain a blend of lymphocytes and other types of blood cells.
  3. Lymphocyte-rich is the third type and generally looks quite small compared to others. In fact, a microscopic view is required to determine whether the patient has this type of lymphoma or not.
  4. Lymphocyte depleted is the final kind and is quite rare relatively speaking. The lymph nodes can contain ample fibrous tissues with a scarcity of Reed-Sternberg cells.

Nodular Lymphocyte Predominant

According to research, only 10% of Hodgkin’s lymphoma cases are of the nodular variety. It is more likely to affect older people as opposed to younger ones. The decisive difference between Classical and Nodular type is that the latter involves the presence of meager Reed-Sternberg cells. However, other abnormal cells which doctors refer to as popcorn cells are present in this case. It occurs only in one type of lymph node when it is diagnosed, which means it is a localized disease. The growth of this type is more gradual when compared to the classical disease.

Hodgkin Lymphoma Treatment

The treatment is contingent on the stage of the disease. Chemotherapy and radiation are required in all cases. Chemotherapy involves the use of medications that expunge cancerous cells. These drugs can be administered orally or injected through specific veins. On the other hand, radiation includes a high energy beam to wipe out cancer cells. Both procedures are arduous and can take a considerable toll on the patient.

Moreover, there are cases where radiation therapy is sufficient in dealing with Hodgkin’s lymphoma. If the patient has Nodular lymphocyte, then radiation is preferred since the dissemination of the cells is slower as compared to Classical type. Immunotherapy or stem cell transplantation can also be used in many cases if the body does not respond well to chemotherapy or radiation.

What Happens When a Person Gets Glaucoma?

digital composition of an eye
digital composition of an eye

Glaucoma is a group of diseases that cause damage to the eye’s optic nerve and can ultimately result in loss of vision and blindness. Extensive research has indicated that eye pressure is an important element when it comes to glaucoma. It is a major risk factor for optic nerve damage. Glaucoma has been dubbed the silent thief of sight.

Process

Schematic diagram of the human eye
creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0 )

The front of the eye has a space which is called the anterior chamber. A transparent fluid travels constantly in and out of the chamber and serves as nourishment for tissues that are in close proximity.

The fluid departs the chamber at an open angle where the cornea and iris meet. Once the fluid reaches this angle, it flows through a spongy meshwork and leaves the eye.

Glaucoma occurs when this fluid passes lethargically via the drain. Eventually, there is an assembly of fluid in the passage, which means it exerts pressure inside the eye up to a point where it can impair the optic nerve. When damage is inflicted on the nerve, glaucoma, and loss of vision abound. This is precisely why governing the pressure inside the eye is so critical.

Types

The broad categories of glaucoma are open-angle and narrow-angle glaucoma. The ‘angle’ is a reference to the drainage angle inside the eye which controls the discharge of fluids (aqueous), which are continually produced in the eye.

If the aqueous reaches the drainage angle, the glaucoma is known as open-angle. If for some reason the angle is not accessible, then that is classified as narrow-angle glaucoma. Now let’s discuss the various subtypes.

Primary Open Angle Glaucoma

This is a common occurrence that steadily lowers the person’s capability of peripheral vision without the exhibition of other symptoms. A concern for those affected is that by the time they observe it or their doctor is able to detect it, significant and irreparable damage may already be caused.

If the patient’s intraocular pressure remains high, the havoc wreaked by primary open-angle glaucoma may carry on until tunnel vision is developed. This means there may be a point where the patient is only able to see people or objects that lie straight ahead and not sideways. The concern of eventuality is that blindness may transpire as well.

Normal-Tension Glaucoma

Also called normal pressure or low tension glaucoma, it is an open-angle affliction. It instigates visual field loss since the optic nerve is at a detriment. However, patients who have normal-tension glaucoma do not experience a decline in their intraocular pressure levels.

Furthermore, this form of glaucoma is innocuous, and permanent harm may not be noticed until symptoms like tunnel vision occur. Although many doctors believe it is linked to inefficient blood flow to the optic nerve, the exact cause of normal-tension glaucoma has not been determined yet.

Pigmentary Glaucoma

This is a rare form of glaucoma that is the outcome of congestion of the drainage angle of the eye courtesy of pigments that have severed from the iris. This reduces the aqueous outflow from the eye over a period of time. Naturally, an inflammatory response to the blockage causes disturbance to the drainage mechanism.

Secondary Glaucoma

If the patient shows symptoms of chronic glaucoma in the aftermath of an eye injury, then that could be a sign that they are suffering from secondary glaucoma. This may also develop if an eye infection is active or if there is discernible inflammation. A cataract may result in an enlargement of the lens, which could end up causing secondary glaucoma as well.

Congenital Glaucoma

Congenital glaucoma is an inherited form which means it may make its presence felt at birth. There is empirical evidence to suggest so since 80% of cases are diagnosed by the time a child is one year old. These children have a malfunctioning drainage system in their eyes.

Moreover, it can be hard to observe signals of congenital glaucoma, since children are too young to comprehend the illness and voice their own opinion regarding the matter. This is where the parents play a decisive role. If they notice that their child’s eye appears hazy or enlarged, they should consult a doctor at the first instance.

Acute Angle Closure Glaucoma

Finally, this is a form of narrow-angle glaucoma. This ailment produces symptoms abruptly which include pain in the eye, headaches, halos around lighting, dilated pupils, and nausea. All of the above constitute a medical emergency. Acute angle glaucoma may last for a few hours at a stretch and then subside. It may reappear for another bout. In extreme cases, it may last long without even momentary relief.

Treatments

Close up photo of a hazel eye
Photo by Jordan Whitfield on Unsplash

If treatment is availed promptly, at the very least it can stem the progression of the disease. This is one of the reasons patients should see a doctor as soon as possible. Of course, medication is a viable solution for rectifying glaucoma. These usually come in eye drops or pills. Also, they are generally administered early on before other avenues are explored. They can lower eye pressure and hinder the production of excess fluids.

Most medicines taken to cure glaucoma must be taken consistently as directed by the professional. There are some that introduce side effects, such as a stinging sensation or recognizable redness in the eyes.

Laser trabeculoplasty is a procedure that aids the eyes in draining out abundant fluids. The operation is performed at the doctor’s clinic. It begins with the application of numbing drops to the affected eye or eyes. Once the patient is seated and facing the laser machine, the doctor exposes them to a special lens. A high-density beam is aimed through the lens and deflects onto the meshwork inside the eyes. The laser creates space for the fluids to drain more efficiently. There are potential side effects of laser trabeculoplasty, one of which is inflammation. Medication may still be required post-surgery.

Another feasible resort is conventional surgery. This procedure creates a new passage for the fluids to be discharged. Doctors may suggest this treatment if laser surgery is not considered effective, depending on the case at hand.

Also called trabeculectomy, it is performed in an operating room. Medication is administered pre-surgery to assuage the patient. Small injections are made around the affected eye to numb it. A small tissue is removed to make a new avenue for the fluid to flow.

Once the surgery is complete, eye drops must be taken for weeks. In most cases, the operation is only carried out on one eye. If the other eye is affected, then another surgery will be scheduled a few weeks later. Conventional surgery is effective in roughly 70% of all cases.

Make sure you make responsible visits to your optometrist. Like all other types of routine doctor visits, don’t lose sight of your eye’s health (pun intended!).