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Ailmemts & Remedies

Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV)

Common Name: BPPV

Description:
Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) is one of the most common causes of vertigo — the sudden sensation that some one spinning or that the inside of head is spinning.

BPPV causes brief episodes of mild to intense dizziness. It is usually triggered by specific changes in one’s head position. This might occur when he or she tips head up or down, when lie down, or when turn over or sit up in bed.

Although BPPV can be bothersome, it’s rarely serious except when it increases the chance of falls. One can receive effective treatment for BPPV during a doctor’s office visit.

BPPV can affect people of all ages but is most common in people over the age of 60.
Most patients can be effectively treated with physical therapy. In rare cases, the symptoms can last for years.

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Symtoms:
People with BPPV can experience a spinning sensation — vertigo — any time there is a change in the position of the head.

The symptoms can be very distressing. People can fall out of bed or lose their balance when they get up from bed and try to walk. If they tilt their head back or forward while walking, they may even fall, risking injury. Vertigo can cause the person to feel quite ill with nausea and vomiting tendensis.

While the hallmark of BPPV is vertigo associated with changes in head position, many people with BPPV also feel a mild degree of unsteadiness in between their recurrent attacks of positional vertigo.

The onset of BPPV may be abrupt and frightening. People may think they are seriously ill; for example, they may fear they are having a stroke. A doctor’s diagnosis of BPPV can be reassuring, especially when people understand that help is available to relieve their symptoms.

Without treatment, the usual course of the illness is lessening of symptoms over a period of days to weeks, and sometimes there is spontaneous resolution of the condition. In rare cases, the person’s symptoms can last for years.

In many people, especially older adults, there is no specific event that causes BPPV to occur, but there are some things that may bring on an attack:

*Mild to severe head trauma

*Keeping the head in the same position for a long time, such as in the dentist chair, at the beauty salon or during strict bed rest

*Bike riding on rough trails

*High intensity aerobics

*Other inner ear disease (ischemic, inflammatory, infectious)

Causes:
BPPV occurs when tiny calcium crystals called otoconia come loose from their normal location on the utricle, a sensory organ in the inner ear.

If the crystals become detached, they can flow freely in the fluid-filled spaces of the inner ear, including the semicircular canals (SCC) that sense the rotation of the head. Otoconia will occasionally drift into one of the SCCs, usually the posterior SCC given its orientation relative to gravity at the lowest part of the inner ear.

The otoconia will not cause a problem when located in an SCC until the person’s head changes position, such as when looking up or down, going from lying to seated or lying to seated in bed, or when rolling over in bed. The otoconia move to the lowest part of the canal, which causes the fluid to flow within the SCC, stimulating the balance (eighth cranial) nerve and causing vertigo and jumping eyes (nystagmus).

Risk factors:
Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo occurs most often in people age 60 and older, but can occur at any age. BPPV is also more common in women than in men. A head injury or any other disorder of the balance organs of your ear may make you more susceptible to BPPV.

Complications:
Although BPPV is uncomfortable, it rarely causes complications. The dizziness of BPPV can make a person unsteady, which may put him or her at greater risk of falling.

Diagnosis:
The doctor may do a series of tests to determine the cause of your dizziness. During a physical exam, the doctor will likely look for:

*Signs and symptoms of dizziness that are prompted by eye or head movements and then decrease in less than one minute

*Dizziness with specific eye movements that occur when you lie on your back with your head turned to one side and tipped slightly over the edge of the examination bed

*Involuntary movements of the person’s eyes from side to side

*Inability to control the eye movements

If the doctor can’t find the cause of your signs and symptoms, he or she may order additional testing, such as:

*Electronystagmography (ENG) or videonystagmography (VNG). The purpose of these tests is to detect abnormal eye movement. ENG (which uses electrodes) or VNG (which uses small cameras) can help determine if dizziness is due to inner ear disease by measuring involuntary eye movements while your head is placed in different positions or your balance organs are stimulated with water or air.

*Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). This test uses a magnetic field and radio waves to create cross-sectional images of your head and body. Your doctor can use these images to identify and diagnose a range of conditions. MRI may be performed to rule out other possible causes of vertigo.

Treatments:
Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo may go away on its own within a few weeks or months. But, to help relieve BPPV sooner, the doctor, audiologist or physical therapist may treat the person with a series of movements known as the canalith repositioning procedure.

Canalith repositioning:

This can be performed in doctor’s office, the canalith repositioning procedure consists of several simple and slow maneuvers for positioning your head. The goal is to move particles from the fluid-filled semicircular canals of inner ear into a tiny baglike open area (vestibule) that houses one of the otolith organs in the ear, where these particles don’t cause trouble and are more easily resorbed.

Each position is held for about 30 seconds after any symptoms or abnormal eye movements stop. This procedure usually works after one or two treatments.

The doctor will likely teach the person how to perform the procedure on oneself so that he or she can do it at home if needed.

Surgical alternative:
In rare situations when the canalith repositioning procedure doesn’t work, the doctor may recommend a surgical procedure. In this procedure, a bone plug is used to block the portion of the inner ear that’s causing dizziness. The plug prevents the semicircular canal in the ear from being able to respond to particle movements or head movements in general. The success rate for canal plugging surgery is about 90%.

But the sergical option is needed in very very rare cases.

Medication:
The use of medication in treating vestibular disorders depends on whether the vestibular system dysfunction is in an initial or acute phase (lasting up to 5 days) or chronic phase (ongoing). Pharmacological treatments may be used to control symptoms, accelerate central compensation, and diminish psychological comorbidity.

AYURVEDIC TREATMENT: Some effective herbs tried in vertigo: Ginger Coriander Lemongrass – helps to treat nausea and dizziness, effective in vertigo. Herbal tea prepared with lemongrass is highly effective. It will relieve the symptoms within few minutes of onset. Cayenne – contains a chemical called capsaicin which helps enhance blood flow in your brain.

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Exercises:
The home Epley maneuver is a type of exercise help that helps to treat the symptoms of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV).One can do this exercise at home. BPPV is caused by a problem in your inner ear.

Semont Maneuver:
*Sit on the edge of your bed. Turn your head 45 degrees to the right.

*Quickly lie down on your left side. Stay there for 30 seconds.

*Quickly move to lie down on the opposite end of your bed. …

*Return slowly to sitting and wait a few minutes.

*Reverse these moves for the right ear.

Yoga therapy :
There are several types of yoga poses, or asanas: meditative, cultural, and therapeutic poses.

Meditation helps to calm the mind and reduce anxiety. Because stress is a trigger for many vestibular patients, reducing stress can also help to minimize symptoms like dizziness and vertigo. Controlled breathing, or pranayama, is a tool that can help you control your energy level, reduce stress, increase your endurance and reduce your anxiety.

Cultural asanas are so named because they play a central role in forming a comprehensive physical culture of exercise and general well-being. Cultural asanas are sub-divided into physical asanas and relaxative asanas. Physical asanas greatly assist in rendering the body healthy, while relaxative asanas work on the Chitta (the understated aspect of consciousness) level, eliminating physical and mental tension.

Certain therapeutic poses can be helpful for different ailments, like imbalance, dizziness, diabetes, arthritis, or back pain. Yoga can be considered “therapeutic” when poses are adjusted to fit the unique needs of the practitioner. Some yoga classes are designed for special groups with unique needs, such as people with balance issues.

Disclaimer: This information is not meant to be a substitute for professional medical advise or help. It is always best to consult with a Physician about serious health concerns. This information is in no way intended to diagnose or prescribe remedies.This is purely for educational purpose.

Help taken from:
https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/benign-paroxysmal-positional-vertigo-bppv

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/vertigo/symptoms-causes/syc-20370055#:~:text=Benign%20paroxysmal%20positional%20vertigo%20(BPPV)%20is%20one%20of%20the%20most,changes%20in%20your%20head’s%20position.
Categories
Ailmemts & Remedies

OMICRON VIIRUS

DESCRIPTION:
On 26 November 2021, WHO designated the variant B.1.1.529 a variant of concern, named Omicron, on the advice of WHO’s Technical Advisory Group on Virus Evolution (TAG-VE). This decision was based on the evidence presented to the TAG-VE that Omicron has several mutations that may have an impact on how it behaves, for example, on how easily it spreads or the severity of illness it causes. Here is a summary of what is currently known.

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Researchers in South Africa and around the world are conducting studies to better understand many aspects of Omicron and will continue to share the findings of these studies as they become available.

TRANSMISSIBILITY: It is not yet clear whether Omicron is more transmissible (e.g., more easily spread from person to person) compared to other variants, including Delta. The number of people testing positive has risen in areas of South Africa affected by this variant, but epidemiologic studies are underway to understand if it is because of Omicron or other factors.

SEVERITY OF THE DISEAS: It is not yet clear whether infection with Omicron causes more severe disease compared to infections with other variants, including Delta. Preliminary data suggests that there are increasing rates of hospitalization in South Africa, but this may be due to increasing overall numbers of people becoming infected, rather than a result of specific infection with Omicron. There is currently no information to suggest that symptoms associated with Omicron are different from those from other variants. Initial reported infections were among university students—younger individuals who tend to have more mild disease—but understanding the level of severity of the Omicron variant will take days to several weeks. All variants of COVID-19, including the Delta variant that is dominant worldwide, can cause severe disease or death, in particular for the most vulnerable people, and thus prevention is always key.

EFFECTIVENESS OF PRIORSARS-CoV-2 INFECTION:
Preliminary evidence suggests there may be an increased risk of reinfection with Omicron (ie, people who have previously had COVID-19 could become reinfected more easily with Omicron), as compared to other variants of concern, but information is limited. More information on this will become available in the coming days and weeks.

EFFECTIVENESS OF CURRENT VACCINES: WHO is working with technical partners to understand the potential impact of this variant on our existing countermeasures, including vaccines. Vaccines remain critical to reducing severe disease and death, including against the dominant circulating variant, Delta. Current vaccines remain effective against severe disease and death.

EFFECTIVENESS OF CURRENT TESTS:: The widely used PCR tests continue to detect infection, including infection with Omicron, as we have seen with other variants as well. Studies are ongoing to determine whether there is any impact on other types of tests, including rapid antigen detection tests.

EFFECTIVENESS OF CURRENT AVAILABLE TREATMENTS: Corticosteroids and IL6 Receptor Blockers will still be effective for managing patients with severe COVID-19. Other treatments will be assessed to see if they are still as effective given the changes to parts of the virus in the Omicron variant.

STUDIES ON WAY:
At the present time, WHO is coordinating with a large number of researchers around the world to better understand Omicron. Studies currently underway or underway shortly include assessments of transmissibility, severity of infection (including symptoms), performance of vaccines and diagnostic tests, and effectiveness of treatments.

WHO encourages countries to contribute the collection and sharing of hospitalized patient data through the WHO COVID-19 Clinical Data Platform to rapidly describe clinical characteristics and patient outcomes.

More information will emerge in the coming days and weeks. WHO’s TAG-VE will continue to monitor and evaluate the data as it becomes available and assess how mutations in Omicron alter the behaviour of the virus.

On 26 November 2021, WHO designated the variant B.1.1.529 a variant of concern, named Omicron, on the advice of WHO’s Technical Advisory Group on Virus Evolution (TAG-VE). This decision was based on the evidence presented to the TAG-VE that Omicron has several mutations that may have an impact on how it behaves, for example, on how easily it spreads or the severity of illness it causes. Here is a summary of what is currently known.

RECOMENDED ACTIONS FOR PEOPLE:

The most effective steps individuals can take to reduce the spread of the COVID-19 virus is to keep a physical distance of at least 1 metre from others; wear a well-fitting mask; open windows to improve ventilation; avoid poorly ventilated or crowded spaces; keep hands clean; cough or sneeze into a bent elbow or tissue; and get vaccinated when it’s their turn.

WHO will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available, including following meetings of the TAG-VE. In addition, information will be available on WHO’s digital and social media platforms.

Resources:
Update on Omicron by WHO (https://www.who.int/news/item/28-11-2021-update-on-omicron)

Categories
Ailmemts & Remedies

Subdural haematoma

Other names : Subdural hemorrhage or intracranial hematoma. More broadly, it is also a type of traumatic brain injury (TBI).

Description:
A subdural hematoma (SDH) is a type of bleeding in which a collection of blood—usually associated with a traumatic brain injury—gathers between the inner layer of the dura mater and the arachnoid mater of the meninges surrounding the brain. It usually results from tears in bridging veins that cross the subdural space.

Subdural hematomas may cause an increase in the pressure inside the skull, which in turn can cause compression of and damage to delicate brain tissue. Acute subdural hematomas are often life-threatening. Chronic subdural hematomas have a better prognosis if properly managed.

In contrast, epidural hematomas are usually caused by tears in arteries, resulting in a build-up of blood between the dura mater and the skull. The third type of brain hemorrhage, known as a subarachnoid hemorrhage, causes bleeding into the subarachnoid space between the arachnoid mater and the pia mater.

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Types:

Acute: This is the most dangerous type of subdural hematoma. Symptoms are severe and appear right after a head injury, often within minutes to hours. Pressure on the brain increases quickly as the blood pools. If not diagnosed and treated quickly, you could lose consciousness, become paralyzed or even die.

Subacute: Symptoms usually appear hours to days or even weeks after the head injury. A subacute subdural hematoma can occur with a concussion.

Chronic: This type of hematoma is more common in older people. Bleeding occurs slowly and symptoms may not appear for weeks or months. Even minor head injuries can cause chronic subdural hematomas. Due to the delay in developing symptoms, an older person may not even recall how their head injury happened. Also, the changes can be so subtle and occur so slowly that symptoms may not be noticed by the older person or their friends or family.

Symptoms:
*Headache that doesn’t go away. (Headache is usually severe in the case of acute subdural hematoma.)
Confusion and drowsiness.

*Nausea and vomiting.

*Slurred speech and changes in vision.

*Dizziness, loss of balance, difficulty walking.

*Weakness on one side of the body.

*Memory loss, disorientation, and personality changes, especially in older adults with chronic subdural hematoma.

*Enlarged head in babies, whose soft skulls can enlarge as blood collects.

As bleeding continues and the pressure in the brain increases, symptoms can get worse. Symptoms, at this point, include:

*Paralysis.

*Seizures.

*Breathing problems.

*Loss of consciousness and coma.

Sometimes people have no symptoms immediately following a head injury. This is called a lucid interval. They develop symptoms days later. Also, it’s important to know that subdural hematomas that develop more slowly (the chronic type) might be mistaken for other conditions, such as a brain tumor or stroke.

Special note about head injury and symptoms in seniors: Some of the symptoms of subdural hematoma in older people, like memory loss, confusion, and personality changes, could be mistaken for dementia. The older person may not remember hitting their head. Sometimes, people forget because they are disoriented. Other times, the injury was minor and may have occurred weeks before symptoms appeared. They should still see their healthcare provider for evaluation.

Causes:
Subdural hematomas are most often caused by head injury, in which rapidly changing velocities within the skull may stretch and tear small bridging veins. Much more common than epidural hemorrhages, subdural hemorrhages generally result from shearing injuries due to various rotational or linear forces. There are claims that they can occur in cases of shaken baby syndrome, although there is no strong scientific evidence for this.

They are also commonly seen in the elderly and in people with an alcohol use disorder who have evidence of cerebral atrophy. Cerebral atrophy increases the length the bridging veins have to traverse between the two meningeal layers, thus increasing the likelihood of shearing forces causing a tear. It is also more common in patients on anticoagulants or antiplatelet medications, such as warfarin and aspirin, respectively. People on these medications can have a subdural hematoma after a relatively minor traumatic event. Another cause can be a reduction in cerebrospinal fluid pressure, which can reduce pressure in the subarachnoid space, pulling the arachnoid away from the dura mater and leading to a rupture of the blood vessels.

Risk factors:
Factors increasing the risk of a subdural hematoma include very young or very old age. As the brain shrinks with age, the subdural space enlarges and the veins that traverse the space must cover a wider distance, making them more vulnerable to tears. The elderly also have more brittle veins, making chronic subdural bleeds more common. Infants, too, have larger subdural spaces and are more predisposed to subdural bleeds than are young adults. It is often claimed that subdural hematoma is a common finding in shaken baby syndrome, although there is no science to support this. In juveniles, an arachnoid cyst is a risk factor for subdural hematoma.

Other risk factors include taking blood thinners (anticoagulants), long-term excessive alcohol consumption, dementia, and cerebrospinal fluid leaks.

Diagnosis:
First, the doctor will do a thorough physical and neurological exam. Then the patients will be asked about the head injury (when and how it occurred, review the symptoms and other medical problems, review about the medications the patients are taking and ask about other lifestyle habits). The neurology exam will include blood pressure checks, vision testing, balance and strength testing, as well as reflex tests and a memory check.

If the doctor thinks the patients may have a subdural hematoma, they will order a computed tomography (CT) scan or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan of their head. These imaging tests allow doctor to see clear pictures of the brain and determine the location and amount of bleeding or other head and neck injuries.

Treatment:
Doctors treat larger hematomas with decompression surgery. A surgeon drills one or more holes in the skull to drain the blood. Draining the blood relieves the pressure the blood buildup causes on the brain. Additional surgery may be needed to remove large or thick blood clots if present. Usually, the doctors leave a drain in place for several days following surgery to allow the blood to continue draining.

Sometimes hematomas cause few or no symptoms and are small enough that they don’t require surgical treatment. Bed rest, medications and observation may be all that is needed. The body can absorb the small amount of blood over time, usually a few months. The doctor may order regular imaging tests (such as an MRI) to monitor the hematoma and make sure it is healing.

Preventions:

Although it may not be possible to prevent a hematoma as a result of an accident,one can reduce the risk by:

*Protecting one’s head: Use your seatbelt and always wear a helmet when riding a bike or a motorcycle. If you play high-impact or contact sports, always wear a helmet. Use safety gear if one works off the ground or at a job with a high risk of head injury.

*Resting after a head injury: If one hve had a concussion, rest and allow the brain time to recover. The doctor will tell how long to rest before returning to work or previous activities. One should remember, a chronic subdural hematoma may not show symptoms for days, weeks and even months.

*Removing tripping hazards from your home – especially if you are elderly. Get rid of throw rugs; make sure electrical cords are tucked out of the way; add handrails to all stairs; add lights to stairways, hallways and dark areas; and position furniture so one always have something to hold on to as needs to walk through home. Use a cane or walker if the walking is unstable.

*Having vision checked regularly to prevent falls and accidents.
The doctor or pharmacist do a medication review. These professionals can check the side effects of medications to make sure they don’t cause dizziness or loss of balance. If they do, doses can be changed or a different drug may be able to be prescribed.

Drinking responsibly: Excessive alcohol consumption makes your brain more likely to bleed when injured. Avoid drinking more than two alcoholic beverages per day.

Being careful when taking blood thinners: Even minor head injuries can cause a subdural hematoma in people who take blood thinners. Talk to the doctor about needed precautions if one is on these medications. Examples include aspirin, warfarin, heparin and newer blood thinners like dabigatran (Pradaxa®), rivaroxaban (Xarelto®), apixiban (Eliquis®) and edoxaban (Savaysa®).

Prognosis:
Prognosis depends on the patient’s age, the severity of his or her head injury and how quickly received treatment. About 50% of people with large acute hematomas survive, though permanent brain damage often occurs as a result of the injury. Younger people have a higher chance of survival than older adults.

People with chronic subdural hematomas usually have the best prognosis, especially if they have few or no symptoms and remained awake and alert after the head injury.

Older adults have an increased risk of developing another bleed (hemorrhage) after recovering from a chronic subdural hematoma. This is because older brains cannot re-expand and fill the space where the blood was, leaving them more vulnerable to future brain bleeds with even minor head injuries.

Disclaimer: This information is not meant to be a substitute for professional medical advise or help. It is always best to consult with a Physician about serious health concerns. This information is in no way intended to diagnose or prescribe remedies.This is purely for educational purpose.

Resources:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Subdural_hematoma
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/21183-subdural-hematoma

Categories
Ailmemts & Remedies

RSV VIRUS

Description:
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) causes infections of the lungs and respiratory tract. It’s so common that most children have been infected with the virus by age 2. Respiratory syncytial (sin-SISH-ul) virus can also infect adults.

In adults and older, healthy children, RSV symptoms are mild and typically mimic the common cold. Self-care measures are usually all that’s needed to relieve any discomfort.

RSV can cause severe infection in some people, including babies 12 months and younger (infants), especially premature infants, older adults, people with heart and lung disease, or anyone with a weak immune system (immunocompromised).

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Symptoms:
Signs and symptoms of RSV infection most commonly appear about four to six days after exposure to the virus. In adults and older children, RSV usually causes mild cold-like signs and symptoms. These may include:

*Congested or runny nose
*Dry cough
*Low-grade fever
*Sore throat
*Sneezing
*Headache

IN SEVER CASES:
RSV infection can spread to the lower respiratory tract, causing pneumonia or bronchiolitis — inflammation of the small airway passages entering the lungs. Signs and symptoms may include:

*Fever
*Severe cough
*Wheezing — a high-pitched noise that’s usually heard on breathing out (exhaling)
*Rapid breathing or difficulty breathing — the person may prefer to sit up rather than lie down
*Bluish color of the skin due to lack of oxygen (cyanosis)

Infants are most severely affected by RSV. Signs and symptoms of severe RSV infection in infants include:

*Short, shallow and rapid breathing
*Struggling to breathe — chest muscles and skin pull inward with each breath
*Cough
*Poor feeding
*Unusual tiredness (lethargy)
*Irritability

Most children and adults recover in one to two weeks, although some might have repeated wheezing. Severe or life-threatening infection requiring a hospital stay may occur in premature infants or in anyone who has chronic heart or lung problems.

RSV and COVID-19:
Because RSV and coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) are both types of respiratory viruses, some symptoms of RSV and COVID-19 can be similar. In children, COVID-19 often results in mild symptoms such as fever, runny nose and cough. For adults with COVID-19, symptoms may be more severe and may include trouble breathing.

Having RSV may lower immunity and increase the risk of getting COVID-19 — for kids and adults. And these infections may occur together, which can worsen the severity of COVID-19 illness.

FOR ALL SYMPTOMS OF RESPIRATORY SICKNESS, COVID-19 TEST IS RECOMENDED

Causes:
Respiratory syncytial virus enters the body through the eyes, nose or mouth. It spreads easily through the air on infected respiratory droplets.One can be infected with RSV if he or she inhels the droplets of cough or sneeze of a infected person. The virus also passes to others through direct contact, such as shaking hands.

The virus can live for hours on hard objects such as countertops, crib rails and toys. Touch your mouth, nose or eyes after touching a contaminated object and you’re likely to pick up the virus.

An infected person is most contagious during the first week or so after infection. But in infants and those with weakened immunity, the virus may continue to spread even after symptoms go away, for up to four weeks.

Risk factors:
By age 2, most children will have been infected with respiratory syncytial virus, but they can get infected by RSV more than once. Children who attend child care centers or who have siblings who attend school are at a higher risk of exposure and reinfection. RSV season — when outbreaks tend to occur — is the fall to the end of spring.

People at increased risk of severe or sometimes life-threatening RSV infections include:

*Infants, especially premature infants or babies who are 6 months or younger
*Children who have heart disease that’s present from birth (congenital heart disease) or chronic lung disease
*Children or adults with weakened immune systems from diseases such as cancer or treatment such as chemotherapy
*Children who have neuromuscular disorders, such as muscular dystrophy
*Adults with heart disease or lung disease
*Older adults, especially those age 65 and older

Complications:
Complications of respiratory syncytial virus include:

*Hospitalization. A severe RSV infection may require a hospital stay so that doctors can monitor and treat breathing problems and give intravenous (IV) fluids.

*Pneumonia. RSV is the most common cause of inflammation of the lungs (pneumonia) or the lungs’ airways (bronchiolitis) in infants. These complications can occur when the virus spreads to the lower respiratory tract. Lung inflammation can be quite serious in infants, young children, older adults, immunocompromised individuals, or people with chronic heart or lung disease.

*Middle ear infection. If germs enter the space behind the eardrum, you can get a middle ear infection (otitis media). This happens most frequently in babies and young children.

*Asthma. There may be a link between severe RSV in children and the chance of developing asthma later in life.

*Repeated infections. Once you’ve had RSV, you could get infected again. It’s even possible for it to happen during the same RSV season. However, symptoms usually aren’t as severe — typically it’s in the form of a common cold. But they can be serious in older adults or in people with chronic heart or lung disease.

DIAGNOSIS AND TESTS:
The healthcare provider will take your or your child’s medical history and ask about symptoms. The physical exam will include listening to your or your child’s lungs and checking oxygen level in a simple finger monitoring test (pulse oximetry). They may order blood testing to check for signs of infection (such as a higher than normal white blood cell count) or take a nose swab to test for viruses.

If more severe illness is suspected, your healthcare provider will order imaging tests (X-rays, CT scan) to check your or your child’s lungs.

If you or your child has mild symptoms, prescription treatment is usually not needed. RSV goes away on its own in one to two weeks. Antibiotics are not used to treat viral infections, including those caused by RSV. (Antibiotics may be prescribed, however, if testing shows you or your child has bacterial pneumonia or other infection.)

Some young children who develop bronchiolitis may have to be hospitalized to receive oxygen treatment. If your child is unable to drink because of rapid breathing, he or she may need to receive intravenous fluids to stay hydrated. On rare occasions, infected babies will need a respirator to help them breathe. Only about 3% of children with RSV require a hospital stay. Most children are able to go home from the hospital in two or three days.

If you are an older adult and especially if you have a weakened immune system, you may need to be hospitalized if the RSV is severe. While in the hospital, you may receive oxygen or be put on a breathing machine (ventilator) to help your breathe or receive IV fluids to help with dehydration.

Treatment:
Currently, there is no cure for RSV. However, scientists continue to learn about the virus and look for ways to prevent the infection or better manage severe illness.

If you or your child has mild symptoms, prescription treatment is usually not needed. RSV goes away on its own in one to two weeks. Antibiotics are not used to treat viral infections, including those caused by RSV. (Antibiotics may be prescribed, however, if testing shows you or your child has bacterial pneumonia or other infection.)

Some young children who develop bronchiolitis may have to be hospitalized to receive oxygen treatment. If your child is unable to drink because of rapid breathing, he or she may need to receive intravenous fluids to stay hydrated. On rare occasions, infected babies will need a respirator to help them breathe. Only about 3% of children with RSV require a hospital stay. Most children are able to go home from the hospital in two or three days.

If you are an older adult and especially if you have a weakened immune system, you may need to be hospitalized if the RSV is severe. While in the hospital, you may receive oxygen or be put on a breathing machine (ventilator) to help your breathe or receive IV fluids to help with dehydration.

PROGNOSIS:
Most cases of RSV in adults and healthy children will not require treatment. Infants and older adults at greatest risk of severe RSV can develop pneumonia or bronchiolitis or experience a worsening of their existing heart and lung conditions and may require hospitalization.

Preventions:
You can follow the same precautions that one follows if they have the cold, flu or any other contagious disease:

*Wash your hands often. Wash for 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. (Alcohol-based rubs work well for young children who don’t have the coordination or attention span for proper hand washing technique.)

*Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth to prevent the spread of viruses from your hands.

*Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when sneezing and coughing or sneeze and cough into your elbow. Throw the tissue in the trash. Wash your hands afterward. Never cough or sneeze into your hands!

*Avoid close contact (within 6 feet) with those who have known RSV, coughs, colds or are sick. Stay home if you are sick.

*Don’t share cups, toys or bottles, or any objects. Viruses may be able to live on such surfaces for hours (and be transmitted to your hands).

If you are prone to sickness or have a weakened immune system, stay away from large crowds of people.

*Clean frequently used surfaces (such as doorknobs and counter tops) with a virus-killing disinfectant.

Additional tips for children:

*Keeping your children home from day care when they or other children become ill.

*If you have a child at high risk of developing severe RSV, try to limit time at child care centers or gatherings of large number of children during the RSV season.

*Wash toys frequently.

Disclaimer: This information is not meant to be a substitute for professional medical advise or help. It is always best to consult with a Physician about serious health concerns. This information is in no way intended to diagnose or prescribe remedies.This is purely for educational purpose.

Resources:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/respiratory-syncytial-virus/symptoms-causes/syc-20353098
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/8282-respiratory-syncytial-virus-in-children-and-adults

Categories
Ailmemts & Remedies

Herpes simplex

Commonly called Herpes

Description:
Herpes simplex is a viral infection caused by the herpes simplex virus. Infections are categorized based on the part of the body infected. Oral herpes involves the face or mouth. It may result in small blisters in groups often called cold sores or fever blisters or may just cause a sore throat. Genital herpes, often simply known as herpes, may have minimal symptoms or form blisters that break open and result in small ulcers. These typically heal over two to four weeks. Tingling or shooting pains may occur before the blisters appear. Herpes cycles between periods of active disease followed by periods without symptoms. The first episode is often more severe and may be associated with fever, muscle pains, swollen lymph nodes and headaches. Over time, episodes of active disease decrease in frequency and severity. Other disorders caused by herpes simplex include: herpetic whitlow when it involves the fingers, herpes of the eye, herpes infection of the brain, and neonatal herpes when it affects a newborn, among others.

There are two types of herpes simplex virus, type 1 (HSV-1) and type 2 (HSV-2). HSV-1 more commonly causes infections around the mouth while HSV-2 more commonly causes genital infections. They are transmitted by direct contact with body fluids or lesions of an infected individual. Transmission may still occur when symptoms are not present. Genital herpes is classified as a sexually transmitted infection. It may be spread to an infant during childbirth. After infection, the viruses are transported along sensory nerves to the nerve cell bodies, where they reside lifelong. Causes of recurrence may include: decreased immune function, stress, and sunlight exposure. Oral and genital herpes is usually diagnosed based on the presenting symptoms. The diagnosis may be confirmed by viral culture or detecting herpes DNA in fluid from blisters. Testing the blood for antibodies against the virus can confirm a previous infection but will be negative in new infections.

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Symptoms:
Symptoms of herpes simplex virus typically appear as a blister or as multiple blisters on or around affected areas — usually the mouth, genitals, or rectum. The blisters break, leaving tender sores.

Oral herpes infection is mostly asymptomatic, and most people with HSV-1 infection are unaware they are infected. Symptoms of oral herpes include painful blisters or open sores called ulcers in or around the mouth. Sores on the lips are commonly referred to as “cold sores.” Infected persons will often experience a tingling, itching or burning sensation around their mouth, before the appearance of sores. After initial infection, the blisters or ulcers can periodically recur. The frequency of recurrences varies from person to person.

Genital herpes caused by HSV-1 can be asymptomatic or can have mild symptoms that go unrecognized. When symptoms do occur, genital herpes is characterised by 1 one or more genital or anal blisters or ulcers. After an initial genital herpes episode, which can be severe, symptoms may recur. However, genital herpes caused by HSV-1 typically does not recur frequently, unlike genital herpes caused by herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2; see below).

Genital herpes infections often have no symptoms, or mild symptoms that go unrecognised. Most infected people are unaware that they have the infection. Typically, about 10-20% of people with HSV-2 infection report a prior diagnosis of genital herpes. However, clinical studies following people closely for new infection demonstrate that up to a third of people with new infections may have symptoms.

When symptoms do occur, genital herpes is characterised by one or more genital or anal blisters or open sores called ulcers. In addition to genital ulcers, symptoms of new genital herpes infections often include fever, body aches, and swollen lymph nodes.

After an initial genital herpes infection with HSV-2, recurrent symptoms are common but often less severe than the first outbreak. The frequency of outbreaks tends to decrease over time but can occur for many years. People infected with HSV-2 may experience sensations of mild tingling or shooting pain in the legs, hips, and buttocks before the appearance of genital ulcers.

Causes:
Herpes simplex type 1, which is transmitted through oral secretions or sores on the skin, can be spread through kissing or sharing objects such as toothbrushes or eating utensils. In general, a person can only get herpes type 2 infection during sexual contact with someone who has a genital HSV-2 infection. It is important to know that both HSV-1 and HSV-2 can be spread even if sores are not present.

Pregnant women with genital herpes should talk to their doctor, as genital herpes can be passed on to the baby during childbirth.

For many people with the herpes virus, which can go through periods of being dormant, attacks (or outbreaks) can be brought on by the following conditions:

*General illness (from mild illnesses to serious conditions)

*Fatigue

*Physical or emotional stress

*Immunosuppression due to AIDS or such medications as chemotherapy or steroids

*Trauma to the affected area, including sexual activity

*Menstruation

Complications:
Severe disease:
In immunocompromised people, such as those with advanced HIV infection, HSV-1 can have more severe symptoms and more frequent recurrences. Rarely, HSV-1 infection can also lead to more severe complications such as encephalitis (brain infection) or keratitis (eye infection).

HSV-2 and HIV have been shown to influence each other. HSV-2 infection increases the risk of acquiring a new HIV infection by approximately three-fold. In addition, people with both HIV and HSV-2 infection are more likely to spread HIV to others. HSV-2 is amongst the most common infections in people living with HIV, occurring in 60-90% of HIV-infected persons.

Infection with HSV-2 in people living with HIV (and other immunocompromised individuals) can have a more severe presentation and more frequent recurrences. In advanced HIV disease, HSV-2 can lead to more serious, but rare, complications such as meningoencephalitis, esophagitis, hepatitis, pneumonitis, retinal necrosis, or disseminated infection.

Diagnosis:
Often, the appearance of herpes simplex virus is typical and no testing is needed to confirm the diagnosis. If a health care provider is uncertain, herpes simplex can be diagnosed with lab tests, including DNA — or PCR — tests and virus cultures.

Treatment:
Antiviral medications, such as acyclovir, famciclovir, and valacyclovir, are the most effective medications available for people infected with HSV. These can help to reduce the severity and frequency of symptoms, but cannot cure the infection.

WHO guidelines for the treatment of Genital Herpes Simplex Virus

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Ayurvedic Treatment and Home Remedies for Genital Herpes

Prevention:
HSV-1 is most contagious during an outbreak of symptomatic oral herpes, but can also be transmitted when no symptoms are felt or visible. People with active symptoms of oral herpes should avoid oral contact with others and sharing objects that have contact with saliva. They should also abstain from oral sex, to avoid transmitting herpes to the genitals of a sexual partner. Individuals with symptoms of genital herpes should abstain from sexual activity whilst experiencing any of the symptoms.

People who already have HSV-1 infection are not at risk of getting it again, but they are still at risk of acquiring herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) genital infection (see below).

The consistent and correct use of condoms can help to prevent the spread of genital herpes. However, condoms can only reduce the risk of infection, as outbreaks of genital herpes can occur in areas not covered by a condom.

People who already have HSV-1 infection are not at risk of getting it again, but they are still at risk of acquiring HSV-2 genital infection (see below).

Pregnant women with symptoms of genital herpes should inform their health care providers. Preventing acquisition of a new genital herpes infection is particularly important for women in late pregnancy, as this is when the risk for neonatal herpes is greatest.

Additional research is underway to develop more effective prevention methods against HSV infection, such as vaccines. Several candidate HSV vaccines are currently being studied.

Individuals with genital HSV infection should abstain from sexual activity whilst experiencing symptoms of genital herpes. HSV-2 is most contagious during an outbreak of sores, but can also be transmitted when no symptoms are felt or visible.

People with symptoms suggestive of genital HSV infection should also receive HIV testing, and those in settings or populations with high HIV incidence might benefit from more focused HIV prevention efforts, such as pre-exposure prophylaxis.

The consistent and correct use of condoms can help reduce the risk of spreading genital herpes. However, condoms only provide partial protection, as HSV can be found in areas not covered by a condom. Medical male circumcision can provide men life-long partial protection against HSV-2, in addition to HIV and human papillomavirus (HPV).

Pregnant women with symptoms of genital herpes should inform their health care providers. Preventing acquisition of a new genital herpes infection is particularly important for women in late pregnancy, as this is when the risk for neonatal herpes is greatest.

Additional research is underway to develop more effective prevention methods against HSV infection, such as vaccines or topical microbicides (compounds which can be applied inside the vagina or rectum to protect against sexually transmitted infections).

Disclaimer: This information is not meant to be a substitute for professional medical advise or help. It is always best to consult with a Physician about serious health concerns. This information is in no way intended to diagnose or prescribe remedies.This is purely for educational purpose.

Resources:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Herpes_simplex
https://www.webmd.com/genital-herpes/pain-management-herpes#1
https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/herpes-simplex-virus

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