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Scoliosis Facts, Diagnosis and Treatments

Oct 19, 2014

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Abnormal Curve in spinal

Scoliosis is a condition wherein the spine curves abnormally away from its usual straight line. It can vary in severity from being a cause of frequent posture problems, to preventing proper breathing due to the spine curvature taking up space in the chest cavity. In the worst cases, scoliosis becomes disabling. Scoliosis has been known to affect females more than males and manifests itself fully in adolescence.

�The condition can cause the spine to curve in three ways: in a single C-shaped curve facing the left, in a C-shaped curve to the right, or in two curves like an S-shape. The three major types of scoliosis are congenital, idiopathic, and secondary. Scoliosis is commonly idiopathic, affecting 2% of women and only 0.5% of men. It can also develop among children as young as 3 years old, known as infantile idiopathic scoliosis. There is much information on the pathology of scoliosis, as well as its treatment and on helping patients cope with it.

Causes of Scoliosis�

Up to 65% of all cases of scoliosis are idiopathic. No clear cause has been established as to why such instances of scoliosis are acquired. Congenital cases account for 15%, while 10% are attributed to instances secondary to neuromuscular disease. There are many factors that are theorized as causing idiopathic scoliosis. It is believed that genetics is an influencing factor, with the CHD7 gene having a known role in the condition. The MATN1 gene has microsatellite polymorphisms that have also been discovered to be linked to idiopathic scoliosis.

In congenital scoliosis, an abnormal spine formation begins developing after six weeks in the womb. It results from either the spine failing to form or segment properly, or a combination of both factors. Secondary scoliosis commonly develops from myopathic and neuropathic conditions, leading to muscular weakening and a lack of support for the spinal column. Other conditions that can lead to secondary scoliosis are trauma to the spinal cord, cerebral palsy, muscular atrophy of the spine, and muscular dystrophy.

�Symptoms of Scoliosis

The bodies of people with scoliosis appear to tilt toward one side. It leads to uneven positioning of the shoulders and waist. One of the shoulders will appear higher and to stick out more than the other as the condition causes the bone to rotate slightly. One side of the hip will appear to go up higher than the other side. The legs and arms may also become uneven in length, with some growing shorter than the others. In worse cases, the spine begins to rotate in addition to spinal curving. This causes the rib to stick out from the body in an abnormal manner, which is known as thoracic scoliosis.

Other severe conditions include limited capacity in the lungs, chest pain, added pressure on the heart, and in rare cases, slower and impaired nerve activity. Scoliosis patients do not normally suffer from back pain, and such a symptom could be caused by another condition. Pain and numbness may result in certain areas of the body, however, if the scoliosis was caused by injuries to the spine.

Making a Diagnosis For Scoliosis

Patients are advised to seek a doctor immediately once they perceive any scoliosis symptoms. Doctors usually ask them if they have any history of scoliosis in the family, as well as whether they had any previous notable pains and physical symptoms. They are first examined to see if the spinal deformity is caused by another underlying condition. Patients are given a gait analysis as well as a neurological examination. Their skin, feet, and muscles are also tested for any abnormal signs.

�The Adams forward bend test is normally performed on adolescents, wherein the patient must bend forward as far as he or she can. If the doctor notices any unusual prominences, the patient is advised to have an X-ray to confirm scoliosis. The standard procedure is to conduct a full-length X-ray for a suspected case of any kind of scoliosis. An MRI may also be performed in order to carry out a more thorough investigation of the spinal cord. The extent of any observed spinal curvature is measured through Cobb angles from the top to the lowest vertebra, where two curves are measured with two angles. Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis can also now be diagnosed through genetic testing.

�Types of Treatment For Scoliosis

�Congenital scoliosis in children is normally not severe and they may not even need to seek treatment. They are advised to have regular checkups to check for any changes in their spinal conditions. As they grow older, their spine would have reached skeletal maturity and have less of a chance of any conditions worsening. There is no known cure for scoliosis, though there are several forms of physical therapy and management techniques that can help patients deal with the symptoms.

�Patients with mild scoliosis are advised to engage in the exercise regularly, especially practices like yoga that are helpful for stretching the spine. Physical therapy for idiopathic scoliosis from injuries help patients move properly and carry out different kinds of normal activities. Braces or casts can help keep the spine in place and relieve any painful symptoms, like those present in scoliosis among adults. In severe cases or those likely to progressively worsen, surgeries, such as a spinal fusion, are available to help stabilize the spinal column and keep it more rigid.

Other Types of Scoliosis

�Besides congenital and idiopathic scoliosis, there are also other kinds of scoliosis types. Scoliosis can be identified based on the orientation of the curvature of the spine. A C-shape facing the right along the thoracic spine is referred to as dextroscoliosis, while a curve to the left in the lumbar is known as levoscoliosis. Idiopathic scoliosis can be infantile, juvenile, or adolescent, depending on what age it manifests. Lumbar scoliosis refers to the curvature in the lumbar or lower, region of the spine.

Thoracolumbar scoliosis is located in both the lower thoracic and upper lumbar areas of the spine. Taking into account both the curvature and the location of the deformation, scoliosis can further be classified into thoracic dextroscoliosis and lumbar levoscoliosis. Neuromuscular scoliosis, also known as myopathic scoliosis, is a consequence of abnormalities in bone and muscular development, as in cerebral palsy or muscular dystrophy. Degenerative, or adult, scoliosis strikes adults approaching old age as their spinal joints slowly begin to degenerate. Abnormalities in different parts of the body, such as in the legs, lead to functional scoliosis.

Further Research For Scoliosis

�Experts are conducting further research into finding the exact cause of scoliosis. They are attempting to establish a definitive link to genetic factors, though many studies have failed to discover any conclusive information. Gene studies are currently being conducted to continue the search for the genetic source of scoliosis. Other experts are suggesting that scoliosis is a phenomenon related to biological evolution, and may be a necessary consequence of bipedalism.

The physiological development of the spine to support bipedalism may have made it susceptible to developing scoliotic abnormalities. To continue supporting scoliosis research, several organizations and institutions have been founded, such as the Scoliosis Research Society. The focus is now being targeted as well toward developing more therapeutic techniques for scoliosis and to help improve the lives of its patients.

Children Anxiety – Symptoms and Treatment

Oct 18, 2014

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Children Anxiety

Anxiety is not an abnormal behavior. It is the body's normal response to stress and usually manifest in different ways. Individuals have different stress tolerance levels and children usually tend to have less ability in coping with stress. Children may respond differently to various conditions and one child may tend to worry more than the others under a similar condition. Anxiety in children is usually temporary and harmless

One out of eight children, however, may be prone to anxiety attacks. While this may be a normal reaction to certain situations, when anxiety becomes frequent, inappropriate under certain conditions and left untreated, it can develop into a more serious form of depression and other psychological disorders like eating disorders and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Once anxiety begins to affect your child's emotional state, interfere with their development, and affect their performance at school and their ability to interact socially with others, parents should immediately get help.

The symptoms of anxiety in children

Anxiety is a normal reaction of the body to unpleasant conditions and may manifest the symptoms of shortness of breath or breathing abnormally fast, feeling sick, abdominal upset, feeling shaky, faintness and dizziness. Some will experience tensed muscles and palpitations. These are normal body reactions to warn us about a possible danger and allow us to respond more promptly.

Anxiety as an abnormal behavior may manifest symptoms that are can affect the child's perception, behavior and thoughts. It can produce the following symptoms:

Loss of self confidence to accomplish tasks
Feeling panicky most of the time
Overly ashamed and easily embarrassed
Difficulty in concentrating
Manifests angry outbursts
Difficulty in controlling emotions
Sleeping or eating problems
Unnecessary worries
Overly sensitive and preoccupied with negative thoughts

Parents should learn where to draw the line between a normal and abnormal anxiety response. Anxiety is a common mental health condition affecting both children and adults alike. Diagnosing it in children is often difficult as parents usually take their abnormal behavior as normally occurring among children during tantrums and a separation anxiety situation.

Various forms of anxiety in children

Anxiety in children takes different forms. Among the common forms of anxiety disorder in the younger population are the following:

Phobia

Children tend to manifest the symptoms of anxiety under specific conditions or things. Their level of fear is higher than any normal person will respond under the given situation. Common phobias in children that can result in anxiety include the fear of heights, flying in an airplane or fear of specific animals or insects. The child shows extraordinary fear under ordinary circumstances.

Obsessive compulsive disorder

In this form of anxiety disorder, the child compensates his anxiety in the form of obsessive compulsion in preoccupying thoughts on specific activities or doing repetitive actions in order to relieve their anxiety.

Social anxiety

The child experiences anxiety attacks when triggered by social situations. The child is likely to be overly ashamed of talking in public and for being around with people.

Panic attacks

A panic attack usually occurs with no reason at all. The symptoms of anxiety manifest suddenly and the most common of which are palpitation, dizziness, shortness of breath and numbness.

Generalized anxiety

The child is overly concerned and anxious about anything, like school, safety, health and worrying for family members. Alongside their worrying are physical symptoms like a stomach upset, tiredness, muscle tension and headaches. Being confronted with a stressful condition subject the child to emotional state and uncontrolled inappropriate behavior.

How to recognize anxiety in children

Parents and the child's caregivers are the best persons to recognize anxiety in children. Most of the time, the condition goes unnoticed because the child may have the inability to express their feelings with the lack of language skills to communicate. Other manifestations of child anxiety can also be similar to a child's tantrum that parents usually find to be normal.

To recognize anxiety in children, parents should observe the behavioral changes, as well as the physical symptoms they manifest. A child with unresolved anxiety issue may become ill and can affect their appetite and sleep and may manifest physical signs like trembling or shaking and shortness of breath.

Treatment for anxiety in children

A mental health professional can help your child overcome their anxiety attack. Most treatment approach is dependent upon the symptoms and the coping ability of the child. A talk therapy is usually indicated to help children confront their fears and learn the proper way of expressing their feelings. Also called as cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), the treatment approach is one of directing the child to learn how to cope with stress and their anxiety. Relaxation techniques are taught together with breathing exercises.

Medication is rarely prescribed in children with anxiety unless their condition demands pharmaceutical intervention. Drug treatment for anxiety in children is often used as a conjunction treatment with CBT. Antidepressant drugs are prescribed and may be given either as a long or short term treatment. The FDA warned, however, that long term treatment using antidepressant drugs can increase suicidal tendencies. This is the reason why doctors shun from prescribing drugs unless necessary.

It is also necessary for parents to build a supportive environment for their children to help them learn how to cope and overcome their anxiety. Taking care of your child without a judgmental behavior is very helpful. Reinforce positive attitude, beliefs and behavior in your child to improve their coping abilities.

Pneumonia Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatment

Oct 16, 2014

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Pneumonia symptoms

Pneumonia is a bacterial infection of the lung that affects as much as 7% of the global population each year. Prior to the 20th century and the development of antibiotics, pneumonia was a very prominent cause of death, prompting physician William Osler to dub it “the captain of the men of death”. Pneumonia is caused by infection from different bacteria or viruses.

It inflicts patients with the typical debilitating symptoms of illnesses, such as fever, cough, pains in the chest, diarrhea, nausea, and breathing difficulties. Pneumonia is a very common illness and can be contracted in any environment with bacteria present. It is usually prevalent in people recovering from the flu or previous sicknesses, making it more difficult for their immune systems to fight off the infection. While several medications and effective treatments have already been developed to treat the illness, patients are advised to seek help right away to prevent symptoms from worsening.

Causes of Pneumonia

Bacteria and viruses are the culprits behind most pneumonia cases. Once inhaled, they begin invading the entire respiratory tract and nest themselves in the cells of the alveoli. This leads to cell death and inflammation in the lungs, and the reaction may also spread to the other organs in the body. Bacteria are the most common cause of community-acquired pneumonia.

Streptococcus pneumoniae is responsible for up to 50% of pneumonia cases. Other strains typically present in most environments are Haemophilus influenza and Chlamydophila pneumoniae, which account for 20% and 13% of cases, respectively. The usual agents behind viral pneumonia include influenza, rhinoviruses, and the respiratory syncytial virus. Fungal pneumonia is not as common as the other two kinds, but may occur among patients already suffering from illnesses who were exposed to fungi, such as Histoplasma capsulatum and Cryptococcus neoformans. People in third world countries are more likely to catch parasitic pneumonia. Pneumonia can also be idiopathic or caused by certain conditions, like autoimmune diseases.

Symptoms of Pneumonia

Pneumonia itself refers to any condition that leads to inflammation in the lungs, known specifically as pneumonitis. People usually mistake pneumonia symptoms for those of the flu. Fatigue is the most prevalent symptom, followed by persistent coughing of sputum, fever, and shortness of breath. More severe symptoms include convulsions, vomiting, having cyanosis of the skin, and decreased consciousness. Different kinds of bacteria can cause patients to cough up different colors and consistencies of sputum, as with Streptococcus pneumonia leading to rust-colored sputum and tuberculosis causing bloody sputum. Other kinds of bacteria can lead to severe joint pains, ear infections, as well as the swelling up of the lymph nodes located in the neck.

While patients with serious symptoms may treat themselves from home, they are advised to consult a doctor immediately once they begin coughing up blood, experience shaking chills, begin wheezing, or have a fever of over 100� F. If these symptoms persist for over a month, the patient has most likely contracted bacterial or viral pneumonia.

Diagnosis of Pneumonia

Upon check-up, the doctor will first take the patient’s medical history and ask him or her questions about their family history and any previous instances of breathing problems or pains. One of the best ways to diagnose pneumonia is through a chest X-ray. Doctors will look for abnormal activity in the lungs, such as muscular infection, a collapsed lung, or a leakage of fluids. The patient’s respiratory rate must also be examined; 60 breaths per minute among children is defined as the minimum to indicate respiratory problems. Using a stethoscope, doctors may also perceive wheezing or crackling sounds in the patient’s breathing. A mucus test checks for infection in the mucus and is used to discern what kind of bacteria or viruses may be present. A urine sample can also be used to determine the same information.

Treatment of Pneumonia

Antibiotics are common and the most effective form of treatment for bacterial pneumonia and, in most cases, can lead to an improvement in symptoms in as soon as 3 days. Amoxicillin, doxycycline, and clarithromycin are all recommended medications for community-acquired pneumonia. Viral pneumonia cannot be treated with antibiotics and is instead countered with antiviral drugs known as neuraminidase inhibitors.

Vaccination treatment is a preventative measure against complications from developing, with the pneumococcal conjugate vaccine for children and the pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine for adults. Mild cases of pneumonia can be treated at home, with proper bed rest, hydration, and medication. To treat breathing or lung problems, patients may be given an inhaler or a nebulizer to assist their breathing and alleviate wheezing symptoms. Respiratory therapy involves simple techniques used to unclog the mucus from the lungs. These include chest physiotherapy, wherein a cupped hand is used to strike the chest and dislodge the mucus, and postural drainage, which utilizes gravity to flush the mucus out through different body positions.

Pneumonia in society

Pneumonia is one of the top causes of death in many countries and claims up to 4 million fatalities globally each year. Many notable cultural figures and famous people have been victims of pneumonia. U.S. President Ronald Reagan died from pneumonia-related Alzheimer’s complications. Iconic singer Freddie Mercury of the band Queen died of bronchial pneumonia. Billions are invested each year in the research and treatment of pneumonia. November 12 has officially been declared World Pneumonia Day, wherein citizens are encouraged to learn more about and take their stand against the illness.

Understanding Teenage Depression

Oct 16, 2014

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Depression in young teens has become a very serious issue plaguing today’s society. In the United States, about 1 in every 33 children may have depression while it can be as high as 1 out of 8 among teens, according to Kids Health. Being a teenager brings with it a very turbulent time of both physical and emotional change, hardships, difficult decisions, and the potential for loss. Many adults mistake clinical depression in teens in simple mood swings or petty tantrums. They neglect the possibility that these youths could be suffering a serious mental or psychological breakdown.

Teenage depression can cause one to make some potentially life-threatening decisions, such as alcohol and drug abuse, self-mutilation, uncontrolled sexual activity, and in the worst cases, suicide. It can also lead to a few debilitating physiological symptoms, such as fatigue and weakness.

Depression is also associated with other conditions, like anorexia, bulimia, obesity, personality disorders, multiple sclerosis, diabetes, and even cancer. It is understandable that teens, and even adults, may go through mild periods of depression in their lives, but it is important they have a strong support group to help them understand what they are going through and prevent them from spiraling into darker areas. Some teens do not have the emotional maturity to seek professional help for their depression, thus it is also the responsibility of their parents or elders to guide them.

Common teenage depression causes

There is no established cause behind depression, though a variety of factors may contribute to it. Depression in teens may have stemmed from a traumatic experience from their early childhood. Many cases of depression are caused by feelings of being alone or neglected in teens who were abandoned at an early age or who received barely any attention or love from their parents. Other teens may have experienced physical or sexual abuse and may have been traumatized to the point of not being able to establish any kind of relationship with other people.

Financial problems, peer pressure, discrimination, societal pressure, and extremely stressful situations are all prominent factors that are very likely to lead to depression. An unprecedented bout of depression can come from hearing the sudden bad news, such as an undesirable medical diagnosis, or a loved one passing away. Studies show that teens with parents who have previously suffered from depression are more likely to go through it as well. More scientific reasons behind depression could lie in hormones, as the increasing hormonal changes in a teenager’s body could lead to emotional imbalance. Neurotransmitters in the brain have also been linked to depression.

Warning symptoms

It is easy to generalize depression as just being sad, but knowing the specific symptoms of clinical depression will allow those suffering from it to get help immediately. Teens that are depressed, always claim to feel sad and end up crying, even for no particular reason. They start thinking about more sad thoughts to drive them deeper into their depressed state. Family and friends will notice they no longer taking pleasure from activities that normally made them happy. They would also have little or even no interest in doing any kinds of activities at all.

Some teens feel anger or frustration over the simplest of matters, and this mix with feelings of guilt or worthlessness. Others find themselves fixated on the past or on events in their lives that have ended unfavorably. Depressed teenagers are vulnerable to criticism or rejection and have trouble making decisions and expressing optimism.

Notable changes in behavior include sleeping or eating either too little or too much. They carry out mental tasks much slower and often end up performing poorly in school. Teens that are normally obsessed with their looks start neglecting their physical appearance, wearing wrinkled and dull clothing with messy hair. They may also take to abusing alcohol, drugs, and over-partying. Any suicidal tendencies should be addressed as quickly as possible.

Treatment for Teenage Depression

There are several forms of therapy for depression, and it can be successfully treated. Most typical cases of depression, however, do not need professional help. These teens may be reacting in the expected way to past experiences or changes in their lives. The best way to help these youths is by offering them support and by talking to them about their issues. They must be encouraged to open up to others.

Psychotherapy, or counseling, either one-on-one or with family, is the recommended form of treatment for teens. Regular sessions can help them learn more about the root of their depression and learn to fight it. For certain severe cases, wherein a teen has been psychiatrically diagnosed as clinically depressed, they may be prescribed different types of medications.

Prozac and Lexapro are two drugs that were approved by the FDA as depression medications for teens. Antidepressants may only be taken with a doctor’s prescription, as they come with a very strict black box warning that some teens may even have increased suicidal thoughts while taking them if dosage is not properly regulated. Any types of drugs for teen depression must be strictly managed, to prevent a risk of overdose.

Teenage Depression Support Groups

Depression support groups can help teens find emotional support and connect with other youths experiencing the same issues. Such groups include the Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance and Mental Health America. The Anxiety and Depression Association of America can connect teens to further support group specializing in different types of depression. They may also look for online groups and forums with thousands of depressed teens worldwide to show them they are not alone in what they are facing.

Different Eating Disorders, Symptoms and Treatments

Oct 14, 2014

4445

An eating disorder has been a long term battle for teenagers in the United States. It is largely associated with extreme emotional and physical struggles with depression and has long been considered as an addiction and obsession. Eating disorders are strongly linked to the abnormal perception of an individual to food and eating while connecting it to one's physical appearance. Eating disorders take different forms and proper treatment should be obtained in order to prevent the more serious health consequences of the condition.

Kinds of eating disorders

Anorexia Nervosa

Anorexia nervosa is the act of extreme denial of food and hunger. One is obsessed with becoming thin in order to feel beautiful. An individual who is anorexic has an indistinct perception of their image and believes they look fat when in reality, they are literally reduced to a skin and bone state. They usually have mood swings and very irritable. Anorexic people also have the fear of the public seeing them eat.

Bulimia Nervosa

Bulimia nervosa is the act of eating excessive amount of food only to flush it out immediately. A bulimic person is usually overweight and they believe flushing out the food they ate through induced vomiting or purging will help them flush out the excess calories consumed by the body. In order to make sure there is nothing left, some even use laxative in order to fully flush out foods from their body.

Binge Eating

Binge eating is similar to people who eat when they are depressed. People who binge eat tend to eat more than what they can actually consume and don't even bother to exercise to burn calories and fats. An individual who has this kind of eating disorder is neither thin nor fat. Whether someone is obese or just within their weight range, they can also result to binge eating disorder.

Symptoms of eating disorders

Subjecting oneself to extreme hunger and refusing to eat indicates an eating disorder. This kind of behavior is present among anorexic people. They� believe that the slightest presence of food in their body will change their physical appearance for the worse. This kind of negative psychological belief usually takes years to overcome and extensive session with a therapist is often required.

Excessive exercise and the feeling of uncontrolled eating habits is a classic symptom bulimia. After eating excessive amount of food, the person feels guilt and compensate by trying to remove their caloric intake by exercising too much, purging or using laxatives.

Anxiety and depression link to eating disorders

Doctors find a strong connection of anxiety and depression to eating disorders. Anxiety usually comes first that can trigger different emotional state that may encourage the development of an eating disorder. Two out of three individuals who were diagnosed with eating disorders have some form of an anxiety or depression. The risk is higher among individuals with an obsessive compulsive disorder.

Treatment of eating disorder

An eating disorder is usually viewed as a form of addiction or obsession that requires therapeutic intervention involving the family members of the person affected. Most of the time, eating disorders are treated together with their anxiety or depression.

Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy allows doctors to interact with an individual with eating disorders. The individual is encouraged to express their thoughts about eating and their perception about food. It helps the doctor to understand the unique experience of the person and identify the potential causes of the behavior. The person learns how to take a positive view about eating and are taught the proper way of dealing with anxiety and how to find more meaningful activities to divert attention from eating.

Food Nutrition Education

The abnormal perception about food making a person look fat, ugly and unfit may be corrected with proper nutritional therapy. It also helps the affected individual value the importance of nutrition to health and body.

Counseling

Counseling is a treatment process involving the affected individual and family members. People with eating disorders need support groups that can understand their crisis and be able to provide help to correct their abnormal behavior. The immediate family members and the patient learn to understand the nature of the eating disorder and how to properly cope with it.

Diet Planning

Dieticians know exactly what people with eating disorders need. It is during this time that meal planning does not depend on what the person wants to eat, but the kind of nutrition she needs in order to become healthy again. Dieticians have separate meal plans for those who have anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa, which are specifically prepared to meet the body's nutritional needs.

Psychological counseling

Psychological counseling includes the process of regularizing the eating patterns and habits of persons with eating disorders. The abnormal eating patterns are corrected and the individual learns the proper way of coping with their condition without resorting to abnormal eating behaviors. Lifestyle changes are taught while the individual learns to regain back self esteem and proper body perception.

When to seek help

Most people with eating disorders are in denial of their abnormal behavior and their loved ones are assumed to take the responsibility of getting help from professionals. Individuals with eating disorders are likely to cover up their abnormal eating patterns and behavior. A person who is overly concerned about their weight and showing an extreme guilt about eating are initial signs of an eating disorder. A person who goes to the extreme effort of losing weight like purging and taking laxatives manifest an abnormal behavior that should warn family members about a potential eating disorder. Others will try to hide their eating activities, but this may become obvious when you see them eating more than necessary and try to hoard foods, which is common among binge eaters.

If you are unsure, it is best to consult a doctor just the same. A simple sign of depression or anxiety disorder should be given attention as well. The presence of anxiety, depression and eating disorders can be detrimental to a person where rising guilt and the feeling of self disgust are common. This can potentially increase the chance of developing a suicidal behavior that requires immediate intervention.

Organ failure is not so surprising for people who have eating disorders. Whether they are anorexic, bulimic or binge eating, the result will be the same for the reasons that they may not be receiving the right kind of nutrients for the body or and improper food consumption can result in organ failure. Stunted growth is common in younger people who have eating disorders. Stunted growth is the result of not having enough vitamins and nutrients in the body.

Death is the most serious outcome of eating disorders. Whether it is caused by suicide or the effect of multiple organ failure, death is the last thing anyone wants to happen from an eating disorder. Some take eating disorders lightly without realizing the potential dangers that may result from it. Seeking for professional help at the early stage of the disorder can help reverse the abnormal cycle of eating. Call your doctor immediately at the first signs of anxiety, depression or eating disorders in order to receive a holistic treatment approach that will correct the abnormal psychological perception of the individual about foods and restore their normal and healthy eating habit.

The Pathology and Treatment of Lupus Erythematosus

Oct 12, 2014

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Systemic lupus erythematosus, commonly known as lupus, is an autoimmune disease that results in tissue damage and inflammation all over the body. It is a hypersensitivity reaction that causes the immune system to create auto-antibodies that end up attacking the body’s own organs and damages the joints, kidneys, lungs, heart, and brain. Lupus can occur between alternating periods wherein the illness is active, known as flares, and wherein it subsides, as in remission.

At any time, an estimated 5 million people around the world are believed to have lupus. Studies show that women of childbearing age are up to nine times more likely to have lupus than men. In the 18th century, it was believed that lupus – Latin for wolf – was contracted from a wolf bite. Today, the exact cause of lupus still remains unknown, but many experts believe that genetics plays a role and that some people are innately prone to developing infections that may lead to lupus.

The symptoms of lupus are similar to those of the common illness, making it difficult to diagnose early. Lupus cases can range from mild to fatal. Experts have developed several kinds of diagnostic examinations to test for lupus, as well as different forms of medication and treatment for alleviating its symptoms and bettering the lives of those inflicted.

Causes of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

The likely factors that may contribute to a susceptibility to lupus are genetics and the environment. Lupus erythematosus has been known to run in families and be influenced by several kinds of genes. The classes I-III of the human leukocyte antigen (HLA) gene system, where random mutations are likely to occur or become inherited, have all been linked to lupus. Other genes that increase risk are PTPN22, IRF5, STAT4, TNFSF4, CDKN1A, and ITGAM.

Known environmental triggers for lupus include sunlight and any source of ultraviolet radiation, which may stimulate an internal reaction and cause lesions on the skin, and different kinds of medication. Lupus brought about by taking certain types of drugs is known as drug-induced lupus erythematosus. Anticonvulsants and anti-seizure drugs – such as procainamide, phenytoin, hydralazine, and Isoniazid, as well as up to 400 more other types of drugs – can all lead to this condition.

The symptoms of drug-induced lupus often disappear once the patient is taken off of the trigger medication. Neonatal lupus is a very rare form that is brought on when a mother passes auto-antibodies to her child. This type of lupus breeds discoid, or cutaneous, lupus, which is limited in symptoms to the skin. The higher susceptibility of women to lupus suggests that the hormone estrogen may play a role in contracting the disease. Other potential risk factors are infections, colds or any types of viral sicknesses, and physical trauma or injury.

Symptoms of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

Lupus erythematosus is part of the group of diseases referred to as “the great imitators”, because they copy the symptoms of other illnesses and are often mistaken for them. Patients go through the common illness symptoms of fever, fatigue, headache, chest pain, and breathing difficulties. Up to 30% of lupus cases present skin rashes and other dermatological symptoms. The malar rash is a key symptom and manifests in a butterfly-shaped red blotches on both cheeks on the face. Skin lesions also develop all over the body. Patients will also experience dry eyes and may have small tears on the tissues of their eyes after rubbing.

Raynaud’s phenomenon also occurs, wherein the tips of the fingers and toes turn blue or white during periods of great stress or when exposed to cold temperatures. Patients experience joint pain and swelling all over the body, as well as an inflammation on different regions of the heart and lungs, which both lead to further cardiac and pulmonary complications. Lupus also affects the nervous system, leading to hypertension, cognitive dysfunction, increased intracranial pressure, and psychosis. In certain cases, patients may also experience periods of confusion or severe disorientation. In pregnant mothers that experience a flare of the disease, lupus is likely to cause a spontaneous abortion.

Diagnosing Lupus

Lupus is often difficult to diagnose because of its similarity to other illnesses and in how its symptoms often vary for different people. The American College of Rheumatology has established eleven symptoms, wherein at least four must be met for a patient to be officially diagnosed with lupus. These symptoms are malar and discoid rashes, neurological and immunological disorders, renal disorder, anemia, photosensitivity, arthritis, mucosal ulcers, serotosis in the lungs and heart, and a positive antinuclear antibody test. A useful mnemonic for remembering these symptoms is SOAP BRAIN MD.

One of the typical tests that doctors perform to check for these symptoms is a complete blood count to test for anemia and monitor platelets and white blood cells. Doctors may also perform an erythrocyte sedimentation rate test to check how fast the patient’s red blood cells settle; a faster than normal rate indicates infection or inflammation. The lupus band test uses direct immunofluorescence to check for any antinuclear antibodies in the patient’s blood.

A biopsy can test tissue samples from different organs to determine if they have experienced any damage and what the extent of it may be. A chest X-ray and an echocardiogram can be used to test for pulmonary and cardiac inflammation. Doctors also usually assess the patient’s kidneys and liver to test how well they operate. A urine analysis that shows high levels of protein or red blood cells usually indicates a positive lupus diagnosis.

�Treatment Options

As of yet there is no cure for lupus, and any present forms of treatment are targeted toward suppressing occurrences of flares. Corticosteroids, such as prednisone, are able to counter the inflammatory symptoms of lupus. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are similarly used to treat swelling and inflammation, as well as fever. Anti-malarial drugs, like Plaquenil, can also relieve symptoms. Immunosuppressant drugs, such as Cytoxan, Cellcept, Arava, and Imuran, can subdue the immune system and prevent it from initiating an autoimmune response.

Antibody production is treated through intravenous immunoglobulin therapy, which is a recommended form of treatment, as it does not put the patient at risk for any harmful side-effects. Renal transplantation is the prescribed treatment for kidney failure, which develops as a complication of lupus nephritis. Other measures patients can take to control Lupus are to minimize exposure to the sun or to any strong sources of indoor lighting. It is also important for them to lead a healthy lifestyle, with constant exercise, a healthy diet, and proper amounts of rest. Alternative forms of medication that help fight inflammation and infection include dehydroepiandrosterone supplements, fish oil, flaxseed, and copious amounts of vitamin D.

Further research about the disease

The current goal of lupus research is to find both a definitive cause and a cure. Other studies are targeted toward improving treatment for patients and in helping to alleviate the debilitating symptoms of the disease. A medical study named BLISS-76 focused on the drug Belimumab that has successfully reduced lupus symptoms in patients by stimulating lymphocytes to attack foreign invaders. Another new study by the Lupus Foundation of America, called UNVEIL, sheds light on how patients and their families deal with everyday life under the influence of the disease.

Diabetes Diet For Children

Oct 12, 2014

4793

Diabetes Diet For Children

Coping with diabetes in children can be very stressful, as it can turn out to be a life changing event for the whole family. Children who are diagnosed with diabetes usually need a special care. The management of their condition should include planning for a strict meal plan to keep them healthy and to reduce the risks of diabetes complications.

Diabetes is caused by the pancreas' inability to produce enough insulin to control the blood sugar in the body. Diabetes� is a metabolic disease that is characterized by high amounts of blood sugar that may cause severe internal organ failure if it is not treated and managed properly. There are two types of diabetes. Type1 diabetes is predominantly occurring among children, while the type2 diabetes is common in adults.

In Type 1 diabetes, the pancreas is unable to produce insulin that is very important in controlling the body's blood sugar level. Children who have Type 1 diabetes are subject to insulin injection several times during the day in order to use the blood sugar as a source of energy more efficiently.

Symptoms of diabetes in children

Children who have diabetes may show signs of the illness and parents should take note of the warning signs that commonly occur with the condition. If your child manifests the following symptoms,� take your child to a doctor for proper diagnosis.

Cuts or sores are slow to heal
Frequent urination
Dry mouth (especially the lips)
Fatigue or less energy during the day or their play time
Weight loss
Frequent eating even after eating a full meal
Difficulty in breathing (heavy breathing)
Blurred vision

Diabetes diet for children

Diabetes diet for children is planned with the help of your child's doctor and a nutritionist. Upon diagnosing the child with diabetes, the parents are usually given an orientation about the nature of the disease, its symptoms, treatment and diet plan. Making your own diabetic meal plan should involve the dietary goals of giving your child three meals a day with one to three snack times. This aims to provide the body with enough carbohydrate supply at the same hour of the day to cope with the high demand in the supply of glucose in the body after an insulin injection to maintain glucose balance.

A diabetic meal plan for your child is important in order to help satisfy her appetite, balance the blood sugar level in the body, to promote normal body development.

Types of meal for children with diabetes

Carbohydrate intake is essential in diabetes. It is capable of raising the blood sugar level among diabetics which helps prevent the symptoms of hypoglycemia that is very common in diabetes. There are different food sources that are rich in carbohydrates. This includes foods with starch content like pasta, potatoes, rice, grains, cookies, breads and crackers. Fruits and vegetables like squash, tomato and carrots are healthy choices for carb intake. Serving dairy products like milk, ice cream and yoghurt are also good meal plan for a diabetic.

The sugar content in candies and chocolates are also high, but you must give these foods in small amount because they can be unhealthy for your child. Foods with complex carbohydrates usually take longer for the body to use up the carbs for energy. Starch based foods are sources of complex carbohydrates.

Foods that are high in protein content can also help supply the body with enough carbohydrates. While protein does not have a direct influence in the blood glucose, it can be useful in sustaining the body's need for carbohydrates during prolonged starvation. Protein can be broken down into sugar and can help repair your child's tissues and supply the body with essential vitamins and minerals. Good food sources of protein are legumes, meat, shellfish, eggs, milk, fish, cottage cheese, peanuts, nuts and tofu.

Fats, like protein, do not directly affect the blood glucose in the body, but can be a source of sugar when needed. Polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats are better options, but it is still best to limit the amount of fat intake in your child's diet. Polyunsaturated fats, however, are helpful in maintaining a lower blood cholesterol in the body. They are present in vegetable oils. Monounsaturated fats are likewise helpful in maintaining a low blood cholesterol level and are present in olive oil, canola oil and soft margarines.

Fast facts about diabetes and diabetes diet

Once an insulin is injected, it cannot be removed from the system. This requires a regular supply of carbohydrates in the body to balance the blood sugar level. Otherwise, the child will experience episodes of hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) or hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).
The main goal of diabetes diet is not to eliminate carbohydrate and starve the child, but to properly supply enough carbohydrates and to keep the child from getting hungry.
Diabetes in children doesn't mean the end of their active life. In fact, if diabetes is properly controlled, the child will live a normal life and perform the same activities as the other children without a diabetes.
A child should not be deprived of the foods she wants to eat, provided they are taken in moderation and in the right amount as suggested by your child's doctor and nutritionist.
A child who has diabetes is required to eat 3 meals a day and 1-3 snacks including nigh time.

Understanding Thyroid Problems

Oct 11, 2014

4794

The thyroid gland, which is located in the front part of the neck and above the collarbone, is responsible in secreting hormones that manage several functions of the body. Thyroid problems occur when there is either an excessive amount or few hormones that are secreted by the thyroid gland, which are conditions that are referred to as hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism respectively.

According to the American Thyroid Association (ATS), an estimated 20 million Americans are affected by thyroid disease that may be mild, severe, benign or cancerous in form. Women as more prone to this kind of disease than men. Among the 20 million affected people, 60% of them are unaware that they have thyroid problems.

Physical Check-up of the thyroid gland

The�may appear as a small organ, but it has a major role in affecting the cellular activities in the body. An under diagnosed thyroid problem can lead to other serious illnesses such as osteoporosis, cardiovascular diseases and even miscarriage in pregnant women.

Symptoms of thyroid problems

Hyperthyroidism is the secretion of excessive hormones by the thyroid gland. Its symptoms include:

Heat intolerance that results� in excessive sweating
Irregularity of the menstrual cycle of women
Infertility
Anxiety and irritability accompanied by extreme fatigue
Muscle weakness on several occasions
Blurred vision

When the thyroid gland secretes too much hormones, it is usually because of several underlying illnesses such as a disorder in the immune system called Grave's disease. Grave's disease is common in women ages 40 years and above. Hyperthyroidism can also be the result of an infection in the thyroid gland that enables it to secrete too much hormones. Hyperthyroidism can be treated by taking medicine that reduces the amount of hormones produced.

Hypothyroidism is the inability of the thyroid gland to produce enough hormones necessary to regulate the functions of the body. Its symptoms include:

Weight gain
Scaly skin and dry hair
Irregular menstruation for women
Fatigue and constipation

Hypothyroidism happens when the thyroid gland is attacked by the immune system. People who are diagnosed with hypothyroidism undergo several medications, specifically the T4. Those who started taking the T4 are said to take the medication their entire life. T4 can lead to complications if the right dosage is not prescribed. An initial dosage may change throughout the process, depending on the development of the disease.

Thyroid nodules

Thyroid nodules are small inflamed bumps surrounding the thyroid gland. Once these nodules flare up, they can turn into cancerous lumps. The nodules can be easily detected by doctors by feeling it with bare hands during a routine examination. If they suspect something more serious, doctors may perform several tests to confirm it.

Not all nodules are cancerous. In fact, after a doctor performs a biopsy and turns out to be non-cancerous, no treatment is needed. They may opt to remove it, but otherwise, it is generally safe. If the nodule on the other hand is cancerous, surgery is performed. After surgery, a patient usually undergoes an iodine radioactive treatment.

Signs and symptoms of thyroid cancer

Most thyroid problems are non-cancerous and can be treated by taking medicines prescribed by the doctor. Thyroid cancer shows more serious symptoms such as the following:

Swelling in the neck is one of the most common symptoms of thyroid cancer. This is when the nodules become swollen more than their normal size. They also tend to be physically obvious around the neck part.
Pain surrounds the neck that escalates to the ear.
Difficulty breathing caused by the lump blocking the airway.
Hoarseness that doesn't seem to go away for a period of time.
Chronic cough that is very unusual or not caused by a cold.

These signs and symptoms do not automatically mean that a thyroid problem is cancerous. Most lumps are benign on a biopsy. Your doctor will perform several tests to determine the type of thyroid problem to properly address the succeeding treatment needed.

How to diagnose thyroid cancer?

Thyroid cancer can be diagnosed by doctors using the following procedures:

Physical examination

Physical examination is the first step in determining whether a person has thyroid problems or not. Doctors are able to recommend further tests just by the result of the physical examination. Prior to this, the doctor may also ask for your medical history as well as if there is any other member of the family that has thyroid problems.

Imaging

Imaging is done to determine the scope of the lump and to see whether it has spread to other parts of the thyroid gland. It is also used to see if there are other areas aside from a certain lump that has developed.

Ultrasound

Ultrasound in the thyroid gland is similar to the ones performed in abdominal ultrasound. The sound waves produce images that are converted by the computer. A radiologist will then determine if the nodules are cancerous or not. Solid nodules are believed to be cancerous.

Biopsy

A biopsy is the process of taking small cells from the area and is brought to the laboratory for some testing. This may be the last resort in determining whether a thyroid problem is cancerous or not. The actual extraction of cells from the suspicious area will give an accurate result.

Blood tests

Blood tests are also adequate to determine whether a thyroid problem is cancerous or not. However, blood tests can also show if the gland is normally working.

Thyroid problems unlike any other diseases can be easily detected. Doctors can also see developing thyroid problems just by performing routine physical checkup. Compared to other diseases, most thyroid cancers are treated successfully.

Understanding Asperger Syndrome In Children

Oct 11, 2014

5362

Asperger Syndrome

Ordinary life becomes more difficult to face for children with Asperger syndrome. At an age when children should be learning how to socialize and interact with others their age, these children with the syndrome are unable to relate to other kids or even speak to them at all. Asperger syndrome is a developmental disorder belonging to the autism spectrum. Children with Asperger’s have considerable difficulties with social interaction and often display obsessive behavior. They are also clumsy when it comes to doing physical tasks and often lack the ability to show empathy for others.

Asperger syndrome was named after Hans Asperger, a pediatrician from Austria, who studied impaired social skills and capabilities in children. Asperger’s was officially recognized as a medical disorder in the early �90s. It develops and manifests its symptoms in childhood, and though there are few adults who do have the disorder, victims of Asperger's are predominantly children.

The severity of Asperger syndrome can vary for different children. While some are not able to handle typical social situations and often need special guidance and assistance, others are capable of showing a good range of mental functioning. Several forms of treatment and therapy are designed to help children with Asperger’s develop their social capabilities.

Causes of autism spectrum disorders

There is still much research to be done on what exactly causes Asperger’s and other autism disorders to develop in children. Most instances have pointed to an influencing genetic factor in the syndrome, as many relatives of patients with Asperger’s have exhibited symptoms as well.� Studies among twins show a hereditary rate for autism to be over 90%. Two risk factors that may play a role are the ages of the mother and father at the time of conception; research suggests the older they are, the more likely their offspring is to be genetically vulnerable to autism disorders.

Most theories agree that Asperger’s may be caused by a combination of genetics and prenatal and postnatal environments. Certain substances, like folic acid, thyroxine, or tetragens, taken in in utero may affect the offspring’s neural and genetic development and lead to abnormalities in the baby’s brain. Any infections contracted a few weeks after birth can stimulate an autoimmune response that has been known to lead to autism. Other environmental risk factors include overexposure to mercury and lead, as well as paracetamol, which is often given to children as a pain reliever. A popular argument claims that vaccinations lead to autism spectrum disorders. Many cases have been reported in children exhibiting symptoms after taking the MMR vaccine.

Symptoms of Asperger syndrome

It is always advisable for parents to be on the lookout for signs of Asperger syndrome in their children from a very early age. The most notable symptom is impaired social skills. These children are not able to converse normally with other children their age and find themselves unable to relate to or become friends with them. They often appear very serious and do not react to any social circumstances in the expected or normal way.

Their use of nonverbal communication is also limited, with them having strange body language and unable to make simple gestures, like establishing eye contact or smiling. Another symptom of Asperger’s can be found in the child’s daily behavioral patterns. They strictly stick to specific routines each day that seem to have no purpose. These children also exhibit obsessive behavior and can become deeply preoccupied with certain objects or topics that are usually viewed as nonsensical or absurd in a normal social context.

Delayed development of motor skills causes these children to act clumsily in most situations, and they are often not able to do simple physical tasks, like running, jumping or skipping. An early sign of Asperger’s in infancy is the unusually quick development of speech capabilities and a predilection for numbers and patterns without having any clear understanding of what they mean.

Making an accurate diagnosis Asperger syndrome

Many experts disagree on how to properly diagnose Asperger’s, mainly because of a lack of universal criteria and because of the similarity of Asperger’s to other autism disorders. The most common ways to diagnose the syndrome are to look for the symptoms of Asperger’s – inability to act normally in a social setting, abnormal behavioral patterns, motor clumsiness, and obsessive-compulsive tendencies. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders and the World Health Organization agree on these criteria, but also add that inadequate social skills are not always necessary to make a diagnosis.

While it is advisable that parents look out for these symptoms, it is best for them to always get an official medical diagnosis, as these symptoms may unknowingly be from a different and more serious disorder. Children are usually tested by an entire team of experts that give them a series of cognitive and motor tests and evaluate their styles of communication. There are also a series of genetic screening tests that scan the children for genetic markers that may indicate Asperger syndrome.

Types of treatment for Asperger syndrome

Treatment for Asperger syndrome in children is targeted toward managing its symptoms and helping the child develop his or her skills. The American Academy of Pediatrics established a few recommended strategies for improving these symptoms in a child. Behavioral management and training attempt to mold the child’s behavior using reinforcement and conditioning techniques. An example of these techniques is applied behavior analysis, which helps shape the child’s social skills and teaches them how to interact with other people.

Specialized forms of therapy for speech, cognitive behavior, and physical development all help children deal with these affected areas. Parents and guardians are also advised to simply try talking to their children more or to try slowly introducing them to social environments. They can start with introducing their children to a few other socially quiet children to initiate more social behavior in them. There are available medications that adults with autism usually take, but the case of children is very controversial. Depression and anxiety medications are only prescribed in rare cases where the child may exhibit very severe symptoms that could damage his or her physical health.

Further information on Asperger syndrome

With the proper type of therapy administered from an early age, many children with Asperger syndrome stand a very good chance of losing their symptoms as adults. Some of these children are even capable of maintaining a level of social interaction with others. There are special educational systems that cater to the needs of children who are unable to properly attend a regular school. These children may also be enrolled in homeschooling or online programs that will take off the stress of unwanted social interaction.

Further research is going into developing more methods and therapies to help children cope. Some experts are also studying the other autism spectrum disorders, such as Heller’s syndrome, which is another developmental disorder common among children. Autism disorders are commonly highlighted in society, with many organizations and events being established to raise awareness and support. These kinds of activities attempt to integrate individuals, both young and adult, with Asperger’s or autism disorders deeper into society. With all this information and support behind the Asperger research, affected children are able to have normal lives.

Rashes – Causes, Diagnosis and Treatment Information

Oct 9, 2014

5743

Many people attach the word “rash” to any area of skin that looks red and feels itchy. Specifically, a rash is a dermal phenomenon that affects certain areas of the skin and causes it to change its qualities, like color and texture. Rashes are not a condition that is strictly limited to certain symptoms and causes. Any reddening of the skin and changes in the way it feels and characterized most of the time by itching and inflammation, usually define rashes.

Some people mistakenly believe that uncontrollable scratching causes rashes. In reality, it is the rash that causes the skin to itch and provoke the scratching. Rashes may occur in localized regions of the skin, or they may be widespread all over the body. They can cause the skin to develop bumps, blisters, dryness, and wounds. Rashes can be a symptom of a disease or underlying conditions. They can vary in severity, duration, and in how they affect the body. There are many different types of rashes and these are, in turn, connected to several different causes. While rashes cover a very broad area of conditions, much is known of their nature and several simple treatments are available to help ease any undesirable symptoms and prevent them from spreading.

Various causes of rashes

Because of the variable nature of rashes, they can be caused by many different factors. Allergies to certain kinds of food can cause rashes to form in large areas of the skin. They also lead to swelling in different parts of the body. Rashes can also develop as an adverse side effect of certain vaccines, such as the varicella vaccine and the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine. In addition to sunburn, exposure to the sun can also lead to sun rash, which is essentially an allergic response to the sunlight.

Excessive friction can cause rashes that exhibit skin chafing. Friction-induced rashes are typically experienced when wearing clothes that may contain irritant materials that rub constantly against the skin. Stress and anxiety lead to a notable hormonal imbalance that causes the skin to become overly sensitive and more prone to rashes. In addition, people who are stressed are more likely to roughly scratch their skin, even in the lightest of itches. Rashes are very common symptoms of various skin conditions, like eczema and different forms of dermatitis. Other conditions, like syphilis, certain autoimmune disorders, scarlet fever, and Lyme disease, are not usually known to cause rashes, but they may develop as a mild symptom.

Different types of rashes and their characteristics

There are various types of rashes that can develop. While most skin inflammations look similar and their symptoms are mostly identical, there are a few characteristics that tell them apart from each other and are often caused by specific conditions. There are five classes of dermatitis that lead to different kinds of rashes. Seborrheic dermatitis results in red, scaly patches of skin covering the whole of the top of one’s head as well as their ears. Atopic dermatitis, also known as eczema, leads to weeping rashes, wherein liquid oozes out of the inflamed areas. Contact dermatitis rashes also weep and secrete liquid from any areas of skin that have come in contact with an irritant. Common natural irritants that cause these rashes are poison oak, poison ivy, and Balsam of Peru. Psoriasis rashes do not weep, but form large bumpy and scaly patches all over the body. Allergic purpura leads to small red dots that tend to look like small bruises. Chickenpox is one of the more well-known kind of inflammation and forms large itchy blisters that usually occur all over the face, chest, and back. Rubella rashes are similar to chickenpox, and manifest as red blotchy spots all over the body.

Diagnosing rashes

Diagnosing rashes can be difficult, because of the lack of a precise pathology. Doctors usually question the patients on issues related to their medical history, such as what kind of medications they may have taken and what environments they are regularly exposed to. The best way to diagnose dermal conditions is through a thorough physical examination. During the examination, doctors check the appearance and consistency of the rashes. They also note how they are distributed around the body, such as whether the rashes are confined to certain areas, or if they are widespread and occur in symmetrical patterns. A patch test exposes a patient’s skin to minute amounts of irritants to test for any allergies and monitor the skin’s reaction to different substances.

Treatment

Rashes can be simply and effectively treated with various topical ointments and creams. Hydrocortisone is a corticosteroid that is a common ingredient in many of these creams. Oral histamines, such as hydroxyzine, diphenhydramine, and Cetirizine, can suppress itching. Any moisturizing lotions and creams, such as Polysporin, are also recommended. A few other topical ointments and medications, such as Lamisil, Lotrimin, and Mycatin, can be used to treat any fungus-induced rashes. These ointments and medications can all be purchased over the counter at any drug store.

Patients should also constantly keep their rashes clean and washed and wrap any oozing areas with dressing. If rash symptoms persist after trying these medications, however, patients should have a medical check-up immediately before the rashes worsen and spread, and in order to check if they may be a symptom of another more serious condition.

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