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HEALTH & LIFESTYLE

Meningitis: Symptoms, Diagnosis, Cures and More!

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Meningitis symptoms happen when the membranes around your brain and spinal cord become inflamed. Know its signs, tests, treatments, prevention……

The membranes around your spinal cord and brain are called meninges, and when they become inflamed, the condition is known as meningitis. It is usually caused by a viral infection, but fungal and bacterial infections may also lead to meningitis. Depending on the underlying cause, it gets better in a couple of weeks. In some rare cases, it produces life-threatening consequences requiring urgent antibiotic treatment. If you or someone in your family exhibit meningitis symptoms, it is essential to seek immediate medical care to prevent serious complications…Click Here To Continue Reading>> …Click Here To Continue Reading>>

 

What Are the Symptoms of Meningitis?

You may develop meningitis due to viral or bacterial infections. Symptoms appear quickly when you have viral meningitis, but they may take some days to develop in case of bacterial meningitis. The early signs and symptoms resemble a lot to the flu, so it is quite natural to not take them seriously. The most common symptoms include stiff neck, sudden high fever, seizures, confusion, vomiting or nausea, sleeping difficulties, lack of appetite, and skin rash in some cases.

If the infection enters your bloodstream, you will experience some specific symptoms, such as the following:

  • Skin rash
  • Stomach cramps
  • Abnormal skin color
  • Chills
  • Rapid breathing
  • Muscle or joint pain

It is important to note that symptoms may vary a bit depending on your age. For instance, infants and newborns are more likely to have headaches with stiff neck. Other signs are high fever, poor feeding, constant crying, excessive irritability, sluggishness, stiffness in the body, and a bulge on top of your baby’s head. Your baby may also breathe rapidly, become drowsy, and have pale, blotchy skin.

Symptoms of meningitis in teenagers and adults may be a bit different. While they also experience symptoms, such as confusion, drowsiness, vomiting, high fever, and a severe headache, they are more likely to develop sensitivity to light, a distinctive rash, and convulsion or seizure.

Complications

Bacterial meningitis may have several complications, including visual impairment, hearing loss, learning disabilities, and seizures. It may also affect the kidneys, heart, and adrenal glands. Complications of bacterial meningitis usually need additional treatment. Your doctor may prescribe anticonvulsants to treat seizures or give IV fluids and certain medications if you develop low blood pressure. Some children may require supplemental oxygen to deal with breathing problems.

Do You Have Viral Meningitis or Bacterial Meningitis?

Unfortunately, it is not possible to differentiate between the two just by having a look at symptoms of meningitis. Your doctor will perform several tests to tell the difference between the two types of meningitis. That is the reason why it is important to treat every case of meningitis with equal care. READ FULL STORY HERE>>>CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING>>>

The Glass Test

Take a clear glass and place it against your skin. Apply some pressure and see if the rash fades or not. If it does not, it may be meningococcal septicemia. Your rash will also look like tiny pin pricks and may later turn into purple bruising. If you notice these signs, you should seek immediate medical help.

Meningitis Diagnosis

Your doctor will first consider symptoms of meningitis and then check your medical history to make a diagnosis. They may also order diagnostic tests, such as the following:

  • They ask for blood tests to identify the bacteria that is causing the infection.
  • They may ask for imaging tests, such as X-rays and CT scans of your chest, head, or sinuses to see how severe the inflammation or swelling is. These imaging tests also help determine if other areas of the body are infected or not.
  • They may ask for spinal tap that involves taking out some cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) for analysis. If it shows a low sugar level with increased white blood cells, the chances are you have meningitis.

What Are the Treatments for Meningitis?

Once your tests and symptoms of meningitis confirm that you have this infection, your doctor will work closely with you and determine the best treatment option. It usually depends on what type of meningitis you or your child has.

  • Bacterial Meningitis: It requires treatment with intravenous antibiotics as well as cortisone medications to reduce the risk of complications, such as seizures and brain swelling. Your doctor may prescribe a broad-spectrum antibiotic if the exact cause of meningitis is not clear.
  • Viral Meningitis: You usually need no treatment because antibiotics are ineffective against viral infections. It may take several weeks until you notice some improvement. You need to take plenty of rest with fluids and some OTC medications to relieve body aches and pain. Your doctor may prescribe an antiviral medication if your meningitis is due to a herpes virus.
  • Other Types of Meningitis: Your doctor will start antibiotic and antiviral treatment if the cause is not yet clear. Using antiviral medications when the cause is not known is not a good idea because they can have serious side effects. Cortisone medications are effective for noninfectious meningitis caused by an autoimmune disease or allergy.

For Infants

Your doctor may follow a different treatment approach when your infant has symptoms of meningitis. For instance:

  • Viral Meningitis: No treatment is usually necessary because your child’s immune system will handle it on its own. Sometimes, it is important to give your infant medicine for fever and pain relief.
  • Bacterial Meningitis: You will have to give your child some antibiotics to eliminate the bacteria. In most cases, it requires a hospital stay of up to two weeks. The treatment helps 85% of the time, if it is diagnosed early.

Prevention of Meningitis

Routine immunization really helps a lot in preventing meningitis. The vaccines against measles, Hib, polio, mumps, pneumococcus, and meningococcus help protect your child from meningitis. It is important to vaccinate your child for meningococcal disease once they turn 11 – they should get a booster shot when they turn 16. Moreover, good hygiene will also protect you and your child against meningitis because many viruses and bacteria that cause this condition are quite common. Tell your kids to wash their hands before they eat anything and especially after using the bathroom. Also, avoid sharing utensils with someone who is ill.

 

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HEALTH & LIFESTYLE

If You Fall In Blood Group O, Avoid These Habits And You Will Live Longer

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6 hours ago

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December 22, 2024

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Living longer and healthier often involves understanding how our genetic predispositions, including blood type, can influence our health outcomes. For individuals with blood type O, there are specific habits and lifestyle choices that, when avoided, can contribute to a longer and healthier life.

Blood type O is often referred to as the “hunter” blood type in the context of the blood type diet theory, which suggests that individuals with this blood type may benefit from a diet that resembles that of early humans who were primarily hunters and gatherers. While the scientific evidence supporting the blood type diet is limited and controversial, there are other health considerations that individuals with blood type O should keep in mind…Click Here To Continue Reading>> …Click Here To Continue Reading>>

 

One of the most crucial factors for individuals with blood type O is maintaining a balanced diet. While specific diet plans may vary, it is generally recommended to avoid processed foods, particularly those high in sugars and unhealthy fats. Instead, focusing on a diet rich in lean proteins, fruits, and vegetables can help support overall health and well-being. This dietary approach not only aligns with potential benefits suggested by the blood type diet but also with broader nutritional guidelines for promoting longevity.

Another important consideration for individuals with blood type O is regular physical activity. Engaging in regular exercise not only helps maintain a healthy weight but also promotes cardiovascular health, strengthens bones and muscles, and improves overall mood and mental well-being. Activities such as brisk walking, jogging, swimming, or participating in sports can all contribute to a longer and healthier life.

In addition to diet and exercise, managing stress levels is essential for individuals with blood type O. High-stress levels can contribute to a range of health problems, including hypertension, digestive issues, and impaired immune function. Techniques such as mindfulness meditation, yoga, or spending time in nature can help reduce stress and promote relaxation. READ FULL STORY HERE>>>CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING>>> READ FULL STORY HERE>>>CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING>>>

Furthermore, individuals with blood type O should be mindful of their caffeine and alcohol intake. While moderate consumption of coffee or tea may have some health benefits, excessive caffeine intake can lead to insomnia, anxiety, and digestive problems. Similarly, excessive alcohol consumption can increase the risk of liver disease, cardiovascular problems, and certain types of cancer.

Lastly, avoiding smoking and maintaining regular health check-ups are crucial habits for individuals with blood type O. Smoking significantly increases the risk of various diseases, including lung cancer and cardiovascular disease. Regular health check-ups allow for early detection and management of potential health issues, helping to maintain overall health and longevity.

In conclusion, while genetics and blood type play a role in health outcomes, lifestyle choices such as diet, exercise, stress management, and avoiding harmful habits like smoking and excessive alcohol consumption are crucial for individuals with blood type O to live longer and healthier lives. By adopting these habits, individuals can optimize their health and well-being, regardless of their blood type, and potentially increase their lifespan.

 

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HEALTH & LIFESTYLE

If You Don’t Want To Suffer Stroke At Old Age, Avoid Excess Intake Of These 3 Things

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6 hours ago

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December 22, 2024

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As we age, the risk of suffering a stroke increases, but many of the factors contributing to stroke are modifiable through lifestyle choices, particularly diet. While no single factor guarantees a stroke-free life, reducing the intake of certain substances can help mitigate the risk significantly. Among the key culprits that contribute to stroke risk are excessive consumption of salt, sugar, and unhealthy fats. Here’s how these three substances affect stroke risk and why you should consider limiting them:

1. Excessive Salt (Sodium):

High sodium intake is one of the leading contributors to hypertension, which is a major risk factor for stroke. When you consume too much salt, it can cause your blood pressure to rise, putting extra strain on the heart and blood vessels. Over time, this can lead to damage to the arteries, making them more prone to blockages, which can trigger a stroke. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends limiting salt intake to less than 5 grams per day. However, many people consume much more, primarily from processed foods, canned soups, fast food, and restaurant meals, where sodium is often hidden in excess. By reducing salt intake and choosing low-sodium alternatives, you can significantly lower your chances of developing high blood pressure and, by extension, stroke…Click Here To Continue Reading>> …Click Here To Continue Reading>>

 

 

2. Excessive Sugar (Added Sugars):

A diet high in refined sugars can contribute to the development of several conditions that increase stroke risk, including obesity, diabetes, and high blood pressure. Consuming too much sugar causes an increase in blood glucose levels, leading to insulin resistance, weight gain, and inflammation—all of which are linked to an elevated risk of stroke. Additionally, high blood sugar can damage blood vessels over time, leading to atherosclerosis, or the hardening and narrowing of the arteries. To protect your brain health, it’s important to limit sugary foods and beverages, especially sodas, candies, and baked goods, which contain added sugars that can cause rapid spikes in blood sugar. The American Heart Association recommends no more than 6 teaspoons (25 grams) of added sugar per day for women and 9 teaspoons (38 grams) for men. READ FULL STORY HERE>>>CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING>>>

3. Unhealthy Fats (Trans and Saturated Fats):

Not all fats are created equal, and while some fats are essential for good health, unhealthy fats—particularly trans fats and excess saturated fats—can increase your risk of stroke. Trans fats, often found in processed and packaged foods like baked goods, snacks, and margarine, can raise bad cholesterol (LDL) levels and lower good cholesterol (HDL). This leads to plaque buildup in the arteries, a condition known as atherosclerosis, which significantly increases the likelihood of a stroke. Similarly, a diet high in saturated fats, commonly found in fatty cuts of meat, full-fat dairy products, and certain oils (like palm and coconut oil), can also elevate LDL cholesterol and promote the narrowing of arteries. Replacing these unhealthy fats with healthy fats—such as those found in nuts, seeds, avocados, and olive oil—can help protect against strokes.

Final Thoughts: While there is no magic bullet to prevent a stroke, maintaining a balanced, nutritious diet is one of the most effective strategies for lowering stroke risk in older age. Reducing your intake of excess salt, sugar, and unhealthy fats can help regulate blood pressure, prevent plaque buildup, and maintain healthy blood vessels, all of which reduce the risk of stroke. Along with a healthy diet, regular physical activity, not smoking, and managing stress are also critical components of a stroke-prevention plan. By making conscious choices to limit these three substances in your diet, you can significantly improve your long-term health and reduce your chances of experiencing a stroke in old age.

 

 

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HEALTH & LIFESTYLE

How Long Does It Take For a Healthy Person to Show HIV Symptoms.

Published

23 hours ago

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December 21, 2024

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In most situations, the first HIV symptoms show up 2–4 weeks after a person is exposed to the virus, but in certain circumstances, they might take months or even years to manifest.

HIV is the name of the virus that causes the illness of the same name. AIDS, a lethal disease brought on by a person’s immune system being significantly weakened, is its last stage.

Blood, breast milk, and sexual fluids are all ways that HIV can transmit. According to research, 94% of HIV infections in 2015 were caused by sexual contact…Click Here To Continue Reading>> …Click Here To Continue Reading>>

 

initial signs of HIV

HIV infection does not always result in immediate symptoms. It takes between two and four weeks for HIV symptoms to manifest.

Sometimes symptoms won’t show up for months or even years.

Timeline

HIV is categorized by doctors into three stages.

Acute HIV infection in Stage 1

A person with HIV exhibits specific symptoms when they are first infected. READ FULL STORY HERE>>>CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING>>>

Fatigue, muscle aches, rashes, headaches, sore throats, enlarged lymph nodes, joint discomfort, night sweats, and diarrhea are some of the symptoms.

A credible source claims that some of these symptoms are more likely to materialize than others. The likelihood of each of the symptoms is mentioned above in decreasing order.

HIV infection in stage 2 is ongoing.

The following are signs of a chronic HIV infection, according to certain studies, says a dependable source: yeast infection in the vagina and oral hairy leukoplakia, which results in white, scaly areas on the tongue. Possible diagnoses include shingles, neuropathy, cervical dysplasia, and the blood clotting condition idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura.

The person’s immune system will suffer considerably if this stage continues. Their body will have a harder time fighting off infections and other illnesses as a result.

3.AIDS in Stage

AIDS manifests when a person’s CD4 cell count is significantly decreased as a result of HIV infection.

White blood cells called T cells, sometimes referred to as CD4 cells, are one type. They serve as the body’s defense against harmful microorganisms. These cells become dysfunctional as a result of HIV infection.

 

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