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HEALTH & LIFESTYLE

Mpox (Monkeypox): Causes, Symptoms And Treatment

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What Is Monkeypox?

Monkeypox is an infectious disease caused by the monkeypox virus which results in a rash and flu-like symptoms. Monkeypox is currently spreading globally and within the United States primarily from close contact with an infected person, but historically has also been transmitted to people from contact with an infected animal…Click Here To Continue Reading>> …Click Here To Continue Reading>>

 

Monkeypox is part of the same family of viruses as variola virus, the virus that causes smallpox. It causes similar but milder symptoms than smallpox and is rarely fatal. There are two known types of monkeypox virus endemic in Africa — one that originated in Central Africa and one that originated in West Africa. The 2022 global outbreak is caused by the West African type, which typically causes less severe disease.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is tracking cases of monkeypox detected in countries that don’t normally report the disease, including the United States. Learn more and view the CDC’s map of monkeypox cases in the U.S.

How Does Monkeypox Spread?

Monkeypox spreads when a person comes in contact with an animal or a person who has the virus. Transmission occurs through:

  • Direct contact with an infected person’s bodily fluids, sores, scabs or respiratory droplets. This can also occur through cuddling, kissing or sex.
  • Contact with recently contaminated materials exposed to skin lesions, including clothing or bedding.
  • Scratches or bites from an infected animal, preparing or eating meat or other products from an infected animal, or direct contact with an infected animal’s blood, bodily fluid or sores.

Monkeypox Symptoms

After exposure to the monkeypox virus, the average incubation period is 1 to 2 weeks before symptoms appear.

Early signs of monkeypox include the following flu-like symptoms:

  • Chills
  • Exhaustion
  • Fever
  • Headache
  • Muscle aches and backache
  • Swollen lymph nodes

These flu-like symptoms are then typically followed by the development of a rash. The rash can look like pimples or blisters and can be painful. Lesions can appear on the face, in the mouth, and on the hands, feet, chest, genitals, or anus. Some people get the rash first, followed by other, flu-like symptoms, while some experience only a rash.

The rash goes through different stages, including pimple-like bumps and blisters that crust and fall off before healing completely. The illness caused by monkeypox typically lasts 2 to 4 weeks.

When to seek medical care for monkeypox symptoms

Call your health care provider if you have:

  • Fever, aches or swollen lymph nodes
  • A new rash or sores
  • Close contact with a person infected with monkeypox

Seek emergency medical care if you have:

  • A stiff neck
  • Chest pain
  • Confusion
  • Difficulty speaking
  • Loss of consciousness
  • Loss of mobility
  • Seizures
  • Trouble breathing

Prevention of Monkeypox Infection

Anyone can get monkeypox, but it can be prevented by limiting close contact with people with confirmed or suspected monkeypox and by vaccination.

Take the following precautions to help prevent monkeypox infection: READ FULL STORY HERE>>>CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING>>>

  • Avoid close contact with people who have been diagnosed with monkeypox or who have signs and symptoms of monkeypox, including fever and rash; this includes not sharing bedding, towels, and utensils used by the infected individual, which may be contaminated with the virus from skin lesions.
  • Clean and disinfect high-touch surfaces.
  • If it is necessary to be in close contact with someone with monkeypox, wear a mask that covers your mouth and nose and wash your hands frequently with soap and warm water.

Monkeypox can spread between the time symptoms first appear until the time the rash has fully healed.

If you suspect you have monkeypox or have been diagnosed with monkeypox, there are steps you should take to help prevent spreading the disease to others, including all guidance from your local department of health:

  • If you have an active rash or other symptoms, stay in a separate room or area away from people or pets you live with, when possible.
  • Isolate at home until all of your skin lesions have scabbed and other symptoms have resolved.
  • Wear a mask that covers your nose and mouth if you must be around others.

Vaccination to prevent monkeypox

Vaccination can help prevent monkeypox infection for people who have been in close contact with someone with confirmed or suspected monkeypox, or who are at high risk for exposure to monkeypox.

Two vaccines that are licensed by the FDA to prevent smallpox can also be used to prevent monkeypox infection – JYNNEOS, which is also known as Imvamune or Imvanex, and ACAM2000.

Currently there is a very limited supply of JYNNEOS that is being targeted for use in people who have been exposed to monkeypox, or people who are at very high risk for exposure. ACAM2000 is available, but requires special handling and administration and is not appropriate for many people, including those with certain skin conditions, pregnant people or people with weakened immune systems.

A limited supply of vaccines are currently being distributed through local health departments and select clinics and health systems for eligible patients.

Penn Medicine has an extremely limited supply of vaccine and will identify eligible patients. We are not taking appointment requests for monkeypox vaccines at this time.

Monkeypox Diagnosis

To diagnose monkeypox, your healthcare provider will take a swab from a skin lesion and send it to a lab for polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing which can detect the virus.

Monkeypox Treatment and Symptoms Management

Monkeypox symptoms typically last from 2 to 4 weeks and most people with monkeypox get better on their own without treatment. However, there are things you can do to feel better, including:

  • Drinking plenty of fluids
  • Resting
  • Taking a warm oatmeal bath. Soaking an oatmeal bath can provide relief for dry, itchy rashes.
  • Using over-the-counter pain relievers and fever reducers

Currently, there are no treatments specifically for monkeypox infection. However, given the similarity between monkeypox and smallpox viruses, therapies such as antiviral drugs and immune globulin developed to protect against smallpox may be used to treat monkeypox virus infections, especially for people with severe symptoms.

If you are infected with monkeypox, talk to your healthcare provider for more information on your eligibility for certain treatments, including the antiviral drug, tecovirimat.

 

 

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HEALTH & LIFESTYLE

These Mistakes Rapidly Increase Uric Acid: Avoid Them Today

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Uric acid is a waste product that is naturally present in the blood, formed from the breakdown of purines, substances found in certain foods and produced by the body. Normally, uric acid is filtered out of the blood by the kidneys and excreted through urine. However, when uric acid levels become elevated, it can lead to various health issues, including joint pain and more severe conditions such as gout. Managing uric acid levels effectively is crucial for maintaining overall health…Click Here To Continue Reading>> …Click Here To Continue Reading>>

Understanding Uric Acid and Its Impact
Uric acid levels typically range from 3.5 to 7.2 mg/dL, though these values can vary between individuals. When the body produces excessive uric acid or the kidneys are unable to eliminate it efficiently, uric acid can accumulate in the bloodstream, leading to a condition known as hyperuricemia. This condition often results in symptoms like severe pain in the joints, particularly in the fingers and toes, redness in the soles of the feet, increased thirst, and sometimes even fever.

Common Dietary Mistakes Leading to Elevated Uric Acid Levels
Excessive Consumption of Oil and Spices: In many diets, especially in certain cuisines, oil and spices are used liberally. Excessive intake of these ingredients can contribute to higher uric acid levels. For instance, dishes that are deep-fried or heavily spiced can elevate uric acid, leading to health complications. Preserved foods, which are often high in additives and oils, can also contribute to increased uric acid levels.

High Protein Foods: Foods high in protein, such as legumes, are known to raise uric acid levels. While legumes are a valuable source of protein, overconsumption or improperly stored legumes (e.g., those left out at room temperature for extended periods) can exacerbate uric acid issues. It is crucial to store legumes properly, preferably in the refrigerator if they are not consumed immediately, to prevent a rapid increase in uric acid.

Consumption of Sour Foods: Certain sour foods, including amchur (dried mango powder), tamarind, raw tomatoes, and raw mango drinks, can increase uric acid levels. While these foods add flavor, they can exacerbate uric acid problems, particularly if consumed in large amounts. Opting for alternatives like lemon or amla (Indian gooseberry) can be beneficial, as these can help in reducing elevated uric acid levels.

Eating Outside Food: Many people enjoy eating out, but external food items such as kachoris, samosas, and non-vegetarian dishes often contain excessive amounts of oil and spices. These can lead to an increase in uric acid levels. Furthermore, non-vegetarian dishes often contain higher levels of purines, which can further contribute to elevated uric acid. Limiting the intake of such foods and focusing on homemade, balanced meals can help in managing uric acid levels. READ FULL STORY HERE>>>CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING>>>

Lifestyle Changes to Manage Uric Acid Levels
Adopt a Physically Active Lifestyle: Regular physical activity is essential for maintaining overall health and managing uric acid levels. Incorporate activities such as walking, jogging, or other forms of exercise into your daily routine. Physical activity helps in maintaining a healthy weight and supports the effective elimination of uric acid from the body.

Balanced Diet: Include fiber-rich foods in your diet, such as whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. Opt for low-fat dairy products like yogurt and buttermilk, which can aid in managing uric acid levels. Eating balanced meals at regular intervals helps in maintaining metabolic stability and preventing excessive uric acid buildup.

Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water throughout the day is crucial. Water helps in flushing out excess uric acid through urine and prevents dehydration, which can worsen uric acid levels. Aim to drink at least 8-10 glasses of water daily.

Avoid Irregular Eating Patterns: Stick to a regular eating schedule and avoid overeating or skipping meals. Irregular eating habits can disrupt metabolic processes and contribute to increased uric acid levels.

Managing uric acid levels requires a combination of dietary awareness and lifestyle modifications. By avoiding common dietary mistakes, such as excessive consumption of high-protein foods, sour foods, and external food items, and adopting a healthy lifestyle, individuals can effectively control their uric acid levels and reduce the risk of associated health issues. Making these changes today can lead to long-term health benefits and improved quality of life.

 

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HEALTH & LIFESTYLE

4 Fruits To Eat To Make Blood Flow Very Well In Your Body

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These 4 Fruits to Improve Your Circulation Today!

The first step in ensuring that sufficient blood is able to circulate throughout your body is to ensure that your blood arteries are not blocked. As a direct consequence of this, the elasticity and suppleness of your blood vessels will be restored.

Because the blood arteries are going to be freed up, the blood flow is going to become more unrestricted. According to Healthline, the heart does not need to work particularly hard in order for blood to be pumped through the veins…Click Here To Continue Reading>> …Click Here To Continue Reading>>

 

The body can clean out its arteries by utilizing certain fruit components, which can be found in fruits. As a direct consequence of receiving this treatment, the blood vessels will not grow inflamed, brittle, or burst.

Both the unclogging and strengthening of blood vessels can be helped along by the use of specific minerals, nutrients that are present in plants (called phytonutrients), and proteolytic enzymes. The results of your hard work are presented in the following list.

Rutin is a type of bioflavonoid that can be found in citrus fruits such as oranges, grapefruits, and tangerines. Taking these bioflavonoids regularly can assist in the strengthening of your blood vessels.

Rutin is frequently isolated by scientists and included into various dietary supplements. When peeling an orange, you should take care to remove only the outer layer of skin that is green or yellow. Consume the entire orange, including the white covering that sits on top of it. READ FULL STORY HERE>>>CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING>>>

Rutin, which has medicinal properties that strengthen your blood vessels, can be tasted, despite the fact that the bitterness is highly medicinal and helpful to both your health and your health specifically.

If you haven’t done so already, peel the pineapple. There is something in the core of your pineapple that you should look for. This is a challenging part of the process to go through. There is a particular region of the pineapple that is particularly rich in bromelin. If you consume it first thing in the morning on an empty stomach, it may help unclog your arteries and protect you from developing heart disease.

Another trace element that helps strengthen the blood arteries is copper, which can be found in bananas and avocados.

Copper is required in our diets in only trace amounts; yet, over consumption of this mineral can be detrimental to the health of our blood vessels.

Your delicate blood arteries will not burst into an aneurysm, and you will not have any internal bleeding as a result of this.

Getting your hands on an unripe pawpaw is the fourth possible course of action. Peel it and eat it in this form first thing in the morning when your stomach is empty. This dish has a significant amount of papain, which is an effective enzyme for cleaning out the arteries.

The proteolytic enzyme found in pawpaw contributes to the unclogging of blood vessels, which in turn improves the flow of blood to the organs in the body.

 

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HEALTH & LIFESTYLE

What typically Happens To Your Body if You Have Not Eaten For a While

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Not eaten for a week can have significant effect on your body. The body Will initially rely on glycogen store for energy, but after 24 to 48 hours, it begins to break down fat and muscle tissue for fuel.

1. Muscles loss: Since the body needs protein for a certain essential functions, prolonged fasting can lead to muscles breakdown as protein is used as alternative energy source…Click Here To Continue Reading>> …Click Here To Continue Reading>>

 

2. Energy depletion: Glycogen, the stored form of glucose in the liver and muscles, get depleted within the first 24 to 48 hours. The body starts using fat stores for energy through a process called ketosis.

3. Immune system and Suppression: A lack of nutrients over time can weaken the immune system, making it harder for your body to fight off infections.

4. Metal and emotional changes: As energy reserves deplete, metal clarity and mood can be affected, potentially leading to irritability, confusion or mood swings. READ FULL STORY HERE>>>CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING>>>

5. Dehydration risk: Since food contains water, not eating can increase the risk of dehydration which can worsen the symptoms of weakness and fatigue.

6. Fatigue and weakness: Without food, blood sugar levels drop, leading to extreme fatigue, dizziness and difficult Concentrating.

 

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