Symptoms Of MS Disease
Published on Mar 13 2010, in the categories: MS disease
What is Multiple Sclerosis?
Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a disease of the central nervous system (CNS). The CNS consists of two parts: the brain and spinal cord. Nervous stimuli are transmitted through nerve cells called neurons. Wrapping these CNS neurons is a material composed of proteins, fats called myelin that facilitates driving into electrical impulses between these nerve fibers. Where myelin is destroyed, the plates become hardened tissue (sclerosis). As a result, nerve impulses are interrupted periodically, or in severe cases, permanently.
Multiple sclerosis is a disease related to the loss of the myelin of the brain and spinal nerves. Where myelin is destroyed, the plates become hardened tissue (sclerosis). This teething transmission of nerve stimulation and makes it more expensive or, in severe cases, are interrupted periodically.
Luckily the injury of myelin is often reversible.
People with increased risk of MS are people between 20 and 45 years, and fatigue is a very common symptom. MS is neither contagious, inherited, nor fatal.
Causes of MS disease
Currently, no one knows the exact cause of multiple sclerosis, but it is believed that the destruction of myelin is the result of an abnormal immune response to the organism itself. Usually, the immune system defends the body from viruses and bacteria. In autoimmune diseases, in which the body destroys its own foreign bodies, the body attacks its own cells. In multiple sclerosis, myelin is an attacked substance. Scientists do not know what prompts the immune system to attack myelin. Most agree that several factors are involved (genetic and environmental factors).
Symptoms of MS disease
Symptoms of MS disease vary greatly depending on the person affected by the CNS areas that are affected. The most prominent symptoms are:
- Weakness.
- Tingling.
- Lack of coordination.
- Fatigue.
- Balance problems.
- Visual disturbances.
- Trembling.
- Muscle stiffness.
- Speech disorders.
- Bowel or urinary problems.
- Ataxia (unsteady gait).
- Problems with sexual function.
- Sensitivity to heat.
- Problems with memory and cognitive disorders among others.
Diagnosis
To diagnose this disease is carried primarily by the patient's medical history and neurological examination. The most important test is magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and cerebrospinal fluid study. The number and location of lesions on MRI may vary over time, but the appearance of lesions on MRI is difficult to diagnose because, sometimes it is difficult to distinguish with certainty demyelinating lesions (which are those that give certainty of disease) from other lesions of different origin.
Forecast
Today it is difficult to predict the onset of symptoms attributable to multiple sclerosis. There are benign forms of multiple sclerosis, in which the disease causes very few disruptions throughout life. Furthermore, after a worsening or relapse often improvement occurs. The complete remission of symptoms usually is important to follow the evolution of the disease through regular visits to the neurologist who is best placed to suggest and warn of the treatments applied at each stage of the pattern of symptoms or complications, if there are any.
Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a disease of the central nervous system (CNS). The CNS consists of two parts: the brain and spinal cord. Nervous stimuli are transmitted through nerve cells called neurons. Wrapping these CNS neurons is a material composed of proteins, fats called myelin that facilitates driving into electrical impulses between these nerve fibers. Where myelin is destroyed, the plates become hardened tissue (sclerosis). As a result, nerve impulses are interrupted periodically, or in severe cases, permanently.
Multiple sclerosis is a disease related to the loss of the myelin of the brain and spinal nerves. Where myelin is destroyed, the plates become hardened tissue (sclerosis). This teething transmission of nerve stimulation and makes it more expensive or, in severe cases, are interrupted periodically.
Luckily the injury of myelin is often reversible.
People with increased risk of MS are people between 20 and 45 years, and fatigue is a very common symptom. MS is neither contagious, inherited, nor fatal.
Causes of MS disease
Currently, no one knows the exact cause of multiple sclerosis, but it is believed that the destruction of myelin is the result of an abnormal immune response to the organism itself. Usually, the immune system defends the body from viruses and bacteria. In autoimmune diseases, in which the body destroys its own foreign bodies, the body attacks its own cells. In multiple sclerosis, myelin is an attacked substance. Scientists do not know what prompts the immune system to attack myelin. Most agree that several factors are involved (genetic and environmental factors).
Symptoms of MS disease
Symptoms of MS disease vary greatly depending on the person affected by the CNS areas that are affected. The most prominent symptoms are:
- Weakness.
- Tingling.
- Lack of coordination.
- Fatigue.
- Balance problems.
- Visual disturbances.
- Trembling.
- Muscle stiffness.
- Speech disorders.
- Bowel or urinary problems.
- Ataxia (unsteady gait).
- Problems with sexual function.
- Sensitivity to heat.
- Problems with memory and cognitive disorders among others.
Diagnosis
To diagnose this disease is carried primarily by the patient's medical history and neurological examination. The most important test is magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and cerebrospinal fluid study. The number and location of lesions on MRI may vary over time, but the appearance of lesions on MRI is difficult to diagnose because, sometimes it is difficult to distinguish with certainty demyelinating lesions (which are those that give certainty of disease) from other lesions of different origin.
Forecast
Today it is difficult to predict the onset of symptoms attributable to multiple sclerosis. There are benign forms of multiple sclerosis, in which the disease causes very few disruptions throughout life. Furthermore, after a worsening or relapse often improvement occurs. The complete remission of symptoms usually is important to follow the evolution of the disease through regular visits to the neurologist who is best placed to suggest and warn of the treatments applied at each stage of the pattern of symptoms or complications, if there are any.
ALS Disease Symptoms
Published on Mar 13 2010, in the categories: ALS, Lou Gehrig's, symptoms
What is ALS? - This is the short term for Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis , rarely called also the Lou Gehrig's disease, is a progressive neurological disease, invariably fatal, which attacks nerve cells (neurons) responsible for controlling voluntary muscles. This disease is included into a group of diseases called motor neuron diseases, which are characterized by the gradual degeneration and death of motor neurons.
Motor neurons are nerve cells located in the brain, brainstem, and spinal cord that serve as controlling units and vital communication links between the nervous system and voluntary muscles of the body. Messages from motor neurons brain (called upper motor neurons) are transmitted to motor neurons in the spinal cord (called lower motor neurons) and from there to each particular muscle. In ALS, motor neurons both upper and lower degenerate or die and stop sending messages to muscles. Unable to function, the muscles gradually weaken and become waste (atrophy) and contract. Eventually, the brain loses the ability to initiate and control voluntary movement.
ALS is the cause of weakness having a wide array of disabilities. Are affected eventually all muscles under voluntary control and patients lose their strength and ability to move his arms, legs and body. When muscles of the diaphragm and chest wall fail, patients can't breathe any more without a ventilator or breathing machine. Most people with ALS die from respiratory failure, usually between 3 to 5 years from the onset of ALS disease symptoms. However, about 10 percent of ALS patients survive 10 years or more.
Because ALS affects only motor neurons, the disease does not impair the mind, personality, intelligence or memory of the person. Nor does it affect the senses of sight, smell, taste, hearing or touch. Patients usually maintain control of eye muscles and functions of the bladder and intestines.
What are the ALS disease symptoms? - The onset of ALS may be so subtle that often are overlooked symptoms. The first symptoms may include twitching, cramps or muscle stiffness, muscle weakness affecting an arm or leg, speech impaired or nose, or difficulty chewing or swallowing. These widespread complaints then become more obvious weakness or atrophy, which can lead to the doctor suspecting ALS.
The parts of the body affected by early symptoms of ALS depend on which muscles in the body are damaged first. In some cases, symptoms initially affect one of the legs and patients have difficulty walking or running or realize that they face or stumble more often. At first, some patients see the effects of the disease in a hand or arm when they are hard to do simple tasks requiring manual dexterity such as buttoning a shirt, write or turn the key into a lock. Other patients notice trouble in speaking.
For patients to be diagnosed with ALS, they must have signs and symptoms of damage to the upper and lower motor neurons that can not be attributed to other causes. Although the sequence of emerging symptoms and the rate of disease progression vary from person to person, eventually patients will not stand or walk, lie down or get out of bed alone, or use his hands and arms.
Difficulty swallowing and chewing hurts the ability of patients to eat normally and increase the risk of choking. Maintaining weight becomes a problem. Because the disease usually does not affect cognitive abilities, patients realize their gradual loss of function, and can be anxiety or depression. Health professionals should explain the course of the disease and describe available treatments so that patients can make informed decisions in advance.
Motor neurons are nerve cells located in the brain, brainstem, and spinal cord that serve as controlling units and vital communication links between the nervous system and voluntary muscles of the body. Messages from motor neurons brain (called upper motor neurons) are transmitted to motor neurons in the spinal cord (called lower motor neurons) and from there to each particular muscle. In ALS, motor neurons both upper and lower degenerate or die and stop sending messages to muscles. Unable to function, the muscles gradually weaken and become waste (atrophy) and contract. Eventually, the brain loses the ability to initiate and control voluntary movement.
ALS is the cause of weakness having a wide array of disabilities. Are affected eventually all muscles under voluntary control and patients lose their strength and ability to move his arms, legs and body. When muscles of the diaphragm and chest wall fail, patients can't breathe any more without a ventilator or breathing machine. Most people with ALS die from respiratory failure, usually between 3 to 5 years from the onset of ALS disease symptoms. However, about 10 percent of ALS patients survive 10 years or more.
Because ALS affects only motor neurons, the disease does not impair the mind, personality, intelligence or memory of the person. Nor does it affect the senses of sight, smell, taste, hearing or touch. Patients usually maintain control of eye muscles and functions of the bladder and intestines.
What are the ALS disease symptoms? - The onset of ALS may be so subtle that often are overlooked symptoms. The first symptoms may include twitching, cramps or muscle stiffness, muscle weakness affecting an arm or leg, speech impaired or nose, or difficulty chewing or swallowing. These widespread complaints then become more obvious weakness or atrophy, which can lead to the doctor suspecting ALS.
The parts of the body affected by early symptoms of ALS depend on which muscles in the body are damaged first. In some cases, symptoms initially affect one of the legs and patients have difficulty walking or running or realize that they face or stumble more often. At first, some patients see the effects of the disease in a hand or arm when they are hard to do simple tasks requiring manual dexterity such as buttoning a shirt, write or turn the key into a lock. Other patients notice trouble in speaking.
For patients to be diagnosed with ALS, they must have signs and symptoms of damage to the upper and lower motor neurons that can not be attributed to other causes. Although the sequence of emerging symptoms and the rate of disease progression vary from person to person, eventually patients will not stand or walk, lie down or get out of bed alone, or use his hands and arms.
Difficulty swallowing and chewing hurts the ability of patients to eat normally and increase the risk of choking. Maintaining weight becomes a problem. Because the disease usually does not affect cognitive abilities, patients realize their gradual loss of function, and can be anxiety or depression. Health professionals should explain the course of the disease and describe available treatments so that patients can make informed decisions in advance.
Parkinson’s Disease Signs And Symptoms
Published on Mar 12 2010, in the categories: parkinson, symptoms
Introduction - Parkinson's disease is a degenerative disorder of the central nervous system. It was first described in 1817 by James Parkinson, a British physician who published an article on what he called "the shaking palsy." In this article, outlined the main symptoms of the disease that later bear his name.
Investigators believe at least 500,000 people in the United States currently suffer from Parkinson's disease, though some estimates are much higher. Society pays an enormous price for the disease. The estimated total cost for the country exceeds $ 6.000 million annually.
What is Parkinson's disease? - Parkinson's disease belongs to a group of conditions called movement disorders. The four main symptoms are tremor, or trembling in hands, arms, legs, jaw or head, stiffness, or stiffness of limbs and trunk, bradykinesia, or slowness of movement, and postural instability, or impaired balance. These symptoms usually begin gradually and worsen over time. As you become more pronounced, patients may have difficulty walking, talking or completing other simple tasks. Not all those with one or more of these symptoms have the disease because symptoms may also appear in other diseases.
Early Parkinson’s disease signs and symptoms are subtle and occur gradually. Affected people may feel mild tremors or have difficulty getting up from a chair. They may notice they speak very softly or that their handwriting is slow and seems tight or small. They can lose track of a word or a thought, or may feel tired, irritable, or depressed for no apparent reason.
The Parkinson’s disease signs and symptoms often begin on one side of the body. However, as it evolves, the disease eventually affects both sides. Even after the disease involves both sides of the body, symptoms often are less severe on one side than the other. The four primary symptoms of Parkinson's disease are:
Tremor. The tremor associated with the disease has a characteristic appearance. Typically, the tremor takes the form of a rhythmic forward and backward at a rate of 4-6 beats per second.
Stiffness. The stiffness, or resistance to movement, affects most people with Parkinson's disease. An important principle of body movement is that all muscles have an opposing muscle. The movement is possible not just because one muscle becomes more active, but because the opposing muscle relaxes.
Bradykinesia. Bradykinesia, or the delay and loss of spontaneous and automatic movement, is particularly frustrating because it can make simple tasks rather difficult.
Postural instability. Postural instability, or impaired balance, causes patients to fall easily. Affected people may develop a stooped posture in which the head is bowed and shoulders slumped.
Depression. This is a common problem and may appear early in the course of the disease, even before other symptoms are noticed.
Emotional changes. Some people with PD become fearful and insecure.
Difficulty in swallowing and chewing. The muscles used for swallowing may work less efficiently in later stages of the disease.
Changes in speech. About half of patients with the disease have problems of speaking.
Urinary problems or constipation. In some patients, may be problems with the bladder and bowel due to malfunction of the autonomic nervous system responsible for regulating smooth muscle activity.
Skin problems. In Parkinson's disease, it is common that the skin of the face becomes very oily, particularly on the forehead and sides of the nose. The scalp may become oily, causing dandruff;
Trouble sleeping. Common sleep problems in Parkinson's disease include difficulty staying asleep at night, restless sleep, nightmares and emotional dreams, and drowsiness or sudden onset of sleep during the day.
Investigators believe at least 500,000 people in the United States currently suffer from Parkinson's disease, though some estimates are much higher. Society pays an enormous price for the disease. The estimated total cost for the country exceeds $ 6.000 million annually.
What is Parkinson's disease? - Parkinson's disease belongs to a group of conditions called movement disorders. The four main symptoms are tremor, or trembling in hands, arms, legs, jaw or head, stiffness, or stiffness of limbs and trunk, bradykinesia, or slowness of movement, and postural instability, or impaired balance. These symptoms usually begin gradually and worsen over time. As you become more pronounced, patients may have difficulty walking, talking or completing other simple tasks. Not all those with one or more of these symptoms have the disease because symptoms may also appear in other diseases.
Early Parkinson’s disease signs and symptoms are subtle and occur gradually. Affected people may feel mild tremors or have difficulty getting up from a chair. They may notice they speak very softly or that their handwriting is slow and seems tight or small. They can lose track of a word or a thought, or may feel tired, irritable, or depressed for no apparent reason.
The Parkinson’s disease signs and symptoms often begin on one side of the body. However, as it evolves, the disease eventually affects both sides. Even after the disease involves both sides of the body, symptoms often are less severe on one side than the other. The four primary symptoms of Parkinson's disease are:
Tremor. The tremor associated with the disease has a characteristic appearance. Typically, the tremor takes the form of a rhythmic forward and backward at a rate of 4-6 beats per second.
Stiffness. The stiffness, or resistance to movement, affects most people with Parkinson's disease. An important principle of body movement is that all muscles have an opposing muscle. The movement is possible not just because one muscle becomes more active, but because the opposing muscle relaxes.
Bradykinesia. Bradykinesia, or the delay and loss of spontaneous and automatic movement, is particularly frustrating because it can make simple tasks rather difficult.
Postural instability. Postural instability, or impaired balance, causes patients to fall easily. Affected people may develop a stooped posture in which the head is bowed and shoulders slumped.
Depression. This is a common problem and may appear early in the course of the disease, even before other symptoms are noticed.
Emotional changes. Some people with PD become fearful and insecure.
Difficulty in swallowing and chewing. The muscles used for swallowing may work less efficiently in later stages of the disease.
Changes in speech. About half of patients with the disease have problems of speaking.
Urinary problems or constipation. In some patients, may be problems with the bladder and bowel due to malfunction of the autonomic nervous system responsible for regulating smooth muscle activity.
Skin problems. In Parkinson's disease, it is common that the skin of the face becomes very oily, particularly on the forehead and sides of the nose. The scalp may become oily, causing dandruff;
Trouble sleeping. Common sleep problems in Parkinson's disease include difficulty staying asleep at night, restless sleep, nightmares and emotional dreams, and drowsiness or sudden onset of sleep during the day.
What Are The Symptoms Of Lyme Disease
Published on Mar 12 2010, in the categories: Lyme Disease, symptoms
What is Lyme disease? Lyme disease is an infection caused by a kind of bacterium (germ) called a spirochete. The carrier of the disease are deer ticks, which are located in the northeastern and north central United States of America, and the black-legged ticks west, which are mainly in the region Pacific Coast of the United States. These ticks can spread the disease to animals and humans through biting. These ticks typically are the size of a sesame seed.
Lyme disease is more common in rural and suburban areas in the U.S. Northeast and Midwest. Lyme disease is also found in other parts of the U.S. like Europe, Asia and Australia. What are the symptoms of Lyme disease? Everybody is asking what are the symptoms of Lyme disease. One sign of Lyme disease is a rash that may appear between three and thirty days after a tick bite. This rash usually starts at the site of the tick bite. May begin as a small red spot and grow larger. The center may fade, creating a bull's eye appearance or ring, but this does not always happen. Some people with Lyme disease have many red spots. The rash may burn, hurt or itch.
Other symptoms of Lyme disease in its early stage include fever, chills, headache, stiff neck, fatigue and muscle aches. Rarely, Lyme disease in its early stages can spread to the heart or nervous system. If Lyme disease spreads to the heart, the person may feel their heart beats irregularly or slowly. The spread of Lyme disease to the nervous system can cause the face to droop (a condition known as Bell's palsy) can cause numbness in the arms and legs or swelling of the membranes surrounding the brain, which is known as meningitis.
What about the later stages of Lyme disease? - If Lyme disease is not treated it can spread to other parts of the body. The symptoms of late stage Lyme disease include arthritis (painful, swollen joints) and nervous system problems. Arthritis caused by Lyme disease often affects only one of the large joints, such as the knee. Sometimes it may affect more than one joint. The symptoms of nervous system disorder that causes late-stage Lyme disease may include trouble concentrating, changes in mood or sleeping habits, memory loss and muscular weakness. However, Lyme disease rarely causes such problems with the nervous system.
How is Lyme disease treated? - Lyme disease is treated with antibiotics. The initial stage of Lyme disease responds very well to treatment. In most cases, between 14 and 30 days of antibiotics kill bacteria. Your doctor will tell you how many days to take the antibiotic. It is important that you take all the medicine your doctor prescribes to prevent the spread of Lyme disease to your joints, nervous system or heart.
If you have problems do not stop taking medication. Call your doctor and talk to him about these side effects. Late-stage Lyme disease is also treated with antibiotics. Drugs that reduce swelling and pain can relieve arthritis associated with late-stage Lyme disease. If necessary, excess fluid can be drained (removed) from the affected joints.
Lyme disease is more common in rural and suburban areas in the U.S. Northeast and Midwest. Lyme disease is also found in other parts of the U.S. like Europe, Asia and Australia. What are the symptoms of Lyme disease? Everybody is asking what are the symptoms of Lyme disease. One sign of Lyme disease is a rash that may appear between three and thirty days after a tick bite. This rash usually starts at the site of the tick bite. May begin as a small red spot and grow larger. The center may fade, creating a bull's eye appearance or ring, but this does not always happen. Some people with Lyme disease have many red spots. The rash may burn, hurt or itch.
Other symptoms of Lyme disease in its early stage include fever, chills, headache, stiff neck, fatigue and muscle aches. Rarely, Lyme disease in its early stages can spread to the heart or nervous system. If Lyme disease spreads to the heart, the person may feel their heart beats irregularly or slowly. The spread of Lyme disease to the nervous system can cause the face to droop (a condition known as Bell's palsy) can cause numbness in the arms and legs or swelling of the membranes surrounding the brain, which is known as meningitis.
What about the later stages of Lyme disease? - If Lyme disease is not treated it can spread to other parts of the body. The symptoms of late stage Lyme disease include arthritis (painful, swollen joints) and nervous system problems. Arthritis caused by Lyme disease often affects only one of the large joints, such as the knee. Sometimes it may affect more than one joint. The symptoms of nervous system disorder that causes late-stage Lyme disease may include trouble concentrating, changes in mood or sleeping habits, memory loss and muscular weakness. However, Lyme disease rarely causes such problems with the nervous system.
How is Lyme disease treated? - Lyme disease is treated with antibiotics. The initial stage of Lyme disease responds very well to treatment. In most cases, between 14 and 30 days of antibiotics kill bacteria. Your doctor will tell you how many days to take the antibiotic. It is important that you take all the medicine your doctor prescribes to prevent the spread of Lyme disease to your joints, nervous system or heart.
If you have problems do not stop taking medication. Call your doctor and talk to him about these side effects. Late-stage Lyme disease is also treated with antibiotics. Drugs that reduce swelling and pain can relieve arthritis associated with late-stage Lyme disease. If necessary, excess fluid can be drained (removed) from the affected joints.
Meniere’s Disease Symptoms
Published on Mar 11 2010, in the categories: Meniere's, symptoms
What is Meniere's Disease? The French physician Prosper Meniere described a condition which now bears his name. The Meniere's disease symptoms cause episodic vertigo, tinnitus (perception of sound in one or both ears), feeling of pressure or fullness in the ear and fluctuating hearing loss.
A typical attack of Meniere's disease is usually preceded by fullness in one ear. Fluctuation in hearing and changes in the characteristics of tinnitus may also precede an attack. An episode of Meniere generally include: severe vertigo (spinning sensation of the environment), imbalance, nausea and vomiting. The average length of stroke is 2 to 4 hours. There is a marked variability in the duration of Meniere’s disease symptoms.
Some people experience brief episodic "shocks", while others have constant unsteadiness. An unusual sensitivity to visual stimuli is common. During the attack the eyes "jump" (this is called nystagmus). A particularly disabling symptom is the sudden drop to the floor that can occur without warning. This is called "otolithic crisis of Tumarkin," for the original description of Tumarkin (1936).
This is attributed to sudden mechanical deformation of the otolith organs (utricle and saccule), causing rapid activation of vestibular reflexes. Patients feel as if they were suddenly leaning or falling (although they are straight) and try to make re-positioning movements before the crash.
This is a very disabling symptom because it occurs without warning and can cause severe physical damage. Typically, the destructive treatment (eg labyrinthectomy or vestibular nerve section) is the only way to handle this problem. Other otologic conditions may occasionally be associated with Tumarkin falls rate.
Meniere's episodes (attacks) can occur in clusters or in groups (clusters), that is, several attacks may occur in a short period of time. However, several years may pass between episodes. Between attacks most patients are free of symptoms or note slightest imbalance and tinnitus. Meniere's disease affects approximately 0.2% of the population.
Meniere's disease usually starts confined to one ear but usually extends to involve both ears at a time up to 30 years. There are controversies about the statistics, but some authors, eg Silverstein, suggests that the prevalence of bilateral involvement is low, the order of 17% (Silverstein, 1992). We suspect that this low frequency is due to a short follow up of patients and 50% of bilateralism seems more appropriate. Another possibility, however, is the selection bias of patients and different patterns of disease in different countries. Silverstein suggested that 75% of people develop bilateral disease, they will within 5 years.
What causes Meniere's Disease? - It is thought that the attacks in Meniere's disease are due to the fluctuating pressure in the inner ear in these patients. A membrane system, called the membranous labyrinth contains a fluid that is the endolymph. The membranes could begin to expand as a "balloon" when the pressure increases. This is called hydrops. One possible explanation for this is that the drainage system of fluid called endolymphatic duct or sac is blocked.
What can I do to reduce symptoms? Some medications can be prescribed to try to regulate the pressure of fluids in the inner ear, thus reducing the severity and frequency of attacks of Meniere's disease. Dyazide is the most commonly prescribed medication for this purpose. Verapamil (usual dose: 120 SR) sometimes reduces the frequency of attacks. Some doctors report injections of histamine.
A typical attack of Meniere's disease is usually preceded by fullness in one ear. Fluctuation in hearing and changes in the characteristics of tinnitus may also precede an attack. An episode of Meniere generally include: severe vertigo (spinning sensation of the environment), imbalance, nausea and vomiting. The average length of stroke is 2 to 4 hours. There is a marked variability in the duration of Meniere’s disease symptoms.
Some people experience brief episodic "shocks", while others have constant unsteadiness. An unusual sensitivity to visual stimuli is common. During the attack the eyes "jump" (this is called nystagmus). A particularly disabling symptom is the sudden drop to the floor that can occur without warning. This is called "otolithic crisis of Tumarkin," for the original description of Tumarkin (1936).
This is attributed to sudden mechanical deformation of the otolith organs (utricle and saccule), causing rapid activation of vestibular reflexes. Patients feel as if they were suddenly leaning or falling (although they are straight) and try to make re-positioning movements before the crash.
This is a very disabling symptom because it occurs without warning and can cause severe physical damage. Typically, the destructive treatment (eg labyrinthectomy or vestibular nerve section) is the only way to handle this problem. Other otologic conditions may occasionally be associated with Tumarkin falls rate.
Meniere's episodes (attacks) can occur in clusters or in groups (clusters), that is, several attacks may occur in a short period of time. However, several years may pass between episodes. Between attacks most patients are free of symptoms or note slightest imbalance and tinnitus. Meniere's disease affects approximately 0.2% of the population.
Meniere's disease usually starts confined to one ear but usually extends to involve both ears at a time up to 30 years. There are controversies about the statistics, but some authors, eg Silverstein, suggests that the prevalence of bilateral involvement is low, the order of 17% (Silverstein, 1992). We suspect that this low frequency is due to a short follow up of patients and 50% of bilateralism seems more appropriate. Another possibility, however, is the selection bias of patients and different patterns of disease in different countries. Silverstein suggested that 75% of people develop bilateral disease, they will within 5 years.
What causes Meniere's Disease? - It is thought that the attacks in Meniere's disease are due to the fluctuating pressure in the inner ear in these patients. A membrane system, called the membranous labyrinth contains a fluid that is the endolymph. The membranes could begin to expand as a "balloon" when the pressure increases. This is called hydrops. One possible explanation for this is that the drainage system of fluid called endolymphatic duct or sac is blocked.
What can I do to reduce symptoms? Some medications can be prescribed to try to regulate the pressure of fluids in the inner ear, thus reducing the severity and frequency of attacks of Meniere's disease. Dyazide is the most commonly prescribed medication for this purpose. Verapamil (usual dose: 120 SR) sometimes reduces the frequency of attacks. Some doctors report injections of histamine.
Lyme Disease Symptoms
Published on Mar 11 2010, in the categories: Lyme Disease, symptoms
Maybe you have heard about the Lyme disease. Is usually associated with wooded areas and meadows where deer live. Lyme disease is more common in the northeastern U.S. and northwestern U.S. washed by Pacific as well as in more northern states of the upper Midwest U.S.
What is Lyme disease? Lyme disease is an infection caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi. This bacterium is usually found in animals like mice and deer. It can infect humans through the bite of Ixodes ticks (known as black-legged ticks or deer). These ticks are infected with the bacteria Borrelia burgdorferi by biting infected animals transmitted the infection to humans.
How disgusting, right? Perhaps. But you can be sure you will not witness the process. Ticks are very hard to see. Immature ticks, or nymphs, are about the size of a poppy seed. Adult specimens are about the size of a sesame seed. Since ticks are not easy to see, it helps to know what the Lyme disease symptoms are. It's easy for a tick bite to go unnoticed. Many people who contract Lyme disease do not recall that any tick has bitten them. However, the good news is that not all tick bites lead to Lyme disease.
What are the Lyme disease symptoms and signs? Lyme disease can affect different systems as the nervous system, joints, skin and heart. The symptoms of this disease are generally described in three phases, although not everyone goes through them all: the first step is a rash or infection is a circular rash. The rash appears during the first week or two immediately after infection but may develop up to 30 days after the bite. The rash usually disappears after about a month.
Along with the rash, patients may have flu-like symptoms such as swollen lymph nodes, fatigue, and headache and muscle discomfort. Lyme disease can affect the heart, causing an irregular heartbeat or chest pain.
If the first two phases of Lyme disease are not detected and / or not treated properly, the third phase may occur. The symptoms of late stage Lyme disease can occur anywhere from several weeks to several years after infective bite. They can include arthritis (inflammation of the joints), especially in knees and memory lapses (this last symptom occurs mostly in adults and is very rare in children and teenagers).
Having such a wide range of symptoms, Lyme disease is difficult to diagnose. Fortunately, there is a blood test to detect antibodies against the disease.
When should you call the doctor? If you think there's any chance you've contracted the Lyme disease or a tick has bitten you, contact your doctor. Although there are other conditions that can cause symptoms that we have seen, is always a good idea to comment your symptoms with your doctor. This is especially important if you develop a red rash in a ring, long-lasting flu-like symptoms, joint pain or swelling, or facial paralysis.
Can it be prevented? - There is no foolproof way to avoid contracting Lyme disease. But there are many ways to minimize the risk. Beware of ticks when you are in an area abounding of vegetation. If you exercise outdoors or you enjoy gardening, fishing, hunting or camping, take precautions.
What is Lyme disease? Lyme disease is an infection caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi. This bacterium is usually found in animals like mice and deer. It can infect humans through the bite of Ixodes ticks (known as black-legged ticks or deer). These ticks are infected with the bacteria Borrelia burgdorferi by biting infected animals transmitted the infection to humans.
How disgusting, right? Perhaps. But you can be sure you will not witness the process. Ticks are very hard to see. Immature ticks, or nymphs, are about the size of a poppy seed. Adult specimens are about the size of a sesame seed. Since ticks are not easy to see, it helps to know what the Lyme disease symptoms are. It's easy for a tick bite to go unnoticed. Many people who contract Lyme disease do not recall that any tick has bitten them. However, the good news is that not all tick bites lead to Lyme disease.
What are the Lyme disease symptoms and signs? Lyme disease can affect different systems as the nervous system, joints, skin and heart. The symptoms of this disease are generally described in three phases, although not everyone goes through them all: the first step is a rash or infection is a circular rash. The rash appears during the first week or two immediately after infection but may develop up to 30 days after the bite. The rash usually disappears after about a month.
Along with the rash, patients may have flu-like symptoms such as swollen lymph nodes, fatigue, and headache and muscle discomfort. Lyme disease can affect the heart, causing an irregular heartbeat or chest pain.
If the first two phases of Lyme disease are not detected and / or not treated properly, the third phase may occur. The symptoms of late stage Lyme disease can occur anywhere from several weeks to several years after infective bite. They can include arthritis (inflammation of the joints), especially in knees and memory lapses (this last symptom occurs mostly in adults and is very rare in children and teenagers).
Having such a wide range of symptoms, Lyme disease is difficult to diagnose. Fortunately, there is a blood test to detect antibodies against the disease.
When should you call the doctor? If you think there's any chance you've contracted the Lyme disease or a tick has bitten you, contact your doctor. Although there are other conditions that can cause symptoms that we have seen, is always a good idea to comment your symptoms with your doctor. This is especially important if you develop a red rash in a ring, long-lasting flu-like symptoms, joint pain or swelling, or facial paralysis.
Can it be prevented? - There is no foolproof way to avoid contracting Lyme disease. But there are many ways to minimize the risk. Beware of ticks when you are in an area abounding of vegetation. If you exercise outdoors or you enjoy gardening, fishing, hunting or camping, take precautions.
Peripheral Arterial Disease Symptoms
Published on Mar 10 2010, in the categories: Peripheral Artery, symptoms
The disease of the peripheral arteries appears because of a poor blood flow in the arteries, namely the peripheral ones. By definition, the arteries are kind of corridors in the body, which take the blood to the muscles and various organs, irrigating the entire body. If these corridors become narrowed or clotted because of an illness, then they will not be able to offer enough blood to the body, brain, muscles and organs, which will pose serious and numerous problems to the functioning of the body.
Peripheral arterial disease symptoms are the signs of illness in the peripheral arteries, and this illness may also be called peripheral vascular disease, or disease of the peripheral vasculature. In this article I will concentrate on the peripheral arterial disease symptoms present in illnesses that affect the legs, since the legs are the ones that show the most cases of peripheral arterial disease symptoms or occurrence.
Most commonly, illnesses of the peripheral arteries consist of the creation and development of some sort of layers within the blood vessels, and these additional layers seem like plaque. This plaque is produced from additional cholesterol, calcium as well as other elements contained or transported through the blood stream, and these elements, in time, start remaining on the inside of artery walls, which means that the arteries that supply blood to the legs may, of course, develop plaque as well. The occurrence of this plaque causes the peripheral arteries to become narrower, which damages to supply of oxygen and nutrients which, in turn, has an impact on the organs that are supposed to receive these elements.
When plaque starts forming, or when it is formed, the process is called atherosclerosis or calcification of the arteries – and this process usually occurs in the leg, coronary or carotid arteries. When the plaque strikes at the coronary arteries, the disease is called coronary atherosclerosis. The disease of atherosclerosis evolves in stages throughout the human life cycle. It is aided by high levels of cholesterol, by deficient blood pressure as well as by that arch enemy of health, called smoking.
The usual suspects in terms of peripheral arterial disease symptoms can include, but are not limited to, a great feeling of tense or painful calves, pain in the thighs or the lower part of the buttocks, which can occur during ordinary and routine activities such as walking or climbing steps. Usually the pain appears after the same amount of effort every time, in the initial phases, and it goes away once the effort is ceased.
But we must remember that sometimes the disease may not have any symptoms. Some of the latest studies show that only 3 out of 9 individuals show symptoms such as on and off claudication. Some of the patients do, indeed, claim pain in the legs, thighs or buttocks, but the phenomenon does not reach as far as to cause claudication. Other studies, focusing on different aspects of the illness, have shown that men are more vulnerable to claudication than women, namely men are more likely to see a development of on and off claudication.
Peripheral arterial disease symptoms are the signs of illness in the peripheral arteries, and this illness may also be called peripheral vascular disease, or disease of the peripheral vasculature. In this article I will concentrate on the peripheral arterial disease symptoms present in illnesses that affect the legs, since the legs are the ones that show the most cases of peripheral arterial disease symptoms or occurrence.
Most commonly, illnesses of the peripheral arteries consist of the creation and development of some sort of layers within the blood vessels, and these additional layers seem like plaque. This plaque is produced from additional cholesterol, calcium as well as other elements contained or transported through the blood stream, and these elements, in time, start remaining on the inside of artery walls, which means that the arteries that supply blood to the legs may, of course, develop plaque as well. The occurrence of this plaque causes the peripheral arteries to become narrower, which damages to supply of oxygen and nutrients which, in turn, has an impact on the organs that are supposed to receive these elements.
When plaque starts forming, or when it is formed, the process is called atherosclerosis or calcification of the arteries – and this process usually occurs in the leg, coronary or carotid arteries. When the plaque strikes at the coronary arteries, the disease is called coronary atherosclerosis. The disease of atherosclerosis evolves in stages throughout the human life cycle. It is aided by high levels of cholesterol, by deficient blood pressure as well as by that arch enemy of health, called smoking.
The usual suspects in terms of peripheral arterial disease symptoms can include, but are not limited to, a great feeling of tense or painful calves, pain in the thighs or the lower part of the buttocks, which can occur during ordinary and routine activities such as walking or climbing steps. Usually the pain appears after the same amount of effort every time, in the initial phases, and it goes away once the effort is ceased.
But we must remember that sometimes the disease may not have any symptoms. Some of the latest studies show that only 3 out of 9 individuals show symptoms such as on and off claudication. Some of the patients do, indeed, claim pain in the legs, thighs or buttocks, but the phenomenon does not reach as far as to cause claudication. Other studies, focusing on different aspects of the illness, have shown that men are more vulnerable to claudication than women, namely men are more likely to see a development of on and off claudication.
Krabbe Disease Symptoms
Published on Mar 10 2010, in the categories: Krabbe, symptoms
Krabbe Disease is relatively unknown, despite the fact that this medical condition is very serious and often fatal. Any woman who is expecting a baby should be aware of the existence of Krabbe disease and its signs and symptoms. As happens with many other genetic disorders, there is no cure for the Krabbe disease, although if treated early, many times you can extend the life expectancy of a baby or a child suffering from this disorder.
What is Krabbe Disease? Krabbe Disease is a rare, degenerative disorder that affects the central nervous system and the peripheral one. It is a genetic disorder. Krabbe's disease is classified as a leukodystrophy, which is caused by mutation of certain specific genes. It is sometimes called globoid cell leukodystrophy. On the other hand, Krabbe disease affects only a small number of people around the world. In America, about 1 in 100,000 to 200,000 children suffer from this disease.
What are the Causes of Krabbe Disease? - Krabbe Disease is the result of a genetic mutation passed from father to son. Specifically, galactosylceramidase gene (GALC) becomes abnormal, damaging the central nervous system. The GALC gene is responsible for production and maintenance the delicate protective membranes, called myelin, responsible for protecting the nerves. However, due to genetic mutation is not reached GALC producing enough enzymes to create the membranes lining these nerves. As a result, the nerves of the brain are damaged, resulting in very severe Krabbe disease symptoms.
How do you catch or transfer Krabbe Disease? - Krabbe's disease is passed from parents to children during the time of conception. Each parent has a copy of the GALC gene, which is transferred to the baby. Some parents carry an abnormal version of this gene, although they do not get to express any kind of the Krabbe disease symptoms that could allow a glimpse of the presence of Krabbe disease in them. When both parents carry this gene mutation, there is a 25% chance that your child will develop the Krabbe Disease.
Who Can Get Krabbe Disease? - Krabbe's Disease usually affects children, although it is no longer noticed in older children and even adults. The symptoms of Krabbe disease tend to be more severe in younger children. The subtypes of Krabbe disease are categorized according to the age at which first symptoms manifest themselves.
Type 1: Infantile Krabbe disease (onset between 3 months and 6 months.)
Type 2: Krabbe Disease of Adult Children (starts between 6 months and 3 years.)
Type 3: Juvenile Krabbe disease (onset between 3 years and 8 years.)
Type 4: Adult Krabbe disease (onset after 8 years of age.)
Prognosis - Krabbe Disease is not related to good prognosis. Most children with Krabbe's disease are expected to live about two years. However, many children with this disease have lived much longer; some have even reached the age of 8. Those who develop Krabbe disease in adult children may have better forecasts, as well as with adults, because the symptoms tend to be less severe.
What is Krabbe Disease? Krabbe Disease is a rare, degenerative disorder that affects the central nervous system and the peripheral one. It is a genetic disorder. Krabbe's disease is classified as a leukodystrophy, which is caused by mutation of certain specific genes. It is sometimes called globoid cell leukodystrophy. On the other hand, Krabbe disease affects only a small number of people around the world. In America, about 1 in 100,000 to 200,000 children suffer from this disease.
What are the Causes of Krabbe Disease? - Krabbe Disease is the result of a genetic mutation passed from father to son. Specifically, galactosylceramidase gene (GALC) becomes abnormal, damaging the central nervous system. The GALC gene is responsible for production and maintenance the delicate protective membranes, called myelin, responsible for protecting the nerves. However, due to genetic mutation is not reached GALC producing enough enzymes to create the membranes lining these nerves. As a result, the nerves of the brain are damaged, resulting in very severe Krabbe disease symptoms.
How do you catch or transfer Krabbe Disease? - Krabbe's disease is passed from parents to children during the time of conception. Each parent has a copy of the GALC gene, which is transferred to the baby. Some parents carry an abnormal version of this gene, although they do not get to express any kind of the Krabbe disease symptoms that could allow a glimpse of the presence of Krabbe disease in them. When both parents carry this gene mutation, there is a 25% chance that your child will develop the Krabbe Disease.
Who Can Get Krabbe Disease? - Krabbe's Disease usually affects children, although it is no longer noticed in older children and even adults. The symptoms of Krabbe disease tend to be more severe in younger children. The subtypes of Krabbe disease are categorized according to the age at which first symptoms manifest themselves.
Type 1: Infantile Krabbe disease (onset between 3 months and 6 months.)
Type 2: Krabbe Disease of Adult Children (starts between 6 months and 3 years.)
Type 3: Juvenile Krabbe disease (onset between 3 years and 8 years.)
Type 4: Adult Krabbe disease (onset after 8 years of age.)
Prognosis - Krabbe Disease is not related to good prognosis. Most children with Krabbe's disease are expected to live about two years. However, many children with this disease have lived much longer; some have even reached the age of 8. Those who develop Krabbe disease in adult children may have better forecasts, as well as with adults, because the symptoms tend to be less severe.
Peripheral Artery Disease Symptoms
Published on Mar 09 2010, in the categories: Peripheral Artery
Peripheral arterial disease is an inadequate flow of the blood through arteries. The arteries are the channels leading blood to organs and muscles. If the arteries narrow or become blocked because of disease, they will not provide enough blood to muscles and organs to enable a smooth function.
Peripheral artery disease is also known as peripheral vascular disease. This topic focuses on peripheral arterial disease of the legs, which are the most commonly affected, as well as peripheral artery disease symptoms.
The most common cause of peripheral arterial disease is the appearance of a plaque inside the blood vessel. This plaque is made up of excess cholesterol, calcium and other substances in the stream of blood, which, in time, is deposited along the interior walls of all arteries, including those that supply the legs. Increased deposits of plaque results in narrowing the space through which oxygen and nutrients pass from the blood. Thus, there is an unsatisfactory blood flow to muscles and other tissues of the lower body.
This process of plaque formation - called atherosclerosis or arterial calcification - occurs usually in the body including the arteries of the legs, coronary arteries (coronary atherosclerosis) and carotid arteries. Atherosclerosis develops gradually throughout life. Cholesterol level, blood pressure and smoking contributed to increased atherosclerosis and peripheral arterial disease.
Very rarely, peripheral arterial disease can occur without contact with atherosclerosis, is caused by inflammation of blood vessels (vasculitis) and old injuries that have damaged blood vessels. The most common peripheral artery disease symptoms include intermittent claudication, an overwhelming feeling of tension or pain in the calf, thigh or lower buttock during an activity, like walking. Pain is usually triggered at the same level of effort and goes away when the effort ceases.
However, there are asymptomatic individuals. Recent research indicates that only one in three people with peripheral arterial disease present intermittent claudication. Some patients have pain in the lower limbs but not going far enough to trigger claudication. Other studies indicate that women with peripheral arterial disease are less likely to develop intermittent claudication than men.
Other symptoms of peripheral arterial disease with localization in the legs can be:
- Reduced muscle force, functionality and balance
- Sensation of coldness and numbness (paresthesia) in the foot and fingers
- Lesions (wounds) difficult to treat
- Limb pain while resting, indicating that the peripheral arterial disease gets worse
- Erectile dysfunction
Physical signs of advanced peripheral arterial disease can take the following forms:
- Fingers and feet become pale during activities or when they are raised
- Loss of hair on the legs and toes
- A red coloring in the legs when they are hanging
- Blue or red spots on legs, feet or fingers caused by reduced blood flow to tissues
- Ulcers in the foot or fingers
- Infected gangrene (dead tissue), the appearance of black skin on the limbs and feet.
The severity of peripheral arterial disease may be indicated by the appearance of more severe symptoms. However, symptoms may be influenced or confused with other illnesses that the patient might have, such as arthritis. Peripheral arterial disease may also be confused with other diseases that have similar symptoms. Claims of painful lower limbs caused by peripheral arterial disease are rarely mentioned by some patients who have higher tolerance to pain.
Peripheral artery disease is also known as peripheral vascular disease. This topic focuses on peripheral arterial disease of the legs, which are the most commonly affected, as well as peripheral artery disease symptoms.
The most common cause of peripheral arterial disease is the appearance of a plaque inside the blood vessel. This plaque is made up of excess cholesterol, calcium and other substances in the stream of blood, which, in time, is deposited along the interior walls of all arteries, including those that supply the legs. Increased deposits of plaque results in narrowing the space through which oxygen and nutrients pass from the blood. Thus, there is an unsatisfactory blood flow to muscles and other tissues of the lower body.
This process of plaque formation - called atherosclerosis or arterial calcification - occurs usually in the body including the arteries of the legs, coronary arteries (coronary atherosclerosis) and carotid arteries. Atherosclerosis develops gradually throughout life. Cholesterol level, blood pressure and smoking contributed to increased atherosclerosis and peripheral arterial disease.
Very rarely, peripheral arterial disease can occur without contact with atherosclerosis, is caused by inflammation of blood vessels (vasculitis) and old injuries that have damaged blood vessels. The most common peripheral artery disease symptoms include intermittent claudication, an overwhelming feeling of tension or pain in the calf, thigh or lower buttock during an activity, like walking. Pain is usually triggered at the same level of effort and goes away when the effort ceases.
However, there are asymptomatic individuals. Recent research indicates that only one in three people with peripheral arterial disease present intermittent claudication. Some patients have pain in the lower limbs but not going far enough to trigger claudication. Other studies indicate that women with peripheral arterial disease are less likely to develop intermittent claudication than men.
Other symptoms of peripheral arterial disease with localization in the legs can be:
- Reduced muscle force, functionality and balance
- Sensation of coldness and numbness (paresthesia) in the foot and fingers
- Lesions (wounds) difficult to treat
- Limb pain while resting, indicating that the peripheral arterial disease gets worse
- Erectile dysfunction
Physical signs of advanced peripheral arterial disease can take the following forms:
- Fingers and feet become pale during activities or when they are raised
- Loss of hair on the legs and toes
- A red coloring in the legs when they are hanging
- Blue or red spots on legs, feet or fingers caused by reduced blood flow to tissues
- Ulcers in the foot or fingers
- Infected gangrene (dead tissue), the appearance of black skin on the limbs and feet.
The severity of peripheral arterial disease may be indicated by the appearance of more severe symptoms. However, symptoms may be influenced or confused with other illnesses that the patient might have, such as arthritis. Peripheral arterial disease may also be confused with other diseases that have similar symptoms. Claims of painful lower limbs caused by peripheral arterial disease are rarely mentioned by some patients who have higher tolerance to pain.
Raynaud’s Disease Symptoms
Published on Mar 09 2010, in the categories: Raynaud's, symptoms
Raynaud's phenomenon is the occurrence of ischemic episodes, characterized by changes in distal skin color as cyanosis or pallor followed by flushing. Raynaud's disease has nothing to do with the Raynaud’s phenomenon, but the Raynaud’s phenomenon is usually triggered by a disease.
First described by Maurice Raynaud in 1862, the phenomenon is often triggered by exposure to cold but can also be caused by emotional stress. It consists of the sequential development of pallor, cyanosis and flushing, usually well defined and usually confined to the fingers and toes. Pallor occurs during the ischemic phase phenomenon and is due to digital vasospasm.
During ischemia, arterioles, venules and capillaries dilate. Cyanosis is secondary to the presence of oxygen-depleted blood in these vessels. The pallor and cyanosis are accompanied by cold, swelling and paresthesia. With warmth, vasospasm resolves producing a reactive hyperemia which gives a reddening of the affected area sometimes with palpitations. These are some of the Raynaud’s disease symptoms. Subsequently, the color of the member returns to normal.
The precise causes of Raynaud's phenomenon are not known. Vasospasm may be an abnormal response to vasoconstrictor stimuli that normally produce only a modest contraction of smooth muscles of vessels and Raynaud's disease can cause obliteration of the arterioles.
Clinical picture - The crisis begins in the fingertips. Pallor, a few minutes' duration accompanied by stinging, numbness and coldness. Then the phase of cyanosis starts and coldness usually does not disappear spontaneously, but by applying heat. This is followed by the reactive hyperemia phase with the appearance of redness. Raynaud's disease (also called primary Raynaud's phenomenon) occurs more frequently in younger women than in men (from 3:1 to 5:1).
Diagnosis - Diagnosis is based on Raynaud’s disease symptoms, also known as the Allen and Brown criteria (1932): ischemic attacks of discoloration of the extremities; absence of functional arterial occlusions; bilateral distribution; trophic changes, should be present, are confined to the skin and in any case consists of gangrene; absence of other conditions or systemic diseases that can trigger Raynaud's phenomenon; duration of more than two years
There are several tests that can be used for diagnosis of Raynaud's phenomenon. The most accurate method is the measurement of digital blood pressure while cooling the body, although it is a laborious and difficult method. Angiography is generally not indicated except in patients with persistent digital ischemia secondary to arteriosclerosis, thromboangitis obliterans or hypothenary syndrome.
Treatment - Treatment should be individualized according to underlying causes of secondary Raynaud's phenomenon and the severity of symptoms.
Patients with Raynaud's disease require no treatment other than the advice to avoid exposure to cold and to use appropriate gloves and socks. Smoking cessation is recommended as the cutaneous vasoconstriction produced snuff. Biofeedback techniques can cause a reduction in the frequency and severity of vasospasm. Drugs seem to be effective in the treatment of Raynaud's phenomenon. These drugs are calcium antagonists and inhibitors of sympathetic nervous system.
First described by Maurice Raynaud in 1862, the phenomenon is often triggered by exposure to cold but can also be caused by emotional stress. It consists of the sequential development of pallor, cyanosis and flushing, usually well defined and usually confined to the fingers and toes. Pallor occurs during the ischemic phase phenomenon and is due to digital vasospasm.
During ischemia, arterioles, venules and capillaries dilate. Cyanosis is secondary to the presence of oxygen-depleted blood in these vessels. The pallor and cyanosis are accompanied by cold, swelling and paresthesia. With warmth, vasospasm resolves producing a reactive hyperemia which gives a reddening of the affected area sometimes with palpitations. These are some of the Raynaud’s disease symptoms. Subsequently, the color of the member returns to normal.
The precise causes of Raynaud's phenomenon are not known. Vasospasm may be an abnormal response to vasoconstrictor stimuli that normally produce only a modest contraction of smooth muscles of vessels and Raynaud's disease can cause obliteration of the arterioles.
Clinical picture - The crisis begins in the fingertips. Pallor, a few minutes' duration accompanied by stinging, numbness and coldness. Then the phase of cyanosis starts and coldness usually does not disappear spontaneously, but by applying heat. This is followed by the reactive hyperemia phase with the appearance of redness. Raynaud's disease (also called primary Raynaud's phenomenon) occurs more frequently in younger women than in men (from 3:1 to 5:1).
Diagnosis - Diagnosis is based on Raynaud’s disease symptoms, also known as the Allen and Brown criteria (1932): ischemic attacks of discoloration of the extremities; absence of functional arterial occlusions; bilateral distribution; trophic changes, should be present, are confined to the skin and in any case consists of gangrene; absence of other conditions or systemic diseases that can trigger Raynaud's phenomenon; duration of more than two years
There are several tests that can be used for diagnosis of Raynaud's phenomenon. The most accurate method is the measurement of digital blood pressure while cooling the body, although it is a laborious and difficult method. Angiography is generally not indicated except in patients with persistent digital ischemia secondary to arteriosclerosis, thromboangitis obliterans or hypothenary syndrome.
Treatment - Treatment should be individualized according to underlying causes of secondary Raynaud's phenomenon and the severity of symptoms.
Patients with Raynaud's disease require no treatment other than the advice to avoid exposure to cold and to use appropriate gloves and socks. Smoking cessation is recommended as the cutaneous vasoconstriction produced snuff. Biofeedback techniques can cause a reduction in the frequency and severity of vasospasm. Drugs seem to be effective in the treatment of Raynaud's phenomenon. These drugs are calcium antagonists and inhibitors of sympathetic nervous system.
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