Anemia of Chronic Disease is a type of anemia that is part of a long disease like chronic infection or cancer. Like other anemia, signs and symptoms include easy fatigability, dizziness, and pallor.
Causes
Anemia of chronic disease may occur due to the following:
1.There is shortened RBC survival due to still unknown mechanisms(normally, RBC lives for 120 days).
2.In chronic diseases there is decreased bone marrow responsiveness to erythropoietin. Erythropoietin is a hormone that stimulates the bone marrow to produce red blood cells.
3. Iron metabolism is impaired.
Diagnosis
To diagnose anemia of chronic disease, a complete blood count is performed. The hemoglobin is and RBC count is decreased. Ferritin, the storage form of iron in the body is also measured and is also decreased. In special laboratories, erythropoietin levels is measured and is usually decreased.
Treatment
Management includes treating the underlying cause. Commercially prepared Erythropoeitin (EPO) maybe given to the patient. EPO dose may need to be 150 to 300 units/kg sc 3 times/wk. A good response is likely if after 2 weeks of therapy hemoglobin has increased (> 0.5 g/dL) and serum ferritin is < 400 ng/mL.
Iron supplements in the form of ferrous sulfate or fumarate maybe given to patients once a day.
References:
http://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMra041809 visited last Dec.15,2010
http://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/sec11/ch130/ch130d.html visited last Dec 15,2010
Anemia – Causes, Symptoms and Treatment of Anemia
Anemia is a disorder of the blood in which the number of red blood cells (RBCs) is lower than normal. Your RBCs are the main transporters of oxygen and nutrients to your different organs. If you have anemia, not enough oxygen is being transported to your different cells. As a result, you may get easily tired and feel other symptoms.
Some people have anemia even if they have normal number of red blood cells. The problem lies in their RBCs not having enough hemoglobin. Hemoglobin plays a big role in transporting oxygen to your cells. It is an iron-rich protein that gives your blood its red color.
Causes
There are three main causes of anemia. They are:
Other factors that contribute to the development of anemia include not getting enough iron, folate, or vitamin B12; other diseases or conditions; lack of a certain hormone; and pregnancy.
Signs and Symptoms
If you have mild or moderate anemia, you may not feel something is wrong or you may have mild symptoms.
The most common symptom of anemia is getting easily tired or fatigued. Other signs and symptoms may include paleness, dizziness, headache, shortness of breath and cold hands or feet. You may also experience chest pains because your heart has to pump harder to meet your body’s need for oxygen.
Diagnosis and Treatment
If your doctor suspects that you have anemia, he or she will order a complete blood count (CBC). When anemia is confirmed, your doctor may also recommend other tests to determine the cause of your condition.
Treatment of anemia depends on the type and cause of your condition. If your anemia is caused by lack of iron in your body, your doctor may recommend that you include more iron-containing foods in your diet such as red meats, liver, peas, tofu and dark green leafy vegetables.
Your doctor may also recommend taking dietary supplements. However, taking too much of a certain supplement for your anemia may lead to complications. You should follow your doctor’s prescription.
When another condition or health problem is causing your anemia, your doctor will treat the underlying condition, as well.
For severe cases of anemia, other treatment procedures may be recommended by your healthcare provider. Some of the treatment procedures available include blood transfusion, blood and marrow stem cell transplantation, and surgery. Your doctor will be able to explain to you the different treatment options for your anemia.
Related Article:
References:
Anemia. Medline Plus, National Library of Medicine (NLM). Available at http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/anemia.html. Accessed on December 1, 2010
Anemia. National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute (NHLBI). Available at http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/dci/Diseases/anemia/anemia_whatis.html. Accessed on December 1, 2010
Some people have anemia even if they have normal number of red blood cells. The problem lies in their RBCs not having enough hemoglobin. Hemoglobin plays a big role in transporting oxygen to your cells. It is an iron-rich protein that gives your blood its red color.
Causes
There are three main causes of anemia. They are:
- Blood loss from wounds, heavy menstrual periods or bleeding in your digestive and urinary tract;
- Lack of red blood cell production by your body; and
- Fast destruction of red blood cells, more than what is being produced.
Other factors that contribute to the development of anemia include not getting enough iron, folate, or vitamin B12; other diseases or conditions; lack of a certain hormone; and pregnancy.
Signs and Symptoms
If you have mild or moderate anemia, you may not feel something is wrong or you may have mild symptoms.
The most common symptom of anemia is getting easily tired or fatigued. Other signs and symptoms may include paleness, dizziness, headache, shortness of breath and cold hands or feet. You may also experience chest pains because your heart has to pump harder to meet your body’s need for oxygen.
Diagnosis and Treatment
If your doctor suspects that you have anemia, he or she will order a complete blood count (CBC). When anemia is confirmed, your doctor may also recommend other tests to determine the cause of your condition.
Treatment of anemia depends on the type and cause of your condition. If your anemia is caused by lack of iron in your body, your doctor may recommend that you include more iron-containing foods in your diet such as red meats, liver, peas, tofu and dark green leafy vegetables.
Your doctor may also recommend taking dietary supplements. However, taking too much of a certain supplement for your anemia may lead to complications. You should follow your doctor’s prescription.
When another condition or health problem is causing your anemia, your doctor will treat the underlying condition, as well.
For severe cases of anemia, other treatment procedures may be recommended by your healthcare provider. Some of the treatment procedures available include blood transfusion, blood and marrow stem cell transplantation, and surgery. Your doctor will be able to explain to you the different treatment options for your anemia.
Related Article:
References:
Anemia. Medline Plus, National Library of Medicine (NLM). Available at http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/anemia.html. Accessed on December 1, 2010
Anemia. National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute (NHLBI). Available at http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/dci/Diseases/anemia/anemia_whatis.html. Accessed on December 1, 2010
Sickle Cell Anemia - What Is Sickle Cell Anemia?
Sickle cell anemia is an inherited disorder of the blood that causes your blood NOT to transport enough oxygen to your different body organs as they should. This condition is one of several types of anemia.
If you have anemia, it may mean that you have lower than normal number of red blood cells (RBCs). Your RBCs are the ones that carry oxygen to your different cells. Sometimes, anemia can be caused by your red blood cells not having enough hemoglobin -- the oxygen-carrying component of RBCs.
Normally, your RBCs are disc-shaped with a depression on each side and usually live for about 120 days. When viewed under the microscope, your RBCs look like doughnuts without its holes in the center. In sickle cell anemia, however, the red blood cells are shaped like a sickle (crescent-shaped). They don't survive long as normal RBCs do. These abnormally shaped RBCs usually last for about 10-20 days.
Your bone marrow -- the part of your bone that produces your blood cells including your red blood cells -- can't produce enough RBCs at a time to replace those dead sickle-like RBCs. As a result anemia can occur.
If you have anemia, you can get weak, feel cold or get dizzy. Sometimes, you may feel irritable. The only way to confirm that you have anemia is through blood testing.
To test if your anemia is caused by sickle-celled RBCs, your may order a sickle cell test, hemoglobin electrophoresis and complete blood count (CBC).
Related Article:
References:
Sickle Cell Anemia. National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute (NHLBI). Available at http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/dci/Diseases/Sca/SCA_WhatIs.html. Accessed on November 23, 2010
Anemia. Medline Plus, National Library of Medicine. Available at http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/anemia.html. Accessed on November 23, 2010
If you have anemia, it may mean that you have lower than normal number of red blood cells (RBCs). Your RBCs are the ones that carry oxygen to your different cells. Sometimes, anemia can be caused by your red blood cells not having enough hemoglobin -- the oxygen-carrying component of RBCs.
Normally, your RBCs are disc-shaped with a depression on each side and usually live for about 120 days. When viewed under the microscope, your RBCs look like doughnuts without its holes in the center. In sickle cell anemia, however, the red blood cells are shaped like a sickle (crescent-shaped). They don't survive long as normal RBCs do. These abnormally shaped RBCs usually last for about 10-20 days.
Your bone marrow -- the part of your bone that produces your blood cells including your red blood cells -- can't produce enough RBCs at a time to replace those dead sickle-like RBCs. As a result anemia can occur.
If you have anemia, you can get weak, feel cold or get dizzy. Sometimes, you may feel irritable. The only way to confirm that you have anemia is through blood testing.
To test if your anemia is caused by sickle-celled RBCs, your may order a sickle cell test, hemoglobin electrophoresis and complete blood count (CBC).
Related Article:
References:
Sickle Cell Anemia. National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute (NHLBI). Available at http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/dci/Diseases/Sca/SCA_WhatIs.html. Accessed on November 23, 2010
Anemia. Medline Plus, National Library of Medicine. Available at http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/anemia.html. Accessed on November 23, 2010
Ankle Sprain Causes, Symptoms and Home Remedies
 |
| Lateral View of Right Ankle |
Ankle sprain is the most common type of sprain. In fact, more than 25,000 people in the United States sprain an ankle each day, according to the National Institute of Arthritis and Muscoluskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS).
Causes
Most cases of ankle sprain occur when your foot is twisted or turned inward while walking or running, during a fall, or landing on your ankle after a jump.
Twisting your ankle can cause too much stretching of your ankle ligaments resulting in pain. Sometimes, tearing of these ligaments can happen making it difficult for you to bear weight on your affected ankle.
Ankle Sprain Symptoms
Ankle sprain symptoms vary and depend on the severity of your injury. If you sprain your ankle, you may have pain, swelling, and bruising. You may have difficulty walking if minor tearing of your ankle ligaments occurs.
In severe cases of sprain, a “popping” sensation may be felt during the time of injury and bearing weight on your affected limb is impossible.
Home Remedies for Ankle Sprain – First Aid Treatment
Most minor ankle sprains can be managed by applying RICE therapy. RICE is an acronym for rest, ice, compression and elevation.
Taking over-the-counter pain relievers such as aspirin or ibuprofen may help relieve your pain. However, aspirin should not be given to children. Don't hesitate to ask your doctor what type of pain reliever is best for you and how much you should take at a time.
- Rest: You should rest or stop your activity when you injure your ankle if possible.
- Ice: Apply an ice pack on your injured ankle for not longer than 15-20 minutes at a time, four times a day. Make sure to wrap the pack in towel. Avoid applying the ice pack for more than 20 minutes to avoid frostbite. Do this while you are resting.
Applying ice immediately after you sprain your ankle can help relieve pain and reduce swelling. Avoid applying heat during the first 24-48 hours following your injury or when swelling is still present.- Compression: Compressing your injured ankle may help in reducing swelling. This can be done by making use of an elastic bandage. However, avoid wrapping the bandage too tight since this can limit blood flow to your foot.
Ask your doctor or physical therapist advice on how to properly apply the bandage on your injured ankle.- Elevation: As you rest, elevate your affected limb on a pillow, above the level of your heart. This can help reduce swelling.
When to see your doctor
RICE therapy can be effective for minor injuries. However, severe cases should be looked at by a qualified healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and prompt treatment.
You should consult your doctor if you:
- Have severe pain or are unable to walk a few steps because of significant pain.
- Observe an unusual lump on your affected limb.
- Are not sure about the severity of your injury.
Sprains and Strains. National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS). Available at http://www.niams.nih.gov/Health_Info/Sprains_Strains/default.asp. Accessed on November 17, 2010
Sprains. Medline Plus, National Library of Medicine (NLM). Available at http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/000041.htm. Accessed on November 17, 2010
Image Credit: National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases
Vitamin B12 and Anemia
Vitamin B 12 or Cyanocobalamin comes from food of animal origin primarily meat, eggs or dairy products such as yogurt, cheese and milk. In the stomach, the B12 is absorbed with the help of gastric or stomach acid. Vit B12 is absorbed in the second part of the small intestines which is known as the ileum with the aid of intrinsic factor (IF) produced by special cells of the stomach known as parietal cells.
Vitamin B12 is essential for many aspects of health, including the production of red blood cells in the blood. It is necessary in DNA synthesis. Vitamin B12 deficiency can also affect normal growth and development, the production of nerves, skin, hair and genes and normal metabolism.
Vitamin B12 deficiency can be serious if untreated, because it can lead to decreased production of red blood cells in the blood. Healthy amounts of red blood cells are necessary for the proper delivery of necessary oxygen to the body's cells and tissues. A lack of sufficient amounts of red blood cells due to vitamin B12 deficiency results in a serious complication called vitamin B12 deficiency anemia.
The symptoms of vitamin B12-deficiency anemia include:
If you have vitamin B12-deficiency anemia, you may also look pale or jaundiced (have a yellowy tinge to your skin and the whites of your eyes).
Like the symptoms of anemia, vitamin B12-deficiency may cause symptoms related to your nerves. This is called vitamin B12 neuropathy. It may affect your movement and sensation, especially in your legs, cause numbness or 'pins and needles' and decrease your sensitivity to touch, vibration or pain. It can also cause confusion, depression, poor concentration and forgetfulness.
Vitamin B12 deficiency maybe produced in several ways. The most common is a deficiency of intrinsic factor (Pernicious anemia). Another cause is failure to release B12 from binding proteins caused by severe deficiency in gastric acid. A third cause is other malabsorption syndrome involving the ileum e.g. overgrowth of bacteria in that part of the intestines.
Pernicious anemia is an autoimmune disease. An autoimmune disease is a condition caused by antibodies from your immune system attacking your body. Your immune system mistakes your own tissue as foreign and attacks it, causing inflammation. If you have pernicious anaemia, the inflammation happens in the lining of your stomach. Thus, the cells that produce intrinsic factor are damaged.
To diagnose Vitamin B 12 deficiency, a blood sample must be taken to check the level of hemoglobin, the size of the RBC and Vitamin B12 Assays. The hemoglobin is decreased in Vitamin B12 deficiency. The RBC size is larger than normal (Normal RBC size is 7-8 micrometers). Vitamin B12 Assays reveals malabsorption of Vitamin B 12.
Vitamin B12-deficiency anemia is usually treated with injections of vitamin B12. To start with, you will have a course of injections, for example once a week for six weeks. After this, you may need repeated doses every three months or so. If you have pernicious anamia, you will need to have injections for the rest of your life.
Vitamin B12 injections can sometimes cause bruising and soreness where the needle was inserted. Other side-effects include feeling sick, headaches and dizziness, but these are rare.
References:
www.wrongdiagnosis.com> visited November 16,2010
http://hcd2.bupa.co.uk/ visited November 16,2010
Clinical Laboratory Medicine by Richard Ravel
Vitamin B12 is essential for many aspects of health, including the production of red blood cells in the blood. It is necessary in DNA synthesis. Vitamin B12 deficiency can also affect normal growth and development, the production of nerves, skin, hair and genes and normal metabolism.
Vitamin B12 deficiency can be serious if untreated, because it can lead to decreased production of red blood cells in the blood. Healthy amounts of red blood cells are necessary for the proper delivery of necessary oxygen to the body's cells and tissues. A lack of sufficient amounts of red blood cells due to vitamin B12 deficiency results in a serious complication called vitamin B12 deficiency anemia.
The symptoms of vitamin B12-deficiency anemia include:
- feeling very tired
- breathlessness after little exercise
- palpitations - the sensation of feeling your heartbeat thumping in your chest
- headaches
- a reduced appetite
- a sore mouth and tongue
If you have vitamin B12-deficiency anemia, you may also look pale or jaundiced (have a yellowy tinge to your skin and the whites of your eyes).
Like the symptoms of anemia, vitamin B12-deficiency may cause symptoms related to your nerves. This is called vitamin B12 neuropathy. It may affect your movement and sensation, especially in your legs, cause numbness or 'pins and needles' and decrease your sensitivity to touch, vibration or pain. It can also cause confusion, depression, poor concentration and forgetfulness.
Vitamin B12 deficiency maybe produced in several ways. The most common is a deficiency of intrinsic factor (Pernicious anemia). Another cause is failure to release B12 from binding proteins caused by severe deficiency in gastric acid. A third cause is other malabsorption syndrome involving the ileum e.g. overgrowth of bacteria in that part of the intestines.
Pernicious anemia is an autoimmune disease. An autoimmune disease is a condition caused by antibodies from your immune system attacking your body. Your immune system mistakes your own tissue as foreign and attacks it, causing inflammation. If you have pernicious anaemia, the inflammation happens in the lining of your stomach. Thus, the cells that produce intrinsic factor are damaged.
To diagnose Vitamin B 12 deficiency, a blood sample must be taken to check the level of hemoglobin, the size of the RBC and Vitamin B12 Assays. The hemoglobin is decreased in Vitamin B12 deficiency. The RBC size is larger than normal (Normal RBC size is 7-8 micrometers). Vitamin B12 Assays reveals malabsorption of Vitamin B 12.
Vitamin B12-deficiency anemia is usually treated with injections of vitamin B12. To start with, you will have a course of injections, for example once a week for six weeks. After this, you may need repeated doses every three months or so. If you have pernicious anamia, you will need to have injections for the rest of your life.
Vitamin B12 injections can sometimes cause bruising and soreness where the needle was inserted. Other side-effects include feeling sick, headaches and dizziness, but these are rare.
References:
www.wrongdiagnosis.com> visited November 16,2010
http://hcd2.bupa.co.uk/ visited November 16,2010
Clinical Laboratory Medicine by Richard Ravel
The Bad Effects of Gambling
G- eneration transfer. Our children follow what we are doing
A- ddiction. Once you started winning, you will not stop.P10 becomes P50 then P100
M- ind setters.Gamblers thinks it`s just P50 orP100 but to some its a 1 week allowance or the only money for medicines
B- Bound to debts. Gambling requires money so you start borrowing and never paying
L- ove ones are hurt. Gambling steals family time
I- ncrease crimes. If we dont have money we steal or rob other people
N- egative thoughts on money.We will opt for shorter ways to get money. We dont want the long way
G- ambler`s are always loosers. The money we get easily will be lost easily also.
A- ddiction. Once you started winning, you will not stop.P10 becomes P50 then P100
M- ind setters.Gamblers thinks it`s just P50 orP100 but to some its a 1 week allowance or the only money for medicines
B- Bound to debts. Gambling requires money so you start borrowing and never paying
L- ove ones are hurt. Gambling steals family time
I- ncrease crimes. If we dont have money we steal or rob other people
N- egative thoughts on money.We will opt for shorter ways to get money. We dont want the long way
G- ambler`s are always loosers. The money we get easily will be lost easily also.
Gambling in the Philippines
An international website mentions that in the Philippines, in a small country in Southeast Asia, it is common practice to sponsor various table games while holding a wake. It also cites that as bizarre as it may seem, the reason for gambling is because part of the money goes to the family. But this practice became an occupation to some. There are reports that people even use fake coffins to gather people to gamble. Other people move from place to place to look for wakes so they can get money from gambling.
I would like that the Philippines will be known for our best boxer, Manny Pacquiao or Charisse or People`s Power but definitely not because of gambling. It is a sad that through the years from generation to generation, we are made to believe that gambling during wakes are legal.
The good news is the Baguio City council passed an ordinance banning drinking and gambling in funeral parlors.The Manila Bulletin cites that Councilor Nicasio Aliping Jr., author of the ordinance, said that while gambling and drinking are among the traditions of Filipinos during wakes, these vices should be prohibited in funeral parlors to show respect for the deceased and to keep the solemnity of the wake. As it is observed in funeral parlors here, drinking of liquor and gambling are rampant. When drinking and gambling are allowed, noise, rudeness, and sometime violence are inevitable, it was noted. This situation sometimes result in heated arguments and altercations that lead to fistfights, thereby marring the wakes which are supposed to be solemn, Aliping said.
This ordinance if strictly implemented will minimize gambling in the City of Baguio. I hope that the ordinance will also cover even the baranggays.
References:http://www.gamblingmoments.com/ visited Nov 13,2010
Manila Bulletin February 5, 2009 issue
Platelets
Platelets, also known as thrombocytes, are cells that form a major proportion of both human and animal blood. Microscopically, they look like little thorned or spiky ovals, and they can only be viewed microscopically, as the average size is about four hundred thousandths of an inch (1 to 3.5 um). Platelets are actually fragments of the cells in bone marrow, called megakaryocytes. The normal value ranges from 150,000-350,000/cumm of blood..
Platelets help in coagulation. Once a blood vessel is injured, platelet activation is stimulated. The platelets attach to the injured blood vessel wall by binding to the collagen. This is termed platelet adhesion. Once more and more platelet come together to the site ,it is termed platelet aggregation. Together with other clotting factors found in the blood, the thrombocytes help produce a solid clot that prevents further bleeding.
A patient with platelet disorder manifest with petechiae (pinpoint lesions on the skin), and mucous membrane bleeding like epistaxis (nose bleeding).Once this are seen especially if there is a family history, the patient must be seen by a hematologist
References:
http://www.wisegreek.com/ visited November 13, 2010
Laboratory Diagnosis 20th Edition by John Bernard Henry
Strep throat infection
Strep throat is commonly due to a bacteria, Streptococcus pyogenes. This organism causes throat infections like pharyngitis or tonsillitis. This commonly affects school age children because transmission is facilitated by crowding in closed environments
Signs and symptoms includes malaise,fever, headache and sore throat. A whitish exudates or discharge is visible in the pharynx or throat, the tonsils are enlarged and erythematous or reddish and swollen cervical lymph nodes maybe present.
The American Academy of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery (AAO-HNS) suggests tonsillectomy (surgical removal of the tonsils) if tonsillitis occurs more than 3 times a year despite medical treatment to prevent possible complications of rheumatic fever or acute glomerulonephritis. The bacteria forms antigen antibody complexes that destroy the valves of the heart or the bowman`s capsule of the kidneys.
Streptococcus pyogenes is susceptible to Penicillin taken 7-10days. Erythromycin may be given to patients allergic to Penicillin
Bibliography:
http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/872119-overview visited November 6, 2010
Microbiology and Infectious Diseases 3rd edition by Virella
Iron Deficiency Anemia
Hemoglobin contains 70% of the body iron. One gram of hemoglobin contains 3.4 mg of iron and 1 ml of packed red blood cells(RBC`s) contains 1 mg of iron. Iron intake averages about 10mg/day of which 10% is absorbed. Iron loss averages about 1mg/day in men and non-menstruating women and about 2 mg/day in menstruating women. There is an additional iron requirement for pregnant and lactating women.
Iron deficiency can occur in 3 ways:
1)iron intake not sufficient to replace iron losses,
2) iron not available for formation of red blood cell despite adequate body iron, and
3) increase loss of body iron (blood loss) not adequately replaced by normal intake.
In children, the most common cause is due to inadequate diet or parasitism. Hookworms, one of the most common parasite competes with the body`s iron.
In men, this is usually bleeding from gastrointestinal tract. In women, iron deficiency anemia can be caused by either vaginal or GI bleeding.
It has been estimated that 20-50% of women in the menstrual age group have some degree of iron deficiency; menstrual loss is aggravated by poor diet. Gastrointestinal bleeding is most frequent due to ulcer in men and women below 40. After age 40, Gastrointestinal Cancer is more common and should always be ruled out.
Manifestations includes numbness or tingling sensation, ulcers on the corners of the mouth, concave or spoon shaped nails (koilonychia).Others maybe due to the general manifestation of anemia such as easy fatigability, faintness, palpitation, headache and pallor.
The first principle in therapy is that the underlying cause be identified and corrected. Ferrous iron is given orally, about 200mg/day in 3 doses between meals. This will provide 40-60 mg of absorbed iron per day.
Bibliography:
Clinical Laboratory Medicine by Richard Ravel 6th edition
Clinical Diagnosis and Management by John Bernard Henry 20th edition
Iron deficiency can occur in 3 ways:
1)iron intake not sufficient to replace iron losses,
2) iron not available for formation of red blood cell despite adequate body iron, and
3) increase loss of body iron (blood loss) not adequately replaced by normal intake.
In children, the most common cause is due to inadequate diet or parasitism. Hookworms, one of the most common parasite competes with the body`s iron.
In men, this is usually bleeding from gastrointestinal tract. In women, iron deficiency anemia can be caused by either vaginal or GI bleeding.
It has been estimated that 20-50% of women in the menstrual age group have some degree of iron deficiency; menstrual loss is aggravated by poor diet. Gastrointestinal bleeding is most frequent due to ulcer in men and women below 40. After age 40, Gastrointestinal Cancer is more common and should always be ruled out.
Manifestations includes numbness or tingling sensation, ulcers on the corners of the mouth, concave or spoon shaped nails (koilonychia).Others maybe due to the general manifestation of anemia such as easy fatigability, faintness, palpitation, headache and pallor.
The first principle in therapy is that the underlying cause be identified and corrected. Ferrous iron is given orally, about 200mg/day in 3 doses between meals. This will provide 40-60 mg of absorbed iron per day.
Bibliography:
Clinical Laboratory Medicine by Richard Ravel 6th edition
Clinical Diagnosis and Management by John Bernard Henry 20th edition
Anemia: Definition and its Signs and Symptoms
Anemia is defined as a decrease in the hemoglobin concentration or a decrease in the red blood cell count. Hemoglobin is the oxygen carrying component of the red blood cell. It is also the pigment responsible for giving the characteristic red color of the blood. The normal value ranges from 14-18gm/100ml (140-180g/L) for men and 12-16 gm/100ml (120-160g/L) for women. The Red blood Cell count normal value are 4.5-6.0 million/cu.mm (4.5-6.0 X10 6/L) for men and 4.0-5.5 million/cumm (4.0-5.5X 10 6/L) for females.
The signs and symptoms of anemia include the following:
1. Pallor or paleness
2. Easily fatigues
3. Dizziness
4. Amenorrhea or absence of menstruation
If you experience these signs and symptoms, consult your physician to correct its possible cause.
Honesty for us Filipinos
If you search for tenderness
it isn't hard to find.
You can have the love you need to live.
But if you look for truthfulness
You might just as well be blind.
It always seems to be so hard to give.
Honesty is such a lonely word.
Everyone is so untrue.
Honesty is hardly ever heard
it isn't hard to find.
You can have the love you need to live.
But if you look for truthfulness
You might just as well be blind.
It always seems to be so hard to give.
Honesty is such a lonely word.
Everyone is so untrue.
Honesty is hardly ever heard
I totally agree with the lyrics of this song. Last week, I was in my terrace and I saw our neighbor who is running for a barangay position giving a bunch of 20 pesos to be distributed that day, Barangay election day. I begun to ponder, why is it that people will go to this extent to win imagine a barangay position? Does this position offer lots of money? Few years ago, my dad is earning P1,200 a month for the same position. Well even if it`s already 5,000 per month now, is it all worth it? In the news, there are lots of reports on vote buying and even hurting each other for a barangay position from the all over the country. What happened to all of us? Nobody will buy votes if none of us will sell.
This only reveals a sad truth. Most of us are already corrupt. Being a mother, I can`t help but worry what will happen to the next generation of leaders, professionals or individuals per se. Honesty is really a lonely word. And its hardly ever heard. Billy Joel is right.
Gambling During Wakes
In the Philippines it is normal to gamble during wakes. While many of us would probably find this peculiar, let me tell you their rationale. For the common people in this country, having a deceased member of the family is not easy financially. Paying for the funeral expenses is difficult enough. Even more difficult is the fact that they normally hold a wake for at least 3 days – some last for more than a week. And while they have the wake, people come in droves every single night, to sympathize with the family. The family then has the responsibility of feeding these people – snack bites, drinks, and even full meals!
If I am the dead, what will be my reaction? As my spirit roams, I look around to check everyone who attended my wake. I will smile , as some people remember my good deeds or even probable regret for the people I wronged. On one side I will see this people shouting and yelling for the win. I see people rich or even those with blue collar job gambling during my wake. How sad. I feel people enjoy my death.
How about people who kept going from every funeral to the next? I pity them. They become addicted .I gathered the bad effects of gambling from Kerby Anderson of Probe Ministries.
1. We should be concerned to what such policy send to the next generation. Our children are watching us. They will surely imitate us
2. Debts from gambling leads to family neglect and organized crimes
3. Families are torn apart by strife, divorce, and bankruptcy.
Dr. Howard J. Shaffer, of the Harvard Medical School Division on Addictions cites that
“‘Gambling is an addictive behavior, make no mistake about it. It has all the properties of a psychoactive substance. It changes the neurochemistry of the brain.’ In other words, the excitement of the possibility of winning a huge sum of money, with minimal investment, has a narcotic-like effect on the brain — that calls for greater and greater risks, in the hope of that ‘big’ win.”
“‘Gambling is an addictive behavior, make no mistake about it. It has all the properties of a psychoactive substance. It changes the neurochemistry of the brain.’ In other words, the excitement of the possibility of winning a huge sum of money, with minimal investment, has a narcotic-like effect on the brain — that calls for greater and greater risks, in the hope of that ‘big’ win.”
I realize I need to save some money for my funeral. I want people to sympathize and not
to gamble during the last moment that my body is still on earth undecayed.
We all make mistakes. Let us not waste time once we realize our mistakes. Before its too late. Gambling is truly evil it does not take only our money but the trust of the ones we love
The benefits of clean drinking water
Water was known to be the most powerful healing substance to man. It has always been an important and life-sustaining drink to humans and is essential to the survival of all organisms. Excluding fat, water composes approximately 70% of the human body by mass. A mere 2% drop in our body`s water supply can trigger signs of trouble with basic math or focusing on smaller prints such as a computer screen.
The following are the functions of water in the body:
1. Serves as lubricant
2. Forms the base of the saliva
3. Forms the fluid around the joint
4. Regulates body temperature
5. Helps to alleviate constipation
6. Regulates metabolism
In addition to the daily maintenance of our bodies, water also plays a key role in the prevention of disease. Drinking eight glasses of water daily can decrease the risk of colon cancer by 45%, bladder cancer by 50% and it can potentially even reduce the risk of breast cancer.
Nowadays, sodas and other health drinks are available. None of them can replace clean drinking water. Here are some reasons why:
1. The sugar in soda, usually containing 9 teaspoons, can over time cause you to pack on the pounds. Much sugar can compromise the immune system for up to 12 hours.
2. Caffeine consumption can cause dehydration and when not consumed, terrible headaches, shakes and irritability. While a morning boost may not have serious long-term effects, constant consumption will indeed take a toll on the body.
3. Sports drinks are said to be helpful for athletes to replenish minerals.However, regular intake may lead to increase potassium leading to irregular heartbeat
Understanding the healthful effects of drinking clean water, lets drink to that…
Sources:
Free Drinking Water.com accessed September 24,2010
Wikipedia The Free Dictionary accessed September 24, 2010
Health Recipes.com accessed September 24, 2010
Hypotension Vs Anemia
We always hear people saying, "Oh I am anemic" after getting a low blood pressure. Anemia (low Oxygen in the blood) is different from Hypotension(Low Blood Pressure). Blood pressure is defined as the amount of force exerted against the arterial wall per unit area in mm Hg. It has 2 components. Systolic Pressure is the peak arterial pressure. Averages about 120mmHg in healthy adults.
Diastolic Pressure is the lowest arterial pressure. The normal is 70-80mmHg in healthy adults.
BP can be affected by the following factors:
1. Blood volume- the amount of blood circulating in our body which is normally 4-5 liters.
2. Peripheral resistance- this refers to any hindrance to the blood flow to the different parts of the body.A common cause of increase peripheral resistance is an obstruction due to fats or lipids or clots. Another is the diameter of the blood vessel.Decreased diameter of the blood vessels or vasoconstriction increases peripheral resistance therefore increases BP while and increase in the diameter of the blood vessels or vasodilation decreases peripheral resistance therefore decreasing BP.
Anemia on the other hand, is identified by decreased hemoglobin in the blood. Hemoglobin is the pigment that gives the red blood cells its color and is the protein that carries Oxygen. The normal hemoglobin count is 120-140mg/dl for females and 140-180mg/dl for males. The reason for the difference is blood loss during pregnancy and menstruation.
Anemia can be due to either defect in RBC production or increased RBC destruction. Defect in RBC production can be due to:
Diastolic Pressure is the lowest arterial pressure. The normal is 70-80mmHg in healthy adults.
BP can be affected by the following factors:
1. Blood volume- the amount of blood circulating in our body which is normally 4-5 liters.
2. Peripheral resistance- this refers to any hindrance to the blood flow to the different parts of the body.A common cause of increase peripheral resistance is an obstruction due to fats or lipids or clots. Another is the diameter of the blood vessel.Decreased diameter of the blood vessels or vasoconstriction increases peripheral resistance therefore increases BP while and increase in the diameter of the blood vessels or vasodilation decreases peripheral resistance therefore decreasing BP.
Anemia on the other hand, is identified by decreased hemoglobin in the blood. Hemoglobin is the pigment that gives the red blood cells its color and is the protein that carries Oxygen. The normal hemoglobin count is 120-140mg/dl for females and 140-180mg/dl for males. The reason for the difference is blood loss during pregnancy and menstruation.
Anemia can be due to either defect in RBC production or increased RBC destruction. Defect in RBC production can be due to:
- Aplastic anemia which is due to a defect in the Red Bone Marrow
- Thalassemias are due to a genetic defect in the formation of the RBC structure
- Deficiency in Iron and Folate which is needed by the RBC in its development
- Infections like Malaria or due to hemorrhagic toxin producing bacteria like Escherichia
- ABO incompatibility
Complete Blood Count
CBC or complete blood count is a routine blood test done on most patients admitted in the hospital or for medical clearance. It is comprised of six parameters:
1) Hemoglobin- is used to determine the amount of a carrier protein for O2. A decrease in Hemoglobin indicates anemia.
2) Red blood Cell count- this is used to determine adequate RBC production or the presence of RBC destruction.
3) White Blood Cell Count- these cells are the soldiers of the body. They protect as in cases of bacterial, viral or parasitic infection. Elevation of these cells indicates infection.
4) Hematocrit-the percentage of the solid components of the blood in relation to the whole blood. This is used to assess possible dehydration or significant increase in the different blood cell types.
5) WBC differential count- This represents percentage of the different WBC. An increase in neutrophil indicates bacterial infection, Eosinophils increases due to allergic or parasitic infection, Basophils rises due to aalergic reactions because they release histamine, leukemias or cancers. Lymphocytosis (increase in lymphocyte count is associated with viral infections. Monocytes rise due to chronic illnesses.
6) Platelet count is important in clotting of blood to prevent it from hemorrhage.
1) Hemoglobin- is used to determine the amount of a carrier protein for O2. A decrease in Hemoglobin indicates anemia.
2) Red blood Cell count- this is used to determine adequate RBC production or the presence of RBC destruction.
3) White Blood Cell Count- these cells are the soldiers of the body. They protect as in cases of bacterial, viral or parasitic infection. Elevation of these cells indicates infection.
4) Hematocrit-the percentage of the solid components of the blood in relation to the whole blood. This is used to assess possible dehydration or significant increase in the different blood cell types.
5) WBC differential count- This represents percentage of the different WBC. An increase in neutrophil indicates bacterial infection, Eosinophils increases due to allergic or parasitic infection, Basophils rises due to aalergic reactions because they release histamine, leukemias or cancers. Lymphocytosis (increase in lymphocyte count is associated with viral infections. Monocytes rise due to chronic illnesses.
6) Platelet count is important in clotting of blood to prevent it from hemorrhage.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)