Vulvitis: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, Complications, Prevention, Expectations, Exams and Tests, incidence and risk factors

Vulvitis

Is inflammation of the external female genitalia (vulva). The vulva includes the "lips" or folds of skin, the clitoris and the openings of the urethra and vagina.

Causes, incidence and risk factors

Vulvitis may be caused by a number of conditions, among which are:

* Allergies, particularly to soaps, colored toilet paper, vaginal sprays, laundry detergents, bubble bath, or fragrances
* Dermatitis, seborrhea or eczema prolonged
* Fungal and bacterial infections, pediculosis, or scabies

Vulvitis can affect women of all ages. The condition may be due to low estrogen levels in young women and women who have reached menopause.

Symptoms

The following symptoms affecting the skin in the vulvar area:

* Burning or itching
* Possible small cracks in the vulvar skin
* Possible vaginal discharge
* Redness and swelling
* Thickening of the skin

Exams and Tests

A pelvic examination reveals redness and thickening and may reveal cracks or skin lesions on the vulva.

If you have any vaginal discharge, a wet prep can show that an infection such as vulvovaginitis or vaginitis, is the cause.

Treatment

Stop using any products that may cause irritation. Apply cortisone cream counter two or three times a day over the affected area, up to a week. If these measures do not relieve symptoms, see a doctor.

Vaginal infections should be treated appropriately. You can use a cortisone cream to decrease vulvar itching.

If treatment fails, you can make a skin biopsy to rule out vulvar dystrophy, or vulvar dysplasia, a precancerous condition. It also may require a biopsy if you have any skin lesions.

Expectations (prognosis)

The itching can be difficult to control, but after identifying and treating the cause, should disappear in a few weeks.

Complications

Itching of the vulva may be a sign of genital warts (human papillomavirus, HPV, by its initials in English), vulvar dystrophy, or cancerous or precancerous conditions of the vulva.

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), which can cause vulvitis, may lead to other problems such as infertility, and should be treated appropriately.

Calling your health care

Make an appointment with the doctor if symptoms and do not respond to measures of care or if vaginal discharge accompanies the symptoms. Also call if you notice sores on the vulva.

Prevention

Daily cleansing with mild soap, adequate rinsing and thorough drying of the genital area may help.

Avoid using aerosol sprays, fragrances, or powders for feminine hygiene products in the genital area.

Similarly, avoid the use of pants or shorts are too tight can cause irritation by constantly rubbing against the skin and also reduce air circulation.

Wear cotton underwear or pantyhose with cotton. Avoid clothing made of silk or nylon, because these materials are highly absorbent and restrict airflow. This can increase sweating in the genital area, which can cause irritation and may provide a better environment for infectious organisms.

Do not wear sweaty exercise clothing for long periods.

The infections can be spread by intimate or sexual contact can be prevented or minimized by avoiding sexual activity or practicing safer sex behaviors.

Vulvovaginitis: Symptoms, Treatment, Causes, incidence and risk factors, Exams and Tests, prognosis, health care, Prevention and Alternative Names

Vulvovaginitis

It is an inflammation or infection of the vulva and vagina.

Causes, incidence and risk factors

Vulvovaginitis can affect women of any age and is very common. It can be caused by bacteria, yeasts, viruses and other parasites can also be caused by sexually transmitted diseases, and various chemicals found in bubble baths, soaps and perfumes. Environmental factors such as poor hygiene and allergens may also cause this condition.

Candida albicans, which causes yeast infections, is one of the most common causes of vulvovaginitis in women of all ages. The use of antibiotics can lead to yeast infections by destroying the normal antifungal bacteria that live in the vagina. Yeast infections typically cause genital itching, a thick, white vaginal discharge and other symptoms. For more information see: vaginal yeast infection.

Another cause of vulvovaginitis is bacterial vaginosis, an overgrowth of certain types of bacteria in the vagina. This condition can cause a vaginal discharge thin, gray and a fishy odor.

Another common cause is a sexually transmitted disease infection known as vaginitis, which causes genital itching, vaginal odor, and heavy vaginal bleeding that may be yellow-green or green.

Bubble baths, soaps, vaginal contraceptives, feminine sprays, and perfumes can cause irritating itchy rashes in the genital area, while tight fitting or nonabsorbent clothing sometimes cause heat rashes.

Irritated tissue is more susceptible to infection than normal tissue and many infection-causing organisms thrive in environments that are warm, moist and dark. All these factors not only contribute to the cause of vulvovaginitis, they frequently prolong the recovery period.

Lack of postmenopausal estrogen can cause vaginal dryness and thinning of the skin of the vulva and vagina, which also lead to or worsen genital itching and burning.

Nonspecific vulvovaginitis (where you can not identify any cause) can be seen in all age groups but occurs most commonly in young girls before puberty. Once puberty begins, the vagina becomes more acidic, which helps prevent infection.

Nonspecific vulvovaginitis can occur in girls with poor genital hygiene and is characterized by a foul-smelling, brownish-green and irritation of the opening of the mouth and vagina. This condition is often associated with the proliferation of a type of bacteria is typically found in feces, which are sometimes spread from the rectum to the vaginal area by wiping from back to front after using the bathroom.

You should consider the possibility that there existed sexual abuse in children with unusual infections and recurrent episodes of unexplained vulvovaginitis. Neisseria gonorrhoeae, the organism that causes gonorrhea, produces gonococcal vulvovaginitis in young girls. Gonorrhea related vaginitis is considered a sexually transmitted disease. If laboratory tests confirm this diagnosis, young girls should be evaluated for sexual abuse.

Symptoms

* Irritation and itching in the genital area
* Inflammation (irritation, redness and swelling) of the labia majora, labia minora, or perineal area
* Vaginal discharge
* Foul vaginal odor
* Discomfort or burning when urinating

Exams and Tests

Vaginal symptoms are best diagnosed by a doctor. If you have been diagnosed with a yeast infection in the past, try over-the-counter products. However, if symptoms do not disappear completely in about a week, be sure to contact your doctor, as many other infections have similar symptoms.

The doctor will perform a pelvic exam, which can show vulvar or vaginal skin red and sensitive. You must inspect any injury or ulceration.

Typically, you perform a wet prep (microscopic evaluation of vaginal discharge) to identify a vaginal infection or overgrowth of yeast or bacteria. In some cases, a culture of vaginal discharge may identify the organism causing the infection.

Treatment

You can also use a cream containing cortisone to relieve some irritation. If an allergic reaction may also be prescribed an antihistamine. For women who have irritation and inflammation caused by low estrogen levels (postmenopausal) may prescribe a topical estrogen cream.

To help with the healing process and prevent future infections, it is necessary to improve perineal hygiene for those whose infections are caused by bacteria normally found in feces, for which they may be recommended sitz baths. Often it helps to allow the genital area is more airy, using cotton underwear (rather than nylon) or underwear with cotton lining in the crotch area allows greater air flow and decreases amount of moisture in the area. It can also be helpful to sleep without underwear.

Note: If you are diagnosed with a sexually transmitted disease, it is very important that both partners receive treatment also, even if symptoms are present. Many organisms do not produce noticeable symptoms. The refusal of the (s) partner (s) to accept treatment can cause continual reinfection, which may eventually (if neglected) lead to more extensive problems, possibly limiting fertility and affecting overall health.

Expectations (prognosis)

Proper treatment of the infection is usually very effective.
Complications

* Persistent discomfort
* Skin infection (from scratching)
* Complications of causal condition (such as gonorrhea and candida infection)

Calling your health care

Call your doctor if symptoms of vulvovaginitis or if known vulvovaginitis does not respond to treatment.

Prevention

The use of a condom during sexual intercourse can prevent most sexually transmitted vaginal infections. The use of fitting and adequately absorbent clothing, combined with good hygiene of the genital area also prevents many cases of non-infectious vulvovaginitis.

Children should be taught how to properly clean the genital area while bathing or showering. Will also help clean properly after using the toilet (girls should always wipe from front to back to avoid introducing bacteria from the rectal area to the vagina).

Hands should be washed thoroughly before and after using the bathroom.

Alternative Names

Vaginitis, vaginal inflammation, inflammation of the vagina

Xanthoma: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, prognosis, Prevention, Other Names, health care, Exams and Tests, incidence and risk factors

Xanthoma

It is a skin condition in which fat is deposited beneath the skin surface.

Causes, incidence and risk factors

Xanthomas are common, especially among older adults and among people with high blood lipids.

Xanthomas may vary in size. Some are very small, while others are bigger than 3 inches (7, 5 cm) in diameter. They can appear anywhere on the body but occur most often on the elbows, joints, tendons, knees, hands, feet and buttocks.

Xanthomas may be a sign of a medical condition that involves an increase in blood lipids. Some of these disorders are:

* Diabetes
* Primary biliary cirrhosis
* Certain cancers
* Inherited metabolic disorders such as familial hypercholesterolemia

The eyelid xanthelasma is a common type of xanthoma that appears on the eyelids.

Symptoms

A xanthoma looks like a sore or bump under the skin and usually flat, soft to the touch and yellow, with clearly defined edges.



Exams and Tests

The doctor examines the skin and usually can diagnose a xanthoma simply by looking. A biopsy of the tumor shows a fatty deposit.

Treatment

If a person has a disease that causes increased blood lipids, treating the condition can help reduce development of xanthomas.

The doctor may remove the tumor if it gets annoying, however, xanthomas may come back after surgery.

Expectations (prognosis)

The tumor is not cancerous and painless, but can be a sign of another medical condition.
Complications

The growth may cause a change in the appearance of the person, which is called cosmetic disfiguring.
Calling your health care

Call your health care provider if xanthomas develop which may indicate an underlying disorder that needs treatment.

Prevention

Controlling blood lipids, including triglycerides and cholesterol, may help reduce the development of xanthomas.

Alternative Names

Skin growths fatty; Xanthelasma

Xeroderma Pigmentosa: Causes, Symptoms, Exams and Tests, Treatment, Forecast, Prevention

Xeroderma Pigmentosa


It is a rare condition that is passed down through families in which the skin and the tissue covering the eye is extremely sensitive to ultraviolet light.

Causes

Ultraviolet light, like that found in sunlight damages the genetic material (DNA) in cells of the skin, but usually the body repairs this damage. However, in people with xeroderma pigmentosa, the body does not fix the damage as a result, the skin becomes very thin and appear patches of varying colors (mottled pigmentation).

The condition also causes spidery blood vessels in the skin (telangiectasia) and skin cancer. The latter often occurs before the child is 5 years.

Symptoms

* Sunburn that does not heal after a bit of sun exposure
* Blisters after a bit of sun exposure
* Arachnoid blood vessels under the skin
* Patches of discolored skin that get worse
* Crusting of skin
* Peeling skin
* Skin surface oozing raw
* Discomfort when being in bright light (photophobia)

Exams and Tests

The doctor will perform a physical exam and ask if you have a family history of xeroderma pigmentosa.

An eye exam may show:

* Cloudy cornea
* Keratitis
* Lid tumors
* Blepharitis

The following tests can help diagnose the condition in a baby before birth:

* Amniocentesis
* Chorionic villus sampling
* Culture of amniotic cells

The following tests can help diagnose the disorder after birth:

* Culture of skin fibroblasts
* Skin biopsy

Treatment

Children with this condition require total protection from sunlight. Even the light coming through windows and fluorescent bulbs is dangerous.

When these children have to go into the sun should wear protective clothing.

Use high protection sunscreen (SPF of 70 or more) and very dark glasses with ultraviolet light protection. Your doctor may prescribe medications to help prevent certain skin cancers.
Support Groups

Forecast

Most people with this problem die of skin cancer in early adulthood.
Possible complications

* Change in skin appearance (deformation)
* Skin cancer

When to Contact a Medical Professional

Call for an appointment if you or your child has symptoms of xeroderma pigmentosa.

Prevention

Experts recommend genetic counseling for people with a family history of xeroderma pigmentosa who wish to conceive.

Xerosis: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, Prevention, incidence and risk factors, Other Names

Xerosis


It is an abnormal dryness of the skin or mucous membranes.

Causes, incidence and risk factors

Dry skin often worsens in the winter.
Older people generally are more affected by this disease.

Symptoms

The skin is dry, scaly, itchy, and red Fine cracks may appear on it.
The legs and arms are usually the most affected.



Treatment

Treatments include:

* Moisturizers, especially those that contain urea and lactic acid
* Topical steroids for areas that become very inflamed and itchy
Prevention

* Avoid excessive exposure to water
* Keep the relatively cold water bath
* Use gentle skin cleansers that do not contain dyes and fragrances

Alternative Names

Asteatotic eczema; Asteatotic Dermatitis

Shingles: Causes, Symptoms, Exams and Tests, Treatment, medicines, Possible complications

Shingles

It is a painful, blistering skin rash due to varicella-zoster virus that causes chickenpox.

Causes

After you get chickenpox, the virus remains inactive (dormant) in certain nerves. Shingles occurs after the virus reactivates in these nerves after many years.

The reason why the virus becomes active again is not clear. Often only one attack.

Shingles can develop in any age group, but one is more likely to develop the condition if:

* Has over 60 years
* He gave chickenpox before their first birthday
* Your immune system is weakened by medications or disease

If an adult or child has direct contact with the herpes zoster rash and has not had chickenpox as a child or has not received the vaccine against this disease, can develop chickenpox rather than shingles.

Symptoms

The first symptom is usually pain on one side, tingling or burning. The pain and burning may be severe and generally occur before any rash appears.

In most people, form patches on the skin, followed by small blisters.

* The blisters break, forming small ulcers that begin to dry and form scabs, which fall in two to three weeks. Scarring is rare.
* The rash usually involves a narrow area of the spine around the front of the ventral or chest.
* The rash may involve the face, eyes, mouth and ears.



Additional symptoms may include:

* Abdominal pain
* Chills
* Difficulty moving some of the muscles in the face
* Drooping eyelid (ptosis)
* Fever and chills
* General ill feeling
* Genital lesions
* Headache
* Hearing loss
* Joint pain
* Loss of eye movement
* Swollen lymph nodes
* Problems with taste
* Vision problems

It also may have pain, muscle weakness and a rash that involves different parts of the face if shingles affects a nerve in the face.

Exams and Tests

The doctor can diagnose by looking at your skin and asking questions about your medical history.

Rarely tests are needed, but may include taking a skin sample to see if you are infected with the virus that causes shingles.

Laboratory tests may show an increase in white blood cells and antibodies to the chickenpox virus but can not confirm that the rash is due to shingles.



Treatment

Shingles usually disappears spontaneously and only need treatment for pain relief.

Your doctor may prescribe a medicine that fights the virus, called antiviral, which helps reduce pain and complications and shorten the course of the disease. You can use acyclovir, famciclovir and valacyclovir.

The medications should be started within 24 hours of feeling pain or burning, and preferably before the blisters appear. Usually, the drugs are given as pills, in much higher doses than those recommended for herpes or genital herpes. It is possible that some people need to be administered the drug intravenously (IV).

Strong anti-inflammatory medications called corticosteroids such as prednisone, can be used to reduce inflammation and risk of continued pain. These drugs do not work in all patients.

Other medicines may include:

* Antihistamines to reduce itching (taken by mouth or applied to the skin)
* Analgesics
* Zostrix, a cream containing capsaicin (an extract of pepper) to prevent post-herpetic neuralgia

They can be used wet and cold compresses to reduce pain. Soothing baths and lotions such as colloidal oatmeal bath, starch baths, or calamine lotion can help relieve itching and discomfort.

It is also recommended bed rest until the fever goes down.

You must keep the skin clean and reuse contaminated items. Similarly, non-disposable items should be washed in boiling water or otherwise disinfected before reuse. The person may need to be isolated while lesions are oozing to prevent infection of others, especially pregnant women.
Forecast

Shingles usually clears up in two or three weeks and rarely recurs. If the virus affects the nerves that control movement (motor nerves) may be weakness or temporary or permanent paralysis.

Sometimes the pain in the area where the shingles occurred may last from months to years.

Possible complications

Sometimes the pain in the area where the shingles occurred may last for months or years. This pain is called postherpetic neuralgia and occurs when nerves are damaged after an outbreak of shingles. The pain ranges from mild to very severe and more likely to occur in people over 60 years.

Other complications may include:

* Another attack of shingles
* Blindness (if lesions occur in the eye)
* Deafness
* Infection, including encephalitis or sepsis (blood infection) in people with weakened immune systems
* Bacterial skin infections
* Ramsay Hunt syndrome if shingles affects the nerves in the face

When to Contact a Medical Professional

Call your doctor if you have symptoms of shingles, particularly if you have defenses or if symptoms persist or worsen. Shingles that affects the eye can lead to permanent blindness if you do not receive emergency medical care.
Prevention

Avoid touching the rash and blisters of persons with shingles or chickenpox if you have never had chickenpox or has not been immunized against this disease.

The varicella vaccine may be recommended for teenagers or adults who have never had chickenpox. Medical evidence has shown that older adults who receive the vaccine are less likely to have complications from shingles. Adults over 60 should receive the vaccine as part of routine medical care.

Alternative Names

Shingles

Rheumatoid Arthritis : Definition, Other Names, Causes and Symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis, Treatment and medicines, SURGERY and PHYSIOTHERAPY

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Definition

It is a chronic disease that leads to inflammation of the joints and surrounding tissues. It can also affect other organs.

Alternative Names

RA, rheumatoid arthritis

Causes

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is considered an autoimmune disease and its cause is unknown. The body's immune system normally fights foreign substances such as viruses. But in an autoimmune disease, the immune system confuses healthy tissues or taking as foreign substances, and as a result, the body attacking itself.

Rheumatoid arthritis can occur at any age and women are affected more often than men.

Rheumatoid arthritis usually affects joints on both sides of the body equally, with the wrists, fingers, knees, feet, ankles and body parts most commonly affected. The course and severity of rheumatoid arthritis can vary considerably. Infection, genes and hormones may contribute to this disease.

Symptoms

The disease usually begins gradually with:

* Fatigue
* Inappetence
* Morning stiffness (lasting more than an hour)
* Muscle aches widespread
* Weakness

Finally, there is joint pain. When the joint is not in use for some time, may become warm, sensitive and rigid. When the lining of the joint becomes inflamed, produces more fluid and the joint swells. The joint pain is often felt on both sides of the body and can affect the wrists, knees, elbows, shoulders, hips, fingers, hands and feet, ankles and neck.

Additional symptoms include:

* Anemia due to insufficient bone marrow to produce enough new red blood cells
* Burning, itching and discharge from the eye
* Deformities of hands and feet
* Range of motion limited
* Fever
* Inflammation of the lungs (pleurisy)
* Round, painless nodules under the skin (usually a sign of a more severe disease)
* Numbness or tingling
* Paleness
* Redness or swelling of the skin
* Swollen lymph nodes

The destruction of the joint may occur in a matter of one to two years after the onset of the disease.

Examinations and tests

Availability of a specific blood test to diagnose and differentiate rheumatoid arthritis from other types of arthritis. This test is called a review of antipeptidos cyclic citrullinated antibodies (anti-CCP). Other tests that can be done include:

* Complete Blood Count
* C-Reactive Protein
* Erythrocytic sedimentation rate
* Ultrasonography and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of joints
* Radiographs of the joints
* Rheumatoid factor (positive in approximately 75% of people with symptoms)
* Analysis of the synovial fluid

Treatment

Rheumatoid arthritis usually requires lifelong treatment, including medication, physiotherapy, exercise, education and possibly surgery. Aggressive treatment and appropriate for this type of arthritis can slow the destruction of the joint.

MEDICINES

Medicines disease-modifying antirheumatic (DMARD stands for English) are the current treatment of reference for cases of rheumatoid arthritis, in addition to rest, strengthening exercises and anti-inflammatory drugs. Methotrexate (Rheumatrex) is the most commonly used DMARD for rheumatoid arthritis. Leflunomide (Arava) may be replaced by methotrexate. These drugs are associated with toxic side effects, so one needs frequent blood tests when you are taking.

Anti-inflammatory medications: These include acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin) and non-steroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen. Although NSAIDs work well, their prolonged use can cause stomach problems such as ulcers and bleeding, and possible heart problems. NSAIDs now come with warning labels on the product to warn users about an increased risk of cardiovascular events like heart attack or stroke, and gastrointestinal bleeding.

Antimalarial drugs: This group of drugs includes hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil) and sulfasalazine (Azulfidine), typically used in combination with methotrexate. However, it may take weeks or months to see any benefit of these drugs.

Corticosteroids: These drugs work well to reduce joint swelling and inflammation. However, due to the potential side effects long-term corticosteroids should be taken only for a short time and at low doses where possible.

Inhibitors of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2): These drugs block an enzyme called a promoter of COX-2 inflammation. Initially it was believed that these drugs work as well as traditional NSAIDs, but with fewer stomach problems. However, numerous reports of heart attacks and stroke have prompted the FDA to reassess the risks and benefits of COX-2. Celecoxib (Celebrex) is still available, but labeled with strong warnings and a recommendation that it be prescribed at the lowest dose and for the shortest time possible. Talk to your doctor about whether these COX-2 inhibitors are appropriate for you.

BIOLOGICAL AGENTS:

Specific modulators of white blood cells: These treatments control the inflammation and effectively include:

* Orencio (abatacept), applied under the skin (subcutaneous) or into a vein (intravenous) once a month. Reduce the number of T cells (a type of white blood cell).
* Rituxan (rituximab), applied under the skin or into a vein twice a year. Reduce the number of B cells (a type of white blood cell).

Inhibitors of tumor necrosis factor (TNF): This relatively new type of drug blocks a protein in the body involved in producing inflammation. Administered intravenously and directly include:

* Adalimumab (Humira)
* Etanercept (Enbrel)
* Infliximab (Remicade)

SURGERY

Occasionally, surgery is needed to correct severely affected joints. Surgeries can relieve joint pain, correct deformities, and modestly improve joint function.

The most successful surgeries are those performed in knees and hips. Usually the first treatment is surgical synovectomy or removal of the lining of the joint (synovial membrane).

A further alternative is total joint replacement with a prosthetic joint. In extreme cases, complete replacement of the hip or knee can mean the difference between total dependence on others and to live independently at home.

PHYSIOTHERAPY

The exercises range or range of motion and individualized exercise programs prescribed by a physiotherapist can slow the loss of joint function.

Joint protection techniques, treatments with heat and cold and the use of splints or orthotic devices to support and align joints may be very useful.

Sometimes, therapists use special machines to apply deep heat or electrical stimulation to reduce pain and improve joint mobility.

Occupational therapists can construct splints for your hand and wrist, and teach how to best protect and use your joints when they are affected by arthritis. They also show people how to cope better with daily tasks at work and at home, despite the limitations caused by rheumatoid arthritis.

Recommended frequent rest periods between activities, as well as 8 to 10 hours of sleep each night.

Support Groups

To find additional resources and information, see the section on support groups for arthritis.

Expectations (prognosis)

It should do blood tests or urine regularly to determine how well medications are working and whether they are causing any side effects.

Rheumatoid arthritis varies from person to person. People with rheumatoid factor, antinuclear antipeptidos cyclic citrullinated or subcutaneous nodules seem to have a more severe form of the disease. People who develop rheumatoid arthritis at an early age also appear to worsen more quickly.

Many people with rheumatoid arthritis are working full time. However, after many years, approximately 10% of patients with this type of arthritis to become severely disabled and unable to perform simple tasks of daily living such as washing, dressing and eating.

In the past the average life expectancy for a patient with this type of arthritis could be reduced from 3 to 7 years and those with severe forms of the disease often died 10 to 15 years earlier than expected. However, as we have improved the treatment for rheumatoid arthritis, severe disability and life-threatening complications have decreased significantly and in many people lead relatively normal lives.

Possible Complications

Rheumatoid arthritis is a disease that not only destroys joints, which can compromise nearly all organs.

Can present a potentially fatal complication in the joints when the cervical spine (neck bones) becomes unstable as a result of rheumatoid arthritis.

Rheumatoid vasculitis (inflammation of blood vessels) is a serious and potentially fatal complication of this type of arthritis that can lead to ulceration and skin infections present, bleeding gastric ulcers and neurological problems that cause pain, numbness or tingling. Vasculitis may also affect the brain, nerves and heart, which can cause stroke, heart attack and heart failure.

Rheumatoid arthritis can cause the exterior of the heart to become inflamed (pericarditis) and cause heart complications. Also may be inflammation of the heart muscle, called myocarditis, and both conditions can lead to the development of congestive heart failure.

Treatments for rheumatoid arthritis can also cause serious side effects. If you experience any of these effects, tell your doctor immediately.

When contacting a medical professional Back to top

Consult your doctor if you think you have symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.

Prevention

There is no known prevention for rheumatoid arthritis. However, it is often possible to prevent major damage to the joints with proper treatment to onset of the disease.

Quit smoking. Research shows that the risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis is almost twice that for current smokers compared with nonsmokers.

Because rheumatoid arthritis may cause eye complications, patients must take regular checkups of your eyes.

Osteoarthritis: Causes, Symptoms, incidence ,risk factors, Definition, Other Names, Signs and tests, Treatment of Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis

Index:

* Images
* Other Names
* Definition
* Causes, incidence and risk factors
Symptoms *
* Signs and tests
* Salutation
* Support Groups
* Expectations (prognosis)
* Complications
* Situations that require medical assistance
* Prevention
* References



Other Names
Degenerative joint disease, hypertrophic osteoarthritis, Osteoarthrosis; EAD; Osteoarthritis (arthritis)

Definition

It is the most common joint disorder.

Causes, incidence and risk factors

Most of the time, the cause of osteoarthritis is unknown. It is a disease that is primarily related to aging, but metabolic factors, genetic, chemical and mechanical processes can also lead to its development.

Symptoms usually appear in people of middle age and almost everyone submits to the age of 70 years. Before the 55 years, the disease occurs equally in both sexes. However, after 55 years is more common in women.

The disease causes an erosion in the buffer (cartilage) between the joints of the bones. As the disease worsens, the cartilage disappears and the bones rub each other. Generally, there are bone spurs around the joint.

Osteoarthritis is classified as primary or secondary.

Primary osteoarthritis occurs without any injury or obvious cause, while secondary osteoarthritis is due to another disease or condition. The most common causes of this are:

* Inflammatory disorders such as arthritis
* Injury
* Metabolic disorders such as acromegaly
* Problems with anatomy (for example, be patizambo)



Symptoms

The symptoms of osteoarthritis include:

* Joint pain that worsens deep after exercise or weight-bearing and relieved by rest
* Chirping of articulation with the movement
* Joint pain when the weather is rainy
* Joint inflammation
* Motion Limited
* Stiffness in the morning

Some people may not show symptoms.

Signs and tests

A physical examination may show:

* Crepitation of the joints with movement
* Joint inflammation
* Limited range of motion
* Sensitivity

An x-ray of affected joints will show loss of joint space and, in advanced cases, wear of the ends of the bone and bone spurs.

Treatment

The goals of treatment are:

* Increase the strength of the joints
* Maintain or improve joint mobility
* Reduce the disabling effects of disease
* Relieving pain

Treatment depends on which joints are involved.

MEDICATIONS:

The most common drugs used to treat osteoarthritis are the non-steroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are common pain relievers that reduce pain and inflammation. The types of these medications include: acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin), ibuprofen and naproxen.

Although NSAIDs work well, their prolonged use can cause stomach problems such as ulcers and bleeding. Manufacturers of NSAIDs include a warning label on the product to alert consumers about an increased risk of cardiovascular events (heart attacks and strokes) and gastrointestinal bleeding.

Other medications used to treat osteoarthritis include:

* COX-2 inhibitors (coxibs), which block a substance called COX-2 that causes inflammation. Initially it was believed that this class of drugs works so well as other NSAIDs, but with fewer stomach problems. However, reports of heart attacks and stroke have prompted the FDA to re-evaluate the risks and benefits of COX-2. Celecoxib (Celebrex) was still available at the time of this report, but labeled with strong warnings and the recommendation to be prescribed at the lowest dose and for the shortest time possible. Patients should ask their doctor if the medicine is appropriate and safe for them.
* Steroids: these drugs are injected directly into the joint and can be used to reduce inflammation and pain.
* Supplements: many people help the OTC medicines such as glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate. There is some evidence that these supplements are used to control pain, but do not seem to allow the development of new cartilage.
* The artificial synovial fluid (Synvisc, Hyalgan) can be injected into the knee and provide temporary relief of pain for up to 6 months.

CHANGES IN LIFESTYLE:

Exercise helps maintain mobility and Articulatory general. You should ask your doctor to recommend an appropriate home exercise routine. The exercises in the water, like swimming, are especially useful.

Other recommendations on lifestyle include:

* Apply heat and cold
* Consume a balanced diet and healthy
* Rest
* Lose weight if overweight
* Protect your joints

PHYSIOTHERAPY:

Can be used to improve muscle strength and movement of stiff joints. Therapists have many techniques for treating osteoarthritis, but if therapy does not cause an improvement after 3 to 6 weeks, then you probably do not work forever.

Orthopedic devices:

Orthopedic splints and sometimes can provide support for weakened joints. Some prevent the movement of the joint, while others allow some movement. Orthopedic devices should be used only when the doctor or therapist recommends, as the incorrect use of a device they can cause damage, stiffness and joint pain.

SURGERY:

Severe cases of osteoarthritis might need surgery to replace or repair damaged joints. The surgical options may include:

* Arthroscopic surgery to trim cartilage injury and broken links and to rinse
* Restoration of the cartilage to replace damaged or missing cartilage in some young patients with arthritis
* Changes in the alignment of a bone to relieve the stress on the bone or joint (osteotomy)
* Surgical Fusion of the bones, usually in the spine (arthrodesis)
* Partial or total replacement of the damaged joint by an artificial joint (knee arthroplasty, hip arthroplasty)


Expectations (prognosis)

The movement may be very limited. The treatment usually improves joint function.

Complications

* Adverse reactions to drugs used to treat
* Decreased ability to perform activities of daily living such as personal hygiene, housekeeping or cooking
* Decreased ability to walk
Surgical complications *

Situations requiring medical assistance

Check with your doctor if symptoms of osteoarthritis.

Prevention

Weight loss can reduce the risk of knee osteoarthritis in overweight women.

Pinworms(Oxiuros) Symptoms, Signs and tests, Causes, incidence and risk factors, Definition, prognosis, Prevention, Complications and medical assistan

Oxiuros

Content:

* Images
* Alternative Names
* Definition
* Causes, incidence and risk factors
* Symptoms
* Signs and tests
* Salutation
* Expectations (prognosis)
* Complications
* Situations that require medical assistance
* Prevention


Alternative Names

Enterobiasis; Oxyuriasis; Oxiurosis; oxiuros infection, Enterobius vermacularis E. Vermacularis; helminthosis



Definition

They are small worms that infect the intestines.

Causes, incidence and risk factors Back to top

The oxiuros are the most common worm infection in the United States and occurs mainly in school-age children.

The eggs of oxiuros spread directly from person to person spread or by contact with bedding, food or other items contaminated with eggs.

Generally, children are infected by touching the eggs and inadvertently oxiuros then put their fingers in their mouths. The eggs are ingested and eventually hatch in the small intestine. The oxiuros mature in the colon.

The females of these worms were then transferred to the child's anal area, especially at night, and lay more eggs. This can cause intense itching and even the anal area can become infected. When the child scratches the anal area which presents pruritus, the eggs can stay under the nails. The eggs can be transferred to other children, family members and household items.

Symptoms

* Difficulty sleeping because of the itching that occurs during the night
* Itching around the anus
* Irritability due to itching and interrupted sleep
* Irritation and infection of the skin around the anus due to constant scratching
* Vaginal irritation or discomfort in young girls (if they oxiuro an adult enters the vagina rather than the anus)
* Loss of appetite and weight (uncommon but can occur in severe infections)

Signs and tests

The oxiuros can be seen in the anal area, especially at night when they lay their eggs in that area.

The doctor may ask to conduct a review with an adhesive tape, which is pressed a piece of cellophane tape against the skin around the anus and then withdrew. This should be done in the morning before showering or using the toilet, because bathing or cleaning can remove the eggs. The doctor sticks the tape to a slide and slide seeking eggs using a microscope.

Treatment

The main treatment is a single dose of either mebendazole or albendazole (anti drugs), available with or without prescription.

Because it is likely that more than one family member is infected, it is often recommended to treat the whole family. The single-dose treatment is often repeated after two weeks in order to remove the eggs that hatched since the time of initial treatment.

To control the eggs:

* Clean the toilet daily
* Keep nails short and clean
* Wash all bedding 2 times a week
* Wash hands before meals and after using the toilet

Avoid scratching the infected area around the anus, as this can contaminate your fingers and everything else that hands touch later.

Keep hands and fingers away from mouth and nose, unless they are freshly washed. Implement these measures while family members are under treatment for oxiuros.

Expectations (prognosis)

Oxiuros infection can be treated completely.



Complications

* Pelvic inflammatory disease
* Repetitive infection with the parasite
Vaginitis *

Situations requiring medical assistance

Request an appointment with your doctor if:

* You or your child have symptoms of infection oxiuros
* You have seen his son in the oxiuros

Prevention

Wash your hands after using the toilet and before preparing food. Also, frequently wash bedding and underwear, especially those of any family member affected.