tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12031426299989906242024-03-13T06:02:42.885-07:00TheBackPain.comInformation and discussion about pain.Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger22125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1203142629998990624.post-69052305501621401942020-03-26T11:07:00.000-07:002020-05-31T08:28:22.952-07:00What is pain?<b>What is pain?</b><br />
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Pain is a natural systemic reaction. In its basic form, it is a beneficial phenomenon. Without the ability to feel pain humans would not be prepared for situations that can cause bodily injuries. Pain helps humans to learn to avoid dangerous stimuli.<br />
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Pain is an uncomfortable feeling that tells you something may be wrong in your body. The sensation of pain is formed when the nerve endings that sense pain are irritated. This is the case, for example, when there is beginning tissue damage. Active substances that irritate the nerve endings are released in this specific area, and they cause a local inflammatory reaction. The irritation is transmitted via nerves to the spinal cord and then higher up to the central nervous system, where the sensation of pain is first formed.<br />
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Organs have different nerve endings, and the pain impulses travel to the central nervous system via various nerves. The nerve endings on the skin transmit pain quickly and the pain perceived in the brain corresponds clearly to the origination site. There are fewer nerve endings that sense pain in the internal organs, the impulses travel via slower neurofibrilla, and it is more difficult to locate the pain originating from there.<br />
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Short-term pain is called acute and long-term pain chronic pain. Persistent pain sometimes has no useful purpose; it may be just a nuisance. However, it may affect the ability to work and have a negative effect on life.<br />
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Different mechanisms that can strengthen or weaken the pain impulses exist at the pain origination site, on the way to the central nervous system and in the central nervous system itself. Generally, the tissue damage that caused the pain will heal, but if there are several factors that increase the pain level, the nervous system may become programmed wrongly, and the pain may become chronic.<br />
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The factors that can make one prone to chronic pain are lack of activity and a sedentary lifestyle, long time illnesses, sleeplessness, a learned behavioral model or continuous additional stimuli and psychic factors. Pain processes are linked with the emotional centers in the brain. If a person is depressed or anxious, it may worsen his pains.<br />
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When pain becomes chronic, it will be much more difficult to treat and the treatment outcomes are worse. Thus treating pain at the right time efficiently and appropriately is the best prevention of constant pain.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1203142629998990624.post-81147585862632290132020-03-26T11:03:00.001-07:002020-05-31T22:25:43.627-07:00Headache<script src="https://apis.google.com/js/plusone.js" type="text/javascript">
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Headaches are very common and there are several headache types. Headache may also be called cephalgia. An estimated 80 percent of people suffer from headaches periodically. It is by no means always a sign of an underlying illness—you can get a headache because of a flu, too much partying, overexertion or nagging problems.<g:plusone></g:plusone><br />
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There are many headache causes, but it is rare that a headache should signal a life threatening illness, but seeing a doctor is advised if the headache disturbs daily life, or it changes its form. A new and sudden headache symptom should always be looked into promptly. Headache treatment can be effective and there are a lot of efficient remedies for headache, so one has no reason to grin and bear the pain.<br />
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<b>Tension Headache</b><br />
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The most common cause for headache is muscular tension. Approximately, a third of Finnish adults suffers from it. It was thought to be caused by excessive tension in the head and neck area muscles, which cuts down on circulation and causes pain.<br />
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The exact origination mechanism is not known. According to some theories, tension headache could be due to central nervous system reasons. One explanation is a functional disorder between different areas of the brain.<br />
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Patients with tension headache react sensitively to pain. Anxiety and depression are also common with these patients. There are suggestions that those experiencing tension headaches are characteristically more conscientious and perfectionist.<br />
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Heredity most probably plays a role in tension headaches. According to one research project, close relatives of those suffering from tension headaches are three times as likely to have the same symptom.<br />
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The pain associated with tension headaches is commonly described as a tight band around the head or a tightening, pulling or shooting pain or as muscle stiffness. The scalp may feel sensitive. The sensations are usually felt on both sides of the head but may be on one side only. The pain is mostly felt in the back of the head, forehead, temples and top of the head. Usually the pain begins gradually and gets worse towards the afternoon.<br />
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Unlike in migraines, there generally are no visual symptoms like blind spots or flashing lights, vomiting, pain in the stomach, additional feelings on one side of the body, or disturbances of speech. In migraine physical activity usually increases headache, not so in tension headache.<br />
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Tension headaches can be periodic or chronic. In the case of periodic headaches, the headache lasts for a few days. If the headache is present more than two weeks per month, it is classified as a chronic tension headache. The periodic headache can become chronic, constant headaches are, however, rare.<br />
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There are normally no warning symptoms. The headache is not particularly strong, but can be felt for days and weeks, sometimes longer. The headache is usually continuous and not episodic.<br />
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Stress and a busy lifestyle, jaw clenching or depression and anxiety may trigger tension headaches. The symptoms can get worse with a poor posture when working at a computer, driving a car or while performing comparable functions. Sometimes the headache is accompanied by an unpleasant feeling of dizziness and unsteadiness. Nausea may be present as well. Exercising and spending time outdoors generally are helpful. The symptoms normally ease up during the time off from work.<br />
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The examination often shows sore muscles sometimes both in the neck and head region. There are no visible signs of disturbance in the nerve functions. If additional examinations like MRI are performed, they usually show no abnormalities. X-rays or MRI may show straightening of the cervical spine as a sign of increased muscle tension.<br />
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The treatment usually consists of anti-inflammatory medication, muscle relaxants, antidepressants, physiotherapy, and acupuncture. In the most problematic case hypnosis or biofeedback may be useful in increasing the ability to relax. It sometimes takes time to find the best headache cure, but relief usually can be obtained.<br />
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In physical therapy, the initial emphasis is on relaxing the muscles. If harder training is pursued when the muscles are very tense, it may cause a worsening of the symptoms. In milder cases the treatment initially can also include exercise.<br />
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As first aid, anti-inflammatory medicines may be used to treat tension headache according to the package instructions. Your doctor may prescribe medication to relieve symptoms as they appear or as a preventive method to decrease intensity and frequency of the headaches. <br />
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Correct posture while working and performing housework is important as well as taking short breaks during which one can do light neck and shoulder exercises.<br />
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While working at the computer it is important to make sure that there is enough room in front of the keyboard and that the monitor is not placed too high. Avoid using a diagonal work posture. The monitor should be free of reflections. If necessary, one should get glasses that lend themselves to work with computer terminals.<br />
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Working in continuous stretches and driving long distances should be avoided. While driving, hold on to the lower half of the steering wheel and try to relax the shoulders whenever possible.<br />
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While working, check periodically whether your muscles are too tense, and then try to relax them. If you have a tendency to push your head forward while working at the computer, observe and correct your posture several times a day.<br />
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Keep your neck straight while sleeping.<br />
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A suitable form of exercise would be one where the muscles contract and relax as a counterbalance to permanent tension. Make sure you are in good general condition.<br />
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Hobbies that cause muscle tension, such as crocheting, knitting and reading while lying down should be avoided.<br />
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Choose sports where you can exercise the muscles in multiple ways. While swimming, for instance, it would be good to learn different styles such as crawl and backstroke and switch between them. Practice breaststroke so that your head is periodically straight under water. Use a cap and goggles if you don’t want to get water on your hair or in your eyes.<br />
It is important to relax adequately. An orderly lifestyle lessens the symptoms. Avoid staying up too late.<br />
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<b>Migraine</b><br />
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It is easy to differentiate between a migraine and a tension headache in the most typical cases. Unfortunately sometimes the symptoms do not adhere to the textbook versions, and one can experience both symptoms at the same time, and they may feed off each other.<br />
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Preliminary symptoms such as vision, hearing, speech or movement disturbances can exist before an actual migraine attack. This so-called aura stage may last for several minutes. Vision disturbances occur in both eyes and may involve, for instance, blurred vision, zigzag figures, a blind spot, tunnel vision, stars or spinning bright light or pain in the eyes. Aura usually develops about 10 minutes before the actual migraine pains. Not everyone, however, has an aura. When the actual migraine attack begins, the aura usually fades away.<br />
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Migraine headaches can be severe. They often start on the same side every time and pain is worse on one side. In the classic migraine, the headache is pulsing or pounding and can be accompanied by nausea and vomiting, increased urination, diarrhea, shivering, sweating, chills, trouble finding words, fatigue or loss of appetite, heart symptoms and changes in blood pressure that can be periodic in nature.<br />
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Even though functioning may not be possible during the active migraine headache, the time between the episodes is usually asymptomatic. Sleeping, cold or dark environments relieve, and physical exertion will make the pain worse. During the attack light and strong noises disturb the patient, and all senses are keener.<br />
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Some patients may have a hangover type of state after migraine attacks when they need to sleep additionally and feel they're thinking is not very clear. <br />
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Women are more prone to migraine and heredity plays a big part in its onset. In most cases the symptoms appear before the age of 35, but can begin even during menopause. A daughter whose mother suffers from migraines has a 50 percent likelihood of getting migraines. Migraines can also skip a few generations. Migraine attacks may be triggered by hormone changes during a menstrual cycle or by birth control pills.<br />
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Foods like chocolate, red wine, and cheese can trigger a migraine. Some additives such as nitrates, monosodium glutamate, tyramine and aspartame can act as triggers. Marinated foods, foods preserved with vinegar, and fermented foods may trigger a migraine. Nuts, pizza, and very cold beverages or foods have been associated with the onset of a migraine.<br />
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This does not mean that all these foods cause headaches in any one person. It can be just one food or substance and in that situation others can be used without restrictions. If a food causes migraine, it will do it every time the food is eaten.<br />
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The reason for migraines and other vascular headaches is apparently vascular constriction in the beginning stage and expansion at a later stage. Active substances that cause inflammation-like changes are released in connection with this, and that causes pain.<br />
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The cause for this is unclear. It seems that the vascular system of those people who get migraines is more sensitive to stimuli. Migraine in women is a risk factor for disturbances in cerebral blood circulation. This risk is multiplied with the use of birth control pills and tobacco products.<br />
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When suspecting a migraine, the most important research method is mapping of the symptoms and a thorough examination performed by a doctor. Modern methods such as computer tomography and an MRI can easily rule out tumors or other serious illnesses as causes of the headache.<br />
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Headache journal is a good way to follow your headache symptoms, memorize the duration, location and severity of the pain, medications and their effects and possible outside factors triggering headache. It will be easier for your doctor to find a better cure for the headache.<br />
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Rest and medication are the most important parts of treating a migraine. Cold compresses can be used as well. An hour’s rest is recommended even though the symptoms might disappear with medication. It is important to find the right medication. There are many efficient products on the market, and a doctor can help you find the most suitable one for you. If migraines are frequent, a continuous preventive treatment may be necessary. Neurologists are the best experts on migraine and its medication.<br />
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Migraine medications to be taken during migraine attacks to stop symptoms that have already begun are most often nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or NSAIDs, triptans or substances that contain ergotamine. The pain medication can be taken together with an anti-nausea medication or in combinations. If it is necessary the medication can be given in the form of suppositories. <br />
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It is best to take pain-relieving drugs when first signs of a migraine attack are felt. For optimal effect, it is good to rest or sleep in a dark room if this is possible. <br />
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Preventive medications can also be used. They are usually taken regularly to prevent attacks or to make them less severe.<br />
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Acupuncture treatment may sometimes prove amazingly efficient in treating migraines. Biofeedback may be effective in migraine. Relaxation techniques, massage, herbs and vitamins are also used.<br />
If a substance, stimulus, hurry, neck-straining work or stress triggers a migraine, prevention is the best way. This can be difficult, in reality, with other factors than food and sauna going habits. It is hard to avoid stressful situations and work pressure entirely. The least one can do is to use correct ergonomic work posture.<br />
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Anyway, triggers should be avoided as much as possible. Self-care should include steady sleeping patterns with enough but not too much sleep. Muscle relaxing exercises can be tried. Some people may get rid of migraines by eliminating episode-causing foods and beverages from their diet. Experimentation is the key here. The triggers can be listed by keeping a headache journal, where notes on attacks and the circumstances leading to them, such as foods or beverages, are noted.<br />
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Some experience suggests that prevention of low blood sugar levels may prevent migraines. The method entails eating small meals several times a day in order to keep the blood sugar level stable.<br />
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Migraine patients might try stopping smoking and excessive drinking of coffee, as these may make the symptoms worse.<br />
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Tension headaches and migraines can often be found in the same person. In this case, one illness may worsen the symptoms of the other. During a migraine, muscles become tenser, which can trigger another tension headache. In this situation, it is advisable to treat both problems simultaneously.<br />
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<b>Withdrawal Symptom</b><br />
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When treating migraines and other pain, one must also note that in some people the overuse of medication can cause headaches. This applies to the previously often used ergotamine as well as to all other pain medications, including the new migraine medications. When a person gets used to a medication, it will help the headaches, but over time the low blood level of the medication may cause by itself a rebound-type headache.<br />
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Headache may be caused by use of some chemical, for instance an additive, or its termination, also overuse of medication may induce headaches. The more common withdrawal headaches occur with caffeine, estrogen and opioids. Furthermore, nitrates, analgesics, oral contraception medication, corticosteroids, tricyclic antidepressants and many other drugs may cause this problem. Diagnosis of withdrawal headache is usually clear only when other reasons have been excluded and if the headache disappears or improves after withdrawing the substance.<br />
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Ergotamine will cause dependence if taken every other day. The understanding of the risk level of pain medication is not as clear. It is estimated that only 20 doses of medicine per month may cause withdrawal symptoms and those who take at least 100 doses clearly increase their risk of incurring problems of this type.<br />
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The symptom is usually a continuing low-grade headache that is worst in the morning and is relieved shortly after taking pain medication. Other symptoms such as nausea, anxiety, feeling less alert and energetic and experiencing difficulty concentrating and memory problems may appear. The headache is felt as a dull ache on both sides of the head on the forehead, temples, and the neck. <br />
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It is advisable to change the medication with the help of your doctor. Sometimes it may be the easiest to do this in a hospital environment. Most people will be able to lower their use of medication, which will also reduce the frequency of headaches.<br />
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Those who drink a lot of coffee may experience a morning headache when the level of caffeine in the blood is low. They may experience headaches during the day for the same reason. Even three cups of coffee a day will cause a caffeine dependency. <br />
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It has been demonstrated that stopping daily caffeine intake changes blood flow in the brain. This is likely to give the caffeine withdrawal headache. It has also been registered changes in EEG rhythms in the withdrawal period that are considered to be linked to the fatigue.<br />
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In a situation like this it would be advisable to stop drinking coffee. Withdrawal symptoms may appear, but as they pass, the headaches will be reduced as well. If you love coffee, you may start drinking it again after a few weeks, but only a maximum of one cup per day. It is good to remember that other products than coffees also contain caffeine.<br />
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<b>Vascular Headaches</b><br />
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It used to be thought that blood vessel dilation is the main cause of the pain in a group called vascular headaches. Cluster headaches serial headaches, migraine and toxic headaches were described as being part of this group.<br />
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Less common than migraine are the so-called cluster headaches and serial headaches. The basic causes for these headaches are not known. Probable impetus for the symptoms may be a regulation disturbance in the hypothalamus.<br />
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The pain is usually one-sided and very strong. It is accompanied by tearing in the eye region. Nostrils may become stuffy and there may be many episodes in one day. The painful period lasts from weeks to months and is followed by an asymptomatic period during several months or even years. Sometimes the illness may become chronic.<br />
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Diagnosis is based mainly on the symptoms. Sometimes at the time of the attack one may see constriction of the pupil, drooping of the eyelid and redness in the conjunctiva. The episode may begin after sleeping, taking a sauna, or drinking alcohol. Rest does not alleviate the pain as is generally the case with migraines; on the contrary, rest may actually worsen the situation.<br />
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Initial treatment may be in the form of anti-inflammatory pain medication. If this does not work, the newest migraine medication may give relief. Breathing pure oxygen is often helpful but difficult to arrange in real life. Cortisone has been used in breaking up the period of pain.<br />
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<b>Exertion headache</b><br />
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Some people get strong short-term headaches in connection with physical exertion. The reason for this is believed to be vascular. There are three types of these headaches. It may occur in about 1% of people in connection with physical exertion, cough or sexual activity. <br />
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The pain starts immediately or very quickly after beginning of the triggering physical activity. The pain is usually very intense and is often described as bursting or explosive. Most people have bilateral pains; the headache may be in any location.<br />
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Most exertion headaches are benign but anyone developing a severe headache of this type should be checked by a specialist because sometimes intracranial reasons or other neurological problems may be behind this phenomena. <br />
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<b>Sinus Infections, Sinus Headache</b><br />
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Maxillary sinus infections are a very common reason for headaches that cause sufferers to get treatment. Almost a third of the patients at health care centers falls in this category.<br />
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The maxillary sinuses are cavities inside the skull. When they get infected, their mucous membranes swell and infectious secretions may collect in them. The maxillary sinus openings may get blocked, which causes pressure as the secretions increase. It is most common to have symptoms in the maxillary sinuses, but the frontal, ethmoid, and sphenoid sinuses may also get infected.<br />
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The risk for maxillary sinus infections is higher if a person tends to be allergic, if he has hay fever or asthma, or if he smokes. Maxillary sinus infections often accompany various respiratory infections. Anatomical risk factors include a deviated nasal wall or polyps. A foreign intranasal object, swimming or diving, climbing in high altitudes, flying or pressure injuries may also have an effect.<br />
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Headache typically starts when a person has a cold or just after it. The symptoms of a maxillary sinus infection may include, in addition to headaches, a feeling of heaviness in the cheeks or pain in the cheeks or behind the eyes. Pain during vibration or sudden movements may be felt in the teeth or cheek. Because mucus has been collecting during the night, pain may be worse in the morning. Sudden changes in temperature may worsen the pain. <br />
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The nose can be stuffy with purulent, yellow or green discharge that can drip down the throat. There may be swollen passages of the nose and also symptoms of infection like mild fever or general feeling of fatigue and not feeling well. <br />
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During a doctor’s examination, the patient may have painful sensations when tipping the head forward or when the cheekbones are tapped on. Face may be tender to the touch.<br />
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The diagnosis can be obtained with the help of an x-ray or an ultrasound. The best way of diagnosing this problem is a maxillary sinus puncture. Then the symptoms are being treated simultaneously as the bacteria are sampled for their resistance to antibiotics.<br />
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The treatment of a maxillary sinus infection usually consists of antibiotics when nasal drops used to shrink the mucous membranes or allergy medication won’t cure the symptoms. If antibiotics don’t work, a maxillary sinus puncture may be a necessary treatment option.<br />
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As a self-remedy, nasal drops that shrink the mucous membranes can be used. The best way to administer the drops is by lying down. When the drops have been placed in the left nostril, it is advisable to wait for a moment and turn on the one’s left side in order for the medication to penetrate the maxillary sinus. After placing the drops in the right nostril, one can then respectively turn on the same side.<br />
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Nasal drops should not be used long term, because they can cause symptoms of a head cold by themselves.<br />
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It is advisable to keep the air humid in one’s home. Steam inhalation several times during the day either in a hot shower or from a container of steaming water is recommended. Warm compresses over the maxillary sinuses may help with the pain. One may rinse the nose with water in the shower.<br />
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Some spices are thought to be beneficial for the mucous membranes—try foods spiced with garlic or cayenne pepper.<br />
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<b>Psychological causes</b><br />
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Psychiatric illness can be associated and have influence on headache but psychiatric disorders as the main cause of headache are rare. The majority of headaches connected with mental problems just exist simultaneously and independently at the same time. If the headache is caused by psychiatric illness it should occur only during the psychological disorder.<br />
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Psychological factors can influence headache pain via various central mechanisms, and pathways. Neurotransmitters may have a role in this linkage. The association seems to go both ways. People with chronic headache have an additional risk to develop depression, and individuals, which have depression seem to suffer headaches more often. It has been shown that soldiers with migraines were twice as likely to have depression, anxiety or post-traumatic stress disorder, than soldiers with no migraines. <br />
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A headache connected with depression is often dull and generalized, usually not very severe. It may be worse in the morning and evening. One attack can last anywhere from 15 minutes to days. Headache may last for years or for the entire life. Depressive headaches typically come regularly at the same time of the day or the week, for instance, always on the weekends or on the first day of vacation.<br />
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Over 84 percent of people with depression also experience headaches. When the depression is at its worst, the headache is too, and when the depression eases, so does the headache. Sometimes it is difficult for the patient and the doctor to diagnose depression in its beginning stages.<br />
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When a person feels tension and fear without known cause he is said to have anxiety. Anxiety reduces the tolerance of stress and may increase stress associated chemicals and trigger headache. It has been estimated that people with anxiety have a high risk to get chronic headache problems. Women are at more risk to have both anxiety and headache. <br />
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In addition, other mental health problems may be connected to headaches. If an individual has both headache and depression or some other psychological problem, it makes sense to treat both in an appropriate way rather than use only medication for the headache.<br />
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<b>Other causes</b><br />
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Inflammations in the teeth and other structures in the mouth, occlusion disorders as well as eye problems, functional disturbances with the jaw joint and trigeminal neuralgia may also cause headaches. Please see Jaw pain and Face pain for more info. <br />
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<b>Headaches During Pregnancy</b><br />
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Headache is a common complaint during pregnancy. They may appear at any time during pregnancy. In the beginning, they may be caused by increasing hormone levels. Of course also lack of sleep, stress and poor postures increasing muscle tension can be blamed in any phase.<br />
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Sometimes regular migraine headaches maybe come less severe during pregnancy. This is, however, not always the case. In some cases, the symptoms may get worse. It is important to check the migraine medication when pregnancy is possible to be sure not to harm the child. In the later stages of pregnancy headache can be a symptom of high blood pressure.<br />
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Women often experience headaches during their menstrual period. This problem may disappear during pregnancy. Some birth control pill types make migraine symptoms worse, although a minority of the users has fewer symptoms while using the birth control pills.<br />
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<b>Brain Tumors</b><br />
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There is often a fear that headaches are associated with brain tumors. People whose single symptom is a headache are seldom diagnosed with brain tumors. Only about 8% of people with brain tumors have a headache as a first symptom. However, up to half of brain tumor patients experience headache. <br />
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The typical first symptom in connection with a brain tumor is an epileptic seizure that is not connected to a brain injury or use of alcohol. Most brain tumor patients have also some other symptoms like personality change, double vision or weaknesses, not only headache.<br />
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Headaches connected with brain tumors usually have been traditionally thought to appear in the morning before rising and clear up within a few hours, to be of dull and aching quality and to be associated with nausea and vomiting. They have been considered to appear especially when lying down or while sleeping and become with time more frequent and severe or maybe even constant and to be not easily treated. <br />
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Fresh headache or changes in headache patterns, severity or location raises concern. Furthermore, new exertional headache, a headache that develops after physical activity like heavy lifting, running or coughing, should be looked at.<br />
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<b>Dangerous Headaches</b><br />
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Dangerous headaches include those in connection with a cerebral hemorrhage, meningitis, and encephalitis. The headache is often so strong in these cases that grown up patients usually see a doctor without hesitation.<br />
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Signs of an infection are usually present with meningitis and encephalitis. The onset of bacteria-induced meningitis can be very rapid and violent. Usually children get it via droplet infection.<br />
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The symptoms associated with this illness include fever, shivering, headache, nausea, and vomiting as well as sensitivity to light and a stiff neck. A child with meningitis cannot bend her head to her knees even with help. Neonatals and young infants may not experience the stiff neck symptom. Irritation and even loss of consciousness may be present also. If meningitis is suspected, the patient must go to the emergency room immediately.<br />
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Meningitis or in the other words bacterial infection of the membranes covering the brain and spinal cord and septicemia or infection of the blood, commonly known as blood poisoning is very difficult to diagnose in the early stages. Especially this is the case with children because the first symptoms are usually fever, vomiting, headache and feeling unwell, just like many other mild illnesses.<br />
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Meningitis Research Foundation has introduced six symptoms that can help differentiate meningitis and septicemia from other flu-like illnesses. These symptoms are: limb pain, a rash, stiff neck, dislike of bright lights, confusion, and cold hands and feet.<br />
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A cerebral hemorrhage is bleeding in the brain caused by the breaking of a blood vessel. It may develop anywhere in the brain. The causes may be, for instance, high blood pressure, malformation of the vessels or brain injury. Sometimes no cause is evident. Large hemorrhages are fatal within a few days in about half of the patients. <br />
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Symptoms usually develop suddenly, without warning signs, getting worse over time, often during some activity. They may include neurological symptoms such as loss consciousness, speaking difficulties, balance and movement changes, seizures, etc. <br />
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Headache may also be present. It may awaken individual from sleep, increase with change of position, bending, straining or coughing. It may also be mild or absent in the elderly persons. <br />
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Headaches should be examined thoroughly at least once. After this the fact that one does not know the reason should not cause further headaches.<br />
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<b>Emergencies</b><br />
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Headache associated with convulsions, confusion or loss of consciousness.<br />
Headache associated with symptoms of paralysis.<br />
Headache after head trauma.<br />
A strong headache associated with a high fever and possibly nausea, sensitivity to light and vomiting.<br />
Headache associated with pain in the ears or eyes.<br />
A sudden violent headache that does not get better.<br />
<br />
<b>See a Doctor</b><br />
<br />
A change in the character of a previously diagnosed headache.<br />
Headache associated with fever.<br />
Early morning headache possibly associated with nausea or vomiting.<br />
Headache that requires almost daily headache medication.<br />
Prolonged headache that has not been diagnosed earlier.<br />
Recurring headaches in a child.<br />
Headache associated with depression.<br />
Headache that worries the patient.<br />
Headaches associated with female hormonal changes.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Headache, more information:<br /><br />
Medline Plus article about <a href="http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/000797.htm" target="_blank">tension headache.</a><br />
Wikipedia about <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Migraine#Migraine_Hypotheses" target="_blank">migraine hypotheses.</a><br />
WebMD Slideshow: A Visual Guide to <a href="http://www.webmd.com/migraines-headaches/slideshow-migraine-overview" target="_blank">migraine headaches.</a><br />
WebMD about <a href="https://www.webmd.com/migraines-headaches/migraines-headaches-migraines" target="_blank">migraine.</a><br />
Medline Plus pages about <a href="https://medlineplus.gov/migraine.html" target="_blank">migraine.</a><br />
WebMD about <a href="http://www.webmd.com/drugs/condition-1116-Migraine.aspx?diseaseid=1116&diseasename=Migraine&sortColumn=1&sortDirection=a" target="_blank">common medications</a> used to treat or reduce the symptoms of Migraine.<br />
Medicinenet.com about <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/cluster_headaches/article.htm" target="_blank">cluster headaches.</a> <br />
Mayo Clinic pages about <a href="http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/cluster-headache/DS00487" target="_blank">cluster headaches.</a><br />
Mayo Clinic article about <a href="http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/acute-sinusitis/DS00170/DSECTION=symptoms" target="_blank">symptoms of sinusitis including headache.</a><br />
Wikipedia about <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Red_wine_headache" target="_blank">red wine headache.</a><br />
EzineArticles.com about <a href="http://ezinearticles.com/?Reasons-You-May-Be-Getting-Headaches-After-Exercising-and-How-to-Cure-Them&id=6166761" target="_blank">headaches after exercising.</a><br />
Patient.co.uk about <a href="http://www.patient.co.uk/doctor/Headache-due-to-Substance-or-its-Withdrawal.htm" target="_blank">withdrawal headaches.</a><br />
Headaches.org about <a href="https://headaches.org/2007/10/25/depression-and-headache/" target="_blank">headache and depression.</a><br />
WebMD <a href="http://www.webmd.com/migraines-headaches/migraine-headaches-and-pregnancy" target="_blank">Migraine Headaches and pregnancy.</a><br />
American Association of Neurological Surgeons pages about <a href="https://www.aans.org/Patients/Neurosurgical-Conditions-and-Treatments/Brain-Tumors" target="_blank">brain turmors.</a><br />
MedlinePlus about <a href="https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000768.htm" target="_blank">brain tumors in children.</a><br />
eMedicine about <a href="http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1163977-overview" target="_blank">intracranial hemorrhage.</a><br />
HealthLine about <a href="https://www.healthline.com/health/aneurysm-in-the-brain" target="_blank">aneurysm in the brain.</a> <br />
eMedicineHealth about <a href="http://www.emedicinehealth.com/hematoma/article_em.htm" target="_blank">reasons of hematomas.</a> <br />
Meningitis Research Foundation info about <a href="http://www.meningitis.org/symptoms" target="_blank">how to suspect meningitis or septicaemia.</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1203142629998990624.post-36618794151383081922020-03-26T11:02:00.000-07:002020-05-31T08:31:48.710-07:00Face pain<b>Sinus Infections</b><br />
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Sinus infections are a common reason for facial pain. They usually follow a cold. Allergic factors that cause swelling may enable these infections. Untreated dental infections may spread to the sinuses.<br />
<br />
The most common of these infections is the maxillary sinus infection. Headache that feels also in the cheeks is the main symptom. Bending the head forward may increase the pain, in the same way like tapping the cheekbones. The diagnosis can be confirmed by an x-ray, ultrasound, CT scan, by puncturing the sinus or sino-nasal endoscopy by ENT physician. <br />
<br />
Often the only treatment needed consists of antibiotics and nasal drops or allergy medications that reduce swelling in the mucous membranes. If the pain is hard or antibiotics have not cured the infection, puncturing the sinus may be necessary. <br />
<br />
Over-the-counter nasal drops that reduce swelling may be used as self-treatment. It is advisable to deliver these while lying down. When the drops are in the left nostril, it is advisable to wait for a moment and then go on one’s left side in order for the medication to penetrate the maxillary sinus. After placing the drops in the right nostril, one can then respectively turn on one’s right side. <br />
<br />
Nasal drops should not be used long term, because they can cause symptoms of a head cold even without any infection. <br />
<br />
It is advisable to keep the air humid in one’s home. Steam inhalation either in a hot shower or from a container of hot water is recommended. <br />
<br />
Warm compresses over the maxillary sinuses may help with the pain. One may rinse the nose with warm water in the shower. <br />
<br />
Some spices are thought to be beneficial for the mucous membranes—try foods spiced with garlic or cayenne pepper. <br />
<br />
<b>Trigeminal Neuralgia</b><br />
<br />
Trigeminal neuralgia usually causes a strong one-sided pain in the upper or lower jaw. Older people often experience this problem. <br />
<br />
The reason for it is unknown. Touching the area or hard biting may initiate a pain episode. There are regularly no other abnormal findings. However, it is best to have an examination. <br />
<br />
Treatment usually consists of medication, electrical pain therapy or acupuncture. Surgery is used not often. <br />
<br />
Avoiding facial irritation is advised for patients with trigeminal neuralgia. Keep your face warm in the winter.<br />
<br />
<b>Shingles </b><br />
<br />
Herpes zoster or shingles may also arise in the facial and eye area. The virus itself is in the spinal cord but causes a blistery and painful eczema in the tactile nerve section. The eczema will not migrate over to the other side of the face. <br />
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Scarring may be present after the eczema heals. There may be problematic residual pain in the area. In cases where patients are less than 50 years of age or where the eczema was only mildly painful at the start, the risk for residual pain is minor. Patients with fewer than 20 blisters at the onset, run a smaller chance of upsetting residual pain. <br />
<br />
<b>Temporal Arteritis </b><br />
<br />
Elderly people often experience a temporal vascular inflammation called temporal arteritis. The symptoms consist of temporal pain, pain while swallowing and biting, miscellaneous general symptoms and vision disturbances. <br />
<br />
An examination will reveal hardened temporal arteries that are painful to the touch. Laboratory tests show a raised sedimentation rate. If the diagnosis is uncertain, a biopsy of the temporal artery may be used to verify it. <br />
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Treatment should be promptly started especially in cases where there are vision disturbances, so that worsening eyesight would not become permanent. Cortisone treatment will be sufficient under normal circumstances. <br />
<br />
<b>Salivary Glands Problems </b><br />
<br />
Pain symptoms may be associated with salivary gland infections. The most common infection is that of swelling of the lower jaw salivary glands caused by mumps. Fever and other general symptoms may be present concurrently. Mumps is most common in children but may infect adults as well if they did not have it in childhood. <br />
<br />
Mumps usually heal without medication. Other salivary gland infections require antibiotics. The cause for a salivary gland infection may be an obstructive stone, which will have to be removed. <br />
<br />
Anti-inflammatory medication may be used to alleviate the symptoms of mumps. It is advisable to drink plenty of liquids and get a lot of rest.<br />
<br />
<b>Emergencies</b><br />
<br />
A strong pain in the maxillary or frontal sinus.<br />
Swelling over the maxillary sinus.<br />
<br />
<b>See a Doctor</b><br />
<br />
Headache or facial pain in connection with fever.<br />
Strong one-sided pain in the lower or upper jaw.<br />
Swelling in the jaw, especially if you have had mumps.<br />
<br />
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Face pain, more information:<br />
<br />
Wikipedia article <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sinusitis" target="_blank">on sinusitis.</a><br />
Emedicinehealth.com about <a href="http://www.emedicinehealth.com/sinus_infection/article_em.htm" target="_blank">sinus infections.</a><br />
Otolaryngology Houston about <a href="http://www.ghorayeb.com/anatomysinuses.html" target="_blank">anatomy of the paranasal sinuses.</a><br />
Medicinenet.com <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/sinusitis_pictures_slideshow/article.htm" target="_blank">slideshow of sinusitis.</a><br />
WebMD on <a href="http://www.webmd.com/allergies/picture-of-the-sinuses" target="_blank">anatomy and conditions of the sinuses.</a><br />
Patient UK about <a href="http://www.patient.co.uk/health/Trigeminal-Neuralgia.htm" target="_blank">trigeminal neuralgia.</a><br />
Medicinenet.com <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/shingles_picture_slideshow/article.htm" target="_blank">slideshow of shingles.</a><br />
Emedicine information about <a href="http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/809492-overview" target="_blank">temporal arteritis.</a><br />
Patient.co.uk article about <a href="http://www.patient.co.uk/doctor/Salivary-Gland-Disorders.htm" target="_blank">salivary gland disorders.</a><br />
Emedicine on <a href="http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1142187-overview" target="_blank">persistent idiopathic facial pain.</a><br />
SafeMedication.com instruction <a href="http://www.safemedication.com/safemed/MedicationTipsTools/HowtoAdminister/HowtoUseNasalSpraysProperly.aspx" target="_blank">how to use nasal sprays properly.</a><br />
SafeMedication.com instruction <a href="http://www.safemedication.com/safemed/MedicationTipsTools/HowtoAdminister/HowtoUseNoseDropsProperly.aspx" target="_blank">how to use nose drops properly.</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1203142629998990624.post-84190066645939605422020-03-26T11:01:00.000-07:002020-05-31T22:40:43.768-07:00Eye pain<b>Infections</b><br />
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The most common reasons for pain in the eyes are various infections. Head colds are often associated with infectious symptoms of the conjunctiva. In this case, the eye feels irritated and the conjunctiva is reddish. <br />
<br />
The conjunctiva is normally a transparent top layer membrane covering the eyeball. Its infections can also be caused by allergies or bacteria. <br />
<br />
Bacterial infections usually begin with one eye and proceed to the other one. They are associated with eye discharge and redness. If a bacterial infection is not diagnosed, it will be sufficient to give the patient eye drops that shrink the mucous membranes. Local antibiotics are the treatment of choice in bacterial infections. <br />
<br />
The eyelids also can often be infected. The sign for the infection of the rim of the eyelid is redness. Changes under the eyelid are more difficult to distinguish. Usually using an antibiotic eye gel will cure the symptoms. <br />
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As self-treatment, over-the-counter eye drops meant for reducing irritation can be used to treat infections of the mucous membrane. If there is a problem with eye dryness, there are many over-the-counter products meant for treating this symptom. <br />
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Irritated eyes can be bathed with a piece of cloth, dipped in warm water and placed over the eyes for 10 minutes three to four times a day. <br />
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Eye secretions from the eye and the eyelashes can be cleaned with a Q-tip dipped in plain water or very mild soapy water. <br />
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Discard old eye makeup because it functions as a basis for bacterial growth. It is advisable to replace all substances and objects that have been in contact with the eyes after an eye infection. <br />
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Avoid tobacco smoke, smoke in general, and other irritants. Use glasses when it is windy and goggles when swimming. <br />
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Rarely the herpes virus can cause a cornea infection. Other symptoms associated with this are sensitivity to light and worsened vision. The pain and a feeling of something extraneous in the eye can initially be mild. <br />
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Diagnosing herpes necessitates a visit to a doctor, and dyeing of the mucous membranes, which shows the changes caused by infection. Diagnosing and treating this disease early is extremely important. This way the treatment outcome is as good as possible. <br />
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The iris can also become infected. In this case, vision worsens quickly and the eye hurts. Eye is red and the pupil is small. The iris looks unclear. Treatment is cortisone, which usually works remarkably well. <br />
<br />
<b>Foreign Object</b><br />
<br />
Foreign objects can enter the eyes. If they do not get removed with lachrymal fluid, they may cause pain. Usually it is easy to see if there is something foreign in the eye. Oneself or another person can check the eye to distinguish. Foreign objects in the eyes cannot always be seen without special instruments. <br />
<br />
One can try to rinse the foreign object out of the eye by opening and closing the eyes under water. Sometimes the object cannot be removed without a doctor’s help. Here the doctor will anesthetize the eye to remove the object. If one has an eyelash bent under the eyelid, it may come loose lifting the eyelid off the eyeball and bat your lashes. <br />
<br />
<b>Intraocular Tension</b><br />
<br />
Pain in the eye can be caused by a rapid increase in intraocular tension. This may be accompanied by worsening vision, colored rings around light, and pain in the eye and its environment. The person may also feel nauseous. <br />
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The eye is red, the cornea is hazy the iris is large and does not respond to light. Measuring shows increased intraocular pressure. Treatment has to be promptly initiated in the case of this illness. <br />
<br />
Intraocular tension should be regularly measured after age 40 even though no symptoms exist. A gradual increase in the intraocular pressure is asymptomatic. <br />
<br />
<b>Radiating Pain</b><br />
<br />
Sometimes problems in the upper cervical spine may cause pain in the eye area, felt as pain behind the eye. This is usually accompanied by neck pain and worsening of the pain connected to the eye symptoms. The treatment needs to address the underlying reason for pain.<br />
<br />
<b>Emergencies</b><br />
<br />
Sudden strong pain in the eye, especially if it is accompanied by vision problems.<br />
<br />
<b>See a Doctor</b><br />
<br />
Long-term conjunctivitis that cannot be cured by home remedies.<br />
Repeated eye infections and continued eye irritation.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Eye pain, more information:<br />
<br />
Wikipedia page about <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Conjunctivitis" target="_blank">conjunctivitis.</a><br />
All About Vision on <a href="http://www.allaboutvision.com/conditions/eye-infections.htm" target="_blank">eye infections.</a><br />
Netdoctor.co.uk about <a href="http://www.netdoctor.co.uk/health_advice/facts/foreignbodyintheeye.htm" target="_blank">foreign body in the eye.</a><br />
Familydoctor.org about <a href="http://familydoctor.org/online/famdocen/home/common/infections/common/viral/745.printerview.html" target="_blank">Herpes Zoster of the eye.</a><br />
Medicinenet.com pages about <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/iritis/article.htm" target="_blank">iritis.</a><br />
Medicinenet.com <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/eye_diseases_pictures_slideshow/article.htm" target="_blank">slideshow of eye diseases.</a><br />
All About Vision article about <a href="http://www.allaboutvision.com/conditions/glaucoma.htm" target="_blank">glaucoma.</a><br />
All About Vision about <a href="http://www.allaboutvision.com/conditions/dryeye.htm" target="_blank">dry eyes.</a><br />
Patient UK about <a href="http://www.patient.co.uk/health/Trigeminal-Neuralgia.htm" target="_blank">trigeminal neuralgia.</a><br />
American Family Physician on <a href="https://www.aafp.org/afp/2010/0701/p69.html" target="_blank">pain in the not red eye.</a><br />
SafeMedication.com <a href="http://www.safemedication.com/safemed/MedicationTipsTools/HowtoAdminister/HowtoUseEyeDropsProperly.aspx" target="_blank">instruction how to use eye drops properly.</a><br />
SafeMedication.com <a href="http://www.safemedication.com/safemed/MedicationTipsTools/HowtoAdminister/HowtoUseEyeOintmentsandGelsProperly.aspx" target="_blank">instruction how to use eye ointments and gels properly.</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1203142629998990624.post-41882241404995128562020-03-26T10:55:00.000-07:002020-05-31T22:47:58.569-07:00Ear pain<b>External Ear Infections</b><br />
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Earlobe infections can cause pain. The infections are perceived as local redness and burning. Treatment usually consists of antibiotics.<br />
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The ear canal can infect, or an abscess may form inside it. An infection in the outer ear may be made worse by exposure to wind or swimming. An ear canal infection usually begins with itching and may eventually become painful. An examination shows infectious changes in the ear canal. <br />
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Prescribed treatment includes various bacteria-killing drops and ointments. Sometimes it may be required to clean the ear canal by irrigation, which speeds up healing. <br />
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Over-the-counter eardrops, that inhibit bacteria growth, can be used as a self-treatment in cases of mild irritation. <br />
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Heat in the form of a hot water bottle or a heating pad can be used to relieve pain. <br />
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It is advisable to use earplugs in windy conditions or while swimming. The ear canals can be dried out with a hair dryer using low heat setting. Swimming in polluted water is not recommended. Do not use any objects, especially sharp ones, to try to clean the ear.<br />
<br />
<b>Middle Ear Infections </b><br />
<br />
A sudden middle ear infection usually causes pain in the ear. This is very common in children. Normally cold or other symptoms of respiratory infections precede the ear infection. If ears start hurting after these, a middle ear infection, also called otitis media, is a possibility. <br />
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Little children cannot express pain, but may feel irritable or cry continuously without any other reason. Sometimes the children will pull at their ears. Of course, there are many other reasons for crying than an ear infection. <br />
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During examination the doctor will see redness or bulging in the eardrum. If the eardrum gets punctured, it will cause the ear to drain. This usually alleviates the pain for a while. <br />
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Pain-relieving ear drops and pain medication can be used to treat milder cases of sudden middle ear infections when the eardrum is not punctured. Follow-up is needed. Antibiotics are often prescribed and in cases where the pain is severe, the eardrum will be punctured to remove purulent discharge from the middle ear. <br />
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In cases of prolonged or recurrent middle ear infections, an otitis media secretoria may develop. In these cases, the tonsils are usually removed, and tubes inserted in the eardrum, to increase the air circulation in the middle ear. <br />
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Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication may be used according to instructions as first aid to alleviate pain. If ear infections repeat in a family, it might be beneficial to ask your doctor to prescribe anesthetizing eardrops as a first-aid treatment.<br />
<br />
<b>Eustachean Tube Problems </b><br />
<br />
The middle ear connects to the pharynx via the eustachean tube. In normal conditions, the tube balances the pressure in the middle ear. If cold or allergies cause the mucous membranes swell, this tube obstructs. When the pressure cannot be balanced with the surrounding air pressure, it causes pain. This is quite familiar with even mild colds while flying. <br />
<br />
Treatment consists of nasal drops and allergy medication that reduce swelling in the mucous membranes. If you have this problem, it is advisable to take preventive medication before flying. <br />
<br />
Swallowing, chewing gum and yawning may open the eustachean tube. One can try to close the nostrils mouth closed and to move air in the pharynx exhaling —this might open the tubes. <br />
<br />
<b>Muscular Pains </b><br />
<br />
There are several neck muscles that attach to the base of the skull behind the ears. These areas may become sore and send deceptive radiating pains to ears. If nothing unusual is noted in an ear examination, but pain persists in the site where the muscles attach, the diagnosis will most likely be one of muscular pain. Treatment will consist of medication and physical therapy aimed at relaxing the muscles. <br />
<br />
Careful massage and stretching of these muscles or over-the-counter ointments may be used as self-treatment. If the pain just started, cold compresses may work.<br />
<br />
<b>Emergencies</b><br />
<br />
Strong ear pain that is not alleviated by home remedies.<br />
<br />
<b>See a Doctor</b><br />
<br />
Prolonged pain in the ears.<br />
Ear pain accompanied by ear discharge.<br />
Hearing problems after respiratory infections.<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXmmL_IYSlXtTgbzNfMt21SyXCRj4uNkbc-gWKzIazXMhJnsrNeflEZJhIbk4XbkJ_OD2DKe8hgpnX5zxFR_NGAlWzTNVjXmFLNG1AL7UV1mv5G4-gWG2w2k3sRx2W2w-yJYtXS4NsC8o/s1600/OsaKorva.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXmmL_IYSlXtTgbzNfMt21SyXCRj4uNkbc-gWKzIazXMhJnsrNeflEZJhIbk4XbkJ_OD2DKe8hgpnX5zxFR_NGAlWzTNVjXmFLNG1AL7UV1mv5G4-gWG2w2k3sRx2W2w-yJYtXS4NsC8o/s200/OsaKorva.jpg" width="135" /></a></div>
Ear pain, more information:<br />
<br />
Mayo Clinic pages about <a href="http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/swimmers-ear/ds00473" target="_blank">outer ear infection.</a><br />
Healthline.com about <a href="https://www.healthline.com/health/swollen-ear-lobe" target="_blank">swollen earlobe.</a><br />
Patient.co.uk pages about <a href="http://www.patient.co.uk/health/Ear-Infection-(Otitis-Media).htm" target="_blank">middle ear infection.</a><br />
eHealthMD.com about <a href="http://ehealthmd.com/content/what-middle-ear-infection#axzz2u8lGPbrK" target="_blank">infection in the middle ear.</a><br />
MedicineNet.com pages about <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/eustachian_tube_problems/article.htm" target="_blank">Eustachian tube problems.</a><br />
MedicineNet.com <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/anatomy_of_an_ear_infection_pictures_slideshow/article.htm" target="_blank">slideshow of anatomy of an ear infection.</a><br />
Livestrong.com article about muscular and other causes of <a href="http://www.livestrong.com/article/5451-need-neck-pain-behind-ear/" target="_blank">pain in the ear region.</a><br />
SafeMedication.com <a href="http://www.safemedication.com/safemed/MedicationTipsTools/HowtoAdminister/HowtoUseEarDropsProperly.aspx" target="_blank">instruction how to use ear drops properly.</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1203142629998990624.post-88163943721167385702020-03-26T10:50:00.000-07:002020-05-31T08:33:31.013-07:00Jaw pain<b>Jaw Joint Problems</b><br />
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<b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSowgDPjA87I4OqcREEox_W2doqp2QfZHbTTbfHGzGhB72jl3l1mj9rN5hyphenhyphenEXUmqJz6QyTxQVEVEFJWj5EATuaauZwqhMHLVwmaw0BiaZrj_OBmWDbk_-RvAL_i3hv0MPujsQ0OvCG7dqQ/s1600/leuka2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="213" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSowgDPjA87I4OqcREEox_W2doqp2QfZHbTTbfHGzGhB72jl3l1mj9rN5hyphenhyphenEXUmqJz6QyTxQVEVEFJWj5EATuaauZwqhMHLVwmaw0BiaZrj_OBmWDbk_-RvAL_i3hv0MPujsQ0OvCG7dqQ/s320/leuka2.jpg" width="213" /></a></b></div>
<br />
The jaw joint is the most used joint in the human body. It opens and closes over 2,000 times per day in connection with talking, eating, drinking, and snoring. Problems with jaw joints are more common in women than in men, and some have meanly drawn the conclusion that it is due to the livelier conversational tradition of women; however, this is probably not the reason.<g:plusone></g:plusone><br />
<br />
When the mouth opens, the head of the lower jaw turns in the joint cavity of the jaw joint and then slides forward. The joint has a disk that helps in performing these motions. The disk is easily injured for instance by vigorous biting or direct trauma. <br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>Functional Disorders</b><br />
<br />
The reason behind a functional disorder of the jaw joint may be malocclusion. If the teeth do not contact symmetrically during biting, uneven stress may develop in the jaw joint, and this may cause symptoms over time. <br />
<br />
One possible explanation for problems of the jaw joint may be nighttime grinding of the teeth. The person doing it may not be aware of it, if he lives alone or if his significant other is too polite to mention it. <br />
<br />
The symptoms of functional disorder of the jaw joint may be a pain in the place or territory of the jaw joint as well as a cracking or popping sound in the jaw joint. The disorder may also cause headaches and pain in the neck muscles that involve biting and swallowing. <br />
<br />
Examination often shows an asymmetrically closing jaw. This can be observed by looking in the mirror and observing the opening and closing of the mouth, following the spaces between the middle front teeth closely. Ideally they should move in a straight line so that they finally end up flush against each other. <br />
<br />
Pain and additional noise during activity are often perceived in the jaw joint. The range of motion for the lower jaw may be limited or asymmetric. An x-ray helps to image the lower jaw bones, and if the disk needs to be seen, an MRI would be suitable. <br />
<br />
Treatment first concentrates on checking and adjusting bite with the help of a dentist. A soft biteguard as well as muscle relaxants as needed may reduce the tension from nighttime teeth grinding. Anti-inflammatories will reduce the pain and irritation. <br />
<br />
Physical therapy via massage and heat therapy can relax the muscles involved in biting. This may sometimes be sufficient. Sometimes the jaw joint needs to be trained in order to return it back to normal range of movement. Acupuncture treatments have proven valuable in treating the pain. <br />
<br />
Sometimes excessive muscle tension is the fundamental problem, and it can be treated by biofeedback and hypnosis. Cortisone shots are an option as well. Surgery is uncommon. <br />
<br />
The operation of the jaw joint is closely related to the operation of the upper neck. It is therefore advisable to check the functional situation of the upper neck as well as posture and the respective functioning of the jaw joint in cases of neck problems. <br />
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It is advisable to eat food that does not require forceful biting during the acute phase of pain. If necessary, only mashed foods or foods in liquid form should be eaten. Chewing gum is also not advised, but there are no restrictions for speaking. Some physicians will recommend quality over quantity in speech. <br />
<br />
Over-the-counter anti-inflammatories can be used as a first-aid self-treatment during a short period to tackle problems of the jaw joint. <br />
<br />
Cold compresses could be tried at the onset of pain. If that irritates, a hot water bottle or a heating pad may be used to carefully warm the painful area. The muscles around the jaw joint may be carefully massaged. <br />
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Avoid extreme positioning of the jaw, leaning against the jaw, resting on your back, reading with the jaw forward, and holding the telephone receiver with your jaw against the shoulder. <br />
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Hold your mouth so that upper and lower teeth do not touch. If there is a tendency of teeth grinding at night, trying to relax for example by taking a warm bath is recommended. A dentist can provide the patient with a plastic biteguard that alleviates teeth grinding and reduces the pressure to the jaw joint. <br />
<br />
The jaw joint can be exercised while holding the teeth away from each other. On can push the lower jaw forward, pull back and slide it sideways. The mouth should not be opened forcefully, or the teeth should not be pressed forcefully together.<br />
<br />
<b>Jaw Dislocation </b><br />
<br />
The jaw can be dislocated during forceful yawning, vomiting or due to a strike while the mouth is open. If the jaw cannot be set back, a doctor can do it by pressing it downwards. The doctor should cover his thumb during this procedure in case the patient inadvertently bites.<br />
<br />
<b>See a Doctor</b><br />
<br />
Stronger headaches in connection with problems of the jaw joint.<br />
Difficulties in opening the mouth.<br />
Prolonged joint problems that can’t be cured by home remedies.<br />
<br />
<b>See a Dentist</b><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXk_tgslsXdbAWXbPoLrUgB-wAeto_X2VWNbJq0O5EtWCIy_BPb1qmXsVEf1B2pF_B_JNbbtO3d5MDjM4m_2hPR5YrvnycTxqJr976c4FTxpPaUVde_VN02UoWUMyVy_4EBlK1CW7rJkU/s1600/OsaLeuka1.tif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="144" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXk_tgslsXdbAWXbPoLrUgB-wAeto_X2VWNbJq0O5EtWCIy_BPb1qmXsVEf1B2pF_B_JNbbtO3d5MDjM4m_2hPR5YrvnycTxqJr976c4FTxpPaUVde_VN02UoWUMyVy_4EBlK1CW7rJkU/s200/OsaLeuka1.tif" width="200" /></a>Problems with your teeth.<br />
Jaw joint problems that began after a dentist filled cavities.<br />
<br />
Jaw pain, more information:<br />
<br />
University of Washington´s article about the <a href="http://uwmsk.org/tmj/anatomy.html" target="_blank">anatomy of the temporomandibular joint.</a><br />
Emedicine about <a href="http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1143410-overview" target="_blank">temporomandibular disorders.</a> <br />
Emedicine about <a href="http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/823775-overview" target="_blank">mandible dislocation.</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1203142629998990624.post-63657838560506573222020-03-26T10:45:00.000-07:002020-05-31T23:08:10.329-07:00Mouth pain<b>Herpes Simplex</b><br />
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Herpes Simplex Type 1-virus causes infections in the mouth area. The beginning symptoms are itching and burning of the lip. Small blisters then develop, and covered with scabs after about a week. There is often an accompanying bacterial infection, which can prolong the duration of the episode.<g:plusone></g:plusone><br />
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Treatment consists of local medications that treats the herpes virus symptoms. They work better if started at an early stage of the symptoms. If there is an accompanying bacterial infection, antibiotic ointments are required. <br />
<br />
<b>Mucous Membrane Problems</b><br />
<br />
Different types of changes such as color changes, blisters, and ulcers can occur due to infections and poor hygiene. Sometimes the mucous membrane in the mouth can be injured by food that is too hot. This usually will get better in a few days. <br />
<br />
Viral infections can be detected in the mucous membranes in the mouth, and these are usually caused by the herpes virus. The first infection caused by the herpes virus, usually happens in childhood. Various factors such as colds, stress, tooth extraction, and menstrual periods can activate the virus. <br />
<br />
Many other viruses can cause symptoms in the mouth area. Many skin diseases such as lichen ruber planus can cause changes in the mouth’s mucous membranes. <br />
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Treating the changes in the mouth’s mucous membranes is difficult, because it is difficult to keep the medication in its place. Rinsing with antibacterial rinses is worth trying. Try a moistened teabag to treat ulcers of the mouth. <br />
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Tumors of the mouth are also a possibility, so it is recommended to see a doctor when the problems continue. <br />
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Avoid foods that are irritating, too hot, or spicy. Some patients get relief from the regular use of dairy products such as yoghurt and sour milk. <br />
<br />
<b>Toothaches</b><br />
<br />
The most common reasons for toothache are the development of cavities due to caries. The first symptom may be shooting pains in the teeth when eating sugary foods. As the hole gets bigger, appear shooting pains caused by cold and hot. If eating cold or hot foods or beverages causes prolonged pain, the tooth may be infected at its core. <br />
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Toothaches can radiate from the upper jaw toward the temples and from the lower jaw toward the ear. Examination shows that the tooth feels painful when tapped on and during a dental check-up. If necessary, an x-ray will confirm the diagnosis. <br />
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It is necessary to have cavities treated as early as possible. Treatment consists of removal of the destroyed tooth tissue and filling the cavity. If the root infects, a root canal may be necessary. <br />
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Over-the-counter anti-inflammatories can be used as self-treatment. It is, however, needed to see a dentist. A cold compress can be placed on the painful area.<br />
<br />
<b>Gingivitis </b><br />
<br />
Gingivitis can also cause pain in the teeth. It may be caused by poor oral hygiene, formation of tartar, poorly fitting dentures, and edges of fillings. If this problem proceeds, the result may be infection of the deep tissue. <br />
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Treatment in milder cases consists of improved oral hygiene and removal of irritating local factors. Self-treatment consists of careful brushing and flossing. In tough cases local antibacterial treatments and sometimes even antibiotics may be used. <br />
<br />
<b>Tongue Pains </b><br />
<br />
Pain in the tongue may be caused by a fungus. Yeast infections in the mouth can be found in 50 percent of people who have no symptoms. Many factors such as diabetes, lack of vitamin B12 or iron, improperly fitted dentures, antibiotics and poor oral hygiene may make one vulnerable to yeast infections. <br />
<br />
Lack of adequate saliva production may be an enabler. Arthritis, the Sjögren Syndrome, or LED may cause a decrease in saliva production. Some blood pressure medications, antidepressants, tranquilizers or allergy medications may cause the same kind of reaction. <br />
<br />
The dryness can be treated with mouthwash, ointments or lozenges made for this purpose. Try a local application of vegetable oil. Avoid alcohol-based mouthwashes because they can increase the dryness of the membranes. The same goes for sour and spicy foods. <br />
<br />
A yeast infection may appear in the form of red membranes, shiny tongue or a light covering on the tongue and membranes. Try to reduce factors that predispose to infection. Recurrence of infections is common. <br />
<br />
Pain in the tongue can be caused by lack of vitamin B12. A third of patients with anemia receive oral symptoms. Intestinal illnesses, dieting or excessive alcohol use may cause pain in the tongue. Patients with the Sjögren Syndrome may experience pain due to dryness of the mucous membranes even if no yeast infection is present.<br />
<br />
<b>Pharyngitis </b><br />
<br />
Pharyngitis is common. It can be caused by viruses or bacteria. When a sore throat combines with congestion or a cough, the reason is most likely a virus. Viral infections are often accompanied by muscle pain. Usually the sore throat is not terribly serious in this case, the fever is reasonable, and the general condition of the patient is good. <br />
<br />
The most common viral infections in children are adenoviruses. Mononucleosis spreads via kissing and is common in young people. The lymph nodes in the neck enlarge with mononucleosis and can cause even strong pain and perhaps even difficulty swallowing. There is no medication for viral infections. <br />
<br />
If the sore throat persists without there being any other respiratory symptoms, there is a possibility of tonsillitis. Here the tonsils swell, white spots form on them, and a high temperature is likely. Tonsillitis, caused by streptococcus needs treatment in order to prevent complications as infections in the heart, kidneys or joints. <br />
<br />
The diagnosis can be confirmed by a throat culture. This helps avoid unnecessary antibiotic treatment. It is difficult to distinguish between a bacterial or viral infection by examination. The treatment for bacterial infections is usually antibiotics. <br />
<br />
If antibiotics are not necessary, rest, gargling, and other treatments that alleviate the symptoms are prescribed. <br />
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A morning sore throat without any other symptoms is usually due to enlarged adenoids or tonsils. Because breathing through the nose is restricted, sleeping with the mouth open dries the mucous membranes, and causes pain. As first aid, try drinking something warm, which usually alleviates the pain. People who snore, may also experience this kind of morning sore throat, caused in the same way. <br />
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When suffering from pharyngitis, it is essential to drink lots of liquids and get enough rest. If necessary, over-the-counter anti-inflammatories or flu medication may be used. <br />
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Try gargling with a solution consisting of a tablespoon of salt or baking soda mixed with a glass of water. This alleviates the pain. Some cough medicines can also be used for gargling. <br />
<br />
Over-the-counter throat lozenges or drops can be used to alleviate the pain temporarily. <br />
<br />
Many people think that taking a lot of vitamin C will speed up recovery. <br />
<br />
<b>Throat Abscess </b><br />
<br />
Abscesses may sometimes develop in the upper part of the throat. The symptom in this case is a sore throat that may radiate pain towards the ear. It may be difficult to open the mouth and speaking may be difficult. <br />
<br />
Usually this symptom appears after a common pharyngitis. If antibiotics were prescribed for that, the symptoms may temporarily disappear. Examination shows a one-sided swelling in the area of the abscess. Treatment consists of surgically lancing the abscess. In the case of children, the tonsils are often removed concurrently.<br />
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</div>
<br />
<b>Vocal Cords Problems </b><br />
<br />
If there are other symptoms apart from a sore throat, such as hoarseness and possibly a cough, an infection of the vocal cords may be suspected. This is usually treated with antibiotics. Diagnosis can be confirmed by viewing the vocal cords with a speculum. <br />
<br />
In the case of infected vocal cords, it is crucial to relax the vocal cords and speak only when necessary. Whispering is more stressful to the vocal cords than normal speech and should be avoided. In the worst phase of the infection, one can use notes in writing. <br />
<br />
If the patient starts feeling worse rapidly, has problems swallowing saliva and feels better when the head is tipped forward, it is advisable to visit the emergency room to rule out the possibility of an infection of the epiglottis. The doctor can check the epiglottis with a speculum; if infectious changes are visible, the patient needs to be hospitalized. Antibiotics usually cure the infection.<br />
<br />
<b>Emergencies</b><br />
<br />
A sore throat with white spots on the tonsils, but no other symptoms of a respiratory infection.<br />
A sore throat accompanied with worsening general condition and problems swallowing saliva.<br />
A sore throat with a rapid worsening of general condition.<br />
A sore throat people in your immediate surroundings have had pharyngitis that required antibiotics.<br />
Suspicion of an abscess in the throat.<br />
<br />
<b>See a Doctor</b><br />
<br />
A persistent pharyngitis.<br />
Changes in the mucous membranes of the mouth that heal slowly.<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>See a Dentist</b><br />
<br />
Continuing toothache.<br />
Pain in teeth or gums.<br />
<br />
Mouth pain, more information:<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmc1PCp9H22qGkDfN0qiA_E2dmpAiUw0106kfEJVaWn6JHt-sJhivDscF-VCioWniFvfkzGVcZt2K-m4xSMTG1vnkNZkKqbzchS8iI8CdpOY-inVgVubwg7n31ylAjX-H7wU9C_GFfDmg/s1600/OsaSuu1.tif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="161" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmc1PCp9H22qGkDfN0qiA_E2dmpAiUw0106kfEJVaWn6JHt-sJhivDscF-VCioWniFvfkzGVcZt2K-m4xSMTG1vnkNZkKqbzchS8iI8CdpOY-inVgVubwg7n31ylAjX-H7wU9C_GFfDmg/s200/OsaSuu1.tif" width="200" /></a><br />
Wikipedia about <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Herpes_labialis" target="_blank">cold sores.</a><br />
Otolaryngology Houston pictures of <a href="http://www.ghorayeb.com/AcuteTonsillitis.html" target="_blank">acute tonsillitis.</a><br />
Ear, Nose & Throat Health Care Providers pages <a href="http://www.entusa.com/oral_photos.htm" target="_blank">photos of mouth problems.</a><br />
Netdoctor.co.uk about <a href="http://www.netdoctor.co.uk/health_advice/facts/toothache.htm" target="_blank">toothache.</a><br />
Mayo Clinic pages about the infection of the tissues that surround and support the teeth, <a href="http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/periodontitis/DS00369" target="_blank">periodontitis.</a><br />
Wikipedia on inflammation of the gum tissue, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gingivitis" target="_blank">gingivitis.</a><br />
MedlinePlus on <a href="http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003047.htm" target="_blank">tongue problems.</a><br />
Emedicine about <a href="http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/764304-overview" target="_blank">pharyngitis.</a><br />
Wikipedia on <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Peritonsillar_abscess" target="_blank">peritonsillar abscess.</a><br />
Otolaryngology Houston <a href="http://www.ghorayeb.com/PeritonsillarAbscess.html" target="_blank">pictures of peritonsillar abscess.</a><br />
Emedicine pages about <a href="http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/137782-overview" target="_blank">vocal cord problems.</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1203142629998990624.post-81631665664334218732020-03-26T10:40:00.000-07:002020-05-31T23:17:16.876-07:00Front neck pain<b>Neck Muscles Problems</b><br />
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<b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKSaKeMrbg-NoxX3R0lLkI8x6VQ22tGNWILMi-i9XFvcHvbqD_u2uorkCBAY2_0WGTZ0Yc4B5Ziwektestzw-FFG8GG8maN9m_nDNqIScjLuBAylqgrE5DTRg_lstXhhJENE-yzdK1Lo09/s1600/niska21.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="228" data-original-width="320" height="227" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKSaKeMrbg-NoxX3R0lLkI8x6VQ22tGNWILMi-i9XFvcHvbqD_u2uorkCBAY2_0WGTZ0Yc4B5Ziwektestzw-FFG8GG8maN9m_nDNqIScjLuBAylqgrE5DTRg_lstXhhJENE-yzdK1Lo09/s320/niska21.jpg" width="320" /></a></b></div>
<br />
The lower mouth and upper neck muscles may become painful due to bite problems and increased muscle tension. Examinations in these cases usually show sore muscles. Treatment consists of relaxing the muscles via medication or physical therapy.<g:plusone></g:plusone><br />
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Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory pain medication or ointments can be used for short periods of time. <br />
<br />
Cold compresses or alternatively a hot water bottle or a heating pad may be tried to relieve the muscle pain. The sore muscles may be massaged gently and the head can be stretched towards the back and to the sides. <br />
<br />
Infections in the nearby regions such as pharyngitis may cause an expansion of the lymph nodes in the neck. This may be noticed later when the area is being manipulated for other reasons. They usually do not require any treatment. If they grow or the pain is bothersome, it would be preferable to have a doctor look at them. <br />
<br />
<b>Respiratory Infections </b><br />
<br />
Some neck pain and inconvenience are felt in connection with most upper respiratory infections. This usually passes, as the infection subsides.<br />
<br />
<b>Thyroid Problems </b><br />
<br />
Thyroid problems may sometimes cause pain in the lower neck just above the sternum. There may be minimal sensations caused by an overactive thyroid. <br />
<br />
In cases of thyroid inflammation, the enlarged thyroid can be felt and may feel slightly sore. <br />
<br />
<b>Collarbone Problems </b><br />
<br />
The area where the collarbone attaches to the sternum may become inflamed. In this case, the respective joints may swell, and pain may be felt. Sometimes this is the first hint of rheumatism, so it might be worthwhile to consider an examination for its detection.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcCXxBBSxQ6m1YOA_vTul-ogNQkI5QbUaY64fyB3q3-B7EIYBmafOnCHbRhpDyzarrUy6JBR35QEZCj_C4Bh4hLcDGzMKwoinrqU0UJhHXxo5oPIBbfMPw9qlccBusU598Zv5S5oISnfg/s1600/OsaKaula.tif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcCXxBBSxQ6m1YOA_vTul-ogNQkI5QbUaY64fyB3q3-B7EIYBmafOnCHbRhpDyzarrUy6JBR35QEZCj_C4Bh4hLcDGzMKwoinrqU0UJhHXxo5oPIBbfMPw9qlccBusU598Zv5S5oISnfg/s200/OsaKaula.tif" width="180" /></a><b>See a Doctor</b><br />
<br />
Thyroid problems.<br />
The joint between the collarbone and the sternum swells up.<br />
Pain in the neck muscles that is not alleviated by home remedies.<br />
<br />
Anterior neck pain, more information:<br />
<br />
Anatomy of <a href="https://www.britannica.com/science/human-muscle-system#ref322750" target="_blank">the anterior neck.</a><br />
University of Maryland Medical Center information about <a href="http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/thyroiditis-000164.htm" target="_blank">thyroiditis.</a><br />
OrthoInfo on <a href="https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases--conditions/sternoclavicular-sc-joint-disorders/" target="_blank">problems of the sternoclavicular joint.</a><br />
Ehow.com instructions on <a href="http://www.ehow.com/how_2306527_strengthen-anterior-neck-muscles.html" target="_blank">strengthening of the anterior neck muscles.</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1203142629998990624.post-16080649962772866072020-03-26T10:38:00.000-07:002020-06-01T01:51:02.842-07:00Neck pain<b>Neck pain</b><br />
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<b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicJ_rzVVq9AH7tWUUU9BTsh3wAlio9eH1wkciM9TkDERzYTycN9mG9wrPudxP3qsgSiljxrTvBn4538MjxzEumQDuikjLngJu_ljvUxdQtnSaklvw2BYPhjrXg5aTyBE_ShQf57-FLR3hT/s1600/hoito.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="261" data-original-width="320" height="261" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicJ_rzVVq9AH7tWUUU9BTsh3wAlio9eH1wkciM9TkDERzYTycN9mG9wrPudxP3qsgSiljxrTvBn4538MjxzEumQDuikjLngJu_ljvUxdQtnSaklvw2BYPhjrXg5aTyBE_ShQf57-FLR3hT/s320/hoito.jpg" width="320" /></a></b></div>
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Neck problems are a modern epidemic, especially with office workers. When talking to people who work at computers, it is rare to find someone who has never had neck problems or some kind of neck pain symptoms. The busier and the more stressful the jobs, the more problems there seem to be.<br />
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Neck pain causes are not always clear and neck pain diagnosis is not always easy. The neck muscles were made for work where they contract and then relax. This happens for instance when chopping wood. It is remarkable how well the neck supports this type of activity after prolonged practice.<br />
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However, while working at a computer the neck muscles only have to support, in addition to the head and arms, maybe the weight of a sheet of paper. Despite this, neck muscle pain problems crop up. This is caused by prolonged tension of the neck muscles, which they do not handle well.<br />
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<b>Tension Neck</b><br />
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The most common cause for neck pains is the so-called tension neck syndrome. Its symptoms are fatigue, stiffness, numbness, sometimes dizziness, and pain or ache in the neck muscles. Often there are simultaneously also tension headaches. The symptoms usually get worse at work, where the muscles remain contracted, especially if the work is stressful and deadline-oriented.<br />
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Risk of neck pain may be higher if work requires neck to be held in one position for long periods of time like in driving or in computer work. Other risk factors and triggering factors may include changes in estrogen levels during a period or at menopause, stress or chronic overload at work or at home, too much or too little sleep and alcohol or drug abuse.<br />
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Most muscles of the body relax totally when they are not used. Some muscles have to contract to some extent all the time to keep the body in needed position. Neck muscles must always be tensed, otherwise your head would fall forwards when you are sitting or standing. When we are worried or stressed we tighten these muscles even more, which can cause neck pain and tension headaches.<br />
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Neck pain and stiffness may be caused by poor standing or sitting posture. If your work level is too low and your head is forward bent most of the time, the neck may be stretched and develop muscle pain. The desk should be at the level making it is possible to work without additional stretch or spasm of the neck muscles. At home the reason can be too soft a bed or the wrong thickness of pillow.<br />
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Tension neck problems can often be diagnosed and treated after doctor´s examination and seldom are any special tests needed. Examination shows that the cervical spine is mobile, but that the neck muscles are sore. An x-ray, CT scan or MRI usually show only a straightening of the cervical spine that is due to increased muscle tension. MRI scans are usually only carried out if your doctor suspects a nerve is being pinched.<br />
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Self -help is often enough to ease tension neck pains in a few days. It is possible to take over the counter painkillers available from chemists or supermarkets. Anti-pain gels may be rubbed directly into tender areas. Some over the counter liniments or oils have a warming and relaxing effect.<br />
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Gentle home massage of the neck muscles often helps. Stress can make neck pain worse. It is usually helpful to learn how to relax the neck muscles. Relaxation and exercises are both needed at the right time. They complement each other.<br />
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First aid consists of anti-inflammatory medication, and the problems usually are alleviated with heat treatment, massage, and relaxing physical therapy. Mild symptoms can be treated at home by exercising the neck and shoulder muscles and using cold or hot compresses. Neck pain relief usually can be found.<br />
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If the symptoms are strong, exercising may worsen the pain. Neck pain exercises should not increase muscle tension in the acute phase. Strengthening the muscles and being in a good general condition are the most important long-term remedies, and these can be started after the acute pain subsides.<br />
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If normal treatment is not helpful, a more thorough analysis is needed. Checking work posture and other ergonomic factors, levels of stress, condition of the muscles, hobbies and pillows used for sleeping on may be necessary.<br />
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Using bifocals may cause repeated nodding movements, which can make the neck muscles sore. Take this up with your ophthalmologist.<br />
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Often those who suffer from a tension neck are perfectionists by nature. It is hard to change one’s nature, but having a long-term self-care plan might be useful.<br />
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If general nervousness is combined with neck tension, hypnosis or using biofeedback to help relax the muscles could be considered. These methods help observe how the muscles get tense and how that tension can be reduced. It is usually easy to adjust for instance the height and position of office desks and chairs.<br />
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Those who have neck tension may have hobbies that cause neck stress. Knitting may be one of these problems, and while doing it one should take short breaks, have the elbows supported on a surface and reduce the number of hours spent knitting.<br />
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Swimming using breaststroke while keeping one’s head above water is not a great idea for someone suffering from neck tension. It is advisable to swim with the face under water and to keep the neck straight and relaxed. Switching between swimming styles and using crawl and the backstroke would be good. Stretching the neck muscles after swimming is advisable.<br />
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Neck pain and good night's sleep may be difficult to have at the same time. Check what kind of pillow you are using if you experience neck pain at night or in the morning. While sleeping on the stomach the cervical spine often locks in a position and may cause pain. Whatever position you sleep in, ideally the neck should be straight and supported. There are plenty of pillows that will help achieve this, although they don’t always correct the problem. During the night we shift positions many times, and thus do not remain in the ideal position.<br />
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Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs can be used as a self-treatment for a few days to treat neck problems.<br />
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Over-the-counter ointments may be used for muscle pain. If the pain is new and strong, cold compresses may help. After a few days, heat treatment may alleviate the pain better.<br />
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Light exercise such as stretching the neck and shoulders, moving the head forward and back and tensing and relaxing the neck muscles is helpful.<br />
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Harder exercises should be avoided until the pain has subsided. Exercise with weights and other exercise that increases muscle strength and stamina can be beneficial.<br />
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It is necessary to implement correct work postures at the office and at home to avoid chronic tension neck. Take several short breaks during the day, and do light neck and shoulder exercise during the breaks.<br />
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Those who work with computers should make sure that there is space in front of the keyboard to rest the hands on and that the monitor is not positioned too highly. Sit facing the computer and support the lower back.<br />
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Avoid long stretches of work without pause, as well as long drives without stops. While driving, hold the steering wheel at its lowest point and relax the shoulders.<br />
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Check periodically while working to see whether the muscles are tense and relax them. If you have a tendency to push the head forward, check and correct your position several times a day.<br />
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When you have neck pain, you should choose your pillows carefully. The main idea is to keep your neck straight while sleeping. This is not easy if you sleep in different positions, sometimes on your back, sometimes on your side, and sometimes on your stomach. Pillow should be high when you sleep on your side to keep your neck in a straight position. When sleeping on your back or stomach too high pillows should be avoided.<br />
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Practice a sport where the muscles are tensed and relaxed to counter continuous muscle tension and take care of your general health. Adequate relaxation is a must.<br />
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<b>Degeneration</b><br />
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Aging brings on degenerative changes in the cervical spine such as lowering of the intervertebral disks and osteophytes. If there are enough of these to cause the constriction of the nerve outlets for the hands, this causes the so-called cervical spine syndrome. It is a very common cause of neck pains in the elderly. It causes pain in the neck area, especially when the cervical spine is moved. Connected symptoms may include dizziness, a pain that radiates to the arms and numbness that is at its worst at night.<br />
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Examination may show a stiff neck, a limited range of motion and the cervical spine may feel painful to touch. Sometimes the examination succeeds in recreating the pains that radiate towards the arm. Diagnosis requires an x-ray, CT scan or MRI which will show degenerative changes and constriction of the nerve outlets. If the condition of the nerve structures needs to be mapped, a MRI is useful.<br />
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The treatment includes traction or auto-traction of the cervical spine. Before the treatment, the muscles are relaxed with the help of heat treatment and massage. In very acute cases, cold compresses may be used as first aid. The traction can be done manually or mechanically. A neck brace may be used between treatments; it helps reduce motion in the cervical spine and thus reduces nerve irritation.<br />
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If traction does not improve the condition, or they cannot be administered, electrical pain therapy or acupuncture could be tried. They sometimes bring very good treatment results with this problem as well as neck tension.<br />
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When the pain is at its worst, it is advisable to keep the cervical spine close to the middle position. A soft collar can be used to help achieve this.<br />
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<b>Herniated Disk</b><br />
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Sometimes the cause behind the radiating pain may be a sciatica-type problem as the protruding intervertebral disk presses on the root of the nerve. Symptoms mirror those of the cervical spine syndrome; however, they may start suddenly, for instance overnight.<br />
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When pressure is placed on a nerve in the neck, it usually causes burning pain in the neck and shoulder muscles and in the back of the head. The pain often shoots down the arm and there may also be weakness and tingling or numbness in an arm. In more serious situations there may be problems of bladder or bowel control. Even young people can have a herniated intervertebral disk. Diagnosis often requires a MRI or CT scan, and an EMG may be useful as well.<br />
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In the case of a herniated intervertebral disk it is advisable to keep the cervical spine in the middle position, if necessary, with the help of a soft collar. Cervical traction may also be helpful. This should be done by an experienced physiotherapist. Surgery is sometimes necessary if improvement within a reasonable time is not seen, if the pain is insupportable or there is muscle weakness in the arms that do not improve.<br />
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Spinal cord may be pressured by herniated cervical disc or by spinal stenosis - narrow spinal canal. Other causes for compression can be degeneration with cancer and hematomas or other additional masses. Cervical disc herniation with pressure of the spinal cord is not very common. In this situation there can be problems of bowel or bladder control along with neck pain and changes in arm sensation and strength.<br />
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<b>Whiplash Injury</b><br />
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Car accidents often cause whiplash injuries, also called neck sprain or strain. It is an injury to the soft tissues of the neck. Usual mechanism of injury in the rear-end collision is first sudden backward movement and then sudden forward movement of the neck. It is possible that along with the muscles, also the ligaments between the cervical spine disks may get injured and cause disruption in the movement between the disks, which in its turn causes the pain.<br />
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Most of these get better rapidly in a few weeks, but some may be problematic. Normal x-rays do not show these injuries, and some patients may feel that they are not believed. MRIs give better results, but unfortunately can’t always show any anatomical changes that might be the reason for the pain in whiplash injuries. Neural pathway and SEP-examinations may give some indication of the damage to the nerves if present.<br />
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Symptoms after whiplash may include neck pain right after the injury or some days afterwards. It may radiate towards the arms and considerably limit the motion of the cervical spine. Also headache and dizziness may be present. There can be unusual sensations like tingling in the hands. Sometimes even minor movement of the cervical spine may cause strong pain and neck may be stiff. Sometimes chewing and swallowing can be difficult.<br />
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Self-treatment includes starting normal use of the cervical spine quickly unless a doctor restricts it. A collar is not necessary to use in all cases. Over-the-counter pain medication and ointments may be used for muscle pain. If the first few days cold compresses may help. At later stages heat treatment may alleviate the pain better.<br />
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Treatment stresses ample time for recovery and the need to start exercise and other treatments at the opportune time. Don’t postpone moving the cervical spine too long. The prognosis for these problems is usually good, but some patients may experience pain for long periods of time. If pain continues or gets worse after several weeks, a new consultation might be in order to see if additional imaging or other procedures are necessary. For instance local anesthetic injections, acupuncture or physical therapy may be used.<br />
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<b>Wryneck</b><br />
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Torticollis, wryneck or in other words twisted neck describes a situation where the neck suddenly or gradually gets twisted to one side. Sudden onset-form or acute torticollis usually improves quickly enough. Symptoms include pain and stiff neck. The neck muscles, mainly sternocleidomastoid muscle is in a cramp on one side and this causes twisting of the head. The reason is not clear; sometimes it can be explained by sleeping in unusual positions, minor neck traumas and similar causes.<br />
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Self-treatment includes anti-inflammatory medication and careful stretching of the stiff muscles. Often the problem disappears in a few weeks without any treatment. If it does not improve, see a doctor. Treatment consists of physical therapy and in some cases manipulation of the vertebra.<br />
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The so-called spastic torticollis is a complex problem. In addition to a twisted neck, it includes involuntary twitching and pain. Usually it starts gradually with mild symptoms of turning of the head with jerky movements. The head may also hold against will in a tilted position. Symptoms of twisted neck, pain, repetitive muscle contractions and tremor may get worse over time. They may be embarrassing especially when experienced in crowd situations. Later on the twisted position may become constant with only a limited possibility to turn the head to the other direction.<br />
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Sometimes other conditions lead to spasmodic torticollis. This can happen with some cerebral injuries or tumors, vascular diseases or infections of the brain and toxins or drugs. If no other reason is present, wryneck is considered to be primary.<br />
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The cause of this problematic illness is not known. Probably neurochemicals play some part. One theory posits that a functional disturbance between cerebral nuclei could play a role in its initiation. Unfortunately there are no optimal treatment methods. Medication, physical therapy, and hypnosis may be tried. Treating the muscles with botulinum toxin injections gives good results and relaxes the twitching muscle for a few months.<br />
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Wryneck may be present at birth. In this situation there is usually no pain but the head gets turned to one side. The reason is not clear; it is thought to be caused by trauma before or during the time of the birth. Examination and treatment should be done by specialists.<br />
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<b>Thoracic Outlet Syndrome</b><br />
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The thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS) is an illness where there is not enough space or some outer structure is pressing on the large blood vessels and nerves coming from the cervical spine as they go through the narrow space between the collarbone and upper ribs towards the hand, thus causing periodic or permanent irritation.<br />
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Three types of TOS are described depending on which is the most involved structure. In most cases the nerves suffer most. This situation is called neurogenic TOS. In a few percents, there is clotting in the vein giving symptoms of venous TOS, usually swelling of the arm. The rarest form is arterial TOS due to disease of the artery with cold and pale hand plus pains.<br />
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The contributing factors may be unusual muscle structure in the neck area, joint tracts, a trauma in this area, an extra cervical rib, an abnormal tight band or muscles of excessive size. Also long neck and fallen posture of the shoulders may increase the risk for this condition.<br />
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The symptoms may include vague pains in the neck, shoulders, and arms, as well as fatigue and numbness or tingling of the pinky and ring fingers and the inner forearm. A weak grip may also be present. Symptoms are often experienced at night, when the arm is held up or when carrying something heavy. If it is accompanied by vascular problems, the arms may feel clumsy, weak and have changes in coloring, swelling or cold hands.<br />
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Examination often shows a sore collarbone area. Different hand positions are artificially used to create pressure. If at that point the pulse in the hand changes or if a hissing noise is heard via the stethoscope as the pulse recedes, this points to TOS. The symptoms may easily be recreated by holding the upper arms horizontally and repeat making a fist with the hands for some time.<br />
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If the doctor´s examination is not enough to confirm the diagnosis, x-ray, ultrasound, MRI, venography or arteriography, pulse volume recording, CT angiogram, nerve conduction velocity studies or electromyography may be needed.<br />
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Treatment is physical therapy where the goal is to clear a path for the nerves and the veins. Correcting posture is important. Massage and stretching are used to relax the tight muscles. In most cases this is helpful. If the reason behind this symptom is a permanently tight tract or injury, surgery may be considered if physical therapy does not improve symptoms.<br />
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<b>Neck Pain in Children</b><br />
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A long time uncomfortable, forwards bended posture of the neck is a usual cause of neck pain in children. This may happen when sitting in a class, playing computer games, reading or sleeping in a bad position for a longer period.<br />
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Sometimes carrying heavy school bags can give excess pressure to neck muscles and cause strain and pains in the neck. Small or bigger injuries can hurt the neck. This can easily happen in contact sports, in other physical activities or accidents. It is advisable to see a doctor after more severe injuries.<br />
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If there is neck pain and stiff neck with fever, the possibility of meningitis should be kept in mind. In these cases it can be checked if the child can bend head forwards and touch the chest with his chin. If not, doctor should be consulted. Also rheumatoid arthritis may give symptoms of neck pain and fever, In this case there may also be swelling of the joints and weakness.<br />
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<b>Emergencies</b><br />
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Whiplash and immediate soreness following for instance a car accident.<br />
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<b>See a Doctor</b><br />
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Pain that radiates toward the hand.<br />
Paralysis or weakness of a hand.<br />
Prolonged neck pain that is not alleviated with home remedies.<br />
Prolonged twisted neck.<br />
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Neck pain, more information:<br />
<br />
Neck exercise videos <a href="http://tv-gym.blogspot.com/2012/04/niskan-harjoituksia.html" target="_blank">Tv-gym.com.</a><br />
MedlinePlus pages on <a href="http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003025.htm" target="_blank">neck pain.</a><br />
Mayoclinic.com pages about <a href="http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/neck-pain/ds00542" target="_blank">neck pain.</a><br />
Necksurgery.com article on <a href="http://www.necksurgery.com/anatomy.html" target="_blank">neck anatomy.</a><br />
Familydoctor.org <a href="http://familydoctor.org/online/famdocen/home/tools/symptom/513.printerview.html" target="_blank">neck pain differentiation chart.</a><br />
Emedicine on <a href="http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/305937-overview" target="_blank">cervical myofascial pain.</a><br />
Necksolutions.com treatment <a href="https://www.necksolutions.com/neck-pain/" target="_blank">neck pain at home.</a><br />
webMD.com about <a href="http://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/neck-problems-and-injuries-topic-overview" target="_blank">neck pain and injuries.</a><br />
Ezinearticles.com about <a href="http://ezinearticles.com/?Posture,-Neck-Pain,-and-You&id=2578648" target="_blank">neck pain and posture.</a><br />
Emedicinehealth.com pages about <a href="http://www.emedicinehealth.com/whiplash/article_em.htm" target="_blank">whiplash.</a><br />
Spineuniverse.com about <a href="http://www.spineuniverse.com/conditions/neck-pain/degenerative-cervical-spine-disorders" target="_blank">cervical degeneration.</a><br />
Mayoclinic.com about <a href="http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/cervical-spondylosis/DS00697" target="_blank">cervical spondylosis.</a><br />
The North American Spine Society on <a href="http://www.knowyourback.org/Pages/SpinalConditions/DegenerativeConditions/HerniatedCervicalDisc.aspx" target="_blank">herniated disc.</a><br />
Spineuniverse.com <a href="http://www.spineuniverse.com/conditions/herniated-disc/herniated-disc-slideshow" target="_blank">herniated disc slideshow.</a><br />
webMD.com about <a href="http://www.webmd.com/pain-management/managing-neck-pain-home" target="_blank">cervical disc disease home treatment.</a><br />
MDGuidelines on <a href="http://www.mdguidelines.com/cervical-disc-disorder-with-myelopathy" target="_blank">cervical disc disorder with myelopathy.</a><br />
The North American Spine Society on <a href="http://www.knowyourback.org/Pages/SpinalConditions/DegenerativeConditions/CStenosis_Myelopathy_Radiculopathy.aspx" target="_blank">cervical stenosis.</a><br />
Necksurgery.com on <a href="http://www.necksurgery.com/treatment-surgical.html" target="_blank">cervical operations.</a><br />
Mayoclinic.com article about <a href="http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/spasmodic-torticollis/DS00836" target="_blank">wryneck.</a><br />
Wikipedia on <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spasmodic_torticollis" target="_blank">spasmodic torticollis.</a><br />
Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital on <a href="https://www.hopkinsallchildrens.org/Patients-Families/Health-Library/HealthDocNew/Infant-Torticollis" target="_blank">infant torticollis.</a><br />
MedicineNet on <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/thoracic_outlet_syndrome/article.htm" target="_blank">thoracic outlet syndrome.</a><br />
Wikipedia on <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thoracic_outlet_syndrome" target="_blank">thoracic outlet syndrome.</a><br />
Healthline.com about <a href="https://www.healthline.com/health/neck-lump" target="_blank">neck lump.</a><br />
Which sleep position is <a href="https://www.healthline.com/health/best-sleeping-position#takeaway" target="_blank">best.</a><br />
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Contact info.kipunet@gmail.comUnknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1203142629998990624.post-78317279501021011472020-03-26T10:36:00.000-07:002020-06-01T03:39:18.499-07:00Shoulder pain<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRspTYv2xrAGQIB68PH9D5o7jBlKgKYWfZHPnQ8BHyQA4rbM8NJjIFl6ZuGgWWlxVaCQnMeCE66DeKZPKecsLgJH9Z8QjB4kRcJeAFOBffjxWruQl771c5rxqk78yhQFmJPt1Pnq1E2j0A/s1600/olkap%25C3%25A4%25C3%25A42.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="213" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRspTYv2xrAGQIB68PH9D5o7jBlKgKYWfZHPnQ8BHyQA4rbM8NJjIFl6ZuGgWWlxVaCQnMeCE66DeKZPKecsLgJH9Z8QjB4kRcJeAFOBffjxWruQl771c5rxqk78yhQFmJPt1Pnq1E2j0A/s320/olkap%25C3%25A4%25C3%25A42.jpg" width="213" /></a></b></div>
The shoulder is the most often moved joint in the human body. Shoulder pain symptoms are usual in practically every age group and shoulder pain causes may vary.<br />
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<b>Rotator Cuff Tendinitis, Bursitis and Rotator Cuff Tears</b><br />
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The shoulder joint consists of a ball of the humerus or the upper arm bone and a socket in the clavicle or the shoulder blade. The socket part is shallow, and only a small part of the ball is in contact with it at any time. This allows the arm to move freely in many directions, but the joint is not very stable and demands good and coordinated action of the muscles to function. Along with it also other joints close by take part in the functioning of the shoulder girdle.<br />
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Adequate functioning of all these components along with muscles and tendons attached to them is necessary for good and painless movements of the upper extremities. The group of muscles and their tendons responsible for the stabilization and the movements of the shoulder are called rotator cuff.<br />
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The problematic part of this structure is located in the space between the head of the humerus and overlying part of the shoulder blade called acromion and ligaments attached to it. Gravity causes stress for the tendons of the hanging arm and movements to the side and forwards give friction between the head of the humerus and the roof of its space, the acromioclavicular ligament.<br />
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Between rotator cuff and acromion, there is a fluid-filled sac, called bursa, lined with synovial membranes. It permits easy gliding between bone, muscle, and tendon. It can sometimes become irritated and inflamed, causing shoulder pain. This problem is called shoulder bursitis. The disease can start with considerable pain in the shoulder. Lifting the arm to the side is usually limited due to pain, even if it succeeds with assistance. There may be a swelling in front or on the outside of the shoulder and tenderness can be severe. <br />
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Bursitis can be most painful at night. This is explained due to the fact that during the day, in a standing position, gravity pulls down the upper extremity and this way takes away pressure from the bursa. At night, it is pressed again when lying down and this may cause irritation and discomfort. At night, one may try to put the painful hand between ones legs and try to get a little traction to the shoulder by small extension of the spine.<br />
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Degeneration of the rotator cuff starts a long time before any pain in the shoulder is felt. In their fifties people often already have thinning of the tendons, later on some tears in them are not an unusual sight. With aging the posture of the shoulders often becomes more or less slumped forwards. In this case the rotator cuff is more easily compressed when the arm is lifted forwards or to the side and this can accelerate degeneration. Tendons also get more easily torn.<br />
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Severity of the shoulder problems varies from mild inflammation or strain of the muscles healing without any treatment in a few days to total tear of the rotator cuff tendons requiring surgical repair. Most of the shoulder pain is caused by problems of the tendons. Most often reason may be degenerative or calcific tendinitis. Also bursitis gives very similar clinical symptoms.<br />
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The movement to lift the hand to the side requires accurate balancing and synchronization of all participants and even a small disturbance of activity of the muscles, directions or range of the joint movements may upset the smoothness of the motion and strain or irritation of the tendons may follow. Also outside stress may give this same problem. Problems may arise when there is excessive strain on a normal joint, normal strain on an uncommon joint or normal strain on a normal joint if the joint is not ready and prepared for this activity.<br />
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Tendinitis usually begins close to the area where the tendons attach to the bone. The blood supply and the circulation here are poor, and even a small irritation or a trauma may take a long time to heal. This can cause secondary irritation and some tendon fibers may die. The repetitive daily use and misuse gives pressure to the tendons, and they may swell or calcify. In the beginning this may be without any pain or any other symptoms. This increases the pressure on the rotator cuff and causes more strain and a vicious circle may follow. Along with the tendons also bursa may get irritated, and inflammation of the bursa- bursitis may take part in the process.<br />
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Rest or treatment may stop the process, and the inflammation may resolve. If the process continues the tendon may get thicker due to additional degeneration or minor traumas, more calcium may get deposited, and bursa may get thicker. This will make the situation worse because whatever is the cause giving more pressure to the tendon, this will always worsen the circulation of the tendon and the vicious circle continues.<br />
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Pain is the initial symptom of the rotator cuff tendinitis. It can be felt as a deep ache in the shoulder area also on the outside the upper arm. It may be worse during the night. There usually are tender points over the irritated area. Pain often increases gradually and becomes worse when lifting the arm to the side. Pain may be associated with a limitation of the shoulder movements. Especially movement to the side is limited. Reaching above the shoulder level may be impossible and, for example, playing tennis, swimming, painting the roof or getting things from the upper shelves must be left undone.<br />
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Even a fully functional rotator cuff may tear in an accident. The weaker the rotator cuff is and the greater the power focused on the joint, the easier it gets injured.<br />
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When rotator cuff is weakened by degenerative changes, even a minor trauma or a stress may easily cause a partial or a total rupture of the tendons. The area where this happens is usually just below the acromion between it and the head of the humerus in the anterior portion of the cuff.<br />
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The trauma is often not significant. It may happen during some manual work, sports or some other overhead activity. Sometimes no specific history of tear or stress can be found. Symptoms usually consist of sudden, severe tearing type of pain followed by a period free of pains. In typical cases pain then gradually returns lasting for some days or weeks.<br />
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Typically, the tearing is partial. This causes pain in the shoulder as the hand is horizontally lifted upwards on the side. In typical cases, the pain is worse if the hand is lifted with the palm facing up. Often when lifting the hand up in the front, the last part of lifting is painful. If lifting the hand up on the side is impossible and if it drops down when lifted there by someone else, the tear may by complete. Surgery may be necessary here.<br />
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Examination shows soreness on the outside the shoulder below the bony structures. During testing the level of joint irritation, the hand is lifted directly up on the side and twisted outwards with the elbow bent. Resisting this movement often recreates the pain.<br />
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The same type of symptoms can be evident when there is rotator cuff tendinitis or the mucous bursa gets inflamed. It is hard to distinguish between these conditions based on a doctor’s examination only, and it often is not even necessary, because the treatment is much the same.<br />
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Sometimes the calcium contained in the rotator cuff bursts out and causes extremely strong pain. In this case, a calcification that was clear in earlier x-rays may disappear or blur in a x-ray. As treatment, cortisone shots and pain medication of adequate strength may be tried.<br />
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The most important thing in shoulder injuries is a careful interview and examination. If necessary, the bones can be imaged with a x-ray. Often this does not help with the diagnosis, because changes in the bones rarely cause these symptoms.<br />
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An ultrasound examination may give additional information. It can show the inflamed mucous bursa, torn or inflamed tendons, and movement out of place in the long end of the biceps. Sometimes a contrast medium examination of the joint -arthrography is necessary to locate the frozen shoulder joint and the tears in the rotator cuff. The best way to diagnose most shoulder problems is the MRI.<br />
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Cortisone injections are helpful in shoulder pain treatment and may end the pain quickly. It is important to recognize the structure that is causing pain, so that the injection can be directed in the right place. This works best if the shot is given with the help of an ultrasound.<br />
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Most difficult cases may warrant surgery. The surgery is an attempt to repair the torn tendons, make more room for the rotator cuff and attach the end of biceps that does not stay in its place. People undergoing surgery have a good possibility of recovery. Certainly results depend on the size of the injury.<br />
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Self-treatment to alleviate the pain consists of over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication that can be used for a few days. Over-the-counter ointments may be rubbed in the shoulder area. Rest and cold compresses with ice 15-20 minutes at a time several times a day will calm the irritation. Sometime a sling may help to keep the shoulder at rest. A couple days’ rest is beneficial at the time of acute pain. The shoulder should be moved slightly and will stiffen if it is not moved at all.<br />
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During acute pain, it is advisable not to carry anything with the sore hand, and to avoid exertion. Raising the hand on the side horizontally and at night, sleeping on the sore shoulder should be avoided. In the beginning shoulder pain at night or during sleep may be severe. In the night the painful rotator cuff is pressed against the bony structures with additional force as the gravity does not pull the hand down.<br />
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At the most painful time, the hand can be hanged over the side of the bed, or while leaning forward on a table. The arm can be circled while in this position with the help of gravity. If this stretch feels good, you can hold an additional light weight in your hand.<br />
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Shoulder exercises should start gradually and with care. The range of motion of the shoulder can be maintained by lifting the sore arm with the healthy arm. Do not lift to the side if this causes pain. You can also walk your fingers up a wall. In general, movement is beneficial, so long-term rest is only prescribed in cases of fractures. If a shoulder movement is painful, however, avoid doing that particular movement.<br />
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When the pain subsides exercise can be started. Lifting the upper arms at the front is usually safe. Do not lift to the side until the shoulder feels better.<br />
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While typing, it is advisable to hold the elbows close to the body. The higher the upper arms are, the more the rotator cuff is being irritated.<br />
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In case of the shoulder joint problems there may be a residual sensitivity to stress, which cannot be treated. The stress directed at the shoulder joints should be kept low. Weight lifting or gym may be tried by starting slowly and increasing stress endurance.<br />
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<b>Acromioclavicular Joint Problems</b><br />
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The acromioclavicular joint, located between the collar bone or the clavicle and the shoulder blade or the scapula, may be one cause of pain in the shoulder girdle. The reason may be inflammation due to rheumatic or degenerative arthritis.<br />
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Many types of traumas in this area can also cause pain due to a tear of the intra-articular meniscus, a contusion, tears of the ligaments with or without separation of the bones and a fracture of the collar bone. If the tear of the ligaments around this joint is complete, the end of the clavicle will rise. This is easy to notice in comparison with the other shoulder.<br />
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The pain of this joint can be provoked when the arm is lifted over to the opposite shoulder. When lifting the hand up on the side, the pain is felt only above the horizontal level—that is, higher than in cases of rotator cuff problems. If this joint is the problem, it usually also will feel sore on examination.<br />
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Generally the functioning of the shoulder remains satisfactory, so treatment is not always necessary. In the acute phase over-the-counter pain medication can be used for a few days. Rest and cold compresses may also be useful. During acute pain, it is advisable to avoid heavier strains. If the problem disturbs the functioning of the shoulder for a longer time, surgery may be considered.<br />
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<b>Biceps Problems</b><br />
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Tendons of the biceps muscle go through the same age and wear related changes as does the rotator cuff. Calcification is not so common, but ruptures arise as easily. Sometimes the long end of the biceps gets inflamed or does not stay in its place. Pain is then felt in front of the shoulder, and it increases when the elbow is bent against resistance. When the tendon slides out of its groove, a popping sound may be heard repeatedly.<br />
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The long end of the biceps may also tear. This is relatively common in the elderly. Usually some pain and limitation of the movements of the shoulder due to degenerative changes precede the tear for a long time.<br />
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The tear typically gives a snapping sound in the shoulder with some pain, and after this, the formation of the so-called Popeye muscle or a clear bulge in the biceps as it contracts can be seen. This may look quite dramatic but usually does not require surgery, because operation does not markedly improve function and the other shoulder muscles can adequately compensate the work of the torn muscle.<br />
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Usually doctor’s examination is enough for the diagnosis, sometimes imaging with ultrasound or MRI may be used for the confirmation.<br />
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<b>Frozen Shoulder</b><br />
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The frozen shoulder or adhesive capsulitis of the shoulder joint is a strange problem. The shoulder joint capsule starts diminishing, and the shoulder gets very sore and then starts to stiffen. The problem is one of long duration and it can last from months to a year or longer. Especially if the patient has diabetes the duration may be prolonged. In about 15 % of patients, the pain appears in one shoulder first, and when that subsides, appears in the other one.<br />
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The exact cause of this illness is unknown, but sometimes a trauma probably can be blamed. It is a common belief that there may be an autoimmune component attacking for some reason the capsule and it thickens and becomes tight. The amount of synovial fluid in the joint decreases and the lubrication suffers making movements harder.<br />
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Risk factors can be diabetes, stroke, rheumatic disorders and difficult lung and heart diseases. The condition develops in three stages. It usually begins with no obviously triggering factor. In the beginning, the joint is very painful, and after some time movements become gradually more and more limited, the joint is said to be freezing. Pain is often worse at night and in cold weather. Pain is almost constant, and even small sudden movements can be very painful.<br />
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In this stage examination shows an extremely painful shoulder. Diagnosing the problem may be difficult, because the symptoms resemble those of the rotator cuff tendinitis or rupture as long as the typical limitation of the movements has not developed.<br />
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When the stiffness begins, rotating the shoulder outward is usually the first restricted function. As the pain worsens, the range of motion gets smaller and smaller. This phase may last from some weeks to several months.<br />
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In the second stage pain usually decreases, but the stiffness remains. If the restriction is severe, even small daily tasks may be hard or impossible to perform. This frozen stage usually lasts months.<br />
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In the third stage the motion slowly improves. In most cases, the shoulder gets better without any residual complications, but this may take a long time, sometimes up to 2-3 years.<br />
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The correct diagnosis should be made quickly due to the long-term nature of this illness. The diagnostic tool is contrast medium examination, if the clinical picture alone cannot confirm the diagnosis in doctor’s examination.<br />
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If stiffness prohibits functioning, improving the range of motion with manipulation under anesthesia may be considered. Results are somewhat controversial. After this procedure, it is important to maintain the range of motion with the help of active shoulder exercises performed with a physiotherapist.<br />
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Physical therapy, exception for cold compresses, should be avoided because it may worsen the pain. When the stiffness in the shoulder subsides, treatment to restore range of motion may be appropriate. It is important in all stages to keep the range of motion as wide as possible within the possible limits. Usually it is, however, not possible to influence on the course of the disease or in the time needed for the recovery.<br />
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<b>Shoulder Arthritis</b><br />
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One reasons of pain in the shoulder may be arthritis. Osteoarthritis or degenerative joint disease is the most common form but also rheumatoid arthritis is possible. Shoulder is, however, not usually the first joint affected in the rheumatic diseases.<br />
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In osteoarthritis the cartilage in the joint degenerates or wears down. As the disease progresses, the cartilage wears thin and it may expose open bone. Osteoarthritis typically affects older patients often with some previous trauma in this area such as a fractured or dislocated shoulder. Osteoarthritis is considered to run in families.<br />
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Symptoms of arthritis typically start with pain in physical activities or when moving the shoulder; there may also be occasionally some swelling of the joint. There may be pain also after the stress or even at night. It is usual to have some stiffness in the movements, additional sounds and later also limited range of motion.<br />
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Typical history, examination and x-rays of the shoulder joint are usually sufficient to establish the diagnosis. Sometimes additional tests and imaging are needed to exclude other problems.<br />
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Self treatment includes taking over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs to minimize inflammation and pain. In the acute phase cold compressions may help, later warm treatments may be more useful. Physical activity with the affected extremity should be narrowed down to the suitable level. In an acute situation some days of rest may be needed. However, one should perform exercises keeping range-of-motion open and not let the shoulder stiffen. If this is hard without an instructor, physiotherapist is able to help.<br />
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If this is not sufficient, doctors can prescribe stronger medications, and also injections of corticosteroids are used. If this does not give enough relief, there are also surgical treatments available. These include total or partial shoulder joint replacement surgery or arthroplasty. Removal of a small part of the end of the collarbone is used as treatment of arthritis of the joint between the collar bone and the acromion part of the shoulder blade or the acromioclavicular joint.<br />
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<b>Dislocated Shoulder</b><br />
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The shoulder joint is not very stable, and it may be easily dislocated as the anatomy is conducive to that and the soft tissues around the joint are flexible. A shoulder injury can cause the dislocation of the joint in anyone.<br />
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If it is dislocated the shoulder usually moves into an abnormal position and the normal round shape of the shoulder becomes angular. Moving the arm is limited and painful. A doctor´s examination and a x-ray if needed can confirm the diagnosis.<br />
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One can try setting the shoulder back in its place by lying on a bed on one’s stomach and letting the arm to hang freely on the side of the bed while relaxing the shoulder. Often the shoulder is set back in its normal position this way. If not, then a doctor can help snap the shoulder back into its right place.<br />
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<b>Winged Scapula</b><br />
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The side of the shoulder blade or the scapula by the middle line may rise if the serratus anterior muscle that attaches it to the sternum is paralyzed. This may occur if the long thoracic nerve in its course for instance over the collar bone gets injured due to an operation, pressure, injury, or inflammation.<br />
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Risk factors are vigorous athletic maneuvers with the upper extremity, lifting of heavy weights, and direct outside pressure. The normal function of the serratus anterior muscle is to maintain the scapula and the thorax next to each other when the arm is elevated forward at the shoulder.<br />
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The symptoms usually include pain and weakness of the shoulder. Doing push-ups, leaning the arms against a wall or lifting the arm up at the front with resistance may cause the inside edge of the scapula to rise in comparison to the other side. Humans are generally slightly asymmetrical, so little differences should not matter that much. Diagnosis may be confirmed with the help of nerve conduction studies and EMG.<br />
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Treatment usually consists of a follow-up. Taking B –vitamins may optimize situation for nerve healing. If the functional situation is bad, a splint that presses the scapula against the chest may be considered. The problem usually improves from the worst stage and gets better within approximately nine months.<br />
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Weakness of the arm and mild pain may be present permanently. Here, work-related stress should be adjusted to the level of the functional state after the injury. Sometimes also surgical procedure of the nerve may be used if optimal functioning of the upper extremity is vital as for instance with the top level athletes.<br />
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<b>Cracking Sound</b><br />
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Sometimes moving the scapula causes a cracking sound. This may be caused by a raised bone or an inflammation of the mucous bursa that causes roughness when the scapula moves along the chest.<br />
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This symptom usually does not require treatment. Rarely,, surgery may be considered.<br />
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<b>Pain Referred to the Shoulder</b><br />
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Pains in the shoulder may originate somewhere else. The most common cause for this is a degenerated cervical spine, and its pains can radiate toward the shoulder. Gall bladder pains may radiate to the right shoulder and heart problems or heart attack to the left shoulder. In these cases, examination and treatment naturally have to be focused on the underlying conditions.<br />
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<b>Emergencies</b><br />
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A dislocated shoulder.<br />
Extremely strong pains in the shoulder.<br />
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<b>See a Doctor</b><br />
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Prolonged pain in the shoulder that limits working or life in general.<br />
A marked limitation in the range of motion of the shoulder.<br />
Winged scapula.<br />
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Shoulder pain, more information:<br />
<br />
Shoulder exercise videos <a href="http://tv-gym.blogspot.com/2012/04/olkapaan-harjoituksia.html" target="_blank">Tv-gym.com.</a><br />
Wikipedia on <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shoulder_problems" target="_blank">shoulder problems.</a><br />
WebMD about <a href="https://www.webmd.com/pain-management/picture-of-the-shoulder#1" target="_blank">anatomy of the shoulder.</a><br />
Mayoclinic.com on <a href="http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/rotator-cuff-injury/DS00192" target="_blank">rotator cuff injuries.</a><br />
American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons on <a href="http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=a00064" target="_blank">rotator cuff tears.</a><br />
Webmd.com <a href="http://www.webmd.com/pain-management/arthritis-bursitis" target="_blank">shoulder bursitis.</a><br />
Columbianeurosurgery.org about <a href="https://www.columbianeurosurgery.org/conditions/axillary-nerve-injury/" target="_blank">axillary nerve injury.</a><br />
Ehealthmd.com article about <a href="http://ehealthmd.com/content/what-done-rotator-cuff-surgery" target="_blank">rotator cuff surgery.</a><br />
Moveu.com about <a href="https://moveu.com/blog/ac-joint-separation/" target="_blank">acromioclavicular separation.</a><br />
American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons about <a href="http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=A00031" target="_blank">biceps injuries.</a><br />
Emedicinehealth.com on <a href="http://www.emedicinehealth.com/shoulder_dislocation/article_em.htm" target="_blank">shoulder dislocation.</a><br />
American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons about <a href="http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=A00426" target="_blank">shoulder joint tears.</a><br />
American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons on <a href="http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=A00071" target="_blank">frozen shoulder.</a><br />
American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons on <a href="http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=A00222" target="_blank">arthritis of the shoulder.</a><br />
Wikipedia on <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Winged_scapula" target="_blank">winged scapula.</a><br />
webMD <a href="http://men.webmd.com/features/strength-training-building-shoulder-back-muscles" target="_blank">exercises for building shoulder and back muscles.</a><br />
SwimSmooth.com on <a href="http://www.swimsmooth.com/injury.php" target="_blank">how to avoid swimming shoulder injuries.</a><br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1203142629998990624.post-70841424979142461252020-03-26T10:31:00.000-07:002020-06-01T03:51:52.683-07:00Elbow pain<b>Tennis Elbow</b><br />
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Elbow problems are common in office workers. While working at the computer, the points where the muscles attach to the elbow often get irritated, and elbow tendinitis may follow, especially if work posture and habits do not promote correct elbow positioning. This area can also become sore due to minor elbow injury or sudden overexertion.<br />
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The most common elbow problem is the so-called tennis elbow or lateral epicondylitis. Tennis players frequently suffer from this elbow pain symptom, thus the name. Not only tennis players but also people in professions where there are a lot of repetitive wrists and arm motions often have these problems. In tennis elbow the point in the elbow area where the outer part of the shoulder bone is attached to the tendons becomes irritated. A group of muscles that flex the wrist toward the top of the hand is attached to this area.<br />
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The tendons in the elbow develop degeneration with aging in the same way as other tendons. Continuous repetitions and overuse as for instance hitting numerous tennis balls or making work with constant, repetitive tasks like excessive computer mouse usage may give small tears in the tendon and its attachment giving ground for tennis elbow. Condition is partly caused by a direct trauma, a sudden pull or overextension of the forearm.<br />
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The pain may begin if an untrained person has repeatedly performed motions that require a lot of strength or in connection with overexertion. Typically this pain feels on the outside of the elbow, initially during exertion but later continuously and even at night. If the stress causing the irritation continues, the problem becomes worse.<br />
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There may be pain when lifting or extending arm. There is usually also pain during heavier exercises like lifting weights or throwing. Symptoms additionally with the pain and local tenderness in the outermost part of the elbow may be stiffness in the morning and a weak and painful grip.<br />
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Examination shows soreness at the outer part of the elbow and bending the wrist upward against resistance worsens the pain. The range of motion of the elbow is usually normal. There may be minor local swelling.<br />
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Diagnosis is made in doctor´s examination by typical clinical signs, symptoms and findings. Often no further tests or imaging are needed, and treatment can be started immediately. Sometimes x-rays, ultrasound, MRI or ENMG are used to exclude other possible causes for the pain. Elbow pain treatment usually gives good results.<br />
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Anti-inflammatory drugs and ointments, cold compresses several times a day, and the rest are the first part of the treatment. Finding the cause for the irritation and eliminating it is important. Sometimes changes have to be made at work or in one’s work habits in order to do this.<br />
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The following stretching exercise after cold compresses is recommended: bend your elbow and hold the wrist bent towards the top of the hand with your other hand. Straighten the elbow while holding the wrist bent with the other hand, which helps stretch the muscles that attach to the elbow. Hold the hand in this position for 20-30 seconds. Repeat the exercise several times a day.<br />
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A wrist splint can be used at the time of acute pain to prevent repeated wrist motion. This reduces the irritation at the point where the muscles attach to the elbow. A tennis elbow support may be useful later in an attempt to reduce stress at the muscle attachment site.<br />
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Work or hobbies that require repeated squeezing of the hand should be avoided. If you have been using a mouse with the sore arm, learn to use it with the other one.<br />
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Those working at computers should take short breaks several times a day. The sore arm can be lifted up, all muscles contracted and then relaxed. Shake the arm after the exercise. Make sure that there is enough space in front of your keyboard to place your hands. Try a wrist support and learn to rest your hands on it while you type.<br />
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A cortisone injection given by a doctor or physical therapy may be necessary if medication and the rest do not alleviate the situation. Surgery is sometimes necessary.<br />
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After the successful treatment, as the pain goes away, it is important to prevent tennis elbow problems in the future. One should limit the amount of playing and other repetitive motions of the arm to the level which can be tolerated without irritation. One should stay generally in good physical condition and gradually specifically strengthen the muscles of the forearm and other muscles of the upper extremity. Your physiotherapist or personal trainer can make a program of elbow pain exercises to keep the pain away for good.<br />
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While playing tennis, make sure that the racket handle is the right size, and that strokes are made with a straight wrist. Tennis is not racket ball. Softer strings and a racket with a smaller striking surface may also reduce the impact of strokes. When buying the tennis racket the grip size should be chosen with special care preferably with the help of an expert.<br />
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<b>Golfer's elbow</b><br />
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A pain similar to that of tennis elbow, felt on the inside of the elbow, has been dubbed golfer's elbow or medial epicondylitis. A group of muscles that bends the wrist toward the palm connects to the inside of the arm in the elbow area and pain may develop in this region. A shooting pain down the forearm is also common.<br />
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The condition is of the same type as the tennis elbow, except the symptoms appear on the opposite side. Both are caused by overuse of the muscles and tendons of the forearm or minor injuries causing inflammation of the tendons and pain in their insertion into the elbow joint. If there is degeneration of the tendons, the irritation may form easier.<br />
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This site stresses in making a golf swing and also with many other physical activities. The irritation forms easier in the beginning of the golf season. The injury may form from a single strong action or with a repetitive stress containing wrist and finger motions with the unaccustomed force. This can be for instance weekend painting or hammering. Excessive typing may also cause this problem as well as throwing, weight training and similar activities.<br />
<br />
Along with the pain and local tenderness there may also be symptoms of stiffness, numbness, tingling and weakness in hand or fingers. Usually doctor´s examination is enough with some testing of the painful area. Sometimes x-ray or MRI may be used to exclude other painful conditions.<br />
<br />
In treatment rest is essential. All repetitive and forceful activity with the painful hand should be avoided until the pain disappears. Cold packs on the painful region several times a day for 15 minutes or more along with over-the-counter pain medication and stretching exercises may be used as self treatment in the acute phase. If the pain goes on, one can discuss with the doctor whether surgery might be needed. When there is no more pain one can gradually return to normal activities, As preventive measures targeted exercises at the gym or home are useful. A personal trainer or a physiotherapist can make a special program for this.<br />
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<b>Ulnar Nerve</b><br />
<br />
The most common of the nerve conditions in the elbow is the entrapment of the ulnar nerve. This nerve is superficial on the surface under the elbow and its inner edge. It goes through a groove covered with a ligament and a sheath called the cubital tunnel. It is not protected well, and injury is common.<br />
<br />
It gives nerves to the skin of the ring and little fingers and supplies muscles of this area as well as the interosseus muscles between the metacarpals or the bones in the middle part of the hand and also the muscle pulling the thumb towards the midline.<br />
<br />
It can get irritated either due to a direct injury or a long-term pressure. The nerve can be compressed in an extreme flexion of the elbow. Also a direct trauma, a prolonged outside compression or an anatomical changes in this area such as the degenerative spurs, tumors etc. may irritate the nerve.<br />
<br />
Symptoms ,in addition to the pain include, numbness and reduced sensation in the 4th and 5th fingers, and in the more difficult cases, muscle weakness and wasting in the hand. In the most difficult situations the result may be a clawing of the 4th and 5th fingers.<br />
<br />
Doctor´s examination needs to rule out other reasons of the reduced sense of the touch or the sensation of the ring and little fingers. Same type of symptoms may be caused by cervical degeneration and nerve irritation at the wrist level. The diagnosis can be confirmed with the nerve conduction studies and EMG, and the examination would show a lowered conduction velocity at the entrapment site.<br />
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Treatment consists of anti-inflammatory drugs if there is pain, avoiding bending the elbow or putting direct pressure on the site. Sometimes it is necessary to examine and liberate the area surgically.<br />
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<b>Radial nerve</b><br />
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Radial nerve may compress in the elbow area. It is less common than the ulnar compression syndrome. Compression may arise with a fracture of the radius bone. In this case, there is pain and lack of muscle functions of the hand. Also, doing repeated forceful contractions of the forehand extensor muscles by one not accustomed to it in tasks like using a screwdriver with force or a heavy hammer may narrow the nerves space on its route and give irritation. This tension may also be referred to the same area where the outer part of the shoulder bone attaches to the tendons of the same muscles irritated in the problems of the tennis elbow.<br />
<br />
Symptoms are local pain in the outer part of the elbow, and they may resemble symptoms of a tennis elbow. Diagnosis is made in doctor´s examination with typical history and findings of local tenderness and pain in the test movements with a straight elbow against resistance of forced extension of the wrist and the middle finger. With radial nerve compression in this area, there should be no changes in the sensation of the hand.<br />
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Usually avoidance of painful movements is all that is needed to take care of the problems. Sometimes surgery is needed.<br />
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<b>Arthritis</b><br />
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The elbow area is often recipient of various injuries, which may leave the joint with the cartilage surface of the elbow damaged. The cartilage may also wear by aging and degeneration. The elbow is not very often affected with arthritis because it is quite stable and does not bear weight.<br />
<br />
The standard symptoms of the arthritis are a reduced range of motion and pain. The elderly with the degeneration may experience arthritis pain especially during exertion. Elbow pain feels mostly inside of the elbow. There may also be some swelling, a scratching sound and temporary feelings of locking of the joint.<br />
<br />
The typical symptoms, the findings and an x-ray will confirm the diagnosis. The treatment consists mainly of reducing the excessive physical stress on the joint, physiotherapy, and the pain medication. In the later stages, a cortisone injection can give relief if the usual pain medication does not give an adequate enough relief. Surgery may be needed in the form of the arthroscopy or the joint replacement operation.<br />
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<b>Bursitis</b><br />
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Injuries may cause an inflammation of the mucous bursa in the elbow. There is little pain, but a soft bulge can be observed near the elbow. Treatment consists of draining the liquid from the bulge and of a shot of cortisone. If the mucous bursa is very enlarged, it may be necessary to remove it surgically.<br />
<br />
<b>See a Doctor</b><br />
<br />
Limited range of motion in the elbow with pain present.<br />
Pain in the elbow with radiating pain or numbness in the arm.<br />
Swelling of the elbow.<br />
Prolonged pain that cannot be alleviated by home remedies.<br />
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Elbow pain, more information:<br />
<br />
Elbow exercise videos <a href="http://tv-gym.blogspot.com/2012/04/kyynarpaan-harjoituksia.html" target="_blank">Tv-gym.com.</a><br />
Washington University Orthopedics page about <a href="https://www.ortho.wustl.edu/content/Patient-Care/3151/Services/Shoulder-Elbow/Overview/Elbow-Arthroscopy-Information/The-Anatomy-of-the-Elbow.aspx" target="_blank">the anatomy of the elbow.</a> <br />
American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons on <a href="http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=A00068" target="_blank">tennis elbow.</a> <br />
Ezinearticles.com about <a href="http://ezinearticles.com/?Will-a-Tennis-Elbow-Strap-Actually-Work?&id=5632431" target="_blank">tennis elbow strap.</a> <br />
Shoulderdoc.co.uk about <a href="http://www.shoulderdoc.co.uk/article.asp?article=635#staticlink" target="_blank">tennis elbow operations.</a> <br />
webMD about <a href="http://www.webmd.com/fitness-exercise/golfers-elbow-basics" target="_blank">golfer's elbow.</a> <br />
Mayoclinic.com pages on <a href="http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/golfers-elbow/DS00713" target="_blank">golfer's elbow.</a> <br />
eMedicineHealth about <a href="http://www.emedicinehealth.com/repetitive_motion_injuries/article_em.htm" target="_blank">repetitive motion injuries.</a> <br />
American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons on <a href="http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=a00069" target="_blank">ulnar nerve entrapment.</a> <br />
Arthritis.org article about <a href="https://www.arthritis.org/health-wellness/about-arthritis/where-it-hurts/when-elbow-pain-may-mean-arthritis" target="_blank">arthritis of the elbow.</a> <br />
Wikipedia on <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Olecranon_bursitis" target="_blank">elbow bursitis.</a> <br />
WebMD about <a href="http://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/broken-elbow" target="_blank">broken elbow.</a> <br />
American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons on <a href="http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=a00029" target="_blank">dislocation of the elbow.</a> <br />
WebMD about <a href="https://www.webmd.com/children/nursemaid-elbow#1" target="_blank">nursemaid's elbow.</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1203142629998990624.post-49849947815495233182020-03-26T10:29:00.000-07:002020-06-01T04:04:44.380-07:00Wrist and hand pain<b>Stress Injuries</b><br />
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The hand is a versatile tool. It is strong and able to handle extremely small size objects and to perform tasks that require extreme precision. There may not be another tool as versatile around. Only when we experience problems do we begin to understand and appreciate the daily functioning of the hand.<br />
<br />
It is fairly common to have stress injuries in the elbow and wrist areas. These are usually caused by repetitive work or doing crafts requiring repetitive motions. If a cracking sound is connected to the painful sensation, which usually means tendovaginitis which warrants seeing a doctor. Reducing stress and optimizing work posture usually improve the situation. If this doesn’t solve the problem, a doctor can prescribe anti-inflammatory medicine in oral or ointment form as well as physical therapy.<br />
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Self-treatment consists of over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication and ointments for a few days to alleviate the pain. Cold compresses are not recommended for fingers. If the problem is tension in the forearm muscles it could be helpful to stretch so that the elbow is straight and the wrist is stretched toward the palm and the top of the hand.<br />
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Avoiding undue stress on hand at work and during leisure is wise. In case of wrist problems, work or hobbies that require repeated extreme positions and movements of the wrists should be avoided. When working with a mouse, the other healthy hand should be used instead of the sore hand.<br />
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When working at a computer, several short breaks should be taken during the day. It is advisable to do short gymnastics; for example lifting hand up, tensing all the muscles and then relaxing them, followed by shaking the hand.<br />
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There must be enough space in front of the keyboard to place both hands, so there is no additional unnecessary tension of the muscles of the upper arms. A wrist support may be used to support the hands on it while typing.<br />
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<b>Carpal Tunnel Syndrome</b><br />
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The most common question regarding the hand is pressure on the median nerve in the carpal tunnel, the carpal tunnel syndrome. It is quite common in people who type a lot or play certain musical instruments daily as well as in those who overexert their wrists, use vibrating tools or have to perform repetitive motions of the hand and wrist all day long. Illnesses such as rheumatism, arthritis of the wrist, fractures in this area, or obesity causing the carpal tunnel to shrink may enable this condition. Also diabetes, hypothyroidism, kidney failure, menopause, pregnancy, infections and alcoholism can make the nerve more vulnerable to pressure and easily irritable.<br />
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The median nerve innervates the thumb side of the hand. In its problems, both feeling and movements may suffer. The initial symptoms include numbness and burning in the first three fingers. This is usually at its worst at night, and symptoms may cause the patient even to wake up. Shaking the hand or lifting it up may help. There often is also pain in the wrist or hand and some problems with precise finger movements. A weak grip and weakness of the hand may manifest itself as a difficulty to carry bags. If the symptoms are not alleviated, muscle weakness in the hand close to the thumb may develop.<br />
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In doctor´s examination diagnose is suspected when there are typical history and findings of a lowered sensation in the first 3 fingers, a soft grip and tingling and weakness in hand when bending the wrist all the way for some time. Diagnosis can be confirmed with an EMG and nerve conduction velocity, which shows it reduced in the carpal tunnel.<br />
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Treatment consists of a splint used to hold the wrist in the middle position. This allows the maximum space for the nerve. The splint can be worn at night. If the condition does not improve, minor surgery may be used to broaden the path of the nerve to make it possible to restore the normal conductivity. If necessary, over the counter pain medication may be used to relieve irritation. It is not wise to postpone treating these symptoms. If this is done, it is possible that residual symptoms persist, and there is actually no cure for them.<br />
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<br />
<b>Ulnar Nerve Compression</b><br />
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The ulnar nerve in the wrist may also be pinched. The symptoms are similar as in carpal tunnel syndrome, but a feeling of pins and needles and the decreased sensation appears in the 4th and 5th finger and soreness in the wrist is on the side of the little finger. This is called Guyon's canal syndrome.<br />
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A typical cause is direct pressure on the nerve for example by bicycle handlebars or against the desk while using a computer.<br />
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Avoiding pressure and extreme positions of the wrist at work and during leisure is essential for the treatment. Often also anti-inflammatory medication and physical therapy are used. Surgery may be needed in some cases.<br />
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<b>Ganglion</b><br />
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So-called ganglia may appear on the knuckle side of the wrist. They are benign tumors filled with gel-like liquid. They can also appear on the palm side of the wrist.<br />
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They are usually painless and produce only a minor cosmetic problem in the form a small bulge. In some cases they may cause pain especially if they are in deeper and get squeezed by the joints during movement.<br />
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If the ganglion is found to be deeper in the hand, an ultrasound or MRI may be required to confirm the diagnosis. Treatment consists of draining the fluid and giving a cortisone shot. If this does not eliminate the problem or the problem repeats, surgery may be a possibility. Treatment in the olden days consisted of hitting the ganglion swiftly with a heavy book—this dispersed the ganglion and got rid of the problem.<br />
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<b>Arthritis of the Wrist and the Hand</b><br />
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The most common hand problems in the elderly are due to arthritis. It can be of two types: inflammatory such as rheumatoid, gouty or psoriatic arthritis and degenerative such as osteoarthritis.<br />
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Rheumatoid arthritis is a systemic disease that destroys bones and joints. Osteoarthritis is a wear and tear disorder affecting any individual joint or several joints. When it destroys the even surfaces of the joint, the bone surfaces touch each other and make the joint painful and stiff. Heredity, fractures, repeat injuries, wrist instability or hard work all can play a role in the development of osteoarthritis.<br />
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In rheumatoid arthritis lubricating tissue becomes inflamed and swollen and the joint becomes unstable causing cartilage and bone destruction. Rheumatoid arthritis of the hand typically begins with swelling of the knuckles or the metacarpophalangeal joints or in the joints between the first and second finger bones or the proximal interphalangeal joints. It is usually symmetrical affecting f left and right hand at the same time. The swelling is more pronounced than in cases of degenerative arthritis. Wrist joint is often affected. <br />
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Symptoms are those of pain and local swelling. Often some restriction of movements and difficulty gripping objects may appear. Later on deformities in the hand due to luxation may result. The diagnosis of inflammatory arthritis is made based on clinical examination, x-rays, and lab tests.<br />
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Osteoarthritis of the wrist is not particularly common. Degenerative arthritis usually damages the middle and top joints of the fingers. They may become lumpy and later slightly twisted. Light swelling may take place at the irritation stage. Pain is the worst factor, and it increases especially during exertion.<br />
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Arthritis is also found in the metacarpophalangeal joint of the thumb or the joint connecting the thumb to the hand. This is usually the first joint to experience problems of this type. The symptoms are local pain, a cracking sound, and, less common, swelling. The diagnosis of osteoarthritis is easily confirmed by an x-ray or MRI.<br />
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Treatment of rheumatoid arthritis bases on many different medicines used to relieve symptoms, or to prevent or to slow down the progression of the condition. Results are better if started as early as possible, before the disease has not done much irreversible damage.<br />
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There is no real solution for degenerative arthritis. The treatment mainly consists of anti-inflammatory medication, sometimes taken long-term. Physical therapy in the form of paraffin treatments or underwater ultrasound treatments may be beneficial. A splint may be used to immobilize the wrist for a short time during the inflammation in any form of arthritis. Exercising the hands is extremely valuable for maintaining their functionality. This may sometimes be easily done in warm water. Cortisone injections may be needed for severely inflamed joints.<br />
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If these problems are present, it is necessary to use practical equipment that reduces the need for using strength. Jars can be opened with the help of a damp towel and other devices developed for this purpose. Pincers and other tools may be useful, too.<br />
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It may be more comfortable to exercise the fingers in warm water. A soft pillow meant for squeezing with the fingers may help in keeping the hand muscles in decent shape.<br />
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When other methods do not provide sufficient pain relief or function of the hands decreases to an unacceptable level, surgery is often considered in an attempt to relieve pain and improve function.<br />
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The options most frequently used are a fusion and a joint replacement surgery. After the joining the connection is stable and does not move but also should not produce pain anymore. Prosthesis tries also to restore the normal functioning of the replaced joint.<br />
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<b>Dupuytren’s Contracture</b><br />
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For unknown reasons, the membrane structure in the hand may start to thicken. This causes the contraction of the fingers starting with the little finger. A difficult stiffness problem of the finger joints may arise in the worst cases.<br />
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Surgery is the only help for this problem. This illness may repeat even after surgery.<br />
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<b>Embolism</b><br />
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An embolism that is loose in the arterial circulation may immediately block the circulation to the arms. The embolism usually comes from the heart, aorta, or through the hole in the heart chamber’s wall of the heart from the venous circulation.<br />
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The symptom in the arm is a rapid intense pain. The arm changes to a lighter color and becomes cold and numb. There is no pulse, the arm feels cold and numb, and the skin may have a marbled effect.<br />
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This condition requires emergency circulatory surgery, because limbs can sustain lack of circulation only temporarily. Treatment consists of intravenous procedures, thrombolytic treatment and traditional surgery.<br />
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A venous embolism in the upper limbs is extremely rare. The limb may be painful, and there may be swelling and burning. Diagnosis can be confirmed with an ultrasound or contrast venography. If there is a suspicion of a venous embolism, go to the emergency room immediately.<br />
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<b>Emergencies</b><br />
<br />
Strong pain in the arm, loss of color and pulse in the arm.<br />
Pain in the arm and swelling in the hand.<br />
<br />
<b>See a Doctor</b><br />
<br />
Pain in the forearm in connection with a rasping sound.<br />
Pain in the wrist in connection with radiating or numbness in the hand.<br />
Swelling in the proximal phalanxes of the fingers.<br />
Other pain that cannot be alleviated by home remedies.<br />
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Wrist and hand pain, more information:<br />
<br />
Hand exercise videos <a href="http://tv-gym.blogspot.com/2012/04/sormien-ja-kaden-harjoituksia.html" target="_blank">Tv-gym.com.</a><br />
Dopasolutions.com on <a href="https://dopasolution.com/repetitive-strain-injury/" target="_blank">repetitive strain injuries.</a> <br />
Tips to <a href="http://ergonomics.about.com/od/treatmentprevention/tp/prevwristrsi.htm" target="_blank">prevent strain injuries.</a> <br />
webMD about <a href="http://www.webmd.com/pain-management/carpal-tunnel/carpal-tunnel-syndrome-topic-overview" target="_blank">carpal tunnel syndrome.</a><br />
The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons <a href="http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=a00025" target="_blank">ulnar tunnel syndrome of the wrist.</a><br />
The American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons on <a href="http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=a00006" target="_blank">ganglion of the wrist.</a> <br />
The American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons on <a href="http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=A00224" target="_blank">arthritis of the hand.</a> <br />
Healthline.com about <a href="https://www.healthline.com/health/osteoarthritis/osteoarthritis-hand#treatment" target="_blank">osteoarthritis.</a> <br />
Wikipedia on <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rheumatoid_arthritis" target="_blank">rheumatoid arthritis.</a> <br />
Mayoclinic.com pages about <a href="http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/dupuytrens-contracture/ds00732" target="_blank">Dupuytren's contracture.</a> <br />
Wikipedia on <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arterial_embolism" target="_blank">arterial embolism.</a> <br />
Mayoclinic.com pages about <a href="http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/cold-hands/MY01232" target="_blank">cold hands.</a> <br />
Healthline.com about <a href="https://www.healthline.com/health/carpopedal-spasm" target="_blank">spasms of the hands or feet.</a><br />
Mayoclinic.com about <a href="http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/raynauds-disease/DS00433" target="_blank">Raynaud's disease.</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1203142629998990624.post-12974971594737483332020-03-26T10:27:00.000-07:002020-06-01T06:15:02.950-07:00Chest pain<b>Infections</b><br />
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Mild chest pain is often associated with respiratory infections. Coughing may cause muscle cramps and sometimes even broken ribs in the chest.<g:plusone></g:plusone><br />
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If there is prolonged chest pain connected to infections, it is advisable to have a examination in order to eliminate the possibility of pneumonia, infection of the pleura and other illnesses requiring treatment. A pulmonary x-ray usually gives all the necessary information. <br />
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Self-treatment follows traditional treatment for a flu—drinking plenty of liquids and getting enough rest. Over-the-counter (OTC) inflammation pain medication or medications targeted for alleviating flu symptoms may also be used.<br />
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<b>Coronary Artery Disease</b><br />
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Heart-related problems are a significant reason for chest pains. The most common heart ailment, that causes pain, is coronary artery disease (CAD). With this disease, the arteries in the heart cannot deliver enough blood to the heart muscle, and the resulting lack of oxygen causes pain. <br />
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This type of pain is most commonly felt behind the sternum or in the chest. It may radiate to the left shoulder or arm, to the back, upper stomach or throat. The pain can be mild or strong. Sometimes coronary artery disease shows no symptoms. Upper abdomen problems are sometimes hard to distinguish from heart-related problems. <br />
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The pain typically appears in connection with exertion and lasts only for a short time after exertion. Pain lasting for more than 15-20 minutes may be a sign of myocardial infarction. <br />
<br />
Myocardial infarction-type pain requires a doctor’s inspection and suspicions of myocardial infarction require a trip to the emergency room. In cases of coronary artery disease, the EKG shows changes compatible with reduced blood circulation in the heart. During a heart attack, a higher level of specific proteins releases in the bloodstream. This can be measured to assist in diagnostics of a hearth attack. <br />
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To make the accurate conclusion it may be required to perform an exercise stress test, during which the EKG is monitored, while the patient keeps moving and the strain level is gradually increased. If the diagnosis is not complete, it can be confirmed with coronary angiography, a special contrast medium x-ray examination of the heart and blood vessels. <br />
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Medication usually includes medicines that improve efficiency of circulation in the heart via different mechanisms and reduce the risk of myocardial infarction. In most cases, current medications reduce the symptoms. If medication does not help to achieve adequate functioning, a balloon angioplasty or a bypass surgery may be considered. <br />
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Self-treatment includes attaining normal weight. Reviewing your diet and making necessary changes is useful. Avoid fats, especially saturated fats, eat more vegetables and fruits and reduce the amount of salt in your diet. When a person eats fewer calories than he, or she uses, weight loss is inevitable. <br />
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If an exercise stress test has been performed, ask the doctor who performed it, for information on what your pulse level during exercise should be. Learn to measure your pulse or use a pulse meter and exercise regularly at this appropriate level. <br />
<br />
It makes sense stop smoking and drinking coffee as well as other caffeinated substances such as soft drinks, tea, and diet pills. <br />
<br />
<b>Pericarditis </b><br />
<br />
A sudden inflammation of the pericardium, or pericarditis, may cause pain that resembles myocardial infarction pain. The difference is that pericarditis pain is often reduced when leaning forward. Breathing phase and the person’s posture may have effect on the pain level. Pericarditis may be preceded by a respiratory infection. <br />
<br />
During the inflammation, fluid collects in the pericardium. This may increase even fast and lead to the prevention of filling of the heart and consequently to death, if treatment is not started quickly. <br />
<br />
The examining doctor may hear a friction sound or weakening of heart sound through a stethoscope. Laboratory tests show an increased number of leukocytes and an increased sedimentation rate. EKG shows changes consistent with this condition, and the heart may enlarge in x-rays. Echocardiography or ultrasound may also be used in diagnostics along with laboratory tests. <br />
<br />
The patient should go to the emergency room, because treatment will take place in the hospital. Treatment first focuses on reducing pain and finding the cause of the problem. Causes for this inflammation may be tuberculosis, rheumatism, myocardial infarction or a suppurative infection. Naturally the underlying disease has to be treated. <br />
<br />
<b>Pulmonary Embolus </b><br />
<br />
An embolus usually travels to the lungs from a leg or a venous thrombosis in the pelvis. Symptoms typically include shortness of breath, irritation cough, and chest pain. <br />
<br />
At its worst, this condition can quickly lead to death. At its mildest, a small embolus is virtually asymptomatic and may cause only temporary shortness of breath. <br />
<br />
Pulmonary embolus or suspicions thereof always require a visit to a hospital emergency room.<br />
<br />
<b>Neurocirculatory Conditions </b><br />
<br />
Sometimes during chest pain evaluation, coronary artery disease or other illness that would explain the symptoms are not found, even though the pain may be remarkably strong. This may be a case of neurocirculatory heart disease. <br />
<br />
Pains of this category are often short duration ones that repeat, and have a stabbing or grabbing feel. They often arrive at night after a tough day and may prevent the person from sleeping. <br />
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Nervousness, fatigue, and miscellaneous digestive tract symptoms may accompany the symptoms. Persons experiencing these symptoms often tolerate sauna baths, alcohol, coffee, and tobacco poorly. <br />
<br />
These symptoms require a careful examination. After an consideration there is no need to fear a life-threatening illness. <br />
<br />
Treatment includes various medications depending on symptoms. It is often useful to cut out coffee, tobacco, caffeinated soft drinks, and tea as well as excessive alcohol. It is also helpful to achieve normal weight. <br />
<br />
Neurocirculatory heart conditions do not present an obstacle to even high-level exertion if that level is reached gradually. Symptoms of a neurocirculatory heart condition often ease as the physical condition improves.<br />
<br />
<b>Breast Tumors </b><br />
<br />
Temporary pains caused by hormonal fluctuations may be experienced in the breasts. It is necessary for every woman to learn to self-examine her breasts and make it regularly whether there are symptoms or not. Taking advantage of group breast mammographies is worth the effort. Regular mammographies are recommended for women over 40 even if no symptoms are present. <br />
<br />
An examination is warranted if there are lumps, continuous pain, changes in the skin, withdrawal of the nipple or if bloody fluid leaks from the nipples. Mammography is an easy way to assess the status of the breast tissues. <br />
<br />
Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women. The faster it is detected and treated, the better the treatment outcome. Majority of the tumors is found through self-examination. <br />
<br />
<b>Breast Infections </b><br />
<br />
Breast infections are commonly associated with breast-feeding. A painful area is usually noticed in the breast during breast-feeding, and it may be accompanied by a low temperature and possibly swollen lymph nodes. <br />
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The cause of the infection is often external—the skin, nursing staff or the child’s mouth. The infection spreads via mammary gland ducts. Milk is an ideal base for bacteria to grow in. <br />
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Treatment consists of antibiotics. Breast-feeding can be continued with the healthy breast, and the infected breast can be emptied with a pump. If the nipples are cracked, they can be treated with antibacterial ointment.<br />
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<b>Tietze’s Syndrome </b><br />
<br />
Sometimes pain can be felt in the chest, in the area joining a rib and its costal cartilage. The cause for this phenomenon, Tietze’s syndrome, is not known. <br />
<br />
Diagnosis is based on identifying the painful areas via palpation. An x-ray usually shows nothing out of the ordinary, MRI may be more useful. <br />
<br />
Treatment includes pain medication. Physical therapy or cortisone shots usually do not help significantly. The symptoms will fade with time even though it may take a while. <br />
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Self-treatment can include OTC anti-inflammatory medicine and gels. Cold compresses may be useful. If they feel irritating, try a hot water bottle, or a heating pad. Avoid movements straining the chest area.<br />
<br />
<b>Emergencies</b><br />
<br />
Prolonged chest pain.<br />
Sudden chest pain and shortness of breath.<br />
Respiratory infection accompanied with chest pain.<br />
Chest pain and fever.<br />
<br />
<b>See a Doctor</b><br />
<br />
Repeated chest pain during exercise.<br />
Chest pain that does not diminish with self-treatment.<br />
Painful breasts and changes felt in palpation of the mammary glands.<br />
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Chest pain, more information:<br />
<br />
Medscape.com about <a href="http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/302460-overview" target="_blank">upper respiratory infections.</a><br />
Healthline.com about <a href="https://www.healthline.com/health/symptoms-of-lung-infection#causes" target="_blank">respiratory infections.</a><br />
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute pages about <a href="http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/dci/Diseases/Cad/CAD_WhatIs.html" target="_blank">coronary artery disease.</a><br />
Mayoclinic.com pages about <a href="http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/coronary-artery-disease/DS00064" target="_blank">coronary artery disease.</a><br />
Medicinenet.com about <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/pericarditis/article.htm" target="_blank">pericarditis.</a><br />
MDGuidelines pages about <a href="http://www.mdguidelines.com/neurocirculatory-asthenia" target="_blank">neurocirculatory asthenia.</a><br />
Webmd.com pages about <a href="http://www.webmd.com/breast-cancer/benign-breast-lumps" target="_blank">benign breast lumps.</a><br />
Mayoclinic.com pages about <a href="http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/breast-cancer/DS00328" target="_blank">breast cancer.</a><br />
Cancer.org about <a href="http://www.cancer.org/cancer/breastcancer/detailedguide/breast-cancer-what-is-breast-cancer" target="_blank">breast cancer.</a><br />
Webmd.com pages on <a href="http://women.webmd.com/breast-infection" target="_blank">breast infections.</a><br />
NHS Choices about <a href="http://www.nhs.uk/conditions/Tietzes-syndrome/Pages/Introduction.aspx" target="_blank">Tietze's syndrome.</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1203142629998990624.post-74174576796200758902020-03-26T10:25:00.000-07:002020-06-01T06:39:03.497-07:00Stomach pain<b>Stomach pain</b><br />
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There are a number of organs in the abdominal cavity, and they have many possible illnesses that can cause pain. Diagnosis can usually not be made without a doctor’s examination. Laboratory tests with abdominal pain may include for example blood count, liver and pancreatic enzymes and urinalysis. Barium contrast x-rays of the stomach and the intestines, abdominal ultrasound, CT and MRI scans and endoscopic procedures are used in diagnostics.<br />
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Pains in the digestive organs often have a link to eating. The closer to the top of the digestive tract the painful area is the faster the pain appears after eating. <br />
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<b>Esophagitis </b><br />
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Pains in the lower part of the esophagus may be caused by acid contents of the stomach rising up and irritating the esophagus. The most common predisposing factor is a reduced function of the sphincter esophagi inferior or a hernia. <br />
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Symptoms feel behind the sternum as a burning and heartburn, most often while lying down right after eating. The acidic stomach contents may be felt all the way up in the mouth. <br />
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A stomach endoscopy may be necessary for the diagnosis. Treatment includes lowering the level of stomach acid content via various mechanisms and, if necessary, eliminating diagnosed helicobacteria. <br />
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It is necessary to keep in an upright position after eating. Eat small meals several times during the day and avoid lying down after eating. Losing extra weight may be useful. Avoid eating in the evening as well as eating heavy meals. <br />
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Raise the headboard of your bed by about 6-8 inches. A carpenter can help to make that.<br />
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<b>Ulcers </b><br />
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Illnesses of the stomach and the duodenum may cause symptoms in the upper abdominal area real soon after eating or when the stomach is empty. Symptoms may include pain, heartburn, acid reflux, and edema of the upper abdomen. <br />
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Some of those experiencing these upper abdomen symptoms may have an ulcer or a duodenal ulcer. Endoscopy will confirm the diagnosis. If helicobacteria is found, it must be treated. Other treatment forms include antacids. <br />
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For men, stress triples the risk of getting an ulcer. Stress does not seem to be as significant a factor in women; rather, the biggest risk factor for women is frequent use of pain medication. <br />
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Older patients rarely experience the pain symptoms that are typical with ulcers. The only symptoms may be fatigue and nausea. Correct diagnosis may be made when a person is examined by a doctor for low hemoglobin levels or black stools. <br />
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There may be other changes in the stomach’s mucous membrane, or tumors may be present. In cases of prolonged upper abdominal symptoms, an endoscopy is the proper way to confirm the diagnosis. <br />
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Self-treatment includes observing which foods cause irritation, and then eliminating them from your diet. In cases of ulcer or duodenal ulcer, several smaller meals daily are beneficial. <br />
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Antacids can be used for short periods with upper abdominal symptoms. Anti-inflammatory medicines are not recommended in this instance. If they are taken for some other illness, talk with your doctor to determine whether they truly are needed. <br />
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Smoking raises the risk of an ulcer two-fold, so it pays to quit. <br />
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<b>Gall Bladder </b><br />
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The enzymes in the gall bladder participate in digestion, particularly digestion of fatty substances. Gallbladder-related pains usually do not come immediately after eating, but sometime later. Greasy food is most likely to cause them. <br />
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The pain feels on the right hand side of the upper abdomen. Pain may radiate to the scapula area in the back, or it can be felt in the heart region. Gall bladder pains may be accompanied by vomiting, stool may change to a pale color, and in some cases skin or the eyes may have a yellow tint. <br />
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Diagnosis is often confirmed via an ultrasound and laboratory tests. Radioisotope imaging, CT and MRI scans and special endoscopic and contrast medium x-ray procedures may be used in diagnostics.Treatment consists of diet, medication, and surgery. <br />
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Self-treatment includes eliminating greasy and irritating foods from your diet. Alcohol should be avoided. <br />
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<b>Pancreatitis </b><br />
<br />
The pancreas can also cause upper abdominal pain. Pain is usually extremely strong in pancreatitis, and it is most often felt in the middle of the upper abdomen. It often radiates in a belt-like fashion to the back. <br />
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Pancreatitis is often associated with to gall-bladder problem or use of alcohol. Diagnosis bases on the clinical picture and laboratory tests. An acute pancreatitis or suspicion thereof requires a hospital visit. <br />
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Self-treatment includes eliminating alcohol use—forever. <br />
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<b>Kidney Stones </b><br />
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Kidney and urinary tract illnesses may cause pain most often in the back at the level of the lowest ribs and down. The pain may radiate downward, in the front to the groin area. If a stone causes blockage in cystolithiasis, the pain can be severe. <br />
<br />
If kidney stones are suspected, a visit to a doctor is in order. Diagnosis can be clarified with urine tests and ultrasound, a contrast medium x-ray examination, CT and special endoscopic procedures. <br />
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Treatment includes drinking plenty of fluids and taking medication that eases cramping in the urinary tract. If this does not get rid of the stones, they may have to be crushed with ultrasound energy, or to be removed via surgery.<br />
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<b>Stomach Flu </b><br />
<br />
Different types of bacteria, viruses, and various substances such as unsuitable food or medication may cause acute stomach flu. In this case, illness develops quickly. Fever of short term may be present, accompanied by vomiting and diarrhea. <br />
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In most cases, the cause of the complaint is eliminated naturally. Self-treatment consists of drinking enough fluids and resting. A short fast may calm the situation, as it allows the bowels to rest while they are not digesting food. <br />
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<b>Appendicitis </b><br />
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The pain caused by appendicitis may begin around the navel and the upper abdomen. After a while, it may localize to the right side of the lower abdomen and get worse when coughing, for instance. The clinical picture varies, especially in children. Persons with appendicitis or suspicion thereof need to go to the emergency room and stay under observation. <br />
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<br />
<b>Intestinal Inflammations </b><br />
<br />
Various intestinal inflammations may cause prolonged pain symptoms. An inflammation of the end of the small intestine causes symptoms in the lower right side of the abdomen, and inflammation or irritation of the colon causes symptoms on the left side of the abdomen. <br />
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<b>Gas Pains </b><br />
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Gas pains may cause stomach pains. There may be simultaneous diarrhea or constipation. Gas causes an expansion of the intestines, this causes increased activity in the intestines and muscle cramps that feel as pain. <br />
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Pain may be felt on the sides or below the diaphragm. It is sometimes mistaken for a heart condition. Self-diagnosis is usually possible, and the pain disappears simultaneously with its cause. <br />
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The cause may be excessive swallowing, gas formed by food containing a lot of carbohydrates or the slow elimination of gas due to constipation. <br />
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Self-treatment includes reducing dietary amount of food containing a lot of carbohydrates. These include cabbage, onion, beans, and bananas. Even though adding fiber to one’s diet is generally beneficial, here it is not recommended. <br />
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Get plenty of exercise and avoid tight clothes and belts. Stop using milk or use only sour milk products. Try charcoal tablets to bind the intestinal gas.<br />
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<b>Constipation </b><br />
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Constipation may cause unpleasant sensations on the lower left side of the abdomen. Pain may also be felt when passing stool. <br />
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Traditional laxatives should not be used too freely. On the other hand, preparations that increase the volume inside the intestines may be useful. <br />
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Self-treatment consists of eating a diet rich in fiber. If necessary, add OTC fiber products to your diet. Do not ignore the need to go; elimination of stool should be done at the same time every day, preferably in the morning. If bed rest is prescribed for any reason, the goal is to be able to get up and move as soon as possible. <br />
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In case of constipation, massage the lower abdomen carefully with a horizontal movement. This is easiest while lying down, bending the knees and hips, and relaxing the abdominal muscles. <br />
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<b>Inguinal Hernias </b><br />
<br />
An inguinal hernia may cause pain in the groin area. It forms when, due to a congenital weakness, a part of the stomach cavity pushes itself under the skin. In this case, a localized bulge is usually visible when the person stands upright, but it disappears when he lies down. When palpating with a finger, a hole for the hernia can often be felt. <br />
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Because hernias may sometimes constrict and cause partial necrosis of the intestine, treatment usually includes closing the space surgically. This prevents worse problems from developing.<br />
<br />
<b>Urinary Infections </b><br />
<br />
Pain in the lower urinary tract and bladder is usually felt in the lower abdomen close to the pubic bone, in the groin or genital area. Symptoms such as increased need to urinate, burning, or difficulty urinating are often present. <br />
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Burning during urination may be caused by bladder, prostate or urinary tract problems. Pain felt at the beginning of urination is often connected to problems of the urinary tract and is caused by urine flowing through the painful area. An inflamed bladder contracting after it is emptied often causes pain at the end of urination. <br />
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The most common complaint is a urinary tract infection, which can be diagnosed from a urinary sample. Treatment usually consists of antibiotics. Other illnesses and substances such as gonorrhea, chlamydia, and tolfenamic acid may cause burning during urination. <br />
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Self-treatment includes drinking plenty of fluids. This helps eliminate bacteria from the system. Substances that increase the acidity of urine inhibit the growth or bacteria. These include vitamin C, lingonberry juice, and buckthornberry juice. <br />
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Prevention includes emptying the bladder before and after intercourse. It is important after a bowel movement to wipe from front to back, so that the bacteria do not spread to the urinary tract.<br />
<br />
<b>Emergencies</b><br />
<br />
Severe abdominal pain that gets worse.<br />
Abdominal pain accompanied with fever.<br />
Upper abdominal pain accompanied with bloody vomit.<br />
Post alcohol-use pain deep in the abdomen that radiates in a belt-like fashion to the back.<br />
Abdominal pain that worsens when coughing.<br />
A bulge in the groin that is visible even when lying down, and is accompanied by pain.<br />
Abdominal pain accompanied by yellowing of the skin or the whites of the eyes.<br />
<br />
<b>See a Doctor</b><br />
<br />
Abdominal pain accompanied by bloody vomit, stool or urine.<br />
Abdominal pain accompanied by color change of stool to pale or totally black.<br />
Abdominal pain accompanied by urinary symptoms.<br />
Prolonged abdominal pain in any area.<br />
A bulge or lump in the abdominal area.<br />
Pains in the upper abdominal area, accompanied by difficulty swallowing.<br />
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Stomach pain, more information:<br />
<br />
Medscape.com about <a href="http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/775050-overview" target="_blank">esophagitis.</a><br />
Mayoclinic.com pages about <a href="http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/peptic-ulcer/DS00242" target="_blank">peptic ulcers.</a><br />
MedlinePlus on <a href="http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/gallbladderdiseases.html" target="_blank">gallbladder disease.</a><br />
Mayoclinic.com pages about <a href="http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/pancreatitis/DS00371" target="_blank">pancreatitis.</a><br />
Webmd.com pages on <a href="http://www.webmd.com/kidney-stones/kidney-stones-topic-overview" target="_blank">kidney stones.</a><br />
Medicinenet.com pages on <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/gastroenteritis/article.htm" target="_blank">stomach flu.</a><br />
Mayoclinic.com pages about <a href="http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/appendicitis/DS00274" target="_blank">appendicitis.</a><br />
Mayoclinic.com pages about <a href="http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/gas-and-gas-pains/DS00080" target="_blank">gas and gas pains.</a><br />
Webmd.com pages on <a href="http://www.webmd.com/digestive-disorders/digestive-diseases-constipation" target="_blank">constipation.</a><br />
Wikipedia on <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Inguinal_hernia" target="_blank">inguinal hernias.</a><br />
eMedicineHealth pages about <a href="http://www.emedicinehealth.com/urinary_tract_infection_in_adults_iq/faq.htm" target="_blank">urinary tract infections.</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1203142629998990624.post-543951791892550332020-03-26T10:23:00.000-07:002020-05-31T09:02:49.602-07:00Genital pain<b>Female Genital Pains </b><br />
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<br />
<b>Menstrual Pains</b><g:plusone></g:plusone><br />
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Reoccurring pain is often associated with menstruation. Pain may appear before, during or after menstruation and is blunt and achy in nature. It is typically felt in the lower abdominal area, possibly also in the lower back. The pain is most often harmless and is not caused by an illness. <br />
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To check out the symptoms with a doctor, visit will eliminate the possibility of illness. Menstrual pain can generally be treated with anti-inflammatories. Giving birth often reduces the symptoms. <br />
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Various illnesses may also cause pain associated with menstruation. These may include developmental disturbances of the uterus, endometriosis, uterus that is tilted backwards, complications from ovarian infections, uterine myomas, and damage that occurred during labor. A doctor’s examination will give an idea of the nature of the problem.<br />
<br />
<b>Endometriosis </b><br />
<br />
When tissue resembling mucous membrane of the uterus is found outside the uterus, it may cause pain at different times of the menstrual cycle. Infertility may be associated with these problems. The pain can be an ache or a stabbing pain. Stomach may distend. Shaking makes the pain come worse. <br />
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If tissue grows near the intestines or urinary organs, diarrhea or urinary problems may be present. There is usually less bleeding during the menstrual period, and a person’s temperature may be elevated for a few days just before menstruation. <br />
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Self-treatment includes anti-inflammatories. The treating doctor may consider hormone therapy and surgery.<br />
<br />
<b>Infections </b><br />
<br />
An infection of the reproductive organs usually travels upward through the cervix into the uterus and from there into the ovaries. The infection may spread from the ovaries into the abdominal cavity. <br />
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The most common symptoms of an ovarian infection are abdominal pain and fever. The examining doctor will find tenderness in the infected area, and laboratory tests show signs of an infection. Treatment mainly consists of antibiotics. Surgery is sometimes necessary. <br />
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There are infections of the vagina as well. The most common symptoms are an increased, sometimes foul smelling discharge from the vagina, pain, and urinary symptoms. The culprits are usually trichomonas, yeast, gonococcus and other bacteria. Diagnosis is possible after a culture. Treatment consists of using appropriate medication for each cause. <br />
<br />
<b>Tumors of the Uterus </b><br />
<br />
Tumors of the uterine tissue, or myomas, are remarkably common. Small myomas are painless. There may be some pain as they grow if they press on nerve structures during the process. Urinary symptoms, constipation, or back pain may be present as well, if there is pressure on the bladder or the intestines. <br />
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Urinary retention or edema in the legs are sometimes present with large-size myomas. If the cervix is constricted or there is necrosis or hemorrhage in the myoma, sudden, severe pain may come. <br />
<br />
<b>Other Tumors </b><br />
<br />
Cervical cancer is the most common cancer of women’s reproductive organs. It is most prevalent in women aged 45-50. There are few symptoms at the onset, and they usually include discharge mixed with blood or brown in color. Pain is usually not present at the onset. <br />
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Cancer of the body of the uterus is most prevalent in women aged 55-60. Most get sick after menopause. The main symptom is usually bloody discharge. Pain will appear only at a later stage. <br />
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Tumors of the ovaries are often asymptomatic in the beginning. Only when the tumor grows may symptoms appear. The tumors are often found in routine check-ups.<br />
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<b>Prolapse </b><br />
<br />
Repeated or straining births may cause tears and stretching of the muscles. This may cause prolapse of the reproductive organs. <br />
<br />
Straining of the ligaments may cause back pain. A bend may appear in the urethra, which causes urinary symptoms. Patient may have difficulty with bowel movements and may experience vaginal bleeding. <br />
<br />
Treatment is surgery. <br />
<br />
<b>Ectopic Pregnancy </b><br />
<br />
A fertilized egg may attach itself outside the uterine cavity and develop there for some time. This usually takes place in the fallopian tubes. It is rare that growth continues past the midpoint of the pregnancy. <br />
<br />
Periods are usually delayed in ectopic pregnancy. Sometimes the symptoms may arise even before the first menstrual period is missed. Normal signs of pregnancy are there. Pain in the lower abdomen may be sudden and powerful and is often accompanied by uterine bleeding. Bleeding may cause a rapid deterioration in a person’s health. <br />
<br />
Immediate surgery is necessary. If an ectopic pregnancy is suspected, go to the emergency room immediately.<br />
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<br />
<b>Venereal Diseases </b><br />
<br />
Women may have only few symptoms. Women become symptomatic within the first two weeks. Symptoms may include pain in the lower abdomen, leukorrhea, and burning during urination. If the disease is not treated in its early stage, complications such as polyarthritis may appear. <br />
<br />
Diagnosis can be made by staining or from a culture taken from the infected fluid. Treatment consists of antibiotics. <br />
<br />
<b>Emergencies </b><br />
<br />
Abdominal pain and bloody discharge if pregnancy is a possibility. <br />
<br />
<b>See a Doctor </b><br />
<br />
Abdominal pain accompanied by urinary symptoms. <br />
Abdominal pain accompanied with fever. <br />
Prolonged abdominal pain anywhere in the abdomen. <br />
Increased vaginal discharge. <br />
Bloody vaginal discharge. <br />
Foul-smelling vaginal discharge. <br />
Discharge from the urinary tract. <br />
Burning during urination. <br />
<br />
Female Genital Pain, more information: <br />
<br />
Medicinenet.com pages on <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/menstrual_cramps/article.htm" target="_blank">menstrual cramps.</a> <br />
Mayoclinic.com pages about <a href="http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/endometriosis/DS00289" target="_blank">endometriosis.</a><br />
eMedicineHealth pages about <a href="http://www.emedicinehealth.com/pelvic_inflammatory_disease/article_em.htm" target="_blank">infections of reproductive organs.</a> <br />
Mayoclinic.com pages about <a href="http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/uterine-fibroids/DS00078" target="_blank">myomas.</a> <br />
NHS Choices about <a href="http://www.nhs.uk/conditions/Cancer-of-the-cervix/Pages/Introduction.aspx?url=Pages/what-is-it.aspx" target="_blank">cervical cancer.</a> <br />
NHS Choices about <a href="http://www.nhs.uk/conditions/cancer-of-the-uterus/Pages/Introduction.aspx" target="_blank">cancers of the uterus.</a> <br />
Webmd.com pages on <a href="http://women.webmd.com/prolapsed-uterus" target="_blank">prolapsed uterus.</a> <br />
Webmd.com pages on <a href="http://www.webmd.com/baby/tc/ectopic-pregnancy-topic-overview" target="_blank">ectopic pregnancy.</a> <br />
Medicinenet.com pages on <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/sexually_transmitted_diseases_stds_in_women/article.htm" target="_blank">sexually transmitted diseases in women.</a> <br />
<br />
<b>Female and Male Genital Pains <br />
<br />
Urinary Infections </b><br />
<br />
Pains in the lower urinary tract and bladder are usually felt in the lower abdomen near the pubic bone, in the groin or genital area. Often there are also other symptoms like increased need to urinate, burning or problems of urinating. <br />
<br />
Burning during urination may be caused by a problem in the bladder, prostate or urinary tract. The pain felt at the beginning of urination is usually connected to problems of the urinary tract and is caused by urine flowing through the painful area. An inflamed bladder contracting after it is emptied often causes pain at the end of urination. <br />
<br />
The most common problem is a urinary tract infection, which can be diagnosed from a urine sample. Treatment is usually antibiotics. Gonorrhea, chlamydia and some medications such as tolfenamic acid may cause burning during urination. <br />
<br />
Self-treatment includes drinking plenty of fluids. This helps eliminate bacteria from the system. Substances that increase the acidity of urine inhibit the growth of bacteria. These include vitamin C, lingonberry juice, and buckthornberry juice. <br />
<br />
Prevention includes emptying the bladder before and after intercourse. It is important to wipe from front to back after a bowel movement, so that bacteria do not spread to the urinary tract. <br />
<br />
Female and Male Genital Pain, more information: <br />
<br />
Mayoclinic.com pages about <a href="http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/urinary-tract-infection/DS00286" target="_blank">urinary infections.</a> <br />
<br />
<b>Male genital pains <br />
<br />
Torsion of Testis </b><br />
<br />
Torsion of the testis is common in children and young adults. Symptoms are sudden pain in the testicle and swelling. Examination shows that the testicle has risen to the upper part of the scrotum. Treatment consists of ER surgery. <br />
<br />
<b>Male Infections </b><br />
<br />
The glans and prepuce of the penis may become infected. This may be caused by congenital or later tightness of the prepuce. Treatment is bathing. If it is possible to pull the prepuce back, the infected area can be cleaned and treated with antibacterial ointments and liquids. Circumcision may be necessary at a later date. <br />
<br />
Herpes may cause eczema with small blisters in the glans area. <br />
<br />
The epididymis may get infected due to bacteria, gonorrhea or tuberculosis. Symptoms are swelling of the testicle and pain. Treatment includes scrotum support and antibiotics. <br />
<br />
Testicular infection is associated with mumps. An infection of the epididymis usually does not extend to the testicle, even though there may be so much swelling that it seems to be the case. <br />
<br />
The prostate may become acutely infected or develop a boil. In this case, symptoms are sudden fever and pain in the groin area, between the legs, and the testicles. Antibiotics normally constitute a good enough treatment. Sometimes a boil has to be lanced. <br />
<br />
Chronic prostate infections are much more common than acute infections. The symptoms often are a slight dull ache in the groin area, lower abdomen, testicles or lumbar pelvic area in the back. There may be increased demand or difficulty to urinate. During palpation, the prostate gland feels tender. <br />
<br />
Treatment may consist of warm sitzbaths, for instance in a bathtub. Massage of the prostate gland has also been used. Medication, that reduces the symptoms, may be used. <br />
<br />
<b>Tumors of the Scrotum </b><br />
<br />
Malignant tumors of the scrotum are most prevalent in young men. Symptoms may be a hard lump in a testicle or a rapidly growing tumor in the scrotum. Surgery is urgently required. <br />
<br />
Hydrocele or a gathering of solution in the scrotum is a benign tumor. It is transparent and can be seen with a flashlight. If it constitutes a large mass, it can be removed with surgery. <br />
<br />
Varicose veins of the scrotum may also provide the impression of an enlarged scrotum. The varicose veins empty when lying down. If necessary, surgery is a possibility. <br />
<br />
<b>Venereal Diseases </b><br />
<br />
Gonorrhea in men is almost always symptomatic. Men experience symptoms within 2-5 days of intercourse during which they contracted the disease. First symptom may be staining discharge from the urinary tract. There is often burning and itching during urination. <br />
<br />
Diagnosis can be made by staining or from a culture taken from the infected fluid. Treatment consists of antibiotics. <br />
<br />
It is possible to develop an infection of the urinary tract that is caused by other types of bacteria. In this case, tests will not show the presence of gonococcus. Treatment in this case is also antibiotics. <br />
<br />
<b>Scrotal pain </b><br />
<br />
Pain in the scrotum may be local process, be referred or arise from an unknown cause. After vasectomy, or 'male sterilization', chronic pain follows in 1-15 %. Epididymitis, or inflammation of a structure at the back of the testicle, in which sperm matures and stores, may also be cause for the pain. <br />
<br />
Chronic prostatitis may manifest as scrotal pain. Doctor usually can suspect this reason if the prostate is tender during rectal examination. Local tumor, stone in the urinary tract, overactivity of the pelvic floor muscles or operations in this area can also cause pains in the scrotum. <br />
<br />
Sometimes no known treatable cause can be found. In this case activities that might increase the symptoms, such as riding or cycling, should be avoided. Physiotherapy may be useful in situations when there is increased activity of the pelvic floor muscles. Over the counter anti-inflammatory drugs may be useful in some situations.<br />
<br />
<b>Emergencies</b><br />
<br />
Acute severe pain in the testicular area.<br />
Hard lump in a testicle.<br />
A rapidly growing mass in the scrotum.<br />
<br />
<b>See a Doctor</b><br />
<br />
Abdominal pain accompanied by urinary symptoms.<br />
Abdominal pain accompanied with fever.<br />
Prolonged abdominal pain anywhere in the abdomen.<br />
Discharge from the urinary tract.<br />
Burning during urination.<br />
<br />
Male Genital Pain, more information:<br />
<br />
patient.co.uk page about <a href="http://www.patient.co.uk/health/Torsion-of-the-Testis.htm" target="_blank">torsion of the testis.</a><br />
NHS Choices about <a href="http://www.nhs.uk/conditions/Balanitis/Pages/Introduction.aspx" target="_blank">balanitis.</a><br />
Medscape.com about <a href="http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/777026-overview" target="_blank">balanitis.</a><br />
Mayoclinic.com pages about <a href="http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/epididymitis/DS00603" target="_blank">epididymitis.</a><br />
eMedicineHealth pages about <a href="http://www.emedicinehealth.com/testicle_infection_epididymitis/article_em.htm" target="_blank">epididymitis.</a><br />
Mayoclinic.com pages about <a href="http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/orchitis/DS00602" target="_blank">orchitis.</a><br />
Webmd.com pages on <a href="http://men.webmd.com/prostatitis" target="_blank">prostatitis.</a><br />
Mayoclinic.com pages about <a href="http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/testicular-cancer/DS00046" target="_blank">testicular cancer.</a><br />
Medicinenet.com pages on <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/sexually_transmitted_diseases_stds_in_men/article.htm" target="_blank">sexually transmitted diseases in men.</a><br />
Webmd.com pages about <a href="http://www.webmd.com/sex/birth-control/vasectomy-14387" target="_blank">vasectomy.</a><br />
Mayoclinic.com pages about <a href="http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/kidney-stones/DS00282" target="_blank">kidney stones.</a><br />
Familydoctor.org <a href="http://familydoctor.org/online/famdocen/home/tools/symptom/539.html" target="_blank">genital problems in men, chart.</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1203142629998990624.post-63843334532923653982020-03-26T10:21:00.000-07:002020-06-01T06:57:44.339-07:00Back pain<b>Back pain</b><br />
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Back pain is extremely common, and a person who has never had any back problems is fortunate indeed. Most back pain cases are short-term ones and will improve without specific treatment. On the other hand, a small minority of back pain cases is extremely cumbersome and may cause a decrease in level of functioning and long sick leaves.<br />
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The lumbar spine is an imperfect structure, technically speaking. Unfortunately we cannot return or exchange it, but must make do with the one we have. Its bones are called vertebra. They stack on top of one another and form a column with curves in the neck, chest and lower back area. The lower part consists of solid bones sacrum and coccyx.<br />
<br />
Bony parts or vertebrae consist of the anterior or frontal parts and flexible shock-absorbing discs between them. The outer part or the wall of the disc consists of fibrous and elastic elements building a sort of protecting ring for the inner soft, elastic, gel-like part called nucleus pulposus. The posterior or back part of the vertebra forms a bony structure around the spinal canal with spinal cord in it and has articulations between neighboring vertebras directing movements of the spine. These are called facet joints. The muscles of the spine are also attached to the posterior part.<br />
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The innermost part of the disc is not sensitive to pain, but the outer part has nerve endings. The vertebral bodies and ligaments surrounding them can be the source of pain as also the nerve structures in the spinal canal and the openings or foramens of the nerve roots emerging from the spinal canal between the vertebras.<br />
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The degeneration of the elastic part of the spine, the intervertebral disks between the bony vertebral bodies is usually the principal reason for back pain. The risk factors of degeneration is smoking, heavy physical work and obesity. As the disks degenerate with age, they lose fluid and discs tears may arise in its outer part. In this case, a sour and irritating mass may burst into the tear from the softer part, nucleus pulposus in its middle. When the tear is inside the disk, symptoms resemble that of a local back pain. If the mass of the intervertebral disk spreads outside, it may press on the leg nerves and cause radiating pain in the leg.<br />
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With age, also other parts of the spine degenerate. As the disc´s degeneration increases it become less elastic and thinner. The space between the vertebrae diminishes, and there is less stability of the column. The body tries to stabilize the situation with additional bone growth by building bone spurs. These structures may make the spinal canal and the openings of the nerve roots narrower. If they grow large enough, they may also press the spinal cord or the roots.<br />
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<b>Lumbago</b><br />
<br />
The most common term used for general, temporary low back pain is lumbago. Typical symptoms of this entity include localized lower back pain without radiating pain in the legs. Exertion, poor posture or a chill may have preceded the pain. Usually the origin of the short term pain remains unknown. It may occur for example due to lumbar disc or facet joint problems or muscle strains. The symptoms usually disappear in a few days with rest and pain medication.<br />
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In this case, rest means avoiding harder tasks. Bed rest should be avoided if possible, but normal housework can be performed as much as is reasonably tolerated. Cold compresses in the beginning or alternatively heating pads may be tried if cold does not feel comfortable.<br />
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<b>Sciatica</b><br />
<br />
If intense back pain is accompanied by radiating pain in either leg, sciatica, or irritation of the nerve roots due to herniated intervertebral disk, may be the cause. If this situation accompanies symptoms of advancing paralysis in the leg or fecal incontinence, doctor should be contacted immediately, because emergency surgery may be required. This situation is very rare, however.<br />
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The most valuable thing in treating new sciatica pain is rest. A back brace may be used, and it may be helpful in situations where tasks have to be performed despite the pain. Treatment of sciatica may require particularly strong pain medication. In new sciatica cases, traction or auto-traction of the back may be considered. Normal back exercises and gymnastics contact should be avoided in the acute stage.<br />
<br />
Most sciatica cases calm down within weeks or a few months. If irritation persists longer than two months, surgery may become necessary. It removes the element pressing on the nerve root, and this usually reduces the radiating pain.<br />
<br />
When looking for hernia of the intervertebral disk or a blockage of the spinal cord vertebral canal MRI, computer tomography or myelography may be used. EMG is used in diagnosing pinched nerves. MRI or Magnetic Resonance Imaging shows degenerative changes of the intervertebral disks, intervertebral hernias, and possible pinched conditions in the spinal cord.<br />
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<b>Prolonged Back Pain</b><br />
<br />
The usual reason for prolonged and reoccurring back problems, which do not show pinched nerves requiring surgery, may be degenerative changes in the spinal column or the lower intervertebral disks and possibly reoccurring internal tears in them, spondylolysis or a stress fracture of the posterior part of a vertebrae, excess mobility between the disks or small bulges in the intervertebral disks.<br />
<br />
A thorough evaluation is useful in cases of prolonged discomfort or pain that reoccurs often. The first step may be an x-ray. It shows the bones of the spinal column and the status of the intervertebral disks can be evaluated indirectly. Computer tomography, MRI and neural pathway examination and EMG may be used as an additional diagnosis tools.<br />
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Treating prolonged back pain may be difficult. Long-term goal is to maintain functioning via exercise so that the back stays flexible and the muscles strong. This may require a specifically designed back rehabilitation period in a specialized treatment facility.<br />
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Unfortunately no satisfactory treatment or prevention methods exist for degenerative changes. Prevention includes maintaining a healthy physical condition. Smoking cessation reduces the risk of back problems. Appropriate weight and work that is somewhat physical but not too hard for the back are helpful. Injuries of the back or excessive physical stress should be avoided as well as vibration.<br />
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Anti-inflammatory medicines relieve the pain. Heat or cold pads, electric therapy, and massage are useful for reducing pain, and they are often needed as a pre-treatment before the traction.<br />
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Some back pain responds to vertebral manipulation therapy. If the back pain accompanies pain that radiates to below the knee, this type of treatment is usually not recommended. Vertebral manipulation treatment works best for back pain that has lasted for 2-4 weeks. Acupuncture is also used to treat prolonged back pain, with pretty decent results.<br />
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Surgery is rarely used in other cases than sciatica and narrowing or stenosis of the spinal cord canal. Stabilizing surgery is considered in cases of painful degeneration of the lower back.<br />
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After flexibility and muscle strength reinstates, it would be beneficial to design for optimal conditions for the back. Any difference in leg length can be eliminated by using insoles or raising the heel of shoe of the shorter side.<br />
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Work requirements and functionality of the back should be in balance. Sometimes back problems make the sufferer to change professions. This may initially be a difficult thought for a lot of people, but it can also be an rare opportunity to create a new career.<br />
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If the change of the profession is required, it is essential that the new one is pleasing. Experience shows that those who have bad backs stay longer in jobs that are attractive vs. boring. Even if the job stays the same, attention should be paid to the work postures. Back pain increases in jobs that involve working in stooping positions, lifting heavy loads, or jobs that contain a lot of carrying or vibration.<br />
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Sedentary work with few breaks in the day is not the best for someone suffering from back pain. No one job probably offers ideal conditions, so compromises have to be made.<br />
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The back is one of the problem spots for the modern man. According to folklore, you can throw out your back while doing heavy forestry work or while lying on the couch listening to a program about forestry work. Medium-level exertion is advantageous. Too much or too little is harmful.<br />
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It is not sufficient to stay at home alone with the back pain. As one “listens” to the pain, it tends to increase, and if one does not allow the problem affect life too much, it is halfway conquered.<br />
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Self-treatment includes temporary use of over the counter anti-inflammatory medicine, and ointments if the pain feels like a superficial muscular pain. Cold compresses several times a day work sometimes well.<br />
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In the most severe pain phase one can relax the back by lying on the back and lifting the legs against a wall or bending the knees on top of pillows.<br />
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Sitting position strains the intervertebral disks the most, so prolonged sitting should be avoided. Leaning forward while working, heavy lifting and especially twisting the back while lifting are not recommended during the severe pain episode.<br />
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Bed rest should be avoided and various ordinary daily tasks continued. During the pain phase, a back brace may be used for pain relief and increased functioning. Temporary use does not weaken the back muscles. The back may be bended backwards, but any other back exercise should not be tried at the primary most painful period.<br />
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If the back hurts more in the morning, sleeping arrangement should be considered. The position of the back might be checked during sleep. Goal is not to distort the back during sleep. There are many choices of mattresses to accomplish this task in an optimal way. Some patients have liked waterbeds. They are not so fashionable any more. The key point here apparently is heat, which relaxes the back muscles. Some back pain patients may experience worse pain when using a waterbed. There are other bed solutions that satisfy a proper back position during sleep. Sometimes mattresses adjusted to the weight and the body structure may be a suitable alternative. Mattresses can be made to order based on a computer analysis.<br />
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The lower back should be supported adequately while working and driving. Armrests should be at the right height that eliminates twisting to the sides. Tipping the chair backwards reduces the stress on the intervertebral disks. Lifting legs on the table every once in a while relaxes back even further, and likely also mind. This page may be shown to the supervisor if there is any suspicion of laziness due to the relaxed posture.<br />
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After the most acute pain subsides, the back can be used more. Normal pelvic motion can be exaggerated when walking—this massages the lowest disks gently. Swimming may be started as soon as you are able to do it.<br />
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Back exercises can be started during the recuperation period. A physiotherapist´s advice is valuable additional support if available. The best way to strengthen the back, abdominal and leg muscles is to make regular instructed exercises several times a week with an increasing intensity.<br />
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General physical condition should also be taken care of. Aerobic exercises should be done at least three times a week, 20 minutes at a time, so that pulse rate elevates. This helps to keep the blood circulation in the pelvic-level back area. Smoking should be stopped. It is a risk factor for back pain, apparently because it reduces circulation in the back.<br />
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<b>Spinal Stenosis</b><br />
<br />
A displaced vertebra, congenital abnormalities of the back or degenerative changes may cause a stricture in the spinal cord canal. This so-called spinal stenosis may cause leg pain while walking as well as weakness. Leaning forward may help.<br />
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X-rays will point to the diagnosis, and computer tomography or MRI can confirm the diagnosis. Neural pathway examination or EMG is sometimes also used in diagnosing this problem.<br />
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Stenosis is typically a problem of the elderly. Treatment includes moving about as much as the condition allows. Calcitonin treatment may help to alleviate the leg pains of patients. There is actually no other medication available. When walks get shorter and pain gets unbearable, surgery may be used to relieve the neural structures and thus stabilize the situation. Normally even after this, the back will not support tougher labour.<br />
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<br />
<b>Spondylolysis</b><br />
<br />
Spondylolysis is a stress fracture of the arch in the posterior part of the vertebra. . It is considered to be an overuse injury or a stress fracture. When both sided it often leads to spondylolisthesis or forward slipping of a vertebra. If too much displacement of the bones occurs, there may be pressure on the nerve roots.<br />
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Hereditary may play a role in spondylolysis. Sports with excessive stress and overstretching of the lower back may be one of the causes of this problem. The slippage may be born easier in periods of rapid growth.<br />
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Spondylolysis may be asymptomatic for a long time. Symptoms generally appear during the teen-age. There may be intermittent or constant slight pain in the lower back and tightening of the posterior thigh muscles. If the slippage compresses the nerves and narrows the spinal canal there may be symptoms of pain from lower back down into legs.<br />
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Diagnosis can be confirmed with an x-ray. A CT or MRI scan may be needed to rule out other possible conditions. The treatment consists of rest, medication and exercise to build up a muscle corset to improve the stability and functioning of the lower spine. It is often successful especially when started early. Sometimes surgery is needed to stabilize the spine and to prevent further slipping and compression of the nerve roots.<br />
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<b>Ankylosing Spondylitis</b><br />
<br />
Ankylosing spondylitis is also called Bekhterev's disease. It belongs to the group of inflammatory arthritis and autoimmune diseases with a connection to the genetic markers for example to HLA-B27. It gives inflammation in the spine and the sacroiliac joint. The end result can be the union of the entire spine called bamboo spine.<br />
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Ankylosing spondylitis may cause prolonged back pain in a young person. Earlier it was thought to affect only men, but that does not seem to be the case. If a moderate back pain continues for over three months in a person younger than 40 and if morning stiffness in the back lasts over an hour and remaining still makes the pain worse, an examination is in order to eliminate the possibility of this disease.<br />
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Pain is generally marked in rest, but may be weaker in motion. In younger patients swelling of some joints of the lower extremities may be seen. Also insertions of the tendons to the bones often show signs of inflammation. In this condition the so-called SI or sacroiliac joints may show signs of inflammation. These changes take place gradually over several years. They can be observed in x-rays, computer topographies or MRIs.<br />
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For the diagnosis it is sometimes needed to run the usual laboratory tests. In the case of ankylosing spondylitis, sedimentation rate and CRP may be high. They may also be perfectly normal. The diagnosis is made with the clinical picture and history of the problem, also imaging and laboratory tests are usually needed.<br />
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There is no known cure for this disease. Symptoms may be alleviated with medication and physical therapy. Physiotherapy and physical exercises may be able to improve functioning in the everyday life.<br />
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<b>Disk Inflammation</b><br />
<br />
The intervertebral disk may inflame. This is usually caused by bacteria. In adults, the inflammation commonly begins after surgery or some other invasive procedure relating to the disk.<br />
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Symptoms include common symptoms of inflammation such as temperature, pain, and weakening of the physical condition. The back pain is not always unusually strong and in children the clinical picture may be ambiguous.<br />
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Diagnosis is confirmed with laboratory tests and MRIs. Treatment is antibiotics.<br />
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<b>Metastases</b><br />
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Cancers sometimes send metastases to the lumbar spine or elsewhere in the spine. The most common cancer types that do this are prostate and breast cancers. Symptoms consist of localized pain.<br />
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An x-ray or MRI will help diagnose this problem. If one has been treated for a malignant tumor, pain in the spine should be checked more quickly.<br />
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<b>Osteoporosis</b><br />
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Deficient calcium levels usually cause no symptoms until the spine is so weak that vertebrae break with the least injury or even without an injury. In this case, the back is mighty sore and posture problems may arise.<br />
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The risk group for osteoporosis includes those women who get their menopause early and who have not started hormone replacement treatments, persons whose relatives have had fractures due to osteoporosis, those who are underweight or overuse tobacco and alcohol, those who do not consume dairy products, and those who have rheumatism or receive cortisone treatment.<br />
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Fracture is diagnosed with an x-ray or MRI. The fracture usually ossifies by itself. It is recommended to move as much as pain allows. Before fractures arise, insufficient calcium levels can be verified by measuring bone density. Osteoporosis should be treated with appropriate medication before fractures appear.<br />
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<br />
<b>Piriformis Syndrome</b><br />
<br />
Piriformis syndrome is quite rare but it is possible that a nerve gets pinched between the two parts of the piriformis muscle in the buttocks, in which case the symptoms mirror those of sciatica. Neural pathway examination helps in diagnosing whether the problem is pinched nerves in the lumbar spine or the gluteal muscles.<br />
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Physical therapy relaxes the muscle. Cortisone injections may work and in some cases surgery is used to help free the nerve.<br />
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<b>Muscle Weakness</b><br />
<br />
Weak back and abdominal muscles may contribute to pain, more so in tall persons. Physical therapists can check muscle strength levels if this might be the problem.<br />
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Treatment consists of strengthening the muscles. Testing the strength level and range of motion helps in creating a program aimed at improving the performance of the weakest part. If one begins exercise without testing, it may end up exercising the weakest part the least because it is the most difficult part to handle and train.<br />
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<b>Tailbone Pain</b><br />
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Sometimes the tailbone gets sore due to a minor injury; for some reason this is more prevalent in women. When the area is examined and x-rayed, usually nothing out of the ordinary is found in addition to the pain.<br />
<br />
This condition can be a nuisance, because it can take a long time. There is no effective treatment. Thermotherapy may be useful, also anti-inflammatory medication or cortisone injections can be tried.<br />
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<b>X-Ray Changes</b><br />
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Back x-rays or MRIs often show degenerative changes of different levels as well as various structural abnormalities. A person may have four or six lumbar vertebrae instead of five, or the lowest vertebra may have attached itself to the pelvis, the back arch of the vertebrae may be open etc.<br />
<br />
These phenomena usually do not cause back problems; in fact, changes such as these are found in people who have never had back pain. Loosening or shifting of the arch of the vertebra or spondylolysis is a significant change in view of back pain, but the importance of the other phenomena is unclear.<br />
<br />
Degenerative changes visible in spine x-rays or MRIs are an age-related fact that may affect just about everyone as we age. They may necessarily not have anything to do with current pain symptoms. A high level of degeneration tends to stiffen the spine as the aging process continues.<br />
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<b>Hemorrhoids</b><br />
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The most common reason for anal pain is hemorrhoids. Anal fissures, infections, prolapsed colon and tumors may also cause pain in this region. Diagnosis bases on a doctor’s inspection and sigmoidoscopy and, if necessary, contrast medium x-rays.<br />
<br />
Sit baths several times a day are useful. If sitting hurts,to sit on, a partially filled children’s swimming ring may be used. OTC hemorrhoid creams and suppositories can be used for short periods of time only.<br />
<br />
If one suffers from hemorrhoids, stools should be kept soft and wiping should be done gently. The paper may be moistened before wiping and the softest possible paper used. If necessary, toilet paper that has moisturizer in it can be used. The painful area must not be scratched.<br />
<br />
<b>Emergencies</b><br />
<br />
Back pain accompanied by advancing paralysis of a leg or difficulty in urine or stool continence.<br />
Post-surgery back pain that is worse, accompanied by fever.<br />
<br />
<b>See a Doctor</b><br />
<br />
Back pain accompanied by pain radiating down the leg.<br />
Prolonged back pain accompanied with problems with walking.<br />
Prolonged back pain in a young person.<br />
Severe back pain after a fall.<br />
Back pain accompanied with fever.<br />
Back pain, if person has had malignant tumors.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilW1WtKPPDp2CyJwuiRew1i97YDWU0XlyL01df2Aojt38pgw0rqta7jg-cWB4uvXamJ75t3Zs0Oo-FfyggHVYUwNFt__g1dbFuVqA3LwmFWCENyJ1MBDbWzrCyLdBs2RrMtCSqQfdJBDw/s1600/OsaSelka.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilW1WtKPPDp2CyJwuiRew1i97YDWU0XlyL01df2Aojt38pgw0rqta7jg-cWB4uvXamJ75t3Zs0Oo-FfyggHVYUwNFt__g1dbFuVqA3LwmFWCENyJ1MBDbWzrCyLdBs2RrMtCSqQfdJBDw/s200/OsaSelka.jpg" width="163" /></a></div>
Back pain, more information:<br />
<br />
Low back exercise videos <a href="http://tv-gym.blogspot.com/2012/04/selan-harjoituksia.html" target="_blank">Tv-gym.com.</a><br />
American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons on <a href="http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=A00311" target="_blank">low back pain.</a><br />
Netdoctor.co.uk page about <a href="http://www.netdoctor.co.uk/diseases/facts/lumbago.htm" target="_blank">lumbago.</a><br />
American Family Physician on <a href="http://www.aafp.org/afp/20000315/1779.html" target="_blank">acute low back pain.</a><br />
Mayoclinic.com pages on <a href="http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/sciatica/DS00516" target="_blank">sciatica.</a><br />
Medicinet.com <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/back_pain_pictures_myths_and_facts_slideshow/article.htm" target="_blank">slideshow: myths and facts about back pain.</a><br />
American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons on <a href="http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=a00334" target="_blank">herniated disc.</a><br />
webMD about <a href="http://www.webmd.com/back-pain/tc/herniated-disc-topic-overview" target="_blank">herniated disc.</a><br />
American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons on <a href="http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=a00329" target="_blank">spinal stenosis.</a><br />
webMD about <a href="http://www.webmd.com/back-pain/exercises-to-reduce-low-back-pain" target="_blank">exercises to reduce low back pain.</a><br />
The Johns Hopkins Medicine <a href="https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/back-pain/7-ways-to-treat-chronic-back-pain-without-surgery" target="_blank">chronic low back pain treatment without surgery.</a><br />
About.com pages about <a href="http://orthopedics.about.com/od/spinalsurgery/tp/back-surgery.htm" target="_blank">types of spine surgery.</a><br />
Understandspinesurgery.com pages with 3D animations about <a href="http://www.understandspinesurgery.com/animations.asp?x=&" target="_blank">spine problems and operations.</a><br />
Emedicine on <a href="http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/308798-overview" target="_blank">piriformis syndrome.</a><br />
Mayoclinic.com pages on <a href="http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/ankylosing-spondylitis/ds00483" target="_blank">ankylosing spondylitis.</a><br />
Spineuniverse.com article about <a href="http://www.spineuniverse.com/conditions/spinal-disorders/discitis-disc-space-infection-0" target="_blank">disc space infection.</a><br />
Mayoclinic.com pages on <a href="http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/osteoporosis/DS00128" target="_blank">osteoporosis.</a><br />
Spine-health.com about <a href="https://www.spine-health.com/conditions/osteoporosis/when-back-pain-a-spine-compression-fracture" target="_blank">compression fractures.</a><br />
Back.com article about <a href="http://www.back.com/causes-mechanical-degenerative.html" target="_blank">degeneration.</a> <br />
Cure-back-pain.org article about <a href="http://www.cure-back-pain.org/back-muscle-weakness.html" target="_blank">back muscle weakness.</a><br />
Emedicine article on <a href="http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1157987-overview" target="_blank">spinal metastases.</a><br />
Emedicine article on <a href="http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/309486-overview" target="_blank">tailbone pain.</a><br />
Wikipedia on <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hemorrhoid" target="_blank">hemorrhoids.</a><br />
Ezinearticles.com about <a href="http://ezinearticles.com/?Early-Pregnancy-Back-Pain&id=147814" target="_blank">early pregnancy back pain.</a><br />
Spineuniverse.com article about <a href="http://www.spineuniverse.com/conditions/back-pain/back-pain-during-pregnancy" target="_blank">back pain during pregnancy.</a><br />
Which sleep position is <a href="https://www.healthline.com/health/best-sleeping-position#takeaway" target="_blank">best.</a><br />
Anatomy <a href="https://www.spineuniverse.com/conditions/spondylosis/anatomy-spondylosis" target="_blank">of the spine and of spondylosis.</a><br />
Spine <a href="https://www.spineuniverse.com/conditions/spondylosis" target="_blank">degeneration.</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1203142629998990624.post-17930866225444435822020-03-26T10:19:00.000-07:002020-06-01T09:31:58.780-07:00Hip pain<b>Arthritis</b><br />
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Hip problems are very common in older people but may appear already in childhood. In children, the problem may be a congenital dislocation of the hip, ossification disorder at the end of the hip or a temporary hip inflammation. Pediatricians are familiar with these disorders.<br />
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The most common reason for hip pain in older people is arthritis. There are two types of arthritis of the hip. The most common is osteoarthritis, wear-and-tear arthritis or degenerative joint disease. With it the cartilage of the joint is wearing off with age. After this, a bare bone is exposed in the joint and the joint becomes painful and stiff. The cause is truly rarely a developmental disorder. Generally no explanation is found for arthritis. Hereditary causes may play a role. Also overweight, injuries and fractures in this area predispose to this ailment.<br />
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The second type is inflammatory arthritis. It can be caused for example by rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis or systemic lupus erythematosus along with other systematic diseases.<br />
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In these cases, there is usually also pain in other joints and other symptoms as well. The diagnosis can be confirmed by doctor´s examination and laboratory tests. With rheumatoid arthritis, it is vital to start appropriate medication soon after diagnosis. Treatment of rheumatoid arthritis should be left to a specialist.<br />
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Hip stiffness may be the first symptom of arthritis. It is usually more pronounced in the morning or after a break and eases after some movement. Hip flexion and internal or toward the groin rotation are usually the first movements of the hip to be limited.<br />
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An early symptom of arthritis is also a dull pain during exertion. The pain feels in the groin area or on the outside of the hip or in buttocks and may radiate to the thigh, sometimes as far down as the knee. It may be felt in the morning and disappear with movement.<br />
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When the complaint advances, pain and stiffness during the rest in the joints may be present, and there may be a limp with walking. At its worst, this degenerative condition may cause severe nighttime pain. There may be good and bad periods with the pains and they can change also with weather conditions.<br />
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During the examination, a doctor will find that the hip’s range of motion is limited and that movements are painful. An x-ray, CT, or MRI scan will confirm the diagnosis. More complicated tests are usually not needed, and treatment planning can be started.<br />
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There is no curing medication for this condition, so treatment concentrates on alleviating the symptoms, which of course is of paramount importance. An appropriate anti-inflammatory without many side effects would be useful. In most severe cases, medication has to be used continuously, and in milder cases medication on demand will be sufficient.<br />
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One useful form of physical therapy is traction of the hip joint. This may alleviate the pain for long periods of time. Before the traction, the hip joint capsule should be prepared with deep heat treatment and massage. Electric therapy can be used in alleviating pain. It is necessary to maintain mobility of the hip and leg muscles with gymnastics or physiotherapy. Moderate use of the hip is recommended despite pain.<br />
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If these treatments do not provide sufficient help, surgery becomes an option. The worn joint is then replaced with an artificial one. This type of surgery usually works well to reduce pain. However, it should be pointed out that the artificial joint is made of material that wears out as well, so exertion levels should be planned accordingly. It is necessary to be cautious about muscular activity and practicing walking after surgery if problems exist in those areas.<br />
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If an artificial joint has to be inserted in a young patient, there is a danger that it will dislodge sometime during the patient’s life. Each additional surgery is more complex than an earlier one. This is why the first operation is postponed as long as possible in young people. If the artificial joint causes symptoms after having functioned well, it may be necessary to check its status with an x-ray.<br />
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Self-treatment of the early stages includes anti-inflammatory medication in short treatments lasting a few days. Because the structures that cause pain are deeply embedded, ointments are not particularly useful. Cold compresses may be used several times a day in the beginning and heat treatment later.<br />
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The most valuable thing is not to put a lot of weight on the degenerated joint. If one is overweight, losing weight may offer some relief. It is easier said than done, but is well worth the effort. A cane can be used to reduce the pressure on the joint if possible.<br />
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Carrying heavy objects should be seriously limited. A bag with wheels for grocery shopping might be used, or the grocer might be asked to deliver your groceries or they might be ordered via the Internet. Unfortunately, using a cane is generally considered a sign of such poor condition that it is impossible to walk otherwise. This is not so, and the cane does lend dignity to its user.<br />
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Even though weight should not be carried on the hip, it does not mean that one should stop moving altogether. It is particularly beneficial to exercise the hip muscles despite the pain. Water exercises are the best way to do this, as they put less stress on the hip joint but keep the muscles around the hip working.<br />
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<b>Bursitis</b><br />
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The mucous bursa in the hip may become inflamed and cause pain that radiates downward, which is why this problem is often confused with sciatica. During an examination, a strong local tenderness on the outside of the hip is often present in this case.<br />
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Ultrasound or MRI can be used to confirm the diagnosis and to exclude other reasons if this is considered necessary. At this same place the tendons attached to the bone may become irritated and provide clinical picture similar to the bursitis without the actual inflammation of the bursa. A cortisone shot or two usually takes care of both of these problems if pain medication and the rest do not solve it.<br />
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<b>Nerve Entrapment</b><br />
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Sometimes the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve along the frontal and side surface of the thigh may entrapp in the inguinal flexure causing the condition called meralgia paresthetica. This causes nerve pain on the front, outer portion of the thigh. The area may also become numb. Usually the area is clearly delineated. The reason often remains unclear; a trauma is often considered a possibility.<br />
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Examination shows reduced sense of touch in the typical region and possible tenderness at the irritated area of the inguinal flexure. Diagnosis can be confirmed with the nerve conduction studies and EMG. Treatment options include stretching of the muscles and posture alignment, decreasing the inward curve of the lower back, which help reduce the pressure on the nerve. Surgery can be considered if no other treatments work and the problem makes everyday life difficult.<br />
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<b>Radiating Pains</b><br />
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Degenerated and bulged intervertebral disks in the lower back may cause radiating pain in the hip region. A nerve pinched by the gluteus muscles may also cause pain in the hip area. In case of these problems, examination usually shows stronger symptoms in the back or buttock. Treatment will then focus on the underlying problem. Please see the back pain page.<br />
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<b>Snapping Hip</b><br />
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A snapping sound from the hip is usually harmless. It is often caused by a muscle on the side of the thigh flipping over the outmost part of the hip. In most cases, no treatment is necessary.<br />
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<b>See a Doctor</b><br />
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Prolonged hip pain that does not get better with home remedies.<br />
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Hip pain, more information:<br />
<br />
Hip exercise videos <a href="http://tv-gym.blogspot.com/2012/04/lonkan-harjoituksia.html" target="_blank">Tv-gym.com.</a><br />
Kidshealth.org about <a href="https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/ddh.html" target="_blank">developmental dysplasia of the hip.</a><br />
Wikipedia page about <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hip_dysplasia_(human)" target="_blank">developmental dysplasia of the hip.</a><br />
American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons on <a href="http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=a00213" target="_blank">arthritis of the hip.</a> <br />
About.com pages about <a href="http://orthopedics.about.com/od/hipreplacementsurgery/tp/hipreplacement.htm" target="_blank">hip replacement surgery.</a><br />
Ezinearticles.com about <a href="http://ezinearticles.com/?Hip-Fractures---A-Guide-For-Recovery&id=2185661" target="_blank">hip fractures.</a><br />
Emedicine pages on <a href="http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/309286-overview" target="_blank">bursitis.</a> <br />
Mayoclinic.com <a href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/meralgia-paresthetica/symptoms-causes/syc-20355635" target="_blank">meralgia paresthetica.</a><br />
American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons on <a href="http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=A00396" target="_blank">inflammatory arthritis of the hip.</a> <br />
Portlandhiparthroscopy.com on <a href="http://www.portlandhiparthroscopy.com/treatable-conditions/loose-bodies.html" target="_blank">loose bodies.</a> <br />
Mayoclinic.com pages on <a href="http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/hip-labral-tear/ds00920" target="_blank">hip labral tear.</a> <br />
Hipfai.com about <a href="http://www.hipfai.com/" target="_blank">femoroacetabular impingement.</a><br />
webMD about <a href="http://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/snapping-hip-syndrome-causes-symptoms-treatments" target="_blank">snapping hip.</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1203142629998990624.post-61772677014732251842020-03-26T10:17:00.000-07:002020-06-01T10:09:56.626-07:00Knee pain<b>Knee Pain</b><br />
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Well-functioning knees are vital to everyone because they carry a person’s weight while walking and running. They absorb the shock from jumping. Increased pressure is placed on the knees when kneeling, getting up from a sitting position, and walking up and down stairs. Severe knee problems may restrict a person’s life and functioning significantly.<br />
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There are two joints in the knee. One is between the femur or the thigh bone and the tibia or the shinbone, and one between the femur and the patella or the knee cap. The femur and tibia form a hinge joint protected in front by the kneecap. There are cushions in the form of cartilage that covers the surfaces of the bones in the joints. The lateral and medial menisci are C-shaped cartilage discs which act like shock absorbers in the knee.<br />
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Ligaments help to stabilize the knee. The median collateral ligament is on the inner side and the lateral on the outer side of the knee joint. They limit the movements sideways. The so called cruciate ligaments support the knee stable in forwards-backwards motion and rotation between the bones of the knee joint. There is the anterior cruciate ligament, or ACL and the posterior cruciate ligament, or PCL.<br />
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The quadriceps femoris is a large muscle group on the front of the thigh acting as powerful extensor of the knee joint. It is attached to patella which provides mechanical leverage to its function. There are also groups of muscles acting as knee flexors, adductors drawing the knee inward and abductors drawing the knee outward.<br />
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Those still growing may experience disorders of the growth plate as well as ossification disorders, which may cause pain during stronger exertion. X-rays or MRI will confirm the diagnosis. Treatment usually consists of reducing exertion levels. The symptoms typically disappear within a few years. With aging, problems of the knees are met more.<br />
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<b>Overuse Pains</b><br />
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When stress on the legs is rapidly increased, it may cause temporary irritation in the muscles and joints. In the acute phase, cold compresses are useful. Prolonged pain may require the use of physical therapy, pain medication, and injections. Cortisone injections will usually work quickly when the structure that causes the problem is located.<br />
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<b>Injuries</b><br />
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Knee problems in young people are often associated with sports where the knees are stressed and injury-prone. These include football, downhill skiing, soccer, and racquetball.<br />
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The kneecap may be dislocated when the leg gets twisted. In this case, there is sharp pain in the knee and the kneecap twists into an abnormal position. Often the kneecap returns in place by itself. Sometimes a doctor needs to set it.<br />
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A visit to a doctor’s office, however, is necessary in any case. Surgery may be an option for preventing future problems. If the kneecap gets dislocated several times, the situation needs to be looked at, and rehabilitation or surgery should be considered.<br />
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A fracture can break any bones around the knee in an accident with a blow, a fall or a sudden stumbling. Usually there is significant pain and the injured one is not able to bear weight on the knee. A suspicion of a fracture needs to be checked by a doctor.<br />
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<b>Meniscus Tears</b><br />
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The meniscus may quite easily tear in connection with knee injuries. The medial meniscus is injured more often than the lateral one. The usual mechanism is a rotation of the load bearing knee. This may occur for example when squatting and twisting the knee at the same time. Tearing while extending and twisting does not happen so often. Direct trauma on the knee can be the cause of a meniscus tear.<br />
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There might be heard a sound when a meniscus tears. Often walking or playing is still possible. In some days, the symptoms may become clearer little by little. The typical symptoms are pain, a limited range of motion, stiffness and swelling.<br />
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Sometimes rest improves the situation fairly quickly, but there may be additional symptoms following, such as a feeling of the knee locking, rattling, swelling, and pain during exertion.<br />
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During examination, pain is found in the joint line and when twisting the knee into positions where the torn area is being pinched. Endoscopy and MRI are established methods of diagnosis. Also the contrast medium method is used for this purpose but not often. The advantage of endoscopy is that it allows for simultaneous treatment of most of the injuries.<br />
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<b>Ligament Injuries</b><br />
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With similar forces also other ligaments of the knee may get injured with or without the menisci. This may occur for instance when extending a knee too far, landing on a flexed knee, stopping or shifting weight suddenly. Symptoms resemble those of meniscus injuries. Additionally instability of the knee joint may begin with a feeling of looseness in the joint.<br />
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When anterior or posterior cruciate ligaments tears, suffers the forwards-backwards and rotational stability between the bones of the knee joint. The cruciatum anterior ligament may get injured in connection with meniscus injuries. If this happens, especially during intense effort there may be rattling or a sense of unsteadiness.<br />
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With collateral ligament injuries there may be avulsion from the bony attachment of the ligament. If this is significant the knee may become unstable sideways and additional movement is noted. If not, there is only pain in the location of the injured ligament or its connection to the bone.<br />
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Treatment usually consists of the same kind of pain treatment as with the meniscus injuries and of improving muscle strength in the thighs and limiting the stress with the knee to the tolerance level. Surgery is used primarily with athletes.<br />
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<b>Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome and Chondromalacia</b><br />
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Patellofemoral pain syndrome or pain from the contact of the back of the kneecap with the thigh bone is a familiar problem especially with sportsmen. The reason may be a partial dislocation or prolonged, repetitive strain of this joint. This can make the cartilages thin and soft and cause a condition called chondromalacia. Also fractures, functional disorders, arthritis of the bearing knee joint and tumors in the knee area may assist in developing this disorder.<br />
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Symptoms initially include pain when descending stairs or when bending down at the knees. Usually the knee starts aching when sitting still for longer periods of time when the knee cannot be straightened.<br />
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Examination shows tenderness and a cracking sound when pressing the kneecap down toward the knee joint and when moving it. Treatment includes strengthening of the muscles especially the quadriceps on the front of the thigh and anti-inflammatory drugs. Taping or bracing may be useful together with physiotherapy. Surgery may be considered in most difficult cases. Working in an appropriate occupation and job are essential as well as modifying hobbies and sports regime to the proper sorts and level.<br />
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<b>Arthritis</b><br />
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The main source for knee problems in older people is arthritis. It usually is seen in middle-aged and older people. There are two types of arthritis of the knee. The most common is osteoarthritis, slowly progressive wear-and-tear arthritis or degenerative joint disease. With it, the cartilage of the joint is wearing away with age. After this, a bone exposes in the joint, and it becomes painful and stiff. Degenerative arthritis may develop after a fracture, ligament injury, or meniscus tears. It can take years after the injury to be born. Hereditary causes and overweight may also play a role in the formation.<br />
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The second type is inflammatory arthritis. It can be caused by rheumatoid arthritis or other systematic diseases and is usually found in both knees. In these cases, there is usually also pain in other joints and other symptoms as well. Usually inflammatory arthritis demands specific drug treatment depending on the disease causing it.<br />
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The first indication of arthritis is usually gradual development of pain connected to exertion like walking or climbing stairs or to staying in the same position for a long time. The symptoms may include stiffness, a cracking sound and mild swelling during the most difficult phases. Pain and swelling may be worse in the morning. Later there may be a feeling of locking and weakness. In severe cases, the knee may become overly mobile and incorrectly positioned.<br />
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X-rays or MRIs can confirm arthritis. However, even mild degenerative condition may cause symptoms; on the other hand, a joint that shows degeneration in the x-ray or MRI may produce few symptoms. The knee problems should not allow limit one's life unnecessarily. In most severe cases, it pays to have the problem checked thoroughly once. Different types of aid are available.<br />
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There is, unfortunately, no total cure for arthritis. Self-treatment includes OTC anti-inflammatory medicine in short courses as well as rubbing anti-pain ointments in the painful area. Cold compresses several times a day can be effective. Anti-inflammatory medicines ease the pain. Cold or heat treatment and electric therapy may also relieve the pain.<br />
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Glucosamine is a substance found in the cartilage, and it may reduce the arthritis pain in the early stages. Corticosteroids provide a strong anti-inflammatory effect. They may be used injected into the joint in moderate and severe pain.<br />
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Lifestyle should be optimized taking into an account the condition. Losing weight is beneficial for the joint and sometimes can reduce pain and make functioning significantly better. Vigorous stress on the knee should be avoided. Hobbies demanding running and jumping should be changed to less strenuous activities.<br />
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Using devices reducing burden on the knee can be useful. A cane, energy-absorbing shoes, or insoles may be used for this purpose. Braces also can be effective in decreasing pain and improving the ability to walk. Different knee supports are available. Soft supports are slightly warming and remind that one should be careful with the knee. Sturdier supports are available, but they need to reach over the knee into the thigh and toward the calf and should be tailor-made.<br />
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If no other treatments work, surgery may be an option. The results from artificial joint surgery are good. Rehabilitation of the knee after the operation is necessary.<br />
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Exercising the muscles around the degenerated knee is vital. Improving muscle strength is necessary and, despite the pain, the knees should be used in a moderate fashion. Exercises under the guidance of a physiotherapist or a personal trainer may be optimal for improving muscle strength. Massage may be helpful when the muscles around the knee are tender.<br />
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In the case of arthritis, it is indispensable to use all means to lower knee strain level during the worst pain episode. One can get higher chairs for the home, so it is easier to get up. It is possible even to raise the toilet seat higher. When ascending stairs, it is best to put the good leg forward and when descending, put the bad leg forward.<br />
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In case of knee problems, it is essential to strengthen the quadriceps. In the worst pain phase, it can be done contracting the quadriceps while holding the leg still and the knee straight. Contractions can initially last for 10 seconds and may be done as many times as wanted to per day.<br />
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From the beginning, one may lift the leg up while holding the knee quite straight while lying on your back. It can be tried with one set of lifting to see how many can be done, and then continue with daily sets of two thirds of the maximum number of lifts. If this seems to take too much time, one can add 2-4 lb. leg weights so that there is time for other things to do as well.<br />
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While lying down, legs can be lift up in different directions to exercise all the leg muscles. When lying on the side one can hold the leg straight and lift it up or lie on the stomach and lift the leg upwards. Leg weights may be used with these exercises also.<br />
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When the knee is better, one can consider adding knee-straightening exercises without extra weights at first, and then with weights. This will work if one holds the leg up under the thigh so that the foot does not touch the ground.<br />
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When this gets easier and does not make the knee hurt, one can continue to exercise the leg muscles at the gym to make them stronger than ever before. The condition of the thigh muscles is not as critical in someone who has no knee problems, but those who do have them should keep the leg muscles in an excellent shape.<br />
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<b>Baker’s Cyst</b><br />
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Bulges consisting of a fluid-filled cyst that create a feeling of pressure or pain can often be found at the back of the knee after or without an injury. They are usually associated with the knee joint. If such a cyst bursts between the calf muscles, it may cause severe pain that is hard to distinguish from thrombosis.<br />
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The clinical picture gives a decent idea of the diagnosis and an ultrasound or MRI can be used to verify it. The bulge may be drained simultaneously, and a cortisone injection can be administered. If this does not solve the condition, surgery is an option. Possible ongoing causes such as meniscus injury should be ruled out, because they may prevent eliminating the problem.<br />
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<b>Loose Fragments</b><br />
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There are some loose fragments in the knee that may cause pain and locking symptoms in the knee. If the lock releases, upon examination the knee may be almost asymptomatic. X-ray, MRI, or endoscopy may confirm the diagnosis. The loose particle can also be removed during the endoscopy.<br />
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<b>Inflammation</b><br />
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Bacteria may cause a suppurating inflammation in the knee. This may occur due to a knee injury, a shot, or via blood circulation.<br />
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Symptoms are swelling in the knee, pain and burning. Examination shows swelling and possible redness of the knee. Laboratory tests show increased inflammation levels, and the synovial fluid is opaque and harbors bacteria.<br />
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Intravenous antibiotics may be necessary for treating this condition, and this is usually done in a hospital. The knee may need to be drained continuously and needs rest. Once the infection heals, knee exercises can be started.<br />
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<b>Emergencies</b><br />
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Knee injury after which walking is extremely painful.<br />
Dislocation of the knee.<br />
Severe swelling in the knee accompanied with fever.<br />
Knee remains in a locked position.<br />
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<b>See a Doctor</b><br />
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Prolonged knee pain in children.<br />
Knee injuries that generate more severe symptoms.<br />
Knee pain accompanied by fever.<br />
Repeated pain and swelling.<br />
Repeated pain and locking of the knee.<br />
Bothersome pain that is not alleviated with self-treatment.<br />
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Knee pain, more information:<br />
<br />
Knee exercise videos <a href="http://tv-gym.blogspot.com/2012/04/polven-harjoituksia.html" target="_blank">Tv-gym.com.</a><br />
American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons on <a href="http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=A00040" target="_blank">growth plate fractures.</a> <br />
webMD about <a href="http://www.webmd.com/pain-management/knee-pain/runners-knee" target="_blank">runners knee.</a><br />
webMD about <a href="http://www.webmd.com/osteoarthritis/features/6-ways-to-ruin-your-knees" target="_blank">how to avoid damaging your knees.</a><br />
American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons on <a href="https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases--conditions/overuse-injuries-in-children/" target="_blank">overuse injuries in children.</a><br />
American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons on <a href="http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=A00212" target="_blank">arthritis of the knee.</a> <br />
Familydoctor.org article about <a href="http://familydoctor.org/online/famdocen/home/healthy/physical/injuries/479.printerview.html" target="_blank">pain.</a> <br />
Patient.co.uk about <a href="http://www.patient.co.uk/health/chondromalacia-patellae-leaflet" target="_blank">patellofemoral softening of the kneecap cartilage.</a> <br />
Ehealthmd.com article <a href="http://ehealthmd.com/content/whats-wrong-your-knee#axzz2uAU1KqcI" target="_blank">what's wrong with your knee.</a> <br />
Ehealthmd.com article about <a href="http://ehealthmd.com/acl-tears/what-anterior-cruciate-ligament#axzz2uAW7hlb5" target="_blank">anterior cruciate ligament injuries.</a> <br />
Mayoclinic.com pages on <a href="http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/bakers-cyst/DS00448" target="_blank">Baker's cyst.</a> <br />
American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons on <a href="http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=A00411" target="_blank">Osgood-Schlatter disease.</a> <br />
Healthline.com article about <a href="https://www.healthline.com/health/septic-arthritis" target="_blank">infectious arthritis.</a> <br />
Medicinenet.com pages about <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/knee_bursitis/article.htm" target="_blank">knee bursitis.</a> <br />
Emedicine article about <a href="http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/823589-overview" target="_blank">knee dislocation.</a> <br />
webMD about <a href="http://www.webmd.com/pain-management/knee-pain/knee-dislocation" target="_blank">knee dislocation.</a><br />
Mdguidelines.com article about <a href="http://www.mdguidelines.com/loose-bodies-knee" target="_blank">loose bodies.</a><br />
WebMD video on <a href="https://www.webmd.com/pain-management/knee-pain/video/knee-arthroscopy" target="_blank">knee arthroscopy.</a> <br />
About.com on <a href="http://orthopedics.about.com/od/hipkneereplacement/tp/kneereplacement.htm" target="_blank">knee replacement surgery.</a><br />
Ezinearticles.com about <a href="http://ezinearticles.com/?Knee-Pain-Exercises-For-Women&id=1967729" target="_blank">knee pain exercises for women.</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1203142629998990624.post-52402127449004479702020-03-26T10:15:00.000-07:002020-06-02T03:07:55.574-07:00Calf, Ankle and Foot pain<b>Calf, Ankle and Foot pain</b><br />
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<b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdmdsAfD4mvaLcM469fb-gE7uXYMjvZlCx3cCBqEacVWIfu1xTLiU333aVLeyoiNYMEAEiepqt5S0zGc28ssOPCqhTTzQYzoHl5mpr6u3kaH4sNqs5L4CDGiLFZBtuG2pErRlGAd0UWhMh/s1600/jalka2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="213" data-original-width="320" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdmdsAfD4mvaLcM469fb-gE7uXYMjvZlCx3cCBqEacVWIfu1xTLiU333aVLeyoiNYMEAEiepqt5S0zGc28ssOPCqhTTzQYzoHl5mpr6u3kaH4sNqs5L4CDGiLFZBtuG2pErRlGAd0UWhMh/s320/jalka2.jpg" width="320" /></a></b></div>
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The legs continuously carry the entire weight of a person and ankles and the feet take care of contact to the underlying surface. The Lower Leg consists of two long bones. The tibia or the shinbone is the larger one and the fibula or the calf bone is the smaller bone located on the outside of the leg. The calves have strong muscles. The Achilles tendon connects the calf muscles at the back to the heel bone. The ankle joint connects the lower ends of the tibia and the fibula in the lower limb with the foot. From the ankle down, the foot consists of 26 bones. This structure makes movement to be possible in various situations.<br />
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<b>Calf pain<br />
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Muscle pain</b><br />
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Calf muscle may be painful pain due to too much of exercise and lack of stretching. Sudden strain on unprepared calf muscle or a direct blow can also cause calf pain. Excessive running up the hills is often a considerable stress for calf muscles. Certainly some soreness in the muscles is a normal situation after training.<br />
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If treatment is needed it is easy and results are favourable. In the beginning, complete rest is needed until the pain and tenderness go away. It may take some days or a week or two. Cold packs in the beginning are useful. They can be applied several times a day for 15-20 minutes at a time. Later on heat may offer a better result. Massage and stretching can be used to relax the muscles. Calf muscles are easy to massage yourself. It should be done with gentleness without excessive force. Also over the counter pain medication are available for self treatment if necessary.<br />
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<b>Shin Splints</b><br />
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Shin splints or tibial stress syndrome is a term used to describe pain at the front of the lower leg. Athletes often have problems with the shins and calves due to muscular growth after exercise. When the membranes surrounding them do not grow at the same rate, the muscles have to function with this increased pressure and this may cause pain. Shin splint pain is considered to be born from overuse or repeated pounding of the feet stressing the tibia and surrounding muscles and causing irritation. Flat feet or inappropriate footwear may predispose to this problem.<br />
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Shin splints are an example of this condition. With shin splints, initially pain during exercise may be experienced in the inside area of the tibia. Shin splints normally do not develop right away, but, for instance, after a extensive training period. Problems usually start after excessive aggressive training in sports or for example in the army during basic training with a lot of marching. As the problem gets worse, the pain is felt after each exercise session and sometimes it lasts for hours. Examination shows tenderness on the inside of the tibia. The shin muscles may feel tender as well. Sometimes x-ray or MRI I needed to eliminate stress fractures and other possible conditions.<br />
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Treatment includes taking a break from exercise. Anti-inflammatory pain medication and cold compresses are useful. Discussion with the coach should be held whether it would be needed to change the running style, for instance. Attention should be paid to muscle tone and stretching. If the situation does not improve, surgery sometimes can be used to make more room for the muscles by opening the membranes surrounding them.<br />
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<b>Restless Legs</b><br />
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Restless legs are a condition where there is nighttime shivering, tingling, pain or burning in the legs that forces the sufferer to get up and move the legs in order to relieve the symptoms. Moving the legs gives at least a temporary relief. It is customary to have also limb jerking during sleep.<br />
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The disease usually affects both legs. Moving the legs or taking a short walk will calm the symptoms. Examination may not prove anything unusual in the legs. Rarely the underlying cause may be diabetes, sciatica or anemia. Repeated nighttime waking may lead to insomnia.<br />
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Diagnosis bases on the typical history and doctor´s examination. Sleep registration is rarely used. Sometimes nerve conduction studies and EMG may be needed to exclude other conditions.<br />
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The cause for this condition is unknown. Hereditary may play some role. It is thought to be connected to chemical changes in the brain, beginning nerve degeneration in the legs or beginning circulatory problems.<br />
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Self-treatment includes walks before going to bed. This may reduce the nighttime symptoms. Sleep positions may affect the condition, so try several to see which works best. Heat or cool footbaths help some of those suffering from this condition. The legs should be warmed carefully with the help of a heating pad and kept warm with socks at night. Smoking should be stopped as well as using excessive coffee and alcohol.<br />
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<b>Intermittent Claudication</b><br />
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Intermittent claudication is the name for the symptom with an aching pain in the calves—more rarely in the thighs or gluteus muscles—when walking. It is caused by reduced blood circulation due to arterial calcification and narrowing and hardening of the arteries. It is one manifestation of the peripheral artery disease, a common problem of men over 50. The risk factors are among others elevated levels of cholesterol, diabetes, coronary artery disease, high blood pressure and smoking.<br />
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Walking causes the muscles to require more oxygenated blood and the calcified arteries cannot deliver enough blood, which causes the pain. In the beginning, the pain may appear only when walking faster or longer, gradually symptoms come with less strain.<br />
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The legs get cold easily and look purple. If blood circulation is particularly poor, the legs look pale. Nighttime pain and coldness may be an indication of threatening gangrene.<br />
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Examination shows lack of pulse, and listening with a stethoscope reveals a shushing sound in the veins that are blocked. Intermitted claudication is examined using the ankle-brachial index meaning relationship between blood pressure in the arms and legs. Doppler ultrasound is used to measure flow in the arteries. If operation in considered angiography, magnetic resonance or computer tomography angiography may be used to get a better understanding of the arteries involved.<br />
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Treatment consists of moderate walking and keeping the legs in superb condition. If walks become terribly short, surgery may be considered. Quitting smoking is essential so that blood circulation in the legs will not be further reduced.<br />
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Drugs are used to relieve pain, keep the blood from forming clots in the arteries and to lower elevated cholesterol. Also, a medication to enlarge the affected arteries may be used.<br />
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Self-treatment includes walking at least an hour a day. Walks should be continued to the point where the pain becomes quite strong. After a brief pause, as the pain subsides, moving can be continued. A good way to strengthen the calf muscles is to walk up stairs and to make specific exercises for this at the gym.<br />
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<b>Neuropathy</b><br />
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Diabetes, use of alcohol, rheumatic arthritis, kidney insufficiency and various chemical substances may cause nerve damage in the legs and therefore pain.<br />
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The nerves in the legs are the longest in the body. This is why initial changes in nerve function often are demonstrated there.<br />
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Leg pain is often associated with diabetes due to leg neuropathy. Diabetes may develop nerve damage throughout the body. It is able to do damage to the blood vessels carrying oxygen to nerves and also to help factors that cause inflammation in nerves. Those who have had diabetes for a long term will feel pain more often, but new patients may experience it also. Sometimes starting diabetes medication makes the pain to be worse.<br />
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The pain is like a toothache, felt deep, burning or piercing. Numbness or tingling may accompany the pain. In the long run there may be also wasting and weakness of the muscles of the feet.<br />
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Examination shows changes in the leg reflexes as well as weakening of vibration sense. Nerve conduction studies and EMG can usually confirm the diagnosis.<br />
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Treatment is often difficult. Taking excellent care of the primary disease is essential. Anti-inflammatory pain medication and physical therapy may work. Electric therapy for the legs and acupuncture may be worth trying. Neurological medication such as anticonvulsants and antidepressants may help. Severe cases may require anesthetic procedures and an electric therapy device placed in the spinal cord.<br />
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<b>Embolism and Thrombosis</b><br />
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An embolus or a blood clot loose in the arteries may sud denly block circulation in the legs. The embolus usually comes from the heart, aorta, or through a hole in the septum from the venous circulation side. The obstruction of the blood vessels prevents tissues from getting blood and oxygen and may lead to death of the starving tissues.<br />
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Main symptom is a sudden, severe leg pain. The leg becomes lighter in color, cold and numb. Examination shows no pulse, coldness, numbness, and a pale or marbled skin. There may be also muscle pain and spasm and lack of movement in the leg.<br />
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This situation requires emergency vascular surgery, because a leg will not be able to survive without blood circulation for long. Various tests and imaging techniques are available to detect embolism and to discover the source. In addition to surgery, treatment may also include intravenous procedures such as thrombolytic therapy and medication.<br />
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Results of the treatment depend on the location of the embolus and the promptness of the treatment. Arterial embolism is dangerous if not treated quickly and can lead even to amputation.<br />
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Venous thromboses are also seen in the legs. Their risk increases for instance during long flights. In this ailment, there is pain, swelling and burning in the leg. Doctor´s examination, ultrasound and a contrast medium x-ray examination, lower extremity phlebography, will help diagnose this condition. If a venous thrombosis is suspected, a visit to the emergency room is necessary. The leg should remain immobilized during transportation to the emergency room.<br />
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The veins return blood to the heart and a clot from the veins can be transported to the right side of the heart and further into the lungs. A pulmonary embolus is a serious illness and can lead to death if not diagnosed and treated like an emergency.<br />
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<b>Ankle pain<br />
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Sprained Ankle</b><br />
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The ligaments of the ankle joints are easily sprained. They have some elasticity but if stretched outside their limits they are sprained or torn. The ankles have the least support when they are fully extended. An ankle usually twists inward, which injures ligaments on the outside. The injuries vary from sprains to a complete tear. When the ankle twists outward, injury to the bones is more common because the inside ligaments are so tough that the bone will break before they tear.<br />
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After the injury there may be local tenderness and swelling and maybe some limitation of the movements in the torn ligament fibers. If there is a complete tear of the ligament, or a fracture there may be additional movement in the ankle joint when tested.<br />
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Diagnosis is made with typical record of events and doctor´s examination. Sometimes x-ray is needed to exclude fractures. Jn more complicated traumas MRI may be needed to be able to determine the best treatment options.<br />
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Fresh ligament tears are usually treated with an adhesive binding. Rest is usually needed and walking should be limited for some days or weeks. Cold packs several times a day for 20 minute or more and pain relieving medication can be used as self treatment. If function level does not return to normal soon after the injury, physical therapy is needed to improve it. Surgery is rarely used for this condition.<br />
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After the acute pain episode related to sprains, the functioning of the ankle can be improved with exercise. One can start by moving and rotating the ankles in all directions, then stand on the toes and heels. A small step can be used under the forefoot in this exercise if a wider range motion is wanted.<br />
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At a later stage, a balance board is beneficial for improving ankle function. Gym exercises with a personal trainer or a physiotherapist offer an opportunity to gain increased muscle power to keep the ankle in optimal shape for the future. With the adequate treatment the results are good and usually there remains no limitation of earlier activities.<br />
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<b>Arthritis</b><br />
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Arthritic changes in the joints of the ankle and foot are not as usual as arthritis of the hip or knee. In the ankle joint also in other 30 joints in the foot there may be osteoarthritis, wear-and-tear arthritis or degenerative joint disease. With it the cartilage of the joint is wearing off with age. After this the bone surface is exposed in the joint and the joint becomes progressively more painful and stiff. Hereditary causes may play a role in the development. Also overweight, injuries and fractures in this area predispose to this disease.<br />
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The second type is inflammatory arthritis. It can be caused for instance by rheumatoid arthritis or some other systematic disease. This is a system-wide disease and there is usually pain in other joints and other symptoms. The diagnosis can be confirmed by doctor´s examination and laboratory tests.<br />
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When arthritis is present, the affected joint may feel sore, raspy and stiff when moved. There may also be tenderness and swelling of the joint, reduced movement in it and difficulty of walking. X-rays or MRI can confirm the diagnosis.<br />
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<b>Achilles Tendinitis and Tendon Ruptures</b><br />
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The Achilles tendon, which is attached to the heel, may rupture or become inflamed from overuse, strenuous exercises or other stress to the tendon. It is a remarkably strong tendon and it takes a lot of power or misalignment to make it tear. A tendon rupture can be partial or complete. An inflamed Achilles tendon feels painful and there may be swelling or thickening at the back of the leg and above the heel. There is often pain in this same area when running longer distances or sprinting. Stiffness in the morning along with a scratching sound may follow. An inflammation generally follows a more straining exercise.<br />
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Tendinitis treated with anti-inflammatory drugs, cold compresses, and rest. A cortisone shot may be needed. If this does not return full function of the tendon, surgery is an option. If not treated properly degeneration and prolonged problems may continue to bother.<br />
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The pain with the ruptured Achilles tendon is usually more intense and sudden. One may hear the sound of the rupturing tendon when the injury occurs. It may be impossible to walk on the toes and put weight on foot on the side of the trauma and walk normally.<br />
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The rupture may follow a rapid surge of strain on the tendon like occasional unaccustomed sports, stumbling or stepping into a hole.<br />
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Diagnosis is made with doctor´s examination, typical history and findings. Sometimes ultrasound or MRI is used to define the scope of the inflammation or the rupture or the tendon. Partial ruptures may be treated with cold compresses, medicine, cast and rest but complete ruptures are usually operated.<br />
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<b>Pinched Nerves</b><br />
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Nerves may get pinched behind the bump on the inside of the ankle causing a condition called tarsal tunnel syndrome. An injury, a heavy shoe, rheumatic inflammation or an incorrect position of the ankle may cause this condition.<br />
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Main symptom is a burning pain, not associated with walking, on the midfoot, around ankles and sometimes on the toes. Pain worsens with activities and when standing for a long time. Pressing the nerve path under the bony part on the inside of the ankle can mimic the pain and sense of electric current. A neural pathway examination, EMG confirms the diagnosis.<br />
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Treatment consists of eliminating the wrong position or other aggravating factors. Surgery performed to release the nerve is very rare.<br />
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<b>Heel pain<br />
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Fat Pad Syndrome, Plantar Fasciitis and Heel Spur</b><br />
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Humans have a padded cushion under the heel bone, and it gets less elastic with age. Some may have congenital defects in it. This area may become irritated or pad may be bruised due to injury or physical exertion. In this case, examination shows tenderness directly under the middle of the heel bone. The ailment is called the fat pad syndrome.<br />
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Treatment may include adequately soft shoes that have flexible soles, or a soft heel pad placed in the shoe. This changes the stress point and adds more padding to soften blows. The painful area can be treated with a local anesthetic or cortisone. Lose weight if you are overweight. Try changing the way you walk. Prolonged pain may be problematic in professions that involve a lot of standing.<br />
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The weight of the leg normally rests on three points: the heel and the bases of the little and big toe. These points are prepared to carry the weight. The lateral and longitudinal plantar arches are found between the big toe and little toe bases and the heel. If this situation changes when, for instance, the arches fall or when the foot twists in some direction, it may cause various problems.<br />
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A falling longitudinal plantar arch causes stretching of the tissue band connecting the heel bone to the base of the toes. This may give rise to an inflammation of this tissue band and cause a condition called plantar fasciitis. Doing too much running or jumping can provide additional irritation. In the long run this may cause an osteophyte or a spur to grow in the area of attachment of the tendon to the heel and the area itself may be painful. In this case the spur is the result and not the cause. Examination shows localized tenderness in the front part of the heel bone. Treatment consists of rest and possibly local administration of cortisone.<br />
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There may also be inflammation and pain in a bulge in the area where the Achilles tendon inserts behind the heel into the heel bone. This malady is called retrocalcaneal bursitis. One can see this from wearing shoes that rub this section or from running too much. This problem is usually resolved changing better shoes and limiting time of exercise.<br />
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<b>Foot pain<br />
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Metatarsalagia</b><br />
<br />
As a consequence of a fallen lateral plantar arch, the metatarsophalangeal areas or area of the joints between the bases of the toes 2-4 and the forefoot may take on too much weight and become painful as a result. This disease is called metatarsalgia.<br />
<br />
Sharp pain or a feeling like walking with a pebble in the shoe feels in the sole just behind the first, second, third or fourth toes. It is usually worse when standing, walking or flexing the feet.<br />
<br />
In this case, one can raise the painful area from the sole with a soft padding under the second and third metatarsal forefoot bones. It must not be placed directly under the painful area, but about a half an inch toward the heel, so that there will not be pressure on the painful area.<br />
<br />
This condition is not serious and treatment with anti- inflammatory drugs, cold packs and rest can often take care of the symptoms. Good footwear, with additional shock-absorbing insoles or arch supports may also be useful.<br />
<br />
<b>Morton’s Neuralgia</b><br />
<br />
The nerves between the bones of the metatarsal bones may get pinched between the second and third and third and fourth bones of the metatarsus in the forefoot. This condition is called Morton’s neuralgia, and it is common in middle-aged females.<br />
<br />
A shooting pain to the affected toes is felt in this area immediately when standing up. Also numbness and sensation of tingling or pricking may be experienced.<br />
<br />
In doctor´s examination there is pain when the bones are pressed together from the sides. Localized pain is also felt in the affected region between the metatarsus bones. X-ray, ultrasound or MRI may be used to exclude other conditions.<br />
<br />
Treatment consists of the same type of foot support as in metatarsalgia. Good, wide enough shoes should be used. Cortisone injections may be used to get relief. If there is no improvement, surgery is a rarely used option.<br />
<br />
<b>Stress Fractures</b><br />
<br />
Stress fractures are seen in the metatarsus bones. At least moderate intensity exertion usually precedes the problem. Examination shows tenderness in the area of the stress fracture. Changes will initially not show in x-rays, but are usually found in follow-up. Treatment consists of reducing stress on the foot.<br />
<br />
<b>Toe pain<br />
<br />
Hallux Valgus</b><br />
<br />
Hallux valgus is the most common problem of the frontal part of the feet. Its primary source appears to be congenital weakness, but wearing unsuitable shoes may worsen the condition. In this condition, the first metatarsal bone turns inward and the toe itself turns outward. Arthritis may develop in the joint at the base of the big toe or in the metatarsophalangeal joint and a nasty inflammation of the mucous bursa may appear on the outmost point. A bunion is an enlargement around this joint.<br />
<br />
Main treatment consists of wearing well-fitting shoes and using an orthopedic splint. Surgery may be an option when the pain is severe.<br />
<br />
<b>Arthritis of the Toes</b><br />
<br />
There are two types of arthritis. The most common is osteoarthritis, slowly progressive wear-and-tear arthritis or degenerative joint disease. With it the cartilage of the joint is wearing away with age. After this a bone exposes in the joint and it becomes painful and stiff.<br />
<br />
The second type is inflammatory arthritis. It can be caused by rheumatoid arthritis or other systematic diseases. Problems of the toes are rarely the first and only symptom of the inflammatory disease.<br />
<br />
In joints of the feet osteoarthritis most often affects the joint at the base of the big toe. In other toes it is met less frequently. In normal walking, the first toes turn upward at the end of each step. If there is arthritis in the base joint, it may cause pain and make walking extraordinarily difficult. Treatment consists of a support that will prevent the big toes form turning upwards. The best option is the so-called rolling shoe, where the sole of the shoe is rounded to help to walk.<br />
<br />
Self-treatment includes temporary use of OTC anti-inflammatory drugs and gel application in the painful area. Cold compresses several times a day are usually effective. The toes or legs should not get cold if the circulation is poor. When pain is at its worst at the onset, the most valuable thing to do is to reduce the amount of exertion involving feet. Using a cane, not carrying anything, and losing excess weight help accomplish this goal.<br />
<br />
Well-fitting shoes are of paramount importance in painful foot conditions. Running shoes have to be well padded. Running long distances on hard surfaces should be avoided, and increasing the length of runs should be made gradually. The more one exercises, the more one should stretch muscles afterwards.<br />
<br />
Walking barefoot in the summer is a traditional strategy to strengthen the foot muscles. During winter, it is possible to exercise the feet by spreading the toes and learning to grasp objects with the toes. If running is too tough for the feet, another type of exercise should be considered. Swimming and biking are convenient ways to train and provide less stress on the feet.<br />
<br />
Calluses and corns should be treated carefully and the skin kept from cracking. A foot file should be used and feet be greased regularly. Warm baths can be tried or devices that massage the feet gently. They may reduce the tension in the muscles of the feet.<br />
<br />
<b>Hammertoe and Mallet Toe</b><br />
<br />
The most common problem caused by congenital structural weakness of the feet is the so-called hammertoe. It is a abnormality of the second, third or fourth toes. They bend at the middle joint, so that foot resembles a hammer. Mallet toe is similar, but the deformity is in the upper joint of the toe. The cause of both ailments is inappropriate shoes not fitting properly or a weakness of the structures of the feet. Different supports, toe exercises and surgery are used to treat these conditions.<br />
<br />
<b>Gout</b><br />
<br />
One possible explanation for repeated attacks of acute inflammation of the metatarsophalangeal joint at the base of the big toe is gout. Gout is a metabolic illness, in which uric acid salts accumulate in the system. For some reason, the first place this illness manifests itself is in the joint of the big toe. The disease starts here in over half of the patients.<br />
<br />
This inflammation is intensely painful and the joint may be clearly swollen and reddish. A synovial fluid analysis, laboratory tests, and x-rays or MRI confirm the diagnosis. Treatment consists of medication and diet. Without permanent changes in the diet, this illness has a remarkably high probability of recurrence.<br />
<br />
The foods in the diet that are high in nucleic acid should be restricted. These include offal, roe, small fish, beans, etc. Some drugs, for instance diuretics, may increase the amount of uric acid salts. Traditional warnings include using only moderate amounts of cognac, port wine, and champagne.<br />
<br />
<b>Emergencies</b><br />
<br />
Strong leg pain, paleness of the leg, and loss of pulse in it.<br />
Leg pain and swelling.<br />
Sprained ankle if you have problems moving.<br />
Sharp pain in the region of the Achilles tendon after exercise and loss of range of motion in the foot.<br />
<br />
<b>See a Doctor</b><br />
<br />
Foot pain that limits functioning.<br />
Sprained ankle.<br />
Swelling and pain in the big toe.<br />
Foot pain strong enough to wake you up at night.<br />
Prolonged pain that is not alleviated with self-treatment.<br />
Unusual, painful positions of the big toe or other toes.<br />
Burning pain in the sole of the foot.<br />
<br />
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Ankle and foot pain, more information:<br />
<br />
Foot exercise videos <a href="http://tv-gym.blogspot.com/2012/04/jalan-harjoituksia.html" target="_blank">Tv-gym.com.</a><br />
webMD about <a href="http://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/broken-foot" target="_blank">broken foot.</a><br />
Wikipedia <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sprained_ankle" target="_blank">sprained ankle.</a><br />
Healthline.com about <a href="https://www.healthline.com/health/intermittent-claudication" target="_blank">intermittent claudication.</a><br />
Mayoclinic.com pages on <a href="http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/restless-legs-syndrome/DS00191" target="_blank">restless legs.</a><br />
Familydoctor.org pages on <a href="http://familydoctor.org/online/famdocen/home/common/diabetes/complications/050.html" target="_blank">diabetic neuropathy.</a><br />
Mayoclinic.com pages on <a href="http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/shin-splints/ds00271" target="_blank">shin splints.</a><br />
MedlinePlus article about <a href="http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/001102.htm" target="_blank">embolism.</a><br />
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute about <a href="http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/dci/Diseases/Dvt/DVT_WhatIs.html" target="_blank">deep vein thrombosis.</a><br />
Angiologist about <a href="http://www.angiologist.com/uniquely-vascular-medicine/blue-toe/" target="_blank">blue toe syndrome.</a><br />
American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons on <a href="http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=A00209" target="_blank">arthritis of the foot and ankle.</a><br />
Mayoclinic.com pages on <a href="http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/achilles-tendinitis/DS00737" target="_blank">achilles tendinitis.</a><br />
webMD about <a href="http://www.webmd.com/fitness-exercise/ruptured-tendon" target="_blank">ruptured tendons.</a><br />
Emedicine article about <a href="http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1236852-overview" target="_blank">tarsal tunnel syndrome.</a><br />
American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons on <a href="http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=A00159" target="_blank">heel pain.</a><br />
American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons on <a href="http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=A00149" target="_blank">plantar fasciitis.</a><br />
Mdguidelines.com page about <a href="http://www.mdguidelines.com/bone-spur" target="_blank">bone spur.</a><br />
American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons on <a href="http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=A00173" target="_blank">flatfoot.</a><br />
American Academy of Podiatric Sports Medicine page about <a href="http://www.aapsm.org/neuroma.html" target="_blank">Morton's neuroma.</a><br />
Emedicine article about <a href="http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/85746-overview" target="_blank">metatarsal stress fractures.</a><br />
Wikipedia page on <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bunion" target="_blank">hallux valgus or bunion.</a><br />
American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons on <a href="http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=A00163" target="_blank">rheumatoid arthritis of the foot and ankle.</a><br />
American College of Rheumatology pages about <a href="http://www.rheumatology.org/practice/clinical/patients/diseases_and_conditions/gout.asp" target="_blank">gout.</a><br />
Healthline.com about <a href="https://www.healthline.com/health/ingrown-toenail#prevention" target="_blank">ingrown toenail.</a><br />
webMD about <a href="http://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/tc/athletes-foot-topic-overview" target="_blank">athlete's foot.</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1203142629998990624.post-73250066425356735692020-03-26T10:13:00.000-07:002020-05-31T09:08:28.515-07:00Generalized pain<b>Rheumatoid Arthritis</b><br />
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<br />
If a person has generalized pain symptoms and pain in several locations or almost everywhere, the sufferer starts suspecting the risk of rheumatoid arthritis. This usually, however, is not the case—normally diagnosis of generalized pain condition points to something benign even when there is pain all over. <br />
<br />
Typical rheumatoid arthritis begins with progressive joint symptoms. First symptoms appear in the knuckles otherwise called the metacarpophalangeal joints, in the joints between the first and second finger bones otherwise called proximal interphalangeal joints of the fingers or in the base joints otherwise called metatarsophalangeal joints of the toes, in ankles, wrists or knees. Rheumatoid arthritis typically causes swelling of several joints both on the right and left side simultaneously. <br />
<br />
The inflamed joints are tender and stiff, especially in the morning or when not used for some time. There may be a burning sensation in them and they may become warm. In addition to joint inflammation, irritation may be experienced in the attachments of the tendons to the joints and inflammation of the mucous bursas near the joints. In the long run, if the disease progresses, the range of motion in joints limits, and they may deform. <br />
<br />
Symptoms preceding the onset of illness include fatigue, appetite and weight loss, fever and some other symptoms seen with many other illnesses. Because this disease is by nature a systemic connective tissue disease, the patient may experience varying symptoms. <br />
<br />
The basic cause for rheumatoid arthritis is still not fully understood. It is thought to be an autoimmune disease, in other words a confusion of the immune system. The immune system participates in defending the body, among other duties. In autoimmune diseases, the immune system takes healthy tissue as foreign substances and, as a result, attacks its own body. An infection may play a role in the mixing of the immune system and the onset of rheumatoid arthritis. <br />
<br />
The clinical picture is often the main tool for diagnosis. Laboratory tests may show changes characteristic to rheumatoid arthritis such as an increased sedimentation rate. The rheumatoid factor level may be higher, but this may be the case also in a person who does not have rheumatoid arthritis. Over time, x-rays show changes in the finger and toe joints that are compatible with the condition. <br />
<br />
Medication plays a key role in rheumatoid arthritis. Early start improves the treatment outcome. Treatment should be left to an experienced rheumatology specialist. The outcome of treatment varies from person to person. Some patients have an aggressive form of the disease; others may have fewer symptoms over time. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, it is necessary to maintain mobility of joints by using the joints in a manner that is appropriate with each stage of the disease. <br />
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The systemic connective tissue disease group includes as well other, rarer diseases . <br />
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<b>Post-infectious pain </b><br />
<br />
It is common to experience joint, tendon, or muscle symptoms after various infections, particularly in the case of intestinal or urinary tract infections. Post-infection symptoms that cannot be easily connected to the infection often appear after the infection. <br />
<br />
Post-infection joint symptoms are present in only a few joints simultaneously and usually asymmetrically. Muscle and tendon symptoms may vary widely. <br />
<br />
If these symptoms remain for a long time, a doctor should be visited. Most post-infection symptoms require no treatment and will go away in time. Some may require treatment to ease the pain they cause. <br />
<br />
<b>Lyme disease </b><br />
<br />
Borreliosis otherwise called Lyme disease, which contracts via tick bites, may cause joint symptoms. If there is a ring-like outwards expanding rash in the area of the bite, a doctor should be seen immediately. Other symptoms in the initial stage may be fever, headache and fatigue. The disease is easily treated with antibiotics at this point. If one does not detect a rash, or it does not appear in a typical way, the disease can be diagnosed with the help of the clinical picture, the findings, and the serological blood test showing increased antibodies. <br />
<br />
In the later stages when bacteria spreads by circulation, these outwards expanding circular rashes may arise at various sites of the body even far away from the site of the first bite. <br />
<br />
There may be later muscle and joint symptoms and symptoms in other organs including the brain, nerves, eyes and heart. The later the disease is diagnosed, the more complex the treatment and the more uncertain the results are. <br />
<br />
<b>Fibromyalgia </b><br />
<br />
Fibromyalgia has been a generalized pain syndrome in the center of attention in recent years. Fibromyalgia causes a wide-ranging pain and a painful response to pressure accompanied by other symptoms such as weakness, sleep disorders, and morning stiffness. <br />
<br />
The pain in this generalized pain disorder is typically a dull, vague ache. Often one area is more painful than others are. According to some research, the first symptoms appear most often in the area of wrists and hands. Powerful fatigue is common and may be present onwards immediately after waking up. Sleep disorders include waking at night and difficulty falling back asleep. <br />
<br />
Many patients with fibromyalgia also have other symptoms such as irritated colon, tension headaches, muscle spasms and twitching, weakness in the limbs, menstrual problems, an impaired concentration and memory, depression, anxiety and heart symptoms. <br />
<br />
A doctor’s examination shows particularly severe pain in typical points in several different areas. The doctor has to exclude other illnesses and generalized pain causes that can offer similar symptoms. Only after that can the fibromyalgia diagnosis be made. <br />
<br />
Physical therapy may worsen the condition. Massages, such a lymphatic massage, work for some patients. Cold compresses may be helpful. <br />
<br />
Sleep disorders should be reduced with medication. Anti-depressants often work well here, as they have the best effect on fibromyalgia-related sleep disorders. A lower dosage is usually sufficient in the case of fibromyalgia. <br />
<br />
Treatment often does not make all the symptoms disappear. The main issue is not to let the disease control everyday life. A normal life and moderate use are beneficial. The worst possible alternative is to stay at home alone and mull over the pain. <br />
<br />
Similar wide-ranging mild symptoms may be associated with many other conditions. If the problems of wide area pains stay for a long time, a doctor´s check should be organized. <br />
<br />
Self-treatment for fibromyalgia includes OTC anti-inflammatory medication when needed and ointments for the painful areas, if they are helpful. Cold compresses 20 minutes at a time several times a day may be useful. Sometimes heat pads work better. <br />
<br />
In some people, taking saunas aggravates the symptoms. A long cold shower, after a sauna or bath, may reduce the next night’s misery. <br />
<br />
A overall good fitness form should be held. When one is in a good condition, the pain is usually milder, and it is tolerated better. Aerobic exercises should be done for 20 minutes three times a week, in a way that pulse rate goes up. Swimming, walking with or without poles, biking, gym or group exercises are usually tolerated well enough. <br />
<br />
Anaerobic exercises causing lactic acid to build up are usually tolerated worse. In persons suffering from fibromyalgia, muscles get sore more easily this way. In general, the exercise intensity should be raised gradually and not too fast with this condition because the muscles get easily aggravated. <br />
<br />
Warm baths and salt baths help some. Whirlpool baths may help. Winter swimming keeps the symptoms in check for some people. Temporary extreme cold treatments in special treatment rooms have also been used for this condition. Traditional tempering treatments may also work. <br />
<br />
Fasting alleviates the pain temporarily. Vegetarian diet works for some patients. It might be worthwhile to have a diet diary and track the impact of diet on the pain symptoms. <br />
<br />
A warm and dry climate with few daily changes suits some patients better than the northern cold and humid climate. This is true especially in spring and fall, when the weather can change quickly, and many people travel to warmer countries from the colder regions during these seasons.<br />
<br />
<b>Generalized Pain in Children </b><br />
<br />
Also in children there may be generalized pain Healthy children may have pain in the bones, joints, and muscles. If there are other complaints and findings like losing weight, fever, fatigue, severe local pain or findings in the joints like restriction of movements or swellings, a doctor should be consulted. Growing pains and variations, traumas or overuse, may cause benign pains for a long time.<br />
<br />
<b>See a Doctor</b><br />
<br />
Obvious swelling in a joint.<br />
Pain and an earlier tick bite.<br />
All prolonged wide-ranging pain.<br />
Pain that makes everyday life difficult.<br />
Pain that worries you.<br />
<br />
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Generalized pain, more information:<br />
<br />
Mayoclinic.com pages on <a href="http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/rheumatoid-arthritis/ds00020" target="_blank">rheumatoid arthritis.</a><br />
webMD about <a href="http://www.webmd.com/rheumatoid-arthritis/guide/rheumatoid-arthritis-basics" target="_blank">rheumatoid arthritis.</a><br />
Understanding <a href="https://www.practicalpainmanagement.com/patient/conditions/rheumatoid-arthritis/understanding-rheumatoid-arthritis-symptoms-causes" target="_blank">Rheumatoid Arthritis.</a><br />
Rheumatoid arthritis support network - <a href="https://www.rheumatoidarthritis.org/" target="_blank">Rheumatoidarthritis.org.</a><br />
Medicinenet.com slideshow about <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/rheumatoid_arthritis_pictures_slideshow/article.htm" target="_blank">rheumatoid arthritis.</a><br />
Mayoclinic.com pages on <a href="http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/fibromyalgia/DS00079" target="_blank">fibromyalgia.</a><br />
ArthritisResearchUK pages on <a href="http://www.arthritisresearchuk.org/arthritis-information/conditions/fibromyalgia.aspx" target="_blank">fibromyalgia.</a><br />
Familydoctor.org pages about <a href="http://familydoctor.org/online/famdocen/home/common/infections/common/bacterial/257.html" target="_blank">Lyme disease.</a><br />
Emedicine pages about <a href="http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/756355-overview" target="_blank">polymyositis and dermatomyositis.</a><br />
KidsHealth.org about <a href="http://kidshealth.org/parent/sports_medicine_center/injuries/growing_pains.html" target="_blank">growing pains.</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1203142629998990624.post-75684667302514440402020-03-26T10:11:00.000-07:002020-05-31T09:09:09.456-07:00Infections and pain<b>Common Cold</b><br />
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<br />
Muscle and joint pain often accompany upper respiratory infections caused by viruses. The other symptoms commonly include fever, fatigue and nausea together with coughing, congestion or sore throat. <br />
<br />
The muscle and joint symptoms are usually mild, and their locations may change during the illness. As the illness passes, the pains go away. Nothing out of the ordinary is found in the joints or muscles. <br />
<br />
Treatment consists of standard medication for cold. The anti-inflammatory and pain reducing substances in them will alleviate pain in the muscles and joints. However, medication cannot be relied on to prevent a cold, and it does not have an impact on the duration of symptoms. Rather, it helps the patient feel better until the illness is over. <br />
<br />
<b>Influenza </b><br />
<br />
Influenza is usually epidemic in nature. In that case, a large number of people fall ill in the same country, and the disease circles the planet until it dies down. <br />
<br />
Influenza may be caused by viruses A, B, or C. Nowadays, the occurrence and movement of different strains of influenza around the world are tracked, and this helps in developing preventive vaccines that reduce the number of serious complications. <br />
<br />
The clinical picture of influenza can be terribly harsh. It includes high fever, headache, and severe muscle pains. Complications may be dangerous and even fatal to old and sick people. <br />
<br />
Treatment includes symptom-appropriate medication for fever and pain. Make sure to drink enough liquids. Get vaccinated unless there is allergy to eggs.<br />
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<br />
<b>Erysipelas </b><br />
<br />
There may be infections around the body, and one the most common ones is erysipelas, which is caused by streptococcus bacteria. <br />
<br />
The symptoms of this disease include a clearly confined redness, burning and possibly swelling. The patient gets a high fever, and the area may be acutely painful. Usually the skin is intact. <br />
<br />
Erysipelas is most common in the legs. Bacteria enter the system via a wound, typically through broken skin between the toes caused by foot fungus. <br />
<br />
Treatment consists of resting the infected area, antibiotics and local treatment of the fungal infection between the toes. <br />
<br />
<b>Folliculitis </b><br />
<br />
Folliculitis is possible in a hairy and sweaty area of the skin. A person may be predisposed to it if he comes to contact with oils in his work, has diabetes or is on cortisone treatment. The infection is seen around the follicle in the form of redness and swelling. A boil may eventually appear on the site. <br />
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Treatment consists of careful daily washing and showering. Use local antibacterial ointments. Antibiotics are also a treatment option. <br />
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<b>Boils </b><br />
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A boil may develop due to infection in subcutaneous tissues or contamination of the skin. This initially shows like a local bump, pain, and redness. Fever is likely. When pus forms, the bump becomes soft. <br />
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Initial treatment includes warm compresses and antibiotics. When the boil becomes soft, lancing makes sense. It also reduces the pain. <br />
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Avoid picking pimples on your face, especially near the nose, because this region has a direct connection to the blood circulation of the brain and may increase the chance of an infection spreading to structures inside the skull.<br />
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<b>Herpes Simplex </b><br />
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Type 1 herpes simplex virus causes infections near the mouth and on the skin, and type 2 in the genitals. Initial symptoms may be very mild or quite severe. <br />
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The symptoms around the mouth usually begin as itching and burning pain. Small blisters develop shortly thereafter, and they are covered with scabs in about a week. The condition is often prolonged with an accompanying bacterial infection. <br />
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Treatment consists of locally applied herpes medication. The earlier its use begins, the better it works. If there is an accompanying bacterial infection, antibiotic ointments are required. <br />
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<b>Shingles </b><br />
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Herpes zoster or shingles usually appears on the chest and stomach, sometimes also in the facial area and near the eye as a blistery and painful rash. The varicella zoster virus that causes it, resides in the spinal cord. <br />
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The rash does not cross over the median of the body and is found in the area of only one tactile nerve. When the rash heals, it may leave a scar and sometimes also problematic residual pain. <br />
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Normally the opportunity for post-rash pain is small for those under 50 and for those who had little pain at the onset. Those who had fewer than 20 blisters at the beginning have a small probability of post-rash pain. <br />
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Treatment may include medication effective with viruses and sometimes also cortisone for those who have a high risk of post-rash pain. Otherwise, the effort is put into preventing an accompanying bacterial infection and controlling pain.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1203142629998990624.post-25664437922296014332020-03-26T10:07:00.000-07:002020-05-31T09:09:42.576-07:00Cancer Pains<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7JIAXBykUzr_ljCpEs_73tE-W2j-aRHLmRR7EmOrVp8OexUv1xKr9nZzPnTYsCG39zc5BQe-55PMCViI1shQtjJcCdDdj_mppQUvw-7G8cVF2Bzvl3JT7C8mGCq_2BFX1ACSMOUOmJNCf/s1600/halaus1111.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="228" data-original-width="297" height="245" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7JIAXBykUzr_ljCpEs_73tE-W2j-aRHLmRR7EmOrVp8OexUv1xKr9nZzPnTYsCG39zc5BQe-55PMCViI1shQtjJcCdDdj_mppQUvw-7G8cVF2Bzvl3JT7C8mGCq_2BFX1ACSMOUOmJNCf/s320/halaus1111.jpg" width="320" /></a>A tumor or its metastases cause pain in half the cases. The nature and magnitude of the pain depends <br />
on where the change is taking place and how extensive changes in the tissues are.<br />
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Pain is the first symptom in about a quarter of cancer patients. A metastasis-stage cancer causes pain in 70 percent of the patients. <br />
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Pains are usually initially felt where the tumor or its metastases are. Active substances are secreted near the cancer cells, and they increase swelling of tissues and pain. Majority of the pain is directly caused by the tumor. However, pain in cancer patients may be caused by other factors such as migraine or degeneration. <br />
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The most common reason for cancer pain is a metastasis somewhere in the skeleton. Sometimes irritation of the nerve tissues, increased intracranial pressure, and stretching of the membranes enveloping internal organs may cause pain. <br />
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The pain caused by a skeletal metastasis is usually a constant, aching, dull pain. If the pain suddenly gets worse, it may be caused by a bone fracture due to the tumor’s weakening effect on bone structure. <br />
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If nerve structures are pressed, the pain caused is usually a solid, burning or tearing pain and examination shows changes in the functioning of the irritated nerves. <br />
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The tumor or metastasis may provide pains because of the pressure on organs, nerves, bones or other structures. <br />
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Cancer may cause lockage of an organ or tube in the body. There may be pains by infection, irritation, or changes in the circulation. <br />
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Side effects from chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or surgery may also be painful. Long inactivity can cause stiffness and pains, and depression or anxiety may increase its strength. <br />
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Best treatment for cancer pain is procedures that cause the tumor to disappear or to be reduced in size. More and more tumors can be fully cured by surgery, medical and radiation therapy. <br />
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In situations where a curative treatment is not possible, the pain can usually be alleviated. Radiation therapy brings a rapid reduction in pain levels. The more sensitive the tumor is to radiation, the higher the pain reduction level. In cases of skeletal metastases, the pain may be reduced in a matter of days. <br />
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Radioactive substances that accumulate in the tumors have been used in addition to the conventional radiation therapy. They also reduce pain. Pain in rapidly dividing tumors may be controlled, even quickly, with the help of pain reducing medication. <br />
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Medication can also be used to relieve the pain without its having an impact on tumor growth. It makes sense start with milder medication and continue to stronger medication when necessary. <br />
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Because pain caused by cancer is ongoing, the medication is dosed from the start over 24 hours. The goal is a pain-free state and pain is not allowed to return until the next dose is administered. This helps to control the pain with less medicine from the beginning, vis the situation, if waited for the pain to become severe. <br />
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A wide range of pain medication from anti-inflammatories to strong medications in the opiate line is used. Oral administration is usually the easiest. In addition to injections and intravenous administration, it is possible to give medicine continuously via a subcutaneous pump or by administering it directly into the vertebral canal. <br />
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There may be pain even after successful cancer treatment. It may appear after surgery or radiation therapy. A chest surgery will create residual pain for 40 percent of patients for six months following the surgery. Some of these cases will require pain management. About a quarter of mastectomy patients will experience difficult prolonged pain after the surgery.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0