Anxiety Disorder

Understanding anxiety

Anxiety is a normal emotion, but when one starts feeling disproportionate levels of anxiety, it is considered a medical disorder. Anxiety disorders are often characterised by excessive fear, apprehension, worry and nervousness. These conditions affect how a person behaves and processes emotions, sometimes even causing physical symptoms. Anxiety disorders are one of the most common mental illnesses and they affect millions of people around the world. Knowing the difference between normal anxious feelings and an anxiety disorder can help manage problems.

What are the types of anxiety disorders?

Anxiety is part of several different mental disorders, which include: Panic disorder: The person experiences recurring panic attacks at unexpected times. During the attack they feel as they are having a heart attack. They often live in fear of the next panic attack Social anxiety disorder: Extreme fear of social situations and being judged by other people. They have difficulty in public speaking and talking to strangers. Phobia: Excessive and irrational fear of a specific situation, activity or object Separation anxiety disorder: Excessive fear of being away from home or loved ones Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD): Recurring irrational thoughts, impulses or images that cause the person to perform repeated specific behaviours or actions Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD): Anxiety that develops following a traumatic event Illness anxiety disorder: Anxiety revolving around one’s health

What are the symptoms of anxiety?

The symptoms of anxiety vary from person to person as they have a unique ways of processing and experiencing emotions. This disorder often manifests itself as panic attacks, painful thoughts or memories and nightmares. It is normally characterised by a general feeling of worry or fear, often regarding a specific event or place. The most common symptoms of anxiety are:

• Restlessness, excessive worry over a small issue, fear of unknown
• Trouble concentrating
• Dry mouth
• Difficulty falling asleep
• Increased heart rate
• Rapid breathing

Recognising the signs of anxiety can help one to understand the problem and reach out for help. Anxiety disorders can be easily treated with therapy and medication. Consult ones psychiatrist or therapist for more details on anxiety disorders.

X-Ray

What are X-rays?

X-rays are a type of radiation known as electromagnetic waves and are used for diagnostic imaging purposes thanks to their ability to pass through human skin and tissue. This allows images to be captured which are used by physicians to diagnose and treat medical conditions. X-rays are similar to visible light, but they are absorbed differently by different parts of the human body. The calcium in your bones absorbs the most amounts of X-rays, which is why they appear dense and white on an image. Fat and other types of soft tissue absorb lesser amounts of X-rays and appear grey in images. Air absorbs the least amount, which is why your lungs and other air-filled spaces appear black.

How is an X-ray taken?

To generate an image or a radiograph, the patient is positioned between an X-ray source and X-ray detector. The source is focused on the area being imaged and the machine is turned on. The X-rays travel through the patient’s body and is absorbed in different amounts by different tissues. The detector creates an image of absorbed X-rays which the doctor uses to determine the cause and treatment for the patient’s condition.

When are X-rays used?

X-rays are used to diagnose and treat various medical conditions, with the most common being to detect bone fractures. X-ray radiography is also used to detect tumours, infections, abnormal masses, foreign objects, dental problems, calcification etc. Other special diagnostic uses of X-Rays include: Mammography: Imaging of the breasts to detect and diagnose cancer, tumours and other abnormal masses. Fluoroscopy: A fluorescent screen is used to capture real-time X-ray images of diagnostic processes or movement inside the body. Computed tomography (CT): X-rays are combined with computer processing to generate multiple cross-sectional images which can be combined to create 3-D images. X-rays and other types of high-energy radiation are often used to treat tumours and cancers.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging – MRI

What is an MRI scan?

A magnetic resonance imaging or MRI scan is a diagnostic procedure where powerful magnetic fields and radio waves are used to produce detailed images of the body. Doctors use MRI scans to diagnose a variety of medical conditions, from damaged ligaments to cancers. An MRI scanner is a tube-shaped machine that houses a large powerful magnet. It captures multiple images of the body from various angles which are transmitted to a computer. These images are used by doctors to determine the cause of the patient’s condition and to create a suitable treatment plan.

What happens during an MRI scan?

Before undergoing an MRI scan, the patient is requested to remove any metal jewellery or accessories as they will soon be exposed to a large magnet. Even the smallest metal object can interfere with the MRI machine. The patient is made to lie inside the scanner. The machine is turned on and the patient is asked to remain completely still during the scan. The captured images are processed and sent to the requesting doctor. If the patient is anxious about enclosed spaces, they may be given medication to make the procedure more comfortable. It is important to remain very still during the scan as even the slightest movement can disrupt the images. Some patients may require an injection of contrast dye to make a particular tissue more visible during the scan. People with internal metal objects such as steel plates, screws, cochlear implants, pacemakers, aneurysm clips and other foreign objects should not undergo MRI scans.

What are the uses of an MRI scan?

An MRI scan can be used to:

• Detect abnormalities in the brain and spinal cord
• Identify injuries or abnormalities of the joints
• Detect diseases of abdominal organs
• Detect cysts, tumours and other abnormalities
• Screen for breast cancer
• Determine uterine abnormalities in women
• Evaluate pelvic pain in women, caused by endometriosis and fibroids

Computerised Tomography Scan – CT Scan

What is a CT scan?

A computerised tomography scan, also known as CT or CAT scan, is a diagnostic procedure where computers and rotating X-ray machines are used to create cross-sectional images of the human body. Compared to traditional X-rays, these images provide more detailed information such as visuals of blood vessels, soft tissue and bones. A CT scan can be performed on any part of the body. During a CT scan, the patient is made to lie inside a tunnel-shaped machine. They may be given a special contrast dye that makes internal structures clarity better on the images. The inside of this machine rotates continuously while taking series of X-ray images from various angles. The images are sent to a computer where a physician can view them. Cross-section visuals can be combined to create three-dimensional images for better understanding of the patient’s condition.

When is a CT scan necessary?

The primary purpose of a CT scan is to diagnose and evaluate injuries and conditions. This imaging technique helps:

• Diagnose disorders, bone fractures and infections
• Study internal structures such as blood vessels
• Accurately locate tumours and abnormal masses
• Assist during procedures such as biopsies and surgeries
• Determine the extent of internal bleeding and injuries
• Determine the effectiveness of certain treatments

Are CT scans better than X-rays?

CT scans differ from X-rays as they produce multiple cross-section images of the body. The image quality is similar to MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) but is more detailed compared to X-ray images. A CT scan is a powerful diagnostic tool and considered more sophisticated than X-rays in many ways. Doctors prescribe CT scans when X-rays are not as effective or when they want more descriptive images for diagnosis and treatment.

Thyroid – Tired of Being Tired?

The thyroid is a small gland shaped like a butterfly that sits at the base of your neck. It is one of the endocrine glands found in your body. It produces T3 and T4 hormones that regulate your metabolism. Here are the most common thyroid disorders you should be aware of.

Hyperthyroidism

This is a condition caused by an overactive thyroid gland which produces increased amounts of thyroid hormones. Hyperthyroidism is characterised by many symptoms, including:

• Nervousness
• Anxiety
• Restlessness
• Shaking
• Racing heart
• Increased sweating
• Thin skin and brittle nails and hair
• Trouble sleeping
• Muscle weakness
• Weight loss

Hyperthyroidism often leads to another condition called Graves’ disease. The growth of nodules on the thyroid gland can sometimes cause the gland to produce increased amounts of its hormones.

Hypothyroidism

This is caused by an underactive thyroid gland which produces a decreased amount of hormones. Hypothyroidism is often seen in patients who are undergoing radiation treatment or have had their gland surgicallyremoved. The symptoms of this condition include:

• Fatigue
• Weight gain
• Depression
• Weakness
• Memory problems
• Constipation
• Slow heart rate

Graves’ disease

This is an autoimmune disorder where your body’s immune system starts attacking the thyroid gland, causing it to overproduce hormones. It is hereditary and can affect people at any point in their lives. The symptoms of Graves’ disease are similar to hyperthyroidism. Since it is an autoimmune condition, there is no cure. But the symptoms can be controlled using beta-blockers and anti-thyroid medication.

Hashimoto’s disease

Also called lymphocytic thyroiditis, this autoimmune condition causes your immune system to attack and destroy the thyroid gland’s ability to produce hormones. This leads to a decrease of thyroid hormones in the body which affects your metabolism. The symptoms of Hashimoto’s disease are quite similar to hypothyroidism, but treatment is different as this is an autoimmune disease.

Goitre

This is a noncancerous enlargement of the thyroid gland and is most commonly caused by iodine deficiency. It is characterised by a tightness or swelling in the neck, difficulty breathing and a hoarse voice. Treatment includes iodine supplements or surgery to remove all or part of the thyroid gland.

Thyroid Cancer

Thyroid cancer is becoming relatively common, It is seen more commonly in women and persons over the age of 30 years, it usually presents as a swelling over the thyroid (though all swellings of thyroid are cancerous). Most thyroid cancers are treatable and even curable.

Understanding & Treating Neurological Disorders

The nervous system is a complex system that is responsible for the coordination and regulation of your body’s activities. It is classified into: Central nervous system which consists of the brain and spinal cord Peripheral nervous system which consists of all other arteries, nerves and capillaries in the body The nervous system is vulnerable to certain disorders just like the rest of the body. It can become damaged by:

• Infections
• Trauma
• Structural defects
• Degeneration
• Disruption in blood flow
• Autoimmune disorders
• Tumours

The symptoms of nervous system disorders depend on which area is affected. These disorders may occur slowly and lead to a gradual loss in function and cognition, or they may occur suddenly and cause acute, life-threating problems. There are many kinds of nervous disorders, some of which are:

• Stroke – causes by clotting in or rupture of blood vessels in brain
• Mental health problems like depression, anxiety or psychosis
• Degenerative conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), multiple sclerosis, Huntington’s disease, peripheral neuropathies and Alzheimer’s disease
• Infections such as abscesses or encephalitis
• Brain tumour
• Organ system failure such as heart failure, thyroid dysfunction, hepatic encephalopathy, respiratory failure or uraemia
• Diabetes or hypoglycaemia
• Electrolyte imbalance

There are many symptoms associated with nervous system disorders. Here are some common neurological symptoms: Pain – Headache, back pain, neck pain, nerve pain Muscle malfunction – Weakness, tremors, paralysis, difficulty walking, change in gait, muscle spasms, poor coordination, rigid muscles Changes in sensation – Numbness, tingling, hypersensitivity, loss of position sense Changes in special senses – Visual hallucinations, disturbances of taste and smell, eyesight issues, deafness, tinnitus Sleep problems – Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, sleeping too much, uncontrollable leg movements during sleep, narcolepsy Changes in consciousness – Fainting, delirium, confusion, seizures, stupor, coma Changes in cognition – Difficulty understanding a familiar language, poor memory, difficulty with common motor skills, inability to recognise familiar objects, places or people, inability to concentrate, difficulty understanding spatial relationships, dementia Other symptoms – Loss of balance, vertigo, slurred speech, difficulty swallowing, Stroke is one of the common but serious neurological disorders which can lead to permanent disabilities or even death. Stroke needs emergency attention and patient suspected of having stroke should be immediately taken to a nearby hospital for treatment. There are many disorders that affect the nervous system. Early detection is the key in effective treatment. Talk to your doctor for more details on nervous system disorders and how they can be treated.

Expert Heart Care, Close to Home

Heart disease is an umbrella term used to refer to the issues, disorders and deformities of the heart. It is different from cardiovascular disease which refers to the disorders of the heart’s circulatory and blood vessels. Heart disease is the leading cause of death around the world, with one in four deaths occurring as a result of this condition. There are several types of heart disease. Some of them are:

Congenital heart disease

This is a general term used to refer to certain deformities of the heart that have been present since birth. Some examples of congenital heart disease are: Obstruction defects: Partial or complete block of blood flow through the heart’s chambers Septal defects: Presence of a hole between the heart’s chambers Cyanotic heart disease: A heart defect which causes a shortage of oxygen making the skin turn blue

Coronary artery disease

This is the disease or damage of the coronary arteries which supply the heart with oxygen and nutrients. The most common cause for coronary artery disease is plaque deposits which lead to the narrowing or blocking of arteries. This in turn causes the heart to receive decreased amounts of oxygen and nutrients.

Arrhythmia

An irregular heartbeat is called arrhythmia. It is caused when the electrical impulses within the heart do not function properly. This causes the heartbeat to become slow, fast or erratic. This condition includes different types:

• Tachycardia or rapid heartbeat
• Bradycardia or slow heartbeat
• Premature ventricular contractions or abnormal, additional heartbeats
• Fibrillation or irregular heartbeat

Myocardial infarction

Commonly known as a heart attack, this condition is caused by an interrupted blood flow which damages part of the heart. This interruption is often caused by a blood clot or narrowing of the coronary arteries.

Heart failure

Also known as congestive heart failure, this condition occurs when the heart fails to properly pump blood around the body. When a part of the heart becomes damaged due to high blood pressure or coronary artery disease, it affects the heart’s ability to pump blood efficiently. For more details on heart disease and its treatment, talk to your cardiologist.

Gastrointestinal Disorders

‘Gastrointestinal disorder’ is a term used to refer to any disease or condition that affects the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. The GI tract extends from the mouth to the anus and consists of the oesophagus (food pipe), stomach, small intestine and large intestine. Our digestive system is the GI tract combined with the liver, pancreas and gallbladder. Some of the most common gastrointestinal disorders include:

Constipation

This term refers to the infrequency or difficulty in passing stools. The major symptom of constipation is small, hard and dry stools which are difficult to pass. Other symptoms are distension or bloating of the stomach and haemorrhoids. Constipation is often caused by dehydration, a low-fibre diet, inactivity or reaction to certain medication.

Diarrhoea

This condition is characterised by loose, watery stools which are sometimes accompanied by cramping or abdominal pain. A common cause of diarrhoea is viral and bacterial infections. Intolerance to certain foods or medicine can also cause diarrhoea. If untreated, diarrhoea can lead to dehydration, weakness, fatigue and other health complications.

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

Also known as acid reflux or heartburn, this condition occurs when the oesophageal sphincter located at the entrance to the stomach becomes weak, leading to the backflow of semi-digested food or stomach acid into the oesophagus. This leads to regurgitation, irritation, nausea and chest pain. GERD is generally treated with antacids or Proton Pump Inhibitors.

Haemorrhoids

When the area around the opening of the anus becomes engorged and inflamed, either internally or externally, it is known as haemorrhoids. External haemorrhoids are red, tender, painful or itchy while internal haemorrhoids cause a feeling of increased pressure inside the rectum. Haemorrhoids are uncomfortable and should not be ignored.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

IBS is characterised by abdominal discomfort that arises from altered bowel habits. This condition has various symptoms, including diarrhoea, constipation, nausea, vomiting, and heartburn. It is tricky to diagnose IBS because different people exhibit different symptoms. Treatment depends on the person’s diet habits and predominant symptoms. For details on other gastrointestinal disorders, speak to your physician today.

Fever – Symptoms, Causes & Treatment

What you need to know about fever

A fever is a common medical condition when your body temperature rises above 36° Centigrade or 98° Fahrenheit. The medical terms for fever are controlled hyperthermia and pyrexia. Fevers are often accompanied by headache, chills and body ache. A fever is generally a symptom of an underlying condition. Your body raises its temperature when it is fighting off an infection. In most cases, fevers subside on their own after a brief period of time, but it is important to see a doctor if your fever persists for more than couple of days.

What are the symptoms of a fever?

A fever in itself is a symptom of another condition, but it can present itself through certain signs, such as:

• Feeling cold or shivering
• Dehydration
• Lack of appetite
• Increased sensitivity to pain or hyperalgesia
• Sleepiness
• Lethargy
• Sweating
• Depression
• Confusion or problems with concentration
• Irritability
• Seizures
• Delirium

What are the causes of fever?

These are the most common factors that can cause fever:

• Infections such as chicken pox, pneumonia, flu, strep throat, urinary infections etc.
• Rheumatoid arthritis and other auto immune diseases
• Dehydration
• Overexposure to sunlight, heat stroke or sunburn
• Drug abuse
• Alcohol withdrawal
• Reaction to certain medication

How are fevers treated?

If you have a mild-to-moderate fever, your doctor will prescribe non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as aspirin or paracetamol to bring your temperature down. In case the fever has been brought on by a bacterial infection, you may need to take antibiotics. If the cause is a viral infection and you are exhibiting flu-like symptoms, antibiotics will not help. If your fever persists for more than two days or if your body temperature is higher than 38° Centigrade or 100.4° Fahrenheit, contact your doctor immediately. If you are suffering from a fever, you should remember to consume plenty of fluids to keep dehydration at bay. Your body is working hard to stay healthy and dehydration can complicate the situation.