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The following Clinical Topic Tour provides an overview of stroke and was adapted from materials published by the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
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A stroke is the sudden death of brain cells in a localized area due to inadequate blood flow.A stroke occurs when blood flow is interrupted to part of the brain. Without blood to supply oxygen and nutrients and to remove waste products, brain cell...
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A stroke is an interruption of the blood supply to any part of the brain. A stroke is sometimes called a"brain attack.".Cerebrovascular disease; CVA; Cerebral infarction; Cerebral hemorrhage; Ischemic stroke; Stroke- ischemic.Approximately every 4...
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During a stroke, blood stops flowing to part of the brain. This can damage areas in the brain that control the rest of the body. Get help right away if any of these symptoms come on suddenly, even if the symptoms don't last.
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Stroke is an increasing public health concern throughout the world as the leading cause of long-term disability. There is estimated to be over 3.5 million survivors of stroke in the United States.
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A stroke is an interruption of blood circulation to the brain causing a neurologic deficit reflecting the area of the brain affected. Stroke can be ischemic or hemorrhagic. 1 Ischemic stroke is most prevalent.
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A stroke is the sudden death of brain cells in a localized area due to inadequate blood flow.A stroke occurs when blood flow is interrupted to part of the brain. Without blood to supply oxygen and nutrients and to remove waste products, brain cell...
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Detailed information on a stroke's effects on different portions of the brain The effects of stroke vary from person to person based on the type, severity, and location of the stroke. The brain is extremely complex and each area of the brain is responsible for a special function or ability. When an area of the brain is damaged, which typically occurs with a stroke, an impairment may result. An impairment is the loss of normal function of part of the body. Sometimes, an impairment may result in a disability, or inability to perform an activity in a normal way.
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Detailed information on stroke, also called brain attack, including how to respond in a stroke emergency
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Detailed information on stroke, also called brain attack, including history, statistics, symptoms, types, effects, diagnostic, treatment, and rehabilitation information
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Detailed information on stroke, also called brain attack, including how to respond in a stroke emergency
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Detailed information on stroke, also called brain attack, including history, statistics, symptoms, types, effects, diagnostic, treatment, and rehabilitation information
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Detailed information on stroke, also called brain attack, including history, statistics, symptoms, types, effects, diagnostic, treatment, and rehabilitation information
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This report provides current information about stroke prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation.
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Detailed information on stroke, also called brain attack, including history, statistics, symptoms, types, effects, diagnostic, treatment, and rehabilitation information
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There are various clinical and pathological subtypes of stroke, and identification of the subtype is necessary for correct management. Investigations Imaging Brain imaging should be performed within the first 48 hours of the onset of stroke (see below), to determine whether the stroke is haemorrhagic or ischaemic and to exclude other causes (e.g. tumour).
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Stroke, or cerebrovascular accident(CVA), is the third leading cause of death(after heart disease and cancer) in the United States and the industrialized countries of the world. The term"stroke," which comes from subjects being suddenly"struck dow...
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Getting your life back after having a stroke can be hard work and a slow process. But it's important to know that in most cases, you can do it.
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Women who are obese or who have gained more than 44 pounds since they were 18 years old are about two-and-a-half times more likely to suffer an ischemic stroke than lean women who have not gained a lot of weight.
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Detailed information on a stroke's effects on different portions of the brain The effects of stroke vary from person to person based on the type, severity, and location of the stroke. The brain is extremely complex and each area of the brain is responsible for a special function or ability. When an area of the brain is damaged, which typically occurs with a stroke, an impairment may result. An impairment is the loss of normal function of part of the body. Sometimes, an impairment may result in a disability, or inability to perform an activity in a normal way.
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Cerebrovascular accident(CVA) is the medical term for what is commonly termed a stroke. It refers to the injury to the brain that occurs when flow of blood to brain tissue is interrupted by a clogged or ruptured artery, causing brain tissue to die...
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Detailed information on the history of stroke, also called brain attack Hippocrates, the father of medicine, first recognized stroke over 2,400 years ago. At this time stroke was called apoplexy, which means "struck down by violence" in Greek. This was due to the fact that a person developed sudden paralysis and change in well-being. Physicians had little knowledge of the anatomy and function of the brain, the cause of stroke, or how to treat it.
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Stroke may cause physical and mental difficulties. But the good news is that you can recoup some or all of your previous abilities.
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More women than men are victims of stroke, and the consequences for survivors are more serious in women. Medication to dissolve blood clots is available, but must be administered within the first three hours after a stroke to be most effective.
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Detailed information on the history of stroke, also called brain attack Hippocrates, the father of medicine, first recognized stroke over 2,400 years ago. At this time stroke was called apoplexy, which means "struck down by violence" in Greek. This was due to the fact that a person developed sudden paralysis and change in well-being. Physicians had little knowledge of the anatomy and function of the brain, the cause of stroke, or how to treat it.
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A stroke, also called a cerebral infarction, is a life-threatening condition marked by a sudden disruption in the blood supply to the brain.A disruption in the blood supply to the brain starves the brain of oxygen-rich blood and causes the nerve c...
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Detailed information on stroke, also called brain attack, including types of stroke
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A stroke is a medical emergency. That's why some doctors call strokes "brain attacks.”
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When your loved one returns home, you'll both need time to adjust. You and the patient will have to transfer the skills learned in rehab to a new location. Be patient with your loved one and with yourself. Planning ahead can help long-term recovery go more smoothly.
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The habits and behaviors of a healthy lifestyle can also reduce the risk of stroke: don't smoke, exercise, keep cholesterol and blood presure as low as possible, and eat a healthy diet.
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Detailed information on stroke, also called brain attack, including types of stroke
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Detailed information on stroke, also called brain attack, including stroke diagnosis
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Strokes often result in long-term health problems, and sometimes death. But there are steps you can take to help prevent them.
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A stroke, also called a cerebral vascular accident(CVA), is the sudden death of cells in a specific area of the brain due to inadequate blood flow.A stroke occurs when blood flow is interrupted to a part of the brain, either when an artery bursts ...
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Detailed information on stroke, also called brain attack, including signs and symptoms of stroke emergency
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Medication to control high blood pressure only works if you take it.Medication to control high blood pressure only works if you take it. If you stop taking antihypertensive medication without discussing it with your doctor, you put yourself at risk for a stroke.
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I have a deep muscle massage every month or so. After my sister had a stroke, I started worrying that my massages could loosen any plaque in my carotid arteries, which could make me have a stroke. Could this happen?
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Detailed information on stroke, also called brain attack, including stroke diagnosis
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Detailed information on stroke, also called brain attack, including stroke treatment
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Detailed information on stroke, also called brain attack, including risk factors for stroke
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Detailed information on stroke, also called brain attack, including signs and symptoms of stroke emergency
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Detailed information on stroke, also called brain attack, including stroke treatment
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Detailed information on stroke, also called brain attack, including risk factors for stroke
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Stroke is the common name for the injury to the brain that occurs when the flow of blood to brain tissue is interrupted by a clogged or burst artery. Arterial blood carries oxygen and nutrition to the cells of the body.
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Detailed information on stroke, also called brain attack, including stroke rehabilitation
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Strokes occur when something interferes with the normal flow of blood to the central nervous system. Stroke is the third-leading cause of death in the United States after heart disease and cancer.
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Ultrasound carotid screening for stroke risk is being promoted as a simple detection tool, but the test does not always identify those at risk, and some doctors feel that treating the factors that contribute to risk is more beneficial to overall health.
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Detailed information on stroke, also called brain attack, including stroke rehabilitation
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A tiny wire curlicue that can snare blood clots may help more people get emergency treatment for a stroke.
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A new study suggests an aspirin before bed may lower blood pressure while protecting against heart attack and stroke.
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After a stroke, the body can often recover some functions on its own if medical care is received promptly, but many people also need some form of rehabilatation program or physical, speech, or occupational therapy.
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An explanation of the two-way relationship between depression and stroke. Depressed people are at higher risk for a stroke, but depression often precedes as well as follows a stroke.
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The complex relationship between cholesterol and the brain affects many areas, including possible connections to depression, stroke, and Alzheimer's disease.
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The Women's Health Study, released in March 2005, provides surprising new information about the health benefits of aspirin for women.
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My father had a stroke that left him paralyzed on one side. He's aware of what's going on and can talk some, but he has severe spasticity in his left elbow, shoulder, and hand, along with muscle atrophy. Would Botox injections help his painful spasms?
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This article discusses the drug Plavix: what it does; who needs it; and, the risks and benefits.
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A Harvard Medical School doctor answers your question about the appropriate doctor to see after suffering a stroke.
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People who are at risk for heart disease may be fine for some time, until a stressful event or situation acts as a trigger for a heart attack or stroke. Even in those with heart disease, some of these triggers can be minimized or avoided.
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People at risk for heart attack or stroke will likely benefit from taking low-dose daily aspirin, but for some there are greater risks (such as ulcers or gastrointestinal bleeding) that outweigh aspirin's help.
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HDL, the "good" cholesterol, helps prevent heart disease, but there is some evidence that suggests it may also help protect against strokes, and possibly dementia as well.
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The benefits of aspirin for those at risk for heart disease are clear, but for women under 65 who are not at risk, there is no benefit to a daily aspirin. There is evidence that taking aspirin regularly may reduce the risk of stroke, regardless of age.
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Aspirin is safe for some healthy women over age 65 to take to prevent stroke and heart attack, but probably not for most younger women.
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Detailed information on dehydration and heat stroke, including symptoms, treatment, and prevention
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A stroke can cause problems with speech, vision, memory, balance or coordination. It can leave part of the body weakened or paralyzed, among other physical problems.
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The good news about a stroke is that it can be successfully treated. But there's a catch. For the best outcome, a stroke must be diagnosed and treated within about three hours after symptoms begin.
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About 80 percent of people who have a stroke can benefit from some form of rehabilitation.
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Although their symptoms and effects can be similar—and confusing—strokes and heart attacks are two different medical problems.
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Strokes don't have to be disabling or deadly. Knowing the warning signs of a stroke and acting quickly may help you or your loved one escape the damaging effects of a "brain attack."
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Find out how much you know about strokes and what causes them.
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Heart disease does not always manifest with a sudden, traumatic event. People who are already taking medication are more likely to experience a less severe attack, such as angina or a minor stroke.
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Stroke survivors often suffer pain afterward, and it often goes untreated. It may be necessary to ask for a referral to a pain specialist.
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A Harvard Medical School physician answers your question about the dangers of a small stroke affecting the eyes.
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Recognizing signs of stroke can speed treatment. Nonmedical personnel can use these guidelines as possible warning signs that a stroke has occurred.
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An expert shares his beliefs about how best to treat and avoid cancer, heart disease, and other chronic diseases.
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Is there any chance of recovery from right arm paralysis caused by a stroke after one year has passed?
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Statistics profiling the occurrence of stroke Consider the following statistics regarding strokes:
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Statistics profiling the occurrence of stroke Consider the following statistics regarding strokes:
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Traumatic brain injury(TBI) is the result of physical trauma to the head causing damage to the brain. This damage can be focal, or restricted to a single area of the brain, or diffuse, affecting more than one region of the brain.
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Detailed information on acquired brain injury, including types, causes, and rehabilitation
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Drug abuse is the use of illegal drugs, or the misuse of prescription or over-the-counter drugs.Substance abuse; Illicit drug abuse; Narcotic abuse; Hallucinogen abuse.MARIJUANA(also called"grass,""pot,""reefer,""joint,""hashish,""cannabis,""weed,...
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Besides having trouble with school and relationships, teenagers taking drugs may display emotional extremes with irritability, anger and changes in sleep patterns.
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Antibiotics are not necessary for the majority of infections seen in the pediatrician's office.
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Although it's dangerous to take a prescription medication without a prescription, abusing such medications is the fastest growing type of drug abuse in the United States.
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Medication abuse occurs when patients do not take medication in the prescribed manner, when they use other people''s medication, or when they combine prescribed medication with over-the counter, traditional, or herbal medicines. Such medication mis...
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Brain research is finding that drug addiction causes permanent changes in the brain that diminish the addict's capacity for pleasure, while at the same time making the likelihood of relapse into addiction more likely.
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Substance abuse is a pattern of behavior that displays many adverse results from continual use of a substance. Substance dependence is a group of behavioral and physiological symptoms that indicate the continual, compulsive use of a substance in s...
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Substance abuse is the continued compulsive use of mind-altering substances despite personal, social, and/or physical problems caused by the substance use. Abuse may lead to dependence, in which increased amounts are needed to achieve the desired ...
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Public health has an opportunity to address the issues of substance use, abuse, and dependency across all age groups in the community since it occurs in all age groups. Substance abuse prevention and treatment professionals are acutely aware that ...
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The Center for Substance Abuse Prevention(CSAP) is the U.S. agency responsible for the prevention of alcohol, tobacco, and illicit drug problems in the U.S. population. Because such problems are intrinsically linked with other public health proble...
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Substance abuse and dependence refer to any continued pathological use of a medication, non-medically indicated drug(called drugs of abuse), or toxin. Although there are on-going debates on the exact distinctions between substance abuse and substa...
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Substance abuse is a pattern of drug, alcohol or other substance use that creates many adverse results from its continual use. The characteristics of abuse are a failure to carry out obligations at home or work, continual use under circumstances t...
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In addition to those trained specifically as substance abuse counselors, mental health and rehabilitation counselors work with individuals who abuse alcohol and other drugs.Counselors who work with substance abusers should have the same qualities ...
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Breathing, blood flow, and movement are all controlled by the brain. The brain also allows you to think, handle emotions, and make judgments. After an injury, certain parts of the brain (or the links between these parts) may stop working. Some mental or physical skills may be lost. The loss may be short- or long-term. The full effects of a brain injury may not appear for months or even years.
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The following Clinical Topic Tour provides an overview of meningitis and was adapted from materials published by the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, the National Cancer Institute, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
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Meningitis is a serious inflammation of the meninges, the membranes(lining) that surround the brain and spinal cord. It can be of bacterial, viral, or fungal origin.Meningitis is usually the result of a viral or bacterial infection.
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Meningitis is swelling and irritation(inflammation) of the membranes covering the brain and spinal cord. This inflammation causes changes in the cerebrospinal fluid(CSF) that surrounds the brain and spinal cord.The most common causes of meningitis...
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Detailed information on meningitis, including symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention
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Meningitis is the most common serious manifestation of infection of the central nervous system (CNS). Inflammatory involvement of the subarachnoid space with meningeal irritation leads to the classic triad of headache, fever and meningism, and to a pleocytosis in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF).
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An inflammation of the meninges, most often caused by infection.Meningitis is a potentially fatal inflammation of the meninges, membranes which encase the brain and spinal cord. Meningitis is most commonly caused by an infection of bacteria, virus...
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A vaccination for meningitis is extremely safe and may be prudent for college students, who are at high risk for contracting the bacteria.
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A vaccine can help head off meningococcal meningitis for 11- and 12-year-olds, teens entering high school, and college freshmen in dormitories.
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Bacterial meningitis Epidemiology and microbiology: the overall annual incidence of bacterial meningitis is about 2?3/100,000, with peaks of incidence in infants and adolescents. Integration of vaccines into the UK vaccination programme against Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) and more recently against group C meningococccus has led to a marked decline in cases of Hib and Group C meningococcal meningitis and has significantly reduced the overall incidence of bacterial meningitis.
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Meningitis is a potentially fatal inflammation of the meninges, the thin, membranous covering of the brain and the spinal cord. Meningitis is most commonly caused by infection(by bacteria, viruses, or fungi), although it can also be caused by blee...
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Meningitis is an infection and inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord.
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Detailed information on meningitis, including symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention
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Meningitis is a potentially fatal inflammation of the meninges, the thin, membranous covering of the brain and the spinal cord. Meningitis is most commonly caused by infection by bacteria, viruses, or fungi, although it can also be caused by bleed...
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Most cases of viral meningitis occur in children under 5 years of age. Viral meningitis is usually mild and often goes away without treatment. It is much less serious than bacterial meningitis.
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Meningitis is a potentially fatal inflammation of the meninges, the thin, membranous covering of the brain and the spinal cord. Meningitis is most commonly caused by infection( bacteria, viruses, or fungi), although it can also be caused by bleedi...
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Detailed information on meningitis, including symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention
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Encephalitis is an acute inflammatory process that affects brain tissue and is almost always accompanied by inflammation of the adjacent meninges(tissues lining the brain). There are many types of encephalitis, most of which are caused by viral in...
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Detailed information on meningitis, including symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention
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Detailed information on meningitis, including symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention
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Can you get meningitis more then once?
Howard LeWine, M.D., is chief editor of Internet Publishing at Harvard Health Publications. He is recognized as an outstanding clinician and teacher and is a recipient of the Internal Medicine Teacher of the Year award at Brigham and Women's Hospital. Dr. LeWine continues to practice Internal Medicine; most recently he became a hospitalist after practicing primary care for over 20 years.
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Although the word meningitis suggests an inflammation of the meninges only, there is always some involvement of the most superficial parts of the brain that are contiguous to the meninges. Often there are also alterations in the flow of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF).
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Encephalitis is an inflammation of the brain, usually caused by a direct viral infection or a hypersensitivity reaction to a virus or foreign protein. Brain inflammation caused by a bacterial infection is sometimes called cerebritis.
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Encephalitis is irritation and swelling(inflammation) of the brain, usually due to infections.Encephalitis is most often caused by a viral infection. Many types of viruses may cause it.
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Detailed information on the most common types of encephalitis, including Japanese encephalitis, tickborne encephalitis, and arbovirus encephalitis
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Detailed information on encephalitis, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment
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Detailed information on encephalitis, including cause, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment
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Encephalitis infects the brain tissue itself and has serious consequences.Among the many forms of encephalitis are those that occur seasonally, those that affect animals, and a form that is carried by a mosquito. Viruses that have been directly im...
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Encephalitis is an inflammation of the brain, usually caused by a direct viral infection or a hypersensitivity reaction to a virus or foreign protein. Brain inflammation caused by a bacterial infection is sometimes called cerebritis.
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Immunodeficiency disorders occur when the body''s immune response is reduced or absent.
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Detailed information on the immune system and immune disorders There are many different immune disorders that require clinical care by a physician or other healthcare professional. Listed in the directory below are some, for which we have provided a brief overview.
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This article focuses on primary brain tumors in adults.Primary brain tumors include any tumor that starts in the brain. Tumors may be confined to a small area, invasive(spread to nearby areas), benign(not cancerous), or malignant(cancerous).Tumors...
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Detailed information on brain tumors, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, types, and treatment
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A brain tumor is an abnormal growth of tissue, either malignant(cancerous) or benign(noncancerous), in the brain. Each year, more than 17,000 brain tumors are diagnosed in the United States.A benign brain tumor is composed of slow-growing noncance...
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Screening tests check for signs of cancer in people who don't have any symptoms. Unfortunately, no screening or blood tests exist that can detect a brain tumor early. The tumor is usually found after symptoms appear. Because brain tumors are rare, screening the majority of the population is neither possible nor justifiable. If you ever experience new symptoms, such as headaches or weakness, see a doctor.
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If you have symptoms of a brain tumor, your doctor will first ask questions about these symptoms. Next, the doctor will get your complete medical history and give you a physical exam. In addition to checking your overall health, the doctor will do a neurological exam to observe the way you walk, talk, and move.
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The brain is a complex organ made up of many different cells and parts. Many types of cancer can form in the brain. The type of brain tumor a person has depends on where it began and the cells it is made of. Doctors call cancer that begins in the brain a primary brain tumor.
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Before your doctor can recommend a treatment plan, he or she needs to know the grade of the cancer. The grade tells these things about the tumor.
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There are many types of brain tumors, including primary and secondary brain tumors. Primary brain tumors are named by the type of brain tissue in which they are found. The most common primary brain tumors are gliomas, which begin in the glial, or supportive, tissue of the brain.
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Adjusting to your diagnosis and treatment can be hard for both you and your loved ones. It will take time. But there are things you can do to make the process easier.
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The members of your health care team will work with you during the course of your treatment. They help guide you through your treatment choices, address your questions and concerns, and give you support. Following are some of the people who make up your health care team, and some of the words you may hear:
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A brain tumor is a type of cancer. And there are very few things scarier than being told you have cancer. You may feel like you are in shock. You may not even want to believe what the doctor has told you. And there are probably so many questions you want to ask but think you can't because you don't know where to start.
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Elaine learned she had a tumor deep within her brain. After recovering from brain surgery, Elaine started getting lost on short trips to the grocery store--the same store she'd been driving to for years. Then she began having trouble with numbers, such as balancing her checkbook. After returning to work, she had trouble focusing on complex tasks. Often she could not remember conversations with coworkers. These problems continued after Elaine switched to an easier position. She eventually quit working altogether.
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The brain controls the body. Each part of the brain has a role. When you have a tumor, the part of the brain surrounding it may be damaged. Then the brain can't do its job properly.
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Brain tumors often cause symptoms. Also, your treatment is likely to produce some side effects. To help you feel better, your doctor may prescribe medications. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about possible interaction with other medications.
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Surgery is usually the first step in treating a brain tumor. For this treatment, you see a doctor who specializes in surgery on the brain or nerves, called a neurosurgeon. To remove a brain tumor, a neurosurgeon will cut a hole in your skull. It is like making a small window in the skull. This surgery is called a craniotomy.
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Treating your cancer to get the best results is important. But your quality of life also matters. Let your doctor and nurse know if you are experiencing any side effects or discomfort. Make sure you tell your doctor or nurse how these problems affect your day-to-day life. Your healthcare team is there to help you manage your symptoms as well as to treat your cancer.
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When you are being treated for a brain tumor, it is likely that you will have side effects. Depending on how advanced your cancer is, you may also have symptoms of the disease. For instance, cancer that has spread can cause symptoms such as pressure or pain, or it may interfere with the function of an organ.
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Certain factors can make one person more likely to get a brain tumor than another person. These are called risk factors. Although such risk factors do exist, a person who has one or more risk factors will not always get a brain tumor. In fact, you can have all the risk factors and still not get a brain tumor, or you can have no known risk factors and still get the disease.
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Because no one knows what causes brain tumors, it is hard to say what will prevent them. You can do certain things to reduce your risk of getting a brain tumor. One thing is to avoid exposure to radiation. If radiation is prescribed to treat another kind of cancer, the benefits it brings in treating that cancer usually outweigh these risks.
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Brain tumors can affect your ability to think, remember, reason, and concentrate. Follow these tips to improve your quality of life and reduce frustration.
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Brain tumor symptoms depend on the size and location of the tumor. These symptoms are caused by the damage the tumor does to specific parts of the brain.
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Different types of brain tumor treatments have different goals. Here is a list of treatments and their goals.
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Researchers are finding new treatments for brain tumors. People with brain tumors now have more hope for living longer than ever before.
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Some people use statistical reports to try to figure out their chance of getting cancer or of being cured. Remember that statistics show what happens with large groups of people. Because no two people are alike, statistics can't be used to know or predict what will happen to you.
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Chemotherapy uses anticancer drugs to kill cancer cells. The drugs are made to attack and kill cells that divide rapidly. Cancer cells divide rapidly, as do some normal cells. Chemotherapy can affect those rapidly dividing normal cells in the body. Normal cells may be affected based on these factors.
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Survival rates show the percentage of people with a certain type and stage of cancer who survive it for a certain period of time after they are diagnosed. A 5-year survival rate is the percentage of people who are alive 5 years after they are diagnosed. These are the people it includes.
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Here are some frequently asked questions about brain tumors. Q: What is the brain, and how does it work?
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Side effects of chemotherapy depend on the type and amount of drugs you take and the length of your treatment. Because chemotherapy drugs kill rapidly dividing cells, the drugs can damage healthy cells that divide quickly, such as blood cells or cells of the intestinal tract, as well. This can result in low white blood cell numbers, which may increase your risk of infection.
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Expert-reviewed information summary about the treatment of various childhood brain tumors.
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Detailed information on brain tumors, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, types, and treatment
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Detailed information on brain tumors, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, types, and treatment
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Large amounts of alcohol can result in depression of the various body systems, resulting in coma or death. The immediate physical effects of alcohol depend on the amount and frequency of drinking, while the mental and emotional effects are influen...
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This report includes information on recognizing the symptoms of problem drinking, treatment techniques, coping with a loved one's drinking, and overcoming denial.
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Alcoholism is defined as alcohol seeking and consumption behavior that is harmful. Long-term and uncontrollable harmful consumption can cause alcohol-related disorders that include: antisocial personality disorder, mood disorders(bipolar and major...
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It's important to understand how alcohol and drugs can affect your health and well being.
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Excessive drinking can cause potentially fatal conditions, not only high blood pressure, but also damage to the brain, heart or liver; diabetes and stroke.
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Like cancer or heart disease, alcoholism is a primary chronic disease with its own symptoms and causes. The disease is progressive and often fatal if not treated.
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Effective treatment for alcohol dependency is available, but treatment rates among alcohol abusers are low because of lack of awareness and embarrassment.
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Misuse of alcohol can lead to serious consequences. Alcohol abuse differs from alcoholism. Alcohol abuse is a pattern of drinking that results in failure to meet work, home or school responsibilities, among other things.
Alcoholism is a disease that includes an extremely strong craving for alcohol, loss of control over drinking, or physical dependence.
Learn more about the effects of abusing alcohol by taking this quiz, based on information from the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA).
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Acute(sudden) kidney failure is the sudden loss of the ability of the kidneys to remove waste and concentrate urine without losing electrolytes.Kidney failure; Renal failure; Renal failure- acute; ARF; Kidney injury- acute.There are many possible ...
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This guide discusses ways to recognize, prevent, and treat the most common types of kidney disease, such as kidney stones, glomerulonephritis, and chronic kidney disease.
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Chronic kidney failure occurs when disease or dis- order damages the kidneys so that they can no longer adequately remove fluids and wastes from the body or maintain proper levels of kidney-regulated chemicals in the bloodstream.Chronic kidney fai...
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Chronic kidney failure occurs when disease or disorder damages the kidneys so that they are no longer capable of adequately removing fluids and wastes from the body or of maintaining the proper level of certain kidney-regulated chemicals in the bl...
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Hemodialysis is one kind of dialysis. It uses a machine that holds a filter called a dialyzer. As blood flows through the dialyzer, waste is removed and fluid and chemicals are balanced. Hemodialysis treatments are usually done at a special dialysis center. In some cases, treatments may be done at home.
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Phenylketonuria(PKU) is a rare metabolic disorder caused by a deficiency in the production of the hepatic(liver) enzyme phenylalanine hydroxylase(PAH).PKU is the most serious form of a class of diseases referred to as hyperphenylalaninemia, all of...
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Phenylketonuria(PKU) is a rare condition in which a baby is born without the ability to properly break down an amino acid called phenylalanine.Phenylketonuria(PKU) is inherited, which means it is passed down through families. Both parents must pas...
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Phenylketonuria(PKU) can be defined as a rare metabolic disorder caused by a deficiency in the production of the hepatic(liver) enzyme phenylalanine hydroxylase(PAH). PKU is the most serious form of a class of diseases referred to as"hyperphenylal...
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Phenylketonuria(fee-nyl-key-ton-uria), or PKU, is an inherited metabolic disease that results in severe developmental delay and neurological problems when treatment is not started very early and maintained throughout life. The disease is caused by...
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Phenylketonuria(PKU) can be defined as a rare metabolic disorder caused by a deficiency in the production of the hepatic(liver) enzyme phenylalanine hydroxylase(PAH). PKU is the most serious form of a class of diseases referred to as"hyperphenylal...
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An inherited metabolic disease caused by a defect in the liver enzyme that prevents the conversion of the protein called phenylalanine into a useful form.In phenylketonuria(PKU), a defect in the liver enzyme prevents the conversion of the protein ...
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Phenylketonuria(PKU) is a rare, inherited, metabolic disorder that can result in mental retardation and other neurological problems. People with this disease have difficulty breaking down and using(metabolizing) the amino acid phenylalanine.
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Phenylketonuria(PKU) is an autosomal recessive disorder that results from phenylalanine hydroxylase(PAH) deficiency. If uncontrolled, PKU leads to mental retardation.
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Brain abscess is a bacterial infection within the brain.The brain is usually well insulated from infection by bacteria, protected by the skull, the meninges(tissue layers surrounding the brain), the immune system, and the highly regulated barrier ...
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Detailed information on brain abscess, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment
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A brain tumor is an abnormal growth of tissue in the brain. Unlike other tumors, brain tumors spread by local extension and rarely metastasize(spread) outside the brain.
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A brain abscess is a collection of immune cells, pus, and other material in the brain, usually from a bacterial or fungal infection.Brain abscesses commonly occur when bacteria or fungi infect part of the brain. Swelling and irritation(inflammatio...
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Malnutrition is the condition that occurs when your body does not get enough nutrients.There are a number of causes of malnutrition. It may result from:.Inadequate or unbalanced diet Problems with digestion or absorption Certain medical conditions...
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Nutritional deficiencies occur when a person''s nutrient intake consistently falls below the recommended requirement. Nutritional deficiencies can lead.
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The only way to eat sensibly for life is to make sure you don't feel deprived of your favorite goodies, she says.
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Malnutrition(literally,"bad nutrition") is defined as"inadequate nutrition," and while most people interpret this as undernutrition, falling short of daily nutritional requirements, it can also mean overnutrition, meaning intake in excess of what ...
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Malnutrition is the condition that develops when the body does not get the right amount of the vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients it needs to maintain healthy tissues and organ function.Malnutrition occurs in people who are either under-nouri...
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Malnutrition is a condition that develops when the body does not get the proper amount of protein, energy(calories), vitamins, and other nutrients it needs to maintain healthy tissues and organ function.Poor eating habits or lack of available food...
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A transient ischemic attack(TIA) is an episode in which a person has stroke-like symptoms for less than 24 hours, usually less than 1-2 hours.A TIA is often considered a warning sign that a true stroke may happen in the future if something is not ...
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A ministroke, or transient ischemic attack (TIA), is a brief episode of stroke symptoms caused by temporary interruption of blood flow to the brain. Most people suffer TIAs without realizing it.
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A transient ischemic attack (TIA), also called a ministroke or warning stroke, causes symptoms similar to those of a stroke.
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A TIA (Transient Ischemic Attack) is an early warning that a stroke (also called a brain attack) is coming. A TIA is a temporary stroke. It causes no lasting damage. But the effects of a stroke, if it happens, can be very serious and lasting. If you think you are having symptoms of a TIA or stroke—even if they don't last—get medical help right away.
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The carotid arteries are large blood vessels that carry blood to the brain. When these arteries are healthy, the brain gets all the oxygen and nutrients it needs to function well. If the carotid arteries are damaged, however, it can greatly increase your chances of stroke. This is a sudden loss of brain function caused by a lack of blood flow.
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Transient ischemic attacks (TIAs), while seemingly insignificant, often lead to strokes within a short time span. If you experience a TIA or have symptoms that suggest one, take it seriously and seek treatment right away.
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Transient ischemic attacks???or mini-strokes???may be a harbinger of more serious problems and shouldn't be dismissed.
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A transient ischemic attack(TIA), or"mini-stroke," is a neurologic episode resembling a stroke but resolving completely within a short period of time. By definition, symptoms of TIA resolve within 24 hours, and symptoms lasting longer than that ar...
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A transient ischemic attack, or TIA, is often described as a mini-stroke. Unlike a stroke, however, the symptoms can disappear within a few minutes.
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Transient Ischemic Attacks(TIAs) are transient neurological deficits, such as temporary blindness of one eye(amaurosis fugax), hemiparesis, or aphasia. Most typically, these symptoms last for periods of minutes or even hours, and they may persist ...
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A Harvard Medical School physician answers your question about proper treatment for a transient ischemic attack (TIA).
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Mini-strokes, or transient ischemic attacks, can be a harbinger of more serious strokes, but is that true for everyone? Researchers have developed a way to predict who is at risk for a more serious stroke.
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A Harvard Medical School physician answers your question about why evidence of a transient ischemic attack might not show up on an MRI scan.
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I recently went to visit my mother, who is 68 now. While I was there she had an episode where she began to have difficulty talking, like she was drunk or something. She also became clumsy and could not move around very well; it looked like she couldn?t use her left side. This all came on suddenly as we were eating breakfast, but resolved after about 30 minutes. My mother denied anything was wrong, and told me that these episodes have been happening every few days over the last three to four weeks, but they always resolve and that is why she is not seeking help. She has some trouble with her blood pressure being high, but no other health issues. What could these episodes be? What should she do if it happens again -- should she seek immediate help, go see her family doctor, or wait to see if they resolve again?
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Neurosyphilis is an infection of the brain or spinal cord. It occurs in persons with untreated syphilis many years after they are first infected.Neurosyphilis is caused by Treponema pallidum, the bacteria that cause syphillis.
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People don't talk as much about syphilis today as they did in the past. But people still become infected with syphilis, and it can cause very serious problems.
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An electrolyte disorder is an imbalance of certain ionized salts(i.e., bicarbonate, calcium, chloride, magnesium, phosphate, potassium, and sodium) in the blood.Electrolytes are ionized molecules found throughout the blood, tissues, and cells of t...
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Inborn errors of metabolism are rare genetic disorders in which the body cannot properly turn food into energy. The disorders are usually caused by defects in specific proteins(enzymes) that help break down(metabolize) parts of food.
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Inborn errors of metabolism are inherited disorders in which the body cannot metabolize the components of food( carbohydrates, proteins, and.
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Withdrawal syndrome occurs in drug and alcohol addicted individuals who discontinue or reduce the use of their drug of choice. This process of eliminating drugs and alcohol from the body is known as detoxification.
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A fluid imbalance occurs when the level of body fluids is abnormal.Many illnesses can cause fluid imbalance. A fluid imbalance also can occur after any type of surgery.It is common to retain large amounts of fluid for several days after surgery(ca...
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