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When you exercise, you gain more strength and flexibility. Your mood will improve, and you'll be able to think better.
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In elderly patients, symptoms of depression can be mistaken for symptoms of another medical problem, so it is important for clinicians to consider all physical problems and medications of elderly patients before making a diagnosis.
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Aimed at older adults, this report provides practical advice on how to avoid common and often deadly accidents at home.
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Learn how to put together a caregiving plan, draw on useful services, and address legal, medical, and financial planning issues. Also, find advice on involving family members, handling daily tasks, and maintaining your well being.
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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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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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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 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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This report provides current information about stroke prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation.
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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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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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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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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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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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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 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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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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Detailed information on stroke, also called brain attack, including types of stroke
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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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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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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 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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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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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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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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Detailed information on stroke, also called brain attack, including stroke rehabilitation
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Detailed information on stroke, also called brain attack, including stroke rehabilitation
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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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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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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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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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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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This article discusses the drug Plavix: what it does; who needs it; and, the risks and benefits.
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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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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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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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A Harvard Medical School doctor answers your question about the appropriate doctor to see after suffering a stroke.
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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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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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Detailed information on dehydration and heat stroke, including symptoms, treatment, and prevention
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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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Antibiotics are not necessary for the majority of infections seen in the pediatrician's office.
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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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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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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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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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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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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 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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Multiple sclerosis is an autoimmune disease that affects the brain and spinal cord( central nervous system).Multiple sclerosis(MS) affects woman more than men. The disorder most commonly begins between ages 20 and 40, but can be seen at any age.MS...
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Detailed information on multiple sclerosis, including causes, symptoms, evaluation procedures, treatment, and rehabilitation
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Detailed information on multiple sclerosis, including causes, symptoms, evaluation procedures, treatment, and rehabilitation
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A description of multiple sclerosis, its causes, symptoms, and treatment. Includes information about treatments on the horizon.
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Detailed information on multiple sclerosis in pregnancy Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic disease of the central nervous system. It is an unpredictable condition that can be relatively benign, disabling, or devastating. Some individuals with MS may be mildly affected, while others may lose their ability to write, speak, or walk when communication between the brain and other parts of the body becomes disrupted.
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Multiple sclerosis(MS) is a disorder that affects primarily the myelinated white matter of the central nervous system(CNS), the brain, optic nerves, and spinal cord. There is no known cause.
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Multiple sclerosis is a chronic, degenerative disease of the central nervous system(CNS). The CNS is comprised of the brain and the spinal cord.
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Multiple sclerosis(MS) is a chronic, degenerative disorder affecting the central nervous system(CNS), which is made up of the brain, spinal cord, and optic nerves. A fatty tissue called myelin coats and protects the nerve fibers in the CNS.
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Multiple sclerosis(MS) is a chronic autoimmune disorder affecting movement, sensation, and bodily functions. It is caused by destruction of the myelin insulation covering nerve fibers(neurons) in the central nervous system(brain and spinal cord).M...
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Multiple sclerosis is an inflammatory demyelinating disease of the central nervous system. The disease results in injury to the myelin sheath(the fatty matter that covers the axons of the nerve cells), the oligodendrocytes(the cells that produce m...
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Multiple sclerosis(MS) is a chronic autoimmune disorder affecting movement, sensation, and bodily functions. It is caused by destruction of the myelin sheath(insulation) covering nerve fibers( neurons) in the central nervous system( brain and spin...
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The effects of multiple sclerosis (MS) can be unpredictable. MS can cause symptoms that range from minor problems in mild cases to paralysis in the most severe cases.
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I have MS and recently was diagnosed with breast cancer. Are there any concerns about breast reconstruction in people with autoimmune diseases?
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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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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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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 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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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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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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Multi-infarct dementia(MID) is a form of vascular dementia-- damage in mental function caused by strokes.Multi-infarct dementia(MID) is the most common form of vascular dementia, and the second most common cause of dementia(after Alzheimer''s disea...
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Many older adults are healthy, active, and alert. But sometimes older people become confused and forgetful. They can also seem anxious, depressed, or withdrawn. These changes may be the result of a primary dementia.
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Multi-infarct dementia is one form of dementia that occurs when small blood vessels in the brain are blocked by blood clots or fatty deposits. The blockage interrupts the flow of blood to regions of the brain(a stroke), which, if sustained, causes...
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Concussion is a trauma-induced change in mental status, with confusion and amnesia, and with or without a brief loss of consciousness.A concussion occurs when the head hits or is hit by an object, or when the brain is jarred against the skull, wit...
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A concussion is a brain injury that may result in a bad headache. altered levels of alertness, or unconsciousness.There are more than a million cases of concussion each year in the United States.A concussion may result when the head hits an object...
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Although concussions range from mild to severe, they're all serious injuries that can harm the way the brain works.
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Call 911 or your emergency number if the person with the concussion will not wake up or has seizures or convulsions.
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Concussion is a trauma-induced change in mental status, associated with confusion and amnesia, that may or may not be accompanied by a brief loss of consciousness.A concussion occurs when the head hits or is hit by an object, or when the brain is ...
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Concussions occur frequently among athletes, but they are the type of sports injury that we know the least about. Experts say that's because of the brain's complexity, as well as a lack of research into concussions.
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Concussion is a trauma-induced change in mental status, with confusion and amnesia, and with or without a brief loss of consciousness.A concussion occurs when the head hits or is hit by an object, or when the brain is jarred against the skull with...
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Research has found links between incidences of concussions among professional football players and depression. Players who experienced more than one concussion had a higher likelihood of being diagnosed with depression.
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After a head injury, many people experience symptoms such as dizziness, headaches, and mood changes as long as a year after the accident. A pattern of several lingering symptoms may constitute a postconcussion syndrome.
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How long should someone wait after having a mild concussion before participating in sports activities?
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I played football from the age of 13 to 21. During that time, I ended up with three diagnosed concussions. Over the years, I have struggled with ADHD, impulsiveness, mood changes, difficulty with completing tasks, etc. I have always been under the assumption that it is just my personality, but as I am getting older, I seem to be struggling more and more with these issues. Could some of these issues be a result of the concussions I had? If so, are they treatable by either medication or therapy?
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Hypoxia is the term applied to oxygen starvation of the brain; when the lack of oxygen is more generalized in the whole body, the term anoxia is used. Hypoxia may affect the fetus prior to birth, or may occur during the birth process itself.
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Hypoxia generally refers to a lack of oxygen in any part of the body. In a neurological context, it refers to a reduction of oxygen to the brain despite adequate amounts of blood.A decrease in oxygen supply to the brain can occur due to choking, s...
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Huntington''s disease is a disorder passed down through families in which nerve cells in the brain waste away, or degenerate.American doctor George Huntington first described the disorder in 1872.Huntington''s disease is caused by a genetic defect o...
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A hereditary disease of the central nervous system.Huntington''s disease, also called Huntingtons chorea, causes intellectual impairment, emotional disturbances, and the uncontrollable arm, leg, and body movements that are its most characteristic f...
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Huntington disease is a progressive, neurodegenerative disease causing uncontrolled physical movements and mental deterioration. The disease was discovered by George Huntington of Pomeroy, Ohio, who first described a hereditary movement disorder.H...
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Huntington disease is a progressive, neurodegenerative disease causing uncontrolled physical movements and mental deterioration. The disease was discovered by George Huntington of Pomeroy, Ohio, who first described a hereditary movement disorder.H...
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Huntington disease is a progressive, neurodegenerative disease causing uncontrolled physical movements and mental deterioration. The disease was discovered by George Huntington of Pomeroy, Ohio, who first described a hereditary movement disorder.H...
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First described by Dr. George Huntington in 1872, Huntington disease(HD) is a relatively common hereditary neurological condition that most commonly affects people in their adult years.
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The endocardium is the inner lining of the heart muscle, which also covers the heart valves. When the endocardium becomes damaged, bacteria from the blood stream can become lodged on the heart valves or heart lining.
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Endocarditis is inflammation of the inside lining of the heart chambers and heart valves(endocardium).
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Endocarditis is an infection of the endocardium, the inner lining of the heart muscle and its four valves(tricuspid, pulmonary, mitral, and aortic). Abnormal or damaged endocardium is more likely to become infected when bacteria enter the bloodstr...
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Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease(CJD) is a form of brain damage that causes a rapid decrease of mental function and movement.Transmissible spongiform encephalopathy; vCJD; CJD; Jacob-Creutzfeldt disease.CJD is believed to result from a protein called a p...
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Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease(CJD) is a rapidly progressive disease causing damage to the brain. It is one of a group of rare diseases that affects humans and animals, known as transmissible spongiform encephalopathies(TSE) and is believed to be cause...
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Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease(CJD) is a transmissible, rapidly progressing, fatal neurodegenerative disorder related to"mad cow disease.".Before 1995, Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease was little known outside the medical profession. Indeed, most physicians d...
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Kidney disease is any disease or disorder that affects the function of the kidneys. This may include:.
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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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Detailed information on kidney disorders There are many disorders of the kidney that require clinical care by a physician or other healthcare professional. Listed in the directory below are some of the conditions, for which we have provided a brief overview.
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Detailed information on kidney conditions, including kidney function, nephrology, kidney problem causes, kidney disease symptoms, and 1 labeled, full-color anatomical illustration
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"I thought my life was perfect," Sean Elliott says, "and then one day I went to see my doctor and he told me I had a rare form of kidney disease. Suddenly, I realized that I'd have to fight a battle to save my athletic career -- maybe even my life."
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Kidney disease is a stealth illness. It may often be silent for many years -- until it has reached an advanced stage.
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Too often, diabetes leads to kidney disease. But it doesn't have to. When kidney problems are caught early, you can take steps to prevent more serious kidney disease.
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The kidneys may fail due to problems with their blood vessels or filtering units. Such problems may be caused by an illness that affects the whole body. Diabetes and high blood pressure are common examples. Filtering problems may also be caused by illnesses that harm the kidneys directly (glomerulonephritis and polycystic disease). In some cases, problems in the urinary tract may also cause kidney failure.
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Detailed information on urology, the branch of medicine concerned with the urinary tract in both genders, and with the genital tract or reproductive system in the male
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Your kidneys are located near the back of your torso, about even with the lowest ribs. One is on either side of the spine. Their main job is to clean the blood of waste products created when your body burns fuel. But they also perform other tasks. For example, they help regulate the amount of fluid in your body. If you were to drink five quarts of fluid one day and just a pint the next, your kidneys keep your body's water levels in balance despite the vast differences in intake.
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Three common signs of kidney disease are also strong risk factors for cardiovascular disease, according to a new study.
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Is there a correlation between kidney disease and loss of memory or ability to concentrate?
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Myocarditis is an uncommon disorder that is usually caused by viral, bacterial, or fungal infections that reach the heart.Coxsackie Cytomegalovirus Hepatitis C Herpes HIV Parvovirus.Aspergillus Candida Coccidioides Cryptococcus Histoplasma Schisto...
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Myocarditis is an inflammatory disease of the heart muscle(myocardium) that can result from a variety of causes. While most cases are produced by a viral infection, an inflammation of the heart muscle may also be instigated by toxins, drugs, and h...
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A subarachnoid hemorrhage is an abnormal and very dangerous condition in which blood collects beneath the arachnoid mater, a membrane that covers the brain. This area, called the subarachnoid space, normally contains cerebrospinal fluid.
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Subarachnoid hemorrhage is bleeding in the area between the brain and the thin tissues that cover the brain. This area is called the subarachnoid space.Bleeding from an arteriovenous malformation(AVM) Bleeding disorder Bleeding from a cerebral ane...
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Blood poisoning, also known as septicemia or sepsis, occurs when the bloodstream becomes infected by bacteria(i.e., staphylococci, streptococci) or fungi introduced through a wound, abscess, or other injury. Septicemia may also originate from a lo...
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Septicemia is the presence of bacteria in the blood( bacteremia) and is often associated with severe disease.Septicemia is a serious, life-threatening infection that gets worse very quickly. It can arise from infections throughout the body, includ...
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Detailed information on septicemia, including symptoms and treatment Septicemia is the clinical name for blood poisoning. Septicemia that progresses to septic shock has a death rate as high as 50 percent, depending on the type of organism involved. Septicemia is a medical emergency and requires urgent medical treatment.
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An intracerebral hemorrhage is bleeding in the brain caused by the breaking(rupture) of a blood vessel in the head. See also: Hemorrhagic stroke.Intracranial hemorrhage; Hemorrhage- intracerebral; Hypertensive hemorrhage; Hemorrhagic cerebrovascul...
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Korsakoff''s syndrome is a memory disorder which is caused by a deficiency of vitamin B 1, also called thiamine.In the United States, the most common cause of thiamine deficiency is alcoholism. Other conditions that cause thiamine deficiency occur ...
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Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome is a brain disorder due to thiamine deficiency.Korsakoff psychosis; Alcoholic encephalopathy; Encephalopathy- alcoholic; Wernicke''s disease.Wernicke''s encephalopathy and Korsakoff syndrome are believed to be two stages ...
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Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome is a severe memory disorder usually associated with chronic excessive alcohol consumption, although the direct cause is a deficiency in the B vitamin thiamin.The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders(DSM...
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Normal pressure hydrocephalus(NPH) is a rise in cerebrospinal fluid(CSF) in the brain that affects brain function.Hydrocephalus- idiopathic; Hydrocephalus- adult; Hydrocephalus- communicating; Extraventricular obstructive hydrocephalus.Normal pres...
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Thyroid disorders fall into two general categories:(1) dysfunction of thyroid hormone production; and(2) development of thyroid enlargements, called goiters, which include generalized enlargement of the gland and benign and malignant nodules. Thyr...
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It produces chemicals(hormones) that help the body control metabolism. Thyroid hormone is also produced in response to another hormone released by the pituitary gland.Hyperthyroidism-- too much thyroid hormone Hypothyroidism-- too little thyroid h...
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Detailed information on disorders of the thyroid, including hyperthyroidism, Graves' disease, toxic nodular goiter, thyroiditis, hypothyroidism, Hashimoto's thyroiditis, thyroid tumor, hypothyroidism and pregnancy, postpartum thyroiditis, and thyroid horm
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Detailed information on disorders affecting the thyroid gland, including hyperthyroidism (Graves disease) and hypothyroidism
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Detailed information on thyroid disorders in women The thyroid gland, which plays an important role in the body's metabolism, secretes several hormones: thyroxine (T4), triiodothyronine (T3), and calcitonin. Other functions of the thyroid include regulating body heat and bone growth. The pituitary gland and thyroid gland work hand-in-hand. If the thyroid is emitting below-average levels of thyroid hormone (hypothyroidism), the pituitary gland secretes more thyroid-stimulating hormones (TSH) to stimulate the thyroid gland.
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Detailed information on thyroid conditions and pregnancy The thyroid gland is located in the front of the neck, below the larynx (voice box). The small, two-inch gland consists of two lobes, one on each side of the windpipe, connected by tissue called the isthmus.
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The thyroid gland controls how fast your heart beats, how quickly you digest food, how much you sweat, the speed at which you burn calories, and many other activities.
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Will kelp be harmful to someone with nodules on the thyroid?
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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It doesn't look like much—a small, butterfly-shaped gland, just below your Adam's apple. But your thyroid gland has a big effect on the way your body works. The thyroid controls your body's energy level, and problems with your thyroid gland can interfere with your life. However, these problems can be treated. You and your doctor can discuss how best to handle your thyroid problem.
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What are the symptoms of infant thyroid disorders? My nephew is 14 months old and has not gained weight in the last six months. After testing for failure to thrive, his pediatrician said the baby needs surgery for a thyroid condition. His bones are not growing and his appetite is poor. Can you give us more information on this condition in infants?
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Can a thyroid disorder cause large breasts?
Daniel D. Federman, M.D. is senior dean for Alumni Relations and Clinical Teaching at Harvard Medical School. An endocrinologist by training, he has active clinical practices at Brigham and Women's Hospital and University Health Services. Dr. Federman served as dean for Medical Education from 1989 to June of 2000.
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Parkinson''s disease(PD) is a motor system disorder caused by the chronic, progressive degeneration of neurons(nerve cells) in regions of the brain that control movement. PD causes a decline in the initiation, speed, and smoothness of movement.
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Parkinson''s disease is a disorder of the brain that leads to shaking(tremors) and difficulty with walking, movement, and coordination.Parkinson''s disease was first described in England in 1817 by Dr. James Parkinson.
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Detailed information on Parkinson's disease, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, medication, and surgery
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Parkinson''s disease(PD) is a progressive movement disorder marked by tremors, rigidity, slow movements(bradykinesia), and postural instability. It occurs when, for unknown reasons, cells in one of the movement-control centers of the brain begin to...
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Parkinson's disease is caused by a problem with a small area of your brain. This part of the brain helps control your movement and balance. For reasons that are not yet clear, cells in this part of the brain stop working.
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Parkinson's disease affects muscle control, coordination, and balance, making it harder to get around. Here are some tips to help make these types of movement easier for you.
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Parkinson disease(PD) is a progressive movement disorder marked by tremors, rigidity, slow movements(bradykinesia), and posture instability. It occurs when cells in one of the movement-control centers of the brain begin to die for unknown reasons.
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Parkinson's disease symptoms vary from person to person. Some people may have many severe symptoms, while others have only a few mild ones. Symptoms change over time—different symptoms may occur at different stages, and symptoms may get worse as the disease progresses.
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Some Parkinson's symptoms, such as slowness or stiffness, are so subtle that they may be mistaken for normal signs of aging.
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Parkinson''s disease(PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder that causes slowed movements, tremor, rigidity, and a wide variety of other symptoms."Neurodegenerative" refers to the degeneration, or death, of neurons, the type of cell in the brain that i...
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If your symptoms of Parkinson's disease are severe and medications don't help, surgery may be suggested. Surgery is not a cure. It may help relieve some of the symptoms of Parkinson's disease, mainly tremor and rigidity.
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Parkinson disease(PD) is a progressive movement disorder marked by tremors, rigidity, slow movements(bradykinesia), and posture instability. It occurs when cells in one of the movement-control centers of the brain begin to die for unknown reasons.
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Parkinson''s disease(PD) is a progressive movement disorder marked by tremors, rigidity, slow movements(bradykinesia), and posture instability. It occurs when cells in one of the movement-control centers of the brain begin to die for unknown reasons.
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This report explains the latest drug therapies and surgical techniques for treating this degenerative brain disease.
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My younger sister was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease at the age of 50. I am having head tremors when not moving. Is there an increased chance that I will develop Parkinson's disease if a sibling has it also?
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Actor Michael Fox has Parkinson's disease, a chronic and progressive illness in which certain nerve cells, or neurons, die or become impaired. Early symptoms are subtle and occur gradually. More than 1 million Americans have Parkinson's, and many wind up unable to walk, talk or care for themselves.
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Your doctor may prescribe one or more medications for you, depending on many factors. These include your age, the stage of the disease, and the severity of your symptoms. Consult this chart, which shows the types of medication and how they help.
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Here are exercises that can help strengthen your muscles and keep them loose and flexible. Ask your doctor whether they're right for you. Your doctor or physical therapist may also suggest other exercises.
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Parkinson's disease can cause changes that make you feel tired, cranky, or depressed. Your health care team may be able to help you or refer you to someone who can. Friends, family, and community groups can also offer support.
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Two drugs used to treat Parkinson's disease have been found to cause heart valve leakage. If you take one of these medications, you should ask your doctor about switching to a safer one. If no other drug is effective, watch for signs of valve trouble.
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Those living with Parkinson's disease have a variety of medications available to them for managing the symptoms, and research into new avenues of treatment is ongoing.
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A chronic subdural hematoma is an"old" collection of blood and blood breakdown products between the surface of the brain and its outermost covering(the dura). The chronic phase of a subdural hematoma begins several weeks after the first bleeding.S...
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Alcohol withdrawal refers to symptoms that may occur when a person who has been drinking too much alcohol every day suddenly stops drinking alcohol.Alcohol withdrawal usually occurs in adults, but it may occur in teenagers or children as well. It ...
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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 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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A transient ischemic attack (TIA), also called a ministroke or warning stroke, causes symptoms similar to those of a stroke.
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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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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 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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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 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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Pick disease is a rare neurodegenerative disorder that affects pre-senile adults. It is characterized by atrophy of the tissues in the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain and by the presence of aggregated tau protein that accumulates in Pick b...
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Pick''s disease is a rare and permanent form of dementia that is similar to Alzheimer''s disease, except that it tends to affect only certain areas of the brain.Semantic dementia; Dementia- semantic; Frontotemporal dementia; Arnold Pick''s disease.Pe...
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An arrhythmia is an abnormality in the heart''s rhythm, or heartbeat pattern. The heartbeat can be too slow, too fast, have extra beats, skip a beat, or otherwise beat irregularly.Arrhythmias are deviations from the normal cadence of the heartbeat,...
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An arrhythmia is a disorder of the heart rate(pulse) or heart rhythm, such as beating too fast(tachycardia), too slow(bradycardia), or irregularly.Dysrhythmias; Abnormal heart rhythms; Bradycardia; Tachycardia.Normally, the four chambers of the he...
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Detailed information on arrhythmias, including symptoms, diagnostic, and treatment information
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Detailed information on arrhythmias, including symptoms, types, diagnosis, and treatment
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Detailed information on problems involving heart rhythm There are many problems that affect the heart's rhythm that require care by a physician or other healthcare professional. Listed in the directory below you will find some additional information regarding problems involving heart rhythm, for which we have provided a brief overview.
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The guidelines for how long to wait before driving after having an ICD implanted have been revised, to reflect the growing number of people who receive the device preventively.
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