Tag Archives: Alzheimer’s

General Safety Issues, Health Issues

TEN DISEASES THAT ACTUALLY HAVE WARNING SIGNS (GUEST POST)

Diseases that actually have warning signs.  Sent by Elisabeth Wright, of  http://www.vitaminsandminerals.net/blog/category/vitamins/ 

When broken down the term disease is quite self-explanatory.   Dis – ease.  A body that is healthy is one that is at ease; however when symptoms occur that disrupt this natural ease there is the probability that these are warning signs that something is wrong.  After all, we expect children to run and play until they fall asleep eating their supper!  If that is ever interrupted and they begin to play less, cry more, and will not fall asleep readily at the end of each day, then it may be time to take them to see a professional.

This isn’t only true for children, but adolescents and adults as well.  It is a sad fact, but a true one none the less, that disease has no regard for gender or age.  Familiarizing ourselves with some basic knowledge of the symptoms of diseases may be the best education we can ever obtain.

Unless we have been adopted and know little to nothing about our heritage, we should be able to judge the likelihood of contracting some diseases by looking at what our families have had to deal with in our family tree.

My mother was a diabetic who also had heart disease.  Not that I went looking for either, but I and my physician, armed with this knowledge, have taken extra notice with each symptom I have had that could point to either disease.  My father had by-pass surgery when he was 65.  A fact of life is we grew up on a farm where we slaughtered and processed our meat, and a greater percentage of everything we ate was fried.  Even though he died in March 2011, at the age of 102 with his mental faculties still intact, the fact that he had some heart irregularities has added extra precaution to my care as I get older. 

So what symptoms should you look for that could be indicative of a disease? 

1. Heart problems – These may vary among women and men, however any discomfort in the chest area that is not taken care of by Tums or an anti-acid should be taken seriously.  One factor is the same, however, in both men and women, and that is a history of leading a lifestyle that includes abuse of the heart, such as smoking, obesity, and lack of exercise, to name a few.  One who has had a blatant disregard for their lifestyle with an attitude of “I’ll live and enjoy life until I die” may end up not having much of a life to enjoy after a few years of living without regard to the future consequences of his lifestyle choices.  Whoever said, “If I had known I was going to live this long, I’d have taken better care of myself”, was not jesting but speaking the truth too late.

2. Alzheimer’s – This is another disease with warning signs.  What has been referred to as dementia for many years is now recognized as Alzheimer disease.  The difference between the two is the fact that Alzheimer’s is a disease, where dementia has symptoms that are similar, but are related to the aging process, like memory loss, and a decline in thinking and reasoning skills.  Dementia is not caused by Alzheimer’s disease; however the severity of the symptoms would merit a visit with a doctor who specializes in Gerontology, or the study of the aging process.

3. Parkinson’s disease – Parkinson’s is diagnosed in an average of 50,000 patients each year.  Symptoms of Parkinson’s disease typically begin appearing between 50 and 60 years of age.  They develop slowly and often go unnoticed by family members, and even the individual who has the symptoms.  Some individuals only have symptoms on one side of their body that never progress to the other side.

The most common symptoms include tremors or shaking of the hands, arms, or legs.  When awake, sitting, or standing, the tremors may subside when the person moves the affected part of the body. Stiff muscles (rigidity) and aching muscles are other common symptoms.  One of the most common early signs of Parkinson’s disease is a reduced arm swing on one side when the person is walking that is caused by rigid muscles. Rigidity can also affect the muscles of the legs, face, neck, or other parts of the body, and may cause muscles to feel tired and achy.

4. Cancer – Cancer is a group of diseases that can cause almost any signs or symptoms. The signs and symptoms will depend on where the cancer is, how big it is, and how much it affects the organs or tissues. If a cancer has spread (metastasized), signs or symptoms may appear in different parts of the body.

5. Thyroid – Your thyroid is a gland in the front of your neck. It controls your metabolism, which is how your body turns food into energy, and it also affects your heart, muscles, bones, and cholesterol.

When the thyroid secretes too much thyroid hormone, it is referred to as Hyperthyroidism.  By producing too much your body may speed up on many of its functions, like weight loss, rapid heartbeat, sweating a lot, or becoming moody and out of sorts.  On the other hand, there is also hypothyroidism, which shows the thyroid is not producing enough, or any, thyroid hormone.

6. Diabetes – Type 1 diabetes, which is insulin dependent, and type 2, which shows up in adulthood, are not diseases one can see in a mirror.  However there are certain symptoms that should cause enough alarm to have one checked by a physician.  Extreme thirst, excessive hunger, frequent urination, fatigue, and weight loss (rapid or sudden) can all be indicative of a diabetes problem.  Hopefully you can catch the onslaught of diabetes in time to correct it with a lifestyle change of diet and exercise.

7. Gum disease – Gum disease is also known as periodontal disease.  One out of every two adults has gingivitis and may not even know it.  Report to your dentist such things as bleeding gums, gums that are red, tender, or swollen, or gums that seem to be pulling away from your teeth.

8. Kidney disease –  Kidneys are designed to filter waste products and excess salt and fluids from the body, in addition to producing hormones that stimulate red blood cell production, control blood pressure, and strengthen our skeleton. Disorders that injure the kidneys result in the development of chronic kidney disease (CKD), a condition in which the normal functions of the kidney are impaired, which can, in turn, have a significant negative impact on the health and well-being of the affected person.

When the very process of filtering the toxins, excessive salt and fluids, and waste products from our body is hindered, our body gives off signals that something is not right.  Among the symptoms are blood in the urine, nausea, vomiting, weakness, fatigue, loss of appetite, dry and itchy skin, trouble sleeping, difficulty concentrating, and poor school performance. As the kidney function worsens, one can experience weight gain from excess fluids, swollen feet and ankles, puffiness around the eyes, and high blood pressure. Anemia (low red blood cell count) often occurs and contributes to the feeling of fatigue, and nausea/vomiting may result in poor food intake and the development of malnutrition.

9. Gallbladder disease ­- After doing some research I learned the problem I once had with cramping that was so severe, a trip to the ER did no good was likely the result of gallstones. The following web site: http://www.umm.edu/patiented/articles/what_symptoms_of_gallstones, told me that about 90% of gallstones cause no symptoms. There is a very small (2%) chance of developing pain during the first 10 years after gallstones form.  It took several trips to the ER and one trip to my primary care physician, when I was in the middle of an episode, to see what my problem was.  There are symptoms to pay attention to and once diagnosed the problem can easily be taken care of.

10. Depression – Depression has received much more attention in the last 20 years than in decades prior.  It is not the mark of mental illness that it once was, largely because understanding the whys and wherefores of depression is better known.  In the mid-1900’s and earlier, people were placed in an insane asylum for being in a depressed state, especially women who were experiencing menopause.  I cringe at the thought of being placed somewhere where no help could be found, for I have had bouts of depression and often the help of medicine for a chemical imbalance made a world of difference in my outlook in only a few days.  Symptoms of depression may vary from men to women and even children, and the symptoms should not be ignored.  People have been known to have suicidal tendencies when the feeling of hopelessness lingers, and this feeling of hopelessness, like there is no way things can change tomorrow, and the feeling of worthlessness’ and like no one cares, are two of the most common symptoms.  Another common symptom is the feeling of uselessness and like you are no good for anyone, as well as wanting to sleep and being unable to do the little chores of a daily routine. Instead of ignoring these symptoms you should contact a doctor and get help. 

Take care of yourself, and if there is something out of the ordinary happening to your body, your skin, or in your mind, there is an answer. Getting to the right source for help may prolong your life. 

Elisabeth, these are wonderful explanations of signs that our bodies are giving us that things may not be just right!  Pay attention to these signs and seek medical attention.  pb

General Safety Issues, Health Issues

NOVEMBER HIGHLIGHTS AWARENESS OF SEVERAL DISEASES

To persons who suffer from any of these diseases, it’s not necessary to be reminded that November is designated as National COPD Awareness Month, Alzheimer’s Awareness Month, Diabetes Awareness Month, and Epilepsy Awareness Month.  Most of us know persons who have one of these very serious health conditions, and want to do our part to make the world realize that they can help by donating or getting involved. 

On behalf of the 24 million Americans living with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), the third leading cause of death in the U.S. and a disease that kills one person every four minutes, the COPD Foundation is leading the call for increased research initiatives, enhanced screening and diagnosis, improved treatment and therapies, and heightened public awareness during November, COPD Awareness Month and November 16, 2011, World COPD Day.  COPD encompasses a group of lung diseases, including emphysema, chronic bronchitis, refractory asthma and bronchiectasis. The most common symptoms are breathlessness (or a “need for air”), abnormal sputum (a mix of saliva and mucus in the airway), and a chronic cough. Daily activities, such as walking up a short flight of stairs or taking a shower, can become very difficult as the condition gradually worsens. The primary cause of COPD is tobacco smoke (including second-hand or passive exposure).

Alzheimer’s is a devastating illness.  I have watched loved ones forget who even their closest family members are.  It is a cruel disease.  It takes away the person’s memory and gradually all of their abilities, with symptoms progressively worsening.  Beginning with mild memory loss, until the late stages, the person loses the capability to carry on a conversation or even respond to their environment.  Alzheimer’s is the sixth leading cause of death in the United States.  A worldwide effort is being made to find better ways to treat the disease, delay it’s onset, and prevent it from developing.  There can be other reasons for memory loss, but if you or a loved one are experiencing these symptoms, consult with your physician, to reassure you that there may be other reasons behind it. 

There are 23.6 million Americans with some form of Diabetes.   Persons with diabetes know that checking their levels every day is very important, and diet plays another important part of staying healthy. 

  • Type 1 – begins in children and young adults.  Type 1 is when the body does not produce insulin.  Five to ten per cent of people have this form of the disease.
  • Type 2 – is the most common form.  The body either does not produce enough insulin, or cells ignore the insulin.  After eating, the body breaks down sugars and starches into glucose, the basic fuel for cells.  Insulin takes sugar from the body into cells.  When glucose builds up in the blood rather than cells, it may lead to diabetes complications.
  • Gestational – sometimes occurs around the 28th week or later of pregnancy.  Most often it doesn’t mean that the mother will have diabetes once her baby is delivered.  It is important that the physician monitor the blood glucose (blood sugar) levels during the pregnancy, so mom and baby will remain healthy.

The Epilepsy Foundation of America is dedicated to the welfare of the more than three million people in the United States with Epilepsy.  The brain is the source of human epilepsy.  Seizures occur when the electric system of the brain malfunctions.  Rather than discharge electric energy in a controlled way, the brain cells can emit a surge of energy through the brain that may cause unconsciousness and contraction of the muscles.  The seizures may last only a couple of minutes, but confusion may linger.  Around 7 out of 10 persons with epilepsy may never know the cause of their seizures.  Things such as head injuries, lack of oxygen to the brain during birth, and other brain injuries may damage the electrical system of the brain.  Although some persons with Epilepsy may be aware of what starts their seizures, many are not.  Many experts feel that most times the cause is patient failure to take their prescribed medications.  Others causes of the beginning of seizures may be stress, sleep patterns, or photosensitivity. 

Thanks to the organizations that support education and awareness of these serious disorders.  America and our friends worldwide hope for a day when there will be preventive measures that can allow future generations to live healthy lives, free from disease.  There are so many worthwhile causes; whether you choose to donate or support the ones we have discussed today, COPD Foundation, Alzheimers’ Association, American Diabetes Association, The Epilepsy Foundation of America, or any organization that is promoting better health, get involved in some way.  Any amount of money or volunteering your time to one or more of these organizations is greatly appreciated.  You may be helping a friend or family member that is or may become a victim of one of these diseases.

Sources:

COPD Foundation/Alzheimer’s.Org/American Diabetes Association/Epilepsy Foundation of America

General Safety Issues

NOVEMBER REMINDS US TO BE AWARE OF THESE HEALTH PROBLEMS

To persons who suffer from any of these diseases, they and their families don’t have to be reminded that November is designated as National COPD Awareness Month, Alzheimer’s Awareness Month, Diabetes Awareness Month, and Epilepsy Awareness Month.  Most of us know persons who have one of these very serious health conditions, and want to do our part to make the nation realize that they can help by donating or getting involved. 

On behalf of the 24 million Americans living with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), the third leading cause of death in the U.S. and a disease that kills one person every four minutes, the COPD Foundation is leading the call for increased research initiatives, enhanced screening and diagnosis, improved treatment and therapies, and heightened public awareness during November, COPD Awareness Month and November 16, 2011, World COPD Day.  COPD encompasses a group of lung diseases, including emphysema, chronic bronchitis, refractory asthma and bronchiectasis. The most common symptoms are breathlessness (or a “need for air”), abnormal sputum (a mix of saliva and mucus in the airway), and a chronic cough. Daily activities, such as walking up a short flight of stairs or taking a shower, can become very difficult as the condition gradually worsens. The primary cause of COPD is tobacco smoke (including second-hand or passive exposure).

Alzheimer’s is a devastating illness.  I have watched loved ones forget who even their closest family members are, and it is one of the most cruel diseases I can think of.  It takes away the person’s memory and gradually all of their abilities.  It is a disease where symptoms progressively get worse.  Beginning with mild memory loss, until the late stages, the person loses the capability to carry on a conversation or even respond to their environment.  Alzheimer’s is the sixth leading cause of death in the United States.  A worldwide effort is being made to find better ways to treat the disease, delay it’s onset, and prevent it from developing.  There can be other reasons for memory loss, but if you or a loved one are experiencing these symptoms, consult with your physician, to reassure you that there may be other reasons behind it. 

There are 23.6 million Americans with some form of Diabetes.   Persons with diabetes know that checking their levels every day is very important, and diet plays another important part of staying healthy. 

  • Type 1 – begins in children and young adults.  Type 1 is when the body does not produce insulin.  Five to ten per cent of people have this form of the disease.
  • Type 2 – is the most common form.  The body either does not produce enough insulin, or cells ignore the insulin.  After eating, the body breaks down sugars and starches into glucose, the basic fuel for cells.  Insulin takes sugar from the body into cells.  When glucose builds up in the blood rather than cells, it may lead to diabetes complications.
  • Gestational – sometimes occurs around the 28th week or later of pregnancy.  Most often it doesn’t mean that the mother will have diabetes once her baby is delivered.  It is important that the physician monitor the blood glucose (blood sugar) levels during the pregnancy, so mom and baby will remain healthy.

The Epilepsy Foundation of America is dedicated to the welfare of the more than three million people in the United States with Epilepsy.  The brain is the source of human epilepsy.  Seizures occur when the electric system of the brain malfunctions.  Rather than discharge electric energy in a controlled way, the brain cells can emit a surge of energy through the brain that may cause unconsciousness and contraction of the muscles.  The seizures may last only a couple of minutes, but confusion may linger.  Around 7 out of 10 persons with epilepsy may never know the cause of their seizures.  Things such as head injuries, lack of oxygen to the brain during birth, and other brain injuries may damage the electrical system of the brain.  Although some persons with Epilepsy may be aware of what starts their seizures, many are not.  Many experts feel that most times the cause is patient failure to take their prescribed medications.  Others causes of the beginning of seizures may be stress, sleep patterns, or photosensitivity. 

Thanks to the organizations that support  education and awareness of these serious disorders.  America and our friends worldwide hope for a day when there will be preventive measures that can allow future generations to live healthy lives, free from disease.  There are so many worthwhile causes; whether you choose to donate or support the ones we have discussed today, COPD Foundation, Alzheimers Association, American Diabetes Association, The Epilepsy Foundation of America, or any organization that is promoting better health, get involved in some way.  You may be helping a friend or family member that is or may become a victim of one of these diseases. 

Sources:

COPD Foundation/Alzheimer’s.Org/American Diabetes Association/Epilepsy Foundation of America