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Psoriatic arthritis is a chronic autoimmune disease that can cause skin, joint, tendon, or nail inflammation. A large proportion of people with psoriatic arthritis also have psoriasis — a condition that causes the rapid buildup of skin cells.

Usually, the psoriasis develops first, and the painful, swollen joints come later. But in some people, psoriasis and joint pain start at the same time. In others, the joint problems come first, followed by psoriasis.

There’s no cure for psoriatic arthritis, but there are therapies to control the symptoms and reduce the inflammation that can lead to joint damage and other serious health consequences.

Types of Psoriatic Arthritis

Depending on the pattern of your symptoms, you may be diagnosed with a specific type of psoriatic arthritis. These include:

Types of Psoriatic Arthritis

Depending on the pattern of your symptoms, you may be diagnosed with a specific type of psoriatic arthritis. These include:

1. Oligoarticular Arthritis Asymmetrical pattern, affecting five joints or fewer.

2. Polyarticular Arthritis Symmetrical pattern, appears similar to rheumatoid arthritis.

3. Distal Arthritis Significant involvement of wrist and other hand joints.

4. Arthritis Mutilans Severe symptoms with deformities, often in the hands and feet.

5. Spondyloarthritis Significant back or lower back pain.

Treatment and Medication Options for Psoriatic Arthritis

Medicines used for treating psoriatic arthritis include the following:

1. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

2. Steroids

3. Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs)

4. Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors

5. Phosphodiesterase-4 (PDE4) inhibitors

6. Biologics

Source & 📷: Everyday Health

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Encephalitis is a rare but serious medical condition characterized by inflammation (swelling) of the brain. It is typically caused by a viral infection or an autoimmune response, leading to symptoms like fever, confusion, headaches, and seizures. Because it can cause permanent brain damage or be life-threatening, it requires emergency medical attention.

Main Types & CausesThere are two primary categories of encephalitis:Infectious Encephalitis: Caused directly by an infection, most commonly viruses (such as herpes simplex, West Nile, or the flu). Less frequently, it can be caused by bacteria, fungi, or parasites.

Autoimmune Encephalitis: Occurs when the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks healthy brain cells. This can sometimes be triggered by a prior infection (post-infectious) or by the presence of a tumor.

Diagnosis and TreatmentDiagnosing encephalitis typically involves a combination of neurological exams, imaging (like an MRI), spinal taps (lumbar puncture), and electroencephalograms (EEGs).

Treatment depends on the underlying cause and often requires hospitalization:

Antiviral medications or antibiotics are used to fight infectious causes.Steroids and immunosuppressants are used in autoimmune cases to stop the immune system from attacking the brain.Supportive therapies, such as IV fluids, anti-seizure medications, and respiratory support, are often necessary during recovery.

Source: Cleveland Clinic, Mayo Clinic & NIH

📷 Continental Hospitals

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DENTAL AND ORAL HEALTH SOLUTIONS FROM TOP SAN ANTONIO DENTAL CLINIC HUEBNER DENTAL, Dr. Diego E. Rivas, DDS

When it comes to good oral hygiene, a preventive approach is the key to success. This is important at every state of life, but especially the older you get. Neglecting your dental health as you age can have serious consequences, including premature aging of the smile (gum recession and/or tooth discoloration) and the need for extensive and expensive corrective procedures. The good news is that if you follow the simple preventive habits listed below earlier in life, it can help avoid these consequences. Let’s start with effective oral hygiene instructions for adults with a few simple steps:

Brushing: To get the best oral hygiene results from toothbrushing, use a toothbrush, hold it at a 45-degree angle to your gums. Use short, circular strokes to move the brush over each tooth. Be sure you brush your teeth at least twice a day, including the front and back sides of all your upper and lower teeth. Take enough time to do a thorough job—up to 2 minutes each. Also, gently brush your tongue to remove odor-causing bacteria that will help give you fresher breath. Replace your toothbrush every three months. Watch out for over brushing, which may result in receding gums.

Flossing: One method that helps maintain oral hygiene by removing bacteria from areas between the teeth that are hard to reach by brushing alone is flossing. To floss your teeth, start with an 18-inch piece of floss, and wrap most of it around the middle finger of one hand. Wrap a small amount around the middle finger of the other hand. Move the floss carefully up and down between each tooth, and make a C-shape with the floss as you reach the gum line. As you move from tooth to tooth, unwind new floss from one hand and wind the used floss onto the other hand.

Rinsing: Rinsing with a mouthwash can get to places that your toothbrush and even the deep cleaning of floss can miss. Look for a mouthwash that contains fluoride, because fluoride is proven to strengthen enamel, fight cavities and kills bad breath bacteria.

Eat Right: A nutritious, balanced diet is essential for your overall health, and it’s important for your oral hygiene, too. Be sure to include plenty of dairy products, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains in your diet. Some foods that are especially good for oral hygiene: cheese, yogurt, milk, and peanuts. These foods can help remove sugars from the tooth surface and protect the teeth from plaque.

Choose the right products: The variety of oral hygiene products makes it easy for anyone to follow a regular oral hygiene routine. Choose toothbrushes and types of dental floss that you find easy and comfortable to use and you’ll be more inclined to stick with your oral hygiene routine.

Consult Your Dentist: Make dental visits part of your oral hygiene routine. Visit your dentist twice a year to help keep tooth stains under control and identify oral hygiene issues before any serious problems arise.

Achieve a Brighter Smile: Following a regular oral hygiene routine can help you maintain whitened teeth and prevent additional tooth staining. Rinse your mouth with water after eating foods or drinking beverages that tend to stain teeth, such as coffee and red wine, then wait 15-30 minutes before brushing your teeth.Achieve a Brighter Smile: Following a regular oral hygiene routine can help you maintain whitened teeth and prevent additional tooth staining. Rinse your mouth with water after eating foods or drinking beverages that tend to stain teeth, such as coffee and red wine, then wait 15-30 minutes before brushing your teeth.

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Tips for glowing holiday skin

1. Never underestimate the power of a good sleeping mask. Sleeping masks can include collagen-boosting treatments for the skin. This combats the effects of drying skin and provide profound hydration and skin renewal.

2. A good serum is a must have. It may be tempting to skip this important step in your skincare routine while on holiday. Don’t. Think of serums as your most powerful skincare solution. Serums are highly concentrated and designed to target specific skin concerns. So maintain your healthiest skin by making sure you use serums regularly.

3. Don’t forget to exfoliate. Exfoliation is an essential step for a glowing complexion. This is all the more important if your skin tends to look dull after holiday indulgences and events. Choose one with AHA, BHA, and physical exfoliants in order to get the most powerful results.

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Tips to Avoid Holiday Weight Gain

The end of the year is very festive because of several holidays. During this time we also eat a lot of delicious foods and drink a lot more out of merriment and cheer.

A study conducted by the New England Journal of Medicine states that the average American gained an average of one (1) pound during the holiday season.

It may not sound like a lot but this weight is carried on into Spring and Summer time.

“Many people who generally manage their weight year-round may feel a lack of control over the holidays, especially after such a trying year,” says Jayne A. Lieb, MD, assistant professor of surgery at Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons and a bariatric (weight-loss) surgeon at NewYork-Presbyterian Hudson Valley Hospital.

When holiday weight gain isn’t lost, the cycle of putting on extra pounds over one’s lifetime continues, which can increase the risk of many diseases, including diabetes, heart disease, and cancer, Lieb says.

Here, Lieb offers strategies for keeping your weight in check while also enjoying the holidays.

1. Stick to a routine

It is easy to deviate from structured mealtimes and usual exercise in the name of celebration. This lack of structure may increase one’s tendency to overeat during the holidays or gravitate toward high-sugar food choices.

2. Eat protein in the morning

A high-protein breakfast can keep blood sugar and “hunger hormones” more stable throughout the day, which can help control appetite. Some suggestions: egg-white omelets, Greek yogurt, and protein shakes.

3. Get adequate sleep

While we may not be out late at large holiday events this year, the pandemic has disrupted sleep routines. Too little sleep or nonrestorative sleep may stimulate weight gain-inducing hormones.

4. Limit alcohol

Many people enjoy a few more drinks than their norm over the holidays, but a significant increase in alcohol—especially mixed drinks with high-sugar content—can lead to increased caloric intake. If you choose to drink, sticking to clear liquors with club soda while limiting beer, wine, and mixed drinks is a good approach, in moderation.

5. Exercise early in the day

Getting even 10 minutes of HIIT (high-intensity interval training) in at the start of the day will keep your metabolism revved and ensure you don’t miss a workout if your day gets busy later on.

6. Try a protein preload

Having a protein-rich snack like a shake or bar an hour before a holiday meal will allow for more self-control.

7. Eat strategically

Fill up on vegetables before you reach for the high-carbohydrate hors d’oeuvres. Starting the evening with crudités will lead to longer-lasting fullness and less space for non-nutritious foods.

8. Don’t deprive yourself

The holidays are a time to enjoy many types of food. Indulge mindfully by eating small portions of several things you want to taste rather than filling your plate with large servings of a few dishes.

Source: Columbia University Irving Medical Center

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Signs of Stress

1. Headaches

2. Neck & Shoulder Pain

3. Back Pain

4. Tight Muscles

5. Not Feeling Hungry

6. Lump in the Throat

7. Heavy Chest

8. Upset Stomach

Source @who

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What is AIDS?

AIDS is a chronic immune system disease caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).

HIV damages the immune system and interferes with the body's ability to fight infection and disease. HIV can be spread through contact with infected blood, semen, or vaginal fluids. There's no cure for HIV/AIDS, but medications can control the infection and prevent disease progression.

📷 SDG Resources

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📷Edudwar

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Part of a healthy diet is eating a good amount of protein. Proteins not only come from meats but also yoghurt.

A delicious breakfast idea is protein yoghurt, mixed berries and a drizzle of honey 🍯🫐

We recommend looking at the protein percentage next time you pick up yoghurt at the grocery store.

My favourite is @wallabyyogurt which has 15g (30%) protein and only 5g (0%) sugar.

Enjoy!

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If you are looking for a vegetable that has numerous health benefits, look no further than asparagus. Yes, asparagus!

Packed with numerous health benefits, asparagus has anti-aging qualities, promotes bone health and can even aid in weight loss. You can steam them, boil them and even sautée them got go with your meal. Happy eating 😋

📷 Pure Ella

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What is ataxia?

Ataxia usually results from damage to the part of the brain that controls muscle coordination (cerebellum) or its connections. Many conditions can cause ataxia, including alcohol misuse, stroke, tumor, brain degeneration, multiple sclerosis, certain medications and genetic disorders.

📷 ProtoKinetics

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“Mental health concerns are growing, especially among younger populations. Student mental health plummeted throughout and following the pandemic. Data from the American Psychological Association suggests that members of Generation Z are significantly affected. However, Americans of all ages are experiencing elevated stress and symptoms of depression, and 1 in 20 adults suffers from a severe mental health disorder.”

📷 & Text: Gale Health and Wellness

Continue Reading: https://blog.gale.com/raise-awareness-for-mental-health/

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Risk Factors for Breast Cancer

📷 Pace Hospitals

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Breast Cancer Awareness Month is from Oct 1, 2023 – Tue, Oct 31, 2023.

Here are some diagrams on what you should look out for.

Keep in mind that breast cancer also affects men not just women.

Ask your primary care doctor for a mammogram especially if you display any of the following symptoms.

Remember: EARLY DETECTION IS THE BEST PROTECTION.

📷 Medical News Today & Cleveland Clinic

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What is the flu?

Influenza, more commonly known as the flu, is a contagious health condition caused by the influenza virus. Each year, influenza and associated complications are estimated to be responsible for approximately 310,000 doctor visits. A flu vaccine is particularly important for young children, adults over 65 years and people with chronic health conditions. Sometimes people confuse the symptoms of the common cold with the flu. The flu virus infects the nose, throat and lungs, resulting in symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat, runny nose, and muscle and body aches. It can also lead to severe health complications.

What causes the flu?

The flu virus changes very quickly and each year new flu vaccines are released to keep up with the rapidly adapting flu virus. The virus is spread by infected people coughing or sneezing and can also easily spread by surfaces contaminated with cough and sneeze droplets. So, it’s easy to catch and spread, but hard to avoid.

The first sign of flu

Symptoms can usually appear about one to three days after catching the flu and can last for a week or more. Some of the symptoms of the common cold such as a runny nose, cough, sore throat and sneezing can also be seen when affected by the flu. But it is important to be mindful of other symptoms.

Flu Symptoms:

1.Fever and chills

2.Headaches

3.Bodyaches

4.Vomiting and diarrhea – more common in children

Other symptoms to watch:

1. Loss of appetite

2. Difficulty breathing

3. Chest Pain

The severity of symptoms is different for each individual and it is recommended you consult your doctor immediately should you experience any of the above symptoms.

Source & 📷: Summerhill Medical

#flu #fluseason #flushot #influenza #virus

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What is Tardive Dyskinesia?

Tardive dyskinesia is a side effect of antipsychotic medications. These drugs are used to treat schizophrenia and other mental health disorders.

TD causes stiff, jerky movements of your face and body that you can't control. You might blink your eyes, stick out your tongue, or wave your arms without meaning to do so.

Not everyone who takes an antipsychotic drug will get it. But if TD happens, it’s sometimes permanent. So if you have movements you can't control, let your doctor know right away. To ease your symptoms, your doctor may:

1. Lower the dose

2. Add another medication to counteract the movements

3. Switch you to a different drug

Symptoms

Tardive dyskinesia causes stiff, jerky movements that you can't control. They include:

Orofacial dyskinesia or oro-bucco-lingual dyskinesia: Uncontrolled movements in your face -- namely your lips, jaw, or tongue. You might:

1.Stick out your tongue without trying

2. Blink your eyes fast

3. Chew

4. Smack or pucker your lips

5. Puff out your cheeks

6. Frown

7. Grunt

Dyskinesia of the limbs: It can also affect your arms, legs, fingers, and toes. That can cause you to:

1. Wiggle your fingers

2. Tap your feet

3. Flap your arms

4. Thrust out your pelvis

5. Sway from side to side

These movements can be fast or slow. You may find it hard to work and stay active.

Source: WebMD

📷 Tevo

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Suicide Prevention Month

Suicidal thoughts, much like mental health conditions, can affect anyone regardless of age, gender or background. In fact, suicide is often the result of an untreated mental health condition. Suicidal thoughts, although common, should not be considered normal and often indicate more serious issues.

September is Suicide Prevention Month — a time to raise awareness and discuss this highly stigmatized topic. In addition to shifting public perception, we use this month to spread hope and vital information to people affected by suicide. Our goal is ensuring that individuals, friends and families have access to the resources they need to discuss suicide prevention and to seek help.

Continue reading: https://www.nami.org/Get-Involved/Awareness-Events/Suicide-Prevention-Month

Source: @namicommunicate

📷 MCR Health