Dyspnea= breathing difficulty
Definition
Dyspnea is the self-awareness of breathing. It may be precipitated normally by exertion, exercise.
Causes
cardiac
ischemic heart diseases :myocardial infarction and angina pectoris.
Left ventricular failure.
pulmonary artery hypertension due to left side heart failure, pulmonary artery embolism or lung causes.
Valvular heart diseases causing left ventricular failure.
Lung causes
upper and lower airway infection or inflammation.
Asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases.
Occlusion by foreign body, or secretions.
Diseases of the chest wall causing dyspnea
Marked obesity or kyphoscoliosis limiting movement.
Diabetes and Kidney, Heart Attack and Strokes What is the Link
Respiratory Muscles diseases as cause of dyspnea
myositis (inflammation of the chest wall muscle), myopathy (respiratory muscle weakness) and pleural diseases as pleurisy, pleural effusion, pneumothorax (air in the pleural sac) , pyothorax (pus in the pleural space) or hemothorax (blood in the pleural sac).
Others
Diabetic Ketoacidosis
Diabetic keto-acidosis is a coma due to decreased blood insulin levels, increased blood glucose and accumulation of ketones causing blood acidosis. (Kaussmaul breathing occurs due to respiratory increase in respiratory rate to allow compensation of blood acidosis). Additionally, the breath has characteristic acetone odor that differs Diabetic Ketoacidosis from hypoglycemic coma which occurs due to decreased glucose levels to the extent that impact brain functions.
Thyrotoxicosis
Thyrotoxicosis/ thyroid gland hyperactivity (caused by excessive amounts of thyroid hormones and presents by tachycardia, anxiety and nervousness, eye protrusion (exophthalmous), loss of weight despite normal or increased appetite due to increased metabolism.
Thyrotoxicosis is a disorder that occurs when an overactive thyroid gland produces too much of the hormones thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). This overproduction of thyroid hormones can have significant impacts on the body and cause symptoms such as rapid heart rate, anxiety, fatigue, heat intolerance, difficulty sleeping, and weight loss. It is sometimes referred to as hyperthyroidism or thyrotoxicosis, although the latter is considered a more general term.
Thyrotoxicosis is caused by an overactivity of the thyroid gland which results in the production of abnormally high levels of the hormones thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). The most common causes of this condition include the autoimmune diseases of Graves’ disease, toxic adenoma, subacute thyroiditis, and multinodular goiter. These conditions cause the body to produce too much of these hormones, and often result from an underlying inflammatory or autoimmune process.
When there is an overproduction of thyroid hormones in the body, it can cause a wide variety of symptoms. These symptoms can be divided into two groups: they are called systemic or peripheral and central or psychological symptoms. Systemic or peripheral symptoms can include fatigue, restlessness, sweating, weight loss, heat intolerance, and an increased heart rate. Central or psychological symptoms may include difficulty concentrating, irritability, anxiety, depression, memory or learning difficulties, and changes in behavior. The severity of these symptoms depends on how high the level of hormones is in the bloodstream, and how long the condition has been present.
Diagnosis of thyrotoxicosis
Diagnosis of thyrotoxicosis is typically done with laboratory tests which measure the levels of certain hormones in the bloodstream. In addition, imaging tests (such as a CT or MRI scan) can help to identify the cause of the overproduction of hormones. Once the cause is identified, treatment options can be discussed with the patient to determine the best course of action. Treatment typically involves the use of medications, radioactive iodine, or surgery to reduce or stop the production of thyroid hormones.
In conclusion, thyrotoxicosis is an overproduction of the hormones thyroxine and triiodothyronine caused by an underlying inflammatory or autoimmune process. It can result in a wide variety of symptoms that can be divided into two groups: systemic or peripheral and central or psychological. Diagnosis and treatment typically require the help of a physician, and should be discussed as soon as the patient recognizes any of the possible symptoms. Thyrotoxicosis is a serious condition which can have a negative effect on the health of the patient if not treated in a timely manner.
Anemia
Anemia due to decrease in hemoglobin levels which is responsible for the carriage and delivery of oxygen to all body organs. Iron supplements are given and in severe acute anemia blood transfusion can be life saving. Anemia is a medical condition characterized by a decrease in the concentration of hemoglobin and red blood cells in the blood. It is a common and widely discussed problem, affecting millions of people around the world. But what exactly is anemia, and how does it manifest itself?
Causes of Anemia
Anemia is caused by a wide variety of conditions and etiologies, but the most common type of anemia is iron-deficiency anemia. Iron-deficiency anemia is caused by the body’s inability to absorb enough iron out of the diet in order to produce sufficient amounts of hemoglobin and red blood cells. This results in a decrease of the hemoglobin concentration in the blood, leading to anemic symptoms.
In iron-deficiency anemia, the body does not have enough hemoglobin to transfer oxygen from the lungs to tissues and organs. This results in fatigue, shortness of breath, difficulty concentrating, weakened muscles, pale skin, and a variety of other symptoms. The diagnosis of this type of anemia is confirmed through blood tests. Anemia can also be caused by certain diseases, such as kidney disease, bone marrow failure, and celiac disease. These conditions can lead to anemia because they can damage the bone marrow, reducing the body’s ability to create new red blood cells
In addition, there are several types of anemia caused by nutrient deficiencies. These include vitamins B12 and folate, as well as copper and vitamin A deficiencies.
Treatment of Anemia
Some types of anemia have very specific treatments while others require more general measures. To treat iron-deficiency anemia, the patient needs to take iron supplements and eat foods high in iron. Take vitamin C and zinc to help the body better absorb iron from food. If the anemia is caused by a disease, treatment focuses on addressing the underlying cause. Nutrient deficiencies can be treated by increasing the intake of the nutrient in question.
For people with mild to moderate cases of iron-deficiency anemia, lifestyle changes are often helpful in managing symptoms. Eating a diet high in iron-rich foods such as lean meats, fish, fortified cereal, legumes, and dark, leafy green vegetables can help the body get the iron it needs. Taking regular exercise can also help improve anemia-related symptoms. In some cases, lifestyle changes alone may not be enough and a patient may require iron supplements or medications to treat their anemia. Some medications treat anemia by stimulating the production of red blood cells, while others correct nutrient deficiencies. The doctor will advise on the best course of treatment.
In conclusion, Anemia is a common and widely discussed medical condition. It is caused by a variety of factors, ranging from nutritional deficiencies to underlying diseases.
The symptoms of anemia can be managed through lifestyle changes, such as eating a balanced diet and taking regular exercise. f these changes do not improve matters, iron supplements and medication may be prescribed by the doctor.
Aspirin Poisoning
Salicylates Toxicity is a serious medical condition that can occur when taking too much of the drug or mixing it with other medications. Aspirin is one of the most commonly used medications worldwide and is used to treat minor aches and pains, reduce fever, and to lower the risk of developing heart disease. Although it is a safe and effective drug when taken as recommended, taking too much aspirin can lead to serious complications and even death if not treated quickly.
Aspirin (acetyl salicylic acid) poisoning presents with metabolic alkalosis (accumulation of alkalis bicarbonate in the blood) / metabolic acidosis (accumulation of acids in the blood).
The most common causes of aspirin poisoning are ingestion of too many tablets at once, accidentally, taking multiple doses, or taking more aspirin than what has been prescribed. In some cases, long-term overuse of Aspirin can also lead to an overdose. Additionally, Aspirin poisoning can occur after ingestion of other medications like ibuprofen, naproxen, and even alcohol, in combination with Aspirin. When taken together, these drugs can increase the chance of overdose.
Symptoms of Aspirin (Salicylates) Overdose
The typical symptoms of Aspirin poisoning include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, dizziness, irregular heartbeat, confusion, shortness of breath, coma, and even death. When the poisoning is severe, the individual may experience seizures, respiratory failure, hypotension, and coma. In most cases, the symptoms usually take 6 to 8 hours to start showing up. As the symptoms worsen, the individual may become unconscious and require medical help.
Antidote
There is no specific antidote for Aspirin poisoning, so doctors usually treat the condition based on the symptoms. To address the symptoms of gastrointestinal irritation, doctors may prescribe antiemetics which are used to reduce nausea and vomiting. Doctors may also order fluids and electrolytes to prevent dehydration, as well as medications to control the patient’s heart rate and blood pressure. If the individual experiences seizures, then doctors can provide anticonvulsants. If it has been more than 8 hours since the overdose, then doctors may perform gastric lavage. This is a procedure that involves flushing the stomach with water or a saline solution to reduce the absorption of the Aspirin in the body.
The prognosis of Aspirin poisoning is usually good if the individual receives medical care as soon as possible. With timely treatment, the individual may make a full recovery with no lasting effects. However, it is important to note that Aspirin poisoning can be fatal, so it is important to seek medical attention immediately if you or someone you know has overdosed on the drug.
Management of Aspirin (Salicylates) Overdose
To prevent Aspirin poisoning, it is important to never take more than the recommended dose of the medication without consulting a doctor. It is also important to avoid mixing Aspirin with other medications, including alcohol, as this can increase the risk of overdose. Furthermore, individuals should read the label on each medication and double check to ensure that there is no chance of taking more than the recommended dose. Lastly, individuals should always check the expiration date when taking Aspirin and ask their doctor if it is safe to take the drug if it has expired.
In conclusion, Aspirin poisoning occurs when an individual takes too much of the drug or mixes it with other medications. It is a serious medical condition that can lead to severe symptoms and possible death if not treated quickly. To prevent Aspirin poisoning, individuals should avoid overdosing and should not mix it with other medications, including alcohol. If you or someone you know has taken too much Aspirin, it is important to seek medical help immediately.
Lung Diseases
Definition
Lung tissue diseases as pulmonary fibrosis and pneumonia affecting lung aeration and blood oxygenation. Pulmonary Tuberculosis and the last pandemic covid-19 also cause dyspnea.
Lung tissue diseases are a family of severe progressive medical conditions that involve damage or inflammation to the lung tissue. Symptoms of lung tissue diseases vary depending on the specific condition, but some common symptoms include a chronic cough, difficulty breathing, chest pain, and wheezing. Lung tissue diseases may also lead to more serious complications, such as respiratory failure and pulmonary heart failure.
TYPES of Lung Tissue Diseases
The most common type of lung tissue disease is chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). COPD is an umbrella term that covers several lung conditions, including emphysema, chronic bronchitis, and small airway disease. People with COPD can experience breathing difficulties, coughing, wheezing, and fatigue. The condition is usually caused by long-term exposure to irritants and toxins, such as cigarette smoke and air pollution. Treatments for COPD include lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking and avoiding exposure to irritants. Medications, such as bronchodilators and inhaled steroids can help in moderate to severe cases.
Other types of lung tissue diseases include pulmonary fibrosis, which is characterized by the formation of scar tissue in the tissues of the lungs. This scarring interferes with the ability of the lungs to transfer air and oxygen into the bloodstream. Symptoms of pulmonary fibrosis may include a dry cough, shortness of breath, fatigue, and chest pain. Pulmonary fibrosis is typically caused by exposure to airborne toxins, such as asbestos, or prolonged exposure to certain drugs and medications. Treatment for pulmonary fibrosis may include lifestyle changes, such as avoiding exposure to irritants, as well as medications, such as antifibrotics and immunosuppressants.
Asthma
Asthma is another common type of lung tissue disease. This condition is characterized by the narrowing of the airways, which leads to difficulty breathing and a wheezing or whistling sound when breathing. Asthma can be triggered by allergens, including dust, pollen, and pet dander, as well as irritants such as smoke and air pollution. Treatment options for asthma may include avoiding triggers, using controller medications such as corticosteroids and leukotriene modifiers, and taking rescue medications such as short-acting beta-agonists.
Lung tissue diseases can be serious, often leading to life-threatening complications, such as respiratory failure and pulmonary embolism. It is important to talk to your doctor if you think you may have a lung tissue disease. Remember early diagnosis and treatment can help to improve your prognosis.