Problems with the cardiovascular system are common — more than 64 million Americans have some type of cardiac problem. But cardiovascular problems don't just affect older people — many heart and circulatory system problems affect children and teens, too. Heart and circulatory problems are grouped into two categories: congenital, which means the problems were present at birth, and acquired, which means that the problems developed some time during infancy, childhood, adolescence, or adulthood. A unique electrical conduction system in the heart causes it to beat in its regular rhythm. The sinoatrial or SA node, a small area of tissue in the wall of the right atrium, sends out an electrical signal to start the contracting of the heart muscle. This node is called the pacemaker of the heart because it sets the rate of the heartbeat and causes the rest of the heart to contract in its rhythm.
These electrical impulses cause the atria to contract first, and then travel down to the atrioventricular or AV node, which acts as a kind of relay station. From here the electrical signal travels through the right and left ventricles, causing them to contract and forcing blood out into the major arteries. In the systemic circulation, blood travels out of the left ventricle, to the aorta, to every organ and tissue in the body, and then back to the right atrium. The arteries, capillaries, and veins of the systemic circulatory system are the channels through which this long journey takes place. Once in the arteries, blood flows to smaller arterioles and then to capillaries. While in the capillaries, the bloodstream delivers oxygen and nutrients to the body's cells and picks up waste materials. Blood then goes back through the capillaries into venules, and then to larger veins until it reaches the vena cavae.
Blood from the head and arms returns to the heart through the superior vena cava, and blood from the lower parts of the body returns through the inferior vena cava. Both vena cavae deliver this oxygen-depleted blood into the right atrium. From here the blood exits to fill the right ventricle, ready to be pumped into the pulmonary circulation for more oxygen. In the pulmonary circulation, blood low in oxygen but high in carbon dioxide is pumped out the right ventricle into the pulmonary artery, which branches off in two directions. The right branch goes to the right lung, and vice versa. In the lungs, the branches divide further into capillaries. Blood flows more slowly through these tiny vessels, allowing time for gases to be exchanged between the capillary walls and the millions of alveoli, the tiny air sacs in the lungs. During the process called oxygenation, oxygen is taken up by the bloodstream. Oxygen locks onto a molecule called hemoglobin in the red blood cells. The newly oxygenated blood leaves the lungs through the pulmonary veins and heads back to the heart. It enters the heart in the left atrium, then fills the left ventricle so it can be pumped into the systemic circulation.
Congenital heart defects. Congenital heart defects are abnormalities in the heart's structure that are present at birth. Approximately 8 out of every 1,000 newborns have congenital heart defects ranging from mild to severe. These defects occur while the fetus is developing in the mother's uterus and it's not usually known why they occur. Some congenital heart defects are caused by genetic disorders, but most are not. What all congenital heart defects have in common, however, is that they involve abnormal or incomplete development of the heart. A common sign of a congenital heart defect is a heart murmur — an abnormal sound (like a blowing or whooshing sound) that's heard when listening to the heart. Usually a heart murmur is detected by a doctor who's listening to the heart with a stethoscope during a routine exam. Murmurs are very common in children and can be caused by congenital heart defects or other heart conditions.
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
CIRCULATORY SYSTEM IN THE HEART
The heart has four chambers that are enclosed by thick, muscular walls. It lies between the lungs and just to the left of the middle of the chest cavity. The bottom part of the heart is divided into two chambers called the right and left ventricles, which pump blood out of the heart. A wall called the interventricular septum divides the ventricles. The upper part of the heart is made up of the other two chambers of the heart, the right and left atria. The right and left atria receive the blood entering the heart. A wall called the interatrial septum divides the right and left atria, which are separated from the ventricles by the atrioventricular valves. The tricuspid valve separates the right atrium from the right ventricle, and the mitral valve separates the left atrium and the left ventricle.Two other cardiac valves separate the ventricles and the large blood vessels that carry blood leaving the heart. These are the pulmonic valve, which separates the right ventricle from the pulmonary artery leading to the lungs, and the aortic aortic valve, which separates the left ventricle from the aorta, the body's largest blood vessel.
Two other cardiac valves separate the ventricles and the large blood vessels that carry blood leaving the heart. These are the pulmonic valve, which separates the right ventricle from the pulmonary artery leading to the lungs, and the aortic valve, which separates the left ventricle from the aorta, the body's largest blood vessel.Arteries carry blood away from the heart. They are the thickest blood vessels, with muscular walls that contract to keep the blood moving away from the heart and through the body. In the systemic circulation, oxygen-rich blood is pumped from the heart into the aorta. This huge artery curves up and back from the left ventricle, then heads down in front of the spinal column into the abdomen. Two coronary arteries branch off at the beginning of the aorta and divide into a network of smaller arteries that provide oxygen and nourishment to the muscles of the heart. Unlike the aorta, the body's other main artery, the pulmonary artery, carries oxygen-poor blood. From the right ventricle, the pulmonary artery divides into right and left branches, on the way to the lungs where blood picks up oxygen.
Veins carry blood back to the heart. They're not as muscular as arteries, but they contain valves that prevent blood from flowing backward. Veins have the same three layers that arteries do, but are thinner and less flexible. The two largest veins are the superior and inferior vena cavae. The terms superior and inferior don't mean that one vein is better than the other, but that they're located above and below the heart. A network of tiny capillaries connects the arteries and veins. Though tiny, the capillaries are one of the most important parts of the circulatory system because it's through them that nutrients and oxygen are delivered to the cells. In addition, waste products such as carbon dioxide are also removed by the capillaries. The circulatory system works closely with other systems in our bodies. It supplies oxygen and nutrients to our bodies by working with the respiratory system. At the same time, the circulatory system helps carry waste and carbon dioxide out of the body.
Two other cardiac valves separate the ventricles and the large blood vessels that carry blood leaving the heart. These are the pulmonic valve, which separates the right ventricle from the pulmonary artery leading to the lungs, and the aortic valve, which separates the left ventricle from the aorta, the body's largest blood vessel.Arteries carry blood away from the heart. They are the thickest blood vessels, with muscular walls that contract to keep the blood moving away from the heart and through the body. In the systemic circulation, oxygen-rich blood is pumped from the heart into the aorta. This huge artery curves up and back from the left ventricle, then heads down in front of the spinal column into the abdomen. Two coronary arteries branch off at the beginning of the aorta and divide into a network of smaller arteries that provide oxygen and nourishment to the muscles of the heart. Unlike the aorta, the body's other main artery, the pulmonary artery, carries oxygen-poor blood. From the right ventricle, the pulmonary artery divides into right and left branches, on the way to the lungs where blood picks up oxygen.
Veins carry blood back to the heart. They're not as muscular as arteries, but they contain valves that prevent blood from flowing backward. Veins have the same three layers that arteries do, but are thinner and less flexible. The two largest veins are the superior and inferior vena cavae. The terms superior and inferior don't mean that one vein is better than the other, but that they're located above and below the heart. A network of tiny capillaries connects the arteries and veins. Though tiny, the capillaries are one of the most important parts of the circulatory system because it's through them that nutrients and oxygen are delivered to the cells. In addition, waste products such as carbon dioxide are also removed by the capillaries. The circulatory system works closely with other systems in our bodies. It supplies oxygen and nutrients to our bodies by working with the respiratory system. At the same time, the circulatory system helps carry waste and carbon dioxide out of the body.
HEART RELATED ILLNESS RECOGNIZING AND TREATING
Heat-related illnesses, such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke, can be problems for people enjoying outdoor activities in the hot summer months. A heat-related illness occurs when the body is not able to regulate (control) its temperature. If left untreated, a heat illness can lead to serious complications, even death. If detected and treated early, however, most serious problems stemming from heat-related illnesses can be avoided. The body’s main center for heat regulation is the hypothalamus, a part of the brain that secretes substances that control metabolism (the chemical processes occurring in the body). Normal body temperature is balanced through heat production and heat loss. As a person is exposed to high heat and humidity, the body temperature rises. Most of the body’s methods for heat loss depend on the environmental, or outside, temperature being lower than the body’s temperature. When the outside temperature is high, the main source of heat loss is evaporation, when perspiration on the skin changes from liquid to vapor. If humidity if high, however, sweat cannot evaporate easily.
Heat cramps are muscle pains or spasms that may occur with strenuous activity. They usually affect the muscles of the abdomen, arms or legs. Heat cramps usually affect people who sweat a lot during strenuous activity. They also may be a symptom of heat exhaustion. Heat exhaustion is a heat-related illness that can develop after spending a long time in high temperatures and not drinking enough fluids. Elderly people, people with high blood pressure, and people working or exercising in a hot environment are most at risk for heat exhaustion. Heat stroke is a more severe heat-related illness. It results from the total failure of the body’s heat regulation system. This occurs when the body’s temperature rises rapidly, the sweating system fails and the body cannot cool down. Heat stroke is a medical emergency. It can cause permanent disability or even death.
Heat stroke is a medical emergency. If you suspect heat stroke, have someone call for immediate medical help while you try to reduce the person’s temperature. Try the following cooling methods are Stop any activity and take the person to a cool place, such as a shaded area or air-conditioned room. Have the person lie down with the feet slightly elevated. Place the person in a cool bath or shower. Spray the person with cool water from a hose, or sponge the person with cool water. Wrap the person in a cool, damp sheet and fan the person vigorously. Apply ice packs to the groin and armpits.Give the person something cool and non-alcoholic to drink.
Carefully monitor the temperature and humidity outdoors, and plan your activities accordingly. Try to schedule outdoor activities during cooler parts of the day. Stay in the shade as much as possible. Be sure to drink plenty of fluids to be sure you are taking in more than you are losing through sweat. Mist yourself with a spray bottle to keep yourself cool. Wear lightweight loose-fitting and light-colored clothing. Light-colored clothing absorbs less heat than dark clothing. Protect yourself from the sun by wearing a hat and sunglasses, and using an umbrella. If participating in sports, be sure to re-hydrate between multiple-session practices or at halftime during games. Illness related is eliminated by Dehydration, Wearing heavy equipment, such as pads and helmets, when practicing sports outdoors, Obesity, Alcohol use, Drug use, Some medications and supplements, Not being acclimated to hot weather, Illness/fever .
Heat cramps are muscle pains or spasms that may occur with strenuous activity. They usually affect the muscles of the abdomen, arms or legs. Heat cramps usually affect people who sweat a lot during strenuous activity. They also may be a symptom of heat exhaustion. Heat exhaustion is a heat-related illness that can develop after spending a long time in high temperatures and not drinking enough fluids. Elderly people, people with high blood pressure, and people working or exercising in a hot environment are most at risk for heat exhaustion. Heat stroke is a more severe heat-related illness. It results from the total failure of the body’s heat regulation system. This occurs when the body’s temperature rises rapidly, the sweating system fails and the body cannot cool down. Heat stroke is a medical emergency. It can cause permanent disability or even death.
Heat stroke is a medical emergency. If you suspect heat stroke, have someone call for immediate medical help while you try to reduce the person’s temperature. Try the following cooling methods are Stop any activity and take the person to a cool place, such as a shaded area or air-conditioned room. Have the person lie down with the feet slightly elevated. Place the person in a cool bath or shower. Spray the person with cool water from a hose, or sponge the person with cool water. Wrap the person in a cool, damp sheet and fan the person vigorously. Apply ice packs to the groin and armpits.Give the person something cool and non-alcoholic to drink.
Carefully monitor the temperature and humidity outdoors, and plan your activities accordingly. Try to schedule outdoor activities during cooler parts of the day. Stay in the shade as much as possible. Be sure to drink plenty of fluids to be sure you are taking in more than you are losing through sweat. Mist yourself with a spray bottle to keep yourself cool. Wear lightweight loose-fitting and light-colored clothing. Light-colored clothing absorbs less heat than dark clothing. Protect yourself from the sun by wearing a hat and sunglasses, and using an umbrella. If participating in sports, be sure to re-hydrate between multiple-session practices or at halftime during games. Illness related is eliminated by Dehydration, Wearing heavy equipment, such as pads and helmets, when practicing sports outdoors, Obesity, Alcohol use, Drug use, Some medications and supplements, Not being acclimated to hot weather, Illness/fever .
HEART BLOCKS
The heart’s rhythm is coordinated by its own electrical system. With each heartbeat, the electrical impulse begins at the sinus (or sinoatrial, SA) node, also called the heart’s natural pacemaker. The SA node is a cluster of specialized cells, located in the right atrium. The SA node produces the electrical impulses that set the rate and rhythm of your heartbeat. The impulse spreads through the walls of the right and left atria, causing them to contract, forcing blood into the ventricles. The impulse then reaches the atrioventricular (AV) node, which acts as an electrical bridge allowing impulses to travel from the atria to the ventricles. There is a short delay before the impulse travels on to the ventricles. From the AV node, the impulse travels through a pathway of fibers called the HIS-Purkinje system. This network sends the impulse into the muscular walls of the ventricles and causes them to contract. This contraction forces blood out of the heart to the lungs and body.
You can tell how fast your heart is beating by feeling your pulse. You can feel your pulse on your wrist or neck. Place the tips of your index and middle fingers on the inner wrist of your other arm, just below the base of your thumb. Or, place the tips of your index and middle fingers on your lower neck, on either side of your windpipe. Press lightly with your fingers until you feel the blood pulsing beneath your fingers. You may need to move your fingers around slightly up or down until you feel the pulsing. Your heart rate, or pulse, is the number of beats felt in one minute. You can count the number of beats in 10 seconds and multiply by 6 to determine your heart rate in beats per minute. A normal heart rate, at rest, is 50 to 100 beats per minute. The normal heart rhythm (also called normal sinus rhythm) shows the electrical activity in the heart is following the normal pathway, the rhythm is regular and the node is normal (about 50 to 100 beats per minute).
Premature ventricular contractions (PVCs) - are early, extra beats beginning in the lower chambers of the heart (ventricles). PVCs are common. Most of the time they cause no symptoms and require no treatment. In some people, they can be related to stress, too much caffeine or nicotine, or exercise. But sometimes, PVCs can be caused by heart disease or an electrolyte imbalance. If you have a lot of PVCs and/or arrhythmia symptoms associated with them (see the symptoms listed on page 8), you should be evaluated by a cardiologist. Ventricular tachycardia (V-tach) - a rapid rhythm originating from the lower chambers of the heart. This rapid rate prevents the heart from filling adequately with blood, and less blood is pumped through the body. This can be a more serious arrhythmia, especially in people with heart disease, and may be associated with more symptoms. A cardiologist should evaluate this arrhythmia condition.
Long QT - the QT interval is the area on the electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) that represents the time it takes for the heart muscle to contract and then recover, or for the electrical impulse to fire and then recharge. When the QT interval is longer than normal, it increases the risk for “torsades de pointes,” a life-threatening form of ventricular tachycardia. Arrhythmias may have many causes, including coronary artery disease, changes in the heart muscle (heart failure or cardiomyopathy), valve disease, electrolyte imbalances in your blood (such as sodium or potassium), injury from a heart attack or the healing process after heart surgery. A fast or slow heart rate does not always mean your heart rhythm is abnormal. Fast or slow heart rates are also related to anxiety, activity, medications or other normal causes.
You can tell how fast your heart is beating by feeling your pulse. You can feel your pulse on your wrist or neck. Place the tips of your index and middle fingers on the inner wrist of your other arm, just below the base of your thumb. Or, place the tips of your index and middle fingers on your lower neck, on either side of your windpipe. Press lightly with your fingers until you feel the blood pulsing beneath your fingers. You may need to move your fingers around slightly up or down until you feel the pulsing. Your heart rate, or pulse, is the number of beats felt in one minute. You can count the number of beats in 10 seconds and multiply by 6 to determine your heart rate in beats per minute. A normal heart rate, at rest, is 50 to 100 beats per minute. The normal heart rhythm (also called normal sinus rhythm) shows the electrical activity in the heart is following the normal pathway, the rhythm is regular and the node is normal (about 50 to 100 beats per minute).
Premature ventricular contractions (PVCs) - are early, extra beats beginning in the lower chambers of the heart (ventricles). PVCs are common. Most of the time they cause no symptoms and require no treatment. In some people, they can be related to stress, too much caffeine or nicotine, or exercise. But sometimes, PVCs can be caused by heart disease or an electrolyte imbalance. If you have a lot of PVCs and/or arrhythmia symptoms associated with them (see the symptoms listed on page 8), you should be evaluated by a cardiologist. Ventricular tachycardia (V-tach) - a rapid rhythm originating from the lower chambers of the heart. This rapid rate prevents the heart from filling adequately with blood, and less blood is pumped through the body. This can be a more serious arrhythmia, especially in people with heart disease, and may be associated with more symptoms. A cardiologist should evaluate this arrhythmia condition.
Long QT - the QT interval is the area on the electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) that represents the time it takes for the heart muscle to contract and then recover, or for the electrical impulse to fire and then recharge. When the QT interval is longer than normal, it increases the risk for “torsades de pointes,” a life-threatening form of ventricular tachycardia. Arrhythmias may have many causes, including coronary artery disease, changes in the heart muscle (heart failure or cardiomyopathy), valve disease, electrolyte imbalances in your blood (such as sodium or potassium), injury from a heart attack or the healing process after heart surgery. A fast or slow heart rate does not always mean your heart rhythm is abnormal. Fast or slow heart rates are also related to anxiety, activity, medications or other normal causes.
HAY FEVER CAUSED BY HEART DISEASE
Just about everyone knows what hay fever is - the seasonal itching, sneezing, and runny nose caused by the type of pollen that happens to be in the air at the time. But what most people don’t know is that hay fever is just one manifestation of a more basic condition called allergic rhinitis. Whenever a stuffy nose, dark circles under the eyes, or post-nasal drip persists as a chronic condition, allergic rhinitis could be the cause. In fact, this condition affects approximately 10% of the U.S. population (roughly 30 million people) and is the most common allergic disorder in the country. No one knows why some people suffer from allergies and others do not. Some evidence suggests that allergies could be a hereditary trait. Other evidence links allergic rhinitis to asthma and eczema. People who suffer from these diseases are more likely to develop allergic rhinitis, too. Allergic rhinitis is an allergic reaction of the upper respiratory system to a substance called an allergen, which is anything that causes an allergy. These reactions will occur either seasonally or perennially.
Trees tend to be the cause of symptoms in the spring. Grasses tend to be the culprits in the summer, and ragweed and other weeds tend to be the problem in the fall. Fungi are suspect over a much longer period because they release their spores from late March until November. Weather influences the severity of allergy symptoms because it affects the daily pollen count. Pollen counts tend to be at their highest on warm, dry, and breezy mornings and at their lowest on rainy, cool days. Generally, the severity of your allergic reaction will correspond to the rise and fall of the pollen count. As the name suggests, perennial rhinitis occurs all year round. Its cause is allergens whose production is not tied to any seasonal cycle. Common examples are dust mites, animal dander, and molds. These allergens can aggregate in pillows, down-filled clothing and bedding, draperies, upholstery, thick carpeting, and shower curtains. Symptoms will be steady if you come into contact with the allergen daily, but they can come and go if your contact with it is only intermittent. It also is possible for a sustained reaction to a perennial allergen to mask a seasonal allergy.
The symptoms of allergic rhinitis are the result of your immune system protecting itself from what it perceives as an invading substance. Most evidence suggests that genetics determine whether your body will mount this kind of defense. This allergic response begins with the production of allergic (IgE) antibodies. The job of these antibodies is to find molecules of the offending substance in the bloodstream and tissues and to escort them to the body’s mast cells for destruction. As the mast cells destroy the allergens, a chemical called histamine is released into the bloodstream and certain mucous membranes (specifically, the lining of the nose or eyes). Histamine inflames the sinuses and eyelids, making them red and swollen. It also triggers the sneezing reflex. The swelling is designed to block more of the allergens from entering the body, and sneezing is a method of expelling them. Histamine also causes itching and permits fluids to enter the nasal tissue, resulting in congestion and a runny nose.
Effective drug therapies include antihistamines, topical nasal steroids, and certain decongestants, many of which are available over the counter. Antihistamines are effective at treating allergic rhinitis because they block the actions of the histamine produced by the allergic reaction. Most of the older generation that are available over the counter, however, can cause drowsiness. For this reason, do not take them when you plan on driving a car, operating heavy equipment, drinking alcohol, or taking other drugs that also cause drowsiness. The newer antihistamines do not cause drowsiness in most cases. Loratidine (Claritin) is one antihistamine that is available over-the-counter. Others, such as fexofenadine (Allegra) and cetirizine (Zyrtec) are available. The other major effective drug therapy for allergic rhinitis is nasal steroids. These medications relieve symptoms because they counteract the inflammation caused by the allergic reaction. Prescription nasal steroids include such drugs as fluticasone (Flovent), mometasone (Nasonex), budesonide (Rhinocort), and beclomethasone (Vanceril).
Allergen immunotherapy, commonly known as allergy shots, is a technique designed to increase your tolerance to the substances that cause allergy symptoms. It desensitizes you to your allergens, allowing you to tolerate the offending agents. Physicians usually recommend it for people who either do not get good results with medications or do not tolerate them. During the treatments, an allergen is injected periodically into your body in increasingly larger amounts until an effective dose, called the maintenance dose, is reached. The maintenance dose is given at intervals over three to five years to induce a tolerance to the allergen. In most cases, immunotherapy is very effective at reducing or preventing the development of allergy symptoms whenever you come into contact with the allergen. It usually reduces and often eliminates the need for medications. The effects are long-term for most people who complete an adequate course of allergen immunotherapy.
Trees tend to be the cause of symptoms in the spring. Grasses tend to be the culprits in the summer, and ragweed and other weeds tend to be the problem in the fall. Fungi are suspect over a much longer period because they release their spores from late March until November. Weather influences the severity of allergy symptoms because it affects the daily pollen count. Pollen counts tend to be at their highest on warm, dry, and breezy mornings and at their lowest on rainy, cool days. Generally, the severity of your allergic reaction will correspond to the rise and fall of the pollen count. As the name suggests, perennial rhinitis occurs all year round. Its cause is allergens whose production is not tied to any seasonal cycle. Common examples are dust mites, animal dander, and molds. These allergens can aggregate in pillows, down-filled clothing and bedding, draperies, upholstery, thick carpeting, and shower curtains. Symptoms will be steady if you come into contact with the allergen daily, but they can come and go if your contact with it is only intermittent. It also is possible for a sustained reaction to a perennial allergen to mask a seasonal allergy.
The symptoms of allergic rhinitis are the result of your immune system protecting itself from what it perceives as an invading substance. Most evidence suggests that genetics determine whether your body will mount this kind of defense. This allergic response begins with the production of allergic (IgE) antibodies. The job of these antibodies is to find molecules of the offending substance in the bloodstream and tissues and to escort them to the body’s mast cells for destruction. As the mast cells destroy the allergens, a chemical called histamine is released into the bloodstream and certain mucous membranes (specifically, the lining of the nose or eyes). Histamine inflames the sinuses and eyelids, making them red and swollen. It also triggers the sneezing reflex. The swelling is designed to block more of the allergens from entering the body, and sneezing is a method of expelling them. Histamine also causes itching and permits fluids to enter the nasal tissue, resulting in congestion and a runny nose.
Effective drug therapies include antihistamines, topical nasal steroids, and certain decongestants, many of which are available over the counter. Antihistamines are effective at treating allergic rhinitis because they block the actions of the histamine produced by the allergic reaction. Most of the older generation that are available over the counter, however, can cause drowsiness. For this reason, do not take them when you plan on driving a car, operating heavy equipment, drinking alcohol, or taking other drugs that also cause drowsiness. The newer antihistamines do not cause drowsiness in most cases. Loratidine (Claritin) is one antihistamine that is available over-the-counter. Others, such as fexofenadine (Allegra) and cetirizine (Zyrtec) are available. The other major effective drug therapy for allergic rhinitis is nasal steroids. These medications relieve symptoms because they counteract the inflammation caused by the allergic reaction. Prescription nasal steroids include such drugs as fluticasone (Flovent), mometasone (Nasonex), budesonide (Rhinocort), and beclomethasone (Vanceril).
Allergen immunotherapy, commonly known as allergy shots, is a technique designed to increase your tolerance to the substances that cause allergy symptoms. It desensitizes you to your allergens, allowing you to tolerate the offending agents. Physicians usually recommend it for people who either do not get good results with medications or do not tolerate them. During the treatments, an allergen is injected periodically into your body in increasingly larger amounts until an effective dose, called the maintenance dose, is reached. The maintenance dose is given at intervals over three to five years to induce a tolerance to the allergen. In most cases, immunotherapy is very effective at reducing or preventing the development of allergy symptoms whenever you come into contact with the allergen. It usually reduces and often eliminates the need for medications. The effects are long-term for most people who complete an adequate course of allergen immunotherapy.
ANAPHYLAXIS IN THE HEART
Anaphylaxis is a severe, life-threatening allergic response. The immune system creates specific immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies towards a substance that is normally harmless. The body becomes sensitized to this substance, but when the person is exposed to it again, the IgE antibodies recognize this substance and activate immune cells to release large amounts of inflammatory substances, including histamine. These substances can cause the symptoms of anaphylaxis, which may include swelling, hives, lowered blood pressure, shortness of breath, wheezing, difficulty swallowing, and loss of consciousness. In severe cases, a person will go into anaphylactic shock. Blood pressure drops severely and swelling occurs in the bronchial tissues, causing symptoms of choking and loss of consciousness. If anaphylactic shock isn't treated immediately, it can be fatal.
Food allergy is a recognized cause of anaphylaxis--especially peanuts, tree nuts (for example, walnuts, hazelnuts, Brazil nuts, cashews, etc.), shellfish (for example, shrimp, lobster, etc.), cow’s milk, egg, wheat, and soy. Venom allergies (for example, allergy to bee or wasp stings) are also recognized causes of anaphylaxis. Some substances can cause reactions, called anaphylactoid reactions, that are similar to and just as serious as anaphylaxis, but do not involve IgE antibodies. Acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin), other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and intravenous radiocontrast dye given for CT scans are recognized causes of these reactions. Pollens and other inhaled allergens (allergy-causing substances) rarely cause anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis is diagnosed based on its symptoms. People with a history of allergic reactions may have a greater risk for developing a severe reaction in the future.
Anaphylaxis is diagnosed based on its symptoms. People with a history of allergic reactions may have a greater risk for developing a severe reaction in the future. Skin testing and RAST blood tests may help confirm the substances that cause severe allergic reactions. If anaphylactic reactions are suspected, testing should be performed under the guidance of a medical professional with training and experience in selecting appropriate tests. The only effective treatment for acute anaphylaxis is epinephrine (adrenaline) by injection. Epinephrine works quickly to reverse anaphylactic symptoms. Epinephrine can be given through an self-delivered injection device. The most common injection site is the thigh. If you are near someone who is going into anaphylactic shock, call for professional medical help immediately.
CPR and other lifesaving measures may be required. If breathing is compromised, medical professionals may have to place a tube through the nose or mouth into the airway (endotracheal intubation) or even perform emergency surgery to place a tube directly into the trachea (tracheostomy). In addition to epinephrine, treatment for shock includes intravenous fluids and medications that support the actions of the heart and circulatory system. After a person in shock is stabilized, medications such as antihistamines and corticosteroids may be given to further reduce symptoms. If you are allergic to bee stings or any substances that cause anaphylaxis, you should always be prepared. Carry an epinephrine injection kit with you at all times. Also, if you have any drug allergies, you should always inform your health care provider before undergoing any type of treatment, including dental care. It is also a good idea to either wear jewelry or carry a card that identifies your allergy. In cases of emergency, it could save your life.
Food allergy is a recognized cause of anaphylaxis--especially peanuts, tree nuts (for example, walnuts, hazelnuts, Brazil nuts, cashews, etc.), shellfish (for example, shrimp, lobster, etc.), cow’s milk, egg, wheat, and soy. Venom allergies (for example, allergy to bee or wasp stings) are also recognized causes of anaphylaxis. Some substances can cause reactions, called anaphylactoid reactions, that are similar to and just as serious as anaphylaxis, but do not involve IgE antibodies. Acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin), other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and intravenous radiocontrast dye given for CT scans are recognized causes of these reactions. Pollens and other inhaled allergens (allergy-causing substances) rarely cause anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis is diagnosed based on its symptoms. People with a history of allergic reactions may have a greater risk for developing a severe reaction in the future.
Anaphylaxis is diagnosed based on its symptoms. People with a history of allergic reactions may have a greater risk for developing a severe reaction in the future. Skin testing and RAST blood tests may help confirm the substances that cause severe allergic reactions. If anaphylactic reactions are suspected, testing should be performed under the guidance of a medical professional with training and experience in selecting appropriate tests. The only effective treatment for acute anaphylaxis is epinephrine (adrenaline) by injection. Epinephrine works quickly to reverse anaphylactic symptoms. Epinephrine can be given through an self-delivered injection device. The most common injection site is the thigh. If you are near someone who is going into anaphylactic shock, call for professional medical help immediately.
CPR and other lifesaving measures may be required. If breathing is compromised, medical professionals may have to place a tube through the nose or mouth into the airway (endotracheal intubation) or even perform emergency surgery to place a tube directly into the trachea (tracheostomy). In addition to epinephrine, treatment for shock includes intravenous fluids and medications that support the actions of the heart and circulatory system. After a person in shock is stabilized, medications such as antihistamines and corticosteroids may be given to further reduce symptoms. If you are allergic to bee stings or any substances that cause anaphylaxis, you should always be prepared. Carry an epinephrine injection kit with you at all times. Also, if you have any drug allergies, you should always inform your health care provider before undergoing any type of treatment, including dental care. It is also a good idea to either wear jewelry or carry a card that identifies your allergy. In cases of emergency, it could save your life.
SPASMODIC DYSPHONIA IN THE HEART
Spasmodic dysphonia (or laryngeal dystonia) is a voice disorder caused by involuntary movements of one or more muscles of the larynx or voice box. Individuals who have spasmodic dysphonia may have occasional difficulty saying a word or two or they may experience sufficient difficulty to interfere with communication. Spasmodic dysphonia causes the voice to break or to have a tight, strained or strangled quality. There are three different types of spasmodic dysphonia. The three types of spasmodic dysphonia are adductor spasmodic dysphonia, abductor spasmodic dysphonia and mixed spasmodic dysphonia. In abductor spasmodic dysphonia, sudden involuntary muscle movements or spasms cause the vocal folds to open. The vocal folds can not vibrate when they are open. The open position of the vocal folds also allows air to escape from the lungs during speech. As a result, the voices of these individuals often sound weak, quiet and breathy or whispery. As with adductor spasmodic dysphonia, the spasms are often absent during activities such as laughing or singing.
In abductor spasmodic dysphonia, sudden involuntary muscle movements or spasms cause the vocal folds to open. The vocal folds can not vibrate when they are open. The open position of the vocal folds also allows air to escape from the lungs during speech. As a result, the voices of these individuals often sound weak, quiet and breathy or whispery. As with adductor spasmodic dysphonia, the spasms are often absent during activities such as laughing or singing. Mixed spasmodic dysphonia involves muscles that open the vocal folds as well as muscles that close the vocal folds and therefore has features of both adductor and abductor spasmodic dysphonia. Spasmodic dysphonia can affect anyone. The first signs of this disorder are found most often in individuals between 30 and 50 years of age. More women appear to be affected by spasmodic dysphonia than are men.
The cause of spasmodic dysphonia is unknown. Because the voice can sound normal or near normal at times, spasmodic dysphonia was once thought to be psychogenic, that is, originating in the affected person¹s mind rather than from a physical cause. While psychogenic forms of spasmodic dysphonia exist, research has revealed increasing evidence that most cases of spasmodic dysphonia are in fact neurogenic or having to do with the nervous system (brain and nerves). Spasmodic dysphonia may co-occur with other movement disorders such as blepharospasm (excessive eye blinking and involuntary forced eye closure), tardive dyskinesia (involuntary and repetitious movement of muscles of the face, body, arms and legs), oromandibular dystonia (involuntary movements of the jaw muscles, lips and tongue), torticollis (involuntary movements of the neck muscles), or tremor (rhythmic, quivering muscle movements).In some cases, spasmodic dysphonia may run in families and is thought to be inherited. Research has identified a possible gene on chromosome 9 that may contribute to the spasmodic dysphonia that is common to certain families. In some individuals the voice symptoms begin following an upper respiratory infection, injury to the larynx, a long period of voice use, or stress.
The diagnosis of spasmodic dysphonia is usually made based on identifying the way the symptoms developed as well as by careful examination of the individual. Most people are evaluated by a team that usually includes an otolaryngologist (a physician who specializes in ear, nose and throat disorders), a speech-language pathologist (a professional trained to diagnose and treat speech, language and voice disorders) and a neurologist (a physician who specializes in nervous system disorders). The otolaryngologist examines the vocal folds to look for other possible causes for the voice disorder. Fiberoptic nasolaryngoscopy, a method whereby a small lighted tube is passed through the nose and into the throat, is a helpful tool that allows the otolaryngologist to evaluate vocal cord movement during speech. The speech-language pathologist evaluates the patient's voice and voice quality. The neurologist evaluates the patient for signs of other muscle movement disorders.There is presently no cure for spasmodic dysphonia. Current treatments only help reduce the symptoms of this voice disorder. Voice therapy may reduce some symptoms, especially in mild cases.
In abductor spasmodic dysphonia, sudden involuntary muscle movements or spasms cause the vocal folds to open. The vocal folds can not vibrate when they are open. The open position of the vocal folds also allows air to escape from the lungs during speech. As a result, the voices of these individuals often sound weak, quiet and breathy or whispery. As with adductor spasmodic dysphonia, the spasms are often absent during activities such as laughing or singing. Mixed spasmodic dysphonia involves muscles that open the vocal folds as well as muscles that close the vocal folds and therefore has features of both adductor and abductor spasmodic dysphonia. Spasmodic dysphonia can affect anyone. The first signs of this disorder are found most often in individuals between 30 and 50 years of age. More women appear to be affected by spasmodic dysphonia than are men.
The cause of spasmodic dysphonia is unknown. Because the voice can sound normal or near normal at times, spasmodic dysphonia was once thought to be psychogenic, that is, originating in the affected person¹s mind rather than from a physical cause. While psychogenic forms of spasmodic dysphonia exist, research has revealed increasing evidence that most cases of spasmodic dysphonia are in fact neurogenic or having to do with the nervous system (brain and nerves). Spasmodic dysphonia may co-occur with other movement disorders such as blepharospasm (excessive eye blinking and involuntary forced eye closure), tardive dyskinesia (involuntary and repetitious movement of muscles of the face, body, arms and legs), oromandibular dystonia (involuntary movements of the jaw muscles, lips and tongue), torticollis (involuntary movements of the neck muscles), or tremor (rhythmic, quivering muscle movements).In some cases, spasmodic dysphonia may run in families and is thought to be inherited. Research has identified a possible gene on chromosome 9 that may contribute to the spasmodic dysphonia that is common to certain families. In some individuals the voice symptoms begin following an upper respiratory infection, injury to the larynx, a long period of voice use, or stress.
The diagnosis of spasmodic dysphonia is usually made based on identifying the way the symptoms developed as well as by careful examination of the individual. Most people are evaluated by a team that usually includes an otolaryngologist (a physician who specializes in ear, nose and throat disorders), a speech-language pathologist (a professional trained to diagnose and treat speech, language and voice disorders) and a neurologist (a physician who specializes in nervous system disorders). The otolaryngologist examines the vocal folds to look for other possible causes for the voice disorder. Fiberoptic nasolaryngoscopy, a method whereby a small lighted tube is passed through the nose and into the throat, is a helpful tool that allows the otolaryngologist to evaluate vocal cord movement during speech. The speech-language pathologist evaluates the patient's voice and voice quality. The neurologist evaluates the patient for signs of other muscle movement disorders.There is presently no cure for spasmodic dysphonia. Current treatments only help reduce the symptoms of this voice disorder. Voice therapy may reduce some symptoms, especially in mild cases.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)