Health – La Santé Humaine https://lasantehumaine.org Live a healthy life! Tue, 19 Nov 2024 19:53:19 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=7.1.4 https://lasantehumaine.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/logo-favicon.png Health – La Santé Humaine https://lasantehumaine.org 32 32 Why does phlegm appear in the throat? https://lasantehumaine.org/2024/11/19/why-does-phlegm-appear-in-the-throat/ Tue, 19 Nov 2024 19:53:18 +0000 https://dvz.bqv.mybluehost.me/website_d6885d46/?p=2740 The production of mucus in the respiratory system is continuous, normal and necessary. For most of the time, we don’t even notice it, since it is excreted through coughing or the digestive system. However, some situations can lead to excess mucus, since they have a thicker consistency that we know as phlegm.

When the body interprets that there is an external threat, such as certain viruses, fungi or bacteria, the immune system secretes more mucus than normal It does so through the epithelium, the tissue that lines the inside of the airways.

So, is phlegm a defensive secretion? Yes, it contains antibodies that act as a protective barrier against these threats. If it appears in excess or takes on a greenish tone, it may be a symptom of an infection or respond to other reasons that are useful to know. Below, we detail the most common reasons why phlegm appears, as well as knowing when you should consult a doctor or specialist.

Mild colds

One of the most common reasons for the appearance of phlegm is due to inflammation of the mucous membranes. It occurs when different pathogens, such as rhinoviruses, cause an infection in the upper respiratory tract. This is one of the most common causes of phlegm. most frequent infections in people, causing mild colds.

In the face of threat, the glands increase the mucus production and thickness which causes it to build up in the throat or nose. This often leads to other uncomfortable symptoms such as throat clearing, runny nose, heartburn and severe coughing.

More serious respiratory tract infections

More serious conditions affecting the lungs and airways can cause phlegm to form in the throat. The body increases production to prevent the infection from spreading. The mucus captures external particles and expels them through coughing to get rid of the threat.

One way to identify if phlegm corresponds to this type of disease is its color.. When they acquire a greenish tone means that the number of dead white blood cells is high. Therefore, it is very likely that they were formed to fight an infection such as the following:

  • Pharyngitis
  • Bronchitis
  • Pneumonia
  • Cystic fibrosis
  • Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)

If phlegm—also called sputum—persists for several days, see a doctor for a diagnosis.

Asthma

One of the symptoms of asthma, in addition to shortness of breath, wheezing or coughing, is the build-up of phlegm. This is caused by the narrowing of the airways, which can increase mucus production. The triggers of an asthma attack are diverse, such as dust in the environment, mites, weather and colds.

Allergies

Different types of allergies, such as those to dust or pollen, cause throat irritation, sneezing or congestion. The body’s reaction to these potential threats is the production of mucus to quickly remove pollen spores and other agents.

Because of this, phlegm buildup often accompanies seasonal allergies. You can prevent them by avoiding exposure to allergens. To deal with them, there are home remedies that promote symptom relief.

Smoking

Long-term smoking, whether through regular cigarettes, electronic cigarettes or passive smoking, causes functional damage to the airways This results in changes in mucociliary clearance, a process where cilia (small hair-like organelles) sweep mucus from the lower airways into the pharynx. The result is greater difficulty in removing mucus, together with the external substances it contains, which promotes its accumulation in the respiratory tract.

In addition, the presence of tobacco smoke increases mucus production, throat clearing and coughing, which are common symptoms of smokers. The only solution to improve this condition is quit smoking.

Acid reflux

Phlegm in the throat can also be caused by the stomach. When the contents of the stomach return to the esophagus along with gastric acids, the area becomes irritated and generates excess mucus. Gastroesophageal reflux can occur in a specific situation, caused by the consumption of sausages, coffee or alcohol, or it can be a habitual condition.

In both cases, some are recommended Home Remedies for Acid Reflux Relief such as drinking plenty of water to expel phlegm or ingesting juices, infusions and broths. It is also advisable to avoid foods that can cause reflux, such as refined flours, fried foods and spicy foods.

Cold weather and dry air

Not all causes stem from infections or diseases. There are also external and environmental factors that affect some people more than others. For example, breathe cold air dries out the nasal passages and throat which causes an increase in mucus to moisten the area.

This occurs more frequently during winter due to contact with cool weather and the possibility of viral infections, as well as the use of heating and air conditioning.

Eating some foods

Certain Foods and drinks are associated with increased mucus production. For example, red meats and animal oils or dairy products such as cheese, yogurt and milk. Drinks that promote dehydration, including those with high sugar or alcohol content, can also contribute to the appearance of phlegm. It is advisable to reduce their presence in the diet to avoid excessive mucus generation.

On the other hand, there are some foods that can help expel phlegm such as cinnamon, garlic, onion and olive oil. Among fruits, guava, orange, kiwi and pomegranate are recommended.

Deviated septum

A deviated septum occurs when the wall between the nostrils is damaged or twisted. This situation occurs due to a developmental abnormality or a specific trauma. In either case, nasal congestion and mucus buildup may occur due to the increased difficulty in draining it.

When to see a doctor about phlegm in the throat?

The presence of excessive mucus may be a normal defense response to external threats. However, Attention should be paid when it lasts for more than a week and/or is accompanied by some of these symptoms:

  • Fever
  • Vomiting
  • Headache
  • Blood in cough
  • Chest pain
  • Thicker mucus

The thickness and the phlegm color They represent what the immune system is trying to expel from the body, so paying attention to this characteristic can be an indicator of its cause. Green and yellow tones respond to infections, white ones express possible congestion or inflammation. Meanwhile, black and brown ones can be due to environmental factors, such as smoke inhalation, or tobacco use.

Pink or reddish coloration requires more attention. These may be blood stains caused by repeated nose blowing or may be the result of more serious conditions such as tuberculosis. See a doctor if you notice this color in your phlegm.

Pay attention to the reasons that generate phlegm in order to eliminate it

The reasons why mucus becomes thick and abundant range from possible respiratory infections to stomach problems. Although phlegm is not a cause for alarm, it is important to pay attention to its color, consistency and the appearance of other symptoms. This will allow you to know what to do and take measures to expel them.

If you notice abnormal coloring, exaggerated thickness or that they are accompanied by headache, chest pain or fever, consult a doctor. Medications may be required to reduce an infection.

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Why does my chest hurt when I breathe? https://lasantehumaine.org/2022/07/25/why-does-my-chest-hurt-when-i-breathe/ Mon, 25 Jul 2022 19:45:38 +0000 https://dvz.bqv.mybluehost.me/website_d6885d46/?p=2627 Sometimes the chest hurts when breathing and the causes can be many. Some of them are quite serious, so it is a symptom that should never be overlooked. As a general rule, all chest pain should be a reason for medical consultation as soon as possible.

The reasons why the chest hurts when breathing are usually associated with lung or heart problems. It is a symptom that is present in different conditions and by itself is not enough to determine what is happening. Therefore, it must be subject to medical evaluation.

For all that has been said, it is clear that it is not easy to establish why the chest hurts when breathing. However, the main reasons are usually the following.

Pleurisy, one of the reasons why the chest hurts when breathing

Pleurisy or pleurisy is inflammation of the pleura. This, in turn, is a membrane containing two layers. One of these layers lines the inside of the rib cage and the other layer surrounds the lungs. When inflamed, it causes  quite sharp chest pain, which increases with breathing.

In fact, the main symptom of pleurisy is that pain that increases when you breathe in and out. For this reason, it is also common for there to be a sensation of shortness of breath, since the person tries to breathe very gently so as not to increase the discomfort. Sometimes the pain spreads to the shoulders and back.

Sometimes, fluid collects between the two layers of the pleura. This is known as a pleural effusion. If there is a lot of liquid, pressure appears on the lung that can lead to it collapsing totally or partially. This generates cough and greater respiratory difficulty.

Pericarditis

In pericarditis  it is also felt that the chest hurts when breathing. This is an inflammation of the pericardium, which is a membrane that surrounds the heart. It has two layers, and when it becomes inflamed, the fluid level between them increases. This creates pressure on the heart and limits its pumping.

The main symptom of pericarditis is severe pain in the left side of the chest. This pain increases when breathing, especially if it is done deeply. This pain worsens when lying down and is usually accompanied by cough, fever and a general feeling of malaise.

Pulmonary embolism: chest pain when breathing

Pulmonary embolism: chest pain when breathing

Pulmonary embolism is a life-threatening condition that occurs when a thrombus breaks free from another part of the body and reaches the pulmonary arteries. Generally, that thrombus comes from the lower extremities of the body.

The symptoms of pulmonary embolism are not always the same. However, it is very common for there to be acute chest pain, which increases when breathing with a certain depth. There is also usually dizziness, agitation, anxiety, fainting or seizures, among others.

Neumothorax or lung collapse

Lung collapse, or pneumothorax, is a condition that occurs when air escapes from the lung and settles between the lung itself and the rib cage. This accumulation of air exerts strong pressure on the lung and prevents it from expanding normally during inspiration.

The typical symptom of pneumothorax is sharp pain in the chest, which increases when breathing or coughing. There is also respiratory distress and chest tightness. Sometimes it causes dizziness and lightheadedness, as well as bluish skin color, increased heart rate, and shock.

Pneumonia

Pneumonia

Another reason why your chest hurts when you breathe is pneumonia. This is an infection that causes inflammation in one or both of the air sacs in the lungs. These sacs can fill with fluid or pus, causing a strong cough with phlegm or pus. Pneumonia has variable severity and is life-threatening.

One of the characteristic symptoms is chest pain when breathing or coughing. There is also cough, fatigue, fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, shortness of breath and, in some cases, disorientation or changes in mental functioning.

Costochondritis: chest pain when breathing

Costochondritis is an inflammation that occurs in the cartilage that joins a rib to the breastbone, or sternum. Such inflammation causes severe chest pain, which is often mistaken for a heart attack.

The pain is markedly increased by deep breathing or coughing. The cause of this phenomenon is not known, and it usually goes away on its own after a few days or weeks.

Do you have chest pain when you breathe? If so, we encourage you to consult your doctor as soon as possible so that he can do a complete check-up and tell you what you have and how you should take care of yourself to get better.

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Bunions: how to prevent them and what is their treatment https://lasantehumaine.org/2018/12/30/bunions-prevent-treatment/ Sun, 30 Dec 2018 23:54:43 +0000 https://dvz.bqv.mybluehost.me/website_d6885d46/?p=2277 The bunions are a bulge that is formed between the plant and the big toe of the feet following a deviation called hallux valgus.

The hallux valgus is a deformation of the first metatarsal of the big toe, the bunions are formed due to this deviation. When the big toe rests on the second finger, a bulge forms on the outer side of the foot, which can become inflamed and reddened and may cause a lot of pain. If this deformation is not corrected in time, it can also affect the rest of the fingers.

The symptoms of bunions usually appear when the problem is at an advanced stage. However, there have been cases in which patients who have suffered for years have never come to denote any symptoms.

Why do bunions appear?

There are several reasons why bunions are formed, these may be hereditary, due to genetic causes, or external. Generally, they usually appear for genetic reasons. Since the causes of the formation of the bunions are mainly genetic, there will be people with greater predisposition to suffer them than others.

Patients who have flat feet or who tend to overload the first metatarsus-phalangeal joint and the first finger when walking, will be more at risk of developing them. In addition, external factors such as footwear, overweight or lifestyle also influence its training.

Treatment for bunions

As mentioned above and regardless of the cause of appearance of the bunion or hallux valgus, once they have appeared they must be treated effectively and on time. Otherwise, they can worsen quickly and cause great damage.

Bunions will not disappear on their own if an external treatment is not applied. There are several methods that serve to relieve the pain of the bunions, which we will explain later. If what is wanted is to eliminate the problem completely, the patient will have to undergo a surgical operation. There are several techniques to remove the bunions surgically, the most used are the following:

Operation of bunions with osteotomy

It is based on the realignment of the bone (first metatarsal) of the big toe so that it retains its original shape. As soon as the deviation is eliminated, the bunion will disappear with it, since the tissues that were in tension are released.

It is worth mentioning that the operation is indicated for patients who present a deviation of more than 30º, when the bunion presents a certain severity. This type of intervention is simple and does not require hospitalizationof the patient, is ambulatory and lasts between 30 and 90 minutes.

Operation of bunions without osteotomy

This operation is called percutaneous surgery and is considered to be minimally invasive. This is because the surgeon does not make large incisions or against the bone.

As in the previous case, after the surgery the tissue stops being pressed and therefore the bunion disappears.
It is recommended for the milder or moderate cases of bunions. The duration of the intervention also varies between 30 and 90 minutes.

How to prevent bunions

As mentioned above, there are a number of methods by which you can prevent and relieve the pain that bunions cause. These are the following:

  • Wear wide-toe shoes. Bunions are more common in women than in men. This is due to the type of footwear we wear. The continued use of high-heeled shoes and closed toe shoes predisposes to the appearance of bunions.
  • Use interdigital spacers. Its function is to separate the fingers from each other and keep the finger in the proper position. They are also useful foam rubber pads, these will avoid rubbing the bunion with the shoe.
  • Ice can be applied to the bunion between 2 and 3 times a day. This will help to reduce inflammation and reduce pain.
  • Inflammation may be treated with anti- inflammatory medicationsprescribed by the specialist.
  • Activities that can cause pain in the bunion should be avoided.

Being a hereditary condition, prevention can be useless, since they will appear anyway. However, it will help to prevent the problem from getting worse and reduce the pain, as well as the symptoms.

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What is radiation therapy for cancer? https://lasantehumaine.org/2018/12/30/what-is-radiation-therapy-for-cancer/ Sun, 30 Dec 2018 09:47:22 +0000 https://dvz.bqv.mybluehost.me/website_d6885d46/?p=2274 Radiation therapy for cancer involves the use of ionizing radiation, high energy, in order to eliminate cancer cells. It is a type of cancer therapy in which X-rays and other high-energy particles are incised on the tumor or the area where cancer cells are found.

The high energy of said ionizing particles causes the cells that receive them to be destroyed. The goal of radiotherapy treatment is to eliminate aberrant cells, preserving nearby healthy tissues. The treatment is usually administered by a radiation oncologist. On the other hand, it usually consists of several sessions during a certain period of time.

Types of radiotherapy treatments for cancer

Radiotherapy can be used in different cases and at different stages of cancer. In each of them you will have a different objective:

  • As a first treatment. Radiation therapy can be used as a first treatment for cancer, in order to reduce the size of the existing tumor.
  • As adjuvant therapy. In these cases, radiation therapy for cancer is used after surgery or chemotherapy treatment to eliminate possible residual cancer cells.
  • As a palliative therapy. Radiation therapy can be used in cases where it is not possible to completely destroy the tumor to reduce its size. Thus their possible symptoms are alleviated.

External radiotherapy

Also called external beam radiotherapy, this treatment is undoubtedly the most used in radiation oncology. In it, radiation is emitted from a machine external to the body, to the area of ​​the tumor.

In this type of treatment you can adjust the size and shape of the beam.In this way the radiation can be directed precisely to the desired area, avoiding damaging adjacent healthy regions. The types of external beam radiation that exist are:

Three-dimensional conformal radiotherapy (3D-CTR)

In this variant three-dimensional images of the tumor are used to know precisely where the beam of radiation must be directed. 3D images are obtained by computerized tomography or magnetic resonance imaging.

One of the advantages of this therapy is that higher doses of radiation can be used, knowing exactly the area to which to direct the beam. This prevents damage to healthy areas.

Thanks to its high precision, the 3D-CTR can avoid damage to the salivary glands. This eliminates one of the typical side effects of radiotherapy for cancer: dry mouth.

Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT)

The IMRT offers even greater precision when it comes to avoiding healthy tissue than the 3D-CTR. This is achieved because the intensity of each beam can be modified, modulating the radiation specifically for each zone.

Proton beam therapy

This method is relatively new and uses a specific machinery. Therefore, at present it is not available in all types of centers. Instead of X-rays, protons are used in this variant.

Protons are high-energy subatomic particles. Like X-rays, they can destroy the cells on which they radiate. An advantage of this method is that the radiation does not expand to other areas, as it does in the previous ones.

Image guided radiotherapy (IGRT)

In this treatment, the radiation oncologist collects images of the tumor area, both before and after irradiating the area.

In this way, the images before and after each treatment session can be compared. This allows focusing the next sessions towards the irradiation of some areas or others. The IGRT helps evaluate the effectiveness of the treatment and avoid damage to healthy tissues.

Stereotactic radiotherapy

In this modality, a system of independent three-dimensional coordinates of the patient is used to accurately locate the lesion. The method allows to direct very precise and very high energy beams towards very small areas.

During the process, the patient must remain completely immobile. They usually use supports for the head or corporal molds that limit the movements.

Due to the high intensity of the radiation used, this therapy usually requires few or even a single session. However, some patients may need several treatments.

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Toxoplasmosis in pregnancy https://lasantehumaine.org/2018/12/25/toxoplasmosis-in-pregnancy/ Tue, 25 Dec 2018 10:10:17 +0000 https://dvz.bqv.mybluehost.me/website_d6885d46/?p=2263 As a general rule, the medical team uses the term toxoplasmosis in pregnancy to refer to a disease caused by a parasitic infection. In this way, the species of protozoa that produces this disorder is Toxoplasma gondii.

On the other hand, the parasite can infect both certain types of animals and the human species. Thus, domestic cats are a fixed host and among intermediaries we can point to certain birds and mammals.

Depending on the characteristics of the patient, clinical cases may or may not present symptoms. In addition, these may vary in severity, treatment and other properties.

What are its possible causes?

As I have said, toxoplasmosis is due to infection caused by a kind of parasite. Currently, the team of experts has been able to identify a series of transmission routes of this organism. For example, among the most common we can highlight:

  • Consumption of raw or undercooked meat that is home to this living being.
  • Intake of vegetables that have been in contact with feces of a cat that is also infected.
  • Drinking contaminated water.
  • Use culinary instruments that have been in contact with contaminated food.
  • Receive blood transfusions, tissues or organs from a person who serves as a host for this parasite.

Consequences of suffering toxoplasmosis during pregnancy

Specialists have found that women who get this disease during pregnancy can also transmit it to the fetus. The odds of this process increase as the fetus develops or the time of pregnancy increases.

To avoid this problem, the corresponding medical team will perform routine tests on patients. In this way, you can easily check if they are developing an infection and if possible the transmission to the fetus. In any case, the experts will choose the best treatment options to solve any problems during this stage.

Typically, experts often recommend the administration of certain drug groups. This way, the symptoms developed by the patient can be controlled and solved. However, if the infection does not show signs or are of a mild nature, doctors advise against any special treatment measure.

On the other hand, the consequences of toxoplasmosis in the fetus are worse in the early stages of pregnancy. This is because the tissues are forming and growing and any alteration can produce changes in the structures formed.

The damage can affect almost any tissue (brain, heart, eyes etc.) and can even cause the death of the fetus in more complicated clinical cases. However, the baby may not develop any symptoms during pregnancybut present the infection latently. In that case, you may have toxoplasmosis at another stage of your life.

How is your diagnosis carried out?

As a general rule, the medical team usually carries out a series of checks to identify the cause of the alteration in the patient. In this way, other conditions with similar characteristics can be ruled out. For example, among the most frequent medical tests we can highlight:

  • Checking the symptoms that the patient has developed so far. In addition, a review of the clinical history and family history is usually performed in a normal manner.
  • Routine tests such as blood tests. In this way, the corresponding doctor can check if an infection exists. For this, the levels of antibodies that the blood sample has presented are studied.
  • In case of pregnancy, other tests are usually carried out to check the presence of the parasite in the fetus. A sample of amniotic fluid or blood is taken to examine it. You can also analyze other tissues such as the placenta or organs of the baby to check their status.

In any case, we hope that this article has been useful to inform you about toxoplasmosis. If you have any questions on the subject, do not hesitate to go to your nearest medical team to resolve it effectively.

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Everything you need to know about the eye exam https://lasantehumaine.org/2018/12/25/eye-exam/ Tue, 25 Dec 2018 09:43:13 +0000 https://dvz.bqv.mybluehost.me/website_d6885d46/?p=2258 An eye exam serves to verify that our eyes are healthy. That is, its role is to rule out that we are suffering from some kind of problem. Among the most frequent, we find: myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism and cataracts. But what else should we know about this test?

If we have never had an eye exam, we may be nervous or expectant about what might happen. It is quite simple, which does not involve any difficulty. Let’s see, however, what happens during an eye exam.

How an eye exam is performed

We can do an eye exam with an ophthalmologist or an optometrist. Our recommendation is that it should be done with the doctor the first time. Unlike the optometrist, the ophthalmologist will dilate the pupils with a few drops that will show us throwing ourselves in the eyes.

This will allow you to see in depth how the eye is. It goes without saying that this procedure is completely painless. The only consequence that we have at the moment when our pupils dilate is that we will see blur for a few hours later. When our pupils return to normal, then we will recover our normal vision.

The eye chart

The eye chart is not more than that series of letters that both the ophthalmologist and the optometrist will send us to read. Placed at a certain distance from us, the letters printed on them range from a larger to a smaller one.

We can not get up or get closer to see better. Rather, as we see some letters worse or blurred, the specialist will be putting a series of lensesto see if our vision improves. Some of the problems that are detected with this test are:

  • Myopia: It occurs when the result of trying to focus on distant objects, is the blurred vision of these. The more diopters of myopia we have, the worse we see.
  • Hyperopia: Objects that are closer are blurred. If we are over forty years old, what we have may be presbyopia.
  • Astigmatism: as Maria Teresa Ramos Moreira points out in her study “Asigmatism”, objects are focused on more than one point of the retina. The result is your distorted and blurred vision.

Astigmatism may be accompanied by myopia or hyperopia . People who suffer from these two vision problems see much worse than those who suffer only one. For example, those people who only suffer from myopia.

The slit lamp

The slit lamp is another tool that the ophthalmologist or optometrist uses to see in depth our eye. With this lamp you can see the cornea, the iris, the lens and the inner chamber.

If the pupils are dilated to perform this test, after this ocular examination we will notice some sensitivity in the eyesight. The ideal is to use sunglasses afterwards to protect the eyes and be able to see more comfortably. With the slit lamp you can detect some of these problems:

  • Dry eye syndrome
  • waterfalls
  • Corneal injuries
  • Detachment and damage to the retina
  • Macular degeneration

As we can see, this test is very important to be able to detect eye problems that could not be identified in the previous exam.

Tonometry

This is another of the tests that we can find when performing an eye exam. It is essential to measure eye pressure. High blood pressure may indicate a high risk of glaucoma. The test that is performed is similar to the previous one. We will have to put the chin on a support and fix the view in the point of light that is just in front.

The professional will place the tip of the tonometer until it almost touches the cornea. Although the light that is projected on the eye may be annoying, we must keep the eye open as long as possible. Only in this way will the examination show the data that is sought.

At least once a year we should undergo an eye examination whether we already have a vision problem or not. The constant contact with mobiles, tablets and other electronic devices such as computers can damage our eyes. Remember that any condition detected on time is always easier to treat.

Thus, the sooner we detect the existence of a problem in our eyes, the sooner we can tackle it and correct it.

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Open heart massage, everything you need to know https://lasantehumaine.org/2018/10/26/open-heart-massage-everything-you-need-to-know/ Fri, 26 Oct 2018 06:46:27 +0000 https://dvz.bqv.mybluehost.me/website_d6885d46/?p=2197 Open heart massage is a resuscitation technique reserved for emergency situations where the thorax is exposed. For this reason it is also called direct cardiac massage. It is only practiced when the heart has stopped and there is no alternative for resuscitation.

In this type of emergency situations the life of the patient is in danger. If a perforating trauma has been produced, the heart will be located with a few shovels to access it. On the other hand, if there is a penetrating wound but it does not allow full access to the heart. It is necessary to perform an emergency thoracostomy.

Thoracostomy is a medical technique to access the contents of the thoracic cavity. For this, an incision is made taking advantage of the intercostal spaces. Generally the thoracostomy is performed in the most lateral part of one of the two hemithorax and is a small cut.

This is because it is usually practiced with the aim of draining the content of the pleural cavity. Either liquid (as in the case of a pleural effusion) or air (in pneumothorax ).

However, when a thoracostomy is performed in order to perform an open cardiac massage. The dimensions of the incision must be larger. In addition, a more medial location with respect to the sternum is chosen.

This facilitates access to the heart. You have to be careful and not break any rib when lifting the rib cage. If one of the ribs fractures, it can perforate the organs lodged in the mediastinum. Special care must be taken with the lungs to avoid a respiratory distress syndrome.

How is the internal cardiac massage performed?

First, you have to stabilize the patient in a horizontal plane. Next, the area where the thoracostomy will be performed should be carefully disinfected. Normally this step is omitted since in the vast majority of cases where the internal cardiac massage is performed the thorax is already open. So it is not necessary to make any more incisions.

The next step is to stabilize the rib cage with some shovels, that is, the ribs that interfere to reach the heart are lifted. Immediately afterwards, it is necessary to ensure that the cardiac tamponade has been resolved and the internal cardiac massage is carried out with both hands as soon as possible.

It is important that the massage be bimanual since several studies have shown that it improves the survival rate. This technique is what generates the best possible cardiac output and reduces the number of complications. Among them, cardiac perforation by pressing with one hand only.

How is the internal cardiac massage performed?

What are the indications of internal cardiac massage?

The main indication is cardiac arrest due to perforating trauma. This technique can only be performed by expert medical personnel since the risk of infection and complications is high. It is necessary to remember that it is a question of manipulating the heart with the whole thorax in the open. So it is necessary to maximize the antiseptic measures and to control the hemorrhage that is taking place.

In addition, it is necessary to evaluate the massage when there is hypotension with a systolic pressure below 70 mmHg that does not respond to volume injection. This is an early sign of tamponade where the heart is failing to function properly.

You always have to perform the internal cardiac massage as a last resort. That is, first we must perform less aggressive resuscitation techniques. Such as conventional cardiopulmonary resuscitation, the administration of inotropic drugs (adrenaline) to activate the sympathetic nervous system, etc.

The practice of minimally invasive thoracostomy is a controversy among the medical community. Some practitioners are in favor of taking advantage of a perforating wound to access the heart. While others are more conservative and believe that internal cardiac massage should be reserved for open traumatisms that completely expose the contents of the chest cavity.

In spite of everything, in this type of situation the patient is in a critical state. So survival is not ideal since it is very difficult to stabilize such complex injuries. In spite of everything, statistics show better results than a few years ago thanks to the early start of resuscitation.

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How to prevent varicose veins https://lasantehumaine.org/2018/10/26/how-to-prevent-varicose-veins/ Fri, 26 Oct 2018 06:30:30 +0000 https://dvz.bqv.mybluehost.me/website_d6885d46/?p=2194 The appearance of varicose veins is a problem that increasingly affects more people and that, apart from the aesthetic problem, can lead to the appearance of serious complications. For that reason we are going to you to approach a little more to the subject and to give you some indications to prevent the varices.

What are varicose veins?

Varicose veins are dilated veins that usually appear in the lower extremities as a result of a venous insufficiency that prevents the correct return of blood from the veins to the heart. The cause is a malfunction of the venous valves, whose function is to promote the return of blood to the heart, and by not closing properly. They cause blood to accumulate in the lower veins dilating them.

Varicose veins appear initially as small spider veins that are blue and purple and do not usually cause discomfort. These spider veins do not always have to evolve to grade II varicose veins. But if they do they begin to be symptomatic, producing heaviness in the legs, fatigue, cramps, itching and edema. 

In this phase the symptoms may improve if the advice given below is applied. In any case when the varicose veins begin to present symptomatology they should be treated, if not, the tendency of the problem is to become chronic and, sooner or later, stage III will be reached.

Stage III veins are those that produce generalized edema of the lower extremities and changes in skin color. When ulcerations, haemorrhages or thrombophlebitis occur, stage IV will have been reached.

Risk factor’s

The main causes are the sedentary life we do, the lack of exercise and a genetic component that seems to be 25%. Other factors that increase the chances of its appearance are: overweight, high blood pressure, standing for a long time without walking, smoking, hypercholesterolemia, exposure to heat, use of oral contraceptives, pregnancy. 

The latter tend to improve within a few months of giving birth without complications, but we must be careful because they assume that we have a certain tendency to appear and will probably do so again in the future. Knowing all the above, we can list a series of measures that will prevent or delay their appearance.

How to prevent varicose veins

The main advice, which we have already discussed to prevent many other health problems. Is to lead a healthy life: exercise regularly, a balanced diet with few fats, control hypertension and avoid overweight and smoking. If we begin to notice the first symptoms we can delay their progress and avoid complications if:

  • We remove clothes and shoes too tight from our wardrobe.
  • We use compression stockings.
  • We avoid being exposed to heat sources such as heaters or electric blankets.
  • We walk daily.
  • Perform massages on the legs and keep them elevated when we are at rest.

In any case, the main recommendation when we begin to notice the first signs is to consult with our doctor to tell us what are the different treatments (surgical, laser, sclerotherapy …) that exist and which is the best that fits our situation. Many of these techniques do not involve hospital admission and recovery is quick. So do not hesitate to go to a professional to avoid complications.

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Uterine fibroids: main causes and symptoms https://lasantehumaine.org/2018/10/26/uterine-fibroids-main-causes-and-symptoms/ Fri, 26 Oct 2018 06:12:59 +0000 https://dvz.bqv.mybluehost.me/website_d6885d46/?p=2191 The Uterine fibroids are benign tumors, formed from the myometral layer composed of muscle tissue. If their size increases and occupies space, these tumors compress nearby organs and structures.

Fibroids are formed by different causes, some of hormonal origin and others are due to muscle growth. So it is advisable to avoid the abundant consumption of proteins (meats, sausages) consuming fish, dairy, eggs, in moderation, which seems to avoid the evolution of some types of myomas. The only alternative for its elimination is surgical intervention whenever the symptomatology justifies it.

Symptom of Uterine fibroids

  • Heavy menstrual bleeding, sometimes with clots.
  • Prolonged menstrual periods.
  • Need to urinate frequently.
  • Pain and cramps during menstruation, and pain during sexual intercourse.
  • Bleeding between periods.

Diagnosis Uterine Fibroids

It will be evaluated by the specialist (gynecologist) who will explore the pelvic cavity to observe changes in the shape of the uterus. And confirm the diagnosis by requesting an ultrasound or magnetic resonance imaging of the pelvis. In some cases, it may be convenient to perform an endometrial biopsy (layer that lines the uterine cavity). Or a laparoscopy to rule out a more aggressive pathology.

Natural remedy for the treatment of fibroids

It has been used for some time primrose oil, composed of fatty acids (omega-6) to treat gynecological conditions. Because it acts by regulating hormonal imbalances, and reducing inflammation. Beneficial throughout the fertile life of women and especially indicated in the menopausal era, where large hormonal changes occur.

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What is neuroscience? What does this branch of science study? https://lasantehumaine.org/2018/10/25/what-is-neuroscience-what-does-this-branch-of-science-study/ Thu, 25 Oct 2018 04:06:31 +0000 https://dvz.bqv.mybluehost.me/website_d6885d46/?p=2188 The neuroscience is the study of how developed nervous system, its structure and what it does. Neuroscientists focus on the brain and its impact on behavior and cognitive functions (of thinking). But they also investigate what happens to the nervous system when people have neurological, psychiatric or neurodevelopmental disorders. 

Neuroscience has traditionally been classified as a subdivision of biology. But in reality, it is an interdisciplinary science closely related to other disciplines. Such as mathematics, linguistics, engineering, computer science, chemistry, philosophy, psychology. or medicine.

Neuroscientists study the cellular, functional, evolutionary, computational, molecular, cellular and medical aspects of the nervous system.

A little history

The ancient Egyptians thought that the seat of intelligence was in the heart. Due to this belief, during the process of mummification, they eliminated the brain and left the heart. The first writings on the brain date from the year 1700 BC. Specifically the word ‘ brain ‘ is mentioned eight times in the Papyrus Edwin Smith, in relation to the symptoms, diagnosis and probable results of two people who had head injuries.

From the 1950s onwards, the scientific study of the nervous system experienced enormous advances. Mainly due to progress in other related fields. Such as computational neuroscience, electrophysiology and molecular biology. The neuroscientists could study the structure, functions, development, anomalies and ways in which the nervous system could be altered.

Branches of neuroscience

  • Affective neuroscience : in most cases, the research is carried out in laboratory animals and analyzes how neurons behave in relation to emotions.
  • Neuroscience of behavior : study of the biological basis of behavior.
  • Cell Neuroscience: the study of neurons, including their shape and physiological properties at the cellular level.
  • Clinical Neuroscience : examines disorders of the nervous system (psychiatry, for example, analyzes disorders of the mind).
  • Cognitive neuroscience : the study of the higher cognitive functions that exist in humans and their underlying neuronal base.
  • Computational neuroscience : computers are used to simulate and model brain functions, and apply techniques of mathematics, physics and other similar fields to study brain function.
  • Cultural Neuroscience : examines how beliefs, practices and cultural values ​​shape and shape the brain, minds and genes in different periods.
  • Neuroscience of development : analyzes how the nervous system develops on a cellular basis; what underlying mechanisms exist in neuronal development.
  • Molecular neuroscience : is the study of the role of individual molecules in the nervous system.
  • Neuroengineering : uses engineering techniques to understand, replace, repair or improve neural systems.
  • Neuroimaging : a branch of medical images that focuses on the brain. The neuroimaging is used to diagnose diseases and evaluate the health of the brain, as well as for the study of it.
  • Neuroinformatics : integrates data in all areas of neuroscience, to help understand the brain and treat diseases. Neuroinformatics involves acquiring data, sharing, publishing and storing information, analysis, modeling and simulation.
  • Neurolinguistics : studies what neuronal mechanisms in the brain control the acquisition, understanding and utterance of language.
  • Neurophysiology : it analyzes the relation of the brain and its functions, and the sum of the parts of the body and how they interrelate.
  • Paleoneurology : is the study of fossilized brains.
  • Social Neuroscience: an interdisciplinary field dedicated to understanding how biological systems implement processes and social behavior. Through concepts and social data refines the theories of social behavior.
  • Neuroscience of systems : it follows the channels of the flow of data within the CNS (central nervous system) and tries to define the types of processing that are carried out there. Use that information to explain behavioral functions.
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