Hepatitis in general terms is liver inflammation, which can be caused by viruses and other factors such as alcohol, drugs or genetic disorders. Below are the various types of hepatitis:
⦁ Hepatitis A – Hepatitis A virus is found in the feces of an infected person. It spreads through contaminated food and water. It resolves with time and does not cause chronic liver disease.
⦁ Hepatitis B – Hepatitis B spreads through infectious body fluids such as…
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Lifestyle Recommendations: Living with Chronic hepatitis may not affect daily activities but a high-calorie diet is recommended. Many people develop nausea and may not be able to take food later in the day, so the bulk of intake is concentrated in the earlier hours of the day. In the acute phase of the disease, intravenous feeding may be needed if patients cannot tolerate food and have poor oral intake subsequent to nausea and vomiting. Avoid taking drugs that are metabolized by the liver…
In order to prevent hepatitis the Center for Disease Control recommends routine vaccination of all children under the age of 19 with the hepatitis B, which starts at birth and another 2 doses which can be given within 18 months of birth date. Adults can also take Hepatitis A and B vaccines if eligible or if they are at high risk.
Epilepsy can be treated. 1) Medication Generally doctors begin the treatment for epilepsy with medication. If the patient is not responding to medications, doctors may advise surgery. Many drugs are available to treat epilepsy and the choice of drug is based on the factors specific to patient. Medications used to treat epilepsy include: Carbamazepine (Tegretol or Carbatrol) Diazepam (Valium) Eslicarbazepine (Aptiom) Felbamate (Felbatol) Ethosuximide (Zarontin) Lacosamide (Vimpat)…
A doctor may sometimes indicate a type of epilepsy based on whether the cause is known and identified (symptomatic) or cause is known but not identified (cryptogenic) or cause is not known (idiopathic). The types of seizures are also important in the treatment approach. What are the types of seizures? 1) Focal (partial) seizures They are produced by a relatively small part of the brain. They are of two types Simple partial seizures : characterized by…
How is Epilepsy Diagnosed? Medical History A complete physical examination. Neurological examination Complete neurological examination to rule out behavioral modifications, change in mental function, motor abilities etc. Laboratory tests for Epilepsy Blood tests : Blood sample will be collected to check for signs of infection, genetic conditions etc. Electroencephalogram (EEG) : Routinely used diagnostic test which measures electrical impulses in the brain. This…
What are the signs and symptoms of Epilepsy? Temporary confusion Uncontrollable jerking movements of arms and legs (commonly referred to as seizures) Loss of consciousness Staring spell What are the complications of Epilepsy? Falling: which causes injury to your head or break a bone Drowning : if you have epilepsy you are 15 to 19 times more likely to drown while swimming or bathing than rest of the population Accidents : A seizure that causes either loss of awareness or control can be…
There are some ways of preventing epilepsy if you can prevent some of the causes. Head trauma Prevent head trauma by riding safely - being careful and avoiding road accidents. Prevent falls among the elderly by following some of these tips on fall prevention. Infectious Diseases Reduce chances of cysticercosis, the most common cause of epilepsy worldwide. Be careful and prevent infectious diseases through good hygeine and safe food cooking practices. Stroke Stroke is one of…
Epilepsy often needs to be managed for life. While drugs do not cure epilepsy they can help control seizures. Make sure you know whom to consult as you manage the condition. Also know first aid, safety measures and post seizure care First Aid: Move the sizing person away from any obstacles like furniture, electrical outputs etc. Clear the area of any harmful or sharp objects. Place a blanket or cushions near the person. Place a pillow below their head if possible. Turn the person on their…
