Conditions

Consultation of gastroenterologist and dietitian is important for diagnosing and managing this disease. In order to diagnose the condition, the doctor may suggest some of the following: Physical examination and review of medical history. Blood tests– To measure levels of antibodies and to detect nutritional deficiencies (iron levels). Antibodies such as immunoglobulin A (IgA) anti tissue transglutaminase (tTG) antibodies, IgA anti endomysial antibodies (EMA) and IgA anti deamidated gliadin…

Here are some of the symptoms of Celiac Disease: Digestive problems – Abdominal bloating, pain, gas, diarrhea, pale stools and weight loss Dermatitis herpetiformis – Severe skin rash Iron deficiency anaemia – Low blood count Growth problems and failure to thrive Musculoskeletal problems – Bone and joint pains, muscle cramps Seizures Tingling sensation in the legs – Caused by low calcium levels and nerve damage  Apthous ulcers – Sores in the mouth Missed menstrual periods. Digestive…

Normally, the body’s immune system is designed to protect it from foreign invaders. But when people with celiac disease eat foods containing gluten, their immune system forms antibodies to gluten, attacking the intestinal lining, causing inflammation in the intestine and damaging the villi (hair-like structures seen on the lining of the small intestine). If the villi are damaged, the person cannot absorb nutrients properly and ends up with malnourishment. Are you at risk of developing celiac…

What is celiac disease? Celiac or Coeliac Disease is also known as celiac sprue or gluten sensitive enteropathy. This is a digestive and inherited autoimmune disorder that causes damage to the lining of the small intestine (villi) when foods with gluten are eaten. Villi are finger like projections that protrude from the lining of small intestine. They help in digestive process by maximizing the nutrient absorption.    Image 1: Normal villi and villous atrophy in celiac disease Gluten…

It is important to manage COPD if you do not want the complications to set in. The possible complications are: Heart failure Respiratory failure Food and nutrition  Drink plenty of fluids. You should drink at least 6 to 8 -ounce glasses of non-caffeinated beverages each day to keep mucus thin and easier to cough up. Limit caffeine (contained in coffee, tea, several carbonated beverages such as cola, and chocolate) as it might interfere with some of your medicines. Control sodium (salt)…

There is no known cure for COPD, but the symptoms are treatable and its progression can be delayed.  For smokers, quitting smoking is a key priority.  Supplemental oxygen, which can be supplied to the patient through masks and cylinders. This supplemental oxygen enables normal body functions in patients with COPD.  Talk to your doctor about taking an influenza vaccination every year and a pneumococcal vaccination once every five years.  If possible, reduce your exposure to…

There are three types of COPD: 1. Emphysema: This is a common type of COPD in which the air sacs of the lungs become damaged, causing them to enlarge and burst. This makes it difficult for people to expel air from their lungs. 2. Chronic Bronchitis: This causes inflammation and irritation of the airways. When the air tubes are inflamed and irritated, thick mucus begins to form in them. Over time, this mucus plugs up the airways and makes breathing difficult. 3. Bronchiectasis: This is…

The most common symptoms of COPD are: Sputum production Shortness of breath. Patients often say, "My breathing requires effort", "I feel out of breath" or "I can't get enough air in”. Typically the shortness of breath is worse on exertion, of a prolonged duration, and worsens over time. Many people with more advanced COPD breathe through pursed lips and this action can improve shortness of breath in some. Cough with mucus (known as a productive cough). A chronic cough is usually the first…

Can COPD be prevented Most cases of COPD are potentially preventable. The best ways to prevent COPD is  to stop smoking and reduce your exposure to second-hand smoke and air pollution.  Those with COPD are recommended annual flu and influenza vaccinations to reduce exacerbations and hospitalisation.  Here's how you can improve lung function after you quit smoking:  http://www.patientsengage.com/conditions/improving-lung-function-after-you-quit-smoking