Conditions

What are the risk factors for cerebral palsy? Congenital (at birth) cerebral palsy risk factors include: Low birth weight Premature birth Multiple births (It can be twins, triplets or more) Infertility treatments undergone by parents Infections during pregnancy Jaundice Birth complications  Medical condition of mother Acquired (after birth) cerebral palsy risk factors include: Brain infections Injury   

Cerebral palsy is a neurological disorder, which impairs movement and coordination. It is caused by abnormality or damage to the part of the brain – the cerebral cortex - that controls movement. It can be congenital or acquired early in life. It is non-progressive and does not worsen over time.   Part of the brain affected in cerebral palsy When does this damage to the brain occur? Damage that causes cerebral palsy can occur: Before birth During birth Within a month after birth During…

Dyskinesia is a term that is used to describe excessive movement which is beyond one’s control.   Scientists believe that the areas in the brain which are responsible for producing movement become over – stimulated. This leads to excessive and unwanted movement. However, remember that dyskinetic movements are not tremors. Tremor is a symptom of Parkinson’s, whereas dyskinesia is more often thought to be a side effect of Levodopa.  People experience different kinds of…

What is Young Onset Parkinson’s Disease Although Parkinson’s is mainly a condition that affects the elderly, it is sometimes seen in people who are much younger as well. Young onset Parkinson’s is seen in people who are diagnosed with Parkinson’s before the age of 50 years.  Common Symptoms  Most of the symptoms for Parkinson’s are generally the same no matter at what age it is diagnosed and the rate of progression varies from individual to individual. However, young onset Parkinson’s…

Depression is devastating, insidious, it can break up relationships and ruin friendships, but with the right tools and support, it can be beaten. Caring for a man who is suffering from depression can be even harder, because depression isn't often seen - it's felt.  4 tips for a caregiver to balance your way through a mine field of defensiveness, denial, anger, and despondence.  Tip #1 Understand His Depression "There are wounds that never show on the body that are…

Prevention of Diabetes Type 1 diabetes cannot be prevented but onset of Type 2 diabetes in most cases may be prevented by watching your diet, managing your weight and changing your lifestyle. At the very least the progression of Type 2 diabetes can be managed. Regular screening for diabetes plays a very important role. Undergoing routine screenings for diabetes, especially if there is a family history of Type 1 / Type 2 diabetes or presence of risk factors can help detect the condition at an…

Managing blood sugars effectively is really important in reducing your risk of future diabetes complications. Untreated diabetes can lead to many serious complications. Complications of diabetes: Acute complications require immediate medical attention. Hypoglycemia: Occurs when blood sugar levels drop to dangerously low levels, resulting in symptoms such as weakness, dizziness, confusion, and in severe cases, seizures or loss of consciousness. Hyperglycemia: Prolonged high blood sugar levels…

There are number of treatments available to treat diabetes. Treatments are individualized based on factors such as age, overall health, and presence of other medical conditions. Image 1 - Type 1 vs Type 2 diabetes: Pancreas does not produce adequate insulin (Type 1 diabetes), or the body unable to use insulin appropriately (Type 2 diabetes) which results in impaired glucose metabolism For Type 1 diabetes, insulin injection is prescribed whereas for Type 2 diabetes, insulin or medications are…

Testing for diabetes is essential in identifying individuals with the condition or those at risk. Various tests are available to diagnose diabetes and assess blood sugar control. Here are some common tests for diabetes: Fasting Plasma Glucose (FPG): This is a blood test that is done first thing in the morning. You have to fast for eight hours before the test. You are allowed to drink water.  If your fasting blood glucose is 100 mg/dL - 125 mg/dL you are considered Prediabetic. If it…