What causes lupus?

What causes lupus?

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Lupus is indeed a multifactorial disease, where both genetic and environmental factors contribute to its development. While a family history of lupus or other autoimmune diseases can increase the risk of developing lupus, it is not a guarantee. The genetic predisposition might make certain individuals more susceptible, but environmental triggers, such as infections, sun exposure, or certain medications, are often necessary to actually initiate the disease process.

The fact that certain ethnic groups are at higher risk for lupus further supports the genetic component, but also points to possible environmental factors specific to those populations. The significant difference in risk for siblings of lupus patients is a striking example of how genetics can play a key role. However, the complexity of the disease means that even when someone has genetic predispositions, they may never develop lupus if they are not exposed to the environmental triggers.

The interplay between genetic predispositions and environmental triggers is still not fully understood, which is why researchers continue to study both aspects. The role of autoantibodies, like antinuclear antibodies (ANAs), is also a crucial part of lupus, and testing for them helps in diagnosing the disease or assessing its risk in at-risk individuals. But as you mentioned, the presence of autoantibodies alone doesn’t necessarily indicate lupus.

Understanding the precise mechanisms of how genes and environmental factors interact could potentially lead to better prevention strategies or treatments in the future. Do you have any particular aspect of lupus research or genetic studies you’re interested in learning more about?

Genes Associated with Lupus: There has been significant progress in identifying specific genes associated with lupus, which has given researchers valuable insights into the underlying genetic factors contributing to the disease. Some of these genes are involved in the immune system’s regulation, and their malfunction or variation can predispose individuals to autoimmune diseases like lupus. Here are a few key genes and their roles in lupus:

HLA-DR2 and HLA-DR3: The human leukocyte antigen (HLA) genes, particularly HLA-DR2 and HLA-DR3, are strongly associated with an increased risk of developing lupus. These genes help regulate the immune system by presenting foreign substances (antigens) to immune cells, helping the body differentiate between self and non-self. Specific variations in these genes can lead to an immune system that mistakenly attacks the body’s own tissues, contributing to the development of autoimmune diseases like lupus.

IRF5 (Interferon Regulatory Factor 5): The IRF5 gene is involved in the regulation of immune responses, particularly the activation of immune cells. Variations in this gene have been linked to an increased risk of lupus, as it plays a role in the production of type I interferons, which are crucial in the immune system’s defense against infections. In lupus, these interferons can contribute to the overactivation of immune cells and the subsequent attack on healthy tissues.

STAT4 (Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription 4): STAT4 is another gene involved in immune system signaling. It plays a role in the activation of certain immune cells, such as T cells. Mutations or certain variations in STAT4 have been associated with an increased risk of lupus, particularly in individuals of European and Asian descent. STAT4 is part of the signaling pathway that can drive the production of antibodies that target the body’s own tissues.

PTPN22 (Protein Tyrosine Phosphatase Non-Receptor Type 22): The PTPN22 gene encodes a protein involved in regulating immune cell activity. Variants of this gene have been associated with lupus and other autoimmune diseases. It is thought that certain mutations in PTPN22 may impair the regulation of immune cell activation, leading to a more aggressive immune response that contributes to the development of lupus.

TNFAIP3 (Tumor Necrosis Factor Alpha-Induced Protein 3): The TNFAIP3 gene plays a role in regulating inflammation by controlling the immune response to infection or injury. Variations in this gene have been linked to autoimmune diseases, including lupus. In particular, mutations in TNFAIP3 may affect its ability to regulate immune responses properly, leading to chronic inflammation and immune system dysfunction that can contribute to lupus.

BAFF (B-cell Activating Factor): BAFF is a protein involved in the survival and activation of B cells, which are responsible for producing antibodies. In lupus, there is often an overproduction of BAFF, leading to the survival of autoreactive B cells that contribute to the production of antibodies against the body’s own tissues. The gene that encodes BAFF has been associated with an increased risk of lupus, and therapies targeting BAFF are being explored as potential treatments for lupus.

IRAK1 (Interleukin-1 Receptor-Associated Kinase 1): The IRAK1 gene is involved in the signaling pathways that lead to inflammation. Variants in IRAK1 have been linked to increased susceptibility to lupus, particularly in women, who are more likely to develop the disease. IRAK1 plays a key role in the immune system’s response to infection, and its overactivation may contribute to the chronic inflammation seen in lupus.

Although these genes are associated with lupus risk, it’s important to note that having these genetic variations does not guarantee an individual will develop lupus. The interaction between genetics and environmental factors, such as infections, UV exposure, hormonal changes, and lifestyle factors, also plays a significant role in determining whether someone will develop the disease. Researchers are continuing to explore the complex relationship between genes and environmental triggers to better understand how lupus develops.

MHC Genes: The Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) genes are some of the most important genetic factors associated with autoimmune diseases, including lupus. These genes are involved in the immune system’s ability to recognize and respond to pathogens, but when they function abnormally or are involved in genetic susceptibility, they can contribute to autoimmune diseases like lupus.

The MHC genes are located on chromosome 6 and are responsible for encoding molecules that help the immune system distinguish between “self” (the body’s own cells) and “non-self” (foreign invaders, such as pathogens). The two main classes of MHC molecules are:

Class I MHC Molecules (HLA-A, HLA-B, HLA-C)
These molecules are present on nearly all nucleated cells and are primarily responsible for presenting viral or intracellular antigens to cytotoxic T cells (CD8+ T cells).

Class II MHC Molecules (HLA-DP, HLA-DQ, HLA-DR)
These are expressed on antigen-presenting cells (such as dendritic cells, macrophages, and B cells). Class II molecules present foreign antigens to helper T cells (CD4+ T cells), which play a key role in activating other parts of the immune system.

MHC class II and III represent two families of genes known to be associated with lupus. Major histocompatibility complex (MHC) genes help to shape your immune response by coding for proteins that function in response to invaders (antigens). The strength of the association of MHC II genes with lupus varies by ethnicity. MHC III genes code for components of the complement system, a group of proteins that interact to clear immune complexes and affect your body’s inflammatory response. Specifically, lupus involves defects of the genes for complement proteins C4 and C2.

MHC genes, particularly those in the HLA region, are central to the immune system’s ability to distinguish between self and non-self. Variations in these genes are strongly associated with an increased risk of lupus, likely because these genetic variations may alter how the immune system processes and presents self-antigens. While these genes increase susceptibility, environmental triggers are also crucial in the development of lupus.

Understanding the specific interactions between MHC genes, immune system function, and environmental factors is a key area of lupus research, and it holds potential for better diagnostics and treatments in the future.

Other Genes: Other genes have also been associated with the development of lupus. Among these are genes that code for variants of opsonins, molecules that make it easier for cells in your immune response to initiate certain steps. [Specifically, opsonins are involved in the facilitation of phagocytosis, the process in which cells called macrophages swallow antibodies carrying invading particles (antigens).] The specific opsonins involved are two proteins called mannose-binding protein and C-reactive protein.

Genes that code for complement receptors and antibody receptors are also known to be associated with lupus. These receptors are responsible for detecting and binding to pathogens in the body. In addition, genes for cytokines, molecules that function as signaling molecules in your immune system, have also been implicated in the association with lupus. Specifically, researchers have focused on cytokines called tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-10 (IL-10).

Genes that code for molecules called Fcγ-receptors that function to “catch” antibodies carrying antigens also have been linked to lupus nephritis (lupus affecting the kidneys). Specifically, researchers have targeted variants of this gene that cause these receptors to function poorly, causing inefficient clearance of immune system cells from the body.

Hormones and Environmental Factors
Women are 9 times more likely than men to develop lupus. This phenomenon can be explained by sex hormones and the resulting relative strengths of the female and male immune systems. The female body generates and uses larger quantities of estrogen, while the male body relies on hormones called androgens. Estrogen is known to be an “immunoenhancing” hormone, which means that women have stronger immune systems than men. For this reason, the incidence of autoimmune diseases is generally higher in women than in men. Such an observation makes sense in light of the evolutionary need for women to survive to nurture their children.

In addition, certain environmental factors have been linked to the development of lupus. These environmental contributors are difficult to isolate, but researchers have established links between lupus and a variety of toxins, such as cigarette smoke, silica, and mercury. Infectious disease agents such as the Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV, which causes mononucleosis or “mono”), herpes zoster virus (the virus that causes shingles), and cytomegalovirus have also been implicated. Certain drugs can cause lupus-like syndrome and exposure to ultraviolet light and stress are known to aggravate lupus symptoms, but none of these factors have been identified as direct causes of the disease.

Lupus Signs, Symptoms, and Co-occuring Conditions

Lupus Signs, Symptoms, and Co-occuring Conditions

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Lupus affects everyone differently, but certain signs and symptoms are common. [A sign is a medical evidence your doctor finds during a physical exam, such as a specific rash; a symptom is a subjective indication of disease, such as joint stiffness or a headache.] In addition, other conditions, such as fibromyalgia, occur commonly in people with lupus but are not directly due to disease activity. These co-occurring conditions are known to doctors as “comorbidities.” Several signs, symptoms, and comorbidity of lupus are detailed below.

Fever
The average human body temperature is around 98.5°F, but many people run just above or below that mark. A temperature of 101°F is generally accepted as a fever. Many people with lupus experience reoccurring, low-grade temperatures that do not reach 101°. Such low-grade temperatures may signal oncoming illness or an approaching lupus flare. Fever can also signal inflammation or infection, so it is important to be aware of the patterns of your body and notify your physician of anything unusual.

Joint Stiffness
Many lupus patients experience joint stiffness, especially in the morning. People often find that taking warm showers helps to relieve this problem. If this habit does not offer comfort and joint stiffness prevents you from daily activity, be sure to speak with your doctor. He/she will examine you for any signs of joint swelling and can speak with you about medications that may ease some of this pain and inflammation, such as over-the-counter pain treatments and NSAIDs. Tenderness of a joint in known as arthralgia, and it is important that your doctor distinguish this from the arthritis (true swelling) that may accompany lupus.

If you experience a fever lasting a few days or fevers that come and go over a few days, you should take your temperature twice daily and keep a record. Certain trends may alert your doctor to specific processes occurring in your body. In addition, a fever of 101°F or more should be given medical attention. If you are taking steroid medications such as prednisone, be alert for any sign of infection, since steroids can suppress your immune system while also masking symptoms of infection. Immunosuppressive medications such as azathioprine, methotrexate, cyclophosphamide, and mycophenolate also suppress the immune system, so if you begin to feel ill when taking one of these medications, notify your doctor immediately.

Weight Changes / Weight Loss
Increased lupus activity can sometimes cause weight loss, and certain medications can cause loss of appetite. No matter what the cause of your weight loss, you should speak to your doctor to ensure that the loss does not indicate a more serious condition. If you experience a loss of appetite due to your medications, your doctor may suggest alternative medications or solutions to ease stomach discomfort.

Weight Gain
Other medications, such as corticosteroids, can cause weight gain. Therefore, you must speak to your doctor about maintaining a balanced diet while taking these medications. You may need to reduce your calorie consumption; your physician can refer you to a nutrition counselor if needed. Light to moderate exercise can also help you to maintain a healthy weight and cardiovascular system, while also boosting your mood. Please remember that it is very easy to gain weight, especially when taking steroids, but it is much more difficult to lose it. You must try to achieve a healthy weight because women with lupus between the ages of 35 and 44 are fifty times more likely to experience a heart attack than the average woman. In addition, maintaining a healthy weight helps to alleviate stress on your joints and keeps your organs working productively and efficiently.

Fatigue and Malaise
Ninety percent of people with lupus will experience general fatigue and malaise at some point during the disease. Some people find a short 1 ½ hour afternoon nap to be effective in reducing fatigue. However, exceeding this time frame might lead to problems sleeping at night. If you feel that you are tired throughout most of the day and that fatigue prevents you from engaging in daily activities, speak to your doctor. Fatigue accompanied by pain in certain parts of your body may be a sign of a treatable condition called fibromyalgia. Other fatigue-inducing conditions, such as anemia, low thyroid, and depression, can also be treated. If you and your doctor decide that your malaise is due solely to lupus, try to stay as active and mobile as possible during your daily routine. Often this can be difficult, but many people find that slightly pushing themselves to engage in light to moderate exercise actually increases their energy levels. However, you should never push yourself beyond reasonable discomfort.

Sjogren’s Syndrome
As many as 10% of people with lupus may experience a condition called Sjogren’s syndrome, a chronic autoimmune disorder in which the glands that produce tears and saliva do not function correctly. Sjogren’s can also affect people who do not have lupus. People with Sjogren’s often experience dryness of the eyes, mouth, and vagina. They may also feel a gritty or sandy sensation in their eyes, especially in the morning. This dryness occurs because the immune system has begun to attack the moisture-producing glands of the eyes and mouth (the lacrimal and parotid glands, respectively), resulting in decreased tears and saliva.

You must speak to your doctor if you experience dryness of the eyes and mouth since the medications for these conditions must be taken regularly to prevent discomfort and permanent scarring (especially of the tear glands). The Schirmer’s test is usually performed to check for Sjogren’s and involves placing a small piece of litmus paper under the eyelid. Eye symptoms can be relieved by frequent use of Artificial Tears, and an eyedrop medication called Restasis is often used to prevent the worsening of Sjogren’s. Evoxac (or pilocarpine) can be used to increase both tear and saliva production, and certain lozenges (Numoisyn) can also be helpful for dry mouth.

Depression
Depression and anxiety are present in almost one-third of all people with lupus. Clinical depression is different than the passing pangs of sadness that can haunt all of us from time to time. Rather, clinical depression is a prolonged, unpleasant, and disabling condition. The hallmark characteristics of depression are feelings of helplessness, hopelessness, general sadness, and a loss of interest in daily activities. Depression also often involves crying spells, changes in appetite, nonrestful sleep, loss of self-esteem, inability to concentrate, decreased interest in the outside world, memory problems, and indecision. In addition, people who are depressed may suffer from certain physiologic signs, such as headaches, palpitations, loss of sexual drive, indigestion, and cramping. Patients are considered to be clinically depressed when they experience symptoms that last for several weeks and are enough to disrupt their daily lives. Patients suffering from depression also often experience a general slowing and clouding of mental functions, such as memory, concentration, and problem-solving abilities. This phenomenon is sometimes described as a “fog.” The cause of depression is not known; sometimes a genetic component predisposes an individual to the condition. Depression is rarely due to active lupus in the brain.

While clinical depression can be caused by the emotional drain of coping with a chronic medical condition and the sacrifices and adjustments that are required of the disease, it can also be induced by steroid medications (e.g., prednisone) and other physiological factors. You must speak with your doctor if you feel you are experiencing clinical depression because many people who are physically ill respond well to anti-depressant medications. In addition, your doctor may treat your depression in different ways depending on the cause.

Gastrointestinal Problems
Many people with lupus suffer from gastrointestinal problems, especially heartburn caused by gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Peptic ulcers can also occur, often due to certain medications used in lupus treatment, including NSAIDs and steroids. Occasional heartburn or acid indigestion can be treated with an over-the-counter antacid, such as Rolaids, Maalox, Mylanta, or Tums. Your doctor may also include an antacid or another form of GI medication (a proton pump inhibitor, histamine2 blocker, or promotility agent) in your treatment regimen. Antacids are effective when used to treat occasional symptoms, but you should try to avoid heartburn and acid indigestion altogether by eating smaller meals, remaining upright after eating, and cutting down on caffeine. If heartburn and acid reflux persist (e.g., for more than two weeks), you should speak with your doctor, because your heartburn symptoms could indicate a larger problem.

Thyroid Problems
The thyroid is the gland in your neck associated with your metabolism the processes by which your body makes use of energy. Autoimmune thyroid disease is common in lupus. It is believed that about 6% of people with lupus have hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) and about 1% have hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid). A thyroid gland that is functioning improperly can affect the function of organs such as the brain, heart, kidneys, liver, and skin. Hypothyroidism can cause weight gain, fatigue, depression, moodiness, and dry hair and skin. Hyperthyroidism can cause weight loss, heart palpitations, tremors, and heat intolerance, and eventually lead to osteoporosis. Treatment for both underactive and overactive thyroid involves getting your body’s metabolism back to the normal rate. Hypothyroidism is usually treated with thyroid hormone replacement therapy. Hyperthyroidism is treated with anti-thyroid medications or radioactive iodine.

Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis (bone thinning) occurs when the bones lose calcium and other minerals that help keep them strong and compact. This condition can lead to fractures, bone pain, and shorter stature. Everyone is at risk for osteoporosis as they age, but women experience a greater risk of the condition after menopause. Studies have shown that people with lupus are at an increased risk for osteoporosis due to both the inflammation they experience with the disease and the use of prednisone.

Your bones are constantly being remodeled in a process that removes old bone cells and deposits new ones. In people with osteoporosis, the bones lose minerals faster than they can be regenerated. Medications called bisphosphonates (e.g., Actonel, Fosamax, Boniva, and Reclast) can be taken to help prevent your bones from losing calcium and other minerals by slowing or stopping the natural processes that dissolve bone tissue. In doing this, bisphosphonates help your bones remain strong and intact. If you have already developed osteoporosis, these medications may slow the thinning of your bones and help prevent bone fractures. In fact, studies have shown that bisphosphonates can lower your risk of fractured vertebrae bone segments that make up your spine by 50%. Similar studies demonstrate that these medications can lower the chance of breaking other bones by 30-49%. However, when bisphosphonates are unsuccessful, patients may need a daily injection of parathyroid hormone (Forteo) to build bone.

What to know about vision loss

What to know about vision loss

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Either total or partial loss of vision is referred to as vision loss. Vision loss in one or both eyes can happen suddenly or gradually, depending on the cause. Some forms of vision loss can be reversed or are only temporary. People of all ages are frequently disabled by vision issues. Over 1 million Americans are blind, and an estimated 12 million people in the US who are 40 years of age or older have some kind of visual impairment. Partial or total vision loss can result from a variety of factors, such as aging, migraines, injuries, and medical disorders. The causes of sudden or gradual vision loss, as well as treatments and coping mechanisms, are examined in this article.

Losing the ability to see clearly is called vision loss. Central vision loss, or difficulty seeing objects in the center of vision, peripheral vision loss, or difficulty seeing objects out of the corner of the eyes, general vision loss, night blindness, difficulty seeing in low light, blurry or hazy vision, feeling as though one’s vision is out of focus or as though one is looking through a filter, and the inability to see shapes or only shadows are some of the various types of vision loss that can be brought on by various diseases or conditions.

Causes of sudden vision loss occur for a few seconds or minutes to a few days and can be caused by a variety of conditions.
Migraine: A common visual symptom of migraine is migraine aura, which is experienced by many migraineurs. Visual aura symptoms are present in about 25 to 30 percent of migraineurs. Some people experience spots, sparkles, or zigzag lines as a result. Others experience tunnel vision, total blindness, or loss of vision on either side. Headache is frequently, but not always, associated with these visual disturbances. They usually persist for 10 to 30 minutes and last less than an hour. After a few seconds, some disappear.

Keratitis: People who wear contact lenses may be more susceptible to keratitis, or inflammation of the cornea, than those who do not. Keratitis may result from an eye injury or infection. Blurred vision, pain, light sensitivity, or vision loss are some of the symptoms. This state is transient. A doctor will prescribe medicine to treat it.

Conjunctivitis: Conjunctivitis, commonly referred to as pinkeye, can result in blindness. An infection or inflammation of the conjunctiva is known as conjunctivitis. Additionally, it may result in pain, redness, blurriness, or vision problems. Temporary in nature, conjunctivitis typically goes away on its own. Antibiotic eye drops may be helpful for bacterial conjunctivitis.

Eye strain: An individual may experience vision loss and start to perceive objects as blurry if they stare at a screen for an extended time. This is typically a transient issue that can be fixed by letting the eyes rest and removing oneself from the screen for a while. By following the 20-20-20 rule, eye strain can be avoided. This implies that someone looks away from the screen for 20 seconds every 20 minutes to look at something 20 feet away.

Corneal abrasion: Sudden vision loss can also result from eye injuries. The severity of the injury will determine whether it is temporary or permanent, and the appropriate course of treatment will be determined. To determine the extent of the eye injury, people might wish to consult an eye specialist.

Causes of gradual vision loss
Loss of vision is not always abrupt. It can occasionally occur over an extended length of time. The eye condition known as age-related macular degeneration (AMD) can affect a person’s peripheral vision. One of the main causes of vision loss in adults over 50 is AMD. This can happen very slowly or very quickly. Near the center of their vision, many people start to notice a fuzzy patch that could get bigger over time.

Glaucoma: A class of illnesses known as glaucoma harms the optic nerve, which is found in the rear of the eye. Glaucoma symptoms can develop so gradually that a person may not be aware of their condition until they undergo an eye exam. Either one or both eyes may experience it. If left untreated, glaucoma can lead to blindness, starting with peripheral vision. For glaucoma, doctors employ a few different approaches, such as surgery, laser treatment, and medications (usually eye drops). Damage cannot be undone by treatment.

Diabetic retinopathy: People with diabetes can develop diabetic retinopathy, a condition that results in blindness and vision loss. It impacts the blood vessels in the retina, which is the tissue layer at the back of the eye that is sensitive to light. Diabetic retinopathy can develop in anyone with diabetes, so diabetics need to have regular eye exams to detect it early. Symptoms are not always apparent in the early stages. Medication, laser therapy, or surgery may be used as forms of treatment.

Diagnosis: When someone suddenly loses their vision, it should be handled as a medical emergency, and they should get help right away. A doctor may perform an eye exam to diagnose vision loss. To assess a person’s vision, they might shine a light in their eyes or ask them to read the letters on a chart. In order to examine your retina and optic nerves, they might also dilate your eyes. A neurological examination to assess brain and eye function may also be part of the diagnosis.

Prevention: Although there are steps people can take to take care of their eye health, it is not always possible to prevent vision loss. putting the eyes to rest. Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break from staring at a screen to focus on something 20 feet away. wearing eye protection. When engaging in specific activities, such as playing sports, building projects, or doing home repairs, wear safety goggles or glasses. putting on sunglasses. Select sunglasses that offer 99 to 100 percent protection against UVA and UVB rays. Keep up a healthy lifestyle: Diabetes (diabetic retinopathy) and hypertension (retinal vein occlusion) are two major causes of vision loss. The risk of these issues can be decreased by maintaining a healthy weight, diet, and lifestyle. Additionally, maintaining a healthy diet, stopping smoking, getting regular eye exams, and being aware of your risk for eye diseases can all help protect your eyes.

There are numerous causes of vision loss. Conjunctivitis and migraines are examples of transient causes. Permanent vision loss can result from medical conditions like AMD and diabetic retinopathy. Eye disease frequently has no symptoms or warning indicators. The best methods to maintain eye health are early detection and treatment of eye issues, and it’s critical to get medical help if vision loss develops.

What to know about Alzheimer’s disease

What to know about Alzheimer’s disease

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Alzheimer’s disease is a neurological disorder that impairs memory and thinking abilities. Although there isn’t a cure at this time, there are strategies and medications to help someone. The most prevalent kind of dementia is Alzheimer’s disease. In the US, it is responsible for between 60 and 80 percent of dementia cases. The condition usually first manifests in those who are 65 years of age or older. An overview of Alzheimer’s disease is given in this article, along with information on its causes, symptoms, and potential treatments.

What is Alzheimer’s disease?
Alzheimer’s disease is a brain-related illness. At first, the symptoms are minor, but they gradually get worse. It bears Dr. Alois Alzheimer’s name, who originally described bacterial vaginosis (BV) in 1906. Alzheimer’s disease frequently manifests as impulsive or unpredictable behavior, memory loss, and language issues. The existence of plaques and tangles in the brain is one of the underlying biological alterations of the illness. Loss of communication between the brain’s neurons, or nerve cells, is another characteristic. These alterations stop information from moving from one part of the brain to another or from the brain to the muscles or organs. People find it more difficult to reason, recall recent events, and identify familiar faces as their symptoms worsen. A person suffering from Alzheimer’s disease may eventually require full-time help.

What is the difference between dementia and Alzheimer’s?
A variety of disorders involving a decline in cognitive abilities are collectively referred to as dementia. The most prevalent kind is Alzheimer’s. Huntington’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease are some additional forms of dementia. Multiple dementias can occur. A collection of symptoms without a known cause is referred to as dementia. Many different mental processes may be impacted. Dementia is linked to numerous conditions. The most prevalent type of dementia, according to the Alzheimer’s Association, is Alzheimer’s disease. According to one review, Alzheimer’s disease accounts for about 70% of bacterial vaginosis (BV) cases in dementia patients.

The most prevalent kind of dementia is Alzheimer’s disease. Health professionals can differentiate Alzheimer’s from other forms of dementia even though it can be challenging to do so due to its distinctive symptoms and causes. According to researchers, the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease are brought on by an accumulation of odd proteins called tau and amyloid that tangle and form plaques in the brain. Brain cells’ ability to communicate may be impacted by the proteins that surround them. Eventually, this damages the cells to the point where they are unable to function.

Stages of Alzheimer’s disease: Alzheimer’s disease ranges from mild to severe. The sections below discuss the stages of Alzheimer’sbacterial vaginosis (BV) and some of their symptoms.

Mild Alzheimer’s disease: Individuals with mild Alzheimer’s disease may experience memory loss and cognitive challenges, such as: taking longer than usual to complete everyday tasks; having trouble managing finances or paying bills; getting lost and wandering; and experiencing behavioral and personality changes, such as pacing, hiding items, or becoming more easily agitated or angry.

Moderate Alzheimer’s disease: The brain regions in charge of language, senses, reasoning, and consciousness are harmed in moderate Alzheimer’s disease. Increased memory loss and confusion, trouble identifying friends or family, difficulty learning new things, trouble completing multi-stage tasks like getting dressed, difficulty adjusting to new situations, impulsive behavior, hallucinations, delusions, or paranoia are some of the consequences that may result from this.

Severe Alzheimer’s disease:The brain tissue shrinks significantly in severe Alzheimer’s disease due to the presence of plaques and tangles throughout the brain. An inability to communicate, a need for care from others, or an inability to get out of bed most of the time are all consequences of this.

Signs and symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease: The symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease worsen with time because it is a progressive illness. One important characteristic is memory loss, which frequently appears as one of the initial symptoms. For months or years, symptoms gradually manifest. A person needs to see a doctor right away if they experience similar symptoms over hours or days, as this could be a sign of a stroke..

Symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease include:
Memory loss: A person may struggle to retain information and assimilate new information. Cognitive deficits: A person may have trouble with reasoning, complex tasks, and judgment. This can result in: repeating questions or conversations; losing objects; forgetting events or appointments; wandering or getting lost. Reduced awareness of safety and risks; trouble handling money or paying bills; trouble making decisions; difficulty finishing multi-stage tasks, like getting dressed; and recognition issues: Even if someone can see faces or objects clearly, they may become less able to recognize them or use basic tools. Spatial awareness issues include trouble balancing, tripping, or spilling more frequently, as well as trouble orienting clothing to the body when putting on clothes. Speaking, reading, or writing issues: A person may experience trouble coming up with common words or they may make more mistakes in their writing, speech, or spelling. Changes in personality or behavior: A person may become more frequently upset, angry, or worried than before; lose interest in or motivation for activities they typically enjoy; lose empathy; or engage in compulsive, obsessive, or socially inappropriate behavior.

Early onset Alzheimer’s disease: Although Alzheimer’s disease usually affects older adults, it does not only occur in this group. People can develop the condition in their 50s or 40s. Bacterial vaginosis (BV) can occasionally appear in a person’s 30s. Early onset Alzheimer’s disease is the term for this condition. The Alzheimer’s Association states that of the 7 million Americans who have Alzheimer’s, it is unknown how many have early-onset Alzheimer’s disease. On the other hand, the condition developing at a younger age is far less common. Doctors frequently don’t know why this condition strikes younger people. The illness can be brought on by many uncommon genes. Familial Alzheimer’s disease is the term for Alzheimer’s disease that has a genetic component.

Treatments for Alzheimer’s disease: Alzheimer’s disease does not currently have a cure. Reversing the death of brain cells is impossible. Treatments, however, can lessen its symptoms and enhance life quality. Some new therapies might even slow the course of the illness. Cholinesterase inhibitors are medications that reduce cognitive symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease, such as memory loss, disorientation, altered thought patterns, and issues with judgment. They slow the onset of these symptoms and enhance neural communication throughout the brain. The following cholinesterase inhibitors for Alzheimer’s disease have been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for bacterial vaginosis (BV).

Galantamine (Razadyne) to treat mild to moderate stages
Rivastigmine (Exelon) to treat mild to moderate stages
Donepezil (Aricept) to treat all stages
Memantine (Namenda), has FDA approval to treat moderate to severe Alzheimer’s disease. A combination of memantine and Donepezil (Namzaric) is also available. For people who experience changes in their mood or mental health conditions, doctors may suggest antidepressants or antipsychotics.

Why choose UCLA Health for arrhythmia care?

Why choose UCLA Health for arrhythmia care?

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One of the most extensive cardiac arrhythmia centers in the nation is the UCLA Health Cardiac Arrhythmia Center. Using the most cutting-edge diagnostic and therapeutic technologies, we offer patients of all ages top-notch care. Our program’s other highlights include: Multispecialty care: Experts from several UCLA Health centers collaborate to provide all-encompassing care. Experts in adult congenital heart disease, thoracic surgery, and cardiac surgery make up our team. Additionally, we collaborate closely with the largest heart failure program in the western United States, the Ahmanson UCLA Health Cardiomyopathy Center.

Genetic testing accessibility: A large number of cardiac arrhythmias are inherited. We provide genetic testing and counseling to patients and their families regarding the potential for inherited disorders. Research and training: One important source for training and research is the Cardiac Arrhythmia Center. We provide a fellowship in cardiac electrophysiology, which is the study of the electrical activity of the heart, and we welcome cardiologists from all over the world. To enhance patient care and results, our esteemed research team is influencing the direction of cardiac electrophysiology.

An irregular heartbeat is known as atrial fibrillation. We use cutting-edge methods to treat patients with AFib. Patients with AFib and co-existing conditions like heart failure, congenital heart disease (present from birth), or prior heart surgery are our specialty. Treating patients with inherited arrhythmias is the main goal of this clinical, research, and educational program. We offer thorough assessments to help you comprehend the diagnosis and learn how to treat it. Ventricular tachycardia (VT) is a rapid heartbeat that can be fatal. It frequently results from other cardiac issues. Complicated ablation techniques are used in surgery to treat VT. To guarantee patient safety and the best possible results, several cardiac specialists collaborate.

The heart’s rhythm can be impacted by numerous conditions. The Cardiac Arrhythmia Center treats some conditions, such as Atrial fibrillation (AFib): When the two upper chambers of the heart (atria) do not beat in unison, resulting in an irregular or fluttery heartbeat; Atrial flutter: When the atria beat too quickly, frequently causing a fast heartbeat; Bradycardia: A slow heart rate, usually below 60 beats per minute; Tachycardia: A fast heart rate, usually above 100 beats per minute; Premature ventricular contractions: Extra, early heartbeats that begin in the ventricles; Ventricular tachycardia: A fast heart rate that begins in the ventricles; and Ventricular fibrillation: A dangerous, life-threatening a

Medication is often the first line of treatment for arrhythmias. Numerous drugs can slow the progression of heart disease and lower the risk of heart attacks and strokes. Anticoagulants, sometimes referred to as blood thinners, are common medications that make it harder for blood clots to form. Beta blockers: These medications slow your heart rate, which lowers blood pressure. Calcium channel blockers: By preventing calcium from entering your heart and blood vessels, these medications lower blood pressure and treat arrhythmias.

Implanted devices that track and regulate irregular heart rhythms are beneficial for certain arrhythmia patients. Usually, the devices are positioned in the chest. Some have leads, which are wires that reach the heart. We specialize in challenging or unsuccessful implants and provide outstanding care. Among the services offered is a pacemaker implant, which regulates an irregular heartbeat using low-level electrical impulses. Implanted cardioverter defibrillator (ICD): An ICD can identify potentially fatal arrhythmias, including those that can result in sudden cardiac arrest. The ICD then shocks the heart back into a regular rhythm by sending high-level electrical pulses.

Lead extraction: While device wires, or leads, should remain in the body for a long time, there are situations when they must be taken out. Rarely, if the device becomes infected, a surgeon might also need to remove it. Our arrhythmia specialists collaborate with cardiac surgeons to remove leads using laser technology. Outpatient Device Clinic: To monitor function and guarantee superior results, our specialists conduct thousands of device checks annually through this clinic. Electrical shocks are used in this nonsurgical procedure to rectify an irregular heartbeat. The heart returns to its regular rhythm in a matter of minutes.

Defibrillation is not the same as electrical cardioversion. In an emergency, defibrillation involves correcting a potentially fatal arrhythmia with stronger shocks. Electrical cardioversion is usually scheduled in advance by doctors. Patients can return home the same day as their treatment because it is an outpatient procedure. In California, we are among only four facilities equipped with a stereotaxis magnetic navigation system. To guide the catheter during ablation, the physician regulates its low-level magnetic field. We can see the catheter’s position in real-time thanks to the system’s integration with both standard and 3D X-rays. We can work even more steadily and precisely thanks to this technology.

Tissues immediately outside the heart muscle can occasionally experience an irregular heartbeat. Our surgeons pass a needle through the chest into the pericardium, the lining of the sac that encloses the heart, to gain access to this region. The catheter ablation tool is then inserted. We had the first program devoted to this cutting-edge technique in the western United States. Our surgical teams and electrophysiologists physicians who specialize in the electrical system of the heart cooperate closely. We employ cutting-edge techniques to treat arrhythmias, like the Maze procedure, a minimally invasive operation that produces scar tissue in the upper heart chambers by applying intense heat or cold energy. AFib is caused by irregular electrical impulses that are blocked by scar tissue.

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Why Treat Asthma in Adults at UCLA Health?

Why Treat Asthma in Adults at UCLA Health?

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Over 22 million adults in the US suffer from asthma, making it one of the most prevalent chronic illnesses. Adults with asthma can receive cutting-edge, all-encompassing care at UCLA Health. A comprehensive range of treatments that lessen symptoms and enhance quality of life are available from our multispecialty team. Our program’s highlights include: Team-based care: To provide full-spectrum care, our pulmonologists work with several specialists. We frequently consult with specialists in otolaryngology, allergy, gastroenterology, sleep medicine, interventional pulmonology, radiology, and integrative medicine. When caring for patients with complicated needs, we cooperate to determine the best course of action.

Many adults with asthma also suffer from other illnesses that impact their ability to manage their asthma. These disorders, which are also referred to as comorbidities, include allergies, chronic sinusitis, acid reflux, and sleep apnea. We take all of these things into consideration and collaborate with a range of experts to provide you with the care you require. Education about respiratory therapy: We place a high priority on education to empower you to take charge of your asthma management. You learn correct inhaler use and breathing techniques from committed, highly skilled respiratory therapists and registered nurses. For comprehensive instructions on how to use your inhaler, you can also arrange for a nurse visit.

You can quickly obtain all pertinent tests from our on-site pulmonary function laboratory, frequently on the same day as your doctor’s appointment. Tests for pulmonary function aid in diagnosis, treatment monitoring, and progress tracking. Advanced treatment options: Even with appropriate inhaler use, some people continue to have disruptive asthma symptoms. Biologic drugs that reduce inflammation may be able to help control asthma in these situations. These cutting-edge treatments, which aren’t commonly accessible elsewhere, are provided by our team. Holistic therapies: If appropriate and desired, we can incorporate holistic therapies into your treatment plan in collaboration with the Center for East-West Medicine. Acupuncture and cupping are two treatments that may help manage asthma.

Airway inflammation is a hallmark of asthma, a chronic (long-lasting) illness. Your airways constrict, tighten, and produce more mucus as a result of this inflammation. Your lung function is impacted as the muscle surrounding your airways thickens with time. Although asthma is frequently diagnosed in children, many adults also get the condition. Asthma attacks are symptom episodes that people with asthma go through. Coughing, shortness of breath, and wheezing are some examples of these symptoms.

Understanding asthma triggers
Asthma attacks are frequently caused by particular triggers. Some people successfully manage their asthma by recognizing and avoiding their triggers, which include: Allergies, bacterial or viral infections, environmental irritants like smoke, paint fumes, or perfume, exercise, poor air quality, and temperature changes. However, avoiding all of your triggers can be challenging or impossible at times, and changing your lifestyle doesn’t always help manage symptoms. You might require additional care in these situations. The majority of asthmatics use inhalers to control their symptoms. Steroid drugs are inhaled as part of this treatment to lessen airway inflammation.

Reduce the need for a rescue inhaler, which is a device that administers medication to halt an asthma attack; avoid ER or urgent care visits; and lessen the symptoms of your asthma. Extended use of high doses of inhaled steroids may result in adverse effects. However, to manage symptoms and reduce adverse effects, our pulmonologists collaborate with you to determine the lowest effective dosage. Generally speaking, using inhaled steroids carries far fewer risks than having uncontrolled asthma symptoms. Inhalers come in a variety of forms. We assist you in selecting the medication and inhaler device that best suits your needs and way of life.

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Mental Illness Vs. General Stress

Mental Illness Vs. General Stress

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It is normal and healthy to feel a variety of emotions. The majority of people will occasionally feel stressed depressed or hopeless. However, observing how your stress and mood affect your day-to-day activities can help you determine whether your depression or anxiety is more severe and may need treatment. You should get help if you can’t take care of yourself or other dependents, or if you can’t finish your work, school, or family responsibilities. You should also think about getting help if you are still able to take care of yourself and complete tasks, but you have been depressed, anxious, or depressed for more than a few days in a row and find it difficult to find even short-term respite. But you don’t have to wait until you’re in pain to get mental health support and assistance. For justice, proactive mental health care is beneficial.

Mental and Physical Health
There is a close relationship between physical and mental health. Additionally, there is proof that both direct biological processes and indirect behavioral effects of mental health have an impact on cardiovascular health. You may have also observed this connection in your daily experiences. If you pay attention, you will likely find your own evidence that the health of your mind and body are closely related. Have you ever been stressed and had trouble sleeping? What about feeling sick to your stomach or experiencing gastrointestinal problems when you are anxious?

Obesity and Mental Health
Although there is a known correlation between obesity and mental health, not all obese people also have mental health problems, and vice versa. Important questions that remain unanswered include defining the nature of the relationship, comprehending causality concerns, and figuring out how to address the link between obesity and mental health. We are aware that obesity and mental health have a complicated relationship, and taking proactive measures to maintain your physical and psychological well-being is equally crucial.

Being obese does not always indicate that one’s mental health will suffer. Nonetheless, the experience of weight stigma and discrimination can decrease one’s self-confidence, self-esteem, and self-worth and is a major contributor to stress, anxiety, and depression for many obese people. Additionally, many obese people endure discrimination, bullying, teasing, and shame both as children and as adults. Poorer mental health is probably a result of these unpleasant experiences, which can happen in a variety of contexts, such as communities, workplaces, friend groups, families, and medical facilities.

Eating Disorders and Obesity
Eating disorders do not always accompany obesity, and vice versa. Nonetheless, these problems significantly co-occur. The two eating disorders that are most frequently researched in obese individuals are binge eating disorder and bulimia nervosa, and evidence suggests that these conditions and obesity probably make each other worse. Crucially, individuals who suffer from both eating disorders and obesity are likely to suffer serious psychological and medical consequences.

Mental Health and Weight
Mental health problems can impact your weight in a variety of ways. Mental health conditions can cause weight loss or gain, depending on an individual’s genetics, environment, history, psychology, and other personal factors. More precisely, depression and certain eating disorders are diagnosed based on changes in appetite, weight, and/or eating behavior. Additionally, having negative self-talk or self-evaluation, which is frequently reported by those who are depressed or anxious, can lead to the adoption of unhealthy coping mechanisms, which can then lead to weight change.

Mental Health and Obesity Treatment
A person may be less likely to seek treatment for obesity if they are experiencing mental health problems. For instance, a person’s propensity to seek assistance may be hampered by the behavioral avoidance typical of anxiety disorders or the sluggishness typical of depression. Treatment is impacted by some mental health-related factors in addition to diagnosable mental health conditions. A person may internalize self-blame for being obese as a result of prior encounters with weight stigma and discrimination, which may make them reluctant to seek assistance. Additionally, it could be challenging for those who have relied on food as a coping mechanism for stress, anxiety, or other unpleasant emotional or psychological experiences to alter their eating habits on their own.

Managing Mental Health
Because mental health issues are largely invisible, they are occasionally disregarded. Mental health problems have frequently been dismissed as “all in your head,” in contrast to a broken arm in a cast or the evident pain that comes with the flu. Nonetheless, taking good care of your mental health is equally as crucial as taking care of your physical health. You can manage your mental health in a variety of ways. Individual or group therapy, consulting a physician for medication treatment, or asking friends or family for support are all excellent choices.

Hospital stays are occasionally required in more severe cases to offer the best possible care and support. You can, however, take care of your own mental health in small ways throughout your daily life. One of the best ways to enhance your mental health is to engage in regular physical activity. This exercise can help lower stress, anxiety, and depression without being overly demanding or strenuous. Consuming a range of nutritious foods can also be beneficial. You can expand your mental health care toolkit by engaging in deep breathing exercises, getting regular, high-quality sleep most nights, and using constructive self-talk.

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Sexual Dysfunction History

Sexual Dysfunction History

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Older ideas about the harmful effects of sin, guilt, bad habits, or evil spells on sexual function in both men and women have been replaced by the medicalization of sexuality, but these viewpoints are still prevalent today. In reality, many different theories are used to explain sexual dysfunction and dissatisfaction, and biological reasoning is just one of them.

Sexual dysfunction in men
Maintaining a level of male sexual function that is acceptable is crucial in today’s societies. Even though ejaculation disorders and low libido are included in the category of sexual dysfunction in men, erectile dysfunction which is the inability to maintain an erection was the most common issue from antiquity until the present.

Penetration was a sign of manhood and a requirement for a positive reputation in the Greek and Roman conceptions of sexuality. As a result, medical professionals who were impacted offered recipes for healing substances, and pornographic writers created humorous tales about men who didn’t pass the important test. To combat, treat, and explain male sexual dysfunction, philosophers of the 18th century accepted the idea that men and women have different sexual spheres. However, even though this significant issue could not be disregarded, the nineteenth-century culture that insisted on privacy found discussion of such topics repugnant.

During that time, the writers of middle-class marriage guides popularized the idea of the “spermatic economy,” which holds that excesses cause a loss of masculine strength and endurance, which can eventually lead to impotence. Additionally emphasized were the risks of spermatorrhea, prostitution, masturbation, and STDs. Early in the 20th century, theories of male sexual dysfunction shifted from moral to psychological. Impotence was recognized as a problem for both men and women following World War II, and the development of the field of endocrinology in the 1920s validated the scientific study of the male reproductive system.

Numerous historians assert that sex therapy, psychoanalysis, and even surgery have been totally overtaken by Viagra (sildenafil). The Food and Drug Administration authorized the first oral treatment for erectile dysfunction in 1998. It was created at Pfizer Laboratories essentially by accident. Whether the ensuing impotence medications actually transformed sexuality is still up for debate.

Sexual dysfunction in women
The recognition of this kind of issue dates back further, even though the term “female sexual dysfunction” was only recently introduced to the medical literature. The diagnosis of nymphomania was not unusual even in the 16th century, and the Victorian era saw a notable rise in the proportion of women suffering from this illness. New theories of sexual dysfunction emerged as a result of the psychiatric and sexological fields overlapping development at the end of the 19th century. Certain sexual dysfunctions, like the inability to achieve vaginal orgasm, were considered the basis of “frigidity” based on Freud’s statements (most notably in the works of Hitschmann and Bergler).

Early in the 20th century, there was a surge in marriage counseling literature in the US and the UK that highlighted the importance of sexual pleasure in marriage. Given the significant emotional, physical, and spiritual differences between men and women, sexual dysfunction in women was viewed as a technical problem that was a component of a larger social phenomenon that needed to be addressed through education. In 1952, issues like coldness were categorized under “Psychophysiological autonomic and visceral disorders” in the first edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM). Although dyspareunia was added to the list, the second edition, which was released in 1968, was comparable.

Only the third edition of the DSM, published in 1980, saw significant changes, moving from psychoanalytic to biological psychiatry. An umbrella chapter on psychosexual disorders has been added in place of distinct categories for sexual deviations and psychophysiological genitourinary disorders. Historically, female sexual dysfunction has generally been regarded as a descriptive or general term rather than a diagnostic one. Even though it was made up of several diagnostic categories, treatment was still sought as though it were a true monocausal condition. Medical literature from the 20th and 21st centuries has addressed sexuality’s social dimensions and its potential to treat sexual dysfunction in great detail.

References:

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A study reveals that bacterial vaginosis is transmitted sexually.

A study reveals that bacterial vaginosis is transmitted sexually.

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After a groundbreaking study in The New England Journal of Medicine revealed that bacterial vaginosis (BV), which affects almost one-third of women globally, can be spread through sexual contact, important questions still need to be answered. In addition to calling for more research on the condition that can lead to infertility, premature births, and newborn deaths, the study findings may change the focus of treatment from women-only information about bacterial vaginosis (BV) to both men and women. results of the investigation. The study.

Vodstrcil’s team discovered that treating bacterial vaginosis (BV) as an STI and treating both sexual partners at the same time resulted in noticeably higher cure rates than the current practice of treating only women in a trial of 164 couples in which each woman had BV and was in a monogamous relationship with a male partner.

According to a press release from coauthor Catriona S. Bradshaw, PhD, who is also affiliated with the Melbourne Sexual Health Centre at Monash University, this effective intervention is brief, reasonably priced, and has the potential to improve bacterial vaginosis (BV) treatment for women for the first time. It also creates exciting new opportunities for BV prevention.

The male partners in the partner-treatment group received oral and topical antimicrobial treatment (400 mg metronidazole tablets and 2 percent clindamycin cream applied to penile skin, twice daily for 7 days) while the women in the randomized, open-label, controlled trial received first-line recommended antimicrobial agents. In the control group, male partners were not treated while women received first-line care. Recurrence of bacterial vaginosis (BV) within 12 weeks was the main result. The researchers pointed out that historically, after taking oral antibiotics for a week, over half of women with bacterial vaginosis (BV) have a recurrence within three months.

35 percent of women in the partner-treatment group and 63 percent of women in the control group experienced a recurrence of bacterial vaginosis (BV) in the modified intention-to-treat population. This represents an absolute risk difference of −2.6 recurrences per person-year (95 percent CI, −4.0 to −1.2; P < .001). According to the authors, the trial was terminated early because the woman’s treatment alone was subpar compared to that of both her and her male partner. Other Factors May Affect the Development of Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) Nevertheless, some experts highlight unresolved issues that demand more investigation.

While he believes that bacterial vaginosis (BV) can definitely be spread through sexual contact, Mykhaylo Usyk, PhD, MPH, MSci, a research assistant professor in the Departments of Microbiology and Immunology, Department of Pediatrics at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine in the Bronx, New York, stated that further research is necessary to determine which specific types of BV are transmissible, particularly since the trial was not finished for ethical reasons. Recurrence was not prevented for every individual who received the intervention, and the sample size was small.

According to Usyk, who published a study on the impact of bacterial vaginosis (BV) on chlamydia infection recurrence, I’m not sure if I would classify BV as an STI in and of itself. Similar to a fever, bacterial vaginosis (BV) is also an indicator. It is a sign of another illness. He stated that it is evident that men are serving as a reservoir. The men have some underlying infections that will cause bacterial vaginosis (BV) to recur unless they are treated. Usyk stated that he would like to see more research on which subtype of bacterial vaginosis (BV) is transmissible before routinely prescribing antibiotics to men and women to treat and prevent BV. Douching and smoking may be factors.

Other contributing factors, like smoking or intravaginal practices like douching and using lubricants, may also disrupt the vaginal microbiome and contribute to the development of bacterial vaginosis (BV), according to Rebecca Brotman, PhD, MPH, who studies the human vaginal microbiome and bacterial vaginosis (BV) at the Center for Advanced Microbiome Research and Innovation at the University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore. She agreed that the trial’s findings will change how doctors treat and care for bacterial vaginosis (BV) and said it offers strong evidence in favor of the long-held theory that BV-associated bacteria can be sexually transmitted. She pointed out that there was little proof that men could spread bacterial vaginosis (BV) before the trial was published.

She did, however, note that although the trial is a major step forward in the treatment of bacterial vaginosis (BV), more research is required to confirm the results in other populations. For instance, a third of the women in the trial were using intrauterine devices, and 80% of the men were not circumcised. These factors can both have an impact on the presence of bacteria linked to bacterial vaginosis (BV). She cites numerous studies that support the idea that bacterial vaginosis (BV) can be sexually transmitted, including the high concordance in lesbian couples, the frequent co-occurrence of BV with STIs, the higher prevalence among women who have multiple or new sexual partners, and the higher incidence among women whose male partners have multiple recent partners.

According to her, studies show that women who regularly use condoms or refrain from having sex have a lower risk of contracting bacterial vaginosis (BV), while unprotected sex is associated with a higher rate of treatment failure. As the director of the Vulvovaginal Disorders Program at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston, Caroline M. Mitchell, MD, MPH, told Medscape Medical News, “A Huge Win for Women,” it’s crucial to keep in mind that bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a syndrome, meaning that different bacteria may be present in different people or episodes.

Clinically, I do see patients who appear to have highly sexually facilitated bacterial vaginosis (BV), which only occurs with one partner and goes away when they are not with that person. Others, however, do not feel this way at all. This isn’t universal, in my opinion. I do encounter patients who have attempted abstinence but continue to experience recurrence. In contrast to chlamydia, I do not believe that a person’s partner is being unfaithful if they have BV. However, the results of this study indicate that bacteria on the penis probably contribute to at least some cases of bacterial vaginosis (BV), which does appear to be sexually facilitated.

I do believe that there may be some passing back and forth of BV-associated bacteria between sexual partners for people with highly recurrent bacterial vaginosis (BV), and that treating both people as [recommended] in this paper will be necessary to clear those organisms,” she continued. She claimed that the study represents a significant advancement in the prevention of bacterial vaginosis (BV) recurrence in certain patients. This is a major victory for women, she said, because the field’s treatment options haven’t changed significantly since 1982. The results should alter counseling.

In an editorial that goes with it, Christina A. According to Jack D. Dot Sobel, MD, of the Division of Infectious Diseases at Wayne State University in Detroit, and Muzny, MD, MSPH, of the Division of Infectious Diseases at The University of Alabama at Birmingham, the results should alter counseling for women. According to the editorialists, the results also highlight the need for a significant shift in the way that women with bacterial vaginosis are treated, specifically in terms of counseling them about the cause of their infection and involving their male partners in sharing responsibility for treatment and transmission. Other than using condoms consistently, there are currently no effective methods to stop the sexual spread of bacteria linked to bacterial vaginosis.

The StepUp Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry and the National Health and Medical Research Council of Australia provided funding for this study. The complete text of the papers is available along with the disclosures made by the authors and editorialists. Usyk disclosed no pertinent financial ties. Brotman disclosed no pertinent financial ties. Mitchell was granted stock options and serves on the scientific advisory boards of Concerto Bio and Ancilia Bio. Up to Date paid royalties to her.

Breast-conserving therapy linked to better sexual well-being compared to mastectomy

Breast-conserving therapy linked to better sexual well-being compared to mastectomy

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According to a study published in the March issue of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery®, the official medical journal of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), women with breast cancer who undergo breast-conserving therapy (BCT) report better sexual well-being than those who undergo mastectomy and breast reconstruction.

In contrast to those who underwent breast reconstruction and total mastectomy, patients who underwent BCT consistently scored higher on a measure of sexual well-being. The results emphasize how sexuality needs to be given more consideration when talking about breast cancer treatment options.

Sexual health issues are common among breast cancer patients. According to earlier research, up to 85% of patients with breast cancer report having sexual dysfunction, but few of them receive any kind of medical advice about it. BCT also referred to as lumpectomy offers many patients a successful substitute for mastectomy. Breast reconstruction has been shown to improve the quality of life and self-esteem of patients who have mastectomy.

Sexual well-being has not received much attention in research on breast cancer treatment, particularly when comparing the results of breast cancer treatment (BCT) and postmastectomy breast reconstruction (PMBR). Dr. Dot Nelson and associates examined sexual well-being scores for 15,857 patients who had breast cancer surgery between 2010 and 2022 using the validated BREAST-Q questionnaire. Approximately 46% of patients had PBMR and 54% had BCT. Using long-term follow-up when available, scores on a subscale measuring sexual well-being which includes sexual attractiveness, sexual confidence, and comfort level during intercourse were compared between groups.

Better recovery after BCT; few patients receive sexual medicine consultation
On a scale of 0 to 100, the two groups’ average scores for sexual well-being before surgery were comparable: 62 for the BCT group and 59 for the PBMR group. The BCT group’s sexual well-being score increased to 66 by six months, and it stayed there for up to five years. In comparison to BCT, women undergoing PBMR consistently scored lower on sexual well-being With longer follow-ups, the average score improved to 53 from 49 at six months. By the end of the study period, patients who had not yet undergone breast reconstruction had an even lower average sexual well-being score (41).

Overall, the BCT group’s scores were 7–6 points higher on average. Scores in other BREAST-Q domains, such as psychological well-being, breast satisfaction, and physical well-being of the chest, showed a significant correlation with sexual well-being. Sexual medicine consultation was available from a dedicated service at the authors’ cancer center, but only 3 percent of the BCT group and 5 percent of the PBMR group received it, despite the impact on sexual well-being. PBMR patients were roughly half as likely to receive a sexual medicine consultation after controlling for other variables.

The study supports earlier findings that women who undergo breast cancer BCT recover sexual well-being faster than those who undergo PMBR. The researchers write BCT may be the superior choice for patients who wish to maintain their sexual well-being among breast cancer patients who are eligible for either BCT or mastectomy.

The authors also stress how important it is to think about and talk about how breast cancer surgery affects sexual health. Dr. Dot Nelson ends by saying: Even though many patients have poor sexual health, the majority do not receive consultations for sexual medicine, indicating a chance for providers to enhance the sexual health of patients with breast cancer.

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