Health Journal Online

Tag: Signs

  • Months Before the ByHeart Recall, Babies Were Already Sick — Parents Ask Why Early Warning Signs Were Missed

    Months Before the ByHeart Recall, Babies Were Already Sick — Parents Ask Why Early Warning Signs Were Missed

    The manufacturer ByHeart issued a voluntary recall of all its powdered infant formula products earlier this November, following a multistate outbreak of infant botulism linked to the brand’s Whole Nutrition Infant Formula.

    However, several families say their babies fell ill months earlier, between late 2024 and mid-2025, after being fed the same product. This has raised concerns about whether early warning signs were overlooked.

    According to the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), at least 31 infants across 15 states are suspected or confirmed to have developed botulism after consuming ByHeart formula during the period from 9 August to 13 November.

    Symptoms of infant botulism to watch for in babies who may have consumed the affected product include poor feeding, loss of head control, difficulty swallowing and decreased facial expression.

    Early Cases Spark Questions Over Outbreak Timing

    In California, the state health department confirmed that six babies who consumed ByHeart formula between November 2024 and June 2025 were hospitalised with infant botulism or suspected cases. A parent, in a conversation with the Associated Press, said they did not believe it was a coincidence.

    Despite these earlier illnesses, health officials say they could not establish a clear connection to the outbreak due to missing lot numbers and insufficient product samples. Dr Jennifer Cope of the CDC clarified that this does not necessarily mean the cases were unrelated.

    Expanded Recall After Bacteria Detected in Formula

    The investigation revealed that unopened cans of ByHeart formula have tested positive for Clostridium botulinum.

    On 8 November, California officials announced the confirmation of type A botulinum bacteria in an opened can linked to a recent case. ByHeart subsequently informed the FDA that tests conducted by independent laboratories on unopened cans also detected the bacterium. This prompted an expanded recall covering all lots, regardless of whether a specific illness had been reported.

    The FDA noted that while ByHeart accounts for roughly 1 percent of US formula sales, it has been associated with a disproportionately high number of the cases under investigation.

    Why Initial Cases Failed to Trigger Investigation

    For affected families, the situation has prompted frustration and confusion. As one mother asked: ‘Why did the cases beginning in August flag an investigation, but the cases that began in March did not?’

    The delay in linking the early cases to the broader outbreak appears to stem from several factors. Infant botulism is extremely rare, which complicates monitoring and trend detection. Symptoms can take weeks to appear and may initially resemble other conditions.

    Health authorities also stressed that many of the early cases lacked product lot details or retained formula containers, both of which are essential for laboratory testing and tracing the source. As a result, early clusters did not have enough statistical support to trigger a formal investigation until cases surged dramatically after August.

    Parents Urged to Stay Vigilant Amid Recall

    Ongoing enquiries by the FDA and CDC now focus on determining how contamination occurred, identifying any manufacturing or distribution issues and understanding why earlier illnesses were not flagged sooner.

    Parents are urged to remain vigilant and monitor babies closely for any symptoms, while staying informed about recall alerts.

    The incident underscores the need for stringent quality-control measures, robust supply-chain tracking and rapid regulatory action, particularly for high-risk products such as infant formula.

    While botulism linked to powdered formula is rare, this outbreak highlights how contamination in even small-market brands can lead to widespread risk.

    Authorities anticipate that the situation will lead to heightened scrutiny of formula manufacturing practices and environmental safety standards across the industry.

    Originally published on IBTimes UK

    Source link

  • Key Hypothyroidism vs. Hyperthyroidism Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore

    Key Hypothyroidism vs. Hyperthyroidism Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore

    The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland found at the base of the neck, but the hormones it produces have a massive influence on the body. They help regulate metabolism, energy levels, heart function, digestion, and even mood. Because thyroid hormones affect so many systems, changes in their levels can lead to noticeable and sometimes confusing thyroid symptoms.

    Differentiating between hypothyroidism—which occurs when the thyroid is underactive—and hyperthyroidism, caused by an overactive thyroid, is essential for proper treatment. While both are thyroid disorders, they affect the body in almost opposite ways. Understanding these differences helps individuals seek the right medical care early.

    Common Hypothyroidism Signs and How They Affect the Body

    Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid does not produce enough thyroid hormone. This slows the body’s metabolic processes, leading to physical and emotional changes.

    Common hypothyroidism signs include:

    • Fatigue and sluggishness
    • Unexplained weight gain
    • Cold intolerance
    • Dry skin and hair
    • Constipation
    • Muscle weakness
    • Depression or low mood

    According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, a slowed metabolism due to low thyroid hormones can significantly affect energy, weight regulation, and overall organ function. These symptoms often appear gradually, which means many people overlook them or attribute them to aging or lifestyle changes. Over time, untreated hypothyroidism can contribute to high cholesterol, heart problems, infertility, and nerve damage.

    In many cases, hypothyroidism is caused by autoimmune disorders such as Hashimoto’s disease, but it can also result from iodine deficiency, certain medications, or surgical removal of the thyroid.

    Hyperthyroidism Signs and Their Effects on Health

    Hyperthyroidism is the opposite condition—here, the thyroid produces too much hormone. This speeds up the body’s metabolic rate, causing systems to work faster than normal.

    Common hyperthyroidism signs include:

    • Unexplained weight loss despite normal appetite
    • Heat intolerance and excessive sweating
    • Rapid or irregular heartbeat (palpitations)
    • Anxiety, irritability, and restlessness
    • Tremors
    • Difficulty sleeping
    • Frequent bowel movements

    According to Mayo Clinic, elevated thyroid hormone levels overstimulate the entire body, affecting heart rhythm, temperature regulation, digestion, and emotional balance. One of the most common causes of hyperthyroidism is Graves’ disease, an autoimmune condition that forces the thyroid to produce excess hormone. Other causes include thyroid nodules, inflammation of the thyroid (thyroiditis), and excess iodine intake. If untreated, hyperthyroidism can cause serious complications such as arrhythmias, osteoporosis, and a life-threatening condition known as thyroid storm.

    Diagnosing Thyroid Problems and Managing Thyroid Symptoms

    Diagnosing thyroid problems begins with accurate testing, since hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism require different treatments. Doctors typically use a combination of blood tests—including TSH, Free T4, and Free T3—to measure hormone levels, along with thyroid antibody tests to identify autoimmune causes. In some cases, imaging tests such as an ultrasound or thyroid scan are recommended to check for nodules or structural issues. According to the CDC, early testing for thyroid imbalances improves treatment outcomes and helps reduce long-term complications.

    Once diagnosed, treatment varies depending on whether thyroid function is too low or too high. For hypothyroidism, the most common treatment is levothyroxine, a synthetic hormone that restores normal levels. Patients usually undergo regular blood tests to ensure the dosage remains accurate. Hyperthyroidism treatment, on the other hand, may involve antithyroid medications that reduce hormone production, radioactive iodine therapy to shrink the thyroid, surgery for partial or complete removal of the gland, or beta-blockers to control symptoms like rapid heartbeat.

    In addition to medical treatment, managing thyroid symptoms effectively also involves lifestyle adjustments. A balanced diet with sufficient iodine supports healthy thyroid function, while avoiding excessive soy or iodine supplements prevents further imbalance. Stress management, regular exercise, consistent use of prescribed medications, and routine medical checkups all contribute to better long-term control. Combining proper treatment, healthy habits, and continuous monitoring is key to keeping thyroid symptoms manageable and maintaining overall well-being.

    Conclusion

    Understanding the differences between hypothyroidism signs and hyperthyroidism signs is key to identifying thyroid disorders early and getting the right treatment. With timely diagnosis, proper medical guidance, and consistent monitoring, most people can manage their condition effectively and maintain a healthy, active life. Being aware of thyroid symptoms encourages individuals to notice changes sooner, seek evaluation, and follow through with recommended care. Long-term management often includes lifestyle adjustments, routine checkups, and medication when needed. By staying proactive and informed, individuals can reduce complications, improve daily well-being, and support better long-term health outcomes.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    1. Can hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism occur together?

    Not simultaneously, but individuals with autoimmune thyroid diseases may swing between the two over time. For example, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis may cause temporary hyperthyroidism before leading to hypothyroidism.

    2. What causes thyroid disorders?

    Autoimmune diseases are the most common cause, but other factors include iodine imbalance, radiation exposure, certain medications, and genetic predisposition.

    3. Are thyroid symptoms similar in men and women?

    Yes, but thyroid disorders occur more often in women. Symptoms may vary slightly based on age, hormones, and overall health.

    4. How soon do symptoms improve with treatment?

    Most people notice improvement within a few weeks. Full stabilization may take several months, depending on medication dosage and hormone levels.



    Source link

  • Diabetes Symptoms and Prediabetes Signs Most People Overlook — Early Warnings for Type 2 Diabetes

    Diabetes Symptoms and Prediabetes Signs Most People Overlook — Early Warnings for Type 2 Diabetes

    Diabetes is a chronic health condition affecting millions globally. Early recognition of diabetes symptoms and prediabetes signs is crucial to prevent progression to type 2 diabetes and avoid serious complications. Many warning signs are subtle and often overlooked, leading to delayed diagnosis. This article highlights overlooked diabetes symptoms, prediabetes indicators, and type 2 diabetes early symptoms to watch for.

    Commonly Overlooked Diabetes Symptoms

    Some diabetes symptoms are easy to miss due to their mild or gradual onset:

    • Frequent urination and increased thirst indicate elevated blood sugar, causing kidney stress and dehydration.
    • Extreme hunger despite regular eating signals an impaired ability to use glucose.
    • Fatigue and reduced energy occur when cells struggle to absorb glucose.
    • Blurred vision results from fluctuating fluid levels affecting the eyes.
    • Slow healing of cuts and wounds reflects a compromised immune response.
    • Tingling, numbness, or pain in hands and feet (diabetic neuropathy) develops from nerve damage.
    • Unintentional weight loss despite increased appetite can be a warning.
    • Dry skin, itching, and frequent infections, including gum problems, may be signs.
    • Changes in sweating patterns, either excessive or reduced perspiration, can occur.

    These symptoms indicate elevated blood sugar and require medical evaluation.​

    Prediabetes Signs to Watch For

    Prediabetes occurs when blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not yet diabetic. Often symptomless, some signs include:

    • Darkened skin patches on neck, armpits, or groin (acanthosis nigricans).
    • Increased thirst and frequent urination.
    • Fatigue and irritability, resulting from blood sugar fluctuations.
    • Tingling or numbness in extremities indicates early nerve damage.
    • Slow wound healing and frequent infections.

    Recognizing these signs can prompt early lifestyle changes to prevent type 2 diabetes.​

    Early Symptoms Specific to Type 2 Diabetes

    Type 2 diabetes symptoms often develop slowly and may be unnoticed initially:

    • Increased thirst, frequent urination (especially at night).
    • Persistent fatigue, sometimes after meals.
    • Blurred vision.
    • Numbness or tingling in hands or feet.
    • Unexplained weight loss.
    • Frequent infections and skin conditions.

    These symptoms are the body’s signals that blood sugar regulation is impaired.​

    Why These Warning Signs Are Often Missed

    Many diabetes symptoms overlap with common health issues or aging effects. Mild symptoms are often misattributed to stress, fatigue, or lifestyle factors. Lack of routine blood sugar screening contributes to underdiagnosis. Awareness and education are key to identifying these signs early for timely intervention.​

    When to See a Doctor

    Individuals experiencing any combination of these symptoms should seek medical evaluation, including blood sugar testing. Early diagnosis allows for lifestyle modifications and medical treatments to prevent progression and complications. Regular screening is essential for those with risk factors like obesity, family history, or a sedentary lifestyle.​

    Long-Term Complications of Diabetes

    If unnoticed or unmanaged, diabetes can lead to serious long-term complications affecting various organs and systems:

    • Cardiovascular Damage: Diabetes increases the risk for heart attack, stroke, and peripheral artery disease by damaging large blood vessels (macrovascular complications).
    • Kidney Disease: Diabetes may damage the kidneys’ filtering ability (nephropathy), potentially leading to dialysis or transplant.
    • Eye Problems: Diabetic retinopathy can cause vision loss; cataracts and glaucoma are more common in older age.
    • Nerve Damage: Neuropathy causes numbness, tingling, pain, and loss of sensation, often starting in the feet and hands, increasing the risk of infection.
    • Foot Problems: Reduced sensation and blood flow can lead to ulcers, infections, and, in severe cases, amputation.
    • Other Effects: Diabetes can impair immune function, increase risk for gum disease, sexual dysfunction, gastrointestinal issues, and is linked with depression and dementia.

    These complications underscore the importance of early detection and consistent management to minimize damage and maintain quality of life.​

    Preventing Progression and Managing Diabetes

    Early identification of symptoms can lead to proactive management:

    • Lifestyle Changes: Healthy diet, physical activity, and weight management can delay or prevent the progression from prediabetes to type 2 diabetes, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
    • Medication: When appropriate, medications help control blood sugar and reduce risks.
    • Regular Monitoring: Routine blood sugar, blood pressure, cholesterol checks, and screening for organ damage.
    • Patient Education: Awareness of symptoms and risks helps patients seek timely care.

    Effective management reduces risk of complications and improves long-term outcomes.​

    Recognizing overlooked diabetes symptoms, prediabetes signs, and type 2 diabetes early symptoms can save lives and reduce complications, according to the World Health Organization. Increased thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, numbness, and slow healing should never be ignored. Early medical consultation and proactive health management provide the best outcomes in diabetes care.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    1. How do diabetes symptoms in children differ from those in adults?

    Diabetes symptoms in children, especially type 1 diabetes, often appear suddenly and more intensely than in adults. Children may show rapid weight loss, increased appetite, extreme thirst and frequent urination, including bedwetting in previously dry children. Fatigue and mood swings are also common. In contrast, adults, particularly with type 2 diabetes, tend to develop symptoms gradually over years, making early detection more difficult. Early recognition in children is critical to prevent serious complications like diabetic ketoacidosis.​

    2. Can type 2 diabetes occur in children, and if so, how are the symptoms different?

    Yes, type 2 diabetes is increasingly diagnosed in children, often developing gradually. Symptoms resemble those of type 1 diabetes, such as increased thirst, urination, hunger, fatigue, blurred vision, and darkened skin patches, but may be less noticeable. Unlike type 1, unintentional weight loss is less common in children with type 2 diabetes. Early diagnosis in children is essential to initiate lifestyle changes and medical treatment.​

    3. What role does diabetic neuropathy play in overlooked diabetes symptoms?

    Diabetic neuropathy, or nerve damage caused by high blood sugar, can start with subtle symptoms like tingling, numbness, or mild pain in the hands and feet. These sensations might be dismissed as normal aging or minor injuries. Over time, neuropathy can lead to loss of sensation, increasing risks of unrecognized injuries and infections, especially in the feet. Recognizing early nerve-related symptoms is essential for preventing severe complications.​

    4. How does early fatigue associated with diabetes differ from regular tiredness?

    Fatigue linked to diabetes results from the body’s impaired ability to use glucose for energy, even if a person has eaten enough food. This fatigue is persistent and may occur alongside other symptoms, such as increased thirst and frequent urination. Unlike typical tiredness that improves with rest, diabetes-related fatigue can be chronic and unrelenting until blood sugar levels are controlled. Awareness of this difference can aid earlier diagnosis.



    Source link

  • Recognizing Early Medical Signs of Nursing-Home Abuse

    Recognizing Early Medical Signs of Nursing-Home Abuse

    An Epidemic Behind Closed Doors

    Abuse of older people is far more common than most families realize. A recent World Health Organization fact sheet reports that one in six adults over 60 experienced abuse in community settings last year, while a staggering two out of three nursing-home staff admitted to committing abuse within the same period.

    In the United States, under-reporting compounds the crisis. A 2023 study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) found 98,669 hospitalizations for major-injury falls among nursing-home residents, yet facilities disclosed only 60 percent of those incidents to regulators. The same dataset uncovered 39,894 stage 3–4 pressure-ulcer hospitalizations with just 67.7 percent reported (study summary).

    The consequences reach beyond statistics. State Long-Term Care Ombudsman programs, created to defend residents’ rights, served more than 3 million residents across 76,000 facilities in fiscal year 2022, according to the U.S. Government Accountability Office. Yet ombudsmen routinely cite understaffing and funding gaps that limit their reach—leaving early warning signs to be spotted by nurses, visiting relatives, and increasingly vigilant medical professionals.

    Legal advocates such as Los Angeles nursing home abuse lawyers emphasize that meticulous medical records—especially wound-care charts, lab values, and imaging—often spell the difference between an unsubstantiated claim and a successful verdict.

    Policy-makers, too, have a role. Mandating automatic electronic reporting of falls and pressure ulcers to Medicare, tying reimbursement to independent audit rates, and expanding federal grants for RN staffing would move the needle. The cost of inaction is steep: hospitalizations tied to elder abuse add an estimated $5.3 billion annually to U.S. healthcare spending, according to the National Center on Elder Abuse.

    Early Medical Red Flags No Chart Should Ignore

    While emotional or financial abuse may leave few outward traces, physical and medical neglect often announces itself in subtle clinical ways:

    1. Unexplained bruising in various stages of healing: Multiple bruises in different colors suggest repeated trauma on separate days rather than a single accident.
    2. Stage-I pressure injuries (intact skin that is red, warm, or “boggy”): Early intervention can halt progression; late discovery leads to the stage 3–4 ulcers highlighted in the JAMA figures above.
    3. Rapid weight loss or chronic dehydration: Sudden declines may indicate missed meals, inadequate fluid intake, or overuse of diuretics.
    4. Recurrent urinary-tract or respiratory infections: These often point to poor hygiene, contaminated catheters, or aspirated food because of staff rushed feeding.
    5. Polypharmacy-related oversedation: Residents who are unusually drowsy, slurring words, or sleeping through meals may be receiving chemical restraints.

    A 2025 compilation by the Nursing Home Abuse Center notes that 81 percent of nurses and aides have witnessed emotional elder abuse, and 40 percent confessed to committing at least one incident themselves. Medical clues—pressure sores, bruises, weight shifts—often surface before a resident can articulate emotional mistreatment.

    Why the Numbers Stay Hidden

    Understaffing, fear of retaliation, and financial disincentives keep many injuries off the books. Medicare’s star-rating system still relies heavily on self-reported quality metrics; facilities face reputational and monetary damage when serious incidents are logged. As a result, families and front-line clinicians become the de facto safety net.

    The GAO’s 2024 review of ombudsman programs underscores the systemic pressure: resources remain flat while caseload complexity climbs, especially around residents with dementia and behavioral health needs. Meanwhile, global watchdogs warn that pandemic-era isolation magnified risks; WHO notes that rates of elder abuse increased during COVID-19 lockdowns, an after-shock likely to persist.

    From Bedside to Courtroom: Building a Culture of Vigilance

    Families can take five practical steps:

    1. Inspect skin during visits. Early-stage pressure injuries are reversible; late-stage ulcers can become fatal.
    2. Track vitals and weight trends. Ask for monthly nutrition and hydration logs; sudden dips warrant investigation.
    3. Scrutinize medication lists. Confirm dosages with an outside pharmacist to spot inappropriate sedatives.
    4. Leverage technology. Motion-sensor mats and remote vitals can alert caregivers to unattended bed exits or dehydration.
    5. Document everything. Photographs, dated notes, and copies of incident reports create a paper trail if legal action becomes necessary.

    A Call to Action

    Silent harm thrives in dimly lit rooms and sparse chart notes. By recognizing early medical signs—bruises that bloom in secret, pressure points that darken overnight—we bring abuse into the light where families, clinicians, and regulators can act. Embedding victim-centered safeguards into every layer of eldercare—from bedside assessments to federal audits—ensures that the twilight years are marked by dignity, not neglect. “See something, say something” is not a slogan; it is a clinical imperative that can save lives tomorrow.

    Source link

  • Dwyane Wade Says He Felt ‘Pretty Healthy’, Didn’t Recognize Kidney Cancer Signs

    Dwyane Wade Says He Felt ‘Pretty Healthy’, Didn’t Recognize Kidney Cancer Signs

    Dwyane Wade, the retired NBA star, recently opened up about his Stage 1 kidney cancer diagnosis, revealing that he felt “pretty healthy” when he went for a checkup, only to realize that the subtle signs his body showed were early warning signals of kidney cancer.

    In a recent interview, the 41-year-old retired basketball legend revealed that he went for a check-up due to his father’s history of prostate cancer. Although Wade never suspected anything serious, he shared with his doctor the subtle signs he had been experiencing, including stomach pain and changes in his urination.

    “I didn’t think nothing of it. And so once I finally went in, I was like, OK, I just want to know everything,” Wade said in an exclusive interview with Today.

    “I talked about just having a slow stream. Sometimes when I would go to the bathroom, my urine would come out little slow. I had some cramps, some pain, a little bit at times in my stomach that I did not understand,” he added.

    Doctors performed an MRI to investigate the areas where Wade had been experiencing pain. To his surprise, the scan revealed an unexpected lesion in his kidneys. “I didn’t go in for my kidneys. I went in to check on my stomach and my prostate,” he explained.

    A lingering dull ache or pain in the side, abdomen, or lower back is a common sign of kidney cancer. Other symptoms include blood in the urine (hematuria), which may cause it to appear red or rusty, though it can also result from conditions like kidney stones. Additional signs include a lump in the side or lower back, unexplained fever, fatigue, leg swelling, and unintended weight loss.

    Wade underwent surgery and doctors then confirmed that the lesion was cancerous. “Thank God that we caught it early. This wasn’t something that was able to grow. It was about 3 centimeters on my kidney,” he said.

    After making a quick recovery, Wade is now sharing his story to encourage others, especially men, to take a proactive approach to their health. He urges people to seek medical advice if they notice changes in their bodies.

    “When people hear cancer, obviously they think it’s over,” Wade said, but he explained that his experience has been transformative. “A lot of us are not going to check ourselves out if we don’t feel nothing,” he noted, urging men to move past this mindset. “I want us to get over that. I want us to grow from that.”

    Source link

  • Teen Dies From Rare Brain Tumor After Unusual Symptoms; Heartbroken Mom Urges Others To Recognize Signs

    Teen Dies From Rare Brain Tumor After Unusual Symptoms; Heartbroken Mom Urges Others To Recognize Signs

    When 12-year-old Jody tripped and fell multiple times, had trouble walking straight, and struggled to fasten her shirt buttons, her mother never suspected it could be a sign of something serious—until doctors delivered the devastating news of a rare brain tumor.

    After years of battling the disease, Jody passed away in 2022, at the age of 16, and her heartbroken mother, Sarah Levett, from Surrey in South East England, now raises awareness about the condition, hoping that parents could spot the signs as soon as possible.

    Levett, who is organizing a fundraiser next month for the Brain Tumor Charity in her daughter’s memory, says she does it so no other parent or child has to endure the unimaginable heartbreak they experienced.

    When Jody first experienced symptoms like migraines, difficulty with balance, and frustration that led to screaming fits, Levett thought it might be related to her autism. But during a check-up, doctors discovered that Jody was in the advanced stages of a rare brain tumor.

    “It was absolutely terrifying. As the doctor spoke about how big the tumor was, I couldn’t take it all in,” Levett recollected the moments following the diagnosis.

    “I just wanted it gone. But I tried as hard as I could to hide how scared I was, as Jody was so young. I didn’t want her to worry – in fact, she was more bothered about the fact she was unable to go to school. She started bumping into things, like a wheelie bin on the pavement, only a few months before the diagnosis,” she said.

    Jody underwent treatment for around 10 months, including a surgery that removed 80% of the tumor, followed by chemotherapy and radiotherapy until she was stable. However, a year later, a follow-up scan revealed that the tumor had returned.

    As Jody’s condition rapidly declined, she underwent four more surgeries and doctors discovered a brain bleed before she tragically died.

    “The main aim [of the fundraiser] is to continue the awareness of brain tumors and changes needed, and the lack of mental health support for bereaved parents. I know there’s a lot of strain on healthcare at the moment, but I really don’t want any other parents or children to have to go through the unimaginable heartbreak like we have done,” Levett said.

    Brain tumors may present with symptoms such as seizures, balance issues, behavioral changes, slurred speech, fatigue, weakness, headaches, nausea, and vomiting.

    Source link

  • ‘Most Headaches Are Harmless’, But Neuro Warns Not To Ignore These 3 Signs

    ‘Most Headaches Are Harmless’, But Neuro Warns Not To Ignore These 3 Signs

    We’ve all been there: feeling a random headache and googling brain tumor symptoms in a panic. Well, often this only makes things worse, escalating stress and discomfort. But how can you tell if your headache is harmless?

    While most headaches are harmless, a neurologist warns that certain symptoms could indicate something more serious, like a brain aneurysm. Dr. Bing, a board-certified neurologist popular on TikTok as a brain health advocate, shares three headache signs you should not ignore.

    “Most headaches are harmless, however, if someone has new headaches or new features, those might need to be evaluated further,” Dr. Bing said in a video on TikTok.



    Thunderclap Headaches:

    Dr Bing describes this as a sudden escalation of pain, the headache that receives 10 out of 10 pain within a minute. “And people usually describe it as the worst headache of their lives. The most important thing to rule out here is subarachnoid hemorrhage usually caused by a ruptured aneurysm,” Dr. Bing said.

    However, not all sudden severe headaches indicate aneurysm, there could be other reasons as well. “This includes things like RCVS, which is intermittent narrowing of the blood vessels in the brain, as well as cerebral venous thrombosis, which is a clot in a major vein in the brain,” Dr. Bing added.

    New Headaches After the Age of 50:

    Since the chances of developing new headaches and migraines decrease with age, people over the age of 50 who happen to get new headaches should get themselves checked to rule out possibilities like hematomas, tumors, and infections, Dr. Bing said.

    If the new headache is also accompanied by vision changes and symptoms like scalp tenderness and pain while chewing, Dr. Bing suggests the possibility of giant cell arthritis.

    “This is an inflammatory condition of the blood vessels and can lead to permanent blindness if not treated quickly with high-dose steroids, ” Dr. Bing explained.

    New Headache with Eye Issues:

    According to Dr. Bing, if a person develops a new headache along with eye issues such as drooping of one eyelid, dilation of that pupil, and double vision, it is time to get immediate medical attention as it could be the best chance to prevent aneurysm before rupturing and causing life-threatening situations.

    “I specifically mentioned this because it’s one of the few times that we can catch a brain aneurysm before it ruptures. The specific set of symptoms can be caused by an aneurysm compressing on the third cranial nerves,” Dr. Bing said.



    Source link

  • Why Are Heart Attacks More Common On Christmas Day? Doctor Explains Winter Surge And Warning Signs

    Why Are Heart Attacks More Common On Christmas Day? Doctor Explains Winter Surge And Warning Signs

    As the holiday season brings festive cheer and celebration, beware of a secret risk that quietly looms on Christmas Day. Well, it’s not the Grinch stealing decorations, but a life-threatening emergency.

    According to the American Heart Association, heart attacks and strokes spike during the last two weeks of December, and December 25 marks the year’s peak for cardiac events. Dr. Patricia Vassallo, a cardiologist with Northwestern Medicine, explains that the increased risk during the winter months results from a combination of cold weather, holiday stress, and disrupted routines.

    “Cold temperatures cause blood vessels to constrict, which raises blood pressure and makes the heart work harder to pump blood. At the same time, stress around the holidays and disrupted routines — like less sleep, more alcohol and skipped medications — add to the strain. Overexertion from winter chores like shoveling heavy snow can further increase the risk, especially in people with existing heart conditions,” said Dr. Vassallo.

    Holidays may not be the season filled with joy for everyone, it can bring feelings of stress or sadness due to grief of lost loved ones, managing large gatherings, or dealing with complex family dynamics. Emotional and physical stress have a significant effect on heart health, which is why there is a spike in heart attacks and strokes on Monday mornings when stress levels are at the highest, Dr. Vassallo said.

    How to reduce risk:

    Since cold weather, increased stress, and changes in routine are key factors driving the winter surge of cardiac events, Dr. Vassallo recommends following specific tips to reduce the risk.

    1. Dress for the weather: To stay warm in cold conditions, wear layers, and use essential accessories like hats, gloves, and heavy socks.

    2. Come inside often: Spending extended time outdoors in the cold can increase the risk of hypothermia and heart attacks. If you have to spend time outdoors, make sure to take breaks inside to warm up.

    3. Avoid excess alcohol: Although alcohol seems to give a temporary feeling of warmth, it can lower your body’s core temperature and make you more vulnerable to the cold.

    4. Do not shovel for long periods: Shoveling is an activity that puts extra strain on your heart, especially if you have a pre-existing heart condition. It’s important to check with your doctor whether it’s safe for you to shovel or if you should limit the activity.

    5. Wash your hands frequently: Respiratory infections are common in the winter months, and they can increase the risk of heart attacks. Frequent handwashing helps reduce the spread of germs and infections.

    6. Get help: If you experience any new symptoms of a heart condition or your existing symptoms worsen, do not hesitate to seek medical help, even if it’s a holiday.

    Signs To Look out for:

    Knowing the signs of heart attacks and strokes can save lives. It is important to seek immediate medical attention if you notice symptoms like severe chest pain, nausea, dizziness, shortness of breath, pain or numbness in the jaw, back, neck, or shoulders, cold sweat, heartburn, or sudden fatigue.

    Source link