Showing results by author "Patrick Marshwell" in All Categories

Polymyalgia Rheumatica, or PMR, is a condition that causes inflammation in the muscles and joints, and in the United States alone, about 0.5 to 0.7% of the US population of adults aged 50 and older have this. That’s approximately 52.5 cases in 100,000 Americans recorded annually. Usually, PMR peaks in adults ages 70 and 80. The exact cause of PMR is unknown, but it is thought to be related to the immune system. People who have them usually experience muscle stiffness and pain. It even gets worse in the morning but improves with movement as you go about your day. For now, there isn’t a ...

The term "Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease," usually abbreviated as "CMT," refers to a group of inherited conditions that affect the nerves in the extremities and can lead to nerve damage. Jean-Martin Charcot, Pierre Marie, and Howard Henry Tooth were the physicians who originally characterized the sickness in 1886. The condition was given their names in honor of their contributions. According to mda.org, there are around 19 cases of CMT for every 100,000 persons who are part of the general population. CMT is distinguished by the gradual deterioration of muscular strength and atrophy, as well as...

Tinnitus affects approximately 25 million Americans or about 10% of the entire population. This condition is one of the most common yet least talked about conditions that people encounter daily. Tinnitus occurs when people experience any type of buzzing sound in their ears, not caused by an outside source. This constant noise can seem very bothersome to some individuals and can cause depression or anxiety if they cannot find relief. Although there are many treatments for tinnitus, such as hearing aids and pharmaceutical drugs, many people have found tremendous relief through Tinnitus ...

Arachnoiditis is an inflammation of the arachnoid, one of the three membranes that surround and protect the spinal cord and nerves. The arachnoid is a thin, spider web-like membrane that covers the central nervous system, which includes the brain and spinal cord. The other two membranes are called the dura mater and pia mater. Arachnoiditis can be caused by several different things, including chemical irritation, bacterial or viral infection, direct spine damage, persistent spinal nerve compression, or consequences from spinal surgery. These conditions can inflame the arachnoid, which can ...

When these vital nerves suffer damage, their functionality becomes compromised, giving rise to a spectrum of distressing symptoms encompassing pain, numbness, and muscle weakness. While the exact origins of peripheral neuropathy often remain elusive, it can emerge as a consequence of diverse factors such as diabetes, infections, or other underlying health issues.

Undifferentiated connective tissue disease (UCTD) is a term used to describe a group of conditions that share some but not all features of the more common connective tissue diseases. For now, there isn’t any data regarding the statistics of Americans who are diagnosed with UCTD. However, according to small cases extrapolated by researchers and experts, about 72% of UCTD patients are of the White race. About 78% of patients were females. This is a disease characterized by the body mistaking its tissues for enemies and attacking them. It is a type of connective tissue disease and is ...

Thoracic outlet syndrome is a condition that can cause pain, swelling, and other symptoms in the arms. The condition is caused by compression of the nerves and blood vessels in the thoracic outlet, which is the opening between the lower part of the neck and the upper part of the chest. Symptoms of thoracic outlet syndrome can include tingling and numbness in the arms, as well as discomfort in the shoulders. The thoracic outlet is a small area that may be found between the upper rib and the collarbone. Along with the nerves and blood arteries that travel down your arm, the muscles that run ...

Occipital neuralgia is a disorder that affects the nerves in the back of your head, which are known as the occipital nerves. The occipital nerves are in charge of carrying information to and from the brain from the scalp and the skull. You may be experiencing pain at the back of your head because these nerves have gotten irritated or inflamed. Occipital neuralgia might have been brought on by several different factors, such as muscular strain, an injury to the neck, or pinched nerves. Occipital neuralgia is often treated with a combination of anti-inflammatory medicine, massage treatment, ...

Pulmonary hypertension is a condition in which the blood pressure in the arteries of your lungs (pulmonary arteries) is too high. This can make it hard for your heart to pump blood through your lungs and may eventually lead to heart failure. Pulmonary hypertension is a progressive, debilitating lung disorder that can significantly reduce the quality of life and lead to early death. There is currently no cure for pulmonary hypertension, but with proper treatment and management, patients can enjoy a good quality of life. Pulmonary hypertension is caused by a variety of factors, including ...

Spinal stenosis is a condition in which the spaces in the spine narrow, placing pressure on the spinal cord and nerves. This can lead to pain, numbness, and weakness in the arms or legs. Spinal stenosis is most often caused by age-related changes in the spine, such as the development of arthritis. However, it can also be caused by other conditions, such as tumors or injuries. In some cases, spinal stenosis may be present at birth. Treatment for spinal stenosis typically involves medications to relieve pain and other symptoms. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to widen the spaces in ...

Myositis is a general term for a group of rare autoimmune diseases that cause inflammation of the muscles. This inflammation can lead to pain, swelling, and difficulty in moving. The cause of myositis is unknown, but it is thought to be related to an overactive immune system. There are several different types of myositis, each with its own set of symptoms. The most common type, dermatomyositis, causes a distinctive rash in addition to muscle weakness and inflammation. Inclusion body myositis typically affects older adults and causes slowly progressive muscle weakness. Polymyositis can ...

In this beginner’s quick start guide, we will discuss bronchiectasis in more detail, including its causes, symptoms, and treatment options. We will also provide a 3-step guide on how to manage the condition through diet and lifestyle changes.

Nail Fungus is a common condition that can affect people of all ages. However, it is more common in seniors. This is because our nails become thicker and drier as we age, making them more susceptible to infection. Nail fungus can also be caused by certain medical conditions, such as diabetes or psoriasis. This condition is not only unsightly, but it can also be painful. If left untreated, nail fungus can cause the nails to become brittle and even fall off. If you have nail fungus, you may be self-conscious about the appearance of your nails. You may also be experiencing pain, redness, and ...

Erythromelalgia is a rare condition that typically affects the extremities, causing episodes of burning pain and redness. The condition is often associated with increased blood flow and temperature changes in the affected area. In some cases, erythromelalgia can also cause numbness or tingling. The exact cause of erythromelalgia is unknown, but it is believed to be the result of abnormal blood vessel function. This may be due to an underlying condition such as diabetes, or it may be a primary condition. There are two primary types of erythromelalgia, primary and secondary. Primary ...

Leg ulcers are open wounds that can occur on the legs. Leg ulcers are a common problem, especially among the elderly. They can be caused by several factors, including circulatory problems and diabetes. If left untreated, they can lead to serious health complications. Although they can be painful, fortunately, there are treatments available that can help heal leg ulcers and prevent them from returning. Leg ulcers can be a real pain, both literally and figuratively. They are often slow to heal and can be quite uncomfortable. But they don't have to be a lifelong burden. There are many things ...

If you're looking for a holistic approach to health and well-being, Marma therapy might just be the ticket. This ancient Ayurvedic practice has been around for thousands of years and is all about stimulating specific points in the body to promote healing, relaxation, and rejuvenation. But don't let the word "ancient" fool you – Marma therapy is backed by science and has been shown to have numerous benefits for physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. By activating these energy centers throughout the body, you can release blocked energy, improve circulation, and address a wide range ...

Post-polio syndrome (PPS) is a condition that affects approximately 25 to 50 percent of people who have previously had poliomyelitis (polio). Although there is no cure for PPS, there are treatments available that can help manage the symptoms and improve quality of life. There are three main types of treatment for PPS: 1. Medication: There are a variety of medications available that can assist in relieving the pain, fatigue, and muscle weakness that are associated with PPS. 2. Physical therapy: A person who has PPS can work with a physical therapist to develop an exercise program that is ...

The liver and pancreas are two organs that work together to produce digestive enzymes. These enzymes travel through a duct called the biliary system and are released into the small intestine to help with the digestion of food. The sphincter of Oddi is a muscle located at the junction of the biliary system and the small intestine. It acts as a valve, opening to release enzymes into the small intestine and closing to prevent them from flowing back into the biliary system. Sphincter of Oddi dysfunction (SOD) occurs when this muscle does not function properly. SOD can lead to abdominal pain, ...

Churg-Strauss Syndrome (CSS) is a rare form of blood vessel inflammation. It is also known as Eosinophilic Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis (EGPA). The syndrome is characterized by the abnormal growth of white blood cells called eosinophils. These cells are normally found in small numbers in the bloodstream and help fight infections. However, in people with CSS, the eosinophils grow out of control and begin to damage tissues and organs. The syndrome gets its name from Drs. Churg and Strauss, who first described the illness in 1951. There is no cure for CSS, but there are treatments ...