| Hypoparathyroidism - Definition, Causes, Symptoms and Treatment |
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Sunday, December 30, 2007
Hypoparathyroidism is the only real result of parathyroid dysfunction and low PTH levels. This presents with tremor, tetany and, eventually, convulsions. HPTH can also be caused by surgery for Hyperparathyroidism (i.e. to remove overactive parathyroid(s) ). Approximately 3 or 4 percent of all patients with primary hyperparathyroidism will have an enlargement of all four parathyroid glands, a term called parathyroid hyperplasia. Hemochromatosis can lead to iron accumulation and consequent dysfunction of a number of endocrine organs, including the parathyroids. Absence or dysfunction of the parathyroid glands is one of the components of chromosome 22q11 microdeletion syndrome. Hypoparathyroidism UK is run for people with HPTH by people with HPTH. Hypoparathyroidism can result in hypocalcemia, and it commonly is diagnosed during the workup for hypocalcemia. Pseudohypoparathyroidism describes hereditary conditions that cause end organs to be resistant to PTH. Hypoparathyroidism requires lifelong treatment of oral supplements of calcium, Vitamin D, in varying forms,and magnesium. Blood levels are measured regularly to make sure that the dose is correct. A high-calcium, low-phosphorous diet is recommended. Teriparatide, a synthetic form of PTH (presently registered for osteoporosis) might become the treatment of choice for PTH supplementation. Thyroid and parathyroid surgery once resulted in damage to parathyroid glands, often causing hypoparathyroidism. Today's surgical techniques, however, make this much less likely. Avoid caffeine (such as in coffee, black tea, colas, and chocolate). Caffeine can lead to calcium loss through the urine. Herbs rich in minerals such as silica have been used historically to support normal bone growth.ising carbon-dioxide levels in the blood, which can decrease muscle spasms, may be achieved in immediate situations by placing a paper bag over the mouth and blowing into it to "reuse" each breath. It is critical to obtain timely periodic laboratory tests to check calcium levels. A high calcium, low-phosphorous diet may be of significance and is directed by the physician or dietitian. Treatment for Hypoparathyroidism Tips 1. Hypoparathyroidism is treated as soon as possible with intravenous calcium (e.g. as calcium gluconate). 2. Blood levels are measured regularly to make sure that the dose is correct. 3. A high-calcium, low-phosphorous diet is recommended. 4. Teriparatide, a synthetic form of PTH (presently registered for osteoporosis) might become the treatment of choice for PTH supplementation. 5. Low-phosphorous diet may be of significance and is directed by the physician or dietitian. 6. Avoid caffeine (such as in coffee, black tea, colas, and chocolate). Juliet Cohen writes article sfor http://www.healthatoz.info/ and http://www.health-disease.org/ Hypogonadism - Definition, Causes, Symptoms and Treatment Hypogonadism is a medical term for a defect of the reproductive system which results in lack of function of the gonads (ovaries or testes). Hypogonadism may occur if the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis is interrupted at any level. Hypergonadotropic hypogonadism (primary hypogonadism) results if the gonad does not produce the amount of steroid sufficient to suppress secretion of LH and FSH at normal levels. Hypogonadism resulting from defects of the gonads is traditionally referred to as primary hypogonadism. Examples include Klinefelter syndrome and Turner syndrome. Hypogonadism resulting from hypothalamic or pituitary defects are termed secondary hypogonadism or central hypogonadism (referring to the central nervous system). Hypogonadism can affect men of any age, from fetal development, through puberty and adulthood. Hypogonadism is one of the main causes of male infertility. It is estimated that 13 million men in the United States alone are affected by hypogonadism. Hypogonadism is caused by deficient testosterone secretion by the testes. The two basic types of male hypogonadism are Primary and Secondary. Hypogonadism Primary, also known as primary testicular failure, originates from an abnormality in the testicles. Hypogonadism may be induced by chronic use of anabolic/androgenic steroids (AAS). The Secondary type of hypogonadism is caused by defects in the pituitary gland connected to the brain that controls hormone production. If chemical messages from the pituitary gland to the testicles aren't sent, impaired testicular function occurs. This condition can be a result from defects in development of the pituitary gland, certain inflammatory diseases, and the use of certain drugs used in the treatment of psychiatric disorders and gastroesophageal reflux disease. Mental and emotional changes can also accompany hypogonadism. As testosterone decreases, some men may experience signs and symptoms similar to those of menopause in women. These may include hot flashes, decreased drive, irritability, depression and fatigue. Hypogonadism is most often treated by replacement of the appropriate hormones. Gonadotropin or GnRH replacement is offered to the patient when fertility is desired. Oral testosterone is no longer used in the U.S. because it is broken down in the liver and rendered inactive. In boys, testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) can stimulate puberty and the development of secondary characteristics, such as increased muscle mass, beard and pubic hair growth. Also available is a topical 1% testosterone gel. It is applied once daily to clean, dry skin of the shoulders, upper arms, or abdomen. Another alternative is testosterone patches. The testosterone may be mixed with the adhesive with a new patch applied daily to a different site; this system leaves a sticky residue but causes little skin irritation. Injections of pituitary hormone may be used to help male patients produce sperm. In others, surgery and radiation therapy may be needed. In adult men, TRT can restore function and muscle strength and prevent bone loss. Treatment for Hypogonadism Tips 1. Hormone-based medicines are available for men and women. 2. Estrogen comes in the form of a patch or pill. 3. Testosterone can be given by using a patch Injections of pituitary hormone may be used to help male patients produce sperm. 4. Topical 1% testosterone gel. It is applied once daily to clean, dry skin of the shoulders, upper arms, or abdomen. 5. Tumors can be treated with surgery and radiotherapy. 6. In boys, testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) can stimulate puberty and the development of secondary characteristics, such as increased muscle mass, beard and pubic hair growth. Septic Shock - Definition, Causes, Symptoms and Treatment Septic shock is a serious medical condition. During septic shock, the body tissues and organs do not get enough blood and oxygen. Septic shock may progress to cause "adult respiratory distress syndrome," in which fluid collects in the lungs, and breathing becomes very shallow and labored. Septic shock occurs most often in the very old and the very young. It also occurs in people who have other illnesses. Serious bacterial infections at any body site, with or without bacteremia, usually are associated with important changes in the function of every organ system in the body. Septic shock can lead to multiple organ failure including respiratory failure, and may cause rapid death. Toxic shock syndrome is one type of septic shock. Septic shock is usually preceded by bacteremia, which is marked by fever, malaise, chills, and nausea. The first sign of shock is often confusion and decreased consciousness. Bacteremia may be primary (without an identifiable focus of infection) or, more often, secondary (with an intravascular or extravascular focus of infection). Septic shock occurs more often in neonates, patients > 35 yr, and pregnant women. Septic shock is severe sepsis with organ hypoperfusion and hypotension that are poorly responsive to initial fluid resuscitation. The condition develops as a response to certain microbial molecules which trigger the production and release of cellular mediators, such as tumor necrosis factors. Toxic shock syndrome most often occurs in menstruating women using highly absorbent tampons. It occurs in about 40% of patients with gram-negative bacteremia and in about 20% of patients with Staphylococcus aureus bacteremia. Hyperventilation with respiratory alkalosis occurs early, in part as compensation for lactic acidemia. Serum HCO3 is usually low, and serum and blood lactate increase. One of the major causes of the condition leading to septic shock is infection by gram negative organism. The cell walls contain endotoxins which trigger the release of inflammatory mediators which causes vasodilation and increase in capillary permeability leading to shock. Septic shock is a medical emergency. Prompt treatment of bacterial infections is helpful. Septic shock is treated initially with a combination of antibiotics and fluid replacement. Treatment primarily consists of antimicrobial chemotherapy, removal of the source of infection, and haemodynamic, respiratory, and metabolic support. Coagulation and hemorrhage may be treated with transfusions of plasma or platelets. Dopamine may be given to increase blood pressure further if necessary. High doses of intravenous antibiotics are given as soon as blood samples have been taken for laboratory cultures. Surgery may be performed to remove any dead tissue, such as gangrenous tissue of the intestine. Despite all efforts, more than 25% of people with septic shock die. Corticosteroid therapy appears beneficial. Treatment is with replacement, rather than pharmacologic, doses. Scrupulous aseptic technique on the part of medical professionals lowers the risk of introducing bacteria into the bloodstream. Treatment for Septic Shock Tips 1. Antimicrobial chemotherapy, removal of the source of infection, and haemodynamic, respiratory, and metabolic support. 2. Corticosteroids, especially if combined with a mineralocorticoid, can reduce mortality among patients. 3. Activated protein C can reduce mortality in patients with multi-organ failure. 4. Coagulation and hemorrhage may be treated with transfusions of plasma or platelets. 5. Dopamine may be given to increase blood pressure further if necessary. 6. Surgery may be performed to remove any dead tissue, such as gangrenous tissue of the intestine. Juliet Cohen writes article sfor http://www.healthatoz.info/ and http://www.health-disease.org/ |
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