Health and Fitness

Evans Syndrome   Disease Overview Summary Evans syndrome is a rare disorder in which the body’s immune system produces antibodies that mistakenly destroy red blood cells, platelets and sometimes certain white blood cell known as neutrophils. This leads to abnormally low levels of these blood cells in the body (cytopenia). The premature destruction of red blood cells (hemolysis) is known as autoimmune hemolytic anemia or AIHA. Thrombocytopenia refers to low levels of platelets (idiopathic thrombocytopenia purpura or ITP in this instance). Neutropenia refers to low levels of certain white blood cells known as neutrophils. Evans syndrome is defined as the association of AIHA along with ITP; neutropenia occurs less often. In some cases, autoimmune destruction of these blood cells occurs at the same time (simultaneously); in most cases, one condition develops first before another condition develops later on (sequentially). The symptoms and severity of Evans syndrome can vary greatly fro...

Osteoporosis overview Osteoporosis causes bones to become weak and brittle — so brittle that a fall or even mild stresses such as bending over or coughing can cause a fracture. Osteoporosis-related fractures most commonly occur in the hip, wrist or spine. Bone is living tissue that is constantly being broken down and replaced. Osteoporosis occurs when the creation of new bone doesn't keep up with the loss of old bone. Osteoporosis affects men and women of all races. But white and Asian women, especially older women who are past menopause, are at highest risk. Medications, healthy diet and weight-bearing exercise can help prevent bone loss or strengthen already weak bones. Symptoms There typically are no symptoms in the early stages of bone loss. But once your bones have been weakened by osteoporosis, you might have signs and symptoms that include: Back pain, caused by a fractured or collapsed vertebra Loss of height over time A stooped posture A bone that breaks much more easily th...

 Flesh-eating disease OVERVIEW Necrotizing fasciitis is a severe rapidly spreading bacterial infection that can cause death. The word “necrotizing” refers to something that causes the death of something else. The word “fasciitis” refers to inflammation of the fascia, which is the subcutaneous (under the skin) tissue that surrounds muscles and nerves and holds everything, including fat and blood vessels, in the correct position. Necrotizing fasciitis is a form of necrotizing soft tissue infection (NSTI). Some people call necrotizing fasciitis or any NSTI the “flesh-eating disease.” Other NSTIs are necrotizing myositis and necrotizing cellulitis. SYMPTOMS Early symptoms of this condition include signs and symptoms that resemble those of the flu: *Body aches. *Fever. *Chills. *Nausea. *Diarrhea. *Severe pain at the site of injury.   The progression of necrotizing fasciitis is very quick. Later signs and symptoms include: *Reddened and/or discolored skin. *Swelling of affected tis...

 CNS Whipple Disease Overview Whipple disease is a rare bacterial infection that most often affects your joints and digestive system. Whipple disease interferes with normal digestion by impairing the breakdown of foods, and hampering your body's ability to absorb nutrients, such as fats and carbohydrates. Whipple disease can also infect other organs, including your brain, heart and eyes. Without proper treatment, Whipple disease can be serious or fatal. However, a course of antibiotics can treat Whipple disease. Symptoms Common signs and symptoms Digestive signs and symptoms are common in Whipple disease and may include: *Diarrhea *Stomach cramping and pain, which may worsen after meals *Weight loss, associated with the malabsorption of nutrients Other frequent signs and symptoms associated with Whipple disease include: *Inflamed joints, particularly the ankles, knees and wrists *Fatigue *Weakness *Anemia Less common signs and symptoms In some cases, signs and symptoms of Whipple d...

 Sickle cell anemia Overview Sickle cell anemia is one of a group of inherited disorders known as sickle cell disease. It affects the shape of red blood cells, which carry oxygen to all parts of the body. Red blood cells are usually round and flexible, so they move easily through blood vessels. In sickle cell anemia, some red blood cells are shaped like sickles or crescent moons. These sickle cells also become rigid and sticky, which can slow or block blood flow. There's no cure for most people with sickle cell anemia. Treatments can relieve pain and help prevent complications associated with the disease. Symptoms Signs and symptoms of sickle cell anemia usually appear around 6 months of age. They vary from person to person and may change over time. Signs and symptoms can include: * Anemia. Sickle cells break apart easily and die. Red blood cells usually live for about 120 days before they need to be replaced. But sickle cells typically die in 10 to 20 days, leaving a shortage of r...

 Hypogammaglobulinemia Overview Hypogammaglobulinemia is a condition that affects your body’s ability to make immunoglobulins (Ig), or antibodies. Antibodies prompt your body’s immune system to protect you from viruses, bacteria, and other sources of illness. With fewer antibodies available, people with hypogammaglobulinemia have a much higher risk of infection and disease.3 National Cancer Institute. Hypogammaglobulinemia. Hypogammaglobulinemia is often inherited due to genetic abnormalities. In some cases, people develop hypogammaglobulinemia due to external causes, such as chemotherapy, certain comorbid disorders (those that occur along with hypogammaglobulinemia), or the use of immunosuppressants. Some patients also acquire new mutations (for poorly understood reasons) that lead to the development of this condition.5 Treatment options include antibiotics and/or immunoglobulin replacement therapy to increase antibody levels and improve immune response. Symptoms People with this ...

 Polycythemia vera Overview Polycythemia vera (pol-e-sy-THEE-me-uh VEER-uh) is a type of blood cancer. It causes your bone marrow to make too many red blood cells. These excess cells thicken your blood, slowing its flow, which may cause serious problems, such as blood clots. Polycythemia vera is rare. It usually develops slowly, and you might have it for years without knowing. Often the condition is found during a blood test done for another reason. Without treatment, polycythemia vera can be life-threatening. But proper medical care can help ease signs, symptoms and complications of this disease. Symptoms Many people with polycythemia vera don't have noticeable signs or symptoms. Some people might develop vague symptoms such as headache, dizziness, fatigue and blurred vision. More-specific symptoms of polycythemia vera include: * Itchiness, especially after a warm bath or shower * Numbness, tingling, burning, or weakness in your hands, feet, arms or legs * A feeling of fullness so...