Important Medical Information

Chronic Scleroderma

What is Scleroderma?– Scleroderma is a chronic disease characterized by excessive deposits of collagen. In order to better understand Scleroderma it helps if you have some understanding as to what collagen is.What is Collagen?– Collagen is a fibrous protein that occurrsn bone, cartilage and connective tissue. It is a major structural protein that forms molecular cables to strengthen the tendons and vast, resilient sheets that support the skin and internal organs. There is no organ or tissue which does not have collagen. Collagen acts as the important support structure in tissues around which cells live and function. Elements of our body such as bones and teeth are made by adding mineral crystals to collagen. Scleroderma directly affects the skin, and in sometimes in more severe cases, it can affect the blood vessels and internal organs of the body. The most visible scleroderma symptom is the hardening of skin and associated scarring that goes along with it. This hardened skin will normally appear reddish or scaly in appearance. Often times this will allow blood vessels to be more visible. The most serious aspect of the disease to take into account are: The total area that is covered, and the the level of internal involvement that is taking place. These are important to consider because a patient that only has minor coverage is much less likely to have damange to internal organs and tissues as someone with larger coverage. Almost certainly, in cases where an entire limb is affected, future use of that limb will be jeopardized. If the coverage is over the torse, the heart and lungs will be affected which is more severe, than lets say an arm. Often times, internal scarring will occur which is more complicated and cannot simply be seen by the naked eye.

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Parenting Guide To Crohn’s Disease In Children

Any type of chronic disorder may be especially difficult for a child to cope with. Likewise, being a parent to such a child may leave you feeling helpless and cheated. Unfortunately, the presence of Crohn’s Disease will not be any easier to bear or deal with, as it has particularly unpleasant side effects. Crohn’s Disease is a form of Inflammatory Bowel Disease which occurs when the immune system overreacts to an agent of the digestive system, sends excessive white blood cells to the area, and causes inflammation as a result. The exact cause of Crohn’s Disease is unknown, but doctors believe it is because the body misperceives positive bacteria naturally found in the intestines as being harmful. However, once the reaction occurs, the immune system is unable to stop the attack on the digestive tract. Any area of the digestive system may be affected by Crohn’s disease, from mouth to rectum; however, the area most affected is the lower portion of the small intestines and colon. Depending on which portion of the system is disease, different symptoms may arise. Some examples of symptoms include diarrhea, abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, loss of appetite, and vomiting. Also, as a result of many of these symptoms, certain side effects occur, such as anemia, weight loss, stunted growth, and delayed development. There may also be complication in areas outside of the digestive system, such as arthritis, skin rashes, mouth ulcers, or eye inflammation. Although Crohn’s is a chronic disease, meaning it is ongoing, it does have periods of inactivity. During these periods, no symptoms may occur. However, they will inevitably return at some point. There is currently no cure for Crohn’s Disease. Treatments for Crohn’s Disease include medications and surgery in severe cases. Medications are usually taken to decrease swelling in the bowels, control the reaction of the immune system, treat infection that may arise, or to treat the symptoms of Crohn’s. Surgery is usually only utilized when other treatment methods are ineffective. Unfortunately, many of the medications taken cause a myriad of side effects, many very severe in nature. However, often medication is necessary in spite of side effects to eliminate potentially life threatening issues, such as infection. It is important to maintain a healthy diet and to intake plenty of fluids. Malnutrition sometimes occurs from lack of absorption of foods. Likewise, dehydration is a concern due to diarrhea and vomiting. Your child will also more than likely experience a lot of emotional issues as a result of this disease.

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Depression and Celiac Disease

Depression is a condition which affects about 15% of the population. Women are more likely to be affected than men. It is quite common for people who have been diagnosed as having Coeliac Disease to find themselves feeling depressed and anxious. For many there is a link between food and a sense of control over their lives. Celiacs are faced with something over which they feel no control. A diagnosis of celiac disease, the restriction the new diet places upon you, and a sense of isolation created because you feel you are not able to join in with everyone else can bring on symptoms of depression. You Are What You Eat Poor absorption of vitamins and minerals can make the celiac sufferer feel unwell, feeling depressed can be a side effect of not having the correct balance of foods which affect your mood and have a significant impact on how you are feeling emotionally. For some of you simply sticking to a strict gluten-free diet will be enough. Find A Helping Hand For others outside help in the form of councelling and psychological support can be very helpful. Get Into The Drivers Seat Taking control of your life, finding alternatives to foods you previously enjoyed and living with celiac disease rather than letting the condition rule your life are the key. See it as an opportunity to take control of your life, to eat better, fewer processed food, less junk food. A Positive Attitude Makes All The Difference Consider your cup – is it half full or half empty. You are on a restricted diet but at least your condition can be completely controlled without resorting to drugs or surgery. Even a shopping trip can be an adventure rather than a drudge– what new gluten-free food can you find? A Spirit Of adventure Discover yours! Try new things, take up new interests, meet new people. On a personal note I have become much more adventurous since becoming a celiac – I’ll try anything once! I have extended my range of food; I can eat better and more healthily. All of these strategies can make a huge difference to your state of mind and they are all within your grasp. Take control and get the most out of your life.

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What You Should Know about Celiac Disease

Celiac disease is a digestive disorder caused by the by consumption of gluten, a protein commonly found in many grains, especially wheat, barley rye. Therefore, those products containing these grains MUST be avoided by those diagnosed with celiac disease. Among those products to be especially mindful of are: bread, pasta, cookies, pizza crust and other foods containing wheat, barley or rye. Oats may contain gluten as well, but this is currently in dispute due to the fact that SOME seem to be able to digest oats without consequence. It is important that you followed your doctor’s advice in this matter. When a person with celiac disease eats foods containing gluten, an immune reaction occurs in the small intestine, resulting in damage to the surface of the small intestine and an inability to absorb certain nutrients from food. Eventually, decreased absorption of nutrients (malabsorption) can cause vitamin deficiencies that deprive your brain, peripheral nervous system, bones, liver and other organs of vital nourishment, which can lead to other illnesses. This is especially serious in children, who need proper nutrition to develop and grow. Many who suffer celiac disease also develop related vitamin and mineral defeciency related dieases. Also known as celiac sprue, celiac disease occurs in people who have a susceptibility to gluten intolerance. Although celiac disease affects people of all races, it is most prevalent in those of white European ancestry. It also affects women to a greater extent than me. Celiac disease has been around as long as man has eaten wheat and other grains containing the protein, but it has only been in the last 50 years that researchers have gained a better understanding of the condition and how to treat it. No treatment can cure celiac disease. However, you can effectively manage celiac disease through the elimination of gluten products from your diet.

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Chronic Scleroderma

Parenting Guide To Crohn’s Disease In Children

Depression and Celiac Disease

What You Should Know about Celiac Disease

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