Category: Treatment

Oct 14

The 7 Best Home Remedies for Sinus Infections

Try these to feel better while you wait for a virus to run its course. Some of the most helpful home remedies include staying hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids, as this helps to thin mucus and alleviate congestion. Warm compresses or steam inhalation can also provide relief by opening up the nasal passages. Saline nasal rinses help to flush out mucus and irritants from the sinuses, reducing inflammation. Additionally, over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can alleviate pain and reduce fever. Maintaining good hygiene practices, such as regular handwashing, can prevent the spread of infection. Avoiding irritants like smoke and allergens, as well as getting ample rest, can further support your recovery. However, if symptoms persist or worsen after a week, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Remember that sinus infections can sometimes be bacterial, requiring antibiotics for resolution. Understanding Sinus Infections Before delving into home remedies, it’s essential to differentiate between viral and bacterial sinus infections. Viral sinusitis, the most common form, typically resolves without medication within a week or two. However, bacterial sinus infections may require antibiotics if symptoms persist. Identifying the type of infection you have is crucial, and if you experience a consistent fever above 102°F that doesn’t respond to ibuprofen, it’s advisable to consult a doctor. Home Remedies for Viral Sinus Infections 1. Nasal Rinses—Neti Pots and Saline Solutions Nasal rinses are a go-to remedy for managing sinus infections. They help dislodge and expel congested mucus, providing relief. You can use various methods for nasal rinses, such as a neti pot, nasal syringe, squeeze bottle, or saline nasal spray. Prepare the rinse by mixing distilled water with non-iodized salt and baking soda. Using a neti pot twice a day can effectively moisturize your nasal passages and loosen secretions, aiding in patient comfort. 2. Hot Steam Hot steam treatments work on the same principle as nasal rinses but are even simpler. Boil water and cover your head and the pot with a towel, inhaling the rising steam. Be cautious not to get too close to avoid burns. Alternatively, spending time in a hot shower can achieve similar results. Hot steam helps moisten your nasal passages, promote mucus drainage, and alleviate sinus pain and pressure. 3. Aromatherapy with Eucalyptus Oil Enhance the hot steam therapy with aromatherapy by adding a few drops of eucalyptus oil to your shower. This practice can open up your airways and reduce inflammation. Research has shown that eucalyptus oil containing cineole can alleviate symptoms associated with sinusitis, including headaches, nasal blockage, and mucus secretion. 4. Humidifiers Humidifiers can significantly improve the moisture levels in a room, benefiting your nasal passages. They are particularly useful in dry climates and can help relieve sinusitis symptoms and other respiratory issues. However, it’s crucial to maintain clean humidifiers, as neglected devices can harbor mold and bacteria, potentially causing sinus infections. Some individuals also add eucalyptus oil to their humidifiers for added relief. 5. Warm Compresses Applying a warm compress to your face can alleviate sinus pressure and pain. You can achieve this by using a damp, warm washcloth or towel. The warmth helps reduce the discomfort associated with sinus congestion. 6. Stay Hydrated Drinking plenty of fluids, especially water, is a universally recommended practice. Staying hydrated thins mucus, making it easier to drain, and can expedite your recovery. It’s essential to avoid caffeine and alcohol, as they can have dehydrating effects and worsen symptoms. Alcohol may also lead to increased sinus swelling, exacerbating the condition. 7. Elevate Your Head at Night Elevating your head while sleeping can prevent mucus from collecting in your sinuses, thus alleviating symptoms and promoting better sleep. Using an extra pillow or adjusting your mattress can help you achieve the optimal head elevation. This practice can also be preventative, reducing the risk of sinus infections. When to Seek Medical Attention If your symptoms persist for more than ten days without improvement, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional. Prolonged symptoms may indicate a bacterial infection, which could require antibiotics for resolution. Additionally, recurrent sinus infections, those that frequently reoccur, should prompt a visit to the doctor. Chronic sinusitis can significantly impact your quality of life, and medical intervention may be necessary. When consulting a healthcare professional for sinusitis, it’s essential to provide them with a comprehensive medical history, including any previous sinus infections and allergies. This information can help your healthcare provider tailor a more effective treatment plan. They may recommend a nasal endoscopy or imaging studies like CT scans to assess the severity of your sinusitis. Treatment options may include antibiotics for bacterial infections, corticosteroid nasal sprays to reduce inflammation, and decongestants or antihistamines for symptom relief. In severe or recurrent cases, surgery to remove nasal polyps or correct structural issues may be necessary. Your healthcare provider will guide you through the most suitable treatment plan based on your specific condition. In conclusion, sinus infections, while often viral in nature, can be managed effectively with these home remedies. Timely action and proper symptom management can help you find relief and potentially prevent recurring infections. However, always consult a healthcare provider if your symptoms persist or worsen to rule out a bacterial infection or chronic sinusitis. Seeking professional advice is crucial to ensure the appropriate treatment and prevent potential complications associated with untreated or recurrent sinus issues. Your health and well-being are paramount, and healthcare providers are there to assist you in managing your sinusitis effectively.

Oct 13

How Is a Yeast Infection Treated?

Yeast infections, caused by the overgrowth of Candida yeast, can manifest in various parts of the body, including the skin, mouth, throat, or vagina. The symptoms of yeast infections depend on their location and may include inflamed and itchy skin, white patches in the mouth, or thick white vaginal discharge. These infections can be effectively treated with antifungal medications, available as creams, suppositories, or oral tablets, either over-the-counter or by prescription. Before attempting to self-treat a yeast infection, it is essential to consult a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis. Whether it’s a vaginal yeast infection or another type, a healthcare provider can perform an examination and oversee the appropriate treatment. Treatment options vary depending on the type, area, and severity of the yeast infection. Vaginal Yeast Infections Vaginal yeast infections occur when natural yeast in the vagina overgrows, leading to an infection. The primary medications used to treat vaginal yeast infections belong to the azole drug class of antifungals, including: Lotrimin, Micatin, and Trosyd are available as over-the-counter vaginal creams or suppositories. These treatments come in one-, three-, or seven-day courses. Terazol 7 and Gynazole 1 are prescription alternatives typically used for more severe infections. Diflucan, an oral medication, is particularly effective for severe yeast infections or recurrent cases. However, it is not recommended during pregnancy due to potential harm to the developing fetus. Diflucan may also interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners. For some individuals, Diflucan can cause mild side effects like headaches, rashes, or upset stomach. For recurrent vaginal yeast infections, healthcare providers may suggest using boric acid suppositories, although this use is not currently approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Research has indicated that combining antifungal treatment with boric acid suppositories can be effective in treating recurrent yeast infections. Skin Yeast Infections Yeast infections on the skin often occur in areas with moisture and skin folds. These infections can also affect the groin, penis, or fingernails. Treatment involves keeping the infected skin clean and dry and applying a cream azole antifungal for approximately two weeks. Commonly used medicated creams include: In cases where the infection is close to a wetter area like the mouth, Nystop (nystatin), a different type of antifungal called polyenes, may be recommended. Severe skin infections might require oral tablets such as Diflucan or Sporanox (itraconazole). For individuals with uncircumcised penises experiencing recurrent yeast infections, healthcare providers may suggest hygiene practices, including daily cleansing under the foreskin. In some cases, foreskin tightness may contribute to the infections, requiring different treatment approaches. Oral Thrush Oral thrush results from yeast overgrowth in the mouth or throat, leading to white patches and a sore throat. Treatment typically involves the use of azoles or polyenes, including: Micatin and Nystop liquids are commonly used for thrush, applied to the mouth or throat four times daily for seven to 14 days. Nystop tablets may also be prescribed for oral yeast infections. In rare cases, severe oral thrush or non-responsive infections may necessitate oral Diflucan tablets. Yeast Diaper Rash Yeast diaper rashes, often characterized by scaly yellow or red patches in the diaper area and skin folds, should be managed by frequent diaper changes, maintaining dryness, and applying antifungal polyene or azole creams such as: Nystop, a prescription cream, is typically applied four times daily for two weeks. If there is no improvement within three days, healthcare providers may recommend switching to an azole antifungal. Over-the-counter options like Lotrimin and Micatin are applied twice daily for up to 10 days. In severe cases of yeast diaper rash, healthcare providers may suggest the use of a 1% hydrocortisone topical steroid ointment. Esophageal Candidiasis Individuals with compromised immune systems are susceptible to yeast infections in the esophagus. Treatment involves oral or intravenous (IV) medications such as: Diflucan tablets are the primary choice for treating esophageal yeast infections and are typically taken for 14 to 21 days. In cases where swallowing medication is uncomfortable, daily Diflucan IVs may be administered until oral medications are tolerable. Mycamine daily IVs for two weeks or once-daily Sporanox or twice-daily Vfend tablets for 14 to 21 days are alternative options. Invasive Candidiasis Invasive candidiasis, a rare but severe yeast infection affecting the bloodstream or internal organs, is treated with IV antifungal medications, including echinocandins (e.g., Cancidas and Mycamine), Diflucan (fluconazole), or Abelcet (amphotericin B). Diflucan is commonly the initial treatment choice, with blood yeast infections treated for about two weeks until symptoms and blood tests indicate the absence of Candida yeasts. Invasive candidiasis affecting bones, joints, heart, or the central nervous system requires longer treatment durations. Some Candida yeast strains have developed resistance to common treatments like Diflucan, leading to reduced effectiveness. In such cases, echinocandin IVs may be employed, as they can combat some azole-resistant yeasts while causing fewer side effects and drug interactions. Abelcet, an option for life-threatening fungal infections, is used with caution due to potential kidney damage and is not typically the first choice of treatment. Living With and Managing Yeast Infections Yeast infections, while uncomfortable, are typically not emergencies and can be effectively managed with appropriate treatment. Consulting a healthcare provider is crucial for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. In cases of recurrent yeast infections (four or more per year), underlying health conditions like diabetes or weakened immune systems may be contributing factors, and lifestyle changes or alternative treatments may be recommended. Maintaining good hygiene practices, such as changing out of sweaty clothes and avoiding hot baths, can help prevent vaginal yeast infections. For individuals prone to recurrent infections, healthcare providers may offer guidance on additional measures to reduce their occurrence. In summary, yeast infections, although common and often treatable with antifungal medications, require careful diagnosis and treatment tailored to the specific type and severity of the infection. Seeking medical guidance ensures effective management and, when necessary, prevents complications associated with severe yeast infections.

Sep 05

I Finally Had My Trichotillomania Under Control Before the Pandemic—But Now I’m Struggling in Quarantine

Recently, while working from home, I unexpectedly recalled a Zoom meeting. A wig, the first one I could reach from my bed, seemed the most natural, so I put it on before turning on my camera. It was short and dark brown. I sloppily threw on a stocking hat and combed my hair into place, figuring no one would notice anyhow. One of my employees asked me, “Kimi, did you cut your hair?” shortly after the call started. Shit. My typical workplace wig was a different color than I remembered and reached just halfway down my waist. “Uh, I actually got it cut a few weeks ago,” I explained. “Fair enough; I haven’t seen you in person for an entire month, after all,” the coworker said. I hadn’t yet worked up the nerve to inform my coworkers that I suffer from trichotillomania, a disorder that causes me to pull out my hair excessively and is conceptually similar to obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition (DSM-5) defines trichotillomania, also known as ‘trich’ by those who suffer from it, as an impulse control disorder characterized by compulsive, repetitive hair-pulling despite conscious efforts to stop, resulting in both objectively noticeable hair loss and perceived distress or impairment in daily functioning. Since I was a young adolescent, trich has been a part of my life. I have attempted counseling and medicine to treat it, but ultimately have learned to embrace it as part of who I am. But wow, this confinement is making me crazy. Before the pandemic—and after fourteen years of pulling my hair—I had finally come up with a game plan to get my trichotillomania under control, and it was working. I decided at the beginning of the year to make a concerted effort to lengthen my hair. My hair was at its shortest then, but I was able to use creative styling to cover most of my thinning areas. Eventually, I was able to reduce my hair-pulling practically to nil by covering my hair with a wig whenever I left the house (for work or otherwise). I had made excellent progress, but staying put brought up a totally different set of conditions than I had anticipated. No longer was I required to wear wigs for work, so I stopped using them to avoid damaging my hair. Three months of development were undone in a matter of days due to the stress of working from home and worried about my family’s safety or my friends’ who had lost their employment. You have to understand that trich causes hair-pulling to become an automatic habit. I used to spend hours on daily conference calls while socially isolating and working from home, aimlessly trying to shave off split ends and other “off” patches of hair (such as those that are thicker or coarser than the rest) with my fingers. After a long day, my hair would accumulate on the floor of my bedroom like tumbleweeds, and I’d have to sweep it up. I never went more than fifteen minutes without yanking. A few days into my confinement, I looked in the mirror and saw that one of the bald patches I’ve had for years had spread across my entire scalp. I felt like a failure and was devastated by my own failure. I’m not alone right now—the pandemic may be worsening hair-pulling and skin-picking disorders for many others. An increase in hair-pulling and skin-picking during the pandemic was primarily attributed to extreme fluctuations in sensory or emotional stimulation, according to Fred Penzel, PhD, a psychologist who serves on the scientific advisory board for the International OCD Foundation and the TLC Foundation for Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors. “I’ve always believed that this is a form of self-regulation; it’s a way of dealing with being overstimulated or under-stimulated,” Penzel said. Although it is too soon to say with data that body-focused repetitive behaviors (BFRBs) are on the rise primarily due to self-isolating, the TLC Foundation recognized an early need for services and quickly rolled out additional programming for support groups and webinars featuring several experts in BFRB research to address the growing number of people affected by this condition. Two of my friends, Rebecca and Jude (who asked that their last names not be used for privacy reasons), also suffer from trich, and they told me that they had an especially hard time avoiding hair-pulling when they were socially isolated. For Rebecca, “the pulling” became increasingly stressful. And Jude could relate: “At the beginning of lockdown, my scalp-pulling was off the charts.” During their time in quarantine, Rebecca and Jude shaved their heads in an extreme measure to combat their impulse to tear out their hair. “Even though I had done it before, the decision to shave my head was very difficult,” recalls Rebecca, who was unable to receive her usual shorter haircut since barber shops were closed. I wasn’t thrilled with it at first, but I’m beginning to like it again. It’s tough to live at a time with so many unknowns, so be kind to yourself, and do what you can to take charge of the things you can. While Rebecca has gone for a complete shave, Jude has opted for something closer to an undercut: “I made the decision to claim my hair,” she explains. “As soon as I did it, I felt completely at peace and wondered why I had waited so long.” Since my previous strategy to reduce hair-pulling wasn’t working in quarantine, I knew I had to come up with a new plan. It’s crucial to remember that there are various causes of hair pulling and that no two people will respond to the same treatments in the same way; therefore, while I knew that shaving my head would help me, I also knew that it would help Rebecca and Jude as well. Psychologist at MGH and TLC Foundation scientific advisory board member Nancy Keuthen, PhD, recommends first learning about the roots of one’s

Sep 05

What Is COVID-19 Anxiety?

Experiencing anxiety related to COVID-19 is a normal response to the various challenges and uncertainties brought about by the pandemic. The disruptions in daily life, social isolation, and concerns about the health and well-being of oneself and loved ones can trigger feelings of anxiety and stress. The COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on society since its onset in March 2020. The highly contagious nature of the SARS-CoV-2 virus has necessitated significant changes in how people interact, work, and travel. The widespread transmission of the virus has placed a strain on healthcare systems, leading to overwhelmed hospitals and increased anxiety in the population.1 The mental health implications of the pandemic are substantial. From March 2020 to January 2021, an estimated 76 million people were diagnosed with anxiety, representing a 25% increase compared to the period from 2010 to 2019 when 30 million people were diagnosed. These statistics highlight the significant impact of the pandemic on mental well-being and the prevalence of anxiety-related concerns. COVID-19 Anxiety Symptoms Anxiety is a prevalent mental health condition characterized by intense feelings of fear and apprehension in response to perceived threats. There are various types of anxiety disorders, including phobias, generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), panic disorder, and social anxiety disorder. Despite their distinct features, these disorders often share common symptoms and manifestations.3 Individuals with anxiety disorders commonly experience symptoms such as: Additionally, anxiety can lead to the avoidance of situations or activities that were once enjoyable or deemed as safe. These symptoms can significantly impact an individual’s daily functioning and overall quality of life.3 What Causes COVID-19 Anxiety? The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on mental health, leading to the development or exacerbation of anxiety symptoms in many individuals. Various factors related to the pandemic have contributed to heightened anxiety levels among the population. One prominent factor is the pervasive uncertainty surrounding the virus itself. During the early stages of the pandemic, there was limited knowledge about the novel coronavirus, including its transmission, treatment, and long-term effects. The uncertainty surrounding these aspects created a sense of fear and concern among individuals, leading to increased anxiety. Social isolation and disrupted daily routines have also played a significant role in anxiety development. The necessary measures to contain the spread of the virus, such as lockdowns and physical distancing, resulted in limited social interactions and disrupted regular activities. The prolonged periods of isolation and the loss of familiar routines have contributed to feelings of loneliness, distress, and heightened anxiety. Financial worries have been another significant stressor for many individuals during the pandemic. The economic impact of the crisis, including job losses, reduced income, and financial instability, has caused significant distress and anxiety for individuals and families. The uncertainty surrounding employment and financial security has added an additional layer of anxiety to the already challenging circumstances. Healthcare providers and frontline workers have faced immense stress and anxiety throughout the pandemic. Overwhelmed healthcare systems, increased workload, and the risk of exposure to the virus have taken a toll on the mental health of these individuals. The constant pressure and demands placed on healthcare professionals have contributed to heightened anxiety levels. While the availability of COVID-19 vaccines and improved treatment options may have alleviated some of the initial uncertainties and stress, new variants such as Delta and Omicron have introduced new concerns and anxieties. The ever-evolving nature of the virus and its potential impact on public health can contribute to ongoing anxiety among individuals. Risk Factors Certain factors can increase an individual’s vulnerability to developing anxiety in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Understanding these risk factors can help identify individuals who may require additional support and intervention. Some key risk factors include: How Is COVID-19 Anxiety Diagnosed? Healthcare providers play a crucial role in identifying and assessing anxiety disorders. During a screening or evaluation, they may employ various methods to gather information and determine the presence of anxiety. Here is a general outline of the process: Treatments for COVID-19 Anxiety Treating anxiety often involves an interdisciplinary approach. For example, a healthcare provider may advise a mix of psychotherapy, medication, support groups, or stress management techniques. Psychotherapy Psychotherapy, or talk therapy, is an effective treatment option for addressing anxiety related to COVID-19 and other concerns. Here are some common types of psychotherapy used to alleviate anxiety: Medication Medications can be a valuable tool in managing anxiety symptoms, although they do not provide a cure for anxiety. Here are some classes of medications commonly prescribed for anxiety: Support Groups Support groups can be a valuable resource for individuals with anxiety. Connecting with others who share similar experiences and concerns can provide a sense of belonging, validation, and support. Here are some key benefits of joining a support group: In addition to in-person support groups, many organizations offer virtual support groups, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Online support groups can provide a convenient and accessible way to connect with others, particularly for individuals who may have limited access to local support groups or prefer the anonymity of virtual interactions. The Anxiety & Depression Association of America (ADAA) is a reputable resource that offers a directory of support groups, both in-person and online. Exploring their directory or reaching out to mental health organizations in your area can help you find a support group that aligns with your needs and preferences. Stress Management Techniques Stress management techniques are valuable tools for reducing anxiety and promoting overall well-being. Here are some commonly recommended techniques that can help alleviate stress: How To Prevent COVID-19 Anxiety Taking proactive steps to prevent stress and fear related to COVID-19 can be empowering and help alleviate anxiety. Here are some precautions you can take: Assess Your Risk Assessing your risk of contracting COVID-19 can indeed empower you and help alleviate anxiety. Here are some steps you can take to determine your risk: Remember that assessing risk is about gaining a sense of control and making informed decisions rather than increasing anxiety. By actively engaging in this process,

Sep 05

What is Cerebellar Agenesis?

Causes and symptomsEpidemiologyCase reportDiagnosis and treatmentReferencesFurther reading Cerebellar agenesis is a condition in which the normal formation of the hindbrain is disrupted. Patients with this disorder have very few pieces of cerebellar tissue – frequently the remains of lower cerebellar peduncles, anterior vermal lobules, and flocculi. Cerebellar agenesis is a condition in which the normal formation of the hindbrain is disrupted. Image Credit: Peter Porrini/Shutterstock.com Both genetically mediated and disruptive causes can cause cerebellar agenesis (CA). Cerebellar agenesis can manifest itself in various ways, with symptoms ranging from mild to severe. Cerebellar agenesis affects not only physical abilities but also cognitive abilities, linguistic impairments, and affective issues. Causes and symptoms Cerebellar agenesis is caused by a variety of factors (heterogeneous). Cerebellar damage caused by bleeding, lack of or decreased blood flow (ischemia), or other conditions are acquired (prenatal/perinatal) causes. Cerebellar agenesis (CA) can be caused by both genetically mediated and disruptive causes. CA can be caused by a genetically mediated pathomechanism (e.g., mutations in the pancreatic transcription factor 1 gene, PTF1) or a disruption (e.g., intrauterine/neonatal damage with the disappearance of the developing cerebellum). Sener used the phrase “vanishing cerebellum” to describe cerebellar disruptive lesions in children with Chiari II malformation. Prenatal hindbrain herniation through the foramen magnum can induce parenchymal injury, resulting in the resolution of a portion of the cerebellum (usually asymmetric). The cerebellum vanishes totally in disruptive CA due to direct or indirect damage. Cerebellar agenesis can manifest itself in various ways, depending on the person. According to the medical literature, some people with cerebellar agenesis have only modest symptoms. It has been suggested that motor performance may be nearly normal in some cases, possibly due to partial compensation from other brain areas. Individuals with cerebellar agenesis whose mental capacities were undamaged and who did not exhibit any symptoms of cerebellar agenesis have also been reported (asymptomatic cases). Cerebellar agenesis most likely represents a spectrum of diseases ranging from severe disability to milder manifestations of the disorder. Earliness, localization, and degree of cerebellar agenesis appear to be linked to the severity and range of motor, cognitive, and psychiatric deficits. Patients with congenital anomalies have more severe and less specific impairments than those who develop cerebellar lesions later in life. Patients with phylogenetically more ancient structures involved (complete or partial cerebellar vermis agenesis) have a more severe clinical picture. This includes severe, pervasive impairments in social and communication skills (autism or autism-like behavior), behavior modulation (self-injury and aggressiveness), and a marked delay in language acquisition, especially in language comprehension. Related Stories When lesions are limited to phylogenetically more recent structures, such as the cerebellar hemispheres, the clinical picture is marked by minor cognitive impairment or borderline IQ, adequate social functioning, context adjustment abilities, and a better prognosis. Epidemiology Cerebellar agenesis is extremely uncommon, with only a few documented cases. CA appears to afflict both men and women in about equal percentages. The disorder’s exact frequency and prevalence in the general population are unknown. The occurrence of congenital solitary cerebellar agenesis is extremely unusual. Case report In 2020, Dennison et al. described a case of cerebellar agenesis recently encountered and diagnosed in Orlando, Florida, United States. At 37 weeks and two days, a 25-year-old mother gave birth to a 5 lb 11 oz, somewhat preterm child via C-section. Polyhydramniosis and a positive chlamydia test during early pregnancy affected the pregnancy, which later tested negative after therapy. The fetus was breech at birth, necessitating a cesarean section. The amniotic fluid was stained with meconium, and the umbilical cord was found to be short. The infant was microcephalic, hypertonic, and spastic at birth and was in significant respiratory distress with irregular breathing. At one and five minutes after birth, the APGAR scores were 5/10 and 7/10, respectively. The infant’s breathing problems persisted, necessitating an emergency transfer to the newborn intensive care unit (NICU), where they were put on continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP). The infant was hypertonic and had excessive deep tendon reflexes, according to a medical assessment performed in the NICU. All primitive reflexes were missing, including Moro, rooting, and sucking. A systolic cardiac murmur of grade I to II was also present in the baby. Bilaterally, coarse breath sounds were heard. The infant had twitching and spastic motions during their time in the NICU. The infant had echocardiography on day one of life, which revealed a massive, bidirectional patent ductus arteriosus. A patent foramen ovale with left-to-right shunting was also present. Because of the aberrant neurological test, a brain computed tomography was performed, which revealed that the cerebellum was almost completely absent, with only traces of the cerebellar hemispheres and vermis remaining. There was also partial corpus callosum agenesis and extensive cerebral and brain stem atrophy. Brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) verified these results, prompting additional neurological testing. During waking and sleep, continuous electroencephalography indicated significantly aberrant background activity with burst suppression and extended clusters of infantile spasms, consistent with early infantile epileptic encephalopathy (also known as Ohtahara syndrome). Topiramate was prescribed for the infant’s epileptic activity, considerably reducing symptoms. The infant had a tracheostomy and a gastrostomy tube before being discharged. The infant’s spasms persisted despite a visit to the neurology department, although they showed modest improvement following a course of high-dose steroids. To date, follow-up electroencephalography has revealed that epileptiform discharges have persisted. The infant’s spastic quadriplegia remained severe, necessitating a ventilator and g-tube. The infant experienced sudden cardiac arrest at six months of age and was brought to a hospital after multiple rounds of cardiopulmonary resuscitation and recovery of spontaneous circulation. The infant was eventually declared brain dead, and life support was turned off. Diagnosis and treatment Diagnosis is largely based on the neuroimaging findings of MRI. Regarding diagnosis, prognosis, and genetic counseling, it is also critical to distinguish cerebellar disturbances from cerebellar abnormalities. The treatment for cerebellar agenesis focuses on the specific symptoms that each person experiences. Collaboration with a group of professionals might be necessary for treatment. Pediatricians, neurologists, speech pathologists, and other

Sep 05

Wellness Destinations That Are Perfect for People With Anxiety

The stress of traveling is real. Many people are afraid of traveling, and dealing with large crowds and using public transit in a foreign country may be stressful. And don’t even get me started on the effects of dietary shifts on the digestive system! However, if you travel to beautiful places like Maui’s beaches, Kyoto’s woods, or the North Island of New Zealand’s rolling hills, you may return home feeling more relaxed and at peace. More and more hotels include yoga, meditation classes, and “forest bathing” as part of their “wellness” packages to help guests relax and recharge during their stay. We’ve compiled a list of our most anticipated travel locations and health and wellness initiatives for the next year. Cape Cod, Massachusetts Cape Cod is one of the top East Coast summer destinations due to its pristine beaches and delicious seafood. But this area is also stunning in the off-season, when you can take advantage of cheaper rates, fewer visitors, and less bridge traffic. From January 11 to 13, 2019, guests of the renowned Chatham Bars Inn may take advantage of a holistic Girlfriends Getaway Package that includes 15% off spa treatments, a variety of wellness activities (such as meditation, yoga, and nature walks), and cooking workshops with the resort’s culinary staff. Visit the Cape Cod National Seashore whenever you’re in the area. You will return after a peaceful stroll down the 40 miles of Outer Cape shoreline, past scenic cranberry bogs and stunning lighthouses, feeling rejuvenated. Baja California Peninsula, Mexico This peninsula in Northwestern Mexico is situated between the Pacific and the Gulf of Mexico, so there is no shortage of beautiful beaches to enjoy. And if you’re looking for a wellness-focused vacation in Baja California, go no further than the exclusive One&Only Palmilla on the Sea of Cortez in Los Cabos. Together with wellness-focused travel agency Wanderwell, the resort has planned six trips for the coming year. The New Year, New You trip is January 11-13; the Vino & Vinyasa trips are March 8-10, May 10-12, and September 27-29; the Mindful Wellness trips are June 7-9; and the Eatwell Discovery trips are November 1-3. Spa days, yoga classes, and courses on mindful healing will all be available during these getaways. Mallorca, Spain Mallorca (especially the area surrounding Palma, the island’s capital) is known for its lively nightlife and larger beach resorts, but the island also has much to offer those who are more interested in relaxation or healthy activities. For instance, the Ashram Mallorca is situated on an olive estate close to Porto Sóller. This year, the firm will host three separate health retreats in April, May, and June. Hiking 3,000-foot peaks, kayaking, doing TRX and Pilates, and winding down with a calming yoga class—these are just some of the outdoor activities that will be featured on the itineraries designed to help you declutter your mind. The retreat is set in a beautiful home with a saltwater pool and breathtaking views of olive, lemon, and orange trees, and the vegetarian food is delicious and nutritious (plenty of fresh juices and vegetables). Peace at last. Maui, Hawaii Maui is a paradise for wellness-seeking adventurers, with activities ranging from snorkeling with sea turtles to climbing through volcanic craters at Haleakala National Park to surfing at Ho’okipa Beach. If you’re looking to splurge, the Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort has you covered with complimentary activities including outrigger canoe rides, guided kayak excursions, stand-up paddleboard instruction, and beachside yoga sessions. While you’re there, treat yourself to a relaxing service from the extensive menu at the Awili Spa and Salon. You may create your own special oil mixture to be used in massages and other treatments by opting for the Apothecary Blending Experience, which costs $55. Queenstown, New Zealand Aro Hā is a beautiful retreat center overlooking Lake Wakatipu in Queenstown, New Zealand that emphasizes the mind-body connection. The resort’s much-lauded retreats feature mindfulness-based components at every turn. (The literal translation of Aro H is “in the presence of divine breath.”) Yoga, functional strength training, massage, culinary workshops, and spa treatments are just some of the options available at these retreats. The vegetarian food is geared at improving digestive health, and the building was constructed with sustainability in mind. Santa Fe, New Mexico Anyone who has ever been to Santa Fe knows that there is a certain enchantment to the “City Different.” Santa Fe has always been a popular destination for those in the creative industries. Visit the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum, which has over three thousand pieces by the artist, to be inspired. Bandelier National Monument has almost 70 miles of trails where you may get some fresh air and learn about the history of the Ancestral Pueblo people while learning about their cave houses and ruins. Visit the Santa Fe Farmers Market and stock up on healthy, locally grown vegetables from more than 150 vendors. Retreat to the mind and body rejuvenating Ojo Santa Fe Spa Resort. Relax in the gardens or outdoor baths, learn to cook or meditate, or participate in a yoga or meditation session. Kyoto, Japan If you’re up for a journey to the Land of the Rising Sun, Travel & Leisure’s 2017 destination of the year, Kyoto has several options for you to unwind. Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, one of the most photographed spots in Kyoto, is also one of the greatest places to practice forest bathing, an immersive kind of meditation in nature, which is thought to have originated in Kyoto. The fall foliage is stunning, especially at the many temples and shrines that are only accessible to the public during this time of year. Relieve tension with a bath in a hot spring by booking a stay at a ryokan, a Japanese-style inn. Barnard, Vermont Everyone agrees that we should avoid Vermont throughout the year. The Green Mountain State is a year-round haven for outdoor enthusiasts, as it offers rejuvenating hiking in the summer, stunning fall foliage, and excellent skiing in the winter. Barnard, Vermont,