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9 warning signs of eosinophilic esophagitis

9 warning signs of eosinophilic esophagitis

Eosinophilic esophagitis is a chronic immune system disease where white blood cells (eosinophils) build up in the lining of the tube that connects the mouth to the stomach. The buildup results from reactions to foods, allergens, or acid reflux and may inflame or injure the esophageal tissue. While the condition can be managed well in many cases, it must be diagnosed early. The following are nine common warning signs of eosinophilic esophagitis.

Dysphagia
When a person swallows food, it moves from the oral cavity to the upper airway and into the digestive tract. However, health conditions like eosinophilic esophagitis disrupt this process. Consequently, the patient may find it hard to swallow food or water, needing immediate expert attention.

Impaction
When food gets firmly stuck in the esophagus, it is called “food impaction.” This symptom may occur due to severe esophageal inflammation and progressive fibrosis. These complications narrow the esophageal lumen, causing food to get stuck. Patients may require immediate healthcare intervention if the food does not pass into the stomach.

Vomiting
Those who suffer from impaction due to eosinophilic esophagitis may also experience signs like vomiting. When food does not pass into the stomach, it might climb back into the mouth, resulting in vomiting. The backflow of food is also known as regurgitation. If one notices this symptom without underlying causes, they should consult a professional for evaluation.

Discomfort in the chest
Chest discomfort could be associated with complications in the heart, lungs, digestive system, and other organs. It can also occur due to chronic immune system diseases like eosinophilic esophagitis. More than half of the patients with this condition complain about spontaneously occurring chest pain. Some experience pain in their chest after indulging in an exercise routine.

Globus
Also known as globus pharyngeus or globus sensation, this is a symptom where one feels the presence of a lump in their throat. It might result from several factors, including increased muscle tension or irritation in the throat. Patients may experience tightness or pressure in their throat or feel like they have mucus that they cannot clear. Globus is one of the early warning signs of eosinophilic esophagitis.

Heartburn
Usually, GERD leads to heartburn and regurgitation, while eosinophilic esophagitis leads to episodes of dysphagia and food impaction. However, the symptoms of the two may often overlap, so one should consult with an expert for a proper diagnosis. Those who use treatments for eosinophilic esophagitis may notice side effects like a relaxed muscle of the lower esophageal sphincter. This side effect may, in turn, lead to GERD symptoms like acid reflux and heartburn. Healthcare experts are constantly researching to learn more about the link between eosinophilic esophagitis and heartburn.

Itchy throat
An itchy throat is a common indicator of allergies and infections. Most people experience this symptom frequently, which is easily curable with treatment and home remedies. However, an itchy throat may sometimes result from chronic immune system diseases like eosinophilic esophagitis. If one develops this sign without any underlying cause, they must be diagnosed by a healthcare professional. The expert may conduct serial esophageal biopsies and food allergy testing to determine if the root cause of the itchy throat is eosinophilic esophagitis.

Anxiety and depression
Eosinophilic esophagitis might also have symptoms linked to one’s mental health. For instance, some people with the disorder experience anxiety and depression. This usually happens when the symptoms are left untreated. Sadly, such mental health symptoms can worsen during flare-ups, lowering one’s quality of life. Therefore, one should pay close attention to the symptoms and control them after consultation with a trained professional.

Stomach pain
One of the most common warning signs of eosinophilic esophagitis is stomach pain. This disease is caused by allergies to certain foods or environmental allergens. When one eats something they are allergic to, it may trigger eosinophilic esophagitis symptoms, followed by pain in the stomach. Stomach pain is often mistaken as a symptom of something else, such as a reaction to stale foods. One might require allergy testing to determine what they are allergic to and develop a suitable treatment plan. The expert may also ask the patient to change their meal regime to manage their condition better in the long run.

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Understanding arthritis – A common joint condition

The joints are constantly working while we move our limbs, so, understandably, people may develop certain joint conditions that cause pain and compromise mobility, especially with age. One of the common joint conditions is arthritis, which leads to joint inflammation and mild to severe pain. While there are several types of arthritis, the two most common types are rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Stages Rheumatoid arthritis has four stages: Stage 1: At this stage, inflammation occurs inside the joints, and swelling, stiffness, and joint pain are the common symptoms. Stage 2: The inflammation of the joint lining, synovium, aggravates at this stage and results in cartilage damage. The affected joints’ range of motion is also compromised, causing pain and discomfort. Stage 3: At this stage, the severity of the joint condition increases, and it leads to bone damage. This results in more pain, loss of mobility, and weakness of muscles. The bones rubbing against each other can cause bone deformity as well. Stage 4: This is the final stage where the joints stop functioning completely. It leads to more pain, stiffness, and swelling, and the bones may even fuse, which is known as ankylosis. Osteoarthritis also has four stages of progression: Stage 1: Wear and tear may affect the knee joints, and minor spur growths on the affected bone can also be seen, but the condition does not cause too much pain at this stage. Stage 2: The bone spur growths increase and cause pain, and the knee joints become stiffer. Stage 3: This stage is characterized by joint inflammation leading to increased pain and stiffness. Walking can also cause popping sounds in the joints. Stage 4: The space between the bones in the joints becomes very narrow, causing the cartilage to wear down. Also, a chronic inflammatory response caused by the breakdown of cartilage aggravates discomfort and pain. Diagnosis of arthritis These joint conditions can be diagnosed using several tests. A physical examination reveals whether a patient has red, warm, and tender joints, and this test also helps examine the fluid around the joints. A rheumatologist can analyze the level of inflammation in the joints to determine the type of arthritis an individual is affected with. Also, blood tests are undertaken to check for antibodies like anti-CCP, rheumatoid factor, and antinuclear antibody. In addition, X-ray, CT scans, and MRI are also performed to check the condition of the cartilage and bones. Prevention of arthritis A family history of joint conditions like arthritis or aging can increase one’s risk of developing arthritis, but making certain lifestyle changes can also help lower the chances of developing the condition. To start with, one should include more foods with omega-3 fatty acids in their diet as these healthy fats are anti-inflammatory. One should also exercise regularly, keep their weight under check, reduce stress on their joints, and try to avoid injuries. Also, if one notices any symptoms of arthritis, they should consult a doctor immediately as early diagnosis goes a long way in managing the condition effectively through timely treatment.

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9 common symptoms of colorectal cancer

Colorectal cancer is an umbrella term for cancers affecting the colon and rectum. The colon (large intestine) and rectum are vital parts of the digestive system, where the body processes food and eliminates waste matter. Colorectal cancer is generally called colon cancer and is more commonly seen in older adults. While the condition can be managed well, it must be diagnosed early. Here's a closer look at colorectal cancer and its symptoms. What is colorectal cancer? When abnormal cells in the colon or rectum multiply and grow out of control, they can form a tumor. Over time, these cancer cells can also spread to other body parts if not treated, leading to complications. Colorectal cancer often begins as small growths called polyps on the inner lining of the colon or rectum. These polyps are not always cancerous and may not even trigger symptoms. However, if left untreated, the polyps may become a life-threatening tumor. Symptoms of colorectal cancer The following are a few symptoms of the condition that should not be ignored. Those who experience these should visit a healthcare professional for evaluation and guidance: Changes in bowel habits One of the most common early signs of colorectal cancer is a noticeable change in bowel habits. Individuals may experience persistent diarrhea, constipation, or alternating episodes of both. This change persists over a few weeks and is often accompanied by a feeling of incomplete excretion. Blood in the stool Another alarming sign is red or tarry stools that result from the presence of blood. This symptom may also arise due to other health conditions, but it should never be ignored. The expert may suggest relevant tests to determine the cause of blood in the stool. Change in stool consistency Colorectal cancer can lead to changes in the consistency of stools. One's stools may become narrower or thinner due to a partial blockage in the colon. This symptom can also occur due to a benign stomach infection or food sensitivity. Nevertheless, it should be taken seriously. Unexplained fatigue Persistent fatigue without lifestyle changes can be a symptom of colorectal cancer. Fatigue is a common indicator of many diseases. But when unexplained, persistent, and associated with other symptoms, it should be promptly evaluated by a healthcare professional. Abdominal discomfort Persistent abdominal discomfort, such as cramps, pain, or a feeling of fullness, especially in the lower abdomen, can be a symptom of colorectal cancer. The discomfort may be mild at first but can progress over time. Moreover, it may not heal with home remedies. Weakness and anemia Anemia, characterized by a decrease in red blood cells, can result from chronic bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract. This can lead to weakness, paleness, and shortness of breath. Unexplained bowel urges Frequent urges to have a bowel movement, even after one has just occurred, may indicate an issue in the colon or rectum. These bowel urges can interfere with one's performance in outdoor activities. Nausea and vomiting In some cases, colorectal cancer can cause nausea and vomiting, mainly if it obstructs the colon. Unexplained pain Pain in the abdomen or rectum that is persistent and unrelated to other known conditions should be evaluated by a healthcare provider. It is important to note that these symptoms may vary from person to person and can also be attributed to other less severe conditions. Nevertheless, anyone experiencing one or more of these signs should consult a healthcare professional promptly, especially if they persist for a long time. What causes colorectal cancer? Experts say colorectal cancer develops mainly due to gene mutations in one's colon or rectum. People with a family history of the condition are more likely to develop the disease. Certain lifestyle choices may also heighten one's risk; for example, eating excessive red and processed meat, unhealthy eating habits, or a lack of exercise. Furthermore, the risk is high in those suffering from stomach-related conditions like chronic ulcerative colitis, Crohn's colitis, Lynch syndrome, and familial adenomatous polyposis. How is the condition detected and treated? Individuals, especially those with a higher risk, should go for routine screenings even if they do not show any visible signs of colon cancer. This can help in the early detection of precancerous polyps that could turn cancerous. Screening or diagnostic tests for colorectal cancer include colonoscopy, CT scans, MRI scans, PET scans, biopsy, ultrasound, X-rays, and blood tests. If the cancer is detected, several treatments can help manage it. Some standard options include colectomy, surgery, chemotherapy, and targeted therapy.

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