Neurology Medicine

Archive for the ‘Neurology Medicine’ Category

A condition that many children, youth and adults have, and often not well diagnosed or understood.

Sometimes, not adequately disclose this condition for some people, are often discriminated against or misunderstood, not only by family members, but also in education and employment centers.
What is ADHD?

The attention deficit (AD), also known as attention deficit disorder (SDA) is a condition that causes alterations in attention span and concentration.

It manifests itself in children and adults , regardless of gender. Not related to cognitive abilities because most people with this condition have normal intelligence.

In some cases it is associated with hyperactivity and impulsive behaviors. However, it occurs in all cases. However, a person with LD have more often this type of behavior than other individuals of the same age.

The psychologist Arbieto Kenny Torres notes that “from the neurological point of view, it is assumed that attention deficit disorder is a brain function in children, adolescents and adults, characterized by the presence of persistent behavioral and cognitive symptoms such as attention deficit , hyperactivity and impulsivity. “

What are the symptoms of ADHD?

The American Psychiatric Association in its Diagnostic Manual of Mental and Behavioural Disorders (DSM-IV) in the edition of 1995 says that people with AD are characterized by:

Do not pay attention to the details, so that tasks can produce errors in school and / or work.
Have difficulty sustaining attention in tasks (work or school) and recreational activities.
Show absent and giving the impression of not listening when spoken to directly.
Have difficulty following directions and completing tasks and duties (both school and work).
Show difficulty organizing tasks and activities, both personally and in groups.
Avoid activities that require constant mental effort.
Losing important items or materials to perform assigned tasks or activities.
Constantly susceptible to being distracted by irrelevant environmental stimuli.
Show careless conduct daily activities.

Yawning, a sign of boredom, social inappropriateness gesture or just a touch with our primitive instincts.

The yawn is a gesture uncontrollable urges us to open your mouth as possible, while we do the contraction involving inhalation, in most cases a large number of muscles, not only face but also on the trunk, as the stretching of the arms, back or neck.

Although it may seem, is not only a human action, since most vertebrates include it in their behavior patterns.

But despite this always raises the question of why the yawn to try to give explanation to this fact, there have been several theories :

Yawning as a way to achieve an increase in blood oxygen

One theory suggests that this practice serves to make, given the existence of excess carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, the body generates the need for a deep breath to give more oxygen to the body portion.

But despite having his logic, this theory does not explain most of the yawns are given in a state of weariness, boredom or lack of sleep.
Yawning as a way to maintain alertness

The latest scientific research published in the journal “Evolutionary Psychology” and carried out by psychologists at the University of Albany in New York, suggests that yawning acts as a defense mechanism of our body to get us to stay alert to avoid the arrival of dream.

This would be achieved because yawning cools the blood vessels in the nasal cavity that send blood to the brain. This will keep the brain clear.
Other theories of yawning

In addition to the above exposed there are other hypotheses that have been shuffled to give a convincing explanation for this phenomenon, among them the idea that it is a gesture inherited from earlier times which allows us to show its teeth as a form of intimidation.

Other research argues that the act of yawning is a simple mechanism notice would indicate that we must change the activity or rest of the currently do.
Why is yawning contagious?

Apart from its role in our lives, there is another even greater mystery is the contagion of yawning gesture.

We’ve all had the feeling hopeless to imitate an animal person and even when yawning. To explain this behavior there are two theories:

The spread is due to safety reasons: if within a group of individuals begins to bite sleep, yawning will make you stay awake and alert to potential hazards that may exist.

The spread is based on survival instincts: if we see someone yawn, your brain interprets psychologically we are stealing the air and our bodies decide to imitate the behavior the largest collection possible if the existence of that need.

The truth is that despite the everyday gesture, science still has not managed to give a conclusive explanation and today it remains one of those mysteries that have not been able to resolve.

In fact, in some societies, is still considered an improper gesture and tend to hide it by hand or trying to keep the momentum going.

Testable only thing is that it is a common gesture that affects not only every individual of the human species but a large number of animals, besides being completely unavoidable, especially in situations of fatigue or boredom.

What to do to control stroke risk factors modifiable: hypertension, diabetes, sedentary lifestyle, obesity, arrhythmia, cholesterol and addictions.

Stroke is the second leading cause of death worldwide and can cause serious disability if not treated urgently and effectively. It is essential to be informed about those behaviors and modifiable risk physical conditions, to acquire better habits and make appropriate medical checks.

A stroke occurs when blood flow stops to part of the brain (ischemic) or when it causes bleeding inside the head (hemorrhagic). In both cases, as the brain does not receive enough oxygen and nutrients, brain cells weaken or die.

Serious consequences of a stroke

According to ” How to reduce stroke in Latin America? “, it is estimated that by 2024 deaths from ischemic heart disease and stroke will triple in the region.

On the other hand, the brain controls our movements, thoughts, feelings and behaviors, it is easy to imagine how a stroke can affect us. Of course, the long-term sequelae depend on several factors: first the skill and speed with which the patient meets the acute, but also will affect the severity of the stroke, the brain area affected and rehabilitation therapy .
What to do to prevent a stroke

Although there are factors beyond our control such as age, gender, heredity and personal history, there are others in which we can influence, these are: hypertension, atrial fibrillation, the addiction (to snuff, alcohol and cocaine), high cholesterol, diabetes, obesity and physical inactivity.

Monitor blood pressure regularly and maintain a low sodium diet. As hypertension usually has no symptoms, is a more dangerous condition that must be carefully monitored as it is the most common risk factor for stroke. According to the INECO Vascular Neurology Clinic , is present in almost 80% of patients who suffer a stroke in Argentina.
Learn to take your pulse to detect atrial fibrillation (AF) , cardiac arrhythmia that increases fivefold the risk of stroke. You should consult your doctor when you notice an irregular pulse, palpitations, chest pain, shortness of breath or dizziness. However, as in many instances this anomaly in heart rate without symptoms, it is always advisable to conduct an annual inspection visit to the health professional who, if deemed necessary indicate the performance of an electrocardiogram.
Get help to treat addictions. The tobacco , alcohol and illicit drug use and cocaine increase the risk of stroke. As addictions have psychological and physical components, it is very important to seek professional help to overcome and control.
Check your cholesterol with medical treatment, physical activity and proper nutrition that includes fiber and fruit. It is appropriate to leave the junk food that provides nutrients. The body requires a lot of cholesterol, but if the concentration of fats in the blood is too high is deposited in the arteries, increasing the risk of stroke.
Get moving. To leave behind a sedentary lifestyle will have to make regular physical activity at least 3 times a week for 30 minutes. Walking, swimming, biking and dancing are recommended exercises.
Control your blood sugar levels and a high amount accelerates the narrowing and hardening of the arteries. That’s why diabetics and others who have hyperglycemia are at increased risk for stroke. Unfortunately, it is estimated that at least half of people with diabetes are unaware, when the doctor may diagnose with a simple blood test. Then, to control diabetes is important to maintain a healthy diet and avoid foods high in sugars, fats and calories. It is also advised to reduce alcohol consumption, maintain weight and physical activity.
Watch your weight and measure your waist. Obesity is a key factor that enhances other factors. In addition to maintaining a healthy weight and physical activity, waist circumference is important: the woman should not be greater than 80 inches, while the man must not exceed 90.

Tips from the World Health Organization

The World Health Organization summarizes: “The daily intake of at least five servings of fruits and vegetables, reducing salt intake to less than a teaspoon a day and physical activity 30 minutes 3 ​​times a week, can help preventing heart attacks and strokes. “

There are many risk factors for stroke are modifiable, is in our hands to be aware of the risks and get into the adventure of changing habits.

Chronic pain is more frequent, more intense and longer lasting in women than in men, as reported by experts in pain. Women are also more likely to experience multiple painful conditions simultaneously, which can lead to increased mental stress and increased risk of disability, according to Jennifer Kelly, Center for Behavioral Medicine in Atlanta.

Chronic pain, pain that lasts six months or more without experiencing any improvement with medical treatment, is associated with many conditions such as fibromyalgia, irritable bowel syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis and migraines, which are more common in women than in men, Kelly said, regarding the report on pain in women of the International Association for the Study of Pain 2007-2008.

“Chronic pain affects a higher proportion of women than men worldwide. We need to encourage women to take a more active role in their treatment and reduce the stigma and shame of having this problem,” said Kelly a statement from the American Psychological Association. Kelly was scheduled to discuss this topic at the annual meeting of the APA on Thursday in San Diego.
Hormones may be a factor in these gender differences, he said. For example, it is known that estrogen plays a role in migraines and that rates of conditions that cause pain among girls increases as they pass through puberty. Among adolescent boys, rates of diseases that cause pain are stable or not increase as dramatically.
Some research suggests that women and men may respond differently to medications for pain. “Genetic and hormonal differences may be the reason for any difference, but it is increasingly clear that social and psychological factors are also important,” said Kelly.
“Women tend to focus on the emotional aspects of pain,” he said. “While men focus on the physical sensations they experience. The women who focus on the emotional aspects of pain as a result may experience more pain, possibly because the emotions associated with pain are negative.”
Among other things, Kelly encourages doctors to allow patients, especially women, take an active role in their treatment, to offer psychological support and relaxation techniques and feedback.

New research finds that people with fibromyalgia may find relief for this chronic pain condition through Tai Chi.

The researchers divided 66 patients with fibromyalgia into two groups, one that made two-hour sessions of Tai Chi twice a week for twelve weeks, and one that received welfare education twice a week followed by mild stretching. At the end of twelve weeks, the Tai Chi group noted improvements in their scores on questionnaires about physical and mental symptoms of fibromyalgia. This included less pain and more ability to perform daily activities without pain, less fatigue, depression and anxiety, and generally better quality of life. Patients also reported sleeping better and have better physical condition.
Improvements continued to be evident at 24 weeks, according to research, on which is reported in the August 19 edition of the New England Journal of Medicine. “It was unbelievable,” said Dr. Chenchen Wang, lead author of the study and associate professor of medicine in the department of rheumatology at Tufts Medical Center in Boston. “You could see every week how they change. They got more excited. I felt very, very excited to be with them.”
Fibromyalgia is characterized by widespread pain, fatigue, insomnia and multiple tender points.
The syndrome can also cause physiological problems such as anxiety, depression, and problems with concentration and memory, which is sometimes called “brain fog”.
Nearly ten million Americans have this disease and between 75 and 90 percent are women, according to estimates by the National Fibromyalgia Association. Often, doctors suggest exercise, sleep hygiene techniques and medications to treat the condition, but often with limited results, according to Gloria Yeh, assistant professor of medicine at the School of Medicine at Harvard, who wrote an accompanying editorial in the magazine.

Most patients, according to background information in the article, continue to have pain years after diagnosis, they have good aerobic fitness, have little strength and muscle flexibility, and need medication to control symptoms. Although larger studies are needed to confirm the findings, the Tai Chi Shows Promise as an alternative treatment, “said Yeh.

“This could represent an ideal exercise for those suffering from fibromyalgia. Because it is a gentle activity, low impact and non-threatening, could be a perfect exercise for debilitated patients with fibromyalgia who otherwise can not or do not want to try other types of exercise, “Yeh said. “Also, because the Tai Chi includes meditation, could also help deal with stress and anxiety that may be related to their condition.”

What makes Tai Chi work?
For now there is no definitive answer to that, according to Wang Tai Chi is an exercise for the mind and body as a martial art originated in China. It uses slow, gentle movements to strengthen and improve flexibility, as well as deep breathing and relaxation to move the qi or vital energy throughout the body.

Previous researchers have shown that exercise can improve mood, Wang said breathing and controlled movements could promote “peace of mind”, according to the study, which could help with the pain.

“The physical component of Tai Chi can improve aerobic capacity, muscular strength and function,” Wang said “Anyway, in my opinion the most important part is mental. It has many patients improve his depression and become good friends with each other. ” The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine National Institutes of Health, USA. UU. provided funding for research.

Women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) have an increased risk of developing depression, according to a meta-analysis. “The results highlight the importance of screening for mood disorders in all women with PCOS,” the authors say.

But the team of Dr. Anuja Dokras, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, admits that he has too much data to back this advice. “One longitudinal study addressed this issue. Therefore, there is a tacit recommendation, but the meta-analysis suggests that we should start to be screening all women with PCOS,” said Dokras this wording.

As published by Obstetrics & Gynecology, the researchers examined the records of abnormal depression through a systematic review and meta-analysis of 13 studies on 522 women with PCOS and 475 healthy women (control group).

The risk of getting a record abnormal depression was 4.03 times higher in women with PCOS than in control groups. In five studies that controlled for body mass index, the risk of getting an abnormal record remained significantly higher (4.09 times) in women with PCOS.

This persisted regardless of the screening tool used and country of origin of the results. Dokras said that further studies to investigate the effects of thinning on the records of depression in women with PCOS.

Why so clearly understood even remotely what we can see?
How can such complex interpretations of issues in a matter of seconds?
Why they are geniuses and not us?
BBC Focus magazine investigates.

Cortex
Normal: In the various regions of the brain of an average person establishes the same proportion (50:50) of long and short connections, with very slight variations from one individual to another.
Genius: The brain of a genius is deeply predisposed to having long or short connections.
Short connections indicate a special talent to a particular interest, while long connections suggest that there are skills in many areas of interest and there is the ability to see problems from new perspectives.

Frontal cortex
Normal: The frontal cortex, which is linked with abstract thoughts, is made of miniature columns.
Brain tissue are units that usually have between 80 and 120 neurons.
Genie: The brains of geniuses have a dense concentration of minicolumns that the brains of the rest of the population. It’s like they just assimilate more information.
These tiny columns are sometimes described as the microprocessors in the brain. It is the source that feeds the brain’s thinking process.

Dopamine receptors
Normal: The thalamus, which is the information relay center of the brain, acts as a filter.
The information or stimuli coming from the various sensory parts of the brain must pass through to the thalamus, which, once processed, are sent to the cortex.
Part of this process is partially regulated by dopamine receptors.
Genie: Scientific research shows that geniuses have fewer dopamine receptors in the thalamus. Dopamine inhibits neural signals override the information it deems worthless.
The scarcity of these receptors in geniuses would explain why spirits may consider unusual solutions to a problem that normal brains overlooked or ignored.

How likely a person with Parkinson’s disease may die than those without this disease? This recurring question gives an answer to an article published in Neurology. The retrospective study was conducted in Norway in 230 people with Parkinson’s disease followed for some years. The information was processed with multivariate analysis.

The study found that the risk of mortality increases by 1.89 times if any dementia, 1.45 in the presence of psychosis, of 1.18 times in severe motor impairments. These factors are potentially modifiable. As for the non-modifiable factors we have seen that the risk increases by 1.40 times in relation to age at onset (older you are, the greater), 1.51 in relation to chronological age, 1.63 times in males.

The hallucinations are more important than benign hallucinations, there are no correlations with antiparkinsonian drugs, or antipsychotics, or with individual motor symptoms, except with postural instability and gait disorders (increased risk of 1, 70).

The authors suggest that to increase life expectancy in Parkinson’s disease are vital to early prevention of disability and motor development of dementia and psychosis. Since no single factor has shown a very significant effect and Parkinson’s disease itself is not a deadly disease, confirming the notion that life expectancy in Parkinson’s disease is linked to overall health than the disease itself.

Chronic migraine is a difficult to treat primary headache that produces great impact on quality of life of patients. The international classification of headache changed the criteria for chronic migraine recently, so there are few studies that analyze groups with these new criteria. Objective. Analyze a group of patients with chronic migraine referred to a general neurology. Patients and methods. We selected the first 100 patients with migraine. Were established and analyzed subgroups of patients with episodic migraine, probable chronic migraine or chronic drug abuse according to the classification of headaches of the International Headache Society (IHS) and its revision in 2006. Results. Of the total of 738 new patients, 100 (13.5%) had migraine. Of the 100 new patients with migraine, 42 (5.6% of the total series) met the criteria for chronic migraine, and 15 patients with chronic migraine, the criteria for probable medication overuse headache. Before going to the neurology, only 41% had been diagnosed with migraine, 38% had not received information about this institution, only 17% took triptans as symptomatic treatment, and 23% had continued preventive treatment. Conclusions. We emphasize the importance of episodic and chronic migraine in a general neurology, using recent criteria of the IHS. Patients with chronic migraine sent to the neurology follow, a high percentage, without being diagnosed or reported, or treated properly, with a high degree of self-medication and frequent abuse of drugs. Triptan treatment in migraine prevention and heavy are still used little in primary care.

Review recent advances in procedures and techniques that have allowed us to study the anatomy and function of the central nervous system (CNS) in the fetus. Development. The neurological evaluation of the fetus can be done from the standpoint of clinical, anatomical or functional. Clinically, the assessment of fetal body movements, eye and breathing and heartbeat, can define four fetal behavioral states: 1F and 2F correspond to the states of quiet sleep and active. 3F and 4F states exist in a state of wakefulness in the newborn, but there is no scientific evidence that the fetus has the ability to stay awake. The behavioral states probably play an important role in the maturation and development of the CNS. The anatomical evaluation of the CNS to diagnose if it can be malformed ultrasound from week 7-8 of gestation, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) from week 18-20. Both techniques are also useful in the diagnosis of fetal neurological diseases acquired. Both methods are consistent in most cases, but in others each provides additional, different. Computed tomography should be used only in very specific cases involving bony structures. Functional evaluation of the fetus can be done with magnetic resonance spectroscopy, which analyzes the brain content of inositol, choline, creatine and N-acetylaspartate. Other techniques for the functional study of fetal brain are functional MRI, spectroscopy, near infrared light beam and magnetoencephalography. Conclusions. The fetal neurology is a discipline that will continue its rapid development in the immediate future. Technological advances will encourage more rapid and accurate diagnosis of anatomical and functional fetal CNS.