Dr. Chris, Author at Healthhype

Understanding Heat Stroke: Causes, Symptoms, and Prevention

Dr. Chris — Thu, 20 Jul 2023 03:06:00 +0000

Heat stroke is a severe medical condition caused by prolonged exposure to high temperatures and excessive heat, leading to a dangerous rise in body temperature. This potentially life-threatening condition demands immediate attention and preventive measures. In this article, we will explore the causes, symptoms, and preventive strategies to protect ourselves and others from the debilitating effects of heat stroke. Section 1: Understanding Heat Stroke Heat stroke, also known as sunstroke, occurs when the body’s thermoregulatory mechanisms fail to maintain a safe internal temperature. Normally, our body sweats to cool down in hot environments. But when exposed to extreme heat for extended periods, excessive sweating may lead to dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and a disruption in the body’s cooling system. If not addressed promptly, it can cause organ failure and even death. Section 2: Common Causes of Heat Stroke High Temperatures: Exposure to prolonged high temperatures, especially during heatwaves or extreme weather conditions, increases the risk of heat stroke. Exertion in Heat: Engaging in strenuous physical activities in hot environments without adequate rest and hydration can overwhelm the body’s cooling mechanisms. Dehydration: Insufficient water intake can impair sweating and hinder the body’s ability to regulate temperature. Age and Health Factors: Infants, young [...]

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Common Health Problems in Older Adults (Chronic Diseases After 50)

Dr. Chris — Mon, 19 Oct 2020 23:24:11 +0000

Several chronic diseases may arise as you become older and this is not uncommon. Most people over the age of 60 will have a chronic disease, like hypertension (high blood pressure), diabetes mellitus and various other conditions. In fact it is estimated that in some nations this may be as high as 9 in 10 older adults have at least one chronic condition. Understanding what conditions may arise and what you can do to manage or even prevent it can impact your quality of life and even your lifespan. It is not uncommon for older adults to have two or more chronic conditions. As many as 8 in 10 adults over 60 may have two or more chronic diseases simultaneously, which is known as comorbidities. This further impacts upon quality of life and lifespan. With the link established between coronavirus deaths and comorbidities, older adults with chronic diseases are therefore at greater risk and more likely to die from COVID-19 infection. It is important that middle aged and older adults take greater responsibility for their health. Prevention is best but with early detection, rapid treatment and ongoing management, these chronic diseases can be less severe. 1. Hypertension (High Blood Pressure) [...]

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Cloth Face Masks for COVID-19 Effectiveness, Best Choice, Layers, Material

Dr. Chris — Sat, 26 Sep 2020 20:56:40 +0000

Face masks have undoubtedly become one of the most popular pieces of apparel in 2020. But it is more than a matter of fashion. Face masks help prevent the spread of COVID-19 (as well as other pathogens) and is first and foremost a protective barrier. Choosing the right face mask can seem daunting at times. Research may sometimes appear contradictory at face value and fake news claiming to prove the ineffectiveness or even dangers of face masks is rife. However, the scientific evidence thus far proving the effectiveness of face masks in curbing the spread of COVID-19 is overwhelming. Which face mask is the best? Most of us are now far more knowledgeable about face masks than we were pre-2020 and probably far more than we may ever have needed to be in our respective professions. Broadly there are 4 types of face masks: N95 masks Surgical masks, also known as medical masks Cloth masks Valve masks N95 masks offer the most amount of protection. Valve masks, not the N95 type, allow unfiltered air to be expelled into the environment and does not protect those around you. These masks should be avoided. Medical professionals have long understood the importance of [...]

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Metallic Taste in the Mouth – Causes and Warning Signs

Dr. Chris — Sun, 16 Aug 2020 23:38:35 +0000

It is not unusual to experience strange tastes in the mouth even without eating or drinking anything. These abnormal tastes typically last for a few seconds or minutes and resolve. However, there are cases where there is a persistent abnormal taste and this could be a symptom of some underlying disease. A metallic taste in the mouth may not be a cause for concern. However, if it persists or recurs frequently then it should be investigated. The taste buds are specialized receptors that are abundant on the tongue. These receptors are stimulated when they make contact with chemicals in food and beverages within the mouth. It sends signals back to the brain. The taste centers in the brain decipher the signal and this is how we experience the sense of taste. Olfaction, the sense of smell, also plays a role in the sense of taste. Is a metallic taste a warning sign? Yes. A metallic taste may be a warning sign of some underlying disease but should be considered along with other signs and symptoms. Possible causes of this abnormal taste sensation, which is medically known as dysgeusia, can vary. A metallic taste in the mouth on its own may [...]

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COVID-19 and Diabetes Link and Risks for Diabetics

Dr. Chris — Sun, 26 Jul 2020 20:00:52 +0000

As the global COVID-19 pandemic unfolds, the medical community is learning new facets about the disease on an almost daily basis. One of these issues is the association between COVID-19 and diabetes. It is now known that diabetics, particularly those with uncontrolled diabetes, are at a greater risk of severe COVID-19 infection which may also culminate in death. This does not mean that non-diabetics are not at risk of severe COVID-19 or death from COVID-19. Diabetes is a COVID-19 Risk Factor Risk factors for diseases usually indicates which people have a higher chance of getting a disease. There are such risk factors for COVID-19. For example, any person who is in close proximity to others (cannot socially distance), do not wear a mask and do not wash hands frequently is at a higher risk. These are modifiable risk factors meaning that it can be changed by staying at home, keeping 6 feet away from others when possible, wearing a mask that covers the mouth and nose, washing hands frequently with soap or using hand sanitizer. Health care workers, other first responders and supermarket workers are often higher risk individuals. There is another risk that needs to be considered with COVID-19. [...]

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Loss of Smell and Taste – Causes of Both Sensory Impairments

Dr. Chris — Mon, 06 Jul 2020 23:02:27 +0000

Disruptions in taste and smell has emerged as a Covid-19 symptom. However, these sensory impairments can occur for several reasons other than Covid-19. Sometimes these impairments are temporary and not serious, as may occur with the common cold or flu. At other times, the causes of loss of smell and taste can be long term or even permanent. This does not always mean that it is serious. For example, the sense of taste and smell diminishes with age. However, there are instances where the loss of taste and smell may be symptoms of serious and even life-threatening diseases. How do taste and smell work? Like all senses, taste and smell are possible through specialized receptors. The olfactory receptors in the nose is stimulated by airborne chemical that enter the nose. These receptors then send signals to the brain where it is perceived as odors. Similarly chemicals that dissolve in the saliva within the mouth stimulate the taste buds. These receptors send signals to the brain which is perceived as certain tastes. It is important to remember that smell and taste are linked. Chemicals that are released during chewing may not only stimulate the taste buds but also the smell receptors [...]

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Body Temperature – Normal and Abnormal (High or Low) Levels

Dr. Chris — Tue, 23 Jun 2020 23:37:52 +0000

The human body requires an internal temperature of 37°C (98°F) to function optimally. This temperature can vary slightly without compromising health and well being. However, when the internal body temperature rises too high or drops too low, then various processes within the body are affected. It can even lead to death in severe and prolonged cases. Changes in body temperature are also signs of various diseases which may assist with a final diagnosis. What is the internal body temperature? The internal body temperature reflects the amount of heat generated and retained within the body. It needs to be constant and usually does not fluctuate significantly beyond 37°C (98°F). This may not be the same as the surface temperature (skin temperature) which can vary significantly depending on a host of factors like environmental conditions. However, the skin plays a major role in helping maintain the internal temperature at 37°C (98°F). The human body constantly generates heat through its metabolic activities like breaking down glucose in cells to release energy. The internal body temperature (core temperature) has to be regulated to ensure that it does not drop too low or rise too high. This is achieved through several ways known as the [...]

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Acid Cough – Causes, Other Symptoms and Treatment

Dr. Chris — Sat, 13 Jun 2020 23:23:41 +0000

Gastroesophageal reflux, also commonly referred to as acid reflux, is the most common digestive complaint. Most of us associate it with heartburn. While heartburn is the most common symptom of acid reflux, it can sometimes not be present. Other reflux symptoms can then be mistaken for other conditions, especially rare reflux symptoms. One such symptom that is not often associated with acid reflux is coughing. What is an acid cough? An acid cough is any coughing caused by acid reflux, also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). The rising stomach acid and enzymes irritates the esophagus where it causes the typical burning chest sensation (heartburn). It is more likely to result in a cough when the acid reaches the throat or even the lower airways in rare instances. This type of cough is usually shallow and dry but a more severe and even a productive (“wet”) cough can arise when acid enters the airways and even reached the lungs. The cause of a cough on its own can be difficult to differentiate without other symptoms being present. A cough that arises with heartburn, especially when it is eased by antacids, is most likely an acid cough. However, it may not [...]

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Coronavirus Infection and Vitamin D Supplements

Dr. Chris — Mon, 18 May 2020 22:40:49 +0000

It is now among the more frequently asked questions relating to COVID-19. Some claim that vitamin D should be part of a supplement regimen to improve immune defenses and prevent COVID-19. Others claim that it reduces the severity of the disease and even aids with recovery. Vitamin D is not only important for bone health. It also has benefits for the cardiovascular system and immune function. It is the latter that may be the reason why vitamin D is being touted as an aid in the fight against COVID-19. Does Vitamin D fight the coronavirus? There has been ongoing discussions about the benefits of vitamin D for COVID-19. As with any infectious agent, the immune system plays an integral role in preventing infection as well as fighting the pathogen. It is no different with the current coronavirus (COVID-19). It is well known that immune health is not due to just a single nutrient. The immune system is complex and its health is a reflection of the overall health of an individual. Nutrition, exercise and other lifestyle factors can affect immune health. Vitamin D cannot destroy the coronavirus (COVID-19) in the way alcohol does on surfaces or the way certain antiviral [...]

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Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Frequently Asked Question (FAQs)

Dr. Chris — Fri, 20 Mar 2020 22:42:39 +0000

Why is it called COVID-19? COVID-19 stands for coronavirus disease 2019. It refers to the disease that arises with the specific type of coronavirus that emerged in late 2019. This virus, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), is also known as the novel coronavirus 2019. Although it is commonly referred to as the coronavirus, this does not differentiate the current COVID-19 from other diseases caused by the same family of viruses. COVID-19 is only one strain of coronavirus and there are many other strains. It is not a new virus family. Some coronaviruses have also caused other serious and deadly diseases like SARS (severe acute respiratory syndrome) which also causes a lung infection (pneumonia) and MERS (Middle East respiratory syndrome). SARS first emerged in 2002 and MERS in 2012. Is COVID-19 the same as a ‘bad flu’? While there are some similarities, COVID-19 is not the seasonal flu. It is also not just another ‘bad strain of the flu’ or a new type of swine flu (H1N1). Both influenza and coronavirus are viruses. Both can be easily spread through droplets and person-to-person contact. Both cause respiratory infections. However, COVID-19 is an entirely different virus from the flu virus. Symptoms [...]

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