CIRCULATORY SYSTEM

ATHEROSCLEROSIS

The arteries carry blood from the heart. Damage to the cell lining causes atherosclerosis.

Atherosclerosis is the narrowing of arteries due to plaque buildup on the artery walls.
Arteries carry blood from the heart to the rest of the body. They are lined with a thin layer of
cells that keeps them smooth and allows blood to flow easily. This is called the endothelium.
Atherosclerosis starts when the endothelium becomes damaged, allowing the harmful type
of cholesterol to build up in the artery wall.
The body sends a type of white blood cell to clean up this cholesterol, but, sometimes, the cells
get stuck at the affected site.
Over time, plaque can build up, made of cholesterol, macrophages, calcium, and other substances
from the blood.
Sometimes, the plaque grows to a certain size and stops growing, causing the individual no
problems. However, sometimes, the plaque clogs up the artery, disrupting the flow of blood
 around the body. This makes blood clots more likely, which can result in life-threatening
conditions.
In some cases, the plaque eventually, breaks open. If this happens, platelets gather in the affected
area and can stick together, forming blood clots. This can block the artery, leading to life-
threatening complications, such as stroke and heart attack.
The condition can affect the entire artery tree, but mainly affects the larger, high-pressure
arteries.

SYMPTOMS
The first signs of atherosclerosis can begin to develop during adolescence, with streaks of white
blood cells appearing on the artery wall. Most often, there are no symptoms until a plaque
ruptures, or the blood flow is very restricted. This typically takes many years to occur.
The symptoms depend on which arteries are affected.

Carotid arteries
Carotid arteries provide blood to the brain. A limited blood supply can lead a stroke, and a
person may experience a range of symptoms as a result of atherosclerosis in this area, including:
 weakness
 difficulty breathing
 headache
 facial numbness
 paralysis

Coronary arteries
Coronary arteries provide blood to the heart. When the blood supply to the heart is limited, it can
cause angina and heart attack.
Symptoms include:
 vomiting
 extreme anxiety
 chest pain
 coughing
 feeling faint

Renal arteries
Renal arteries supply blood to the kidneys. If the blood supply becomes limited, there is a serious
risk of developing chronic kidney disease.
The person with renal artery blockage may experience:
 loss of appetite
 swelling of the hands and feet
 difficulty concentrating

TREATMENT
Treating atherosclerosis is important for preventing complications.
Treatment options include lifestyle changes, various medications, and surgical interventions.
However, it is important that a doctor correctly diagnoses atherosclerosis to make sure that the
arteries are returned to full capability.
Diagnosis
Those who are at risk of developing atherosclerosis should be tested because the symptoms do
not show until cardiovascular disease develops. A diagnosis will be based on medical history,
test results, and a physical exam.
Other tests include:
Blood tests
These measure how much sugar, fat, and protein there is in the blood. If there are high levels of
fat and sugar, it could indicate an increased risk of atherosclerosis.
Physical exam
The doctor will listen to the arteries using a stethoscope to see if there is an unusual "whooshing"
sound as a result of uneven blood flow. If this is heard, it can mean there is plaque obstructing
blood flow.
There may also be a very weak pulse below the area of the artery that has narrowed. Sometimes,
there is no detectable pulse.
An affected limb may have abnormally low blood pressure.
There may be a pulsating bulge behind the knee or in the abdomen, indicating the presence of
an aneurysm.
Where blood flow is restricted, wounds may also not heal properly. The doctor may check for
this type of wound.
Ultrasound: An ultrasound scanner can check blood pressure at distinct parts of the body.
Changes in pressure indicate where arteries may have an obstructed blood flow.
CT scan: This can be used to find arteries that are hardened and narrowed.
Those who are at risk of developing atherosclerosis will likely be told by their doctor to change
their lifestyle and maintain a healthy weight. In some cases, treatment may include medication or
surgery.

TREATMENT OPTIONS
The range of treatments for atherosclerosis include:

Lifestyle changes: These focus on weight management, physical activity, and a healthy diet. A
doctor may recommend eating foods high in soluble fiber and limiting intake of saturated fats,
sodium, and alcohol.

Medication: Antiplatelet medications can prevent the build up of plaque or help prevent blood
clots. Others, such as statins, might be prescribed to lower cholesterol, and angiotensin-
converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors can help lower blood pressure.

Surgery: Severe cases of atherosclerosis may be treated by surgical procedures, such as

angioplasty or coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG).

Angioplasty involves expanding the artery and opening the blockage so that the blood can flow
through properly again. CABG is another form of surgery that can improve blood flow to the
heart by using arteries from other parts of the body to bypass a narrowed coronary artery.

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/247837.php
DIGESTIVE SYSTEM

CONSTIPATION
Constipation is a condition of the digestive system where an individual has hard feces that are
difficult to expel. In most cases, this occurs because the colon has absorbed too much water from
the food that is in the colon.
The slower the food moves through the digestive tract, the more water the colon will absorb from
it. Consequently, the feces become dry and hard.
When this happens, emptying the bowels can become very painful.

A diet that contains a good quantity of fiber helps prevent constipation.

SYMPTOMS
The main symptoms of constipation are increased difficulty and straining when passing stools.
 Passing fewer stools than usual can be a sign of constipation.
Other symptoms include:
 stomach ache
 stomach cramps
 feeling bloated and nauseous
 losing appetite

TREATMENT
In the majority of cases, constipation resolves itself without any treatment or risk to health.
The treatment of recurring constipation can include lifestyle changes such as doing more
exercise, eating more fiber, and drinking more water.
Usually, laxatives will successfully treat most cases of constipation - but should be used with
care and only when necessary. In more difficult cases, the person may need a prescription
medication.
It is important to understand the cause of constipation - there could be an underlying illness or
condition. Some people with recurring constipation use a daily diary where they record their
bowel movements, stool characteristics, and other factors that may help both the doctor and
patient devise the best treatment.
Some gastroenterologists comment that there are people who do not allocate enough time for
their defecation. Set aside enough time to allow your toilet visit to be unstressed and
uninterrupted, and do not ignore an urge to have a bowel movement.

OTC laxatives
Only use these laxatives as a last resort:
 Stimulants: These make the muscles in the intestines contract rhythmically. These include
Correctol, Dulcolax, and Senokot.
 Lubricants: These help the stool move down the colon more easily. These include mineral oil
and Fleet.
 Stool softeners: These moisten the stool. Stool softeners include Colace and Surfak.
 Fiber supplements: These are perhaps the safest laxatives. They are also called bulk
laxatives. They include FiberCon, Metamucil, Konsyl, Serutan, and Citrucel and should be
 taken with plenty of water. If you want to buy bulk laxatives, then there is an excellent
selection online with thousands of customer reviews.
 Osmotics: These facilitate the movement of fluids through the colon. These include Cephulac,
Sorbitol, and Miralax.
 Saline laxatives: These draw water into the colon and include milk of magnesia.
 Chloride channel activators: These require a prescription and include lubiprostone
(Amitiza).
 5-HT-4 agonists: They increase the secretion of fluid in the intestines and speed up the rate at
which food passes through the colon. They include Prucalopride.
If the constipation does not respond to any treatment, as a last resort, surgery to remove part of
the colon may be undertaken. In the procedure, the segment of the anal sphincter or rectum that
causes the constipation is removed.

Natural remedies
There are a few ways to ease the symptoms of constipation without using medication.
These include:
 Increasing fiber intake: People with constipation should eat between 18 and 30 grams (g) of
fiber every day. Fresh fruits and vegetables and fortified cereals have high fiber content.
 Drinking water: Consuming lots of water can help to rehydrate the body.
 Bulking agents: Adding these to your diet can help soften stools and make them easier to
pass. Examples of bulking agents include wheat bran.
 Regular exercise: This can help to make bodily processes more regular, including the passing
of stools.
 Routine: Having a place and time of day where you can put aside time to visit the bathroom
without forcing a stool.
 Avoiding holding in stools: Responding to your body's natural urges to pass stools when they
happen is key to reducing the impact of constipation.
 Elevate your feet: Place your feet short platform, such as a step, and make sure the knees are
above hip-level while passing stools. This can reduce constipation.
 Homeopathic remedies: While their effectiveness is disputed, some studies have suggested
that treatments for constipation offered by homeopathic doctors can be successful. These
include calcarea carbonica, nux vomica, silica, bryonia, and lycopodium.
Speak with your doctor about the best course of action if symptoms are not responding to natural
or home remedies.

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/150322.php
 ENDOCRINE SYSTEM

HORMONAL IMBALANCES
Hormonal imbalances occur when there is too much or too little of a hormone in the
bloodstream. Because of their essential role in the body, even small hormonal imbalances can
cause side effects throughout the body.

Hormones are chemicals that are produced by glands in the endocrine system. Hormones travel
through the bloodstream to the tissues and organs, delivering messages that tell the organs what
to do and when to do it.

Hormones are important for regulating most major bodily processes, so a hormonal imbalance
can affect a wide range of bodily functions. Hormones help to regulate:
 metabolism and appetite
 heart rate
 sleep cycles
 reproductive cycles and sexual function
 general growth and development
 mood and stress levels
 body temperature

Men and women alike can be affected by imbalances in insulin, steroids, growth hormones, and
adrenaline.

Women may also experience imbalances in estrogen and progesterone levels, while men are
more likely to experience imbalances in testosterone levels.
 Everyone experiences periods of hormonal imbalance at certain points in their life, but these can
also occur when the endocrine glands are not functioning properly.

SYMPTOMS
The symptoms of a hormonal imbalance depend on which glands and hormones are affected.
Symptoms associated with the more common causes of hormonal imbalances include:
 unexplained weight gain or weight loss
 unexplained or excessive sweating
 difficulty sleeping
 changes in sensitivity to cold and heat
 very dry skin or skin rashes
 changes in blood pressure
 changes in heart rate
 brittle or weak bones
 changes in blood sugar concentration
 irritability and anxiety
 unexplained and long-term fatigue
 increased thirst
 depression
 headaches
 needing to go to the bathroom more or less than usual
 bloating
 changes in appetite
 reduced sex drive
 thinning, brittle hair
 infertility
 puffy face
 blurred vision
 a bulge in the neck
 breast tenderness
 deepening of the voice in females

TREATMENT
Treatment for hormonal imbalances may vary depending on the cause. Every person may require
different types of treatment for hormonal imbalances.
Treatment options for women with hormone imbalances include:
 Hormone control or birth control. For those who are not trying to get pregnant, medications
containing forms of estrogen and progesterone can help regulate irregular menstrual cycles
and symptoms. People can take birth control medications as a pill, ring, patch, shot, or an
intrauterine device (IUD).
 Vaginal estrogen. People experiencing vaginal dryness associated with changes in estrogen
levels can apply creams containing estrogen directly to vaginal tissues to reduce symptoms.
They can also use estrogen tablets and rings to reduce vaginal dryness.
 Hormone replacement medications. Medications are available to temporarily reduce severe
symptoms associated with menopause, such as hot flashes or night sweats.
 Eflornithine (Vaniqa). This prescription cream may slow excessive facial hair growth in
women.
 Anti-androgen medications. Medications that block the predominately male-sex hormone
androgen can help limit severe acne and excessive hair growth or loss.
 Clomiphene (Clomid) and letrozole (Femara). These medications help
stimulate ovulation in people with PCOS who are trying to become pregnant. Those with
PCOS and infertility may also be given injections of gonadotropins to help increase the
chances of pregnancy.
 Assisted reproductive technology. In vitro fertilization (IVF) may be used to help those with
PCOS complications get pregnant.
Treatment options for anyone with hormonal imbalances include:
 Metformin. A medication for type 2 diabetes, metformin can help manage or lower blood
sugar levels.
 Levothyroxine. Medications containing levothyroxine, such as Synthroid and Levothroid, can
help improve symptoms of hypothyroidism.
Treatment options for men with hormonal imbalances include:
 Testosterone medications. Gels and patches containing testosterone can help reduce
symptoms of hypogonadism and other conditions that cause low levels of testosterone, such as
delayed or stunted puberty.

Natural remedies
People have used natural supplements to treat hormonal imbalances for thousands of years.
However, there are no natural remedies that have been consistently proven in clinical studies to
treat hormonal imbalances and their causes, aside from lifestyle changes.
Natural supplements commonly used for the reduction of symptoms associated with hormonal
imbalances include:
 black cohosh, dong quai, red clover, and evening primrose oil for hot flashes caused by
menopause
 ginseng for irritability, anxiousness, and sleep disturbances caused by menopause
 ginseng, and maca for ED
Lifestyle changes that may help reduce the likelihood and symptoms of hormonal imbalances
include:
 maintaining a healthy body weight
 eating a nutritious and balanced diet
 exercising regularly
 practicing good personal hygiene, focusing on washing areas with a lot of natural oils, such as
the face, neck, back, and chest
 using over-the-counter acne washes, rinses, and medicated creams or gels for minor to
moderate acne
 avoiding triggers that cause hot flashes, such as warm weather and spicy, rich, or hot foods
and drinks
 reducing and managing stress
 practicing yoga, meditation, or guided visualization
 limiting sugary foods and refined carbohydrates
 avoiding packaged foods
 replacing older non-stick pans with ceramic pans
 using glass containers to store and heat foods and drinks
 restricting the use of cleaning products that contain toxic chemicals, such as bleach
 buying fruits and vegetables that have not been sprayed with pesticides or ripening chemicals
 not microwaving foods and drinks in plastics

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/321486.php
 NERVOUS SYSTEM

ALZHEIMER'S DISEASE
Alzheimer's disease is a neurological disorder in which the death of brain cells causes memory
loss and cognitive decline.
It is the most common type of dementia, accounting for 60 to 80 percent of cases of dementia in
the United States.
In 2013, 6.8 million people in the U.S. had been diagnosed with dementia. Of these, 5 million
had a diagnosis of Alzheimer's. By 2050, the numbers are expected to double.
Alzheimer's is a neurodegenerative disease. At first, symptoms are mild, but they become more
severe over time.
Fast facts on Alzheimer's disease
 Alzheimer's disease is the most common type of dementia.
 It happens when plaques containing beta amyloid form in the brain.
 As symptoms worsen, it becomes harder for people to remember recent events, to reason,
and to recognize people they know.
 Eventually, a person with Alzheimer's is likely to need full-time assistance.

A person with Alzheimer's will eventually need full-time assistance.

 SYMPTOMS
To receive a diagnosis of Alzheimer's, the person must have experienced a decline in cognitive
or behavioral function and performance compared with how they were previously. This decline
must interfere with their ability to function at work or in usual activities.
The cognitive decline must be seen in at least two of the five symptom areas listed below:
1. Reduced ability to take in and remember new information, which can lead, for example, to:
 repetitive questions or conversations
 misplacing personal belongings
 forgetting events or appointments
 getting lost on a familiar route
2. Impairments to reasoning, complex tasking, and exercising judgment, for example:
 poor understanding of safety risks
 inability to manage finances
 poor decision-making ability
 inability to plan complex or sequential activities
3. Impaired visuospatial abilities that are not, for example, due to eye sight problems. These
could be:
 inability to recognize faces or common objects or to find objects in direct view
 inability to use simple tools, for example, to orient clothing to the body
4. Impaired speaking, reading and writing, for example:
 difficulty thinking of common words while speaking, hesitations
 speech, spelling, and writing errors
5. Changes in personality and behavior, for example:
 out-of-character mood changes, including agitation, apathy, social withdrawal or a lack of
interest, motivation, or initiative
 loss of empathy
 compulsive, obsessive, or socially unacceptable behavior
If the number and severity of symptoms confirm dementia, the following factors can then
confirm Alzheimer's.
 a gradual onset, over months to years, rather than hours or days
 a marked worsening of the individual's normal level of cognition in particular areas
 If symptoms begin or worsen over the course of hours or days, you should seek immediate
medical attention, as this could indicate an acute illness.

TREATMENT
There is no known cure for Alzheimer's. The death of brain cells cannot be reversed.
However, there are therapeutic interventions that can make it easier for people to live with the
disease.
According to the Alzheimer's Association, the following are important elements of dementia
care:
 effective management of any conditions occurring alongside the Alzheimer's
 activities and day-care programs
 involvement of support groups and services
Drug therapy
No disease-modifying drugs are available for Alzheimer's disease, but some options may reduce
the symptoms and help improve quality of life.
Cholinesterase inhibitors that are approved for symptomatic relief in the U.S. include:
 Donepezil (Aricept)
 Rivastigmine (Exelon)
 Tacrine (Cognex)
A different kind of drug, memantine (Namenda), an NMDA receptor antagonist, may also be
used, alone or in combination with a cholinesterase inhibitor.
Other therapy
The need for quality-of-life care becomes more important as the person becomes less able to live
independently.

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/159442.php
RESPIRATORY SYSTEM

CHRONIC OBSTRUCTIVE PULMONARY DISEASE (COPD)

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) refers to two long-term lung diseases -- chronic
bronchitis and emphysema -- that often occur together. COPD makes it hard for you to breathe.
Tubes called airways carry air into and out of your lungs. If you have COPD, these airways may
become partly blocked from swelling or mucus. This makes it hard to breathe.
At the end of the airways are many tiny air sacs. They’re like little balloons that inflate and
deflate when you breathe in and out. With COPD, these sacs become less flexible. This can
cause small airways to cave in. It can also make it harder for you to breathe.
SYMPTOMS
 A cough that doesn't go away
 Coughing up lots of mucus
 Shortness of breath, especially when you’re physically active
 Wheezing
 Tightness in the chest

TREATMENTS
 Bronchodilators . You inhale these medicines, and they help to open up your airways.
 Corticosteroids . These drugs reduce airway inflammation.
 Antibiotics . Your doctor might prescribe these to fight bacterial infections.
 Daliresp . This drug stops an enzyme called PDE4. It prevents flare-ups in people whose
COPD is linked to chronic bronchitis.
 Flu or pneumonia vaccines . These vaccines lower your risk for these illnesses.
 Pulmonary rehabilitation . This program includes exercise, disease management, and
counseling to help you stay as healthy and active as possible.
 Oxygen therapy. You may need this to reduce shortness of breath, protect your organs,
and enhance your quality of life.

https://www.webmd.com/lung/copd/10-faqs-about-living-with-copd#1
URINARY SYSTEM

URINARY TRACT INFECTION (UTI)

A urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection in any part of your urinary system — your kidneys,
ureters, bladder and urethra. Most infections involve the lower urinary tract — the bladder and
the urethra.
Women are at greater risk of developing a UTI than are men. Infection limited to your bladder
can be painful and annoying. However, serious consequences can occur if a UTI spreads to your
kidneys.
Doctors typically treat urinary tract infections with antibiotics. But you can take steps to reduce
your chances of getting a UTI in the first place.

SYMPTOMS
Urinary tract infections don't always cause signs and symptoms, but when they do they may
include:
 A strong, persistent urge to urinate
 A burning sensation when urinating
 Passing frequent, small amounts of urine
  Urine that appears cloudy
 Urine that appears red, bright pink or cola-colored — a sign of blood in the urine
 Strong-smelling urine
 Pelvic pain, in women — especially in the center of the pelvis and around the area of the
pubic bone
UTIs may be overlooked or mistaken for other conditions in older adults.

PREVENTION/TREATMENT
You can take these steps to reduce your risk of urinary tract infections:
 Drink plenty of liquids, especially water. Drinking water helps dilute your urine and
ensures that you'll urinate more frequently — allowing bacteria to be flushed from your
urinary tract before an infection can begin.
 Drink cranberry juice. Although studies are not conclusive that cranberry juice prevents
UTIs, it is likely not harmful.
 Wipe from front to back. Doing so after urinating and after a bowel movement helps
prevent bacteria in the anal region from spreading to the vagina and urethra.
 Empty your bladder soon after intercourse. Also, drink a full glass of water to help
flush bacteria.
 Avoid potentially irritating feminine products. Using deodorant sprays or other
feminine products, such as douches and powders, in the genital area can irritate the
urethra.
 Change your birth control method. Diaphragms, or unlubricated or spermicide-treated
condoms, can all contribute to bacterial growth.

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/urinary-tract-infection/symptoms-causes/syc-
20353447
MUSCULAR SYSTEM

MUSCULAR DYSTROPHY
Muscular dystrophy is a group of over 30 conditions that lead to muscle weakness and
degeneration. As the condition progresses, it becomes harder to move. In some cases, it can
affect breathing and heart function, leading to life-threatening complications.
Depending on the type and severity, the effects can be mild, progressing slowly over a normal
lifespan, there may be moderate disability, or it can be fatal.
There is currently no way to prevent or reverse muscular dystrophy, but different kinds of
therapy and drug treatment can improve a person's quality of life and delay the progression of
symptoms.

Muscular dystrophy causes the gradual weakening of skeletal muscle.

 SYMPTOMS
Below are the symptoms of Duchenne muscular dystrophy, the most common form of the
disease.
The symptoms of Becker muscular dystrophy are similar but tend start in the mid-twenties or
later, are milder, and progress more slowly.
Early symptoms include:
 a waddling gait
 pain and stiffness in the muscles
 difficulty with running and jumping
 walking on toes
 difficulty sitting up or standing
 learning disabilities, such as developing speech later than usual
 frequent falls
As time goes on, the following become more likely:
 inability to walk
 a shortening of muscles and tendons, further limiting movement
 breathing problems can become so severe that assisted breathing is necessary
 curvature of the spine can be caused if muscles are not strong enough to support its structure
 the muscles of the heart can be weakened, leading to cardiac problems
 difficulty swallowing, with a risk of aspiration pneumonia. A feeding tube is sometimes
necessary.

TREATMENT
Currently, there is no cure for muscular dystrophy. Medications and various therapies help slow
the progression of the disease and keep the patient mobile for the longest possible time.
DRUGS
The two most commonly prescribed drugs for muscular dystrophy are:
 Corticosteroids: This type of medication can help increase muscle strength and slow
progression, but long-term use can weaken bones and increase weight gain.
 Heart medications: If the condition impacts the heart, beta blockers and angiotensin-
converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors may help.
 PHYSICAL THERAPY
 General exercises: A range of motion and stretching exercises can help combat the inevitable
inward movement of the limbs as muscles and tendons shorten. Limbs tend to become fixed in
position, and these types of activities can help keep them mobile for longer. Standard low-
impact aerobic exercises such as walking and swimming can also help slow the disease's
progression.
 Breathing assistance: As the muscles used for breathing become weaker, it may be necessary
to use devices to help improve oxygen delivery through the night. In the most severe cases, a
patient may need to use a ventilator to breathe on their behalf.
 Mobility aids: Canes, wheelchairs, and walkers can help the person stay mobile.
 Braces: These keep muscles and tendons stretched and help slow their shortening. They also
give added support to the user when moving.

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/187618.php
REPRODUCTIVE SYSTEM

PROSTATE CANCER
Prostate cancer is cancer that occurs in the prostate — a small walnut-shaped gland in men that
produces the seminal fluid that nourishes and transports sperm.
Prostate cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in men. Usually prostate cancer
grows slowly and is initially confined to the prostate gland, where it may not cause serious harm.
However, while some types of prostate cancer grow slowly and may need minimal or even no
treatment, other types are aggressive and can spread quickly.
Prostate cancer that's detected early — when it's still confined to the prostate gland — has a
better chance of successful treatment.
SYMPTOMS
Prostate cancer may cause no signs or symptoms in its early stages.
Prostate cancer that's more advanced may cause signs and symptoms such as:
 Trouble urinating
 Decreased force in the stream of urine
 Blood in semen
 Discomfort in the pelvic area
 Bone pain

PREVENTION/TREATMENT
You can reduce your risk of prostate cancer if you:
 Choose a healthy diet full of fruits and vegetables. Avoid high-fat foods and instead
focus on choosing a variety of fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Fruits and vegetables
contain many vitamins and nutrients that can contribute to your health.
Whether you can prevent prostate cancer through diet has yet to be conclusively proved.
But eating a healthy diet with a variety of fruits and vegetables can improve your overall
health.
 Choose healthy foods over supplements. No studies have shown that supplements play
a role in reducing your risk of prostate cancer. Instead, choose foods that are rich in
vitamins and minerals so that you can maintain healthy levels of vitamins in your body.
 Exercise most days of the week. Exercise improves your overall health, helps you
maintain your weight and improves your mood. There is some evidence that men who
don't exercise have higher PSA levels, while men who exercise may have a lower risk of
prostate cancer.
Try to exercise most days of the week. If you're new to exercise, start slow and work your
way up to more exercise time each day.
 Maintain a healthy weight. If your current weight is healthy, work to maintain it by
exercising most days of the week. If you need to lose weight, add more exercise and
reduce the number of calories you eat each day. Ask your doctor for help creating a plan
for healthy weight loss.
  Talk to your doctor about increased risk of prostate cancer. Men with a high risk of
prostate cancer may consider medications or other treatments to reduce their risk. Some
studies suggest that taking 5-alpha reductase inhibitors, including finasteride (Propecia,
Proscar) and dutasteride (Avodart), may reduce the overall risk of developing prostate
cancer. These drugs are used to control prostate gland enlargement and hair loss in men.
However, some evidence indicates that men taking these medications may have an
increased risk of getting a more serious form of prostate cancer (high-grade prostate
cancer). If you're concerned about your risk of developing prostate cancer, talk with your
doctor.

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/prostate-cancer/symptoms-causes/syc-20353087
SKELETAL SYSTEM

RICKETS
Rickets is the softening and weakening of bones in children, usually because of an extreme and
prolonged vitamin D deficiency. Rare inherited problems also can cause rickets.
Vitamin D helps your child's body absorb calcium and phosphorus from food. Not enough
vitamin D makes it difficult to maintain proper calcium and phosphorus levels in bones, which
can cause rickets.
Adding vitamin D or calcium to the diet generally corrects the bone problems associated with
rickets. When rickets is due to another underlying medical problem, your child may need
additional medications or other treatment. Some skeletal deformities caused by rickets may
require corrective surgery.
Rare inherited disorders related to low levels of phosphorus, the other mineral component in
bone, may require other medications.
SYMPTOMS
Signs and symptoms of rickets can include:
 Delayed growth
 Delayed motor skills
 Pain in the spine, pelvis and legs
 Muscle weakness
Because rickets softens the areas of growing tissue at the ends of a child's bones (growth plates),
it can cause skeletal deformities such as:
 Bowed legs or knock knees
 Thickened wrists and ankles
 Breastbone projection

PREVENTION/TREATMENT
Exposure to sunlight provides the best source of vitamin D. During most seasons, 10 to 15
minutes of exposure to the sun near midday is enough. However, if you're dark-skinned, if it's
winter or if you live in northern latitudes, you might not be able to get enough vitamin D from
sun exposure.
In addition, because of skin cancer concerns, infants and young children, especially, are warned
to avoid direct sun or to always wear sunscreen and protective clothing.
To prevent rickets, make sure your child eats foods that contain vitamin D naturally — fatty fish
such as salmon and tuna, fish oil and egg yolks — or that have been fortified with vitamin D,
such as:
 Infant formula
 Cereal
 Bread
 Milk, but not foods made from milk, such as some yogurts and cheese
 Orange juice
Check labels to determine the vitamin D content of fortified foods.
If you're pregnant, ask your doctor about taking vitamin D supplements.
Guidelines recommend that all infants should receive 400 IU a day of vitamin D. Because human
milk contains only a small amount of vitamin D, infants who are exclusively breast-fed should
receive supplemental vitamin D daily. Some bottle-fed infants may also need vitamin D
supplements if they aren't receiving enough from their formula.

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/rickets/symptoms-causes/syc-20351943
INTEGUMENTARY SYSTEM

CHICKENPOX
Chickenpox is an infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus. It causes an itchy rash with
small, fluid-filled blisters. Chickenpox is highly contagious to people who haven't had the
disease or been vaccinated against it. Today, a vaccine is available that protects children against
chickenpox. Routine vaccination is recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention (CDC).
The chickenpox vaccine is a safe, effective way to prevent chickenpox and its possible
complications.
SYMPTOMS
The itchy blister rash caused by chickenpox infection appears 10 to 21 days after exposure to the
virus and usually lasts about five to 10 days. Other signs and symptoms, which may appear one
to two days before the rash, include:
 Fever
 Loss of appetite
 Headache
 Tiredness and a general feeling of being unwell (malaise)
Once the chickenpox rash appears, it goes through three phases:
 Raised pink or red bumps (papules), which break out over several days
 Small fluid-filled blisters (vesicles), which form in about one day and then break and leak
 Crusts and scabs, which cover the broken blisters and take several more days to heal
New bumps continue to appear for several days, so you may have all three stages of the rash —
bumps, blisters and scabbed lesions — at the same time. You can spread the virus to other people
for up to 48 hours before the rash appears, and the virus remains contagious until all broken
blisters have crusted over.
The disease is generally mild in healthy children. In severe cases, the rash can cover the entire
body, and lesions may form in the throat, eyes, and mucous membranes of the urethra, anus and
vagina.
When to see a doctor
If you think you or your child might have chickenpox, consult your doctor. He or she usually can
diagnose chickenpox by examining the rash and considering other symptoms. Your doctor can
also prescribe medications to lessen the severity of chickenpox and treat complications, if
necessary. To avoid infecting others in the waiting room, call ahead for an appointment and
mention that you think you or your child may have chickenpox.
Also, let your doctor know if:
 The rash spreads to one or both eyes.
 The rash gets very red, warm or tender. This could indicate a secondary bacterial skin
infection.
  The rash is accompanied by dizziness, disorientation, rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath,
tremors, loss of muscle coordination, worsening cough, vomiting, stiff neck or a fever
higher than 102 F (38.9 C).
 Anyone in the household has a problem with his or her immune system or is younger than
6 months.

PREVENTION/TREATMENT
The chickenpox (varicella) vaccine is the best way to prevent chickenpox. Experts from the
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimate that the vaccine provides complete
protection from the virus for nearly 98 percent of people who receive both of the recommended
doses. When the vaccine doesn't provide complete protection, it significantly lessens the severity
of chickenpox.
The chickenpox vaccine (Varivax) is recommended for:
 Young children. In the United States, children receive two doses of the varicella vaccine
— the first between ages 12 and 15 months and the second between ages 4 and 6 years —
as part of the routine childhood vaccination schedule.
The vaccine can be combined with the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine, but for some
children between the ages of 12 and 23 months, the combination may increase the risk of
fever and seizure from the vaccine. Discuss the pros and cons of combining the vaccines
with your child's doctor.
 Unvaccinated older children. Children ages 7 to 12 years who haven't been vaccinated
should receive two catch-up doses of the varicella vaccine, given at least three months
apart. Children age 13 or older who haven't been vaccinated should also receive two catch-
up doses of the vaccine, given at least four weeks apart.
 Unvaccinated adults who've never had chickenpox and are at high risk of
exposure. This includes health care workers, teachers, child care employees, international
travelers, military personnel, adults who live with young children and all women of
childbearing age.
Adults who've never had chickenpox or been vaccinated usually receive two doses of the
vaccine, four to eight weeks apart. If you don't remember whether you've had chickenpox
or the vaccine, a blood test can determine your immunity.
The chickenpox vaccine isn't approved for:
 Pregnant women
 People who have weakened immune systems, such as those who are infected with HIV, or
people who are taking immune-suppressing medications
 People who are allergic to gelatin or the antibiotic neomycin
Talk to your doctor if you're unsure about your need for the vaccine. If you're planning on
becoming pregnant, consult with your doctor to make sure you're up to date on your vaccinations
before conceiving a child.

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/chickenpox/symptoms-causes/syc-20351282