Pancreatic Stones Pancreatic Stones Home Overview Pancreatic stones are hard, calcified deposits that form in the pancreas, typically within the pancreatic ducts. These stones can vary in size and composition and are sometimes referred to as pancreatic calculi. They are most often associated with chronic pancreatitis, though they can also occur in other pancreatic disorders. Here's a more detailed look at pancreatic stones: Causes and risk factors Chronic pancreatitis: The most common underlying condition for pancreatic stone formation. Inflammation of the pancreas leads to damage to the ductal structures, promoting stone formation.Alcohol abuse: Long-term alcohol consumption is a major risk factor for chronic pancreatitis, which in turn increases the likelihood of stone formation.Genetic factors: Hereditary forms of pancreatitis (such as those linked to mutations in the PRSS1 gene) can predispose individuals to developing pancreatic stones.Obstruction of the pancreatic duct: Blockage or narrowing of the duct can lead to stagnation of pancreatic juices, creating an environment conducive to stone formation.Hypercalcaemia: Elevated levels of calcium in the blood may lead to the formation of calcified pancreatic stones.Other factors: Disorders like cystic fibrosis, autoimmune pancreatitis, or ductal obstruction due to a tumour can contribute to stone formation. Symptoms Pancreatic stones may be asymptomatic, especially in the early stages. However, they can lead to several symptoms if they obstruct the pancreatic ducts or cause inflammation. These symptoms include:Chronic abdominal pain: Often in the upper abdomen, typically aggravated by eating.Jaundice: Due to obstruction of the bile duct if the stones are located near the common bile duct.Nausea and vomiting: In some cases.Steatorrhea (fatty stools): Caused by malabsorption due to pancreatic insufficiency.Weight loss: Resulting from malnutrition or insufficient digestion of food.Diabetes: The inflammation and damage to the pancreas can affect insulin production. Diagnosis Pancreatic stones are typically diagnosed through imaging studies:CT Scan: Can reveal calcifications in the pancreas, which are indicative of stones.MRI or MRCP (magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography): These techniques provide detailed images of the pancreatic duct and can identify stones as well as any ductal dilation or narrowing.Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS): This is highly sensitive for detecting small stones that may not be visible on CT scans or MRCP.ERCP (endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography): A diagnostic and therapeutic procedure that can visualise and sometimes treat the stones, especially when they are causing obstruction. Treatment Conservative management: For small, asymptomatic stones, treatment may not be necessary, but managing the underlying cause (e.g., treating pancreatitis or correcting hypercalcaemia) is important.Pain management: For patients with chronic pain, pain relief strategies, such as analgesics, may be employed.Endoscopic stone removal: In cases where the stones are causing obstruction, endoscopic procedures like ERCP can be used to remove or fragment the stones.Surgical intervention: If stones are large or causing significant complications, surgery may be required to remove the stones or even part of the pancreas (pancreatectomy).Pancreatic enzyme replacement: In cases where pancreatic insufficiency develops, enzyme replacement therapy can help with digestion and absorption.Lifestyle modifications: Avoiding alcohol, following a low-fat diet, and maintaining good hydration can help reduce the risk of future stones. Read more about Pancreatic Stones Filter Alphabet P
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) Home Overview Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) consists of two key components: obsession and compulsions. Obsessions are recurrent, persistent, and anxiety-provoking and intrusive, unwanted thoughts, urges or images. Compulsions, on the other hand, are repetitive behaviours or rituals performed in response to these obsessions to alleviate anxiety and distress. Common obsessions include fear of contamination, which is usually accompanied by compulsive hand washing. Causes and risk factors The exact cause is unknown. Some risk factors include:GeneticsChildhood traumaBrain structure Symptoms Fear of contaminationFear of misplacing thingsDesire to look appealing Diagnosis OCD is diagnosed throughPhysical examinationPsychiatric evaluation. Treatment PsychotherapyMedicationsDeep brain stimulation Read more about Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) Filter Alphabet O
Eating Disorders Eating Disorders Home Overview Eating disorders refer to a health condition wherein an individual develops an unhealthy food habits. Causes and risk factors GeneticsCultural perspective of ideal weightPeer pressureUnderlying mental health conditions Types Pica: The consumption of non-nutritive substances such as paper, paint, metal, stones, soil and chalk.Anorexia nervosa: A condition marked by severe restriction of food intake, leading to abnormally low body weight. Affected individuals often have an intense fear of weight gain or becoming fat along with a distorted perception of one’s own body weight and body shape. This results in extreme efforts to control weight and body shape, significantly interfering with daily life.Bulimia nervosa: Characterised by eating large amounts of food in a short time with loss of control. It is accompanied by compensatory behaviours such as self-induced vomiting, laxative use, diuretics, administering enemas or performing excessive exercise to avoid weight gain. Individuals with bulimia often have a distorted perception of body weight and shape.Binge eating disorder: Involves eating large amounts of food quickly, often to the point of feeling uncomfortably full. Individuals may eat alone and feel guilty about their eating habits, but unlike bulimia, this disorder is not associated with compensatory behaviour. Symptoms Symptoms vary depending on the type of disorder. Common symptoms are:FatigueDrastic weight changesForced vomitingEating a lotAvoiding social interaction Diagnosis The disorder can be diagnosed by:Physical examinationImaging tests to look for any complications Treatment Treatment for the disorder includes:PsychotherapyMedicationsCounselling Read more about Eating Disorders Filter Alphabet E
Depressive Disorders Depressive Disorders Home Overview Depressive disorders, commonly referred to as depression are among the most prevalent psychiatric disorder. Usually, they co-exists in individuals suffering from chronic (long term) illnesses such as diabetes mellitus, cardiac illnesses, stroke, thyroid disorders and cancers. Causes Depressive disorders can be caused by a variety of factors. These include the following:Genetics PsychologicalEnvironmentalUnderlying illness Types There are several types of depressive disorders:MajorRecurrentPersistent (dysthymia)BipolarDepressive disorder due to medical conditionPremenstrual dysphoric disorder. Symptoms Symptoms of major depressive disorder are (any 5 of the following, persisting for more than 2 weeks): Persistent depressed moodLoss of interest or loss of pleasure in previously pleasurable activitiesReduced or excessive sleepReduced or excessive appetiteWeight loss or gainLoss of energyRestlessness or slowing downDifficulty maintaining concentration or indecisivenessRecurrent thoughts of death or suicidal ideas/plan/attempt. Diagnosis Diagnosis methods include:Physical examinationPsychiatric evaluationBlood tests to rule out other conditions Treatment Care for depression includesMedicationsPsychological treatments. Read more about Depressive Disorders Filter Alphabet D
Dementias or Neurocognitive Disorders Dementias or Neurocognitive Disorders Home Overview Dementias refers to a group of neurodegenerative diseases with various causes, leading to a chronic, progressive decline in brain function. The decline significantly impacts an individual’s work, family life and social life. The cognitive abilities affected include memory, thinking, orientation, comprehension, language, mathematical skills, learning ability, judgement, social behaviour, emotional control, and motivation, as well as the ability to perform activities of daily living. While dementia commonly manifests in old age, it is not a normal part of the aging process. A variety of diseases and injuries can affect brain functioning and lead to dementia. Causes and risk factors Older age is the most common cause with risk factors being: DepressionSocial isolationCognitive inactivityAir pollution Types Alzheimer dementia is the most common type of dementia. Other types of dementias include: Fronto-temporalVascular Lewy bodyParkinson’sMixed Symptoms Early symptoms include:ForgetfulnessMisplacing thingsConfusionDifficulty solving problemsGetting lost Diagnosis Medical historyCognitive and neurological testsBrain scans Treatment There is no cure for dementia. Management involves:Physically activitySocial interactions. Read more about Dementias or Neurocognitive Disorders Filter Alphabet D
Acute Pancreatitis Acute Pancreatitis Home Overview Acute pancreatitis is a sudden inflammation of the pancreas that can range from mild discomfort to a life-threatening condition. The pancreas is a gland located behind the stomach that produces digestive enzymes and hormones, such as insulin. In acute pancreatitis, these enzymes become activated within the pancreas rather than the small intestine, causing inflammation and damage to the organ. The severity of acute pancreatitis can vary from mild to severe, with potential complications affecting other organs. Causes The most common causes of acute pancreatitis are:Gallstones: They are the most common cause of acute pancreatitis. If a gallstone obstructs the common bile duct or the pancreatic duct, the digestive enzymes in the pancreas can back up, causing inflammation.Alcohol consumption: Heavy alcohol use is another leading cause of acute pancreatitis. Chronic alcohol consumption is a major risk factor, but even a single episode of excessive drinking can trigger an acute attack.Hypertriglyceridemia: High levels of triglycerides (greater than 1000 mg/dL) in the blood can lead to acute pancreatitis. This condition is more commonly seen in individuals with uncontrolled diabetes, obesity, or genetic lipid disorders.Medications: Certain medications can cause acute pancreatitis as a side effect; these include:Diuretics (e.g., thiazides)Statins (cholesterol-lowering drugs)Antibiotics (e.g., metronidazole, tetracyclines)Immunosuppressive drugs (e.g., azathioprine)Infections: Infections, such as mumps, hepatitis, cytomegalovirus (CMV), or parasitic infections (e.g., toxoplasmosis) can trigger acute pancreatitis.Trauma or surgery: Abdominal trauma or recent surgery (especially gallbladder removal or bariatric surgery) can lead to acute pancreatitis.Pancreatic duct obstruction: Blockage of the pancreatic duct due to tumours, cystic fibrosis, or pancreatic duct strictures can lead to inflammation of the pancreas.Genetic factors: Certain inherited conditions, such as cystic fibrosis, familial hypertriglyceridemia, and mutations in the PRSS1 gene (associated with hereditary pancreatitis), can predispose individuals to acute pancreatitis.Other causes: Autoimmune diseases (e.g., autoimmune pancreatitis), endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) procedures, and idiopathic causes (when no cause can be identified) are also contributing factors. Symptoms Key symptoms of acute pancreatitis include:Abdominal pain: The primary symptom of acute pancreatitis is severe abdominal pain, usually located in the upper abdomen. The pain may:Nausea and vomiting: Patients often experience nausea and vomiting, which may accompany the abdominal pain. Vomiting is typically not relieved by eating or drinking.Fever: A mild fever may occur as part of the inflammatory process, though it can be more pronounced if there is an infection or complication.Bloating and distension: Abdominal bloating and distension may occur due to a buildup of gas and fluids in the abdomen.Jaundice: If the pancreatitis is caused by a gallstone obstruction or pancreatic duct obstruction, jaundice may develop.Increased heart rate: A rapid heart rate (tachycardia) is common, especially in severe cases, due to the inflammatory response and fluid loss.Low blood pressure: Hypotension (low blood pressure) may occur as a result of fluid loss from vomiting, fever, or a systemic inflammatory response.Dehydration: Severe vomiting, fever, and the body’s inflammatory response can cause significant fluid loss, leading to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. Diagnosis Key diagnostic methods include:Blood tests:Elevated levels of pancreatic enzymes are the hallmark of acute pancreatitis. The key enzymes measured are:Amylase: Levels rise quickly after the onset of pancreatitis but return to normal within 48-72 hours.Lipase: This enzyme remains elevated for a longer period, typically up to 7 days, and is more specific to pancreatitis than amylase.Other markers: White blood cell (WBC) counts and liver enzyme, blood glucose, and creatinine levels may also be elevated.Imaging Studies:Abdominal ultrasound: This is the first imaging test used to check for gallstones, which are a common cause of acute pancreatitis, and to rule out other conditions such as liver disease or bile duct obstruction.CT scan (Computed Tomography): A contrast-enhanced CT scan is often used to evaluate the severity of acute pancreatitis and detect complications such as pseudocysts, necrosis, or infection. It is also useful in identifying complications like pancreatic duct rupture.MRI/MRCP (magnetic resonance imaging): MRI or Magnetic Resonance Cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) can help identify bile duct or pancreatic duct obstructions, and assess the severity of inflammation.Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS): EUS can be helpful in identifying gallstones, pancreatic masses, or ductal abnormalities, and is often used when other imaging methods are inconclusive. Treatment Treatment of acute pancreatitis generally involves supportive care, management of complications, and addressing the underlying cause. The specific approach depends on the severity of the condition.Initial supportive care:Fasting: The patient is typically not allowed to eat or drink (NPO, "nothing by mouth") for the first 24-48 hours to rest the pancreas and reduce further irritation.Intravenous (IV) Fluids: Dehydration is common due to vomiting, fever, and third-spacing of fluid. Aggressive fluid resuscitation with IV fluids is essential to maintain blood pressure and organ perfusion.Electrolyte correction: Correcting any electrolyte imbalances, such as hypokalaemia or hypocalcaemia, is crucial for recovery.Pain management: Analgesics, particularly acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), are used to manage mild to moderate pain. Severe pain may require stronger medications such as opioids.Management of the underlying cause:Gallstone pancreatitis: If gallstones are the cause, patients may require endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) to remove the stones or drain bile if there is a bile duct obstruction.Alcohol-induced pancreatitis: The first step is abstinence from alcohol. Patients may also benefit from nutritional support and treatment for any withdrawal symptoms.Hypertriglyceridemia: In cases where high triglyceride levels are the cause, lipid-lowering agents, such as fibrates or statins, are used, and the patient may need plasmapheresis if triglyceride levels are very high.Nutritional support:Once pain and inflammation are controlled, and bowel function returns, oral feeding can be gradually reintroduced. This is typically done with a low-fat diet to minimise stress on the pancreas.In more severe cases, patients may require enteral nutrition (via a feeding tube) if oral intake is not possible.Treating complications:Pseudocysts: If a pancreatic pseudocyst develops and causes symptoms or complications, it may require drainage via endoscopic, percutaneous, or surgical approaches.Infection: Infection of pancreatic necrosis may require antibiotics or drainage procedures.Organ failure: Severe cases of acute pancreatitis can result in multi-organ failure, including kidney failure, respiratory failure, or shock, which requires intensive care.Surgical intervention:In rare cases where complications like infected pancreatic necrosis or perforation occur, surgical intervention may be necessary, including drainage, necrosectomy (removal of dead tissue), or even resection of the pancreas. Prevention While acute pancreatitis may not always be preventable, certain measures can reduce the risk:Avoiding excessive alcohol consumption.Maintaining a healthy diet to control triglyceride and cholesterol levels.Treating underlying conditions like gallstones or hypertriglyceridemia early to prevent recurrence.Regular follow-ups for patients with a history of acute pancreatitis to monitor for complications. Read more about Acute Pancreatitis Filter Alphabet A
Bipolar Mood Disorder Bipolar Mood Disorder Home Overview Bipolar mood disorder, earlier known as manic-depressive illness or manic depression, is characterised by distinct periods of elevated or irritable mood and depressive mood occurring during the duration of illness. The mood symptoms and the changes in thoughts, behaviour, sleep and appetite disrupts normal life. Causes and risk factors Cause is unknown. Risk factors include: GeneticsBrain structure in certain individuals Types Bipolar disorder can be classified as: Bipolar I disorderBipolar II disorderCyclothymic disorder Symptoms Symptoms of bipolar disorder vary depending on the episode:Maniac episode:Very activeExtremely irritatedExcessive appetiteLess sleepDepressive episode:Feeling sad/anxiousRestlessTrouble sleepingLack of interest in everythingFeeling hopeless/suicidal Diagnosis Bipolar disorder is generally diagnosed using:Physical examination and tests to rule out other possible causes. Treatment Therapies for bipolar disorders include:MedicationsPsychotherapyLight therapyElectroconvulsive therapyRepetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation Read more about Bipolar Mood Disorder Filter Alphabet B
Autism Spectrum Disorders Autism Spectrum Disorders Home Overview Autism spectrum disorders are neurodevelopmental disorders. The core deficit is in social communication and interaction, difficulty in developing and maintaining relationships, restricted and repetitive pattern of behaviour, interest or activities. The individuals may have coexisting behaviour or mood disorders as well as ADHD, and specific learning disorder (SLD). They may have specific and unique skills like artistic drawing, exceptional mathematical ability or musical geniuses. Causes and risk factors The primary cause is unknown. Some factors increase the likelihood of autism:Older parentsSiblings with ADHDDown’s syndromeLow birth weight Types Some common behaviours observed in autism are: Minimal social communication and interactionRepetitive behavioursSleep problems Diagnosis Diagnosis of Autism spectrum disorder include:Screening for developmental delayAssessment of cognitive abilitiesAssessment of language abilitiesObservation Treatment Autism spectrum disorder includes:MedicationsBehavioural interventionPsychological intervention Read more about Autism Spectrum Disorders Filter Alphabet A
Pancreatitis Pancreatitis Home Overview Pancreatitis refers to inflammation of the pancreas, which is a vital organ that aids digestion and regulates blood sugar. Pancreatitis might be acute (sudden) or chronic (long-term), and it varies in severity. Types Below, various types of pancreatitis have been described.Acute pancreatitis: This refers to a sudden inflammation of the pancreas that can range from mild discomfort to a life-threatening condition. Acute pancreatitis usually resolves with treatment, but complications can arise if left untreated. It can also be divided into subtypes, a representative subtype includes:Necrotising pancreatitis: It is a severe form of acute pancreatitis where the pancreatic tissue becomes damaged to the point of necrosis (tissue death). Necrotising pancreatitis is a potentially life-threatening complication that occurs in approximately 20% of the severe cases of acute pancreatitis.Chronic pancreatitis: This refers to long-term inflammation that leads to permanent damage to the pancreas. Over time, chronic pancreatitis can impair pancreatic function, affecting digestion and insulin production.Other types (less common): These include:Autoimmune pancreatitis: This is a rare form of pancreatitis that is caused when the immune system starts attacking the pancreas. Autoimmune pancreatitis is often associated with other autoimmune conditions and can be treated with steroids to reduce inflammation.Hereditary pancreatitis: This is a rare genetic condition in which repeated episodes of pancreatitis occur, often starting in childhood or adolescence. Individuals with hereditary pancreatitis may develop chronic pancreatitis at an earlier age. Chronic pancreatitis Chronic pancreatitis is a long-lasting inflammation of the pancreas that leads to irreversible damage, fibrosis, and dysfunction of the organ. The pancreas is responsible for producing digestive enzymes and hormones, including insulin, which regulate blood sugar levels. Chronic pancreatitis can result in loss of pancreatic function, including the ability to secrete digestive enzymes and regulate blood sugar, and can lead to pancreatic insufficiency, diabetes, and other complications. Causes The primary causes of chronic pancreatitis include:Alcohol consumption: Chronic heavy alcohol use is the most common cause of chronic pancreatitis, accounting for about 70-80% of cases. The exact mechanism is not fully understood, but alcohol damages pancreatic cells, leading to inflammation and scarring over time.Genetic factors:Mutations: Certain mutations can increase susceptibility to chronic pancreatitis. Mutations in the CFTR gene (cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator), which causes cystic fibrosis, and in genes such as PRSS1, SPINK1, and CFTR are known to predispose individuals to chronic pancreatitis.Hereditary pancreatitis: This is a rare condition that can occur in families and is often caused by mutations in the PRSS1 gene, leading to increased activation of pancreatic enzymes within the pancreas.Autoimmune pancreatitis: This form of pancreatitis is caused by an abnormal immune response where the body’s immune system attacks the pancreas. It is associated with other autoimmune diseases like IgG4-related disease.Obstruction of the pancreatic duct: Blockage or narrowing of the pancreatic duct can cause chronic inflammation. This may occur due to pancreatic duct stones, strictures (narrowing of the duct), or tumours that obstruct the normal flow of pancreatic enzymes.Idiopathic: In many cases, the exact cause of chronic pancreatitis remains unknown, even after thorough investigation. This is referred to as idiopathic pancreatitis.Other causes: Hypercalcaemia (elevated blood calcium levels), high cholesterol (hyperlipidemia), and certain infections (e.g., mumps or hepatitis) can also contribute to the development of chronic pancreatitis. Symptoms Common symptoms include:Abdominal pain: The most common symptom is recurrent or persistent upper abdominal pain, which may radiate to the back.Digestive problems: As the pancreas becomes less able to produce digestive enzymes, patients may experience symptoms of pancreatic insufficiency:Steatorrhea (fatty stools): This occurs due to malabsorption of fat.Bloating, nausea, and diarrhoea: These are also common as food is not properly digested.Weight loss: Unexplained weight loss occurs because the body cannot properly digest food, leading to malnutrition. This can be exacerbated by poor appetite and diarrhoea.Diabetes: As the pancreas becomes damaged, the insulin-producing cells may also be affected, leading to diabetes mellitus. This can occur over time in people with chronic pancreatitis, especially if the condition is severe.Jaundice: If chronic pancreatitis causes obstruction of the bile duct (by a pancreatic pseudocyst or fibrosis), jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes) may develop.Nausea and vomiting: Persistent nausea and vomiting may occur, particularly during episodes of pain or in cases where there is a significant impairment of digestion.Fatigue: Chronic inflammation and the body’s inability to properly absorb nutrients can result in chronic fatigue and weakness. Diagnosis Diagnosing chronic pancreatitis involves the following tests:Blood tests:Amylase and lipase: The levels of these enzymes are typically elevated in acute pancreatitis, but in chronic pancreatitis, they may be normal or only mildly elevated.Pancreatic function tests: These may assess how well the pancreas is producing digestive enzymes.Glucose levels: Elevated blood sugar may indicate diabetes due to pancreatic damage.Liver function tests: Elevated liver enzymes can suggest complications like bile duct obstruction.Imaging studies:Abdominal ultrasound: This is the first-line imaging modality and may reveal pancreatic calcifications, bile duct dilation, or pancreatic masses.CT scan: CT is a more detailed imaging technique that can identify structural changes in the pancreas, such as pancreatic calcifications, pseudocysts, or ductal strictures.MRI/MRCP (magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography): MRCP provides high-resolution images of the pancreatic duct and bile ducts, helping to identify ductal dilation, strictures, or stones.Endoscopy:Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS): EUS is highly sensitive for detecting pancreatic calcifications and can also be used to obtain tissue samples (biopsy) for evaluation of the pancreas.Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP): This procedure is not commonly used for diagnosis but can be useful to visualise the pancreatic duct and remove stones or relieve ductal obstructions.Pancreatic function tests: These tests assess how well the pancreas is functioning in terms of enzyme production. The secretin stimulation test and faecal elastase levels are commonly used to evaluate pancreatic exocrine function. Treatment The treatment of chronic pancreatitis is primarily aimed at managing pain, improving pancreatic function, and addressing complications. There is no cure for chronic pancreatitis, but treatment can help improve quality of life and reduce symptoms.Pain management: Pain is one of the most common and debilitating symptoms of chronic pancreatitis. Treatment options include:Medications:Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): Used for mild-to-moderate pain relief.Opioids: In cases of severe pain, opioids may be used, but their long-term use should be closely monitored due to the risk of dependence.Gabapentin or pregabalin: These medications, which are used for nerve pain, can sometimes be helpful for chronic pancreatitis pain.Endoscopic therapy: If there is ductal obstruction, endoscopic drainage or stenting can help relieve pain.Surgical intervention:Pancreatic surgery: In some cases, surgical intervention may be required to relieve pain, remove stones, or treat complications such as pseudocysts or strictures.Pancreatic resection: For patients with localised disease, removing part of the pancreas may help alleviate symptoms.Pancreatic duct drainage: This might be required for severe cases.Nutritional support:Enzyme replacement therapy: Pancreatic enzyme supplements can help improve digestion and nutrient absorption in patients with pancreatic insufficiency. These are typically taken with meals.Dietary changes: A low-fat, high-protein diet may be recommended to improve digestion and reduce discomfort. Patients should avoid alcohol and smoking to prevent further damage to the pancreas.Vitamin supplementation: Deficiencies in fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) can occur due to poor absorption of fat. These may need to be replaced through supplements.Lifestyle changes:Avoid alcohol: Alcohol consumption should be completely avoided in patients with chronic pancreatitis, as it can worsen the condition and cause flare-ups.Smoking cessation: Smoking is a significant risk factor for the development and progression of chronic pancreatitis and should be avoided.Weight management: Maintaining a healthy weight is important to reduce the strain on the pancreas and improve overall health. Read more about Pancreatitis Filter Alphabet P
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) Home Overview Attention deficit hyperactive disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder commonly diagnosed in children, though is also identified in adolescents or adults. It is marked by varying levels of inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity. Causes and risk factors The exact cause of ADHD remains unclear, though several risk factors contribute to its development, including:GeneticsEnvironmental factorsAlcohol and drug use during pregnancyHead injury Types ADHD is typically classified into three types:InattentiveHyperactive-impulsiveCombined Symptoms Other symptoms of ADHD include:Inattention: Easy distractibility, difficulty in sustaining attention, losing things easily, forgetfulness, and difficulty in following instructionsHyperactivity and impulsivity: Difficulty in waiting for one’s turn, fidgety, difficulty in remaining seated, always on the go, frequently interrupts during conversation, difficulty in age appropriate estimation of risk, difficulty working in groups and restlessness Diagnosis ADHD diagnoses is common in children but infrequently detected for the first time in adolescence or adulthood (ADHD in adults). Diagnosis includes a checklist for rating symptoms and obtaining history from parents/caregivers and teachers. Treatment ADHD can be treated through: Behavioural therapyLifestyle changesMedications. Read more about Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) Filter Alphabet A