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The term "senility," often used interchangeably with "dementia," refers to the progressive diminishment of cognitive ability as a person ages. The loss of cognitive function associated with senility is caused by a deterioration of the brain and a loss of neurons that direct normal mental functions. Subtle changes in behavior can alert loved ones to the early signs of senility so they can seek medical counsel.
Growing older brings many challenges, and senility or dementia is one of those challenges. The condition tends to come on quietly and may not be noticed at first. Relatives and friends need to observe the person to confirm that he is suffering from dementia. A few incidents do not mean a person has senility or dementia, but a consistent pattern indicates the condition.
Parvovirus is a virus that cats, dogs and humans can catch. Although it cannot be passed among species, it is highly contagious within the same species. Parvovirus can be rapidly passed through a classroom, a day care or an animal shelter. In cats and dogs, parvovirus is passed through contact with an affected animal or its bodily fluids. In humans, parvovirus is passed through hand-to-hand contact or respiratory secretions.
Digoxin is a prescription drug that is sold under the Digitek, Lanoxin and Cardoxin brand names. This drug is used to treat heart rhythm disorders and congestive heart failure. Toxicity can occur with a drug overdose or an allergic reaction.
Early labor signs may go unnoticed at first because they start off rather low-key before accelerating to active labor. However, by paying attention to your pregnant body, you can learn to recognize and interpret the signals your body sends to let you know you're in early labor and a new baby is imminent. Here's what you need to know to spot early labor signs.
Psoriasis is a condition in which skin cells grow too quickly and accumulate on the skin, forming scaly patches and lesions. This is caused by the body's immune system signaling the cells to overproduce, forming in days what should take weeks to produce. There are several early warning signs of psoriasis.
Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative disease caused by joint wear and cartilage damage. This arthritis affects about 1 in 8 adults. Years of using your fingers results in gradual joint deterioration. The American Society for Surgery of the Hand (ASSH) reports osteoarthritis usually develops at the base of the thumb, the finger joint closest to the fingertip and at the finger joint in the middle of the finger. OA develops in joints over time. When visible signs of OA appear in your fingers, seek help while the disease is in the early stages.
Influenza, also called the "flu", is a highly contagious respiratory infection that can strike suddenly. This virus affects your throat, nose, bronchial tubes and lungs. Older adults, children and people with weak immune systems are vulnerable to this virus, but anyone can get influenza. The flu can be mild to severe and at times can be fatal. It is important that you recognize the early signs and symptoms so that you can take an antiviral medication, such as Tamiflu, that may lessen the severity of the virus.The symptoms of influenza occur one to five days after exposure to the virus.
Puberty, the time in life when a human being becomes physically capable of sexual reproduction, generally begins in girls between the ages of 9 and 12. Precocious puberty begins earlier than the norm and can have long-lasting consequences, both physical and emotional. Causes are not always known, but treatments are available.
The first stage of labor starts with early labor and ends with active labor. During early labor, contractions last from 30 to 45 seconds and are about 20 minutes apart. The cervix may be thin and softened during early labor and should be dilate to 4 cm. During this period of early labor, you may feel contractions like menstrual cramps, excitement with the thought that your baby has finally arrived. You may also experience backache and mild diarrhea.
Puberty comes in stages and at different times for each person. However, there are some early signs you can remember so you'll know that you're going through puberty.
