‘Disease & Conditions’
Welcome to the world of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS)! CFS has finally managed to garner enough support and harness the recognition it deserves. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), USA, now recognizes the fact that 1 million to 4 million Americans are affected by Chronic Fatigue Syndrome( CFS). However, only half these numbers seek medical attention for their illness. What triggers this condition still remains a mystery. Epstein –Barr virus, anemia, allergies and other factors have been implicated. As can be guessed by the name, CFS causes severe fatigue in the sufferers to the extent that their normal life is seriously impaired. Pain (non specific) and debilitating fatigue are common hallmarks of this condition. A wide range of symptoms have been listed including flu-like symptoms and memory loss. The vast majority of CFS patients are women and no one knows why! Depression in these patients is quite common as the current medicines are unable to relieve the pain. However anti depressants and anti histamines are used to treat this condition. Alternative therapies, like acupuncture, are known to relieve the pain. Dr. Reeja Tharu Related Links 1. Chronic Fatigue Syndrome- An Overview 2. Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Calculator 3. CPAP Treatment Improves Complaints of Fatigue and Tiredness in People With OSA TAGS:CFS, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Epstein Barr virus
Among the many illnesses plaguing the ailing star was a condition called the alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency, a debilitating genetic disease that predisposed the singer to lung and liver malfunctioning. This A1A deficiency is brought about by a mutation in the SERPINA 1 gene. The normal form of this gene is required to produce the protein alpha-1 antitrypsin. This protein is required to control the activity of the enzyme neutrophil elastase which normally fights infections but which also has the propensity to attack normal cells. Alpha-1 antitrypsin keeps this enzyme in check. The signs and symptoms of the lung disease brought about by alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency initially appears around 20 – 50 yrs. The earliest symptoms include-
With time, the disease could lead to emphysema which in turn could completely damage the lungs. Jackson had to be administered alpha-1 antitrypsin injections each day. His voice was reduced to a mere whisper in recent times. The arena in London, where he was to have kick- started the concert, boasted of the best lip synching technology in the world – an arrangement that the trouble- riddled star heavily depended on. He was forced to go through these ‘performances’ due to his mounting debts. But Death had it otherwise- it released him from further embarrassment and provided him with much- required respite. Needless to say, fame and tragedy are two sides of the same coin! Dr. Reeja Tharu TAGS: |
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We have heard of individuals who perennially complain of fatigue. A visit to the doctor does not usually bear fruit as no illness is diagnosed… and the person’s tired state continues.
We have all seen, in one way or the other, the power- packed performances of Michael Jackson. Interestingly there were many who were close to the Star who knew that there was no way MJ could not pull off the concert at the London 02 arena!