Cholinergic urticaria is a type of skin rash commonly called hives that occurs in some people when their body gets too warm and sweats. The rash usually develops very quickly after a person gets too hot. In most cases, the condition clears up quickly on its own with no real lasting effects. However, some people may find cholinergic urticaria adversely affects their ability to exercise. Rarely, people with cholinergic urticaria may experience severe reactions to heat that result in a life-threatening allergic reaction. The word "cholinergic" refers to a part of the nervous system that controls muscle contraction, dilation of the blood vessels, and slowing the heart rate. In this article, we examine the signs and symptoms of cholinergic urticaria, along with what can be done to treat it. We also take a look at what can cause cholinergic urticaria and how people can prevent it. Cholinergic urticaria tends to occur very quickly after a person begins to sweat or gets overheated. The rash … [Read more...] about What is cholinergic urticaria and how is it treated?
Neurology / Neuroscience
What is the outlook for hydranencephaly?
Hydranencephaly is a rare disability present at birth that causes a central nervous system disorder. When it occurs, the front hemispheres or cerebrum of a baby's brain are missing. In their place, the cerebrospinal fluid that typically cushions the brain fills the space. The condition affects both male and female babies at equal rates. Some babies may be at higher risk of developing it if either of the parents carries genes that are suspected of causing the disorder. While some scientists suspect genetics may play a role in hydranencephaly, the exact cause is unknown, and there is no cure for the condition. Often, a baby with hydranencephaly will die in the womb or within a few months of birth. When a baby is born with hydranencephaly, there may or may not be obvious symptoms that the baby has the disorder. In clear cases, the baby's head appears enlarged. When the head is not enlarged, it may take weeks or even months for symptoms to be observed and suspected. Often, a baby may have … [Read more...] about What is the outlook for hydranencephaly?
Could sciatica be causing the pain in your buttocks?
A pain in a person's buttocks can be worrying and uncomfortable. If someone has this kind of discomfort, it is advisable to find the cause and the right medical treatment. Though most causes of buttock pain do not lead to serious complications and may go away on their own, in some instances, there may be an underlying reason that needs treatment to relieve symptoms. While many causes of buttock pain are not concerning, there are instances when an underlying condition may mean medical attention and treatment is advisable. Sciatica is a common cause of pain in the buttocks. Sciatica is not a condition in itself, but rather a symptom of various conditions. Sciatica can occur due to a condition that is known as piriformis syndrome. The piriformis is a muscle that starts in a person's lower back and runs down to their thigh. When a person injures or overworks the piriformis muscle, it can press on the sciatic nerve. The sciatic nerve runs down from the lower spine through to the buttocks … [Read more...] about Could sciatica be causing the pain in your buttocks?
Endorphins: Effects and how to increase levels
Endorphins are chemicals produced naturally by the nervous system to cope with pain or stress. They are often called "feel-good" chemicals because they can act as a pain reliever and happiness booster. Endorphins are primarily made in the hypothalamus and pituitary glands, though they may come from other parts of the body as well. The well-known "runner's high" that is felt after lengthy, vigorous exercise is due to an increase in endorphin levels. The level of endorphins in the human body varies from person to person. People who have lower levels may be more likely to have depression or fibromyalgia, but more research is needed in this area. Endorphins are chemicals produced by the body to relieve stress and pain. They work similarly to a class of drugs called opioids. Opioids relieve pain and can produce a feeling of euphoria. They are sometimes prescribed for short-term use after surgery or for pain-relief. In the 1980s, scientists were studying how and why opioids worked. They … [Read more...] about Endorphins: Effects and how to increase levels
What causes Battle’s sign?
Battle's sign is a bruise that appears after a person breaks a bone at the base of their skull. This type of break is known as a basilar skull fracture. Basilar skull fractures can lead to permanent brain injury, meningitis, or other complications. Minor basilar fractures, however, have a good outlook if the person receives immediate medical care, is carefully observed in hospital, and follows proper aftercare at home. Battle's sign is a crescent-shaped bruise that appears behind one or both ears. It was named after an English surgeon, Dr. William Henry Battle, and can be an indication of a serious head injury. The skull is made up of more than 20 different bones. The basilar bones at the base of the skull protect the following structures: eyes nerves to the head and neck ears brain stem cerebellum or coordination and balance center When one of the basilar bones is broken, blood may pool behind the ear, creating the Battle's sign bruise. While Battle's sign may look like an ordinary … [Read more...] about What causes Battle’s sign?