Double Digit - Health Heritage & Tech

Ménière’s Disease Ménière’s disease is a chronic inner ear disorder that affects balance and hearing. It usually impacts one ear and can cause sudden attacks of vertigo, tinnitus, fluctuating hearing loss, and a feeling of fullness in the ear. The condition is named after the French physician Prosper Ménière , who first described it in 1861. Symptoms of Ménière’s Disease The symptoms of Ménière’s disease usually occur in episodes, which can be unpredictable. These episodes can last from 20 minutes to several hours, with varying severity. a. Vertigo (Severe Dizziness) The most disabling symptom of Ménière’s disease. Causes a sensation of spinning, making it difficult to stand or walk. May be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, sweating, and imbalance. Episodes can last anywhere from a few minutes to several hours. During a severe attack, a person may need to lie down until the vertigo subsides. b. Tinnitus (Ringing or Buzzing in the Ear) A continuous or intermittent noise in ...

Renal Function Test (RFT)  A Renal Function Test (RFT) helps assess how well your kidneys are working. The kidneys play a crucial role in filtering waste, balancing fluids, and regulating electrolytes in your body. Abnormal RFT results may indicate kidney disease, dehydration, or other health conditions. 1. General Interpretation of RFT Results 1.1 What Is an RFT? An RFT is a group of blood and urine tests that check kidney function by measuring waste products, electrolytes, and other indicators. Doctors use these tests to diagnose kidney diseases, monitor existing conditions, or evaluate the effect of medications on kidney health. 1.2 Key Components of an RFT Parameter Normal Range High Levels Indicate Low Levels Indicate Serum Creatinine 0.6 - 1.2 mg/dL Kidney disease, dehydration, muscle breakdown Low muscle mass, liver disease Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN) 7 - 20 mg/...

Diphtheria is a serious bacterial infection caused by Corynebacterium diphtheriae . While rare in countries with widespread vaccination, it remains a threat in areas with low immunization rates. The disease primarily affects the respiratory system but can also manifest on the skin. Its hallmark feature is the formation of a thick grayish-white membrane in the throat, which can block the airway. Why It Matters: Historically, diphtheria caused widespread deaths, particularly in children. It is preventable but can cause severe complications, including heart and nerve damage, if untreated. Etiology & Pathophysiology Causative Agent: Corynebacterium diphtheriae is a Gram-positive bacterium shaped like a club. Some strains produce the diphtheria toxin, which is responsible for the disease's severity. How It Works: The toxin stops protein production in human cells by inactivating EF-2 (elongation factor-2), leading to cell death. This results in the formation of a pseudomem...

CBC Interpretation Introduction to CBC Definition and Components A Complete Blood Count (CBC) is a laboratory test that evaluates the cellular components of blood. It provides crucial diagnostic and monitoring insights for various hematologic and systemic disorders. The major components include: Red Blood Cell (RBC) Parameters RBC count Hemoglobin (Hgb) Hematocrit (Hct) RBC indices: MCV, MCH, MCHC, RDW White Blood Cell (WBC) Parameters Total WBC count Differential WBC count (Neutrophils, Lymphocytes, Monocytes, Eosinophils, Basophils) Platelet Parameters Platelet count Mean Platelet Volume (MPV) Platelet Distribution Width (PDW) Indications and Clinical Uses Anemia Evaluation Infection and Inflammation (WBC abnormalities) Bone Marrow Disorders (Leukemia, Myelodysplastic Syndromes) Clotting and Bleeding Disorders (Thrombocytopenia, Thrombocytosis) Systemic Conditions (Liver disease, Renal failure, Autoimmune disorders) CBC/CBP report Red Blood ...

Mumps Also known as Epidemic parotitis, Viral parotitis, Infectious parotitis, Parotitis, Swollen gland disease etc. What is Mumps? Mumps is a contagious viral infection that primarily affects the salivary glands, particularly the parotid glands located near the ears. It is caused by the mumps virus, which belongs to the paramyxovirus family. How Does It Spread? Mumps spreads through respiratory droplets (tiny particles released when an infected person coughs or sneezes) or direct contact with infected saliva. Sharing food, drinks, utensils, or kissing an infected person can also transmit the virus. Who Is at Risk? Children (especially those between 2–12 years) who are not vaccinated. Unvaccinated adults in crowded environments. People in close-contact settings such as schools, universities, and military barracks. Individuals with weakened immune systems . Causes and Transmission Cause of Mumps The mumps virus is a single-stranded RNA virus from the Paramyxoviridae f...

Rubella What is Rubella? A contagious viral infection, also called German measles , primarily mild but serious during pregnancy. Why is it Important? Causes congenital rubella syndrome (CRS) in unborn babies, leading to severe birth defects. Quick Historical Note: Identified as a separate disease from measles in the 19th century. Preventable through vaccines. Causes and Transmission Cause: Rubella virus from the Togaviridae family. How It Spreads: Through respiratory droplets (coughing/sneezing). Close contact with infected individuals. Pregnant women can pass it to their unborn babies. When is it Contagious? 1-2 weeks before and after the rash appears. Risk Groups: Unvaccinated individuals and communities, especially pregnant women. Symptoms and Diagnosis Common Symptoms: Mild fever. Fine pink rash starting on the face, spreading downward. Swollen lymph nodes (behind ears, back of neck). Adults may also experience joint pain. When Do Symptoms Appear? 2–3...