Medical Publications - SynappseHealth

General

The Impact of stress on the physical and the psychological health

Stress is a common response to life's challenges, both mentally and physically. In small amounts, stress can be beneficial as it can motivate you to perform better. However, when faced with daily struggles (i.e., traffic, illness, and bills) you may experience overwhelming stress that exceeds your coping abilities. Your brain has an inherent alarm system that activates in response to perceived threats, triggering the release of hormones that increase heart rate and blood pressure. This "fight-or-flight" response can help you deal with the threat, but ideally, your body should return to a relaxed state once the "danger" has passed. Unfortunately, the constant demands and expectations of modern life can keep some people's alarm systems activated for prolonged periods of time.

Khalil Khalaf

General

Immune System Overview

The immune system is the primary defense mechanism that comprises an extensive network of cells, organs, and tissues. The primary function is to recognize and neutralize microorganisms (bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites) and "cells" that may cause harm to the organism (i.e., cancer cells).

Khalil Khalaf

Musculoskeletal System Diseases

Hernia Overview: causes, types, and treatment

A hernia is a medical condition in which an organ or tissue protrudes through a weak area or tear in the muscle or connective tissue that would usually hold it in place. This can cause a noticeable lump or bulge to form under the skin, which is often accompanied by discomfort or pain. Hernias can occur in different parts of the body, including the abdomen, groin, and diaphragm. The most common types of hernias are inguinal hernias (in the groin), umbilical hernias (around the belly button), and hiatal hernias (in the diaphragm).

Khalil Khalaf

Infectious Diseases

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a virus that can lead to infections of the lungs and respiratory tract. It is a widespread virus that most children contract by age 2, and it can also infect adults. For healthy older children and adults, RSV symptoms are generally mild and resemble those of a common cold. In such cases, self-care remedies are typically enough to alleviate any discomfort. However, RSV can cause severe illness in certain individuals, such as infants, older adults, people with lung or heart disease, or anyone with a weakened immune system.

Khalil Khalaf

General

Sleep apnea

Sleep apnea is a condition that affects sleep, where breathing stops or becomes shallow repeatedly throughout the night, lasting several seconds or even minutes each time. These interruptions in breathing can significantly disrupt the quality of sleep.

Khalil Khalaf

Sexually Transmitted Diseases

Chlamydia

As a common sexually transmitted infection (STI), caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis, chlamydia is one of the most prevalent bacterial infections worldwide and affects both men and women. Chlamydia can be transmitted through vaginal, anal, or oral sex with an infected partner, and can also be spread from a pregnant woman to her baby during childbirth. The infection often does not present with any symptoms, and if left untreated, it can lead to serious complications, such as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), infertility, and an increased risk of contracting HIV. However, chlamydia is easily treatable with antibiotics, and early detection and treatment can prevent the development of long-term health problems. In this context, it is important to understand the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for chlamydia to prevent its spread and promote good sexual health.

Khalil Khalaf

Infectious Diseases

What do you need to know about influenza?

Commonly called the flu, influenza is a viral infection affecting the respiratory system. Four types of influenza viruses have been described in the literature (types A, B, C, and D). The flu season (known as seasonal epidemics) is caused by types A and B. In most cases, the flu usually disappears after a few days of illness, but in other cases, major complications or even death may occur. According to the WHO reports, 1 billion annual influenza cases occur, of which 3-5 million represent severe cases and 290 000 -to-600 000 deaths.

Khalil Khalaf

Sexually Transmitted Diseases

Gonorrhea overview

As a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae, gonorrhea can infect both men and women and is transmitted through vaginal, anal, or oral sex with an infected person. Gonorrhea can also be passed from an infected mother to her baby during childbirth. Symptoms of gonorrhea can change between men and women. As a very treatable infection, gonorrhea should not be an issue, but if left untreated, it can lead to serious health complications. To reduce the risk of gonorrhea infection, it's important to practice safe sex by using condoms during sexual activity, getting tested regularly for STIs, and informing sexual partners if you have been diagnosed with an STI. If you suspect you may have been exposed to gonorrhea, it's important to get tested and treated as soon as possible to prevent further transmission and complications. As a very prevalent illness, it was reported by the WHO that in 2020, over 80 million people were infected.

Khalil Khalaf

Sexually Transmitted Diseases

Herpes Simplex Virus overview

Herpes simplex virus (HSV) is a common viral infection that can cause painful sores or blisters on the mouth, lips, genitals, or anus. There are two types of HSV: HSV-1, which is most commonly associated with oral herpes (cold sores), and HSV-2, which is most commonly associated with genital herpes. Both types of HSV can cause sores in either area, and they can also cause infections in other parts of the body, such as the eyes and brain. While there is no cure for HSV, antiviral medications can help manage symptoms and reduce the frequency and severity of outbreaks. The WHO estimated that 67% and 13% of the world population are inflicted with HSV-1 and HSV-2 respectively.

Khalil Khalaf

Sexually Transmitted Diseases

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) overview

HIV, also known as, human immunodeficiency virus, is a virus that attacks and hinders the immune system and can lead to the development of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). HIV is spread through contact with infected blood, semen, vaginal fluids, or breast milk. This typically occurs through unprotected sexual contact, sharing needles or syringes with someone who has HIV, or transmission from an infected mother to her child during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding. The prevalence of HIV makes it an important topic of discussion as by the end of 2021, 38 million people were shown to live with the illness.

Khalil Khalaf