Electrocardiogram
An electrocardiogram or ECG is a non-invasive diagnostic test to record the electrical voltage in the heart so as to understand its functioning and regularity of heart beats. The electrocardiogram or EKG can help in diagnosing cardiovascular disease. The ECG is used to check for any damage to the heart and regulate the functioning of the pacemaker. An electrocardiogram measures the electrical activity within the heart, thereby throwing light on the how the heart muscles function. This test is not painful. An ECG is recommended for patients who complain of regular chest pain or palpitations to check for the normal functioning of the heart. It can help in detecting heart attack or ischaemia. If a patient suffers from hypthermia, pulmonary embolism, mitral stenosis or left ventricular hypertropy, an EKG can help in diagnosis. Other non-cardiac problems such as drug overdose or electrolyte imbalance can be diagnosed with an EKG. Abnormal results from an ECG test may be indicative of arrhythmia, myocarditis, impending heart attack or enlarged heart.
Hyperthyroidism
Hyperthyroidismis a condition that occurs when there is too much thyroid hormone in the body. The hormones thyroxine and tri-iodothyronine are produced by the thyroid gland and play a major role in determining the body's metabolic rate. When there is excess amount of thyroid hormones, it will lead to a faster metabolism resulting in hyperthyroidism. Hyperthyroidism occurs when thyroid cells trap excess iodine and produce excessive thyroid hormone. Sometimes the cause is damaged or inflamed thyroid cells. A person suffering from hyperthyroidism experiences excessive sweating and rapid heart rate(palpitations) and tremors. Such persons may notice loss of weight and extreme fatigue. These symptoms appear gradually and may sometimes go unnoticed. A person suffering from hyperthyroidism may feel nervous and notice muscle weakness. Women who are suffering from hyperthyroidism tend to have light menstrual periods or may even miss few cycles. Hair becomes brittle and skin becomes warm and moist. A person may appear agitated and confused. Patients suffering from hyperthyroidism often notice swelling at the base of the neck.
Thyroid Scan is used to measure the activity of the thyroid gland with radioactive substance. The blood TSH levels are measured to check for increased production of thyroid hormone. Graves Disease is an autoimmune disease that results in an overactive thyroid gland. This in turn leads to hyperthyroidism. Thyroiditis or inflammation of the thyroid gland is yet another cause for hyperthyroidism. Goiter or toxic nodule on the thyroid gland can be another cause for hyperthyroidism.
Antithyroid drugs are used to control the production of thyroid hormone. These drugs include methimazole (Tapazole) and propylthiouracil (PTU). Radioactive Iodine treatment for hyperthyroidism involves a pill or liquid that is administered to the patient so as to ablate a hyperactive gland. Radioactive iodine therapy destroys only local cells and is generally given as a one-dose treatment. It is essential to monitor this treatment since it may lead to destroy too many thyroid cells and even lead to hypothyroidism. This treatment for hyperthyroidismbut is not used on pregnant or lactacting women. Surgery is used to remove thyroid gland but this procedure is not without possible complications. Removal of too much tissue leads to hypothyroidism and often nerves connected with the vocal chords might be affected.
MAO inhibitor - Antidepressant drug
MAO (Monoamine oxidase) inhibitors are a genre of drugs that are used to treat depression and Parkinson's Disease. Brand names of some MAO inhibitor drugs are Marplan, Nardil, Parnate and Eldepryl. MAO inhibitors are used in the treatment of mental depression as well as anxiety and panic attacks.
MAO inhibitors are seen to work adversely in the presence of tyramine. It leads to a build-up of tyramine thereby causing High Blood pressure and increasing the chances of a stroke. Persons on MAO inhibitors must ensure that they avoid foods that contain high levels of tyramine. Legumes, cheese, fish, ginseng, meat, shrimp paste and alcohol are foodstuffs that are high in tyramine. Other foods that must not be consumed in excess when on MAO inhibitors are chocolate, soy sauce, yogurt and sour cream.
Side Effects of MAO inhibitor: Typical side effects of MAO inhibitors are headache, fainting, muscle twitches and confusion. MAO inhibitors are known to cause increased sun sensitivity, blurred vision and drowsiness. Stomach upsets, loss of appetite and irritability can also result. Some persons on MAO inhibitors tend to experience heart palpitations, memory impairment and anxiety. It is essential to consult your physician in case you notice skin rash, fever and yellowing of the eyes or skin.
Dosage of MAO inhibitor: It is essential to check the dosage of the MAO inhibitor with your physician. Larger or more frequent doses must be avoided nor should the drug be taken for longer than prescribed. Since the effects of the MAO inhibitors take some time to be felt, it is essential to continue the dosage as directed. Dosage must be slowly tapered down. Ensure that you follow the diet restrictions that are recommended for those on MAO inhibitors.
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