Author Archives: Stéphane Bastianetto

1. Province by province: The exponential rise in Ontario’s iGaming

   15 décembre 2022 7 h 25 min Leave a Comment

   At the end of the first official year with Ontario’s newly christened online gambling scene, many are starting to feel hopeful about their efforts. Maybe, just maybe, some other provinces are even going to follow suit as a result. Although no one has booked any celebratory parades just yet, there is only optimism about the future of Canadian Gambling.

   

   Ontario: A Pioneer in the Industry

   The history of gambling is long and storied, especially so on Canadian grounds. Although casinos have had the right to practice their act in Canada for some time now, it is only more recent regulation in Ontario that really allowed the rapid, digital expansion that we see today.

   Sports betting on parlay terms has been allowed since 1985, with many a Canadian hauling off to bet on Wayne Gretzky’s next superstar move. Online sports betting, on the other hand, has origins in an August 2021 regulation change which allowed the practice. This step acted as a metaphorical green light for the sports betting world to dip into Canadian soil. 

   The day on everyone’s calendar: 4th April 2022

   Since April 4th, the floodgates of Canadian betting have been thrown wide open. Whether preferring to hit the staple card games of blackjack and poker or exhilarating slot machines and wheels, there are finally a good number of online casinos in Ontario for the Canadian enthusiast to indulge in.

   Significant growth and statistics.

   iGaming Ontario (iGO) provides much of the legal administration and regulation in the province alongside  the Alcohol and Gambling Commission of Ontario (AGCO). Acting as a paternal figure for much of the Ontario online gambling scene, the two act in tandem on a number of local issues, ultimately being the authorities most closely linked to the ultimate government. 

   The data confirms our suspicions: Ontario is becoming a leader in the realm of digital wgaering. After an april market opener, over CA$162M total has been reported as revenue for the first quarter ending 30 June, with total stakes for the quarter coming down to $4.07B. These results are staggering when compared against to other launches and are showing of a growth not likely to slow down.

   Other likely proponents of the industry:

   These figures do not yet include the research outcomes of the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation, a government agency that manages traditional gaming facilities. Awaiting this information with bated breath, an official stated that they are bringing the annual report to be first toQueen’s Park, the site of the Legislative Assembly of Ontario, before publicly publishing their findings in a report. If all goes well, this may be another win for the industry.

   The Canadian Gaming Association has similarly provided some good news about the industry’s opportunity for outreach. Paul Burns, president and CEO of the Canadian Gaming Association, has stated regarding the above awaited report that “(OLG) have been doing well, and they’ve seen an upsurge, particularly in their casino sector. »

   Sports betting and sports providers

   On the sporting front, they have been involved in a number of notable agreements. The Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation has stated that it will be forming sports betting relationships with global leaders in sport, including the National Hockey League (NHL)  and the National Football League (NFL), a move which further officializes the industry.

   Gray Markets: Offshore turned onshore.

   Those who are monitoring the situation in Ontario may expect things to become far more thrilling. When the industry went live on April 4, several of the gray market players that have been running offshore businesses for years were the incentive to finally partner up officially with iGaming Ontario and get their licenses. Many of their applications went through even before the planned launch of the industry, getting ahead before the curve.

   The waiting game

   Many are still negotiating with the regulators and iGO while waiting their turn in the queue. Gray market operators have until October 31 to bring themselves into compliance or they run the danger of having their registration denied. The AGCO will take « necessary regulatory action » against any operator which does not satisfy the new criteria by the end of the month.

   iGaming Ontario Director Martha Otton spoke on the « tremendous level of interest » in the Ontario sector, which includes sports betting, casino games, and eSports, during the most recent G2E event, which took place in Las Vegas.

   A bright future

   Regardless of your stance on the industry, it is truly fascinating to take a look at a fledgling industry take some of its first steps in unfamiliar land. Online gambling, after all, provides some interesting mental stimulation away from simple brain games. Hopefully these developments continue on the positive scale and bring forth a new golden era for Canadian gambling.

2. Can Hitting the Gym Help Your Brain?

   13 décembre 2022 7 h 39 min Leave a Comment

   Regular physical activities are key to a healthy mind and body. There are more than enough studies that prove this, showing the effects of exercising on muscle growth, bone strength, cardiovascular risk, and even severe conditions like cancer and memory problems.

   While these benefits have been well emphasized over the years, the effect of working out on brain health isn’t talked about as much. We have substantial proof that physical activities are beneficial to mental health, regulating mood, decreasing stress, and boosting memory health.

   

   How Does it Work?

   During physical activities, the body produces several molecules via the liver, muscle system, and fat cells. These molecules are then transported to the brain via the circulatory system, permeating the blood-brain threshold. This results in a ripple of beneficial effects, which improves your mood and overall self-worth.

   One major element that is born from this ripple effect is the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a growth hormone, which is the star of the show in terms of the relationship between the brain and working out.

   BDNF is responsible for synapses—essentially how the brain connects with itself and the rest of the body through neurons in a process known as synaptic plasticity. It is how we amass and retain knowledge.

   Additionally, BDNF activates the production of new brain cells within the hippocampus. To do this, it improves stem cell function across the brain, which results in the hippocampus brimming with new and healthier cells, which make your brain more powerful and capable.

   Of course, there’s more to it than just hitting the gym. Even post-workout routines contribute to brain health. For instance, if you search online for supplements using the search term  “buy steroid Canada” you’ll be on the first step to help you promote body definition as you work out. Studies show that anabolic steroids influence healthy moods, which can prevent anxiety and depression symptoms.

   Effects of Working Out on the Brain

   The effects of hitting the gym on mental health are including but are not limited to the following:

   Boosts brain oxygen supply

   The faster your heart beats when you work out, the more oxygen is transported to the brain. This alters the blood vessels that circulate blood around the brain, leading to executive functioning boosts, such as better self-control, flexible cognition, and better memory.

   Neuroplasticity

   This ability is shared by the nervous system and brain and reflects how they can change to deal with stimuli (internal or external) better. Neuroplasticity is responsible for how we manage to assimilate new languages, activities, and skills.

   Concentration and focus levels

   Working out at the gym, even if you manage only a single routine, has an immense effect on how you focus and alternate attention. Even better, you can achieve and own this effect for about two hours with only a half hour of working out. It’s like your very own power-up. Exercises like jumping rope, running, cycling, brisk walking, swimming, and others that get your heart rate up should help.

   Preventing dementia and related conditions

   You are more likely to succumb to dementia and its subsequent forms, like Alzheimer’s if you don’t work out. This is because exercise fires up the brain, thereby disrupting factors that make you more susceptible, such as high blood pressure, depression, obesity, anxiety, and diabetes.

3. Orthostatic postural headaches

   11 décembre 2022 19 h 41 min Leave a Comment

   Postural orthostatic headaches are headaches that usually occur while sitting or standing and disappear fairly soon after lying down.

   The cause of postural orthostatic headaches is not known. It may be due to changes in blood pressure when changing position. This change in blood pressure causes the brain to send signals to the head which results in pain.

   CSF leaks are often the cause of positional headaches, but there are several other causes, including those associated with connective tissues, bones, and the nervous system.

   Symptoms

   A positional headache often occurs when a person is standing.

   Most positional headaches cause pain that gets worse when a person stands up and improves when they lie down for about 30 minutes.

   Some people with orthostatic postural headaches may wake up with a mild headache that will worsen throughout the day.

   It’s also not uncommon for headaches to go away or get weaker over time.

   Positional headaches tend to affect the back of the head, although they can also affect the front of the head, just one side of it, or the whole head.

   Certain activities can make headache symptoms worse, such as:

   • cough or sneeze
   • moderate to intense intensity exercises
   • sexual activities
   • leaning position

   Causes

   There are some specific causes of positional headaches.

   Loss of cerebrospinal fluid

   The cause of orthostatic postural headaches is often low CSF pressure inside the head, which occurs with intracranial hypotension. Intracranial hypotension is usually related to CSF ​​loss or imbalance.

   CSF cushions the brain and spinal cord with special membranes called meninges. These meninges prevent the brain and spinal cord from coming into contact with bony structures during movement.

   When the meninges are damaged, they allow cerebral spinal fluid to seep into the body, reducing fluid volume and pressure.

   This change in pressure can lower the position of the brain. This implies that the brain is more likely to come into contact with pain-sensitive structures in the head or spine.

   Most orthostatic postural headaches develop when a person is sitting or standing. When a person who has low levels of CSF is standing or sitting, their levels drop even further, increasing the risk of headaches.

   A doctor will normally rule out a CSF leak before looking for other causes.

   Orthostatic postural headaches can sometimes result from structural problems that affect parts of the neck, rather than the head itself.

   For example, the headache could develop due to problems related to:

   • intervertebral discs
   • connective tissues
   • nerves and blood vessels
   • joints
   • skeletal muscles

   Postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome

   It is a disease involving dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system, which regulates important functions such as heart function and water balance.

   Postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome causes rapid changes in heart rate and blood pressure when the person is standing. 

   Postural hypotension may develop after a person with CSF loss or another disabling condition has to lie down for a long time, for instance due to hospitalization.

   Diagnostic

   A doctor will usually rule out CSF loss before finding other conditions, by asking about the patient’s symptoms, reviewing their medical history, and ordering diagnostic tests (magnetic resonance imaging exam, computed tomography myelography scan ).

   MRI scans use strong magnetic fields to create an image that reveals typical CSF leaks in about 80% of cases. CT myelography scanners, on the other hand, use special X-rays and dye to create detailed images that can reveal damage, abnormalities or loss.

   To rule out a tachycardia syndrome, a doctor may also order the Trendelenburg test. This test consists of asking a person lying flat on an examination table to alternate a horizontal position and lower the head. During this test, a doctor will monitor the person’s heart rate and blood pressure.

   Treatment

   The best treatment option for postural orthostatic headache depends on the underlying cause.

   Treatments for CSF leaks vary depending on their severity and the location of the leak.

   Here are some examples of lifestyle remedies:

   • rest or stay in a horizontal position
   • to drink a lot of water
   • avoiding strenuous activities, such as heavy lifting
   • avoid coughing or sneezing if possible
   • drink caffeinated beverages or undergo intravenous caffeine therapy
   • try products containing ginger (for nausea)
   • have a healthy and balanced diet
   • practicing meditation or yoga
   • try acupuncture
   • using an abdominal binder for compression

   However, some mild to moderate CSF symptoms may improve without any treatment.

   Medications

   Certain medications can also help manage the symptoms of CSF leaks.

   However, researchers have yet to prove the effectiveness of most of them. In fact, some of these drugs can cause serious health problems, including disability.

   Some medications for CSF leak symptoms include:

   • theophylline
   • anti-nausea medications
   • non-opioid analgesics

   Epidural blood patch

   People with CSF leaks may also need an epidural blood  patch . This is a procedure in which a doctor injects 10 to 100 milliliters of a person’s own blood into the epidural space of the spinal canal.

   C treatment seems to help relieve symptoms and confirm the diagnosis.

   People should try to avoid strenuous activities or bending over for 4-6 weeks after undergoing this treatment.

   Surgery

   In severe or chronic cases, or when the precise location of the loss is known, doctors may perform surgery. The type and extent of surgery depends on individual factors.

   Several different types of surgery may be needed to remove or repair structural abnormalities or abnormal growths, such as tumors, malformations, or cysts.

   Symptom management

   There is no cure for positional headaches. However, certain medications and lifestyle changes may help:

   • increased water intake;
   • exercise regularly at a gradual pace;
   • increased salt intake;
   • take fludrocortisone, if you are on a high salt diet;
   • take beta-blockers.

   Risk factors

   There are several factors that can increase the risk of developing CSF loss and are a common cause of positional headaches. They include:

   • too hard or frequent sneezing or coughing;
   • too much tension during exercise or activities;
   • medical procedures, such as lumbar punctures;
   • fistulas or abnormal pockets of tissue;
   • certain genetic or hereditary diseases, such as Chiari malformations and polycystic kidney disease;
   • tumors or cysts of the head, neck or spine.

   When to consult a doctor

   Receiving an early diagnosis and prompt treatment generally reduces the risk of serious complications.

   See a doctor as soon as possible or seek emergency care if you have certain warning signs of CSF loss:

   • nausea and vomiting
   • neck pain or stiffness
   • sensitivity to light and sound
   • balance problems
   • ringing in the ears or hearing loss
   • pain between the shoulder blades
   • dizziness or vertigo
   • pain or numbness in the face or in the arms
   • double vision or blurred vision
   • chest or back pain
   • fatigue
   • changes in the taste of food
   • rapid heartbeat or rapid changes in blood pressure when changing position
   • fainting or dizziness when standing up

4. Bradypsychia

   19 h 35 min Leave a Comment

   Bradypsychia is the term used to describe a condition where people experience slowed thinking and movement. It is named after Dr. Henry Maudsley who first described the symptoms in 1879.

   People with bradypsychia have slower cognitive function with a slower thought process. Thought processes that are slightly slower than normal but do not adversely affect the person are not included in the term bradypsychia.

   It is often accompanied by a decrease in motor activity. 

   Bradypsychia is opposed to tachypsychia, which is characterized by the presence of excessively high and rapid thinking.

   Bradypsychia is a condition that often appears in diseases that affect cognitive functions, such as dementia or schizophrenia.

   Characteristics of bradypsychia

   Bradypsychia is a thought disorder defined by an exaggerated slowness in cognitive processes.

   Bradipsiquia is derived from the Greek words ‘bradi,’ which means slow, and ‘psiquia,’ which means spirit.

   In this sense, bradypsychia is not used to denote a slightly subnormal thought process.

   Bradypsychia is not related to the intellectual level that each person presents, but defines a pathological quality in which thought is abnormally slowed down due to the presence of a certain alteration or brain injury.

   Related diseases

   Bradypsychia is a disorder caused by damage or impairment to the subcortical regions of the brain.

   In this way, since the upper or cortical areas are preserved, the thought content is generally unaffected.

   People with bradypsychia generally exhibit significantly slow thinking processes, but have no loss of memory or other cognitive abilities.

   However, this is not always the case, as the onset of bradypsychia depends on the underlying disease or disorder. Thus, depending on the pathology causing the symptom, bradypsychia may appear alongside other alterations and manifestations.

   Alzheimer’s disease

   Alzheimer’s disease is the main neurodegenerative pathology, which generates a wide variety of alterations in cognitive processes.

   The main symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease are not associated with slow thinking, because the pathology first affects the cortical regions of the brain.

   Therefore, the onset of the disease is usually associated with learning difficulties, memory loss or deterioration of cognitive functions such as attention, executive functions or orientation.

   However, over time, the disease begins to affect all regions of the brain. Therefore, it is in the advanced stages of Alzheimer’s disease that bradypsychia appears.

   Vascular dementia

   Vascular dementia encompasses a variety of pathologies characterized by the appearance of a dementia syndrome due to vascular lesions in regions of the brain.

   The presence of bradypsychia will depend on which areas of the brain are damaged. These disorders often affect subcortical regions and frequently include bradypsychia among the symptoms.

   Huntington’s disease

   Huntington’s disease is a severe, hereditary and degenerative neurological disease.

   The disorder causes psychic and motor changes that progress slowly over about 15 to 20 years. Specifically, three main groups of symptoms have been proposed.

   The first would consist of signs of subcortical deterioration and would include bradypsychia. The second is the presence of signs of frontal deterioration such as impairments in mental or written arithmetic, and the third includes praxic disturbances.

   Parkinson disease

   Parkinson’s disease is a neurodegenerative disease that leads to progressive disability due to the destruction of substantia nigra neurons.

   The most typical symptoms of this pathology are the motor, through the typical tremors and slowness of movement caused by Parkinson’s disease.

   The slowness of movement caused by this disease also usually extends to cognitive areas, producing bradypsychia and deterioration of other subcortical mental processes.

   Schizophrenia

   Schizophrenia is a psychotic disorder that generates a variety of manifestations. Among them is alogy, an alteration that characterizes a series of cognitive dysfunctions caused by the disease.

   The cognitive impairments of schizophrenia can be very varied and of all the symptoms, bradypsychia is one of the most important.

   Depression

   In recent years, research has grown and focused on the study of cognitive alterations that can lead to mood disorders.

   In the case of depression, it is likely that mood disorders can generate alterations in attention, concentration and thought processes. All of these processes seem undamaged but are often slower than normal.

   Chronic alcoholism

   Finally, although there are many substances that can slow people’s cognitive functioning, alcoholism seems to be linked to the occurrence of bradypsychia.

   Treatment

   Bradypsychia is a specific symptom that appears as a manifestation of a specific disease.

   Its treatment must therefore be based on the treatment of the underlying pathology.

   In some cases, such as depression, the cognitive alterations caused by the pathology may disappear when the disorder is reversed.

5. Bradykinesia

   19 h 27 min Leave a Comment

   Bradykinesia refers to slowness of movement. It is often associated with Parkinson’s disease, which causes tremors, stiffness, and difficulty walking. 

   The condition may also occur after stroke, head injury, multiple sclerosis, or other neurological disorders.

   Bradykinesia can also be due to a side effect of medications or a symptom of other neurological problems. It is associated with akinesia, which occurs when a person has difficulty performing voluntary movements.

   What is bradykinesia?

   Bradykinesia is characterized by slow or difficult body movements. 

   There are different degrees of bradykinesia. Everyday movements, such as raising arms or legs, take much longer than before.

   Parkinson’s disease is the main cause of bradykinesia. As the disease progresses, a person’s ability to move and react quickly decreases.

   Symptoms

   In addition to slow movements and reflexes, a person may have:

   • Motionless muscles.
   • Limited facial expression.
   • A slow walk, dragging your feet.
   • Difficulty with repetitive tasks.
   • Difficulty taking care of oneself and performing daily activities.

   People with Parkinson’s disease may also have speech difficulties. As the disease progresses, speech becomes weaker and much more difficult to understand.

   Diagnosis of bradykinesia

   There is a specific test used to diagnose bradykinesia.

   During the test, a person taps the keyboard with their fingers for one minute, alternating between them.

   A doctor then notes the test to help determine the diagnosis. The test score is based on:

   • the number of correctly hit keys
   • the number of incorrectly typed keys
   • the time to hit the keys
   • the time between each keystroke

   This test is considered a very reliable tool. The results are used to assess whether or not a person has bradykinesia and the severity of Parkinson’s disease.

   Treatment

   Light exercise, such as swimming, may be recommended to relieve bradykinesia.

   In many cases, it is possible to successfully treat some of the symptoms associated with bradykinesia.

   A doctor may first recommend that a person try lifestyle changes to ease symptoms.

   A person can usually see positive results when making these changes. However, he/she should consult their doctor before changing their daily routine.

   Some changes to discuss with a doctor include:

   • a healthier diet
   • more walking
   • swimming
   • preventive measures to avoid falling, such as using a cane or walker
   • dietary fiber intake

   Many doctors also recommend medication in combination with lifestyle changes. A doctor is likely to prescribe a drug that increases the level of dopamine in the body.

   The production of dopamine can be influenced by:

   • carbidopa-levodopa
   • MAO-B inhibitors
   • dopamine agonists

   A doctor often has to try several medications before finding the best one.

   However, most drugs lose their effectiveness over time. This means that a doctor must change medications or doses frequently to help a person achieve the desired results.

   Surgery, for example deep brain stimulation, is possible for some people. 

   The causes of bradykinesia

   Aside from Parkinson’s disease, certain medications can cause bradykinesia.

   Antipsychotic drugs and other drugs used to treat neurological disorders cause a person to experience symptoms of bradykinesia.

   Scientists don’t know why this happens, as there isn’t enough research available to determine the underlying cause.

6. Bradycardia

   18 h 56 min Leave a Comment

   Bradycardia is a condition where your heart beats too slowly. It may be caused by a problem with the electrical system of your heart, which controls how fast your heart beats. The electrical signals that control your heart rate travel through the heart’s conduction system. This system includes the sinoatrial node (SA node), the atrioventricular node (AV node), and the bundle of His.

   In bradycardia, the heart beats less than 60 times per minute.

   Bradycardia can be a serious problem if the heart does not pump enough oxygen-rich blood to the body. For some people, however, bradycardia does not cause symptoms or complications. An implanted pacemaker can correct bradycardia and help the heart maintain a proper rhythm.

   Bradycardia symptoms

   With bradycardia, the brain and other organs might not get enough oxygen, which could cause these symptoms:

   • Fainting or fainting (syncope)
   • Dizziness or vertigo
   • Fatigue
   • Shortness of breath
   • chest pain
   • Confusion or memory problems

   A resting heart rate slower than 60 beats per minute is normal for some people, especially healthy young adults and trained athletes. For them, bradycardia is not considered a health problem.

   Case of sinus bradycardia

   Sinus bradycardia is a type of slow heartbeat that originates in the sinus node of your heart. The sinus node is considered the pacemaker of the heart. 

   Sinus bradycardia does not always indicate a medical condition. In some people, the heart can still pump blood efficiently with fewer beats per minute. For example, healthy young adults or endurance athletes can often have sinus bradycardia.

   It can also occur during sleep, especially when sleeping soundly. This is more common in older people.

   Sinus bradycardia can also occur with sinus arrhythmia. Sinus arrhythmia occurs when the rhythm between heartbeats is irregular. For example, a person with sinus arrhythmia may have a variation in heartbeat as they inhale and exhale.

   Sinus bradycardia and sinus arrhythmia can commonly occur during sleep. 

   Sinus bradycardia can be a sign of a healthy heart. But it can also be a sign of a faulty electrical system. For example, older people may develop a sinus node that does not function well enough to produce electrical impulses reliably.

   Sinus bradycardia can start causing problems if the heart is not pumping blood efficiently to the rest of the body. Possible complications include fainting, heart failure, or even sudden cardiac arrest.

   The causes

    Bradycardia can be caused by:

   • Damage to heart tissue associated with aging.
   • Damage to heart tissue due to heart disease or heart attack.
   • A heart condition present at birth (congenital heart defect).
   • An infection of the heart tissue (myocarditis).
   • A complication of heart surgery.
   • An underactive thyroid gland (hypothyroidism).
   • An imbalance of markers in the blood, such as potassium or calcium.
   • A repeated disturbance of breathing during sleep (obstructive sleep apnea).
   • An inflammatory disease, such as rheumatic fever or lupus.
   • Medicines, including some medicines for other heart rhythm disorders.
   • High blood pressure.
   • Psychosis.

   How does the heart work?

   The heart has four chambers: two upper (atria) and two lower (ventricles). A natural pacemaker (the sinus node), located in the right atrium, normally controls the heartbeat by producing electrical impulses that trigger each heartbeat.

   These electrical impulses travel through the atria, causing them to contract and pump blood into the ventricles. Then these impulses arrive at a group of cells called the atrioventricular (AV) node.

   The AV node transmits the signal to cells that transmit the signal in the left and right ventricles, which causes the ventricles to contract and pump blood. The right ventricle sends oxygen-poor blood to the lungs and the left ventricle sends oxygen-rich blood to the body.

   When does bradycardia occur?

   Bradycardia occurs when electrical signals slow down or are blocked. Bradycardia often begins in the sinus node.

   A slow heart rate can occur because of the sinus node:

   • discharges electrical impulses slower than normal or fails to discharge at a steady rate;
   • discharges an electrical impulse which is blocked before causing the atria to contract.

   In some people, sinus node problems cause alternating slow and fast heart rates (bradycardia-tachycardia syndrome).

   Bradycardia can also occur because the electrical signals transmitted by the atria are not transmitted to the ventricles.

   In the mildest form, all the electrical signals from the atria reach the ventricles, but the signal is slowed down.

   First degree disorder. The disorder rarely causes symptoms and usually needs no treatment if there are no other abnormalities in electrical signal conduction.

   Second degree disorder. Not all electrical signals reach the ventricles.

   Third degree disorder. None of the electrical impulses from the atria reach the ventricles. When this happens, a natural pacemaker takes over, but this results in slow and sometimes unreliable electrical impulses to control the rhythm of the ventricles.

   Risk factors

   Age. A key risk factor for bradycardia is age. Heart problems, often associated with bradycardia, are more common in older people.

   Heart disease risk factors. Bradycardia is frequently associated with damage to heart tissue. Therefore, factors that increase the risk of heart disease may also increase the risk of bradycardia.

   Lifestyle changes or medical treatment may reduce the risk of heart disease associated with the following factors: high blood pressure, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, recreational drug use, psychological stress or anxiety.

   Complications

   If bradycardia causes symptoms, possible complications may include:

   • fainting spells;
   • inability of the heart to pump enough blood (heart failure);
   • sudden cardiac arrest or sudden death.

   Prevention of bradycardia

   The most effective way to prevent bradycardia is to reduce the risk of developing heart disease by addressing risk factors: adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle by exercising regularly and following a diet healthy, low in fat, low in salt and sugar, rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains, maintain a healthy weight, control maintain blood pressure and cholesterol.

   Diagnostic

   The doctor will review your symptoms, medical and family history, and perform a physical exam.

   He will also order tests to measure the patient’s heart rate, link a slow heart rate to symptoms, and identify conditions that may cause bradycardia.

   Electrocardiogram. An electrocardiogram, also called an ECG, is a primary tool for evaluating bradycardia. Using small sensors (electrodes) attached to the chest and arms, it registers electrical signals as they travel through the heart.

   Since an ECG cannot record bradycardia unless it occurs during the test, the doctor may instruct the patient to use a portable ECG at home. These devices include:

   Holter monitor. Carried in your pocket or worn on a belt or across the body, this device records your heart’s activity for 24 to 48 hours.

   The doctor will likely ask the patient to keep a diary for the 24 hours. The patient will describe any symptoms observed and note their time of onset.

   Event recorder. This device monitors heart activity for a few weeks. Simply press a button to activate it when the patient experiences symptoms so that the device records heart activity during that time.

   The doctor may use an ECG monitor while performing other tests to understand the impact of bradycardia. These tests include:

   Tilt table test. The tilt table test is used to diagnose patients who faint because of a problem with the heart rate. It involves lying down on a special table while the table is tilted back and forth. The patient may feel dizzy or lightheaded during the test.

   Stress test. The patient walks on a treadmill or rides a stationary bicycle to see if the parallel measured heart rate increases appropriately in response to physical activity.

   Laboratory tests. The doctor will order blood tests to screen for conditions that could be contributing to bradycardia, such as infection, hypothyroidism, or electrolyte imbalance.

   If sleep apnea is suspected of contributing to the bradycardia, the patient might undergo tests to monitor your sleep.

   Treatment

   The treatment for bradycardia depends on the type of electrical conduction problem, the severity of the symptoms, and the cause of your slow heartbeat. If you have no symptoms, treatment may not be necessary.

   Treat underlying disorders (e.g. hypothyroidism or obstructive sleep apnea).

   Change in medications. Several medications, some of which are used to treat other heart conditions, can cause bradycardia. Changing medications or reducing doses may correct problems with a slow heart rate.

   Pacemaker. When other treatments are not possible and symptoms require treatment, a pacemaker is needed. This battery-powered device the size of a mobile phone is implanted under the collarbone. The wires of the device are inserted into the veins and into the heart. Electrodes at the end of the wires are attached to heart tissue. The pacemaker monitors the heart rate and generates electrical impulses needed to maintain an appropriate rate.

7. Stroke: how to prevent by treating hypertension

   18 h 49 min Leave a Comment

   Be careful not to treat hypertension too intensely

   Treating hypertension too intensely would be associated with a risk of occurrence of a cardiovascular accident. If hypertension in people with heart disease is dangerous for their health, too low a pressure also increases the risk of cardiovascular accidents, according to Professor Philippe Gabriel Steg, lead author of the study.

   The optimal blood pressure in patients with hypertension is still under debate. Some argue that the weaker the better but this can lead to insufficient blood flow to the heart in patients with coronary artery disease (damage to the arteries that supply blood to the heart).

   The medical data of 22,672 patients with coronary artery disease and treated for hypertension were analyzed to verify whether there was a link between the drop in blood pressure obtained after treatment and possible mortality from myocardial infarction or stroke.

   Systolic and diastolic blood pressure were recorded before each cardiovascular event or death that occurred in these patients.

   Results

   • Hypertension (with systolic pressure over 140 mmHg and diastolic pressure over 80 mmHg) has been associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular events.
   • Conversely, a systolic blood pressure below 120 mmHg is just as dangerous since it increases the risk of death from myocardial infarction or stroke by 56%. This risk increases by 41% when diastolic blood pressure is below 70 mmHg.

   This study suggests that physicians should exercise caution when prescribing an antihypertensive drug intended to lower blood pressure in patients with coronary artery disease.

   High blood pressure can be lowered with a healthy lifestyle:

   1. physical activity for at least 30 minutes a day.
   2. Moderate consumption of salt and alcohol.
   3. Follow a diet if necessary.

   Source: European Society of Cardiology, Rome, August 2016.

   Stroke: be careful not to forget to take your antihypertensive medication

   A study reveals that forgetting to take your antihypertensive drug would increase the risk of stroke by 40%.

   High blood pressure is a known risk factor for heart attacks and strokes. This new study suggests that sudden fluctuations in blood pressure can also be harmful to the brain. Indeed, forgetting to take your tablets daily considerably increases the variations in blood pressure and therefore the risk of stroke and heart attack.

   “Blood pressure fluctuates depending on various factors such as stress and taking medication in particular. While it is difficult to control certain factors, hypertensive patients can nevertheless take care to take their tablets regularly, ”says the principal researcher of the study published in the journal Hypertension.

   Lowering ‘normal’ blood pressure in at-risk subjects reduces risk of stroke and heart attack

   Treating people at risk of having a heart attack or stroke (CVA) with antihypertensives could be beneficial, even if they have a normal systolic blood pressure (ie less than 130 mmHg). These people at risk suffer from certain pathologies such as kidney disease, diabetes and a heart history…

   According to the results of the study involving 600,000 people, each 10 mmHg reduction in systolic blood pressure reduces the risk of heart attacks and strokes by 20 to 25%, and of stroke.

   The authors of the study criticize the fact that the European Hypertension Society has raised the blood pressure goals to be achieved from 130/85 mmHg to 140/90 mmHg.

   According to the American Heart Association, a so-called  normal pressure is lower than 120/80, and becomes high from 140/90.

   Source: Ettehad D et al. Blood pressure lowering for prevention of cardiovascular disease and death: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Lancet, December 2015.

   Treating normal blood pressure lowers stroke risk by 22%

   On the other hand, the risk of infarction is not reduced.

   It is considered that a preventive treatment must be implemented above 140/90 millimeters of mercury in order to reduce the risk of stroke and heart attack.

   These results, published in the journal Stroke, suggest that the prescription of antihypertensives could be extended to a category of ‘healthy’ people, an idea which is not shared by part of the medical community which considers that the the same effects could be obtained with a healthy diet, physical activity, reduced salt intake, and reduced alcohol consumption.

   In addition, this drug approach is expensive: the researchers have calculated that it would take 169 people to be treated for four years and three months to prevent a single stroke.

   Stroke: watch out for hypertension

   High blood pressure increases the risk of stroke, according to a review of 19 studies involving more than 760,000 patients.

   Between a quarter and half of the individuals had a tension higher than the optimal pressure (that is to say 120/80), but lower than 140/90, threshold from which one considers a person as hypertensive.

   The results showed that subjects with a blood pressure greater than 140/90 have a greater risk (+66%) of being victims of a stroke, compared to those with normal blood pressure, regardless of the presence of other factors. (smoking, diabetes, hypercholesterolemia).

   It should be noted that those in a gray zone – that is to say with a voltage between 120/80 and 140/90 – are not spared since a quarter of individuals who have suffered a stroke were part of this gray zone (mostly those with blood pressure between 130/85 and 140/90). The main author of the study recommends for this category of individuals to modify their diet and to be more active. The prescription of antihypertensives is not yet recommended.

   Source: Prehypertension and the risk of stroke, Neurology, February 2014.

8. Multiple system atrophy

   18 h 44 min Leave a Comment

   Multiple system atrophy (MSA) is a progressive disease that causes symptoms to worsen over time. It usually starts with problems with walking and balance, followed by muscle weakness and stiffness, difficulty swallowing, and trouble speaking. Eventually, people may lose their ability to move their arms and legs, and eventually become unable to breathe on their own.

   Multiple system atrophy (MSA) is a rare neurodegenerative disorder that shares many symptoms with Parkinson’s disease, such as slow movements, stiff muscles, and poor balance.

   Treatment includes medication and lifestyle changes to help manage symptoms, but there is no cure. The disease progresses until it causes death.

   Symptoms of multiple system atrophy

   SMA affects many parts of your body. Symptoms usually develop in adulthood, usually between the ages of 50 and 60.

   SMA is classified into two types: parkinsonian and cerebellar. The type depends on the symptoms you have at the time of diagnosis.

   Parkinsonian type

   This is the most common type of AMS. The signs and symptoms are similar to those of Parkinson’s disease, such as:

   • Rigid muscles
   • Difficulty bending arms and legs
   • Slow movement (bradykinesia)
   • Tremors (rare in SMA)
   • Posture and balance issues

   Cerebellar type

   The main signs and symptoms include problems with muscle coordination (ataxia), but others may include:

   • Impaired movement and coordination, such as an unsteady gait and loss of balance
   • Blurred, slow speech (dysarthria)
   • Visual disturbances, such as blurred or double vision and difficulty fixing your eyes on something.
   • Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) or chewing

   General signs and symptoms

   In addition, the main sign of multiple system atrophy is:

   • Orthostatic hypotension, a form of low blood pressure that causes dizziness, or even fainting, when rising from a sitting or lying position

   You may also have dangerously high blood pressure levels when lying down.

   Multiple system atrophy can cause other difficulties with involuntary (autonomic) bodily functions, including:

   Urinary and intestinal dysfunction

   • Constipation
   • Loss of bladder or bowel control (incontinence)

   sweating abnormalities

   • Reduced production of sweat, tears and saliva
   • Heat intolerance due to reduced sweating
   • Loss of body temperature control, resulting in cold hands or feet

   sleep disorders

   • Agitated sleep
   • Abnormal nocturnal breathing

   Sexual dysfunction

   • Inability to get or keep an erection (impotence)
   • Loss of libido

   Cardiovascular problems

   • Blood accumulates in the hands and feet and causes color changes.
   • Cold hands and feet

   Psychiatric problems

   • Difficulty controlling emotions, such as laughing or crying inappropriately

   Causes of multiple system atrophy

   There is no known cause for multiple system atrophy (MSA). Some researchers are investigating the possible involvement of an environmental toxin in the disease process, but there is no substantial evidence to support these theories.

   Multiple sclerosis causes deterioration and shrinkage (atrophy) of parts of your brain (cerebellum, basal ganglia, and brainstem) that regulate internal body functions, digestion, and motor control.

   Under a microscope, the damaged brain tissue of people with SMA shows nerve cells (neurons) that contain an abnormal amount of a protein called alpha-synuclein. Some research suggests that this protein may be overexpressed in multiple system atrophy.

   Complications

   The progression of SMA varies, but the condition does not go into remission. As the disorder progresses, daily activities become increasingly difficult.

   Possible complications include:

   • Breathing abnormalities during sleep
   • Injuries from falls caused by poor balance or fainting
   • Progressive immobility, which can lead to secondary problems such as deterioration of the condition of your skin
   • Loss of ability to take care of oneself in daily activities
   • Paralysis of the vocal cords, which makes it difficult to speak and breathe
   • Increased difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)

   People typically live about seven to ten years after several symptoms of systemic atrophy appear. However, the survival rate with multiple system atrophy varies widely. Sometimes people can live for 15 years or more with the disease. Death is often due to respiratory problems.

   How to Diagnose Multiple System Atrophy

   Diagnosing multiple system atrophy can be difficult. Some signs and symptoms of SMA – such as muscle rigidity and unsteady gait – also occur with other disorders, such as Parkinson’s disease, making diagnosis more difficult. Physical examination, along with various tests and imaging exams, can help your doctor determine if the diagnosis of AMS is likely or possible.

   As a result, some people are never correctly diagnosed. However, doctors are becoming more aware of the condition and are more likely to use physical examination and self-testing to determine if MSA is the most likely cause of your symptoms.

   If your doctor suspects multiple system atrophy, they’ll take a medical history, perform a physical exam, and possibly order blood tests. Brain scans, such as an MRI, can show signs that may suggest SMA and also help determine if there are other causes that may be contributing to your symptoms.

   You may receive a referral to a neurologist or other specialist for specific evaluations that can help make the diagnosis.

   Tilt table test

   This test can help determine if you have a blood pressure control problem. In this procedure, you are placed on a motorized table and strapped in place. Then the table is tilted upwards so that your body is positioned at a 70 degree angle.

   During the test, your blood pressure and heart rate are monitored. The results can assess both the extent of blood pressure irregularities and whether these occur during a change in physical position.

   Tests to assess autonomic functions

   Doctors may order other tests to assess your body’s involuntary functions, including:

   • Blood pressure measurement, lying down and standing up
   • A test to assess perspiration
   • Tests to assess your bladder and bowel function
   • Electrocardiogram to track your heart’s electrical signals

   If you have trouble sleeping, especially interrupted breathing or snoring, your doctor may recommend an evaluation at a sleep lab. This can help diagnose an underlying, treatable sleep disorder, such as sleep apnea.

9. Atherosclerosis

   10 h 22 min Leave a Comment

   Atherosclerosis is a specific type of arteriosclerosis that occurs when the blood vessels that carry oxygen and nutrients from the heart to the rest of the body become thick and stiff, sometimes restricting blood flow to your organs and tissues.

   Healthy arteries are flexible and springy, but over time the walls of your arteries can harden.

   Atherosclerosis is a specific type of arteriosclerosis, but the terms are sometimes used interchangeably. Atherosclerosis refers to the buildup of fats, cholesterol, and other substances in and on the walls of your arteries (atherosclerotic plaques), which can restrict blood flow.

   The plaque can burst, triggering a blood clot. Although atherosclerosis is often thought of as a heart problem, it can affect arteries anywhere in your body. Atherosclerosis can be prevented and can be treated.

   Atherosclerosis develops gradually. Mild atherosclerosis usually has no symptoms until an artery becomes so narrowed or blocked.

   Sometimes a blood clot completely blocks blood flow or even breaks and can trigger a heart attack or stroke.

   Symptoms of moderate to severe atherosclerosis depend on the arteries affected. For instance:

   • If you have atherosclerosis in the heart arteries ,  you may experience symptoms such as chest pain or pressure (angina).
   • If you have atherosclerosis in the arteries leading to your brain, you may experience signs and symptoms such as sudden numbness or weakness in your arms or legs, difficulty speaking or slurring, temporary loss of vision in one eye or facial muscles. These reflect a transient ischemic attack (TIA) which, if left untreated, can progress to a stroke.
   • If you have atherosclerosis in the arteries of your arms and legs, you may have symptoms of peripheral arterial disease, such as leg pain when walking (claudication).
   • If you have atherosclerosis in the arteries leading to your kidneys, you are developing high blood pressure or kidney failure.

   The causes of atherosclerosis

   Atherosclerosis is a slow, progressive disease that can begin in childhood. Although the exact cause is unknown, atherosclerosis can begin with damage or injury to the inner layer of an artery. Damage can be caused by:

   • High blood pressure
   • High cholesterol
   • High triglycerides
   • Smoking
   • Insulin resistance, obesity, or diabetes
   • Inflammation caused by conditions such as arthritis, lupus, or infections, or inflammation of unknown cause

   Once the inner lining of an artery is damaged, blood cells and other substances often clump together at the site of injury and accumulate in the inner lining of the artery.

   Over time, fatty deposits (plaque) made up of cholesterol and other cellular products also build up at the site of injury and harden, narrowing your arteries. The organs and tissues connected to the blocked arteries then do not receive enough blood to function properly.

   Eventually, pieces of fatty deposits can break off and enter your bloodstream.

   Additionally, the smooth plaque wall can rupture, spilling cholesterol and other substances into your bloodstream. This can cause a blood clot, which can block blood flow to a specific part of your body, such as when blocked blood flow to your heart causes a heart attack. 

   A blood clot can also travel to other parts of your body, blocking the flow to another organ (eg the brain).

   Risk factors

   Hardening of the arteries occurs over time. Besides aging, factors that increase the risk of atherosclerosis include:

   • High blood pressure
   • High cholesterol
   • Diabetes
   • Obesity
   • Smoking and other tobacco use
   • A family history of early heart disease
   • lack of exercise
   • An unhealthy diet

   Complications of atherosclerosis

   Depending on which arteries are blocked, the complications of atherosclerosis can vary. For instance :

   • Coronary artery disease. When atherosclerosis restricts the flow of blood through the arteries leading to your heart, you can develop coronary artery disease, which can lead to chest pain (angina), a heart attack, or heart failure.
   • Carotid artery disease. When atherosclerosis narrows the arteries near your brain, you can develop carotid artery disease, which can cause transient ischemic attack (TIA) or stroke.
   • Peripheral artery disease. When atherosclerosis affects the arteries in your arms or legs, you may develop circulation problems in your arms and legs called peripheral arterial disease. This can make you less sensitive to heat and cold, increasing your risk of burns or frostbite. Rarely, poor circulation in your arms or legs can lead to tissue death (gangrene).
   • Aneurysms. Atherosclerosis can also cause aneurysms, a serious and potentially life-threatening complication that can occur anywhere in your body. An aneurysm is a bulge in the wall of your artery.

   Most people with aneurysms have no symptoms. Pain and throbbing in the area of ​​an aneurysm may occur and is a medical emergency.

   If an aneurysm bursts, you can face life-threatening internal bleeding. Although usually a sudden and catastrophic event, a slow leak is possible. If a blood clot in an aneurysm becomes dislodged, it can block an artery in a distant location.

   • Chronic kidney disease. Atherosclerosis can cause the arteries leading to your kidneys to narrow, preventing oxygenated blood from reaching them. Over time, this can affect your kidney function, preventing toxins from leaving your body.

   Prevention of atherosclerosis

   Recommended healthy lifestyle changes are:

   • Stop smoking
   • Eat healthy foods
   • Exercise regularly
   • Maintain a healthy weight

   Diagnostic

   During a physical exam, your doctor may find warning signs:

   • A weak or absent pulse under the affected area of ​​your artery
   • Decreased blood pressure in an affected limb
   • Noises in your arteries, indicated by a stethoscope

   Based on the results of the physical exam, your doctor may suggest one or more diagnostic tests, including:

   • Blood tests. Laboratory tests can detect an increase in cholesterol and blood sugar levels which can increase the risk of atherosclerosis. You will need to go without food or drink anything other than water for nine to 12 hours before your blood test.
   • Doppler ultrasound. Your doctor may use a special ultrasound machine (Doppler ultrasound) to measure your blood pressure at different points along your arm or leg. These measurements can help your doctor assess the degree of any blockage, as well as the speed of blood flow through your arteries.
   • Ankle-brachial index. This test can determine if you have atherosclerosis in the arteries of the legs and feet.

   Your doctor may compare the blood pressure in your ankle to the blood pressure in your arm. An abnormal difference may indicate peripheral vascular disease, which is usually caused by atherosclerosis.

   • Electrocardiogram (ECG). An electrocardiogram records electrical signals as they pass through your heart. An ECG can often reveal evidence of a previous heart attack. If your signs and symptoms occur most often during exercise, your doctor may ask you to walk on a treadmill or ride a stationary bicycle during an ECG.
   • Stress test. It is used to collect information about how your heart is working during physical activity.

   Since exercise causes your heart to pump harder and faster than during most daily activities, a stress test can reveal problems in your heart that might not otherwise be noticeable.

   A stress test usually involves walking on a treadmill or riding a stationary bike while your heart rate, blood pressure, and breathing are monitored.

   • Cardiac catheterization and angiography. This test can show if your coronary arteries are narrowed or blocked.

   A liquid dye is injected into the arteries of your heart through a long, thin tube (catheter) which is fed through an artery, usually in your leg, to the arteries of your heart. As the dye fills your arteries, the arteries become visible on the x-ray, revealing areas of blockage.

   • Other imaging tests. Your doctor may use an ultrasound, computed tomography (CT), or magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) to study your arteries. These tests can often detect hardening and narrowing of large arteries, as well as aneurysms and calcium deposits in the walls of the arteries.

   Treatment

   Lifestyle changes, such as healthy eating and exercise, are often the most appropriate treatment for atherosclerosis. Sometimes medications or surgery may also be recommended.

   Medications

   Various medications can slow – or even reverse – the effects of atherosclerosis. Here are some types of media:

   • Cholesterol medications. Significantly lowering your low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, the “bad” cholesterol, can slow, stop, or even reverse the buildup of fatty deposits in your arteries. Raising your high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, the “good” cholesterol, can also help.

   Your doctor can choose from a range of cholesterol medications, including drugs called statins. In addition to lowering cholesterol, statins have additional effects that help prevent atherosclerosis.

   • Anti-platelet drugs. Your doctor may prescribe anti-platelet medications, such as aspirin, to reduce the likelihood of platelets clumping together in narrowed arteries, forming a blood clot and causing further blockage.
   • Beta-blocker drugs. These drugs are commonly used for coronary heart disease. They lower your heart rate and blood pressure, reduce the demand on your heart, and often relieve symptoms of chest pain. Beta-blockers reduce the risk of heart attack and certain heart rhythm problems.
   • Angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors. These drugs can help slow the progression of atherosclerosis by lowering blood pressure and producing other beneficial effects on the heart arteries. ACE inhibitors may also reduce the risk of recurrent heart attacks.
   • Calcium channel blockers. These drugs lower blood pressure and are sometimes used to treat angina.
   • Diuretics. High blood pressure is a major risk factor for atherosclerosis. Diuretics lower blood pressure.
   • Other drugs. Your doctor may suggest certain medications to control specific risk factors for atherosclerosis, such as diabetes. Sometimes specific drugs to treat the symptoms of atherosclerosis, such as leg pain during exercise, are prescribed.

   Surgical interventions

   Sometimes more aggressive treatment is needed to treat atherosclerosis. If you have severe symptoms or a blockage that threatens the survival of muscle or skin tissue, you may undergo one of the following surgeries:

   • Angioplasty and stent placement. In this procedure, your doctor inserts a long, thin tube (catheter) into the blocked or narrowed part of your artery. A second catheter with a deflated balloon on its end is then passed through the catheter to the narrowed area.

   The balloon is then inflated, pressing the deposits against the walls of your arteries. A mesh tube (stent) is usually left in the artery to help keep the artery open.

   • Endarterectomy. In some cases, fatty deposits must be surgically removed from the walls of a narrowed artery. When the procedure is performed on the arteries in the neck (the carotid arteries), it is called a carotid endarterectomy.
   • Fibrinolytic therapy. If you have an artery blocked by a blood clot, your doctor may use a clot-dissolving medicine to separate it.
   • Bypass surgery. Your doctor can create a graft bypass using a vessel from another part of your body or a synthetic fabric tube. This allows blood to flow around the blocked or narrowed artery.

   Home remedies and lifestyle

   Lifestyle changes can help you prevent or slow the progression of atherosclerosis.

   • Stop smoking. Smoking damages your arteries. If you smoke or use tobacco in any form, quitting smoking is the best way to stop the progression of atherosclerosis and reduce your risk of complications.
   • Exercise most days of the week. Regular exercise can condition your muscles to use oxygen more efficiently.

   Physical activity can also improve circulation and promote the development of new blood vessels that form a natural bypass around blockages (collateral vessels). Exercise helps lower blood pressure and reduces your risk of diabetes.

   Aim to exercise for at least 30 minutes most days of the week. If you can’t fit it all into one session, try breaking it up into 10-minute intervals.

   You can take the stairs instead of the elevator, walk around the block during your lunch hour, or do sit-ups or push-ups while watching TV.

   • Eat healthy foods. A heart-healthy diet based on fruits, vegetables and whole grains – and low in refined carbohydrates, sugars, saturated fats and sodium – can help you control your weight, blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar. blood sugar.

   Control the amount of salt and fat and use monounsaturated fats, such as olive oil, and reduce or eliminate sugar and sugar substitutes.

   • Lose extra pounds and maintain a healthy weight. If you are overweight, losing as little as 2 to 5 kilograms can help reduce your risk of high blood pressure and high cholesterol, two of the main risk factors for developing atherosclerosis.

   Weight loss helps reduce your risk of diabetes or control your condition if you already have diabetes.

   • To manage stress. Reduce stress as much as possible. Practice healthy techniques for managing stress, such as muscle relaxation and deep breathing.

   Alternative medicine

   It is believed that certain herbal foods and supplements can help lower your high cholesterol and high blood pressure, two major risk factors for developing atherosclerosis. With your doctor’s approval, you might consider these supplements and products:

   • Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA)
   • Barley
   • Beta-sitosterol (found in oral supplements and some margarines)
   • Black tea or green tea
   • Calcium
   • Cocoa
   • Cod liver oil
   • Coenzyme Q10
   • fish oil
   • Folic acid
   • Garlic
   • Oat bran (found in oatmeal and whole oats)
   • Vitamin C

   Before adding any of these supplements to your treatment for atherosclerosis, please speak with your doctor. Some supplements can interact with medication, causing harmful side effects.

10. Conseils pour rester en bonne santé en voyageant

    8 décembre 2022 14 h 18 min Leave a Comment

    Voyager peut être amusant et excitant, mais aussi stressant et difficile. Lorsque vous êtes loin de chez vous, il est important de rester en bonne santé en prenant des mesures pour préparer votre voyage et en étant conscient de tout problème de santé potentiel pendant votre voyage. Voici quelques conseils pour rester en bonne santé en voyage :

    Dormez suffisamment

    Le sommeil est l’une des choses les plus importantes pour que votre corps se répare. Il est également crucial pour vous aider à vous sentir bien et à être productif pendant la journée. Le manque de sommeil peut rendre la concentration plus difficile, affecter l’humeur et l’irritabilité, provoquer des oublis, des somnolences au travail ou au volant, accroître le stress et augmenter le risque d’obésité, car le manque de sommeil rend plus difficile le contrôle des fringales.

    La quantité de sommeil nécessaire dépend de l’âge de l’individu : les nouveau-nés ont besoin d’environ 16 heures par jour ; les adolescents de 13 à 17 ans ont besoin de 8 à 10 heures de sommeil par jour, de même que les adultes à partir de 18 ans qui devraient dormir 7 à 8 heures par nuit.  Par conséquent, il est vivement recommandé de vous reposer lors vos déplacements, quitte à louer un hébergement pour la nuit afin de limiter les risques d’accident. Vous pouvez facilement trouver des appartements à louer à Montréal à $500 pour quelques jours. En plus, votre location vous permettra aussi de découvrir un nouveau lieu !

    

    Anatolii Igolkin, Canva.com

    Préparez du désinfectant pour les mains

    Vous serez peut-être surpris d’apprendre que le désinfectant pour les mains ne sert pas seulement à prévenir la propagation des germes, mais qu’il peut aussi être utilisé pour se nettoyer les mains avant de manger ou après être allé aux toilettes. Le désinfectant pour les mains est également utile pour nettoyer les surfaces (y compris les mains des autres !), les articles personnels comme les téléphones et les appareils photo, et même comme solution rapide pour les petites coupures et les éraflures.

    Apportez vos aliments préférés

    Apportez vos aliments préférés. La nourriture est un excellent moyen de se réconforter, et parfois ce dont vous avez envie n’est pas disponible ou facile à trouver dans un autre pays. Si vous avez des besoins alimentaires particuliers (végétaliens, sans gluten, etc.), préparez des en-cas spécifiques à ces besoins et emportez-les avec vous ainsi vous aurez tout ce qu’il faut. Après avoir récupéré les clefs de votre location, vous n’aurez pas à courir les magasins pour trouver de la nourriture !

    Évitez le stress

    Le stress est un élément normal de la vie, mais il peut conduire à l’anxiété et à la dépression s’il n’est pas géré. La réduction du stress peut être obtenue par l’exercice, la méditation, le yoga ou d’autres techniques de relaxation.

    Étirez-vous régulièrement

    S’étirer régulièrement permet d’éviter les blessures en voyage. Les étirements peuvent également vous aider à mieux dormir, ce qui vous permettra d’être plus détendu et plus énergique pendant la journée. L’exercice est également un excellent moyen de déstresser après un long vol ou une autre aventure, ce qui est important pour maintenir votre système immunitaire en bonne santé. Enfin, l’exercice améliore la circulation sanguine dans tout le corps, y compris dans tous les endroits où les microbes aiment se cacher pendant les voyages en avion !

    Transportez vos médicaments dans leur emballage d’origine

    Apportez une copie de votre ordonnance et de votre carte d’assurance pour montrer que vous êtes couvert pour le médicament. Si vous avez des doutes sur la possibilité de voyager avec vos médicaments, parlez-en à votre médecin et voyez s’il n’y a pas une alternative qui pourrait être prise en toute sécurité pendant le voyage. Pour éviter toute confusion avec les services de sécurité de l’aéroport, écrivez : « Pour usage médical seulement » sur le contenant ou le sac original, ainsi que sur toute copie d’ordonnance.

    Il est toujours préférable d’apporter tous les médicaments dans leur contenant et leur emballage d’origine afin qu’ils puissent être clairement identifiés par vous-même et par d’autres personnes aux points de contrôle de la TSA ou aux postes frontaliers (surtout lors de vols internationaux). Si c’est impossible en raison de restrictions de taille, assurez-vous que les récipients ou bouteilles utilisés portent explicitement la mention « À usage médical uniquement ».

    

    dorian2013, Canva.com

    Ne buvez pas l’eau du robinet

    Il est également important de noter que dans certaines régions du monde, même l’eau en bouteille peut ne pas être sûre à utiliser. Cela est souvent dû au fait que l’eau du robinet a été contaminée par des bactéries et d’autres microorganismes suite à une manipulation ou d’un stockage inappropriés avant de vous parvenir. Lorsque vous achetez de l’eau en bouteille dans ces situations, assurez-vous que la bouteille est scellée et qu’elle est fraîche (vérifiez la date d’expiration). Si vous doutez de l’innocuité de votre bouteille, ne la buvez pas ! La même règle s’applique au brossage des dents : ne vous brossez pas les dents avec l’eau du robinet si vous n’êtes pas sûr de son innocuité – ou mieux encore : ne vous brossez pas les dents du tout !

    Un mode de vie sain est toujours une priorité, mais c’est particulièrement important lorsque vous voyagez. Il peut être tentant de se laisser aller à la paresse et de ne pas faire d’exercice ou de continuer à manger de la malbouffe pendant les vacances. Cependant, si vous voulez rester en bonne santé durant votre voyage, il est important que vous preniez soin de vous en faisant régulièrement de l’exercice et en mangeant bien avant de quitter la maison. Ainsi, lorsque l’occasion se présentera (ou que vous frapperez à votre porte), vous serez prêt !