Posts Categorized: Medical Minute

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Medical Minute: High-Functioning Sociopaths

Rick Kern/Getty Images

Travis Scott continued to perform for 40 minutes as concertgoers tragically died during his Astroworld Festival on Friday night.

8 people are confirmed dead and hundreds were injured during a crowd surge and stampede at NRG Park in Houston, Texas on Nov. 5.
 
READ ALSO: 8 dead, 300+ injured after stampede at Travis Scott's Astroworld
 
In dozens of videos uploaded to the Internet, Scott looked on as paramedics performed CPR on unresponsive young people.

He continued performing for another 40 minutes while kids as young as 14 were loaded into ambulances. He reportedly encouraged concertgoers to make "the ground shake" as bodies lay at their feet.

Erika Goldring/WireImage

Scott claims he didn't know what was happening, but there is video evidence that he was at least aware that something was wrong.

The crowd repeatedly chanted "Stop the show!" In one video, Scott says, "Who asked me to stop?"

Bob Levey/Getty Images

The 29-year-old rapper has a troubling history of violence and injuries at his concerts.

He was arrested in Chicago in 2015 and again in Arkansas in 2017 for urging fans to storm the stage and inciting a riot in the mosh pit that left a security guard and concertgoers injured.

Johnny Nunez/WireImage

In 2017, Scott was sued by a fan who was paralyzed after the rapper urged people to jump off a balcony at a concert in New York.

Kyle Green's lawyers say the deaths in Houston could have been avoided if Scott had learned his lesson in the past.
 
In a video posted on Reddit.com, Scott urged his fans to beat up a young man who stole one of his sneakers.
 

 
In a video uploaded to social media on Saturday, Scott shows no remorse as he claims to care about the well-being of his fans.
 

 

What is a High-Functioning Sociopath?

A sociopath is someone over 18 who exhibits antisocial behaviors, has little regard for others, and a disturbing lack of conscience.

They may be diagnosed with antisocial personality disorder (ASPD) as adults or conduct disorder as children.

They engage in risky behaviors that typically harm others for the benefit of themselves. They often lie, cheat, are manipulative, and show no remorse for their behavior.

According to Healthline.com, people who have an easier time engaging in these dishonest behaviors may be called high-functioning sociopaths.

Sociopaths harm others and pretend to show remorse only when they are caught or in trouble.

Sociopaths typically break rules or make impulsive decisions without feeling compassion or empathy for others.

Sociopaths only care about the outcome of their behavior, not the consequences.

Sociopaths will urge someone to jump off a roof because they want to see the outcome: injuries. They only consider the consequences afterwards -- and only if they get into trouble.

A reasonable person would expect serious injury or death if someone jumped off a roof or a balcony.

Sociopaths have a "callous indifference" or disregard for the pain and suffering of others.

 

Signs and Symptoms of Antisocial Behavior in Sociopaths:

Sociopaths exhibit behaviors that show a pattern of at least three of the following:

  • Never learning from their mistakes

  • No respect for social norms or laws; Constantly break rules

  • Lie and deceive others for personal gain

  • Exhibit risky behavior without considering the consequences

  • Aggressive or aggravated behavior

  • Don't consider the safety of others

  • Irresponsible; often late for appointments or not paying their bills on time

  • Lack of guilt or remorse when they harm or mistreat others

  • A sense of superiority over others

  • Inability to maintain longterm relationships

  • Taking risks at the expense of others

  • Getting into trouble with the law

  • Addiction to drugs or alcohol

  • Threatening suicide without ever acting on the threats

 
This has been your Medical Minute.

DISCLAIMER

Any medical information published on this blog is for your general information only and is not intended as a substitute for informed medical advice. You should not take any action before consulting with your personal physician or a health care provider. Sandrarose.com and its affiliates cannot be held liable for any damages incurred by following information found on this blog.

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The Popularity of Erotic Choking is Soaring, But is it Safe?

Giuseppe Elio Cammarata / EyeEm

The popularity of sexual choking is soaring, but health experts say erotic breath play can be deadly if precautions aren't taken.

The practice of sexual asphyxiation -- depriving a partner of oxygen during sex -- is more popular with men than women. It is also more popular among ghey males than lesbians.

People who are into breath play say it can heighten sexual arousal and make orgasms more intense.

TerryJ / E+

According to a 2020 study in the Journal of Sexual Medicine, 20% of men say they choked a partner to near unconsciousness during sex. Only 12% of women said they choked a partner during foreplay.

Women and girls have reported being choked during sex without their consent and it has been used in controversial "rough sex" defenses.

One man was acquitted of murder when he successfully convinced a jury that his partner accidentally died during rough sex.

Here's what experts say about Erotic Asphyxiation (EA):

"EA is truly very risky and may lead to serious injury, including cardiac arrest, brain damage from lack of oxygen, and death," says Janet Brito, PhD, LCSW, CST, who specializes in sex therapy.

"Knowing EA may lead to experiencing irregular heart rate, cardiac arrest, and death, most experts advise against it."

jpique / E+

"Before a couple considers EA, it's best to set time aside to communicate their interests in detail — specifically what types of boundaries are needed," added Brito.

She said couples should use nonverbal cues to alert a partner if they come dangerously close to passing out.

  • holding something in your hand, such as your keys, and dropping it when you'd like to stop
  • tapping three times on your partner's hand or nearby surface
  • snapping your fingers

 
Brito also says it is important to give consent before erotic breath play begins.

You and your partner should discuss your boundaries before you're in the heat of the moment, and consent should be given at each stage of play.

This has been your Medical Minute.

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Kim Kardashian’s daughter North West hates her mom’s ‘ugly’ house

Best Image / BACKGRID

Kim Kardashian's 8-year-old daughter North West is already showing signs of narcissism by making fun of her home to upset her mother.

The TV reality star – who has North, Saint, 5, Chicago, three, and Psalm, two, with estranged husband Kanye West – said her eldest child has learned how to hurt her feelings.

BACKGRID

Kim claims the child knows one of the easiest ways to hurt her feelings is to mock the "ugly" way she decorates their spacious $60 million mansion.

"Every time I get into some kind of disagreement with my daughter North, she thinks this is a dig to me and she'll say, 'Your house is so ugly. It's all white. Who lives like this?'

"She just thinks it gets to me and it is kind of mean because I like my house."

Mental health experts warn parents to be aware of signs of narcissism in children who have been raised on social media.

Hurtful, vindictive words that are meant to cause emotional pain in adults are typical of children with narcissistic personality disorder (NPD).
 
READ ALSO: Medical Minute: Are You Raising a Narcissist?
 
Narcissism is the prevailing attitude that a child is superior to others and is entitled to things that she wants.

The narcissistic child is characterized by extreme selfishness and attention-seeking behavior.

Best Image / BACKGRID

According to WENN.com, the former "Keeping Up with the Kardashians" star is guilty of offering her children a "good bribe" in order to win their cooperation and affection.

Speaking on the new Ellen Digital series Mom Confessions, she admitted: "My biggest parenting fail is I give in too easily sometimes and bribes. I'm guilty of a good bribe."

But Kim tries her best not to lie to her children.

"I really try not to lie to my kids," she said. "I was doing that at the beginning to try to get them out of the house or to try to go into a playdate or things like that, and I just realized quickly it wasn't going to work for me and I'd rather be honest with my kids."

@TheHapaBlonde / BACKGRID

What are the warning signs of narcissism in children?

1. Attention-seeking behavior

The child seeks attention, but does not express gratitude to the parents for being kind and nice to them.

2. Entitlement

The NPD child believes that she is entitled to have everything she asks for. She believes she is superior and that others (including parents) are beneath her.

3. Unreasonable expectations

The child has high and unreasonable expectations from others. They are opportunists who constantly look for weakness in others to take advantage of them.

4. Inability to maintain friendships

The NPD child finds it difficult to make and maintain friendships. She seeks inappropriate friendships with older children and adults who can provide her with the things she wants.

5. Selfishness

The NPD child is extremely selfish with high levels of self-importance. They are exploitative by nature and are envious of others' achievements.

6. Can't take criticism

The NPD child can't take constructive criticism and is easily insulted. She blame others for her failures.

7. Behaves formally

The narcissistic child behaves formally (too grown) in the presence of adults. She is then praised by adults for being "more mature" than other children.
 
What causes NPD in children?

1. Narcissistic parents who are self-indulged, detached, or emotionally unresponsive to a child's needs

2. Parents who are too permissive

3. Excessive and constant praising of a child's beauty (you're so pretty; you're so handsome).

4. Too much negative criticism

5. Irrational expectations of a child

6. Excessive abuse (physical and mental)

This has been your Medical Minute.

Read more about narcissism in children.

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Medical Minute: 10 Signs You Are in a Narcissistic Relationship

Splash News

Are you in a narcissistic relationship? Living with a narcissist can be bad for your health, according to mental health experts.

Narcissists are evil personified. They are soulless humans who lack empathy and harbor an exaggerated sense of entitlement.

Narcissists are in love with an idealized self-image. They use their victims to project that idealized self-image back to them.

When a victim worships a narcissist it validates the narcissist's sense of self importance.

No photo

YouTube.com

"In this industry, you come across all kinds of narcissists," Jada Pinkett Smith said on an episode of her popular Facebook Watch show Red Table Talk.

"Definitely. Big time. Big time. Devastated. Because you bring people into your inner sanctum. They make you believe that they're one thing, and then something happens, and you realize that they are something completely and utterly different. It can be very painful and dangerous."

You don't have to be a celebrity to be a narcissist. Pathological narcissism is on the rise in America thanks to the Internet. Social media is a breeding ground for narcissism. Children as young as 5 have access to social media which instills a superficial sense of importance in the child.

Children who were exposed to the harmful influence of social media are now young adults terrorizing their partners.

Sean Combs

BACKGRID

Psychology Today listed warning signs to watch for.

1. Lack of Empathy

Narcissists have a stunning lack of empathy for the suffering of humans and animals. Their lack of empathy makes it easy for them to prey on people or take advantage of family members.

2. They Are Very Charming

Narcissists can be extremely charming. They can make you feel very special and wanted and desired. They hone their skills by watching others and then they practice their charms on their victims (you). They can be very persuasive and seductive and overpower you in a process called "love bombing."

3. Conversation Interrupter

The narcissist constantly interrupts conversations and switches the focus of the discussion back to them. What you have to say is not interesting, so stop talking and listen.

4. Silent Treatment

The silent treatment is one of the tools in the narcissist's sinister arsenal. It is the ultimate rejection. The narcissist can ignore you for days, weeks, or even years. The narcissist usually ignores you until you apologize to them -- even though they were the cause of the conflict!

5. Rule Breaker

Narcissists frequently break rules because they believe rules and laws don't apply to them.

6. Grandiose

The narcissist has an exaggerated sense of self importance. They believe they are extremely handsome or beautiful -- and how lucky you are that they "chose" you. They can be extremely convincing, but watch out for their lies. Remember, you are just a part of their fantasy world. Nothing they say or do is real.

7. Entitlement

Narcissists have a distorted sense of entitlement. They insist on having the best of everything. They don't have to wait in line or follow rules - rules are for peasants!

Kevin Mazur/Getty Images

8. Conversation Hoarder

Narcissists love to talk about themselves. But more importantly, they love to hear you talk about them. They dominate conversations so you can't get a word in. If you do get a word in, your comments are dismissed as insignificant.

9. Fixation On That Mirror

Narcissists live in the mirror. They can't pass a mirror or a storefront without looking at their reflection. You might joke about their love for mirrors, but they're not laughing inside. The mirror validates their idealized self-image. They need the mirror because their internal self-image is so distorted.

10. They Mirror You

Watch out for this one! Be careful of narcissists who mirror you. When a narcissist mirrors you, she wants to manipulate you into loving her by acting as if she is your perfect twin. You are her narcissistic supply.

She copies your style of dress, your hairstyle, how you walk and talk, your hand gestures, etc. Your friends might say you two are twins (but don't take it as a compliment). She is learning your strengths and weaknesses and all your insecurities. Eventually, she will replace you by taking your man, your job, or your life. Mirroring is a red flag. Proceed with caution!

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Are mRNA Vaccines Turning ‘Fully Vaccinated’ People Into Covid Factories?

Win McNamee/Getty Images

The Rev. Jesse Jackson and his wife, Jacqueline, were hospitalized in Chicago after testing positive for Covid-19.

Both Jackson, 79, and his wife Jacqueline, 77, received Covid-19 mRNA vaccines in January, and are fully vaccinated.

They join millions of people who tested positive or fell ill with Covid-19 after receiving the vaccines. A small percentage of those people required hospitalization or died.
 
DOES THE VACCINE CAUSE COVID TO MUTATE?
 
Researchers say the vaccines do not cause the Covid-19 virus to mutate into variants.

In July, the CDC released alarming data that shows around 35,000 vaccinated people reported symptoms from Delta variant infections each week.

The list of celebrities, athletes, and lawmakers who contracted the Delta variant after receiving the vaccines is growing longer by the day.

Photo may have been deleted

Instagram

  • Melissa Joan Hart tests positive for COVID-19 despite being vaccinated
  • Hilary Duff Reveals She's Tested Positive for COVID-19 Despite Being Vaccinated
  • Slipknot star Corey Taylor 'very, very sick' after testing positive for Covid
  • Gov. Greg Abbott, Fully Vaccinated, Tests Positive for COVID

    • "THE WAR HAS CHANGED"
     
    The so-called "breakthrough cases" are worrisome to researchers. Breakthrough infections caused by the less lethal but highly contagious Delta variant signaled to the CDC that "The war has changed."

    Some merchants and retailers have banned fully vaccinated people from their stores due to fears that they are "shedding" the virus and infecting the unvaccinated.
     
    HOW THE mRNA VACCINE WORKS
     
    The messenger RNA vaccine works by instructing your immune cells to produce spike proteins that would normally be produced by the Covid-19 virus.

    Ideally, vaccine-induced spike proteins cause an immune response that hunts and destroys the virus.

    Radoslav Zilinsky/Moment

    However, Covid-19 also has spike proteins -- those red spikes that you see on the surface of the virus in this illustration.

    Covid uses its spike proteins to latch onto ACE2 receptors to enter human cells and cause infections.

    Our God-given immune system blocks Covid's spikes from attaching to ACE2 receptors, thus preventing infections.

    Natural immunity last longer than man-made antibodies, which, according to the CDC, only last 6-8 months before wearing off.

    Studies show spike proteins harm cells by causing inflammation and vascular endothelial damage. There have been multiple reports of blood clots and cardiac inflammation, particularly in teenagers.

    The CDC and World Health Organization received extensive safety data from vaccine makers Pfizer and Moderna that shows millions of doses given with no significant side effects.

    Pfizer and Moderna insists their vaccine-induced spike proteins do not cause harm because the vaccine is administered in the deltoid (arm) muscle where the muscle cells take up the mRNA to produce spike proteins.

    Health experts downplay reports that vaccine-induced spike proteins cause blood clots in the heart, lungs or blood vessels.

    According to the CDC about 49% of Americans are fully vaccinated. 60% of Americans have received at least one vaccine dose.

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    Medical Minute: Barrel Chest in Men, What Causes It?

    Guillermo Proano/WENN

    Sylvester Stallone was seen dining at Craig's restaurant in Los Angeles on Wednesday. The 74-year-old actor is best known for his sensitive portrayal of a fictional boxer Rocky Balboa in the '70s Rocky film franchise.

    Men with barrel chests typically have unusually large, round rib cages. The term "barrel chest" refers to a rounded chest that's shaped like a barrel.

    Guillermo Proano/WENN

    A barrel chest is not a disease, but it can indicate an underlying medical problem.

    The rounded chest shape is caused by the rib cage naturally protruding as a man ages. It is typically seen in obese men and men who have an exaggerated forward rounding back (kyphosis).

    Barrel chest can be caused by medical conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), congestive heart failure (CHF), emphysema, chronic bronchitis, or osteoarthritis.

    Barrel chest occurs because the lungs are overinflated with air, and the rib cage remains expanded rather than retract when a man exhales.

    When the rib cage remains expanded or protruding, it can cause breathing irregularities and shortness of breath because air is trapped in the lungs and can't be fully expelled.

    A barrel chest by itself does not require treatment. But it is a cause for concern if a barrel chest is accompanied by respiratory symptoms.

    This has been your Medical Minute.

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    Elon Musk Hosts SNL, Reveals He Has Asperger’s (High-Functioning Autism)

    Photo may have been deleted

    YouTube

    Elon Musk hosted Saturday Night Live (SNL), where the tech billionaire revealed he was diagnosed with Asperger's syndrome, an autism spectrum disorder.

    "I don't always have a lot of intonation or variation in how I speak, which I'm told makes for great comedy," he said, before adding, "I'm actually making history tonight as the first person with Asperger's to host SNL. Or at least the first person to admit it."

    Actually, former "SNL" cast member Dan Akroyd also had the disorder.

    Critics ripped Musk for not apologizing for comments he made about the Covid-19 vaccine or transgenders.

    Despite the criticism, over 3 million people viewed a YouTube video of his monologue over the weekend.
     

    What is Asperger's syndrome?

    Asperger's syndrome -- also known as high-functioning autism -- is a developmental disability that affects many people in many different ways. In fact, many adults with Asperger's are never diagnosed.

    Some adults are only diagnosed with Asperger's when their symptoms interfere with their personal and work relationships.

    "People with Asperger syndrome see, hear and feel the world differently to other people," according to the British National Autistic Society.

    "Look, I know I sometimes say or post strange things, but that's just how my brain works," Musk said during the SNL episode.

    High functioning autism (HFA) generally refers to autistic people who have significantly developed language and independent living skills. They may seem normal because they tend to be highly intelligent, very successful in life, or have a special talent that sets then apart from others.

    However, as children they are obsessed with a particular subject or activity, and become upset when that activity is interrupted.

    Doctors and parents miss the signs and symptoms of HFA in childhood because the child seems normal except for their obsession with a particular subject or activity. Many HFA children channel their obsessions into successful careers.

    Those with Asperger's may also find it difficult to express their feelings, but can be more empathetic or emotionally aware than non-autistic people.

    Autism is diagnosed in toddlers and adolescents who have difficulty with interpersonal and communications skills.

    Starting in the 1990s, milder forms of autism were recognized in adults, including high-functioning autism.
     

    Signs and Symptoms of High-Functioning Autism

    Below are some of the signs and symptoms of high-functioning autism (this is not a complete list).

    1. Socially awkward

    2. Hyper sensitive to bright lights or certain noises (loud music)

    3. Depression or anxiety

    4. Repetitive actions or behaviors

    5. Easily upset when a task is interrupted in the middle

    6. Can't handle even minor changes

    7. Prefer to be alone

    8. Mood swings

    9. 70% surveyed say they are LGBT+

    10. Repeats words or phrases during conversations

    11. Intensely focused on specific interests (gaming, social media, etc.)

    12. Have a talent or gift (art, music, writing, etc.)

    13. Have a tough time interacting with others

    14. Have trouble maintaining eye contact

    15. Staring disorder
    You sometimes stare without realizing it (until someone tells you or reacts negatively)
     

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    Researchers Link Homosexuality and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

    Photo may have been deleted

    Twitter, Getty Images

    Earlier this week, Twitter users criticized Tariq Nasheed for posting a viral video of a Holiday Inn employee being berated by a customer.

    The employee, Caleb. C., is seen beating himself up after a customer berated him over a reservation error.
     

    Caleb later wrote a Reddit post explaining that he suffered from bipolar disorder and schizoaffective disorder. He also revealed he was in a same-sex relationship.

    Studies over the years have revealed a strong link between homosexuality and autism.

    One recent online survey of 309 individuals diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) reveled nearly 70% of the respondents were LGBT+.

    Research suggests that individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) report increased homosexuality, bisexuality, and asexuality, but decreased heterosexuality.

    Caleb didn't include autism syndrome as one of his mental disorders. However, most homosexuals with high functioning autism are never diagnosed.

    Why is the link between homosexuality and autism important?

    The link is important because Caleb should have been at home collecting disability payments rather than working the night shift where he is subjected to abuse.

    In 1973, the American Psychiatric Association (ASA) voted to remove homosexuality from its list of mental illnesses. As a result, people like Caleb, who are autistic and suffer from other mental disorders, can't apply for disability payments.

    Most people who viewed the video of Caleb's meltdown agree that he shouldn't have been working a front desk job -- even though he was working the overnight shift.

    He beat himself up -- first with his fist and then with a computer monitor -- because lacked the coping skills to withstand the harassment from the customer.

    A GofundMe account created for Caleb has raised $130,000. But it's clear that he can't work a public-facing job again.

    If you are LGBT+ and have ever wondered "Am I autistic?", the following signs and symptoms may apply to you:

    1. Socially awkward

    2. Hyper sensitive to bright lights or certain noises (loud music)

    3. Depression or anxiety

    4. Drawn to repetitive actions or behaviors

    5. Easily upset when told to stop a task in the middle

    6. Can't handle even a minor change

    7. Prefer to be alone

    8. Common phrases confuse you ("No man is an island")

    9. You don't recognize sarcasm

    10. You repeat words or phrases during conversations

    11. You are intensely focused on specific interests (gaming, social media, etc.)

    12. Have an exceptional talent (art, music, writing, etc.)

    13. Have a tough time interacting with others

    14. You're lactose intolerant

    15. You sometimes stare without realizing it (someone tells you you're staring)

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    Medical Minute: Brain tumors, risk factors, signs & symptoms

    Prince Williams/FilmMagic

    Emmy-winning news anchor Jovita Moore underwent surgery to remove two small brain tumors early Friday morning.

    Jovita worked as a news reporter and anchor at Channel 2 Action News for two decades.

    [Click here to leave your well wishes for Jovita]

    Just before going on the air Monday, Jovita told Channel 2's Justin Farmer that she wasn't feeling well.

    Later, as she walked through a grocery store parking lot, she felt lightheaded. "I was walking. I remember walking across parking lot and feeling like I wasn't going to make it to the door. I was walking like in quicksand," Jovita said.

    Marcus Ingram/Getty Images

    She was rushed to an emergency room, where a brain scan revealed two small brain masses.

    Jovita told co-workers she was sometimes "forgetful, disoriented and just not feeling myself."

    What is a Brain Tumor?

    A brain tumor occurs when abnormal brain cells clump together to form a mass. As the tumor grows, it presses on the surrounding tissue. Eventually, the pressure on surrounding structures causes symptoms, such as in Jovita's case.

    Brain tumors can remain in the brain or metastasize (spread) elsewhere in the body.

    Cancer in other parts of the body, such as the lungs, can metastasize to the brain.

    Tumors may be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous).

    What are the risk factors for a brain tumor?

    A family history of cancer is one of the risk factors. About 5 to 10 percent of all cancers are hereditary.

    Brain tumors are diagnosed more often in Caucasians and biracial, mixed people.

    Certain chemicals, such as industrial cleaners, solvents, or medications can increase your risk for brain cancer.

    Exposure to radiation can also increase risk.

    According to the American Brain Tumor Association, people who never had childhood chicken pox are at greater risk of getting brain tumors.

    Signs and symptoms of a brain tumor

    Signs and symptoms of a brain tumor depends on the type, size, and location of the tumor within the brain. The space surrounding the brain inside the skull doesn't allow for much wiggle room. A tumor, or even an aneursym, will press on surrounding tissues causing noticeable signs and symptoms.

    Signs & symptoms include:

  • Headache

  • Dizziness, lightheadedness, vertigo

  • Blurred or double vision

  • Loss of balance

  • Nausea and vomiting

  • Seizures

  • Confusion, disorientation

  • Change in mental status

  • Memory loss

  • Hand tremors

  • Difficulty walking

  • Numbness or tingling on one side of the body

  • Difficulty speaking

    •  

    How are brain tumors diagnosed?

    Your doctor will order diagnostic tests and perform a physical exam. The doctor will use an ophthalmoscope to visualize your optic nerves inside your eues. The scope shines a light in your eyes to see if your pupils are unequal or dilated.

    Diagnostic tests include CT scan, MRI, angiography and skull X-rays.

    How are brain tumors treated?

    Treatment depends on the type, size, and location of the tumor. The most common treatment is surgery to remove the tumor.

    Surgery can also be combined with chemotherapy and radiation.

    There are risks involved with brain surgery, such as loss of mobility, loss of speech and paralysis. Post-surgical infection is also likely.

    Patients may temporarily lose the ability to walk or speak after surgery, depending on the location of the tumor that was removed.

    Some patients will require physical therapy or speech therapy after surgery.

    This has been your Medical Minute.
     

    DISCLAIMER

    Any medical information published on this blog is for your general information only and is not intended as a substitute for informed medical advice. You should not take any action before consulting with your personal physician or a health care provider. Sandrarose.com and its affiliates cannot be held liable for any damages incurred by following information found on this blog.

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    Medical Minute: SLU doctor explains warning signs of a ruptured brain aneurysm

    C Flanigan/FilmMagic

    Rapper and music producer Dr. Dre suffered a ruptured brain aneurysm that landed him in an ICU at Cedars Sinai Medical Center.

    Most people who suffer a brain aneurysm have no symptoms until the aneurysm ruptures, causing bleeding in the brain.

    Dr. Guillermo Linares, associate professor of neurology at St. Louis University, explained a brain aneurysm to FOx2Now.

    "What a brain aneurysm is it's an abnormality in one of the [blood] vessels, the wall of the vessel in the brain. It is an area of weakness," he said. "This area of weakness allows for a small blister or pouch to develop and because, it's weaker, it has a tendency to rupture."

    Dr. Linares, who didn't treat Dre, added: "When it ruptures, the high pressure with the blood inside the artery, pushes the blood out and it can cause brain damage. I think in lucky cases the bleeding stops right away and the only thing one would experience is a very severe headache."

    Dr. Linares said anti-hypertensive medicine to control high blood pressure and avoid smoking can prevent brain aneurysms from rupturing.

    "Those two things are the biggest modifiable risk that will probably prevent an aneurysm from rupturing."

    Linares says there are warning signs to look for.

    "So, the sudden onset of the worst headache of someone's life," he said. "Especially if accompanied by a difficulty with speaking or weakness in an arm or leg or an asymmetry in the face, should prompt a 911 call right away."

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    Medical Minute: Penile Yeast Infection

    Peter Dazeley

    A yeast infection is usually a female health problem, but men can also get yeast infections.

    An untreated penile yeast infection can cause redness, itching and intense pain that drives men to seek medical treatment. Serious complications can occur if the yeast gets into your bloodstream.

    What causes yeast infections?

    Yeast infection is caused by a fungus called Candida, which is usually always present in or on the body in small amounts.

    An overgrowth of fungus occurs when moist, warm conditions create an ideal environment for candida to grow.

    One of the most common causes of a penile yeast infection is unprotected sexual intercourse with a woman who has a yeast infection. Another main cause is being uncircumcised.

    Other factors include poor hygiene, diabetes, HIV+ status, poor diet, excess sugar in diet, weak immune system, obesity, and medications like broad spectrum antibiotics.

    Signs & Symptoms

    Signs and symptoms of penile yeast infection include:

  • pain in the penis

  • thick white creamy substance under foreskin

  • redness

  • itching

  • shiny patches

  • burning

    • Peter Dazeley/Getty Images

    Treatment

    Over-the-counter (OTC) ointments and creams are effective against most penile yeast infections. Don't self-diagnose your yeast infection. Always consult a doctor or healthcare provider.

    Yeast infections can recur if the conditions are ideal. If your infection doesn't respond to OTC medications, you may be advised to get a circumcision.

    This has been your Medical Minute.
     

    DISCLAIMER

    Any medical information published on this blog is for your general information only and is not intended as a substitute for informed medical advice. You should not take any action before consulting with your personal physician or a health care provider. Sandrarose.com and its affiliates cannot be held liable for any damages incurred by following information found on this blog.

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    Medical Minute: Facial Psoriasis

    Photo may have been deleted

    Chicago PD

    A mugshot that shows a Chicago man suffering from a serious case of facial psoriasis is going viral on social media.

    Psoriasis is a chronic (longterm) skin condition caused by overactive skin cells that build up in scaly patches.

    The scaly patches can be painful and itchy when the condition flares up. Psoriasis comes and goes and can last for weeks or months.

    It's rare for psoriasis to only affect the face. The condition is more commonly seen on elbows, knees, lower back, and the scalp. A similar condition called seborrheic dermatitis affects mainly the scalp and hairline,
     

    What causes facial psoriasis?

    There is no known cause for facial psoriasis. Doctors believe genetics and the immune system may be factors.

    Psoriasis flare ups can be triggered by:

  • stress

  • sunburn

  • yeast infection

  • side effects to medications

  • cold, dry weather

  • smoking

  • alcohol use

    •  

    Treatment

    Your doctor may prescribe medications to treat psoriasis and the symptoms it causes.

    Medications include creams, ointments or foam containing mild corticosteroids, Vitamin D and retinol.

    This has been your Medical Minute.
     

    DISCLAIMER

    Any medical information published on this blog is for your general information only and is not intended as a substitute for informed medical advice. You should not take any action before consulting with your personal physician or a health care provider. Sandrarose.com and its affiliates cannot be held liable for any damages incurred by following information found on this blog.

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    Medical Minute: Covid-19 Immunity and Antibodies

    Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images

    Yesterday, my post about President Trump achieving immunity against Covid-19 touched a nerve in some of my readers who decided to challenge my knowledge of immunity and antibodies.

    In this post I will try to address some of the misconceptions and misinformation expressed in my comments section.
     

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    This comment is incorrect. You can't have immunity without antibodies. The two fit together like a hand in glove. Immunity simply means the antibodies will recognize Covid-19 and kill it if it tries to re-infect the body. This protection can last for months or a lifetime.
     

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    Someone can be immune and still test positive if the virus is in his body at the time of the test. If you've ever had a cold caused by a coronavirus in your lifetime, you are likely immune to Covid-19. You won't show symptoms (asymptomatic), but you will still test positive for Covid-19.
     

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    Asymptomatic means you are infected with the virus but you don't get sick (no symptoms). Immunity means you have the antibodies against the virus, so you won't get sick if you are infected.
     

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    This is incorrect. Millions of people have developed antibodies and immunity against the coronavirus. Their serum contains antibodies and doctors use their serum to transfer immunity to others. The CDC and Dr. Fauci have released a lot of misinformation about Covid-19.
     

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    It is not necessary to receive treatment in order to become immune. If your immune system is healthy it will develop antibodies to attack an invading virus and prevent that same virus from infecting you again.
     

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    What you quoted doesn't specify immunity. But your definition for immunity explains why antibodies are necessary for immunity. Trump's doctor said he has antibodies to the coronavirus. That means Trump has developed antibodies to give him immunity (long-term protection) against Covid-19.
     

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    People diagnosed with HIV or AIDS are in the high-risk category for Covid-19. They are not immune to Covid-19. Coronavirus can be suppressed and destroyed by a healthy immune system. But the HIV virus attacks and destroys the immune system before it can put up a fight.

    Antiviral or antiretroviral drugs slow the progression of HIV to AIDS by preventing HIV from attaching to and entering white blood cells (WBCs) of the immune system. If the HIV virus can't enter cells, then it can't destroy the immune system and it can't replicate (make copies of itself).

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    Medical Minute: Dyspnea On Exertion (Air Hunger)

    AFP via Getty Images

    US President Donald Trump experienced mild shortness of breath after walking up the South Portico steps as he arrived at the White House from Walter Reed Army Medical Center, where he underwent treatment for Covid-19 on Monday, Oct. 5 [see video below].

    Patients who are recovering from a respiratory illness will experience air hunger after exertion, such as walking up steps. It is usually not a cause for concern.

    AFP via Getty Images

    Dyspnea or air hunger is mild to moderate difficulty breathing after exertion, such as climbing steps. It is an uncomfortable feeling that usually lasts less than 2 minutes, but it can last longer.

    Dyspnea on exertion, also known as shortness of breath, occurs when the body is craving oxygen after quickly using up oxygen stores doing exercise or another strenuous activity.

    People who exhibit air hunger after exertion typically feel anxiety from the sensation of not being able to get enough air in their lungs.

    Gradyreese via Getty Images

    Anyone can experience mild air hunger or dyspnea after exercising -- even world class athletes and joggers.

    Sometimes, air hunger is just a case of being out of shape, and exercise can improve symptoms. But it can be a sign of a serious health issue.

    Signs & Symptoms of Air Hunger (Dyspnea)

  • shortness of breath after exertion or due to a medical condition
  • feeling smothered or suffocated as a result of breathing difficulties
  • anxiety or panic attack
  • labored breathing
  • tightness in the chest
  • rapid, shallow breathing
  • heart palpitations
  • wheezing
  • coughing

    • Air hunger or dyspnea without exertion is a medical emergency. You should be seen by a doctor immediately.

    Care should be taken to avoid over-exerting yourself during the recovery stage of an illness when you are regaining your strength following an illness.

    This has been your Medical Minute.
     

     

    DISCLAIMER

    Any medical information published on this blog is for your general information only and is not intended as a substitute for informed medical advice. You should not take any action before consulting with your personal physician or a health care provider. Sandrarose.com and its affiliates cannot be held liable for any damages incurred by following information found on this blog.

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    Medical Minute: Is Coprophilia a mental disorder?

    Dave Benett/Getty Images

    Coprophilia, also known as Scatophilia or Scat, was in the headlines this week after NFL star Odell Beckham Jr. was accused of being sexually arousal by bowel movements.

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    Screengrab: YouTube.com

    The 27-year-old Cleveland Browns wide receiver trended on Twitter after adult film star Slim Danger, who shares a child with rapper Chief Keef, went on a podcast and accused the football star of having an obsession with watching people defecate or being defecated on.

    A morbid attraction or fetish for the smell, taste or sight of feces is a paraphilia often associated with obsessive-compulsive disorder.

    The paraphilia begins in childhood when toddlers take pleasure in holding or retaining and then expelling their stool or urine.

    Coprophilia can be reinforced by masturbation and may become a fetish by age 17.

    Each time masturbation reinforces the coprophilia, it becomes more difficult to modify or erase the behavior.

    This can cause significant stress and anxiety or impairment of social or occupational functioning in men, according to Psychology Today.

    The disorder is rare and impacts 20 times more males than females. Women tend to be repulsed by the odor of excrement.

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    Most men with the disorder hide their fetish in more traditional sexual activity with women. They may prefer that women use straps on them during sex. The man will usually forego the use of enemas to evacuate his bowels before sex.

    Coprophilia, or Scatophilia, is largely ignored in psychology. Any literature on the subject groups it in with other paraphilias such as necrophilia or pedophilia.

    "People with paraphilia seem to have grown up in dysfunctional environments and to have had early sexual experiences that limited their ability to be sexually stimulated by consensual sexual activity," according to the text Human Sexuality.

    Paraphilias are treated with counseling and therapy to help men cope with their anxiety and modify their behavior. But most men with the disorder never self-report and tend to hide their shame.

    This has been your Medical Minute.
     

     

    DISCLAIMER

    Any medical information published on this blog is for your general information only and is not intended as a substitute for informed medical advice. You should not take any action before consulting with your personal physician or a health care provider. Sandrarose.com and its affiliates cannot be held liable for any damages incurred by following information found on this blog.