Q : What is scleroderma?
A: Scleroderma is the name for a group of diseases in which excess collagen is produced, causing hardening and thickening of the skin. An autoimmune disease, scleroderma may also affect other parts of the body. The National Scleroderma Foundation estimates that more than 300,000 Americans have the condition.
Scleroderma is chronic condition classified into two types.
Localized scleroderma (also referred to as morphea) normally affects the skin in one part of the body. Systemic sclerosis spreads through the body and can affect the digestive and respiratory systems. Scleroderma occurs more often in women than in men.
Independent reporting for Pine Bluff & Jefferson County since 1879.
The cause of scleroderma is unknown. Having a close relative with an autoimmune disease increases the risk factor, but the disease isn’t necessarily classified as a genetic disorder.
Symptoms may not present themselves in the early stages of the disease. In addition to patches of thickened skin, other symptoms may include bloating, fatigue, stiffness, difficulty swallowing and unexplained weight loss.
A referral to a rheumatologist may be required in order to accurately diagnose the disease, as the symptoms can be result of other conditions. Treatments include medications to suppress the immune system or creams or moisturizers to prevent skin from drying.
Q: What does a radiation therapist do?
A: A radiation therapist is a health care professional whose primary task is to administer radiation to patients, normally for health conditions such as cancer or thyroid disease.
Radiation oncologists and oncology nurses specialize in radiation therapy, and the radiation therapist is a key component of the patient’s treatment plan.
Radiation therapists operate the equipment that delivers radiation therapy to patients. They ensure the correct amount of radiation is applied to the proper location as determined by the radiation oncologist or oncology nurse.
Radiation therapists monitor the patient for abnormal reactions during treatment and inform the physician or nurse if necessary.
Radiation therapists normally work in such health care settings as doctor’s offices, hospitals and outpatient centers. An associate’s or bachelor’s degree in radiation therapy or similar field is often required.
Certification by the American Registry of Radiation Technologists as well as obtaining a state license as a registered technologist are also requirements.
Work as a radiation therapist can be rewarding. It requires attention to detail to ensure the treatment is being properly applied.
Patients may be apprehensive about their condition, so radiation therapists also must empathize with patients.
Overall, a radiation therapist plays an important role in health care.
Q: How do you treat conjunctivitis?
A: Conjunctivitis (commonly referred to as “pink eye”) is an inflammation of the clear tissue inside of the eyelid and the outer surface of the eye. The term “pink eye” references the whites of the eyes appearing reddish or pink.
Conjunctivitis is a common eye infection, with approximately 6 million cases in the U.S. each year.
Conjunctivitis is normally caused by allergens, bacteria or viruses.
A foreign object in the eye, irritating substances or blocked tear ducts can also cause conjunctivitis.
Risk factors for the condition include being exposed to an infected person, exposure to an allergen or using contact lenses that are not properly cleaned.
Bacterial and viral conjunctivitis is extremely contagious. In many instances, the condition is spread before the person is aware of the infection.
Conjunctivitis symptoms include blurred vision, burning eyes, swollen eyelids, a gritty feeling in one or both eyes or increasing tearing.
Mild cases of bacterial or viral conjunctivitis normally go away without antibiotics. However, your health care provider may prescribe antibiotics if eye discharge is present or for persons with compromised immune systems.
Prevention includes frequent hand washing, avoiding touching of the eyes and ensuring contact lenses are cleaned and replaced as necessary.
Q: I want to begin exercising. What questions should I ask my doctor?
A: Exercise is one of the best things you can do to improve physical and mental health.
Regular exercise can reduce anxiety, improve balance and coordination, lower the risk of disease, help with weight loss and weight management, and contribute to better sleep.
However, beginning an exercise program can be intimidating and stressful.
If you are not used to exercising or you are looking to get back into it following an injury or other medical issue, it is advised to contact your health care provider.
Your health care provider can give an assessment of your condition and advise on how you should proceed depending upon your exercise goals.
Ask your health care provider what type of exercise would work for you. Your condition may not support strength training or extensive cardio.
Inquire if any current medications would affect training. You may need to verify you are current on all preventive care.
Ask how much exercise would be safe when beginning a program.
Keep your health care provider informed of your progress, especially in the initial stages. Consider a personal trainer or class if you’re looking at strength training exercises to make sure your form is correct and not conducive to injury.
Dr. Daniel Knight is a professor in the Department of Family and Preventive Medicine in the College of Medicine at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences. Email your health questions to housecall@uams.edu.