Almost a year ago, the COVID-19 pandemic profoundly altered our lives. For grandparents, marking this anniversary with their grandchildren can help them make sense of what they have been through. Start by asking simple questions.
While as many as one in 10 American women is affected by endometriosis, it can take years to get a correct diagnosis because the symptoms may mimic other common conditions. And myths about this condition may keep some women from seeking help.
As the pandemic rages on, rapid development of COVID-19 vaccines is welcome news since widespread vaccination is essential to help contain it. But while many are scrambling to get a vaccine, others hesitate due to concerns about effectiveness and safety.
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February 6, 2021 7:15 AM Paul F. Dellaripa, M.D., Harvard Health Blog
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For autoimmune lung disease, the most important first step is to eliminate any known risks that may cause or exacerbate lung disease.
A man who was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) five years ago sees his rheumatologist for a follow-up visit. Fortunately, his arthritis is well controlled through medication. He can walk and do all his daily activities without pain.
But over the past six months, he’s been feeling short of breath when climbing stairs. He has an annoying dry cough too. COVID-19? That’s ruled out quickly. But a CT scan of his chest reveals early fibrosis (scarring) of the lungs, most likely related to rheumatoid arthritis.
Harvard Medical School Professor Andrew Budson says that s not because you get stuffed up like you would with a cold or the flu. Instead: Most people think the taste and smell are related to the virus directly affecting those nerves that go into the brain. That could certainly be true,” Budson said. “And it goes to show that the virus could be attacking the brain directly.
He s worried an attack on the brain could lead to long-term memory problems. Adding that Coronavirus also reduces blood oxygen levels which can cause brain damage. In addition, COVID-19 increases the chances of older people having mini-strokes which temporally cuts off blood flow to your brain. Budson thinks that might explain why some people who already recovered from coronavirus still deal with brain fog.