Never-ending Cough! Pertussis That Lasts for 100 Days! How to Part Ways with Pertussis? Vaccinations for Adults and Pregnant Women.

Hello, it’s your health buddy! Let’s feel better together. Today, I’m here to share some symptom insights and helpful tips about Pertussis. Let’s dive in!

Unstoppable coughs with higher mortality in younger age groups. Learn all about the causes, symptoms, and prevention of pertussis!

Lately, as the seasons change, many of us may feel our bodies struggling to adapt. You might also notice people around you suffering from persistent, long-term coughs.

Despite multiple visits to the doctor and taking medications, the cough refuses to stop. Something seems suspicious, right? Recently, I saw a news report that highlighted the sharp rise in pertussis cases.

One of its distinct features is a relentless cough that continues for 2–3 months without any signs of improvement.

If you’ve heard of pertussis but aren’t sure what it is, here’s a simple explanation: it’s a disease nicknamed for the 100-day cough.

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A Growing Number of Cases in the US and Worldwide

According to the WHO, pertussis cases have been on the rise globally. For example, the US reported a steady increase in confirmed pertussis cases in recent years. This aligns with broader concerns about its spread worldwide, emphasizing the need for vigilance and prevention.

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What is Pertussis (Whooping Cough)?

Pertussis, also known as whooping cough (scientifically called pertussis or Bordetella pertussis infection), is an acute respiratory disease that only affects humans.

The name “pertussis” refers to the characteristic whooping sound made during episodes of coughing. 

Classified as a Category II Notifiable Infectious Disease, pertussis is highly contagious, demanding careful attention to its prevention and management.

The disease originates from the Bordetella pertussis bacteria, which infect the respiratory system, attach to the cilia in the airways, and produce toxins that impair cellular functions. This causes airway inflammation, leading to the characteristic symptoms.

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How Does Pertussis Spread?

Pertussis only occurs in humans, with no known animal or insect hosts. It spreads through respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing, making close contact a primary risk factor.

The disease is highly infectious, with an 80% secondary attack rate within households. Its infectious period is highest during the initial catarrhal stage (the first phase of the illness) and the first two weeks of coughing.

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What Are the Symptoms of Pertussis?

The incubation period is typically 7–20 days, and the illness progresses through three stages over 6–8 weeks:

1. Catarrhal Stage (1–2 weeks)

   • Most contagious period
   • Symptoms: mild cough, nasal congestion, low fever, watery eyes, and cold-like symptoms.

2. Paroxysmal Stage (2–4 weeks or more)
   
   

   
   
   
   • Sudden bouts of intense coughing, often ending with a “whoop” sound.
   • Symptoms: red face, vomiting after coughing, thick mucus, and severe fatigue.

3. Convalescent Stage (1–2 weeks or longer)

   • Gradual recovery with fewer cough episodes.

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How Can We Prevent Pertussis? Vaccination is Key!

The most effective way to prevent pertussis is through timely vaccination.

Standard Vaccination Schedule

1. Infants and Young Children

   • 2, 4, and 6 months (DTaP vaccine)
   • Booster doses:
     • At 15–18 months
     • At 4–6 years
   • Combination vaccines like DTaP-IPV and others are available for convenience.

2. Adolescents and Adults

   • 11–12 years: Tdap booster
   • Every 10 years thereafter: Tdap or Td booster

3. Pregnant Women

   • Best time: Between 27–36 weeks of pregnancy for optimal antibody transfer to the baby.
   • A single dose during each pregnancy is recommended, regardless of prior vaccination history.

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Additional Preventive Measures

1. Avoid crowded places for unvaccinated infants.
2. Stay away from individuals with pertussis symptoms.
3. Disinfect items contaminated by respiratory secretions.
4. Family members or close contacts of pertussis patients may need preventive antibiotics, regardless of vaccination status.

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5 Rules for Preventing Respiratory Infections

1. Practice Cough Etiquette:

   • Wear a mask if you have respiratory symptoms.
   • Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or sleeve when coughing.

2. Wash Your Hands Properly:

   • Use soap and water for at least 30 seconds, especially after coughing, sneezing, or touching surfaces.

3. Avoid Touching Your Face with Unwashed Hands:

   • Especially your eyes, nose, and mouth.

4. Ventilate Indoor Spaces Frequently:

   • Keep fresh air circulating to reduce airborne transmission.

5. Seek Medical Attention for Symptoms:
   
   

   
   
   
   • If you have a fever or persistent cough, visit a healthcare provider promptly.

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The best defense against pertussis and other respiratory infections is maintaining good personal hygiene. Consistently practice proper handwashing and be mindful of cough etiquette.

Let’s stay healthy and support one another with care. 😊

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Your health buddy is here for you. Wishing you a healthy and happy day ahead. Stay well!💖

This content is for informational purposes only and does not hold any individual or entity legally responsible. For accurate diagnosis and treatment of symptoms, please visit a nearby medical institution. This does not represent my final medical opinion and may vary depending on specific circumstances and evolving medical perspectives.

A Black Vertical Line on Your Thumbnail! Cancer? Diabetes? Decode the Signals Your Nails Are Sending!

Nails and Their Health Signals!

Hello, it’s your health buddy! Let’s feel better together. Today, I’m here to share some symptom insights and helpful tips about Nails. Let’s dive in!

Focus on changes in your nail’s color and shape!

Have you ever felt like something was off with your nails?

Do they feel bumpy? Do you notice black lines?

If you see unusual changes, you might wonder if something is wrong.

Nails, often called “the small mirrors of our body,” It can’t provide a 100% accurate diagnosis.
However, they serve as an easy way to check your overall health by observing changes in their color and shape.

Now, stretch your fingers, examine your nails closely, and try to detect any warning signs your body might be sending.

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What’s the Role of Nails?

The tips of our fingers are highly sensitive, where arteries and veins meet. They are prone to injuries due to frequent use, and nails act as a protective shield, like armor.

Nails are attached to the fingertips and made up of multiple layers of keratin, a transparent, hard protein. The nail’s color isn’t its own but rather the color of the blood vessels beneath it.

Interestingly, nails grow about 0.1 mm per day on average. 

Among all your fingers, the middle finger nail grows the fastest. If you’re right-handed, your right nails grow quicker; if left-handed, your left nails do.

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Detecting Health Signals Through Nail Color and Shape

What If Nail Color Changes?

Press your nail gently and then release it. If it doesn’t turn light pink immediately, it might indicate vascular or other health issues.

• White Nails: May signal liver disease or anemia.
• Blue Nails: Could indicate lung problems or bronchial issues.
• Green Nails: Pay attention to possible heart or lung diseases.
• Yellow Nails: Could mean fungal infections or diabetes.
• White Spots: Often caused by poor nutrition or mineral deficiencies.
• Black Lines: Suggest poor blood circulation or circulatory system issues.

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What If Nail Shape Changes?

• Cracked or Brittle Nails:
  This often happens when blood circulation is poor or nutritional status is low.

• Depressed Center:
  A dent in the center of the nail might indicate iron-deficiency anemia.

• Bulging Nails:
  Raised nails could signal respiratory or digestive system issues.

• Horizontal Lines:
  May indicate extreme fatigue, nutritional deficiencies, or lung-related diseases like pneumonia or severe colds.

• Vertical Lines:
  Often appear when muscles are shrinking due to excessive exercise or imbalanced diets.

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What If Nail Color Turns Black?

If your nail turns black without injury, it could be a dangerous signal from your body.
Especially if black lines appear under your nail, it might be a sign of melanoma, a type of skin cancer.
In such cases, consult a doctor immediately.

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What If Nail Color Turns White?

When the reddish tone of your nail fades and turns increasingly white, it could signal chronic kidney disease or diabetes.

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What If the Half-Moon Shape Below the Nail Changes?

The half-moon shape at the base of the nail is usually pale pink or white. This area contains fine blood vessels and nerves, playing a crucial role in nail metabolism and hydration.

If it turns bluish, it might indicate heart-related issues and a medical checkup is recommended.

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What If Nails Become Too Thick or Thin?

• Thick Nails:
  This could be a symptom of fungal infections like athlete’s foot.

• Thin Nails:
  Thin nails might point to nutritional deficiencies. If they become brittle, it could also indicate dryness. To avoid this, limit the use of nail polish and acetone. Additionally, soap can dry out nails, so remember to apply moisturizer after washing your hands to keep your nails hydrated and nourished.

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What If Nails Develop Ridges?

If your nails develop ridges or become bumpy, it could indicate a fungal infection or a lack of nutrients like zinc.

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Tips for Healthy Nails

Like your skin, nails need proper care!

How to Keep Your Nails Healthy?

1. Clapping Exercise:
   Improve blood flow to your fingertips by clapping for at least 10 minutes daily.
   This helps detoxify the tips of your fingers.

2. Protein Intake:
   Nails are composed of keratin, a type of protein. Avoid spicy or salty foods and opt for protein-rich options instead.

3. Moisturize:
   
   Keep your hands and nails moisturized. Avoid frequent use of nail polish or removers to prevent dryness. Give your nails a break from chemicals.

   
   
   

4. Wear Rubber Gloves:
   Use gloves during dishwashing or cleaning to protect your nails from drying out or cracking.

5. Don’t Cut Cuticles:
   Cuticles protect nails from bacteria. Removing them can weaken nails and cause infections,
   so avoid over-trimming.

6. Trim Nails Properly:
   Leave 1–2 mm of the white tip when trimming. Avoid cutting too deep or in a way that deforms the nail.

7. Disinfect Tools:
   Use separate nail tools to avoid fungal infections or disinfect them before each use.

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Foods for Healthy Nails

Nails are made of protein, so a protein-rich diet is essential for strong, healthy nails.

• Salmon, Tuna, Sardines:
  
  Rich in omega-3 and B vitamins, they help maintain strong nails.

  
  
  

• Beans and Mushrooms:
  Beans contain 36% protein, and mushrooms are rich in zinc, aiding metabolism and protein synthesis.

• Yellow Bell Peppers:
  High in vitamin C, which supports collagen production for nail strength.

• Grapefruit:
  
  Packed with antioxidants, vitamin A, and C, it protects nails and helps treat fungal infections.

  
  
  

• Flaxseeds:
  Contain omega-3, magnesium, and thiamine, supporting nail health better than salmon.

• Water:
  Enhances blood circulation and keeps nails shiny.

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By observing your nails closely, you can detect early signs of health problems.
Our bodies provide visible signals to alert us to internal issues.

Take a moment to care for your nails during handwashing and pay attention to the messages they may be sending.

Warm regards to your health journey!

Your health buddy is here for you. Wishing you a healthy and happy day ahead. Stay well!💖

This content is for informational purposes only and does not hold any individual or entity legally responsible. For accurate diagnosis and treatment of symptoms, please visit a nearby medical institution. This does not represent my final medical opinion and may vary depending on specific circumstances and evolving medical perspectives.

Please Pay Attention! Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)! Treatment Methods and Foods Good for IBS!

I Can’t Control My Body Anymore...

Hello, it’s your health buddy! Let’s feel better together. Today, I’m here to share some symptom insights and helpful tips about Irritable Bowel Syndrome. Let’s dive in!

Boom! Crash! The Trouble Maker... Intestinal Trouble Maker...!

With significant temperature changes and signals of health and immune issues and even emotional stability feeling off lately,

when digestive organs start acting up, the silent office becomes filled with the echo of intestinal troubles, adding even more stress.

If the war inside your intestines won’t stop and each day feels overwhelming, it’s likely due to “this.”

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS):
Your digestive system reacts to emotional distress by crying out for help.

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What is Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)?

Irritable Bowel Syndrome / Irritable Colon Syndrome (IBS)

IBS is a functional gastrointestinal disorder where recurring abdominal pain and changes in bowel habits persist for at least 6 months.

Stress increases intestinal activity, leading to diarrhea, constipation, and chronic lower abdominal pain.

Studies show IBS patients often experience more mental health challenges, such as anxiety and depression, than healthy individuals.

Despite imaging tests like X-rays, CT scans, and colonoscopies, it’s difficult to identify any structural disease causing the pain.

Common Causes:

• Stress
• Gastrointestinal infections
• Dietary habits (e.g., alcohol, spicy foods)
• Lifestyle changes

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Symptoms and Diagnosis of Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Symptoms:

• Lower abdominal pain
• Mucus in stool
• Frequent gas
• Bloating
• Changes in bowel habits

Additional Symptoms (in some cases):

• Frequent belching
• General fatigue
• Headaches
• Insomnia
• Shoulder stiffness
• Burning sensation in the chest
• Lethargy
• Loss of appetite

Diagnostic Criteria:
Based on the Rome IV criteria:

• Symptoms must have started at least 6 months ago, and recurring abdominal pain must be present at least once a week for the past 3 months.
• This pain must be associated with:
  1. A change in bowel movement frequency
  2. A change in stool consistency

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How to Prevent Irritable Bowel Syndrome

IBS is closely related to stress and lifestyle habits. 

Stressful work, irregular eating patterns, and unhealthy food choices worsen IBS and lead to other health problems.

Prevention Tips for IBS:

1. Manage Stress:
   • Reduce anxiety through relaxation methods like meditation, yoga, or mindfulness.
     
     
     
     
     
2. Healthy Lifestyle Habits:
   • Eat regular meals without skipping.
   • Drink at least 8 glasses of water daily.
   • Limit tea and coffee to 3 cups per day.
   • Reduce alcohol and carbonated drinks.
   • Avoid excessive fiber intake (excessive grains may trigger symptoms).
   • Moderate intake of resistant starch (e.g., undercooked pasta, legumes).
   • Limit fresh fruit consumption to about 80g per serving, three times daily.

Remember: Regular exercise and sufficient sleep also play a critical role.

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Foods That Help with Irritable Bowel Syndrome

1. High-Fiber Foods:
Dietary fiber increases stool bulk and softens stools, aiding IBS symptoms.

Examples of High-Fiber Foods:

• Vegetables: Cabbage, spinach, leek, cucumber, garlic chives, green peppers, burdock
• Seaweed: Seaweed, kelp, laver, hijiki
• Grains: Brown rice, barley, oatmeal, corn, sweet potatoes
• Legumes: Red beans, soybeans, kidney beans, lentils
• Nuts: Walnuts, almonds, sunflower seeds
• Fruits: Strawberries, bananas, apples, melons

2. Tofu:

Though tofu is made from soybeans (a high-FODMAP food),
the fermentation process reduces FODMAP levels, making it IBS-friendly.

3. Low-FODMAP Foods:
FODMAPs (fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols)
are short-chain carbs that exacerbate IBS symptoms.

Examples of Low-FODMAP Foods:

• Fruits: Bananas, oranges, grapes, kiwi, strawberries
• Vegetables: Sweet potatoes, carrots, cucumbers, spinach, lettuce
• Grains: Rice, gluten-free bread, oatmeal
• Dairy: Lactose-free milk, low-fat yogurt

4. Rice-Based Foods:
Easily digestible and low in gas production, rice-based dishes are ideal for IBS.

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Did you find helpful tips about IBS and foods that support its management?

The key is to manage stress—the root cause of many health problems, including IBS.
Take time to focus on yourself.

Ask yourself, “What has been troubling me lately?”
A meaningful conversation with yourself,
along with a delicious, low-FODMAP meal,
might just be the perfect remedy.

Warm regards to your health journey!

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Your health buddy is here for you. Wishing you a healthy and happy day ahead. Stay well!💖





This content is for informational purposes only and does not hold any individual or entity legally responsible. For accurate diagnosis and treatment of symptoms, please visit a nearby medical institution. This does not represent my final medical opinion and may vary depending on specific circumstances and evolving medical perspectives.

Mysterious Causes, No Complete Cure? Explore Psoriasis of the Skin, Face, Nails, and Scalp: Causes, Symptoms, Treatments, and Foods That Help!

 

Hello, it’s your health buddy! Let’s feel better together. Today, I’m here to share some symptom insights and helpful tips about Psoriasis. Let’s dive in!

Despite not being a shameful disease,
many patients worry about how others perceive them.

In scorching summers, people with this condition struggle to wear short clothes,
as they feel the need to cover their skin even in record-breaking heat.

For these individuals, summer becomes even more distressing.
On top of the physical pain from the disease,
they also suffer the emotional distress of exposing their affected skin.

This challenging condition is psoriasis.

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What is Psoriasis?

Psoriasis is often misunderstood as just a skin condition,
but it is actually a disorder related to the immune system.

For psoriasis patients, everyday places like swimming pools, salons, and gyms
can feel inaccessible due to direct or indirect restrictions.
This creates significant social and emotional challenges.

Psoriasis can appear at any age but is more prevalent among young adults,
a time of active social and professional life.
This can lead to reduced work productivity and social engagement.

Additionally, psoriasis is linked to complications like diabetes, hypertension, and high cholesterol,
highlighting the need for proper treatment and societal support.

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Understanding Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory disease caused by immune system abnormalities.
The symptoms include red, grain-like rashes on the skin,
with layers of silvery-white scales forming on top.
These patches can grow larger, sometimes reaching palm-sized areas.

Causes of Psoriasis:

• Skin injuries
• Infections
• Stress
• Medications
• Cold and dry climates
• Dry skin

Types of Psoriasis:

1. Plaque Psoriasis (Most common, affects 80-90% of patients)

   • Red, scaly patches on knees, elbows, hips, and scalp

2. Guttate Psoriasis (Common in children and young adults)

   • Small, drop-shaped spots, often after throat infections

3. Pustular Psoriasis

   • Pus-filled blisters on the hands, feet, or body

4. Erythrodermic Psoriasis

   • Widespread redness, severe itching, and peeling

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Characteristics of Psoriasis by Location

• Scalp Psoriasis: Affects 50-80% of psoriasis patients,
  causing thick scales on the scalp and extending to the forehead, neck, or ears.

• Arms and Legs: Commonly appears on elbows or knees with redness, thickened skin, and cracks.

• Nails: Over 50% of patients experience nail changes, including thinning, thickening, or separation.

• Face: Sensitive areas like eyebrows, upper lip, and hairline are affected, requiring careful treatment.

• Genital Area: Presents as smooth, red lesions without scales, requiring specialized care.

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Myths and Facts About Psoriasis

Myths:

1. Psoriasis is contagious.

   • False! It is not caused by bacteria or viruses.

2. Psoriasis is just a skin condition.

   • False! It impacts overall health and mental well-being.

3. Psoriasis can be cured.

   • False! It is a chronic condition managed with ongoing treatment.

4. Psoriasis is rare.

   • False! It affects 1-2% of the population in Korea and 2-3% worldwide.

5. Folk remedies like herbs or baths can cure psoriasis.

   • False! Unverified remedies may worsen symptoms or cause side effects.

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Truths About Psoriasis:

1. It’s a chronic condition.

   • Psoriasis requires consistent, long-term care.

2. It can be managed.

   • Effective treatment improves quality of life.

3. It affects both men and women equally.

4. Dry skin worsens psoriasis.

   • Moisturizing helps prevent flare-ups.

5. Upper respiratory infections like colds can trigger psoriasis.

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Treatments for Psoriasis

Psoriasis requires a dual approach targeting skin and immunity:

1. Topical Treatments (ointments, creams)
2. Phototherapy
3. Systemic Treatments (oral or injectable medications)

Tips for Management:

• Avoid harsh scrubbing or excessive bathing.
• Use moisturizers regularly.
• Avoid stress, smoking, alcohol, and triggering medications.

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Lifestyle Tips for Psoriasis Management

• Keep Skin Moist:
  Regularly apply moisturizers to reduce inflammation and itching.

• Avoid Physical Irritation:
  Do not forcibly remove scales, as this worsens symptoms.

• Follow Doctor’s Instructions:
  Psoriasis treatment is a marathon, not a sprint. Stick to prescribed treatments.

• Adopt Healthy Habits:
  Manage stress, eat a balanced diet, exercise regularly, and sleep well.

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Foods That Help Psoriasis

1. Nuts: 

   
   
   
   • Provide natural moisture to prevent dryness.

2. White Fish:  

   
   
   
   • Choose mild white fish over oily fish to avoid itching.

3. Mushrooms:

   • Help hydrate the body and alleviate symptoms.

4. Olive Oil:

   • Contains anti-inflammatory omega-3 fats, beneficial in a Mediterranean diet.

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Final Thoughts

Psoriasis has unclear causes and no definitive cure,
but like managing blood pressure or diabetes, it requires consistent care.

By avoiding unhealthy foods and focusing on a balanced, nourishing diet,
you can improve psoriasis and overall health.

Let’s prioritize a healthy diet and a positive mindset for daily well-being.

Stay cool and healthy! 🌱

Your health buddy is here for you. Wishing you a healthy and happy day ahead. Stay well!💖

This content is for informational purposes only and does not hold any individual or entity legally responsible. For accurate diagnosis and treatment of symptoms, please visit a nearby medical institution. This does not represent my final medical opinion and may vary depending on specific circumstances and evolving medical perspectives.