What is acetaminophen or paracetamol?

Acetaminophen or paracetamol is one of the most common agents used for intentional self-poisoning because of its easy availability. It is the active ingredient found in many over the counter (OTC) and prescription drugs used as an analgesic (pain reliever) or antipyretic (for reducing fever). Acetaminophen (paracetamol) is also found in combination with other drugs in various preparations.  N-acetylcysteine (NAC) is a specific antidote for paracetamol poisoning and is most effective when given within 8 hours of ingestion.

continue reading Acetaminophen Toxicity (Paracetamol Poisoning) Information

Aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid) and other salicylates are present in many over-the-counter (OTC) drugs which are used as analgesics (pain relievers), antipyretics (for controlling fever), and anti-inflammatory medicines. Due to its antiplatelet effect, aspirin is prescribed in low doses for prevention of heart attack, stroke, and blood clot formation, and also after a heart attack to prevent future episodes of myocardial infarction. Gastrointestinal bleeding is one of the more serious side effects of aspirin use.

continue reading Salicylate (Aspirin) Poisoning, Acute / Chronic Toxicity, Symptoms

Poisoning is a common medical emergency seen in both children and adults. Prompt treatment is often a matter of life or death and the measures that are first undertaken, even by a person that is not medically trained, can greatly alter the outlook. In most cases the poison is self-administered. Self-poisoning may be broadly categorized as suicide, accidental self-poisoning, and deliberate self-harm. In the majority of cases, poisoning in adults is intentional and self-inflicted, more often as a means of seeking attention or manipulating someone rather than for actual suicidal purposes. In young children, particularly below 5 years of age, most cases are accidental.

continue reading Poisoning (Children, Adults) Substances, Symptoms, Management

What is Down Syndrome?

Down syndrome, also known as Trisomy 21, is a genetic disorder resulting from possession of an extra copy of chromosome 21. It is named after Dr Langdon Down who first recognized and described the condition in 1866. The genetic origin of Down syndrome was identified much later by scientists in 1959. Individuals with this disorder suffer from varying degrees of learning impairment as well as having typical physical features such as a flat facial profile with upward slanting eyes, short neck, a single palmar crease, and various other recognizable characteristics.

continue reading Down Syndrome Babies, Facts, Pictures, Features and Diagnosis

Meningitis or inflammation of the meninges is most often caused by viral, bacterial, or fungal infections. It may occur as complication of skull or spinal injury, cancer, or connective tissue disorders. The meninges are membranes that cover and protect the brain and spinal cord. Meningism or symptoms of meningeal irritation may be present in meningitis due to any cause. Newborns and younger children may not always have the typical symptoms of meningitis, which often makes diagnosis difficult. Antibiotics should be commenced if bacterial meningitis is suspected, even before investigations can be undertaken or without waiting for results of tests. Meningitis is contagious and may spread through coughing, sneezing, and any sort of close contact.

• Viral meningitis is the most common, especially in children and young adults, but it usually resolves on its own and does not cause serious side effects.
• Bacterial meningitis is the most severe form and unless it is treated promptly with appropriate antibiotics, it may lead to severe long term complications or even death.
• Fungal meningitis is usually caused by inhaling fungal spores from the environment. Unlike viral and bacterial meningitis, fungal meningitis is not contagious.

continue reading Viral, Bacterial, Fungal Meningitis Facts, CSF Results, Treatment