My Pharmacy Revised – The Wellness Way to Natural Health

  *Key Points - - Alzheimer's disease is a common brain disorder causing memory loss and thinking problems, mostly in older adults. - Research suggests it involves brain changes like amyloid plaques and tau tangles, with age as a key risk factor. - It seems likely that genetics and lifestyle, such as family history and heart health, also play a role. - Treatments can help manage symptoms, with recent advances like donanemab and lecanemab slowing early decline. - Support resources, like the Alzheimer's Association, are available for patients and families.   ---   ### Overview **What is Alzheimer's Disease?**   Alzheimer's is a progressive brain disorder that slowly impairs memory, thinking, and behavior, mainly affecting those over 65. It's the leading cause of dementia, impacting daily life as it worsens.   **Symptoms and Stages**   It starts with mild memory issues, like forgetting recent conversations, and can progress to sever...

  Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) is a rare but serious neurological disorder where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the **peripheral nervous system**—the nerves outside the brain and spinal cord. This attack damages the nerves or their protective covering (myelin), disrupting signals between the brain and body. The result can range from mild muscle weakness to severe paralysis.   - **Cause**: The exact cause isn’t fully understood, but GBS often follows a bacterial or viral infection. Common triggers include:   - *Campylobacter jejuni* (a bacteria linked to undercooked poultry)   - Respiratory infections (like the flu)   - Gastrointestinal infections   - Viruses such as Epstein-Barr, cytomegalovirus, or Zika - **Other Triggers**: Rarely, GBS has been linked to recent surgeries, certain vaccinations (though the risk is extremely low, about 1-2 cases per million), or cancers like lymphoma.   ---   ### Symptoms GBS s...

  Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver that can range from a mild illness to a severe condition leading to liver damage, such as cirrhosis or liver cancer. It is most commonly caused by viral infections, but other factors like heavy alcohol use, certain medications, toxins, and autoimmune disorders can also trigger it. Below is a comprehensive overview of hepatitis, including its types, symptoms, causes, treatments, prevention, and global impact.   ### Types of Viral Hepatitis There are five main types of viral hepatitis, each caused by a different virus with unique transmission methods and outcomes:   - **Hepatitis A**: Spread through contaminated food, water, or close contact with an infected person. It typically causes a short-term illness that resolves on its own. A vaccine is available for prevention. - **Hepatitis B**: Transmitted via infected blood or bodily fluids, such as during unprotected sex, sharing needles, or from mother to child during bir...

  Dandruff is a common scalp condition characterized by flaky skin and, often, itching. It’s not harmful or contagious, but it can be uncomfortable and sometimes embarrassing. The flakes are typically white or gray and may stand out more in darker hair or on clothing. You might also notice your scalp feeling dry or itchy.   ### Causes of Dandruff While the exact cause isn’t always clear, several factors can contribute to dandruff: - **Dry Skin**: Cold weather or low humidity can dry out your scalp, leading to flakes—especially common in winter. - **Oily Skin (Seborrheic Dermatitis)**: This causes red, greasy skin with flaky white or yellow scales. It’s a more severe form of dandruff and can affect areas like the face or chest. - **Sensitivity to Hair Products**: Reactions to certain products can cause contact dermatitis, resulting in itching and flaking. - **Yeast-like Fungus (Malassezia)**: This fungus lives on most scalps but can irritate some people’s skin, sp...

  A stroke is a medical emergency that occurs when blood flow to the brain is interrupted, either by a blockage or a ruptured blood vessel. This prevents oxygen and nutrients from reaching brain cells, causing them to die within minutes. Without prompt treatment, a stroke can lead to permanent brain damage or death. If you suspect a stroke, call emergency services (like 911) immediately—time is critical to reducing damage and improving outcomes.   ### Symptoms of a Stroke   Recognizing stroke symptoms quickly can save lives. A common tool is the **BE FAST** acronym:   - **B**alance: Sudden loss of balance or coordination. - **E**yes: Vision changes, such as double vision or loss of sight in one or both eyes. - **F**ace: Drooping or numbness on one side of the face (e.g., an uneven smile). - **A**rms: Weakness or inability to lift one arm fully. - **S**peech: Slurred speech or difficulty speaking or understanding. - **T**ime: Act immediately—call...