Causes of Pain and Swelling in the testicles

Do you have Pain and swelling in your testes? What might have suddenly caused this? Chlamydia may be responsible.

Chlamydia Infection 

What is chlamydia?


Chlamydia is a common sexually transmitted disease. It is caused by bacteria called Chlamydia trachomatis. It can infect both men and women. Women can get chlamydia in the cervix, rectum, or throat. Men can get chlamydia in the urethra (inside the penis), rectum, or throat.

How do you get chlamydia?

You can get chlamydia during oral, vaginal, or anal sex with someone who has the infection. A woman can also pass chlamydia to her baby during childbirth.
If you've had chlamydia and were treated in the past, you can get re-infected if you have unprotected sex with someone who has it.

Who is at risk of getting chlamydia?

Chlamydia is more common in young people, especially young women. You are more likely to get it if you don't consistently use a condom, or if you have multiple partners.

What are the symptoms of chlamydia?

Chlamydia doesn't usually cause any symptoms. So you may not realize that you have it. People with chlamydia who have no symptoms can still pass the disease to others. If you do have symptoms, they may not appear until several weeks after you have sex with an infected partner.
Symptoms in men include:
  • Discharge from your penis
  • A burning sensation when urinating
  • Burning or itching around the opening of your penis
Pain and swelling in one or both testicles (although this is less common)
If the chlamydia infects the rectum (in men or women), it can cause rectal pain, discharge, and/or bleeding.

How do I know if I have chlamydia?

There are lab tests to diagnose chlamydia. Your health care provider may ask you to provide a urine sample. For women, providers sometimes use (or ask you to use) a cotton swab to get a sample from your vagina to test for chlamydia.

Who should be tested for chlamydia?

You should go to your health provider for a test if you have symptoms of chlamydia, or if you have a partner who has a sexually transmitted disease. Pregnant women should get a test when they go to their first prenatal visit.

People at higher risk should get checked for chlamydia every year:
1. Sexually active women 25 and younger
2.Older women who have new or multiple sex partners, or a sex partner who has a sexually transmitted disease
3. Gays and lesbians

What are the complications of chlamydia?

Men often don't have health problems from chlamydia. Sometimes it can infect the epididymis (the tube that carries sperm). This can cause pain, fever, and, rarely, infertility.
Both men and women can develop reactive arthritis because of a chlamydia infection. Reactive arthritis is a type of arthritis that happens as a "reaction" to an infection in the body.
Babies born to infected mothers can get eye infections and pneumonia from chlamydia. It may also make it more likely for your baby to be born too early.
Untreated chlamydia may also increase your chances of getting or giving HIV/AIDS.

Treatment for chlamydia

Antibiotics will cure the infection. You may get a one-time dose of the antibiotics, or you may need to take medicine every day for 7 days. Antibiotics cannot repair any permanent damage that the disease has caused.
It is common to get a repeat infection, so you should get tested again about three months after treatment. Read more about antibiotic against chlamydia here

Can chlamydia be prevented?

The only sure way to prevent chlamydia is to not have vaginal, anal, or oral sex.
Correct usage of latex condoms greatly reduces, but does not eliminate, the risk of catching or spreading chlamydia.

Chlamydia Infections in women

What is chlamydia?

Chlamydia is a common STI. It is  bacterial infection caused by Chlamydia trachomatisChlamydia trachomatis can infect both men and women. Women can get chlamydia in the cervix, rectum, or throat. Men can get chlamydia in the urethra (inside the penis), rectum, or throat.

Symptoms of Chlamydia Infection in Women

Symptoms in women include
  • Abnormal vaginal discharge, which may have a strong smell
  • A burning sensation when urinating
  • Pain during intercourse
If the infection spreads, you might get lower abdominal pain, pain during sex, nausea, or fever.

Treatment of Chlamydia infection

once tested positive for chlamydia, treatment should be commenced immediately with effective antibiotic.
Azithromycin 1g stat with doxycycline 100mg twice daily for seven days is usually effective. other antibiotics found effective include: erythromycin, levofloxacin, ofloxacin as well as amoxicillin. If pregnant, only erythromycin or azithromycin or amoxicillin should be given. While newborns should treated with erythromycin. Newborns of infected mothers must be treated with antibiotic after delivery. For more explanation on these antibiotics, you can enter our forum
To prevent spreading the disease to your partner, both partners should treated at the same time.

Effects of untreated Chlamydia Infection in Women

In women, an untreated infection can spread to uterus and fallopian tubes, causing pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). PID can cause permanent damage to your reproductive system. This can lead to long-term pelvic pain, infertility, and ectopic pregnancy. Women who have had chlamydia infections more than once are at higher risk of serious reproductive health complications. Learn more here on causes of infertility

Meaning and Classification of Infertility

What is Infertility?

Infertility in animal or man simply means inability to conceive or have offspring/heir. To be able to caption what infertility means we can define infertility in human as the inability of individual to contribute to conception after recurrent unprotected sex.
Infertility is also one year of regular unprotected sexual intercourse without conception or (for women below the age of 35years ) six months of unprotected sex without conception-WHO
As can been observed from the definitions, infertility affects both men and women worldwide.

Classification of Infertility

Primary Infertility-couple without prior pregnancy
Secondary Infertility-couple who has previously had pregnancy regardless of the outcome of the pregnancy and now unable to have another pregnancy.

Causes of infertility

Understanding the cause of your infertility will help you or the healthcare provider to offer adequate and timely solution.
Causes of infertility depend on gender, age and several other factors
We will be discussing various causes of infertility in men and women so try to follow each of the posts and then recognize/detect the real cause of your own infertility. Once you detect the cause, help your healthcare provider for a more resilient and differential diagnosis. After then, you just the solution in your hand but also contact Cbay Clinic for more advise and solemn discussion to support what your doctor prescribe for you. We also offer online consultation services at Cbay Clinic.

Causes of female infertility-in women

Blocked Fallopian Tube: Fallopian tube is a tube that serve as a passageway through which the ova/eggs travel after leaving the ovaries to the uterus/womb. Fallopian tube is a link between the ovaries-where the eggs are released and the uterus. Any block in the pathway will hinder conception. This has been shown to be responsible for 25 percent of infertility cases. Read more about What may cause Fallopian Tube blockage



Effects of Tramadol Abuse

Tramadol Abuse and Side Effects

what is Tramadol?

Tramadol belongs to a class of drug called opioid/narcotic analgesic (painkiller)
Analgelsics simply called painkillers can be categorized into two general classes: Opioid or Narcotic analgesic and non-opioid or non-narcotic analgesic
Opioid analgesics relief pain without causing ulceration and are usually more effective than the non-opioids. 
Tramadol is a synthetic opioid analgesic.It is prescribed to treat moderate to moderately severe pain and is considered a safer alternative to other narcotic analgesics.
Tramadol was first approved for use in 1995 by the US Food and Drug Administration FDA after it was considered to have a much better safety profile than other opioid analgesics like morphine.and was then recommended it not be classified as a controlled substance.



The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) published revised rules in 2014 showing evidence of unpardonable abuse by the general public the body has since then made tramadol a federally controlled drug (Schedule IV). 

Some of the misuses of Tramadol

1. To raise mood due to its euphoric effect
2. As Stimulants 
3. To raise libido and gain energy for sex
4. Use for persistent pain
5. Use without prescription

short-term effects/actions of Tramadol

1. Pain relief. Tramadol is a powerful painkiller; it acts through the opiate receptors in the brain and spinal cord and thus modifies the transmission of pain signals to the brain so that you experience less intense pain when you take it.

2. Euphoria. Tramadol works in a similar way to many antidepressant drugs because it raises the levels of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain. This leads to feelings of euphoria and well-being. This effect seems to be the reason some prefer to take it perpetually even when they are not having pain

3.Anxiolytic. Tramadol helps some users feel relaxed and calm because of the way it modifies brain chemistry.

short-term side effects of Tramadol

dry mouth
anorexia
nausea
constipation
headache
sweating
insomnia
Due to its serotonergic effect, if taken at high doses, Tramadol has a great potential of precipitating epileptic seizures. This effect makes tramadol especially dangerous for abusers because the tendency of convulsions or seizures increases at high doses.

Long-term actions and side effects

For people taking tramadol for a long time, they are likely to suffer from the unwanted effects of the drug and they include the following:

Tolerance: the first time you introduce tramadol to your body, very small amount is required to kill the pain but if you continue to take tramadol, your body adapt to its functions and effect. The smaller dose previously needed will become ineffective and your body will then require a higher dose to feel the effect of the analgesia. In other words, prolonged use of the drugs results in the body's increase demand of more the drug. At this time the patient should try to withdraw the drug


Physical dependence: people taking tramadol continuously are likely to develop a high craving for the drug such that failure to take drugs may lead to lack of concentration and may not be able to do their daily work without taking the drug. They will have a sense getting better in life while they take the drug. Withdrawing the drug leads to physical illness for such people. So they find needs of taking the drugs forever, at this period we then say such individual has become addicted to the drug. To get the drug at times, such individual can go a long way even to the point of paying the doctor to write prescription in favour of their addiction or forging prescription once they know they won't be given without prescription.

Loss of Memory: most opioids have a tendency of causing brain wears and over time cause cognitive decline such that there is a decline in ability to solve compound problems. Forgetfulness and chronic amnesia are the manifestation of long time use of tramadol

Sleep disorder: disturbances in sleep pattern have been associated with persistent use of opioids including tramadol

Live Experience of the author

A young man below 35 usually goes to a Pharmacy to get Tramadol 100mg. He buys a sachet of ten capsules everyday. He was asked, "who is taking tramadol?" He didn't answer the question instead he smiled and said "when I come back, I will tell you". He buys that tramadol everyday may be his residence is very close to the Pharmacy otherwise he should have been buying in packet. The pharmacists and assistants are many in such a big Pharmacy that only observant one will recognize him. A close source disclosed that he used to consume the whole ten capsules daily by putting inside soft drink to gain extra strength and sexual virility. Overnight, he started having epilepsy meanwhile he continues buying the tramadol perhaps he's not aware the drug is the cause of the epilepsy. He had epileptic seizure attack right within the Pharmacy where he broke the shelf glass with his head, even at the point of another tramadol purchase.He had another one in front of the Pharmacy, this one the author witnessed. It was a tonic-clonic seizure. Drug addiction is harmful. To obtain help if you are in the same shoes, don't hesitate to contact CBAY Rehab Center. First visit CBAY FORUM to express yourself.

Foods that can worsen your asthma


Asthma is an allergic condition that results in inflammation of the lung tissue
The main of sign and symptom of asthma attack is difficulty in breathing, that's why most people with asthma hold their chest during the attack and it's usually painful. To avoid permanent lung damage, asthmatic attack must be controlled and prevented in people with asthma. Certain foods have been known to worsen asthma and therefore may cause recurrent asthma attack so such food should be avoided.

processed canned food

Processed foods such as bottled drink,canned food like processed tomato paste contain some substances that are known to be allergens. Some of these substances are added as preservatives to protect the food from spoillage in order to increase or maintain the shelf life of the processed food.
some of these substance are benzoates such as methylparabens, propyl parabens, colourants
Most colourants e.g azo dyes such as tartrazine cause idiopathic allergy and may serve as triggers to some asthma poeple. This is the main reason asthmatic patients should be given plain/white vitamin C and not the flavoured one




Grapes,strawberries and blueberries

These foods have tendencies of aggravating your asthma. These foods contain a naturally occurring dye called malvin. Malvin is a menacing seizure trigger and can trigger asthma too. So you should stop eating strawberry,  grape juice and food products that contain malvin.
 Grapes,strawberries and blueberries
These foods have tendencies of aggravating your asthma. These foods contain a naturally occurring dye called malvin. Malvin is a menacing seizure trigger and can trigger asthma too. So you should stop eating strawberry,  grape juice and food products that contain malvin.

Bronchial Thermoplasty

Bronchial thermoplasty

About bronchial thermoplasty

Bronchial thermoplasty may be resorted to in case where the asthma is not being controlled by available medications for severe asthma. The procedure uses gentle heat to shrink the smooth muscles in your lungs -- the ones that tighten during asthma attacks and make it hard to breathe.
Bronchial thermoplasty for a patient is carried out on three weeks interval for three separate sessions . Each treatment lasts less than an hour, and a different part of your lungs gets treated each time.
There is still no cure for asthma so bear in mind that bronchial thermoplasty doesn't cure asthma. But it may make you feel healthy and breathe better.

What does the treatment entail?


First is the physical examination of your chest and lungs
Immunosuppressive anti-inflammatory drug will administered intravenously followed by simple anesthesia.
Your doctor will insert a small tube called a bronchoscope through your mouth, down your throat, and into your lung. A smaller tube goes inside the bronchoscope and warms each small airway in that part of your lung. The heat is very mild.
After the treatment, you'll likely rest for 3 or 4 hours. You'll also do another lung test. Depending on the results, you might spend the night in the hospital. Or you could go home the same day.
Your doctor will check on your progress closely for 6 weeks after your last treatment.

Any Side Effects or Risks?

It's common to feel sleepy right after your treatment. You may also cough or wheeze some, or be short of breath. These symptoms usually go away in a week. In rare cases, you may need hospital care for your symptoms.
There is a risk that the treatment will trigger a bad asthma attack that may even cause you to be hospitalized.

Who Can Benefit from Bronchial Thermoplasty?


This treatment is only for people with severe asthma. Your doctor may recommend it if you:
  • Have asthma attacks that aren't controlled by inhalers or asthma medicines called beta-agonists
  • Are ages 18 to 65
  • Have not smoked for the past year
  • You need oral steroids to help control your asthma

What Are the Benefits?

After bronchial thermoplasty, you'll still need an inhaler or other asthma medicines. But you may not use them as often.
The goals of the treatment are:

  • Fewer asthma attacks
  • Fewer emergency room and hospital visits
  • Fewer days lost from work, school, and other activities
  • Better symptoms for up to 5 years after treatment

Asthma Triggers

Triggers

A trigger is something that sets off or starts asthma symptoms. Everyone’s asthma is different, and everyone has different triggers. For most people with asthma, triggers are only a problem when their asthma is not well-controlled with medicine.
There are lots of different triggers, and they might be something that you:
·         catch (cold or flu);
·         breathe in (cold air, humidity, allergens, irritants, smoke);
·         feel (strong emotions, reflux);
·         do (exercise/physical activity);
·         eat/drink/take (foods/additives, medication, alternative therapies); or
·         use (latex)
Trying to avoid triggers isn’t likely to make much difference to your asthma, but can often place limits on your lifestyle. It’s best to focus on getting your asthma under control with the right medicine and living a full and active life. You should always carry your blue reliever with you so you are prepared in case you come across a trigger.

Common triggers to live with

Colds and flu

Colds and flu are viral infections and are the most common trigger for asthma flare-ups. You can’t really avoid them, but you can reduce your risk of catching viral infections from family members or other contacts by washing your hands before you eat or touch your face, and it’s a good idea to have the flu jab every year.

Stress

Managing your stress can help keep your asthma under control – find an approach that works for you, such as relaxation, exercise etc.

Cold dry air

In winter in colder climates try to breathe through your nose to help warm and moisten the air before it reaches your airways.

Non-negotiable Triggers-Triggers you should definitely NOT avoid

Exercise

In case you have asthma symptoms when you do exercise, first check that you are using your preventive drug correctly and taking it every day. Then see your doctor for a review – they may change your preventive drug, and/or advise you how to take your medication before you do exercise. Your asthma should be controlled enough so you are able to do as much exercise as you like.

Sex

It’s not something most people like to talk about, but if you find asthma is limiting your sex life, it probably means your asthma is not quite under control. Don’t just put up with it; let your doctor know and ask for a medication review.

Laughter

Laughing is a common trigger for wheeze, especially in children. If it happens frequently or becomes an issue, then a change in asthma medicine might be needed


Modifiable Factors-Triggers to avoid

Cigarettes

Cigarette smoke makes asthma symptoms worse and stops the preventer medicine working fully. It has been linked with more asthma flare-ups and a higher risk of developing asthma in children. Quitting can be difficult; you can find more information about asthma and smoking and where to get help by reading more here

Work-related triggers

Some work-related triggers e.g. spray paint. Use protective equipment.

Indoor air pollution

Make sure your house is well ventilated if you use gas, wood or coal for heating or cooking. Gas heaters should have a chimney or vent to outside.

Medication for non-asthma related conditions

There are some medicines for other conditions that either should not be taken by people with asthma, or they should be used with caution, as they can make it worse. Make sure your doctor and pharmacist know that you have asthma when you are prescribed medicine for any other condition.
·         For most people with asthma, beta-blockers (used for high blood pressure, heart failure or as eyedrops for glaucoma) will make their asthma worse.
·         For some people with asthma, aspirin or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medicine such as ibuprofen and diclofenac may make their asthma worse. These are available without prescription from supermarkets or pharmacies, but you should check with your pharmacist or doctor before using them.

Cats

Cat allergen is very hard to avoid. If you are allergic to cats, even keeping your cat outside is unlikely to stop you getting symptoms.

Thunderstorms

If grass pollen is a problem for you then thunderstorms in spring and summer may also affect you, because there’s more dust and pollen blown around, and the storms can make the pollen explode into tiny pieces that get further into your airways. Stay inside with the windows and doors closed until after the storm has passed.

'Good for asthma' products

There are many products advertised to reduce asthma triggers, but most of these have not been proven to make any difference to asthma symptoms or reduce flare-ups. Please do check CBAY FORUM to check what people are saying concerning some of these products

Important information

·         If your response to a trigger starts with hayfever (itching of the nose, sneezing, itchy eyes), treating the hayfever may reduce the chance of your asthma getting worse
·         If your response to a trigger includes symptoms such as swelling of the lips or mouth, or skin rashes, this may indicate a serious allergy and it is important to see your doctor immediately. You may need special testing to identify the trigger and extra medicine for safety
·         For some people with a single allergic trigger, management with long-term desensitisation (immunotherapy) may be an option
Taking your medication, having an asthma management plan, knowing asthma first aid and regular check-ups with your GP are the most important steps you can take to improve your asthma control.