Latest news with #herpessimplex
Irish Examiner
7 days ago
- Health
- Irish Examiner
Natural Health: What can I do about getting a cold sore every summer?
I get a cold sore nearly every year when I go on a sun holiday. The intense heat seems to trigger it. I'm also a nervous traveller, which probably doesn't help. Is there anything I can do to head it off at the pass? Sunlight and stress are the top two triggers for cold sores. Being a nervous traveller will undoubtedly raise your stress levels, and when combined with sunshine, it's more likely the virus will reactivate. Other common triggers for the reactivation of cold sores include fatigue, fever, and menstruation. The herpes simplex virus (HSV-1) is responsible for cold sores and is thought to be carried by 80-90% of the population. Fortunately, only 20% will go on to develop sores. The amino acid lysine generally works well in preventing the herpes virus from flaring up. However, it is worth noting that while it may be effective for some individuals, it may not be effective for others. It's even more important to avoid another amino acid, arginine, which is required by the herpes virus for replication. Arginine-rich foods include chocolate, nuts, oats, carob, coconut and soybeans. Topically, propolis — made by bees from the collection of resins, gums, and sticky plant buds — will heal lesions significantly faster than antiviral medication Acyclovir, and also reduce the likelihood of additional infection. Check out Cork business Hanna's Bees for an extensive range of bee products, including propolis tincture at €14.50 for 20ml (and ideal size for travel). When there is potential for a viral outbreak or flare-up, it is crucial to supplement with vitamin C. Camu-camu is a rainforest fruit with an impressive 8-10% vitamin C content by weight, approximately 30 times that found in oranges, and powerful antiviral properties. Camu camu is also effective in treating other forms of herpes, such as shingles, genital herpes, and the Epstein-Barr virus. Camu-camu has been shown to alleviate cold sore outbreaks more quickly than a leading pharmaceutical drug and is an excellent option for those who don't respond to lysine supplementation. Expect to pay around €20-25 for a bottle of 60 capsules (500mg). You will need to take one capsule daily as a preventative measure or one capsule three times daily with food for three days to treat an existing outbreak. Camu camu is typically available from health stores and pharmacies. I'm in my 70s and have been diagnosed with a twisted colon. Is there anything I can do to ease the symptoms? I'm also coeliac and have IBS. You are probably already quite vigilant with all you eat and drink due to the restrictions of living with coeliac disease and IBS. A twisted colon often requires surgical intervention, so it is worth getting a follow-up appointment or a second opinion regarding your treatment options. Pure aloe vera juice has been successfully used in medical trials to treat IBS, as it helps soothe and heal the mucous membranes in the gut. It may help alleviate your symptoms. Please consult your doctor before taking it or any other natural remedy. If you are currently using psyllium husks or other fibre support to treat your IBS, then it is a good idea to take a break, as excessive fibre can be problematic with a twisted bowel. Juicing fresh organic fruits and vegetables may be worth considering, as this is an excellent way to get nutrients in when your digestive system is compromised. The information contained in this column is not a substitute for medical advice. Always consult a doctor.
Scottish Sun
20-05-2025
- Health
- Scottish Sun
Cold sore treatment could ‘slash risk of developing Alzheimer's by 17%', say scientists
Scientists said people with cold sores seemed to have an 80 per cent increased risk of Alzheimer's - but treating the infection lowered it SORE SUBJECT Cold sore treatment could 'slash risk of developing Alzheimer's by 17%', say scientists Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) TREATING cold sores with anti-viral medicines could slash the risk of Alzheimer's disease by 17 per cent, research suggests. Previous studies have found that the herpes simplex virus - which causes cold sores - can lie dormant in human cells for a lifetime before "re-awakening", leading to dementia symptoms. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 1 Treating herpes infections with antiviral meds could lower the risk of Alzheimer's researchers found Credit: Getty Experts have discovered that herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) causes changes similar to those observed in the brains of dementia patients, such as amyloid plaque-like formations and inflammation. Now, a large US study suggests that treating HSV-1 may be a route to lowering the risk of Alzheimer's disease. Researchers from the pharmaceutical firm Gilead Sciences and the University of Washington in Seattle used data on 344,628 people with Alzheimer's aged over 50 who had been diagnosed with the disease between 2001 and 2006. Nearly two thirds (65 per cent) of those with Alzheimer's disease were women, with an average age of 73. They matched participants' information to data from the same number of people without Alzheimer's. Of the Alzheimer's patients, 1,507 (0.44 per cent ) had been diagnosed with HSV-1. Just 823 of the other group (0.24 per cent) had been infected by the virus. The study found that people who'd been infected with herpes had an 80 per cent increased risk of Alzheimer's, even when other factors were taken into account. But those with HSV-1 who used anti-virals to treat the virus were 17 per cent less likely to develop Alzheimer's compared with those who did not take the medicines. Among the 2,330 people with a history of HSV-1 infection, 931 (40 per cent) used anti-virals after their diagnosis. Sun Health Explainer: Dementia and Alzheimer's disease Dr David Vickers, from the University of Calgary in Canada - who wasn't involved in the research - said the "research exaggerates the role of HSV-1, failing to appreciate its absence in 99.56 per cent of Alzheimer's disease cases". He added: "The observed 17 per cent [risk] reduction with anti-herpetic drugs translates to a mere nine-month delay in Alzheimer's disease onset." The authors, writing in the journal BMJ Open, concluded: "Findings from this large study implicate HSV-1 in the development of Alzheimer's disease and highlight anti-herpetic therapies as potentially protective for Alzheimer's and related dementia." In the UK, the drug aciclovir is used to treat cold sores, chickenpox, shingles and other herpes virus infections. The researchers also looked at the potential role of other herpes viruses, including HSV-2 - which can be responsible for genital herpes - the varicella zoster virus that causes chickenpox, and cytomegalovirus. Both HSV-2 and varicella zoster virus infections were also associated with a heightened risk of Alzheimer's disease. Exactly how HSV-1 and other viruses might raise the risk of dementia is not clear, the researchers pointed out. "However, studies have shown that inflammatory alterations in the brain caused by HSV infection are pivotal in Alzheimer's disease development," they noted. Other ways to reduce your Alzheimer's risk Be physically active Regular physical activity is crucial for overall health and may help reduce the risk of dementia, including Alzheimer's disease. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity per week. Eat a healthy diet A balanced diet, potentially including the Mediterranean diet, can help reduce your risk of dementia, as well as other health conditions. Stay mentally active Keeping your mind active can strengthen your brain's ability to cope with disease. Engage in activities like reading, learning new skills, or playing brain games. Manage other health conditions Maintaining healthy blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels can also contribute to reducing your risk of dementia. Prioritise sleep Aim for seven to eight hours of quality sleep each night, as sleep deprivation can negatively impact brain health. Maintain good heart health Taking care of your heart health, including avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, can also lower your risk of dementia and other diseases. Seek medical advice If you have any concerns about your health or a family history of Alzheimer's, consult with a healthcare professional. HSV-1 DNA is also found in the plaques characteristic of Alzheimer's disease, and people carrying the most common genetic risk factor for the disease are more susceptible to HSV infections, researchers added. But scientists who were not involved in the study were quick to point out that herpes infections are extremely common in the general population, and that contracting the virus didn't guarantee someone would develop Alzheimer's. Dr Richard Oakley, director of research and innovation at the Alzheimer's Society, said: "Results from this observational study suggested that people with recorded cold sore infections were more likely to develop Alzheimer's disease, and interestingly those prescribed antiviral drugs had a slightly lower risk. "But this doesn't prove that cold sores cause Alzheimer's disease, or that anti-virals prevent it. "The data came from insurance records, often based on self-reported symptoms which may miss or misclassify infections, and didn't track how often people had cold sores or how consistently they took medication. "Much more research is needed to explore exactly how viruses might be involved and before we can draw firm conclusions." Professor Tara Spires-Jones, from the University of Edinburgh, said: "This is a well-conducted study adding to strong data in the field linking HSV-1 and other viral infections to increased risk of developing Alzheimer's disease, but it is important to note that HSV-1 infection, which is extremely common in the population, is by no means a guarantee that someone will develop Alzheimer's. "Why viral infections may increase risk of dementia is not fully understood, but the most likely explanation is that infections increase inflammation in the body and contribute to age-related brain inflammation. "More research is needed to understand the best way to protect our brains from Alzheimer's disease as we age, including a better understanding of links between viral infection and Alzheimer's risk." Dr Sheona Scales, director of research at Alzheimer's Research UK, welcomed the study but said more research was needed. "We know there are 14 established risk factors for dementia, and there's not enough evidence to include infections in this list. "This study doesn't tell us if infections are causing the risk, it only shows an association. Further research is needed to understand what the underlying biology around this is."
Newsweek
04-05-2025
- Health
- Newsweek
Waitress Cuts Her Finger on Glass, Three Years Later She Learns the Truth
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. A waitress who got a shard of glass in her finger while cleaning was adamant there was still something in there—and three and a half years later, she got her proof in a wild way. Cristina Adame, from Aurora, Illinois, told Newsweek she was working at a restaurant years ago, when she accidentally got "shards of glass in my index finger while trying to clean broken glass debris that was at our cup and soda station." "My boyfriend had tried to remove whatever was left, and we thought for sure that it was all out," she said—until October 2024, when she "started getting sharp pains in my finger," leaving her incapable of using it properly. At the same time, "a large bump formed on the side of my finger, along with what looked like a small dot of dried internal blood in the middle." A shard of glass had been embedded in Cristina Adame's finger for more than three years. A shard of glass had been embedded in Cristina Adame's finger for more than three years. TikTok @ Concerned, Adame went to a doctor, but was assured her it was not glass, as she "insisted it was," but instead a herpetic whitlow that would heal within a few weeks, though they advised her to get a second opinion if it did not heal. A herpetic whitlow is a contagious skin infection featuring painful blisters on the skin by the fingernail, caused by the herpes simplex virus. It should go away on its own, but may require antivirals, according to Cleveland Clinic. Things appeared to calm down, but in March 2025 the same issue arose, and "an even larger bump" formed in the same spot on Adame's finger, and she sought a second opinion while giving them information on her previous visit. This time, the doctors cut into her finger—not directly into the bump, but into where the speck of dried blood was—and found no glass. Just when it appeared Adame would never get an answer, weeks later she was washing dishes with hot water when she noticed a small hole "open up on the side of my finger." The hole appeared to be bigger the following day, and Adame took matters into her own hands. "I run to my bathroom to use the end of a floss pick to try and open the hole up more. I finally am able to see the hole more clearly—and I bite the excess skin flap covering the hole. "That is when I felt, and heard a loud crunch! I press down on my finger, and lo and behold comes out the glass of three years!" She shared the wild story to her TikTok account @ on April 11, where a video showed the shard of glass sticking out from her finger. Adame told the backstory, before finishing: "Lo and behold y'all, the glass from three years ago... literally popped out. "This is glass from three years ago! How am I still alive?" Pictured: The circled area where doctors cut in to try and locate any glass, and, right, the hole left where the shard emerged. Pictured: The circled area where doctors cut in to try and locate any glass, and, right, the hole left where the shard emerged. TikTok @ There are dangers to leaving glass in the body, including tetanus and other infections such as cellulitis and MRSA. A small splinter of glass may be safe to leave in the skin as the body should naturally get rid of it as it sheds skin, according to a medically-reviewed article from WebMD, however you should consult a doctor if redness is spreading around the area, the area is swelling, or you have not been able to remove the glass for 12 hours—or in Adame's case, three years. TikTok users were shocked by the story, with Adame's video viewed more than 3.6 million times, as many shared their own stories. "Our bodies are so cool," one user wrote. "My dad had shrapnel coming out of his body for my whole childhood after he got back from serving in the army." Another recalled: "I cut my hand while cutting avocado and a year later after it healed my body pushed out a tiny piece of avocado skin." "I sliced my hand on a broken window a couple of years ago and still have little bits of glass pop out," one said—and as one detailed: "I have a piece of pencil lead in my palm that got stuck in elementary school 17 years ago." Adame told Newsweek that since the glass finally emerged, "my finger has healed very nicely and I have no more pain [or] discomfort, finally, after three long years."
Time Business News
02-05-2025
- Health
- Time Business News
STD Test Dubai: Ensuring Health and Peace of Mind
Understanding your ****** health is vital for an overall healthy and responsible lifestyle. For individuals living in or visiting Dubai, seeking an STD test holds immense importance for early detection, prevention, and treatment of sexually transmitted diseases. Dubai offers a range of reliable and confidential STD testing services, catering to the diverse population of this bustling city. This article explores everything you need to know about getting an STD test Dubai, guiding you through the process and addressing common concerns, so you can take control of your health with confidence. STDs often go unnoticed due to mild or no symptoms, making testing essential for everyone, regardless of apparent health. Regular STD testing is especially recommended for individuals who have multiple ****** partners, unprotected intercourse, or any history of high-risk ****** activity. Dubai, being a global hub with visitors and residents from around the world, prioritizes health regulations. The city offers private and professional options for STD screening, ensuring there's no stigma attached to the process. By opting for an STD test in Dubai, you safeguard both your health and that of your partners. When opting for an STD test in Dubai, it's crucial to know which tests are commonly available. Clinics and labs in the city conduct tests for a range of infections to ensure comprehensive screening. HIV tests detect Human Immunodeficiency Virus, the cause of AIDS. Options include rapid testing with results in minutes or lab testing for higher accuracy. Gonorrhea and Chlamydia Tests These bacterial STDs are diagnosed via urine tests or swabs. Early detection ensures effective antibiotic treatment. Syphilis can progress through several stages if left untreated. Blood tests are commonly used to detect its presence during screenings. Blood or swab testing can detect herpes simplex virus (HSV), a common but manageable condition when timely care is provided. Tests include screening for Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C, as both are serious viral infections that should not be ignored. HPV and Cervical Cancer Testing For women, HPV screening and Pap smears help detect high-risk strains of Human Papillomavirus that can lead to cervical cancer. Accessible STD Testing in Dubai with Why Choose for STD Testing? Confidentcare stands out as a premier choice for individuals seeking reliable, confidential, and professional STD testing services in Dubai. With a focus on accuracy and customer care, the platform ensures your ****** health is addressed with the utmost discretion. Comprehensive Testing Options Tailored to Your Needs Whether you need a full panel screening or specific tests for conditions like HIV, syphilis, gonorrhea, or chlamydia, provides tailored solutions. The platform caters to individuals with different health concerns and offers quick, precise results to ease your concerns. Easy Access to Same-Day Test Results For those with a busy lifestyle, offers a streamlined testing process, including same-day results for most tests. This means you can make health decisions faster and without unnecessary delays. Your Privacy Matters Most Confidentiality is a top priority at The platform ensures all appointments are handled with privacy and professionalism. Whether you choose in-clinic testing or home testing kits, your personal information remains secure. Home Testing Kits for Added Convenience Confidentcare also offers convenient home testing kits, allowing you to discreetly collect samples in the comfort of your home. Each kit comes with clear instructions, and expert guidance is available to ensure accurate results and next steps. Expert Guidance Every Step of the Way From the initial consultation to understanding your results, the team at Confidentcare is dedicated to supporting you. Their experienced healthcare professionals provide expert advice, counseling, and treatment recommendations to safeguard your health. Take Charge of Your ****** Health Today Choose for STD testing in Dubai to experience unparalleled service, convenience, and confidentiality. Take the responsible step toward protecting your health and ensuring peace of mind. Confidentiality is often a key concern for individuals seeking an STD test. Clinics and labs in Dubai prioritize patient privacy to create a stigma-free process. Most offer discreet appointments and only share your results with you. For added peace of mind, always verify that the provider follows UAE's strict patient confidentiality policies before booking your test. Thanks to its advanced healthcare system and government oversight, Dubai adheres to strict regulations regarding accuracy, safety, and confidentiality in STD testing. The UAE government also emphasizes early detection and awareness campaigns to address public health concerns effectively. However, expats need to be aware that certain STDs, particularly HIV, could lead to visa-related consequences. This makes it essential to opt for private clinics for anonymous testing if concerned. The cost of an STD test in Dubai depends on the clinic, type of test, and the scope of screening required. On average, individual tests may range from AED 150 to AED 500, while full screening panels could cost between AED 900 and AED 2,000. Many clinics offer package deals for testing multiple STDs, providing a cost-effective option for comprehensive health checks. The testing process is straightforward, non-invasive, and varies depending on the specific diseases being screened. Here's what you can generally expect during an STD test in Dubai: Initial Consultation Discuss your symptoms, medical history, and testing needs with the healthcare professional. Discuss your symptoms, medical history, and testing needs with the healthcare professional. Sample Collection Provide blood samples, urine samples, or swabs, depending on the specific tests required. Provide blood samples, urine samples, or swabs, depending on the specific tests required. Screening and Results Most tests are processed in a lab within 24-72 hours. Some clinics even offer rapid test results on the same day. Most tests are processed in a lab within 24-72 hours. Some clinics even offer rapid test results on the same day. Guidance Post-Test If any infections are detected, healthcare providers will explain treatment plans, medication options, and precautions to take going forward. Early Detection Identifying an STD early helps prevent complications and ensures prompt treatment. Peace of Mind Getting tested frequently removes uncertainty and reduces anxiety regarding your health. Prevention of Spread Testing allows you to take protective measures for yourself and your partners to avoid transmission. Improved Overall Health Regular testing promotes a proactive approach to health, improving quality of life and longevity. Ensuring your ****** health is not just a personal obligation; it is a responsible step for your well-being and the safety of others. Dubai provides world-class options for STD testing, combining confidentiality with efficiency. With the right knowledge and resources, you can confidently get tested and take charge of your health. Whether you're a Dubai resident or a visitor, accessing professional STD testing has never been easier or more discreet. Don't wait for symptoms to appear; act proactively and prioritize your ****** health today. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
NDTV
28-04-2025
- Health
- NDTV
Lil Nas X Suffers From Partial Face Paralysis: All You Need To Know
In April 2025,, global music sensation Lil Nas X surprised fans by sharing that he was battling partial face paralysis. In a candid video, he mentioned struggling to move parts of his face, raising concerns about conditions like Bell's palsy or Ramsay Hunt syndrome. Both are linked to nerve inflammation but differ in causes, symptoms, and recovery timelines. While the rapper has not disclosed an official diagnosis, medical experts suggest that conditions such as Bell's palsy or Ramsay Hunt syndrome could be responsible. Both conditions affect the facial nerves and can lead to temporary paralysis, but they differ in causes, symptoms, and treatment approaches. According to the Mayo Clinic, prompt diagnosis and treatment can make a critical difference. Understanding the difference between these two conditions is essential to grasp what Lil Nas X, and others with similar symptoms, may be experiencing. Understanding facial paralysis: Is it Bell's palsy or Ramsay Hunt syndrome? Facial paralysis occurs when there is inflammation or damage to the facial nerve. Bell's palsy is often associated with viral infections, while Ramsay Hunt syndrome is linked to the varicella-zoster virus. According to the Mayo Clinic, early intervention can significantly improve outcomes for both conditions. Here's what you need to know about each possibility. What is Bell's palsy? Bell's palsy is a sudden, temporary weakness or paralysis of the facial muscles, usually on one side. It is believed to occur when a facial nerve becomes swollen, often due to a viral infection like herpes simplex. According to the Mayo Clinic, symptoms typically improve within weeks, but some cases may take months to fully recover. Symptoms of Bell's palsy Common symptoms include drooping of the mouth, inability to close the eye, loss of taste, drooling, and increased sensitivity to sound in one ear. The condition typically peaks within 48 hours and may be accompanied by pain behind the ear or jaw. What is Ramsay Hunt syndrome? Ramsay Hunt syndrome occurs when the varicella-zoster virus reactivates in the facial nerve. Besides facial paralysis, it often causes a painful rash in or around the ear, and may lead to hearing loss or vertigo. The American Academy of Neurology states that early treatment with antiviral drugs improves recovery rates and prevents long-term nerve damage. Symptoms of Ramsay Hunt syndrome Patients often experience facial drooping along with a painful red rash with blisters in and around the ear, mouth, or tongue. Other symptoms include tinnitus (ringing in the ears), hearing loss, vertigo, and difficulty closing one eye. Some individuals might also feel weakness on one side of the body. Diagnosis and medical attention Diagnosis involves a physical examination and sometimes imaging tests like MRI to rule out stroke or tumour. Blood tests may be done if Ramsay Hunt syndrome is suspected. The Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) stresses that immediate medical consultation is crucial when facial paralysis develops. Treatment options Both Bell's palsy and Ramsay Hunt syndrome are treated using corticosteroids to reduce nerve swelling. Ramsay Hunt cases typically require antiviral medications such as acyclovir. Physical therapy for facial muscles and eye protection methods are often recommended to support recovery. Prognosis and recovery While most people with Bell's palsy recover fully, some may experience lingering weakness. Recovery from Ramsay Hunt syndrome can be slower, and in some cases, nerve damage may be permanent. As per Mayo Clinic, starting treatment within 72 hours of symptom onset dramatically improves outcomes. Lil Nas X's openness about his health struggle shines a light on facial paralysis conditions like Bell's palsy and Ramsay Hunt syndrome. Though both can be frightening, early diagnosis and treatment are key to a strong recovery. As per Mayo Clinic experts, if symptoms of facial paralysis appear suddenly, it is critical to seek medical attention immediately for the best chance at recovery. Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.
