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Complications of Ankylosing Spondylitis

Complications of Ankylosing Spondylitis

Angioedema, Health Conditions /

Complications of Ankylosing Spondylitis If not well-managed, ankylosing spondylitis can lead to a range of issues — some affecting the spine, others involving organs, joints, or mental health. Read more about the complications of ankylosing spondylitis below. 1. Spinal Fusion 2. Fractures 3. Eye Inflammation (Uveitis) 4. Cardiovascular Issues with Complications of Ankylosing Spondylitis 5. Breathing Difficulties 6. Fatigue and Depression 7. Functional Limitations Prevention and Monitoring Complications of Ankylosing Spondylitis With the right treatment, people with AS can maintain mobility and lead active, productive lives. 👉 End of Series | Back to Overview Dr Willem de Kock | Orthopaedic Surgeon – Westdene Causes and Risk Factors of Ankylosing Spondylitis Ankylosing Spondylitis Overview Diagnosis of Ankylosing Spondylitis

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Angioedema

Angioedema Overview

Angioedema, Health Conditions /

Angioedema Overview Angioedema is a sudden and severe swelling of the deeper layers of the skin and mucous membranes, often affecting the face, lips, tongue, throat, and sometimes the hands, feet, or genitals. It can occur on its own or alongside urticaria (hives) and may result from allergic reactions, medications, or genetic factors. Unlike a rash, this condition occurs beneath the skin’s surface and may appear without visible redness or itching. In some cases, it causes only mild discomfort. However, in some cases, particularly when the airway is involved, it becomes a medical emergency because of the risk of suffocation. Common symptoms include: How Long Does Angioedema Last? This may last a few hours to a few days and often resolves on its own, but recurring or severe cases need medical evaluation and treatment. In the next section, we’ll explore the main causes and different types. 👉 [Next: Causes and Types of Angioedema] Acute Pancreatitis: An Overview Treatment for Angioedema Complications of Angioedema Diagnosis of Angioedema

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Causes and Types of Angioedema

Causes and Types of Angioedema

Angioedema, Health Conditions /

Causes and Types of Angioedema Angioedema can result from allergic reactions, medication side effects, autoimmune responses, or genetic mutations. The causes and types of angioedema often determine whether the swelling is short-lived or chronic, and whether it responds to antihistamines. 1. Allergic (Histaminergic) Angioedema 2. Non-Allergic Drug-Induced Angioedema 3. Hereditary Angioedema (HAE) 4. Acquired Angioedema 5. Idiopathic Angioedema Understanding the underlying cause is essential for long-term management and preventing recurrence. 👉 [Next: Diagnosis of Angioedema] Understanding Idiopathic Pancreatitis Complications of Angioedema Complications of Angioedema Angioedema Overview

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Diagnosis of Angioedema

Diagnosis of Angioedema

Angioedema, Health Conditions /

Diagnosis of Angioedema Diagnosing angioedema begins with a thorough medical history and physical examination. Identifying the type and cause of swelling is key to choosing the right treatment. Read more about the diagnosis of angioedema below. Step 1: Medical History Your doctor may ask: Step 2: Physical Examination The doctor will assess: Step 3: Laboratory Tests (when needed) for the Diagnosis of Angioedema Imaging In South Africa, GPs, allergists, or internal medicine specialists typically make the diagnosis. Genetic testing for HAE is available in specialised centres. Prompt diagnosis helps prevent life-threatening airway swelling and guides appropriate treatment. 👉 [Next: Treatment for Angioedema] Diagnosis and Evaluation of Breast Cancer in Women Causes and Types of Angioedema Complications of Angioedema Angioedema Overview

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Treatment for Angioedema

Treatment for Angioedema

Angioedema, Health Conditions /

Treatment for Angioedema Treatment for angioedema depends on its severity and cause. Some cases resolve without treatment, while others — especially those affecting the airway — need immediate emergency care. Emergency Management for the Treatment for Angioedema If swelling involves the tongue, throat, or breathing passages, call emergency services immediately. First-line emergency treatments: For Allergic Angioedema For ACE Inhibitor-Induced Angioedema For Hereditary Angioedema (HAE) For Recurrent or Idiopathic Angioedema In South Africa, access to emergency care and medication varies. Education on symptoms and early treatment is key to preventing complications. 👉 [Next: Complications of Angioedema] Treatment for Allergic Rhinitis Causes and Types of Angioedema Angioedema Overview Diagnosis of Angioedema

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Complications of Angioedema

Complications of Angioedema

Angioedema, Health Conditions /

Complications of Angioedema While many cases of angioedema are mild, severe or untreated episodes can lead to life-threatening complications. Understanding these risks and complications of angioedema helps patients seek prompt treatment and avoid recurrence. 1. Airway Obstruction 2. Recurrent Attacks 3. Abdominal Attacks 4. Psychological Impact 5. Medication-Related Issues Prevention and Monitoring the Complications of Angioedema With the right diagnosis, care, and emergency plan, most people with angioedema can live safe, active lives. 👉 End of Series | Back to Overview Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome Causes and Types of Angioedema Treatment for Angioedema Angioedema Overview Diagnosis of Angioedema

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Angina

Angina Overview

Angina, Health Conditions /

Angina Angina is a type of chest pain caused by reduced blood flow to the heart muscle. It’s not a disease itself, but a symptom of coronary artery disease (CAD) — the most common type of heart disease globally and in South Africa. Angina signals that the heart is not getting enough oxygen-rich blood, especially during physical activity or emotional stress. Often described as: While this is not the same as a heart attack, it’s a warning sign that you’re at higher risk. Immediate medical attention is essential, especially if symptoms are new, worsening, or occurring at rest. There are different types of angina: This condition can significantly affect quality of life, but it’s manageable with lifestyle changes, medication, and sometimes surgery. 👉 [Next: Causes and Risk Factors of Angina] Heal Grow Flow Counsellor Claremont Diagnosis of Angina Complications of Angin Treatment for Angina

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Causes and Risk Factors of Angina

Causes and Risk Factors of Angina

Angina, Health Conditions /

Angina Overview(Opens in a new browser tab) Causes and Risk Factors of Angina Angina is caused by reduced blood flow through the coronary arteries that supply the heart. These causes and risk factors of angina are most often due to atherosclerosis — the buildup of fatty plaques that narrow the arteries and limit oxygen delivery to the heart muscle. Common Causes of Angina Risk Factors In South Africa, rising rates of diabetes, obesity, and smoking contribute significantly to the growing burden of angina and heart disease, particularly in urban areas. Causes and Risk Factors of Angina Recognising these causes and risks allows for better prevention and targeted management. 👉 [Next: Diagnosis of Angina] Causes of Cardiovascular Disease Treatment for Angina Complications of Angina

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Diagnosis of Angina

Diagnosis of Angina

Angina, Health Conditions /

Diagnosis of Angina Diagnosing angina involves evaluating chest pain symptoms, checking for underlying heart problems, and ruling out other causes like indigestion, muscle strain, or anxiety. Read more about the diagnosis of angina below. Step 1: Medical History and Symptoms Doctors will ask: Step 2: Physical Examination Step 3: Tests During the Diagnosis of Angina Early diagnosis is crucial to prevent heart attacks and long-term damage. If doctors suspect angina, timely testing and treatment can save lives. 👉 [Next: Treatment for Angina] Diagnosis of Cardiovascular Disease Complications of Angina Angina Overview Causes and Risk Factors of Angina

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Treatment for Angina

Treatment for Angina

Angina, Health Conditions /

Treatment for Angina The goal of treatment for angina is to relieve pain, prevent heart attacks, and improve quality of life. Management usually includes medication, lifestyle changes, and sometimes procedures like stenting or bypass surgery. 1. Lifestyle Changes 2. Medications 3. Surgical and Procedural Options for Treatment for Angina Treatment is tailored to the severity of angina, overall health, and individual risk profile. Let’s now explore the potential complications of angina if left untreated. 👉 [Next: Complications of Angina] Treatment of Coronary Heart Disease Causes and Risk Factors of Angina( Diagnosis of Angina Angina Overview

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