The cricopharyngeal spasm occurs in the cricopharyngeus muscle of the pharynx. This condition is often confused with a cancerous growth, as the person experiencing it will constantly describe the sensation of having a foreign body in the throat. However, it is important to understand that throat cancer is often detected at an advanced stage, when swallowing food becomes difficult. Even though it is quite a scary experience, the cricopharyngeal spasm is harmless. It will cause the patient to be quite uncomfortable but, given the fact that it is a self-limiting disorder, it will go away in a short period of time.

The symptoms of the cricopharyngeal spasm are not characteristic for the condition and this is why it can cause a lot of anxiety. If you are wondering why this condition occurs, you should know it appears when the esophagus valve does not function properly. In this article, you will find useful information presented, regarding the symptoms occurring with this condition, the causes that led to it in the first place and the available treatment. You will also be presented with information on how long does the condition last; in this way, you will know what to expect and be prepared in the future.

What are the Symptoms of Cricopharyngeal Spasm?

These are the most common symptoms of the cricopharyngeal spasm:

• ‘Lump in the throat’ sensation
  • The sensation of foreign body or lump in the throat can cause a lot of discomfort for the patient; the lump sensation is not present at all times, as it comes and goes throughout the day
  • The lump is present at the level of the cricoid cartilage
  • Description of lump by the patient – phlegm, golf ball
  • The patient constantly tries to eliminate the lump in the throat, without any success
• Choking or constriction sensation
• The patient describes his/her throat as being swollen
• Pain can accompany to feeling of ‘lump in the throat’ (constant or occasional)
• The symptoms of spasms are aggravated during the night
• Emotions, stress and anxiety are known to aggravate the symptoms of the cricopharyngeal spasm
• The patient experiences difficulties in swallowing saliva; the paradox is that the food is easy to swallow and it can actually contribute to reducing the intensity of the symptoms. The same goes for drinking water, as this is not prevented by the cricopharyngeal spasm
• The symptoms of the cricopharyngeal spasm can be presented for prolonged periods of time (months).

Cricopharyngeal Spasm Causes

These are the most common causes of the cricopharyngeal spasm:

• Excessive amounts of stress
• High levels of anxiety
• Positive and negative emotions
• Foods
  • It is suspected that there are certain foods capable of triggering the cricopharyngeal spasm
  • Among these foods, you will find nuts (peanuts in particular) and pumpkin seeds
  • Affects susceptible individuals

It is important to mention that stress, anxiety and emotions can be triggers of the condition. However, when they are not direct causes, they can aggravate the cricopharyngeal spasm, making the condition worse. Patients need to learn how to handle their levels of stress and anxiety, in order to avoid such problems in the future.

Treatment

In the majority of cases, the cricopharyngeal spasm does not require any treatment. Being a self-limiting disorder, it will disappear on its own. However, these are the most common methods of symptomatic treatment for the cricopharyngeal spasm:

• Muscle relaxers
  • Most commonly administered – benzodiazepines (Lorazepam, Diazepam)
  • Reduce the feeling of throat constriction
  • The frequency of the muscle spasms is reduced as well
  • Should be administered with caution and only for short periods of time, as they can cause a person to become addicted to them
  • Such drugs are often administered for diagnosis purposes – if they alleviate the symptoms, this means that the problem is related to stress and anxiety and not to something physical
• Relaxation and breathing therapy
  • Recommended for the reduction of stress and anxiety
  • The patients needs to control both stress and anxiety, as these can trigger the cricopharyngeal spasm and also aggravate the condition, once it occurs independently of them
  • Patients are recommended to keep a diary of the moments when the cricopharyngeal spasm appeared, so as the triggering factors can be identified
  • This therapy is provided by the speech language pathologist
• Physical therapy
  • One can visit a physiotherapist who is specialized in such problems
  • After a professional assessment, the physiotherapist can recommend a program that includes neck relaxation exercises
• Fluid drinking
  • Drinking fluids can reduce the intensity of the symptoms
  • It can also help the patient go better through the episode
  • Keeps the throat tissues hydrated
  • Warm fluids, such as tea, are highly recommended for this condition, as they comfort the throat
• Local anesthetic injections
  • Improve the symptoms of the cricopharyngeal spasm in certain patients
  • The results are positive but they only last for short periods of time
• Injections with the botulinum toxins
  • Not all patients have received relief from the cricopharyngeal spasm with this treatment
  • The relief was present in a number of patients and for a prolonged period of time, which is suggestive that this treatment could be quite efficient for all patient in the future
• Heat applications
  • Placing a heated pad over the throat can help with the feeling of constriction and tightness
  • The pad should be maintained on the throat only for a couple of minutes
  • It can help the muscle relax, improving the symptoms of the cricopharyngeal spasm.

How long does the Cricopharyngeal spasm last?

While this condition is often presented as a self-limiting disorder, it is important that the symptoms of the cricopharyngeal spasm can extend over a period of several months. During this period, it is important to follow the recommended measures of treatment and learn how to properly control the levels of stress and anxiety. If you learn how to successfully manage stress, then you will reduce the duration of the cricopharyngeal spasm and be protected against future occurrences. The relaxation and breathing therapy is essential during such periods.

The medical condition known as laryngospasm is characterized by the sudden and uncontrolled contraction of the vocal cords. The involuntary contraction of the muscles can be quite scary, especially since it happens for no apparent reasons. The level of intensity for the spasm can range from mild to severe, impairing the airflow into the lungs. As the airflow is blocked, the person might experience difficulties breathing or talking. The condition can awake a person from sleep and, even though it is scary, it will disappear in a short period of time. Medical literature presents few cases of laryngospasm.

Laryngospasm Symptoms

These are the most common symptoms of laryngospasm:

• The onset of the condition is sudden, with no tell-tale signs
• Difficult breathing, talking or swallowing; the person might try to clear his/her throat, with no success
• Feeling of suffocation
• Fainting (loss of consciousness)
• Modification of the voice – sounds caused by the re-opening of the airways and the relaxation of the vocal cords (inspiration not only noisy but also difficult)
  • Hoarseness
  • Stridor
• Pain in the chest
• The person can experience coughing or he might himself gasping for air
• GERD symptoms
  • Heartburn
  • Nausea
• Sore throat
• Episodes can occurs in the middle of the night, waking the person from sleep
• When this condition occurs in children, one can notice retractions in the suprasternal or supracostal area
• Nasal flaring is often encountered in children as well
• The person can enter into a state of panic
• Lasts under a minute
• Trying to breathe in more often will only aggravate the condition

Causes of Laryngospasm

These are the most common causes of laryngospasm:

• Gastroesophageal reflux – most common cause
  • Acidic reflux from the stomach into the esophagus
  • Irritation of the gastrointestinal tract
  • Often associated with poor diet (fatty, spicy or acidic foods)
• Laryngopharyngeal reflux
  • Acidic reflux from the stomach into the larynx
  • High risk of tissue injury (acid)
  • Increased risk with respiratory infections present
• Respiratory disorders – asthma, viral infections
  • These can act as triggers of the condition as well
• Allergies – allergic terrain
• Physical exercise – more of a trigger than a cause
• Substances that irritate the nasal passages
• Emotional stress
• High levels of anxiety
• Reduced Calcium levels
• Nerve trauma/injury/paralysis
  • Injury of the nerves of the voice box (neck surgery)
  • Laryngospasm can be caused by paralyzed nerves, as the vocal cords are tighter
• Surgery
  • Laryngospasm appears as a postoperative complication
  • Most common cause – anesthesia – irritation of the vocal cords
  • Children present the highest risk for such complications, as they are highly sensitive to anesthesia
  • Occurs most often after tracheal extubation has been performed
  • It is a medical emergency and it requires immediate medical attention (cardiac arrest can occur)
• Other causes (laryngospasm – reflexive response)
  • Contents aspired into the larynx
  • Oral secretions reach the larynx, irritating the area
  • Drowning – when a person is drowning, the larynx shuts in order to prevent the entry of water (this eventually will lead to the death of the person, being known as ‘dry drowning’)
  • Sensation of foreign body in the windpipe.

Laryngospasm Treatment

In general, if the laryngospasm is minor, it will resolve on its own, without any treatment being necessary. However, for serious cases, these are the most common methods of treatment for laryngospasm:

• Partial laryngospasm
  • Identification and removal of triggering factor/foreign body
  • Jaw thrust maneuver
  • Intubation of the patient
  • Oxygen ventilation
• Symptomatic treatment for GERD
  • Proton-pump inhibitors – reduce the production of acid at the level of the stomach
  • Prokinetic agents – stimulate the movements of the stomach, reducing the level of acid present
• When the laryngospasm appears as a complication of a surgery:
  • Hyperextension of the patient’s neck
  • Assisted ventilation (100% oxygen)
  • Intravenous administration of muscle relaxant
  • Re-intubation
  • Lidocaine – can be administered as transtracheal injection
  • Sometimes, the laryngospasm can be solved by deepening the anesthesia level
• Breathing techniques
  • For repeating cases, the patient is taught to breathe slowly, instead of gasping for air (as this can aggravate the condition)
• Calcium supplements
  • Can solve hypocalcaemia, which is a frequent cause of laryngospasm.

Management

If laryngospasm occurs frequently, the patient must learn not to panic and breathe slowly. Often times, the person will gasp for air and this will only make the condition worse. Breathing techniques can be quite useful, as they will teach the patient to breathe gradually and slowly. This will allow for the airways to relax and the voice to recover. The patient is also instructed to allow for the voice to come back and not be scared by the sounds that are produced during the recovery.

The breathing techniques are commonly taught by a speech language pathologist and they are often blended with relaxation techniques. The latter are important, as they can prevent the patient from entering into a state of panic when the spasms occur. The relaxation techniques are going to reduce the intensity of the symptoms and also the frequency of the spasms.

The ENT doctor can also provide useful information about the management of the condition. It is important for the patient to understand that the laryngospasm will disappear in a minute. Apart from the breathing techniques, one can also drink water. If the laryngospasm has been caused by an irritating substance, then drinking water will allow for that substance to be washed away. Once the irritating substance is washed away, the condition will improve and the symptoms will subside.

The management of the acid reflux is also important and patients are instructed to take anti-acidic medication on a regular basis. Tea is also recommended, as it can help relax the esophageal musculature. Drinking water is indicated as well, as it is important for the patient to stay hydrated at all times.

Prevention

Laryngospasm is a condition that can be prevented, especially in patients who are suffering from GERD. Patients are instructed to avoid the substances that trigger upsetting symptoms, such as spicy or fatty foods, fruits (fruit juice including), caffeine and even peppermint. The recommendation is that the patient ingests a smaller quantity of food with each meal and that one learns to have dinner with at least two or three hours before going to bed. Patients are instructed to quit smoking and to reduce their alcohol levels, as these can aggravate the condition as well and increase the frequency of laryngospasms. The bed should be raised, so as to avoid the gastro-esophageal reflux.

If you know that you are allergic to certain types of food or different substances, be sure to avoid them as much as you possibly can. For those of you who suffer from respiratory infections, it is important to take medication for coughing. Try to refrain from coughing, as this can only lead to a new spasm. Drink plenty of fluids to keep the tissues hydrated – keep in mind that dryness can also lead to coughing, which in turn can lead to a new episode of laryngospasm. Tea is also recommended, as the warm temperature can guarantee an increased level of relaxation in the tissues. Saline drops can also be used for the same purposes; these are highly effective and they can be used without worrying about consequences.

In children or adolescents who are undergoing surgery, there are certain preventive measures that can be taken. First of all, if the teenager is smoking, then he/she should quit with at least two weeks before the surgery. Children should receive anesthesia through a face mask, as this guarantees a reduced irritation of the vocal cords. The parents should also inform the doctor whether the children is subject to passive smoking or not, about the history of respiratory infections, asthma, previous surgeries (with/without anesthesia). The assessment of these risk factors is important, as it will reduce the occurrence of laryngospasm.

In conclusion, laryngospasm can be successfully treated and managed. If its primary cause is GERD, then the patient must learn how to manage the condition and avoid triggering factors. Preventive measures are highly important and they should be taken regardless of the age of the patient. The patient should also be taught how to go through laryngospasm without panicking. Breathing and relaxation techniques are highly important, as they allow the patient to learn controlled breathing and they reduce the panic experienced during a new episode. Moreover, it can help one be prepared for a future episode and handle the spasm in a more efficient manner.

Pictures

A lot of people experience pain in their right jaw, the levels of intensity ranging from mild to severe. This can be a minor problem that might require a rapid treatment or a serious complaint, requiring immediate medical attention. Whether we are talking about a dental problem or something that is more serious, you still need to pay a visit to your doctor and seek out specialized assessment.

The doctor will decide on the treatment after identifying the cause and analyzing the entire range of symptoms exhibited. The right jaw pain can come from a problem with the soft tissues or it can come from the bone. It can be a sign of injury or it can be suggestive of an underlying condition. This is why it is highly important to seek out the help of specialized personnel and identify the exact cause. In this way, you can benefit from the right treatment and forget about the right jaw pain.

Symptoms of Right Jaw Pain

These are the most common symptoms that accompany the right jaw pain:

• Headache
• Nausea
• Vertigo
• Popping/clicking jaw sounds
• Tenderness to the touch (front of the ear)
• Pain can radiate to the other parts of the head (such as the ear canal)
• The patient can have difficulties in performing day to day operations, such as chewing or even talking
• Inflammation
• Bruising (when trauma is involved)
• Dental abnormalities (trauma)
• Numbness (nerve affectation)
• Neck pain can also be present in some cases (bruxism)
• Tooth pain
• Tooth destruction (premature wear)
• Excessive clenching (tooth fracture)
• The pain can come in sharp attacks (trigeminal neuralgia)
• Sensitivity to wind or cold temperatures – if the patient suffers from trigeminal neuralgia, even the slightest gust of wind is capable of triggering the other symptoms
• Congestion (infection of the sinuses)
• Drainage eliminated from the sinuses (infection).

What Causes Right Jaw Pain?

These are the most common causes of the right jaw pain:

• Disorders of the temporomandibular joint
  • Pain is accompanied by inflammation or irritation
  • Frequently caused by excessive chewing of gum
• Trauma/injury to the jaw
  • Pain is accompanied by bruising of the area
  • The jaw can be fractured or dislocated
• Bruxism
  • Teeth grinding occurs most often during sleep
• Arthritis of the jaw
  • Wear and tear mechanism
  • Pain is accompanied by loss of mobility – difficulty chewing, talking
• Dental issues
  • Frequent complaint
  • Pain is accompanied by inflammation
  • Regular movements of the jaw can be affected – difficult chewing
• Trigeminal neuralgia
  • Irritation of the trigeminal nerve (with its 3 branches)
  • Main causes: inflammation, irritation or trauma to the nerve
  • Easily triggered by wind or air currents
• Sinus issues
  • Most common – infection of the sinuses
  • Often involved – maxillary sinus
• Other causes
  • Bad habits
    • Biting nails
    • Sucking one’s thumb
    • Object chewing
  • Heart attack
    • Jaw pain can be a symptom of a heart attack
    • Look for the other symptoms as well:
      • Pain in the chest
      • Difficult breathing
      • Profuse sweating
    • Requires immediate medical attention.

Treatment

These are the most common methods of treatment for right jaw pain:

• Pain relieving medication
  • Ibuprofen
  • Acetaminophen
• Night splints
  • Prevent excessive teeth grinding
• Muscle relaxers
• Steroids
  • These can be administered in more severe cases
  • Not recommended for prolonged periods of time, otherwise they can have serious consequences on one’s health
  • Gradual retreat from the treatment is indicated, to avoid experiencing withdrawal symptoms
  • Steroid injections are recommended for patients who suffer from serious inflammation of the jaw (arthritis)
• In case of fracture:
  • Fracture contention with plates/screws/wires
  • Jaw immobilization
  • Open fracture – surgery
• Surgery
  • Performed by oral surgeon/dentist
  • Can improve mobility and eliminate the pain felt in the right jaw
  • Surgery is also indicated in severe cases of jaw arthritis
• In case of bruxism:
  • Stress management therapy
  • Muscle relaxers
  • Antidepressants
  • Night splints (from the dental office) – teeth protection
• Treatment for dental problems
  • The dentist might also decide to prescribe antibiotics, to eliminate bacterial infections
  • Teeth realignment can help with the right jaw pain, especially in children
• In case of trigeminal neuralgia:
  • Pain relieving medication
  • Narcotic medication
  • Antidepressants
  • Anticonvulsants
  • Surgery – nerve decompression (last resort for complicated or chronic cases)
• In case of sinus problems:
  • Cold medication
  • Decongestants
  • Nose passage irrigation – saline spray
  • Corticosteroid spray
    • Inflammation reduction
    • Helps with the elimination of mucus
  • Surgery – options for serious cases
• Heart attack:
  • Medical emergency – requires immediate treatment
  • Oxygen therapy

Pain Relief

These are the most common measures you can take in order to obtain relief for the right jaw pain:

• Jaw rest
  • You will need to avoid any activity that might put a strain on the jaw, helping it relax and regain its power
  • Diet based on soft foods – less pressure on the jaw
  • Avoid over-using the jaw (excessive chewing of gum or breaking hard candies)
• Ice applications
  • Reduce inflammation
  • Should not be applied directly on the skin, as they can cause circulation problems
  • The application should be timed, as prolonged applications are not recommended
• Heat applications
  • Relax contracted muscles
• Massage
  • Guaranteed pain relief
  • Self massage is also an option for those who are suffering from chronic jaw pain
• Steam inhalation
  • Recommended for sinus problems
  • Can help open the nasal passages and facilitates the drainage of mucus.

In conclusion, for someone who suffers from right jaw pain, there are both medical treatments and relief measures that can be taken. The important thing is that you visit the doctor and let the specialist identify the exact cause. One he/she identifies the cause of your right jaw pain, you will also be able to take the right medication and forget about all the upsetting symptoms. The relief measures are going to be helpful as well, so do not hesitate to try them out, one by one. In time, you will see for yourself which one helps you the most and you will be prepared for the future.

Spasmodic dysphonia is a neurological disorder, characterized by the involuntary contractions of the muscles. This is one of the most common disorders in which the involuntary spasms appear when only in relation to a specific task. For example, if a person with spasmodic dysphonia tries to speak, the larynx muscles are going to involuntarily contract. This will have a negative effect on the voice, causing it to suffer different modifications. The spasms appear one after the other and they can cause interruptions in the speech or even make the voice become whispery. The paradox is that the functioning of the larynx remains normal during other activities, including breathing or swallowing.

This condition is often misdiagnosed and it affects most commonly persons who are middle aged. Women are more often affected than men and the onset of the condition is progressive, without any actual cause being identified. Even though symptoms are present, the person suffering from spasmodic dysphonia will not present any actual physical modifications at the level of the larynx. There are no nodules or lumps and there is no inflammation identified. The symptoms can become worse with the passing of time but they will reach a point at which they remain stable. Brief periods of remission are rarely encountered.

Spasmodic Dysphonia Types

There are four different types of spasmodic dysphonia:

• Adductor spasmodic dysphonia
  • Involuntary/sudden muscle movements/spasms
  • Vocal cords close and become rigid
  • Production of voice is affected
  • One cannot begin to speak or the speech is cut off all of a sudden
  • Strained/strangled voice
  • It takes a lot of effort for the person to speak
  • Spasms absent during certain activities (laughing, singing)
  • Aggravated by stress
• Abductor spasmodic dysphonia
  • Involuntary/sudden muscle movements/spasms
  • Vocal cords open
  • Air escape from the lungs during speech
  • Weak and quiet voice (resembling a whisper)
  • Spasms absent during certain activities (laughing, singing)
• Mixed spasmodic dysphonia
  • Involuntary/sudden muscle movements/spasms
  • Affects both the muscles that open and close the vocal cords
  • Borrows symptoms from both types (adductor and abductor)
• Whispering dysphonia
  • Caused by a genetic mutation
  • Recently discovered

Spasmodic Dysphonia Symptoms

These are the most common symptoms of spasmodic dysphonia:

• Difficult speaking
  • Gradual or sudden onset
• Voice can break up
• Certain speech sounds can come out modified
• The voice can sound breathy, with pauses being made because of the involuntary contractions of the muscles
• The voice can present a tremble or a shake, as the words are pronounced with difficulty
• Speaking is possible with a lot more physical effort, the person feels like he/she is out of breath after speech
• The voice becomes similar to the one during a cold or a laryngitis episode
• The voice can sound strained or strangled
• Sometimes it resembles more of a whisper or it is interrupted by breathy pauses
• Speech sounds are often interrupted by the involuntary contractions, as these cause the voice to be modified
• If the spasm is more severe, then it can interrupt the voice completely
• Symptoms are often aggravated by stress or anxiety
• The voice can also be accompanied by a specific tremor
• The voice is absent in more severe cases.

What are the Causes of Spasmodic Dysphonia?

Until the present moment, an exact cause of spasmodic dysphonia has yet to be identified. According to the latest research, it seems that the main problem is related to the basal ganglia. These are found at the base of the brain and they are responsible for the regulation of muscle movements that are involuntary. If the regulatory function is not alright, then the ganglia will send the wrong signals to the rest of the body. The signals will automatically translate into badly timed contractions of the muscles, such as the ones encountered in spasmodic dysphonia.

Researchers have had an even more difficult time in identifying the case, as the involuntary muscle movements do not occur with all types of speech. According to the research made by specialists in the field, it seems that the symptoms of spasmodic dysphonia diminish or disappear completely when a person laughs, cries, yells, tries to clear his/her throat, whisper or hum. The condition is related to specific tasks and it seems that it might have something to do with abnormal reflexes of the brainstem. Genetics have also been considered as a cause of this condition, the genetic inheritance of spasmodic dysphonia being a definite possibility.

Scientists consider the following to be triggering factors but not causes of spasmodic dysphonia: infections with different viruses, trauma or injury to the head, respiratory conditions (bronchitis), surgery (post-operative complication) and stress or anxiety (these often aggravate the symptoms of the condition). The cause is not as important as making the correct diagnosis, so as the best treatment can be administered to the patient suffering from spasmodic dysphonia.

Diagnosis

The correct diagnosis of spasmodic dysphonia is hard to make, as there are no obvious modifications at the level of the larynx. One cannot use regular imagining investigations or common blood tests to obtain the diagnosis. Moreover, this condition is quite similar with other disorders of the vocal cords, which makes the diagnosis even more difficult. Other conditions, such as muscle tension dysphonia, excessive straining of the voice, neurological modifications of the voice and the weak Parkinson’s voice are often mistaken for spasmodic dysphonia. It is said that it takes a very good doctor to be able to make this diagnosis.

These are the most common steps taken for the diagnosis of spasmodic dysphonia:

• Obtaining the medical history of the patient
• Assessment of speech sounds (identification of voice breakups)
• Asking the patient to read specific sentences (the sentences include specific sounds)
• Physical examination of the larynx
  • If physical modifications, such as nodules or inflammation of the larynx, are identified then the diagnosis is not spasmodic dysphonia
  • Physical examination of the larynx is possible with an endoscope (rigid or flexible) and a stroboscope (light source)
• Laryngeal electro-myography
  • Offers useful information about the laryngeal muscles
  • The electrical activity of the muscles during speech and rest is recorded

Treatment

From the start, it should be mentioned that there are no treatments available that are capable of curing this condition. The administered treatments often address the symptoms, keeping the muscle spasms under control or bringing temporary relief. The person suffering from spasmodic dysphonia can benefit from treatment, as it will allow for control over one’s voice. In many situations, the treatment is administered with the purpose of increasing the quality of the voice.

There are three major approaches to spasmodic dysphonia, meaning through speech therapy, medication and surgery. Each approach has its own set of benefits and it will be chosen according to each patient. The oral medication is administered but it rarely brings relief from the symptoms experienced. Among the most commonly recommended medication, there are anticholinergic drugs, benzodiazepines and baclofen. Botulin toxin has been administered as a nerve blocker with successful results. Surgery is considered for patients who are diagnosed with adductor spasmodic dysphonia. The surgical procedures include thyroplasty, denervation and selective laryngeal adductor denervation-rennervation. Speech therapy is highly helpful, as it helps the patient learn what can be done to improve quality of voice and what should be avoided.

An intercostal muscle strain is a common experience in which the pain caused can be bearable for some or it can be debilitating to others.

Intercostal muscle strain is the result of a forceful movement particularly a sudden twist of the torso. This condition involves the muscle located in between the ribs and the condition is characterized as a tear in the intercostals muscle.

The intercostal muscles are composed of several muscles known as the internal intercostals muscles, external intercostals muscles, subcostal muscles and the transverse thoracic muscles. The primary function of the intercostals muscle is to allow the up and down movement of the chest muscle during inspiration and expiration in the process of breathing. It functions also in stabilizing and forming the chest walls.

Intercostal muscle strain usually recovers fully over the course of four to six weeks if proper physiotherapy is applied and if muscle strain is mild. Severe muscle strain on the other hand, requires longer period for a full recovery.

Intercostal muscle strain can happen to anyone regardless of age and gender and without racial predilection. It is however more common in people who are engaged in sporting activities and those who are participating in vigorous activities where sudden twisting of the torso can happen.

Symptoms of Intercostal Muscle Strain

Intercostal muscle strain is marked by pain in the side of the chest often in the area of the lower ribs. The pain may come suddenly which can be described as sharp and may have a pulling sensation. In some cases, the pain may come in gradually such as during the course of sport training or other training session that requires too much body movement.

Mild case of intercostal muscle strain may still allow the affected individual to continue with the daily activities. The pain felt is usually bearable that movement is still possible. The symptoms however may increase when resting or when the patient is cooling down.

In severe cases of intercostal muscle strain, daily activity is often affected and the pain is usually debilitating. Athletes and other individuals with severe case of intercostal muscle strain usually have to refrain from engaging in sporting activities for some period of time or at least until the strain has recovered fully.

The sensation of pain in intercostal muscle strain usually increases with certain activities such as bending, turning from side to side, twisting and lifting of heavy weights. Sporting activities such as rowing, bowling, running, jumping and throwing also increases the sensation of pain.

Other symptoms that may accompany intercostal muscle strain may include the following:

• Swelling
• Muscle spasm
• Bruising on the side of the chest
• Weakness

The pain in severe case of intercostal muscle strain is aggravated with coughing, sneezing, laughing and deep breathing.

Intercostal muscle strain is graded accordingly and such are:

• Grade I intercostal muscle strain is described as mild strain. Only a few of the muscle fibers are damaged or torn and recovery is usually over the course of two to three weeks.
• Grade II intercostal muscle strain is described as moderate strain. The damage or tear in the muscle fibers are extensive although no complete rupture of the muscle fiber can be noted.
• Grade III intercostal muscle strain is described as severe strain. Complete rupture of the muscle is noted and activity or movement is impossible as a result of severe pain. This grade of intercostal muscle strain requires surgery to correct the condition and recovery usually takes longer which may take about three months to six months at the most.

The degree of disability is related to the grade of the strain and recovery and time of recovery also depends on the grade of strain. The recovery time also depends on the presence of any medical complication.

Causes

Intercostal muscle strain occurs as a result of tear in the muscle between the ribs or known as the intercostal muscle.

The strain in the intercostal muscle may occur rapidly such as from forceful blow of the muscle, sudden twisting of the torso and engaging in sporting activity without warming up the body properly. The strain on the other hand may also develop gradually often from repetitive movement of the body or over movement such as during the training.

Intercostal muscle strain most commonly happen when there is a sudden contraction of the muscle particularly when the intercostal muscle is not in the proper position during a stretching movement of the body.

Athletes such as rowers, javelin throwers, ice skating hockey and cricket are more prone in sustaining intercostal muscle strain. Not all intercostal muscle strain however is due to activities that can put strain in the intercostal muscle. The strain can also occur when there is a direct blow or forceful impact applied on the ribs such as in vehicular accident and fall.

Several factors are also considered to contribute in the development of strain in the intercostal muscle and such factors may include the following:

• Improper warm up prior to exercise or training
• Excessive training
• Excessive repetitive movement
• Inadequate time for rest to allow the intercostal muscle for full healing and recovery
• Improper sporting techniques and body mechanics
• Presence of muscle and joint stiffness
• Previous experience of lower back injury
• Poor posture
• Weakness and fatigue

Treatment

The goal of treatment for intercostal muscle strain is to hasten the healing process at its optimal, relieve the symptom of pain and to prevent the recurrence of the injury.

Several physiotherapy treatments may be applied to allow healing of the intercostal muscle strain and restore the normal functioning of the affected individual.

Physiotherapy treatment may include the following:

• Ice application over the affected side of the torso helps in reducing the pain and strain in the muscle. Ice is applied for 15 to 20 minutes at least 3 to 4 times a day.
• Joint manipulation and mobilization helps in restoring the normal function of the intercostal muscle while reducing the strain and relaxing the muscle.
• Anti-inflammatory drugs and pain relievers help to reduce the pain and inflammation.
• Rest is generally advice to allow the intercostal muscle some time to heal and recover. It is best to refrain from the previous activity that resulted to intercostal muscle strain so as not to put additional strain and to prevent further damage to the injured intercostal muscle.

The incident of red dots on the legs can be frustrating and bothersome and can be uncomfortable especially when the dots that appeared are itchy. It can also be cosmetically challenging as the location can be very visible.

While red dots on legs are bothersome, most of which are benign and nothing to give a major concern. The cause of the onset of red dots on legs is quite numerous and the characteristics are various depending on the cause. Although most cases of red dots on legs are not serious, it is still important to consult a doctor or dermatologist before treating the red dots.

Red dots on legs can happen to anyone regardless of age, gender and racial belonging. It is a skin condition that almost all people get to experience at point in their lives. The characteristics of red dots however are varying and the symptoms and characteristics of the red dots are different from one person to another. For instance, a patient can have flat red dots that are not itchy while the other patient can have raised dots that are itchy.

Most cases of red dots on legs are not serious or life-threatening. It can, however, have serious complications if the red dots on legs are itchy. Itchy red dots often cause patient to scratch incessantly just to relieve the itchiness. Scratching is what can lead simple red dots on legs to a more serious medical condition. This is especially true when incessant scratching results to an open wound or deep scratches potential for infection. When the infection becomes uncontrollable, this can pose a serious threat to the health of a patient if not potentially fatal. The onset of red dots on legs can be a condition itself or can be a symptom indicating an underlying condition.

Symptoms of Red Dots on Legs

The symptoms of red dots on legs depend on the type of the red dots that appeared or the nature of the red dots. There are red dots that do not usually cause any symptoms except that it is bothersome and cosmetically disturbing. There are red dots on legs that can be so itchy and may also be associated with pain.

The causes of red dots on legs are various and the symptoms are varying depending on the cause or of the associated disease. Red dots on legs have different characteristics and which may appear as any of the following:

• Raised or bumpy
• Crusted edges
• Flat dots
• Fluid-filled
• The size can be very small like a pinpoint or it can be very large
• The red dots can be numerous or it can be very few
• The edges of the dots may be well defined or may be irregular

The symptoms of red dots on legs depend on the underlying cause such as:

• Onset of low grade or high grade fever
• Intense itchiness may be experienced
• Pain may or may not be present
• Flu like symptoms may occur depending on the cause of red dots on legs
• The onset may be prolonged
• Red dots can also extend to any part of the body aside from its onset on the legs
• The patient may also experience lack of appetite
• Headache
• Nausea and vomiting

What are the Causes of Red Dots on Legs?

There are generally many reasons for red dots on legs to occur. The causes of red dots on legs range from mild to serious and the incident can be resolved from a certain period of time while other cases may be chronic or may remain on the skin for a lifetime.

The causes of red dots on legs may include the following:

Insect bite may cause red dots to appear not only in the legs but also in some other parts of the body that are usually exposed.

Certain medications can cause red dots on legs such as exposure to cytotoxic drugs that are used to treat arthritis. The appearance of red dots on legs and in the lower legs during medication with cytotoxic drugs could be a symptom of bleeding under the skin.

Allergies can cause red dots on legs and other parts of the body. The allergic reaction could be from certain food, medication, temperature and others. Atopic dermatitis for instance is one common cause of red dots to appear not only in the legs but also to some areas of the body. This is usually itchy and prevalent in children than in adults and the red dots usually appear as rashes on the skin. Contact dermatitis on the other hand is a response of the body from an irritant such as the use of detergent soap, latex, cosmetics and others that come in contact with the skin.

Folliculitis is a condition characterized by the inflammation of the hair follicles due to infection. Folliculitis usually occurs in the lower legs and onset may or may not be itchy.

Schamberg’s disease is a condition that resulted from the blood vessels seeping close to the surface of the skin. This condition is characterized by the onset or reddish-brown spots that usually begin on the legs before extending to other parts of the body.

Erythema nodosum is a rare skin condition that often affects the fatty layer of the skin that causes red spots on the lower legs. The onset of red dots on the legs is associated with symptoms such as fever, body ache and pain.

Psoriasis is a condition characterized by the overproduction of the skin cell reaching a level of beyond the average production of skin cell. Psoriasis is among the common cause of red dots to appear not only in the legs but also in some other parts of the body. The most common of psoriasis is the plaque psoriasis which causes red dots to appear which is surrounded by silvery white scales.

There are so many reasons for the red dots on legs to appear. The onset of red dots on legs can be a skin condition itself or it can be a manifestation of other medical condition.

Treatment

The treatment of red dots on legs depends on the underlying cause. There are red dots that resolve right after treatment has been applied while there are cases where red dots remain or recur despite treatment.

It is important to determine the cause of red to dots to appear on the legs prior to application of treatment. It is also very important that a doctor or dermatologist be consulted prior to treatment as only health professionals can determine the best treatment. Allergens or trigger of allergies should best be avoided when symptoms appear including the onset of red dots on legs and to some other parts of the body.

Pictures of Red Dots on Legs

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Left shoulder pain can be bothersome and can affect the quality of life as the ability to move the shoulder is generally affected. Left shoulder pain while seems not serious for most people, should be given an attention particularly if the cause is unknown. The condition might be significant to an existing underlying condition to which the onset of left shoulder pain is a manifestation.

The pain in left shoulder can be from the shoulder itself or may be a referred pain from the other part of the body. Most pain in and around the shoulder involves the muscle, ligaments and tendons and it could be at the front or at the back of the shoulder. The shoulder blade or the scapula is the most unstable joint in the body which makes it more prone to several problems such as pain.

The pain in the left shoulder can hinder the daily activity of the affected individual as the pain is literally aggravated with movement of the arm or the shoulder itself. Referred shoulder pain does not worsen with every movement of the joint or the shoulder itself. In referred pain, the pain usually arises from the other part of the body such as the heart and the gallbladder and not from the joint or the shoulder itself. This is why left shoulder pain should not be disregarded and should be given medical attention to properly address the underlying condition that causes the pain.

Symptoms of Left Shoulder Pain

Left shoulder pain is not a disease itself but is more of a symptom of some other disease or condition wherein left shoulder pain is part of the disease process.

On the other hand, the pain felt in left shoulder varies and not two people can experience the same extent of pain. The pain and its extent will also depend on what caused the pain on the left shoulder.

Pain on the left shoulder can be identified as throbbing or sharp or a shooting pain and it can be constant or intermittent. The onset of pain can be abrupt or it can be slow and developing and the pain can be mild or severe.

Pain on the left shoulder can also be accompanied with bruising and swelling. Onset of fever is also part of the symptom and which may be a low grade or high grade fever.

Causes of Left Shoulder Pain

Left shoulder pain can be brought by several factors and medical conditions.

Factors causing left shoulder pain include the following:

Aging causes the bone to become brittle and weaker. This is generally part of the natural aging process in which the bone density becomes weak and brittle making it more prone to fracture and other complications.

Bad computer habits can result to pain in the left shoulder. An extensive or prolonged period in front of the computer in a wrong posture or position can put strain on either shoulder which results to pain. The pain may be due to the inflammation of the muscle and severe headaches or may be due to muscle spasm.

Impingement syndrome is caused by repetitive motion in which the bone and tissue of the shoulder rub together causing friction and pain.

Improper position in sleep is among the most common cause of shoulder pain and left shoulder pain. People often complain of pain in the shoulder when they sleep in the wrong position such as sleeping on the left side of the body which brings the left shoulder pain.

Injury to the left shoulder can definitely bring pain. The injury to the shoulder can be due to strain in the shoulder as a result of overuse and overexertion of the shoulder. The shoulder may also get injured with accident such as vehicular accident and fall. Injury to the rotator cuff and the muscle that holds the ball of the shoulder are the usual causes of pain in the shoulder.

Fracture on the left shoulder is another reason for the shoulder to be in pain. Fracture not only causes extreme pain but can also result to a limited range of motion. Fracture in the scapula, clavicle, glenoid process and coracoids process can bring pain to the shoulder or in the left shoulder.

Instability of the shoulder can force the shoulder joint out of its original position thereby causing the individual to experience pain. Instability pain is particularly experience when the arm is raised up or when using the arm in normal range of motion.

Compressed nerve or pinched nerve can cause pain in the left shoulder especially if nerve compression occurs in the left shoulder. The pain can be felt from the shoulder blade down to the arm.

Medical conditions that can cause left shoulder pain include the following:

Frozen shoulder prevents the patient from moving their shoulder as every movement of the shoulder can bring so much pain. The pain in frozen shoulder is due to the insufficiency of synovial fluid that lubricates the shoulder joint.

Bursitis or the inflammation of the bursae can lead to significant pain in the shoulder. The bursae is a sack filled with fluid located in between the bones and the muscle and function as a cushion to allow movement while preventing friction that can bring in pain.

Pancoast tumor is a type of lung cancer that involves the upper lobes of the lungs and its surrounding tissues. Pancoast tumor is a non-small cell carcinoma that can bring pain to the left shoulder.

Treatment

The treatment for left shoulder pain will depend on the underlying condition that caused the pain. Rest is initially advised when pain is due to strain. Rest will allow the shoulder some time to heal and it is also best to keep the shoulder immobile while on the process of healing.

Cold compress and hot compress can both help reduce the inflammation and reduce pain on the left shoulder. Application of hot or cold compress is advised for 15 minutes for three times a day.

Medications such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen can reduce the inflammation and relieve pain. These can be bought over-the-counter although it is best to follow the direction in the packaging in taking the medicine.

Sling is best to immobilize the shoulder while allowing it for some time to heal. A sling can restrict the movement of the shoulder which is important while under the healing process. This is to prevent further injury or damage.

The onset of dry patches on face is bothersome especially as the location is so visible which can be a cosmetic concern for those who are suffering from it. The condition is not only a cosmetic concern but it can also be discomforting.

Dry patches on face can result to loss of the skin luster on the face and can therefore cause the early onset of wrinkles and lines on the face. It is not only a cause for cosmetic concern and discomfort but dry patches on face may also lead to other skin problems.

Dry skin is a common dermatological problem that can happen to anyone and at an age. It is a common occurrence during the dry winter season but dry skin can happen all throughout the year which is then a health concern to some.

The skin is the largest organ found in the body and functions as a barrier against the harmful elements from the environment. It also functions to contain the vital organs and keep them in place including the other inner parts of the body. The skin is composed of four types such as the normal skin, oily skin, dry skin and sensitive skin. Each type of skin has their characteristic and each also have their own complications.

When the skin is dry, facial tightness may be experienced as a result of insufficiency in moisture or is when the skin is not properly hydrated. The condition of dry patches on face is characterized by dry and flaky skin. It can also be reddish in appearance while itchiness and sensitivity of the skin is common among individuals with dry patches on face. The appearance of dry patches on face is unappealing that the quality of life is affected as it can cause embarrassment on the part of the patient. The incidence of dry patches on face is not a serious or life-threatening condition although measures should be taken to manage the dry skin on the face which may cause complication often due to incessant scratching of the face due to itchiness.

What Causes Dry Patches on Face?

Dry patches on face are caused by dry skin or the loss of hydration and moisture. There are several factors and conditions that can cause the skin on the face to dry that will later have dry patches. The causes can either be due to environmental factor or medical factor.

The environmental factor resulting to dry skin patches on face is due to the external stimuli that irritated or aggravated the skin causing it to dry and form patches.

The environmental causes of dry patches on face include the following:

Cold winter months can cause the skin to dry not only on the face but also in the other skin area of the body. The cold wind causes the skin to dry especially when it is not protected with moisturizers. The cold winter months also causes the small amount of moisture in the air thus lack of moisture for the skin that it usually gets from the environment.

Hot summer months can also cause the skin to dry and dry patches on face. The extreme heat during the hot summer months reduces the natural oil of the skin which leads to dry skin and dry patches on face.

Prolonged exposure under the sun can damage the skin and reduce the natural oil of the skin including the facial skin. Exposure to UV rays of the sun is particularly dangerous to the skin which can cause damages to the skin and its ability to produce enough natural oil to keep the skin well hydrated and moisturized.

Cosmetics and other chemical products are harmful to the skin. Application of cosmetics on the face brings beauty to the face but it can also be harmful and cause dry patches on face which can be embarrassing and unappealing. Detergent soaps and bath soaps can also be harmful to the facial skin and can cause the skin to dry out and form patches on the face. Cosmetics and other chemicals can strip away the natural oils of the skin and the skin of the face.

The medical factors that can cause the dry patches on face are those underlying condition that result the skin to dry not only in the face but also in other areas of the skin.

Medical conditions that cause dry patches on face include the following:

Eczema or atopic dermatitis is a chronic skin condition characterized by rashes that are extremely itchy and scaly. This skin condition is common in the elbow, knees, wrist and also the facial skin. Atopic dermatitis is aggravated by exposure to dry air and cold air and contact with other irritants. Irritants also include pollen, temperature changes and dust. Stress can also cause the flare up of atopic dermatitis.

Psoriasis is chronic autoimmune disorder that causes scales and red patches on the skin. This skin condition is characterized by excessive production of skin over an area of inflammation and infection. Psoriasis is triggered by stress, excessive consumption of alcohol, cigarette smoking and withdrawal from systemic corticosteroid.

Treatment

The treatment of dry patches on face depends on the cause of the skin to dry. Skin moisturizer is the usual treatment for dry patches on face to restore the moisture of the facial skin. The use of non-comedogenic and hypoallergenic soaps and cosmetics are also advice to patient with dry patches on face.

Dry patches on face caused by underlying condition are generally treated with appropriate drugs for the underlying condition itself. Inflammatory skin conditions are treated with topical application of steroids while anti-histamines are prescribed for dry patches caused by allergies.

Pictures

Photos, Images and Pictures of Dry Patches on face…

Remedies

Dry patches on face resulting from dry skin can also be helped with home remedies such as:

Olive oil and egg yolk combined together is used to take care of dry and flaky skin. The olive oil is an antioxidant rich in vitamin E and vitamin K while the egg yolk is rich in vitamin A and helps in managing skin shedding.

Coconut oil has sufficient amount of fatty acids which can help in replenishing the skin of the natural oil lost. It is a natural way of moisturizing the skin and is best done at night and left for the entire night.

Aloe Vera effectively moisturizes the skin and treats the dry skin. The gel inside the plant is what is being applied on the face which can be obtained by cutting a leaf and squeezing out the gel inside.

Sore calf muscle is not an unusual occurrence that almost anyone can get to experience. It is the result of tears in the calf muscle that often result when the muscle is overexerted or overloaded from a vigorous activity such as lifting heavy weights, running and jogging or even after a long day of walking.

Sore calves are always expected for beginners in running and jogging as the calf muscle has not adapted to the new routine and neuromuscular coordination. Not only is sore calf can be obtained from an overexertion but can also be experienced when there is a big blow directed toward the legs resulting to trauma in the calf muscle.

The calf muscle is located at the back of the shinbone and runs from behind the knee down to the Achilles tendon. Calf muscle acts as a pulley that pulls the heel upward to allow movement of the legs. It is a muscle at the back of the lower leg and is composed of two muscles known as the gastrocnemius and soleus muscle. The gastrocnemius is the prominent muscle visible under the skin and is connected to the knee joint and tucked to the heel through the Achilles tendon. It is made up of two heads that form together and appears somewhat like a diamond in shape. The soleus on the other hand is smaller and is a flat muscle that is located beneath the gastrocnemius connected below the knee joint and is tucked in the heel through the Achilles tendon. Both the gastrocnemius and soleus muscles joined at the base of the calf muscle.

Symptoms of Sore Calves

Pain is the common symptom of sore calves although it is not the only symptom. Other symptoms that may occur depend on the cause of the sore calf muscle.

The common symptoms of sore calves may include the following:

• Burning sensation in the calf muscle
• Pain in the joints particularly in the leg joints
• Involuntary muscle spasm
• Swelling
• Decreased range of motion
• Onset of fever

The symptom of sore calves can be mild or severe depending on the cause. The tear in the calf muscle is graded from one to three to gauge the severity.

Grade I of symptom is defined as the least severe with minor tear in the calf muscle. The pain is basically minimal and the function is not affected. A twinge of pain may be felt at the back of the lower leg and tightness of the muscle may also be present which may last for a couple of days or several days.

Grade II of the symptom is more severe than grade 1 and with almost 90% of tear in the calf muscle. A sharp pain is usually felt at the back of the lower leg accompanied with the difficulty to walk as pain is also felt while walking. The pain is particularly felt when there is resistance or when there is resistance against the plantar flexion. Tightness and pain in the calf muscle is usually felt for a week or more. Loss of function is noted in grade II symptom.

Grade III symptom is the most severe and is characterized by almost complete to complete muscle rupture. Pain at the back of the lower leg is severe and immediate while loss of function is noted including the inability to contract the muscle. Deformity of the calf muscle can be seen which is rather pushed and clustered upward.

What are the Causes of Sore Calves?

Sore calves occur when there is the presence of tear in either one or both of the calf muscle more often in the gastrocnemius muscle. The tear in the calf muscle can occur due to several factors and manifests through pain or soreness of the muscle behind the shinbone.

The cause of sore calves can either be due to injury or due to medical condition.

Injury causing sore calves includes the following:

• Calf muscle strain is the most common cause of sore calf. This cause of sore calf muscle occurs when the muscle is overstretched resulting to a tear in the muscle. Individual with calf muscle strain usually experiences pain that is exacerbated with movement such as walking. Swelling and bruising may also be experienced depending on the exact cause of the muscle strain. Long distance walking or running without giving the legs a rest can lead to strain in the calf muscle which results to sore calves.
• Involuntary muscle spasm or muscle cramps causes sore calf muscle. Muscle cramps occur when there is overuse of the muscle and too much stretching of the calf muscle. This can result to pain in the calf muscle.
• Beginners in certain sports or activities are also prone to sore calves as the calf muscle has not yet adapted to the new routine or neuromuscular coordination.

Certain medical condition can also cause sore calves mostly as part of the disease process itself. Medical conditions that can cause sore calves include the following:

Baker’s cyst or popliteal cyst is a swelling in the knee joint that resulted from the buildup of the synovial fluid or the fluid that lubricates the knee joint. This condition can cause stiffness and pain in the calf muscle. The buildup of the synovial fluid is due to the presence of tear in the cartilage or secondary to arthritis.

Achilles tendinitis is the inflammation of the Achilles tendon. The fibers in the center portion of the tendon have degenerate with tiny tears resulting to swelling and soreness in the calf muscle. This condition is often the result of overuse of muscle or secondary to arthritis.

Deep vein thrombosis is a condition characterized by the formation of blood clot in the vein deep in the body. This condition usually affects the lower legs and thighs which in return can cause sore calf muscle as part of the disease process.

How to Treat Sore Calves?

The treatment for sore calves is composed of RICE which stands for rest, ice application, compression and elevation.

Rest is the primary treatment for sore calf muscle. The aim of rest is to reduce the stress on the muscle while the muscle is still recuperating from strains and injury. Rest will allow the muscle some time to relax and heal.

Ice application helps in reducing the swelling and bruising. This is ideally recommended to be applied for 15 to 20 minutes following onset of injury or pain. The course is to be repeated every few hours over 24 hours.

Compression bandage can be applied immediately after the injury to prevent swelling. This, however, should be applied for not more than 10 minutes to prevent blood restriction that could add more damage when it happens.

Elevation of leg is done while resting. The leg should be raised slightly above the heart. Elevation helps to reduce the swelling that causes the sore calf muscle.

Over-the-counter medication such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen can help relieve the pain and swelling that causes sore calves. In some cases, such as in grade III symptom, surgery is necessary to reattach the muscle fibers that have broken down.

Staph infection is an infection from Staphylococcus bacteria that usually affect the skin particularly the nose or the inside of the nose.

Staphylococcus aureus is the bacteria that cause the staph infection. These bacteria are normally found in the skin especially in the inside of the nose. Even healthy and active individuals carry staphylococcus aureus in their skin. Staphylococcus aureus however does not immediately cause an infection even if it is in colony. The uncontrollable proliferation thus results to the onset of infection although it is often minor. Staph infection is usually not a life-threatening or serious condition and is usually minor when it occurs. The problem generally is when the infection went deeper into the body and has invaded the bloodstream, vital organs, bones and joints of the body. The invasion of the bacteria deeper into the body may lead to a serious complication or it can be fatal.

Staphylococcus bacteria are composed of 30 different strains and are normally found in the skin of healthy people. The appearance of staphylococcus is similar to a bunch of grapes when viewed under the microscope. Staphylococcus is bacteria that exist as a normal flora in the skin and nose even in the skin and nose of healthy individuals. The bacteria of staphylococcus can survive in extreme heat and dry environments and can also survive exposure in salt. It is found to be present in almost 30% of adult individuals who carry the bacteria in their nose. Staph infection may cause disease as a result of direct infection or may be due to the production of toxins from the strain of the bacteria.

Symptoms

The colonization of staphylococcus aureus in the nose often does not lead to an active infection and manifestation of a localized symptom. The infection is usually secondary to cough and colds, flu, inflammation and trauma in the nasal membrane that results to an open wound or cut in the skin where the bacteria can gain an entry into the body.

The incidence of staph infection in nose is usually minor and the symptom is local or may manifest in distant skin.

Local symptoms of staph infection in nose include the following:

• Inflammation of the nostrils
• Production of yellow or green mucus
• Nasal congestion and discharge
• Onset of fever
• Cough
• Sensation of pain in the nasal membranes
• Chills
• Sinus headache

Distant skin symptoms may also occur and which include the following:

• Boils which is a collection of pus that usually develops in the oil gland or in the hair follicle. The onset is characterized by swelling and redness of the infected area. It is usually found in skin areas under the arm, buttocks and around the groin.
• Impetigo is characterized by painful rash that often develops in the skin near the mouth and nose. The rash is more of vesicular pustules, honey colored and with thin wall.
• Cellulitis causes redness and swelling on the surface of the skin. It is also characterized by the development of sores or skin ulcer that may have an oozing discharge. Cellulitis is often found in the feet and the lower legs.
• Pimples may also develop and usually in the face, neck, inside of the nose, upper chest and back. The pimples may also develop into a cluster which is then known as carbuncles.  

Staph infection is usually minor and non-life threatening. There are cases however where the bacteria has invaded the blood stream that will later circulate in the body. When this happen, vital organs, bones and joints can get infected which is potentially fatal. When the symptoms of invasive disease occur, it is high time to immediately bring the patient to the hospital for emergency treatment.

Invasive disease symptoms of staph infection include the following:

• Scalded skin syndrome results from the toxins produced by staph infection.  This syndrome is common in newborn and children and is characterized by the development of rash or blisters and onset of fever.
• Bacteremia is potentially fatal and occurs when the bacteria have reached the bloodstream and later infecting the other parts of the body including the vital organs.   Bacteremia is manifested by the onset of fever and low blood pressure.
• Septic arthritis is a disease caused by staph infection.  The infection usually involves the knees but may also affect the spine, shoulder, wrist, hip and ankle.  The signs and symptoms of septic arthritis include the onset of fever, severe pain in the affected joint and swelling of the joint.
• Other invasive disease symptoms include endocarditis, meningitis, osteomyelitis, toxic shock syndrome, otitis media and sepsis.

Causes

Staph infection in nose is caused by staphylococcus bacteria. These staphylococcus bacteria is a group of bacteria composed of about 30 different strains and can cause massive amount of diseases in humans. Staphylococcus is named after its appearance which is similar to a cluster of grapes. The bacteria are generally present in the skin as normal flora and can also be found in the inside of the nose.

Staph infection in nose is caused by Staphylococcus aureus which is a strain of staphylococcus that commonly causes the infection. The infection is caused by the bacteria being carried by humans in their skin. The presence of staph in the skin usually does not cause the infection but is rather secondary to the onset of colds, flu, cough, inflammation and trauma to the nasal membranes.

Treatment

Staph infection can be treated and the goal of treatment is to control the infection to prevent invasion in the bloodstream and vital organs of the body. It is important that infection be treated early and properly to prevent life-threatening complications.

The treatment for staph infection in nose includes the following:

Antibiotic is the treatment of choice for staph infection in nose. The initial step in antibiotic therapy to staph infection is identification of the strain of the bacteria that caused the infection. The usual antibiotic prescribed is cephalosporins, vancomycin, nafcilin and sulfa drugs. Intravenous antibiotic is given to more serious or life-threatening staph infection.

Is it Contagious?

Staph infection in nose is highly contagious and which can be transmitted from one person to another. Staphylococcus bacteria can survive extreme temperature, dry environment and even exposure to salt. The bacteria can survive outside their host and can survive in inanimate objects such as handkerchief, pillowcases and towels. The bacteria can be transmitted with sharing or using of objects used or previously touched by a contaminated person. The infection can also originate from the carrier person when the bacteria are triggered.

Staph Infection in Nose Pictures

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