Rx Note

Introduction Anemia is defined for patient care as a reduction in one or more of the major red blood cell measurements obtained as part of the complete blood count. Hemoglobin concentration To convert to mmol/L, the hemoglobin in g/dL can be multiplied by 0.62. Hematocrit Also called packed cell volume. Is the percentage of blood cell volume occupied by red blood cells. Red blood cell count A low hemolobin concentration and/or low hematocrit are the parameters most widely used to diagnose anemia. WHO criteria for anemia in adults are Females - Hemoglobin <12 g/dL or hematocrit <36% Males - Hemoglobin <13 g/dL or hematocrit < 39% NOTE: Reticulocytes are immature red blood cells. Symptoms Most patients with mild or early-stage anemia are asymptomatic. If anemia becomes severe and/or prolonged, the lack of oxygen in the blood can lead to classic symptoms of fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath, exercise intolerance, headache, dizziness, anorexia and/or pallor . If sudden ...

Introduction Vertigo is an illusion of rotational, liner or tilting movement of self or environment. It could be produced by peripheral (inner ear) or central (brainstem-cerebellum) stimulation. The most common motion illusion is a spinning sensation. Nausea and vomiting are typical with acute vertigo, unless it is mild or very brief, as with benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV). Vomiting can be severe, causing dehydration and electrolyte imbalance. Postural stability can be affected in patients with vertigo. NOTE: It is important to distinguish vertigo from other potential causes of "dizziness". Evaluation The clinical features of the most common disorders are summarized in the table below. NOTE: The time course of symptoms provides one the best clues to the underlying pathophysiology of vertigo. Symptomatic Treatment Medications to suppress vestibular symptoms are best used for alleviating acute episodes of vertigo that last at least a few hours or days. These dr...