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 Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE or commonly referred to as lupus) is an autoimmune disease associated with autoantibody production, primarily affects young women, with a female-to-male ratio of 10:1. The disease predominantly occurs in people age 15-45 years and it is more common in women of African-American and Asian descent. Symptoms Systemic lupus erythematosus can involve almost any organ and may present in different ways. Fatigue is common, but does not help distinguish SLE from other diseases. Arthritis and cutaneous manifestations [e.g. malar rash ("butterfly rash") and photosensitivity] are most common, but renal, hematologic and neurologic manifestations contribute largely to morbidity and mortality. Triggering Factors Factors such as sunlight, certain drugs and viral infection are known to trigger SLE, but the underlying cause is not fully understood. Drugs that include lupus include Methimazole Propylthiouracil Methyldopa Minocycline Procainamide Hy...

Introduction Fatigue is a term used to describe subjective tiredness or exhaustion. It is common in the general population, particularly in elderly and those with certain health problems. Classification Fatigue may be classified based on duration. Acute fatigue Lasts up to 6 months. Most often attributable to an acute medical condition or recent life stressor. Chronic fatigue Persists ≥6 months. Likely to be associated with an underlying chronic medical or psychological condition, medical toxicity or substance use. Management Fatigue is a common, nonspecific symptom with a broad range of aetiologies. Physiologic fatigue is norma l and defined as a reaction to intense and/or prolonged activity that is relieved with rest and typically does not affect activities of daily living. Target therapy to the causative condition or disease if one is found. Consider general advice, including Good sleep hygiene Healthy diet Exercise External Links DynaMed - Fatigue - Approach to the Patient UpToDate...