Combination of psycho- and pharmacotherapy as a modern method of treatment of Alzheimer's disease.

Introduction: Alzheimer's disease is a degenerative disease of the brain, caused by the deposition of beta-amyloid and tau protein. It is characterized by progressive memory and behavior disorders which, over time, completely prevent the patient from functioning properly in everyday life, performing work and disrupting social contacts. Communication problems arise and patients forget more and more words. Unfortunately, we are not able to completely stop the progression of this disease, but we can only delay its development. To delay the progression of the disease, pharmacotherapy includes acetylcholinesterase inhibitors and NMDA receptor antagonists. Matherials and methods: This article, based on a PubMed review of available research, examines the impact of rivastigmine, donepezil, memantine and psychotherapy on delaying disease progression. Results: A number of studies have investigated the effect of 6-12 milligrams of rivastigmine, 10 milligrams of donepezil and 20 milligrams of memantine on patients' ability to communicate. The results were checked using the MMSE, ADAS or SIB scales and interviews conducted regularly by clinicians. In addition, patients were subjected to various forms of psychotherapy, including reminiscence therapy and cognitive therapy. All groups experienced significantly less deterioration in their functional stage of disease compared to the placebo groups. Conclusions: The best results in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease can be obtained by combining pharmacological therapy with non-pharmacological effects. Thanks to this form of treatment, the progression of the disease is delayed, and patients retain their communication abilities for longer

When does a healthy lifestyle turn into a disorder? Orthorexia – diagnostic problems, methods of treatment

Introduction: Orthorexia nervosa (ON) is a common phenomenon. Its prevalence in society ranges from 1% to 60%. Yet, there are no specific diagnostic criteria or effective screening tests. Moreover, orthorexia does not appear in any of the available international psychiatric classifications such as the ICD (International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems) and DSM (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders). Due to this fact many people remain undiagnosed, which significantly affects their standard of living, and later puts a strain on the health care system. Material and method: The article is based on a study and analysis of available publications in the last few years, published in the PubMed database. Conclusions: It is crucial to create specific diagnostic criteria for orthorexia. This will enable efficient detection of patients at an early stage of the disorder, which will significantly shorten the diagnostic path. Moreover, specifying potential risk factors will help to reduce new cases

Modern methods of treating marijuana addiction (cannabis use disorders) and its influence on health

Introduction: Worldwide, cannabis is the most widely used illegal psychoactive substance and the third most common drug, after alcohol and tobacco. Cannabis use disorder (CUD) affects approximately 10% of the 193 million cannabis users worldwide. In recent years, cannabinoids have become more and more popular. The CUD is becoming a growing social and health problem. The search for effective forms of pharmacotherapy is still ongoing, and an effective combination of psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy may be crucial for the future of CUD treatment.   Material and method: The article was based on a review and analysis of publications and discoveries in recent years, which were available in the PubMed and Google Scholar database.   Results: 82 study participants attempted abstinence from cannabis use. In the final primary endpoint analysis, both 400 mg of CBD and 800 mg of CBD were more effective than placebo in reducing cannabis use.  50 people who were addicted to cannabis treated with gabapentin showed a significant reduction in cannabis use and cannabis withdrawal compared to placebo. Moreover, 70 men addicted to cannabis were randomized and those, who used FAAH inhibitors reported fewer cannabis withdrawal symptoms, less cannabis use and lower THC urine levels than placebo users. Conclusions: Gabapentin has been proven to show a reduction in CUD. The use of CBD, FAAH inhibitors and psychotherapy MET/CBT/CM also appear to be effective. In addition, the use of the principles of People-First Language, avoiding slang and idioms, using medical and curing vocabulary, respects the addicted person, and also positively influences the chances of abstinence

Giardia intestinalis - atypical symptoms of infection in the daily practice of various specialists

Giardia intestinalis infection is the most common parasitic infection in the world. The parasite's reservoir is mainly humans and many species of mammals. Giardiasis is a parasitic disease of the duodenum and small intestine. Infection spreads easily through the oral-fecal route. Its most frequent symptom is chronic diarrhea, but it can also be asymptomatic. This article analyzes atypical symptoms of Giardia Intestinalis infection based on available studies in the PubMed database. Observations have shown that giardiasis can manifest in various types of dermatoses such as urticaria, angioedema, atopic dermatitis, erythema nodosum, or Wells syndrome. A relationship between Giardia Intestinalis infection and various allergic syndromes, manifesting as chronic urticaria or angioedema, has also been observed, as well as an increased occurrence of food allergies due to increased exposure to antigens. Studies have also shown that giardiasis can cause polyneuropathy, avitaminosis, and malabsorption syndrome. Even years after infection, chronic fatigue syndrome can still be observe

When does a healthy lifestyle turn into a disorder? Orthorexia – diagnostic problems, methods of treatment

Introduction: Orthorexia nervosa (ON) is a common phenomenon. Its prevalence in society ranges from 1% to 60%. Yet, there are no specific diagnostic criteria or effective screening tests. Moreover, orthorexia does not appear in any of the available international psychiatric classifications such as the ICD (International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems) and DSM (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders). Due to this fact many people remain undiagnosed, which significantly affects their standard of living, and later puts a strain on the health care system. Material and method: The article is based on a study and analysis of available publications in the last few years, published in the PubMed database. Conclusions: It is crucial to create specific diagnostic criteria for orthorexia. This will enable efficient detection of patients at an early stage of the disorder, which will significantly shorten the diagnostic path. Moreover, specifying potential risk factors will help to reduce new cases

Hyperosmolar hyperglycemic syndrome: A comprehensive review of clinical presentation, diagnosis, and treatment strategies in hyperglycemic crises

Introduction and Purpose Hyperosmolar Hyperglycemic State (HHS), a severe type 2 diabetes complication, presents with profound hyperglycemia, hyperosmolality, and dehydration sans ketosis, posing distinct challenges in diagnosis and treatment compared to diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). This article aims to enhance medical community awareness by examining HHS features, prevalence, and associated risk factors, contributing to improved clinical management. Emphasizing tailored treatment strategies for dehydration, coexisting illnesses, and metabolic decompensation, it ultimately seeks to enhance outcomes for type 2 diabetes individuals. Material and methods Conducting a systematic review of medical articles from 1972 to 2023 using PubMed, this study analyzed keywords such as hyperglycemic hyperosmolar state, HHS, diabetes mellitus, hyperglycemia, and dehydration. Inclusion of pertinent articles ensured a comprehensive exploration of Hyperosmolar Hyperglycemic State (HHS) literature during the specified timeframe. Brief description of the state of knowledge. Hyperosmolar Hyperglycemic Syndrome (HHS) predominantly affects elderly type 2 diabetes individuals, often triggered by infections like pneumonia or urinary tract infections. Clinical presentation includes fatigue, weakness, polydipsia, polyuria, nausea, and altered consciousness. Diagnosis relies on criteria such as elevated blood glucose levels and increased osmolality. HHS management involves a multidisciplinary approach, addressing fluid depletion, compromised cerebral perfusion, and achieving gradual normalization of osmolality and blood glucose levels to prevent complications. Summary Hyperosmolar Hyperglycemic Syndrome (HHS), a severe metabolic disorder linked to diabetes, extends beyond hyperglycemia, necessitating a comprehensive understanding. This review sheds light on HHS etiology, clinical manifestations, diagnostic criteria, and treatment modalities, emphasizing its critical nature in diabetes care

Modern methods of treating marijuana addiction (cannabis use disorders) and its influence on health

Introduction: Worldwide, cannabis is the most widely used illegal psychoactive substance and the third most common drug, after alcohol and tobacco. Cannabis use disorder (CUD) affects approximately 10% of the 193 million cannabis users worldwide. In recent years, cannabinoids have become more and more popular. The CUD is becoming a growing social and health problem. The search for effective forms of pharmacotherapy is still ongoing, and an effective combination of psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy may be crucial for the future of CUD treatment.   Material and method: The article was based on a review and analysis of publications and discoveries in recent years, which were available in the PubMed and Google Scholar database.   Results: 82 study participants attempted abstinence from cannabis use. In the final primary endpoint analysis, both 400 mg of CBD and 800 mg of CBD were more effective than placebo in reducing cannabis use.  50 people who were addicted to cannabis treated with gabapentin showed a significant reduction in cannabis use and cannabis withdrawal compared to placebo. Moreover, 70 men addicted to cannabis were randomized and those, who used FAAH inhibitors reported fewer cannabis withdrawal symptoms, less cannabis use and lower THC urine levels than placebo users. Conclusions: Gabapentin has been proven to show a reduction in CUD. The use of CBD, FAAH inhibitors and psychotherapy MET/CBT/CM also appear to be effective. In addition, the use of the principles of People-First Language, avoiding slang and idioms, using medical and curing vocabulary, respects the addicted person, and also positively influences the chances of abstinence