The impact of influenza on elderly patients

Background: Influenza is a disease affecting the human respiratory system. A common problem is to confuse colds with influenza, which results in problems with vaccination and complications related to influenza. Particular attention should be paid to the treatment of influenza, as it is a serious health risk if not treated in the elderly. Research conducted by scientists from Taiwan shows that currently the best way to protect against influenza is preventive vaccination. In addition to vaccination, antiviral drugs (Oseltamivir, Zanamivir, Amantadine, Rimantadine), antipyretics (aspirin, paracetamol) are used. Attention is paid to natural methods (ginseng extract, root lichen extract) and supplements (vitamin C, zinc). Material and Methods: This article is based on a review of the current state of knowledge on influenza in the elderly. The most up-to-date literature with EBSCO, Google Scholar and PubMed has been reviewed. Key words such as influenza, influenza complications, vaccinations, influenza treatment. Results: In the context of the above topics, particular attention is paid to the elderly, in whom a low level of immunity predisposes to getting sick. An increase in the incidence of disease causes an increase in the mortality of older people. Complications following the occurrence of influenza are closely related to the type of virus, where the influenza A virus classified as the heaviest in the course. It has been proven that the bird influenza virus is also a threat to humans. The classic symptoms of influenza are cough, fever, while complications associated with untreated influenza are primarily myocarditis or pneumonia. Conclusion: Due to the decline in immunity, older people are particularly at risk of influenza virus. Scientists have demonstrated the high effectiveness of protective vaccination, but one should remember to repeat them every year. Vaccinations in the elderly have reduced effectiveness, which is why antiviral therapies, natural methods and supplements are used. In the rational treatment of influenza, it is noted that natural methods and supplements are an addition to classic antiviral therapy

Atherosclerosis as a problem in postmenopausal women

Introduction: Atherosclerosis is defined as a disease in which plaque, consisting of fat, cholesterol and other substances found in blood, builds up in arteries. This leads to stiffness and narrowing of the blood vessels resulting in limiting the flow of the blood rich in oxygen to tissues. The negative effect of atherosclerosis among women can be opposed by the female hormones. The aim of the article is to review clinical approach to atherosclerosis in post-menopausal women. Material and methods: Articles in the Google Scholar, Pub Med database have been analysed using keywords: atherosclerosis, plaque, cardiovascular diseases, menopause, postmenopausal women, female hormones, estrogens, older people. Results: Atherosclerosis process in the arterial walls is based on accumulation of lipids accompanied by inflammatory factors. One of the most important risk factors of this disease are quantitative and qualitative changes of the plasma lipoprotein, especially increasement of LDL cholesterol after menopause, which can be evaluated during lab tests. The diagnosis of atherosclerosis and its progress can be performed by using different methods, including physical examination and medical imaging. Development of atherosclerosis leads to peripheral artery disease connected with cardiovascular diseases, such as stroke or heart attack, which be life-threatening and should be immediately treated. Conclusions: This risk of the negative effects of atherosclerosis can be decreased by both lifestyle change and pharmacological treatment. The usage of estrogen-based hormone replacement therapy combined with statins in postmenopausal women presents benefits by the decreasement of LDL cholesterol and the increasement of HDL cholesterol and reduction of calcification of coronary vessels, which reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases. However, the time of the start of hormone replacement therapy is crucial – performed too late can result in additional development of atherosclerotic plaque and increasement of the inflammatory processes in the arteries with advanced atherosclerotic changes