Practicing Acceptance

What is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, often associated with elevated intraocular pressure (IOP). It can lead to vision loss and blindness if not treated. In many cases glaucoma is asymptomatic so its possible for a patient to have it and not know it.

Types of Glaucoma

• • • Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma (POAG): The most common type, where the eye’s drainage canals become clogged over time, leading to increased pressure.
    • Angle-Closure Glaucoma: Occurs when the drainage angle of the eye is blocked suddenly, causing a rapid increase in IOP.
    • Normal-Tension Glaucoma: The optic nerve is damaged despite normal IOP levels. The cause is not well understood.
    • Secondary Glaucoma: Develops as a result of other medical conditions or eye injuries.
    • Congenital Glaucoma: Present at birth, resulting from abnormal eye development.

Symptoms

• • • Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma: Often asymptomatic in the early stages. Advanced stages may show gradual loss of peripheral vision.
    • Angle-Closure Glaucoma: Symptoms include severe eye pain, headache, nausea, vomiting, and sudden vision changes.
    • Normal-Tension Glaucoma: Similar to POAG but with normal IOP; symptoms are often subtle.
    • Congenital Glaucoma: Symptoms in infants may include excessive tearing, light sensitivity, and a large cornea.

Causes and Risk Factors

• • • Age: Risk increases with age, particularly after 40.
    • Family History: A family history of glaucoma increases risk.
    • Ethnicity: Higher prevalence in African Americans, Asians, and Hispanics.
    • Medical Conditions: Diabetes, high blood pressure, and certain eye conditions.
    • Eye Injuries: Previous injuries or surgeries can increase risk.
    • Long-Term Use of Corticosteroids: Can increase IOP.

Diagnosis

• • • Eye Exam: Includes checking IOP, inspecting the optic nerve, and measuring the visual field.
    • Tonometry: Measures the pressure inside the eye.
    • Ophthalmoscopy: Examines the optic nerve for damage.
    • Perimetry: Tests the visual field to detect any loss of vision.

Treatment

• • • Medications: Often include eye drops to lower IOP. Oral medications may also be prescribed.
    • Laser Therapy: Can improve drainage in the eye or create a new drainage channel.
    • Surgery: For cases where medications and laser therapy are not effective, surgical options may be considered to reduce IOP.

Prevention and Management

• • • Regular Eye Exams: Essential for early detection, especially if you are at higher risk or have a family history.
    • Adherence to Treatment: Following prescribed treatments can help manage IOP and prevent vision loss.
    • Lifestyle Modifications: Maintaining overall health, managing chronic conditions, and avoiding excessive use of corticosteroids.

Prognosis

With early diagnosis and proper management, many people with glaucoma can maintain their vision. Regular check-ups are crucial to monitor and manage the condition effectively.

Resources 

• • • National Eye Institute (NEI)
    • American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) 
    • Glaucoma Research Foundation

Regular eye exams are key to early detection and effective management of glaucoma, so make sure to see an eye care professional if you have any concerns or are at higher risk.

What is Schizophrenia?

Schizophrenia is a chronic and severe mental health disorder characterized by a disconnection from reality. It affects thinking, feeling, and behavior, leading to significant impairment in daily functioning.

Symptoms

• • • Positive Symptoms: Additions to normal behavior, including hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that aren’t there), delusions (false beliefs), and thought disorders (disorganized thinking).
    • Negative Symptoms: Absences or deficits in normal behavior, such as reduced emotional expression, lack of motivation, and social withdrawal.
    • Cognitive Symptoms: Impairments in memory, attention, and executive functions like planning and problem-solving.

Types of Schizophrenia 

• • • Paranoid Schizophrenia: Characterized by prominent delusions and auditory hallucinations.
    • Disorganized Schizophrenia: Marked by disorganized speech and behavior, and inappropriate emotional responses.
    • Catatonic Schizophrenia: Includes significant disturbances in motor behavior, such as stupor or agitation.
    • Undifferentiated Schizophrenia: Symptoms that do not fit neatly into the other categories.
    • Residual Schizophrenia: Characterized by a history of schizophrenia with ongoing symptoms but without prominent psychotic episodes.

Causes and Risk Factors

• • • Genetics: A family history of schizophrenia increases risk.
    • Biological Factors: Imbalances in brain chemicals (neurotransmitters) and abnormalities in brain structure.
    • Environmental Factors: Prenatal exposure to infections, malnutrition, or stress, as well as substance abuse, can contribute.
    • Psychosocial Factors: Stressful life events or trauma may trigger or exacerbate symptoms.

Diagnosis

• • • Clinical Assessment: Based on a comprehensive evaluation of symptoms, history, and behavior by a mental health professional.
    • Diagnostic Criteria: Typically follows criteria in the DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders) or ICD-10 (International Classification of Diseases).
    • Exclusion of Other Conditions: Important to rule out other medical or psychiatric conditions that might mimic schizophrenia symptoms.

Treatment  

• • • Medications: Primarily antipsychotics (e.g., risperidone, olanzapine) to manage symptoms. Sometimes, other medications may be prescribed for co-occurring issues.
    • Psychotherapy: Includes cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) to address delusions and hallucinations, and supportive therapy to help with coping skills and social skills. 
    • Rehabilitation: Focuses on social skills, job training, and community integration.
    • Support Services: Involves case management, peer support, and family education.

Prevention and Management

• • • Ongoing Care: Regular follow-ups with mental health professionals to adjust treatment and monitor progress.
    • Social Support: Building a strong support network including family, friends, and support groups.
    • Lifestyle Adjustments: Encouraging a healthy lifestyle, including proper nutrition, exercise, and avoiding substance abuse.

Prognosis

Schizophrenia is a lifelong condition, but many people can manage symptoms and lead fulfilling lives with appropriate treatment and support. Early intervention and continuous care are crucial for better outcomes.

Resources

• • • National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)
    • National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)
    • Schizophrenia and Related Disorders Alliance of America  SARDAA)

Understanding and supporting individuals with schizophrenia is essential for their well-being and recovery. Early diagnosis, effective treatment, and comprehensive support can greatly improve quality of life.

What is Dyslexia?

Dyslexia is a specific learning disability that affects reading and language processing. It is characterized by difficulties with accurate and/or fluent word recognition and by poor spelling and decoding abilities.

Symptoms

• • • Reading Difficulties: Trouble decoding words, reading fluently, and understanding text.
    • Spelling Issues: Frequent spelling errors and difficulty with writing.
    • Writing Problems: Poor handwriting, disorganized thoughts on paper.
    • Language Challenges: Difficulty with rhyming, learning new vocabulary, and following multi-step directions.
    • Slow Reading Speed: Struggles to read quickly and accurately.

Causes and Risk Factors

• • • Genetics: A family history of dyslexia or other learning disabilities increases risk.
    • Neurobiological Factors: Differences in brain structure and function, particularly in areas related to reading and language processing.
    • Environmental Factors: While dyslexia is not caused by poor teaching or lack of opportunity, early exposure to language and reading can impact reading development.

Diagnosis

• • • Educational Assessment: Involves testing by educational psychologists or special educators to evaluate reading, language, and cognitive abilities.
    • Medical Evaluation: Helps rule out other conditions or medical issues that might affect learning.
    • Behavioral Observations: Assessment of reading behaviors and difficulties in different contexts.

Treatment

• • • Structured Literacy Programs: Use explicit, systematic instruction in phonics, phonemic awareness, and reading comprehension strategies (e.g., Orton-Gillingham, Wilson Reading System).
    • Accommodations: Includes extra time on tests, use of audio books, and alternative formats for assignments.
    • Assistive Technology: Tools like text-to-speech software, speech-to text applications, and electronic spell checkers.
    • Individualized Education Program (IEP) or 504 Plan: Tailored educational plans to provide appropriate accommodations and support in school.

Prevention and Management

• • • Early Intervention: Identifying and addressing dyslexia early can improve outcomes.
    • Regular Practice: Consistent reading practice and reinforcement of skills.
    • Supportive Environment: Encouraging a positive attitude towards reading and providing emotional support.
    • Parent and Teacher Collaboration: Working together to implement effective strategies and support for the child.

Prognosis

Dyslexia is a lifelong condition, but with effective interventions and support, individuals can develop strong reading skills and succeed academically and professionally. Early diagnosis and ongoing support are key to managing dyslexia successfully.

Resources

• • International Dyslexia Association (IDA)
  • Understood.org
  • National Center for Learning Disabilities (NCLD)

Understanding dyslexia and implementing effective support strategies can greatly enhance learning and self-confidence for individuals with this condition. Early and consistent intervention plays a crucial role in helping individuals reach their full potential.

What is Anxiety?

Anxiety is a natural response to stress or danger, characterized by feelings of worry, fear, or unease. When excessive or persistent, it can interfere with daily functioning and may indicate an anxiety disorder.

Types of Anxiety Disorders

• • Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD): Persistent, excessive worry about various aspects of life, often without a specific cause.
  • Panic Disorder: Recurrent, unexpected panic attacks, which are sudden periods of intense fear or discomfort, accompanied by physical symptoms like heart palpitations or shortness of breath.
  • Social Anxiety Disorder: Intense fear of social situations where one might be judged, embarrassed, or humiliated.
  • Specific Phobias: Extreme, irrational fear of specific objects or situations (e.g., heights, spiders).
  • Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD): Characterized by persistent, intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors or mental acts (compulsions) performed to alleviate the anxiety. 
  • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Anxiety following exposure to a traumatic event, involving flashbacks, nightmares, and severe distress.

Symptoms

• • Emotional: Excessive worry, fear, or dread; irritability; feeling overwhelmed.
  • Physical: Increased heart rate, sweating, trembling, dizziness, muscle tension, headaches, gastrointestinal issues.
  • Behavioral: Avoidance of certain situations or places, restlessness, difficulty concentrating.

Causes and Risk Factors

• • Genetics: Family history of anxiety disorders can increase susceptibility.
  • Brain Chemistry: Imbalances in neurotransmitters and brain function. 
  • Personality: Traits such as being more prone to negative emotions or sensitivity to stress.
  • Life Experiences: Trauma, abuse, major life changes, or chronic stress. 
  • Medical Conditions: Certain physical health issues can contribute to or exacerbate anxiety.

Diagnosis

• • Clinical Assessment: Conducted by a mental health professional through interviews and questionnaires to evaluate symptoms and impact on daily life.
  • Diagnostic Criteria: Based on criteria from the DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders) or ICD-10 (International Classification of Diseases).
  • Rule-Out: Excludes other medical conditions or substance-related issues that may mimic anxiety symptoms.

Treatment

• • Medications: Antidepressants (e.g., SSRIs, SNRIs) and anti-anxiety medications (e.g., benzodiazepines, buspirone) to manage symptoms.
  • Therapy: Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is highly effective, helping individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors. Other approaches include exposure therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and mindfulness based therapies.
  • Lifestyle Changes: Regular physical activity, a healthy diet, adequate sleep, and stress management techniques.
  • Support Groups: Provide community and shared experiences for coping strategies and emotional support.

Prevention and Management

• • Relaxation Techniques: Practice deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and mindfulness or meditation.
  • Healthy Habits: Establish a routine, engage in physical exercise, and maintain a balanced diet.
  • Avoid Stimulants: Limit caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol, which can exacerbate anxiety symptoms.
  • Seek Support: Reach out to friends, family, or a mental health professional for support and guidance.

Prognosis

Anxiety disorders are manageable with appropriate treatment and support. Many people experience significant relief from symptoms and can lead fulfilling lives. Early intervention and consistent treatment are important for the best outcomes.

Resources

• • National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)
  • Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA)
  • Mental Health America (MHA)

Understanding anxiety and exploring various treatment options can help individuals manage their symptoms effectively and improve their quality of life.

What is depression?

Depression, also known as major depressive disorder (MDD), is a common but serious mood disorder that affects how a person feels, thinks, and handles daily activities. It is characterized by persistent sadness and a lack of interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed.

Symptoms

• • Emotional Symptoms: Persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or worthlessness; irritability; loss of interest or pleasure in activities.
  • Cognitive Symptoms: Difficulty concentrating, making decisions, or remembering things.
  • Physical Symptoms: Changes in appetite or weight; sleep disturbances (insomnia or excessive sleeping); fatigue or loss of energy; physical aches and pains without a clear cause.

Behavioral Symptoms: Withdrawal from social activities; neglect of personal hygiene; changes in work or school performance.

Types of Depression

• • Major Depressive Disorder (MDD): Severe symptoms that interfere significantly with daily life, lasting for at least two weeks.
  • Persistent Depressive Disorder (PDD): Also known as dysthymia, this involves a chronic, less severe form of depression lasting for at least two years.
  • Bipolar Disorder: Characterized by mood swings that include depressive episodes as well as periods of mania or hypomania.
  • Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): A type of depression that occurs at a specific time of year, usually in the winter months when there is less natural sunlight.
  • Postpartum Depression: Occurs after childbirth, characterized by severe mood swings, fatigue, and feelings of inadequacy.

Causes and Risk Factors

• • Genetics: Family history of depression or other mental health conditions can increase risk.
  • Biochemical Factors: Imbalances in brain chemicals (neurotransmitters) and hormonal changes.
  • Personality: Traits such as low self-esteem or being overly self-critical.
  • Life Events: Trauma, abuse, loss of a loved one, or major life changes.
  • Medical Conditions: Chronic illnesses or serious medical conditions can contribute to depressive symptoms.

Diagnosis

• • Clinical Assessment: Conducted by a mental health professional through interviews and standardized questionnaires to evaluate symptoms and their impact.
  • Diagnostic Criteria: Based on the DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders) or ICD-10 (International Classification of Diseases).
  • Rule-Out: Ensures other conditions or substance use are not causing or exacerbating depressive symptoms.

Treatment

• • Medications: Antidepressants (e.g., selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), and other classes) can help balance brain chemicals and alleviate symptoms.
  • Therapy: Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors.
  • Interpersonal Therapy (IPT): Focuses on improving relationships and social functioning.
  • Psychodynamic Therapy: Explores underlying emotional conflicts and past experiences.
  • Lifestyle Changes: Regular physical activity, healthy diet, adequate sleep, and stress management techniques.
  • Support Groups: Offer community support and shared experiences. 

Prevention and Management

• • Routine: Establish a daily routine and set small, achievable goals.
  • Social Support: Stay connected with friends, family, and support networks.
  • Healthy Habits: Engage in regular exercise, eat a balanced diet, and avoid alcohol and recreational drugs.
  • Mindfulness and Relaxation: Practice mindfulness, meditation, or other relaxation techniques to manage stress.

Prognosis

Depression is treatable, and many people experience significant improvement with appropriate treatment and support. Early intervention and adherence to treatment plans are crucial for recovery.

Resources

• • National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)
  • American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP)
  • Mental Health America (MHA)
  • National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)

Understanding depression and seeking help can lead to effective management and improved quality of life. If you or someone you know is struggling with depression, reaching out for professional support is a critical step towards recovery.

What is Hearing Loss?

Hearing loss happens when something affects your hearing system. If you have hearing loss, you may have trouble understanding, following or participating in conversations. It may be hard for you to hear telephone conversations, to take part in online meetings or follow dialogue when you’re watching television.

Hearing loss can affect your ability to work, communicate with others and generally enjoy life. Most often, hearing loss can’t be reversed. But audiologists — healthcare providers who specialize in diagnosing and treating hearing loss — can help. They can recommend treatments like hearing aids or cochlear implants that reduce hearing loss. Hearing loss can affect everyone from babies to people in their 60s and 70s.

Is Hearing Loss Common?

• • Yes, it is. More than 1 in 10 people in the United States have some degree of hearing loss.
  • An estimated 60,000 people have hearing loss in one ear (unilateral hearing loss).
  • About 1 in 3 adults over 65 and nearly half adults 75 and older have age-related hearing loss.
  • About 2 in 1,000 babies are born with some type of hearing loss.

Types of Hearing Loss

There are three types of hearing loss:

• • Conductive hearing loss: In this hearing loss, something keeps sound from passing through your outer ear (ear canal) or your middle ear.
  • Sensorineural hearing loss: This hearing loss happens when something damages your inner ear over time. Rarely, sensorineural hearing loss happens very quickly. This is sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSHL), or sudden deafness. SSHL may happen all at once or over a few days.
  • Mixed: This happens when you have issues in your middle or outer ear (conductive hearing loss) and your inner ear (sensorineural hearing loss).

Causes and Risk Factors

What are hearing loss symptoms?

Most people lose their hearing gradually. They may not even notice that it’s happening. In general, you may be developing hearing loss if:

• • You often ask people to repeat themselves.
  • You have trouble following a conversation, especially when you’re talking on the telephone or in a noisy environment like a restaurant.
  • You think people are mumbling.
  • You can’t hear certain high-pitched sounds, like birds singing.
  • You need to turn up the volume on your television, computer or tablet.
  • You have tinnitus (ringing in your ears).
  • Your ear hurts (earache).
  • You feel as if there’s pressure or fluid inside your ear.
  • You have balance problems or dizziness.

Prevention and Management 

How can I prevent hearing loss?

There are some types of hearing loss you can’t prevent. For example, many people develop hearing loss as they grow older. That said, noise is the most common cause of hearing loss. You can help prevent noise-induced hearing loss by avoiding situations and environments where you’re bound to encounter very loud noise. If you can’t avoid noisy situations, protect your hearing by:

• • Use hearing protection (earplugs or earmuffs) during loud activities like concerts, riding motorcycles or snowmobiles, or working with loud machinery.
  • Lower the volume. When listening to music through headphones or earbuds, keep the volume level low enough that you can hear people speaking around you. Another good rule is not to exceed 80% of volume level for more than 90 minutes a day.
  • Don’t stick anything into your ear canal, including cotton swabs or hairpins. These objects could become lodged in your ear canal or cause an eardrum rupture.
  • Avoid smoking, which can impair circulation and affect your hearing.
  • Get regular exercise to help prevent health issues that can cause hearing problems, like diabetes or high blood pressure.
  • Manage any chronic illnesses to prevent further damage.

Tips

To improve communication with a person with hearing loss, you can:

• • Attract their attention before starting a conversation.
  • Face them when you speak.
  • Reduce any background noise or try to find a quieter place to have a conversation.
  • Speak slowly and clearly.
  • Use visual cues and gestures.
  • Be patient.
  • Ask the person what helps them.

What is ADHD?

ADHD is a complex brain disorder that impacts approximately 11% of children and almost 5% of adults in the U.S.1 ADHD is a developmental.

Impairment of the brain’s executive functions. People with ADHD have trouble with impulse-control, focusing, and organization. Neuroscience, brain imaging, and clinical research tell us a few important things: ADHD is not a behavior disorder. ADHD is not a mental illness. ADHD is not a specific learning disability. ADHD is, instead, a developmental impairment of the brain’s self-management system. Both adults and children can be diagnosed with ADHD.

Symptoms

• • Inattention.
  • Lack of focus.
  • Poor time management.
  • Weak impulse control.
  • Exaggerated emotions.
  • Hyperfocus.
  • Hyperactivity.

Executive dysfunction ADHD symptoms vary by individual. You or your child may experience all or just some of the above symptoms.

Causes and Risk Factors

The causes of ADHD remain somewhat unclear. Research suggests that genetics and heredity play a large part in determining who gets ADHD.4 However, scientists are still investigating whether certain genes, especially ones linked to the neurotransmitter dopamine, play a defined role in developing ADHD.

Additional research suggests that exposure to certain chemicals may increase a child’s risk of having ADHD.5 ADHD is not caused by bad parenting, too much sugar, or too many video games. ADHD is a brain-based, biological disorder. Brain imaging studies and other research show many physiological differences in the brains of individuals with ADHD.

TIPS

• • Learn about ADHD.
  • Don’t act like a parent.
  • Understand their challenges.
  • Avoid minimizing their ADHD.
  • Help them develop a routine.
  • Help them develop a support network.
  • Encourage them to get help from one or more ADHD specialists.
  • Acknowledge that their condition is real.

What is an Unsteady Gait?

Most people will experience an unsteady gait (a person’s pattern of walking) at some point in their lifetime, including when tripping over an obstacle, limping after an injury, or having difficulty with balance while intoxicated. However, these symptoms are temporary. An unsteady gait that is persistent can be a sign of an underlying health condition. It can also be a side effect of some medications.

Symptoms

• • The main symptom of an unsteady gait is being unbalanced while walking.
  • Dragging or shuffling your feet.
  • Feeling out of balance when you walk.
  • Stiff muscles or joints in your hips and legs.
  • Swaying side to side with each step (waddle).
  • Walking with your head and neck bent toward the ground.
  • Taking higher than normal steps and dropping your feet with each step.
  • Taking small steps.
  • Pain when walking.

Causes and Risk Factors 

An unsteady gait can occur with health conditions that affect the musculoskeletal, vestibular, or nervous systems. It can also be a side effect of medications.

• • Joint pain.
  • An injury (including bone fractures or sprains).
  • Sores on your feet, calluses, ingrown toenails, warts and corns.
  • Shoes that don’t fit properly.
  • Inner ear issues.
  • Nerve damage.
  • Vision problems.
  • Parkinson’s disease or parkinsonism.
  • Multiple sclerosis.
  • Stroke.
  • Arthritis.
  • Cerebral palsy.
  • Hemiplegia.
  • Spinal stenosis, herniated disk.
  • Some abnormal gaits have more than one cause.

Prevention

You can’t prevent gait abnormalities caused by an underlying medical condition. You can reduce your risk of injury by:

• • Wearing protective equipment when playing sports or working at your job.
  • Listening to your body and taking breaks or stopping activities when you feel sore.
  • Resting after an injury to prevent further irritation or damage.
  • Training for strenuous activities by using a proper technique, strengthening your muscles and increasing your flexibility. 
  • Getting your vision checked regularly.

Understanding Basic Etiquette 

• • Respect Personal Space: Always ask before touching someone’s wheelchair or them directly.
  • Avoid Assumptions: Treat everyone as individuals, regardless of their mobility.
  • Listen Actively: Pay attention to what they say and how they express themselves.
  • Don’t Lean on the Wheelchair: It can be uncomfortable and affect balance.
  • Avoid Blocking the Wheels: Ensure the wheelchair can move freely.
  • Be Mindful of Ramps: When on ramps, go slowly and offer support if needed.
  • Offer Help, Don’t Assume: Ask if they need assistance before offering.
  • Follow Their Lead: Let them guide you on how they prefer to be helped.
  • Maintain Eye Contact: This shows respect and engagement.