SUBJECT CATEGORY: FAMILY MEDICINE | Nov. 4, 2024
Atypical Presentation of Viral Myocarditis with Isolated Fatigue
Marwa Said Eldegwy, Badr Mahmoud Hassan Elshamy, Isra Abbas, Nermeen Awad Alkarim Nurredeen Saleh
Page no 227-230 |
DOI: https://doi.org/10.36348/sb.2024.v10i09.001
Viral myocarditis is an inflammatory condition of the myocardium, often caused by viral infections. While the typical presentation includes chest pain, shortness of breath, and palpitations, fatigue as the primary symptom is unusual and presents diagnostic challenges. This report presents the case of a 39-year-old healthy male who complained of isolated fatigue and mild chest discomfort after experiencing flu-like symptoms. Initial workup revealed elevated troponin levels with abnormal ECG findings, raising concerns for myocardial involvement. Coronary angiography ruled out obstructive coronary artery disease, confirming the diagnosis of viral myocarditis. The patient responded well to anti-inflammatory and antithrombotic treatment, and no complications were observed during follow-up. This case highlights the importance of considering viral myocarditis in patients with vague symptoms, especially those with recent viral infections, to prevent delayed diagnosis and potential complications. Early identification and treatment are critical to ensure a favorable outcome.
SUBJECT CATEGORY: FAMILY MEDICINE | Nov. 16, 2024
Residual Symptoms of Moderate COVID-19 Cases after 3 Months of Diagnosis in Al Badaa and Al Khawaneej Fever Clinics in Dubai Health Authority
Nermeen Awad Alkarim Nurredeen Saleh, Ola Abdulsamea Aldafrawy, Darine Helmy Saad, Fawzia Ahmed Mohamed Abdouli, Shamsa Mohammad Abdulla Saif Al Suwaidi, Amani Salem Abdul Kader AlZubaidi, Badr Mahmoud Hassan Elshamy
Page no 231-237 |
DOI: https://doi.org/10.36348/sb.2024.v10i09.002
Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted health, social life, and economies, with effects that are still unfolding globally. While much research has been devoted to understanding the acute phase of the virus, there’s limited insight into the lingering symptoms that can affect people’s well-being long after initial recovery, particularly in cases with moderate severity. Recognizing and addressing these persistent issues is essential to fully support patient recovery. Objective: This study focuses on understanding the residual symptoms experienced by patients three months after a moderate COVID-19 diagnosis. The study is centered on individuals who sought care at Dubai Health Authority’s Fever Clinics in Al Badaa and Al Khawaneej, aiming to pinpoint symptom patterns and provide insights into patient recovery trajectories. Methods: In this retrospective study, we analyzed records from 394 individuals diagnosed with moderate COVID-19 between June and December 2020. To qualify for inclusion, patients needed a confirmed moderate diagnosis, characterized by a fever above 38°C or mild-to-moderate pneumonia as observed in chest X-rays. Patients completed an 18-question survey about lingering symptoms, and data were analyzed using Chi-square and T-tests to assess patterns across different demographics and clinical characteristics, with p < 0.05 as the threshold for significance. Results: Out of the 394 participants (68% male, 32% female), 22.1% reported ongoing symptoms three months after their initial diagnosis. The most frequently cited issues were body pain (24.1%), sleep disturbances such as insomnia (21.8%), breathing difficulties (dyspnea) and fatigue (both 20.7%), and feelings of anxiety (19.5%). These symptoms were more common among patients aged 31-49 and those with chronic conditions, especially hypertension, highlighting specific groups that may require additional post-recovery support. Conclusion: Persistent symptoms are common among individuals recovering from moderate COVID-19 infections, varying according to age, existing health conditions, and marital status. Screening and targeted support measures may help address these lingering effects, aiding recovery and quality of life for affected individuals.
SUBJECT CATEGORY: FAMILY MEDICINE | Nov. 16, 2024
Obesity in Children and Adolescents
Alia Al Sakkal, Maitha Al Haj, Heba Mohamed, Amal Elsetouhi, Jawad Khan, Gulfraz Khan, Imad Dabbous, Mostafa Sharaby
Page no 238-244 |
DOI: https://doi.org/10.36348/sb.2024.v10i09.003
Obesity in children and adolescents is a global public health concern, with significant implications for physical, mental, and social well-being. The weight children carry in early childhood determines their trajectory toward obesity, with their body mass index (BMI) during childhood continuing to influence them as they move through adolescence and into adulthood. The causes of childhood and teenage obesity are intricate and varied, making prevention and treatment challenging for doctors and researchers. The increasing incidence of childhood obesity has also led to the early emergence of obesity-associated diseases, including type 2 diabetes, hypertension, dyslipidemia, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, and psychological issues such as depression and low self-esteem. By assessing BMI annually and providing families with age-appropriate anticipatory advice, pediatricians and family medicine doctors can contribute significantly to the fight against obesity. This comprehensive review discusses prevalence, causes, health consequences, and evidence-based interventions to address this critical issue. It explores the complex interplay of genetic, environmental, and behavioral factors contributing to the rise in childhood and adolescent obesity, underscoring the need for a multifaceted approach to prevention and treatment. Strategies must involve actions at the community and environmental levels, in addition to individual and parental efforts.