Sudden Illnesses Anthrax Smallpox Heart Problems Stroke Asthma COPD Hyperventilation Fainting.
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Transcript of Sudden Illnesses Anthrax Smallpox Heart Problems Stroke Asthma COPD Hyperventilation Fainting.
Sudden IllnessesAnthraxSmallpoxHeart ProblemsStrokeAsthmaCOPDHyperventilationFainting
Sudden Illnesses #2Seizures
Diabetes
Abdominal distress
Various other problems
Anthrax
Most commonly occurs in hoofed animals
Bacteria spores can live in the soil years
Can infect humans
Three Serious Forms of Anthrax / TransmissionInhalation (breathing spores)Cutaneous (skin)Intestinal (spread by eating undercooked meat from infected animals)Historically, rare in the U.S.
Anthrax Symptoms
Inhaled: Severe cold / flu/ progress to breathing problems and shock
Usually fatal
Cutaneous AnthraxResembles insect biteRaised itchy bumpsDevelops black (necrotic) area in center20% untreated cases result in death
Intestinal AnthraxNausea, vomitingLoss of appetiteFeverAbdominal pain, vomiting blood, severe diahrrhea25%-60% die
Vaccine For AnthraxVaccine has been licensed for humans
93% effective
Recommended for people who work in fields where contact is highly likely
Military personnel
Mild reactions in 30%
Suspicious MailDo not open
Place in a bag
Prevent spills of powder substance
Call authorities
Wash hands
Cautions with aerosol sprays
SmallpoxIncubation: 12 daysHigh fever, fatigue, head and back achesRash: predominately on face, arms, legs in 2-3 days
Flat red lesionsBecome pus filled, crusts and scabsFalls off in 3-4 weeks.
30% death rate
Spread of SmallpoxInfected saliva droplets
Vaccination: some risksGeorge Washington
Ricin
Poison made from waste left over in processing castor beans
Forms: powder, mist, pellet or dissolved in water or weak acid
Accidental exposure highly unlikely
As little as 500 micrograms injected (pin head size) could kill
Larger amounts required if inhaled or swallowed
Ricin
Poisoned victims are not contagious
Was possibly used in the Iran-Iraq war in the 80’s
Ricin found in Al Qaeda caves in Afghanistan
Blocks cells from making proteins
Ricin Signs and Symptoms
Inhalation:Coughing, tightness in chest, difficulty breathing, nausea, aching muscles
Quickly, lungs become inflamed, lung fluids build, skin may turn blue
Ricin Signs and Symptoms
InjestionInternal bleeding of stomach and intestines
Leads to bloody vomit and diarrhea
Liver, spleen, kidneys may stop functioning
May lead to death
Ricin Signs and Symptoms
InjectionAll previously cited signs and symptoms may occur
Ricin: Death
May occur in 36-48 hours – no matter the type of exposure
If one lives longer than 5 days w/o complications, they will probably survive
Ricin Treatment
NONE
No widely available, reliable test to confirm exposure
Information Regarding Terrorist Related Emergencies
DHS.gov
The Cardiovascular System and Disease Prevention
42% of all deaths in the U.S. are related to heart disease
Cardiovascular Disease
1 million deaths each year
275 billion dollars
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the number one cause of death in the United States.
Coronary Artery Disease
Primary form of heart disease
A disease involving waxy plaque build-up in the arteries
Coronary Artery Disease
Coronary Risk Factors
Primary Risk Factors: Factors that have been definitively associated with or directly cause coronary artery disease.
Secondary Risk Factors: Factors believed to contribute to or advance the severity of atheroschlerosis and CAD.
Primary Risk Factors (Alterable)
Smoking
Hypertension (high blood pressure)
High serum cholesterol
Physical inactivity
Diabetes mellitus
Obesity
Family History
Secondary Risk Factors
Stress
Age
Gender (male vs. female)
Heart Attack and Partial Blockages
Angina
Chest pain usually brought on by:Physical exertion, exposure to cold
Emotional stress
Due to ischemia• (reduced oxygen to part of the heart muscle)
• Duration of pain: less than 10 minutes
Usually relieved by nitroglycerin
About NitroglycerineGive one dose approximately every 3 to 5 minutes (3 dosages in 10 minutes)
Transport if 3 dosages are necessary
Dosage amounts varyAvailable in tablets, spray, ointment, patch
Victim should be sitting or lying downReduces blood pressure
Reduces work for the heart (dilates arteries which increases blood flow)
Heart AttackBlood supply to a portion of heart muscle is severely reduced or stopped
Heart Attack Signs and Symptoms
Chest pressure, fullness, squeezing or pain
Pain lasts longer than 10 minutes
Radiating pain
Light-headedness, fainting, sweating, nausea, shortness of breath
Indigestion?? (neighbor)
Heart Attack Signs and Symptoms #2
May occur during rest or activityPain not relieved by nitroglycerinNot all signs are always presentVictim will be in denialGet help immediately
Other Causes of Chest Pain
Rib injury
Pneumonia, bronchitis, pleurisy
Lung injury
Indigestion
Nerve impingement
Chest Pain: Heart Attack / What To Do
Call EMS or transportMonitor ABC’s / give CPR if necessaryPlace victim in least painful position
(Usually in half sitting position, knees bent)Loosen tight clothing around neck and mid-section
Maintain composure / reassureDetermine if there is a history of heart diseaseCheck for medications
Nitroglycerine / give one aspirin if not allergic
Stroke: Cerebrovascular Accident (CVA) “Brain Attack”
Occurs as a result of:Clot (80%)
Ruptured vessel (20%)
Lack of oxygen to brain: cells die
Third largest cause of death in U.S.Major cause of disability
Transient Ischemic Attacks (TIA’s)
Mini-strokes
Precursor to major stroke
May last a few minutes to several hours
Function normally returns
Stroke Risk Factors>50 years of ageBirth control pills and > 30 years oldOverweightHypertensionHigh cholesterolDiabetesHeart diseaseSickle cell disease Substance abuse (esp. crack)Family history
Stroke: Signs and Symptoms
Sudden weakness or numbness of face, arm, leg, on one side of the body (Strokes are usually unilateral)Loss of speech, difficulty speaking, difficulty understanding speechBlurred or decreased vision (one side)
Deviation of PEARL
Unexplained dizziness, unsteadiness, loss of balanceSudden severe headache
Stroke: What To DoCheck ABC’sCall EMS
Victim conscious? Have victim lay down with upper body and head slightly elevated
Unresponsive but breathing?Recovery position Chin extended to keep airway open
Do not give liquids or food (throat may be paralyzed)
Asthma
Chronic, inflammatory lung disease
Air passages narrow
Difficulty exhaling
Tends to resolve with age
What Triggers Asthma Attacks?
Respiratory tract infection
Extreme temperatures, especially cold
Strong odors, perfumes, dust, fumes, smoke, allergens, air pollution
Certain drugs (aspirin, beta blockers)
Exercise
Emotional stress
Signs of Asthma Attack
CoughingWheezing or whistling soundFlared nostrilsCyanosis (blue)Difficulty speakingBlue lips / fingertipsThese symptoms may also indicate other health problems such as pneumonia, cystic fibrosis
Asthma: What To DoSit in upright position, leaning slightly forward
Pursed lip breathing Inhaler or other medications
(Child at YMCA / show inhaler / hold 10 sec.)
Monitor ABC’s if necessary
Asthma: What To DoDetermine cause of attack - remove victim from causative environment
Abrupt change in outdoor temperature, dust, feathers, animals, tobacco smoke, paint, etc.
Keep conversations briefSeek medical attention if necessary
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: COPD
Primary cause: SMOKINGPrimarily includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema
Chronic bronchitisAffects bronchioles (become thickened)Caused by chronic infections and irritations such as cigarette smokeSymptoms: “Cigarette cough, breathing difficulty, increased sputum and severe coughing
COPD – EmphysemaDestruction of alveoli
Loss of lung elasticity
Coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath
May become dependent on oxygen
COPD: What To DoSitting positionUsually have their own medicationsEncourage fluid intakeIn acute distress? Get medical assistance
HyperventilationUsually brought on by emotional stressShortness of breathCharacterized by extremely fast breathing
Dizziness
Numbness
Tingling of hands and feet
Hyperventilation: What To Do
Encourage slow deep breathing
Inhale through nose and hold for several seconds
Exhale slowly through pursed lips
Calm and reassure the victim
Do not place a paper bag over the head
FaintingA sudden, brief loss of consciousness unassociated with a head injuryOccurs when the brain’s blood flow in interrupted
Often occurs when standing for prolonged periods of time (results in blood pooling) which may result in a drop in blood pressureCan be brought on by hypoglycemia, dehydration, anemia, heat exhaustion, slow heart rate, anxiety and emotional stress
FaintingLook for:
DizzinessWeaknessSeeing spotsVisual blurringNauseaPale skinSweating
Fainting: What To DoPrevent from falling
Have victim lie down on back
Elevate feet 8-12 inches
Loosen tight clothing
After recovery,Give fluid with sugar
Fresh air / cool cloth
Fainting: When To Seek Medical Attention
Over 40 years of ageRepeated attacksLoses consciousness while sitting or lying downDoes not quickly regain consciousness (is out > 4 to 5 minutes)Faints for no apparent reason
SeizuresResults from abnormal stimulation of brain cells
Exact cause is usually not known
Medications are available yet are not easily controlled
Conditions That May Lead To Seizures
Epilepsy
Heatstroke
Poisoning
Electric shock
Hypoglycemia
High fever in children (fever convulsions)
Brain injury, tumor, stroke
Alcohol withdrawal, drug abuse / overdose
Major Classifications of Seizures
Generalized Tonic Clonic Seizures Grand mal
Absence SeizuresBlank stare
Complex partial Seizures Part of brain involvedDazed, may mumble or wobble
Febrile SeizuresHigh fever (cool body / wet cloth)
Generalized Tonic Clonic Seizures Grand mal
Often associated with epilepsy
May experience a “sensation” prior to seizure
Loss of consciousness
Stiff, then jerking motion
Duration: 2 to 5 minutes
Muscle contraction, perhaps tongue biting
Is usually followed by a period of coma or drowsiness, headache, muscle soreness
First Aid Procedures For Seizures and Convulsions
If possible:Cushion head
Remove items that victim may bump into
Loosen tight neckwear
Place on left side
Medical-alert tag
As seizure ends, offer help
First Aid For Seizures #2
Call 911???
Definitely call if:If seizure lasts longer than 5 minutes
If not known to have epilepsy or seizure ID
Slow recovery
A second seizure
Difficulty breathing
Pregnancy or other medical conditions (ID)
Signs of injury or illness
DO NOT’S For Seizure Victims
Do not give food or drink
Do not restrain victim
Do not put anything between victim’s teeth
Do not move to another place (unless to protect from injury)
Status Epilepticus
Two or more seizures with no period of consciousness
Call 911 – This is an emergency
Diabetes MellitusA condition in which glucose is unable to enter the cellsA disease associated with problems in controlling blood glucose or blood sugarThe disease results when the pancreas has problems producing insulin or the body can no longer use insulin properlyInsulin is the “taxi” that carries sugar from the blood to the cells
Types of Diabetes
Type I Insulin dependent or juvenile onset
Congenital
Type II: maturity or adult onset 90% of all cases are this type
Usually non-insulin dependent
Results from obesity and inactivity
Gestational onset
Normal Blood Sugar Levels
Normal blood sugar levels: 65-110
Hypoglycemia
Low levels of blood sugar
Some may experience hypoglycemia but are not diabetic
protein is often recommended, sometimes along with sugar
Hypoglycemia
Sudden onset
Occurs when eating has been delayed or when too much insulin was administered (blood sugar level drops)
May be fatal if left unattended
Hypoglycemia: Signs and Symptoms
Sudden onsetSudden hungerTrembling / ShakingAnger, bad temper (mood change)Staggering, poor coordinationPaleConfusion, disorientation, altered mental statusSweatingEventual stupor or unconsciousness or seizure
Hypoglycemia: What To Do
If victim is known diabetic, has altered mental status, and is awake enough to swallow:
GIVE 10-15 grams of sugar• ½ can regular soda
• 6 jelly beans
• P.275
If no improvement after 15 minutes, give 15 more sugar
If no improvement, take to the hospital• (trim gym, student at ballgame)
Glucagon: injectable medication
Hyperglycemia
The body has too much sugar in the blood
Pancreas fails to produce insulin to lower sugar levels
When sugar levels remain high, over time, it damages the walls of the vessels, leading to impairment of the circulatory system
Affects functioning of most organs
Problems healing (small cuts, amputations)
Blindness
Hyperglycemia
Diabetic coma (ketoacidosis)Levels may rise to 1200
Body begins to burn fat as primary fuel
Fat as fuel results in production of acids and ketones = “fruity breath”
Hyperglycemia: Signs and Symptoms
Gradual onsetDrowsinessExtreme thirst / dry mouthFrequent urinationFlushed skinVomiting / nauseaFruity breathHeavy breathingEventual stupor or unconsciousness
Hyperglycemia: What To Do
Have conscious victim follow physician’s recommendations
If you are uncertain if sugar level is high or low, GIVE SUGAR
If no response in 15 minutes, get to the hospital
Abdominal Distress
Gastrointestinal problemsCramping, aching, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
May be viral or bacterial
Difficult to determine the cause
Abdominal Distress? Ask These Questions
Cramping pain?Constant pain?
(indicates organ inflammation)
Nausea? Poor appetite? Fever?Diarrhea or vomiting?Is a “virus” going around?Chance of pregnancy?Abdomen rigid to touch?
Emergency (son)
Nausea, Vomiting, Diarrhea: What To Do
Watch for dehydrationPinch test
Wait for nausea to pass before giving liquids and foods
Give clear fluidsSprite, 7-up, water
Jell-o, pop sickles
What To Do #2
Hot water bottle, warm bath
Lay on left side, knees bent
Suppository (by prescription)
Solid food? Crackers, toast
Avoid milk and meats for 48 hours
Let diarrhea run its course Imodium A-D)
What To Do For Infants:
Vomiting or projectile vomiting?
Diahrrea?Pedialite
Abdominal Distress: When To Seek Medical Attention
Constant painUnable to drink for more than 24 hoursBlood or brown grainy matter in vomitVomiting following a head injuryAdditionally:
Black or bloody stoolsRigid, swollen, distended stomachPain when abdomen is pressed then released