chronic

Long overdue and sorely needed, research into chronic fatigue syndrome has picked up speed since the pandemic illuminated the lasting and debilitating effects of long COVID.The possible causes of chronic fatigue syndrome, otherwise known as myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME) or ME/CFS, remain elusive despite this new research effort, although they are slowly coming into focus. Past viral infections triggering an overactive immune system and malfunctioning mitochondria depleting cells of energy are possible explanations for…

Chronic UTI Pain Could Be Caused by Overgrown NervesUrinary tract infection symptoms can resurface long after bacteria are gone. A new study suggests nerve growth is to blameBy Joanna ThompsonA colored scanning electron micrograph (SEM) of Escherichia coli bacteria on bladder epithelial cells found in a urine sample from a person with a urinary tract infection (UTI). Credit: Steve Gschmeissner/Science SourceUrinary tract infections (UTIs) are among the world’s most common bacterial maladies. Approximately 12 percent of…

New research seems to offer some long-sought insights into the perplexing and devastating condition known as myalgic encephalomyelitis, also called chronic fatigue syndrome. The National Institutes of Health-led study found several potentially key differences in the brains and immune systems of people with ME/CFS compared to healthy controls. The findings could help point to possible future treatments, the researchers say.What Drew Noomi Rapace to Constellation?ME/CFS is a debilitating ailment. It’s characterized by…

Research from Tufts University indicates that women who consume more plant-based proteins are less likely to develop chronic diseases and maintain better health into older age. The study, analyzing data from over 48,000 women, highlights the benefits of plant proteins over animal proteins for heart health, mental health, and overall longevity, recommending a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds, with some fish and animal protein for essential nutrients.A recent study led by Tufts University discovered that…

Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain More than 20 million Australians have at least one long-term health condition, 63% of whom are in the workforce. The causes of chronic illness are complex and are often unconnected to a person's work. But at times, the continued exposure to work stressors can lead to or exacerbate chronic health conditions including…

Each fall, millions of hunters across North America make their way into forests and grasslands to kill deer. Over the winter, people chow down on the venison steaks, sausage, and burgers made from the animals.These hunters, however, are not just on the front lines of an American tradition. Experts say they are also on the front lines of what could be a serious threat to public health: chronic wasting disease.The neurological disease, which is contagious, rapidly spreading, and always fatal, is caused by misfolded proteins…

University of Florida research shows that chronic ear infections in early childhood can lead to significant language and auditory processing issues later in life, stressing the need for early and continuous monitoring. Vigilant monitoring and prompt treatment can help protect against bad outcomes.Ear infections are a common childhood experience, but a new study suggests parents should take these infections seriously to preserve their children’s language development. That’s because each ear infection can potentially impair…

A study forecasts a dramatic increase in chronic liver disease, particularly metabolic dysfunction-associated steatosic liver disease (MASLD), over the next 25 years due to rising obesity and diabetes rates. This is expected to double liver cancer cases and triple liver transplant needs by 2050, emphasizing the need for increased awareness and early intervention.Liver doctors are altering their communication approach regarding liver disease due to the rise in cases.The prevalence of the most prevalent type of chronic…

A recent study on over 300 chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) patients found that acupuncture might provide limited symptom relief, but the clinical significance remains unclear. An accompanying editorial highlights acupuncture’s potential in treating non-pain conditions and the need for broader clinical openness to its use.A randomized controlled study involving over 300 participants diagnosed with chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU), or hives, suggested that acupuncture might provide some relief from symptoms. However,…

It’s well documented that vitamin B12, or cobalamin, helps red blood cells form and facilitates DNA synthesis that protects genetic mutations in our cells. It is also crucial in the development and ongoing function of our brain and nerve cells. Now, scientists have found that this micronutrient also plays a key role in cellular reprogramming and tissue regeneration.IRB Barcelona researchers discovered this new set of biological tricks while observing how the process of cellular reprogramming in mice required an enormous…