Early Indicators of Thyroid Problems Identifying early signs and symptoms of thyroid disorders.By Mariah Xzena Briones, RMTCertification SpecialistHormones control our bodily functions—body temperature, menstrual cycle, regulation of metabolism, muscle strength and more. A balance of hormones is necessary for regular function. Any variation from the optimal balance can result in health issues – the thyroid…

An Unusual Cause of Dyspnea The reasons behind difficulty breathing can be surprising.By Marven Ewen, MDMedical DirectorA stoic 73-year-old man was brought to the ED with dyspnea. He had a history of COPD and was administered albuterol en route to the hospital with no change in dyspnea.    I noticed his shoes were not tied.…

 Raynaud’s PhenomenonThe vascular condition where cold fingers and toes aren’t just from winter weather.By Jenny Ewen, BA, NREMTEditor-In-ChiefOverviewAs the winter season settles upon us, feeling cold is a pretty common occurrence. Blood vessels near the surface of the skin will constrict when exposed to cold in order to push blood deeper in the body and…

Stress Eating: An Emotional Blackhole Stress and overeating can go hand in hand, but prevention is possible.By Mariah Xzena Briones, RMTCertification SpecialistAre your cravings immensely increasing when you’re bombarded with never-ending tasks at work? Have you noticed your study table being more occupied with snacks than books especially during exam week? Food cravings and increased…

A Trip to Africa The threat of malaria must be considered when traveling.By Marven Ewen, MDMedical DirectorOne evening an aspiring 40 year old nature photographer was brought to the ER. He was feeling ill with intermittent fever for several days. He had malaise, arthralgias, a headache, and episodes of delirium. No one else in the…

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Early diagnosis is key to stopping progression of this condition.By Mariah Xzena Briones, RMTCertification SpecialistEMTs must use their hands and wrist to carry patients or move heavy objects for rescue operations. When the patient is critical for both time and condition, EMTs prioritize their patients and sometimes overuse their hands and wrists…

The Hidden Stroke Atrial fibrillation can be the culprit behind embolic stroke.By Marven Ewen, MDMedical DirectorJohn is a busy 58-year-old accountant who, during the previous week, had been feeling more tired than usual but thought he might be coming down with some sort of virus; however, the usual symptoms of a cold such as nasal…

  Anti-NMDA Receptor Encephalitis The neurological condition resulting in sudden and severe behavioral changes. By Jenny Ewen, BA, NREMTEditor-In-Chief OverviewFirst identified in 2007 by Dr. Joseph Dalmau, anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis is an auto-immune disease where antibodies attack the NMDA receptors in the brain (specifically the GluN1 subunit), causing a litany of symptoms due to the…

Knee Pain and Respiratory DistressA combination of symptoms result in a surprising diagnosis.By Marven Ewen, MDMedical DirectorImagine you are seeing an elderly patient who says he feels weak and appears short of breath. He has a rapid breathing rate and increased effort. He says he just gradually started not feeling well throughout the day. He…

Clean Hands In a time of necessary infection prevention, this is how doctors wash their hands.By Marven Ewen, MDMedical DirectorCurrently, the COVID-19 pandemic is a reminder of the importance of infection control. Handwashing is the most important part of preventing the spread of infection. The CDC recommends 20 seconds of handwashing with soap and water…