Health and Me

Aarushi Bhadury

The first ever human case of this flesh-eating parasite infestation has been detected in the US. The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) reported that the case of infestation by the <span>New World screwworm</span> (NWS) parasite was confirmed on August 4, involves a patient who had recently traveled back to the US from El Salvador. 

<h2>What is the New World Screwworm or Flesh-Eating Parasite? </h2>

The New World screwworm myiasis is a parasitic infection caused by the larvae, or maggots, of a parasitic fly. These maggots are known for feeding on the living flesh of their hosts and are drawn to open wounds, where they lay their eggs. While they primarily infest livestock like cattle, they can also affect pets, wildlife, and, in rare instances, even people. Health officials, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), have stated that the risk to the general public in the US remains very low. 

This devastating pest is usually found in parts of South America and the Caribbean. Despite efforts to stop its spread, the parasite has moved northward, with cases now confirmed in every Central American country, including Mexico. 

<h2>What Is The First Symptoms of Flesh-Eating Parasite Infestation? </h2>

The CDC explains that the NWS infestations are extremely painful. The most obvious sign is seeing maggots in or around an open wound, or even in your nose, eyes, or mouth. Other symptoms can include: 

<ul><li>Sores or wounds that don't heal or get worse over time.</li><li>Painful wounds that may bleed.</li><li>A foul smell coming from the wound.</li><li>A crawling sensation as you feel the maggots moving inside the wound.</li><li>Sometimes, a fever or chills can occur if a bacterial infection develops.</li></ul>

If you experience these symptoms after traveling to Central or South America or the Caribbean, it's important to tell your doctor about your recent trip. 

<h2>Who is at Risk For Flesh-Eating Parasite? </h2>

Your risk of getting an NWS infestation increases if you travel to areas where the flies are present and: 

<ul><li>You have an open wound, such as from a scratch, cut, insect bite, or recent surgery.</li><li>You have a weakened immune system, perhaps from a medical condition like HIV, cancer treatment, or certain medications.</li><li>You have a medical condition that causes open sores, like some skin or sinus cancers.</li><li>You sleep outdoors.</li><li>You live or work around livestock or other warm-blooded animals in these regions.</li></ul>

<h2>How Does <span rel="noindex">Flesh Eating Parasite</span> Infestation Spread? </h2>

An infestation starts when a female NWS fly lays her eggs in an open wound or body opening like the nose or mouth. The smell of a wound, even a small one like a tick bite, can attract the flies. A single female fly can lay 200–300 eggs at a time. 

Once the eggs hatch, the tiny maggots burrow into the living tissue to feed. After they've fed, they drop to the ground, burrow into the soil, and eventually turn into adult flies, starting the cycle over again. 

<h2>How Can You Prevent Flesh Eating Parasite Infestation? </h2>

If you see or feel maggots in a wound or on your body, you should contact a healthcare provider right away. They will need to remove the larvae, which sometimes requires surgery. It is very important that you do not try to remove the maggots yourself. Prevention is the best way to avoid an infestation. 

<ul><li>Keep any open wounds clean and covered.</li><li>Wear long-sleeved shirts, pants, and socks to protect your skin from bites.</li><li>Use an EPA-approved insect repellent.</li><li>Treat your clothing and gear with products that contain 0.5% permethrin.</li><li>Sleep indoors or in rooms with screens.</li></ul>

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The first ever human case of this flesh-eating parasite infestation has been detected in the US. The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) reported that the case of infestation by the New World screwworm (NWS) parasite was confirmed on August 4, involves a patient who had recently traveled back to the US from El Salvador. What is the New World Screwworm or Flesh-Eating Parasite? The New World screwworm myiasis is a parasitic infection caused by the larvae, or maggots, of a parasitic fly. These maggots are known for feeding on the living flesh of their hosts and are drawn to open wounds, where they lay their eggs. While they primarily infest livestock like cattle, they can also affect pets, wildlife, and, in rare instances, even people. Health officials, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), have stated that the risk to the general public in the US remains very low. This devastating pest is usually found in parts of South America and the Caribbean. Despite efforts to stop its spread, the parasite has moved northward, with cases now confirmed in every Central American country, including Mexico. What Is The First Symptoms of Flesh-Eating Parasite Infestation? The CDC explains that the NWS infestations are extremely painful. The most obvious sign is seeing maggots in or around an open wound, or even in your nose, eyes, or mouth. Other symptoms can include: Sores or wounds that don't heal or get worse over time.Painful wounds that may bleed.A foul smell coming from the wound.A crawling sensation as you feel the maggots moving inside the wound.Sometimes, a fever or chills can occur if a bacterial infection develops.If you experience these symptoms after traveling to Central or South America or the Caribbean, it's important to tell your doctor about your recent trip. Who is at Risk For Flesh-Eating Parasite? Your risk of getting an NWS infestation increases if you travel to areas where the flies are present and: You have an open wound, such as from a scratch, cut, insect bite, or recent surgery.You have a weakened immune system, perhaps from a medical condition like HIV, cancer treatment, or certain medications.You have a medical condition that causes open sores, like some skin or sinus cancers.You sleep outdoors.You live or work around livestock or other warm-blooded animals in these regions.How Does Flesh Eating Parasite Infestation Spread? An infestation starts when a female NWS fly lays her eggs in an open wound or body opening like the nose or mouth. The smell of a wound, even a small one like a tick bite, can attract the flies. A single female fly can lay 200–300 eggs at a time. Once the eggs hatch, the tiny maggots burrow into the living tissue to feed. After they've fed, they drop to the ground, burrow into the soil, and eventually turn into adult flies, starting the cycle over again. How Can You Prevent Flesh Eating Parasite Infestation? If you see or feel maggots in a wound or on your body, you should contact a healthcare provider right away. They will need to remove the larvae, which sometimes requires surgery. It is very important that you do not try to remove the maggots yourself. Prevention is the best way to avoid an infestation. Keep any open wounds clean and covered.Wear long-sleeved shirts, pants, and socks to protect your skin from bites.Use an EPA-approved insect repellent.Treat your clothing and gear with products that contain 0.5% permethrin.Sleep indoors or in rooms with screens.

first case of flesh-eating parasite in humans has been detected in us- know the first warning sign

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<strong>Jessica <span rel="noindex">Knurick</span></strong> is a registered dietitian with a PhD who has rapidly emerged as one of the most influential public health voices on social media. With more than 1.1 million followers on Instagram and over 335,000 on TikTok, she is using the same platforms that fueled misinformation to push back with evidence-based content. Her style is simple but powerful. She blends humor, accessible explanations, and scientific accuracy in short videos that debunk myths and highlight where health narratives go wrong.

Her journey into this digital advocacy space was personal. During her first pregnancy in 2019, she noticed scattered but not overwhelming amounts of misleading information targeted at expecting mothers. By the time she had her second child in 2022, the pandemic had amplified conspiratorial and fear-based health content across platforms. What had once been background noise became the dominant message being shown to her feeds. That was when she realized the scale of the problem, and the urgent need for credible counter voices.

<strong>Understanding the <span rel="noindex">MAHA</span> Movement</strong>

<strong>The <span rel="noindex">Make America Healthy Again</span> (MAHA) </strong>movement emerged out of a growing distrust in public health institutions. Initially fueled by wellness influencers and conspiracy-laced narratives about toxins, chemicals, and corrupt medical systems, the movement gained a national platform when Robert F. Kennedy Jr. launched his presidential campaign in 2024. Now serving as Secretary of Health and Human Services under Donald Trump, Kennedy and the MAHA agenda are reshaping health policy with their focus on distrust of regulation, vaccines, and science.

MAHA thrives because it taps into genuine frustrations. Rising chronic disease rates, expensive healthcare, and a food system often criticized for prioritizing profits over people’s well-being all resonate with Americans. But where the movement gains attention is in its framing, blaming shadowy corruption, demonizing ingredients like seed oils or food dyes, and questioning the legitimacy of mainstream health guidelines.

<strong>Read: <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-news/what-is-make-america-healthy-again-all-about-article-151076912" data-type="tilCustomLink">What Is 'Make America Healthy Again' All About?</a></strong>

The results have been concerning. Falling vaccination rates, for example, contributed to a historic measles outbreak this year. Yet millions of Americans continue to be swayed by MAHA’s polished social media messaging and distrust of traditional experts.

<h2>Knurick’s Counter-Narrative Strategy</h2>

Knurick does not deny that the US has a chronic disease crisis. She acknowledges that too many people are living with conditions linked to lifestyle and systemic problems. What she challenges is how MAHA leaders explain those problems and the solutions they propose.

Her method is to meet people where they are, on Instagram and TikTok, and arm them with tools to navigate misinformation. In her videos, she often points out logical fallacies, like confusing correlation with causation. She also highlights overlooked factors that evidence shows drive chronic disease: income inequality, lack of access to healthcare, education gaps, and systemic disparities. These social determinants of health are almost entirely absent from MAHA’s messaging.

Knurick also calls out contradictions and financial interests within the MAHA leadership. Many of its most prominent figures run supplement companies or wellness product businesses, financially benefiting from the fear they spread. She argues that if the pharmaceutical and food industries deserve scrutiny for conflicts of interest, so too should the wellness industry, which operates with far less regulation.

One of Knurick’s challenges is tone. She knows that many MAHA supporters are parents, especially mothers, who are genuinely anxious about their children’s health. 

<h3>These women are vulnerable to fear-based messaging like “Are you poisoning your kids?” which thrives in wellness circles. Being a mother herself, Knurick understands the emotional triggers at play.</h3>

Her approach is firm but not condescending. She avoids personal attacks on ordinary supporters, focusing instead on the misinformation itself. While her critiques of Kennedy are sharp, she maintains that her goal is not to mock but to explain. The result has been encouraging. 

<h4>Many followers who initially came to her page as skeptics admit to being swayed by her evidence-backed explanations.</h4>

<strong>Also Read: <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-news/trumps-surgeon-general-pick-raises-eyebrows-with-vaccine-comments-and-wellness-claims-article-151608010" data-type="tilCustomLink">Trump’s Surgeon General Pick Raises Eyebrows With Vaccine Comments And Wellness Claims</a></strong>

Still, she recognizes she will not reach everyone. Those deeply loyal to MAHA leadership may tune out. But Knurick’s growing following and steady stream of messages from people who have reconsidered their views suggest her efforts are making a difference.

Knurick’s larger mission goes beyond countering individual claims. She is working to rebuild a culture of trust in evidence and science. In a world where traditional appeals to authority no longer carry weight, she believes teaching media literacy is essential. By showing people how to spot out-of-context data, manipulated graphs, or exaggerated claims, she hopes to empower her audience to become more discerning consumers of information.

<h4>Her efforts are not just about defending institutions but about reframing public health in a way that resonates. </h4>

She agrees with MAHA that the system often fails people. Where she differs is in how to fix it. Instead of scapegoating food dyes or dismissing vaccines, she emphasizes systemic reforms, improved access, and real policy solutions.

The battle over health information is no longer confined to medical journals or government press releases. It is happening on TikTok, Instagram, and in the hands of influencers. 

By stepping into that arena, Knurick represents a new model for public health communication: expert-led, evidence-driven, but adapted to the realities of the digital age.

As misinformation continues to spread and movements like MAHA reshape national policy, her work is more critical than ever. She is not just correcting false claims but also offering a vision of what a more honest, evidence-based conversation about health could look like.

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Jessica Knurick is a registered dietitian with a PhD who has rapidly emerged as one of the most influential public health voices on social media. With more than 1.1 million followers on Instagram and over 335,000 on TikTok, she is using the same platforms that fueled misinformation to push back with evidence-based content. Her style is simple but powerful. She blends humor, accessible explanations, and scientific accuracy in short videos that debunk myths and highlight where health narratives go wrong.Her journey into this digital advocacy space was personal. During her first pregnancy in 2019, she noticed scattered but not overwhelming amounts of misleading information targeted at expecting mothers. By the time she had her second child in 2022, the pandemic had amplified conspiratorial and fear-based health content across platforms. What had once been background noise became the dominant message being shown to her feeds. That was when she realized the scale of the problem, and the urgent need for credible counter voices.Understanding the MAHA MovementThe Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) movement emerged out of a growing distrust in public health institutions. Initially fueled by wellness influencers and conspiracy-laced narratives about toxins, chemicals, and corrupt medical systems, the movement gained a national platform when Robert F. Kennedy Jr. launched his presidential campaign in 2024. Now serving as Secretary of Health and Human Services under Donald Trump, Kennedy and the MAHA agenda are reshaping health policy with their focus on distrust of regulation, vaccines, and science.MAHA thrives because it taps into genuine frustrations. Rising chronic disease rates, expensive healthcare, and a food system often criticized for prioritizing profits over people’s well-being all resonate with Americans. But where the movement gains attention is in its framing, blaming shadowy corruption, demonizing ingredients like seed oils or food dyes, and questioning the legitimacy of mainstream health guidelines.Read: What Is 'Make America Healthy Again' All About?The results have been concerning. Falling vaccination rates, for example, contributed to a historic measles outbreak this year. Yet millions of Americans continue to be swayed by MAHA’s polished social media messaging and distrust of traditional experts.Knurick’s Counter-Narrative StrategyKnurick does not deny that the US has a chronic disease crisis. She acknowledges that too many people are living with conditions linked to lifestyle and systemic problems. What she challenges is how MAHA leaders explain those problems and the solutions they propose.Her method is to meet people where they are, on Instagram and TikTok, and arm them with tools to navigate misinformation. In her videos, she often points out logical fallacies, like confusing correlation with causation. She also highlights overlooked factors that evidence shows drive chronic disease: income inequality, lack of access to healthcare, education gaps, and systemic disparities. These social determinants of health are almost entirely absent from MAHA’s messaging.Knurick also calls out contradictions and financial interests within the MAHA leadership. Many of its most prominent figures run supplement companies or wellness product businesses, financially benefiting from the fear they spread. She argues that if the pharmaceutical and food industries deserve scrutiny for conflicts of interest, so too should the wellness industry, which operates with far less regulation.Balancing Tone and ReachOne of Knurick’s challenges is tone. She knows that many MAHA supporters are parents, especially mothers, who are genuinely anxious about their children’s health. These women are vulnerable to fear-based messaging like “Are you poisoning your kids?” which thrives in wellness circles. Being a mother herself, Knurick understands the emotional triggers at play.Her approach is firm but not condescending. She avoids personal attacks on ordinary supporters, focusing instead on the misinformation itself. While her critiques of Kennedy are sharp, she maintains that her goal is not to mock but to explain. The result has been encouraging. Many followers who initially came to her page as skeptics admit to being swayed by her evidence-backed explanations.Also Read: Trump’s Surgeon General Pick Raises Eyebrows With Vaccine Comments And Wellness ClaimsStill, she recognizes she will not reach everyone. Those deeply loyal to MAHA leadership may tune out. But Knurick’s growing following and steady stream of messages from people who have reconsidered their views suggest her efforts are making a difference.Rebuilding Trust in ScienceKnurick’s larger mission goes beyond countering individual claims. She is working to rebuild a culture of trust in evidence and science. In a world where traditional appeals to authority no longer carry weight, she believes teaching media literacy is essential. By showing people how to spot out-of-context data, manipulated graphs, or exaggerated claims, she hopes to empower her audience to become more discerning consumers of information.Her efforts are not just about defending institutions but about reframing public health in a way that resonates. She agrees with MAHA that the system often fails people. Where she differs is in how to fix it. Instead of scapegoating food dyes or dismissing vaccines, she emphasizes systemic reforms, improved access, and real policy solutions.Why Knurick Matters NowThe battle over health information is no longer confined to medical journals or government press releases. It is happening on TikTok, Instagram, and in the hands of influencers. By stepping into that arena, Knurick represents a new model for public health communication: expert-led, evidence-driven, but adapted to the realities of the digital age.As misinformation continues to spread and movements like MAHA reshape national policy, her work is more critical than ever. She is not just correcting false claims but also offering a vision of what a more honest, evidence-based conversation about health could look like.

meet jessica knurick, the dietitian taking on the 'maha' movement

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Different ways injections work in your body

IV drip

Flu shot

SC injection

Emergency injections

<span>Injections</span> are one of the most direct and effective ways to deliver medications, nutrients, or fluids into the body. Unlike oral medicines, which must first pass through the digestive system, injections allow a substance to enter the bloodstream, muscle, or tissue directly, leading to faster or more controlled absorption. 

There are several types of injections, but four are most widely used in healthcare practice: intravenous, intramuscular, subcutaneous, and intraosseous. Each has its own purpose, method, and site of administration.

Intravenous injections deliver medication straight into a vein, allowing for rapid absorption and immediate action. Because the bloodstream is accessed directly, this type of injection is considered the fastest way to introduce drugs or fluids into the body.

<h4>IV injections or infusions are frequently used in:</h4>

<ul><li>Providing fluids and electrolytes to treat dehydration</li><li>Administering local or general anesthesia before surgery</li><li>Delivering pain relief medications in emergency rooms</li><li>Blood transfusions and iron supplementation</li><li>Nutrition for severely malnourished patients</li><li>Chemotherapy for cancer treatment</li><li>Monoclonal antibodies for infections such as COVID-19</li><li>Injecting contrast dye before imaging tests</li></ul>

Typical IV sites include veins on the back of the hands, forearms, or inside the elbow. In infants, doctors may use veins on the scalp or feet.

<h2>Intramuscular (IM) Injections</h2><h2></h2><h2><div type="image" title="Flu shot" msid="152521810" hostid="1005" sizebytes="903528"></div></h2>Intramuscular injections deliver medication into the muscle tissue, which has a rich blood supply that helps the drug absorb quickly, as noted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, (CDC) guidelines.

<ul><li>Most vaccines, such as flu shots</li><li>Antibiotics like penicillin or streptomycin</li><li>Corticosteroids for inflammation or allergic reactions</li><li>Hormones such as testosterone or medroxyprogesterone</li><li>Medications for patients unable to take oral drugs</li></ul>

<h4>Healthcare professionals usually administer IM shots in:</h4>

<ul><li>The upper outer thigh muscle</li><li>The deltoid (shoulder) muscle</li><li>The hip area</li></ul>

Doctors generally avoid injecting into the buttock due to the risk of damaging the sciatic nerve.

Subcutaneous injections are given into the fatty tissue just beneath the skin and above the muscle. They use a smaller needle to ensure the medication enters the fatty layer rather than muscle tissue. Unlike muscles, fatty tissue contains fewer blood vessels, which means the body absorbs medication more slowly—making it useful for drugs that require steady, prolonged release.

<ul><li>Insulin for diabetes management</li><li>Blood thinners like heparin</li><li>Vaccines such as MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) and chickenpox</li><li>Pain control medications in palliative care (e.g., morphine, fentanyl)</li><li>Fertility medications and biologics such as Dupixent</li></ul>

<h4>Typical SC injection sites include:</h4>

<ul><li>The outer or back part of the upper arm</li><li>The front or outer side of the thigh</li><li>The belly (at least a few centimeters away from the navel)</li></ul>

<h5>Subcutaneous injections are relatively less painful and carry a lower risk of infection. They are often preferred for patients who need to self-administer medication at home, such as those managing diabetes.</h5>

Intraosseous injections are less common but extremely valuable in emergency medicine. They involve puncturing the bone marrow with a specialized needle to deliver drugs or fluids directly into the rich blood supply of the marrow. Since the marrow connects directly to the circulatory system, this method is fast and effective when IV access is difficult.

<h4>IO injections are usually reserved for critical emergencies such as:</h4>

<ul><li>Cardiac arrest</li><li>Severe trauma or accident injuries</li><li>Overdose or poisoning</li><li>Sepsis or septic shock</li><li>Stroke or seizures</li><li>Obstetric complications (e.g., childbirth emergencies)</li></ul>

They can also be used to administer anesthesia in dental procedures or deliver palliative care pain relief when veins are inaccessible.

<h4>Common IO access points include:</h4>

<ul><li>The shinbone (tibia)</li><li>The thigh bone (femur)</li><li>The upper arm bone (humerus)</li></ul>

While injections are generally safe when performed by trained professionals, there are some risks. The CDC notes that common side effects include temporary pain, redness, swelling, or bruising at the injection site. Rare but serious risks may involve nerve damage, abscess formation, bleeding, or infection. Safe handling of needles and proper technique are critical to minimizing complications.

ozempic

covid 19

iv drip

flu shot

wegovy

injections

Injections are one of the most direct and effective ways to deliver medications, nutrients, or fluids into the body. Unlike oral medicines, which must first pass through the digestive system, injections allow a substance to enter the bloodstream, muscle, or tissue directly, leading to faster or more controlled absorption. There are several types of injections, but four are most widely used in healthcare practice: intravenous, intramuscular, subcutaneous, and intraosseous. Each has its own purpose, method, and site of administration.Intravenous (IV) InjectionsIntravenous injections deliver medication straight into a vein, allowing for rapid absorption and immediate action. Because the bloodstream is accessed directly, this type of injection is considered the fastest way to introduce drugs or fluids into the body.Common UsesIV injections or infusions are frequently used in:Providing fluids and electrolytes to treat dehydrationAdministering local or general anesthesia before surgeryDelivering pain relief medications in emergency roomsBlood transfusions and iron supplementationNutrition for severely malnourished patientsChemotherapy for cancer treatmentMonoclonal antibodies for infections such as COVID-19Injecting contrast dye before imaging testsSites of InjectionTypical IV sites include veins on the back of the hands, forearms, or inside the elbow. In infants, doctors may use veins on the scalp or feet.Intramuscular (IM) InjectionsIntramuscular injections deliver medication into the muscle tissue, which has a rich blood supply that helps the drug absorb quickly, as noted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, (CDC) guidelines.Common UsesMost vaccines, such as flu shotsAntibiotics like penicillin or streptomycinCorticosteroids for inflammation or allergic reactionsHormones such as testosterone or medroxyprogesteroneMedications for patients unable to take oral drugsSites of InjectionHealthcare professionals usually administer IM shots in:The upper outer thigh muscleThe deltoid (shoulder) muscleThe hip areaDoctors generally avoid injecting into the buttock due to the risk of damaging the sciatic nerve.Subcutaneous (SC) InjectionsSubcutaneous injections are given into the fatty tissue just beneath the skin and above the muscle. They use a smaller needle to ensure the medication enters the fatty layer rather than muscle tissue. Unlike muscles, fatty tissue contains fewer blood vessels, which means the body absorbs medication more slowly—making it useful for drugs that require steady, prolonged release.Common UsesInsulin for diabetes managementBlood thinners like heparinVaccines such as MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) and chickenpoxPain control medications in palliative care (e.g., morphine, fentanyl)Fertility medications and biologics such as DupixentSites of InjectionTypical SC injection sites include:The outer or back part of the upper armThe front or outer side of the thighThe belly (at least a few centimeters away from the navel)Subcutaneous injections are relatively less painful and carry a lower risk of infection. They are often preferred for patients who need to self-administer medication at home, such as those managing diabetes.Intraosseous (IO) InjectionsIntraosseous injections are less common but extremely valuable in emergency medicine. They involve puncturing the bone marrow with a specialized needle to deliver drugs or fluids directly into the rich blood supply of the marrow. Since the marrow connects directly to the circulatory system, this method is fast and effective when IV access is difficult.Common UsesIO injections are usually reserved for critical emergencies such as:Cardiac arrestSevere trauma or accident injuriesOverdose or poisoningSepsis or septic shockStroke or seizuresObstetric complications (e.g., childbirth emergencies)They can also be used to administer anesthesia in dental procedures or deliver palliative care pain relief when veins are inaccessible.Sites of InjectionCommon IO access points include:The shinbone (tibia)The thigh bone (femur)The upper arm bone (humerus)Risks and Side EffectsWhile injections are generally safe when performed by trained professionals, there are some risks. The CDC notes that common side effects include temporary pain, redness, swelling, or bruising at the injection site. Rare but serious risks may involve nerve damage, abscess formation, bleeding, or infection. Safe handling of needles and proper technique are critical to minimizing complications.

iv drip, covid-19 shot and ozempic: how different injections enter the body in different ways

The Bizarre Foot Test That Could Point Towards A Heart Failure

Thanks to Instagram and other such social media platforms, we know a lot about our health than before. In a video, a person presses on his lower leg, and instead of the skin bouncing back smoothly, it shows small pit-like impressions. The caption on the video reads: <em>A Visible Sign Of <span rel="noindex">Congestive Heart Failure</span></em>. 

A throbbing dorsalis pedis pulse, the artery running along the top of the foot, might appear harmless at first glance. However, doctors caution that such a finding can be an important clinical sign, often linked to conditions such as peripheral vascular changes or fluid overload. In particular, it may reflect elevated central venous pressure (CVP), a common feature of congestive <span>heart failure</span> (CHF).

Medical experts recommend that whenever this sign is seen, it should not be dismissed. Instead, patients should be assessed thoroughly, including checking bilateral pulses, looking for swelling in the legs or feet, and correlating these observations with blood pressure and a full cardiac examination.

<h2>Understanding Congestive Heart Failure</h2>

Congestive heart failure, also called simply heart failure, is a long-term condition where the heart cannot pump blood efficiently enough to meet the body’s needs. While the heart is still beating, it struggles to keep up with circulation demands. As a result, blood builds up in other parts of the body, most often in the lungs, legs, and feet.

Doctors often describe it with a relatable analogy: imagine a shipping department that is constantly behind schedule. Packages pile up because they cannot be dispatched on time. Similarly, in heart failure, fluid “packages” accumulate in the body, leading to symptoms and complications.

<h2>Different Types of Heart Failure</h2>

Heart failure is not a one-size-fits-all condition. It has different forms:

<ul><li>Left-sided heart failure, where the left ventricle struggles to pump blood effectively.</li><li>Right-sided heart failure, which often results from long-standing left-sided failure and leads to blood backing up in veins.</li><li>High-output heart failure, a rare type where the heart pumps normally but the body demands more blood than it can provide.</li><li>Right-sided heart failure is particularly linked to distended veins and visible pulsations, as seen in cases where fluid overload is present.</li></ul>

Heart failure is alarmingly common. In the United States alone, more than six million people live with the condition, making it the leading cause of hospitalization among those older than 65. With aging populations and rising lifestyle-related diseases such as diabetes and hypertension, the burden of CHF is expected to grow further.

<h2>Common Symptoms Of Heart Failure</h2>

CHF can manifest in many ways, some subtle and others unmistakable. Typical symptoms include:

<ul><li>Shortness of breath, especially during activity or at night</li><li>Chest pain and palpitations</li><li>Fatigue and weakness</li><li>Swelling in the ankles, legs, and abdomen</li><li>Weight gain and frequent nighttime urination</li><li>A persistent, dry cough or bloating in the stomach</li></ul>

Some patients may experience only mild discomfort, while others face severe, life-limiting symptoms. Importantly, the condition tends to worsen over time if not managed.

Several factors contribute to the development of heart failure, including:

<ul><li>Coronary artery disease and heart attacks</li><li>Long-standing high blood pressure</li><li>Cardiomyopathy, often due to genetics or viral infections</li><li>Diabetes and kidney disease</li><li>Obesity, tobacco use, alcohol, or recreational drug use</li><li>Certain medications, such as chemotherapy drugs</li></ul>

Risk increases with age, sedentary lifestyle, poor diet, and family history of heart disease. Left-sided heart failure is the most common trigger for right-sided failure, but lung diseases and other organ issues can also play a role.

Unchecked heart failure can lead to serious complications such as irregular heart rhythms, sudden cardiac arrest, valve damage, fluid buildup in the lungs, kidney or liver failure, and malnutrition. These risks make early recognition of clinical signs, such as visible dorsalis pedis pulsation, critically important.

Doctors use a combination of medical history, physical examinations, and diagnostic tests to confirm CHF. They typically ask about family history, lifestyle habits, medication use, and other medical conditions. Key tests include echocardiograms, ECGs, chest X-rays, MRIs, CT scans, stress tests, and blood work. In some cases, genetic testing may also be used.

Heart failure is classified into four stages (A to D):

<strong>Stage A: </strong>High risk but no symptoms, often due to conditions like hypertension or diabetes.

<strong>Stage B:</strong> Structural heart problems but no outward symptoms.

<strong>Stage C: </strong>Clear symptoms alongside a confirmed diagnosis.

<strong>Stage D:</strong> Advanced heart failure with severe, treatment-resistant symptoms.

foot test that reveal heart failure

heart health

heart failure

congestive heart failure

Thanks to Instagram and other such social media platforms, we know a lot about our health than before. In a video, a person presses on his lower leg, and instead of the skin bouncing back smoothly, it shows small pit-like impressions. The caption on the video reads: A Visible Sign Of Congestive Heart Failure.           View this post on Instagram            A post shared by BIOLOGY | MEDICAL | HEALTH (@explainingbiology_)]]>A throbbing dorsalis pedis pulse, the artery running along the top of the foot, might appear harmless at first glance. However, doctors caution that such a finding can be an important clinical sign, often linked to conditions such as peripheral vascular changes or fluid overload. In particular, it may reflect elevated central venous pressure (CVP), a common feature of congestive heart failure (CHF).Medical experts recommend that whenever this sign is seen, it should not be dismissed. Instead, patients should be assessed thoroughly, including checking bilateral pulses, looking for swelling in the legs or feet, and correlating these observations with blood pressure and a full cardiac examination.Understanding Congestive Heart FailureCongestive heart failure, also called simply heart failure, is a long-term condition where the heart cannot pump blood efficiently enough to meet the body’s needs. While the heart is still beating, it struggles to keep up with circulation demands. As a result, blood builds up in other parts of the body, most often in the lungs, legs, and feet.Doctors often describe it with a relatable analogy: imagine a shipping department that is constantly behind schedule. Packages pile up because they cannot be dispatched on time. Similarly, in heart failure, fluid “packages” accumulate in the body, leading to symptoms and complications.Different Types of Heart FailureHeart failure is not a one-size-fits-all condition. It has different forms:Left-sided heart failure, where the left ventricle struggles to pump blood effectively.Right-sided heart failure, which often results from long-standing left-sided failure and leads to blood backing up in veins.High-output heart failure, a rare type where the heart pumps normally but the body demands more blood than it can provide.Right-sided heart failure is particularly linked to distended veins and visible pulsations, as seen in cases where fluid overload is present.How Widespread Is the Problem?Heart failure is alarmingly common. In the United States alone, more than six million people live with the condition, making it the leading cause of hospitalization among those older than 65. With aging populations and rising lifestyle-related diseases such as diabetes and hypertension, the burden of CHF is expected to grow further.Common Symptoms Of Heart FailureCHF can manifest in many ways, some subtle and others unmistakable. Typical symptoms include:Shortness of breath, especially during activity or at nightChest pain and palpitationsFatigue and weaknessSwelling in the ankles, legs, and abdomenWeight gain and frequent nighttime urinationA persistent, dry cough or bloating in the stomachSome patients may experience only mild discomfort, while others face severe, life-limiting symptoms. Importantly, the condition tends to worsen over time if not managed.Causes and Risk FactorsSeveral factors contribute to the development of heart failure, including:Coronary artery disease and heart attacksLong-standing high blood pressureCardiomyopathy, often due to genetics or viral infectionsDiabetes and kidney diseaseObesity, tobacco use, alcohol, or recreational drug useCertain medications, such as chemotherapy drugsRisk increases with age, sedentary lifestyle, poor diet, and family history of heart disease. Left-sided heart failure is the most common trigger for right-sided failure, but lung diseases and other organ issues can also play a role.Potential ComplicationsUnchecked heart failure can lead to serious complications such as irregular heart rhythms, sudden cardiac arrest, valve damage, fluid buildup in the lungs, kidney or liver failure, and malnutrition. These risks make early recognition of clinical signs, such as visible dorsalis pedis pulsation, critically important.Diagnosing Heart FailureDoctors use a combination of medical history, physical examinations, and diagnostic tests to confirm CHF. They typically ask about family history, lifestyle habits, medication use, and other medical conditions. Key tests include echocardiograms, ECGs, chest X-rays, MRIs, CT scans, stress tests, and blood work. In some cases, genetic testing may also be used.Stages of Heart FailureHeart failure is classified into four stages (A to D):Stage A: High risk but no symptoms, often due to conditions like hypertension or diabetes.Stage B: Structural heart problems but no outward symptoms.Stage C: Clear symptoms alongside a confirmed diagnosis.Stage D: Advanced heart failure with severe, treatment-resistant symptoms.

the bizarre foot test that could point towards a heart failure

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