Ishita Roy

How Can I Treat My Cold Sores?

How Do I Treat My Cold Sores?

<span>Cold sores</span> are a common and often frustrating skin issue. While they may look like harmless blisters, <span>cold</span> sores are actually caused by the <span>herpes simplex virus</span> (<span>HSV</span>). 

Cold sores are caused by the <span>herpes</span> simplex virus (HSV), which comes in two types: HSV-1 and HSV-2. 

HSV-1 is the primary cause of cold sores, usually appearing around the mouth.

HSV-2 generally causes <span><a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health/genital-herpes">genital herpes</a></span> but can also lead to cold sores.

While the appearance of cold sores caused by both HSV-1 and HSV-2 can look similar, their locations tend to differ. However, it is possible for HSV-1 to cause sores on the genitals and for HSV-2 to appear on the mouth.

Cold sores are highly contagious and can spread easily. The virus can be passed on through:

<ul><li>Kissing or skin contact</li><li>Sharing food, drinks, or cosmetics (such as lip balm)</li><li>Oral sex, which can spread both cold sores and genital herpes</li></ul>

Even when a cold sore isn’t visible, the virus can still be spread through close contact. This makes prevention and management key to reducing outbreaks and the risk of infecting others.

Once someone contracts HSV, it stays in the body for life. While the virus remains dormant most of the time, it can reactivate and cause new sores, especially during periods of:

<ul><li>Stress</li><li>Illness</li><li>A weakened immune system</li></ul>

Unfortunately, there’s no cure for the herpes virus, but the symptoms can be managed.

Cold sores don’t just appear out of nowhere. Before the sore is visible, you may notice a tingling or burning sensation around the lips or face, which can occur several days before the sore forms. This is the best time to begin treatment to shorten the outbreak.

When a cold sore does appear, it often looks like a red, raised blister filled with fluid. The blister can be painful to touch, and there may be more than one. Cold sores usually last around two weeks and are contagious until they crust over and heal.

Cold sores go through distinct stages as they develop and heal:

<ul><li><strong>Tingling and itching:</strong> You may feel these symptoms about 24 hours before the blister appears.</li><li><strong>Blisters: </strong>Small, fluid-filled blisters form, typically around the mouth.</li><li><strong>Bursting:</strong> The blisters burst and form painful sores.</li><li><strong>Scabbing:</strong> The sores dry out, scab over, and may itch or crack.</li><li><strong>Healing:</strong> The scab falls off, and the cold sore heals.</li></ul><h5>Risk Factors for Cold Sores</h5>

Certain factors can trigger the reactivation of HSV, leading to cold sores. These include:

<ul><li>Infection, fever, or cold</li><li>Sun exposure</li><li>Stress</li><li>Menstruation</li><li>Dental work or injury</li><li>Weakened immune system due to conditions like HIV/AIDS, eczema, or chemotherapy</li></ul>Anyone who comes in direct contact with the fluid from a cold sore—whether by kissing, sharing utensils, or using personal items like razors or toothbrushes—can contract the virus.

<h5>Managing and Treating Cold Sores</h5>

There’s no cure for cold sores, but several treatments can ease the symptoms and help manage outbreaks.

Over-the-counter antiviral creams like docosanol (Abreva) or prescription ointments like penciclovir (Denavir) can help reduce the duration of an outbreak, especially if applied at the first sign of a cold sore.

Prescription antiviral medications like acyclovir, valacyclovir, and famciclovir can also help, particularly for people who have frequent or severe outbreaks. Your doctor may recommend taking these medications regularly to prevent future outbreaks.

There are also some home remedies that may provide relief, such as:

<ul><li>Applying ice or a cold washcloth to the sore</li><li>Using aloe vera gel or lemon balm lip balms</li><li>Applying petroleum jelly to ease discomfort</li></ul>

<h5>Canker Sores vs. Cold Sores: What's the Difference?</h5>

While cold sores and canker sores may seem similar, they are quite different:

Cold sores are caused by the herpes virus, appear around the mouth, and are contagious.

Canker sores are not contagious and appear as ulcers inside the mouth or throat.

<h5>Preventing the Spread of Cold Sores</h5>

<ul><li>Wash your hands frequently</li><li>Avoid close contact with others during an outbreak</li><li>Don’t share food, drinks, or personal items like lip balm</li></ul>If certain triggers, like sun exposure or stress, cause your cold sores to flare up, take preventive steps, such as using sunblock on your lips or practicing stress management techniques like meditation.

Cold sores can be a persistent issue, but with proper care and management, you can reduce the frequency of outbreaks and prevent spreading the virus to others.

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cold sores

cold

common cold

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herpes simplex virus

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Cold sores are a common and often frustrating skin issue. While they may look like harmless blisters, cold sores are actually caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). What Causes Cold Sores?Cold sores are caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV), which comes in two types: HSV-1 and HSV-2. HSV-1 is the primary cause of cold sores, usually appearing around the mouth.HSV-2 generally causes genital herpes but can also lead to cold sores.While the appearance of cold sores caused by both HSV-1 and HSV-2 can look similar, their locations tend to differ. However, it is possible for HSV-1 to cause sores on the genitals and for HSV-2 to appear on the mouth.How Do Cold Sores Spread?Cold sores are highly contagious and can spread easily. The virus can be passed on through:Kissing or skin contactSharing food, drinks, or cosmetics (such as lip balm)Oral sex, which can spread both cold sores and genital herpesEven when a cold sore isn’t visible, the virus can still be spread through close contact. This makes prevention and management key to reducing outbreaks and the risk of infecting others.Once someone contracts HSV, it stays in the body for life. While the virus remains dormant most of the time, it can reactivate and cause new sores, especially during periods of:StressIllnessA weakened immune systemUnfortunately, there’s no cure for the herpes virus, but the symptoms can be managed.Symptoms of Cold SoresCold sores don’t just appear out of nowhere. Before the sore is visible, you may notice a tingling or burning sensation around the lips or face, which can occur several days before the sore forms. This is the best time to begin treatment to shorten the outbreak.When a cold sore does appear, it often looks like a red, raised blister filled with fluid. The blister can be painful to touch, and there may be more than one. Cold sores usually last around two weeks and are contagious until they crust over and heal.The Five Stages of a Cold SoreCold sores go through distinct stages as they develop and heal:Tingling and itching: You may feel these symptoms about 24 hours before the blister appears.Blisters: Small, fluid-filled blisters form, typically around the mouth.Bursting: The blisters burst and form painful sores.Scabbing: The sores dry out, scab over, and may itch or crack.Healing: The scab falls off, and the cold sore heals.Risk Factors for Cold SoresCertain factors can trigger the reactivation of HSV, leading to cold sores. These include:Infection, fever, or coldSun exposureStressMenstruationDental work or injuryWeakened immune system due to conditions like HIV/AIDS, eczema, or chemotherapyAnyone who comes in direct contact with the fluid from a cold sore—whether by kissing, sharing utensils, or using personal items like razors or toothbrushes—can contract the virus.Managing and Treating Cold SoresThere’s no cure for cold sores, but several treatments can ease the symptoms and help manage outbreaks.Topical Ointments and CreamsOver-the-counter antiviral creams like docosanol (Abreva) or prescription ointments like penciclovir (Denavir) can help reduce the duration of an outbreak, especially if applied at the first sign of a cold sore.Oral MedicationsPrescription antiviral medications like acyclovir, valacyclovir, and famciclovir can also help, particularly for people who have frequent or severe outbreaks. Your doctor may recommend taking these medications regularly to prevent future outbreaks.Home RemediesThere are also some home remedies that may provide relief, such as:Applying ice or a cold washcloth to the soreUsing aloe vera gel or lemon balm lip balmsApplying petroleum jelly to ease discomfortCanker Sores vs. Cold Sores: What's the Difference?While cold sores and canker sores may seem similar, they are quite different:Cold sores are caused by the herpes virus, appear around the mouth, and are contagious.Canker sores are not contagious and appear as ulcers inside the mouth or throat.Preventing the Spread of Cold SoresTo avoid spreading cold sores:Wash your hands frequentlyAvoid close contact with others during an outbreakDon’t share food, drinks, or personal items like lip balmIf certain triggers, like sun exposure or stress, cause your cold sores to flare up, take preventive steps, such as using sunblock on your lips or practicing stress management techniques like meditation.Cold sores can be a persistent issue, but with proper care and management, you can reduce the frequency of outbreaks and prevent spreading the virus to others.

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In 1998, a mysterious and deadly illness emerged among pig farmers in Malaysia, later identified as the <span>Nipah virus</span> (NiV), a bat-borne zoonotic pathogen from the Henipavirus genus. It caused severe respiratory illness and encephalitis, claiming over 100 lives and decimating the pig farming industry.

The virus reappeared in Singapore in 1999. Over time, it was clear that the outbreaks weren’t isolated events. NiV had entrenched itself across regions with certain ecological and socio-cultural conditions, particularly in South and Southeast Asia.

Today, NiV is considered one of the World Health Organization's priority diseases for research and development due to its high case fatality rate (up to 100% in some outbreaks), human-to-human transmissibility, and pandemic potential.

As of May 2024, there have been 754 confirmed human <span>Nipah</span> cases reported across five countries—Malaysia, Singapore, Bangladesh, India, and the Philippines—with 435 deaths, averaging a staggering case fatality rate (CFR) of 58%

<ul><li>Bangladesh: 341 cases, 241 deaths (CFR 71%)</li><li>India: 102 cases, 74 deaths (CFR 73%)</li><li>Malaysia: 283 cases, 109 deaths (CFR 39%)</li><li>Philippines: 17 cases, 9 deaths (CFR 53%)</li><li>Singapore: 11 cases, 1 death (CFR 9%)</li></ul>

Unlike Malaysia and the Philippines, where the virus spread through intermediate hosts like pigs or horses, cases in Bangladesh and India have been directly linked to bat-to-human transmission—primarily through the consumption of raw date palm sap contaminated by infected fruit <span>bats</span>.

<h5>Fruit Bats Are Permanent Reservoirs</h5>

Nipah virus resides in Pteropus fruit bats, which are widely distributed across Asia, the Pacific Islands, and even parts of Africa. These bats are natural carriers and do not show symptoms of the disease, making them difficult to monitor or control. NiV RNA and antibodies have been found in bats in at least 15 countries, including India, Cambodia, Indonesia, and Ghana.

In regions like Bangladesh, seasonal practices such as collecting fresh date palm sap—a delicacy also consumed raw—provide a direct interface between humans and bat secretions. The virus can contaminate sap through bat saliva or urine.

Moreover, in the Philippines, outbreaks were traced to the butchering and consumption of sick horses. These recurring interactions with potential intermediary hosts keep the door open for viral spillover.

Although not as contagious as influenza or COVID-19, human-to-human transmission of NiV has been confirmed in Bangladesh and India. Some outbreaks have shown vertical transmission (mother to child) and transmission among caregivers and family members.

This capability increases the risk of community spread, particularly in regions with delayed detection or inadequate isolation infrastructure.

Despite being on the global priority pathogen list, there is no licensed vaccine or specific treatment for Nipah. Management remains supportive, relying on early diagnosis and intensive care. In resource-constrained regions, especially rural South Asia, this becomes a daunting challenge.

<h4>Bangladesh and India: The Epicenters of Ongoing Risk</h4>

Since 2001, both Bangladesh and India have reported almost every year either isolated or clustered cases of Nipah virus, particularly in Kerala and West Bengal (India) and multiple districts in Bangladesh.

Notably, 2023 saw Bangladesh’s highest ever reported NiV cases and deaths. In 2024, the country reported two cases—both of which were fatal, marking a 100% CFR for the year

Efforts in both countries have been ramped up. Surveillance now includes:

<ul><li>Testing date palm sap for contamination</li><li>Educating communities to avoid raw consumption</li><li>Quarantining suspected cases</li><li>Expanding diagnostic labs and outbreak response teams</li></ul>

Still, challenges remain due to cultural habits, lack of rapid testing in rural areas, and public fatigue around health advisories.

Though human NiV cases have so far been reported only in Asia, the potential for global spread exists. Several factors fuel this concern:

<strong>Genetic adaptability: </strong>The virus has shown potential for genetic reassortment, raising fears of a more transmissible strain.

<strong>Broad geographic distribution: </strong>NiV-carrying bats exist far beyond the current outbreak zones.

<strong>Environmental change: </strong>Deforestation, land-use changes, and climate shifts are bringing bats closer to human habitats.

<strong>Global travel and trade:</strong> A delayed diagnosis in one international traveler could enable the virus to spread outside endemic zones.

<h5>A Global “One Health” Approach</h5>

The study by Sakirul Khan et al. emphasizes the urgent need for multisectoral collaboration—involving human health, veterinary, and environmental sciences—to monitor and prevent outbreaks

. A “One World, One Health” model is key.

<ul><li>Strengthening high-containment laboratories in risk zones</li><li>Continuous monitoring of viral genetic changes</li><li>Developing and testing vaccines and antiviral therapies</li><li>Investing in bat ecology research and habitat protection</li><li>Community engagement and behavioral change strategies</li></ul>

nipah

health and wellness

health news

NIPAH virus

bats

22 species of bat virus

In 1998, a mysterious and deadly illness emerged among pig farmers in Malaysia, later identified as the Nipah virus (NiV), a bat-borne zoonotic pathogen from the Henipavirus genus. It caused severe respiratory illness and encephalitis, claiming over 100 lives and decimating the pig farming industry.The virus reappeared in Singapore in 1999. Over time, it was clear that the outbreaks weren’t isolated events. NiV had entrenched itself across regions with certain ecological and socio-cultural conditions, particularly in South and Southeast Asia.Today, NiV is considered one of the World Health Organization's priority diseases for research and development due to its high case fatality rate (up to 100% in some outbreaks), human-to-human transmissibility, and pandemic potential.25 Years, 754 Cases, 435 DeathsAs of May 2024, there have been 754 confirmed human Nipah cases reported across five countries—Malaysia, Singapore, Bangladesh, India, and the Philippines—with 435 deaths, averaging a staggering case fatality rate (CFR) of 58%.The most affected countries are:Bangladesh: 341 cases, 241 deaths (CFR 71%)India: 102 cases, 74 deaths (CFR 73%)Malaysia: 283 cases, 109 deaths (CFR 39%)Philippines: 17 cases, 9 deaths (CFR 53%)Singapore: 11 cases, 1 death (CFR 9%)Unlike Malaysia and the Philippines, where the virus spread through intermediate hosts like pigs or horses, cases in Bangladesh and India have been directly linked to bat-to-human transmission—primarily through the consumption of raw date palm sap contaminated by infected fruit bats.Why Does Nipah Still Exist?Fruit Bats Are Permanent ReservoirsNipah virus resides in Pteropus fruit bats, which are widely distributed across Asia, the Pacific Islands, and even parts of Africa. These bats are natural carriers and do not show symptoms of the disease, making them difficult to monitor or control. NiV RNA and antibodies have been found in bats in at least 15 countries, including India, Cambodia, Indonesia, and Ghana.Human Habits Enable SpilloverIn regions like Bangladesh, seasonal practices such as collecting fresh date palm sap—a delicacy also consumed raw—provide a direct interface between humans and bat secretions. The virus can contaminate sap through bat saliva or urine.Moreover, in the Philippines, outbreaks were traced to the butchering and consumption of sick horses. These recurring interactions with potential intermediary hosts keep the door open for viral spillover.Human-to-Human TransmissionAlthough not as contagious as influenza or COVID-19, human-to-human transmission of NiV has been confirmed in Bangladesh and India. Some outbreaks have shown vertical transmission (mother to child) and transmission among caregivers and family members.This capability increases the risk of community spread, particularly in regions with delayed detection or inadequate isolation infrastructure.No Vaccine, No CureDespite being on the global priority pathogen list, there is no licensed vaccine or specific treatment for Nipah. Management remains supportive, relying on early diagnosis and intensive care. In resource-constrained regions, especially rural South Asia, this becomes a daunting challenge.Bangladesh and India: The Epicenters of Ongoing RiskSince 2001, both Bangladesh and India have reported almost every year either isolated or clustered cases of Nipah virus, particularly in Kerala and West Bengal (India) and multiple districts in Bangladesh.Notably, 2023 saw Bangladesh’s highest ever reported NiV cases and deaths. In 2024, the country reported two cases—both of which were fatal, marking a 100% CFR for the year.Efforts in both countries have been ramped up. Surveillance now includes:Testing date palm sap for contaminationEducating communities to avoid raw consumptionQuarantining suspected casesExpanding diagnostic labs and outbreak response teamsStill, challenges remain due to cultural habits, lack of rapid testing in rural areas, and public fatigue around health advisories.The Risk of a Wider SpreadThough human NiV cases have so far been reported only in Asia, the potential for global spread exists. Several factors fuel this concern:Genetic adaptability: The virus has shown potential for genetic reassortment, raising fears of a more transmissible strain.Broad geographic distribution: NiV-carrying bats exist far beyond the current outbreak zones.Environmental change: Deforestation, land-use changes, and climate shifts are bringing bats closer to human habitats.Global travel and trade: A delayed diagnosis in one international traveler could enable the virus to spread outside endemic zones.What Needs to Be Done?A Global “One Health” ApproachThe study by Sakirul Khan et al. emphasizes the urgent need for multisectoral collaboration—involving human health, veterinary, and environmental sciences—to monitor and prevent outbreaks. A “One World, One Health” model is key.Steps must include:Strengthening high-containment laboratories in risk zonesContinuous monitoring of viral genetic changesDeveloping and testing vaccines and antiviral therapiesInvesting in bat ecology research and habitat protectionCommunity engagement and behavioral change strategies

why the nipah virus still persists after 25 years in southeast asia

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Known for her iconic role as Claire in the Modern Family, Julie Bowen who is a versatile American actress, recently spoke about the rare heart condition she's was diagnosed with at 29. 

Speaking about it on the first episode of 'Inside of You' with host Micheal Rosenbaum, Julie revealed her condition 'shy sinus syndrome' that caused her to have a <span>low resting heart rate</span>. She also explained how, due to the condition, she also has had a pacemaker put in place. 

<h2><span rel="noindex">Lifelong Low Heart Rate</span> and a Surprising Diagnosis </h2>

Bowen explained that she has always had a remarkably low resting heart rate, even around 30 beats per minute at times, a significant deviation from the normal range of 60 to 100 beats per minute for women. This was due to <span>sick sinus syndrome</span>, a <span>heart rhythm disorder</span> exacerbated in her case by hypervagotonia, an overactive vagus nerve. Despite being a competitive runner, her low heart rate was a constant, though initially unexplained, characteristic. 

The John Hopkins Medicine explains that sick sinus syndrome (<span>SSS</span>) occurs when your heart's natural pacemaker, the sinoatrial (SA) node in the upper right chamber, becomes damaged and can no longer regulate your heartbeat properly. This damage can result from underlying medical conditions or certain medications, leading to heartbeats that are too slow, too fast, or fluctuate between both extremes. 

You might have SSS with no symptoms at all, or only mild ones. However, if symptoms do appear, they can include: 

<ul><li>Dizziness</li><li>Fainting (syncope)</li><li>Shortness of breath, especially with physical activity</li><li>Heart palpitations (a fluttering or pounding sensation in your chest)</li><li>Chest pain</li></ul>

<h2>How Is Sick Sinus Syndrome Diagnosed? </h2>

The turning point for Julie came thanks to her sister, Annie Luetkemeyer, who had just graduated from medical school. During a family vacation, her sister, still in the habit of carrying a stethoscope, insisted on listening to Bowen's heart. "That is not what they've been telling you, and it's not runner's heart or whatever. That means you need to go to a cardiologist," her sister declared, refusing to let the issue drop 

Your healthcare provider might suspect SSS based on your symptoms, but these symptoms can be common to many other conditions. To confirm a diagnosis, your provider will likely perform an electrocardiogram (ECG), which records your heart's electrical activity, rate, and rhythm. If you're not experiencing symptoms during the ECG, the results may appear normal. Other diagnostic tests that may be used include: 

<strong>Stress test:</strong> An ECG performed while you exercise on a treadmill.

<strong>Holter monitor: </strong>A portable device you wear for over 24 hours to continuously record your heart's electrical activity.

<strong>Event recorder: </strong>A device worn for several days that records your heart rate only when symptoms occur.

<strong>Electrophysiologic testing:</strong> A hospital procedure where catheters are threaded into your heart through a vein in your thigh to study its electrical system.

<strong>Echocardiogram:</strong> An ultrasound of your heart to check for structural problems. 

About a month after her sister's crucial warning, Bowen was filming the pilot for "Ed" when she was faced with the reality of needing a pacemaker. Initially, the news was daunting. "I was like, 'Oh my God. My life is over. This is so weird. I'm gonna die,'" she recalled. However, doctors explained that while the condition wasn't immediately fatal, it would lead to her frequently passing out. 

Bowen described a sensation of lightheadedness, particularly when she was relaxed, feeling "like I'd been holding my breath for a while." The critical warning that solidified her decision was the risk of passing out while driving and potentially harming someone. "Oh, well, then give me the Goddamn pacemaker," she decided. 

Her pacemaker is now set to ensure her heart rate doesn't drop below 45 beats per minute. She shared that the surgical insertion was done discreetly through her armpit, leaving no visible scar. While she's had to have the batteries replaced three times, she largely forgets about it now, a testament to how seamlessly it has integrated into her life. 

While this is one way to treat her condition, here are some other ways your doctor may choose to go about your treatment, 

If certain medications are contributing to your SSS, your healthcare provider may change your prescription. 

Because SSS can increase the risk of blood clots forming in the heart and leading to a stroke, you may be prescribed blood thinners as a preventive measure. 

Heart health

Modern Family Star Julia Bowen

Julia Bowen

Low Resting Heart Rate

Lifelong Low Heart Rate

heart rhythm disorder

Sick Sinus Syndrome

Known for her iconic role as Claire in the Modern Family, Julie Bowen who is a versatile American actress, recently spoke about the rare heart condition she's was diagnosed with at 29. Speaking about it on the first episode of 'Inside of You' with host Micheal Rosenbaum, Julie revealed her condition 'shy sinus syndrome' that caused her to have a low resting heart rate. She also explained how, due to the condition, she also has had a pacemaker put in place. Lifelong Low Heart Rate and a Surprising Diagnosis Bowen explained that she has always had a remarkably low resting heart rate, even around 30 beats per minute at times, a significant deviation from the normal range of 60 to 100 beats per minute for women. This was due to sick sinus syndrome, a heart rhythm disorder exacerbated in her case by hypervagotonia, an overactive vagus nerve. Despite being a competitive runner, her low heart rate was a constant, though initially unexplained, characteristic. The John Hopkins Medicine explains that sick sinus syndrome (SSS) occurs when your heart's natural pacemaker, the sinoatrial (SA) node in the upper right chamber, becomes damaged and can no longer regulate your heartbeat properly. This damage can result from underlying medical conditions or certain medications, leading to heartbeats that are too slow, too fast, or fluctuate between both extremes. Recognizing the Symptoms You might have SSS with no symptoms at all, or only mild ones. However, if symptoms do appear, they can include: DizzinessFainting (syncope)Shortness of breath, especially with physical activityHeart palpitations (a fluttering or pounding sensation in your chest)Chest painHow Is Sick Sinus Syndrome Diagnosed? The turning point for Julie came thanks to her sister, Annie Luetkemeyer, who had just graduated from medical school. During a family vacation, her sister, still in the habit of carrying a stethoscope, insisted on listening to Bowen's heart. "That is not what they've been telling you, and it's not runner's heart or whatever. That means you need to go to a cardiologist," her sister declared, refusing to let the issue drop Your healthcare provider might suspect SSS based on your symptoms, but these symptoms can be common to many other conditions. To confirm a diagnosis, your provider will likely perform an electrocardiogram (ECG), which records your heart's electrical activity, rate, and rhythm. If you're not experiencing symptoms during the ECG, the results may appear normal. Other diagnostic tests that may be used include: Stress test: An ECG performed while you exercise on a treadmill.Holter monitor: A portable device you wear for over 24 hours to continuously record your heart's electrical activity.Event recorder: A device worn for several days that records your heart rate only when symptoms occur.Electrophysiologic testing: A hospital procedure where catheters are threaded into your heart through a vein in your thigh to study its electrical system.Echocardiogram: An ultrasound of your heart to check for structural problems. Treatment Options For SSS About a month after her sister's crucial warning, Bowen was filming the pilot for "Ed" when she was faced with the reality of needing a pacemaker. Initially, the news was daunting. "I was like, 'Oh my God. My life is over. This is so weird. I'm gonna die,'" she recalled. However, doctors explained that while the condition wasn't immediately fatal, it would lead to her frequently passing out. Bowen described a sensation of lightheadedness, particularly when she was relaxed, feeling "like I'd been holding my breath for a while." The critical warning that solidified her decision was the risk of passing out while driving and potentially harming someone. "Oh, well, then give me the Goddamn pacemaker," she decided. Her pacemaker is now set to ensure her heart rate doesn't drop below 45 beats per minute. She shared that the surgical insertion was done discreetly through her armpit, leaving no visible scar. While she's had to have the batteries replaced three times, she largely forgets about it now, a testament to how seamlessly it has integrated into her life. While this is one way to treat her condition, here are some other ways your doctor may choose to go about your treatment, Medication adjustment If certain medications are contributing to your SSS, your healthcare provider may change your prescription. Blood thinners Because SSS can increase the risk of blood clots forming in the heart and leading to a stroke, you may be prescribed blood thinners as a preventive measure. 

Modern Family Star Julie Bowen Shares Her Rare Heart Condition - What Does Having A Low Resting Heart Rate Mean?

modern family star julie bowen shares her rare heart condition - what does having a low resting heart rate mean?

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Alpha-gal syndrome (AGS) is a potentially life-threatening allergy to red meat and other products derived from mammals. Unlike typical food allergies that cause immediate reactions, AGS symptoms can appear several hours after consumption. These range from hives and nausea to anaphylaxis and, in rare cases, heart attacks. The syndrome is triggered by a sugar molecule called galactose-α-1,3-galactose (or alpha-gal), which is introduced into the human body through the bite of a lone star tick.

<h4>Why are lone star ticks spreading?</h4>

Lone star ticks, named for the white dot found on the backs of females, have long been native to the southeastern United States. But in recent years, their range has expanded dramatically — now reaching as far north as Maine and westwards toward the central US. Experts say this is largely due to the warming climate, which has made previously inhospitable regions more suitable for tick survival and reproduction.

This spread is also helped by other factors such as:

<ul><li>Increased deer populations (which host ticks)</li><li>Urban development that pushes human dwellings closer to wild habitats</li><li>Lack of natural barriers, such as mountain ranges, in some regions</li></ul>

The true number of alpha-gal syndrome cases is difficult to determine due to inconsistent data collection and lack of awareness. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has documented about 110,000 cases since 2010, but estimates suggest the actual number could be as high as 450,000. Many people may never realise their allergic reactions are linked to a tick bite.

<h4>What makes these ticks dangerous?</h4>

Lone star ticks are notoriously aggressive. They are capable of detecting humans by sensing heat and carbon dioxide and will actively pursue a host. They can even move quickly over short distances, increasing the chances of biting.

The concept of a “tick bomb” — a cluster of tiny juvenile ticks that swarm over anything they encounter — adds another terrifying element to their behavior.

For those diagnosed with AGS, life can change dramatically. Aside from cutting out red meat (beef, pork, lamb), many patients also have to avoid dairy, gelatin, and even some medications, toothpaste, and medical products derived from mammals. Food choices become limited and dining out risky. In severe cases, even airborne particles from cooking meat can trigger a reaction.

Support groups are growing rapidly, especially in affected regions like Virginia, where community members share coping strategies and advocate for clearer food labelling.

As the climate warms and tick populations expand, AGS may affect millions more. Other tick-borne illnesses like Lyme disease, Babesia, and the deadly Powassan virus are also on the rise.

Yet, despite this growing threat, researchers warn that US funding for tick-borne disease research is shrinking. Experts stress the urgent need for better surveillance, education, and treatment options to confront what could become a nationwide health crisis.

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Alpha-gal syndrome (AGS) is a potentially life-threatening allergy to red meat and other products derived from mammals. Unlike typical food allergies that cause immediate reactions, AGS symptoms can appear several hours after consumption. These range from hives and nausea to anaphylaxis and, in rare cases, heart attacks. The syndrome is triggered by a sugar molecule called galactose-α-1,3-galactose (or alpha-gal), which is introduced into the human body through the bite of a lone star tick.Why are lone star ticks spreading?Lone star ticks, named for the white dot found on the backs of females, have long been native to the southeastern United States. But in recent years, their range has expanded dramatically — now reaching as far north as Maine and westwards toward the central US. Experts say this is largely due to the warming climate, which has made previously inhospitable regions more suitable for tick survival and reproduction.This spread is also helped by other factors such as:Increased deer populations (which host ticks)Urban development that pushes human dwellings closer to wild habitatsLack of natural barriers, such as mountain ranges, in some regionsHow common is AGS?The true number of alpha-gal syndrome cases is difficult to determine due to inconsistent data collection and lack of awareness. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has documented about 110,000 cases since 2010, but estimates suggest the actual number could be as high as 450,000. Many people may never realise their allergic reactions are linked to a tick bite.What makes these ticks dangerous?Lone star ticks are notoriously aggressive. They are capable of detecting humans by sensing heat and carbon dioxide and will actively pursue a host. They can even move quickly over short distances, increasing the chances of biting.The concept of a “tick bomb” — a cluster of tiny juvenile ticks that swarm over anything they encounter — adds another terrifying element to their behavior.Living with alpha-galFor those diagnosed with AGS, life can change dramatically. Aside from cutting out red meat (beef, pork, lamb), many patients also have to avoid dairy, gelatin, and even some medications, toothpaste, and medical products derived from mammals. Food choices become limited and dining out risky. In severe cases, even airborne particles from cooking meat can trigger a reaction.Support groups are growing rapidly, especially in affected regions like Virginia, where community members share coping strategies and advocate for clearer food labelling.What’s next?As the climate warms and tick populations expand, AGS may affect millions more. Other tick-borne illnesses like Lyme disease, Babesia, and the deadly Powassan virus are also on the rise.Yet, despite this growing threat, researchers warn that US funding for tick-borne disease research is shrinking. Experts stress the urgent need for better surveillance, education, and treatment options to confront what could become a nationwide health crisis.

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