Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor (GIST) – What you should know
Diseases & Conditions

Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor (GIST) – What you should know

Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor (GIST) occurs when the body abnormally grows cells in the gastrointestinal linings. These abnormally growing cells have the potential to develop into cancer and must therefore be treated as early as possible. This type of growth can be observed anywhere along the digestive tract, but it is most commonly observed in the stomach and small intestine. Causes of GIST The abnormal growth of cells associated with GIST is typically observed in special cells in the body known as interstitial cells of Cajal (ICCs). These cells are responsible for regulating the involuntary movements that occur in the gastrointestinal tract. According to certain studies, it is assumed that this abnormality in cells is induced as a result of abnormalities or certain mutations found in the DNA. Such mutations result in the improper behavior of the enzyme tyrosine kinase (KIT). Signs and symptoms of GIST In most cases, this condition goes undiagnosed for a long period of time, as the symptoms aren’t obvious. In certain cases, when the condition progresses, the following symptoms may be observed: Abdominal pain and discomfort Small bumps felt through the skin of the abdomen Nausea and vomiting Fatigue Loss of appetite and feeling full quickly Bowel obstruction Treatment options for GIST Once the condition is diagnosed, the doctors will recommend several treatment options based on its severity.
Polycythemia vera – Causes, symptoms, and remedies
Diseases & Conditions

Polycythemia vera – Causes, symptoms, and remedies

The red blood cells in the blood are made in the bone marrow. The cells contain hemoglobin, a protein that carries oxygen from the lungs to various regions of the body. However, sometimes people may develop a condition called polycythemia vera that causes the bone marrow to create excessive red blood cells. The elevated RBC count thickens the blood, slowing down its flow. While the disease is rare, it may lead to health complications. Causes The exact cause of polycythemia vera is yet to be determined. However, the disease develops when there is a mutation in a gene that may trigger problems in blood cell production. The body usually regulates the quantity of each of the three types of blood cells—red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. However, when one develops polycythemia vera, the bone marrow produces an abnormally large number of these cells. Symptoms Many people with polycythemia vera do not have noticeable symptoms, mainly because the condition progresses gradually. Some vague symptoms caused by the disease are dizziness, fatigue, blurred vision, and headache. However, more specific symptoms include: Numbness, burning or tingling sensation, and weakness in the hands, feet, legs, or arms Itching after a warm bath or shower Unusual bleeding, including bleeding gums or a nosebleed Painful swelling in one of the joints, usually the big toe Feeling full after eating and bloating or pain in the left upper abdomen as a result of an enlarged spleen Difficulty breathing while lying down Shortness of breath Remedies If one is diagnosed with polycythemia vera, the doctor will recommend treatments such as frequent blood withdrawals or prescription options to reduce the number of red blood cells.