health impairment, asthma, leprosy and epilipsy

a simple presentation about health impairment, its causes, and its effect on the victims

1. HEALTH IMPAIRMENT Presented by Group 6

2. 01 02 03 04 TODAY'S AGENDA Health Impairment Leprosy Epilepsy Asthma

3. Overview Affect physical, psychological & social wellbeing. Limit participation in education, work & community life. Focus Leprosy: Infectious; causes skin & nerve damage. Epilepsy: Neurological; recurrent seizures. Asthma: Chronic; breathing difficulties. Core Points Causes: Biological, environmental, infectious. Symptoms: Vary; restrict daily function. Assessment: Medical, psychological & social. Interventions: Medication, therapy, education & support. Conclusion → Integrated care improves quality of life & social inclusion. ABSTRACT

4. Health impairments are major yet often overlooked public and social issues. Impact extends beyond physical health — affecting psychological stability, education, and social inclusion. Leprosy, epilepsy, and asthma present unique medical and societal challenges needing compassionate responses. Key Insight These conditions influence not only health but also dignity, opportunity, and quality of life. INTRODUCTION

5. Causes Leprosy: Infectious agent. Epilepsy: Neurological dysfunction. Asthma: Allergic or environmental triggers. Social Challenges Discrimination, misinformation, and limited healthcare access worsen impacts. Call to Action Adopt multidisciplinary strategies — education, inclusion, and accessible care. Promote medical, psychological, and social interventions. Strengthen inclusive health systems, especially in low-resource settings like Ethiopia. INTRODUCTION

6. 1.HEALTH IMPAIRMENT I. Definition and Overview Health impairment: A condition affecting physical, mental, or emotional functioning, limiting daily participation in learning, work, or social life. May result from chronic illness, injury, congenital defects, or environmental/social factors that reduce health and productivity. Understanding health impairment requires a multidisciplinary approach — combining medical, psychological, social, and policy perspectives to promote overall wellbeing.

7. 1.HEALTH IMPAIRMENT 1.1. Definition and Overview Definitions of health impairment vary across disciplines. Both Disability Studies and Public Health perspectives emphasize inclusion, prevention, and participation. Understanding both views supports comprehensive health and social policy.

8. 1.HEALTH IMPAIRMENT A. Human Rights & Policy Development (Disability Studies) Health impairment is not only medical, but a matter of equality, dignity, and participation. UNCRPD (2006) defines impairment as: “A physical, mental, intellectual, or sensory condition which, in interaction with various barriers, may hinder full and effective participation in society on an equal basis with others.”

9. 1.HEALTH IMPAIRMENT A. Human Rights & Policy Development (Disability Studies) Focuses on interaction between individual and environment, not personal deficiency. Calls for: Reasonable accommodation Accessibility Inclusive policy frameworks Goal: Ensure equal social and economic participation for all (United Nations, 2006).

10. 1.HEALTH IMPAIRMENT B.Public Health Perspective Definition (WHO, 2001): “Any loss or abnormality of psychological, physiological, or anatomical structure or function that affects participation in daily life.” Arises from biological, environmental, or behavioral determinants.

11. 1.HEALTH IMPAIRMENT B.Public Health Perspective Emphasizes prevention & rehabilitation through: Early diagnosis & vaccination Nutrition & environmental safety Health education & community-based rehabilitation Communities play a vital role in reducing incidence and severity.

12. LEPROSY (HANSEN’S DISEASE)

13. Caused by slow-growing bacteria Mycobacterium leprae and Mycobacterium lipomatosis Bacteria multiply slowly and mainly affect nerves, skin, eyes, and nasal lining. Leads to loss of sensation in affected areas → increased risk of cuts, burns, and ulcers 2. LEPROSY 2.1. Definition

14. Curable and difficult to transmit, but stigma remains a major challenge. Individuals often face stigma, isolation, and discrimination, sometimes more harmful than physical symptoms 2. LEPROSY 2.1. Definition

15. Main cause Caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium leprae. Transmission: Spread through airborne droplets from the nose and mouth of untreated individuals. Requires prolonged close contact for infection to occur. 2. LEPROSY 2.2. Causes

16. Susceptibility Factors: Weakened immune system Malnutrition Genetic predisposition Note: Most people have natural immunity, making transmission relatively low. 2. LEPROSY 2.2. Causes

17. Mainly affects the skin and peripheral nerves Its impact goes beyond skin symptoms, often leading to nerve damage, disability, and social stigma if untreated 2. LEPROSY 2.3. Characteristics

18. Skin Lesions: Discoloured, thickened, or reddish patches. Often numb, showing nerve damage beneath the skin. Nerve Injury: Swelling or inflammation of nerves, especially in hands and feet. Causes weakness, paralysis, and loss of muscle function 2. LEPROSY 2.3. Characteristics

19. .Loss of Sensation: Inability to feel pain, temperature, or touch. Increases risk of injuries, infections, and disability. Severe Cases: May cause visible deformities, such as: Facial changes (e.g., loss of eyebrows, collapsed nose). Loss of fingers or toes from secondary infections. 2. LEPROSY 2.3. Characteristics

20. Chronic nerve damage often persists even after cure and may worsen over time. Loss of sensation in hands and feet increases risk of injuries. Psychological issues: Many patients hide diagnosis, leading to depression and social isolation. Neuropathic pain: Tingling, shocks in skin can continue after treatment, impacting quality of life. 2. LEPROSY 2.4. Challenges

21. Leprosy Forms Depend on Immune Response: Tuberculoid Leprosy Few, well-defined skin lesions Strong immune response Localized nerve damage Lepromatous Leprosy Many widespread lesions Weak immune response Severe nerve involvement & possible disfigurement 2. LEPROSY 2.5. Types

22. 3. Borderline Leprosy Features of both tuberculoid and lepromatous types May shift toward either form depending on immune status Summary → Leprosy presents on a spectrum, with severity linked to the strength of the immune system 2. LEPROSY 2.5. Types

23. Skin Symptoms: Discoloured skin patches with raised edges (pale, red, or copper) Thickened, stiff, or swollen skin areas Red or purple nodules and lumps Painless ulcers on soles of feet Loss of eyebrows or eyelashes (hair follicle damage) 2. LEPROSY 2.6. Symptom

24. Nerve Symptoms Numbness or loss of sensation in affected areas Muscle weakness or paralysis, especially in hands and feet Enlarged peripheral nerves near elbows, knees, and neck Eye problems that may cause blindness if untreated 2. LEPROSY 2.6. Symptom

25. Clinical History: Early symptoms (skin patches, numbness), exposure to infected persons. Physical Exam: Check for discoloured lesions, nodules, sensory loss, ulcers (especially on feet). Neurological Evaluation: Test muscle strength and sensory response to assess nerve damage. 2. LEPROSY 2.7. Assessment

26. Laboratory Tests: Skin smears or biopsies to detect Mycobacterium leprae. Classification: Paucibacillary (PB): Low bacterial load, few lesions. Multibacillary (MB): High bacterial load, many lesions. Disability Grading (WHO): Measures nerve damage severity and guides rehabilitation. 2. LEPROSY 2.7. Assessment

27. Medical Intervention Multidrug Therapy (MDT): Rifampicin, clofazimine, dapsone to kill bacteria & prevent resistance. Early diagnosis & follow-up: Reduce nerve damage and deformity. Rehabilitation: Physiotherapy & occupational therapy to restore mobility and prevent disability. 2. LEPROSY 2.8. Intervntion

28. Social Intervention Reduce stigma & promote reintegration through awareness campaigns and advocacy. Community engagement replaces myths with facts. Vocational rehab, family counselling, and support networks empower patients. 2. LEPROSY 2.8. Intervntion

29. Educational Intervention Teach self-care: wound management & hygiene to prevent complications. Community education combats discrimination. Vocational training fosters social inclusion. 2. LEPROSY 2.8. Intervntion

30. Psychological & Emotional Intervention Counselling & cognitive behavioral therapy manage fear, shame, and depression. Peer support groups and family involvement foster belonging and hope. Community-based mental health services support emotional wellbeing. 2. LEPROSY 2.8. Intervention

31. EPILEPSY

32. To understand epilepsy, we must first understand what a seizure is. Seizure: temporary brain function disruption caused by abnormal electrical bursts. About 5% of people experience at least one seizure in their lifetime. 3. EPILEPSY 3.1Introduction to Epilepsy

33. Epilepsy: chronic neurological disorder with recurrent, unprovoked seizures. Caused by abnormal brain electrical activity. - Affects about 1% of the population (over 2 million in the U.S.). 3. EPILEPSY 3.2 What is Epilepsy?

34. Idiopathic: No structural abnormality; hereditary cause (e.g., juvenile myoclonic epilepsy). Symptomatic: Due to identifiable causes like trauma, tumor, infection. Provoked: Triggered by specific factors (e.g., fever, alcohol, stress). Cryptogenic: Cause presumed but not found even after tests. 3. EPILEPSY 3.3 Types of Epilepsy

35. Loss of awareness or consciousness Muscle twitching, stiffness, or rhythmic jerks Warning signs (aura): odd smells, tastes, déjà vu, fear After seizure: confusion, tiredness, headache 3. EPILEPSY 3.4 Characteristics of Epilepsy

36. Uncertainty: can occur anytime, anywhere Drug resistance and side effects Safety risks: falls, injuries, accidents Social stigma: misconceptions, isolation, discrimination 3. EPILEPSY 3.5 Challenges Faced by People with Epilepsy

37. Clinical history: seizure onset, duration, frequency Neurological exam to detect brain dysfunction EEG: detects abnormal brain electrical activity MRI: shows brain structural abnormalities Differential diagnosis and genetic testing when needed 3. EPILEPSY 3.6 Assessment of Epilepsy

38. Counseling for stress, fear, and depression Education to reduce stigma Support groups for sharing experiences Visual idea: People in a support circle or counseling session 3. EPILEPSY 3.7 Psychosocial Interventions

39. Goal: Prevent, manage, and reduce the impact of epilepsy on the individual and family. Medications: Used to control and reduce seizures. Surgery: Considered for drug-resistant epilepsy when medication fails. Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS): Option for patients not responding well to other treatments. Family Education: Provide basic knowledge about epilepsy to reduce fear and misunderstanding. 3. EPILEPSY 3.8 Medical Interventions for Epilepsy

40. Objective: Prevent and manage epilepsy to improve quality of life. Medical Care: Regular follow-up and monitoring of seizure control. Medication Adherence: Encourage consistent use of prescribed drugs. Public Awareness: Educate communities about epilepsy to combat stigma. Supportive Environment: Promote acceptance and understanding in health and community settings. 3. EPILEPSY 3.8 Health Interventions for Epilepsy

41. Aim: Raise awareness and reduce stigma through education. For Individuals: Provide self-management education. Help them understand and embrace their condition. 3. EPILEPSY 3.8 Educational Interventions for Epilepsy

42. ASTHMA

43. Chronic lung disease affecting people of all ages Caused by airway inflammation and muscle tightening Leads to difficulty in breathing One of the most common chronic respiratory diseases worldwide Ongoing condition that requires long-term management 4.1. Definition 4. ASTHMA

44. 4.1.1 What Happens During an Asthma Attack? 4. ASTHMA Asthma is a lifelong disease caused by airway inflammation, making them swollen, narrow, and sensitive. Exposure to triggers causes: Inflammation – Airway walls swell and narrow with inflammatory cells Muscle Tightening – Smooth muscles spasm, quickly narrowing airways Mucus Production – Thick, sticky mucus clogs the narrowed tubes

45. 4.1.1 What Happens During an Asthma Attack? 4. ASTHMA Results in: Wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and persistent cough (often worse at night or early morning) ⚠️ Untreated flare-ups can be life-threatening, but with proper management, people with asthma can lead normal, healthy lives.

46. 4.2. Causes Asthma likely develops from a combination of: Genetics (family history) Environmental exposures Premature birth (before 36 weeks) – a major risk factor Maternal smoking during pregnancy – impairs lung development Poverty – linked to higher exposure and risk 4. ASTHMA

47. 4.2. Causes 4. ASTHMA Common Asthma Triggers: Tobacco smoke Pollen and dust Cold air Strong fragrances Exercise Stress Respiratory infections Air pollution Although the exact cause is unclear, avoiding triggers and early intervention can help manage and reduce asthma symptoms.

48. 4.3. Symptoms Wheezing – a whistling sound while exhaling Shortness of breath – difficulty breathing normally Chest tightness – a feeling of pressure or heaviness Coughing – often worse at night or early morning 4. ASTHMA

49. 4.3. Challenges Patients often face social discrimination and shame. Fear of judgment causes avoidance of inhaler use in public, leading to poor symptom control and treatment adherence. Stigma increases emotional distress, isolation, and anxiety. 4. ASTHMA

50. Asthma has no cure, but it can be effectively controlled. Inhalers are the primary treatment, delivering medication directly to the airways. A. Controller Medications (Preventers) Taken daily to manage chronic inflammation to reduce swelling and sensitivity Essential for long-term asthma control, even when symptoms aren't present B. Reliever Medications (Rescuers) Used as needed for quick relief during flare-ups to relax airway muscles Short-Acting Beta Agonists (SABAs) Provide immediate symptom relief during an asthma attack 4.4. Treatment 4. ASTHMA

51. Doctor gathers detailed symptoms and health history. Key questions: What are your symptoms and when do they occur? Exposure to tobacco smoke, chemicals, dust, or irritants? History of allergies like hay fever? Physical exam: Listen to breathing with a stethoscope (wheezing is a key sign). Examine nose, throat, and upper airways. 4.5. Assessment 4. ASTHMA

52. Allergy tests (skin or blood) identify triggers but don’t diagnose asthma. Diagnosing asthma can be challenging, especially in young children or when other breathing conditions exist. Sometimes, doctors use trial treatments to see what helps manage symptoms. 4.5. Assessment 4. ASTHMA

53. 1. Educational Interventions Teach patients to recognize and manage symptoms. Train on correct inhaler technique with ongoing support. Clarify the difference between controller vs. reliever medications. Emphasize daily use of controllers, even without symptoms. 2. Medical Interventions Focus on achieving optimal pharmacologic control. Use step-up/step-down therapy based on symptom severity. Regularly adjust medication according to guidelines. Develop individualized asthma action plans for attacks. 4.6. Interventions 4. ASTHMA

54. 3. Social Interventions Address environmental and public health risks. Advocate for clean air, reduced traffic emissions, and smoke-free policies. Push for legislation to ban smoking in public and communal housing. Educate the public and policymakers on asthma's environmental triggers. 4. Psychological Interventions Train patients in stress and anxiety management techniques. Address emotional distress from chronic illness. Reduce asthma flare-ups triggered by emotional or mental stress. Support holistic well-being alongside physical treatment. 4.6. Interventions 4. ASTHMA

55. CONCLUSION Health impairment includes physical, mental, and emotional limitations affecting full participation in society. Leprosy, epilepsy, and asthma differ medically but share challenges of stigma, limited healthcare, and social exclusion. Effective management needs a comprehensive, interdisciplinary approach: medical, psychosocial, educational, and community strategies. Policies based on human rights and inclusivity are vital for equitable care and participation. Promoting awareness, early intervention, and rehabilitation improves quality of life and fosters social integration. Aligns with global goals of health equity and disability inclusion.

56. Q&A

57. THANK YOU!