What are nonspecific findings and symptoms? Why are they important in an emerging disease?

Nonspecific findings and symptoms can be caused by a variety of health conditions, so the puzzle of finding their origins can leave people sick but undiagnosed for years or even a lifetime. The existence of nonspecific findings and symptoms highlights the importance of research that advances the ability to diagnose illness quickly and accurately. A… Continue reading What are nonspecific findings and symptoms? Why are they important in an emerging disease?

“Herxing”: Why does it occur?

The Jarisch-Herxheimer reaction (JHR), or “herxing”, was first described by physicians in the late 1800s. Patients who experience this phenomenon report an increase in non-specific symptoms shortly following initiation of antibiotic treatment. These symptoms include chills, fever, headache, and/or intensification of skin rashes. Despite being described more than a century ago, it is still difficult… Continue reading “Herxing”: Why does it occur?