Association between Smartphone Addiction and Breathing Pattern in Sedentary Young College-Going Students - A Cross-Sectional Study.

BACKGROUND: The number of smartphone users has progressively increased worldwide. Altered biomechanics of the cervicothoracic spine and ribcage could limit the chest wall function that affects the respiratory muscles strength, reducing diaphragm function in smartphone users. This study aimed to compare breathing patterns between smartphone-addicted and -nonaddicted user groups. OBJECTIVE: To find the association between excessive smartphone use and breathing pattern in sedentary young college-going students. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This cross-sectional study includes 230 participants. The participants were screened for the inclusion and exclusion criteria and were asked to fill out a Smartphone Addiction Scale questionnaire. These breathing patterns were then assessed by self-evaluation of breathing questionnaire (SEBQ), manual assessment of respiratory motion (MARM), breath-holding test, and capnography. RESULTS: The correlation of smartphone-addicted and -nonaddicted groups with breathing patterns was performed by Spearman rank correlation. Results show no significant association between the smartphone-nonaddicted and -addicted users. CONCLUSION: This study concluded that excessive smartphone use and breathing patterns are not associated.

Ulnar deviation of the fingers in gout simulating rheumatoid arthritis.

Two cases of gout with marked ulnar deviation (UD) are reported. Both cases were previously diagnosed rheumatoid arthritis (RA) at referral, but gout was clinically suspected because of atypical features of RA, and subsequently confirmed by demonstration of monosodium urate crystals under the polarized microscope. No definitive evidence of associated RA was present in either case. Although UD in gout is distinctly rare, it is important to recognize this deformity in gout in order to avoid inappropriate therapy. Mechanical factors might have contributed to the hand deformities in both cases.

Primary fibromyalgia.

Primary fibromyalgia is a common but often unrecognized rheumatic condition. The typical patient is a young woman who complains of diffuse aches, pains and stiffness in joints and muscles. The symptoms are affected by weather and activities. Patients sleep poorly, feel tired and are often anxious. Physical examination reveals multiple tender points without evidence of arthritis or muscle weakness. Laboratory findings are normal. Management requires a program of patient education and reassurance, analgesics, physical therapy, restful sleep and occasional injection of tender areas with lidocaine. Psychoactive drugs are frequently useful.