A Benin-based pediatrician, Dr Gloria Okoro has advised adults to limit their intake of alcohol in order to avoid `avascular necrosis’.
Okoro gave the advice in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria on Thursday in Benin.
Avascular necrosis is the death of the bone tissue due to a lack of blood supply.
According to her, necrosis is caused by a lack of blood and oxygen to the tissue.
The medical expert added that necrosis occurs when blood flow to the bone was interrupted or reduced.
“It may be triggered by chemicals, cold, trauma, radiation, or chronic conditions that impair blood flow.
“There are many types of necrosis, as it can affect many areas of the body including bone, skin, organs and other tissues,” she said.
Okoro said that a broken bone or dislocated joint could interrupt the blood flow to a section of bone.
She said that avascular necrosis was also associated with long-term use of high-dose steroid medications and excessive alcohol intake.
Okoro said that some people have no symptoms in the early stages of avascular necrosis.
“As the condition worsens, your affected joint might hurt only when you put weight on it. Eventually, you might feel the pain even when lying down.
“Some people develop avascular necrosis on both sides (bilaterally) such as in both hips or in both knees.
“See your doctor if you have persistent pain in any joint. Seek immediate medical attention if you believe you have a broken bone or a dislocated joint,” she said.
Okoro however, said that the solution to the condition include regular exercises and therapy.
NAN
