Health issues
Center of COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease)
What is COPD? Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a common and potentially fatal respiratory disease that in most cases is linked to smoking.   It is characterised by a permanent and progressive obstruction of the airways that is the result of the combination of two mechanisms, present to varying degrees depending on the patient: Chronic bronchitis: the airways become increasingly narrow due to chronic inflammation Emphysema: the pulmonary alveoli (that part of the lung that enables oxygen to enter the blood) are destroyed progressively . The establishing of an obstructive breathing disorder by spirometry (breathing test) permits a COPD diagnosis.  What are the causes of COPD? Smoking  is the most frequent cause of COPD in developed countries. One in five smokers and a half of all those who smoke at the age of 65 suffer from COPD. Nevertheless, other factors  (environmental, immune and/or genetic) can play a role and render certain subjects  more susceptible to developing COPD. The best known, albeit rare, genetic cause is  alpha-1-antitrypsin deficiency. When to be screened? What are the symptoms? This disease often starts with a cough and bringing up phlegm in the morning. These symptoms are often ignored by the smoker who regards them as “normal” consequences of smoking. Progressively, the sufferer experiences shortness of breath on exertion that can pose a problem in everyday life, causing the patient to move around less and less. This in turn results in a loss of physical fitness that aggravates the shortness of breath.   Early screening for COPD (breathing capacity test) should be carried out for smokers with COPD-like symptoms, such as coughing, persistent bringing up of phlegm and/or shortness of breath and indeed for all smokers aged over 40. COPD care at the Erasmus Hospital Once a diagnosis has been established, the Erasmus Hospital proposes a number of supplementary checks: A thoracic scan to screen for emphysema and suspicious shadows (lung cancer is more common among COPD patients) A heart ultrasound to rule out the presence of a cardiac effect of the lung disease and/or an associated heart disease   An exercise assessment (bicycle ergospirometry and/or walking test) to assess capacity during exercise A blood test to evaluate the degree of inflammation in the blood and to screen for a potential genetic cause (alpha-1-antitrypsin insufficiency) An early and comprehensive blood test is necessary in order to:  Prevent the COPD from progressing Relieve symptoms Improve lung capacity during exercise and quality of life Prevent and treat exacerbations (episodes of aggravated respiratory problems, primarily due to infections) Reduce mortality First-line treatment includes: Stopping smoking.  This is the best way of preventing the disease from developing further. A smokers’ assistance centre (CAF) is available at the Erasmus Hospital    Flu and pneumococcal vaccination, designed to avoid infections that are more often fatal among COPD patients  A pharmacological treatment consisting essentially of bronchodilators Respiratory rehabilitation which consists of a set of care measures (bike/carpet retraining and muscular retraining; nutritional and psychosocial accompaniment; education) given by a multidisciplinary team (doctor, physiotherapist, occupational therapist and others) The administration of oxygen in the long term for severe cases in whom COPD is resulting in respiratory insufficiency   Leading edge treatment In patients with an advanced stage of COPD despite a maximum of care, second-line treatment is proposed at specialised centres such as the Erasmus Hospital:     Interventions to reduce lung volume  (endoscopic or surgical) for patients with severe emphysema: The placing of endobronchial valves  that are positioned in the most damaged  bronchi to prevent the air from entering there, consequently enabling the less damaged zones to benefit from more air Surgery to reduce lung volume that, according to the same principle, removes the least efficient and most diseased zones of the lung to enable the rest of the lung to function better A lung transplant can be envisaged for patients at a terminal stage of COPD aged no more than 65 and with no other major associated illnesses (comorbidities).     Our specialists Services
Center of COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease)
Services
Multidisciplinary Centre for the Evaluation and Treatment of Pain (CMETD)
Under construction The Erasmus Hospital offers this service for the care of our patients. The page is currently being updated. However, you can make an appointment for this service by clicking on "make an appointment".   Please note: The Centre Multidisciplinaire d'Evaluation et de Traitement de la Douleur chronique is a 3rd line centre recognised by the S.P.F Santé Publique. In order to make an appointment, you must have a request for treatment from your general practitioner (1st line) or from your specialist (2nd line). This request must be accompanied by the Erasme Hospital medical questionnaire completed by the doctor and the patient questionnaire intended for you. Together, these documents will enable us to determine which specialist is best suited to treat you. Ask your GP or specialist for more information.
Centre Multidisciplinaire D'Evaluation Et De Traitement De La Douleur Chronique - Erasme
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Centre pluridisciplinaire ambulatoire spécialisé TCA
Image Un centre spécialisé dans les Troubles du Comportement Alimentaire (TCA)Notre centre se distingue par une approche pluridisciplinaire et individualisée, alliant détection précoce, orientation ciblée et soins spécialisés.Nous adoptons une approche globale qui combine des thérapies individuelles, familiales et de groupe. Nous intégrons des méthodes reconnues telles que la Family Based Therapy (FBT) et, prochainement, la Multi Familial Therapy (MFT), tout en offrant des soins diététiques et corporels adaptés.En cas de besoin, une prise en charge intensive peut être proposée.Notre objectif : accompagner patients et familles vers un rétablissement durable grâce à un parcours de soins structuré et coordonné.Fiche santé TCA A Erasme, la prise en charge des TCA s’adresse aux jeunes de 12 à 23 ans présentant des troubles tels que l’anorexie, la boulimie ou l’hyperphagie boulimique.A l’Hôpital des Enfants (HUDERF), la prise en charge des TCA s’adresse aux enfants et adolescents jusque 15 ans, présentant des troubles tels que l’ARFID/trouble alimentaire pédiatrique, l’anorexie, la boulimie ou l’hyperphagie boulimique.%20cpij [dot] psychiatrie [dot] erasme [at] hubruxelles [dot] be (Envoyer un mail)  De manière générale nos consultations s'adressent aux :familles souhaitant un accompagnement global, intégrant les proches comme acteurs clés de la guérison.patients nécessitant une prise en charge personnalisée, adaptée à leurs besoins psychiques et physiques. Nos expertes Pr. Veronique Delvenne, Directrice du service de psychiatrie du bébé, de l’enfant, de l’adolescent et du jeune adulte (H.U.B)Véronique Delvenne, professeure de psychiatrie de l’enfant et de l’adolescent à l’Université libre de Bruxelles (ULB), est une spécialiste reconnue en pédopsychiatrie en Belgique.Membre de l’Académie royale de Médecine de Belgique, elle a concentré ses travaux sur les troubles des conduites alimentaires et sur les enjeux spécifiques de la psychiatrie en âge de transition. Par son expertise et ses recherches, elle contribue à faire évoluer les connaissances et les pratiques dans ces domaines essentiels de la santé mentale. Dr Judith Dereau,  Pédopsychiatre référente de la prise en charge des TCA à l'H.U.BLe Dr Judith Dereau, responsable médicale du Centre ambulatoire TCA de l’H.U.B., s’impose comme une figure incontournable dans le paysage belge francophone des professionnels spécialisés dans les TCA. Experte reconnue, elle partage son expérience et ses connaissances à travers l’animation de séminaires et des interventions régulières lors de congrès.Forte d’une pratique clinique hospitalière et ambulatoire développée depuis 2003, le Dr Dereau met son expérience au service de la formation et de l’innovation des prises en charge. Notre équipe Pédopsychiatres Dr Mouna Al-Husni (HUDERF-Erasme)Pr Véronique Delvenne (HUDERF)Dr Judith Dereau (Erasme)Dr Maria Talib (HUDERF-Erasme) Au niveau somatiqueDr Jean-Charles Preiser (Erasme)Dr Celine Roman PsychologuesMme Christella di FioreMme Silvana Fuso (HUDERF-Erasme)Mme Nadia Ramsis KinésithérapeutesMme Nora El Meziani DiététiciensMme Charlotte Dupont Erasme Medical Center (EMC) Route de Lennik 900 − 1070 Bruxelles Standard EMC +32 (0)2 555 31 11 Secrétariat Pédopsychiatrie +32 (0)2 555 32 96Prendre rendez-vous  Hôpital des Enfants (Huderf) Avenue Jean Joseph Crocq 15 - 1020 BruxellesSecrétariat Pédopsychiatrie: +32 2 477 31 80Prendre Rendez-vous  Service de Psychiatrie du bébé, de l'enfant, de l'adolescent et du jeune adulte
Article
Un centre de référence à Erasme (H.U.B) pour les troubles de l’alimentation (TCA) chez les jeunes
Le service de pédopsychiatrie du H.U.B, actif à la fois sur les sites d’Erasme et de l’Hôpital des Enfants, a été reconnu par l’INAMI comme Centre de Référence Supra-Régional pour les Troubles du comportement alimentaire (TCA) chez les jeunes  de 0 à 23 ans. Troubles du comportement alimentaire chez les jeunes : une prise en charge multidisciplinaire Ce centre innovant offre une approche multidisciplinaire, coordonnée et spécialisée pour les jeunes souffrant d’anorexie, de boulimie ou d’hyperphagie boulimique, tout en assurant un accompagnement renforcé des familles.Dans cette interview, découvrez les spécificités de ce nouveau centre, les bénéfices pour les patients, et les ambitions portées par les équipes du H.U.B. (Hôpital Erasme et Hôpital des Enfants) Notre centre prend en charge toutes les tranches d’âge, du bébé jusqu’à 23 ans, avec une approche multidisciplinaire, adaptée à chaque situation Judith DEREAU Pédopsychiatre, Responsable médicale du Centre ambulatoire TCA (H.U.B) 1. En quoi le Centre TCA que vous dirigez se distingue-t-il dans la prise en charge des troubles du comportement alimentaire chez les jeunes ?Notre centre a la spécificité de prendre en charge toutes les tranches d’âge, du bébé jusqu’à l’âge de transition (23 ans), avec une longue expérience, tant au niveau de la prise en charge somatique des cas graves que psychiatrique. Nous proposons des soins adaptés à chaque situation : consultations spécialisées multidisciplinaires (avec pluralisme des approches, dont la Family-Based Therapy (FBT) et la thérapie multifamilles), ambulatoire intensif, hospitalisations de jour pour les plus jeunes, hospitalisations complètes… y compris pour les formes atypiques comme l’ARFID, qui est un trouble de l'alimentation sélective sans préoccupation du poids ou de l'image corporelle.2. Quelle est la plus-value du trajet de soins mis en place par l’INAMI pour les patients et leurs familles ?La mise en place du "trajet de soins TCA" il y a un an a permis d'offrir aux patients et aux familles une prise en charge plus lisible, coordonnée et mieux soutenue. Cela a renforcé l’accès aux soins et valorisé le travail en réseau. L'INAMI, qui a aussi prévu un soutien régional avec l’extension de l'offre de soins (équipes ambulatoires de soutien de la première ligne et équipes de traitement à temps partiel), vient maintenant compléter ces dispositifs par des centres suprarégionaux, qui seront tant au service des patients et de leurs familles que des professionnels de 1ère et 2ème ligne pour les trajets de soins complexes.3. Que signifie concrètement pour votre équipe d’être reconnue comme centre de référence suprarégional ?C’est une reconnaissance précieuse de notre expertise. Cela va permettre de clarifier les niveaux d'intervention, de donner une visibilité accrue à notre travail et de développer encore notre offre, pour mieux répondre aux besoins des jeunes, de leurs familles et des professionnels qui le demandent. Avec la désignation du centre, nous allons pouvoir renforcer l'équipe avec l'engagement de collègues.4. Quelles sont les prochaines étapes ou ambitions pour ce centre dans les années à venir ?Nous voulons contribuer à améliorer le travail en réseau, la concertation indispensable et la formation des professionnels prenant en charge les troubles des conduites alimentaires, soutenir les collègues au-delà de Bruxelles, et étoffer l'offre de soins, entre autres en y intégrant des pair-aidants dans nos dispositifs.Infos H.U.B : Centre de Référence Supra-Régional pour les Troubles du comportement alimentaire (TCA) chez les jeunes Pédopsychiatrie - Psychiatrie du bébé, de l'enfant, de l'adolescent et du jeune adulte | Hôpital Erasme  Liens: Convention INAMIBruxelles https://tca-bru.be/BWhttp://www.archipelbw.be/initiatives/trajet-de-soins-tca-et-equipe-emas/Luxembourghttps://matilda-lux.be/trajet-de-soins-tca-troubles-des-conduites-alimentaires/Liègehttps://realism0-18.be/trajet-tca/Hainauthttps://www.rheseau.be/___-emas/
Health issues
Cephalalgia (headache)
Definition Cephalalgia is the medical term describing pain in the head. It is a pain felt in the head, jaw, or upper neck. They can be occasional or recurrent, mild or very intense, and affect different areas (forehead, temples, back of the head…).Headaches are not a disease in themselves: they are a symptom that may occur in many situations such as fatigue or stress, or may reflect a more specific neurological condition. Symptoms Symptoms vary depending on the type:Tension-type headache• Sensation of pressure, tightness, or a band around the head• Continuous pain, mild to moderate• Rarely associated symptoms• Often linked to stress, fatigue, or poor postureMigraineMigraine is a specific type of headache, often more severe. It is not just a bad headache: it is a neurological disorder with specific features (ICHD3 criteria):• Pulsating pain, often on one side• Duration of 4 to 72 hours without effective treatment• Sensitivity to light, sound, or smells• Nausea or vomiting• Sometimes preceded by visual, sensory, or motor disturbances called “aura”Migraine is therefore a specific type of headache requiring tailored management.Other types of headachesLess common types include trigeminal neuralgia, cluster headaches, paroxysmal hemicrania, medication-overuse headaches, and secondary headaches due to underlying conditions. Prevalence (Belgium) Headaches are very common:Most adults experience at least one headache per yearAbout 20% of adults report migraines yearly in BelgiumWomen are more affected than menMigraines and tension headaches are the most common Medical care Management depends on the type of headache, its frequency, its intensity, and its impact on daily life. It is based on:An accurate diagnosisIdentification of triggering factorsAn appropriate treatment planPrevention of recurrenceDiagnosisDiagnosis is mainly based on:Medical consultation: description of the pain, frequency, duration, and associated symptomsClinical (neurological) examinationInternational diagnostic criteria (e.g. number of attacks, duration, associated signs, etc.)In most cases of primary headaches (such as migraine or tension-type headache), no additional tests (CT scan, MRI) are required as a first-line approach.Treatment – Acute PhaseObjective: to relieve the attack when it occursFor tension-type headaches:Rest and hydrationSimple analgesics (paracetamol, ibuprofen, according to medical advice)For migraine:Specific treatment to be taken at the first signsMedications such as triptans, sometimes prescribed by a doctor depending on the situationAnti-nausea medication if nausea is presentTreatment taken too late or too frequently may sometimes worsen headaches (rebound effect).Chronic Treatment / Follow-upIf you experience frequent or disabling headaches:Keep a headache diary (date, duration, etc.)Regular medical evaluation with your general practitioner and follow-up with a neurologist if necessaryPrevention with:Lifestyle modifications (sleep, hydration, stress)Preventive medications (by prescription)Complementary techniques (physiotherapy, stress management, relaxation, physical activity, etc.)For chronic or severe migraine, specific preventive treatments may be proposed. For these, it is necessary to complete and keep headache calendars throughout the course of the condition. FAQ 1. What is a cephalalgia (headache)? A cephalalgia, also called a headache, is pain felt in the head or neck. There are different types of headaches, the most common being tension-type headache and migraine. 2. What is the difference between a headache and a migraine? Migraine is a specific type of headache. It is characterized by:Pulsating pain ("beating"), often on one side of the headModerate to severe intensityAssociated symptoms (nausea, aura, etc.)Migraines are a type of headache, but not all headaches are migraines. 3. What are the most common causes of headaches? The most frequent causes include:Stress and fatigueLack of sleepDehydrationMuscle tension in the neck, shoulders, and scalpMigraineIn most cases, headaches are not linked to a serious illness. 4. When should I see a doctor for headaches? It is recommended to consult a doctor if:Headaches are frequent or worseningPain is unusual or very severeHeadaches interfere with daily lifeUsual medication is no longer effectiveYour primary care doctor recommends specialist advice 5. What are warning signs of a serious headache? Seek urgent medical attention if the headache:Appears suddenly and is very severeIs accompanied by fever, stiff neck, or confusionIs associated with unusual neurological symptoms (vision, speech, weakness)These situations are rare but require prompt evaluation. 6. Can stress cause chronic headaches? Yes. Stress is a major trigger for tension-type headaches and can worsen migraines. Prolonged exposure to stress can lead to recurrent or chronic headaches. 7. Can painkillers cause headaches? Yes. Taking painkillers too frequently can cause medication-overuse headaches, with almost daily pain. Medical advice is recommended if treatment is taken multiple times per week or more than 10 days per month. 8. Do I need a CT scan or MRI for headaches? In most cases, imaging is not necessary. A CT scan or MRI is only recommended in specific situations, based on medical evaluation, for example when warning signs are present. 9. Is migraine a chronic disease? Migraine is a chronic neurological condition that occurs in attacks. It can be managed with appropriate treatment and regular medical follow-up. Migraine may improve or worsen over a person’s lifetime. 10. How can I prevent headaches and migraines? Prevention involves:Regular sleepAdequate hydrationStress managementIdentifying triggersPreventive treatment if necessaryMedical follow-up allows management to be adjusted as needed. 11. Who should I consult for repeated headaches? For frequent headaches, it is recommended to:First consult your general practitionerSee a neurologist if necessary, based on your doctor’s adviceErasmus Hospital (H.U.B.) offers specialized care for headaches and migraines. SecMed [dot] Neuro [dot] erasme [at] hubruxelles [dot] be (Make an appointment). Useful Resources and Links For more information or support: Belgian Headache League – information, peer support, and patient resources (FR) Headache Calendar (document to download and complete) FR
Cephalalgia (headache)
Health issues
Cerebrovascular accident
What is a stroke ? Stroke is a serious condition that occurs when the blood supply to a part of the brain is cut off. The stroke can cause a sudden loss of brain function and symptoms such as muscular weakness and speech, vision and balance problems. It is essential to respond rapidly to stroke symptoms as every minute counts in minimising brain damage and possibly saving lives. It is therefore essential to know the common signs of a stroke and to dial 112 immediately in the event of a suspected stroke.  Care Time is of the essence when treating a stroke and TIA (transient ischemic attack). This is why the Erasmus Hospital offers a specific care pathway for these patients on arrival at the Emergency Department or on hospitalisation. This pathway is  provided by a team of stroke specialists: a neurologist available on site 24/7, 6 vascular neurologists, 6 interventional neuroradiologists, specialised paramedics and    two operating theatres dedicated solely to surgery following brain damage. This exceptionally rapid intervention enables our multidisciplinary team to minimise brain damage to patients and to optimise their prospects of long-term recovery.  
Cerebrovascular accident
Information
Check your insurance papers
Normally, the greater part of your hospitalisation costs will be paid by your mutual health insurance, provided your payments are up to date.  If a hospitalisation is scheduled we advise you to contact your insurer (other than the mutual) to find out more about what is covered.   If your compulsory health insurance is not in order or you do not have Belgian nationality, unless you can show proof that the costs are covered you will have to pay the full amount of the medical costs. You will receive an estimate of the expected costs prior to your hospitalisation and will be asked to make payment before admission. This does not apply in the case of a medical emergency.  The choice of room you make at the time of admission will determine the rate.  You have two choices: A shared room or a single room. A single room is a private room in which you will be alone. Choosing for such a room necessarily brings additional costs.  Please note: If documents (certificates, medical testimonials, private insurance documents, etc.) have to be filled out by the unit doctor, please submit these to the medical secretariat at the beginning of your hospital stay so that they can be ready on the day of your discharge at the latest. Prepare your papers before hospitalisation