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Hek4te 𖀓 COMMS OPEN
@hek4te.bsky.social
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21 || occasionally I draw gay people || MDNI || https://ko-fi.com/hek4te
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hek4te.bsky.social
Hek4te 𖀓 COMMS OPEN @hek4te.bsky.social Β· Oct 28
Commissions are officially OPEN again ✨

I have five slots open!
hek4te.bsky.social
she needs to pee in haste
January 24, 2026 at 5:18 AM
hek4te.bsky.social
Pregnant fem #Jayce

#fanart #jayvik
A pregnant female Jayce Talis. She poses for the photo supporting her head on one hand and the other is on her belly, which is in full display. She wears a green top and light blue jeans. Her hair is long and loose. She sits in a brownish-red couch and she’s asking a fem!Viktor outside of the screen: β€œDid you take the picture already? Because your β€˜dream’ is making a trampoline out of my bladder.”
January 24, 2026 at 4:47 AM
hek4te.bsky.social
+ And from poorer areas.
Considering the place Viktor lived, it’s not far fetched to believe he had it as a child and had a latent bout of it as an adult
December 29, 2025 at 6:11 PM
hek4te.bsky.social
I did not include it simply because it’s usually the go-to condition anyways, I preferred to shed light into conditions that are less known but match better since Lung Cancer can happen for genetic reasons too.
Like I said in the slides, Tuberculosis attack people with weak immune systems
December 29, 2025 at 6:10 PM
hek4te.bsky.social
I wanted to thank everyone who sent me a tip! Hope you guys know this is extremely helpful and valuable to me, no matter the amount! Thank you thank you thank you! πŸ’•πŸ’•πŸ’•πŸ’•πŸ’•
hek4te.bsky.social Hek4te 𖀓 COMMS OPEN @hek4te.bsky.social Β· Dec 27
This thread was very tricky too make and it took me a long time to get all the information together in one place, so if you feel it in your heart to tip me, I’d be most grateful β˜ΊοΈπŸ’•

ko-fi.com/hek4te
Buy hek4te a Coffee
Become a supporter of hek4te today!
ko-fi.com
December 29, 2025 at 5:00 PM
hek4te.bsky.social
I’m currently travelling so I can’t reply properly but, here’s a blog explaining the why quite accurately

www.disabilitycreations.com/blogs/all-ab...
Do Not Say Handicap
I first learned about the term "handicap" was at school in 6 grade. It was for our weekly spelling test. Soon after, the bell rang for recess. I went to my favorite spot, the swings. I was happy swing...
www.disabilitycreations.com
December 28, 2025 at 5:35 AM
hek4te.bsky.social
Small correction of a mistake I just caught: The AFOs would be used on Viktor’s LEFT leg.
hek4te.bsky.social Hek4te 𖀓 COMMS OPEN @hek4te.bsky.social Β· Dec 27
> Hip-Knee-Ankle-Foot Orthotic (HKAFO)

> Knee-Ankle-Foot Orthotic (KAFO)

> Ankle-Foot Orthotic (AFO)

> Compression Sleeves and Knee Braces
Hip-Knee-Ankle-Foot Orthosis (HKAFO) Hip-knee-ankle-foot orthosis (HKAFOs) are complex orthoses which control the joints of the lower limb, pelvis and spine. With an HKAFO, the hip, knee and ankle are all locked or rigid, making it a static device. The HKAFO aims to provide support for the trunk and lower limbs. Patients who would use an HKAFO are typically wheelchair users and are unable to walk without these devices. HKAFOs will usually be used by people with Paraplegia, Neural-Tube Defects or, in Viktor’s case, it would be better suited for Femoral Anteversion (if that’s the path you wanna follow). As a toddler/child, Viktor would’ve probably worn a Derotation Orthosis targeting specifically the rotation of his hip due to it. Advantages: - Standing/walking; - Control of joints; - Avoids contractures; - Aids in bone density; - Weight control/fitness; Knee-Ankle-Foot Orthosis (KAFO) Knee-ankle-foot orthoses (KAFOs) are used for stance control. These types of orthoses are generally prescribed for the following reasons: instability of the knee, muscle weakness at the ankle / knee / hip, knee contracture, knee hyperextension, provide foot and ankle control, and to provide some hip support. KAFOs are the most likely orthotics that Viktor would use on his right leg. It’s valid to point out that the foot part goes INSIDE the shoe, not on the outside. Brands like Billy Footwear came out with adaptive shoes specifically to fit around the orthosis. There are different types of KAFOs: One-piece KAFO - No moving parts; - Straight leg in walking; - Passive device; - Typically used for contracture control or as a night splint; Jointed Non-Weight Bearing KAFOs Used for knee instability when the knee moves into flexion, hyperextension, varus or valgus. This device might be prescribed for: Post-Polio Syndrome, nerve damage, knee instability and Neural-Tube defect. Jointed Weight Bearing KAFOs Weight-bearing KAFOs are used to provide hip and knee support. They generally have locking knee joints and have an ischial seat for weight-bearing, thus accommodating weakness in the hip abductor muscles. This type of KAFO is commonly used for: Post-Polio Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy Trendelenburg gait, Neural-Tube Defect and Arthrogryposis. Ankle-Foot Orthosis (AFO) An Ankle-Foot Orthosis (AFO) is a specific type of assistive device that, as its name suggests, covers the foot and ankle. There are three main types of AFOs: flexible, rigid and jointed. Like KAFOs, there are different types of AFOs: Flexible AFOs Has a certain amount of flexibility around the ankle area. This is achieved by cutting away part of the device around the ankle, reducing the surface area. Useful for patients who have uncontrolled movement in the ankle joint with good mediolateral stability. This orthosis allows for a more natural gait pattern. Commonly used for: Foot drop (Mild to moderate), nerve injury/disfunction. Rigid AFOs A rigid AFO allows no movement. They are often used in more severe situations and in conditions with some mediolateral instability. It is commonly used for: Foot drop (severe), Brain Injury, Cerebral Palsy, Spinal Cord Injury, Nerve Damage, Muscular Dystrophy, and Instability. Jointed AFOs Made with a moving part, or joint, which hinges at the ankle joint. It is designed to allow motion at the ankle joint, but still offers the correction. Commonly used for: Foot drop (mild to moderate), Diplegic or Hemiplegic Cerebral Palsy, Hypotonia, Hypertonia, Nerve Damage. It is likely that Viktor would use this orthotic (flexible or jointed) on his right leg for support and to avoid injury from compensating for his other leg. Compression Sleeves and Knee Braces What does a knee compression sleeve do? Compression knee sleeves are worn to provide warmth, increase blood flow, and enhance proprioception (joint awareness). They are primarily used to reduce swelling, alleviate mild-to-moderate knee pain, and support the joint during activities like weightlifting, running, and daily exercise. What does a knee brace do? A knee brace supports your knee and holds it in place. It keeps your knee in alignment. These braces help you to avoid putting too much stress on your knee joint. It keeps your knee from moving too far or too suddenly. How much resistance and support a brace gives depends on which type you need. Why shouldn’t you draw Viktor with these? Although knee sleeves can be useful for athletes, and knee braces are used for knee related injuries or conditions like Ehlers Danlo’s Syndrome, both of them fail to address the underlying cause of Viktor’s mobility issues β€” neurological spasticity, muscle imbalance, spinal curvature, muscle atrophy, etc β€” rather than simple joint instability. While sleeves provide compression, they do not reduce muscular spasticity or correct fixed needs. Knee braces would fail to support Viktor’s hip, ankle and foot, which also need support.
December 27, 2025 at 4:52 AM
hek4te.bsky.social
Thank you so much for the words (and the donation, I received it and I’m trying not to cry lmao) πŸ’•πŸ’•πŸ’•πŸ’•
December 27, 2025 at 3:22 AM
hek4te.bsky.social
Thank you everyone for reading this far! πŸ’•

|| End of Thread
December 27, 2025 at 12:33 AM
hek4te.bsky.social
But in case you feel uncomfortable, here’s also a link for donating to a Brazilian Institution for people with disabilities! Their idea is to support disabled folk to have an independent life.

asidbrasil.org.br/doe/
LP - Campanha Habilite um Futuro β€’ ASID BRASIL
A ASID Brasil Γ© especialista em metodologias e conteΓΊdos para fortalecer pautas de diversidade e inclusΓ£o. Acesse o blog e confira!
asidbrasil.org.br
December 27, 2025 at 12:33 AM
hek4te.bsky.social
This thread was very tricky too make and it took me a long time to get all the information together in one place, so if you feel it in your heart to tip me, I’d be most grateful β˜ΊοΈπŸ’•

ko-fi.com/hek4te
Buy hek4te a Coffee
Become a supporter of hek4te today!
ko-fi.com
December 27, 2025 at 12:33 AM
hek4te.bsky.social
I’d also like to thank @masterchalk.bsky.social and @ainjeru.bsky.social for their help in making this thread. I could not have done it without the two of you and I appreciate the help immensely!
December 27, 2025 at 12:33 AM
hek4te.bsky.social
It is valid to point out words that you guys should avoid when writing Viktor, such as:

β€’ Handicapped
β€’ Crippled
β€’ Prison
β€’ Broken body
β€’ Wheelchair bound (Wheelchairs offer freedom, it is not a prison)
β€’ Differently abled
December 27, 2025 at 12:33 AM
hek4te.bsky.social
Disclaimer NΒ°2
Disclaimer NΒ° 2 Although a great representation of disability, Viktor’s design was very much thought out with the steampunk aesthetic in mind, so a lot of it does not make much sense in the real world. A few things to point out is: You don’t use orthotics on top of orthotics and there isn’t any surgery that would warrant Viktor having pins and screws outside of his leg if he did not have any fracture of the bone. Just the outer brace he wears should’ve sufficed. The surgery he’s had in his back is most likely a spinal fusion, however, bolts are never outside the body. Bolts, pins, and any other surgical material being outside of the body through stomas are always at an extreme risk of infection/sepsis, which is heightened considering it is localised on his spine, which could lead even to paralysis due to the infection. And lastly: When you have a spinal surgery, you usually do use a back brace for support, but only up to 6 months. This is, until the spine heals. Viktor’s use of a back brace even after surgery doesn’t make a lot of sense. The reason they’ve done this is unknown but my theory is it was to showcase just how severe Viktor’s disabilities were.
December 27, 2025 at 12:33 AM
hek4te.bsky.social
> Boston Brace

> Milwaukee Brace
Boston Brace The Boston brace, a type of thoraco-lumbo-sacral-orthosis (TLSO), is a back brace used primarily for the treatment of idiopathic scoliosis by applying pressure to the spine's curved side to slow its progression and achieve a stable spine in adulthood. How it works: The brace is custom-fitted, made from a scan or a cast, and strategically placed pads to apply pressure on the "convex" (bulging) side of the spinal curve, while relief areas are created on the "concave" side, forcing the spine into a straighter position. It is worn with a seamless undershirt and underwear underneath for skin protection, with the brace worn under clothing. In teens, bracing stops the curve from worsening as they grow; in adults, it’s all about support, pain management, and preventing further degeneration since growth has stopped. Milwaukee Brace The Milwaukee brace, also known as a cervico-thoraco-lumbo-sacral orthosis or CTLSO, is a back brace most often used in the treatment of spinal curvatures, such as scoliosis or kyphosis, in children but also in adults to prevent collapse of the spine and associated pain and curvature. This brace is normally used with growing adolescents to hold the advancing curve, although it has also been used successfully in adults to prevent further collapse or curvature of the spine. The brace is intended to minimize the progression of the curvature to an acceptable level. If, despite the brace, curve progression is evident, surgery may be required. Adults with a collapsing and/or developing spinal curvature are advised to wear the brace for a minimum of 20 hours per day. Under the text on the left there is a picture of an Older and original model of a Milwaukee Brace. On the right there is a modern alternative (KyphoBrace).
December 27, 2025 at 12:33 AM
hek4te.bsky.social
β€’ || Back Braces
Beige toned image that reads: Back braces β€œBack” is highlighted.
December 27, 2025 at 12:33 AM
hek4te.bsky.social
> Hip-Knee-Ankle-Foot Orthotic (HKAFO)

> Knee-Ankle-Foot Orthotic (KAFO)

> Ankle-Foot Orthotic (AFO)

> Compression Sleeves and Knee Braces
Hip-Knee-Ankle-Foot Orthosis (HKAFO) Hip-knee-ankle-foot orthosis (HKAFOs) are complex orthoses which control the joints of the lower limb, pelvis and spine. With an HKAFO, the hip, knee and ankle are all locked or rigid, making it a static device. The HKAFO aims to provide support for the trunk and lower limbs. Patients who would use an HKAFO are typically wheelchair users and are unable to walk without these devices. HKAFOs will usually be used by people with Paraplegia, Neural-Tube Defects or, in Viktor’s case, it would be better suited for Femoral Anteversion (if that’s the path you wanna follow). As a toddler/child, Viktor would’ve probably worn a Derotation Orthosis targeting specifically the rotation of his hip due to it. Advantages: - Standing/walking; - Control of joints; - Avoids contractures; - Aids in bone density; - Weight control/fitness; Knee-Ankle-Foot Orthosis (KAFO) Knee-ankle-foot orthoses (KAFOs) are used for stance control. These types of orthoses are generally prescribed for the following reasons: instability of the knee, muscle weakness at the ankle / knee / hip, knee contracture, knee hyperextension, provide foot and ankle control, and to provide some hip support. KAFOs are the most likely orthotics that Viktor would use on his right leg. It’s valid to point out that the foot part goes INSIDE the shoe, not on the outside. Brands like Billy Footwear came out with adaptive shoes specifically to fit around the orthosis. There are different types of KAFOs: One-piece KAFO - No moving parts; - Straight leg in walking; - Passive device; - Typically used for contracture control or as a night splint; Jointed Non-Weight Bearing KAFOs Used for knee instability when the knee moves into flexion, hyperextension, varus or valgus. This device might be prescribed for: Post-Polio Syndrome, nerve damage, knee instability and Neural-Tube defect. Jointed Weight Bearing KAFOs Weight-bearing KAFOs are used to provide hip and knee support. They generally have locking knee joints and have an ischial seat for weight-bearing, thus accommodating weakness in the hip abductor muscles. This type of KAFO is commonly used for: Post-Polio Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy Trendelenburg gait, Neural-Tube Defect and Arthrogryposis. Ankle-Foot Orthosis (AFO) An Ankle-Foot Orthosis (AFO) is a specific type of assistive device that, as its name suggests, covers the foot and ankle. There are three main types of AFOs: flexible, rigid and jointed. Like KAFOs, there are different types of AFOs: Flexible AFOs Has a certain amount of flexibility around the ankle area. This is achieved by cutting away part of the device around the ankle, reducing the surface area. Useful for patients who have uncontrolled movement in the ankle joint with good mediolateral stability. This orthosis allows for a more natural gait pattern. Commonly used for: Foot drop (Mild to moderate), nerve injury/disfunction. Rigid AFOs A rigid AFO allows no movement. They are often used in more severe situations and in conditions with some mediolateral instability. It is commonly used for: Foot drop (severe), Brain Injury, Cerebral Palsy, Spinal Cord Injury, Nerve Damage, Muscular Dystrophy, and Instability. Jointed AFOs Made with a moving part, or joint, which hinges at the ankle joint. It is designed to allow motion at the ankle joint, but still offers the correction. Commonly used for: Foot drop (mild to moderate), Diplegic or Hemiplegic Cerebral Palsy, Hypotonia, Hypertonia, Nerve Damage. It is likely that Viktor would use this orthotic (flexible or jointed) on his right leg for support and to avoid injury from compensating for his other leg. Compression Sleeves and Knee Braces What does a knee compression sleeve do? Compression knee sleeves are worn to provide warmth, increase blood flow, and enhance proprioception (joint awareness). They are primarily used to reduce swelling, alleviate mild-to-moderate knee pain, and support the joint during activities like weightlifting, running, and daily exercise. What does a knee brace do? A knee brace supports your knee and holds it in place. It keeps your knee in alignment. These braces help you to avoid putting too much stress on your knee joint. It keeps your knee from moving too far or too suddenly. How much resistance and support a brace gives depends on which type you need. Why shouldn’t you draw Viktor with these? Although knee sleeves can be useful for athletes, and knee braces are used for knee related injuries or conditions like Ehlers Danlo’s Syndrome, both of them fail to address the underlying cause of Viktor’s mobility issues β€” neurological spasticity, muscle imbalance, spinal curvature, muscle atrophy, etc β€” rather than simple joint instability. While sleeves provide compression, they do not reduce muscular spasticity or correct fixed needs. Knee braces would fail to support Viktor’s hip, ankle and foot, which also need support.
December 27, 2025 at 12:33 AM
hek4te.bsky.social
β€’ || Leg Braces

> What to use X What to not use
Beige toned image that reads: Leg braces β€œLeg” is highlighted On the left there is written β€œUse” in green, and under it three images of custom made leg orthotics. Under the images it reads: Custom orthotics, made to measure and specific needs There is an β€œX” right in the middle between images. On the right there is written β€œDon’t use” in red, and under it four images of bad examples of braces. Under the images it reads: Made in bulk to be sold in websites like Temu or Aliexpress, poorly done.
December 27, 2025 at 12:33 AM
hek4te.bsky.social
> Wheelchairs
Wheelchairs Image of an Active Manual Wheelchair on the left and of a Powered Wheelchair on the right. Bellow the images, it reads: Which is best for what? There is an β€œX” right in the middle between images. Active Manual Wheelchair (Image of a manual wheelchair on the right) A manual wheelchair is designed to be propelled by the user. It features large rear wheels and smaller front casters, which allow for manual navigation. They are typically lightweight and can be easily folded for transport and storage. Due to being simpler than a power chair, these can be a slightly cheaper solution for people with disabilities. A manual wheelchair demands significant upper body strength and stamina, as users must propel themselves by pushing the wheel rims. This can be strenuous, especially over long distances or uneven terrain. Manual wheelchairs are generally more maneuverable in tight or confined spaces due to their smaller size and lightweight construction. They are ideal for indoor use, where frequent turning is required. However, manual wheelchairs can be challenging to use on uneven surfaces or steep inclines. Advantages: - Portability and storage: Most manual wheelchairs are foldable, making them easy to store and transport; - Cost-Effective: Generally less expensive than power wheelchairs; - Independence: Allows for full control over one’s movement, allowing for a greater sense of independence. Disadvantages: - Physical Strain: The physical effort can be particularly taxing for individuals with limited strength or stamina, potentially limiting their mobility and independence. - Limited Travel Range: Users may find it difficult to cover extensive distances without experiencing fatigue. Viktor would most likely use this chair indoors due to it being smaller and due to him not having to exert himself as much, avoiding respiratory and physical complications. Powered Wheelchair (Image of a power chair on the lower left corner) A powered wheelchair is a motorized mobility aid powered by batteries and operated with a joystick or similar control mechanism. This chair provides more mobility without the need for physical exertion, making it particularly suitable for individuals with limited upper body strength, fatigue or severe physical impairments. Power wheelchairs come equipped with various advanced features such as adjustable seating positions, programmable controls, and different driving modes for diverse environments. A powered wheelchair requires minimal physical effort. The person can navigate with ease using a joystick or other control inputs, which is especially beneficial for individuals with reduced hand or arm strength. Powered wheelchairs are designed to handle a wide range of terrains. Many models come with robust suspension systems and powerful motors that make outdoor navigation and climbing inclines much more manageable. Viktor would use this chair for outings, since it would allow him to conserve energy and thread rough terrain without strain. Advantages: - Ease of Use: Requires minimal effort to operate, making them ideal for users with limited upper body strength or stamina; - Advanced Features and Customisation: Some come equipped with features that enhance comfort and safety, allowing a more personalised chair to specific needs. - Increased Mobility: Able to go bigger distances without physical exertion, allowing for outings without the risk of fatigue. Disadvantages: - Higher Purchase and Maintenance Costs: Price significantly higher due to advanced technology and features involved. Ongoing maintenance costs are also higher. - Heavier and Storage Concerns: Tend to be heavier and bulkier. The weight can make transportation and storage difficult. They also cannot be easily folded or disassembled.
December 27, 2025 at 12:33 AM
hek4te.bsky.social
> Walkers and Rollators
Walkers/Rollators On the left: Image of a walker with a list under it that reads: No wheels, or 2 wheels on the front legs No built-in seat More compact and lightweight Better at supporting weight There is an β€œX” right in the middle between images. On the right: Image of a rollator with a list under it that reads: 4 large wheels Built-in seat for resting Handbrakes Bulkier and heavier than walkers Gives stability and ease of movement Walkers Walkers are a basic mobility aid. The frame is made from aluminum or steel, and it has four adjustable legs with durable rubber tips and are foldable. There are many sizes of walkers available, from pediatric to tall adult. The standard walker allows people to bear a significant amount of weight on the device through their arms to support their balance. Besides stability, another advantage of a standard walker is that it folds quickly and is easy to transport. The disadvantages of the standard walker are: - Needs to be lifted and advanced with every step; - Not appropriate for rough or uneven terrain; - Challenging for those with diminished cognitive ability; Rollators Also called a four wheeled walker, rollators have brakes, a seat, and in most cases a basket or bag for carrying items. Rollators are best for people who need a mobility support for balance but not for weight-bearing through their arms. They are easy to propel and can facilitate a more normal gait pattern than a standard or front wheeled walker. Rollators are easier to maneuver around turns and typically do not need to be lifted when turning. The seat is helpful for people with conditions that require an occasional place to rest. The basket allows carrying items hands-free. Viktor probably would not use either of these mobility aids, since neither of them help him in the specific ways he would need to get around.
December 27, 2025 at 12:33 AM
hek4te.bsky.social
> Crutches
Beige toned image Crutches There are two pair of crutches, on the left there is a pair of Forearms crutches with the word β€œUse” in green under it. On the left there is a pair of axillary crutches with the words β€œDon’t use” in red under it. There is an β€œX” right in the middle between images. Forearm crutches Used for long term disabilities or injuries, these crutches give the user more freedom in movement since the pivot point comes from under the elbow, meaning you don’t need to β€œswing” the crutches out (like you might do with axillary crutches) in order to propel yourself forward. They give a lot more freedom to the user, and Viktor would probably use two instead of just one as his condition progresses β€” yes, Viktor probably should’ve been using two crutches in Act 2. Forearm crutches can cause pain in the wrist and the hands, which is where designs like the SmartCrutch comes in the picture. Addendum: Do not take the design of a forearm crutch and make it go up to the bicep, it does not make sense. Take one second to think: how would Viktor bend his elbow to use the crutch if the crutch body is literally right behind his elbow, impeding the movement? (There’s also a picture of a smartCRUTCH with an arrow pointing at it) Axillary crutches Although the ergonomic design was what inspired Viktor’s crutch in the show, it is one of the most uncomfortable mobility aids in the long run. Axillary crutches are made for short term injuries, such as a broken foot or a twisted ankle, surgeries on the leg, etc. These crutches are meant to be supported against your torso but, if you’re using it for the entire day, your posture is bound to relax and it’ll force itself against your armpit, which can cause a lot of pain and even nerve damage. If possible, in modern AUs, avoid drawing or writing Viktor using this type of crutches.
December 27, 2025 at 12:33 AM
hek4te.bsky.social
β€’ || Mobility Aids

> Canes
Beige toned image that reads: Mobility Aids β€œAids” is highlighted. Canes (Right under the title there are images of four different types of canes with different handles and tips/ferrules.) Text: Canes (or walking sticks) are designed to provide balance support and take pressure off of one or two legs. This mobility aid comes in a variety of shapes, both in handles and tip/ferrules, and what type you use can vary on what type of support you need. The handles can change according to what grip is less painful or holds better to you in particular, and above there are examples of different handles and tips. Contrary to popular belief, there isn’t exactly a β€œcorrect” side to use the cane, the user will simply use on what side is more comfortable for them. We see Viktor change sides as his condition and needs progress.
December 27, 2025 at 12:33 AM
hek4te.bsky.social
> Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

> Pulmonary Fibrosis

> Tuberculosis
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a type of progressive lung disease characterized by chronic respiratory symptoms and airflow limitation. People with COPD have airway inflammation and scarring, damage to the air sacs in their lungs or both. Emphysema and chronic bronchitis are the two most common types of COPD and usually occur together and can vary in severity. Chronic bronchitis is inflammation of the bronchi. The inflammation prevents good airflow into and out of the lungs and makes extra mucus. In emphysema, the alveoli are damaged. The damaged alveoli can't pass enough oxygen into the bloodstream. COPD is most often caused by long-term exposure to irritating smoke, fumes, dust or chemicals. In developing countries, common sources of household air pollution are the use of coal and biomass such as wood and dry dung as fuel for cooking and heating. Symptoms of COPD may include: - Trouble catching your breath, especially during physical activities; - Wheezing or whistling sounds when breathing; - Ongoing cough that may bring up a lot of mucus; - Chest tightness or heaviness; - Lack of energy or feeling very tired; - Frequent lung infections; - Losing weight without meaning to. This may happen as the condition worsens; - Swelling in ankles, feet or legs; COPD can cause many complications, including respiratory infections, heart problems, lung cancer, and mostly high blood pressure in lung arteries, which brings blood to the lungs. This condition is called pulmonary hypertension. Pulmonary Fibrosis Pulmonary fibrosis is a condition involving a gradual replacement of normal lung tissue with fibrotic (scar) tissue. Damage to the lungs that results in pulmonary fibrosis may be caused by many different things. Examples include long-term exposure to certain toxins, radiation therapy, some medicines and certain medical conditions. In some cases, the cause of pulmonary fibrosis is not known. When a cause cannot be found, the condition is called idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. The lung damage caused by pulmonary fibrosis cannot be repaired. Medicines and therapies can sometimes help slow down the rate of fibrosis, ease symptoms and improve quality of life. For some people, a lung transplant might be an option. Symptoms of pulmonary fibrosis may include: - Shortness of breath; - Dry cough; - Extreme tiredness; - Weight loss that's not intended; - Aching muscles and joints; - Widening and rounding of the tips of the fingers or toes, called clubbing; Complications of pulmonary fibrosis may include: - Pulmonary hypertension; - Right-sided heart failure; - Respiratory failure; - Lung cancer; - Other lung problems (i.e: blood clots, collapsed lung or lung infections); Tuberculosis Tuberculosis (TB), also known colloquially as the "white death", or historically as consumption, is a contagious disease usually caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) bacteria. Tuberculosis spreads easily where people gather in crowds or where people live in crowded conditions. People with HIV/AIDS and other people with weakened immune systems have a higher risk of catching tuberculosis than people with typical immune systems. The majority of individuals with TB infection show no symptoms, a state known as inactive or latent tuberculosis. If a tuberculosis infection does become active, it most commonly involves the lungs (in about 90% of cases). Symptoms may include chest pain, a prolonged cough producing sputum which may be bloody, tiredness, temperature, loss of appetite, wasting and general malaise. In very rare cases, the infection may progress into the pulmonary artery or a Rasmussen aneurysm, resulting in massive bleeding. Tuberculosis may cause extensive scarring of the lungs, which persists after successful treatment of the disease. Survivors continue to experience chronic respiratory symptoms such as cough, sputum production, and shortness of breath. Tuberculosis can re-occur even after treatment through reactivation of the latent bacteria in the body. It is often triggered by weakened immunity due to many factors. Tuberculosis is a β€œcatch-all” probable diagnosis for Viktor, as it targets both his respiratory and physical conditions.
December 27, 2025 at 12:33 AM
hek4te.bsky.social
β€’ || Plausible Pulmonary Conditions
Beige toned image that reads: Plausible Pulmonary Conditions. β€œPlausible” is highlighted and β€œPulmonary Conditions” are underlined.
December 27, 2025 at 12:33 AM
hek4te.bsky.social
> Monoplegic or Diplegic Cerebral Palsy

> Post-Polio Syndrome

> Skeletal Tuberculosis

> Scoliosis and Kyphosis
Monoplegic or Diplegic Cerebral Palsy Cerebral palsy (CP) is a neurological condition that has different manifestations. CP is caused by abnormal brain development or damage to the brain before, during, or shortly after birth. This affect different parts of the body, leading to problems with movement, speech and interaction with one’s environment. Monoplegia refers to a type of cerebral palsy which only affects one limb. Diplegia refers to the type of CP that affects two limbs, usually the legs. Cerebral Palsy is categorised in five types: - Spastic: Most common type, high muscle tone causes stiffness, tightness, and jerky or awkward movements; - Athetoid or dyskinetic: Muscle tone fluctuates between stiff and loose, leading to writhing or uncontrolled movements; - Ataxic: Poor balance and coordination affect walking, posture, fine motor skills, and precise movements; - Hypotonic: Low muscle tone results in floppy muscles and trouble with head control, sitting, or other voluntary movements; - Mixed: Shows signs of two or more types of CP; From observing Viktor in the show, he’d most likely have Mixed Cerebral Palsy (Spastic and Hypotonic), his symptoms varying. The hypotonic episodes would explain his foot drop in some scenes, while the spastic episodes would explain how sometimes his leg is turned inwards. Although officially classified as a non-progressive condition, many people with Cerebral Palsy report a worsening of their symptoms as they age. Post-Polio Syndrome Post-polio syndrome (PPS) is a group of potentially disabling signs and symptoms that appear decades after the initial poliovirus infection. These signs and symptoms usually occur 15 to 30 years after an initial acute paralytic attack. PPS is a result of the deterioration of motor neurons which leads to gradual muscle weakness and muscle atrophy (loss). The most common first sign of post-polio syndrome is gradual new weakening in your muscles that were previously affected when you had polio. The severity of symptoms can vary from person to person. Symptoms include: - Slowly progressive muscle weakness; - Fatigue; - Gradual muscle atrophy; - Muscle pain and twitches; - Joint pain; - Skeletal deformities such as curvature of the spine (scoliosis); - If muscles involved in breathing and swallowing are affected, people may experience difficulty with these functions; When we first see Viktor as a child, he is already disabled, so perhaps we see him during the initial poliovirus infection, which might have left him with sequelae on his leg that got worse in Act 2, when PPS on-sets. Skeletal Tuberculosis Tuberculosis (TB) is a contagious disease usually caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) bacteria. Tuberculosis generally affects the lungs, but in 15–20% of active cases, the infection spreads outside the lungs, causing other kinds of TB, which are collectively known as extrapulmonary tuberculosis. This occurs more commonly in people with a weakened immune system and young children. Infection of the lungs by MTB eventually spreads through the host's body. Without treatment and diagnosis, the infection becomes dormant in the lungs or spreads to other parts of the body through hematogenous dissemination (via bloodstream), including the bones. Bone tuberculosis affects your skeletal system, which consists of bones and joints and can sometimes cause a condition called Pott’s disease (tuberculosis of the spine). In Pott’s disease, the lower thoracic and upper lumbar vertebrae areas of the spine are most often affected. If the infection is in the lumbar, neurological deficits are localized to the lower extremities and sacral area. These neurological symptoms are caused by direct pressure on nerves, invasion of neural tissue (bacteria spreading within the nervous system), tuberculous meningitis, dislocation or subluxation of vertebrae, or reduced blood flow to the spinal cord. These symptoms can heighten reflex and upper motor neuron deficit, which can cause an eventual advance to limb weakness and difficulty walking due to muscle spasms. Bone tuberculosis is hard to diagnose, but symptoms may include: - Severe back pain; - β€ŒInflammation in back or joints; - β€ŒStiffness; - Trouble moving or walking, especially in children; - β€ŒSpinal abscess; - β€ŒSoft tissue swelling; - β€ŒNeurological disorders; - β€ŒTuberculosis-related meningitis; - β€ŒMuscle weakness; - Paralysis from the waist down or of all four limbs and sometimes in specific organs; - β€ŒKyphosis, also known as hunchback; - β€ŒBone or spinal deformities; Scoliosis Scoliosis is a condition in which the spine has an irregular curve in the coronal plane. The curve is usually S- or C-shaped over three dimensions. In some, the degree of curve is stable, while in others, it increases over time. Mild scoliosis does not typically cause problems, but more severe cases can affect breathing and movement. An estimated 65% of scoliosis cases are idiopathic (cause unknown), about 15% are congenital, and about 10% are secondary to a neuromuscular disease (i.e: muscular dystrophy, spinal muscular atrophy, poliomyelitis, cerebral palsy, spinal cord trauma, etc). Treatment depends on the degree of curve, location, and cause. These may include bracing, specific exercises, and surgery. Severe curvatures that rapidly progress require surgery with spinal rod placement and spinal fusion. Kyphosis Kyphosis is an excessive convex curvature of the spine in the thoracic and sacral regions. Kyphosis can cause the person to have a hunched posture or look like they have a β€œhump”. Kyphosis can stem from issues like osteoporosis, developmental problems (like Scheuermann's disease, congenital issues), injuries, disc degeneration, poor posture, and underlying conditions such as muscular dystrophy, infections (like tuberculosis), and tumors. Much like scoliosis, treatment varies on degree of curve, location and cause, and it can include bracing, specific exercises, and surgery (spinal rod replacement and spinal fusion).
December 27, 2025 at 12:33 AM