Epidemiologic Analysis and Preventing the Spread of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)
Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) perspective
In the decade since the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) was discovered, the epidemic has grown steadily each year. According to the Global Health Council (2006) by 2005, the number of those infected has grown to more than 40 million, double the number in 1995. By the end of 2005, 40.3 million people were living with HIV/AIDS world wide, including 17.5 million women and 2.3 million children under the age of 15. Without prevention efforts, 35% of children born to an HIV positive mother will become infected with HIV.
At least a quarter of newborns infected with HIV die before age one, and up to 60% will die before reaching their second birthdays. World-wide, only one in ten persons infected with HIV has been tested and knows his/her HIV status (Global Health Council, 2006). As the HIV/AIDS epidemic in the United States has progressed, strategies that are associated with the prevention, treatment and monitoring of the disease are important in controlling the spread of the epidemic. Epidemiology plays an important role in decision making strategies by monitoring data which can give insights into the infection rates of HIV in various segments of the population.
The uses of epidemiologic data is crucial in the surveillance of the decrease in overall HIV incidence, the substantial increase in survival after AIDS diagnosis and the continued disparities among racial/ethnic minority populations. This paper will discuss the role and uses of epidemiologic data relating to HIV evolution, definition and refinement of a disease management programs.
Disease management of HIV
According to Wright (2005) the number of Americans living with HIV who are over 45 years old grew by 60 percent between 1999and 2002. The epidemic aging is a sign of success: "We have learned how to keep people alive with HIV. As individuals grow old with HIV, the treatment for the virus will begin to collide with treatment for a host of other health concerns that plague aging individuals.
There are about 20 antiretroviral drugs available in the U.S. to stop the loss of natural defenses in HIV infection. What is so troubling for individuals with HIV/AIDS is that protease inhibitors are associated with diabetes, heart disease liver and kidney disorders (Wright, 2005). Epidemiologic analyses/data in a hospital setting can be use to identifying these disorders in the population that are a result of the treatment of HIV/AIDS. The use of epidemiologic data can lead to a more effective care planning for individuals that will be effected by the prolong uses of antiretroviral medication.
HIV/AIDS surveillance
According to Fos and Fine (2005) most healthcare organizations have in place surveillance programs charged with the responsibility to monitor key indictors, such as infection rates. The focus of these surveillances is to target infections that are frequent and preventable, and that generate high treatment cost or serious effects on either morbidity or mortality (Fos and Fine, 2005 p.167). Organizations that seek to prevent HIV infection must utilize HIV surveillance to provide timely and accurate data that is relevant to the ever changing demographic, cultural and social economic spectrum of HIV/AIDS disease.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (2006) indicate the HIV epidemic has continued to expand in the United States; at the end of 2003, approximately 1,039,000--1,185,000 persons in the United States were living with HIV/AIDS, an estimated 24%--27% of whom were unaware of their infection. In the United States there are an estimated 252,000--312,000 persons unaware that they are infected with HIV and, therefore, are unaware of their risk for HIV transmission. Analysis of data collected by the National HIV Behavioral Surveillance System, which surveys populations at high risk for HIV to assess prevalence and trends in risk behavior, HIV testing, and use of prevention services, revealed that of at risk population surveyed in five U.S. cities, 25% were infected with HIV and of those, 48% were unaware of their infection (Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 2006). These results underscore the need to increase HIV testing and prevention efforts among populations at high risk.
With in a hospital or community-based health care setting primary prevention is vital in the efforts to stop the spread of HIV/AIDS. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (2006) indicates early studies of HIV counseling and testing observed considerable reductions in risk among persons who learned that they were HIV seropositive. A shift in client-centered counseling that emphasized increasing the client's perception of risk and developing a personalized risk-reduction plan substantially increased condom use and decreased new sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) among HIV-seronegative patients at STD clinics (Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 2006).
Since the HIV/AIDS epidemic was first recognized, there has been geographic clustering of AIDS cases with the United States. Morse, Lessner, Medvesky, Glebatis and Novick (1991) suggest clustering is related to pools of HIV infected individuals and to risk behavior activities which occur most frequently in metropolitan areas and states with large populations at risk. Identification of geographic clusters of cases can be useful in focusing preventive efforts and allocation of health care resources (Morse et. al, 1991).
Epidemiologic surveys
Surveys often provide reliable, in-depth, population based data on specific groups. According to Whitmore, Zaidi, and Dean (2005) epidemiologic surveys may be cohort, case control, longitudinal, or cross sectional studies. These studies are not considered a part of routine public health surveillance but help health care decision-makers identify populations at greater risk for HIV infection (Whitmore, Zaidi, & Dean, 2005). The unique feature about an epidemiologic survey is the collection of data comes directly for the population. This information can be compared to other collected epidemiological data such demographic or geographic indicators to provide a descriptive evaluation of morbidity and risk in the community. The inclusion of multiple data sources using epidemiologic information enables planners in hospitals to know the strengths and limitations of the services provided.
Prevention planning
Fos and Fine (2005) suggest rational efforts to prevent disease and disability are rooted solidly in clinical epidemiology. In fact, preventive practices not supported by clinical epidemiologic evidence may be dangerous or costly, or both. Epidemiology is critical to our understanding of the prevalence of any disease its and its natural history (Fos & Fine, 2005 p. 244). Preventing and treating HIV/AIDS over a long period of time can be problematic in an era of limited health care resources. According to Whitmore, Zaidi, and Dean (2005) effective HIV prevention planning should be an evidence-based process.
Epidemiologic profiles and assessments of community services are primary sources of that evidence. In the past, epidemiologic profiles have emphasized HIV/AIDS surveillance data because of its universal availability and high quality. An ideal intergraded epidemiologic profile describes the effect of the HIV/AIDS epidemic in terms of social demographic, geographic, behavioral, and clinical characteristics for decision-makers to make informed decisions (Whitmore, Zaidi, and Dean, 2005). Epidemiologic data can aid in the decision-making processes in a hospital or community-based health care setting by developing a comprehensive picture of the HIV/AIDS epidemic in the community.
Data that describes the sociodemographic characteristics of the general population can provide a baseline for comparing educational status, poverty level, and insurance coverage of individuals infected with HIV. Epidemiologic data can also identify populations for whom HIV risk behavior or HIV/AIDS prevalence information is needed. Community-base organizations can use epidemiologic data to identify which racial/ethnic groups are at risk and to focus interventions appropriately. The use of epidemiologic data in a health care setting allows health care decisions-makers to identify which populations are receiving HIV primary medical care.
Conclusion
HIV prevention and care involves planning between health departments and HIV-affected communities. The inclusion of multiple data sources in the decision making process enables decision makers to optimize the strength and validity of finding presented in epidemiologic analyses/data. HIV/AIDS surveillance data along with social demographic, geographic, behavioral, and clinical characteristics must all be included in the decision making process to paint a three dimensional picture of HIV/AIDS epidemic.
Epidemiologic data has refine disease management by further describing the socialdemographic characteristics of persons infected with HIV and comorbid conditions, such as tuberculosis, hepatitis and other STDs. The application of epidemiologic analyses/ data must continuously be developed and used to lead health care providers to more effective prevention and care planning for individuals infected with HIV. Fos and Fine (2005) suggest epidemiological data can help health care decision makers to identify, evaluate and select alternatives. Epidemiology can help decision makers set criteria on which solution in an epidemic will be the most cost effective utilization of health care resources (Fos & Fine, 2005). A health care decision maker can use epidemiological data to prioritize and focus prevention and care services to specific subpopulations. Data on STD morbidity, HIV and tuberculosis comorbidity, mortality data, seroprevalence studies may provide a more comprehensive picture of the HIV epidemic.
At present there is little known about the long-term effects of any of the anti-HIV medications now on the market. Even more alarming are the effectives that risk behaviors have on the transmission of HIV. In the future hospitals and community -based health care setting may one day use epidemiological data to answer some of these questions in the search for preventing and treating HIV/AIDS epidemic.
Reference
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (2006). HIV/AIDS Retrieved April 25, 2006 from http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/diseases/hepatitis/c/plan/Implement.htm Fos, P. J. & Fine, D. J. (2005). Managerial Epidemiology for health care organizations (2nd ed.). San Francisco: Jossey-Bass
Global Health Council (2006) HIV/AIDS Retrieved June, 9, 2006 from http://globalhealth.org/view_top.php3?id=227
Letendre, S. & Ellis, R. (2006) Neurologic complications of HIV disease and their treatments. Topic in HIV Medicine 14(1)21, The International AIDS Society-USA
Morse, D. L., Lessner, L., Medvesky, M. G., Glebatis, D. M. & Novick, L. F. (1991). IV. Geographic distribution of newborn HIV seroprevalence in relation to four sociodemographic variables. American Journal of Public Health Vol. 8 Retrieved June 10, 2005 from EBSCO host database
Whitmore, S. K., Zaidi, I. F., & Hazel, D. D. (2005). The integrated epidemiologic profile: Using multiple data sources in developing profiles to inform HIV prevention and care planning. AIDS Education and Prevention, 17, supplement B, p. 3-16 Retrieved June 10, 2006 from EBSCO host database
Wright, K. (2005). The time is now. Los Angeles, CA. The Black AIDS Institute
Bio- Dr. Gilton C. Grange
Dr. Gilton Grange's formal education includes a Doctorate of Philosophy in Health Administration from the University of Phoenix, A Master of Public Administration from Long Island University and A Bachelor of Arts degree fro State University of New York at Buffalo.
Dr. Grange has 12 years extensive experience in the Health Care arena and currently has concentrated his efforts in grant writing and grant development for organizations that seek to grow their businesses. Dr. Grange's company BridgeBuider Consortium provides services in proposal writing, management and costing for firms and organizations bidding on government contracts and grants. Dr. Grange is currently working on his first comprehensive book that focuses on multi-disciplinary teams in an organizational construct.
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6:49 AM | 2 Comments
From Heart Issues to Heart Attacks
by: Rcon Franchesca Pascua
Nothing beats the pain of having your heart broken by someone you truly, madly, deeply in love with. It is true that ending the relationship is probably the nastiest and the most hurtful scenario in a romantic relationship. Nobody wants their hearts to be broken, and no one can really tell what it feels like unless they are or have been in that situation already.
Yes, going through a bad relationship is tough, and lucky and brave are those who survive it. Unlucky, however, for those who suffer from heart attacks because of a broken heart.
According to a recent study in Europe, it has been observed among thousands of British civilians that it is possible for an individual to have a series of heart attacks due to a painful and traumatic breakup experience. Experts who conducted the study claimed that stress and anxiety brought by a painful and traumatic end of a relationship can significantly increase a person’s risk in having or developing heart diseases.
Results of the study showed that an individual’s heart condition is not just determined by means of physical condition. It can also be influenced by the emotional stability or condition of a person. Therefore, an individual who has a happy and fulfilling relationship is less likely to develop coronary heart disease compared to the ones who are unlucky in love.
To spare your already bruised heart from added pain and trauma, the following are some ways on how to avoid developing heart diseases due to emotional heart issues:
1. Talk to someone about your feelings.
When a relationship ends, the women are usually the most emotional ones. They tend to relay the whole breakup episode to their girlfriends or relatives. The men, however, are less vocal about their emotions. With this, doctors often recommend male patients to find someone whom they can share their feelings with. Support from people who can understand what you’re going through can surely ease your emotions and heart pains.
2. Slowly acknowledge the fact that the relationship is over.
It is normal to feel hurt and betrayed once a relationship ends. However, the world will not stop and grieve at your lose. Move on. Accept the fact that the relationship is over and get on living your life. Although the process of moving on is hard, acceptance helps in keeping the mind and emotions calm after a hard and painful experience.
3. Go see a doctor when the pain progresses from emotional to physical instability.
Based on the recent study mentioned above, a person who is extremely heartbroken can die because of heart attack. So, if you feel that the emotional pain and stress are too much for you to bear any longer that it comes to the point when your health also suffers, go see your doctor to confirm your condition.
Although having an emotional breakdown is not just the only factor for developing heart diseases, it is better to let your doctor know and check your condition once heartaches turn to “literal heart pains”.
source:searchwarp.com
6:01 AM | 0 Comments
Causes and Treatments for Leg Cramps
A former client emailed me with this question about her chronic leg cramps.
"...I noticed with the increased exercise that I'm getting a lot of lower leg cramps. The cramping is usually in response to any prolonged brisk walking or running. My personal trainer suggested that I might be lacking magnesium, so I've been taking magnesium, but I haven't seen any improvement. Suggestions?"
There are many possibilities. While nutritional deficiencies are likely, I look first to body mechanics. Often a long-standing or undiagnosed misalignment in the hips/pelvis will cause lower leg cramps. Even a misalignment in your shoulders and upper back can lead to lower leg cramps. A good chiropractic or osteopathic adjustment can work wonders for that.
A common cause for these kinds of cramps is improper body mechanics during exercise. Your gait may be off. You may not have the proper kind of walking shoe for your body. Your posture may not be in good alignment and walking may exaggerate that. You can check body mechanics with your personal trainer, chiropractor, osteopath, Alexander technique practitioner or cranial sacral/ zero balance therapist.
Muscle cramping related to exercise might be a result of imbalance in the body's electrolyte balance - minerals such as potassium, calcium and magnesium. Taking a good green drink helps with this. Plus, a good multi-mineral supplement can work well. I favor a coral calcium mixture that contains magnesium and potassium plus trace minerals. A vitamin E deficiency can also cause muscle cramps.
Related to electrolyte imbalance is making sure that you stay well hydrated during exercise as well as throughout the day. Dehydration is one common cause of muscle cramps. Unless you are an endurance athlete, plain cool water is the preferred fluid replacement during exercise. Drink enough water before, during and after exercise but be careful not to over-hydrate during exercise.
Although basic exercise hydration guidelines can be followed, it is too easy to over-hydrate (hyponatremia - a problem resulting in disturbances in the fluid electrolyte balance which may result in serious neurological responses) and recommend a formula for determining sweat rate and the appropriate amount of fluid consumption during exercise.
Drinking too much or too little during exercise can cause problems and you should be aware of your own fluid needs during exercise. The actual amount of water consumed during exercise should be based on an individual's sweat rate. To determine sweat rate weigh yourself before and one hour after exercise. Subtract the post-workout weight from the pre-workout weight. Then add in the amount of fluid consumed during the workout. This equals the hourly sweat rate.
A loss of 1 pound of body weight is equivalent to 16 ounces of fluid. If you lost one pound during a workout and drank 16 ounces during the workout then your hourly sweat rate is 32 ounces. That means you should drink 8 ounces every 15 minutes. A weight gain from pre to post workout means that you have over-hydrated either before or during the workout.
In addition to maintaining proper hydration during exercise, it is important to avoid over-hydration before exercising. To maintain good hydration throughout the day, drink 1/2 ounce of water per pound of body weight during the day.
Muscle cramps are also related to acid/alkaline balance. An acidic body is likely to feel achy and crampy after physical exertion. To find out if you are acidic, get some pH paper and test your morning urine.
Exercise results in lactic acid and if you are already acidic an increase in lactic acid can trigger muscle cramps and achiness. It helps to shower after you exercise. When you sweat you are eliminating acids from your body and if you don't shower these acids can be reabsorbed.
Unaccustomed physical exertion by itself can be a cause of muscle cramping. Be sure that you are allowing the muscle to have sufficient rest and recovery time between exercise sessions. Plus, there are a number of conditions and illnesses related to muscle cramping including: restless leg syndrome; hormone imbalance; fibromyalgia; allergies; hypothyroidism; varicose veins; anemia and arthritis. Check with a medical doctor for diagnosis of these conditions.
Mary Ann Copson is the founder of the Evenstar Mood & Energy Wellness Center for Women. With Master's Degrees in Human Development and Psychology and Counseling, Mary Ann is a Certified Licensed Nutritionist; Certified Holistic Health Practitioner; Brain Chemistry Profile Clinician; and a Health, Wellness and Lifestyle Coach. Reconnect to your physical, emotional, mental, psychological and spiritual natural rhythms at http://evenstaronline.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mary_Ann_Copson
4:20 PM | 0 Comments
5 Top Tips for Getting Pregnant - How to get pregnant naturally!
The struggle to conceive seems to get harder each year for hundreds of women. Why is it that today so many women have trouble falling pregnant?
With stress, unhealthy diets, lifestyle factors and choosing to have children later in life, many of us wonder if it is every going to happen for us.
If you want to try some natural methods to increase your odds of conceiving before you visit the doctor, below are some of the most common natural methods of helping to boost your fertility that have worked successfully for hundreds of women.
1. Vitamin B6
Called the natural fertility booster, Vitamin B6 can help regulate your cycle and improve mucus quality. B6 works best when taken in conjunction with the other B group vitamins and just 60mg is usually enough to make positive changes to your menstrual cycle.
2. Vitex
Often called the natural clomid, Vitex agnus-castus is usually the first choice with women trying to fall pregnant. Vitex is great for balancing your hormones and helping to correct a luteal phase defect. A luteal phase defect is when the time between when you ovulate and menstruation is shorter than ten days. Usually caused by decreased progesterone levels, Vitex can stimulate your body to product more naturally.
3. Water
Yes drinking lots of water will improve your cervical mucus. Drinking 6-8 glasses of water a day will make you ‘wetter’ during your fertile time and help the sperm move quickly through your uterus to reach the egg super fast.
4. Robotussin
The cough mixture that is used to loosen the mucus in your throat when you have a cough, also works by thinning out your cervical mucus making it easier for sperm to travel to the egg.
5. Yoga
Not only is yoga great for relieving stress (which helps regulate ovulation), it also helps stimulate blood circulation all around the body to the organs (including your reproductive organs!). Pre natal yoga is especially beneficial since its movements concentrate on the pelvic region improving blood flow to this area. So grab a video or dvd and starting stretching.
By Tracey Lyne Read More......
4:10 PM | 0 Comments
Jock Itch Treatment - Information About Jock Itch
Alien
Jock itch is a fungal infection of the skin on the groin, upper inner thighs, or buttocks. It most commonly occurs in hot, humid conditions. Doctors often refer to jock itch as tinea cruris. Jock itch (tinea cruris) is a pretty common fungal infection of the groin and upper thighs. Jock itch is also sometimes called crack fungus, crotch itch, bag rot or crotch rot, dhobi itch (after Indian washermen). It is a common fungal infection that affects the skin of your inner thighs, buttocks and genitals. Men and women encounter the disease worldwide, although it is seen more often in the humid tropics. The rash may affect only your groin, but it may spread to include your inner thighs, genitals, and areas around your anus, rectum, or Lesions caused by jock itch can extend from the crease between the inner thigh and pelvis, over the adjacent upper inner thigh, and into the anal area. Jock itch occurs almost exclusively in adult men.
Although often uncomfortable and bothersome, jock itch usually isn't serious, except possibly for people with weak immune systems. Keeping your groin area clean and dry and applying topical antifungal medications are usually sufficient to treat the problem.
Causes of Jock itch
The common causes and risk factor's of Jock itch include the following:
Jock itch is caused by fungi called dermatophytes. These microscopic organisms are normal inhabitants of your skin, and stay in check as long as your skin is clean and dry.
People taking broad-spectrum antibiotics, with weakened immune systems, or who have diabetes are more at risk to develop the rash.
The moisture, warmth, and presence of friction between skin folds make the groin area particularly open to fungal infection
What Are the Signs and Symptoms?
Jock itch is usually less severe than other tinea infections, but can it last for weeks or months without treatment. Symptoms of jock itch include:
* a circular, red, raised rash with elevated edges
* itching, chafing, or burning in the groin, thigh, or anal area
* skin redness in the groin, thigh, or anal area
* flaking, peeling, or cracking skin
How is jock itch diagnosed?
Jock itch is annoying, but it usually is not serious. If you have had jock itch in the past, you may recognize the symptoms. Your doctor can tell if you have jock itch after asking questions about your symptoms and past health and looking at your rash. Your doctor may scrape a little of the rash onto a glass slide so that he or she can look at it under a microscope.
Treatment of Jock itch
Here is list of the methods for treating Jock itch:
Jock itch is treated with one of two types of antifungal medications — azoles or allylamines.
For a mild case of jock itch, your doctor may suggest first using an over-the-counter antifungal ointment, lotion, powder or spray.
Creams
Antifungal creams for jock itch include:
* Miconazole
* Clotrimazole
* Econazole
Jock Itch Prevention
To prevent jock itch from occurring or re-occurring, several measures may be taken.
# Avoid sharing clothing and towels or washcloths.
# Allow the groin to dry completely after showering before covering with clothes.
# Do not wear wet swimsuits for a long period of time.
# Do not store damp clothing in your locker or gym bag.
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9:24 PM | 0 Comments
Lichen Nitidus Treatment - Information on Lichen Nitidus
BY:Alien
Lichen nitidus is a rare benign chronic papular lesion of unknown etiology. It was originally regarded as a variant of lichen planus but it is now considered a distinct entity.
Lichen nitidus is a relatively rare, chronic skin eruption. Lichen nitidus may affect anyone, but typically develops in children and young adults. Lichen nitidus is a benign disease with no associated mortality or complications. The cause of lichen nitidus is unknown. It consists of tiny, skin-colored bumps (papules) that often appear in clusters on the surface of your skin, especially on the arms and legs. Even without treatment, lichen nitidus usually disappears over time. The length of time needed for remission is variable and will depend on the patient and the amount of skin surface involved. If treatment is desired some of the therapies include topical and/or systemic corticosteroids, ultraviolet light therapy, topical or oral retinoids and others but again generally no treatment is needed.
Pathology
The histology of lichen nitidus is significant for a "...localized granulomatous lymphohistiocytic infiltrate in an expanded dermal papilla with thinning of overlying epidermis and downward extension of the rete ridges at the lateral margin of the infiltrate, producing a typical 'claw clutching a ball' picture
Symptoms of Lichen nitidus
Some sign and symptoms related to Lichen nitidus are as follows:
Fingernails or toenails.
Palms of your hands and soles of your feet.
Ridges in the nails ( nail abnormalities ).
Dry mouth
Other sites where lichen nitidus occurs less frequently include:
* Palms of your hands and soles of your feet
* Fingernails or toenails
* Mucous membranes (mouth, nose, vagina and anus)
Other than its appearance on your skin, lichen nitidus usually doesn't cause any symptoms. Occasionally, the papules may itch.
Treatment of Lichen nitidus
Here is list of the methods for treating Lichen Nitidus:
#Steroids: Corticosteroids applied on your skin (topical) may reduce inflammation.
#Topical corticosteroids (such as triamcinolone acetonide cream) or oral corticosteroids (such as prednisone) may be prescribed to reduce inflammation and suppress immune responses.
#Antihistamines, sedatives, or tranquilizers may be needed to reduce itching and to reduce stress.
Prevention
You can't prevent lichen nitidus.
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9:07 PM | 0 Comments
Freckles: cute, but dangerous
Freckles, once considered a sweet addition to a child’s face, are now considered by sun-savvy Australians as the result of too much sun.
While many parents enforce the slip, slop, slap regime on their children, many of the parents themselves were not so lucky, and as a result of many summers in the Australian sun, commonly have severe skin pigmentation as a result.
Skin Pigmentation
According to the Cancer Council, more Australians still die from skin cancer each year than any other country. A lot of it has to do with the nature of skin itself.
The skin protects the body from outside dangers, including the sun and its powerful UV rays. It is made up of Squamous cells, which are the outer-most cells, constantly being rubbed off and replaced, Basal cells, which help to produce more Squamous cells, and Melanocytes. This third and deepest layer produces dark pigments which help to protect the skin.
Unfortunately for many Australians, their skin doesn’t produce enough melanin to protect their skin. Over time, some melanocytes may over produce melanin, resulting in irregular skin pigmentation. This can include freckles and moles, some of which can also lead to skin cancer.
Treating skin pigmentation
Laser therapy for skin pigmentation is not only used for aesthetic reasons. It has become an effective and popular way also to remove skin cancers. Using a beam of light, it destroys the cancer cells within the skin. A biopsy before the therapy is important to determine if the cancer has been contained only within the skin, and has not spread to other parts of the body.
Other skin pigmentation, such as birthmarks, can also be treated by laser therapy. For red birthmarks, commonly known as ‘port wine’ birthmarks, lasers can be especially effective, and can be used at any age. A few treatments will probably be need, though.
Laser resurfacing is particularly good for freckles. Usually performed by a dermatologist, the area is numbed first and then treated. Results vary depending on how many freckles are on the face and how dark they are. The skin will commonly take 1-2 weeks to heal, so treatments are usually spread to allow for this healing time.
Different people have varying pain thresholds, so laser resurfacing is more painful for some people than others. Some equate it to a runner band flicking on the skin. Some more information on laser resurfacing can be found at the Australian School of Dermatologists (http://www.dermcoll.asn.au/public/a-z_of_skin-chemical_peels_etc.asp).
Costs vary according to the different practitioners, but keep in mind that usually two or more treatments are required.
Of course, there are other ways to get rid of freckles in particular. Regularly applying lemon juice is one effective way of naturally bleaching the skin. Also, a simple mask of cucumber, lemon juice, apricots or strawberries can work over time.
A nice addition to a daily face care routine is an equal parts mixture of parley, lemon, orange and red currant juices. Use it before applying your daily face cream.
Prevention is always better than a cure, so to make sure no new freckles appear, always wear a hat and sun screen with a minimum SPF of 15+.
About the author:
Lucy rollins works with The Victorian Cosmetic Institute. For more information on skin pigmentation treatments, and other cosmetic treatments like permanent hair removal and procedures to treat issues like gynecomastia. For more information simply click on the links.
6:14 AM | 0 Comments
Don’t Blame Your Genes For Your Hair Related Problems
By:Sashi
Jessica has been very possessive of her hair ever since childhood. This is a habit that she imbibed from her mother. Regular upkeep with proper care has helped her to maintain thick and healthy hair. She takes care of her hair to ensure that her hair remain free from dandruff and flakes. We too want to have a healthy growth of hair but slacken a bit when it comes to hair care. Here are some hair tips that can keep your hair healthy and prevent problems like hair loss.
A good oil massage is the most important thing for the hair. It improves the blood circulation to the scalp and tends to keep the hair cells vitalized. This makes the root of the hair stronger thus preventing hair loss. Also, hair cells continue to renew themselves giving rise to hair follicles and the building blocks of proteins called the keratins. This makes the hair grow thicker and prevent thinning of hairs. It also prevents baldness to a large extent. Rosemary, jojoba and coconut oil are best suited for everyday use for the hair.
Washing your hair on a regular basis is equally important. Your hair bears the brunt of all type of dust, dirt and pollution while you are out in the open. They stick to the scalp and may cause damage to your hair. Greater care is to be taken to select a quality shampoo that is mild and effective for your hair. Try herbal shampoos as they have negligible amount of chemicals and almost no side effects. Wrap your hair with a warm towel after washing them. Remember to use a quality conditioner after shampooing your hair to make them smooth and shiny.
Remember to cover your hair when you move in the open. Your hair is very vulnerable to ultra violet rays. Excessive exposure to sun rays may make your hair brittle. Also, it affects the hair follicles resulting in hair loss. Avoid using hair color on a regular basis. If you want to hide your grey hair, either opt for a herbal powder that causes no side effects or quality natural based hair colors that are known to be trustworthy and effective. You may seek advice of a hair doctor before going for hair coloring. Avoid using peroxide on a regular basis as it may result in tremendous damage to the hair, at times even leading to baldness.
Go for a hair style that suits your face rather than getting fascinated by the one that is in vogue. Refrain from changing your hair style too often as frequent twist and turns tend to make the hair roots weak leading to hair loss. Natural curls are good but artificial curls may damage your hairs to such an extent that they start losing their shine and texture.
Before going for any type of birth control pills or a prolonged dose of antibiotics it is strongly recommended that you consult a doctor about its side effects and ensure that it does not harm your hair.
These are some basic tips that will help you to retain your hair in a healthy state and save them from all kinds of hair related problems. These tips not only keep the hair in a good state but also rejuvenate the hair cells so that the new hair continues to grow regularly.The author gives advice for all kinds of hair loss treatment. He deals with all kinds of hair problems. Even severe problems like hirsutism are cured by him.
Read More......7:30 PM | 0 Comments
What causes short term memory and long term memory loss?
By:Golfer57
If you have been hard at work online for a while, you have come to understand that google is yearning for unique content. The more fresh the better. That is where the indisputable hunger for PLR content has come from and has grown into an enormous business. This is where PLR articles came in to save the day for the demanding webmaster. But there are troubles with these articles and I will get into those in just a short time.
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What you don't uncover
It's absolutely no secret that search engines desire new, unique content. And on the surface, it seems to be a simple situation. If you yearn top rankings and tons of traffic, then continually add fresh, unique content. Of course, like anything else in life, the "how-to" is where topics get tricky. On the surface, joining a Private Label Rights membership site seems to be a ideal solution for most publicists. You get heaps of articles for a relatively cheap value and you don't have to deal with the hassles of coping with ghostwriters. Looks like a bargain right? At first look, it is. Until you notice, the actual truth.
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Visit PLRproHelp to get more information and grab yourself some FREE goodies wWhat is memory loss and what causes memory loss? Memory loss or amnesia is an uncommon forgetfulness that can happen due to brain damage. Illness, injury or extreme mental distress can be the causes of this brain damage. Memory loss can be grouped using many criteria. Loss of memory can be classified into permanent and temporary memory loss on the basis of the time span of the memory loss. Memory loss is also sorted into short-term memory loss or long-term memory loss depending on the nature of the memory that gets affected. Memory loss can occur almost suddenly and can also take shape over a long period of time. What causes memory loss? All of them are caused due to specific reasons.
Long-term memory (LTM) is memory that is stored as meaning. It may remain for ages. It may also be very short lived, say, for only 30 seconds. Long-term memory (LTM) is functionally and structurally different from working memory or short-term memory. Working memory or short-term memory apparently retains information for only 30 seconds or so. Biologically, short-term memory is a short-lived potentiation of neural connections. By meaningfully correlating them and through rehearsals, short-term memory can become long-term memory. It is thought that by the long lasting enhancement of the neural connections short-term memories are stored as LTM. The structure of neurons undergoes a physical change due to this. But the time required at each step of this memory processing is still being studied.
Tarnow's theory says that long-term memories are retained in dream format. This is similar to the discoveries of Penfield & Rasmussen which says that electrical excitations of cortex result in experiences resembling dreams.
It is important to find out what short-term memory is. Scientists are investigating the brain and its functioning. We are getting to know how the brain processes and stores memory. We are also learning about ways to enhance these processes.
So what is short-term memory? The memory function in the brain which acutely stores and processes events, images, data is known as short-term memory. It is a kind of place for storage in our brain so that it can be decided whether these memories are to be used promptly and/or reserve them to long -term storage. Short-term memory functions as a filter as well as a workplace for the things we are processing. It is much easier to access and utilize information from short-term memory than long-term memory.
What causes short-term memory and long term memory loss?
• Ageing
• Alzheimer's disease
• Neurodegenerative illness
• Head trauma or injury
• panic often along with by confusion
• Seizures
• common anesthetics like halothane, isoflurane, and fentanyl
• Alcoholism
• Stroke or momentary ischemic attack (TIA)
• transitory universal amnesia
• Drugs like barbiturates or benzodiazepines
• Electroconvulsive therapy (particularly on a long-term basis)
• sequential lobe brain surgery
• Brain masses (occurs due to lump or infectivity)
• Herpes encephalitis
• additional brain illness
• dejection
In these cases support from family members should be made available. The patient must be familiarized with reality by providing familiar music, objects, or photos. Some cases might need assistance for relearning.
Medication schedules should be written down so that there is no burden on memorizing.
Extensive amenities for care and treatment like nursing homes are a worthwhile consideration. They are more needed for patients whose basic needs cannot be dealt in any other way and whose safety and nutrition are at a risk.
What causes short-term memory loss after naps?
The rates of sensing of all the sensors are brought down while sleeping. The stimulation margins are increased at this time. This allows the process of transferring information to continue without any disturbance. Only if some danger occurs or a threat signal is received this process might be interrupted. Thus information from the sensors/surroundings is not received at this time. This allows the working memory to perform the transfer of data. It is similar to a sort of housekeeping. The working memory redeems information from the temporary memory. Then it compares this redeemed information with similar files stored earlier in the long-term memory. If any undesirable, duplicate or overlapping data is found it is deleted. The data that is considered to be relevant, new or updated is encoded and put into long-term memory. The temporary memory stays in a state of only retrieving information at this time. Hence any brain activities like dreams are not imprinted on to the temporary memory. The short-term/working memory store is the only memory store that can record brain activities consciously in this time period.
Visit http://www.memoryenhancementtechniques.com for more great tips on how to improve your memory.
Learn some great techniques and how to memorize things better by visiting the site and get a Free download on how to improve your memory skills.
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5:52 AM | 0 Comments
Understanding and Living with Fibromyalgia
Do you hurt all over? Are you extremely fatigued? These are some of the signs of Fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS). The diagnosis is based on the finding of tender points in specific locations, by the physician.
Fibromyalgia is not well understood by the medical community. It is known, though, that certain people are more at risk of developing fibromyalgia than others. The symptoms of fibromyalgia can include everything from widespread pain to fatigue; menstrual pain to sleep disturbances. Because of the variety of fibromyalgia symptoms, there are a number of associated conditions linked to fibromyalgia.
Since most of FMS symptoms may occur in other conditions, Dr. Carla Ockley, says: “FMS is not always the first thing looked for when a patient walks through the door with pain in his joints.”
Since there is no cure, treatment is aimed at the two major symptoms, which are pain and a lack of sleep. Well, then, can help be found if you think you have FMS? In her book When Muscle Pain Won’t Go Away, Gayle Backstrom suggests contacting the Arthritis Foundation or a rheumatologist.
Sometimes conventional medicine is just not enough to provide you with the relief from fibromyalgia that you need. Fibromyalgia treatment often includes various types of alternative therapy many of which have been proven to be very effective.
About the author:
My name is David Slade. I am an English teacher with quite a bit of experience in translation work. I am author of Mandarin English XL an advanced Chinese English course with pinyin. I enjoy hiking, camping, and doing volunteer work. To visit my website go to http://www.luomapinyin.com
5:25 AM | 0 Comments
Manic Depression Symptoms: The Two Ends Of The Spectrum
ฺBy:Flor Serquina
Manic depression is a mental disorder that is also called manic depressive disorder. To some, it is known as bipolar disorder. Manic depression symptoms are known to be on the extreme sides of the spectrum. They are either on the high end or the low end. The high-end symptoms are known to be the manic symptoms while the low end is known as the "hypo" symptoms or the depressive symptoms.
This type of mental disorder is hard to spot because the patient may appear to be going well after an episode of depression. Unknown to people around him, he becomes sunny all of the sudden not because he has overcome depression; it is just that he shifted to mania, the other symptom of his illness.
The following are manic depression symptoms observed in patients who suffer from the manic or high end of the mental disease:
o Extreme kindness and euphoric mood.
o Being provocative.
o Inability to concentrate, always and easily distracted.
o Talking very fast due to the racing thoughts that flood the mind.
o Extreme energy level, hyper activity and restlessness.
o Excessive and uncharacteristic spending.
o Incoherence and mixed ideas.
o Increase in sexual drive.
o Intrusive behavior.
o Overly aggressive behavior.
o Very poor judgment
o Believing in his own super powers and unrealistic abilities.
o Extremely irritable.
o Sleeps too little but still have too much energy.
o Abusive use of substances such as cocaine, alcohol, and sleeping medications.
o Falling into a denial stage and not believing that anything is wrong with him.
The following manic depression symptoms are observed from patients on the low or depressed mode of the disorder.
o Sadness that stays for a considerable length of time accompanied by anxiousness and feeling of emptiness.
o A constant feeling of fatigue and a very low energy level.
o Feeling hopeless and always pessimistic.
o Loss of sexual drive.
o Inability to feel pleasure from anything.
o Inability to concentrate.
o A gnawing sense of guilt and feeling worthless.
o Forgetfulness.
o Restlessness.
o Extreme irritability.
o Inability to make rational decisions.
o Insomnia or oversleeping.
o A drastic loss or gain of appetite that leads to either weight loss or gain.
o Constant body pains that can not be confirmed by medical examinations.
o Suicidal tendencies.
Psychosis is another phenomenon that can be observed as a manic depression symptom. It occurs in both manic and depressive modes of the disorder. It is characterized by hallucination and delusion that is sometimes mistaken for schizophrenia (another form of mental disorder that also manifests hallucination and delusion).
It is important that proper diagnosis be done to tell whether it is manic depression symptom or schizophrenia because the two types of mental disorder need different types of psychological and medical attention.
There are people who exhibit mixed manic depressive symptoms. They manifest both the high and the low end symptoms of the disorder at the same time.
When To Seek Help
As mentioned, it is not easy to determine if a person has manic depressive disorder. If you suspect that you or a loved one is suffering from this mental illness, it would be best if you go and see a psychiatrist to fully assess your condition immediately since the person with this illness has a very erratic and unstable behavior. It can go from shoplifting to promiscuous sexual behavior to suicide. What's more, these behaviors may be manifest within a short period of time.
Proper diagnosis of the manic depressive symptoms is necessary in order to provide the proper treatment needed by the patient. The symptoms are confusing. The assistance of professional people is important in order to recover properly. Administration of medication is almost always necessary to stabilize the patient. Medications would help a patient respond well to other forms of psychiatric treatments such as psychotherapy and cognitive therapy.
About the Author:
Visit Facts-About-Depression.com to learn more about manic depression symptoms and different types of depression.
6:52 AM | 0 Comments
Full Detailed Information on Aerophagia
By: Brain
Aerophagia is defined as a condition when a person swallows too much air. This air is usually goes to the stomach. People with Aerophagia are believed to have excessive belches due to air swallowing. You probably also heard terms like constant or chronic belching or burping. These conditions are closely related to aerophagia but not necessarily caused by it.
Aerophagia causes
- You're too anxious or nervous. Yeah - it sounds quite usual. But this is the most common reason why it happens. If you burp all the time - try to conciously control yourself for 20 minutes and make sure that you're not swallowing air. If this was the main reason for your burping then in several minutes you should get rid of it completely. Though note that some people swallow air unconciously even without thinking about it - so it may be quite hard to stop doing it.
Aerophagia Symptoms
Aerophagia (air swallowing, excessive or constant burping) is defined as a condition when a person swallows too much air. This air is usually goes to the stomach. People with Aerophagia are believed to have excessive belches due to air swallowing. You probably also heard terms like constant or excessive belching or burping. These conditions are closely related to aerophagia but not necessarily caused by it.
Since excessive burping (or some called it chronic belching) happened to me a lot of times I always was curious why the heck it happens.
Aerophagia Treatment
Treatment of aerophagia is quite tricky and lots of different methods were attempted before. Here is a short list of them: differential reinforcement of alternative behavior, differential reinforcement of other behavior, reprimands, response cost, time-out, positive-practice overcorrection, squirts of food extract or lemon juice into the mouth, visual screening, auditory cuing, and gentle nose presses. You can search internet for them to get an idea on how they work.
I think the most effective method is self control. Just try to control your air swallowing for 10 minutes. Every time you're trying to swallow do something. In one paper it was recommended to guide your hand over your mouth to following each attempt to engage in air swallowing. Though you can invent something more effective.
Changing what you eat can help. Try to build a list of foods which make your burping worse and avoid food from this list as much as possible. Use acidity list and Food Database for help.
Acid Reflux Diet
* Avoid high-fat meals such as those from the fast food chains. High fat foods will remain in the stomach longer, thus causing the need for more stomach acid in order to digest them.
* But remember, don't overeat! Eating too much of any foods will stimulate the stomach to secret more acids
Read out for Anxiety. Check out blood pressure and stress
Article Source: http://www.eArticlesOnline.com
6:57 PM | 0 Comments
Full Detailed Information on Peyronie's Disease
By: Brain
Peyronie's disease is a connective tissue disorder involving the growth of fibrous plaques in the soft tissue of the penis affecting as many as 1-4% of men. Specifically the fibrosing process occurs in the tunica albuginea, a fibrous envelope surrounding the penile corpora cavernosa.
In past ages, when people frowned upon the very thought of diseases that affect the genital organs and when there was little understanding of illnesses and their causes, it’s quite easy to guess why nobody wanted to bring up this topic. The natural fear of impotence or sexually transmitted diseases was bad enough in those times.
What causes Peyronie's disease?
Scar tissue under the skin of the penis causes the curve. No one knows why the scar tissue starts. Some men with Peyronie's disease have had a penis injury that causes scar tissue. The scar tissue feels like a ridge or a row of tiny bumps. The scar tissue can keep getting worse during the first few years, making the penis curve more and more. You might notice this more during an erection. After a few years, the scar tissue usually stops getting worse, but it doesn't go away.
Signs and symptoms
The signs and symptoms of Peyronie's disease may appear overnight or develop more slowly. These may include:
* Painful erection
* A thick band of hard tissue on one or more sides
* Impaired ability to obtain an erection
Treatment
Because the course of Peyronie's disease is different in each patient and because some patients experience improvement without treatment, medical experts suggest waiting 1 to 2 years or longer before attempting to correct it surgically. During that wait, patients often are willing to undergo treatments whose effectiveness has not been proven.
Some researchers have given vitamin E orally to men with Peyronie's disease in small-scale studies and have reported improvements. Yet, no controlled studies have established the effectiveness of vitamin E therapy. Similar inconclusive success has been attributed to oral application of para-aminobenzoate, a substance belonging to the family of B-complex molecules.
Surgery is usually performed after several years when the disease is stabilised and the deformity prevents intercourse. Because the plaque of Peyronie's disease often shrinks or disappears without treatment, medical experts suggest waiting one to two years or longer before attempting to correct it surgically.
Read out for Anxiety. Check out blood pressure and stress
6:52 PM | 2 Comments
Cancer Information and Support Can Hasten Healing and Save Lives
It's the word that no one ever wants to hear: cancer. Although our parents or grandparents might have heard that word and considered it an automatic death sentence, today's focus on prevention, early detection, and treatment means that people who are diagnosed with cancer often have a very good chance of beating the disease.
The Latest Statistics
According to the National Cancer Institute (NCI), death rates from cancer have been decreasing since the early 1990s. In a recently published report on cancer from the years 1975 through 2004 (the latest year for which statistics are available), the NCI noted that, "Death rates decreased on average 2.1 percent per year from 2002 through 2004, nearly twice the annual decrease of 1.1 percent per year from 1993 through 2002."
The NCI emphasized that, "Death rates are the best indicator of progress against cancer." This is because the diagnosis rates of cancer can often be viewed in a positive light. For example, an increase in the diagnosis of prostate cancer (a typically non-fatal cancer) may be the result of a greater number of men obtaining PSA tests. Similarly, an increase in mammography may lead to an increase in the diagnosis of breast cancer, but early detection almost always leads to better outcomes. In other words, more women may be diagnosed with early stage breast cancer, but fewer will die from the disease.
According to the NCI report, mortality rates "decreased for 12 of the 15 most common causes of cancer death in men (i.e., cancers of the lung, prostate, colon and rectum, bladder, kidney, stomach, brain, and oral cavity as well as leukemia, non-Hodgkin lymphoma and myeloma)." Among women, mortality rates "decreased for 10 of the 15 most common cancers (i.e., breast, colon and rectum, stomach, kidney, cervix, brain and bladder cancers as well as non-Hodgkin lymphoma, leukemia, and myeloma)." Unfortunately, while deaths from blood and cervical cancers decreased, those from liver cancer and lung cancer increased for women.
When the Unthinkable Happens
If you or a loved one are diagnosed with cancer - whether bone cancer, skin cancer, ovarian cancer, or some other form - it's natural to jump to conclusions. That is why it is imperative to gather all of the information possible on the form of cancer and its treatments. Thankfully, the Internet can provide a wealth of information on cancer and cancer treatments. Becoming education about the disease your fighting may well be your best weapon in beating the disease. Information gives you the power to ask the right questions of health care providers, better understand your options, and pave the way to making an informed decision about cancer treatment.
Everyone Needs Support
The Internet is also a critical tool for finding the support you need while battling cancer. If you've received the diagnosis, it's extraordinarily helpful to connect with a network of people who share your experience. If a loved one has received the diagnosis, you need to get a grasp of what lies on the road ahead, and get the support you need in order to support the one you love.
Remember, cancer isn't necessarily a death sentence, and information and support are two of the most potent weapons you can have in your arsenal to battle the disease.
Chris Robertson is an author of Majon International, one of the worlds MOST popular internet marketing companies. For tips/information, click here: cancer
Visit Majon's Health and Beauty directory.
7:36 AM | 0 Comments
Colds and Flu

By: Mitamins Team
Someone might be described as developing the symptoms of a cold because they have 'Cold and Wind in the Lungs'. In the East, it is believed that it's not possible for someone whose energy is harmonious to become ill, and for this reason not everyone exposed to a cold virus will succumb to it. Preventative medication against colds and flu is therefore important, especially during the Fall.
During this season, it is ideal to enhance your immune system by boosting your intake of cold and flu prevention medication. Herbal formulas improve resistance to colds and flu symptoms, for when you come into contact with the cold or flu viruses that take off in Fall. Immune boosting cold and flu medication also helps to balance the body during periods of stress.
The common cold often causes symptoms such as a runny nose, sore throat, and an inability to get things done with one's normal spirit. Since it is a viral infection, antibiotics are not effective against the common cold, so it really is important to take a natural remedy approach to avoiding and controlling cold and flu symptoms. For example, excessive sugar, dietary fat, and alcohol have been reported to impair immune function.
If you do end up having a cold, and are unable to prevent cold or flu symptoms from developing, a warm, humid environment created by a humidifier may provide comfort during the the course of your common cold. Rest is recommended, especially for people with severe symptoms. Increased fluid intake is necessary in order to maintain water balance and to thin secretions.
Zinc, Vitamin C and Propolis all recommended preventative and treatment medications to create the strength in your body to overcome a cold or flu. Propolis is the resinous substance collected by bees from the leaf buds and bark of trees, especially poplar and conifer trees. Propolis extracts may be helpful in preventing and shortening the duration of the common cold.
Mitamins team bd@mitamins.net Find Authoritative Health Information on Vitamins & Nutritional Supplements; Get Custom Vitamins & Nutritional Supplements for all Your Health Needs. Vitamin health and Nutritional Supplements
Read More......5:17 AM | 0 Comments
Testing Methods Which Can Help A Physician in Diagnosis Of HPV Warts
not manifest themselves.For many people who contact HPV infections, it becomes quite difficult to be diagonised owing to the
fact that sometimes the signs of HPV warts are so invisible to the naked eye and due to lack of any signs or symptoms of the
warts,one does not see the urgency of going for a check up.This is the reason why there are various methods to aid the
physician in diagnosis of whether or not a person has genital HPV warts.
Visual examination is the most common method of testing HPV genital warts.A medical proffessional will be able to determine
if a person has HPV genital warts through visual exam.One could not exactly be displaying the physical signs of HPV genital
warts,but they could probably display other more common genital HPV signs associated with it which will definately lead the
doctor go to the next step.This could include daubbing some acetic acid(vinegar solution)to the suspected area.If the skin
turns white,it shows that HPV warts are present and could not be seen with the naked eye.
Depening on other factors too,like the position of the HPV genital warts or size and severity of the same, the physician may
result to tests like cervical pap smear,colposcopy or swab tests.This HPV tests are not tedious,do not take time to perform
and the results come out almost immediately therefore one does not agonise on the outcome for a long time which means that
the doctor can offer counselling there and then.HPV warts are highly contagious and one should seek a medical exam as soon as
you display any signs and symptoms.
Bleeding during intercourse, a burning sensation or itching in the genital area, small red or pink flesh swellings which take
the shape of a cauliflower,could be some of the signs that will come along with the HPV infection.So sexual intercourse at
this stage should be avoided at all costs, be it vaginal,anal or oral sex.This will reduce the chances and break the chain of
it spreading to unsuspecting partners.
HPV warts are spread through coming into contact with the skin of an infected person.More so the spread can be caused by
clothes and materials like towels of an infected person.When laundering such garments,lots of care should be observed and
done separately.When a person has been diagonised with HPV warts, its of great importance to take there partners for a HPV
test too for maximum results.
Article Source: http://www.articlesnatch.com
About the Author:
Wangeci Kinyanjui has been researching and reporting on Health Matters f Read More......
2:33 AM | 0 Comments
Ablene: Ablene can succesfully treats Crohns: Ablene Focus
If you tend to suffer from some kind of digestive disorder, the natural supplement Ablene may be able to give you some relief. A healthy diet and nutritional supplementation are principle factors for controlling gastrointestinal and digestive tract health. Ablene supplies the body with key nutrients that are usually lacking from the digestive system of someone suffering from digestive problems. Ablene has been formulated to reduce the painful symptoms suffered by having a dodgy digestive system. Symtoms such as diarrhea, vomiting and fever.
Ablene effectively enhances the healing process naturally, and eliminates nutrient deficiencies. People who have a family history of digestive disorder have an increased risk of suffering from it also.
Crohn's digestive disorder Crohn's is an inflammatory bowel disease. Around the world the numbers of sufferers are soaring. It affects the large and small intestines, as well as other internal organs. Although it can be contained with traditional medicines, it can be somewhat more efficently treated by successfully addressing nutritional short comings. Crohn's is difficult to diagnose, and it is advisable that if you should exhibit any of the following suspected symtoms you should consult your doctor: Fever Vomiting and Nausea Diarrhea Fatigue Abdominal Pain Floating Stools Weight Loss Loss of hunger
Ablene contains the following vitamins that play a crucial role in stimulating the immune system to fight infection, and repairing tissue and nerve fuctions. Vitamin B3 Vitamin A Vitamin D3 Manganese Vitamin C Vitamin B1 Vitamin B6 Magnesium Vitamin E Iodine Folic Acid Biotin If you would like further information on this supplement read this full length review here: http://nature-review.com
Denise Richards is a health professional very interested in natural health products. She is an author for http://nature-review.com. You can find more info about Ablene and other natural supplements on her website http://nature-review.com .
Read More......2:29 AM | 0 Comments
Sjorgen Syndrome: Why Am I so Thirsty?
By Chrissy & Company
With one out of every31 Americans suffering from some form of an autoimmune disease, many adults and children are struggling through life coping with symptoms which often lead to inhibited performance of daily living activities. One such autoimmune disease, Sjorgen Syndrome, can be difficult to diagnose and, often, sufferers are misdiagnosed. Understanding the origin, symptoms and treatment of the Sjorgen Syndrome will provide sufferers with a basic understanding of the condition which has significant life changing implications.
Sjorgen Syndrome is autoimmune disease in which the white blood cells attack the glands and tissues involved in thebody's natural ability to retain moisture. While the exact origin is not known, it is believed Sjorgen Syndrome is an inherited condition with the majority of Sjorgen Syndrome sufferers found to be womenand, inapproximately 50 percentof thecases, suffer from a comorbid condition of autoimmune origin.
Symptoms of Sjorgen Syndrome often present as excessively dry mouth and eyes with most sufferersunaware of the extent of thediagnosis leading to a daily frustrationin coping with a feeling of excessive dehydration. In addition to the overwhelming feeling of dehydration, Sjorgen Syndrome can affect major bodily functions leaving the sufferer tocommonly experience severefatigue and lethargy. For individuals suffering from Sjorgen Syndrome, remaining in this dehydrated state can lead to severe health complications including dental decay, gum disease and even eye disorders with loss of tear production and the inability to use corrective lenses.
While Sjorgen Syndrome affects many individuals without any comorbid factors, Sjorgen Sydrome isequally common among individuals who are comorbid for other autoimmune or connective tissue disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus. Organs affected, even without comorbid conditions, in the Sjorgen Syndrome sufferer includedisorders of thepancreas, kidneys,gastrointestinaltract and the central nervous system.
For individuals caring for someone with Sjorgen Syndrome, the key factor is empathy to the overwhelming sensation of being totally and completely dehydrated with no relief available. When treating a patient wtih Sjorgen Syndrome, the healthcare professional must first determine which organs and tissues are affected by the disorder. Once this factor is known, the areas, organs and bodily functionsaffected are then treated directly.For example, with Sjorgen Syndrome induced eye disorders, the sufferer may be required to used eye drops on a regular basis and be required to maintain low humidity in the home to preventeye deterioration. For those with oral tissue implications, the excessive intake of fluids is important to promote dental health and prevent oral decay.
As with any irregular health pattern, individuals suffering from severe dehydration should consult a healthcare professional when the dehydration leads to other symptoms and does not improve with the intake of fluids. When diagnosed with Sjorgen Syndrome, obtaining early intervention and following treatment recommendations will ensure a better quality of life with this autoimmune disease.
source:www.associatedcontent.com/
5:50 PM | 0 Comments
Down Syndrome & the Use of Neurofeedback
By Chrissy & Company
Down syndrome is a health complication that is attributed to chromosomal genetic defect. For many children born with Down syndrome, the health complications run the spectrum from neurological to musculoskeletal to intellectual deficit.
While the physical complications of Down syndrome are usually quite evident, the intellectual complications are often not easily determined. For children with Down syndrome, there is also a risk for developing neuropsychological complications, including Attention Deficit Hyperactivity disorder, ADHD. As a result, the learning and teaching strategies are often quite varied and tailored to the specific needs of the DS child.
In some children with Down syndrome, especially those with co morbid ADHD, the use of neurofeedback has been shown to be quite effective at improving complications associated with intellectual and cognitive function. With the use of neurofeedback, children with Down syndrome often experience improvement in memory, attention, behavior and may even experience improvement in gait and balance.
If you are the parent of a child who suffers from Down syndrome, it is important to ask your pediatrician about the appropriate referral for testing into ADHD. Once confirmed with ADHD, your child may require additional rehabilitation and therapy using neurofeedback. For children with co-morbidity for Down syndrome and ADHD, neurofeedback has been shown to improve symptoms but often requires as many as 40 sessions before improvement is realized. With diligence, many Down syndrome children, after 40 or more neurofeedback sessions are capable of performing simple mathematical equations and can achieve some level of reading. They may also be able to write their names in a legible manner.
In addition to cognitive and intellectual function, DS children who participate in a series of neurofeedback sessions also find they are more agile, mobile and may even develop the ability to run and skip. In many cases, young children with DS even participate in Special Olympics or physical activity programs designed for children with disability.
Neurofeedback is becoming an important part of treatment for individuals with disabilities. In children with Down syndrome, neurofeedback provides the key opportunity to improve not only physical ability but, more importantly, improve cognitive and intellectual function. With, at least, 40 sessions, you may soon realize your Down syndrome child has improved significantly enough to participate in a greater spectrum of daily living activities, including becoming more involved in school and even occupational events. Ask your child's pediatrician about the use of neurofeedback to improve quality of life when Down syndrome is a health complication.
source:www.associatedcontent.com
5:34 PM | 0 Comments
The Danger Signs of Pneumonia
By: Gayle Sanchez
Pneumonia is the leading killer of children according to the World Health Organization. There is an assessment that children's caregivers know only, or does not know the "danger signs" of the said disease. This article gives out statistics of pneumonia cases among children. It also includes symptoms and preventions. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), pneumonia is the leading killer of children that causes more casualties than AIDS, malaria, and measles combined. Approximately two million pneumonia-related deaths occur each year, accounting for one out of every five child deaths. The annual incidence of pneumonia is estimated at 151 million new cases per year, of which 11–20 million cases accounting for about 7 to 13 percent of lung disease cases are severe enough to require hospitalization. Yet too little is being done to reduce lung disease-related deaths among children.
A study was found that only about one-fifth of caregivers know the "danger signs" of pneumonia, including its two tell-tale symptoms of fast breathing (17%) and difficult breathing (21%). A little more than half of children sick with pneumonia receive proper care. Antibiotics, the recommended treatment was only given to 1 in 5 children with pneumonia in the early 1990s.
It was found that only a small number within the population existed in the prevalence of pneumonia and in caregivers' knowledge of pneumonia's " danger signs." It is also a discouraging fact that there is an unequal care for children with pneumonia. Children from richer families and better educated mothers and those living in urban areas were more likely to receive appropriate medical treatment.
Pneumonia is an inflammation of the lung, usually caused by an infection. Three common causes are bacteria, viruses and fungi. Most cases of pneumonia among children occur sporadically and not in outbreaks. People most at risk are older than 65 or younger than 2 years of age, or already have health problems. Person-to-person transmission may occur by direct contact with infectious secretions.
Approximately 10 to 20% of all children less than 5 years old in developing countries acquire pneumonia each year. About 1% of pneumonia cases result in bronchiectasis, which increases the risk of recurrent infections. Sometimes, a child's only symptom is rapid breathing. When the pneumonia is in the lower part of the lungs near the abdomen, there may be no breathing problems at all. However, there may be fever and abdominal pain or vomiting.
When pneumonia is caused by bacteria, an infected child usually becomes sick relatively quick. The child may also experience a sudden onset of high fever and unusually rapid breathing. When pneumonia is caused by a certain virus, symptoms tend to appear more gradually and are often less severe than in pneumonia caused by bacteria.
Some types of pneumonia cause symptoms that give important clues about which germs are causing the illness. In older children and adolescents, for example, pneumonia due to Mycoplasma (also called walking pneumonia) is notorious for causing a sore throat and headache in addition to the usual symptoms of pneumonia.
In general, pneumonia is not contagious, but the upper respiratory viruses that lead to it are, so it is best to keep a child away from anyone who has an upper respiratory tract infection.
According to WHO, reducing child deaths from pneumonia requires implementing effective prevention programs. This include promoting breastfeeding, reducing child under-nutrition, encouraging hand washing and raising immunization rates. A pneumococcal vaccine may be available for routine use which would likely have a significant effect in reducing child deaths from pneumonia.
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Read More......4:35 AM | 0 Comments
Obesity is a Modern Day Epidemic That Can be Cured
George Christodoulou
There have been many epidemics in history, and some have been really catastrophic, causing fatalities running in to tens of millions. And these in times when the World’s population was considerably less than what it is today.
Yet in the advanced age in which we like, with advances of medical technology moving forward in great leaps and bound, the sad fact is that the world is facing one of its greatest challenges and an epidemic which, if it remains untreated, is estimated to seriously effect the health of around fifty million people by the middle of the century, and that in the United States alone.
What is most horrendous about this epidemic that is a non viral, self created anomaly which is readily curable? It is obesity; caused by the overeating, eating the wrong type of foods and lack of exercise that is the way of life for too many people in the beginning of the 21st century. The only cure for obesity comes from within.
The only way that the medical profession can help in finding a cure is to advise the people who suffer from it how much damage they are doing to themselves and their loved ones by continuing to follow this blinkered path of self indulgence. A glimmer of hope is that many of the fast food chains, who have made their name and their fortune, are standing by the side of the health authorities in warning the public of the dangers of adhering to a diet of toxic laden, grease filler junk foods.
Increasingly more these huge fast food chains are altering their menus to place more of an emphasis on healthier eating, and reducing their reliance on cholesterol laden fats when frying their food.
It is estimated that the current costs of treating chronically overweight people is costing the US health authorities more than 50 billion dollars every year. This sun will fade into insignificance if the obesity epidemic is not checked. Increased awareness of the physical and financial ramifications of obesity is slowly taking effect and more and more people are turning the corner in curing themselves from the disease.
This involves applying disciplines that have remained unused for too long. To eat less, and to eat healthier and to exercise more. The first step in this new regime is to have the colon flushed to rid it of all the junk and grease that has accumulated there. This will have a double pronged effect. Firstly to wipe the slate clean and have the colon working at its maximum capability. This will bring on a more positive feeling that the new disciple to healthy living will want to continue. Gradually they will cure themselves of their obesity, and hopefully ensure themselves of a longer and healthier life.
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9:40 PM | 0 Comments
What Can Be Done About Escalating Medicare Premiums
by Darwin Corby
It's inevitable that Medicare insurance premiums are going to rise with inflation, but there's actually something we can all do to help lower premiums and costs. While it is a fact that most doctors and health care providers abide by the rules and are reliable, there are also some who milk the system for millions every year. The direct result of this has been an increase in insurance premiums, system wide.
Medicare is the medical insurance program provided through the United States Government. It provides medical insurance coverage for seniors who are 65 and older and those who are disabled even if they are less than 65 years of age under certain conditions. On average over one billion claims are processed every year, and without question it's turned out to be the largest provider of managed health care in the U.S.
The Medicare program is getting more and more involved and complex with every passing year, and recent developments have added an influx of private insurance providers into the mix. Medicare provides coverage to millions of members and manages over a billion claims every year. With these kinds of numbers comes bureaucracy, shortcuts and mistakes. Because of this, Medicare misuse and fraud have become system wide.
Frequently, Medicare mistakes are a result of honest mistakes rather than blatent fraud. There may very well be transcription errors or typographical errors. After all, Government insurance providers are human, and dealing with mistakes where so many forms and paperwork is concerned is fairly normal. In situations like these, it's important that you contact your doctor's office and discuss any mistakes you find.
However, if you discover your physician is actually charging your insurance for services that are free, or if you find that your physician is charging for something that you don't recognize, take a careful look at it. It may be that it is fraud, which happens to be is one of the primary reasons for climbing Medicare premiums.
Medicare Fraud Will Come In Several Different Forms
* You may be charged for services and products that you don't receive. * You could be billed for more services than you are actually provided. * Over-billing or... * Charging for medical supplies and equipment that is actually brought back.
How To Counter Medicare Fraud
Carefully read over all forms and paperwork you get from Medicare for anything that is associated with health care. Essentially, the responsibility is yours to catch omissions, mistakes and even fraud if you suspect it has taken place. By doing this, you contribute to keeping health care premiums lower. Really, we're all in this together.
Rising insurance costs have caused a lot of concern from the government, and they are doing their best to hinder Medicare fraud. As such Medicare providers are dealing just with private health care providers that have shown integrity and trustworthiness. Those who try to cheat the system are being cut off.
The fight is being carried out by Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, Medicare patients, Medicare service providers like doctors and hospitals as well as law enforcement agencies and consumer protection agencies. You can be part of that by making it a point to review your own medical bills.
The majority of members of Medicare facilities are attentive to statements and bills to fight climbing Medicare premiums. To assist in their efforts you should carefully review your bill for things such as extra charges, an incorrect social security number, services not provided but billed, etc. Those are just a few things that you can look for if you want to help battle Medicare fraud and increasing Medicare premiums.
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About the Author
With 7 years experience exporting Canadian prescription medications, we listen to what our clients have to say. We developed a simplified explaination of what to look for and how to find an appropriate insurance plan
9:27 PM | 0 Comments
New York Man No Longer Has Congestive Heart Failure After Stem Cell Treatment
by Jerry Steele
Malcolm Anderson, 81, of Hudson, New York, reports that his ejection fraction (a measure of the heart's pumping function) has increased from 41% to 55%, thanks to a new adult stem cell therapy, that he received in Bangkok, Thailand.
Malcolm Anderson, was very worried when he was diagnosed with congestive heart failure. He was going downhill. Malcolm asked his doctor, "What can I do about congestive heart failure?" His doctor replied, "you can take lasix." "I thought there must be something better than taking lasix the rest of my life" said Malcolm.
"I had an ejection fraction of 41%, not debilitating, but, long term, not good. I knew it would gradually get worse and worse."
Malcolm decided to search the internet and look for an alternative method of treating his congestive heart failure. He found that option in Theravitae, a biotechnology company in Thailand, that developed a procedure to treat congestive heart failure and coronary artery disease using a patient's own stem cells.
Theravitae's Vescell adult stem cell technology employs adult stem cells harvested from a small amount of the patient's own blood and does not require bone marrow extraction.
"I thought if it doesn't do any good, at least it doesn't do any harm," said Malcolm.
Malcolm was a little apprehensive before his arrival in Bangkok in March, 2007. "Once I got there, it was a piece of cake. They took great care of me from the moment I arrived at the airport."
Malcolm's own stem cells were implanted into his coronary arteries via catheter in a simple procedure very similar to an angioplasty.
Eight months later, the stem cell therapy has improved Malcolm's quality of life. "I recently visited my doctor - my diagnosis now is that I don't have heart failure anymore! My ejection fraction is 55%. That is a 30% increase! I'm feeling top shelf. I'm working again. I'm happy."
About the Author
Jerry Steele is Outreach Director at Theravitae, an international biotechnology company in Thailand that specializes in treating heart patients with their own stem cells. The company maintain a blog about stem cell therapy.
9:16 PM | 0 Comments
Physicians Are Changing
When I was a young girl the 'family doctor' was almost like family-he or she treated you with respect, listened to your concerns and cared about whether you lived or died. Insurance was important but not the 'complete fix or answer' to your ills.
The family doctor was just that-part of the family. When there was a health problem, he or she had the solution and was caring and helpful when doling about medical helps.
Today's doctor is talented, sometimes gifted, and knowledgeable about today's medicine but often doesn't have a clue as to what is going on with the patient-be it physical or mental. The office is often jammed with people waiting-sometimes hours on end, often staffed with incompetent help, phones ringing constantly, TVs blaring out endless health information that is usually ignored, and receptionists that are disinterested at best. Disorganization in the office and patient room has become acceptable and the 'norm.'
What is most disturbing to me is the intrusion of the computer in the patient room. Granted, the computer helps the doctor to assemble and organize important patient information but what is it doing to the relationship between patient and doctor? Are doctors relying too heavily on computers to assimilate and then offer up answers to the patient's problems and concerns or are the computers being used to add to the patient's comforts and problem-solving...?
I currently see a doctor who uses the computer and acts as if he would be 'incomplete' without it! How does this make me feel? Glad that I asked myself this and other questions My answers are:
1. I feel detached from the doctor because he's paying more attention to the computer than me.
2. I feel that because he's not communicating much with me, he'll miss something important to my health...
3. I feel that he doesn't care about me; that I'm just a number in a myriad of numbers..
4. I feel that he's using the computer as a crutch; a tool where he doesn't have to interact much-only with the computer.
5. He seems more harried and hurried with the computer-I am to be dealt with quickly and efficiently and then dismissed.
Now, I don't mind him using a computer to help store information but he or she needs to remember that I'm a human being and I need interaction between him and me!
Another thing I see that is causing a breakdown between doctor and patient is the absence of the 'white coat.' Yes, I know that it causes fear in some but, you, know, it also shows respect, professionalism and cleanliness. Without that white coat, he or she looks no more professional than anyone else. Imagine a police or fireman without their uniform when working...Wouldn't it bother most of us if we saw them without their professional uniform? I know it would me.
You see, what I'm trying to say is when it comes to professional people such as doctors, psychologists and psychiatrists, being and acting professional and yet keeping some traditional aspects-such as the coat and talking one on one with the patient-helps to keep that profession healthier, more top-notch and more in-tune with the patient. And when that occurs, then, in my opinion, better healthcare is achieved.
Of course, there are ways in which a doctor can improve the doctor-patient relationship. Some of these ways are described in an online article titled, "Improving the Doctor-Patient Relationship." Some of these ways are, "active listening, nonverbal communication, agendas, empathize, reassurance, avoid overreacting and establishing boundaries." (These suggestions came from a workshop in WI in 2003.)
Another online article, "Building a Cooperative Doctor/ Patient Relationship," discusses ways in which both the patient and the doctor can build a better working relationship. For the patient here are the suggestions, "Sharing your point of view with your doctor, Choosing a relationship style, Learning the information, Preparing for appointments and Getting emotional news.
All of the above whether it applies to the patient or doctor are great but as a patient I must add one more: try and have the office and its employees organized and caring-especially when answering and making appointments on the phone.; particularly if test results are involved. Being disorganized in a doctor's office is most frustrating and wastes time and money for all! The office is the front line of the doctor's business and if it's disorganized, then the perception of negativity will begin. (However, I also must interject that sometimes it is the doctor who is disorganized and spreads this attitude through the entire office. Unfortunately, I have such a doctor and it's most difficult when dealing with him) (Update on my doctor-he is now more organized and professional, has a better quality staff and takes a little more time with his patients.)
To be fair concerning my doctor and those like him I need to remember that he is only human-and most likely is trying to help me to the best of his abilities. Perhaps I need to give him some slack, slow down and let him check me over and give a diagnosis and then follow the instructions for getting well. If I have a question on something he's doing or wants me to do and I don't want to do it, then I need to talk to him in a professional and caring way. Most likely we both can come to an amicable solution.
I offer more thoughts on doctor/patient relationships and phobias:
If you've noticed a difference in healthcare, specifically care from your doctor in the last five to ten years, you're not alone. Healthcare is changing, often daily. That doctor/patient relationship is altering into a kind of 'pseudo' type of relationship. The doctor used to be the one person who would look out for you and keep your best interests to heart. Someone you could trust and confide in...No longer is this the case...
Why we can no longer have this kind of relationship is described in an online article, "Section 1-The importance of the doctor-patient relationship, and why we can't have it anymore." This article comes from YourDoctorintheFamily.com (2004).
This is happening, according to the article, because healthcare in the USA has turned to "covert rationing." This article goes on to explain that 'rationing healthcare has become an absolute economic imperative.' The article further explains that 'We must ration health care and are doing so, economists agree, simply as a matter of demographics and mathematics.'
Another statement is made here that needs to be repeated because it is happening now, "If we cannot ration health care openly, the only other choice (since ration we must) is to ration covertly, that is, to ration while denying that we are rationing at all. And that is what is going on today..YourDoctorintheFamily.com (2004)
One last statement on this issue needs to be made and that is, "Covert rationing requires that decisions made at the bedside be made with society's priorities in mind, and not the patient's. Indeed, covert rationing demands that the doctor forego his primary duty to his patient, in favor of "the greater good."YourDoctorintheFamily.com (2004).
I have to agree with one of the final statements made of covert rationing and that is "covert rationing, and all it entails, ultimately threaten to leave us a fundamentally changed people." YourDoctorintheFamily.com (2004) Nay, I might add, are we being programmed into something 'subhuman?'
There is an interesting picture--"Christ Among the Doctors," by Albrecht Durer (2004). This is a beautiful but disturbing painting that shows Christ among doctors and self-righteous scholars. The main theme of the painting is 'faith versus science and reason.'
I found this picture, "Christ Among the Doctors" unnerving but insightful, in that it shows a contrast between 'world-believers' and 'Christ-believers.' Christians, according to Biblical doctrine are 'in' the world but not 'of' the world. Because of this precise definition and our faith in a 'higher' being, we can put our trouble, worries, physical and mental illnesses in His hands, not in the hands of unbelievers or self-righteous scholars.
Copyright Toni Star 2007
Toni Star is a freelance writer/author and a master's graduate from Capella University. She hopes to do some online teaching upon graduation. You can see more of her work and books in the links below:
Pathways to Christ: http://pathwaystochrist.blogspot.com
Lulu Bookstore: http://www.lulu.com/tstar
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Toni_Star
5:28 AM | 0 Comments
A Meditation Focus Strategy for Multi-tasking
Meditation is a solution solving tool and can be integrated with writing. The power of writing ideas, down on paper, cannot be over stated. The discoveries of fire, and the wheel, were very important steps to the advancement of primal man. Painting ideas, on the walls of caves, was another very big step for humanity.
When modern man began to write on parchment, ideas could be reflected upon, problems could be solved, and solutions were found. To this day, writing allows us to consciously work on a solution with ink and paper, in "real time."
For some of us, a lap top does just as well, because this strategy does allow us to concentrate at this moment. Then we can put the problem aside, and come back to it again, until we have a solution.
We can even sleep on an idea, which we had written down, and come up with a solution, when we awake. Writing also helps subconscious thought to find solutions. This does not always happen, but once you write and idea or problem down, you are at peace with it. There is no need to worry about a problem because you will come back to it.
In fact, another focusing method to try is to mentally walk away from a problem temporarily. This will allow you to focus on it better when you come back to it. Any job that requires creativity can run into "mental blocks." During a mental block, you can become too emotionally involved to focus on the solution.
Everyone can use the benefits of meditation and concentration. From school children to business executives, the world will reap the rewards of a focused population. With the gifts of Yoga, and meditation, humanity could reduce crime, hunger, and war.
Change starts with one person practicing meditation at a time. A more focused population will be more productive and reduce criminal behavior. Let's look at some methods to help you drastically improve your focus and develop your meditation skills.
Look at life one task at a time. Plan your day with a list and allow some time for the unforeseen projects, which come into your daily life. Yes, it is true: this is a multi-tasking society, but how many tasks can you complete at one time effectively? You already know the answer.
Quality life is lived by taking every task one step at a time. This will also reduce worrying, stress, and anxiety - while raising the quality of your work and your ability to produce it. This does not just apply to work, but can also apply to your free time. Any hobby, or family time, can be much more rewarding when you allow the time to be present in the moment.
In fact, worrying about problems while performing another task can be dangerous; especially, if you are operating machinery. Worrying is not productive at all, but it is natural. Yet, you can turn worry into productive thought.
If you have a problem, which causes you to worry, allow time for reflection and "brain storming." If you have a trusted spouse, friend, partner, or mentor, you can focus, and find, realistic solutions, much easier, within a group session.
Copyright 2007 - Paul Jerard / Aura PublicationsPaul Jerard, E-RYT 500, is a co-owner and the director of Yoga teacher training at: Aura Wellness Center in, Attleboro, MA. He is an author of many books on the subject of Yoga and has been a certified Master Yoga teacher since 1995.
http://www.yoga-teacher-training.org
Read More......5:18 AM | 0 Comments
Patient Confidence- A Valuable Commodity
by: Dr Mary Zennett
Our current health care system is ailing.
Satisfaction among patients as well as health care providers is as low as it has ever been. Even in the era of doctors making house calls, people had confidence in their doctor, who, back then, represented the health care system. Confidence was based on trust, that the doctor was offering the best treatment and advances possible. Today, patient trust is dwindling.
Yet, there is still a great deal of trust in doctors and nurses. In a recent poll, the professions that were most greatly admired and respected by the public, second to firemen, were doctors and nurses. Lack of confidence stems not from the health providers themselves, but from the system that the doctors and nurses work for.
Let's examine some potential areas eroding public confidence in our health care system:
1.) Speed: Our system has always moved quickly, but the current pace is nothing short of phrenetic. Oh yes, a doctor or nurse could move slower, but the price would be at the expense of patients who would not be seen or cared for that day. Health providers talk regrettably about treating paperwork more than their patients. Indeed, the amount of paperwork has increased exponentially and the "system" doesn't show any signs of slowing down. Insurance companies, particularly managed care, have heavily contributed to this additional layer of bureaucracy taking time away from patient care. At the risk of offending managed care companies, this is the truth. Managed care was originally designed to contain costs. But the benefits to patients by managed care have yet to be determined.
2.) Commercialization of health care: TV, radio and internet commercials ...erode public confidence. Patients regularly verbalize an overwhelmed and distorted image of the role of medication from media commercials. The patient is responding appropriately with questions and concerns about the treatments; the fault is not with the patient but with the misrepresentation of the treatment by the paid advertisement! And it works both ways, commercials can be suggestive, or implant resistance in patients who might genuinely benefit from a trial of medication. Patient's decisions are influenced by marketing, rather than medical facts, and that just doesn't make good clinical sense.
3.) "Pill popping society" stems in part from commercialization but also from a stressed society looking for ways to make it easier to cope
4.) Conventional health care has yet to accept natural modalities as part of its treatment regimens. Yet, public opinion on this matter is very evident. Annual spending on Complementary/Alternative modalities exceeds 100 billion dollars per year. Yet, a large reason for this lack of integration into conventional health care remains lack of scientific research. Without large funding sources like pharmaceutical companies, natural treatments have been left largely to a word of mouth market. And the word has spread like wildfire. And most often from people with chronic health challenges whose health has been restored. Yet why haven't these potentially life-saving remedies been studied? In fact, for many health providers in conventional medicine, caring for people suffering with these chronic health challenges, it is heart wrenching not to be able to offer people more hope.
5.) The U.S. Health care system is rated 37th in the world according to the World Health Organization. Clearly these dismal results becry the need for health care solutions and transformation for the sake of our people.
Health: not simply the eradication of disease but the concept of healing, restoration and rejuvenation, particularly for those with chronic health conditions. Included in this is the incorporation of preventative health care into mainstream medicine.
Transformation of health care = Hope for all
Copyright Citizens for Health Reform 2007
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Citizens for Health Reform is a grassroots health empowerment initiative promoting patient centered strategies that integrate natural health into mainstream medicine. Data from a FREE ONLINE HEALTH SURVEY will educate legislators and the public at large. Please visit: http://www.citizensforhealthreform.com
6:57 PM | 0 Comments
Ways To Fund Your Cosmetic Surgery
by: Jennifer Blackie
When your insurance company doesn't pay for cosmetic surgery because it's elective, and you don't have the money in the bank to pay up front, what are your options? Do you have to wait until you save up enough money before you can have the facelift, tummy tuck, or breast uplift that you want? That, of course, depends on your personal financial situation. You do, however, need to check into the options before you even go for your first evaluation.
Depending on the surgeon you choose, it's possible you may find one who offers a payment plan right in the office. In most cases, this means you pay a certain amount down, and the doctor will agree to accept a set amount in payments each month thereafter. You want to be careful when using this option, because in many cases, the down payment is smaller in order to encourage patients to take advantage of it. However, the monthly payments may be short term, and thus much higher than what you can afford. Although this is not true all the time, it is in many cases. The reason is doctors want their money right away, and as such, they really don't want to be stuck financing patient bills. Therefore, what they do is make it somewhat attractive by offering a payment plan, but at the same time, discouraging patients from using onsite financing because of the future high payments.
Another option is using your credit card, if you have enough available to finance your cosmetic surgery. Financing this way means you don't have to pay a down payment, and you have low minimum payments. On the down side, cosmetic surgery is expensive, so you will tie up a good portion of your credit line. Of course, if you are financially sound and have a substantial credit line, it may not have a detrimental effect, especially if you have a card with a lower than average interest rate. If you had planned to pay a down payment, you can also do that and put the balance on your credit card. This will reduce the amount of your credit line that you tie up with your surgery.
A third option is applying for a personal loan at your bank. Of course, for those who have less than perfect credit, they may need to obtain some collateral such as real estate or a motor vehicle, but it's always possible. If you already have an equity line of credit, you can use that as well, by just writing out a check against your available balance. There are always ways you can come up with the funds you need for different things, including that of cosmetic surgery. You may even choose to take a loan against your 401K plan if you have one, or take a loan against your savings account or other assets you may own. Make certain you know you can obtain the funding before you go any farther than the initial consultation. Make sure you can pay for the surgery before you schedule it and tie up the surgeon's schedule.
About the Author:
Credit Medical offers cosmetic surgery financing loans for elective medical care such as plastic surgery, breast augmentation, liposuction, laser vision. www.creditmedical.com
6:09 PM | 0 Comments
How are Cataracts Treated?
Eye cataracts are treated only by being removed. But there is no way to keep the eye’s lens in
By:Patricia Woloch
place and just remove the cataract. In cataract eye surgery, the entire lens must be replaced with an intraocular lens (IOL).
A cataract is an alteration in the nature of the clear lens. The lens sits behind the cornea, pupil and iris, and after light passes through and is bent by the cornea, it passes through the lens. Both the cornea and the lens are curved, transparent structures. They both allow light through and both bend it as it passes through. In this way, the light focuses on the retina and gives clear vision, assuming a 20/20 eye. Of course, many people are nearsighted or farsighted, having a cornea which is too steep or too flat. These conditions are treated with LASIK. However, the lens cannot be treated. If it starts to become clouded by a cataract, eye surgery is required.
Cataract causes
Cataracts are strongly age-related but can also be caused by some systemic diseases, by ultraviolet light, some medications, an eye injury, or by diabetes. The lens is primarily made up of water and proteins. The connection between eye cataracts and aging is not fully understood, but it would seem that aging, with its increasing dryness in the body, can cause the proteins to clump together and form tiny opaque areas which block light. Also, the lens is sealed inside a capsule, a membrane which surrounds it. Old cells dying can become caught inside the membrane, again forming tiny clumps which block the passage of light.
Onset of cataracts is quiet and you may not notice any vision impairment at first. At some point you’ll notice blurring and glare, perhaps less vibrant colors, poor night vision, and even double vision in one eye. Each case of cataracts is unique and yours will progress at its own pace.
At some point your eye doctor will suggest cataract surgery as the best way to restore your vision.
Implanting an IOL
Cataract eye surgery is typically done as an outpatient procedure. An anesthetic is given and your eye doctor will make a tiny incision in the cornea (about three millimeters). Using ultrasound, he will gently disintegrate the lens and remove it. Through that same incision, he will insert a folded IOL and carefully position it correctly.
Accommodation
When the eye’s natural lens is removed, so is the eye’s ability to accommodate. The lens, controlled by tiny muscles, normally changes its curvature depending on whether the eye is focusing on a near object, or a far one. The changes in lens convexity will bend the incoming light rays more or less acutely, maintaining focus on the retina, so that vision is clear at all distances.
There are three IOLs which can restore some of the ability to accommodate:
· ReSTOR® -- which has a series of graduated steps on its surface, for a range of light-bending angles
· ReZoom™ -- which has five optic zones in its structure, for five distance ranges
· Crystalens™ -- which is connected to the same muscles which controlled the natural lens, and is therefore controlled by them also
If you are wondering what is happening to your once-clear vision, cataracts could be the culprit. The way to find out is to schedule a consultation with an experienced eye doctor and have him examine your eyes.
12:09 AM | 0 Comments
Erection Difficulty Causes
There may be a notion of sexual intercourse as a function that requires little to no effort to initiate. The fact of the matter is however that there are any number of physical responses from both men and women that need to take place for sexual intercourse to occur. If these physical responses should fail in some way, sexual intercourse can be an impossibility. The belief that women don't have physical difficulties during sex is not so, but likely the most frequently occurring problem during the performance of intercourse is the male being unable to achieve an erection.
Erection problems aren't infrequent, though not all men have erection problems and erection problems certainly don't always occur. Erectile problems are common enough that there's a medical terminology to describe the problem. The specific medical term for erection difficulty is erectile dysfunction, or ED. As there's a medical term for erection difficulties, there's also naturally enough pharmaceuticals available to treat the disorder. Pharmaceuticals for the treatment of erection problems in fact have nearly become household names, with the Viagra brand leading the way.
Treatment options aside, what are the actual causes at work when a male is unable to achieve an erection? As with any medical problem, various reasons explain the difficulty, but a few specific causes are the most typical. Anxiety is one potential explanation. Males may feel a pressure to take the lead role during intercourse, and to consistently please their partner. This sort of expectation pressure can lead to performance anxiety, which when significantly internalized can prevent the male from being able to sexually function at all.
There are also medical conditions that can prevent a male from achieving an erection. Problems with the prostate gland can affect erection capability. The prostate is in direct proximity to the penis and an irregular prostate, a condition older men tend to have, can disrupt erection as well as cause urinary problems. Diabetes is another condition that's linked to erection difficulties. Erection problems due to diabetes is nearly certain to be caused by the circulatory problems diabetes presents. Circulation often gets overlooked in the erection process, but it's an absolutely critical factor.
Another frequent factor in erection problems is stress. Modern life presents a multitude of challenges and difficulties. People can feel burdened and unappreciated, something that's true for men and women. There's also the stress that can occur from a specific problem cropping up, as often seems to happen in most of our lives. Under enough stress, any person is going to be compromised in how they are able to physically perform. Still, stress rarely remains in place indefinitely, and once stress has drained off, erection problems caused by stress will become resolved.Zinn Jeremiah is a freelance author. Read more of Zinn's writings at http://www.hubonline.biz/website-content.htm . For male enhancement products, visit http://www.hubonline.biz/more-satisfaction.htm .
Read More......12:03 AM | 2 Comments
Acid reflux chokes me awake at night
Acid reflux has forced me to suddenly wake up countless times, in a state of panic, choking on my own acid and gasping for breath.
Nothing can really describe the burning bile feeling, or the taste it leaves in your mouth as you try not to gag and throw-up. I have had to stick a pinch of toothpaste into my mouth and leave it there to try and cut the bile taste.
I was diagnosed with a hiatal hernia as a teenager, which may contribute to acid reflux. The burning acid had left me alone for most of my 20’s. However, a high stress job and a subsequent gain in weight and lack of exercise brought the acid reflux back on with a vengeance in my 30’s.
When I started having almost constant waves of heartburn and acid indigestion, sitting upright at my desk, I knew it was time to see the doctor.
At that time, I had never heard of acid reflux.
He told me that more than 60 million people suffer from frequent heartburn, acid indigestion or GERD (Gastroesophogeal Reflux Disease).
Acid reflux describes the regurgitation of acid back up the throat. It can also lead to more serious medical conditions that may require hospitalization.
My doctor explained this happens when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) does not close properly and stomach contents leak back, or reflux, into the esophagus. The LES is a ring of muscle at the bottom of the esophagus that acts like a valve between the esophagus and stomach. The esophagus carries food from the mouth to the stomach.
When refluxed stomach acid touches the lining of the esophagus, it causes a burning sensation in the chest or throat called heartburn. The fluid may even be tasted in the back of the mouth, which is called acid indigestion.
Heartburn that occurs more than twice a week may be considered GERD, and it can eventually lead to more serious health problems.
When I finally went and saw my doctor, I was having almost constant heartburn and acid indigestion.
He further explained that symptoms are usually worse at night when the person is lying flat and acid flows easily from the stomach back up the esophagus.
Anyone, including infants, children, and pregnant women, can have GERD.
I was told to make some lifestyle and dietary changes. They included:
1. Using a wedge pillow to elevate my body at bedtime
2. Eating plenty of fiber and drinking lots of fluids.
3. Eating small meals and eating slowly.
4. Not lying down for at least 1-2 hours after eating.
5. Losing extra pounds. Added weight causes extra pressure on your stomach and can irritate symptoms.
6. Wearing loose clothing. Tightly fitting clothes put extra pressure on your stomach.
7. Not exercising for at least one hour after eating.
8. Avoiding the following: alcohol, tobacco, caffeine, chocolate, carbonated beverages, spices, fried and fatty foods, tomato products, citrus, and peppermint.
I am a non smoker and I don’t drink that much. I do drink a fair bit of coffee however. The real culprit for me though has been drinking fruit juice of any kind before bed. When I have, my acid reflux has been significantly worse.
As I have made many of these changes to my lifestyle, I have seen some relief.
The elevated pillow works wonderfully. I have also started taking proton pump inhibitor medication, which reduces acid production in my stomach. I have been told surgery may be an option down the road.
Drew Harris owns and operates Acid-refluxsite.com, a one-stop-shop directory for those looking for information on acid reflux and its related issues. Multiple pages of resources, referrals and expert articles. http://acid-refluxsite.com
Read More......3:44 PM | 1 Comments
Sexual Impotence Due to Physical, Psychological, and Lifestyle Pressures
by kristine
In today’s sexual milieu, impotence is by far one of the most serious problems faced by men. Sexual impotence was once perceived as a condition that strikes men who are 40 years old and above. However, current statistics show that it is now commonly diagnosed among younger men.
Since sexual performance is commonly associated with a man’s sense of worth, sexual impotence can result to a number of psychological and emotional traumas such as shame and loss. Men tend to measure life’s success by their capacity to satisfy their partners in bed. This does not mean, however, that all men who experience this problem immediately seek help from professionals. Most of today’s records on impotence basically cover complicated cases, for some men no longer consult to doctors for treatment when their conditions are noted as lighter case of impotence.
Causes of impotence Generally, there are three main causes of sexual impotence among men---physical, psychological, and lifestyle.
1.Physical As for the physical aspect of sexual impotence, most of the noted causes are curable or avoidable. However, there are some physical causes that are considered incurable, thereby requiring serious treatments and surgeries.
Among the many causes of sexual impotence are hormonal imbalance, damaged penis structure, nervous system disorders, and drug/medicinal side-effects.
2.Psychological Impotence due to psychological causes is also a very common phenomena among men. This may be the result of an extreme trauma that further drives a man to feel anxiety, depression, and stress. The sexual capacities of men with mental disorders may also be affected.
Aside from these, psychological impotence may occur in situations when a man no longer feels any sexual rapport or affinity with this partner. The loss of a man’s interest in sex may also be a result of fatigue and too much stress.
3.Lifestyle Aside from physical and psychological causes, lifestyle preference is known to worsen most impotency conditions among men. According to studies, men who use drugs like cocaine, nicotine, and heroine are most likely to experience sexual impotence. Most obese men also tend to lose interest in sex as they become more conscious of their bodies. Men who exercise daily and have a well-nourished body are more confident about their bodies, thus, resulting to a healthier sex life.
Treatments for sexual impotence Today, treatments for sexual impotence vary according to origin. If the cause of impotence is purely psychological, experts generally suggest therapies and supportive psychotherapy sessions. Counseling is also one of the basic parts of impotency treatments with psychological causes.
Meanwhile, surgery and implants are the best treatments commonly recommended by most doctors to sexual impotency cases with physical causes. In addition, oral medicaments are also prescribed by doctors along with such surgical procedure. There are also alternative oral medications like herbal capsules that many men use today. Although these oral medications are noted to be ineffective and are not prescribed or recommended by most doctors, many still purchase and use these products due to their helpful psychological effects.
About the Author
Choose Variety of High Quality Medicines at Online MedicinesEnjoyed Reading this article? More here: Pharmacy Articles
9:26 PM | 1 Comments
Health Matters - Captain Mercury
In the dark reaching shadows of mercury poisoning, it can be hard to keep your chin up. While I was going through the period when my wife and I were trying to figure out what I had - after nearly a dozen Doctors had brought little to no help and in fact mostly discouragement with no diagnosis - we finally discoved a Doctor that knew what I had and precisely what to do about it.
We were thrilled with the fact that my acute condition was being brought under control and we had a long-term prognosis that was positive. Considering how incredibly sick I was, we weren't under any illusions that it would be a quick process. My thought was that it took me years to get so ill and it would take me years to get well again.
So in our enthusiasm, we shared with our close friends the diagnosis. From that point on, my buddy called me Captain Mercury.
So Captain Mercury to the rescue. If my story will help you, I am thrilled. That is a prime motivator for me. It was so tough for me to figure out what I had. In fact, I got so ill that I could no longer properly process what the cause might be. Without my wife's patient help, without the support of God, I absolutely would not have been able to last through those dark days and darker nights.
For forty days, I was not able to successfully digest so much as a cracker. That was after many days and more weeks of very poor digestive function. My physiology could have been viewed as a really bad train wreck. I was kept alive by Recharge and fresh veggie juices. Recharge is a sort off 'healthy' alternative to sports' drinks. One of the reasons for drinking this type of drink was to replace the electrolytes I was losing via my dysfunctional intestinal tract.
What did I have? Chronic Mercury Poisoning of the Gut. From most Doctors' perspectives, I had an outrageous case of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS).
Because of the effects of the severe IBS attacks, I required 4 to 6 liters of IV (intravenous) fluid probably a dozen times. A couple times, they were administered in foreign countries that might not be known for the standard of care we enjoy in America.
I was dealt a daily dose of dasterdly discouragement. But it didn't keep me down. Whereas in 2005 I didn't know if I was going to live or die from one day to another, now I just keep Oregano Tea and Charcoal in my bag and life is much more normal. Whereas a digestive setback would cost me weeks to get back on track, now it takes only days. I still have a couple years to go at my current rate of treatment, but things are looking very bright now. I can do things today that I couldn't dream of doing a couple years ago. The only thing I could dream of doing back then involved basic survival and staying positive.
To conclude, given what I have gone through and that I successfully played ding dong ditch on death's door, I believe you can make it through whatever you may be facing. You need to set out to find the cause of your problem. You may need a champion to fight for you. You certainly need loved ones praying for you. God can help you. I am firmly convinced of this great truth.
Copyright 2007 Thomas Mayhew
Thomas Mayhew is President of Crimson Books. Since going through a death-defying health experience (in 2005), he has taken a keen interest in sharing his health knowledge with others. You can subscribe to his blog at Health Matters Blog.
1:32 AM | 0 Comments
Can Colonic Irrigation be Harmful?
George Christodoulou
There is a lot of conjecture both within and outside the medical profession on the leading question: is colonic irrigation harmful? Ask any doctor and you will usually receive one of two answers. One is absolutely not and the other is usually not too clear. The reason for the indecision is that most doctors find it hard to prove that colonic irrigation is harmful and many more, especially of the younger generation will wholeheartedly endorse flushing the colon to remove the impurities that the body can build up there over a period of time.
It goes without saying that any doctor who will suggest colon cleaning as a form of treatment will do so as part of a package that includes a healthier eating pattern and possibly a more active life style. Colon cleaning can be a very positive step, but if the person who undertakes a course of colonic irrigation yet continues to eat the wrong food and leave a sedentary life style then the effects of the treatment will be minimalized.
No self respecting medical practitioner will suggest to a patient that colon cleansing should be carried out on a weekly basis or even monthly. The minimum intervals between treatments should be no less than three months, and the ideal interval should be a year. Another question that a doctor may ask is which method of colonic cleaning will be used. Depending on the state of the patient’s health, the doctor will probably advise on never undertaking a colon cleansing using methods or chemicals that are too radical.
Too sum up on the question of is colon irrigation harmful, the answer should be a negative one, as long as it is carried out sensibly, preferably under supervision and at reasonable intervals. On the other hand if the patient embarks on a healthier life style, the necessity to have their colon cleaned will be considerably reduced and their health will show a marked improvement.
To learn more about Ultimate Colon Cleanses
please visit coloncleansingprograms.com and learn more about colonmate as well as other colon cleansers.
Read More......
8:41 PM | 0 Comments
Can Surgery Help On Cerebral Palsy?
Orthopedic surgery is often recommended when spasticity and stiffness are severe enough to make walking and moving about difficult or painful. For many people with cerebral palsy, improving the appearance of how they walk – their gait – is also important. A more upright gait with smoother transitions and foot placements is the primary goal for many children and young adults.
In the operating room, surgeons can lengthen muscles and tendons that are proportionately too short. But first, they have to determine the specific muscles responsible for the gait abnormalities. Finding these muscles can be difficult. It takes more than 30 major muscles working at the right time using the right amount of force to walk two strides with a normal gait. A problem with any of those muscles can cause an abnormal gait.
In addition, because the body makes natural adjustments to compensate for muscle imbalances, these adjustments could appear to be the problem, instead of a compensation. In the past, doctors relied on clinical examination, observation of the gait, and the measurement of motion and spasticity to determine the muscles involved. Now, doctors have a diagnostic technique known as gait analysis.
Gait analysis uses cameras that record how an individual walks, force plates that detect when and where feet touch the ground, a special recording technique that detects muscle activity (known as electromyography), and a computer program that gathers and analyzes the data to identify the problem muscles. Using gait analysis, doctors can precisely locate which muscles would benefit from surgery and how much improvement in gait can be expected.
The timing of orthopedic surgery has also changed in recent years. Previously, orthopedic surgeons preferred to perform all of the necessary surgeries a child needed at the same time, usually between the ages of 7 and 10. Because of the length of time spent in recovery, which was generally several months, doing them all at once shortened the amount of time a child spent in bed. Now most of the surgical procedures can be done on an outpatient basis or with a short inpatient stay. Children usually return to their normal lifestyle within a week.
Consequently, doctors think it is much better to stagger surgeries and perform them at times appropriate to a child’s age and level of motor development. For example, spasticity in the upper leg muscles (the adductors), which causes a “scissor pattern” walk, is a major obstacle to normal gait. The optimal age to correct this spasticity with adduction release surgery is 2 to 4 years of age. On the other hand, the best time to perform surgery to lengthen the hamstrings or Achilles tendon is 7 to 8 years of age. If adduction release surgery is delayed so that it can be performed at the same time as hamstring lengthening, the child will have learned to compensate for spasticity in the adductors. By the time the hamstring surgery is performed, the child’s abnormal gait pattern could be so ingrained that it might not be easily corrected.
With shorter recovery times and new, less invasive surgical techniques, doctors can schedule surgeries at times that take advantage of a child’s age and developmental abilities for the best possible result.
Selective dorsal rhizotomy (SDR) is a surgical procedure recommended only for cases of severe spasticity when all of the more conservative treatments – physical therapy, oral medications, and intrathecal baclofen -- have failed to reduce spasticity or chronic pain. In the procedure, a surgeon locates and selectively severs overactivated nerves at the base of the spinal column.
Because it reduces the amount of stimulation that reaches muscles via the nerves, SDR is most commonly used to relax muscles and decrease chronic pain in one or both of the lower or upper limbs. It is also sometimes used to correct an overactive bladder. Potential side effects include sensory loss, numbness, or uncomfortable sensations in limb areas once supplied by the severed nerve.
Even though the use of microsurgery techniques has refined the practice of SDR surgery, there is still controversy about how selective SDR actually is. Some doctors have concerns since it is invasive and irreversible and may only achieve small improvements in function. Although recent research has shown that combining SDR with physical therapy reduces spasticity in some children, particularly those with spastic diplegia, whether or not it improves gait or function has still not been proven. Ongoing research continues to look at this surgery's effectiveness.
Spinal cord stimulation was developed in the 1980s to treat spinal cord injury and other neurological conditions involving motor neurons. An implanted electrode selectively stimulates nerves at the base of the spinal cord to inhibit and decrease nerve activity. The effectiveness of spinal cord stimulation for the treatment of cerebral palsy has yet to be proven in clinical studies. It is considered a treatment alternative only when other conservative or surgical treatments have been unsuccessful at relaxing muscles or relieving pain.
About the Author:
Wilbert Brians writes for http://www.cerebralist.net where you can find out more about cerebral palsy and other topics.
5:36 AM | 0 Comments
The Michael Thurmond Diet: The Pluses And Minuses
By:Flor Serquina
The Michael Thurmond diet was formulated by a health guru of the same name. He has claimed that there are at least 500,000 individuals who have already successfully lost weight from the diet program that he created.
Theory of the Michael Thurmond Diet
Eat more yet healthy, workout less. This is the main concept of the Michael Thurmond diet. Ideal weight, lean and toned muscles and healthy body is the promise of this diet program. This can be achieved by a simple formula: nutritious foods and an exercise program.
Before a person is given a diet plan or program, his body type, current diet and physical activities are determined. It will be difficult to craft a Michael Thurmond diet program for you if proper information weren't provided.
Michael Thurmond Diet's 6-Week Make Over Program
The Michael Thurmond Diet is also known as the 6-Week Make Over Program. It is claimed that you can lose weight in as short a span as 6 weeks.
There are several advantages and disadvantages that you might consider when you plan to try this weight-loss program.
Advantages:
This is not the type of diet where you will depend on supplements or medicines to burn fats or suppress hunger. The Michael Thurmond Diet specializes in food intake and exercises. It is purely on these two that this diet revolves.
Eat More and Exercise Less
Once you have already identified your body type structure, you can now concentrate on selecting the food list to go with your diet program. You can eat more of what is required from you because you are now aware of how it will work for your body. With the proper diet, you can go on a not-so-rigorous exercise program.
Your food list under the diet consists mainly of fresh and nutritious foods like fruits, vegetables, whole meal grains and lean meat. You are also advised to stay away from nuts, processed foods, pasta and bread. You are not also allowed to take salty foods, dairy products and alcoholic drinks.
Aside from the diet, you should work on your exercise regimen. You should at least work out from 45 to 60 minutes everyday.
The Program is Short
The first six week period of the program is the most crucial part. During this period, you would know your body type, identify the diet for you and list food that you can burn down easily. It is within the six-week period also that you will know the best exercise for you.
Disadvantages:
Michael Thurmond Diet is Expensive
To be able to start the program you are required to buy the book where you will base your routine. The book together with the starter kit costs $170. It consists of several items like the start-up video, "blueprinting" kit, training videos and exercise bands. It also includes the Living Lean tape, menu planner and the 6 Days Mini Makeover.
It is Time Consuming
The first six-week period involves a lot of planning. Within these days, you will have to identify your body structure type, try out different types of menu, conceptualize and design your own menu program and craft your exercise routines. This is very time consuming for some people. For dieters who would want to see a result immediately, they lose heart after learning of the pains that they have to go through to achieve a result.
Diet Excludes Dairy Products
Calcium is the mineral that keeps bones strong. If you lose this in your diet, you might suffer from osteoporosis later on. With a Michael Thurmond diet, you will get your calcium needs from other sources, and it might not be to your liking. If it were such the case, you are in a lot of trouble since this diet program disallows use of supplements.
Do You Have the Will?
The Michael Thurmond diet is program is not for the faint of heart. It requires dedication and commitment. If you have these qualities and you think you are up to the challenge of getting into this diet program, this is for you. On the other hand, if you think you don't have the discipline to fulfill all the requirements of the program, you're probably better off looking elsewhere.
About the Author:
Visit The-Good-Diet.com to learn more about the Michael Thurmond diet and other diet food programs.
5:49 PM | 0 Comments
Psoriasis Explained - Causes And Psoriasis Treatment
By: Ricky Hussey
Psoriasis (IPA pronunciation: [sY'raj.Ysjs]) is a disease which affects the skin and joints. It commonly causes red scaly patches to appear on the skin. The scaly patches caused by psoriasis, called psoriatic plaques, are areas of inflammation and excessive skin production. Skin rapidly accumulates at these sites and takes a silvery-white appearance. Psoriasis Symptoms are no always that easy to identify and diagnose. For centuries it has commonly been inadvertently mistaken for leprosy, and for centuries people have been suffering the fall out of this wrong diagnosis. For a full and correct diagnosis you should visit your doctor so he can do the correct analysis and suggest the correct treatments to the patient.
There are five types of Psoriasis to look out for :-
. Plaque Psoriasis
. Guttate Psoriasis
. Inverse Psoriasis
. Erythrodermic Psoriasis
. Pustular Psoriasis
What causes psoriasis?
Research indicates that psoriasis may be a disorder of the immune system. The immune system includes a type of white blood cell, called a T cell, that normally helps protect the body against infection and disease. Scientists now think that psoriasis is related to an abnormal immune system that produces too many of the immune cells, called T cells, in the skin. These T cells trigger the inflammation and excessive skin cell reproduction seen in people with psoriasis. This leads to inflammation and flaking of skin.
What are the symptoms?
Psoriasis usually appears as red, scaly patches that reveal fine silvery scales when scraped or scratched. These patches may itch and feel uncomfortable.
Psoriasis is most common on the knees, elbows and scalp, but can appear anywhere on the body.
Some people with psoriasis become withdrawn and don't socialise or form relationships because of the way people react to the appearance of their skin.
Diagnosis
There are several forms of psoriasis, and each form has unique characteristics that allow dermatologists to visually identify psoriasis to determine what type, or types, of psoriasis is present. Sometimes a skin biopsy will be performed to confirm the diagnosis.
Is psoriasis contagious?
No. You can't catch psoriasis from another person or give it to someone by touching them, and you can't spread it to other parts of your body.
Treatment
Currently, there is no cure for psoriasis. However, there are many treatment options that can clear psoriasis for a period of time.Therapy for psoriasis ranges from conservative to aggressive treatment. Due to the chronic nature of the disease, many patients try several therapies over time. Guttate psoriasis usually is managed more easily and complete remission typically occurs. In addition to standard treatment, patients with guttate psoriasis are given a course of oral antibiotics to eradicate the strep infection.
Sunshine - Sunshine may help to clear psoriasis; in many people it improves dramatically during sunny holidays. Take care, as psoriasis may develop in areas of sunburn, and fair skin exposed to ultraviolet radiation becomes prematurely aged and may develop skin cancer.
Baths - Soaking in warm water with a bath oil or tar solution can soften the psoriasis and lift the scale. Bland soaps or soap substitutes are useful. Antiseptics are not necessary and may irritate.
Prevention
There is no known prevention. Keeping skin clean and moist and avoiding your specific psoriasis triggers may help reduce the number of flare-ups.
Doctors recommend daily baths or showers for persons with psoriasis. Avoid scrubbing too hard, because this can irritate the skin and trigger an attack.
Read out Plastic surgery. Also check out for family health and rosacea
Read More......4:17 PM | 0 Comments
Diagnosing an Inflammatory Bowel Disease in its Early Stages
By: Tl Kleban
People that suffer from Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis cannot describe what it feels like to suffer everyday from it. They can only say that it is like having a stomach flu that never goes away. The pain of is occurs randomly or is triggered by eating the wrong food or even stress. There is no wonder why discovering and treating it early is so important.
These two digestive conditions are incurable chronic diseases that affect your intestinal tract and are often grouped together as inflammatory bowel diseases since they share similar symptoms. They both cause abdominal pain and frequent diarrhea as well as swelling and sores along the tissue that lines your intestines. Crohn's disease attacks the digestive tract, from the mouth to the rectum; while ulcerative colitis usually normally is found only the outermost layer of the colon.
Here are a few ways you can learn how to diagnose inflammatory bowel disease and begin treatment immediately.
- A sigmoidoscopy test lets your doctor correctly diagnose ulcerative colitis through examining the rectum and left colon from taking detailed pictures. This procedure is done with inserting an endoscope, a tube with a camera on end, into your rectum. If you have any questions about your colon’s health, expect to have one this performed.
- A colonoscopy is used by your doctor uses an endoscope to look at the rectum and entire large bowel while the patient is under sedation. They are routinely used to diagnose bowel issues such as Crohn's disease or IBS. Ask your doctor to perform one on you. This way they can have a complete picture of your rectum and in turn your colon’s health. There are even times when tissue samples are taken for further examination. as well.
- After you doctor is finished with your colonoscopy and sigmoidoscopy, he will get a copy of the pictures he took with the endoscope and use them to make a diagnosis. For example, with Crohn's disease, a doctor must find random patches of deep ulcers or looks for an even amount of inflammation in the colon that bleeds with contact to identify ulcerative colitis.
- If your doctor took a tissue sample, then they should look at it under a microscope for inflammatory cells called granulomas. This procedure helps better diagnose Crohn's disease and other health conditions.
- Another procedure your doctor may recommend you to undergo is a magnetic resonance spectroscopy. It is a variation of magnetic resonance imaging, also called an MRI, to help determine which of the two diseases you are suffering from. This helps to properly diagnose Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.
- Finally as a final precaution, ask your doctor to examine your small intestine for Crohn's disease with an upper barium X-ray. In this procedure, you have to drink a barium shake in order for the X-ray pictures taken and the images to properly show any potential issues.
Visit the experts at Dual Action Cleanse at www.dualactioncleansenow.com. Dual Action Cleanse’s all-natural colon cleanser has changed hundreds of thousands of people's lives through gentle and effective whole body safe and effective body detox.
Read More......3:43 PM | 0 Comments
DNA Paternity Testing: Submitting Non-Standard Samples (Part 1)

By: Kevin Camilleri
DNA Paternity testing is the most accurate way of confirming biological relationships between individuals. The standard way of collecting samples from the individuals to be tested is through the use of oral/buccal swabs. Buccal swabs are relatively easy to use and pain-free since the procedure involves simply rubbing the swab on the inside of the mouth to collect a saliva sample. In addition, they can be easily sent by post to the client when they order a test. Hence, they provide an excellent medium to obtain DNA from an individual.
However, occasions arise when it is not possible to obtain the sample directly from the individual, as for example in the case of a dead or missing person or samples collected from a crime scene. Therefore, in such cases, it is possible to utilise alternative samples (defined as non-standard samples), to obtain the DNA of a person for the purpose of DNA Testing.
The following list provides information about a number of non-standard samples that can be used to obtain DNA for testing purposes.
1. Direct Biological Samples
Hair
Any hair submitted must have roots or the follicle attached. Hair that is cut will not produce significant DNA. When submitting a hair sample, one must make sure not to touch the part with the follicle as much as possible to avoid contamination. The hair can be sent in a normal plastic or paper envelope and marked clearly as a non-standard sample. The lab will normally require a minimum of 6-10 hairs (or as many as possible) depending on what is available. The more the hairs available, the more the chance of obtaining a DNA profile from them.
Blood
Blood samples can take various forms including whole blood, blood spots on paper or other material (tissues, clothing, and furniture), dried blood etc. Blood used to be the most common form of submitting DNA samples for DNA paternity testing until the advent of buccal swabs. It now rarely requested as it is an invasive procedure as opposed to the non-invasive and painless nature of a buccal swab. Fresh blood sent in a normal tube will provide a more than enough sample for obtaining DNA. In cases where blood is sent as spots on some form of material, then the success of the extraction will depend on the state of the blood and whether it has been exposed to possible contamination such as the elements, human contamination and/or chemical agents.
Nails
It is also possible to extract DNA from Nails. Freshly trimmed nails work best and have the highest chance of success. Nails are normally recommended (apart from hair) in cases where the person has recently died. It is important to handle the nails with minimal direct contact as possible to avoid contamination. The nails can be sent in a normal plastic or paper envelope and marked clearly as a non-standard sample.
Sperm
In the case of liquid semen, it is recommended that the sample is absorbed through a clean cotton swab and air-dried for about one hour. In the case of dried semen stains, either send the material directly to the laboratory or else absorb the stain onto a clean cotton swab moistened with distilled water. Then air-dry for about an hour. The samples can then be sent in sent in a normal plastic or paper envelope and marked clearly as a non-standard sample.
Bone
Bone samples are one of the most difficult materials to obtain DNA from and not all DNA laboratories offer the service. The success rate will depend on the condition of the bones (e.g. how long the person has been dead, how his body has been preserved etc). When submitting bone samples it is normally recommend that fragments from the shaft of the femur or humerus are obtained weighing approximately 2 grams per individual. It is recommended that the laboratory processing the sample is contacted prior to taking the samples to discuss the case in advance. Collection of samples should be performed by a qualified person.
2. Everyday items that may contain DNA for testing purposes
Cigarette Butt
Cigarette butts can be an excellent source of DNA if the sample has not been contaminated. The more the cigarette has been smoked the more DNA is likely to be available. If the cigarette has been shared it is likely that a mixed DNA profile will be obtained, in which case more specialised analysis will be required to separate the profiles. The client should make sure that the sample is not handled from the end used to inhale the smoke. Ideally the client will submit 2-4 cigarette butts if available. The butt can be sent in a normal plastic or paper envelope and marked clearly as a non-standard sample.
Toothbrush
A toothbrush can be a good source of DNA if the sample has not been contaminated. The more the toothbrush has been used the more DNA is likely to be available. If the toothbrush has been shared it is possible that a mixed DNA profile will be obtained in which case more specialised analysis will be required. The client should make sure that the sample is not handled from the end of the bristles to avoid contamination. Also the brush should be air dried for about 30-60 minutes to ensure that it is properly dried before sending to the laboratory. The toothbrush can be sent in a normal plastic or paper envelope and marked clearly as a non-standard sample.
Envelope and Stamp
Licked envelopes and stamps can provide a source of DNA for paternity testing purposes. However, the success rate on this type of sample can very widely since it is not always possible to know if the stamp and envelope have been licked or not. In cases where there has been no contact with a person’s saliva then it is clearly not possible to obtain DNA. Because of this, the sample is normally classified as having a low rate of extraction success rate. When submitting the sample, it is important to ensure not to touch the seals and the back of the stamp to minimise possible contamination.
Chewing Gum
Chewing gum can be a good source of DNA if the sample has not been contaminated by exposure to contaminating agents. Sugar free gum is preferred to normal type of gum. It is important to try not to touch the gum with the fingers as this can lead to contamination. The gum can be sent in a normal plastic or paper envelope and marked clearly as a non-standard sample.
Kevin Camilleri writes articles for dna paternity test. Other articles written by the author related to paternity testing, home paternity test and paternity test kit can be found on the net.
8:32 AM | 0 Comments
DNA Paternity Testing: Submitting Non-Standard Samples (Part 1)

By: Kevin Camilleri
DNA Paternity testing is the most accurate way of confirming biological relationships between individuals. The standard way of collecting samples from the individuals to be tested is through the use of oral/buccal swabs. Buccal swabs are relatively easy to use and pain-free since the procedure involves simply rubbing the swab on the inside of the mouth to collect a saliva sample. In addition, they can be easily sent by post to the client when they order a test. Hence, they provide an excellent medium to obtain DNA from an individual.
However, occasions arise when it is not possible to obtain the sample directly from the individual, as for example in the case of a dead or missing person or samples collected from a crime scene. Therefore, in such cases, it is possible to utilise alternative samples (defined as non-standard samples), to obtain the DNA of a person for the purpose of DNA Testing.
The following list provides information about a number of non-standard samples that can be used to obtain DNA for testing purposes.
1. Direct Biological Samples
Hair
Any hair submitted must have roots or the follicle attached. Hair that is cut will not produce significant DNA. When submitting a hair sample, one must make sure not to touch the part with the follicle as much as possible to avoid contamination. The hair can be sent in a normal plastic or paper envelope and marked clearly as a non-standard sample. The lab will normally require a minimum of 6-10 hairs (or as many as possible) depending on what is available. The more the hairs available, the more the chance of obtaining a DNA profile from them.
Blood
Blood samples can take various forms including whole blood, blood spots on paper or other material (tissues, clothing, and furniture), dried blood etc. Blood used to be the most common form of submitting DNA samples for DNA paternity testing until the advent of buccal swabs. It now rarely requested as it is an invasive procedure as opposed to the non-invasive and painless nature of a buccal swab. Fresh blood sent in a normal tube will provide a more than enough sample for obtaining DNA. In cases where blood is sent as spots on some form of material, then the success of the extraction will depend on the state of the blood and whether it has been exposed to possible contamination such as the elements, human contamination and/or chemical agents.
Nails
It is also possible to extract DNA from Nails. Freshly trimmed nails work best and have the highest chance of success. Nails are normally recommended (apart from hair) in cases where the person has recently died. It is important to handle the nails with minimal direct contact as possible to avoid contamination. The nails can be sent in a normal plastic or paper envelope and marked clearly as a non-standard sample.
Sperm
In the case of liquid semen, it is recommended that the sample is absorbed through a clean cotton swab and air-dried for about one hour. In the case of dried semen stains, either send the material directly to the laboratory or else absorb the stain onto a clean cotton swab moistened with distilled water. Then air-dry for about an hour. The samples can then be sent in sent in a normal plastic or paper envelope and marked clearly as a non-standard sample.
Bone
Bone samples are one of the most difficult materials to obtain DNA from and not all DNA laboratories offer the service. The success rate will depend on the condition of the bones (e.g. how long the person has been dead, how his body has been preserved etc). When submitting bone samples it is normally recommend that fragments from the shaft of the femur or humerus are obtained weighing approximately 2 grams per individual. It is recommended that the laboratory processing the sample is contacted prior to taking the samples to discuss the case in advance. Collection of samples should be performed by a qualified person.
2. Everyday items that may contain DNA for testing purposes
Cigarette Butt
Cigarette butts can be an excellent source of DNA if the sample has not been contaminated. The more the cigarette has been smoked the more DNA is likely to be available. If the cigarette has been shared it is likely that a mixed DNA profile will be obtained, in which case more specialised analysis will be required to separate the profiles. The client should make sure that the sample is not handled from the end used to inhale the smoke. Ideally the client will submit 2-4 cigarette butts if available. The butt can be sent in a normal plastic or paper envelope and marked clearly as a non-standard sample.
Toothbrush
A toothbrush can be a good source of DNA if the sample has not been contaminated. The more the toothbrush has been used the more DNA is likely to be available. If the toothbrush has been shared it is possible that a mixed DNA profile will be obtained in which case more specialised analysis will be required. The client should make sure that the sample is not handled from the end of the bristles to avoid contamination. Also the brush should be air dried for about 30-60 minutes to ensure that it is properly dried before sending to the laboratory. The toothbrush can be sent in a normal plastic or paper envelope and marked clearly as a non-standard sample.
Envelope and Stamp
Licked envelopes and stamps can provide a source of DNA for paternity testing purposes. However, the success rate on this type of sample can very widely since it is not always possible to know if the stamp and envelope have been licked or not. In cases where there has been no contact with a person’s saliva then it is clearly not possible to obtain DNA. Because of this, the sample is normally classified as having a low rate of extraction success rate. When submitting the sample, it is important to ensure not to touch the seals and the back of the stamp to minimise possible contamination.
Chewing Gum
Chewing gum can be a good source of DNA if the sample has not been contaminated by exposure to contaminating agents. Sugar free gum is preferred to normal type of gum. It is important to try not to touch the gum with the fingers as this can lead to contamination. The gum can be sent in a normal plastic or paper envelope and marked clearly as a non-standard sample.
Kevin Camilleri writes articles for dna paternity test. Other articles written by the author related to paternity testing, home paternity test and paternity test kit can be found on the net.
8:32 AM | 0 Comments
Modern Life Savers - Automatic External Defibrillators
By: Michael Rad
Unfortunately, people with heart diseases are numerous and as a matter of fact only in the US over 2500 people die each day because of a cardiac arrest! This figure is alarming and there is a solution that can stop some of the many cases that occur each day: the automatic external defibrillators also known as AEDs are life savers and can be efficient not in all, but in some cases. The cardiac arrest occurs because of a syndrome called fibrillation of the ventricles or arrhythmia and defibrillation is needed.What is an AED? It is a portable device that may be used by anyone who has received some basic first aid training.
The AEDs will give some electric shocks to the patient and there is response in some cases, so this means that a lot of important lives can be saved. The latest devices have also voice prompts that make it even easier to use, so the device will dictate how to place the pads on the victim’s chest, when to administrate the shock and what numbers of joules to use. After administrating the shock the device will tell the rescuer to administrate Cardio respiratory resuscitation if it is the case. The AEDs available are either semi-automatic or fully automatic. The fully automatic devise are very easy to use, featuring only a few buttons, it will do most of the job alone, you will only have to follow some easy instructions that you hear. The user will only have to attack the pads, and in many cases the shock will be administrated by the machine without the input of the rescuer.
The fully automatic devices may be used by anyone. The semi automatic devices can be used by authorized personnel, but in cases of emergency even by regular people with no specialized training. Even if these semi automatic defibrillators are more difficult to use, they will offer a better care, as they will have an ECG display that will indicate the exact state of the patient. However, all the devices that are present in public places in the US such as airports, universities, schools, restaurants, offices, hotels, stadiums are fully automatic and feature voice prompts. Most of these AEDs feature also written prompts on the screen in case the rescuer has hearing issues. These AEDs are signaled in the public places and are red or yellow, so you cannot miss its presence and detect where it is when the device is needed. So, all the AEDs are uncomplicated and if used on time can save the life of a person with cardiac arrest. Offer help anytime you can.
Visit the author’s website to learn more about: AED maintenance HeartSine AED defibrillators Burdick Defibrillators
Read More......6:13 AM | 0 Comments
Burn The Fat Fast By Lifting Weights

If you ask ten people their opinion of the most effective way to burn fat, you could very well receive ten different answers. If you think of all the different exercises that could possibly burn fat, you come up with: running, walking, dancing, swimming and even sex! The best routine to burn the most fat in the quickest period of time is weightlifting.
Perhaps you think of weightlifting and immediately an image of Arnold Schwarzenegger comes to mind, or some other big and bulky figure with no neck. The fact of the matter is if you are serious about burning fat, you must include wightlifting in your daily exercise routine.
If you diet without weightlifting you stand a greater chance of losing muscle. There are many reasons why you do not want to lose muscle, but one that coincides with this article is that muscle loss decreases your resting metabolic rate, subsequently your body will burn fewer calories.
You may not want to look like Arnold Schwarzenegger but being a weightlifter will turn you into a fat burning machine. You don't have to look like Arnold to burn fat and feel great. Lifting weights does not mean you will look like a body builder. Trust me, there is much more going into those bodies than you will ever know, no need to worry about at this point.
How long should you lift weights? The answer is simple. All of your life. It takes 21 days to create a habit. Lift weights for three straight weeks and watch the fat begin to burn off your body like snow off a hot windshield.
You should lift wieghts for at least 45 minutes to an hour. Do not train more than two straight days. Be sure to change the amount of weight you are lifting as well as the number of repetitions. As the old adgae states, don't place your eggs in one basket. Weightlifting is not the only exercise to burn fat.
You must combine your wightlifting with proper diet, cardio and sleep. Stay away from the fat burn pills and other lotions & potions. A good diet combines with exercise and weightlifting will burn more fat than you ever imagined.
About Author
Tom Penderson
Illegal Fat Burning Ebook Will Change Your Life.
Read More......5:28 AM | 0 Comments
Coping With those Mosquito Bites
Its summer once more and you're taking your time out to relax in your own yard. Suddenly out of nowhere, something bites you. You may start itching and then you get bitten again and then again. Yep, those annoying mosquitoes are back again. So what can we do about these mosquitoes and the harm they are doing to us?
Mosquitoes have been in existence for more than millions of years. These insects have multiple sensors on their small bodies which enables them to seek out human beings in order attack. These mosquitoes will then hatch from eggs which will then need some water to develop. When these mosquitoes have completed their respective lifecycles leading them on into becoming adults, they will then leave the water. An interesting fact that people are unaware of is the fact that only the female mosquito bites. She needs blood as a source of protein for her eggs. The male mosquito just depends on plant nectar to survive.
The first thing you should do to defend yourself from mosquitoes is to avoid the mosquitoes in the first place. Stay away from all the perfumes and strong hairsprays during the summer. Insect repellents like DEET also tend to be quite effective as well. Long sleeves and pants should be worn when you can afford to wear them and you should refrain from staying outdoors except in periods between dusk and dawn. Dusk and dawn is the optimal period for mosquitoes and they tend to move about more during these periods. You should also endeavor to drain any standing water on your immediate property as mosquitoes tend to depend on water for their life cycles. You should also try to repair or install screens on the windows and doors of your home as well. Taking two tablets of Vitamin B-1 on a daily basis may also serve as an effective repellent of these pests.
If you end up getting bitten by mosquitoes you can easily use a variety of remedies to sort out the discomfort that has been caused by their stings. Rather than scratching the affected areas you should try hitting them instead. Scratching is what causes the swelling in the first place. An ice pack is also an effective measure in dealing with the symptoms and you may also use cool compresses as well. Calamine and anti-itching lotions which contain at least 1% hydrocortisone will also help as well to relieve the symptoms of itching. Anti-inflammatory drugs such as anti-histamines will help in controlling any exhibited symptoms.
Other remedies which can easily be found in your home include mint toothpaste which happens to be the best known of these remedies. When this is applied to the infected area, the itching and welling may be relieved as well. By placing rubbing alcohol or vinegar on the affected area may also help in relieving these problems too. Meat tenderizer with water or vinegar in order to form a paste and spreading it over the affected area may also help. Some people equally claim the rolling a deodorant or antiperspirant over the area may help. The use of Visine or lemon juice is also rumored to work in some quarters. If everything else fails you may try an oatmeal bath.
Something you can also try is rubbing a wet bar of soap over your bite until you have formed a paste. In some cases you may have to wet the bite and place some salt on it. Dabbing witch hazel on the bite also has some effectiveness as will painting the bite over with nail polish in order to relieve the symptoms. If you are at work you should try and place a piece of scotch tape over the bite for a period of time.
Other than just relief, the primary reason behind these remedies is to control the itching so that it does not lead to bleeding, scabbing or any other infections that may be secondary in nature. Remember that while you may look at mosquitoes like mere pests, they may actually lead to fatal consequences. Diseases they may transmit include mosquito borne encephalitis, malaria, and West Nile virus. Some simple protection goes a long way in helping you sort out the problem.
Darren Williger is an over-caffeinated, low carbohydrate eating, winemaking enthusiast who writes for MedicalNeeds.com, DifferentMedicine.com, and RemedyZone.Com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Darren_Williger
5:08 AM | 1 Comments
Sports Injury and Traumatic Brain Injury
by Peter Kent
A traumatic brain injury (TBI) can come about from the head hitting or being hit by some object. However, there needn't be any penetration into the head for the brain to be damaged; external impact can also injure the brain. Brain damage can occur from a variety of different actions where the impact on the head causes the brain to be pushed against the skull, such as in cases of whiplash.
A moderate type of TBI is called a concussion. People who have had concussions usually recover without any long term effects unless that person has already had repeated concussions. Severe and continual post-concussion symptoms may be caused by multiple brain injuries. A very serious and dangerous condition or even death can occur if a second concussion is suffered while symptoms from a previous concussion still persist. This condition is called second-impact syndrome (SIS). Sports-Related Concussions ' Causes and Frequency
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 300,000 people experience concussions each year from sports injuries. Most of the concussions that are sports related come from contact sports such as martial arts, football, hockey, and boxing. Other major causes of a large number of sports-related concussions are falls or collisions in sports such as skiing, bicycling, horseback riding, basketball, and soccer. In soccer an additional risk for concussions is "heading" the ball.
Males between the ages of 16 and 25 have the largest likelihood of the population to sustain concussions from sports. Within this group, the risk is highest at the high school level. About 25 percent of the 300,000 sports-related concussions reported each year are suffered by high school students playing contact sports. At the college level, over one third of football players has suffered a concussion and about 20 percent have had multiple concussions. Dangers of Multiple Concussions
Second-impact syndrome (SIS), which is a concussion that occurs while the victim is still recovering from an earlier concussion, has resulted in at least 26 deaths in the past 20 years since this condition was first characterized. Most of the people getting concussions were not even in college yet.
While most cases of SIS and multiple concussions do not cause death, the neuropsychological brain damage they cause is significant. Many studies have shown that athletes who have suffered multiple concussions are more likely to have prolonged learning difficulties and perform more poorly on neuropsychological tests compared to people who have had one concussion or no concussions. Some the well-documented neuropsychological impairments in athletes who have had multiple concussions are:
* Reduced speed in processing new information
* Problem solving and planning difficulties
* Increased number of headaches
* Concentration difficulties
* Memory impairments
* Behavioral problems
Why Athletes Suffer Multiple Concussions
Factors that contribute to why athletes suffer multiple concussions are related to the ability to accurately assess severity and recovery from symptoms. For example, there are several different scales for rating severity at the time of the concussion but there is general lack of agreement on which to use. There is also lack of agreement on what amount of time should pass before athletes can safely return to sports. This is because there are not any widely accepted guidelines for assessing whether the athlete has recovered. Preventing Traumatic Brain Injury
Using proper protective equipment can prevent many cases of concussion. For additional safety, a helmet or other form of suitable headgear should be used in sports where there is contact, or in sports where there is a risk of falling or crashing such as bicycling, horseback riding, or skiing. Custom fitted mouth pieces may also help prevent concussions in contact sports. In order for safety equipment to be effective, it should always be made sure that it fits well and that it is used solely for the purpose that it was meant to be used for.
Although the risk of concussion is inherent in sports participation, decisions as to what sport to participate in can help mitigate the risk of concussion. If you suffer from a brain injury received while playing a sport, you might like to contact an experienced TBI attorney. Your traumatic brain injury attorney can help you assess your potential TBI claim and help you get the compensation you deserve for the devastation incurred in traumatic brain injuries.
About the Author
Your source for everything legal on the web is located at LegalView.com. You can find LegalView at http://www.legalview.com and access a complete legal database and also make use of the free attorney referral service. Utilizing this service, users can find attorneys dealing with a variety of legal services such as an auto accident lawyer or mesothelioma lawyers. Visitors can also find a brain injury lawyer at http://brain-injury.legalview.com/
Read More......11:55 PM | 0 Comments
A Life Half Blind
by Fabian Toulouse
For every kid who has ever cried with frustration at being called "four eyes," there is an adult who hates equally the frustration of lost glasses, torn contact lenses, and the other nuisances that come with having to use corrective eyewear. There used to be no alternative, short of stumbling through life half blind. Thankfully, this is no longer true. With the advent of Lasik Los Angeles patients can now toss the contact solution and donate their glasses to the Lions Club! The Lasik Los Angeles physicians perform can eliminate all need for corrective eyewear. Just think! No more fogged glasses lenses; no more tight ear pieces, no more poking yourself in the eye trying to remove a contact. Lasik Los Angeles is total freedom from the hassle of contacts and glasses.
Lots of people are good candidates for the Lasik Los Angeles surgeons are offering. In fact, 95% of patients with common, mild low-order vision problems such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism find they come out of Lasik surgery with 20/20 vision--or better! Even patients with higher order aberrations which eyewear cannot correct are helped through the latest advances in the field.
The Lasik Los Angeles physicians use requires no blade, only a medical laser. After mapping the cornea, the surgeon is able to remove tissue from the cornea, the clear outer covering of the eye. This reshapes the curvature of the cornea, correcting vision. The procedure is painless, as the eyes are numbed with anesthetic drops, although some pressure may be expected. Recovery is not long and drawn out. Most patients will feel mild irritation and dryness for a few hours afterward. This is relieved by eye drops.
For anyone tired of the frustration of eyewear, it is definitely worth looking into the Lasik Los Angeles area doctors can provide. It can mean relief after a lifetime of grief!
About the Author
Fabian Toulouse is a Parisian living and writing in Encino, CA.
http://www.lasiktodayvision.com/
Read More......11:38 PM | 0 Comments
Folic Acid Uses
Ever since it was first extracted from common spinach leaf folic acid has been found to have an increasing number of uses. Originally folic acid was discovered to help correct the anemia women sometimes developed during pregnancy and later it was used to help correct anemia from other causes including a deficiency in other vitamins. Although it wasn’t a replacement for these other vitamins it certainly was found to be very effective at treating anemia due to all kinds of causes.
Folic acid is involved in the replication of our DNA and RNA and it was quickly found that those taking folic acid for anemia had less chance of giving birth to babies with certain birth defects. These defects are Spina Bifida and other neural tube defects, cleft lip and palate and limb defects. In fact folic acid is so effective at its job in maintaining DNA that doctors estimate half of the nearly four thousand babies born with neural tube defects yearly develop the defects due to a folic acid deficiency. Imagine being able to cut that number in half just by making sure that women have enough folic acid in their diets.
More recently there was a connection found between folic acid, homocysteine and certain diseases. Homocysteine is a by-product of the metabolizing of protein that we take in in our food. More specifically it is released when the body breaks down methionine, which is an amino acid and a component of protein.
Homocysteine is toxic to the lining of our blood vessels and though its a part of the breakdown process of protein, normally we have enough folic acid present in our systems to help convert homocysteine into another compound. Those who have a deficiency of folic acid can also develop a high level of homocysteine over long periods of time.
So by taking folic acid or making sure it is in the diet it is possible to help prevent a build up of homocysteine in the blood. The damage to the blood vessel walls caused by homocysteine leads to arteriosclerosis or a stiffening of the walls.
Arteriosclerosis can lead to other cardiovascular diseases by making the heart pump harder, and keeping parts of the body from getting enough blood and oxygen. This also leads to an increased risk of heart attack.
Also there have recently been links made between high levels of homocysteine and Cancer, Arthritis, and Osteoporosis. Currently there are studies being made to try and determine whether homocysteine is one of the causes of these conditions or if it is simply an indicator or symptom of these conditions.
So you can use folic acid to help prevent:
Ÿ Anemia
Ÿ Certain Birth Defects
Ÿ Cardiovascular disease
Ÿ And possibly some forms of dementia (including Alzheimers),
Ÿ Cancer,
Ÿ Arthritis,
Ÿ And Osteoporosis.
The recommended daily intake for folic acid is currently four hundred micrograms. A woman who is pregnant, could become pregnant or is lactating should take between six hundred and eight hundred micrograms of folic acid daily.About the Author:
Author Vincent Platania represents the Stanley Home Products. Stanley Home Products has been in business since 1936, and offers Author Vincent Platania represents the Stanley Home Products. Stanley Home Products has been in business since 1936, and offers high quality home and personal care products Visit http://www.stanleybeautycare.com
10:11 PM | 0 Comments
The Shared Experiences Of Excessive Blushers
by: Gary Ambrosh
It isn’t unusual for people who suffer from excessive blushing to feel isolated and completely alone. Excessive blushers commonly believe that other people can’t possibly understand what they have to deal with on a daily basis. If you experience this problem, you probably feel embarrassed by your blushing, and you likely feel certain that other people will judge them in a negative light because of it.
It is very difficult to have such a severe problem related to something like blushing, that everyone experiences at one time or another. For most people, blushing is just no big deal, and people who blush normally just don’t comprehend how severe or debilitating the problem can be. It’s true that excessive blushing is difficult to understand for anyone who has never experienced the problem.
The reality of living in constant fear and dread of extreme, uncontrolled blushing isn’t something that many people can identify with. For people who aren’t familiar with excessive blushing really can’t truly understand what it’s like to deal with the stressful and often humiliating problem of turning bright red at a moment’s notice, for no apparent reason. For an individual who thinks of blushing only as a minor physiological response to embarrassment, it’s hard to fathom the serious implications of excessive blushing.
The people most likely to be able to empathize with excessive blushers are other people with the same problem. Even though problem blushers wouldn’t wish their debilitating problem on anyone else, it can be reassuring to know that they are not alone, and to realize that there are other people who understand what they go through on a regular basis.
5 Similarities Among Excessive Blushers
1. Blushing episodes come on with no warning, for no apparent reason, and cannot be controlled.
2. Problem blushers feel completely alone with their problem, as if no one else shares their experience.
3. Excessive blushers try stay away from other people so they don’t have to deal with the embarrassment of turning bright red for no reason.
4. People who experience problem blushing don’t talk to other people about their problem.
5. Those who blush excessively experience a high degree of anxiety about the problem.
If you feel that you are completely alone when it comes to your blushing symptoms, fears, concerns, and stress, you are wrong. While excessive blushing isn’t the most common condition in the world, it isn’t a rare one either.
While knowing that other people share your problem won’t lessen the symptoms you experience, it can be somewhat comforting to know that you are not alone. If you suffer with problem blushing, it’s important to realize that you aren’t the only person who is coping with the symptoms and consequences of excessive blushing.
Knowing that other people have symptoms similar to yours can help you overcome your feeling of total isolation and loneliness. By coming to the realization that you aren’t alone, you are likely to experience relief from your constant feelings of anxiety and stress. You just might experience a lessening of your blushing symptoms as your sense of isolation begins to diminish.
About the Author:
If you are in need of more information on blushing try the site Blushing Free - The owner Gary Ambrosh is devoted to helping people overcome their blushing problems.
9:34 PM | 0 Comments
Safeguarding Yourself Against Staph Infections: By Eating More Good Bacteria Protection
by Brenda Skidmore
Staph infections, at times, can circulate rapidly through communities. They definitely upset health officials because of their potential danger to harm vulnerable individuals who, for various different reasons, have suppressed immune systems
A certain strain of staph infection, known as methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, or MRSA, is problematically resistant to a broad spectrum of antibiotics, except for a very small few of the most powerful ones. Staph is a bacterium that commonly exists harmlessly on the skin, under fingernails, and in the nostrils of about 30 % of our population, according the the 'U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention'. But, about 1 % of the population contacts the antibiotic resistant strain, known as MRSA, and this form of staph infection can cause a very serious skin infection, and an internal infection as well.
This type of staph infection can circulate rather quickly in common athletic areas such as gyms and fitness centers. This potentially harmful bacteria can be found on sports equipment, in locker rooms, and on personal hygiene care items such as towels, soaps, and razors. MRSA infections are contagiously spread by skin-to-skin contact through an open cut wound, or contact through personal hygiene care items.
A known outbreak in a community should, therefore, have everyone seriously paying attention in keeping sports equipment, and other suspected areas, properly sanitized. Warnings, also, need to be issued in the advising of no sharing of personal care items.
People with healthy immune systems are not as susceptible to succumbing to this type of infection as those individuals who have a weaker immune system resistance. These individuals can become colonized with this type of deadly infection rather quickly. Lesions on the skin may first appear to be a spider bite or a boil. But, experts on staph infections claim that about 25 % of these types of skin infections end up requiring hospitalization. They cause infections of the bloodstream, central nervous system, heart valves, bones, and pneumonia.
In fact, over the last four to five years 95% of staph infections turn out to be MRSA. MRSA can also carry a gene mutation that can destroy white blood cells and infect other body tissues and organs. MRSA infections start out as small red bumps on the skin that can quickly turn into deep, painful abscesses. Sometimes the bacteria remains confined on the skin but, it can also burrow deep inside your body. Causes of MRSA include:
The results of decades of unnecessary and excessive antibiotic use. The overuse of antibiotics in livestock farming operations, resulting in feedlot run off that migrates to municipal water systems. Continued unnecessary and excessive antibiotic use contributes to their ineffectiveness of other types of antibiotics.
Risk factors for contacting a MRSA infection are:
A current or recent hospitalization. Being a resident of a long-term health care facility. Requiring dialysis, catheterization, feeding tubes, or other invasive hospital proceedures. Have been treated with fluoroquinolones ( a type of antibiotics) such as ciprofloxacin, ofloxacin, levofloxacin, and cephalosporin.
Doctors diagnose MRSA by obtaining a tissue sample of nasal secretions. The sample is sent to a lab and results are returned within 48 hours. There are some newer tests, becoming more widely available, that can detect staph DNA in a shorter amount of time. Vancomycin is one of the few antibiotics left, that is still effective against hospital strains of MRSA. Be advised, however, that it is no longer effective in every single case.
There is some promising news, however, on how you can protect yourself against an infection with an antibiotic resistant form of staph infection, in a more natural way. Regularly consuming good bacteria nutrition, like what you will find in homemade fermented foods and beverages, can help protect you from developing this dangerous type of infection. These friendly germs, in abundant populations, will help provide your skin, digestive tract, and immune system with a very powerful, protective barrier against disease causing pathogens such as a common staph infection, or a more problematic and antibiotic resistant MRSA infection..
In light of what is not working on the drug treatment battleground scene with antibiotics, which approach do you believe has a more common sense potential to solve this problem?
Flushing out potentially harmful disease causing staphylococcus bacterias out of your internal system with nothing much else, in fluids, but water is another a good way to avoid a serious staph infection like MRSA.
You can take more control in naturally building up your immune system strength, in fighting off many other different types of disease causing bacterial infections this way also. You can make your intestinal system more fit, and healthier, with a boosted diet of good bacteria nutrition and, of course, by keeping yourself properly hydrated and cleansed in adding more water consumption to your daily diet routine.
About the Author
Brenda Skidmore has spent the last four plus years actively researching natural health care alternatives. She can attest to the many positive results natural practical cures and preventive strategies bring to human health. Along with the many medical professionals whose public works she has studied, it is her sincere desire to empower others by sharing this important information. To improve your health today visit: http://www.mywater4life.com
Read More......8:52 PM | 0 Comments
Causes of Spider and Varicose Veins and How to Fight Against Them
By Joseph Devine
Spider Veins
Spider veins and varicose veins have a nasty habit of developing over time. Spider veins occur when the veins in the body become enlarged and look red, blue, or purple in color. These veins are usually found on the legs and face, but can be found all over the body. These enlarged veins are common in men and women and usually increase with age.
Varicose Veins
Varicose veins are damaged veins that have been stretched and twisted when there is too much pressure put on the veins. Once damaged, the blood that used to flow freely through the veins is trapped, causing swelling of the vein. This swelling is what can be seen on the surface of the skin.
Causes of Spider Veins and Varicose Veins:
- Pregnancy - Along with the stretching of the skin during pregnancy, veins are stretched to accommodate the new baby. This stretching can cause the veins to enlarge because of the pressure put on them from the pregnancy. Sometimes the veins will disappear after the baby is born, but this is not always the case.
- Standing and Sitting - Standing and sitting for an extensive amount of time can increase the appearance of spider and varicose veins. Taking a break from sitting or standing for long periods of time helps to reduce the pressure on the veins.
- Genetics - Many women experience spider or varicose veins because their mother or other female relatives have spider or varicose veins.
- Low Fiber Diet - Some scientists have linked low fiber diets with the development of varicose veins. When the body lacks fiber, the colon becomes heavy and puts pressure on veins throughout the body.
- Weak Veins - Weak vein walls cause the veins to stretch. These veins are then damaged to the point where they can no longer function properly.
The good news is that these damaged veins can be treated to reduce their appearance on the surface of the skin.
Joe Devine
If you are suffering from unsightly spider or varicose veins, contact the Houston Medical Spa of Dermagenix. The physicians at the Medical Spa of Dermagenix have years of experience helping you to look your best. The staff is knowledgeable and helpful and can be contacted at http://www.dermagenix.net/contact.html.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Joseph_Devin Read More......4:21 AM | 0 Comments
Healing after your Rhinoplasty - some Common Symptoms
by Patricia Woloch
Patients who are preparing for a rhinoplasty surgery will need step-by-step instructions on what to expect and how to care for themselves following nose surgery. By the time your surgery day arrives, you should feel confident and ready to move forward.
Don’t worry about memorizing all of the post-operative information. Your cosmetic surgeon will give you a packet of information that covers your recovery steps and provides a guide for what to do in certain post-surgery scenarios. Every patient is different and has a unique healing timeline, so there’s no standard healing time that will tell you exactly what to expect when recovering from your surgery.
Usually, your surgeon will give you general guidelines and then tailor them based on your current health, the extensiveness of your procedure, and your past health history. Most cosmetic surgery centers understand that you will have questions long after you’ve left the center and will encourage you to notify them of any unusual changes. You will have several post-operative visits to ensure your healing process is playing out normally.
There are a few things that nearly all patients can expect after their rhinoplasty procedure, including:
· Stuffed-Up Feeling
· Swelling and Bruising
· Discomfort
· Nasal Bandaging
· Nasal Splints
In order to help your recover process, you will be prescribed pain medication to take care of any post-operative pain. To help promote proper healing, your nose may be packed with gauze, and routine use of ice or cold packs may be used to help with swelling.
After 1 or 2 weeks, you will return to the surgery center so that your bandages and stitches can be removed. You will be asked to rest easy for the first few days, and may be able to return to work in a week or less. You will most likely be restricted from strenuous activities and exercise for several weeks. And of course, you should not engage in any activities that might put the nose at risk for injury. Lastly, make sure you refrain from rubbing, blowing, picking, bumping, or itching the nose and keep out of the sun for several months after surgery.
Your cosmetic surgeon will give you special instructions on how to wash your nose and let you know when you will be able to use make-up on it again. You will also have restrictions on wearing glasses, and should use contacts as an alternative if possible. The final result of your rhinoplasty procedure may take a few months to be complete.For more information on the delivery rhinoplasty technique, visit the website of New York-based cosmetic surgeon Dr. Howard T. Bellin, a respected physician who has performed more than 4,000 rhinoplasty procedures.
Read More......4:16 AM | 0 Comments
The Link Between Seasonal Allergic Rhinitis and a Mold Allergy
By: John Hilaire
There are a number of allergens that can cause seasonal allergic rhinitis. Most of these identified allergens are airborne, such as the pollen that is blown about from trees, plants and grasses. Another type of airborne allergen, mold spores, is the seasonal culprit of mold allergies.
This type of allergy is generally found from spring to early fall, with a peak in the late summer months, although other types of mold can cause symptoms nearly year-round. The allergens that cause mold allergies are generally found in humid climates, and moist areas like rotted logs and compost piles.
They can also be found indoors in damp basements or closets, or even lurking in your shower stall. Fresh food storage areas are also a popular hangout for mold spores, as well as house plants and certain pieces of furniture.
Why do Mold Allergies Occur?
If you suffer from a mold allergy, your immune system has incorrectly identified mold spores as a substance that is harmful to your body. The response of your immune system is to produce antibodies called immunoglobulin that will create chemicals that will ward off these potentially damaging substances. The result is symptoms like sneezing, wheezing, watery eyes and itching. In the case of a mold allergy, the mold spores are airborne and inhaled into the body through the respiratory tract.
This is why nasal congestion and coughs are common complaints of mold allergy sufferers. The incidence of symptoms from a mold allergy will be dependent on the abundance of the allergen and the ability of the air currents to spread the spores. These factors can be affected by changes in weather patterns throughout the day, making mold counts somewhat ineffective in determining the severity of the allergen exposure.
Treating Mold Allergies
Because mold allergies are airborne, they will most often result in the symptoms of rhinitis, which will include nasal congestion, watery eyes and coughing. The best treatment for rhinitis is generally an over-the-counter antihistamine, decongestant or nasal spray to treat the inflammation and congestion. If over-the-counter medications are not effective in treating your mold allergy symptoms, it is a good idea to see your doctor for possible prescription relief for your mold allergy.
There are a number of medicines that your doctor can recommend to treat your mold allergies through the use of prescription antihistamines and steroidal nasal sprays that will reduce the inflammation in your sinus passages. Allergies to molds and other airborne allergens can cause seasonal or even year-round rhinitis, depending on which allergens affect you. The good news is that there are many options in treating these allergies to allow you more symptom-free days and a higher quality of life.
Article Source: http://www.articlesnatch.com
About the Author:
For more information and articles on Allergy Air Purifier Relief and Air Filter Allergy please take the time to visit our website at www.allergyairpurifierrelief.com.
4:04 AM | 0 Comments
Energy Drinks Not Quite As Beneficial As You Think?
The thing is that energy drinks unlike sports drinks for those who are unaware of the difference actually contain quite high levels of caffeine and an associate substance known as taurine and the principal aim of these substances is to increase energy and/or alertness amongst the drinkers. This makes these drinks very much the drink of choice for those youngsters who enjoy clubbing and other associated “recreational” pursuits. Now a side effect of taurine which is an amino acid is that it has been noted in the past that it can lead to potentially raised blood pressure.
Now the initial results of this survey and study and I do need to re-emphasize at this particular point in time that it is indeed a small study, have provided us with the results that showed the following:
Basically researchers took 15 healthy young adults, who were volunteers and the group comprised of seven men and eight women whose average age was about 26 years and got them to stop consuming caffeine from other sources two days before also during the duration of the study.
The researchers took the volunteers and at the outset of the study recorded the blood pressure and heart rate and carried out an ECG (electrocardiogram) to assess the heart function of each volunteer.
Once the study had started researchers got the participants to drink two cans of an energy drink containing caffeine and taurine and then they initiated a series of blood pressure, heart rate and ECG tests after 30 minutes and then hourly from one to four hours later making five tests in all. This exercise was actually repeated every day for the next five days until the seventh day of the study when they repeated what they did on the first day in terms of measurements and tests.
The results did not make for pretty reading if you are interested in High Blood Pressure. The bottom line was that the results showed that within four hours of drinking the energy drink the maximum systolic blood pressure which is basically the first figure of the reading and actually the highest of the two figures when you carry out a blood pressure reading increased by 7.9% on the first day and rose to nearly 10% on the seventh.
The Heart Rates measured in the study increased by 7.8% on the first day and rose to 11% on the seventh.
Now taken in isolation it would be very easy to look at these figures and go “yes what's the problem”. The problem is this, the increase in blood pressure and heart rate were not enough to cause the participants in the study to necessarily feel unwell because they were actually sitting in chairs watching films and not partaking of any active vigorous sport. Also if these changes were to take place in people who were suffering from either cardiovascular problems or blood pressure irregularities and then would be looking at something much more serious.
So what's his potentially sleeping time bomb that we are talking about? Well the answer to that question is twofold really. Firstly it is estimated that between 10 and 15% of the population have blood pressure irregularities already but are unaware of it and if this percentage of the population are also unknowingly increasing their blood pressure through the consumption of these drinks on a regular basis and that does have to be a problem.
The other hidden aspect of this situation is that it also has to remembered that energy drinks as has been mentioned are very much the refreshment of choice for younger people nowadays in a club environment and all that that entails. Now given the propensity of young people nowadays to ingest all forms of substances whilst also taking these energy drinks then you can also see the hidden time bomb. Drugs are a major issue but if you're taking drugs and also drinking something that is increasing your blood pressure then you don't have to be too bright to consider the potential consequences.
About the Author:
Stephen Stewart writes about a great many health issues on the Internet and more can be found on High Blood Pressure Symptom and at the following: www.livingwithhighbloodpressure.net/high_blood_pressure_symptom.html
8:52 PM | 0 Comments
How To Diagnose Peyronie's Disease ?
A diagnosis of Peyronie's disease or curvature of the penis is usually made when men seek medical attention for painful erections and difficulty with intercourse. In some patients, they seek help because of severe curvature of the penis that may influence sexual life. One of Peyronie’s disease signs is a plaque or hard lump on the penis.
A diagnosis of Peyronie's disease by an urologist usually can be made by a detailed medical history and conducting a thorough physical examination. It is best to seek out an urologist who specializes in Peyronie's disease, as the disease and its current treatments are not well understood by most urologists in general practice. First of all, your doctor will talk to you and ask you about any circumstances, such as injury or trauma, which may have occurred prior to symptoms appearing. The Peyronie’s disease plaque is visible and palpable whether the penis is flaccid or erect. Sometimes, it is necessary to perform the examination with the erect penis. This is achieved by injecting a vasoactive substance that affects the blood vessels in the penis, causing erection. The patient may also provide pictures (digital or Polaroid) of the erect penis to demonstrate the deformity of the penis during penile erection that can be a useful adjunct and help the Urologist to determine the severity of the curvature and other deformity.
In some cases where the doctor's examination does not confirm Peyronie's disease, or in cases where the condition develops rapidly, your doctor may perform a biopsy. A biopsy involves removing plaque cells on the penis for microscopic examination in a lab and is used to detect cancer.
In addition to a complete medical history and physical examination, diagnostic procedures for Peyronie's disease may include the following:
* Ultrasound examination of the penis - a diagnostic technique which uses high-frequency sound waves to create an image of the internal organs as well as Peyronie’s disease plaque and determine their size, thickness, and degree of calcification. Calcified plaque on penis is the example of condition that can be identified using x-ray or ultrasound as well as mature Peyronie’s disease plaque(s) can usually be seen on plain X-ray even when not calcified or ossified.
* color Doppler examination - a type of ultrasound that uses sound waves to measure the flow of blood through a blood vessel; waveforms of the blood flow are shown on the ultrasound screen (to evaluate erectile function, anatomy, and blood flow on the penis).
CT and MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) scans are seldom necessary. Even though ultrasound was able to detect plaques and changes of the tunica albuginea of the penis, but MRI is more sensitive in the detection of possible inflammatory change. Therefore MRI has the potential to improve on therapy planning and should be used in monitoring the effects of the therapy.
All of the findings in diagnose of Peyronie’s disease will determine the type of therapy the patients will receive. For example, heavily calcified plaques, those are like areas of bone formation, are very unlikely to respond to conservative therapy.Author
Analulu is the owner of http://www.ana-lulu.info Get Health Info As Easy As Spelling 123 at http://www.healthinfo123.info
Read More......11:41 PM | 0 Comments
Ringworm Explained - Causes And Ringworm Treatment

By: Ricky Hussey
Ringworm, also known as "Tinea", is a contagious fungal infection of the skin, and can exist anywhere on the body. Contrary to its name, ringworm is not caused by a worm, but generally is a reddish to brownish raised or bumpy patch of skin that may be lighter in the center, giving the appearance of a 'ring'. They can be spread from human to human, through contact with animals, communal changing places such as swimming pools. Schools and nurseries are the ideal places for children to catch ringworm. There are many types of ringworm that affects various parts of your body. Some may be unsightly, frustratingly itchy or persistent. This article will focus on the different types of ringworm that affects the body, and the ringworm treatment available.
What causes ringworm?
Although the world is full of yeasts, molds, and fungi, only a few cause skin problems. These agents are called the dermatophytes, which means "skin fungi." Skin fungi can only live on the dead layer of keratin protein on top of the skin. They rarely invade deeper into the body and cannot live on mucous membranes, such as those in the mouth or vagina.
Symptoms
The symptoms of ringworm include:
* Itchy, red, raised, scaly patches that may blister and ooze. The patches often have sharply-defined edges. They are often redder around the outside with normal skin tone in the center. This may create the appearance of a ring. Your skin may also appear unusually dark or light. * When your scalp or beard is infected, you will have bald patches.
How is ringworm of the skin diagnosed?
Your doctor may easily recognize ringworm by its ring-shaped rash. To confirm that you have the ringworm fungus, your doctor will probably look at a skin scraping under a microscope.
Jock Itch Treatment
Antifungal creams are available for this infection and are, often combined with a mild antiseptic and a mild steroid to reduce itching. Keeping the infected area clean and well ventilated plays an important role in healing this infection. If a topical treatment fails or the infection is widespread, you should see your doctor, where he may prescribe you some medication, such as fluconazole.
How Is Ringworm Treated?
Fortunately, ringworm is fairly easy to diagnose and treat. Doctors usually can diagnose ringworm based on how it looks, but sometimes will scrape off a small sample of the flaky infected skin to test for fungus.
Ringworm is fairly easy to diagnose and treat. Most of the time, the doctor can diagnose it by looking at it or by scraping off a small sample of the flaky infected skin to test for the fungus. The doctor may recommend an antifungal ointment for ringworm of the skin or an oral medication for ringworm of the scalp and nails.
What can be done to prevent the spread of ringworm?
Towels, hats and clothing of the infected individual should not be shared with others. Young children who are infected should minimize close contact with other children until effectively treated. When multiple cases occur, seek advice from your local health department.
Read out Plastic surgery. Also check out for family health and rosacea
Read More......9:10 AM | 0 Comments
Turberculosis: The Heavy Load on Your Chest
By: Jacquiline Macaraig
Tuberculosis (TB) is among the top 10 infectious diseases in the world, ranking at the top three spot along with malaria and HIV/AIDS. Tuberculosis causes nearly 2 million deaths every year, and the World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that nearly 1 billion people will be infected between 2000 and 2020 if more effective preventive procedures are not adopted.
What is Tuberculosis (TB)?
TB is a systemic bacterial infection most often found in the lungs. It is mainly caused by mycobacterium tuberculosis. Other mycobacteria such as Mycobacterium bovis, Mycobacterium africanum, Mycobacterium canetti, and Mycobacterium microti can also cause tuberculosis, but these species do not usually affect healthy adults. Over one-third of the world's population has been exposed to the TB bacterium, and new infections occur at a rate of one per second. It doesn’t necessarily happen that a person infected develops the full-blown disease, so asymptomatic, latent TB infection is most common. However, one in ten latent infections will progress to active TB disease, which, if left untreated, kills more than half of its victims.
TB is generally classified into pulmonary and extra-pulmonary tuberculosis. In pulmonary TB, the bacterial infection is found in the lungs. This is the most reported case of TB infection. This bacterial infection is highly contagious as it is spread through the air droplets. We can get infected just by breathing in air contaminated with droplets from an infected person’s cough or sneeze. The primary stage of pulmonary TB is usually asymptomatic. In some cases, the disease becomes active in a matter of weeks after the primary infection. For some, it may lie dormant for a number of years and then re-appear. Reported symptoms include: minor cough and mild fever, fatigue, unintentional weight loss, coughing up blood, night sweating, phlegm-producing cough, wheezing, chest pain, and breathing difficulty. The risk of contracting tuberculosis increases if you are in frequent contact with an infected person, or have poor living conditions.
Extra-pulmonary TB, as the name implies, affects other organs aside from the lungs. This can occur in isolation or may come along as a complication from pulmonary TB. Extrapulmonary TB may also affect the following body parts:
· Lymph nodes
· Pleura (the membrane that protects the lungs)
· Bones
· Kidneys
· Male & female genital tract
· Stomach
· Peritoneum (the membrane lining part of the abdominal cavity)
· Skin
· Brain
Although the bacterial infection is generically transmitted via droplets from the cough of a person with pulmonary TB, it may spread to any organ or body system through our blood. And like pulmonary TB, symptoms rarely appear at the early onset of this condition.
Treatment
TB treatment uses antibiotics to kills the bacteria. But unlike the generic use of antibiotics, it takes a longer period of usage to completely eliminate the mycobacteria from the body. However, people may develop drug resistant tuberculosis bacteria when given inadequate treatment. For people with latent infections, medications are still used, but this time it is to prevent the disease from further progressing.
Prevention is ten times better than having the cure. Protect your children early by having them vaccinated against tuberculosis. If you have friends, relatives or family members that are suspected to have TB, consult a doctor as early as possible to have it treated. It will not only eliminate the chances of the disease progressing, it will also lower risks of getting yourself infected by this dreaded disease.
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Read More......9:05 AM | 0 Comments
Andropause-symptoms and solutions
By: Stanimir Sotirov
While it's unavoidable to age, some people are hit harder than others.Their body and mind is affected, starting from the sex drive and ending with their mental alertness.They may be suffering from andropause, like millions other men around the globe, without even knowing it.
Also known as "the male menopause," andropause is the men`s answer to women`s menopause.While male are able to reproduce much later in life than most female, they go trough many physical and mental changes as their body ages. But unlike women with their menopause, not all men experience andropause.Men experience a steady testosterone decline, at a 10% loss every decade starting at thirty, but some feel more powerful effect than others.
Testosterone is responsible for much more than just sex drive, which is the first thing many people associate it with.More than your libido is at risk,in fact, there are not much parts of your mind and body that are not affected by a decrease in testosterone. When you think of how much testosterone is responsible for, it's no wonder that its absence is missed.
Doctors and medical researchers have been aware of this condition and its symptoms since as early as the 1940s,but until recently there has not been a way to successfully diagnose andropause. A blood test can determine testosterone levels,but the problem is that every man is different in the amounts of testosterone they need to function at maximum. Blood tests also cant measure how much of that testosterone is available.
Sex Hormone Binding Globulin, or SHBG, increases with age, which attaches itself to hormones like testosterone. This inhibits the testorone from functioning the right way. While bioavailble or non-free testosterone testing is available, it's only done by certain labs. This means, how you feel is the best diagnosis.
If you have experienced any of these symptoms you mau suffer from andropause:
* Difficulty sleeping * Lack of Energy * Sexual Dysfunction/ Low Libido * Depression/ Anxiety * Irritability * Weight Gain * Excessive Sweating * Hair Loss
The most notable symptom of andropause, and the condition that acts like a red light for most men, is erectile dysfunction. Often they will address this problem through prescription medication, rather than addressing the problem in its entirety, living with the other negatives symptoms.
Most men believe that the symptoms of andropause are just signs of aging.While it's true that aging is often accompanied by these symptoms, it's a matter of severity.
Some men in extreme circumstances undergo hormone replacement therapy,but that's a fairly drastic step and it is not recommended.Think about the alternative. You can increase your testosterone levels, naturally. While we all know that diet and exercise, combined with good sleep and lowering stress, is the key to great health for men and women alike, it also boosts testosterone production.
Provacyl can also help. It's a blend of natural testosterone boosters available in pill form that is especially designed for men, to reach their maximum potential. Using both natural ingredients and supplements, Provacyl covers all your bases, from sexual dysfunction to mental alertness. You don't need a prescription, and there have been no reported side effects.
Provacyl contains only ingredients of highest quality. Muira Puama increases libido and virility, and ginkgo biloba helps augment memory. These are just two of eight plants found in Provacyl. Meanwhile, Luteinizing Hormone, or LH, synthesizes and releases testosterone in the body, and Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) changes into sex hormones.
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Read More......6:00 AM | 0 Comments
Painful Hemorrhoids And Their Treatment And Cause
By Donald Urquhart
Everyone has hemorrhoids, so what makes some hemorrhoids so noticeable that they cause us to worry?
There are three biggies - painful hemorrhoids, prolapsed hemorrhoids and bleeding hemorrhoids. If anyone comes down with one or more of these symptoms, the panic button goes off and, because hemorrhoids are in our unmentionable area, embarrassment often stops people from seeking out professional diagnosis.
Professional diagnosis is important as these big symptoms may be due to other things than hemorrhoids - for example, bowel cancer and anal fissure.
Here we are discussing painful hemorrhoids.
Hemorrhoids that are causing pain and discomfort are one of life's biggest downers. Painful hemorrhoids reduces our quality of life to the point where even sitting can become a torturous nightmare.
If you are amongst the unlucky hemorrhoid sufferers who suffer with painful hemorrhoids, then you will be pleased to know that help is at hand through a variety of treatments.
Firstly, why are hemorrhoids painful?
Primarily because they have been injured.
Painful hemorrhoid treatments:
If they are sore and inside you, then the pain is likely due to the hemorrhoid being scratched by a hard stool passing through - this can also cause bleeding. If constipation and or hard stools are your problem, then increase the fiber in your diet and or take fiber supplements. Remember though, that if you increase your intake of fiber, to also increase your intake of water, as the fiber swells with water as it passes through your system to create a soft bulky mass that is much easier to pass.
If the hemorrhoids are sore and outside you, then the painful hemorrhoid is likely the result of the hemorrhoid being scratched by toilet paper or being clamped down on by your bottom muscles.
Use soft toilet paper and or wet face cloths / flannels to clean up your bottom if the toilet paper was responsible - wipe gently. If the injury was due to clamping muscles, then an easy quick fix is to gently push the hemorrhoids back inside the hole - there the hemorrhoids wont be clamped down on.
If the hemorrhoids wont stay inside, then there are many other hemorrhoid remedies to try. Sitz baths, Preparation H and other herbal tablets, creams and solutions. The idea is to soothe and bring pain relief so that one can start enjoying life again.
Witch hazel and mullein are perhaps the most well known herbal treatments for painful hemorrhoids.
If you are tired of depending on such topical ointments to relieve hemorrhoid pain, then there are more complete herbal preparations that are designed to heal and cure hemorrhoids and bring immediate hemorrhoid pain relief.
If you are disbelieving of the herbal alternatives, as I was at first, then your likely line of attack will be through hemorrhoid operations, such as rubber band ligation, or "banding" for short. There are other alternatives to this operation, such as freezing or burning the hemorrhoids to death.
If your hemorrhoids are showing themselves constantly, then your likely operation will be the dreaded hemorrhoidectomy. A very unpleasant and painful surgical procedure.
Hemorrhoids can be cured and controlled and, having experienced painful hemorrhoids I found out just how to cure painful hemorrhoids and control them very fast.
So, if you suffer from painful hemorrhoids, please come and check out our free information.
Finally, it is best to discuss the hemorrhoid information with your health care professional, to make sure the hemorrhoid suggestions you find here are appropriate in your situation!
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Donald_Urquhart
4:24 AM | 0 Comments
Pregnancy And Sex
Many pregnant women are very concerned about the effects of sexual intercourse on the unborn child. Of course no expectant mother wants her unborn child to be harmed, and it can be a little embarrassing asking your doctor, especially if you have a male GP. In any case, when you first see the doctor and tell him the happy news and start the booking in procedure, asking questions about your love life isn't at the forefront of your mind.
When you first discover that you are pregnant your mind starts to mull over a whole lot of issues - the birth, health issues, money worries, if you will cope as a mother, will you be able to keep your job, how bad is morning sickness... The list seems endless and its all part of the motherhood preparation, especially so if this is your first child. Towards the end of this list is the question 'Can I still have sexual intercourse?' Could you deny your relationship intimacy for 9 months?
During the first 12 weeks of pregnancy you must take life easy, no stretching or over doing things. These 12 weeks are when most miscarriages take place and one in three first time pregnancies end in miscarriage.
However, the womb is a very safe place for baby, protected by the stomach wall and the amniotic fluid that the baby floats around in. Providing sex is not overly enthusiastic and it is gentle love making, it is perfectly safe to have sexual intercourse during pregnancy, without causing harm to the baby.
Sometimes it is men who are worried about sexual activity during pregnancy. Despite men thinking that they have a huge cock that they are going to beat the baby about the head with if they do make love to a pregnant woman, nature has already taken care of this problem. The cervix is a tiny opening at the neck f the womb. The cervix is too tiny for a penis to penetrate and during pregnancy the cervix closes and doesn't re-open until it is time for childbirth. Because of this the penis can not penetrate the womb and damage the baby.
However, many women may feel less like sex during pregnancy which is understandable because pregnancy can cause women feel unattractive and fat, sore swollen breasts, ill with morning sickness that can occur any time of the day or night, and tired of fatigue. It is important for the expectant father at this time to not press his sexual advances and instead to enjoy other intimacies such as massage.
Sensual massage oils can be bought with aromatherapy properties, which can relax and soothe. If you are looking to unearth your passion try a massage oil with aphrodisiac properties. Also time alone self-pleasuring can help kick start your sexual desire. Sex aside some time each day to pleasure yourself, whether you feel like it or not and it will help to bring back the desire for sexual contact. If you don't use it you loose it, so slowly build it back up. Clitoral stimulators are a great to use for this. They tend to bring you to climax quickly and they are less intrusive because you use them externally to stimulate the clitoris.
Whether you choose to have sex during your pregnancy or not, it is important to share intimate time as a coupe and to keep a strong bond.
About the Author:
S. Roberts writes for a number of websites including http://www.pleasure-toyz.co.uk a sexual advice website that offers free tips and advice to boost your sex life and to improve your sexual prowess. Visit http://www.pleasure-toyz.co.uk to pick up some saucy tips, today
10:59 PM | 0 Comments
Causes And Treatments For Male Pattern Baldness
By: Pawan Kumar
Male hair loss is the most common type of hair loss. It is caused by increased sensitivity to male sex hormones (androgens) in certain parts of the scalp, and is passed on from generation to generation.
Causes male hair loss:-
Some men have areas on the scalp that are very sensitive to the male sex hormones that circulate in men's blood. The hormones make the hair follicles - from which hair grows - shrink. Eventually, they become so small that they cannot replace lost hairs. The follicles are still alive, but are no longer able to perform their task.
The condition usually starts in men aged 20 to 30 and follows a typical pattern. First, a receding hairline develops, and gradually the hair on top of the head also begins to thin. Eventually, the two balding areas meet to form a typical U-shape around the back and sides of the head. The hair that remains is often finer, and does not grow as quickly as it used to.
Treatments for hair loss
Baldness is generally regarded as natural, and not a disease. So if a person decides they wish to try to get their hair back, they will probably have to pay for the lengthy, expensive procedure themselves. Some of them :-
Minoxidil lotion -- (Regaine regular strength or Regaine extra strength) is applied twice daily to the scalp. Minoxidil was originally invented as a treatment for high blood pressure; the hair growth is a side effect that, in this case, has proved useful. It is not available on NHS prescription, but can be purchased over-the-counter. About 60 per cent of patients benefit from it to varying degrees and its effects start to wear off as soon as it is stopped.
Finasteride - (Propecia) is a medicine taken in tablet form that partially blocks the effects of the male hormones (an 'anti-androgen'). It is used in a higher dose to reduce the size of the prostate gland in men with benign prostatic hypertrophy. Propecia has been shown to halt further hair loss and promote re-growth of scalp hair in approximately 80 per cent of patients after three to six months. Treatment must be continued to sustain the improvement in hair growth. It is only available on private prescription and a months supply costs around £30.
Plastic surgery - Plastic surgery may be the only reliable way to replace lost hair, and techniques for restoring hair growth are constantly improving. These include:
a transplant, where the surgeon moves non-sensitive hairs from the back of the head to the top. This is best for men whose hair loss is limited to the front of the scalp. Factors that determine whether a person is a suitable candidate include age, hair colour, the nature of hair loss, and whether the hair type is straight or curly.
scalp reduction, a technique that is most suitable for men with a small, well-defined bald spot on the top of the head.
flap-surgery, which involves making the part of the scalp that still contains hair larger. This is a possibility in cases of hair loss over a small area.About the Author:
Pawan is with website development company and writes about Hairloss medications . Get more details on Anti-viral medication, Medical treatment for obesity and Erectile Dysfunction by our online web resource at http://www.marshealth.co.uk Read More......
5:00 PM | 1 Comments
Are You Consuming Too Much Starch And Soda?
by: Luzia Braun
'One of the worst of the many bad food habits that Americans have acquired is their use of sweetened carbonated beverages.' This quotation is from Drs. R. M. Wilder and T. E. Keys in the Handbook of Nutrition (American Medical Association). The soda pop addict is a ready victim of edgy nerves, irritability and hazy thinking, to say nothing of digestive upsets caused by the fermenting sugar in the liquid, together with its high artificial carbonization. The soft drink fiend can become just as jittery, just as much of an addict to his 'lift' beverage as the chronic alcoholic or the drug user. What is true of the eating habits of the average driver probably holds good for you and every other forty-plus reader of these words. You bought this book because you realized you were losing your grip on youth-and that feeling of age probably got its head start on you because you always have eaten too much starch.
Let me turn clairvoyant for a moment, and 'project' my thoughts with you through an average day's eating. Your breakfast consisted of a fruit-perhaps a canned juice (sweetened with white sugar), or half a grapefruit liberally sprinkled with sugar. Your cereal bowl was filled with a dry, wholly artificial pile of something whose resemblance to a grain long since ceased to exist in the process of making a dough from devitalized flour, sweetening it and turning it out in some weird patented shape or texture, designed more for novelty than nutrition. And, of course, you reached again for the sugar bowl to flavor this already too-starchy cereal of yours. Toast? Of course, and more than likely made with white bread; or perhaps a sweet roll or two, well coated with sugar frosting, eaten with your generously sugared coffee. 'Please pass the jelly.' More sweet. Some mornings you do get around to eating an egg, but usually you're too full after downing your starchy cereal and toast to want anything more.
So off you go to work, or, if you are a housewife you set about your daily tasks. You feel quite a bit less than up to par; but by now you're probably belching as all the breakfast starches, plus those left undigested from previous meals, begin fermenting in your digestive system. By mid-morning you're feeling pretty pepless. So what do you do? If you're at work, you take time out for a candy bar, or a soft drink, or maybe more coffee and another sweet roll. If at home, you more than likely indulge in some starchy food found in the refrigerator, washed down by a soft drink or another cup of sweetened coffee. Then comes lunch. You're hungry-and yet you're not. How about a sandwich, a cup of coffee and a piece of pie? That holds you until about three-thirty, when you begin to feel so worn out and dispirited that you realize you'd better get something to eat if you want to keep on going until dinnertime. More pie, maybe a piece of cake this time, a candy bar, or a soft drink.
By the time you drag yourself home and get through a dinner that is a repetition of all your day's dietary sins (white bread, sugared coffee, perhaps a dish with rice or spaghetti or macaroni, and a starchy, heavy dessert), you are more convinced than ever that you're getting old. You can't think straight any more; your job seems to take more and more out of you every day; there's no energy left in you for leisure-hour activities; and you are sleeping poorly these nights.
I could go on being 'clairvoyant' and trace your footsteps to the kitchen before bedtime for that piece of pie which was left, or for a sandwich, but you're entitled to some privacy in your dietary indiscretions, so I'll leave you for the day, with your intestinal tract full of fermenting, half-digested starches. If you're statistical-minded, you might try calculating the number of grams of carbohydrates you eat in an average day (not to mention the calories) and then compare them with the woefully few grams of protein that manage to get included in your meals. If you are the average person, of sedentary habits or occupation, the chances are that you eat about 75 per cent more devitalized carbohydrate foods than are compatible with your good health, and your desire to feel and look younger than your years.
This estimate is based on the consumption in New York City. According to figures given by the Food and Drug Journal, 55 per cent of all food shipped into that metropolis is either white flour or processed white flour products-all of them devitalized, de-mineralized and de-vitaminized. White sugar, and the products made from it, account for another 20 per cent of all food shipments into the city. This means that the diet of the New Yorker (which is more or less typical of other cities and communities) consists of 75 per cent artificial starches, leaving a paltry 25 per cent to be divided among protein foods and natural carbohydrates. Certainly not a safe balance for health.
If you haven't already figured it out for yourself, the chief reason why starchy foods are so popular with boardinghouse keepers and restaurant owners is that these foods fill you up quickly. And when you're well stuffed on the cheaper starch foods, your appetite is dulled for the more expensive protein foods in the meals such as meats, eggs, cheese and milk. There's more profit for them (but certainly not for you) in appeasing your appetite with the less expensive macaroni, rice, spaghetti, noodles, white bread and starch puddings than in serving you ample portions of tasty meats, fresh vegetables and fruits. An old trick, yet one which many a housewife unknowingly pulls on her own family. Unknowingly, I say, because no conscientious wife and mother would deliberately pull this nutritional fraud on her family if she fully understood the harm she was doing to their health-and her own, too. 'But we must have carbohydrates for energy!' you are likely to point out if you have a knowledge of physiology. You are only half correct in saying that the human body 'needs carbohydrates for energy.' While it's true that the sole function of carbohydrates is to provide heat and energy, what about the Eskimos who eat nothing except meat and fish-protein foods? Merely because they do not stuff themselves with artificial sugars and starches, must they be shivering, lethargic beings? If you have ever read any of the books written by the various Arctic explorers, you know that the Eskimo, far from being a slothful fellow who huddles into his skins with his teeth chattering like castanets, is robust, energetic and warmblooded (so much so that he has to sit or lie around in his heated igloos, stripped almost naked). In fact, it's only where our 'white' civilization has brought in its white flour and white sugar that the Eskimo ever falls victim to our respiratory and intestinal diseases. Colds and constipation were the 'benefits' of civilization which we bestowed upon the poor Eskimo.
Therefore: since carbohydrates are not complete foods isn't it nutritional folly to clutter up the menu with so many of them? Not only do high-starch meals overload the stomach and place an unnecessary strain on the heart, they are also predisposing factors in many ailments and serious diseases that appear in the later years.
source:searchwarp.com
7:55 PM | 0 Comments
Get Down On It: The Link between Infection and Oral Sex
Back in the days, talks of oral sex were considered taboo. Be it heterosexual or homosexual oral sexual activities, people will give you scandalized stares if you even hint of the subject in a conversation. But that was then. Now that we live in a more liberated society, more and more people are starting to open up to the idea of oral sex.
Oral Sex
Oral sex includes all sexual activities that involve the use of the mouth. This may include the use of the teeth, tongue, and throat to stimulate the genitals. Cunnilingus is the term used for oral sex performed on a woman, and fellatio refers to oral sex performed on a man. Analingus, on the other hand, refers to oral stimulation of the anus. Couples engage in oral sex as part of the foreplay before the intercourse, or during or after intercourse. It can also be done for its own sake.
Benefits and Risk
Oral sex is beneficial in the sense that it is an extraordinarily effective way of helping a woman reach her climax. The extra stimulation provided by the tongue may help bring a woman to greater heights during orgasm. It can also help men who have minor difficulty obtaining an erection with the stimulation provided by a woman’s mouth, tongue, and throat. The best benefit of oral sex is that it cannot get you pregnant. Since there will be no direct contact of the genitals in this activity, a man’s sperm will not be able to reach a woman’s egg cell for fertilization.
Hearing of these benefits might entice you to be more liberal in engaging in oral sexual activities. However there are risks you might want to consider before doing it. Engaging in oral sex may prevent you from getting pregnant, but it does not protect you from sexually transmitted diseases and bacterial infection. Here are some infections you might acquire from having oral sex.
HIV. HIV can be passed on through oral sex, although it doesn’t happen frequently. You have to beware of engaging in cunnilingus or fellatio if you have ulcerations in the mouth as it increases the risk.
Chlamydia. This bacterial infection may also appear in the mouth aside from the genital area. Performing oral sex on someone infected with this condition may pass the bacteria from their genital to the mouth of the given, and vice versa. A person with Chlamydia trachomatis bacteria in the mouth may pass it onto a receiver of oral sex.
Genital herpes. This is passed on when a giver has cold sores on the mouth.
Gonorrhea. This may infect the giver’s throat, usually causing inflammation, pus formation, and soreness in the throat.
Bowel organisms. Certain bowel organisms may be present in the anal skin and may be transmitted by means of oro-anal contact.
Hepatitis. This viral infection may also be transmitted via oro-anal contact. Its virus can be found in feces and may be present on apparently clean anal skin.
Worms. This may be passed on if oral sex is done after anal intercourse.
Prevention
Considering the risks enumerated above, prevention now comes to mind. Avoiding oral sex immediate negates any bacterial infections you might get from oro-genital or oro-anal intercourse. But since it is an enjoyable part of couples’ sex lives, the earlier advice may sound impractical. Engaging in a clean, monogamous sexual relationship would minimize chances of incurring sexually transmitted diseases. Also, condoms and dental dams may also be used to protect from passing on or getting infections from your partner’s genital or anal area. Knowing how to prevent being infected ensures that you can continually enjoy the pleasure of oral sex.
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7:50 PM | 0 Comments
Overcoming the Pain of a Failed Pregnancy
By: spatty46
Imagine a newlywed couple eager to have their first baby. After months of anticipation and careful attention to the pregnancy, the unexpected happens --- they suffer a miscarriage. The trauma of losing an unborn child is a difficult period for any couple, but more so for the would-be first-time mother. After miscarriage and other forms of pregnancy loss, most couples usually have a lot of questions that need to be answered. A lot of people take it upon themselves to answer why the miscarriage happened and exactly how they could have prevented pregnancy.
But usually, miscarriage is rarely anyone's fault, and sometimes pregnancy loss is even a predetermined outcome at the time of conception. There may not be any explanation at hand why miscarriages happen, though, the medical community recognizes a few known miscarriage causes. A number of theories abound regarding the cause of miscarriage.
One-time pregnancy loss, also called sporadic, are usually caused by chromosomal abnormalities while the fetus develops. A lot of times, doctors assume this as the default explanation for first time miscarriages due to the fact that most couples go on to have a normal pregnancy after one miscarriage.
Chromosomal abnormalities such as extra chromosomes or missing genes may cause the baby to stop developing and eventually to be miscarried. After the first miscarriage, most medical professionals do not conduct testing for the cause of miscarriage since chromosomal flaws are usually random, one-time events. Miscarriage due to chromosomal flaws may occur to any woman at any age, but those who are 35 years old and above are at highest risk.
When a miscarriage happens two times in a row, the cause is unlikely to be random chromosomal errors in a row. Usually, doctors will conduct a process of testing for recurrent miscarriage causes after the second pregnancy loss. In this case, chances are higher that the woman may have a detectable problem that causes the miscarriage.
About 50% of the cases, doctors find a cause for recurrent miscarriages and then the woman is given treatment in her next pregnancy. However, half of the cases may not reveal a cause. At any rate, a woman may still get pregnant again even with two unexplained miscarriages, and still with greater chances of a normal pregnancy than another miscarriage.
Causes of recurrent miscarriages are usually much more controversial compared to that of single miscarriages. The following is a list of some of the most commonly recognized causes of recurrent miscarriages:
Abnormality in the structure of the uterus
Blood clotting disorders, such as antiphospholipid syndrome
Certain chromosomal conditions, such as balanced translocation
Doctors believe that low progesterone and other hormonal imbalances may cause recurrent miscarriages. Although treatment with progesterone supplements is fairly common after one or two pregnancy losses, however, not all medical practitioners agree on the practice. Others believe that malfunction in the immune system, such as high levels of natural killer cells, may be the culprit.
Pregnancy losses after the 20th week are called stillbirths. Too-early births, on the other hand, are called preterm labors. Both preterm labors and stillbirths usually have different causes from earlier miscarriages, although chromosomal errors in the baby can also cause stillbirths. The most common causes of stillbirths and preterm labors are cervical insufficiency, problems in the placenta, and preterm labor due to medical issues in the mother.
No matter what may be the cause of pregnancy loss, the woman is advised to seek out emotional support from friends and relatives. Counseling helps a lot in dealing with the emotional aftermath of miscarriage.
Article Source: http://www.articlesnatch.com
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Going Cuckoo Over Sleep, Or The Lack Thereof
A ruffled mind makes a restless pillow, so says Charlotte Bronte. Studies have linked sleep problems with a multitude of psychiatric conditions. Some medical professionals would say a lot of mental problems are caused by lack of sleep, and some would say that it’s the other way around, that psychiatric problems cause difficulty sleeping. But how is sleep related to your mental health?
Sleep
Sleep is the natural state of rest observed not only by human beings but also by other species of the animal kingdom. Regular sleep is vital for one’s health and survival. This is characterized by a loss of consciousness, reduced voluntary body movement, decreased reaction to external stimuli, an increase rate of anabolism (cell synthesis), and a decreased rate of catabolism (cell breakdown).
Sleep consists of five stages. The first four stages are called non-rapid eye movement (non-REM) sleep. The last stage is the rapid eye movement (REM) sleep. Stage one is the transition from wake to sleep. Stage two is an intermediate level of sleep. Stages three and four are referred to as deep or slow wave sleep, with stage four as the deepest stage of sleep. The fifth stage of sleep, the REM stage, is the stage in sleep where we dream. All of these stages involve brain movement.
Sleeping problems
There are two sleeping difficulties most noted to be related to psychiatric illnesses:
Insomnia. In this sleeping problem, a patient has trouble falling or remaining asleep. Insomniacs usually don’t feel refreshed after a night’s rest. This is classified into acute (short-term) or chronic (the condition lasts for over a month).
Hypersomnia. When a patient has this condition, he feels extremely sleepy throughout the day. Patients with hypersomnia usually sleep long during the night and still take repeated naps throughout the day. Even though patients sleep long, they are still not refreshed.
Mental illnesses related to sleep problems
Here are some psychiatric conditions that are commonly related to having sleeping disorders.
Adjustment disorders. This is a condition wherein a person overreacts to any form of stress in their life. Patients with this disorder often complain of having insomnia.
Bipolar disorder. In this mental condition, a patient experiences periods of highs (mania) and lows (depression) alternately. Patients with this conditions are most often hypersomniacs.
Generalized anxiety disorder. A patient displays frequent patterns of worrying about things. Patients find it difficult to sleep because of the worries that go around their minds.
Panic disorder. A patient experiences an extreme fear and anxiety over something unexplainable. Patients often wake up in the middle of the night and have difficulty going back to sleep.
How are sleeping problems and mental illnesses related?
People with sleeping disorders may manifest symptoms of the mental illness or that of the sleeping disorder itself. However some noted signs are:
Increased anxiety at bedtime.
An inclination to staying in bed more often.
Fatigue or complete lack of energy.
Difficulty concentrating.
A tendency to fall asleep when in low-stimulation situations.
Feeling disoriented when aroused.
Decreased appetite.
Irritability.
Memory impairment.
Recent studies have shown that brain activity associated with mental illnesses have been observed in healthy people who’ve been sleep deprived for a night. An increase in activity in the amygdala, the brain’s emotion center, was seen in patients who’ve been asked to miss a night’s rest. The same study noted that sleep deprivation affected the way the prefrontal cortex, which damps down the amygdala, reacts. The same disruption of prefrontal cortex function has been noted in patients with certain psychiatric disorders.
In conclusion, sleep is not just a function that we need to engage in to rest our body. Our mind’s health depends on it too. Our busy lifestyles may tell you that sleep is for the weak. But think of how much weaker a lack of sleep may make you.
Article Source: http://www.articlesnatch.com
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How to Beat a Slow Metabolism
Nothing seems to work for you anymore and you've tried it all - high carbs, low carbs, fat burners, low calories, session after session of mind-numbing cardio. That flab isn't going anywhere.
Frustrating, isn't it? It's like a brick wall standing in your way, isn't it?
Your problem may be a damaged metabolism--a very real phenomenon--caused by prolonged dieting. I know that may sound scary, but it's not as bad as some people make it out to be. With all the extremely low-calorie eating and hours of cardio that some people do day in and day out, it's actually very commonplace. Rest assured, you're not alone.
And I've got some good news for you. There's a pretty simple way to repair your sluggish metabolism. Contrary to popular--albeit ill-informed--opinion, metabolic "damage" is not permanent and metabolism does not shut off. Yes, it slows down, but this is actually a normal and expected response when you're eating sub-maintenance calories.
There is a physiologically-based adaptive response that the body undergoes when eating in a caloric deficit. The hormones that govern metabolic rate and fat loss respond in a way that serves to preserve bodyfat. And the effect is magnified the leaner you get (which is often associated with the longer you're trying to lose fat). End result? Slower, if not altogether stalled, fat loss. No matter how good your nutritional program, if you're eating in a caloric deficit, your metabolism will attempt to adjust accordingly.
Ok, enough of the whys. How do we get that metabolism humming again? First off, you need to lose the short term thinking and adopt a longer term mindset. This is critical.
Even though this might go against 'common wisdom', you're going to have to eat more, at least for a little while. Yes, you read that right – eat more, not less. You might find it hard to wrap your head around this concept, but trust me, it's necessary. However, just ramping right up to an appropriate caloric intake isn't necessarily the right approach for everyone. There is more than one way to approach the repair but I'd suggest you do it in steps - systematic and regular increases. This has the benefit of one, allowing you to gradually get used to eating more food, two, potentially preventing some fat regain, and three, maybe even causing some fat loss. So one approach is to determine how much you're eating on an average day and then take your present intake and just add 10-20% to it every few days until you hit maintenance calories.
Now that you've decided to take control of your metabolism and have adjusted your calories to maintenance levels, you want to maintain this level of calories for at least two weeks. Then once things are humming along again, you can return to a caloric deficit. Might you gain some weight at maintenance? Maybe, but some will surely be water, muscle glycogen, etc. Basically nothing to worry about – easy come, easy go. Again, long term versus short term thinking. You need to correct the problem before you can move past it. Two weeks at maintenance will make further fat loss much more likely when you return to your caloric deficit. Chances are you'll start feeling a lot better though, and you'll have some great workouts.
There are many great, yet underused fat-loss strategies out there. Planned periods at maintenance eating can be found near the top of that list. Remember, the purpose of the two weeks at maintenance calories isn't to maintain; it's to make the subsequent calorie deficit more effective at fat loss. Think of it as a 'resetting of the system'. Then you hit your deficit again and presto, more fat loss.
With a slow metabolism you can generally assume somewhere in the neighbourhood of 14x bodyweight is going to approximate maintenance calories. It might even be a bit lower depending on how severe your caloric deficit has been and for how long, but keep in mind that metabolism is only going to slow so much. It doesn't shut off. These maintenance numbers are an approximation, but so are the more complicated equations that can be used to determine caloric requirements.
After the two weeks at maintenance are up, you return to your caloric deficit. However, this time take a moderate approach and shoot for approximately 12x bodyweight in calories. If you're female and a bit lighter in bodyweight to begin with, you might need to start lower in order to create a sufficient fat-burning caloric deficit. Stay there for a couple weeks, assess your progress, and make adjustments as needed. If you're getting leaner and your measurements have decreased, stay there. If you're not, try decreasing calories by another 10% and reassess again two weeks later.
Remember, these caloric recommendations are just approximations; they're starting points. Everyone is a bit different, so the key to long term success is being able to trouble shoot your program. A quick closing note on that very topic. You need to stay on top of your program. If what you're doing is not generating the desired fat-loss results, working harder at that same ineffective plan isn't magically going to start working. If it's broken, fix it. If your program is not netting you any fat loss, you need to make some adjustments to your program. Don't keep spinning your wheels doing something that is no longer working for you. Getting the results you're after? Stay the course. Not getting the results you're after? Make changes.
There is no reason to continually suffer the effects poor prior fat-loss efforts have had on your metabolism. There is no reason you should have to suffer a permanent sentence of stalled fat loss. Planned periods at maintenance calories are the key. However, there's more to this strategy than simply repairing a slow metabolism. They can and should be used periodically throughout your fat-loss phase to promote continue fat loss. A periodic resetting of the system will go a long way to maintaining healthy metabolism and and continued fat loss.
Article Source: http://www.articlesnatch.com
About the Author:
Erik Ledin, B.Kin, CSCS, CISSN, is the President of Lean Bodies Consulting Inc., an online nutritional consulting firm which specializes in physique transformation, fat loss, nutrition and contest prep. He can be reached at www.leanbodiesconsulting.com
8:16 AM | 0 Comments
Chemical Peels, What you need to know about chemical peels

By:Shelly Cruz
Chemical peels, also known as chemexfoliation or derma-peeling, are a technique used to improve the appearance of the skin. In this treatment, a chemical solution is applied to the skin, which causes it to eventually peel off. The new, regenerated skin is usually smoother and less wrinkled than the old skin.
Chemical Peels Question 1, What Conditions Do a Chemical Peel Treat?
Chemical peels are performed on the face, neck or hands. Chemical peels can be used to:
1. Reduce fine lines under the eyes and around the mouth,
2. Treat wrinkles caused by sun damage, aging and hereditary factors,
3. Improve the appearance of mild scarring,
4. Treat certain types of acne
5. Reduce age spots, freckles and dark patches due to pregnancy or taking birth control pills
6. And improve the look and feel of skin that is dull in texture and color
Chemical Peels Question 2, How Are Chemical Peels Performed?
The skin is thoroughly cleansed with an agent(chemical peel) that removes excess oils while the eyes and hair are protected. One or more chemicalsolutions, such as glycolic acid, trichloroacetic acid, salicylic acid,lactic acid or carbolic acid (phenol), are applied to small areas on the skin. These Chemical Peel applications produce a controlled wound, enabling new, regenerated skin to appear.
Chemical Peels Question 3, How do I prepare for a Chemical Peel?
Prior to the chemical peel, your Aesthetician may ask you to stop taking certain drugs and prepare your skin with topical preconditioning medications such as Retin-A, Renova, or glycolic acid. After the chemical peel, it's important to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen every day.
The more clinical definition of a chemical peel is as follows: A chemical peel is a body treatment technique used to improve and smooth the texture of the facial skin using a chemical solution that causes the skin to blister and eventually peel off. The regenerated skin is usually smoother and less wrinkled than the old skin. Thus the term chemical peel is derived. Some types of chemical peels can be purchased and administered without a medical license, however people are advised to seek professional help from a dermatologist on a specific type of chemical peel before a procedure is performed.
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6:40 AM | 0 Comments
Warts Causes Symptoms Information with Treatment
Warts are small harmless tumors of the skin caused by a virus called the human papillomavirus. The HPV virus causes a hard protein called keratin in the top layer of the skin (the epidermis) to grow too much, producing the rough, hard texture of a wart. Warts are usually harmless, but they can look unattractive. They often clear up by themselves, although treatment can help to get rid of them more quickly. Warts arent normally painful, although verrucas can sometimes hurt. Warts are very contagious. It is also possible to get warts from using towels or other objects that were used by a person who has warts. Warts on the genitals are very contagious and can be passed to another person during oral, vaginal or anal sex . It is important not to have unprotected sex if you or your partner has warts on the genital area. Warts can grow on the cervix (inside the vagina), and a woman may not know she has them. She may pass the infection to her sexual partner without knowing it. They typically disappear after a few months but can last for years and can reoccur. A few papilloma viruses are known to cause cervical cancer.
A wart is generally a small, rough tumor , typically on hands and feet, that can resemble a cauliflower or a solid blister. The technical name for a wart is verruca vulgaris. There are a wide variety of warts, which are named by their appearance or location. Warts can grow on all parts of your body. They can grow on your skin, on the inside of your mouth, on your genitals and on your rectal area. Contrary to popular belief, warts do not have "roots". They only grow in the top layer of skin, the epidermis. When they grow down, they displace the second layer of skin, the dermis. They do not grow into the dermis. The underside of a wart is actually smooth. There are several types of warts common warts (around nails on the fingers and toes), foot warts (also called plantar warts and located on the soles of the feet), flat warts (flatter and smoother than other warts, they grow in great numbers at any one time. Found on children's faces and the beards of men and legs of women-irritation from shaving could account for this). It is reasonable to have all warts treated since they can spread to other parts of the body and to other people. Warts are treated either by using salicylic acid, cryotherapy (freezing), or electrodessication (burning).
Causes of Warts
Find common causes and risk factors of Warts :
Warts are caused by direct contact with the human papillomavirus (HPV). Some types of HPV tend to cause warts on your hands, fingers or near your fingernails.
By sharing towels, razors, or other personal items it can spread to others.
Picking or scratching the wart may cause the virus to spread.
HPV can enter the skin through cuts or scratches on the plantar area of the foot.
Signs and Symptoms of Warts
Sign and symptoms may include the following :
Flesh-colored, white, pink or tan.
Small, fleshy, grainy bumps.
Rough to the touch.
Treatment for Warts
Treatment may include:
Laser treatments (e.g., CO2 laser cautery) can be used to treat warts.
Duct tape occlusion therapy.
Applied manually.
Cryotherapy involves freezing warts with a very cold solution, that destroys the virus.
Self-treatment for warts using an over-the-counter preparation is not recommended.
Juliet Cohen writes articles on diseases and conditions and skin disorders. She also writes articles on herbal home remedies.
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How to Deal with Hot Flashes Without a Prescription
By uncgrad
Hot flashes are a common part of menopause. It has been estimated that 60% of women will experience them. There are ways to deal with hot flashes, however.
Hot flashes are vasomotor symptoms, meaning biochemical events resulting from your body's temperature control being "off". Basically your body thinks it's overheated but it's not. Your blood vessels then quickly discharge what your body perceives as heat.
Fabrics You Wear
Nylon, spandex, and close-knit polyester trap body heat, which is definitely not what you want to have on when you get a hot flash. Avoiding nylon pajamas and satin or polyester sheets will help with night sweats.
Exercise
Regular exercise may reduce the number of hot flashes you get. It can also decrease how long each one lasts.
Cold Compresses or Water
Cold compresses or cool water can help stop a hot flash. This can also help keep one you just had from coming back. The inside of the wrist, inside of elbows and the back of your neck are good places to apply a cold compress. Applying to either side of your groin can help with a hot flash too.
Stay Away from Hot Water
Hot showers and hot tubs raise your body temperature, which can stimulate a hot flash, so steer clear of these.
Paced Breathing
When in the middle of a hot flash, paced breathing can be key. The North American Menopause Society has shown that women who practice steadied breathing had many fewer hot flashes - 50% less.
Smelling Flowers
Even smelling flowers can help. Some scents calm the body, like roses, vanilla, lavender, lemongrass, geranium, ylang-ylang and clary sage.
Don't Smoke
Smokers may also experience more hot flashes, especially for thinner women. Cutting down on smoking will help but quitting is even better. Smoking triggers body changes that cause earlier, more frequent, and more intense hot flashes.
Herbal Supplements or Vitamins
Incorporating herbal supplements or vitamins into your diet can help, but you should consult your doctor before making a diet change. Vitamin E has been used to help with hot flashes but there's no concrete evidence it helps and it may be linked to breast cancer. Bioflavinoids have some of the same benefits as estrogen. Black Cohosh, an herb, may help with hot flashes.
Stay Away from Caffeine, Spicy Food or Alcohol
Some women have found that caffeine, spicy food or alcohol trigger their hot flashes. Avoiding these may help. Adding soy to your diet can help as well, but it may not be a good option for those at risk for breast cancer. As always, check with your doctor before making a serious diet change.
Sources:
http://www.webmd.com/menopause/guide
http://ezinearticles.com/?Menopause
7:10 PM | 0 Comments
Scalp Infections
There are many definitions and symptoms commonly described as "scalp infections". There are in fact quite a few quite different reasons why your scalp may be sore, itchy, inflamed burning red or infected. If you are like many people with chronic scalp issues – it may be driving you completely up the wall and not knowing what it is or how to treat the problem effectively after many unsuccessful attempts to eliminate it can make it seem far worse - like you are never going to get to the bottom of the problem. Well that need no longer be so! It can be simple to diagnose and treat now and for good.
Firstly, if you are suffering from a scalp infection and want to get to the root of your problems, so to speak, you need to be able to identify what your problem actually is. Of course, many scalp conditions look alike, so here is a brief description of some of the most common scalp infection conditions:
• Red Burning Itchy Scalp
• Dandruff
• Ringworm
• Dry Scalp
• Scalp Dermatitis
• Eczema of the Scalp
• Scalp Psoriasis
• Folliculitis
• Stress Related Itching
Red burning itchy scalp can be characterized as any tingling, burning, prickly, and sensitive to the touch or a fiery hot sensation. Often associated with an allergy, sunburn, chemical burn (sensitization of the scalp), or fungal infection.
Dandruff as most of us know is the process of continual shedding of skin cells on our scalps. Often the cause of dandruff is simply the result of toxins, pollutants and products that have built up on the scalp particularly products like silicone – a cheap commonly used artificial shine enhancer in conditioners sold in supermarkets.
When the natural balance of our scalps is disturbed, this creates the perfect environment for the yeast fungus Melassezia Globbosa to move in and thrive. This is when the natural process of shedding our cells gets a little out of hand resulting in an unsightly condition known as "Seborrhoeic Dermatitis" (fancy name for dandruff) and we see the highly visible tell-tale signs of flaking and crusting.
The accompanying itch and urge to scratch are often made worse by the multiplication of the fungal yeast pityrosporum-ovale (having one big party on your scalp). Another follow on effect of this is that the relentless scratching by the sufferer can cause small lesions which weep and ooze or become infected.
Lumps bumps and sores are also common when the scalp is highly irritated or sensitivity has been aggravated. Candida can be an underlying cause of yeast infections of the scalp as well.
Ringworm of the scalp (tinea capitis) is a superficial fungal infection of the scalp. Scalp ringworm is caused by mold-like fungi called dermatophytes. Ringworm infection occurs when a particular type of fungus grows and multiplies anywhere on your skin, scalp, or nails. It is far more common in children and symptoms include red, itchy patches on the scalp, leaving bald areas. The skin might itch and be red and peel or be scaly, have swollen blisters or a rash (that can spread) and looks like black dots. The rash is highly contagious. It is normally treated with over the counter products containing miconazole, clotrimazole, or similar. Sometimes prescription antifungal skin medications, such as ketoconazole are needed to clear it up. There are also products direct from nature's factories that can aid the healing process and act as natural antibiotics, although it must be said that ringworm is an aggressive fungus which needs to be monitored closely and treated accordingly.
Dry scalp can feel "tight", a sensation that is sometimes accompanied by flakiness. It is often the result of natural oils being stripped from our scalps by the frequent use of shampoos, hair dyes and or other hair products.
Dermatitis of the scalp (Seborrheic dermatitis) is an inflammatory disorder affecting areas of the head and body where sebaceous glands are most prominent. It can vary from mild dandruff to dense flakey and greasy scale. Once again it is often an accumulation of toxins and products built up on our scalps that our body is trying to rid itself of.
Eczema of the scalp similar in appearance to Seborrheic dermatitis but instead has the name Atopic dermatitis.
Scalp Psoriasis commonly occurs on the back of the head however multiple areas of the scalp or the whole scalp may be affected. Scalp psoriasis is characterized by thick silvery white scales on patches of very red skin and can extend slightly beyond the hairline. Scalp psoriasis, despite being partially hidden by the hair is often a source of social embarrassment due to flaking of the scale and severe 'dandruff'. Scalp psoriasis may be extremely itchy or on occasion have no itch symptoms. It can also cause temporary baldness on the affected areas. It is a common, chronic, inflammatory skin disease and is associated with increased risk of melanoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and basal cell carcinoma.
Folliculitis of the scalp is a superficial bacterial scalp infection of the hair follicles. It is characterized by pustules around the hair follicles and symptoms include painful brushing of hair and tenderness when rubbing your scalp around the hair follicle sites. Treating with antibiotics for the particular bacteria is the usual course of action but can eventually cause restistance to the antibiotic used. Options include applying Evoclin Foam which is topical. Folliculitis is commonly caused by staph bacteria which also reside inside the nose and sinus cavity. Natural oils such as tea tree and lavender have good antibacterial properties and can also be used to treat this condition.
If you have a bump or lump under the skin (commonly a lump behind the ears with no broken skin or rash developing, then this could be a cyst. Cysts are liquid filled pustules which can be painful when they become infected. If you have such symptoms I recommend seeing a doctor to be safe. Doctors can also treat cysts with antibiotics if they have become infected or incise them as a further but uncommon procedure if the antibiotics are not sufficient.
Stress Related Itching Stress can contribute to or worsen scalp itching as it plays havoc with our immune system and hormones which have an effect on production of sebum from your sebaceous glands. Although it can contribute to the problem it is still somewhat of a myth. It may appear that you have a "stress rash", but it is more likely that the problem was already there in a less noticeable way, then aggravated by increased stress levels making it harder for your body to deal with the problem on its own and eliminate the problem. Many of the treatments below include stress relieving properties – like Lavender oil for example which calms the mind and soothes the body.
Solutions – what YOU can do about it
Going to your doctor may be the best way to get an accurate answer to diagnosing your problem, but I understand that many of you may have already done this, been prescribed some form of medication of cream (even "heavy duty" cortisone based ones where the cortisone potency may need to be increased after time).
Often the problem either doesn't go away from the start – or seems to subside but comes back with full a vengeance later leaving you wondering with more unanswered questions and a VERY unhappy scalp! Well the good news is if you don't like using these expensive and often impotent products – or even want to help them along you can use natural remedies and essential oils known to be super effective anti-bacterial busters such as tea tree oil for instance to inhibit or stop the growth of the infection and assist healing/rebalancing of the scalp.
Something that is also important to understand in curing scalp conditions – factor that is missed by so many doctors, and something not disclosed by companies who sell hair products and treatments is the number of people who are allergic or sensitive to commonly used ingredients in shampoos, dandruff treatments and other hair products. In fact MOST hair products (as many as 90%) contain at least one ingredient that is used in engine degreasers, another is a common ingredient in antifreeze.
These ingredients are cheap to produce foaming agents that make shampoo foam up, and do a fantastic job of stripping dirt and oily build up from hair. Problem is that they sometimes do SUCH a good job that they remove all of the natural oils and sebum from the scalp thus removing the scalps natural defence against bacteria etc. Another little known fact is that the most common ingredient (Sodium laureth sulphate) is used to induce skin irritation in test patients by drug companies to test the effectiveness of their itch relief skin creams. When first produced and for year's afterwards manufacturers did not know that skin was not a barrier but an absorber of ingredients & that they caused skin irritation in so many people.
So sometimes the beginning of a scalp condition can have originated from something as simple as an imbalance to the skins (scalps) sebum or an allergy to an ingredient that can easily be rectified.
Like your immune system, if your skin has an opportunity to rebalance itself and not be subjected to "incoming foreign matter" and the daily stripping of its natural oils that further aggravates the problem you can allow your body to rebalance and heal itself. Obviously buying products that do not strip your hair and scalp is an obvious step in the right direction.
Fortunately there are a lot of manufacturers such as Aveda and Akin (Purist Company) who know what consumers are suffering from these issues so have addressed this problem. They have applied this knowledge to produce some amazing products with all of the benefits of natural ingredients, with none of the side effects at a price we can afford (Akin especially). It need not be difficult, nor expensive to make these choices and a move to healthy hair and scalp long term.
So yes you can eliminate harsh shampoos containing sodium sulphates and go for natural Sulphate and paraben free shampoos that contain ingredients such as macadamia, wheatgerm or jojoba oils. These oils mimic our natural sebum to some extent to help to re moisturize and nourish our scalp.
Then there are lavender, rosemary and tea tree oils which contain
antibacterial, healing properties. Neem oil great for its antifungal
properties and stops itching. You can apply these topically to your skin for fast relief, to assist healing as well as looking out for shampoos with these natural ingredients in them.
Lavender calms the skin (as does chamomile tea cooled and used as hair rinse).
As well as buying quality shampoos containing these ingredients, you can
create your own combinations of remedy or remedies to soothe your scalp.
You can also help it along by using natural remedies to treat your scalp such as this scalp treatment containing natural oils to assist healing, detoxify and stimulate hair growth: (Add to
water (4 parts water 1 part oil) and spray onto scalp and you can add to your shampoo and conditioners also).
Oils To Relieve Itching: Lavender, German Chamomile and Eucalyptus Oils
(Mixed together and dabbed locally on effected areas has a soothing effect).
Neem oil is also a very good dandruff preventative which can be added to any of the formulas detailed below and is excellent for psoriasis and eczema.
Scalp massage with lavender oil (not scented – the real oil) is another
wonderful way to relieve the tension from a sore scalp as well as treat the
issue. It also helps to re grow hair and repair the damage done to your
follicles by chemicals in shampoos causing thinning hair. (Lavender is known to stimulate hair growth too).
There are many more powerful remedies you can use to treat your scalp as well as many shampoos that are excellent value, contain no nasties to aggravate your scalp and hair follicles. It can be really simple to treat scalp problems by treating yourself to your own pampering session using natural oils to help heal your scalp infection. And then be kind to your hair and scalp by using only products that nourish your hair and scalp such as Aveda or Akin brand shampoos. You can assist the healing process and help restore balance back to your scalp and you hair will appreciate and reward you for it too by becoming less brittle, stronger and shinier.
As with all natural remedies please patch test first. This information is not intended to replace a doctors medical advice, so please see your doctor for diagnosis and treatment. The responsibility of obtaining doctors diagnosis and using remedies is yours.
Mia Wadsworth who founded www.DryItchyScalpRemedies.com to help hundreds of sufferers of Scalp Infections, Dry Scalp, dandruff & other scalp conditions relieve & eliminate their condition fast & permanently. After curing her own painful condition using her own remedy for dry itchy scalp, Mia now helps sufferers of Scalp Infections, Itchy Scalp, Dandruff or other scalp conditions understand the cause and get fast permanent relief naturally.
5:15 PM | 2 Comments
How A C.Diff Infection Occurs
By: Craig Ellyard
A C.diff Infection occurs when the c.diff micro-organism grows out of control in the gastronintestinal tract (GI).
Ordinarily this kind of micro-organism is harmless and actually helps in the digestion of food and nutrients. As such, we all have micro-organisms have them in our bodies and c.diff can be present in around 3% of healthy adults.
But, a C.Diff Infection occurs when the c.diff micro-organism begins to grow out of control resulting in severe infectious diarrhea and inflammation of the large intestine. This can happen to hospitalised people and the presence of c.diff in hospitalised adults is ten times higher (up to 30%) than in ordinarily healthy adults.
A C.Diff Infection is by far the most common cause of diarrhea found in hospital patients.
Why Patients Are Susceptible To A C.Diff Infection
Basically, a C.Diff Infection occurs when a bodies preventative bacteria is not strong enough to stop the c.diff from outgrowing the GI tract. This happens for a number of reasons:
• A long stay in hospital. The potential for c.diff spreading in a clinical environment is very high and combined with the stress a patient will be under and the illness weakened body a hospital patient is a prime candidate for C.Diff Infection.
• Age. C.diff is an infectious disease and as in all diseases of this type the elderly are much more susceptible because their immune systems are weak, especially when hospitalised.
• Illness. Any serious or constant illness will weaken the bodies immune system and increase the risk of a C.Diff Infection.
• Antibiotics. A very real risk to a patient in a hospital environment can be posed by antibiotics. Because antibiotics can kill the bacteria which controls the growth of c.diff a patient becomes susceptible to a C.Diff Infection.
Why Does A C.Diff Infection Spread?
Unfortunately, a C.Diff Infection can spread very quickly and it is not easily killed by cleaning agents that most hospitals will use. C.diff forms spores which infected people can transfer by contact with each other and surfaces and those spores can live for up to five months.
It is because of the high degree of infection that c.diff poses such a threat to hospitals and the patients in their care.
How A C.Diff Infection Can Be Treated
The unfortunate truth about a C.diff Infection is that it is very hard to treat and treatment can last for several months. The evolvement of a new and more viral strain of c.diff which is resistant to treatment can be fatal and it is this strain of the disease which is proving so difficult for our hospitals to control.
Some antibiotics can be used in the treatment of a C.diff Infection including Flagyl. Flagyl is the most common treatment and is usually taken in tablet form and is a Metronidazole is used to treat bacterial or protozoal infections.
Vancomycin is a stronger drug than Flagyl and is used to try and combat the more serious strains of C.Diff Infection. Taken orally Vancomycin is a parenteral glycopeptide antibiotic and is a drug which has recently been improved during the manufacturing process to increase its purity and effectiveness against the stronger strains of c.diff.
Can A C.diff Infection Be Prevented
Surprisingly simply washing hands is the best way to prevent the spread of a C.diff Infection although the usual alcohol based hand cleansers are not effective in preventing the spread of c.diff.
Craig Ellyard writes extensively about hospital acquired diseases. For more information on C.Diff Infection and how to claim compensation if effected go to http://www.cdiff-compensation.co.uk
Article Source: http://www.eArticlesOnline.com
5:08 PM | 0 Comments
Can't Hold Back: What You Need To Know About Fecal Incontinence
by kristine
Most elderly people manifest this as they lose control of their certain muscles and as a result of certain diseases. This isn't an easy condition to bear with as it may put you in embarrassing situations. Incontinence is a lack of voluntary control of excretory function. It affects nearly 12% of the American population and the rate is still climbing at a steady rate yearly.
Fecal incontinence Fecal incontinence is one of two kinds of incontinence that people experience. This is also called bowel incontinence. It is the inability to control over bowel movement. This causes involuntary excretion and leaking of stool or feces from the rectum. This may range from occasional leakage of stool while passing gas to total loss of bowel control. People with fecal incontinence may also experience other bowel-related conditions such as diarrhea, constipation, gas and abdominal cramps.
People with bowel incontinence are often plagued with feelings of shame and humiliation. A lot of people affected by this condition are afraid to seek help in fear of being ridiculed, thereby trying to manage the problem on their own. This may lead to serious self-esteem issues that may result to social withdrawal and isolation which in turn may end into cases of severe anxiety, more specifically, agoraphobia.
Causes Here are the five most common causes of fecal incontinence: Muscle damage. Injury to the one of both of the ring-like muscles at the end of the rectum may cause fecal incontinence. The internal and external anal sphincter contract to help retain stool. When it is damaged, these muscles may have partial or total functionality, and leakage may occur. This may occur as a result of improperly performed episiotomy, or as a side effect of hemorrhoid surgery. Nerve damage. Incontinence may come as a result of damage to the nerves that control the anal sphincters or the nerves that detect stool in the rectum. When the nerves surrounding the sphincter is damaged, the muscles may not be able to function effectively. If the sensory nerves are damaged, a person will not feel the need to defecate until it is too late. This may come as a result of childbirth, of long-term constipation, stroke, and/or diseases that cause nerve degeneration. Loss of storage capacity. The rectum normally stretches to contain feces until a person voluntary releases it. However, when a person is subjected to certain surgeries or therapies, or has inflammatory bowel disease that causes scarring, the rectal walls may become stiff and less elastic. Once the rectum is unable to expand and accommodate as much stool, it may result to fecal incontinence. Diarrhea. Loose stool is more difficult to contain than solid stool and may sometimes leak on its own. Pelvic floor dysfunction. Abnormalities of the pelvic floor may cause decreased rectal sensation, decreased anal canal pressure, decreased squeeze pressure of the anal canal, and rectal prolapse. All of which may lead to incontinence.
Treatment As with any medical condition, treatment depends on the cause and the severity of the bowel incontinence. Treatment may include one or a combination of the following: Dietary change. Food affects the consistency of stool and how quick it passes through the digestive tract. Eating food that add bulk to stool and decrease the water content of feces may help make it firmer. Also, avoiding foods and/or drinks that may relax the sphincter muscles like coffee, tea, and chocolate. Medications. Certain medications like anti-diarrheal drugs, laxatives, and stool softeners may help with bowel incontinence in different ways. Anti-diarrheals help reduce leakage incidents. For people who've developed fecal incontinence due to constant constipation, laxatives and stool softeners are suggested to promote normal bowel movement and stop “accidents†from happening. Bowel training. This is advised to people who lack anal sphincter control or have decreased awareness of their need to defecate to restore muscle strength. This may include setting specific schedules for going to the toilet, or making a conscious effort to defecate after eating. Surgery. This is suggested to people who've had anal sphincter damage due to childbirth or rectal prolapse. Such surgeries as sphincteroplasty, where weakened anal sphincters are repaired; operations to treat rectal prolapse or hemorrhoids; sphincter replacement and/or repair; and colonostomy may be advised depending on the severity of the incontinence.
It is understandable to want to keep a condition such as fecal incontinence to yourself, people who don't care will ridicule you for having this condition. Treatments are available for us to take advantage of and use to put an end to bowel incontinence. Don't pay too much attention to what other people will say about you when they find out. Think more about what this will do to you in the long run.


