Many recent studies have shown a direct link between obesity and the diagnosis of type II diabetes, or non-insulin-dependent diabetes. Also known as adult onset diabetes, type II is increasingly being diagnosed in overweight children and adolescents. In this type of diabetes, the body produces insulin, but interference from the complications of obesity doesn’t allow the body to use it as it should.
The body of a type II diabetic, due to an overproduction of insulin, can no longer produce the correct amount to maintain healthy blood sugar levels and begins to develop a resistance to insulin. Ninety percent of diabetics are diagnosed with type II diabetes. Usually, this diagnosis comes after 40 years of age, but the condition is now increasingly found in children. Since 1968, obesity in American children has doubled, and today, approximately 25% of American children are obese. This increase in obesity has been directly linked to the rise in type II diabetes in both children and adults.
Studies have shown that an increase in abdominal fat is linked to glucose intolerance, as well as to overeating and general obesity. A body mass index (BMI) of over 40 has been linked to a higher chance of developing diabetes. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), a healthy BMI ranges from 18.5 to 24.9. Obese individuals often have diets high in carbohydrates, starches and sugars, and low in protein and good fats. The way in which these foods are digested is related to how the body processes sugar.
Like obesity, type II diabetes is highly preventable. Even mild weight loss can lower one's risk of developing type II diabetes by as much as five to ten percent. The CDC recommends a well balanced, healthy diet, along with moderate exercise on a regular basis, as the first steps in preventing both obesity and diabetes. Reducing stress levels can also go a long way in preventing diabetes.
For those suffering from obesity and diabetes, just 30 minutes of moderate exercise on most days of the week can be very useful in starting the weight loss process. Studies have shown that with weight loss, one can reduce the amount of medication required to control diabetes, and some can completely control the disease with diet and a healthy lifestyle.
Thursday, November 30, 2006
What are the Symptoms of Kidney Stones?
Kidney stones are tiny pieces of minerals, like calcium, that collect in the kidneys and are too large to pass easily along the ureter, to the bladder, and out through the urethra. Symptoms of kidney stones, called nephrolithiasis, include extreme localized pain, perspiration, and often an associated infection.
The most common symptom of kidney stones is a debilitating, shooting, intense pain anywhere in the abdomen. A kidney stone still lodged in the kidney would cause pain on one side, near your lower back. If it has moved partly down your ureter, the passage connecting the kidneys to the bladder, the pain might originate in your lower abdomen, side, or groin. A strong, continuous pain might indicate that the kidney stone is stuck permanently and will not be passed without a doctor's intervention.
Other symptoms of kidney stones include clammy, cold, hot, or sweaty skin accompanying a fever or chills. Fever usually means the stone has caused a blockage, and your kidneys and urination cannot function normally. This kind of infection must be treated with antibiotics, as well as by removing the kidney stone. You might also be tired, nauseated, not hungry, or experience diarrhea or constipation.
Some symptoms of kidney stones are very similar to the symptoms of a urinary tract infection or cystitis, especially in women. These have to do with urination. You might notice discolored or cloudy urine and pain, smarting, or burning during urination. A frequent or urgent need to urinate is usually a false alarm, as it may be difficult to actually urinate more than a tiny amount.
Given these warning symptoms, a doctor can diagnose kidney stones by doing a blood or urine test, conducting an ultrasound, or taking an X-ray with or without dye. Then a medical professional can eliminate the kidney stone by a variety of methods, ranging from non-invasive flushing with lots of liquid, to minor surgery under general anaesthetic.
The most common symptom of kidney stones is a debilitating, shooting, intense pain anywhere in the abdomen. A kidney stone still lodged in the kidney would cause pain on one side, near your lower back. If it has moved partly down your ureter, the passage connecting the kidneys to the bladder, the pain might originate in your lower abdomen, side, or groin. A strong, continuous pain might indicate that the kidney stone is stuck permanently and will not be passed without a doctor's intervention.
Other symptoms of kidney stones include clammy, cold, hot, or sweaty skin accompanying a fever or chills. Fever usually means the stone has caused a blockage, and your kidneys and urination cannot function normally. This kind of infection must be treated with antibiotics, as well as by removing the kidney stone. You might also be tired, nauseated, not hungry, or experience diarrhea or constipation.
Some symptoms of kidney stones are very similar to the symptoms of a urinary tract infection or cystitis, especially in women. These have to do with urination. You might notice discolored or cloudy urine and pain, smarting, or burning during urination. A frequent or urgent need to urinate is usually a false alarm, as it may be difficult to actually urinate more than a tiny amount.
Given these warning symptoms, a doctor can diagnose kidney stones by doing a blood or urine test, conducting an ultrasound, or taking an X-ray with or without dye. Then a medical professional can eliminate the kidney stone by a variety of methods, ranging from non-invasive flushing with lots of liquid, to minor surgery under general anaesthetic.
What is Insomnia & ways to treat it ?
If you've ever had a long, sleepless night, you've suffered from insomnia. A relatively common occurrence, insomnia affects most people at some time in their life. Insomnia is simply trouble sleeping at night. Being unable to fall asleep or stay asleep, or waking multiple times during the night, are symptoms of insomnia.
Many different things can cause a person to suffer from insomnia. Things you eat or drink, such as caffeine or alcohol, are common causes of insomnia. It isn't just stimulants or depressants that can cause insomnia thought. Eating rich or spicy food before bed is another common trigger.
Some medications can cause insomnia as well. Any type of stimulant is likely to make sleeping difficult. Somewhat surprisingly, some drugs that cause drowsiness can actually cause insomnia as well. A person may feel tired, but be unable to stay asleep due to restlessness, or may just doze off for short periods of time without getting a full night's sleep.
Stress, worry, anxiety, and pain are common causes of insomnia. A person who is worried at bedtime may have trouble falling asleep. Many people know the frustration of being particularly anxious about something that will happen the next day, only to have trouble getting enough sleep to be ready for it. Children sometimes have insomnia on Christmas Eve or before an exciting trip because they are looking forward to it so much.
Developing poor sleep habits is another leading cause of insomnia. Spending a lot of time in bed doing activities, reading or drawing or even working, can make it difficult for a person to change gears when it's time to sleep. Going to sleep and waking up at different times each day can also contribute to insomnia.
If you suffer from insomnia, there are a lot of things you can do to try and get to sleep. Practicing regular sleeping habits, such as going to bed at the same time every night and not taking naps during the day, can help. Abstaining from caffeine or alcohol before bed may also help you get a good night's sleep.
If you suffer from insomnia frequently, or it interferes with your life, it's best to consult with a doctor. Your doctor can help you pinpoint the causes of your insomnia and treat those, and may also be able to prescribe medications to help you fall asleep.
Many different things can cause a person to suffer from insomnia. Things you eat or drink, such as caffeine or alcohol, are common causes of insomnia. It isn't just stimulants or depressants that can cause insomnia thought. Eating rich or spicy food before bed is another common trigger.
Some medications can cause insomnia as well. Any type of stimulant is likely to make sleeping difficult. Somewhat surprisingly, some drugs that cause drowsiness can actually cause insomnia as well. A person may feel tired, but be unable to stay asleep due to restlessness, or may just doze off for short periods of time without getting a full night's sleep.
Stress, worry, anxiety, and pain are common causes of insomnia. A person who is worried at bedtime may have trouble falling asleep. Many people know the frustration of being particularly anxious about something that will happen the next day, only to have trouble getting enough sleep to be ready for it. Children sometimes have insomnia on Christmas Eve or before an exciting trip because they are looking forward to it so much.
Developing poor sleep habits is another leading cause of insomnia. Spending a lot of time in bed doing activities, reading or drawing or even working, can make it difficult for a person to change gears when it's time to sleep. Going to sleep and waking up at different times each day can also contribute to insomnia.
If you suffer from insomnia, there are a lot of things you can do to try and get to sleep. Practicing regular sleeping habits, such as going to bed at the same time every night and not taking naps during the day, can help. Abstaining from caffeine or alcohol before bed may also help you get a good night's sleep.
If you suffer from insomnia frequently, or it interferes with your life, it's best to consult with a doctor. Your doctor can help you pinpoint the causes of your insomnia and treat those, and may also be able to prescribe medications to help you fall asleep.
Does Influenza Cause Stomach Flu?
A stomach flu is often mistaken for influenza, a type of virus for which one might receive a yearly flu shot to prevent. Often, people believe they could have prevented the stomach flu by getting a yearly flu shot, but this is not the case. Stomach flu is caused by viruses, or sometimes ingestion of bacterial agents, and is never caused by what most people call “the flu.”
Influenza tends to involve fever, aches, sore throat, nasal and chest congestion. In both the very young and the elderly, the flu can result in complications like pneumonia. It is recommended that children under the age of five receive a flu shot. As well, senior citizens should also receive the shot. People with compromised immune systems, their caregivers and those in the medical community should also get the yearly vaccination.
These vaccinations can help to prevent the types of flu viruses expected each year. They do not always work. Scientists must develop vaccines based on viruses they predict will be present in a given year. A noted failure occurred in 2004, with the vaccine failing to protect against the prevalent viruses that year.
In all cases, however, the influenza vaccine has very little effect on preventing the stomach flu. This is often misunderstood since both stomach bugs and influenza are referred to as the flu. The typical stomach flu lasts for about two to three days, may cause fever, and may result in vomiting, diarrhea or both.
Often stomach flu is in fact mild food poisoning. Most agents responsible for food poisoning are bacterial. Particularly prevalent is salmonella, which in the healthy person can manifest as stomach flu type symptoms within a few hours to a day after eating contaminated food. Often, in healthy people, salmonella poisoning resolves without treatment. Rest and fluids are encouraged.
Bacterial or parasitic agents that are more severe will be noted if the person is running a very high fever and cannot keep any fluids down. If this is the case, the person should see a doctor immediately. Stronger bacteria or parasites may cause extreme dehydration and in some cases kidney failure. This type of stomach flu usually requires medication to cure the illness. The very young and the elderly are especially at risk of developing complications due to bacteria like E. coli and listeria.
Viruses causing the stomach flu are generally called noroviruses. These can be mild, affecting a person for a day or two. In young children, noroviruses may linger and a child who seems to have recovered from the stomach flu may exhibit symptoms a few days later. Usually noroviruses will last 24-48 hours. If vomiting or diarrhea continues beyond this point, one should see a doctor, as the cause may be food poisoning, or simply a stubborn virus.
Again, the elderly and young children are most vulnerable to complications and are more likely to suffer dehydration from noroviruses. If a person cannot keep liquids down after the first day, a doctor should be consulted. Some require intravenous (IV) fluids to help rehydrate the body and restore health.
Influenza tends to involve fever, aches, sore throat, nasal and chest congestion. In both the very young and the elderly, the flu can result in complications like pneumonia. It is recommended that children under the age of five receive a flu shot. As well, senior citizens should also receive the shot. People with compromised immune systems, their caregivers and those in the medical community should also get the yearly vaccination.
These vaccinations can help to prevent the types of flu viruses expected each year. They do not always work. Scientists must develop vaccines based on viruses they predict will be present in a given year. A noted failure occurred in 2004, with the vaccine failing to protect against the prevalent viruses that year.
In all cases, however, the influenza vaccine has very little effect on preventing the stomach flu. This is often misunderstood since both stomach bugs and influenza are referred to as the flu. The typical stomach flu lasts for about two to three days, may cause fever, and may result in vomiting, diarrhea or both.
Often stomach flu is in fact mild food poisoning. Most agents responsible for food poisoning are bacterial. Particularly prevalent is salmonella, which in the healthy person can manifest as stomach flu type symptoms within a few hours to a day after eating contaminated food. Often, in healthy people, salmonella poisoning resolves without treatment. Rest and fluids are encouraged.
Bacterial or parasitic agents that are more severe will be noted if the person is running a very high fever and cannot keep any fluids down. If this is the case, the person should see a doctor immediately. Stronger bacteria or parasites may cause extreme dehydration and in some cases kidney failure. This type of stomach flu usually requires medication to cure the illness. The very young and the elderly are especially at risk of developing complications due to bacteria like E. coli and listeria.
Viruses causing the stomach flu are generally called noroviruses. These can be mild, affecting a person for a day or two. In young children, noroviruses may linger and a child who seems to have recovered from the stomach flu may exhibit symptoms a few days later. Usually noroviruses will last 24-48 hours. If vomiting or diarrhea continues beyond this point, one should see a doctor, as the cause may be food poisoning, or simply a stubborn virus.
Again, the elderly and young children are most vulnerable to complications and are more likely to suffer dehydration from noroviruses. If a person cannot keep liquids down after the first day, a doctor should be consulted. Some require intravenous (IV) fluids to help rehydrate the body and restore health.
What are the Different Types of Hepatitis?
Five different types of hepatitis exist and are labeled as Hep A, B, C, D and E. Each type has slightly different symptoms, and most types can be treated successfully. Hepatitis C, however, can cause lifelong illness and extreme damage to the liver. Teachers and medical workers are at increased risk of contracting most forms of hepatitis through exposure to blood or bodily fluids in their work settings.
Hepatitis A is usually contracted through sharing food or water with an infected person. It may also be contracted through sexual contact or contact with body fluids, like the blood or urine of an infected person. Most completely recover from hepatitis A, though the condition can make people very ill. Like all other forms of hepatitis, Hep A causes inflammation of the liver.
Treatment for hepatitis A is usually rest, and it may take as long as six months to fully recover. Initial symptoms are fever, aches and exhaustion. Symptoms can persist for several months. During this time, the person with hepatitis A is contagious and can pass the illness to others, through the above listed means of transmission.
Hepatitis B is transmitted sexually, or through contact with an infected person’s body fluids. It is a difficult disease, which may remain in the system for life. The initial swelling of the liver can result in permanent liver damage. Since a cure has not been found, doctors look to prevention. Most children now receive a hepatitis B (HBV) vaccination that protects them from this disease.
Hepatitis C is the worse of the types as it causes lifelong illness and significant liver damage. Transmitted in the same way as Hep A and B, Hep C is more of an autoimmune disease causing increasing damage to the liver as well as gradual exhaustion. Though some are now living with hepatitis C and doing better than initially expected, hepatitis C is still a very dangerous illness. Safe sex practices and avoiding needle sharing are the best ways to avoid hepatitis C.
Hepatitis D can only be contracted if a person already has Hep B. This can cause swelling of the liver, and is usually contracted through unsafe sex or needle sharing. Since Hep B may have already damaged the liver, hepatitis D can, in worst case scenarios, cause death since it can result in additional damage to the liver. The disease can be completely avoided through the HBV vaccination.
Hepatitis E is not common in developed countries. It is usually contracted by drinking water contaminated by the virus in developing or third world countries. The disease causes liver swelling, but those contracting it tend to make a complete recovery.
All forms of hepatitis are serious and can impact one’s life. Contraction of Hep A, for example, might mean months of being unable to work or go to school. Contraction of Hep C or Hep D can mean serious complications and damage to the liver. Avoiding these illnesses by mindfulness, abstaining or practicing safer sex and by not sharing food is important. If visiting poorer countries, drinking bottled water and not engaging in sexual contact with the residents of these countries, can help avoid Hep E
Hepatitis A is usually contracted through sharing food or water with an infected person. It may also be contracted through sexual contact or contact with body fluids, like the blood or urine of an infected person. Most completely recover from hepatitis A, though the condition can make people very ill. Like all other forms of hepatitis, Hep A causes inflammation of the liver.
Treatment for hepatitis A is usually rest, and it may take as long as six months to fully recover. Initial symptoms are fever, aches and exhaustion. Symptoms can persist for several months. During this time, the person with hepatitis A is contagious and can pass the illness to others, through the above listed means of transmission.
Hepatitis B is transmitted sexually, or through contact with an infected person’s body fluids. It is a difficult disease, which may remain in the system for life. The initial swelling of the liver can result in permanent liver damage. Since a cure has not been found, doctors look to prevention. Most children now receive a hepatitis B (HBV) vaccination that protects them from this disease.
Hepatitis C is the worse of the types as it causes lifelong illness and significant liver damage. Transmitted in the same way as Hep A and B, Hep C is more of an autoimmune disease causing increasing damage to the liver as well as gradual exhaustion. Though some are now living with hepatitis C and doing better than initially expected, hepatitis C is still a very dangerous illness. Safe sex practices and avoiding needle sharing are the best ways to avoid hepatitis C.
Hepatitis D can only be contracted if a person already has Hep B. This can cause swelling of the liver, and is usually contracted through unsafe sex or needle sharing. Since Hep B may have already damaged the liver, hepatitis D can, in worst case scenarios, cause death since it can result in additional damage to the liver. The disease can be completely avoided through the HBV vaccination.
Hepatitis E is not common in developed countries. It is usually contracted by drinking water contaminated by the virus in developing or third world countries. The disease causes liver swelling, but those contracting it tend to make a complete recovery.
All forms of hepatitis are serious and can impact one’s life. Contraction of Hep A, for example, might mean months of being unable to work or go to school. Contraction of Hep C or Hep D can mean serious complications and damage to the liver. Avoiding these illnesses by mindfulness, abstaining or practicing safer sex and by not sharing food is important. If visiting poorer countries, drinking bottled water and not engaging in sexual contact with the residents of these countries, can help avoid Hep E
What is a Hernia & ways to treat it ?
A hernia usually occurs when a hole or rupture appears in the wall of the abdomen. The abdominal wall consists of tendons and very tough muscle. It runs from the rib area down to the groin area and stops just before the legs. One of the abdominal wall’s functions is to hold in the intestines. When a rupture occurs, the intestines can begin to push through the abdominal wall.
A hernia can happen to anyone, regardless of age or sex. It is usually felt as a small lump, but if left untreated, can grow to any size. There have been cases in which an untreated hernia has grown to the size of a football, and even larger hernias have been recorded. The hernia can become quite visible to the sufferer and to other people as it presses against the skin.
As it grows larger, with more intestine protruding through the abdominal wall, the hernia can cause more acute pain. It can also be extremely dangerous if the intestine becomes trapped inside the abdomen wall, as it may have a strangulating effect. Hernias will not get better on their own, but must be surgically treated.
Apart from a natural weakness in the abdominal wall, there are a number of reasons hernias may occur. One of the most common is a sporting injury. The most frequent sports injury is a groin injury, in which the muscle can be easily torn or strained. If a lump appears in this area, it may be the result of an inguinal hernia. If physical therapy fails to treat this injury, the only other option is surgery.
There are a few surgical options available to treat hernias. One of the most common surgical procedures is a tension free repair. This consists of covering the hernia with a prosthesis. Tissue will grow through the inserted mesh and the hernia will be corrected. Most tension free repair surgeries last from 20 to 90 minutes and are performed under general anesthetic.
Other hernia surgeries include pure tissue repairs and laparoscopic techniques. Your surgeon will advise on the best on the best type of surgery if you have a hernia. When a hernia appears, it is always best to see your doctor as soon as possible; the longer you leave it, the bigger the hernia will grow. Remember, although a hernia can be caused by sport or other injuries, if the abdominal wall is weak, simply sneezing or coughing can cause a hernia.
A hernia can happen to anyone, regardless of age or sex. It is usually felt as a small lump, but if left untreated, can grow to any size. There have been cases in which an untreated hernia has grown to the size of a football, and even larger hernias have been recorded. The hernia can become quite visible to the sufferer and to other people as it presses against the skin.
As it grows larger, with more intestine protruding through the abdominal wall, the hernia can cause more acute pain. It can also be extremely dangerous if the intestine becomes trapped inside the abdomen wall, as it may have a strangulating effect. Hernias will not get better on their own, but must be surgically treated.
Apart from a natural weakness in the abdominal wall, there are a number of reasons hernias may occur. One of the most common is a sporting injury. The most frequent sports injury is a groin injury, in which the muscle can be easily torn or strained. If a lump appears in this area, it may be the result of an inguinal hernia. If physical therapy fails to treat this injury, the only other option is surgery.
There are a few surgical options available to treat hernias. One of the most common surgical procedures is a tension free repair. This consists of covering the hernia with a prosthesis. Tissue will grow through the inserted mesh and the hernia will be corrected. Most tension free repair surgeries last from 20 to 90 minutes and are performed under general anesthetic.
Other hernia surgeries include pure tissue repairs and laparoscopic techniques. Your surgeon will advise on the best on the best type of surgery if you have a hernia. When a hernia appears, it is always best to see your doctor as soon as possible; the longer you leave it, the bigger the hernia will grow. Remember, although a hernia can be caused by sport or other injuries, if the abdominal wall is weak, simply sneezing or coughing can cause a hernia.
What are Common Kidney Problems and Associated Treatments?
The kidneys, a pair of vital organs that filter waste and water from our blood, are often afflicted with disease caused by a variety of problems. It is estimated that eight million Americans suffer from some kind of kidney problem. Depending on the severity of the condition, a kidney problem can be potentially fatal. However, some kidney problems are very common and easily treatable.
The most common acute kidney problem is kidney stones. Kidney stones result from a build up of chemicals, such as calcium phosphate and oxalate. These chemicals crystallize in the kidneys, forming stones that become quite painful. This type of kidney problem usually does not require medical treatment, as the stones eventually pass through the kidneys and are expelled by the urine.
Kidney stone sufferers are usually told to drink plenty of fluids to help the stones pass on their own. However, if kidney stones require medical treatment because of their size, the extreme pain they cause, or failure to pass on their own, various surgical techniques are performed to remove the stones. Medications can be prescribed to prevent this type of kidney problem if it is a chronic condition.
Another common kidney problem is infection. A kidney infection, also known as pyelonephritis, can have various causes, but most often, it is the result of a bladder or urinary tract infection that has gone untreated. The bacteria that cause a urinary tract infection can travel up the urethra into the kidneys. Treatment of a kidney infection includes tests to identify the type of bacteria that is responsible for the infection, followed by the appropriate antibiotics. Kidney infection should be treated as soon as possible to prevent lasting kidney damage.
Kidney problems are very common in those who suffer from diabetes. Diabetic kidney disease, or nephropathy, is the leading cause of kidney failure. This type of kidney problem is, unfortunately, only treated by attempting to slow end stage kidney failure through controlling blood pressure and weight and eating a special diet. When the kidneys reach the end stage, either dialysis or a kidney transplant is necessary to save the person’s life.
High blood pressure is another serious condition that may result in a kidney problem. In fact, it is the second leading cause of kidney failure. Because it is the kidneys’ job to filter blood, the increased force of blood as a result of high blood pressure places tremendous strain on the kidneys. Many people who suffer from this type of kidney problem, or from kidney disease associated with diabetes, do not experience symptoms until their kidneys have already begun to fail.
Fortunately, high blood pressure is easily detected with regular medical care. Because high blood pressure is associated with a number of potential life threatening complications, it is usually brought under control before the kidneys show signs of irreversible damage. Blood pressure is commonly treated with medications, stress reduction techniques, exercise, and a special attention to diet.
Pain in the lower back and/or flank area is the most common symptom of a kidney problem. Painful urination and the inability to urinate are also symptoms of a kidney problem. If you suspect that you have a kidney problem, it is important to seek immediate medical treatment to prevent life threatening complications.
The most common acute kidney problem is kidney stones. Kidney stones result from a build up of chemicals, such as calcium phosphate and oxalate. These chemicals crystallize in the kidneys, forming stones that become quite painful. This type of kidney problem usually does not require medical treatment, as the stones eventually pass through the kidneys and are expelled by the urine.
Kidney stone sufferers are usually told to drink plenty of fluids to help the stones pass on their own. However, if kidney stones require medical treatment because of their size, the extreme pain they cause, or failure to pass on their own, various surgical techniques are performed to remove the stones. Medications can be prescribed to prevent this type of kidney problem if it is a chronic condition.
Another common kidney problem is infection. A kidney infection, also known as pyelonephritis, can have various causes, but most often, it is the result of a bladder or urinary tract infection that has gone untreated. The bacteria that cause a urinary tract infection can travel up the urethra into the kidneys. Treatment of a kidney infection includes tests to identify the type of bacteria that is responsible for the infection, followed by the appropriate antibiotics. Kidney infection should be treated as soon as possible to prevent lasting kidney damage.
Kidney problems are very common in those who suffer from diabetes. Diabetic kidney disease, or nephropathy, is the leading cause of kidney failure. This type of kidney problem is, unfortunately, only treated by attempting to slow end stage kidney failure through controlling blood pressure and weight and eating a special diet. When the kidneys reach the end stage, either dialysis or a kidney transplant is necessary to save the person’s life.
High blood pressure is another serious condition that may result in a kidney problem. In fact, it is the second leading cause of kidney failure. Because it is the kidneys’ job to filter blood, the increased force of blood as a result of high blood pressure places tremendous strain on the kidneys. Many people who suffer from this type of kidney problem, or from kidney disease associated with diabetes, do not experience symptoms until their kidneys have already begun to fail.
Fortunately, high blood pressure is easily detected with regular medical care. Because high blood pressure is associated with a number of potential life threatening complications, it is usually brought under control before the kidneys show signs of irreversible damage. Blood pressure is commonly treated with medications, stress reduction techniques, exercise, and a special attention to diet.
Pain in the lower back and/or flank area is the most common symptom of a kidney problem. Painful urination and the inability to urinate are also symptoms of a kidney problem. If you suspect that you have a kidney problem, it is important to seek immediate medical treatment to prevent life threatening complications.
How can I Prevent Tooth Decay?
The number one way to prevent tooth decay is by exercising good oral hygiene habits. Tooth decay occurs when harmful bacteria build up on the teeth and form layers of plaque, which in turn attacks the enamel on the teeth. There are numerous ways to prevent tooth decay, and everyone can develop better oral hygiene habits beginning with simple steps.
Brushing your teeth is a necessary part of preventing tooth decay. Adults should brush at least twice each day – in the morning and at night before bed. Children should also brush regularly, preferably in the morning and before bed, as well as between meals. Regular brushing with fluoride toothpaste helps prevent tooth decay and keeps your teeth looking nice.
Dentists recommend replacing your toothbrush every six months at the least. For children’s teeth, use soft bristled toothbrushes that are the right size for their mouth and teeth. Always brush teeth in a circular motion and pay attention to all sides of the teeth. Also, remember to brush your tongue and gums, as this helps remove any bacteria that may be resting there. Regular brushing is the best way to prevent the plaque build-up that causes tooth decay.
In addition to brushing, flossing between the teeth should become a regular part of anyone’s oral hygiene regimen. Flossing with either dental floss or dental picks helps to remove bacteria from between the teeth that the bristles of your toothbrush may not reach. Dentists recommend flossing each time your brush, but many would settle for a simple once-a-day commitment.
You can also help prevent tooth decay by reducing the amount of sugary foods in your diet. Candy, sweets, and foods high in sugar and starch contribute heavily to the build up of plaque. Reducing the amount of candy and sweets you eat, and always brushing after eating them, can prove very helpful in preventing tooth decay. You should also make it a habit for you and your children to only chew sugar-free gum.
Experts also recommend a dental check up twice annually. However, many people neglect to visit the dentist due to lack of dental insurance, fear of dentists, or lack of accessibility. While adults might get by with less frequent visits, children should see a dentist for an oral check up and routine cleaning at least once, if not twice, each year. If you are without dental insurance, check with your local health department for assistance or referrals to dentists who are working with them to provide dental care at reduced rates.
A dentist can examine your mouth and determine whether you have any problems with your teeth or gums that need to be addressed to prevent tooth decay and extend the life of your natural teeth. For certain people, a dentist might recommend a tooth sealant, especially for people whose mouths produce an excess of bacteria. A dentist can not only help you prevent tooth decay, but can also address other concerns, such as gum disease, abscessed teeth, and other conditions or diseases of the mouth.
Brushing your teeth is a necessary part of preventing tooth decay. Adults should brush at least twice each day – in the morning and at night before bed. Children should also brush regularly, preferably in the morning and before bed, as well as between meals. Regular brushing with fluoride toothpaste helps prevent tooth decay and keeps your teeth looking nice.
Dentists recommend replacing your toothbrush every six months at the least. For children’s teeth, use soft bristled toothbrushes that are the right size for their mouth and teeth. Always brush teeth in a circular motion and pay attention to all sides of the teeth. Also, remember to brush your tongue and gums, as this helps remove any bacteria that may be resting there. Regular brushing is the best way to prevent the plaque build-up that causes tooth decay.
In addition to brushing, flossing between the teeth should become a regular part of anyone’s oral hygiene regimen. Flossing with either dental floss or dental picks helps to remove bacteria from between the teeth that the bristles of your toothbrush may not reach. Dentists recommend flossing each time your brush, but many would settle for a simple once-a-day commitment.
You can also help prevent tooth decay by reducing the amount of sugary foods in your diet. Candy, sweets, and foods high in sugar and starch contribute heavily to the build up of plaque. Reducing the amount of candy and sweets you eat, and always brushing after eating them, can prove very helpful in preventing tooth decay. You should also make it a habit for you and your children to only chew sugar-free gum.
Experts also recommend a dental check up twice annually. However, many people neglect to visit the dentist due to lack of dental insurance, fear of dentists, or lack of accessibility. While adults might get by with less frequent visits, children should see a dentist for an oral check up and routine cleaning at least once, if not twice, each year. If you are without dental insurance, check with your local health department for assistance or referrals to dentists who are working with them to provide dental care at reduced rates.
A dentist can examine your mouth and determine whether you have any problems with your teeth or gums that need to be addressed to prevent tooth decay and extend the life of your natural teeth. For certain people, a dentist might recommend a tooth sealant, especially for people whose mouths produce an excess of bacteria. A dentist can not only help you prevent tooth decay, but can also address other concerns, such as gum disease, abscessed teeth, and other conditions or diseases of the mouth.
How can I Prevent Burn out at Work?
Getting burned out at work or school is a phenomenon most people are intimately familiar with. Burn out often comes on the heels of a particularly stressful time, such as after final exams in school or a series of important deadlines at work. Getting burned out can be damaging to your performance at school or work, particularly if it comes at a time when you are unable to handle its symptoms: being unmotivated to work and unable to concentrate, getting easily frustrated or upset, and feeling constantly tired. Because burn out can be so detrimental to your grades and your career path, it is important to take steps to prevent burn out - before it gets to this point.
Because burn out is often caused by too much stress over too long a period of time, it makes sense to attempt to manage your stress in order to prevent burn out. Although this may seem a difficult – if not impossible – task, you can maintain control over your stress by introducing a few simple habits into your life. Although these habits take little effort to establish, they will go a long way in helping you to prevent burn out.
The first and most important habit that you must practice in order to prevent burn out is to prevent overworking yourself. Although this may seem to be common sense, many people find themselves pressured into working long days, taking work home with them, and otherwise allowing work to rule their lives. Trying to avoid accepting more work than you can handle is a major factor in your ability to prevent burn out at work.
Another way to prevent burn out at work is to take your breaks. Employment law guarantees you protection from being forced to work long hours with no breaks; take advantage of your rights! Taking the occasional break, if only to go to the bathroom, get a cup of coffee, or take a walk around the office, prevents the buildup of stress, helping in turn to prevent feelings of burn out.
Taking vacations and personal time can also help you prevent burn out at work. A vacation does not have to be a trip to an exotic island every time – just a few days away, to give yourself a chance to blow off a steam. “Playing hooky” from time to time and taking a personal day away from work can also help prevent burn out, by allowing you an unexpected opportunity to relax.
Of course, enjoying your job will also go a long way towards preventing burn out at work. After all, any dislike you feel for your job will greatly amplify your stress when you have to perform the work every single day. Entering a career you are happy with should be more than just a dream; it should be a step that you take to avoid getting burnt out at work – and in life. Society is constantly becoming more aware of the huge impact that stress has on the human body. Therefore, it is vital to prevent burn out at work – not just for your overall happiness, but also for your physical and mental health.
Because burn out is often caused by too much stress over too long a period of time, it makes sense to attempt to manage your stress in order to prevent burn out. Although this may seem a difficult – if not impossible – task, you can maintain control over your stress by introducing a few simple habits into your life. Although these habits take little effort to establish, they will go a long way in helping you to prevent burn out.
The first and most important habit that you must practice in order to prevent burn out is to prevent overworking yourself. Although this may seem to be common sense, many people find themselves pressured into working long days, taking work home with them, and otherwise allowing work to rule their lives. Trying to avoid accepting more work than you can handle is a major factor in your ability to prevent burn out at work.
Another way to prevent burn out at work is to take your breaks. Employment law guarantees you protection from being forced to work long hours with no breaks; take advantage of your rights! Taking the occasional break, if only to go to the bathroom, get a cup of coffee, or take a walk around the office, prevents the buildup of stress, helping in turn to prevent feelings of burn out.
Taking vacations and personal time can also help you prevent burn out at work. A vacation does not have to be a trip to an exotic island every time – just a few days away, to give yourself a chance to blow off a steam. “Playing hooky” from time to time and taking a personal day away from work can also help prevent burn out, by allowing you an unexpected opportunity to relax.
Of course, enjoying your job will also go a long way towards preventing burn out at work. After all, any dislike you feel for your job will greatly amplify your stress when you have to perform the work every single day. Entering a career you are happy with should be more than just a dream; it should be a step that you take to avoid getting burnt out at work – and in life. Society is constantly becoming more aware of the huge impact that stress has on the human body. Therefore, it is vital to prevent burn out at work – not just for your overall happiness, but also for your physical and mental health.
What is Rheumatism?
Rheumatism is a medical term once frequently used to describe disorders associated with many different parts of the body. Most often, people associate rheumatism with arthritis, or with rheumatic fever, a complication of strep throat that can result in damage to the heart. However, the term rheumatism might apply to the symptoms of numerous conditions that can cause pain and/or weakness.
Some conditions that were once given the general label of rheumatism or called rheumatic diseases include, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, lupus, fibromyalgia, and tendonitis. Frequently autoimmune disorders, since they remained unnamed but caused pain as well as affecting other organs, were classed as rheumatism. Illnesses like lupus were particularly susceptible to being called rheumatism. Later understanding of the actions of these illnesses show that the problem is not dysfunction of the joints, but rather immune systems that can attack joints, muscles and organs.
Some forms of rheumatism are called non-articular rheumatism and may affect the soft tissues causing pain throughout the body. Conditions like tendonitis and fibromyalgia fall into this category. As well, non-articular rheumatism can be localized to specific areas in the body. Bursitis is a non-articular form of rheumatism that affects and inflames the bursa, which are special sacs that protect joints and overlapping muscles. Bursitis most frequently occurs at the site of one joint that may have been injured through overuse.
Other forms of non-articular rheumatism may also result from repetitive motion. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is classed as non-articular rheumatism and is often caused by poor position when typing, or by positional problems when assembling multiple products of the same type.
Another type of non-articular rheumatism is temporomandibular joint syndrome (TMJ), which only affects the joints in the jaws. Numerous people are treated yearly, to help prevent the mouth from getting stuck when open or closed, or the painful popping and clicking that may be associated with moving the jaws.
The general term rheumatism is seldom heard now in medical communities because health professionals feel that specific naming of illnesses can better point toward standards or treatment and care. Treating lupus is hugely different from treating bursitis or TMJ. With more specified names comes specified research that can help determine a range of information about an illness. Overly general terms lack the specificity required to define the action of a condition, which best directs effective treatment.
Some conditions that were once given the general label of rheumatism or called rheumatic diseases include, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, lupus, fibromyalgia, and tendonitis. Frequently autoimmune disorders, since they remained unnamed but caused pain as well as affecting other organs, were classed as rheumatism. Illnesses like lupus were particularly susceptible to being called rheumatism. Later understanding of the actions of these illnesses show that the problem is not dysfunction of the joints, but rather immune systems that can attack joints, muscles and organs.
Some forms of rheumatism are called non-articular rheumatism and may affect the soft tissues causing pain throughout the body. Conditions like tendonitis and fibromyalgia fall into this category. As well, non-articular rheumatism can be localized to specific areas in the body. Bursitis is a non-articular form of rheumatism that affects and inflames the bursa, which are special sacs that protect joints and overlapping muscles. Bursitis most frequently occurs at the site of one joint that may have been injured through overuse.
Other forms of non-articular rheumatism may also result from repetitive motion. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is classed as non-articular rheumatism and is often caused by poor position when typing, or by positional problems when assembling multiple products of the same type.
Another type of non-articular rheumatism is temporomandibular joint syndrome (TMJ), which only affects the joints in the jaws. Numerous people are treated yearly, to help prevent the mouth from getting stuck when open or closed, or the painful popping and clicking that may be associated with moving the jaws.
The general term rheumatism is seldom heard now in medical communities because health professionals feel that specific naming of illnesses can better point toward standards or treatment and care. Treating lupus is hugely different from treating bursitis or TMJ. With more specified names comes specified research that can help determine a range of information about an illness. Overly general terms lack the specificity required to define the action of a condition, which best directs effective treatment.
What is Prostate Cancer?
The prostate is a gland the size of a walnut that is found within the male reproductive system. The role of the prostate gland is to make and store seminal fluid. Prostate cancer is a form of cancer involving a growth that originates in the prostate region. It can begin as tumor cells in the prostate area and spread to other parts of the body, including the bones and lymph nodes. If allowed to spread to this level, prostate cancer is fatal.
Prostate cancer most commonly occurs in men over 50 years old. Signs of prostate cancer include difficulty with urination, pain, mild impotence, and blood in the urine. During the early stages of prostate cancer, however, there are usually no warning signs or symptoms. Fortunately, a physician can easily diagnose prostate cancer during its early stages with a routine prostate checkup. This checkup consists of a rectal exam and a prostate specific antigen (PSA) blood test.
Prostate cancer begins when prostate gland cells change into cancer cells. The small amount of cancer cells found in the prostate begin to multiply and eventually spread. These cells spread to the prostate tissue, where a tumor is formed.
There are many factors contributing to prostate cancer. Age is one factor, as is genetics. If one family member has or had prostate cancer, it is likely another male relative will also develop it.
A man’s diet is another potential risk factor for prostate cancer. Lack of vitamin E, in particular, appears to increase the risk of prostate cancer. Vitamin E is usually found in green vegetables, tomatoes, and some seafood. Low blood levels of Vitamin D may also lead to high prostate cancer risk.
On the other hand, regular intake of aspirin, ibuprofen, and other anti-inflammatory medications can decrease the risk of prostate cancer. Drugs aimed at lowering cholesterol levels have also shown promise in their ability to lower prostate cancer risk.
Prostate cancer most commonly occurs in men over 50 years old. Signs of prostate cancer include difficulty with urination, pain, mild impotence, and blood in the urine. During the early stages of prostate cancer, however, there are usually no warning signs or symptoms. Fortunately, a physician can easily diagnose prostate cancer during its early stages with a routine prostate checkup. This checkup consists of a rectal exam and a prostate specific antigen (PSA) blood test.
Prostate cancer begins when prostate gland cells change into cancer cells. The small amount of cancer cells found in the prostate begin to multiply and eventually spread. These cells spread to the prostate tissue, where a tumor is formed.
There are many factors contributing to prostate cancer. Age is one factor, as is genetics. If one family member has or had prostate cancer, it is likely another male relative will also develop it.
A man’s diet is another potential risk factor for prostate cancer. Lack of vitamin E, in particular, appears to increase the risk of prostate cancer. Vitamin E is usually found in green vegetables, tomatoes, and some seafood. Low blood levels of Vitamin D may also lead to high prostate cancer risk.
On the other hand, regular intake of aspirin, ibuprofen, and other anti-inflammatory medications can decrease the risk of prostate cancer. Drugs aimed at lowering cholesterol levels have also shown promise in their ability to lower prostate cancer risk.
What is Turmeric?
Turmeric is a spice made from grinding the roots of the Curcuma longa plant, also called curcumin. It is a prime ingredient in curry powder and figures heavily in Asian cuisines. Because it imparts a vivid yellow color to the food it is cooked with, it is often used to color as well as flavor condiments, rice dishes and sauces.
Turmeric's active ingredient is curcumin. It is thought to be an anti-inflammatory, as well as an antioxidant. Antioxidants are substances that are thought to help prevent aging by inhibiting the breakdown of cells by oxidation.
Recently turmeric is gaining a lot of attention for its potential medicinal properties. Traditionally it has been considered a good digestive aid, and some cultures use turmeric as a dietary supplement for this reason. Since those cultures also traditionally have a lower incident of certain cancers, such as cancer of the prostate, turmeric is now being actively studied as a cancer treatment and/or preventative, particularly for environmental cancers.
Recent studies indicate that turmeric slows the growth and spread of existing cancerous tumors. Because the populations that consume turmeric in large quantities have traditionally had a lower incidence of Alzheimer's, turmeric is also being investigated as an anti-Alzheimer's medicine. Early animal studies are very encouraging.
While the results of the ongoing studies aren't conclusive yet, it certainly couldn't hurt to start incorporating more turmeric into your diet. It is often used as a substitute for the very expensive saffron, because of its similar flavor and the very strong yellow color it dyes the foods it is cooked with. You can add a turmeric-rice side dish to your menu by using a recipe for saffron rice and substituting turmeric. Because turmeric is more strongly flavored than saffron, you will have to cut down on quantities —- some experimentation to get the spice just right will no doubt be required. Also add turmeric to stews, meat dishes, couscous and other dishes that would benefit from a bit of a curry flavor.
Turmeric's active ingredient is curcumin. It is thought to be an anti-inflammatory, as well as an antioxidant. Antioxidants are substances that are thought to help prevent aging by inhibiting the breakdown of cells by oxidation.
Recently turmeric is gaining a lot of attention for its potential medicinal properties. Traditionally it has been considered a good digestive aid, and some cultures use turmeric as a dietary supplement for this reason. Since those cultures also traditionally have a lower incident of certain cancers, such as cancer of the prostate, turmeric is now being actively studied as a cancer treatment and/or preventative, particularly for environmental cancers.
Recent studies indicate that turmeric slows the growth and spread of existing cancerous tumors. Because the populations that consume turmeric in large quantities have traditionally had a lower incidence of Alzheimer's, turmeric is also being investigated as an anti-Alzheimer's medicine. Early animal studies are very encouraging.
While the results of the ongoing studies aren't conclusive yet, it certainly couldn't hurt to start incorporating more turmeric into your diet. It is often used as a substitute for the very expensive saffron, because of its similar flavor and the very strong yellow color it dyes the foods it is cooked with. You can add a turmeric-rice side dish to your menu by using a recipe for saffron rice and substituting turmeric. Because turmeric is more strongly flavored than saffron, you will have to cut down on quantities —- some experimentation to get the spice just right will no doubt be required. Also add turmeric to stews, meat dishes, couscous and other dishes that would benefit from a bit of a curry flavor.
Home Remedies for Ear Infections
Ear infections can be painful and irritating. If left untreated, they can lead to permanent deafness. While there are several home remedies for ear infections, it is best to consult with a doctor if the infection does not go away within two to three days.
One popular home remedy for ear infections is to drop one to two drops of onion juice or garlic in the ear. This remedy can sting the ear. Therefore, it may be necessary to dilute the juice with boiled water that has been allowed to cool.
To help draw out the pus associated with ear infections, it can also be beneficial to fill a sock or a small bag with salt and press it against the ear. Ear candling is also used for removing pus. Ear candles can usually be purchased at vitamin supply stores or health stores. These special candles are placed in the ear and burned. As they burn, they draw impurities out of the ear.
There are also a few herbs that can be helpful in fighting off the underlying cause of ear infections, which is usually a viral or bacterial infection. Goldenseal and echinacea are both known for their abilities to cleanse the body. Taking doses of Vitamin C can also be beneficial. Individuals with ear infections should avoid consuming dairy products, as these foods and drinks tend to increase the body’s production of mucus. As a result, the congestion and pain associated with ear infections is worsened.
A homeopathic remedy for ear infections involves draping a towel over the head and sitting over a bowl containing hot steaming water and essential oils. Oils that are beneficial for ear infections include ginger, peppermint, and eucalyptus. This homeopathic remedy is called a steam facial and can help clear up congestion and other symptoms that can aggravate ear infections. Another homeopathic remedy for ear infections involves creating a mixture of St. John’s Wort oil, grapefruit seed extract, and tea tree essential oil. Placing a few drops of this mixture in the ear every few days can help relieve pain and fight off the infection.
One popular home remedy for ear infections is to drop one to two drops of onion juice or garlic in the ear. This remedy can sting the ear. Therefore, it may be necessary to dilute the juice with boiled water that has been allowed to cool.
To help draw out the pus associated with ear infections, it can also be beneficial to fill a sock or a small bag with salt and press it against the ear. Ear candling is also used for removing pus. Ear candles can usually be purchased at vitamin supply stores or health stores. These special candles are placed in the ear and burned. As they burn, they draw impurities out of the ear.
There are also a few herbs that can be helpful in fighting off the underlying cause of ear infections, which is usually a viral or bacterial infection. Goldenseal and echinacea are both known for their abilities to cleanse the body. Taking doses of Vitamin C can also be beneficial. Individuals with ear infections should avoid consuming dairy products, as these foods and drinks tend to increase the body’s production of mucus. As a result, the congestion and pain associated with ear infections is worsened.
A homeopathic remedy for ear infections involves draping a towel over the head and sitting over a bowl containing hot steaming water and essential oils. Oils that are beneficial for ear infections include ginger, peppermint, and eucalyptus. This homeopathic remedy is called a steam facial and can help clear up congestion and other symptoms that can aggravate ear infections. Another homeopathic remedy for ear infections involves creating a mixture of St. John’s Wort oil, grapefruit seed extract, and tea tree essential oil. Placing a few drops of this mixture in the ear every few days can help relieve pain and fight off the infection.
Home Remedies for Diarrhea
Most cases of diarrhea resolve within a few days, and simply require rest and intake of extra fluids to prevent dehydration. In some cases, chronic conditions like irritable bowel syndrome can cause ongoing bouts of diarrhea. Occasionally children end up with a lengthy case of diarrhea after initial irritation by a stomach virus.
When the cause of diarrhea is not determined as dangerous, or requiring medical assistance, home remedies can help reduce and often end diarrhea. The most common recommended home remedy is following the BRAT, or in some cases the BRATTY diet.
BRAT is an anagram, standing for bananas, rice, applesauce and toast. BRATTY stands for bananas, rice, applesauce, toast, tea, and yogurt. Most doctors recommend adhering to a diet that contains only these foods, as they help to bulk up the intestines and have a slightly constipating effect.
Many pediatricians now suggest the BRATTY version of the diet to end diarrhea in children, because of the active cultures present in yogurt. These cultures can help restore the natural balance of “good bacteria” after antibiotic use, or when the stomach is depleted by a viral case of diarrhea. Tea for children should be herbal, although decaffeinated green tea is also an excellent choice. In adults, green tea is relatively low in caffeine and has numerous health benefits.
Rice used should be brown rice, rather than white rice. Brown rice has greater dietary fiber content and will help add bulk so that diarrhea lessens. Toast should also be whole wheat when possible, to add fiber. However, nothing like butter or jam should be added as these may worsen diarrhea.
Applesauce contains pectin, which helps to naturally firm very soft or liquid bowel movements. Apple juice, conversely, contains little pectin, and may cause more frequent diarrhea. Rather than toast and jam, one might appeal to the picky eater by offering toast with applesauce dip on the side.
The disadvantage to the BRAT diet is that it contains very little protein. The BRATTY diet, on the other hand, is a sustainable diet when yogurt is added. One should avoid yogurts high in sugar, as excess sucrose can increase diarrhea. One should also check to be certain the yogurt contains active live cultures, as these helpful bacteria can help eliminate stomach problems and make yogurt a digestible milk product for most who are lactose intolerant.
Usually, several days on the BRATTY diet can help restore one to a more normal cycle of bowel movements. Chronic diarrhea in adults may also be helped by daily intake of dietary fiber. Though fiber is often blamed for loose bowel moments, it has an undeserved reputation.
Regular intake of the Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA) of fiber can actually help to bulk up bowel movements and reduce diarrhea. Those who have irritable bowel syndrome are particularly encouraged to eat at last the RDA of dietary fiber daily. If unable to consume that much fiber, fiber supplements are readily available to help supplement a healthy diet.
When the cause of diarrhea is not determined as dangerous, or requiring medical assistance, home remedies can help reduce and often end diarrhea. The most common recommended home remedy is following the BRAT, or in some cases the BRATTY diet.
BRAT is an anagram, standing for bananas, rice, applesauce and toast. BRATTY stands for bananas, rice, applesauce, toast, tea, and yogurt. Most doctors recommend adhering to a diet that contains only these foods, as they help to bulk up the intestines and have a slightly constipating effect.
Many pediatricians now suggest the BRATTY version of the diet to end diarrhea in children, because of the active cultures present in yogurt. These cultures can help restore the natural balance of “good bacteria” after antibiotic use, or when the stomach is depleted by a viral case of diarrhea. Tea for children should be herbal, although decaffeinated green tea is also an excellent choice. In adults, green tea is relatively low in caffeine and has numerous health benefits.
Rice used should be brown rice, rather than white rice. Brown rice has greater dietary fiber content and will help add bulk so that diarrhea lessens. Toast should also be whole wheat when possible, to add fiber. However, nothing like butter or jam should be added as these may worsen diarrhea.
Applesauce contains pectin, which helps to naturally firm very soft or liquid bowel movements. Apple juice, conversely, contains little pectin, and may cause more frequent diarrhea. Rather than toast and jam, one might appeal to the picky eater by offering toast with applesauce dip on the side.
The disadvantage to the BRAT diet is that it contains very little protein. The BRATTY diet, on the other hand, is a sustainable diet when yogurt is added. One should avoid yogurts high in sugar, as excess sucrose can increase diarrhea. One should also check to be certain the yogurt contains active live cultures, as these helpful bacteria can help eliminate stomach problems and make yogurt a digestible milk product for most who are lactose intolerant.
Usually, several days on the BRATTY diet can help restore one to a more normal cycle of bowel movements. Chronic diarrhea in adults may also be helped by daily intake of dietary fiber. Though fiber is often blamed for loose bowel moments, it has an undeserved reputation.
Regular intake of the Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA) of fiber can actually help to bulk up bowel movements and reduce diarrhea. Those who have irritable bowel syndrome are particularly encouraged to eat at last the RDA of dietary fiber daily. If unable to consume that much fiber, fiber supplements are readily available to help supplement a healthy diet.
How do I Take Care of my Child's Diaper Rash?
In every baby’s life, diaper rash, also known as diaper dermatitis, is virtually guaranteed. Studies have shown that there is a one in four likelihood that a baby will develop a fairly serious rash at some point. Due to the highly sensitive nature of a baby’s bottom, along with aggravating urine and stools and the chafing of a diaper, rashes are unavoidable. Not only are diaper rashes common, but they’re normal and are usually not a cause for concern. Of course, your baby’s comfort is of great importance, and a diaper rash should be dealt with accordingly.
While many people debate that children who wear cloth diapers have fewer cases of diaper rash, due to the natural fibers and better circulation of air, proponents of disposable diapers disagree. Modern science has developed materials used in disposables that draw moisture into the diaper and away from the child’s skin. Others argue that babies who are breastfed suffer fewer bouts of diaper rash. Regardless of who is right, the statistics are staggering: over a three year period in the U.S., one study counted 8.2 million diagnoses of diaper dermatitis.
For parents, prevention of diaper rash is important. Frequent diaper changing, especially for newborns who eat more frequently, is key. For newborns, it is safe to change the diaper every two hours. Poop diapers should be changed immediately — the contact of the stool on the bottom is particularly aggravating to a baby’s skin. Many parents try out several different brands of diapers before finding one that fits well and doesn’t cause diaper rash. When changing the baby’s diaper, clean the bottom well using unscented wipes or a washcloth soaked in warm water.
If your baby exhibits a simple contact diaper rash, with a mildly red and irritated bottom, there are two main types of diaper rash cream that can be purchased in any health care store. Diaper creams soothe an irritated bottom, while providing a protective barrier between aggravating moisture and the baby’s skin. A white petroleum based cream, such as A&D Ointment, is good for every day diapering. This type of cream is not particularly thick or messy. White zinc oxide based creams are better for more moderate rashes, because they are thicker and more moisture resistant.
In addition to diaper cream, it also helps to rinse the baby’s bottom in the bath or sink using a sprayer, forgoing painful wiping. Blot the baby’s bottom dry and allow it to air out. Because drying out a diaper rash is imperative, many parents put their baby on a waterproof pad for a while before re-diapering.
For more serious cases of diaper rash, you may want to try Acid Mantle, a popular brand of diaper cream. Butt Paste and Triple Paste combine several ingredients for a stronger cream. If you can’t find these creams in your drugstore, ask your pharmacist to mix one up or order one for you.
If you suspect that your child has a more than a simple contact diaper rash, there are several different types your doctor may diagnose:
* Yeast Infection: A yeast rash occurs when a diaper rash has already caused irritation and the yeast that normally lives in the intestines infects the area. With this type of rash, doctors usually prescribe an anti-fungal cream containing Clotrimazole.
* Intertrigo: This type of diaper rash occurs in the folds of a baby’s skin, causing a burned-red appearing rash. It is usually treated with a white petroleum ointment.
* Impetigo: Blisters and raised areas of rash that weep a honey-colored fluid are symptoms of this bacterial infection. In addition to the traditional treatment of contact diaper rash, an antibiotic ointment is also prescribed.
* Allergy Ring: Certain foods can cause the stool and urine to become more acidic, causing a red ring around the baby’s anus. Treatment involves limiting the offending foods and regular treatment of the rash.
* Seborrhea: This type of diaper rash is caused by an inflammatory condition and is usually treated with an over the counter hydrocortisone 1% cream to reduce the inflammation. A doctor may prescribe a stronger cream if necessary.
Although a child with a mild to serious diaper rash may be a little crankier than usual, a diaper rash usually does not warrant a trip to the emergency room or a late night call to the doctor. A mild dose of pain relievers may help, along with lots of TLC.
While many people debate that children who wear cloth diapers have fewer cases of diaper rash, due to the natural fibers and better circulation of air, proponents of disposable diapers disagree. Modern science has developed materials used in disposables that draw moisture into the diaper and away from the child’s skin. Others argue that babies who are breastfed suffer fewer bouts of diaper rash. Regardless of who is right, the statistics are staggering: over a three year period in the U.S., one study counted 8.2 million diagnoses of diaper dermatitis.
For parents, prevention of diaper rash is important. Frequent diaper changing, especially for newborns who eat more frequently, is key. For newborns, it is safe to change the diaper every two hours. Poop diapers should be changed immediately — the contact of the stool on the bottom is particularly aggravating to a baby’s skin. Many parents try out several different brands of diapers before finding one that fits well and doesn’t cause diaper rash. When changing the baby’s diaper, clean the bottom well using unscented wipes or a washcloth soaked in warm water.
If your baby exhibits a simple contact diaper rash, with a mildly red and irritated bottom, there are two main types of diaper rash cream that can be purchased in any health care store. Diaper creams soothe an irritated bottom, while providing a protective barrier between aggravating moisture and the baby’s skin. A white petroleum based cream, such as A&D Ointment, is good for every day diapering. This type of cream is not particularly thick or messy. White zinc oxide based creams are better for more moderate rashes, because they are thicker and more moisture resistant.
In addition to diaper cream, it also helps to rinse the baby’s bottom in the bath or sink using a sprayer, forgoing painful wiping. Blot the baby’s bottom dry and allow it to air out. Because drying out a diaper rash is imperative, many parents put their baby on a waterproof pad for a while before re-diapering.
For more serious cases of diaper rash, you may want to try Acid Mantle, a popular brand of diaper cream. Butt Paste and Triple Paste combine several ingredients for a stronger cream. If you can’t find these creams in your drugstore, ask your pharmacist to mix one up or order one for you.
If you suspect that your child has a more than a simple contact diaper rash, there are several different types your doctor may diagnose:
* Yeast Infection: A yeast rash occurs when a diaper rash has already caused irritation and the yeast that normally lives in the intestines infects the area. With this type of rash, doctors usually prescribe an anti-fungal cream containing Clotrimazole.
* Intertrigo: This type of diaper rash occurs in the folds of a baby’s skin, causing a burned-red appearing rash. It is usually treated with a white petroleum ointment.
* Impetigo: Blisters and raised areas of rash that weep a honey-colored fluid are symptoms of this bacterial infection. In addition to the traditional treatment of contact diaper rash, an antibiotic ointment is also prescribed.
* Allergy Ring: Certain foods can cause the stool and urine to become more acidic, causing a red ring around the baby’s anus. Treatment involves limiting the offending foods and regular treatment of the rash.
* Seborrhea: This type of diaper rash is caused by an inflammatory condition and is usually treated with an over the counter hydrocortisone 1% cream to reduce the inflammation. A doctor may prescribe a stronger cream if necessary.
Although a child with a mild to serious diaper rash may be a little crankier than usual, a diaper rash usually does not warrant a trip to the emergency room or a late night call to the doctor. A mild dose of pain relievers may help, along with lots of TLC.
What is Dehydration & how to prevent it ?
Dehydration occurs when a person loses more bodily fluid than he or she takes in. It can happen gradually over a period of time, or very quickly in some cases due to extreme exercising. Two thirds of the human body is made up of water. When dehydration occurs, it means a person has lost a sufficient amount of fluid for the body to stop working normally.
A small loss of fluid does not normally effect the body's system and can go unnoticed. If dehydration is allowed to continue, then problems will arise. The first symptom of dehydration may be a dry or sticky mouth. You may also feel dizzy and suffer from nausea. You will also notice that your urine has become darker, and you may produce less.
There are many common causes of dehydration. You can suffer from severe dehydration when you become ill. Stomach bugs, diarrhea and the common cold can all lead to the body losing fluid. If you are ill and have a fever or vomit, then fluid will be lost. If you have been using laxatives or diuretics, this can also account for a loss of fluid.
Athletes lose huge amounts of fluid when performing. During sports, people sweat continuously and should top up their fluids at regular intervals. When people sweat, they are also losing valuable minerals such as salt and potassium.
Dieting is also another case in which dehydration can occur. Many dieting aids cause fluid to be lost from the body as a quick way to reduce weight. Losing water will not help you to shed fat; it will only make you feel ill.
It is recommended that you drink at least eight glasses or two liters of water per day. This is a normal consumption of fluid, and you should not count tea, coffee or soda in this figure. Tea and coffee are diuretics and will not help you retain fluid in the body; they will only make you urinate more frequently. If you are performing exercise, then more fluid than the two-liter amount is recommended.
Keeping well hydrated has many benefits. It keeps skin clear and healthy. It makes people more alert and prevents them from becoming tired easily. It also aids in the digestion of food and helps when dieting. On rare occasions, dehydration may be the sign of a more serious illness such as diabetes. If you feel continuously dehydrated, make sure you consult your doctor, who can rule out such illnesses.
A small loss of fluid does not normally effect the body's system and can go unnoticed. If dehydration is allowed to continue, then problems will arise. The first symptom of dehydration may be a dry or sticky mouth. You may also feel dizzy and suffer from nausea. You will also notice that your urine has become darker, and you may produce less.
There are many common causes of dehydration. You can suffer from severe dehydration when you become ill. Stomach bugs, diarrhea and the common cold can all lead to the body losing fluid. If you are ill and have a fever or vomit, then fluid will be lost. If you have been using laxatives or diuretics, this can also account for a loss of fluid.
Athletes lose huge amounts of fluid when performing. During sports, people sweat continuously and should top up their fluids at regular intervals. When people sweat, they are also losing valuable minerals such as salt and potassium.
Dieting is also another case in which dehydration can occur. Many dieting aids cause fluid to be lost from the body as a quick way to reduce weight. Losing water will not help you to shed fat; it will only make you feel ill.
It is recommended that you drink at least eight glasses or two liters of water per day. This is a normal consumption of fluid, and you should not count tea, coffee or soda in this figure. Tea and coffee are diuretics and will not help you retain fluid in the body; they will only make you urinate more frequently. If you are performing exercise, then more fluid than the two-liter amount is recommended.
Keeping well hydrated has many benefits. It keeps skin clear and healthy. It makes people more alert and prevents them from becoming tired easily. It also aids in the digestion of food and helps when dieting. On rare occasions, dehydration may be the sign of a more serious illness such as diabetes. If you feel continuously dehydrated, make sure you consult your doctor, who can rule out such illnesses.
What Causes a Cough & ways to prevent it ?
There is nothing more irritating to have than a reoccurring cough. It can be the cause of much embarrassment and appear when we would least like it to. With the amount of pollutants now present in the air, the possible causes of the cough are wide ranging.
Throughout the day, people are exposed to numerous particles of dust, fumes and germs. Our living space can be polluted with tobacco smoke, car exhaust fumes and airborne infections. With all of these pollutants, it is a wonder that we are not continually coughing 24 hours a day.
There are two main types of cough, dry and chesty. The cough is an involuntary action by the brain to clear a blockage or irritant from the body’s airways. A cough may also be due to a viral infection such as the flu or common cold.
The dry cough is often seen as the less productive of the two types. Whereas the chesty cough brings up phlegm or mucus from the lungs, a dry cough can just seem plain irritating. Many smokers can have a continual dry cough throughout their lives. They see the cough as part of their smoking and, in time, they take it for granted.
Chronic coughing can sometimes be extremely serious. People who suffer from chronic coughing have been known to break their ribs due to the condition. People who experience chesty coughs that last for more than two weeks should consult a doctor. Coughing that is caused by a cold or flu usually disappears within two weeks; if it does not, it may be a symptom of a more serious problem.
If coughing lasts for more than two weeks, x-rays may be necessary to diagnose the problem. The coughing could be a sign of bronchial problems or pneumonia. Phlegm that has been coughed up will also be analyzed to help the doctor make an accurate diagnosis. The main treatment is usually antibiotic medicine.
The most common treatment for coughing is cough medicine. Some experts believe this medicine to have no more than a placebo effect. Ingredients in the medicine are usually honey, syrup and sugar. These coat the throat and relieve the irritation.
There are also medicines that are used to suppress a cough. These cause the brain to repress the signal that causes coughing. These medications are usually antihistamines, which can be used for dry coughs only and may sometimes cause drowsiness after ingestion.
It is very rare for coughing to be a symptom of something more serious. However, chronic coughing over a period of more than two weeks should be looked into by a medical expert.
Throughout the day, people are exposed to numerous particles of dust, fumes and germs. Our living space can be polluted with tobacco smoke, car exhaust fumes and airborne infections. With all of these pollutants, it is a wonder that we are not continually coughing 24 hours a day.
There are two main types of cough, dry and chesty. The cough is an involuntary action by the brain to clear a blockage or irritant from the body’s airways. A cough may also be due to a viral infection such as the flu or common cold.
The dry cough is often seen as the less productive of the two types. Whereas the chesty cough brings up phlegm or mucus from the lungs, a dry cough can just seem plain irritating. Many smokers can have a continual dry cough throughout their lives. They see the cough as part of their smoking and, in time, they take it for granted.
Chronic coughing can sometimes be extremely serious. People who suffer from chronic coughing have been known to break their ribs due to the condition. People who experience chesty coughs that last for more than two weeks should consult a doctor. Coughing that is caused by a cold or flu usually disappears within two weeks; if it does not, it may be a symptom of a more serious problem.
If coughing lasts for more than two weeks, x-rays may be necessary to diagnose the problem. The coughing could be a sign of bronchial problems or pneumonia. Phlegm that has been coughed up will also be analyzed to help the doctor make an accurate diagnosis. The main treatment is usually antibiotic medicine.
The most common treatment for coughing is cough medicine. Some experts believe this medicine to have no more than a placebo effect. Ingredients in the medicine are usually honey, syrup and sugar. These coat the throat and relieve the irritation.
There are also medicines that are used to suppress a cough. These cause the brain to repress the signal that causes coughing. These medications are usually antihistamines, which can be used for dry coughs only and may sometimes cause drowsiness after ingestion.
It is very rare for coughing to be a symptom of something more serious. However, chronic coughing over a period of more than two weeks should be looked into by a medical expert.
What is Congestive Heart Failure?
Congestive heart failure, or CHF, refers to the failure of the heart to perform its main function: to pump blood throughout the body. It occurs when the flow of blood, or cardiac output, from the heart decreases, or fluids back up or "congest" within the heart, or both. Insufficient cardiac output can only be considered congestive heart failure if the heart is receiving enough blood in the first place. Congestive heart failure is the eventual result of any number of numerous cardiac conditions that impede the heart's ability to pump blood. Therefore, it is a symptom of underlying disorders which require treatment.
The list of these associated disorders is lengthy and some of them may be present without a patient's knowledge. Some of the most common are high blood pressure, or hypertension, which forces the heart to pump against increased resistance to meet demand; ischemia, a condition stemming from coronary artery disease (CAD) in which the heart muscle receives insufficient oxygen and is damaged as a result; and valvular heart disease, in which some of the heart's valves become either narrowed or infected, or leak pumped blood back into the heart. Abnormal heart rhythms, or arrhythmia, as well as a heartbeat that is either too slow or too fast, can all reduce cardiac output. In individuals with an overactive thyroid gland or anemia, the heart works overtime to provide the body's tissues with enough oxygen and over time can lead to congestive heart failure. Furthermore, any diseases of the heart muscle itself, the surrounding pericardium, as well as birth defects of the heart, can result in congestive heart failure.
Because congestive heart failure stems from any number of these problems, it typically develops over time. Symptoms include weakness or fatigue, shortness of breath, reduced stamina, rapid heartbeat, and swelling of the ankles, legs, feet, or abdomen.
Congestive heart failure is almost always chronic; however, there are treatments available. The most common is medication. Categories of these drugs include ACE inhibitors that widen blood vessels to improve blood flow, beta blockers to slow the heart, and diuretics to prevent the body from retaining fluids. Some of the conditions that led to congestive heart failure may require surgery, such as a coronary bypass to treat narrowed arteries. There are also implantable devices that can help. Mechanisms such as implantable cardioverter-defibrillators or bioventricular pacemakers use electrical impulses to maintain a regular heartbeat. There are also mechanical heart pumps that can be implanted to help maintain healthy blood flow. Severe cases sometimes require heart transplants.
The best treatment however, is prevention. Lifestyle factors that place stress on an individual\'s heart include a diet excessive in salt and/or cholesterol, smoking, being overweight, or not taking prescribed medication. Addressing such risk factors early can prevent congestive heart failure entirely.
The list of these associated disorders is lengthy and some of them may be present without a patient's knowledge. Some of the most common are high blood pressure, or hypertension, which forces the heart to pump against increased resistance to meet demand; ischemia, a condition stemming from coronary artery disease (CAD) in which the heart muscle receives insufficient oxygen and is damaged as a result; and valvular heart disease, in which some of the heart's valves become either narrowed or infected, or leak pumped blood back into the heart. Abnormal heart rhythms, or arrhythmia, as well as a heartbeat that is either too slow or too fast, can all reduce cardiac output. In individuals with an overactive thyroid gland or anemia, the heart works overtime to provide the body's tissues with enough oxygen and over time can lead to congestive heart failure. Furthermore, any diseases of the heart muscle itself, the surrounding pericardium, as well as birth defects of the heart, can result in congestive heart failure.
Because congestive heart failure stems from any number of these problems, it typically develops over time. Symptoms include weakness or fatigue, shortness of breath, reduced stamina, rapid heartbeat, and swelling of the ankles, legs, feet, or abdomen.
Congestive heart failure is almost always chronic; however, there are treatments available. The most common is medication. Categories of these drugs include ACE inhibitors that widen blood vessels to improve blood flow, beta blockers to slow the heart, and diuretics to prevent the body from retaining fluids. Some of the conditions that led to congestive heart failure may require surgery, such as a coronary bypass to treat narrowed arteries. There are also implantable devices that can help. Mechanisms such as implantable cardioverter-defibrillators or bioventricular pacemakers use electrical impulses to maintain a regular heartbeat. There are also mechanical heart pumps that can be implanted to help maintain healthy blood flow. Severe cases sometimes require heart transplants.
The best treatment however, is prevention. Lifestyle factors that place stress on an individual\'s heart include a diet excessive in salt and/or cholesterol, smoking, being overweight, or not taking prescribed medication. Addressing such risk factors early can prevent congestive heart failure entirely.
What is Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?
A difficult to diagnose disease discernible by extreme exhaustion, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome can often become debilitating to its sufferers. Sometimes known as Chronic Fatigue Immune Dysfunction Syndrome, this chronic condition is frequently misdiagnosed or not taken seriously by some doctors, even though it can leave a person functioning well below normal capacity for months at a time.
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome is most frequently reported by women, but all demographics may be affected. The cause of the disease is not known, and therefore there is no cure. Chronic Fatigue Syndrome is not simply feeling tired. It is severe fatigue, lack of stamina, an inability to concentrate, and an overall feeling of being unable to cope or function normally. It is often accompanied by discomfort and depression.
The symptoms of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome include but are not limited to headaches, sore throat, flu like symptoms, swollen lymph nodes, muscle pain, joint pain, inability to concentrate, light-headedness, prolonged malaise after even light exertion, and continuous fatigue. This serious form of fatigue keeps a patient from feeling refreshed, even after having plenty of sleep or rest.
If a person suffers from persistent fatigue and experiences four or more of the above-mentioned symptoms for at least six months, she may suffer from Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. If the symptoms are not related to another illness, testing is indicated to determine whether or not Chronic Fatigue is the culprit. Since there is no proven cause for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, a battery of lab tests is conducted, as a way of ruling out other illnesses. The physician will arrive at a diagnosis of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome by eliminating other possible conditions.
It is difficult to determine how many sufferers fully recover, or even what the definition of full recovery might be. Chronic Fatigue Syndrome runs in cycles, which can include lengthy bouts of illness followed by periods of good health. "Remission" may last for years in some patients, making it difficult to establish whether the patient has recovered or is simply enjoying longer periods of well-being.
While there is no cure for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, treatment is available to help alleviate symptoms and make the patient more comfortable. The doctor, with input from the patient, will develop a detailed treatment regimen designed to meet that patient's specific needs. Diet and moderate exercise may also help improve symptoms.
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome is most frequently reported by women, but all demographics may be affected. The cause of the disease is not known, and therefore there is no cure. Chronic Fatigue Syndrome is not simply feeling tired. It is severe fatigue, lack of stamina, an inability to concentrate, and an overall feeling of being unable to cope or function normally. It is often accompanied by discomfort and depression.
The symptoms of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome include but are not limited to headaches, sore throat, flu like symptoms, swollen lymph nodes, muscle pain, joint pain, inability to concentrate, light-headedness, prolonged malaise after even light exertion, and continuous fatigue. This serious form of fatigue keeps a patient from feeling refreshed, even after having plenty of sleep or rest.
If a person suffers from persistent fatigue and experiences four or more of the above-mentioned symptoms for at least six months, she may suffer from Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. If the symptoms are not related to another illness, testing is indicated to determine whether or not Chronic Fatigue is the culprit. Since there is no proven cause for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, a battery of lab tests is conducted, as a way of ruling out other illnesses. The physician will arrive at a diagnosis of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome by eliminating other possible conditions.
It is difficult to determine how many sufferers fully recover, or even what the definition of full recovery might be. Chronic Fatigue Syndrome runs in cycles, which can include lengthy bouts of illness followed by periods of good health. "Remission" may last for years in some patients, making it difficult to establish whether the patient has recovered or is simply enjoying longer periods of well-being.
While there is no cure for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, treatment is available to help alleviate symptoms and make the patient more comfortable. The doctor, with input from the patient, will develop a detailed treatment regimen designed to meet that patient's specific needs. Diet and moderate exercise may also help improve symptoms.
What is chicken pox ?
Chicken pox is a common childhood illness caused by the human varicella zoster-virus. It is an uncomfortable condition, but most make a complete recovery. Exposure to someone else with chicken pox in a school setting, or on a playdate, is the general means of transmission. However, incubation of the virus can take up to two weeks before symptoms appear.
Initial symptoms of chicken pox are usually ignored. One may have slight nasal congestion, a loss in appetite, or one may feel tired or run down. These symptoms may occur for a day or two before other manifestations of chicken pox. At this point, contagion is possible. So if one has not had chicken pox and has been exposed to someone who has come down with the more recognized symptoms a day or two after exposure, it is still quite possible to contract the virus.
The next symptom of chicken pox is a rash that can be present anywhere on the body. It usually develops on the trunk first, and then spreads to the rest of the body. It can also be present in the mouth, on the palms of the hands, on the genitals, or on the scalp.
At first the rash appears to be a collection of tiny blisters. The number of blisters varies considerably. Some people, especially very young children may only show one or two blisters. It is not uncommon however to have over 100 blisters covering the body.
Within two to three days of the blisters appearing, they will break and become sores. This tends to be the most uncomfortable time for those affected with chicken pox, as the sores can itch. Scratching the sores can cause secondary infections to form, and may cause scarring as well, so scratching should be avoided. Calamine lotion and oatmeal baths may help relieve some of the itching.
The sores begin to crust over and form scabs about 10 days after forming. Once all sores are scabbed, and the scabs are falling off, there is little risk of spreading the illness to others. Children may also have a slight fever during the first few days of chicken pox. A fever over 101 degrees F. (38.33 degrees C.) may indicate infection of one or more sores. One should contact a doctor if fever continues beyond the first few days of appearance of the blisters or if any of the sores seem to be filled with pus. Children with fever should never be given aspirin, as this virus is one that may cause the very severe Reye’s syndrome when aspirin is taken.
Women who contract chicken pox during pregnancy can pass the virus to their unborn children. This can be very dangerous especially in the first three months of pregnancy and can result in growth problems and defects. It is highly recommended that women who have not had chicken pox receive the chicken pox vaccination a few months before trying to conceive.
Older children, teenagers and young adults are likely to have more severe cases of chicken pox than young children. They usually have more sores, run a temperature for longer, and may experience some nausea.
The greatest complication of chicken pox in the healthy adult or child is infection of the sores resulting in either strep or staph infections of the blood. Sores should be carefully evaluated, and a doctor should be contacted if any sores seem to be infected. Those with compromised immune systems can become very ill with chicken pox and some may even die from the illness. Anti-viral medication can help reduce death rates and make chicken pox less severe for those with conditions like HIV or Lupus.
Because of these rare cases, one should never go to a doctor or hospital if you suspect chicken pox, without first informing the medical professionals of your suspicion. Hospitals, clinics, and doctor’s offices often have protocols in place for examining patients with suspected chicken pox. One may have to wait in one’s car or come in after hours to avoid passing the virus onto those who have certain illnesses, or who are pregnant.
The chicken pox vaccination is now frequently given to children. Some children, however, cannot receive the vaccination due to allergies. Approximately 80% of those who receive the vaccine are immune to the virus. The other 20% may get the virus in a much less severe form. In most cases, a single case of chicken pox makes one immune to the illness for life. However, in rare occasions, one may get a second case.
Initial symptoms of chicken pox are usually ignored. One may have slight nasal congestion, a loss in appetite, or one may feel tired or run down. These symptoms may occur for a day or two before other manifestations of chicken pox. At this point, contagion is possible. So if one has not had chicken pox and has been exposed to someone who has come down with the more recognized symptoms a day or two after exposure, it is still quite possible to contract the virus.
The next symptom of chicken pox is a rash that can be present anywhere on the body. It usually develops on the trunk first, and then spreads to the rest of the body. It can also be present in the mouth, on the palms of the hands, on the genitals, or on the scalp.
At first the rash appears to be a collection of tiny blisters. The number of blisters varies considerably. Some people, especially very young children may only show one or two blisters. It is not uncommon however to have over 100 blisters covering the body.
Within two to three days of the blisters appearing, they will break and become sores. This tends to be the most uncomfortable time for those affected with chicken pox, as the sores can itch. Scratching the sores can cause secondary infections to form, and may cause scarring as well, so scratching should be avoided. Calamine lotion and oatmeal baths may help relieve some of the itching.
The sores begin to crust over and form scabs about 10 days after forming. Once all sores are scabbed, and the scabs are falling off, there is little risk of spreading the illness to others. Children may also have a slight fever during the first few days of chicken pox. A fever over 101 degrees F. (38.33 degrees C.) may indicate infection of one or more sores. One should contact a doctor if fever continues beyond the first few days of appearance of the blisters or if any of the sores seem to be filled with pus. Children with fever should never be given aspirin, as this virus is one that may cause the very severe Reye’s syndrome when aspirin is taken.
Women who contract chicken pox during pregnancy can pass the virus to their unborn children. This can be very dangerous especially in the first three months of pregnancy and can result in growth problems and defects. It is highly recommended that women who have not had chicken pox receive the chicken pox vaccination a few months before trying to conceive.
Older children, teenagers and young adults are likely to have more severe cases of chicken pox than young children. They usually have more sores, run a temperature for longer, and may experience some nausea.
The greatest complication of chicken pox in the healthy adult or child is infection of the sores resulting in either strep or staph infections of the blood. Sores should be carefully evaluated, and a doctor should be contacted if any sores seem to be infected. Those with compromised immune systems can become very ill with chicken pox and some may even die from the illness. Anti-viral medication can help reduce death rates and make chicken pox less severe for those with conditions like HIV or Lupus.
Because of these rare cases, one should never go to a doctor or hospital if you suspect chicken pox, without first informing the medical professionals of your suspicion. Hospitals, clinics, and doctor’s offices often have protocols in place for examining patients with suspected chicken pox. One may have to wait in one’s car or come in after hours to avoid passing the virus onto those who have certain illnesses, or who are pregnant.
The chicken pox vaccination is now frequently given to children. Some children, however, cannot receive the vaccination due to allergies. Approximately 80% of those who receive the vaccine are immune to the virus. The other 20% may get the virus in a much less severe form. In most cases, a single case of chicken pox makes one immune to the illness for life. However, in rare occasions, one may get a second case.
What are Migraines?
Long thought to be a particularly severe type of headache, migraines are now categorized as a neurological disease with a number of causes and a variety of symptoms, ranging from annoying to life-threatening.
Unlike regular headaches, which are felt when blood vessels in the head constrict, migraines are felt when they expand. If a migraine sufferer takes medicine for a regular headache, it will only make the pain and other symptoms worse.
Those suffering from migraines can experience a wide range of effects, from numbing pain to sensitivity to light, from having difficulty speaking to seeing spots of light, or auras. It is thought that these symptoms are caused by overly-sensitive neurons, firing in a cascade effect at the presentation of a trigger.
A number of different triggers can instigate migraines in those susceptible. Some are out of the individual's control, such as particular weather patterns or phases of the menstrual cycle. Other triggers can be identified and avoided; these include foods such as chocolate, fish, certain cheeses and monosodium glutamate. Environmentally, smoke, bright lights or certain smells can also play a part.
Since the causes of migraines are invisible, it is all too easy for people around the migraine sufferer to minimize the problem. Migraines and migraine disease should be taken seriously; the pain is quite real, and potentially dangerous.
Migraines at their worst can lead to life-threatening aneurysms or strokes; migraine sufferers are more than twice as likely to suffer a stroke than those free of this disease. Birth control pills can increase the risk, so if you suffer from migraines, talk to your doctor before choosing this method of birth control.
There is no known genetic component to having a predisposition to migraines. Certain forms of epilepsy can effect some migraine sufferers, such that a migraine can trigger a seizure and vice versa.
New drugs are now available to assist in managing migraines. They are of two types; one is taken regularly to prevent or lessen the likelihood of attacks and the other is taken at the onset of a migraine to stop its progress.
Unlike regular headaches, which are felt when blood vessels in the head constrict, migraines are felt when they expand. If a migraine sufferer takes medicine for a regular headache, it will only make the pain and other symptoms worse.
Those suffering from migraines can experience a wide range of effects, from numbing pain to sensitivity to light, from having difficulty speaking to seeing spots of light, or auras. It is thought that these symptoms are caused by overly-sensitive neurons, firing in a cascade effect at the presentation of a trigger.
A number of different triggers can instigate migraines in those susceptible. Some are out of the individual's control, such as particular weather patterns or phases of the menstrual cycle. Other triggers can be identified and avoided; these include foods such as chocolate, fish, certain cheeses and monosodium glutamate. Environmentally, smoke, bright lights or certain smells can also play a part.
Since the causes of migraines are invisible, it is all too easy for people around the migraine sufferer to minimize the problem. Migraines and migraine disease should be taken seriously; the pain is quite real, and potentially dangerous.
Migraines at their worst can lead to life-threatening aneurysms or strokes; migraine sufferers are more than twice as likely to suffer a stroke than those free of this disease. Birth control pills can increase the risk, so if you suffer from migraines, talk to your doctor before choosing this method of birth control.
There is no known genetic component to having a predisposition to migraines. Certain forms of epilepsy can effect some migraine sufferers, such that a migraine can trigger a seizure and vice versa.
New drugs are now available to assist in managing migraines. They are of two types; one is taken regularly to prevent or lessen the likelihood of attacks and the other is taken at the onset of a migraine to stop its progress.
What can be Done About Piles?
The condition of piles, also known as hemorrhoids, can effect people of any age, but is most common in adults and particularly pregnant women. Piles are lumpy areas of the anus where blood vessels have swollen, causing the tissue to bulge. While everyone has piles to some degree, many people do not notice them. More severe piles can cause itching, pain and discomfort. Fortunately for those who suffer from piles, there are several effective treatments.
It is unclear exactly what group of factors causes piles. Pregnancy is known to increase a woman's chance to develop irritating or painful piles, but the exact nature of onset is unsure. It is also believed that straining during bowel movements, prolonged time sitting on the toilet, and firm, dry stool can lead to piles. There are several courses of action to help prevent the onset of piles, based on these causes.
In order to help prevent piles, is suggested that people drink plenty of water and maintain a high fiber diet. Fruits, vegetables, grains and cereals are good sources of natural fiber. Fiber supplements can also be used. Staying hydrated and keeping plenty of fiber in the diet encourages softer stool. The softer stool and less straining during bowel movements is thought to reduce the occurrence of piles, as well as the irritation to existing piles. It is recommended that patients do not linger on the toilet longer than necessary.
In patients already suffering from piles, good bathroom hygiene can help to reduce the pain and irritation. There are also a number of over the counter medications to treat piles. Some of these medications claim to help reduce swelling, although this will not permanently treat the piles. Over the counter medications primarily help to alleviate the symptoms most commonly associated with piles: itching, bleeding, discomfort, and pain. Many sufferers find temporary relief using over the counter piles medications.
In more severe cases, often when the piles are protruding from the anus, a doctor can perform a number of procedures. If the piles do not respond well to medication, the doctor may apply more potent chemicals or direct heat to the piles, causing scarring and a reduction in size. Various forms of surgery can also be used, including removing the piles completely, or sewing the bulging tissue back into place so that it no longer causes irritation.
Other, sometimes more serious conditions can have similar symptoms to piles. It is always a good idea to see a doctor or medical professional, who can properly diagnose your condition and suggest the appropriate treatment. Those patients diagnosed with piles can then take any number of steps to help relieve their symptoms and treat the condition.
It is unclear exactly what group of factors causes piles. Pregnancy is known to increase a woman's chance to develop irritating or painful piles, but the exact nature of onset is unsure. It is also believed that straining during bowel movements, prolonged time sitting on the toilet, and firm, dry stool can lead to piles. There are several courses of action to help prevent the onset of piles, based on these causes.
In order to help prevent piles, is suggested that people drink plenty of water and maintain a high fiber diet. Fruits, vegetables, grains and cereals are good sources of natural fiber. Fiber supplements can also be used. Staying hydrated and keeping plenty of fiber in the diet encourages softer stool. The softer stool and less straining during bowel movements is thought to reduce the occurrence of piles, as well as the irritation to existing piles. It is recommended that patients do not linger on the toilet longer than necessary.
In patients already suffering from piles, good bathroom hygiene can help to reduce the pain and irritation. There are also a number of over the counter medications to treat piles. Some of these medications claim to help reduce swelling, although this will not permanently treat the piles. Over the counter medications primarily help to alleviate the symptoms most commonly associated with piles: itching, bleeding, discomfort, and pain. Many sufferers find temporary relief using over the counter piles medications.
In more severe cases, often when the piles are protruding from the anus, a doctor can perform a number of procedures. If the piles do not respond well to medication, the doctor may apply more potent chemicals or direct heat to the piles, causing scarring and a reduction in size. Various forms of surgery can also be used, including removing the piles completely, or sewing the bulging tissue back into place so that it no longer causes irritation.
Other, sometimes more serious conditions can have similar symptoms to piles. It is always a good idea to see a doctor or medical professional, who can properly diagnose your condition and suggest the appropriate treatment. Those patients diagnosed with piles can then take any number of steps to help relieve their symptoms and treat the condition.
What can I do to prevent constipation?
Constipation means having painful or difficult bowel movements. Many older adults have this problem. Constipation can be more than just uncomfortable. Serious constipation could put you in the hospital. Trying to stay regular and choosing healthy habits are worth the effort.
What you can do to prevent constipation
If you decide to make any of these changes, give yourself time. Your body might need several days to adjust.
Keep a regular routine.
* Try to go to the bathroom as soon as you feel the urge to have a bowel movement.
* If you have been constipated, take time for a bowel movement at the same time each day. Soon after a meal is usually best.
* Remember that everybody’s body is different, and needs its own routine.
Drink at least 6 to 8 cups of fluid each day.
* Fluids help make bowel movements easier.
* Water, juice, milk and soups are good choices.
* Regular coffee, tea, and cola soft drinks are not as good. The caffeine in these drinks takes fluid out of your body.
* Some people like to add fruit juice to their water. This gives flavour. Try lemon, orange, or cranberry juice.
* When the weather is hot, drink an extra glass of fluid each day.
* If you have heart, blood vessel, or kidney problems, talk to your doctor before changing the amount of fluid you drink.
Eat foods with fibre every day. Fibre helps to keep you regular.
* Eat lots of whole grain breads and cereals.
* Eat fruits and vegetables.
* Eat prunes and prune juice. Prunes contain a natural laxative, as well as fibre.
* Bran has lots of fibre. An easy way to eat bran is to sprinkle it on soups, casseroles, yogurt or hot cereal. This can help if chewing is difficult for you.
* When you want to add fibre to your diet, slowly increase the amount you eat. Take 2 to 3 weeks, adding a little more each day. This will prevent you from bloating and having gas.
* Here are some good sources of fibre: natural bran; bran cereals; bran muffins; flour made from whole grains; breads made from whole grains; lentils, split peas and beans; whole grain cereals; nuts; seeds; vegetables; and fruit.
Enjoy being active every day.
* Exercise helps prevent constipation. This includes walking, stretching, housework, swimming and riding a bicycle.
* Find some activities that you enjoy. You’re more likely to stay active if you have fun while you exercise.
Don’t use too many laxatives.
* Use laxatives for a short time and only when you need them. If you have been using them for along time, talk to your doctor.
* Using laxatives for a long time can cause constipation or make it worse. Your bowels might eventually need laxatives to work.
What you can do to prevent constipation
If you decide to make any of these changes, give yourself time. Your body might need several days to adjust.
Keep a regular routine.
* Try to go to the bathroom as soon as you feel the urge to have a bowel movement.
* If you have been constipated, take time for a bowel movement at the same time each day. Soon after a meal is usually best.
* Remember that everybody’s body is different, and needs its own routine.
Drink at least 6 to 8 cups of fluid each day.
* Fluids help make bowel movements easier.
* Water, juice, milk and soups are good choices.
* Regular coffee, tea, and cola soft drinks are not as good. The caffeine in these drinks takes fluid out of your body.
* Some people like to add fruit juice to their water. This gives flavour. Try lemon, orange, or cranberry juice.
* When the weather is hot, drink an extra glass of fluid each day.
* If you have heart, blood vessel, or kidney problems, talk to your doctor before changing the amount of fluid you drink.
Eat foods with fibre every day. Fibre helps to keep you regular.
* Eat lots of whole grain breads and cereals.
* Eat fruits and vegetables.
* Eat prunes and prune juice. Prunes contain a natural laxative, as well as fibre.
* Bran has lots of fibre. An easy way to eat bran is to sprinkle it on soups, casseroles, yogurt or hot cereal. This can help if chewing is difficult for you.
* When you want to add fibre to your diet, slowly increase the amount you eat. Take 2 to 3 weeks, adding a little more each day. This will prevent you from bloating and having gas.
* Here are some good sources of fibre: natural bran; bran cereals; bran muffins; flour made from whole grains; breads made from whole grains; lentils, split peas and beans; whole grain cereals; nuts; seeds; vegetables; and fruit.
Enjoy being active every day.
* Exercise helps prevent constipation. This includes walking, stretching, housework, swimming and riding a bicycle.
* Find some activities that you enjoy. You’re more likely to stay active if you have fun while you exercise.
Don’t use too many laxatives.
* Use laxatives for a short time and only when you need them. If you have been using them for along time, talk to your doctor.
* Using laxatives for a long time can cause constipation or make it worse. Your bowels might eventually need laxatives to work.
Advantages of Breast-Feeding
The Advantages of Breast-Feeding
Breast-feeding is considered the preferred method of feeding babies because it offers many advantages to both babies and mothers. You should know the benefits of breast-feeding before you make your final decision about how to feed your baby.
How does my baby benefit from breast-feeding?
1. A mother's breast milk is the perfect food for babies.
Human milk is nature's perfect design for helping your baby's body and brain grow and develop. No formula can be made exactly the same as human milk because we do not know all the ingredients of human milk.
Babies can digest breast milk easily. A diet of breast milk produces loose bowel movements that a baby can easily pass. Constipation is rare in breast-fed infants.
The only food your baby needs for about 6 months is breast milk. After you start feeding your baby solid foods, you should continue breast-feeding until your child is a year old or even older.
2. Breast-feeding protects your baby from sickness.
Breast-feeding helps protect your baby from illnesses including diarrhea, ear infections, pneumonia, and serious illnesses. Breast-feeding improves your baby's chances of remaining healthy.
3. Nursing is a valuable source of security and comfort for your baby.
You and your baby give comfort to each other. Your baby regularly needs your breast milk and physical closeness, and your full breasts regularly need to be emptied. Breast-feeding develops an intimate relationship that can deepen the bond between you and your baby.
4. Breast-fed babies may have fewer allergies.
Your baby is less likely to have skin problems and asthma than babies who are fed formula.
5. Breast-feeding can reduce the chance of your child becoming overweight.
Breast-feeding, especially for longer than 6 months, reduces the chance of your child becoming overweight later.
How do I benefit from breast-feeding?
1. Breast-feeding helps your uterus shrink after delivery.
Nursing causes your body to release a hormone called oxytocin. This hormone helps your uterus return to its normal size after delivery.
2. Breast-feeding can help you lose weight.
Breast-feeding uses up calories and usually helps mothers lose some of the extra weight they gained during pregnancy.
3. Breast-feeding is very convenient.
No matter where you are, the perfect food is ready for your baby. It is at the right temperature and in the correct amount. You can take your baby with you anywhere, knowing your milk will be ready for him whenever he is hungry.
4. Breast-feeding can work as birth control during the first 6 months after delivery.
Breast-feeding works as a method of birth control during the first few months after delivery. Breast-feeding provides protection against pregnancy during the first 6 months after you give birth if:
* you are feeding your baby nothing but breast milk AND
* your menstrual periods have NOT returned.
Other methods of birth control should be used if:
* you have started having menstrual periods again
* you have added formula supplements or solid food to your baby's diet OR
* more than 6 months have passed since the birth.
There is a small risk that you will become pregnant while you are breast-feeding. If you are worried about it, use another form of birth control as well.
5. Breast-feeding offers women some protection against disease.
Women who breast-feed are less likely to get breast cancer or ovarian cancer and may be less likely to suffer broken hips in older life.
6. You can switch to bottle-feeding if you decide you want to stop breast-feeding, but the opposite may not be true.
If you decide you do not want to nurse anymore, you can stop breast-feeding and switch to bottle-feeding. On the other hand, after starting bottle-feeding, you usually cannot switch to breast-feeding weeks later.
Carefully consider the advantages of breast-feeding for you and your baby and think about giving breast-feeding a try. Remember, the success of breast-feeding is best measured by how much you and your baby enjoy nursing, not only by the amount of milk you produce or the length of time you breast-feed.
Breast-feeding is considered the preferred method of feeding babies because it offers many advantages to both babies and mothers. You should know the benefits of breast-feeding before you make your final decision about how to feed your baby.
How does my baby benefit from breast-feeding?
1. A mother's breast milk is the perfect food for babies.
Human milk is nature's perfect design for helping your baby's body and brain grow and develop. No formula can be made exactly the same as human milk because we do not know all the ingredients of human milk.
Babies can digest breast milk easily. A diet of breast milk produces loose bowel movements that a baby can easily pass. Constipation is rare in breast-fed infants.
The only food your baby needs for about 6 months is breast milk. After you start feeding your baby solid foods, you should continue breast-feeding until your child is a year old or even older.
2. Breast-feeding protects your baby from sickness.
Breast-feeding helps protect your baby from illnesses including diarrhea, ear infections, pneumonia, and serious illnesses. Breast-feeding improves your baby's chances of remaining healthy.
3. Nursing is a valuable source of security and comfort for your baby.
You and your baby give comfort to each other. Your baby regularly needs your breast milk and physical closeness, and your full breasts regularly need to be emptied. Breast-feeding develops an intimate relationship that can deepen the bond between you and your baby.
4. Breast-fed babies may have fewer allergies.
Your baby is less likely to have skin problems and asthma than babies who are fed formula.
5. Breast-feeding can reduce the chance of your child becoming overweight.
Breast-feeding, especially for longer than 6 months, reduces the chance of your child becoming overweight later.
How do I benefit from breast-feeding?
1. Breast-feeding helps your uterus shrink after delivery.
Nursing causes your body to release a hormone called oxytocin. This hormone helps your uterus return to its normal size after delivery.
2. Breast-feeding can help you lose weight.
Breast-feeding uses up calories and usually helps mothers lose some of the extra weight they gained during pregnancy.
3. Breast-feeding is very convenient.
No matter where you are, the perfect food is ready for your baby. It is at the right temperature and in the correct amount. You can take your baby with you anywhere, knowing your milk will be ready for him whenever he is hungry.
4. Breast-feeding can work as birth control during the first 6 months after delivery.
Breast-feeding works as a method of birth control during the first few months after delivery. Breast-feeding provides protection against pregnancy during the first 6 months after you give birth if:
* you are feeding your baby nothing but breast milk AND
* your menstrual periods have NOT returned.
Other methods of birth control should be used if:
* you have started having menstrual periods again
* you have added formula supplements or solid food to your baby's diet OR
* more than 6 months have passed since the birth.
There is a small risk that you will become pregnant while you are breast-feeding. If you are worried about it, use another form of birth control as well.
5. Breast-feeding offers women some protection against disease.
Women who breast-feed are less likely to get breast cancer or ovarian cancer and may be less likely to suffer broken hips in older life.
6. You can switch to bottle-feeding if you decide you want to stop breast-feeding, but the opposite may not be true.
If you decide you do not want to nurse anymore, you can stop breast-feeding and switch to bottle-feeding. On the other hand, after starting bottle-feeding, you usually cannot switch to breast-feeding weeks later.
Carefully consider the advantages of breast-feeding for you and your baby and think about giving breast-feeding a try. Remember, the success of breast-feeding is best measured by how much you and your baby enjoy nursing, not only by the amount of milk you produce or the length of time you breast-feed.
What is Body Mass Index (BMI) ?
Body Mass Index (BMI)
The BMI is one way to determine whether or not an adult is overweight. BMI assesses height and weight; muscle mass is not a part of the equation.
BMI is calculated by dividing a person's weight (in kilograms) by his or her height (in meters, squared). BMI can also be calculated by multiplying weight (in pounds) by 705, then dividing by height (in inches) twice.
What Is a Healthy BMI?
A person with a BMI of 18.5 to 24.9 is considered to be at a healthy weight. A person with a BMI of 25-29.9 is considered to be overweight. A BMI over 30 is considered obese. A BMI of 40 or above indicates that a person is morbidly obese. This can increases a person's risk of death from any cause by 50%-150%.
The BMI is one way to determine whether or not an adult is overweight. BMI assesses height and weight; muscle mass is not a part of the equation.
BMI is calculated by dividing a person's weight (in kilograms) by his or her height (in meters, squared). BMI can also be calculated by multiplying weight (in pounds) by 705, then dividing by height (in inches) twice.
What Is a Healthy BMI?
A person with a BMI of 18.5 to 24.9 is considered to be at a healthy weight. A person with a BMI of 25-29.9 is considered to be overweight. A BMI over 30 is considered obese. A BMI of 40 or above indicates that a person is morbidly obese. This can increases a person's risk of death from any cause by 50%-150%.
How to prevent low back pain ?
* Engage in regular fitness activity. If you are sedentary, you may want to check with your physician if you have any health problems or are over the age of forty. Also, you may want to consult with a physical therapist for injury-prevention education and with a personal trainer for instruction in proper use of the equipment at the gym.
* If you sit for long periods of time, interrupt your sitting regularly to get up and move around. If your work requires a lot of sitting, space out such activities as filing, faxing, or running short errands through the office periodically through the day.
* Consider taking a walk on your lunch break. · Be certain you have a good sitting position at work or in your car. Your knees should not be higher than your hips and make a habit of keeping your hips toward the back of the chair. This prevents slouching. Consider the use of a lumbar roll to keep a good sitting posture.
* If you have access to an ergonomist or an ergonomic evaluation at your work site, take advantage of any recommendations they may have.
* If you are gardening or performing any other activity that requires prolonged or repeated bending at the waist, straighten your back often and walk around. Intermittently perform a standing backward bending activity (place hands in the small of your back and bend backwards 5-10 times). This offsets the constant pressure in the back caused by bending forward and takes less than a minute to do every twenty to thirty minutes.
* When lifting an object from the ground:
* Get as close as possible to the object.
* Bend your knees while you maintain a hollow in your back, keeping your back erect as you squat.
* Straighten the knees, not the back, as you lift the object upward.
* Pivot your feet and do not twist the back as you move the object to another location.
* As you lower the object to the ground or other surface, get as close as you can to the surface onto which the object is to be placed.
* Bend your knees and squat as you lower the object, while maintaining the hollow in your back.
* After physical activity, avoid slouched postures immediately following the activity as your body cools down. Often, this is the time low back pain develops, not during the physical activity itself.
* If you sit for long periods of time, interrupt your sitting regularly to get up and move around. If your work requires a lot of sitting, space out such activities as filing, faxing, or running short errands through the office periodically through the day.
* Consider taking a walk on your lunch break. · Be certain you have a good sitting position at work or in your car. Your knees should not be higher than your hips and make a habit of keeping your hips toward the back of the chair. This prevents slouching. Consider the use of a lumbar roll to keep a good sitting posture.
* If you have access to an ergonomist or an ergonomic evaluation at your work site, take advantage of any recommendations they may have.
* If you are gardening or performing any other activity that requires prolonged or repeated bending at the waist, straighten your back often and walk around. Intermittently perform a standing backward bending activity (place hands in the small of your back and bend backwards 5-10 times). This offsets the constant pressure in the back caused by bending forward and takes less than a minute to do every twenty to thirty minutes.
* When lifting an object from the ground:
* Get as close as possible to the object.
* Bend your knees while you maintain a hollow in your back, keeping your back erect as you squat.
* Straighten the knees, not the back, as you lift the object upward.
* Pivot your feet and do not twist the back as you move the object to another location.
* As you lower the object to the ground or other surface, get as close as you can to the surface onto which the object is to be placed.
* Bend your knees and squat as you lower the object, while maintaining the hollow in your back.
* After physical activity, avoid slouched postures immediately following the activity as your body cools down. Often, this is the time low back pain develops, not during the physical activity itself.
What Are Anxiety Disorders & Panic Attacks?
Anxiety disorders include panic attacks , social anxiety or agoraphobia and obsessive
compulsive disorder or OCD, which causes the development and repetition of habitual
rituals.
People with social anxiety may have specific panic attacks / anxiety attacks in situations
where they feel they may embarrass themselves in some way. The other major anxiety
disorder is generalised anxiety disorder which presents symptoms of one or more anxiety
conditions in varying degrees and can also present you with panic attacks and phobias.
Anxiety and panic attacks induced voidance behaviour can produce agoraphobia, a phobic
condition which causes the sufferer to restrict social interaction and retreat to 'safety'.
Repeated avoidance causes the phobia to intensify until total withdrawal occurs.
Symptoms of anxiety and panic attacks / anxiety attacks include racing heart,
hyperventilation or breathing difficulties, as well as chest pain, nausea or dizziness,
headaches, shaking and trembling, and many more.
During anxiety or panic attacks, sufferers can also experience two very disturbing
symptoms called depersonalisation and derealisation. These cause the sufferer to feel like
they are going mad or losing their mind. These symptoms also make you feel like you are
living in a dream or distant from yourself and/or the world.
The conventional treatments for anxiety disorders icluding panic attacks and
phobias, include cognitive behaviour therapy and medication. Whilst both have their place in
SOME, but not all, cases, many people experience side effects, interactions with other
drugs and withdrawal symptoms and rebound anxiety when trying to stop their medication
which can cause more problems. In the case of "speaking" therapies, there is noted
success but still, millions of people worldwide seem to be stuck in the anxiety and panic
attack cycle.
There are alternatives though which don't use drug therapy.
compulsive disorder or OCD, which causes the development and repetition of habitual
rituals.
People with social anxiety may have specific panic attacks / anxiety attacks in situations
where they feel they may embarrass themselves in some way. The other major anxiety
disorder is generalised anxiety disorder which presents symptoms of one or more anxiety
conditions in varying degrees and can also present you with panic attacks and phobias.
Anxiety and panic attacks induced voidance behaviour can produce agoraphobia, a phobic
condition which causes the sufferer to restrict social interaction and retreat to 'safety'.
Repeated avoidance causes the phobia to intensify until total withdrawal occurs.
Symptoms of anxiety and panic attacks / anxiety attacks include racing heart,
hyperventilation or breathing difficulties, as well as chest pain, nausea or dizziness,
headaches, shaking and trembling, and many more.
During anxiety or panic attacks, sufferers can also experience two very disturbing
symptoms called depersonalisation and derealisation. These cause the sufferer to feel like
they are going mad or losing their mind. These symptoms also make you feel like you are
living in a dream or distant from yourself and/or the world.
The conventional treatments for anxiety disorders icluding panic attacks and
phobias, include cognitive behaviour therapy and medication. Whilst both have their place in
SOME, but not all, cases, many people experience side effects, interactions with other
drugs and withdrawal symptoms and rebound anxiety when trying to stop their medication
which can cause more problems. In the case of "speaking" therapies, there is noted
success but still, millions of people worldwide seem to be stuck in the anxiety and panic
attack cycle.
There are alternatives though which don't use drug therapy.
What Is Autism?
What Is Autism?
Autism isn't a disease, it's a symptom. It ranges in severity from a handicap that limits an otherwise normal life to a devastating disability requiring institutional care.
Autism is one of the most common developmental disabilities. Including the milder form of autism known as pervasive developmental disorder or PDD, autism affects more than six out of every 1,000 children.
Children with autism have trouble communicating. They have trouble understanding what other people think and feel. This makes it very hard for them to express themselves either with words or through gestures, facial expressions, and touch.
An autistic child is very sensitive may be greatly troubled -- sometimes even pained -- by sounds, touches, smells, or sights that seem normal to others.
Autistic children may have repeated body movements such as rocking or hand flapping. They may have unusual responses to people, attachments to objects, resistance to change in their routines, and/or aggressive or self-injurious behavior. At times they may seem not to notice people, objects, or activities in their surroundings. Some children with autism also develop seizures, in some cases not until adolescence.
Many autistic people are mentally retarded, although most people with PDD have normal or even above-average intelligence. In contrast to mental retardation alone, which is characterized by relatively even skill development, people with autism show uneven skill development. They may have problems in certain areas, especially the ability to communicate and relate to others. But they may have unusually developed skills in other areas, such as drawing, creating music, solving math problems or memorizing facts. For this reason, they may test higher -- perhaps even in the average or above-average range -- on nonverbal intelligence tests.
Autism typically appears during the first three years of life. Some children show signs from birth; others seem to develop normally at first, only to slip suddenly into symptoms when they are 18 to 36 months old. Autism is four times more common in boys than in girls. Autism knows no racial, ethnic, or social boundaries; family income, lifestyle, and educational levels do not affect a child's chance of having autism.
Some of the different types of autism include:
* Autistic disorder. This what most people think of when they hear the word "autism." It refers to problems with social interactions, communication, and imaginative play in children younger than 3 years.
* Asperger's syndrome. These children don't have a problem with language -- in fact, they tend to score in the average or above-average range on intelligence tests. But they have the same social problems and limited scope of interests as children with autistic disorder.
* Pervasive developmental disorder or PDD -- also known as atypical autism. This is a kind of catchall category for children who have some autistic problems but who don't fit into other categories.
* Rett's disorder. Known to occur only in girls, Rett's children begin to develop normally. Then they begin to lose their communication and social skills. Beginning at the age of 1 to 4 years, repetitive hand movements replace purposeful use of the hands.
* Childhood disintegrative disorder. These children develop normally for at least two years, and then lose some or most of their communication and social skills.
What Causes It?
Autism has more than one cause. Because autism runs in families, most researchers think that certain combinations of genes may predispose a person to autism. It's currently thought that there may be several different causes of autism. This suggests that there may be several different subtypes of autism.
When a pregnant woman is exposed to certain drugs or chemicals during pregnancy, her child is more likely to be autistic. These risk factors include the use of alcohol and the use of antiseizure drugs during pregnancy. In some cases, autism has been linked to untreated phenylketonuria (called PKU, an inborn metabolic disorder caused by the absence of an enzyme), rubella (German measles), and celiac disease (an inability to tolerate gluten in grains).
Exactly why autism happens isn't clear. Research suggests that it may arise from physical problems in parts of the brain that interpret sensory input and process language. Imbalances in brain chemicals also appear to play a role.
Researchers have no evidence that a child's psychological environment -- such as how caregivers treat the child -- causes autism.
Autism isn't a disease, it's a symptom. It ranges in severity from a handicap that limits an otherwise normal life to a devastating disability requiring institutional care.
Autism is one of the most common developmental disabilities. Including the milder form of autism known as pervasive developmental disorder or PDD, autism affects more than six out of every 1,000 children.
Children with autism have trouble communicating. They have trouble understanding what other people think and feel. This makes it very hard for them to express themselves either with words or through gestures, facial expressions, and touch.
An autistic child is very sensitive may be greatly troubled -- sometimes even pained -- by sounds, touches, smells, or sights that seem normal to others.
Autistic children may have repeated body movements such as rocking or hand flapping. They may have unusual responses to people, attachments to objects, resistance to change in their routines, and/or aggressive or self-injurious behavior. At times they may seem not to notice people, objects, or activities in their surroundings. Some children with autism also develop seizures, in some cases not until adolescence.
Many autistic people are mentally retarded, although most people with PDD have normal or even above-average intelligence. In contrast to mental retardation alone, which is characterized by relatively even skill development, people with autism show uneven skill development. They may have problems in certain areas, especially the ability to communicate and relate to others. But they may have unusually developed skills in other areas, such as drawing, creating music, solving math problems or memorizing facts. For this reason, they may test higher -- perhaps even in the average or above-average range -- on nonverbal intelligence tests.
Autism typically appears during the first three years of life. Some children show signs from birth; others seem to develop normally at first, only to slip suddenly into symptoms when they are 18 to 36 months old. Autism is four times more common in boys than in girls. Autism knows no racial, ethnic, or social boundaries; family income, lifestyle, and educational levels do not affect a child's chance of having autism.
Some of the different types of autism include:
* Autistic disorder. This what most people think of when they hear the word "autism." It refers to problems with social interactions, communication, and imaginative play in children younger than 3 years.
* Asperger's syndrome. These children don't have a problem with language -- in fact, they tend to score in the average or above-average range on intelligence tests. But they have the same social problems and limited scope of interests as children with autistic disorder.
* Pervasive developmental disorder or PDD -- also known as atypical autism. This is a kind of catchall category for children who have some autistic problems but who don't fit into other categories.
* Rett's disorder. Known to occur only in girls, Rett's children begin to develop normally. Then they begin to lose their communication and social skills. Beginning at the age of 1 to 4 years, repetitive hand movements replace purposeful use of the hands.
* Childhood disintegrative disorder. These children develop normally for at least two years, and then lose some or most of their communication and social skills.
What Causes It?
Autism has more than one cause. Because autism runs in families, most researchers think that certain combinations of genes may predispose a person to autism. It's currently thought that there may be several different causes of autism. This suggests that there may be several different subtypes of autism.
When a pregnant woman is exposed to certain drugs or chemicals during pregnancy, her child is more likely to be autistic. These risk factors include the use of alcohol and the use of antiseizure drugs during pregnancy. In some cases, autism has been linked to untreated phenylketonuria (called PKU, an inborn metabolic disorder caused by the absence of an enzyme), rubella (German measles), and celiac disease (an inability to tolerate gluten in grains).
Exactly why autism happens isn't clear. Research suggests that it may arise from physical problems in parts of the brain that interpret sensory input and process language. Imbalances in brain chemicals also appear to play a role.
Researchers have no evidence that a child's psychological environment -- such as how caregivers treat the child -- causes autism.
How Can I Prevent Autism?
Although the cause of autism is not known, some cases are linked to chemical exposure during pregnancy. Don't take drugs during pregnancy unless your doctor says it's OK. This is particularly true for some seizure medications. And do not drink alcoholic beverages of any kind while you are pregnant.
Early diagnosis and treatment of PKU and celiac disease will reduce the risk of a child having autism. Being immunized against German measles (rubella) prior to pregnancy can prevent rubella-associated autism.
Early diagnosis and treatment of PKU and celiac disease will reduce the risk of a child having autism. Being immunized against German measles (rubella) prior to pregnancy can prevent rubella-associated autism.
What is Intestinal Gas & ways for treatment ?
Intestinal Gas
Intestinal gas is present in everyone. Many people who think they have too much intestinal gas actually have normal amounts. Common symptoms of intestinal gas are belching, flatulence, bloating, and abdominal pain. Ways to reduce the discomfort of intestinal gas include changing your diet, taking nonprescription medicines, and reducing the amount of air swallowed.An Introduction to Intestinal Gas
Everyone has intestinal gas and eliminates it by burping or passing it through the rectum. However, many people think they have too much intestinal gas when they really have normal amounts. Most people produce about 1 to 4 pints a day and pass gas about 14 times a day.
Intestinal gas is made primarily of odorless vapors -- carbon dioxide, oxygen, nitrogen, hydrogen, and sometimes methane. The unpleasant odor of flatulence comes from bacteria in the large intestine that release small amounts of gases that contain sulfur.
Although having intestinal gas is common, it can be uncomfortable and embarrassing. Understanding the causes and knowing the treatment options for intestinal gas will help most people find relief.
Symptoms of Intestinal Gas
The most common symptoms of intestinal gas are:
* Belching
* Flatulence
* Bloating
* Abdominal pain.
However, some of these symptoms are often caused by an intestinal disorder, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), rather than too much gas.
Treatment for Intestinal Gas
The most common ways to reduce the discomfort of intestinal gas are changing your diet, taking nonprescription medicines, and reducing the amount of air swallowed.
Digestive enzymes, such as lactase supplements, actually help digest carbohydrates and may allow people to eat foods that normally cause gas.
Key Points About Intestinal Gas
Here are some important things to know about intestinal gas:
* Everyone has gas in the digestive tract.
* People often believe they have excessive gas, even when the amount of gas they pass is normal.
* Intestinal gas comes from two main sources: swallowed air and the normal breakdown of certain foods by harmless bacteria naturally present in the large intestine.
* Many foods with carbohydrates can cause intestinal gas. Fats and proteins cause little gas.
* Foods that may cause intestinal gas include:
o Beans
o Vegetables, such as broccoli, cabbage, Brussels sprouts, onions, artichokes, and
asparagus
o Fruits, such as pears, apples, and peaches
o Whole grains, such as whole wheat and bran
o Soft drinks and fruit drinks
o Milk and milk products, such as cheese and ice cream, and packaged foods prepared with
lactose, such as bread, cereal, and salad dressing
o Foods containing sorbitol, such as diet foods and sugar-free candies and gums.
Intestinal gas is present in everyone. Many people who think they have too much intestinal gas actually have normal amounts. Common symptoms of intestinal gas are belching, flatulence, bloating, and abdominal pain. Ways to reduce the discomfort of intestinal gas include changing your diet, taking nonprescription medicines, and reducing the amount of air swallowed.An Introduction to Intestinal Gas
Everyone has intestinal gas and eliminates it by burping or passing it through the rectum. However, many people think they have too much intestinal gas when they really have normal amounts. Most people produce about 1 to 4 pints a day and pass gas about 14 times a day.
Intestinal gas is made primarily of odorless vapors -- carbon dioxide, oxygen, nitrogen, hydrogen, and sometimes methane. The unpleasant odor of flatulence comes from bacteria in the large intestine that release small amounts of gases that contain sulfur.
Although having intestinal gas is common, it can be uncomfortable and embarrassing. Understanding the causes and knowing the treatment options for intestinal gas will help most people find relief.
Symptoms of Intestinal Gas
The most common symptoms of intestinal gas are:
* Belching
* Flatulence
* Bloating
* Abdominal pain.
However, some of these symptoms are often caused by an intestinal disorder, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), rather than too much gas.
Treatment for Intestinal Gas
The most common ways to reduce the discomfort of intestinal gas are changing your diet, taking nonprescription medicines, and reducing the amount of air swallowed.
Digestive enzymes, such as lactase supplements, actually help digest carbohydrates and may allow people to eat foods that normally cause gas.
Key Points About Intestinal Gas
Here are some important things to know about intestinal gas:
* Everyone has gas in the digestive tract.
* People often believe they have excessive gas, even when the amount of gas they pass is normal.
* Intestinal gas comes from two main sources: swallowed air and the normal breakdown of certain foods by harmless bacteria naturally present in the large intestine.
* Many foods with carbohydrates can cause intestinal gas. Fats and proteins cause little gas.
* Foods that may cause intestinal gas include:
o Beans
o Vegetables, such as broccoli, cabbage, Brussels sprouts, onions, artichokes, and
asparagus
o Fruits, such as pears, apples, and peaches
o Whole grains, such as whole wheat and bran
o Soft drinks and fruit drinks
o Milk and milk products, such as cheese and ice cream, and packaged foods prepared with
lactose, such as bread, cereal, and salad dressing
o Foods containing sorbitol, such as diet foods and sugar-free candies and gums.
How to prevent heart burns ?
1) Eat smaller, more frequent meals.
A full stomach can put extra pressure on the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), which will increase the chance that some of this food will reflux into the esophagus.
2) Avoid foods and beverages that can trigger reflux of stomach contents.
Some foods and beverages increase the risk of reflux by relaxing the LES. These include alcohol; beverages containing caffeine, such as coffee, tea and cola drinks; carbonated beverages; citrus fruits and juices; tomatoes and tomato sauces; chocolate; spicy and fatty foods.3) Don't eat within two to three hours before bedtime.
Lying down with a full stomach can cause stomach contents to press harder against the LES, increasing the chances of refluxed food.
4) If you're overweight, lose the extra pounds.
Obesity increases abdominal pressure, which can then push stomach contents up into the esophagus.
5) Elevate your head a few inches while you sleep.
Lying down flat presses the stomach's contents against the LES. With the head higher than the stomach, gravity helps reduce this pressure. You can elevate your head in a couple of ways. You can place bricks, blocks or anything that's sturdy securely under the legs at the head of your bed. You can also use an extra pillow, or a wedge-shaped pillow, to elevate your head.
6) Don't wear belts or clothes that are tight fitting around the waist.
Clothing that fits tightly around the abdomen will squeeze the stomach, forcing food up against the LES, and cause food to reflux into the exophagus. Clothing that can cause problems include tight-fitting belts and slenderizing undergarments.
7) Stop smoking.
The chemicals in cigarette smoke weaken the LES as they pass from the lungs into the blood.
8) Avoid alcohol.
Alcohol relaxes the lower esophageal sphincter, allowing the reflux of stomach contents into the esophagus. It also increases the production of stomach acid. If you want to consume alcohol, follow these tips: Dilute alcoholic beverages with water or club soda, drink moderate amounts of alcoholic beverages -- the suggested amounts are 1-2 mixed drinks, 12-16 ounces of wine, or 2-3 beers, drink white wine instead of red, choose non-alcoholic beer or wine whenever you can.
9) Keep a heartburn record.
Record what triggerd your acid reflux episodes, the severity of each episode, how your body reacts, and what gives you relief. The next step is to take this information to your doctor so the both of you can determine what lifestyle changes you will need to make and what treatments will give you maximum relief.
10) Take your medication at the same time every day.
It is very important to take your medication every day. If you are prone to forgetting, leave yourself a note to remind you or take your medication when you do another daily activity that you don't forget doing, such as brushing your teeth or washing your face.
A full stomach can put extra pressure on the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), which will increase the chance that some of this food will reflux into the esophagus.
2) Avoid foods and beverages that can trigger reflux of stomach contents.
Some foods and beverages increase the risk of reflux by relaxing the LES. These include alcohol; beverages containing caffeine, such as coffee, tea and cola drinks; carbonated beverages; citrus fruits and juices; tomatoes and tomato sauces; chocolate; spicy and fatty foods.3) Don't eat within two to three hours before bedtime.
Lying down with a full stomach can cause stomach contents to press harder against the LES, increasing the chances of refluxed food.
4) If you're overweight, lose the extra pounds.
Obesity increases abdominal pressure, which can then push stomach contents up into the esophagus.
5) Elevate your head a few inches while you sleep.
Lying down flat presses the stomach's contents against the LES. With the head higher than the stomach, gravity helps reduce this pressure. You can elevate your head in a couple of ways. You can place bricks, blocks or anything that's sturdy securely under the legs at the head of your bed. You can also use an extra pillow, or a wedge-shaped pillow, to elevate your head.
6) Don't wear belts or clothes that are tight fitting around the waist.
Clothing that fits tightly around the abdomen will squeeze the stomach, forcing food up against the LES, and cause food to reflux into the exophagus. Clothing that can cause problems include tight-fitting belts and slenderizing undergarments.
7) Stop smoking.
The chemicals in cigarette smoke weaken the LES as they pass from the lungs into the blood.
8) Avoid alcohol.
Alcohol relaxes the lower esophageal sphincter, allowing the reflux of stomach contents into the esophagus. It also increases the production of stomach acid. If you want to consume alcohol, follow these tips: Dilute alcoholic beverages with water or club soda, drink moderate amounts of alcoholic beverages -- the suggested amounts are 1-2 mixed drinks, 12-16 ounces of wine, or 2-3 beers, drink white wine instead of red, choose non-alcoholic beer or wine whenever you can.
9) Keep a heartburn record.
Record what triggerd your acid reflux episodes, the severity of each episode, how your body reacts, and what gives you relief. The next step is to take this information to your doctor so the both of you can determine what lifestyle changes you will need to make and what treatments will give you maximum relief.
10) Take your medication at the same time every day.
It is very important to take your medication every day. If you are prone to forgetting, leave yourself a note to remind you or take your medication when you do another daily activity that you don't forget doing, such as brushing your teeth or washing your face.
What Is Heartburn?
Heartburn is one of the most common health conditions that people experience in today's society. It is thought that about 1 in 10 people suffer from daily heartburn and about 1 in 3 people suffer from heartburn at least once a month. Before talking about the symptoms and treatment for heartburn, it may be helpful to understand the normal digestive process and how certain conditions can impact this normal process, resulting in heartburn.
Normal Digestive Process
As you chew your food and swallow, food particles travel from your mouth to the esophagus. The esophagus is a muscular tube that contracts and relaxes in a wave-like motion to help move food and liquids down toward your stomach. This motion is called peristalsis.
Just before the esophagus gets to the stomach, it travels through your diaphragm. The diaphragm is a broad muscle that separates your stomach from your chest cavity. The opening in the diaphragm where the esophagus travels through is called the hiatus.
The esophagus then joins the stomach at the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). This sphincter acts as a doorway between the esophagus and the stomach. After you swallow, it opens to let food into the stomach. Then the sphincter closes to keep food and stomach juices from going back up into the esophagus. The hiatus also helps close off the entryway to the stomach.
Inside your stomach, strong acids and enzymes make up the stomach juices that break down your food. Your stomach has special mechanisms that help protect it from these strong juices.
Your esophagus, however, doesn't have these same defenses, so it's important for the LES to close off the stomach opening to keep the juices in the stomach. Sometimes, the acidic contents of the stomach do go back up, or reflux, into the esophagus. Some reflux is normal. Much of the time, this never causes any problems, because the esophagus also has some ways to protect itself. For example, the saliva in your esophagus can help neutralize stomach acid, and gravity and peristalsis help to wash the saliva and stomach juices back down into the stomach.
At other times, acid reflux can cause the burning, pressure, or pain in the chest or throat that most people call heartburn or acid indigestion.
Impact of Heartburn on the Digestive System
For people who have heartburn, the sphincter between the esophagus and the stomach either opens at the wrong time or is weak and doesn't completely close off the opening to the stomach. When this happens, stomach juices and food particles can flow back up into the esophagus more frequently than normal.
If stomach juices stay in the esophagus for long periods of time, or if acid reflux happens often, the natural way the esophagus protects itself from stomach juices may simply be overwhelmed. The lining of the esophagus may become irritated, and this can lead to heartburn.
Normal Digestive Process
As you chew your food and swallow, food particles travel from your mouth to the esophagus. The esophagus is a muscular tube that contracts and relaxes in a wave-like motion to help move food and liquids down toward your stomach. This motion is called peristalsis.
Just before the esophagus gets to the stomach, it travels through your diaphragm. The diaphragm is a broad muscle that separates your stomach from your chest cavity. The opening in the diaphragm where the esophagus travels through is called the hiatus.
The esophagus then joins the stomach at the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). This sphincter acts as a doorway between the esophagus and the stomach. After you swallow, it opens to let food into the stomach. Then the sphincter closes to keep food and stomach juices from going back up into the esophagus. The hiatus also helps close off the entryway to the stomach.
Inside your stomach, strong acids and enzymes make up the stomach juices that break down your food. Your stomach has special mechanisms that help protect it from these strong juices.
Your esophagus, however, doesn't have these same defenses, so it's important for the LES to close off the stomach opening to keep the juices in the stomach. Sometimes, the acidic contents of the stomach do go back up, or reflux, into the esophagus. Some reflux is normal. Much of the time, this never causes any problems, because the esophagus also has some ways to protect itself. For example, the saliva in your esophagus can help neutralize stomach acid, and gravity and peristalsis help to wash the saliva and stomach juices back down into the stomach.
At other times, acid reflux can cause the burning, pressure, or pain in the chest or throat that most people call heartburn or acid indigestion.
Impact of Heartburn on the Digestive System
For people who have heartburn, the sphincter between the esophagus and the stomach either opens at the wrong time or is weak and doesn't completely close off the opening to the stomach. When this happens, stomach juices and food particles can flow back up into the esophagus more frequently than normal.
If stomach juices stay in the esophagus for long periods of time, or if acid reflux happens often, the natural way the esophagus protects itself from stomach juices may simply be overwhelmed. The lining of the esophagus may become irritated, and this can lead to heartburn.
Causes of Appendicitis
Causes of Appendicitis: An Overview
A blockage of the inside of the appendix, which is also known as the lumen, can cause appendicitis.
Causes of Appendicitis: What Causes the Block?
In most cases, feces will cause a blockage inside of the appendix. However, a bacterial or viral infection in the digestive tract can lead to swelling of the lymph nodes, which squeezes the appendix and causes obstruction. This is known as lymphoid hyperplasia. In rare cases, traumatic injury to the abdomen, or even genetics, may also cause blockage inside of the appendix.
Causes of Appendicitis: Summary
A blockage of the inside of the appendix leads to increased pressure, impaired blood flow, and inflammation. Gangrene and rupture (breaking or tearing) of the appendix can result if the appendix blockage is not treated in a timely manner.
A blockage of the inside of the appendix, which is also known as the lumen, can cause appendicitis.
Causes of Appendicitis: What Causes the Block?
In most cases, feces will cause a blockage inside of the appendix. However, a bacterial or viral infection in the digestive tract can lead to swelling of the lymph nodes, which squeezes the appendix and causes obstruction. This is known as lymphoid hyperplasia. In rare cases, traumatic injury to the abdomen, or even genetics, may also cause blockage inside of the appendix.
Causes of Appendicitis: Summary
A blockage of the inside of the appendix leads to increased pressure, impaired blood flow, and inflammation. Gangrene and rupture (breaking or tearing) of the appendix can result if the appendix blockage is not treated in a timely manner.
How to Prevent Appendicitis
How to Prevent Appendicitis: A Summary
There is no known way to prevent appendicitis. However, if you are able to recognize appendicitis symptoms, you can prevent serious appendicitis complications from occurring.
Common symptoms of appendicitis include:
* Pain in the abdomen, first around the belly button, then moving to the lower right area
* Loss of appetite
* Nausea
* Vomiting
* Constipation or diarrhea
* Inability to pass gas
* Low fever that begins after other symptoms
* Abdominal swelling.
There is no known way to prevent appendicitis. However, if you are able to recognize appendicitis symptoms, you can prevent serious appendicitis complications from occurring.
Common symptoms of appendicitis include:
* Pain in the abdomen, first around the belly button, then moving to the lower right area
* Loss of appetite
* Nausea
* Vomiting
* Constipation or diarrhea
* Inability to pass gas
* Low fever that begins after other symptoms
* Abdominal swelling.
How do I prevent anemia?
Take these steps to help prevent some types of anemia:
* Eat foods high in iron:
o red meat
o fish
o chicken
o liver o eggs
o dried fruits, like apricots, prunes, and raisins
o lentils and beans
o green, leafy vegetables, like spinach and broccoli o tofu o cereal with iron in it (iron-fortified)
# Eat/drink foods that help your body absorb iron, like orange juice, strawberries, broccoli, or other fruits and vegetables with vitamin C.
# Don't drink coffee or tea with meals. These drinks make it harder for your body to absorb iron.
# Calcium can hurt your absorption of iron. If you have a hard time getting enough iron, talk to your health care provider about the best way to get enough calcium too.
# Make sure you get enough folic acid and vitamin B-12 in your diet.
# Talk to your HCP about taking iron pills (supplements). Do NOT take these pills without talking to your health care provider first. These pills come in two forms: ferrous and ferric. The ferrous form is better absorbed by your body. But taking iron pills can cause side effects, like nausea, vomiting, constipation, and diarrhea. Reduce these side effects by taking these steps:
* Start with half of the recommended dose. Gradually increase to the full dose.
* Take the pill in divided doses.
* Take the pill with food.
* If one type of iron pill is causing problems, ask your HCP for another brand.
# If you are a non-pregnant woman of childbearing age, get tested for anemia every 5 to 10 years. This can be done during a regular health exam. Testing should start in adolescence.
# If you are a non-pregnant woman of childbearing age with these risk factors for iron deficiency, get tested every year:
* heavy periods
* low iron intake
* previous diagnosis of anemia
* Eat foods high in iron:
o red meat
o fish
o chicken
o liver o eggs
o dried fruits, like apricots, prunes, and raisins
o lentils and beans
o green, leafy vegetables, like spinach and broccoli o tofu o cereal with iron in it (iron-fortified)
# Eat/drink foods that help your body absorb iron, like orange juice, strawberries, broccoli, or other fruits and vegetables with vitamin C.
# Don't drink coffee or tea with meals. These drinks make it harder for your body to absorb iron.
# Calcium can hurt your absorption of iron. If you have a hard time getting enough iron, talk to your health care provider about the best way to get enough calcium too.
# Make sure you get enough folic acid and vitamin B-12 in your diet.
# Talk to your HCP about taking iron pills (supplements). Do NOT take these pills without talking to your health care provider first. These pills come in two forms: ferrous and ferric. The ferrous form is better absorbed by your body. But taking iron pills can cause side effects, like nausea, vomiting, constipation, and diarrhea. Reduce these side effects by taking these steps:
* Start with half of the recommended dose. Gradually increase to the full dose.
* Take the pill in divided doses.
* Take the pill with food.
* If one type of iron pill is causing problems, ask your HCP for another brand.
# If you are a non-pregnant woman of childbearing age, get tested for anemia every 5 to 10 years. This can be done during a regular health exam. Testing should start in adolescence.
# If you are a non-pregnant woman of childbearing age with these risk factors for iron deficiency, get tested every year:
* heavy periods
* low iron intake
* previous diagnosis of anemia
What Is Anemia?
What Is Anemia?
Anemia (uh-NEE-me-eh) is a condition in which a person’s blood has a lower than normal number of red blood cells (RBCs), or the RBCs don’t have enough hemoglobin (HEE-muh-glow-bin). Hemoglobin—an iron-rich protein that gives the red color to blood—carries oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body. In people with anemia, the blood does not carry enough oxygen to the rest of the body. As a result, people with anemia feel tired, along with other symptoms, because their bodies are not receiving enough oxygen. In severe or prolonged cases of anemia, the lack of oxygen in the blood can cause serious and sometimes fatal damage to the heart and other organs of the body.
RBCs also are called erythrocytes (eh-RITH-ro-sites). RBCs are disc-shaped and look like doughnuts without a hole in the center. They are produced continually in the spongy marrow inside the large bones of the body and normally last 120 days. RBCs’ main role is to carry oxygen, but they also remove carbon dioxide (a waste product) from cells and carry it to the lungs to be exhaled. White blood cells and platelets are the two other kinds of blood cells. White blood cells help fight infections. Platelets help blood to clot. In some kinds of anemia, there are low amounts of all three types of blood cells.
Outlook
Women and people with chronic diseases are at greater risk for anemia. Many types of anemia can be mild, short-lived, and easily treated. Some forms of anemia can be prevented with a healthy diet, and other forms can be treated with diet supplements.
Certain types of anemia may be severe, long-lasting, and life threatening if not diagnosed and treated. People who have symptoms of anemia should see their doctor to find out if they have the condition, its cause and severity, and how to treat it.
Anemia (uh-NEE-me-eh) is a condition in which a person’s blood has a lower than normal number of red blood cells (RBCs), or the RBCs don’t have enough hemoglobin (HEE-muh-glow-bin). Hemoglobin—an iron-rich protein that gives the red color to blood—carries oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body. In people with anemia, the blood does not carry enough oxygen to the rest of the body. As a result, people with anemia feel tired, along with other symptoms, because their bodies are not receiving enough oxygen. In severe or prolonged cases of anemia, the lack of oxygen in the blood can cause serious and sometimes fatal damage to the heart and other organs of the body.
RBCs also are called erythrocytes (eh-RITH-ro-sites). RBCs are disc-shaped and look like doughnuts without a hole in the center. They are produced continually in the spongy marrow inside the large bones of the body and normally last 120 days. RBCs’ main role is to carry oxygen, but they also remove carbon dioxide (a waste product) from cells and carry it to the lungs to be exhaled. White blood cells and platelets are the two other kinds of blood cells. White blood cells help fight infections. Platelets help blood to clot. In some kinds of anemia, there are low amounts of all three types of blood cells.
Outlook
Women and people with chronic diseases are at greater risk for anemia. Many types of anemia can be mild, short-lived, and easily treated. Some forms of anemia can be prevented with a healthy diet, and other forms can be treated with diet supplements.
Certain types of anemia may be severe, long-lasting, and life threatening if not diagnosed and treated. People who have symptoms of anemia should see their doctor to find out if they have the condition, its cause and severity, and how to treat it.
What Is Alzheimer’s Disease?
Introduction
Alzheimer’s (AHLZ-high-merz) disease is a progressive brain disorder that gradually destroys a person’s memory and ability to learn, reason, make judgments, communicate and carry out daily activities. As Alzheimer’s progresses, individuals may also experience changes in personality and behavior, such as anxiety, suspiciousness or agitation, as well as delusions or hallucinations.
Although there is currently no cure for Alzheimer’s, new treatments are on the horizon as a result of accelerating insight into the biology of the disease. Research has also shown that effective care and support can improve quality of life for individuals and their caregivers over the course of the disease from diagnosis to the end of life.
Dementia
Alzheimer’s is the most common form of dementia, a group of conditions that all gradually destroy brain cells and lead to progressive decline in mental function. Vascular dementia, another common form, results from reduced blood flow to the brain’s nerve cells. In some cases, Alzheimer’s disease and vascular dementia can occur together in a condition called "mixed dementia." Other causes of dementia include frontotemporal dementia, dementia with Lewy bodies, Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease and Parkinson’s disease.
Progression of Alzheimer’s disease
Alzheimer’s disease advances at widely different rates. The duration of the illness may often vary from 3 to 20 years. The areas of the brain that control memory and thinking skills are affected first, but as the disease progresses, cells die in other regions of the brain. Eventually, the person with Alzheimer’s will need complete care. If the individual has no other serious illness, the loss of brain function itself will cause death.
Alzheimer’s (AHLZ-high-merz) disease is a progressive brain disorder that gradually destroys a person’s memory and ability to learn, reason, make judgments, communicate and carry out daily activities. As Alzheimer’s progresses, individuals may also experience changes in personality and behavior, such as anxiety, suspiciousness or agitation, as well as delusions or hallucinations.
Although there is currently no cure for Alzheimer’s, new treatments are on the horizon as a result of accelerating insight into the biology of the disease. Research has also shown that effective care and support can improve quality of life for individuals and their caregivers over the course of the disease from diagnosis to the end of life.
Dementia
Alzheimer’s is the most common form of dementia, a group of conditions that all gradually destroy brain cells and lead to progressive decline in mental function. Vascular dementia, another common form, results from reduced blood flow to the brain’s nerve cells. In some cases, Alzheimer’s disease and vascular dementia can occur together in a condition called "mixed dementia." Other causes of dementia include frontotemporal dementia, dementia with Lewy bodies, Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease and Parkinson’s disease.
Progression of Alzheimer’s disease
Alzheimer’s disease advances at widely different rates. The duration of the illness may often vary from 3 to 20 years. The areas of the brain that control memory and thinking skills are affected first, but as the disease progresses, cells die in other regions of the brain. Eventually, the person with Alzheimer’s will need complete care. If the individual has no other serious illness, the loss of brain function itself will cause death.
Skin Allergies And Cosmetics
Practically anything may cause an allergic reaction in someone. The ingredient that is an irritant to you personally may be completely harmless to others. It may be in the food you eat, the clothing fibers you are wearing, the pollen of flowers carried on the wind, in the fur of your favorite domestic cat. It may be in the deodorant you are using, or the depilatory, or in any one of your hair preparations.
There is no accounting for it, nor is there as yet any specific "cure". When the word is used in connection with cosmetics, it means simply that one woman in a thousand (or in many thousands) reacts to some ingredient in a cosmetic product which others use with joy and without ill effects of any kind. The reaction usually takes the form of a skin eruption or rash, which breaks out after contact with some specific preparations. Generally, the symptoms are merely redness, swelling or itching in a small area, although sometimes they may resemble the effects of a common cold or hay fever.
If you think you have an allergy to any one of the various cosmetic preparations you use, the first thing to do is try to find out which one of your beauty aids is the culprit.
It is always wise to consult your doctor, but it will help him to help you if, in the early stages, you try this simple but effective preliminary test. Rub a little of the cream, lotion, lipstick, or other preparation which you suspect may be unsuitable for you in a small area just below or slightly behind one ear (in the place most hair stylists normally use to test your reaction to any permanent hair coloring before they go ahead with the first application). Do not wash this part of the skin for at least twenty-four hours unless you start to feel some reaction such as burning or itching. When there is any sign of reaction, immediately sponge the skin with warm water and baby-mild soap. There is no need to wait longer, for you have established your case and have pinned down at least one likely offender.
If you feel nothing after three days and if there is no sign of redness, pinkness or rash, then the particular cosmetic you have put to the test is innocent and you must experiment further with others, one by one.
If you are allergic to any cosmetics, do not despair. There are many who suffer in the same way. We are living in the age of allergies and each year sees an increase in the number of allergic reactions reported. Advances in cosmetic science have resulted in more chemically treated and formulated compounds, as well as in a vastly increased number of preparations used in the pursuit of beauty. To be allergic to the use of any favorite cosmetic is, in itself, heart breaking to the individual concerned. Recognizing this fact, some cosmetic manufacturers now produce specially created ranges of hypoallergenic creams, powders and lipsticks. A complete range of these non-irritant cosmetic products is made by "Almay", purchased from good chemists or beauty counters in various department stores.
There is no accounting for it, nor is there as yet any specific "cure". When the word is used in connection with cosmetics, it means simply that one woman in a thousand (or in many thousands) reacts to some ingredient in a cosmetic product which others use with joy and without ill effects of any kind. The reaction usually takes the form of a skin eruption or rash, which breaks out after contact with some specific preparations. Generally, the symptoms are merely redness, swelling or itching in a small area, although sometimes they may resemble the effects of a common cold or hay fever.
If you think you have an allergy to any one of the various cosmetic preparations you use, the first thing to do is try to find out which one of your beauty aids is the culprit.
It is always wise to consult your doctor, but it will help him to help you if, in the early stages, you try this simple but effective preliminary test. Rub a little of the cream, lotion, lipstick, or other preparation which you suspect may be unsuitable for you in a small area just below or slightly behind one ear (in the place most hair stylists normally use to test your reaction to any permanent hair coloring before they go ahead with the first application). Do not wash this part of the skin for at least twenty-four hours unless you start to feel some reaction such as burning or itching. When there is any sign of reaction, immediately sponge the skin with warm water and baby-mild soap. There is no need to wait longer, for you have established your case and have pinned down at least one likely offender.
If you feel nothing after three days and if there is no sign of redness, pinkness or rash, then the particular cosmetic you have put to the test is innocent and you must experiment further with others, one by one.
If you are allergic to any cosmetics, do not despair. There are many who suffer in the same way. We are living in the age of allergies and each year sees an increase in the number of allergic reactions reported. Advances in cosmetic science have resulted in more chemically treated and formulated compounds, as well as in a vastly increased number of preparations used in the pursuit of beauty. To be allergic to the use of any favorite cosmetic is, in itself, heart breaking to the individual concerned. Recognizing this fact, some cosmetic manufacturers now produce specially created ranges of hypoallergenic creams, powders and lipsticks. A complete range of these non-irritant cosmetic products is made by "Almay", purchased from good chemists or beauty counters in various department stores.
How Can You Deal With Your Allergies?
Our immune system generally attacks disease-causing agents such as bacteria and viruses. However, when we develop a certain allergy, our immune system incorrectly assumes that the particular foreign body or the allergen, which can be pollen, food, dust, etc., is harmful, when in fact they are actually harmless and attacks these allergens by producing antibodies. These antibodies in turn initiate certain cells to produce histamine directly into the blood stream. Histamine is the product that causes the allergic symptoms of sneezing, itchiness and the other symptoms that an allergy would have.
The standard treatment for allergies is to block the immune response. This method will not however deal with the main cause of the allergy but will only suppress the symptoms, sometimes causing patients to suffer from various side effects. The patient becomes dependent on their medication and constantly suppressing the immune system may affect an individual's overall health and well being.
The best treatment is therefore to avoid the allergen. This is not 100% possible but it can be done to a certain extent. Some ways you can avoid them are:
. If you suffer from a cat or dog allergy - cat allergens are sticky and can be carried unknowingly on your clothing. They may also be air borne. Therefore using an exhaust fan, opening the windows often, usage of air filters and cleaners can minimize risk. Pets should be bathed regularly in order to reduce dander. Pets should not be allowed into the bedroom.
. If you are allergic to pollen - Keep your windows closed when it is pollen season and change your clothes immediately when you come back indoors. If you suffer from allergies caused by dust and other environmental factors - Make sure the environment is kept clean all the time. By cleaning up the surrounding environment you can reduce dust mites, dust etc. Stop smoking, drink clean water, avoid using air fresheners, mothballs. Avoid the use of perfumes, hair sprays. When using chemicals use a surgical mask, also use gloves.
. If you suffer from allergies caused by mold - Limit houseplants, good ventilation is essential, therefore open windows whenever and wherever possible, avoid using carpeting as much as possible in homes as carpets tend to collect dust more than hard floors. Keep bathrooms clean and dry. Avoid going to damp areas.
. Food allergies - If you know what types of food you are allergic to, it is best you avoid these types of foods as most food allergy treatments are avoidance of the allergen itself.
If you do get an allergy, however, shots and medications are used to treat some of them.
Shots - Here a small amount of the allergen itself is injected into the system, thereby causing the development of antibodies. The longer the period of time the person has been receiving the shots the more antibodies will have developed thereby raising a persons tolerance level when encountering the allergen, in turn severity of the symptoms reduces and also fewer symptoms appear. This is known as allergen immunotherapy and is only used for specific allergies.
Medication - Some of the medications are antihistamines, epinephrine, decongestants, Cromolyn Sodium/Nedocromil Sodium and corticosteroids.
The standard treatment for allergies is to block the immune response. This method will not however deal with the main cause of the allergy but will only suppress the symptoms, sometimes causing patients to suffer from various side effects. The patient becomes dependent on their medication and constantly suppressing the immune system may affect an individual's overall health and well being.
The best treatment is therefore to avoid the allergen. This is not 100% possible but it can be done to a certain extent. Some ways you can avoid them are:
. If you suffer from a cat or dog allergy - cat allergens are sticky and can be carried unknowingly on your clothing. They may also be air borne. Therefore using an exhaust fan, opening the windows often, usage of air filters and cleaners can minimize risk. Pets should be bathed regularly in order to reduce dander. Pets should not be allowed into the bedroom.
. If you are allergic to pollen - Keep your windows closed when it is pollen season and change your clothes immediately when you come back indoors. If you suffer from allergies caused by dust and other environmental factors - Make sure the environment is kept clean all the time. By cleaning up the surrounding environment you can reduce dust mites, dust etc. Stop smoking, drink clean water, avoid using air fresheners, mothballs. Avoid the use of perfumes, hair sprays. When using chemicals use a surgical mask, also use gloves.
. If you suffer from allergies caused by mold - Limit houseplants, good ventilation is essential, therefore open windows whenever and wherever possible, avoid using carpeting as much as possible in homes as carpets tend to collect dust more than hard floors. Keep bathrooms clean and dry. Avoid going to damp areas.
. Food allergies - If you know what types of food you are allergic to, it is best you avoid these types of foods as most food allergy treatments are avoidance of the allergen itself.
If you do get an allergy, however, shots and medications are used to treat some of them.
Shots - Here a small amount of the allergen itself is injected into the system, thereby causing the development of antibodies. The longer the period of time the person has been receiving the shots the more antibodies will have developed thereby raising a persons tolerance level when encountering the allergen, in turn severity of the symptoms reduces and also fewer symptoms appear. This is known as allergen immunotherapy and is only used for specific allergies.
Medication - Some of the medications are antihistamines, epinephrine, decongestants, Cromolyn Sodium/Nedocromil Sodium and corticosteroids.
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