Klinefelter Syndrome is a rare genetic disorder that occurs when a boy is born with extra x chromosomes. The presence of the extra x chromosomes causes delayed puberty and unusual physical development. Symptoms can include sparse body hair, wide hips, enlarged breasts, higher voices, small penis and testicles, and infertility. Boys affected with the condition often have learning and social difficulties. Klinefelter Syndrome is usually diagnosed when a boy reaches puberty. The condition can be treated so that the boy can experience puberty and grow into adulthood. Here is a guide on manage Klinefelter syndrome.
Instructions
Manage Klinefelter Syndrome
1. Get diagnosed. If your son is at the age of puberty and you suspect Klinefelter syndrome, consult a doctor. Some boys are simply late bloomers and there is no need to worry. However, if you suspect there is something wrong, it is best to ask the doctor to rule out any problems. The doctor will conduct a physical exam and a chromosome test, karyotype.
2. Start testosterone treatment. Most boys with Klinefelter syndrome have low testosterone and will need to treatments to increase the levels. Testosterone in the form of injections, skin patches or gel are given regularly to help the boy develop normal male traits during puberty. Your son may need some form of testosterone replacement throughout his life.
3. Help your son with any speech or learning problems. Many boys with Klinefelter syndrome also have learning and speech difficulties. These problems can be overcome with the right training and support. Consult with professional speech and education therapists for assistance.
4. Educate your son about Klinefelter syndrome. It may be a little scary to develop differently than the other boys. The knowledge of the disorder and the fact that the treatments will improve the condition can help your son cope.
5. Be supportive of your son. It is difficult for a growing boy to face the challenges of delayed puberty. Give your son guidance, love, and support to build his confidence and self-esteem. Klinefelter syndrome may be a lifelong condition but it can be managed with treatment. Your son can live a full and happy life.
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There are two kinds of carbohydrates, complex and simple, otherwise known as starch and sugar carbohydrates. Pasta, bread, potatoes and the like are the starchy carbohydrates and of course the sugar type consists of anything sweet, like candy or baked goods. Sugar type carbohydrates are a quick fix. They increase the blood sugar immediately and give a temporary burst of energy, but it doesn't last and soon you want more and you end up not feeling full even though you should be. By the same token, the starchy carbohydrates fill you up and stick with you longer, taking longer to digest, so they actually are not the problem with fat storing in the body.
The Need for Glucose
Glucose is a sugar found only in carbohydrates, never in fats or proteins. Without sufficient glucose, the body simply cannot function properly which is how a lot of diseases get their start. Liver damage, brain damage, kidney damage, muscle disease--all of these and more can result from improper carbohydrate intake. A major portion of each person's diet should consist of complex carbohydrates. At least 60% of the diet should be reserved for starchy carbs.
Insulin is the Key
Simple carbohydrates (sugars) tend to build up in the bloodstream due to the fact that the insulin in the body can only handle just so much of it. Insulin's job is to remove glucose out of the blood and store it within the liver and the muscles. This storage facility is not infinite however, so the insulin does the only thing it can and stores the rest of the glucose in the body fat. This is how people gain weight. Worse yet, simple carbohydrates build up the insulin level to a high degree which causes the insulin to store glucose in the fat cells while the glucose in your blood goes way down. This causes you to feel hungry again. It's a repetitious cycle that can lead straight to fat and eventually to diabetes if not controlled properly.
Starches are Good for Weight Loss
Eating complex (starchy) carbohydrates causes the body to start using its own fat as fuel rather than constantly searching for more glucose to store as fat cells, which is the natural way that people lose weight. By feeding the body what it needs you are fueling it properly and it has no further need to store the necessary glucose in the fat cells. Theoretically, by eating a diet high in complex carbohydrates, a person could virtually eliminate the possibility of developing diabetes because the sugars in the blood never reach that over saturation point that causes a person to become unable to produce enough insulin to take care of it all.
Canine glaucoma, left untreated, can result in blindness.
Glaucoma in canines, as well as in humans, is caused by increased buildup of pressure in the aqueous humor of the eye. In a healthy dog, any excess fluid drains out of the eye through a filter, but in a dog with abnormalities of this filter, there is no way for the excess fluid to drain. This causes a buildup of fluid and eventually will cause glaucoma in the eye. Please make sure to consult your veterinarian before attempting natural remedies at home.
Conventional Treatments
Conventional treatments that reduce fluid production in the eyes are recommended for cases of canine glaucoma, but there are several holistic and natural remedies that may slow the progress of the disease or assist with treatment of the disorder.
Burdock
Burdock is an herb with anti-inflammatory properties and has been known to assist with eye infections. It can easily be administered by mixing with dog food. Burdock has not been found to cause any toxic effects with long-term use. It can be found in many large grocery stores or health food stores.
Rosemary
Rosemary is an herb with proven anti-inflammatory properties and has been shown to reduce pain associated with injury. Prolonged use can reduce long-term pain caused by chronic injuries or conditions. Rosemary is a common herb that can be found in most any grocery store.
Chelidonium Majus
Chelidonium majus is a supplement commonly used for holistic treatment of canine liver disease or jaundice, but can be used for healing of the eye due to its pain-relieving properties. Chelidonium majus is commonly found online at major retailers or drugstores.
Meadowsweet
Meadowsweet is a perennial herb sometimes used for treatment of canine muscle and joint pain. Its pain relieving properties are likened to aspirin and have been shown to reduce pain in dogs suffering from rheumatism. Meadowsweet can be found at some online retailers and drugstore web sites.
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A dentist has examined your teeth because you have pain and he finds that you need a root canal. Things have changed over the years. Root canal therapy has improved. Perhaps the reason is that today's anesthesia options are better. However, there are alternatives to a root canal.
Instructions
1. Discuss alternatives with your dentist. They have the knowledge and can consider your circumstances. They know the pain level and fee structure of the procedure. However, they don't know your pain threshold and money situation. You have this information, so talk about it with the dentist.
2. Think about having the "sick" tooth pulled. The price is a fraction of what a root canal would cost. The procedure would last only a few minutes, and you would have the problem of that bad tooth behind you. Consider, though, the location of the tooth. You might not want to pull a tooth located in the front. If you do, arrange for a replacement tooth to go in immediately.
3. Ask about using a medicated filling. This process reduces the irritation inside the tooth and tries to cure the problem from within. Dentists hesitate to use this method because patients often feel they are continuing to pay for a tooth that died after their treatment. Frequently, the alternatives do not take care of the problem and you're back in the dentist's chair for more work on your teeth and gums.
4. Bite on something the wrong way and get an infection. This is probably what will happen when you pull the bad tooth to avoid the root canal. Dental experts advise that the only viable alternative to a root canal is to pull the tooth.
5. Insist that the dentist clean below the gum line to clear out any infection. Continue with good dental hygiene.
6. Consider saving the tooth by actually having the root canal. It could be a better option than you thought. If you have the tooth pulled, infection could set in and cause many subsequent dental visits.
Medicaid helps provide medical coverage to certain vulnerable groups such as children of low-income families. Although the Medicaid program is funded by the federal government, state governments must administer the program. In Florida, the Medicaid program is run by the Agency for Health Care Administration while the Department of Children and Families helps to enroll people in the program. You can apply for Medicaid through its ACCESS website.
ACCESS Website
You can reach the ACCESS website by typing the search phrase "ACCESS Florida" into any search engine. Alternatively, you can go to Florida's Department of Children and Families website. Scroll down until you see the Latest News section and look left to find the ACCESS Florida section. You can then follow the links in the section to begin your application or check your application status.
Application
Scroll down until you see the "Apply For Benefits" tab in the center of the ACCESS front page and click on the "Apply On-line for Food Assistance, Cash Assistance, and Medicaid" link right beneath that tab. Choose the "Apply for Benefits" option on the page that pops up, "Continue," and then confirm that you are going to apply for Medicaid. Make sure that you have your Social Security number, your resource information, your household expenses and your health insurance information on hand. Set a password and record your ACCESS Online Number. Fill out the application using your personal information, getting help if you need by clicking on the Help tab in the upper right corner on each page. When you are finished, hit Submit.
Creating an Account
Under the "Online Access" tab on the ACCESS front page, you'll find a link labeled "Register here." Click on the link to bring up a pop-up page where you can register for an account with the ACCESS service using your ACCESS Online Number. Follow the instructions on each page as you read through the user agreement, enter your personal information, verify it, set up your security procedures, and hit confirmation.
Status Updates
Log into your ACCESS account to check on the status of your Medicaid application. You should receive a response in 30 to 45 days after you submit your application. Even if the pre-screening tool says that you cannot receive Medicaid benefits, the actual assessment can give you a different result. Alternatively, if you are unwilling to submit an application through the Internet, you can use the Find An Office tab to find a local office where you can go to fill out your Medicaid application in person.
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Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese form of alternative medicine, notable for its claim to have fewer negative side effects than Western medicine. There are, however, a few things to be careful of when using acupuncture.
Dizziness
Once in a while acupuncture patients experience dizziness or nausea during the procedure. Because there are needles involved and possibly blood, these side effects may actually be queasiness caused by a psychological fear or loathing of being stuck with needles or of blood rather than any physiological reaction to the procedure.
Alcohol
Acupuncturists recommend you not receive acupuncture for at least an hour after consuming alcoholic beverages or if you have been using recreational drugs. This recommendation is based on anecdotal evidence and the experience of acupuncturists rather than from any specific scientific studies.
Pregnancy
There are some acupuncture points in the abdomen or lower back that should not be used if the patient is pregnant. You should warn the acupuncturist if you are pregnant so he can adjust the treatment strategy accordingly.
Physical Pain
Some patients experience a brief stinging sensation at the site of the puncture. Others feel a dull ache around the needle once it is inserted.
Side Effects of Healing
Some acupuncturists have observed a worsening of symptoms, changes in sleep patterns, digestion or elimination for a short time after treatment. Acupuncture therapists attribute these side effects to indications that treatment is beginning to work.
Practitioner Errors
When an acupuncturist makes a mistake and injures a patient, for instance, by pushing a needle into a vital organ, blood vessel or nerve center, serious complications and even permanent injury can occur. Failure to properly sterilize needles may result in the spread of infections. However, acupuncturists have a good safety record according to the National Institutes of Health.
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Lymphoma is a term used to describe cancer of the lymphatic system, the center of operations of much of the human immune system. Lymphoma is a particularly malignant form of cancer, and according to the Lymphoma Research Foundation, only a few more than half of these patients will survive five years after diagnosis. Lymphoma is often fought through chemotherapy, an aggressive intravenous option that injects potent cancer fighting drugs into the blood.
Compromised Digestion
Digestive disruption is a common side effect of lymphoma chemotherapy, resulting in diarrhea, nausea, vomiting and stomach cramping. This side effect is particularly associated with treatments that utilize the drug Chlorambucil.
Hair Loss
Hair loss is another typical side effect of lymphoma chemotherapy, especially when combination therapy using cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin and vincristine is used.
Bladder Inflammation
Some individuals experience an inflammation and irritation of the lining of the bladder as a side effect.
Eye Pain
Treatment regimens that use DHAP are known for causing dry, itchy and raw eyes.
Increased Risk of Infection
Like all types of chemotherapy, lymphoma chemotherapy carries increased infection as a side effect, due to lowered immune function.
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The vertebrae form a cage around the spinal cord with a disk separating each vertebra. A nerve root at every level of the vertebrae exits and joins the other joints of the body. If any of the nerve roots are compressed, damaged or ruptured, pain or a loss of sensation can result. Normal degenerative changes due to old age are different from sustained damage due to external pressure. Treatment is long term and can be painful.
Medications
Nerve root damage is usually treated with a combination of steroidal and nonsteroidal pain medications. These can either be oral or be injected into the epidural space in the spinal cord. The pain medications are for short-term pain regulation. For long-term disorders, narcotic medications should not be used.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy is a part of any nerve damage treatment, as it allows the traction and mobilization of the limbs to be continued while using other modalities to reduce the pain and improve lumbar function.
Surgery
In patients where the compression or damage to the nerve is causing motor weakness, surgery may be necessary, as it would help remove the pressure, enlarge the space or remove the disk that is causing the damage.
Rehabilitation
No matter what form of nerve damage occurs, once the treatment is started, rehabilitation must also take place. Rehabilitation focuses on strengthening the muscles and increasing the mobility of the joints and may include infrared therapy, hydrotherapy and other such treatments.
Alternative Treatments
Alternative treatments, including acupuncture or acupressure, are sometimes used for nerve root damage. The latter is a technique in which finger pressure is used to stimulate nerve endings, whereas the former involves the insertion of fine needles at specific points.
EMS/interferential therapy is a treatment that reduces muscle spasms and pain. Nerve root damage pain is controlled and managed through the use of two medium-frequency currents that intersect.
Chiropractic Treatment
Chiropractic treatment focuses largely on the spine and the coordination of the muscular system. In patients with nerve damage, chiropractic treatment, largely consisting of "spinal manipulative therapy," may help in alleviating nerve compression/damage and restoring soft tissue mobilization.
A sudden change in your health may indicate an electrolyte or fluid disorder. While a physician will be able to use a blood or urine test to determine what is wrong, monitoring your diet can help reduce the risk of electrolyte imbalances. Always see a physician if you experience one or more of the symptoms listed below.
Instructions
Identify Symptoms of Electrolyte or Fluid Disorders
1. Visit a physician if you experience one or more of the following: sudden fatigue, dry mouth, muscle weakness, muscle twitching, changes in breathing patterns, seizures, disorientation, nausea and dizziness.
2. Maintain a journal for at least one week after seeing a physician. This journal should outline when you experience these symptoms, so adequate treatment can be administered. Write down times and dates when you experience physical discomfort or moments when you suddenly feel tired or dizzy.
3. Monitor your eating habits. Avoid foods that are high in sodium and make sure that you receive enough calcium during the day. Many fruits and vegetables contain the proper amounts of the electrolytes mentioned above. Poor diet and exercise can lead to electrolyte or fluid disorders.
4. Determine how often you experience stress during the day. If you experience an increase in symptoms mentioned above during stressful situations, you may have an electrolyte imbalance.
5. Visit your physician for a follow-up exam. A simple blood or urine test will determine your electrolyte levels. Medical conditions such as kidney disease, endocrine or hormone disorders or malabsorption may cause electrolyte imbalances or fluid disorders. Diagnosing and treating medical issues as soon as possible can help restore electrolyte balance.
One facet of your MS treatment may include physical or occupational therapy.
Multiple sclerosis is an autoimmune disease that attacks the nerves inside the brain and spinal cord, leading to vision, balance and muscle movement difficulties. At the time of publication, no cure has been identified for MS, but some treatments can control or slow the progress of this disease. Find and use the most effective treatments to help you maintain as much of your independence and well-being as possible.
Treat the First Episode of MS
Your doctor's goal in treating your condition is to slow the progression of your MS by reducing the frequency and severity of your relapses. Doing so may help reduce the accumulation of lesions in your brain and on your spinal cord, helping you to remain able-bodied for as long as possible.
The worst changes in your brain develop very early in your disease, most likely before you even begin experiencing noticeable symptoms. Your doctor may prescribe medications after your first episode of MS, which is called a clinically isolated syndrome. Once you have undergone diagnostic testing, he can more easily determine if you are at higher risk for a worsening of your MS. If you are, you may receive prescriptions for early treatment with disease-modifying medications.
Take Disease-Modifying Medications
Your doctor will refer you to a neurologist, who will review your history and decide which medications are the most appropriate for your form of MS. These include Interferon, glatiramer acetate, natalizumab and mitoxantrone. All of these are given as injections in differing dosing schedules.
Once you have been diagnosed, you will be taking your medications long-term to prevent relapses and progression of your disease. If these drugs do not have an effect on your symptoms, your doctor may choose to prescribe drugs that are not specifically approved for MS. They may include immunoglobulin, azathriopine, methotrexate and cyclophosphamide.
Treat All Acute Relapses
It is vitally important to treat your MS and prevent as many relapses as you can. These relapses, called flareups or exacerbations, worsen your original symptoms and cause new symptoms.
External factors, such as stress, heat or an infection, cause some exacerbations. They do not cause inflammation of the myelin sheath surrounding the nerve fibers in your brain and spinal cord, and they are usually short-lived. True exacerbations last at least 24 hours and develop at least 30 days after an earlier attack. For severe attacks, your doctor may prescribe a short course of high-dose corticosteroids. If your symptoms are very severe, you may receive a plasma transfer or an adrenocorticotropic hormone, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Treat Your Symptoms
Aside from your medication regimen, your neurologist and doctor will recommend that you take good care of your health. This may include eating more nourishing meals, getting sufficient rest and sleep and avoiding excessive heat. If you are experiencing spasticity or muscle involvement, you may be prescribed occupational or physical therapy.
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Are you interested in becoming a dental hygienist? A dental hygienist plays a very important role in dental care. It takes special skills, knowledge and training to become a dental hygienist.
Significance
Dental hygienists are very significant to the healthcare industry. They work closely with dentists to take care of patients' dental needs. A dental hygienist performs a variety of tasks, including cleaning and evaluating teeth, making assessments and teaching patients properly care for their teeth.
Function
Many dental hygienists find their job rewarding and exciting, but dental hygienists are also required to perform some challenging tasks. Dental hygienists are responsible for important duties such as examining the patient's teeth and gums, taking dental x-rays and developing the film, removing stains and plaque from the teeth, and teaching patients properly care for their teeth by using proper dental hygienic techniques. Ultimately, dental hygienists strive to keep their patients teeth clean and in good condition.
Time Frame
In order to become a dental hygienist, one must earn an associate's degree from an accredited dental hygiene program. It takes approximately 2 years to complete the program requirements, which includes receiving classroom instruction, supervised clinical experience and taking the appropriate examinations.
Before you can work as a dental hygienist, you must earn your license and become a Registered Dental Hygienist. You must successfully pass the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination, which is a clinical and written test. In addition, most states also require candidates to pass a test about the legal components of dental hygiene.
Benefits
Dental hygienists can work in a variety of settings, such as private dental practices, research facilities, hospitals, public health clinics, dental corporations and schools. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, the job outlook for dental hygienists is outstanding, and this occupation is one of the fastest rising careers today.
Also, dental hygienists have flexible work schedules and many facilities allow dental hygienists to work the days and times that best suits their own personal schedule.
In addition, most dental hygienists receive an impressive benefits package with their job, which includes health insurance, a retirement plan and paid holidays, vacation and sick leave.
Warning
There are a couple of potential health hazards involved with the role of a dental hygienist. For example, although dental hygienists are required to wear appropriate safety glasses, masks and clothing, they are still exposed to infectious diseases and therefore are at risk of becoming infected with a disease when working with patients.
Also, dental hygienists work with a variety of dental tools, instruments, x-ray machines and ultrasonic devices which can cause serious injuries if not properly used.
Ionic cleanse foot baths are used to detoxify the body. A tub of water is charged with electric currents to create positive and negative ions. When users soak their feet in the ion-charged water, it begins to pull toxins from the body.
Benefits
Physical benefits include improved sleep and blood circulation, increased energy, less pain and an improved immune system.
Internal Benefits
Ionic cleanse foot bath has internal benefits that include pulling nicotine from joints and tissues, and eliminating mucous, pinworms and parasites.
Safety
Ionic cleanse foot bath may present safety issues for some users. Don't use an ionic cleanse foot bath if you are pregnant or diabetic; have had chemotherapy, radiation treatment or a stroke; or have an open wound on your feet.
Length
An ionic cleanse foot bath takes about 30 minutes for the electric current and ions to complete the session of detoxification.
Method
An electrical current is sent through a tub of water to create positive and negative ions. These ions attach to the feet to pull toxins from the body.
Location
Ionic foot baths are available in spa or salon settings for around $40. It is also an option to purchase your own ionic bath equipment, but the cost can be well over $1,000.
No one likes to get stung by any kind of insect, especially a hornet, which has a tendency to be aggressive when protecting a colony. A hornet stings primarily for the purpose of killing its prey, and that sting contains less venom than that of bees. However, a hornet can sting multiple times without being injured or affected, making it one nasty adversary. Upon being stung, the hornet will inject a protein venom into your skin which results in pain. Some type of reaction is to be expected, but an allergic reaction needs immediate attention.
The Body Reacts
After such a sting, it is normal to experience redness, pain, swelling and itching at the site. It is your body's way of informing you that something isn't quite right. However, if symptoms are more severe than mere irritation, chances are you may be experiencing an allergic reaction.
Allergic Reaction Occurs
An allergic reaction to any type of sting occurs when the body's immune system overreacts to the allergens found in the insect's venom. The body goes on the defensive against the venom. Minor allergic reactions will result in itching and swelling at the sting site, fatigue, nausea and even a low fever. Although the reaction will seem extreme, it typically does not require medical attention. A more serious reaction to the sting will spread throughout the entire body. This is known as anaphylaxis. The victim may feel faint, pass out, have difficulty breathing, swelling of the tongue, experience wheezing, coughing, confusion and shock. It can even result in death. The reaction time for symptoms to appear can be a few seconds to 20 minutes. Medical attention is required if such a reaction takes place.
Neuropathy is a condition where there is damage to the peripheral nerves. Having neuropathy means that there is an inability of the nervous impulses sent by the brain to reach the part of the body they were intended for. It can affect the motor nerves, sensory nerves or the autonomic nerves. Your muscles, organs and joints can all be affected. Approximately thirty percent of all neuropathies are the result of diabetes. The rest are due to injury, other illnesses, poor nutrition, infections, or in some cases the cause is unknown. It most commonly affects the hands and the feet, however symptoms vary greatly from person to person. The symptoms you experience depends on where in the body the neuropathy is occurring.
Weakness
If you have neuropathy, you may experience muscle weakness in the arms, hands, legs or feet. Neuropathies that affect the upper body may make it difficult to grip or hold onto items with your hands.
Difficulty Walking
Neuropathies that affect the lower body can lead to a loss of balance and trouble walking. You may also lose the ability to feel sensations in the bottom of your feet. If this happens you will not be able to feel yourself stepping on the floor as you try to walk.
Pain and Other Sensations
When your nerves are compressed or damaged you may have tingling sensations in the body or you may have numbness. You can also have pain that is aching, burning or stabbing.
Other Symptoms
With neuropathy you may experience sensations of tingling, numbness or other abnormal feelings when you try to touch things. In contrast, with some cases of neuropathy all sensation is lost in either the hands or the feet. Some patients describe feeling like they are wearing socks or gloves even when they are not.
Gastrointestinal Symptoms
Neuropathy can lead to gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhea, constipation, incontinence and general problems with the bladder and bowel movements.
Cardiovascular Symptoms
Having a disruption in the nervous system's ability to transfer signals can cause sudden changes in blood pressure when changing positions and an irregular heart rate.
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Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome is rare and occurs mostly in people in their 50s. With this condition, tumors are formed in your upper small intestine, and hydrochloric acid is produced in your stomach. Peptic ulcers can form as a result of this excess acid. While treatments for this condition include medicine to reduce the acid and surgery to remove tumors, there is also an herbal approach to treat the symptoms.
Ayurvedic Approach
Ayurveda is the ancient Indian healing process associated with treating conditions and diseases with natural herbs and meditation. Known as the study of life and science, Ayurveda is based on the concept of Tridosha, which classifies people, diseases and remedies into three categories: Vata (air), Kapha (water or mucous) and Pitta (fire).
According to the Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome organization website, Ayurveda may be helpful in treating the symptoms of gastro-intestinal target ulcers and pancreatic and duodenal tumors associated withthis condition. It lists Ayurvedic drugs such as Praval-bhasma, Shankh-bhasma and Kamdudha-Ras as treatments for stomach acid production and intestinal ulcers. Herbal medications such as Haritaki (Terminalis chebula), sunthi (Zinzibar officinalis) and Bhrungraj (Eclipta alba) are also listed in the treatment of these symptoms. For diarrhea, Kutaj-Parpati is listed as a treatment, and for bleeding associated with stomach and intestinal ulcers, it lists Vasa (Adhatoda vasaka). Stress associated with Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome can be treated with jatamansi (Nardostachys jatamansi), and tumors in your pancreas or duodenum can be treated with drugs such as Maha-Manjishtadi-Qadha.
If you choose to utilize the Ayurvedic approach to heal your symptoms, do an online search for practitioners near you. He or she can make an assessment to which kind of herbal medication to prescribe.
A migraine is not your typical headache. Migraine sufferers may not be aware that there are a number of triggers they can avoid to prevent the onset of pain. Although red wine, aged cheese and chocolate are commonly-known culprits, one of the lesser-known triggers is nicotine and its relative, secondhand smoke.
How Do I Know If It's a Migraine?
Some of the most common signs and symptoms include severe pain on one or both sides of the head, nausea, dizziness, weakness, fatigue and sensitivity to bright lights, loud or sudden noises and/or motion changes.
The Caffeine/Nicotine Connection
For many patients, large amounts of caffeine may be a migraine trigger, but other patients experience some relief with moderate amounts. Migraines can also be triggered by sudden caffeine or nicotine withdrawal or by the irritants found in smoke of any kind.
Role of Food Cravings
This condition is usually experienced by dieters, pregnant women, those unable to eat at their accustomed mealtimes, and those who are suffering withdrawal from nicotine, alcohol, drugs or certain medications.
Target Your Triggers
In addition to regulating food intake and sleep schedule, migraine sufferers should keep an eye out for cigarette smoke. For many sufferers, even secondhand smoke is a known trigger. If you are a smoker, now is the time to quit.
Migraine Relief Tips
The key to receiving effective treatment is keeping the lines of communication open with your doctor. Because your relief needs change over time, it is helpful to keep a headache diary to notice any trends in eating, sleeping or other habits, like smoking, that could be triggers.
Autoimmune hepatitis is a chronic condition in which the body’s immune system attacks the liver. This illness is more common in women and occurs primarily during the teen and early adult years. Autoimmune hepatitis is very serious and the earlier it’s detected, the better the chances are that it can be controlled through treatment. That’s why it’s important to be able to recognize this condition.
Instructions
1. Know the warning signs. The symptoms include fatigue, jaundice, skin rashes, joint pain, abdominal pain, abnormal blood vessels on the skin, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, dark urine, and pale or gray colored stools. In severe cases, symptoms may include fluid in the abdomen, mental confusion, and women may stop having periods.
2. Look for the presence of certain other conditions, which may be an indicator. Medical experts say that roughly half of all people who have autoimmune hepatitis have one or more of the following: type 1 diabetes, kidney problems, an inflamed thyroid gland, Graves’ disease, dry eyes and mouth, and ulcers caused by inflammation of the colon and rectum.
3. Be sure to rule out medication as the cause for your symptoms. Certain medicines such as acetaminophen (if used too often) can cause liver failure much in the same way that hepatitis does. Also, some medicines can cause the body's immune system to attack the liver, thus making it appear that you have autoimmune hepatitis.
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Candida is a type of yeast infection that can affect different parts of the body. This fungus can be present in the vagina, mouth, rectum and ears. It can also attack different parts of the body since it has the ability to travel through the bloodstream.
Ringing in the ears, an ear infection, or dryness, pain and discharge may all be present. Make an appointment with your doctor if you have any of these symptoms. Your physician will examine the infected ear as well as take a culture to determine if candida is the cause of the ailment begin you begin treatment.
Instructions
1. Stop antibiotic use if possible. If your doctor permits it, you may have to stop taking antibiotics in order to cure the candida in the ear. Otherwise repeat infection is likely to occur.
2. Obtain a prescription for an anti-fungal medication. You will be directed by your doctor to treat the infected ear with anti-fungal drugs. Follow the doctor's directions and apply the anti-fungal meds to the ear with candida.
3. Place a drop of garlic oil into your ear. A natural remedy to cure candida in the ears is to use garlic oil twice a day. You can make your own garlic oil at home by mixing one diced garlic and a cup of extra virgin olive oil.
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Lung cancer killed over 170,000 patients in 2004, making it one of the most deadly forms of cancer. There are a number of treatments for lung cancer patients that help them minimize pain and discomfort associated with the symptoms, but doctors are quickly trying to find better ways to fight lung cancer through other means. Those researchers are conducting clinical trials that address various stages of lung cancer and new ways to fight it. This article will explore some of those trials and techniques that could lead to new treatments.
Lymph Nodes
Doctors typically do biopsies into the lymph node to find out what stage lung cancer is in. There is currently a clinical trial that involves using ultrasound waves to get a better diagnosis. The endoscopic ultrasound probes the esophagus and stomach, while an endobronchial ultrasound utilizes probes in the trachea and lungs. Non-small cell lung cancer patients are being used in this trial.
Screening
Screening for lung cancer is also being examined. New screening methods are being developed for people at high risk for lung cancer. Doctors are examining the use of biomarkers. Biomarkers are substances that can pinpoint disease development through cell changes in samples of sputum, blood and lung tissue. Rather than wait after symptoms appear and diagnose via a chest X-ray, a doctor can possibly detect lung cancer before it develops into later stages.
Blood Tests
Whenever chemicals attach to DNA, the DNA pattern changes. Doctors believe that specific cancers and treatments create individual patterns in DNA that can be mapped or recorded. These patterns show up in blood and tissue samples. Currently doctors are trying to gather samples after various lung cancer treatments to establish a DNA database known as an epigenetic profile. Although participating in a clinical trial may not change your treatment plan, it could affect the plan of future patients.
Vaccine
Stimuvax is a new cancer vaccine. It works by better prepping your immune system to fight cancer cells that aren't always recognized by it. One indicator of cancer is an MU2 molecule that is abnormally produced in infected cells. The immune system normally doesn't recognize irregular levels, but the Stimuvax vaccine can "educate" the immune system into recognizing it. Doctors are proposing to use this vaccine after a combination of chemotherapy and medications in non-small cell lung cancer patients. They aim to see if Stimuvax is effective in maintenance therapy.
CT Scans
New developments in Computerized Tomography (CT) scans can help doctors diagnose lung cancer with more accuracy. Non-small cell lung cancer patients usually go through radiotherapy for treatment. To plan it, doctors use CT scans. But CT scans are normally inaccurate due to the normal breathing motions of the chest while under scanning, making it difficult to pinpoint the lung cancer. This test also subjects healthy tissue to radiotherapy, which can lead to shortness of breath. With the new 4D scanners, CT machines can take accurate pictures of your breathing motions, adding accuracy to radiotherapy treatment.
Tags: lung cancer, lung cancer, cancer patients, lung cancer patients, cell lung, cell lung cancer
Bulging discs in your neck are caused when the circular cushions between the spinal joints slip or bulge out because of age or injury. Exercises can help relieve the pain.
Therapy Ball
Help your neck by using a therapy ball such as those found in gyms and some chiropractors' offices. Sit on the ball and simply bounce up and down gently for four minutes each day. This exercise brings oxygen and nutrients into the injured disc by physically pumping it. Bouncing on the ball pumps every disc in the spine.
Mini-Trampoline
Purchase and use a mini-trampoline (3 to 4 feet wide). Stand in its center and just walk in place without jumping or running. Be sure to keep your head straight and your arms relaxed at your side. Maintain this regimen for four minutes every day. Keep the trampoline near something that you can grab onto in case you lose your balance.
Tai Chi
Take a class in, or learn, the Oriental exercise called Tai Chi. This exercise was created in ancient China and is still practiced around the world today. It includes slow, smooth movements that improve physical alignment and flexibility of the vertebra, including those around the injured area. Deliberate, rhythmic breathing during the exercise relaxes the body and helps bring better circulation. That promotes the healing process. Meditation promotes a calm state of mind during the exercise and, along with the smooth movements and rhythmic breathing, can help relieve stress caused by psychological and emotional pain.
Considerations
When you find a bulging disc in your neck, check with your physician for its possible cause as well as proper initial treatment. Avoid exercises that would subject the disc to strain, stress or undue trauma.
Tags: your neck, during exercise, four minutes, help relieve, rhythmic breathing, smooth movements, This exercise
Healthcare costs in the United States have soared over the past several years and subsequently, thousands--if not millions--of Americans have fallen between the cracks. While the problem is indeed challenging for those of low-to-middle-level incomes, doing your research and knowing where to look will give you a leg up in the game.
Instructions
1. Research your choices before you buy. Basically, you will be looking into three options--associations, insurance companies and agents. For example, by going to www.eHealthinsurance.com, you will get a menu of options. Sam Gibbs, senior VP of sales, says that this online brokerage represents over 175 different carriers throughout the country. "What's unique about us is that within a given state or zip code level, every insurance plan that is available we put up on our website."
2. Know your income level. This is very important because it means ascertaining whether you qualify for public assistance or must purchase a plan through a company, such as Aetna, Blue Cross, Horizon, HIP, etc.
3. Get online and choose appropriately. According to Phil Lebherz, founder of the Uninsured Helpline, 43 million Americans are uninsured but about a third are eligible for "public assistance of some sort." Thus, if you are unsure whether you qualify for public assistance or must buy your own policy, going online will help. On the Uninsured Helpline website you will fill in basic criteria that will allow the portal to direct you to appropriate resources.
4. Follow up with a phone call. This is important when you have further questions, are unclear about whether a pre-existing condition will disqualify you or you simply have trouble with the idea of buying insurance online.
5. Reconsider all your options. Before you invest $500 or more of your hard-earned money, reconsider exactly what you are doing and what you and/or your family needs. While the commercialization of the insurance industry in America has its obvious drawbacks--cost, possible inappropriate direction of funds, the rush to push through drugs that may or may not be in Amercicans' best interest--there are also some upsides. The real plus is that the industry is not a monopoly and as a consumer, you hold the cards to shop around. If you are talking to Blue Cross or HIP (in New York), remember there are other options out there that may be a better fit.But don't take too long to figure it out. You want to be covered especially in the case of an accident or serious illness.
Tags: public assistance, assistance must, Blue Cross, public assistance must, qualify public, qualify public assistance
One in every 6,000 babies is born with spinal muscular atrophy, or SMA. It is the number one genetic killer of children under the age of 2, but can affect people of any age and gender. The disease destroys the nerves that control voluntary muscle movement. This severely limits people's abilities to walk, swallow, crawl and hold their head up. Follow these steps to care of someone with SMA.
Instructions
1. Use resources available through the Families with SMA website to help you better understand the disease. You can't begin to care for your child if you haven't come to grips with the effects of SMA.
2. Follow your child's lead. SMA is a physical handicap. It doesn't necessarily affect a child emotionally or cognitively. Allow his happiness to catch on.
3. Appreciate the good moments. It may be a minor victory or maybe your child is enjoying herself at the computer in the middle of the night. Whatever it is, value and appreciate her success at living life to the best of her ability.
4. Be hopeful and allow your child to see that hope. There's nothing worse than seeing your child in pain or in a hospital bed. But you need to keep the hope alive and let him see you smile through your fear.
5. Enjoy your child's accomplishments like you would any sort of accomplishment. She may not be able to walk, but she may be the funniest kid you know. Revel in that.
6. Talk to other SMA parents. You need to become an expert on medical complications, equipment and treatment options. Use other parents as the valuable resource they are.
7. Take some time for yourself. The last thing SMA parents think about is themselves. But it's vital that you do things you enjoy. Even if it's a two-hour date night, get out. If you take care of yourself, you can better care for your child.
Tags: your child, care your, care your child, other parents
Multiple sclerosis affects each person in a different way. Neurological symptoms that resemble multiple sclerosis also serve as the basis for diagnosing other chronic conditions. Outright nerve damage usually leads to the diagnosis of multiple sclerosis.
Neurological symptoms of multiple sclerosis tend to appear between the ages of 20 and 40, although some people do not know they have it. Early symptoms may come and go, thus these symptoms remain untreated. It is for this reason that multiple sclerosis is a "rule in" diagnosis. The neurological symptoms are common to other chronic illnesses that need to be "ruled out" first.
Unrecognized Early Symptoms
These early symptoms include tingling and numbness, which are the "pins and needles" effect. These are neurological in nature as they usually result from pressure on a nerve. Loss of balance is another very early symptom that is also common to ear infections, inner ear disorders or alcohol withdrawal---to name just a few issues that interfere with diagnosis.
Optic neuritis is inflammation of the optic nerve that causes blurred or double vision. In the majority of cases, this defining neurological symptom leads to the diagnosis of multiple sclerosis.
Causes of Neurological Symptoms
There is a protective cover over the nerve fibers in the brain. These fibers transmit messages to other parts of the body from the brain and use the spinal cord fluid as the main method of transportation.
Myelin is that protective sheath. Damage and the ultimate deterioration of myelin cause the appearance of neurological symptoms. Affected regions of the brain make a huge difference with the frequency and severity of neurological symptoms. These areas show up on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) pictures as white spots (lesions).
The location of lesions help to "map" affected areas where messages cannot get through or the distortion of signals causes mixed messages. Thus, the MRI helps to identify the origin of the damage causing those neurological symptoms that resemble multiple sclerosis.
Neurological Symptoms and Diagnosis
No one knows the exact cause of multiple sclerosis. Theories include the influence of geography, smoking and genes. Vaccines are "ruled out" based on extensive studies. Researchers generally agree that multiple sclerosis might be an autoimmune disease similar to fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis and others. The body has infection-fighters that become overactive causing damage to organs, muscles and nerves. This is the reason that patients initially may receive the diagnosis of an illness that resembles multiple sclerosis.
Over time, other symptoms emerge complicating the speed of a definite diagnosis. These additional neurological symptoms include muscle spasms, heat/cold sensitivity, fatigue and changes in perception and cognitive thinking. Following the emergence of those symptoms, a patient may slowly experience speech and swallowing problems, tremors, difficulty walking, spasticity and more.
Common Form of Multiple Sclerosis
Two individuals rarely present with identical symptoms. Doctors and scientists use sub-groupings to predict the severity and anticipated outcome of treatment. The majority of the MS population (90 percent) have relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis. Their relapses remit with complete or partial return to normal.
There are a variety of symptoms, diverse patterns of affected nerves, duration of the relapse, amount of achieved recovery and the length of time between relapses. After many years of treatment, most people with RRMS will transition to a secondary progressive phase.
Several treatments are available to slow progression of relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis. Secondary-progressive is unresponsive to most treatments. It also creates a difficult lifestyle. People with SPMS will experience disability.
The Three Progressives
Each of the progressive forms of multiple sclerosis has its own unique neurological, physical and disabling degree of decline with some overlapping. A person's age at diagnosis is a contributing factor. The individual experiencing partial recovery from relapses will transition to secondary-progressive much faster.
The three progressive forms include:
Primary-progressive multiple sclerosis affects about 12 percent of people 40 years old or more with multiple sclerosis. These patients tend to develop disability much more quickly as treatments are not dependable.
Progressive-relapsing multiple sclerosis is rare. Relapses happen sporadically and relief rarely means this person returns to normal.
Secondary-progressive multiple sclerosis follows many years of relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis. There is less inflammation but more nerve degeneration.
When spring days begin to roll into summer, and the sun begins to shine with extreme force, chances are that you will end up with a moderate to severe sunburn at some point. Trying to avoid sunburn at all costs is the smartest idea of all, but if you like to get a tan in the summer, it’s very easy to forget the danger long enough to get into trouble, especially if you have fair skin. Once your skin becomes sunburned, there are some tricks that will help you through the healing process and make you more.
Instructions
1. When spring days begin to roll into summer, and the sun begins to shine with extreme force, chances are that you will end up with a moderate to severe sunburn at some point. Trying to avoid sunburn at all costs is the smartest idea of all, but if you like to get a tan in the summer, it’s very easy to forget the danger long enough to get into trouble, especially if you have fair skin. Once your skin becomes sunburned, there are some tricks that will help you through the healing process and make you more.
2. Get out of the sun immediately whenever you feel even a little soreness and notice any redness at all forming on your skin. You don’t necessarily have to go inside, though that is perhaps the best option. To save your skin from further damage without ruining all your fun, you can make a few changes to reduce the sun’s exposure. One is to dress in soft cotton clothing that covers the area that has been affected. Make sure this clothing is not porous, which would allow the rays to reach your skin through the fibers in the material. If you are playing some kind of game or sunbathing, change your activity, which will change the angle of the sun on your body. Be sure to include a hat because if any part of your body is burning, the chances are strong that your face will burn too.
3. Begin to properly treat your sunburn as soon as you return home or to your hotel room. The first step is to take a cold shower, or you can run cold water over the area of skin that is sunburned. Be careful not to accidentally allow the water to warm up because the hot water will cause your tender skin a lot of pain. If the burn is not too bad, repeating a cool shower every few hours will help relieve pain and keep you more comfortable.
4. Gently massage aloe vera gel into the skin to help heal the burn and take some of the pain away. You can purchase aloe vera gel at most grocery and drug stores, but I prefer the more pure products in a health food or natural foods store or coop. Choose one that has a clear bottle so you can see that the contents are gooey and green. Another great source for aloe is an aloe plant—if you happen to have one growing in your home or garden. After you have rubbed aloe onto the burn, it should begin to feel better immediately. Continue to rub aloe liberally but gently on your skin continually throughout that day and evening and regularly until it begins to peel.
5. Find a lotion (with aloe as one of the ingredients) that moisturizes and rejuvenates once your skin has begun to peel--instead of continuing to rub pure aloe on the burn. This will help to control the dead skin and moisturize the dry skin underneath the burned skin. Continually apply this lotion until the sunburn has completely healed.
6. Stop yourself from trying to speed the healing process up by peeling off the dead skin when your skin begins to peel.. If you pull off the skin, a scab can form and the skin underneath is very raw. This will cause you more pain and could possibly become infected or leave scaring when it heals.
7. Keep your skin away from irritating materials while recovering from sunburn. Try to avoid direct contact to your skin by bumping or touching it or from clothing because it will be very painful to you. Once you have been burned, stay inside or do whatever it takes to avoid being in the sun. You need to prevent the burn from becoming any worse than it already is, and you must allow it the required time to heal. If you must go in the sun while you have sunburn, be sure to wear lots of sunscreen, a cotton shirt and a hat.
Tags: your skin, that will, will help, healing process, aloe vera, avoid sunburn, avoid sunburn costs
A root canal is the natural cavity in the dentin of a tooth that contains the dental pulp. It is also the common term for endodontic therapy to remove the structures within the root canal. The tooth is frequently restored after the root canal in a procedure called a crown.
Instructions
1. Expect to need a crown after a root canal in most cases. Removal of the pulp leaves the tooth in a brittle condition, but a properly performed crown is a highly predictable procedure.
2. Place a crown after a root canal most often for molars. This is almost always done on molars to prevent fractures because molars receive the most stress.
3. Create a crown less often when a large amount of enamel remains. A crown may not be needed if there is enough enamel left on the tooth to hold it together.
4. Undergo a post and core if there is enough tooth structure remaining after the root canal. A post is a thin metal rod inserted into the root of a tooth and a core is the buildup around the post. The purpose of this procedure is to replace the lost tooth structure. In some cases, only a core will be done.
5. Insert a one piece inlay/onlay restoration using porcelain after a root canal. This is a newer procedure but is considered the definitive treatment in some practices.
Tags: root canal, after root, after root canal, after root canal, canal most
Coming down with a cold? Instead of reaching for a bowl of chicken soup, try a cup of turmeric milk, a time-tested Ayurvedic treatment and Indian folk remedy for colds, coughs, runny nose from allergies, throat irritation, and even asthma.
Making Turmeric Milk
In its most basic form, turmeric milk is simply a cup of milk heated with about half a teaspoon of powdered turmeric. Many recipes also call for a pinch of black pepper, salt, saffron, cardamom, caraway seeds, cinnamon, or ginger powder. A little sugar, honey or maple syrup offsets the astringency of the turmeric.
Taking Turmeric Milk
To relieve symptoms, drink a cup of warm turmeric milk two or three times per day. Indian naturopath Dr. H. K. Bakhru recommends taking it on an empty stomach for best results.
Ayurvedic Tradition
Ayurvedic medicine classes turmeric as a Kaphahara drug---that is, it is effective against conditions involving an imbalance of kapha (phlegm). Ayurvedic tradition recognizes turmeric as an anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antiviral, antimicrobial, and antiseptic.
Western Medical Evidence
According to Medline Plus, laboratory and animal studies suggest that turmeric and curcumin (the compound that gives turmeric its distinctive yellow color) have anti-inflammatory properties. Turmeric may also help in treating viral infections, although confirmatory human research is pending.
Precautions
While turmeric is safe in regular dietary amounts, it can cause stomach upset at high doses. Ask your doctor before using turmeric if you are pregnant or suffer from gallstones or bile duct obstructions. Do not take turmeric milk if you are allergic to dairy products.
An inguinal hernia occurs when tissue-usually from the small intestine-protrudes through the part of abdominal wall near the groin. Open surgeries, where a surgeon makes a long incision into the groin, is one type of surgery to address this problem. In most cases, you go home the same day as the procedure, but some people might require a hospital stay.
Work
WebMD states some people can return to work in about a week, but the site advises waiting at least three weeks, or six weeks if your job involves strenuous activity, such as heavy lifting. Straining yourself too soon can cause the hernia to come back.
Regular Activity
Typically, you can resume normal day-to-day living within a few weeks. Professional opinions vary but most indicate a full recovery in two to four weeks. WebMD suggests three to four while the American College of Surgeons suggests two to three. Ultimately, it depends on the individual.
Exercise
You can engage in light exercise, like walking, three weeks after surgery. More strenuous activity should wait for six weeks.
Sexual Activity
You can engage in sexual activity about two weeks after surgery, according to the American College of Surgeons.
Driving
WebMD suggests refraining from driving until the pain in your groin has resolved, which typically happens in about two weeks.
Tags: about weeks, after surgery, American College, American College Surgeons, College Surgeons, some people, strenuous activity
A USB storage device is an easy solution to moving and backing up files.
A USB storage device is an eminently useful tool for all computer users. The tiny devices fit in your pocket, but can store and transport gigabytes of your data. A USB drive is useful for moving files and folders from one computer to another, as well as serving as a backup device for your important files. Modern operating systems treat the devices as "Plug and Play" hardware, recognizing them as soon as they are plugged into a port and making them available for immediate use.
Instructions
1. Plug the storage device into an open USB port on your computer. Older computers may assign some ports to be USB 1.1 ports and others to follow the 2.0 specification. The USB 2.0 ports have a faster data transfer rate and you should use these for the USB device, if possible.
2. Click the "Windows Explorer" icon on the Taskbar to open the application.
3. Scroll down the folder tree to find a drive letter labeled "Removable Storage Device." Click on this drive letter. If the USB storage device has been previously used, the files and folders stored on the drive are displayed in Explorer.
4. Drag and drop the files that you want to transfer to the drive from within Explorer.
5. Click the "Safely Remove Hardware and Remove Media" icon on the Taskbar's "Notification Area." Select "Eject Storage Media" from the menu to close out the operating system's connection with the USB drive.
In the United States, heart disease is the leading cause of death in middle-aged men and women. Heart disease can take many forms, but its most common cause is blocked arteries that prevent blood from properly flowing through the body, and in some cases prevent the heart itself from getting the oxygen and nutrients it needs to function. Blocked arteries, or atherosclerosis, can be caused by a family history of the disease, a diet full of high-fat and LDL cholesterol or unhealthy habits such as smoking. If you recognize the symptoms of blocked arteries early on, you can prevent cardiac arrest--and save your life. The exact symptoms depend on which arteries are blocked.
Misconceptions
Blocked arteries can start to cause problems even if an actual heart attack or stroke hasn't occurred yet. According to the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, most people don't realize they have blocked arteries until they have a heart attack or stroke. Infection, chest pain, headaches and difficulty breathing are other common symptoms of blocked arteries, but are often attributed to other conditions.
Coronary Arteries
When fatty deposits build up in your arteries, they create a thick plaque lining and cause the artery to become less flexible and thinner, thus making it harder for blood to flow properly. The coronary arteries--the main blood vessel that supply your heart--are most affected. If plaque obstructs blood flow to the heart, angina--chest pain--can be a result, according to the National Library of Medicine. Angina can feel like a squeezing sensation or general pain. Angina is commonly mistaken for indigestion, because the two can feel similar. Visit your doctor if you have chronic chest pain; it could be angina.
Carotid Arteries
Where blockage of coronary arteries results in angina and shortness of breath, blockage of the carotid arteries can result in dizziness, numbed senses and headaches. The carotid arteries are located in the neck and supply blood to your brain. A stroke or death is the result of prolonged lack of adequate blood flow to the brain. Other symptoms can include numbness on one side of your body, difficulty speaking clearly or loss of vision or hearing on one side. According to the Society for Vascular Surgery, these symptoms usually vanish within 24 hours, but still should be examined by your physician as soon as possible.
Peripheral Arteries
Peripheral arteries are the arteries that lead to your arms and legs. The most common symptom of peripheral artery blockage is muscle pain in the legs. According to the Society for Vascular Surgery, only 50 percent of people who have peripheral artery blockage experience extreme pain. However, because the pain isn't severe, the condition goes unchecked. Muscle pain isn't the only symptom you should worry about--blood flow also gives the immune system its necessary nutrients. Infection can result from improper nutrition to tissues. In extreme cases, gangrene can result. Gangrene is the death of tissue, and can spread throughout the body.
Prevention of Atherosclerosis
Atherosclerosis is treatable and preventable. Blocked arteries come from a high-fat diet. To lower your chances of developing blocked arteries, eat foods low in fat and eat fish or take a fish oil supplement. Get at least 30 minutes of exercise daily, because it keeps your cardiovascular endurance levels high and burns calories. Smoking can cause atherosclerosis; if you smoke, kick the habit as soon as possible. Above all else, if you have any symptoms you think are linked to blocked arteries, visit your doctor as soon as possible to discuss treatment options.
Tags: blocked arteries, blood flow, soon possible, According Society, According Society Vascular, arteries that
As a medical device used for the delivery of medication into the body via the airways, the inhaler (or puffer) is the most common method of administering asthma medication to patients suffering from this condition or its related symptoms. Although documented incidences of asthma date back to the 1600s, it was the invention of the pressurized metered-dose inhaler (MDI) that first made anti-asthma therapy a real possibility.
History
The original asthma medications delivered by MDI were pressurized and aerosolized preparations of isoproterenol and epinephrine that had been dissolved in alcohol by freon propellants.
Metered-Dose Inhaler
Introduced in 1956, this device is pressurized, delivering a precise amount of asthma medication to the patient's lungs via inhalation.
Bronchodilator
Invented in 1957, this small, fast-acting MDI administers asthma treatments by delivering a short burst of aerosolized medication that, upon inhalation, allows for the quick dilation and relaxation of the bronchial airways.
Nebulizer
Introduced in the 1960s, this device assists those asthmatics who suffer from severe asthma attacks or who cannot inhale deeply. It delivers a continuous dose of vaporized medication that is steadily inhaled over a period of time.
Size
The asthma inhaler (bronchodilator MDI) has been utilized for delivering approximately 70 percent of all inhaled medications among the 15 largest countries alone, reaching sales numbers of almost 500 million each year.
Evolution
Modern asthma inhalers have used chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) propellants to deliver aerosolized medications; however, in the past decade manufacturers have replaced this propellant with hydrofluoroalkane (HFA), which is more environmentally friendly.
Fun Fact
As introduced in 1956, the original MDI was designed for the American cosmetic industry and intended for use as a perfumery device.
Tags: asthma medication, medication that, this device
A bee or wasp sting is painful and troublesome. If you are allergic to these flying insects, a sting can even be deadly. Everyone gets stung by a bee at some point in their lives. The important thing to remember is to stay calm and get the stinger out. In most cases, after the stinger is removed, the affected area will heal on its own. If you have a more serious reaction, such as hives, a rash or extra redness, it may be necessary to seek medical attention.
Instructions
1. Leave the area of the incident immediately. Multiple bee stings are doubly painful and can lead to a trip to the ER for some.
2. Remove the bee stinger as soon as possible. The longer the stinger is in contact with the skin, the more poison enters the body from the stinger. Use a pair of tweezers or your fingertips to squeeze the end and pull the stinger from the bite. There is no real difference between removing the stinger with your fingers or a pair tweezers.
3. Clean the affected area with soap and water or rubbing alcohol. Cover with a bandage. You will not bleed a lot from a bee sting, but it is important to keep the area clean to avoid an infection.
4. Apply ice to the affected area. This will help reduce swelling and inflammation. If you are allergic to bee stings, your doctor may have given you an epinephrine auto-injector (also called an EpiPen). Use as directed. If symptoms worsen seek medical attention.
5. Visit a hospital if you think you are having an allergic reaction to a bee sting. Taking Benedryl may also help reduce the allergic reaction.
Tags: affected area, allergic reaction, help reduce, medical attention, pair tweezers
High blood pressure is an early warning sign and risk factor for heart disease. But do you know the signs of high blood pressure? Here's what to look for.
Signs of High Blood Pressure
The truth is that most people have no early signs of high blood pressure--the signs simply do not exist. Sometimes people with high blood pressure will have headaches or dizziness, but it's by far more common to have no signs or symptoms.
Misconceptions
Many people incorrectly believe that a person needs risk factors, such as high stress or poor dietary habits, to have high blood pressure, but this is not the case. The condition can strike anyone.
Significance
It is important to catch high blood pressure early so that you can make any necessary lifestyle changes to help lower your blood pressure.
Prevention/Solution
High blood pressure can be treated with blood pressure medication. In some cases, doctors may advise stress reduction techniques or increased exercise as a first course of treatment, and using medication only if those strategies do not work.
Warning
Because blood pressure can fluctuate over time and even throughout the course of the day, it's difficult to judge a person's blood pressure by a single measurement and best to take multiple measurements over a course of several days in order to determine whether a person has high blood pressure.
Tags: blood pressure, high blood, blood pressure, high blood pressure, blood pressure, High Blood, pressure early
Many farmers and backyard garden enthusiasts grow their own tobacco. Although mostly for personal use, occasionally you can find home grown tobacco for sale. Use caution when purchasing home grown tobacco and follow all state regulations. Selling home grown tobacco is illegal in some states, so do your homework before making a purchase.
Instructions
1. Decide what kind of tobacco you are looking for. Pipe smokers might be especially interested in homegrown tobacco since much of the chemicals used in commercial grades are left out.
2. Talk to people in the tobacco market that can help you make connections.
3. Look for tobacco farmers in your area that might offer their product for sale to a few individuals. Most large tobacco farmers are members of a coop and will not have home grown tobacco for sale locally.
4. Make sure you know the tobacco grower well before you purchase any tobacco from him. You want to make sure that the homegrown tobacco you purchase is not mixed with any other substance that could be considered illegal.
5. Determine a fair price between you and the grower. Most home grown tobacco growers will have a set price based on market value, grade and type. If a tobacco grower doesn't know his market and the quality of his product do not purchase from that grower.
6. Make purchases in small amounts to test the product before purchasing again from the same grower. You don't want to get stuck with a large batch of bad tobacco.
Tags: grown tobacco, home grown, home grown tobacco, grown tobacco sale, home grown
Colitis is a form of inflammatory bowel disease. Here's what happens: The digestive tract has a heightened tendency to become irritated and inflamed, prompting a person to experience some undesirable symptoms, including loose stools, diarrhea, cramping and constipation. If you are diagnosed with this condition, there isn't really a diet to follow, according to the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation of America, because dietary recommendations should be tailored to each individual, according to the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation. But a few dietary options and restrictions might make living with colitis a bit easier.
Dairy Foods
For some people with colitis, limiting the amount of dairy products consumed each day can reduce the amount of abdominal cramping and diarrhea that commonly occurs. The culprit is lactose. Avoid anything made with dairy products, including milk, cheese and butter. Try substituting soy milk for regular milk; low-lactose cheeses, such as cheddar or Swiss, for regular cheese; and margarine for butter. Remember, when limiting the amount of dairy in a diet, you still need to get the proper amount of calcium, so you might need to take calcium supplements.
Fiber
Fiber is an important part of a healthy, well-balanced diet, but people with colitis sometimes have a problem with foods that are high in fiber. You may need to avoid foods such as broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, carrots and even apples. If you want to eat these fiber-rich foods, then steam the broccoli and cauliflower, bake the apples and stew the cabbage. It's really trial and error to see which foods work for your system.
Water
Increasing the amount of water you drink in a given day can help treat your condition. By drinking 64 to 80 ounces of water, you will keep your digestive tract in better health and ensure that you are properly hydrated, lessening the impact of the disease.
Increase Meals
Sometimes, simply reducing the size of meals and eating more often during the day can help keep symptoms at bay. This has been effective for many people who are living with colitis, according to the Mayo Clinic. You'll still get the proper nutrients and eat the foods you like, but the meals will be spread throughout the day.
Avoid Alcohol and Caffeine
People with colitis who eliminate alcohol and caffeine have seen an improvement in the symptoms of this disease. Both alcohol and caffeine, according to the Mayo Clinic, can stimulate the bowels, worsening gas, diarrhea and abdominal cramping.
Tags: with colitis, abdominal cramping, according Crohn, according Crohn Colitis, according Mayo, according Mayo Clinic, alcohol caffeine
A diagnosis of schizophrenia brings about fear, apprehension and uncertainty in most people. Many friends and acquaintances may distance themselves from the situation just when they are needed the most. This puts an even bigger pressure on the family, whether schizophrenic is the son or daughter or parent.
Lack of predictability
Living with a schizophrenic is never easy. Many problems will arise for family members, including the fact that there is little predictability with this illness. An episode of schizophrenia can be scary for everyone in the home. While it is clear to those in the home that there is a problem, the sufferer will generally lose insight and not be able to comprehend what she is doing.
Patterns
Some schizophrenics act violently during an episode, and others do not. Fortunately, the same pattern tends to repeat itself: If the sufferer usually is not violent, then chances are that he will not be in future episodes. During an episode, it is likely that the person will need to be admitted to a hospital.
After Hospitalization
When the schizophrenic comes home from the hospital can be an especially trying time for the family because the sufferer needs a great deal of support and will likely sink into deep depression. He usually will lack motivation as a result of the medications that he received while hospitalized. The family during this time has to provide structure to get their loved one settled again.
Routine
The family can face near-exhaustion getting the person to engage in a routine. The schizophrenic may require coaching for even everyday activities. This includes getting her to attend to personal hygiene, which the family may have to initiate and supervise.
Obstacles
The family of a schizophrenic must play an active role in his daily life, which can be very frustrating. Family members might feel like they are constantly starting over, with an inability to gain momentum robbed by so many failures. The main role of the family is to direct the schizophrenic to a good quality of life, which might often seem impossible. The world that a schizophrenic lives in is not the same as the one that the family enjoys. For this reason, another obstacle is trying to avoid confrontations about things that are possibly not even real.
Assisted Living
The family might weigh the possibility of placing their loved one in some form of assisted living accommodation. This can often be a difficult choice. As time goes by, the sufferer will also ignore her personal health. This is usually the breaking point for the family, when it will likely start to seriously consider alternate living arrangements.
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