Sunday 13 December 2009

Hygiene and Athlete’s Foot


Some people think that it is impossible to get Athlete’s Foot if you have clean feet. This is not true. The Athlete’s Foot infection is cause by a fungus, a bit like a mold. The fungus multiplies more easily in warm, damp, dark conditions so if your feet are constantly in tight shoes, sweaty, walking through communal shower areas etc then you are more prone to it.

The infection can cause itching, pain, skin flaking, blistering and so on. Occasionally it can lead to more serious infections. Athlete’s Foot can be treated easily in the early stages but does get more difficult as symptoms worsen. It is therefore vital to try not to let the fungi multiply and good hygiene is one step towards this.

With this 8 point step to good foot hygiene you should minimize the risk of catching the Athlete’s Foot infection:

1. Keep your feet clean. Might sound obvious but it’s a good start.

2. Keep your feet dry. Possibly even more important than (1). You can use talcum powder to help keep them dry for longer. Never put shoes or socks on damp feet.

3. Think about your shoes. Try not to wear shoes that make your feet sweat.

4. Wear socks made of natural fibres. Or better still, ones that wick moisture away from the feet.

5. Wash your towels frequently and on a hot wash, preferably after each use. This helps kill the parasites.

6. If you suffer frequently from Athlete’s Foot, also wash your bedding at least once a week on a hot wash.

7. Use shower sandals or flip flops when you are in changing rooms, poolside or a communal shower area.

8. Once a week, add a few drops of tea tree oil to a bath or a foot soak. Tea tree oil has anti fungal properties.

Of course there are other preventative measures you can take and there are many products out there which claim to help cure or prevent Athlete’s Foot, from herbal supplements to wooden insoles for shoes. Many of them do actually have some benefit but the important thing is to use your common sense and do some research before you part with large sums of money. If you do get recurrent problems with the infection and follow the points above, then see your doctor who may wish to do further tests. Remember, Athlete’s Foot is rarely serious if it is treated in the early stages so if you do suspect you are infected, then get treatment straight away.

Copyright 2009

Common Myths About Athlete’s Foot


There are so many myths out there about medical cures, and Athlete’s Foot hasn’t escaped them. Let’s take a look at some of the most common Athlete’s Foot myths around.

1. Peeing In The Shower

This was the first one that came to mind – that peeing in the shower cures Athlete’s Foot. There is absolutely no evidence to suggest this is true. It is a MYTH. Whilst urea is present in urine and in many anti fungal medications, the concentration in urine is very low so it would have no effect on killing the fungal infection.

2. Soaking In Vinegar

This MYTH seems to have come from the Far East. Some people believe that if you soak your feet in vinegar then the infection will be killed. WRONG. The vinegar can actually harm your skin and in some cases can cause chemical burns. The already tender skin is likely to become even more irritated.

3. Bleach

Bleach? Would anyone seriously put bleach on their skin? It seems so. There is a commonly held MYTH that bleach helps clear the fungus. Bleach is far too strong for human skin and can cause serious burns even if mixed with water. Stay clear of bleach for any skin use.

4. Baking Soda In Your Shoes

Another MYTH unfortunately. Baking soda in shoes will help dry them out and make the conditions for the fungi to multiply less favorable. It will also help eliminate the nasty odor associated with Athlete’s Foot. What it won’t do is cure an existing infection.

5. Soaking In Tea

This sounds like a complete waste of tea and time and is another MYTH. Tea has mildly astringent (drying) properties but is not powerful enough to dry out the skin sufficiently to kill an Athlete’s Foot infection.

6. Mouthwash

Mouthwash can kill bacteria in the mouth but unfortunately has no effect on Athlete’s Foot infections. Another MYTH.

7. Athlete’s Foot will go away on its own

No it won’t. You will need treatment and it is much easier to treat in the early stages.

8. Scratching Athlete’s Foot will make it better

STOP! No it won’t. In fact scratching your itchy feet if you have Athlete’s Foot will be very likely to spread the infection further and may also open up cuts for further, deeper infection.

The sensible thing to do if you think you may have Athlete’s Foot is go to a pharmacist first. They should be able to give you something over the counter to help. Follow the directions and if symptoms persist or get worse, then visit a doctor.

Copyright 2009

How Serious is Athlete’s Foot ?


Athlete’s Foot is very common. Around 1 in 5 people has the infection, although mostly it is a problem for teenagers and men. This is not because women are immune to it, just that the conditions for the spread of the infection are more commonly found in environments that men use. It got the name Athlete’s Foot because athletes often wear the kind of footwear that encourages the parasites which cause the infection, and it is easily spread in communal showers, locker rooms, etc.

Although Athlete’s Foot (Tinea Pedis) is very common, and can be distressing, it is not very often serious. Complications can occur though, especially if it is left untreated. Untreated Athlete’s Foot infections can last months or even years. If the treatment regimes aren’t followed the first most common complication is the spread of the infection. As it is so contagious, it can spread simply by touching an infected area then touching another part of the body.

The most common place for the infection to spread is to the toenails. Fungal nail infections are common and can be diagnosed by dry, crumbly nails, which are sometimes discolored and thick. There are topical treatments for this, such as lotions that can be painted onto the nail.

The second most common place for the infection to spread is to the hands. When it spreads to the hands it is called tinea manuum. The symptoms on the hand are similar to those on the feet.

Thirdly it can spread to the groin area where the medical term for it is tinea cruris although it is often known as jock itch. Here it is characterized by small red sores on the upper thigh, groin area and buttocks. Anti fungal preparations can treat this very easily.

Aside from the spread to other parts of the body, if it is left untreated, Athlete’s Foot can cause problems such as blisters. These blisters, and the cracks in the skin, can be infected by bacteria. This can then lead to cellulitis which can spread through soft tissue to the blood or bones, causing serious problems. These problems can be dealt with by antibiotics and are not very common so you shouldn’t really worry too much about them other than being aware of them.

If you have Athlete’s Foot, the important thing is to be aware of any changes in it, and to continue treatment for as long as you are advised, to make sure the infection is completely gone.

Copyright 2009

How To Treat Athlete’s Foot


Athlete’s Foot is very easily treatable with over the counter medicines in most cases. If your Athlete’s Foot symptoms get really bad or last longer than two weeks you should go see a doctor. They may do some tests to find a more suitable and stronger medication.

The usual treatment for Athlete’s Foot is an anti fungal cream. It is very important that you follow the instructions on the cream. You should make sure your feet are clean and dry before applying it, and make sure you apply it to the affected area, as well as an area 4-6 cm around the affected area. This is because the infection may have spread further but not yet be showing symptoms. Some people suggest you should soak your feet in lukewarm salted water before applying the cream, although the effect of this has not been proved. You should always wash your hands thoroughly after putting the cream on. The course of treatment varies but you should always continue it for the recommended length of time, even after the symptoms have cleared. If you don’t want to use an anti fungal cream, you can also now obtain sprays, liquids and powder treatments, usually over the counter without a prescription.

If your symptoms include really bad inflammation and itching, you could also try an anti fungal cream which has hydrocortisone in it. This will reduce the itching and the inflamed area.

Do not use a generic anti itch cream on Athlete’s Foot. It may relieve the itching but these creams are an ideal breeding ground for the parasites which cause the infection so it could actually make things worse.

There are some natural remedies that can be used alongside regular medications. There are not many studies about these so their efficacy may be more myth than reality. However, alongside regular medications they may be of use. Tea tree oil is one such natural ‘remedy’. It does have anti fungal properties but it would not be a good idea to use it undiluted. It may have some benefit added to a foot bath before applying topical medications.

Onion extract and garlic extract are also thought to be of benefit. They do both have anti bacterial properties so taken as an extra remedy with your medicated products they may help speed up the recovery time.

Whether you use alternative treatments or not, it is important to use the regular treatments too, and to maintain good hygiene at all times.

Copyright 2009

How to Prevent Athlete’s Foot


Athlete’s Foot is a fungal infection, also known as Tinea Pedis. It is highly contagious and can be transmitted by direct person to person contact or by indirect contact. It can be very unpleasant but unless there are complications it is not serious.

If you are susceptible to Athlete’s Foot then you may want to think about some preventative measures to try and stop you getting the infection or prevent it spreading. Here are some of the most important.

1. Washing

It is really important to make sure you wash your feet thoroughly with soap and water on a regular basis, especially after sport or activities that make your feet sweat. Wash your hands thoroughly after touching your feet.

2. Drying

Make sure you dry your feet thoroughly after washing, as fungi and bacteria like moist environments. Use talcum powder on your feet to help keep them dry. Make sure your feet are completely dry before you put your socks on.

3. Laundry

Athlete’s Foot can be transferred through shared towels, bedlinen etc. Make sure you wash your towels on a hot wash after use, and change and wash your bedlinen at least once a week. This can help prevent the spread of the infection.

4. Footwear

Try not to wear tight fitting shoes, especially in the summer, as these make your feet sweat more. If you do have to wear them, wash and dry your feet afterwards. Socks should be changed at least every day and washed on as hot a wash as possible. Cotton socks are better than synthetic fabrics as they help your feet breathe, making the environment less favorable to the parasites which cause the infection.

5. Protection

If you use locker rooms, pools, bath houses etc then be aware that Athlete’s Foot is easily transmitted in such environments. Use plastic sandals or flip flops if you can, while you are in the showers or changing rooms. Make sure you wash the footwear afterwards.

These are the five most important things to help prevent the spread of Athlete’s Foot. There are also products such as anti fungal soaps which may be a good idea if you are prone to getting the infection as they may provide some protection. Also, try to keep your immune system as high as you can with a good, varied diet, exercise and enough sleep. The stronger your immune system is, the less likely you are to catch the infection.

Copyright 2009

How Do You Know You’ve Got Athlete’s Foot?


Athlete’s Foot is a common condition affecting the feet. It is most common in teenagers and men although younger children and women do catch the infection. It is estimated that 1 in 5 people at any time are affected by Athlete’s Foot.

Athlete’s Foot is caused by an infection of parasitic fungi called dermatophytes. It can cause a variety of symptoms. It is highly contagious, and often unpleasant, but rarely serious and is easily treatable. The first sign that you might have Athlete’s Foot is redness between your toes, usually the 4th and 5th ones. This can become itchy and the rash can spread to the bottom of your feet. The skin may become dry and start scaling and flaking, possibly even cracking, with small fissures appearing. In more severe cases, blisters may appear and you may find swelling and have a burning or stinging sensation in the affected areas. You may also find that your feet have a very musty, mouldy smell and that your nails become brittle and discolored if the disease spreads.

Athlete’s Foot can also spread to other areas of the body, most usually the toenails, hands or the groin. Good personal hygiene and frequent hand washing may help prevent this and it is very unusual for Athlete’s Foot type infections to start in other parts of the body.

Athlete’s Foot can usually be diagnosed without medical intervention, but there may be some cases where it is better to have it checked out by a doctor or a podiatrist. There are other skin conditions that can sometimes look similar, most notably psoriasis and eczema and skin samples can be checked under a microscope to determine the cause of the problems. A biopsy can also be carried out if the infection is not responding to treatment. This can determine the exact parasite causing the problem and enable the medical practitioners to prescribe a more powerful and specific treatment.

If you often go to gyms, pools etc then you are more likely to have Athlete’s Foot as it can be very easily spread between people in warm, moist environments. If you present some of the symptoms outlined above, especially if you are an active person, or someone who often wears tight fitting shoes and damp socks, then chances are you have Athlete’s Foot. Don’t worry, it’s easy to treat and if you treat it promptly and follow guidelines you should be infection free within a few weeks.

Copyright 2009

Saturday 12 December 2009

Celebrities Have Asthma Too


Asthma need not be a life limiting condition, neither in terms of longevity nor in terms of involvement. In the past, it was often the case that asthmatic children were labelled ‘sickly’ and didn’t participate in exercise. Now, however, exercise is thought to be one of the best ways of controlling asthma long-term. Many celebrities have been very open about their asthma, and others are coming forward all the time to help de-mystify it and to help others.

The fact that Theodore Roosevelt had asthma didn’t stop him becoming president of the USA. It is said that he recovered from asthma through exercise. John F Kennedy was also an asthma sufferer, with his worst trigger being animals.

There have been a number of famous writers, musicians and dancers who have had asthma. Leonard Bernstein was a sufferer and his asthma was so bad that sometimes people could hear him wheezing as he was conducting. Joseph Pulitzer was another sufferer, as was the dancer Robert Joffrey who kept his asthma at bay with a combination of medications, acupuncture and herbs.

There is no lack of famous sports people who have coped with asthma and even improved their condition through their sport. The swimmer Amy Van Dyken was the first American female to win 4 gold medals in a single Olympic games. She took up the sport on the advice of doctors who suggested she try swimming as a way to control her asthma attacks. Tom Dolan, another American swimmer, also suffers from asthma and had problems competing due to restrictions on medications he could use whilst swimming competitively. He went on to win gold medals in two Olympic games.

Whilst swimming is one of the best forms of exercise for asthmatics, other athletes have also reached the top of their sport despite having to cope with asthma. Jackie Joyner-Kersee, who was a top heptathlete and long-jumper, and Paula Radcliffe, a British marathon runner, both have asthma.

Team sports are good for asthmatics because the exercise isn’t always constant. The NFL player Jerome Bettis, Rugby player Austin Healey and a number of soccer players also have asthma. Paul Scholes from Manchester United and Frank Lampard from Chelsea Football Club are two of the most prominent asthmatics in the sport but many people were surprised recently to see pictures of David Beckham using an inhaler. He has since said that he was happy to know that the knowledge he had asthma was helping to inspire other people with the condition to take up a sport.

The success of these people shows that asthma doesn’t have to limit your achievements if you have the condition.

Copyright 2009

Top 10 Asthma Triggers


Asthma is an allergic condition and is made worse by certain triggers. Everyone’s triggers may be different but it is important to try and recognize and avoid your triggers to prevent inflammation of the airways as much as possible.

1. Secondhand Smoke

Secondhand smoke is sometimes called environmental smoke. It is one of the most common asthma triggers. If you are asthmatic you should not be smoking and should avoid other people’s smoke as far as possible. Make your home and car smoke-free zones and ask other people to smoke outside.

2. Dust Mites

These are another common trigger and are difficult to eliminate completely. Mite resistant bedding is available, or you can use special mattress and pillow covers. Clean sofas and chairs regularly, preferably with an anti allergen vacuum cleaner.

3. Pets

Pets can cause serious allergic reactions, including asthma attacks. If your family pet is a trigger for your asthma or the asthma of someone else in your house, the best thing to do is to find it another home. That’s a tough thing to do, though so if you can’t, you need to make sure that cleaning is done frequently and that your pet is washed at least once a week.

4. Mold

Mold is very common as an asthma trigger. There are many products that can help eliminate mold. Make sure water isn’t coming into your property and if you have damp due to condensation or humidity then consider using a dehumidifier to reduce it and prevent mold forming.

5. Pest Infestations

Pests such as cockroaches and their droppings can cause problems for asthma sufferers. Pests need food and water to survive so if you remove their source of nutrition they will be less likely to come back.

6. The Weather

Breathing cold air is a major asthma trigger. Putting a scarf over your mouth might help a little. Some studies have indicated that asthma attacks increase prior to electrical storms too.

7. Exercise

Sometimes exercise can trigger asthma attacks. Using an inhaler before you exercise, and building up your fitness levels can help prevent this.

8. Food Allergies

Some foods can trigger asthma attacks. Dairy, seafood and nuts are the most common culprits.

9. Pollen

Grass and other pollens that trigger hay fever can equally start asthma attacks. If you think it is a trigger for your asthma then you may need extra medication during the times when the pollen is most prominent.

10. Stress

Emotions can cause asthma attacks, even something as simple as laughing can set one off. Stress can also make asthma worse so it is a good idea to practise relaxation exercises.

Copyright 2009

Asthma And Exercise


Exercise greatly improves asthma over a period of time. Obviously we aren’t talking running a marathon here – not to start with, anyway – but if your asthma is properly managed then you should be able to participate in moderate exercise without any problems.

The ideal exercise for an asthma sufferer is 30 minutes of moderate exercise five times a week. Moderate exercise should increase your heart rate and make you slightly breathless, but not wheezy. Some people find that exercise brings on an asthma attack and you can use your reliever inhaler before you start exercising which may help. If the problem gets worse, make an appointment to see your doctor or healthcare team for a review of your treatment.

If you aren’t used to exercise you will need to start gradually – don’t try and do too much too soon. ALWAYS make sure you have your reliever inhaler with you, just in case, and it is also a good idea not to exercise alone and to make sure anyone with you knows you have asthma.

So which are the best kinds of exercise if you have asthma? Well the first one is swimming. This is great as you can go at your own pace and do as little or as much as you feel comfortable with. You can set your own targets easily and measure your progress. Also, the air in a swimming pool is humid so may be less likely to set off an asthma attack. Some people are sensitive to the chemicals in the pool though, so be aware of that and if the chemicals trigger your asthma make sure you use your inhaler before you start.

A second recommended form of exercise if you have asthma is yoga. This is not an aerobic exercise but it is still possible to work up quite a sweat and increase your heart rate. Classes are available in most areas for all levels. A major advantage of yoga is that it often focuses on the breathing, and breathing exercises are great for asthma sufferers.

Walking is another wonderful form of exercise and again, you can take it at your own pace and build up your fitness gradually. Team sports can also be good for asthma sufferers as the activity is in short spurts with rests in between. It is difficult to build up to participating in a team game though so it might be better to build up your fitness another way first.

Any form of exercise will benefit an asthma sufferer; just remember not to push yourself too hard and to take sensible precautions when exercising.

Copyright 2009

Can Diet Help My Asthma?


Asthma is an allergic condition. That means that certain things are triggers and set off the reaction, in this case inflammation of the airways, that leads to the symptoms – such as wheezing, coughing etc. Many allergic conditions are improved by diets, so is this the case with asthma?

The first point to make is that asthma is made worse by obesity. If you are seriously overweight then you should look at your diet carefully anyway as it is likely to be a factor in your asthma as well as affecting other areas of your health.

Secondly, there may be some foodstuffs which are triggers for your asthma. If you have a known food allergy then obviously you should avoid it. Royal Jelly products are also known as a possible asthma trigger so it may be a good idea to avoid them too.

There are a number of foods which are thought to make asthma symptoms worse. These include milk, eggs, fish and seafood, nuts, yeast products and some preservatives and food colorings. Try cutting these out one at a time and logging the results in an asthma diary.

Fourthly, there was some research done in the Netherlands which found that people who ate the highest quantities of fresh vegetables and fruit had the healthiest lung function. Vitamins C and E were very important here. Fresh produce seems to be far more effective than vitamin supplements although these can also be of some benefit. It is also important to keep your immune system as high as possible if you suffer from asthma. Vitamin C and Zinc are important for this but a well balanced diet, including all the vitamins and minerals you need, will make your system much stronger and more able to fight off colds and ‘flu which are major triggers of asthma attacks.

There has also been research done in the US that found that a reduced salt intake helped to increase lung function and reduce symptoms of asthma, and new research is constantly being carried out on links between diet and asthma.

Cutting out processed foods, unhealthy snacks and reducing your intake of dairy products can often reduce the severity and frequency of asthma attacks. It doesn’t need to be done overnight, if you start with small changes they are easier to achieve and you are more likely to reach any long-term diet change goals.

Copyright 2009

Managing Asthma – The Steps


Once asthma has been diagnosed, there are several steps to managing it. Well managed asthma should cause no problems, although getting the right control regime may take a while.

Many people develop asthma as a child and live with it throughout their lives. Some have asthma as children but then grow out of it, and some people develop it later in life. There are theories that allergic conditions such as asthma and hay fever go in seven year cycles and will start to improve after seven years. That hasn’t been borne out in research so may be more myth than fact. It is the case, though that some asthma improves with very little medical intervention.

Most people control their asthma by working out what triggers it and then avoiding those triggers. Obviously that isn’t always possible, but it should be tried as a first step. Alongside this many people are prescribed reliever medications. These are given to people with mild or occasional asthma. They are known as short acting beta2-agonists and are often in inhaler form. These work by preventing the muscles around the air tubes from narrowing, they reduce any swelling and also the amount of phlegm produced. In this way the symptoms of wheezing and coughing are reduced.

If you need to use a short acting beta2-agonist more than a couple of times a week, you may be given the next step medicine, which is known as a preventer. This is an inhaler containing corticosteroids. They should be taken twice a day, and the other reliever inhaler used when symptoms get worse. Regular use of corticosteroids dramatically reduces the incidence of asthma attacks. Be aware that smoking reduces the effect of the preventer medications.

The third step of treatment, if your asthma is not kept under control, is an add-on preventer therapy. Usually this is another inhaler known as a long acting beta2-antagonist.

If your asthma is still poorly controlled then the dosages of the medicines may be increased. There are also other drugs which can be prescribed such as slow release beta2-agonist tablets, which are used to control night-time attacks; Leukotriene receptor antagonists which are tablets that work by preventing inflammation, and Theophyllines which can have side effects but act to make the airways wider by relaxing muscles.

As a fifth step, oral steroids may be prescribed but the incidence of this being required is low. There are risks associated with oral steroids so doctors prefer to exhaust other options first.

Asthma is common and treatable so if you find yourself diagnosed with it, don’t panic. Your doctor and healthcare team will be able to find a therapy solution that works for you.

Copyright 2009

What is Asthma ?


Asthma is a common lung disease. It often runs in families and statistically affects more women than men, but the number of men suffering from asthma is increasing year on year. It is caused when the small tubes in the airways of the lungs, known as the bronchi, become inflamed and swollen. The bronchi on people with asthma are more easily irritated by triggers than bronchi on people without the illness. The triggers could be cold air, allergies, smoking or colds and chest infections.

When the bronchi become irritated and become inflamed, the production of mucus in the tubes also increases. This makes breathing difficult and can lead to coughing, a tightness in the chest area and the characteristic asthmatic wheezing and shortness of breath. A severe asthma attack is prolonged, can often take up to 48 hours to develop and may require hospital treatment. The symptoms will worsen and the breath output will decrease, the pulse rate will increase, the wheezing will get worse and the patient may become restless. In addition, the lips and nails may become a little blue colored and talking may become harder.

Asthma can usually be managed by a combination of medications and lifestyle changes, but some complications can arise from it. It is recommended that asthma patients receive a vaccination against influenza as other illnesses can make asthma worse. Pneumonia also has a higher incidence rate among asthma sufferers than non sufferers, and asthma can occasionally cause the collapse of part or all of a lung, lead to an unresponsive asthma attack or respiratory failure. All of these complications can be treated if hospital attention is sought quick enough. The risk of complications is greater in older people and very young children.

There is no single known cause of asthma. Genetic factors do seem to play some part as do diet and the environment in which people live. Smoking also increases the likelihood of any respiratory disease and can certainly make asthma worse. If someone has been exposed to smoke as a child (even second hand smoke) or if their mother smoked whilst pregnant then this also seems to increase their chances of having asthma. If a person has allergies or other allergic conditions such as eczema then they are also more likely to have asthma.

Whilst there is no known cause, the treatments available now are highly effective and provided asthma is managed properly sufferers can lead full, active lives without complications.

Copyright 2009

Monday 7 December 2009

Lung Cancer-Warning Signs And Symptoms


Lung cancer being the most fatal of all the cancers worldwide is regarded as one of the leading causes of death amongst both men and women in the U.S. It is the most universal form of cancer in men worldwide whereas, the fifth most common form of cancer in women.

In medical terminology, the malevolent transformation and expansion of lung tissues causes lung cancer, in simple words, the rapid growth of abnormal cells in the lungs leads to lung cancer which may start anywhere in the lungs and cause respiratory issues, healthy tissues are destroyed and invaded and the whole body is affected.

When examined under a microscope by a pathologist lung cancer can be of two types, namely:

Small Cell Lung Cancer: This type of lung cancer accounts for 20% of lung cancer, with smoking being one of the most common causes for SCLC.

Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer: NSCLC is accountable for 80% of lung cancers, which have related symptoms. This includes Squamous cell carcinoma (also called epidermoid carcinoma), Large Cell Carcinoma, Adenocarcinoma and Squamous Cell Carcinoma.

Treatment of lung cancer varies as it is based on the exact location and the extent of spread. Usually, there are no definite signs or symptoms in the early stages, as they only occur later in the advance stages. It is only on a routine chest X-ray or CT scan that lung cancer in the form of coin lesions, is detected in its tumour form which looks like a coin.

Some of the symptoms of lung cancer include:

• A persistent cough which worsens with time
• Aggravation of an existing chronic cough
• Blood being coughed up
• Breathing difficulties such as shortness of breath accompanied by hoarseness and wheezing
• Constant chest pain
• Repeated attacks of bronchitis or pneumonia
• Swollen face and neck
• Unexplained weight loss and/or fatigue

Some other symptoms related with late-stage lung cancer include:

• Headache, bone pain, aching joints, bleeding or blood clots,
• Bone fractures not related to accidental injury,
• Neurologic symptoms- unsteady walk and/or intervallic memory loss.

The numbers of deaths caused by lung cancer are more as compared to the total number of deaths caused by colon, prostate, ovarian, lymph and breast cancers combined. About 85% of lung cancer cases are due to cigarette smoking. This is based on the correlation between the number of cigarettes smoked and the number of years of indulging in the vice.

However, the risk of developing lung cancer can be reduced by quitting smoking, as 90% of lung cancer is due to tobacco use. Apart from cigarette smoking increase in pollution levels, radiation and asbestos exposure are some of the other causes of lung cancer.

Copyright 2009

Prostate Cancer Symptoms


It is the most common cancer amongst the American men, grows in the prostate gland is called prostate cancer excluding skin cancer. Prostate cancer is the uncharacteristic growth of all of the cells within the prostate gland, which is considered to be a most important part of the male reproductive system. The prostate gland is situated directly beneath the bladder and in front of the rectum.

Prostate cancer in early stages is only restricted to the prostate gland itself, but the prostate cells mutate and multiply unrulingly when it spreads. And these cancerous cells further affect the adjacent healthy cells in the prostate, and may spread to other parts of the body as well, including the bones around the prostate.

According to various studies, one man in six will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during his lifetime of which only one man in 34 would die of the virus. The main cause of this type of cancer is still unknown like other cancers; however African American men, followed by Americans and Europeans are most likely to be affected by this disease. Though all men with prostate cancer live for at least 5 years after the diagnosis, 93% survive for at least 10 years, and 67% survive for more than 15 years.

The various factors which increase the risk of getting this disease may include the following:

• Age factor, as prostate cancer has been most common in men over fifty years of age who may have a variety of other diseases, such as cardiac or respiratory disease, or disabilities which immobilize or significantly decrease activities.
• Family history, men with family history of the disease are more likely to be diagnosed with prostate cancer
• Risk levels increase based on the nationality of the person as well
• Unhealthy lifestyle and dietary issues also increase the risk of getting this disease
• Some of the symptoms of prostate cancer can be listed as follows:
• General pain in the prostate area
• A need to urinate frequently, especially at night
• Weak or interrupted flow of urine
• Poor flow of urine
• Presence of blood and in urine and semen
• Pain or burning sensation when urinating
• Aching ejaculation
• A frequent pain or stiffness in the upper thighs, hips, or lower back

Significant changes in diet and lifestyle by rational supplementation of rich protein nutrients have clinically improved the chances of great recovery.

Copyright 2009

Large Bowel Cancer Symptoms


Bowel cancer is also known as rectal, colorectal or colon cancer. Usually the people over 60 years of age are at the end of being diagnosed with this disease.

When one of the cells in the colon develops a sequence of changes (mutations) in some of the genes which control how the cell divides and survives, the cancer starts to develop. Because of which the cell splits uncontrollably to structure a cluster of malevolent cells which are cancerous in nature. Primarily, adenomas in the form of polyp, which are a clump of pea sized abnormal cells, are created.

The large bowel, also known as the colon, is the very last section of the digestive structure. Various nutrients are absorbed as the food passes through the small bowel, after which the food waste passes through colon (large bowel) where it develops into more firm phizog.

The colon has three parts, namely, the ascending, transverse and descending colon. It is at the end of the colon, that is, at the rectum, where phizog gets collected before it passes through the anus as a bowel movement.

Since bowel cancer develops very slowly therefore it takes many years for the tumor to grow large enough to cause symptoms. Some of the common symptoms for bowel cancer are as follows:

• Continual change in bowel habits such as constipation and/or diarrhoea
• Blood or mucus in the faeces
• Unexplained weight loss or lack of appetite
• Pain in the stomach or lump in the abdomen
• Feeling of a bowel even after a bowel motion
• Tiredness

Though the exact cause of bowel cancer is still unknown to the research scientists, however there still exist various factors such as specific genetic mutations or inherited diseases known to influence the condition which make people at higher risk. According to various researches’ people with high diet in animal fat and protein and low fibre intake are at a greater risk of developing bowel cancer, along with people with high intake of alcohol. Therefore, it becomes harder to treat in the advanced stages.

People having a family history of bowel cancer are also at a higher risk of developing the cancer however in only 5-10% that the illness resembles.
Tiredness can be a symptom of bowel cancer as it can be caused by the bowel tumour bleeding which may result in shortage of red blood cells. This is known as anaemia.

Copyright 2009

Testicular Cancer Treatment


Testicular cancer usually occurs in men of younger ages, ranging from 15-39 years and the chances of developing testicular cancer demur with age. However, the number of patients with testicular cancer has been on a rise.

Testicular cancer refers to the tumors in the testicles which are likely to grow quickly as they can double in size in just about 20-30 days. Studies have also shown that the tumor spreads more quickly through the lymph nodes. If detected at an early stage the curable percentage has reached 99% and survival rates have reached 90% in case of spread of the cancerous cells due to availability of new treatment methods. Testicular cancer treatments have been developed for the past 20years because of which it acts as a model for other types of cancers.

Testicular cancer is of two types, namely seminoma and nonseminoma, of which seminoma alone accounts for about 40% of testicular cancer. The nonseminoma is further classified into choriocarcinoma, teratoma, embryonal carcinoma and yolk sac tumors

A low fat diet is recommended which includes fruits, vegetables and grains. Tomato’s and watermelons are good sources of lycopene which help in the prevention of testicular cancer.

The various treatment plans available for testicular cancer based on the stage can be enlisted as follows:

• Orchiectomy: This is the standard operation which is performed for the removal of the testicle along with some part of the spermatic cord

• Radiation: Due to advances in chemotherapy this is a less used method. However, about half of the seminoma types of tumors are extremely receptive of radiation. Radiation is limited as there are some long term risks of secondary cancers and cardiovascular diseases. It is due to this reason that is used only as a preventive measure (adjuvant therapy)

• Chemotherapy: This technique is used for all types of testicular cancers as they are highly responsive to it. This method helps in wiping out the disease from the body. The complete treatment may last from one week to three months

• RPLND refers to retroperitoneal lymph node dissection which is used for the treatment of non-seminoma type tumors which have no indication of spread.
This method helps in the identification of the stage and route of spread of the disease.

Some of the side effects of testicular cancer any include fertility and sexuality which must also be looked upon and discussed with the doctor. It is also advisable that all men should perform monthly testicular self-examinations in order to identify any strangeness.

Copyright 2009

Testicular Cancer Orchiectomy


Orchiectomy refers to the removal of one or both testicles. The male sex organs which are responsible for the production of sperms and male hormone, testosterone are known as testicles. One of the most common treatments for testicular cancer is Orchiectomy.

Orchiectomy is also used for the treatment of other cancer conditions such as prostate cancer which has spread to the testes or on account of severe trauma to one or both testes. However, in some cases, orchiectomy is followed by an additional surgery for the removal of cancer which has spread or by adjuvant therapies like chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

Orchiectomy is for all time performed when testicular cancer is detected, as the testicular lumps are cancerous and therefore must be removed according to a definite treatment plan. Performing a biopsy must be avoided as it may cause the cancer cells to spread which may add problems in a successful treatment.

Orchiectomy can of varied types namely:
• Unilateral Orchiectomy: Where only one testicle is removed, either the right or the left
• Where both the testicles are removed : Bilateral Orchiectomy or Radical Orchiectomy
• Inguinal Orchiectomy where the operation is performed through an incision in the groin
• Scrotal Orchiectomy where the operation is performed by making an incision through the scrotum

Bilateral orchiectomy is infrequently done as it poses various side effects, which are related to the loss of testosterone after the removal of both testes. Some of the side effects may include

• Infertility
• Loss of sexual interest
• Erection problems
• Hot flashes
• Breast enlargement (gynecomastia)
• Weight gain
• Loss of muscle mass
• Osteoporosis

The Orchiectomy procedure is simple and relatively low-risk. It is usually finished in less than an hour. This involves, a small gap is made in the lower abdomen just below the belt line, and then the testicle is pushed up from the scrotum through the incision and removed. However, the surgery is accompanied with the following risks, such as:

• Reactions to anaesthesia or medications
• Infection
• Bleeding

Orchiectomy also helps in relieving bone pain and may cause the prostate cancer to shrink. Full recovery after the surgery can be resumed within 2 to 4 weeks of full recovery.


Copyright 2009

Sun Exposure and Skin Cancer Causes


Skin cancer is another type of fastest growing type of cancer in the United States. Studies have found that one of three cancers is related to skin problems. Also that less than 10,000 people die from skin cancer in US each year. One of the main causes of skin cancer is excessive sun exposure which causes wrinkles and age spots on the face. Though skin damage is less apparent amongst young people however it shows up in the later half.

The symptoms of skin cancer may take several years to become prominent. The skin tumor usually develops in its epidermis form which is visible to the naked eye and can easily be diagnosed. An early detection of the disease can help in restricting the same. The curable percentage has reached 90% for patients reaching the past 5 years survival mark.

Melanoma is the form of skin cancer which has been steadily increasing over the last 20 years. The reason given by the dermatologists is related to an increase in the amount of sun exposure in younger years.

Skin colour obtained from being in the sun (suntan) usually accelerates the effects of aging thereby increasing the risk for skin cancer. However, sun exposure alone is responsible for most of the skin changes.

Elastine, the fibers in the skin are damaged by the ultraviolet rays of the sun. The skin begins to sag, stretch, and loses its ability to return into place after stretching once these fibers are damaged.
Ultraviolet is a part of the gamut of radiation emitted by the sun and is divided into different wavelengths which are known as UVA, UVB and UVC. Of which UVC is the shortest wavelength which is blocked by ozone and oxygen. No matter the size it most dangerous for the skin. Tanning beds are equally harmful as the ultraviolet rays from the sun, as they cause brown patches, broken blood vessels, premature wrinkles and a leathery looking skin.

Basal cell and squamous cell skin cancer types are caused due to cumulative sun exposure, whereas melanoma type of cancer is caused due to the episodes of severe sunburns, usually before 18 years. Repeated X-ray exposure and occupational exposure to certain chemicals are some less common causes of skin cancer.

Moreover, pale skin, numerous moles, smoking, a diet high in fat and low in fruits and vegetables, and frequent sunburns also act as strong predictors of later skin cancer as compared to UV exposure.

Copyright 2009

Skin Cancer Causes and Symptoms


Skin Cancer refers to the cancer that forms in the tissues of the skin which can occur to any individual. It is one of the most common types of cancers in the U.S.

Due to strong correlation between skin cancer and skin pigmentation, the fair skinned people are at a higher risk of developing skin cancer as compared to the dark skinned people. There are over one million cases annually, although not all are reported. As the statistics of cancer patients keeps increasing every year therefore the medical specialists have not been able to specify the age group of occurrence of skin cancer.

There are three different types of skin cancers, namely:

• Melanoma- The skin cancer which forms in melanocyes (skin cells that make pigments)
• Squamous cell carcinoma- The types of skin cancer that forms in squamous cells (flat cells that form the surface of the skin)

Of the above, basal cell carcinomas and most squamous cell carcinomas together are referred to as nonmelanoma skin cancer. They are slow growing and very much treatable, especially if detected at an early stage. Whereas, melanoma is the most serious form of skin cancer as it affects the deeper layers of the skin with a high potential of spreading to the other parts of the body.

Skin cancer can be disfiguring and dangerous as about 80% can appear on any part of the body especially on the face, head or neck.

The main causes of skin cancer may include the following:

• Ultraviolet (UV) radiation,
• Sunburn,
• Heredity,
• Environment (Cloud cover).

The symptoms of Skin Cancer are as follows:

• Change in a wart or mole due to skin growth
• Red, tender, flat spots which may bleed
• A smooth and pearly looking small and fleshy bump
• Shiny bump that may resemble a mole or cyst
• Part of skin that feels scaly, bleeds, or develops a crust.

There are no noted symptoms in the early stages as initially cancer develops in the form of precancerous lesions known as dysplasia, which later forms cancerous cells. However, if it is ignored for a longer period of time then it may spread to the other organs which may further affect the normal working of the skin.

Copyright 2009

Prostate Cancer Prevention


Prostate cancer is the intensification of malevolent cells in the prostate, a walnut-sized gland located just below the bladder in men. This gland is responsible for producing about 30 percent of the fluid portion of semen. The general ratio of contracting this disease is one in ten to one in thirteen, and it is largely diagnosed as male cancer. It is also the second most primary cause of male cancer deaths worldwide.

Various studies have proved that about 90% of males over the age of 50years do have some microscopic indication of prostate problems. Like other cancers, the symptoms of prostate cancer are not apparent until the cancer has spread beyond the prostate.

In other words, prostate cancer tends to grow very slowly and takes years to spread, therefore, immediate and belligerent treatment is not advised for older men, apart from observant waiting. This further highlights the importance of regular checkups and blood tests, but the treatment is started only when there is evidence of tumor growth.

Researchers have ruled that prostate cancer is complex as they are yet to determine the full range of factors that cause it along with the specification of appropriate prostate cancer prevention strategies which are safe and most successful.

The explicit treatment plan is dependent of the following factors:

• Patients age,
• Features of the cancerous cells,
• Risk of complications.

Making dietary and lifestyle changes along with precise treatment plan play an important role in the prevention of prostate cancer. As in countries where people tend to eat a lot of saturated fats (such as red meat) are at a higher risk for this disease. Therefore whole grain foods such as brown rice and whole wheat bread with limited salt and a variety of fruits and vegetables including tomatoes help in restricting cancer.

Apart from diet changes herbal therapy in the form of beta-sitosterol can help in maintaining healthy male hormone balance and also reduces the symptoms of an enlarged prostate.

Prostate cancer can be treated by removing the prostate gland before the cancerous cells spread if detected early. However, it is very difficult to advise surgery as it is not possible to predict which cancer would spread and which would not.
Though prostate cancer cannot be cured with the help of conventional medicines once it has spread however, it can be restricted by unconventional and homeopathic treatments

Copyright 2009

Lung Cancer Causes Treatment


The most common of all cancers is lung cancer, which is caused due to sudden improper and rapid growth in the tissue cells of the lungs. Lung cancer alone is responsible for 1.2 million deaths annually.

The number of people suffering from lung cancer has increased which can be accredited to the changing lifestyle of the general population. Shortness of breath, coughing, bleeding while coughing and weight loss, are some of the common symptoms of lung cancer.

Cigarette smoking is regarded the most common cause of lung cancer. According to various studies, the risk of developing lung cancer increases with the number of cigarettes smoked in due course. Pipe and cigar smoking also cause lung cancer however; the threat is not the same as with cigarette smoking.

Apart from cigarette smoking high levels of pollution, radiation and asbestos exposure can also increase the possibility of contracting lung cancer.

The two basic types of lung cancers can be:

• Small Cell Lung Cancer: Smoking is one of the most common cause for SCLC.

• Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer: NSCLC can of four types, they are Squamous cell carcinoma (also called epidermoid carcinoma), Large Cell Carcinoma, Adenocarcinoma and Squamous Cell Carcinoma.

Characteristically, cancer develops over a period of many years and if identified at an early stage can be eliminated by treatment. There are no specific signs or symptoms in the early stages as they only occur in the advanced stages. Therefore, its treatment must be based on the specific type of cell, the location of the lung tumor, the stage of the disease with probable metastasis (spread to other parts of the body) keeping in mind the general health of the person in question.

Some of the common methods in which lung cancer can be detected include chest radiography and computed tomography (CT). Once lung cancer is detected it is only confirmed with a biopsy. Biopsy refers to a medical test based on removing cells from a living tissue and thereby examining the same. One of the important factors for the treatment of lung cancer is histopathology, that is, the identification of the location and stage of the diseased tissue type of tumor. Some other treatment plans may include radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and/or surgery.

Acupuncture, massage therapy, herbal products, nutritional supplements, vitamins and special diet plans are some alternative treatments which have found their way in recent times.

Copyright 2009

How to Manage Skin Cancer Symptoms and Treatments


Skin cancer can occur to any individual and is the most common type of skin cancer in the U.S. The frequency of skin cancer has reached such a level that nearly one million people are affected by skin cancer every year. Due to lack of knowledge many people are unable to treat skin cancer on time, as certain skin outgrowths, moles and discoloration of the skin are regarded as normal skin problems.

In skin cancer the normal cells are affected by the cancerous cells which weaken the normal functioning of the organs. Subsequently cancer spreads to the other organs as well. The individual suffering from skin cancer suffers with an uneasy feeling as the skin of the body is affected.

There are three types of skin cancers; namely basal cell carcinoma, melanoma and squamous cell carcinoma. With early detection these can be treated because once skin cancer spreads its very difficult to be treated. There are no specific symptoms of skin cancer before its occurrence. However, the common causes of skin cancer may include heredity (family history of skin cancer), exposure to ultraviolet rays, over exposure to sunlight, and exposure to certain deadly chemicals. Therefore, sunburns or to-much of suntan must be avoided with the application of ointments in order to stay protected from harmful radiations from the sun.

The skin cancer initiates from the moles of the skin which is known as dysplastic nevi. The moles may change in colour or size and/or may start bleeding. Aged people are more prone to such disease.

There are various standard and alternative treatment options available for skin cancer which may include the following:

• Surgery
• Radiation therapy
• Electro chemo therapy
• Immunotherapy
• Hyperthermia
• Photodynamic therapy
• Nutritional therapy
• Pain management
• Naturopathy
• Psycho-neuroimmunology
• Spiritual support therapy
• Biological therapy

It is the melanomas form of skin cancer which needs to be surgically removed, whereas other skin cancers, that is, basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma treated by removing affected and surrounding tissues.

In case of low risk cancer radiation treatment and cryotherapy may help in early treatment of the cancer. As compared to the cases where cancer is spread and metastasized then surgery and/or chemotherapy is required. Therefore, it is important to note any oddity in the skin, such as the appearance of a blemish on the skin or a discoloration or change in a mole.

Copyright 2009

Testicular Cancer Scrotum


Cancer may affect any part of the body; lungs, stomach, respiratory organs and other parts. Testicular cancer is a common form of cancer in men, which occurs in the male egg shaped sex glands in the scrotum. It is the testicles which produce and store sperms which secrete male hormones.
This type of cancer is accountable for only one percent of all the cancers in the men. However, it occurs in young men ageing between 15-34 years with being more prevalent in white men than in Asian and blacks. Like other cancers, an early and infancy detection of testicular cancer can help in increasing the survival ratio along with appropriate administration of treatment.

Testicular cancer is also known as germ cell tumor. It is of two types, namely:

Seminoma: This accounts for about 40% of testicular cancer

Nonseminoma: This is further categorized into choriocarcinoma, teratoma, embryonal carcinoma and yolk sac tumors

Mixed germ cell tumors: The cancer which is the combination of both cancers

There are no specific symptoms of testicular cancer as it can only be detected by an accident. Therefore, regular self examination of the private parts is very important to detect any unusual lump.

Certain abnormal symptoms may include:

• A pea, or egg size protuberance (of any size)
• Inflamed swollen testicles
• A sensation of heaviness or sudden flow of liquid in the scrotum

Apart from the above some other symptoms which need a physician’s examination may be related to a dull pain in the lower abdomen or groin, or an unusual tenderness in the breasts.

Underdevelopment of testicles, Klinefelter’s syndrome where the man experience sterility, small testes, breast enlargement and lesser male hormones and those who have had testicular cancer are all prone developing cancer on the other testicle in the 25 years after the attack.

There are three stages of testicular cancer, namely:

Stage 1: Where the cancer is timely detected and is limited and confined to the testicles

Stage 2: Where the cancer may spread to the retroperitoneal lymph nodes which are situated at the back of the body below the diaphragm

Stage 3: Where the testicular cancer spreads beyond the lymph nodes to other parts of the body

The treatment is determined on the basis of type and stage of the testicular cancer, which involve the removal of the affected testicle. Before opting for any kind of surgery the side effects of fertility and sexuality must also be looked upon.

Copyright 2009

Testicular Cancer Causes


The testicles are also known as the testes or gonads which form the male sex glands. They are located behind the penis in a pocket of skin known as the scrotum. Testicular cancer arises when the cells become wicked (cancerous) in either one or both of the testicles.

The testicles are responsible for production and storage of sperms apart from being the main source of male hormones. The development of other male features like body, facial hair, voice, shoulders and other reproductive organs is based on such hormones.

Testicular cancer amounts to about 1-2% of cancers in men, with the number slowly increasing with time. Testicular cancer occurs most often in men between the ages of 15 and 39.

The reasons for the cause and increase of testicular cancer are yet to be identified by the researchers. However, some of the reasons can be linked with:

• Exposure to female hormones in a watery environment, from the oral contraceptive pill
• Undescended testicles also known as cryptorchidism where one or both testicles stay inside the body after birth and never form part of the scrotum. Even the surgery to move the testicle into the scrotum cannot avoid the risk associated with cancer, which is further applied to both testicles
• Congenital abnormalities when men with abnormalities of the testicles, penis or kidneys are at high risk
• Men who are born with a hernia in the groin area are at a greater risk
• The risk of testicular cancer increases with conditions such as Klinefelter’s syndrome, where the testicles do not develop normally
• Mumps orchitis where an rare complication of mumps on one or both testicles become inflamed
• Men who have had testicular cancer are at a greater risk of developing cancer in other testicle
• Family history, that is, a male with a close relative, a sibling or father with testicular cancer is more likely to develop the disease a compared to other men
• Nationality also plays an important role as testicular cancer is more common among Caucasian males as compared to African or Asian men

Regular self examination of the private parts is very vital for the identification of any oddity with regards to any lump or swelling or discomfort in the testicle. In case of which doctor’s examination is a must. Who would further decide the treatment process based on the type of cancer, that is, seminomas or nonseminoma.

Copyright 2009

Skin Cancer Health Guide


Skin Cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States which usually affects the white skinned people who have been exposed to the sun, x-rays, or ultraviolet (UV) light for prolonged periods. Nearly 600,000 caucasians are affected by skin cancer every year.

The main cause of skin cancer is the overexposure to sunlight, especially with outcomes in the form of sunburn and blistering, and this further been confirmed by medical experts as well. Repetitiveness of getting sun burnt causes cancer of the skin. However, overexposure to sun may also cause the development of certain skin illnesses including cancer and skin carcinoma.

Though sun shades are considered a must have rather than a fashion accessory. Though usages of tanning beds also pose common parable risks of cancer, therefore, there usage can be limited.

Ultraviolet is part of the spectrum of radiation emitted by the sun, which is divided into different wavelengths known as UVA, UVB and UVC. Of these the UVC has the shortest wavelength and is the most dangerous for the skin. UVB on the other hand increases in quantity during the summertime. It is the UVB radiations which cause the burning of the skin and is related with the common skin cancers.

UVA has the longest wavelengths of all and has the tendency of penetrating deeply into the skin. And they pose less tanning and burning sensations with low doses.

Sun beds are different from natural sunlight, as the sun beds provide UVA and UVB. Though the sun bed tan does provide protection up to a certain degree but it does not help in a naturally produced tan.

There is significant amount of UVB in the natural sun, which causes the surface of the skin called the epidermis to thicken which gives an added Skin Cancer and Sun Protection.

The repeated use of sun beds can cause the following problems:
• Premature wrinkles
• Brown patches
• Broken blood vessels
• Leathery looking skin
• Increased risk of melanoma type of skin cancer which is the most fatal

Exposure to tons of lethal ultraviolet sunrays can not only develop into bad sunburn but may also be the cause of peel cancer. A mixture of radiation care and cryotherapy (or freezing) is used to treat and control the low risk cancer. But in cased the disease spreads then treatments like chemotherapy are advised.

Copyright 2009