Men's Health and Wellness

What's Going Around

2010-04-22T09:47:00.000-07:00

Local doctors explain what they're seeing in their offices this week.

Bronchitis is making the rounds in Lansing this week. That's what Dr. Thomas Stout at Mt. Hope Community Medical Center is treating patients for.

Symptoms include a cough that is dry or hacking at first, a mild fever, fatigue, wheezing while breathing, and hoarseness.

You may also feel tightness, burning or dull pain in the chest under the breastbone, which is usually worse when taking a deep breath or coughing.

You can treat most cases of acute bronchitis at home.

Drink plenty of fluids, and take an over-the-counter cough medicine with an expectorant if your doctor recommends it.

You can suck on cough drops or hard candies to soothe a sore throat.

In Okemos, it's sinus infections that are keeping Dr. James Brouillette at Ingham Primary Care Center busy this week.

The main symptoms are runny or stuffy nose, and pain and pressure in the head and face.

Other symptoms include a front headache with pressure behind the eyes, bad breath, dental pain, and reduced sense of taste or smell.

To treat sinusitis, drink plenty of fluids and take over-the-counter pain relievers as needed.

It might help to put a hot damp towel on the face, for five to 10 minutes a few times a day.

Saltwater nose drops can help wash out mucus.

Now, fever can be a symptom of a sinus infection or just a cold.

If you're congested and have a low-grade fever, you probably have a cold, and don't need special medicine or antibiotics.

People with asthma who get a sinus infection may have a flare-up of symptoms, and should stick to their prescribed treatment regimen.

Source WILX-TV

Copyright 2010

8 Reasons to Start Working Out

2010-04-22T09:44:00.000-07:00

A few good motivators to shed that extra holiday weight you've packed on.

Overeating—and drinking—is an inevitable part of the last few months. Now, like most Americans, you've probably made a New Year's resolution to hit the gym a little harder. But since most resolutions are made to be broken, we've got a few extra motivators to help you get in gear. Print them out, hang them on your fridge and get going. Or else . . .

You'll Have Bad Breath
Researchers at Tel Aviv University recently found a direct link between obesity and bad breath—the more overweight you are, the more likely your breath will smell rank to those around you. The experts reported that there's no scientific evidence that would explain their results but suggested that obese people may have a diet that promotes dry mouth or that they're less likely to have proper oral hygiene.

You'll Snore
Sleep apnea, a disruption of breathing while asleep, is commonly accompanied by symptoms of extremely loud, irregular snoring. And obesity is the factor most likely to lead to sleep apnea (about 70 percent of people who have sleep apnea are overweight). But don't despair too much: A Temple University study found that obese sleep apnea patients who lost just 10 percent of their weight showed good improvements of their condition.

You'll Spend More Time in the Hospital
A study by sociologists at Purdue University found obesity leads to more frequent and longer hospital stays. On average, overweight patients stayed a day and a half longer than those with normal weight. The experts attributed the connection to more prominence of disease, like high blood pressure, which afflicts 46 percent of obese adults. Next time you're about to dig into a plate of chili cheese fries, ask yourself if they're worth losing 36 hours of your life.

Your Doctor Won't Like You
Doctors have less respect for their obese patients than they do for patients of normal weight, reports a new study by Johns Hopkins researchers. As patient's BMI went up, docs reported a corresponding lower respect for them. Who cares what your doctor thinks of you? Previous studies have shown that when physicians respect their patients, there's a better flow of information and patients are more likely to seek medical help in general.

You Could Die in a Car Accident
As body mass index goes up, seatbelt use goes down. So say researchers at Vanderbilt University in Nashville, Tennessee. In a telephone survey they found that about 30 percent of overweight individuals did not use a seatbelt, compared to about 20 percent of the average population. And the seatbelt use continued to decline as BMI increased. The study concluded that obese people are more likely to be involved in fatal car accidents due to the fact that they're less likely to wear a seatbelt. So buckle up!

You'll Get Dumber
Young adults who are in shape have a higher IQ, reveals a new study carried out at the Sahlgrenska University Hospital in Sweden. The study examined 1.2 million Swedish men doing military service who were born between 1950 and 1976 and analyzed the results of physical and IQ tests when the men enrolled. The results found a clear link between good physical fitness and better results for the IQ test. Researchers attributed the intelligence to the fact that the brain gets plenty of oxygen when people are more physically fit.

You'll Have a Stroke
Men who regularly engage in moderate-to-heavy intensity exercise such as jogging, tennis or swimming may be less likely to have a stroke than people who get no exercise or only light exercise, reports a recent study. The study's more active men were 63 percent less likely to have a stroke than those who did lighter activities like walking and golfing. Strokes, by the way, are the leading cause of disability and the third-leading cause of death in the United States.

You'll Go Broke
With the recent implementation of fat-taxes, sugary and fatty foods are starting to strain people's belts and wallets. Forty states now impose extra sales taxes (up to seven percent) on soft drinks and a few snack items; and the number of taxable items is only predicted to go up. Medically speaking, a 2006 study found that obese people spent 42 percent more than people of normal weight on medical costs (a difference of $1,429). Additionally, airlines have begun enforcing policies that passengers too large to fit in one seat must purchase a second—at standard price. Makes that $12 salad look more reasonable, huh?

Source Men's Fitness

Copyright 2010

Kicking Off Toxins

2010-04-22T09:22:00.000-07:00

It’s time for detox and all it will take is just 10 days! Learn how to go about it

After each celebration, the effects of the revelry starts showing on one’s health and mind. Late nights, impromptu snacking, partying, binging on high-calorie foods and innumerable rounds of drinks, can take a toll on one’s health. Antioxidant levels become low and trans fat levels shoot up. Instead of running for help, go for a detox.

Detox, short for detoxification, is the body's natural, ongoing process of neutralising or eliminating toxins from the body. A diet that lacks certain nutrients may also impair our natural ability to detoxify chemicals, which further leads to their build-up in the body. The cumulative load, called the "body burden", is thought to lead to illness and can lead to hormonal imbalance, impaired immune function, nutritional deficiency, and an inefficient metabolism. Signs are thought to include indigestion, bad breath, fatigue, poor skin, and muscle pain.

According to Priyancka Jaieswal, a nutritionist, “Detox should be started within two to three days of high-partying, and once started the feeling of being on a diet must be banished.” Detox diet improves energy, clears skin, regulates bowel movements, improves digestion, and increases concentration and clarity. Priyancka also reminds one to incorporate yoga and light exercises as a daily ritual.

Detox should be started within two to three days of high-partying

There are many different types of detox diets. Generally, a detox diet is a short-term diet that:

Minimises the amount of chemicals ingested (for example, by the use of organic food).

Emphasises foods that provide vitamins, nutrients, and antioxidants that the body needs for detoxification.

Contains foods, such as high fiber foods and water that draw out and eliminate toxins by increasing the frequency of bowel movements and urination.

Day 1: Go easy on the first day. There must be no sudden changes in the diet. Have normal food. Go for yoga, and brisk walk. Incorporate green tea or herbal tea with lime. Instead of snacks, go for gourd juice.

Day 2: Breakfast can be soya yogurt with about 150-200gms raw fruits.

For mid-morning snack, amla and orange juice. Amla is great for food absorption and reduces body heat naturally, and orange being a citric fruit, is high on anti-oxidants.

For lunch, have brown bread and tofu with a bowl of fresh fruit salad.

Mid-afternoon snack would include a handful of nuts or seeds.

Dinner must be over by 7pm after which there must be no carbohydrate intake.

Have loads of fruits and juices

Day 3: Breakfast would include porridge with fruit and soya milk.

Mid-morning snack would include a handful of grapes.

For lunch, say no to cereals, instead go for raw salad with cabbage.

Dinner can be green soup or boiled green vegetables.

Day 4: Breakfast would include whole wheat porridge with fruits. Mainly yellow or red coloured fruits like papaya, strawberry, water melon etc.

Mid-morning snack can be cucumber and carrot sticks.

Lunch: Spinach and tomato soup.

Dinner: One piece brown bread, raw salad with cabbage.

Day 5: Breakfast would mean, brown bread with tofu and grated capsicum.

Mid-morning snack would be, fresh fruit juice.

Lunch: Would include wheat spaghettis or wheat pasta with boiled or baked vegetables or raw salad.

Dinner: Boiled vegetables.

Instead of dieting, keep an eye on what you are having

Day 6: Repeat the chart of day 2.

Day 7: Repeat the chart for day 4.

Day 8: Repeat the chart for day 3.

Day 9: Repeat the chart for day 5.

Day 10: Repeat the chart for day 1.

Rina Das, a regular party animal, feels that detox makes one feel lighter and unlike a diet, which has to be regular, detox can be done once in a while to purify the system.

Reshmi Roy Chowdhury, dietrician, suggests banning dairy products except tofu and soya products, and non-vegetarian items except sea-fishes, for the detox to work out. “One can take two to three almonds or walnut soaked in water for breakfast. Also instead of caffeine, go for warm water with lemon or lemon tea,” feels Reshmi.

Do incorporate breathing exercises

The key to making sure the detox works is changing the timings and the food style often, so that the body doesn’t get accustomed to a particular table. With this easy to follow 10-day regime, one can be sure what to do when a festive season is round the corner.

Source The Kolkata Mirror

Copyright 2010

New plasma device may soon be used to eliminate superbugs in hospitals

2010-03-23T10:45:00.000-07:00

New plasma device may soon be used to eliminate superbugs in hospitals

The rise of the superbug MRSA (Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus) in hospitals may soon be a threat of the past. A new technology prototype is being tested in England that will kill drug resistant bacteria without drugs.

The device depends on the use of a plasma containing an air suspended mixture proven to be lethal for bacteria of many types. Plasmas are common in the cosmos, usually where high-energy processes produce them. But rather than using the high energy sources necessary to strip off a whole group of atoms, this device strips off electrons from just a few of the atoms. Those electrons fly off and collide with unchanged atoms creating a gaseous cocktail of charged particles that roam about freely rather than remain contained within atoms.

This is similar to the expensive method currently used to disinfect surgical instruments. But now there is an economical delivery system for this plasma that will enable more widespread use. The economy of the delivery system is more the breakthrough than the technology itself. This new technology's delivery system can be hand held and used for less serious issues such as eliminating bad breath or underarm odors.

As researcher Gregor Morfill of the Max Planck Institute for Extraterrestrial Physics explained, "The plasma produces a series of over 200 chemical reactions that involve the oxygen and nitrogen in air plus water vapor - there is a whole concoction of chemical species that can be lethal to bacteria".

This procedure can eliminate the need for long periods of washing and scrubbing with no guarantee that all the bugs are killed. There may soon be no need for concerns about patients or visitors who come and go, as well as health care workers who visit different facilities as part of their duties.

In the foreseeable future, this new affordable technology can be placed in hospital halls and doorways. Everyone who walks through would be disinfected from potentially lethal superbugs that are immune to antibiotics.

Source Natural News.com

Copyright 2010

Brief History of Fad Diets

2010-02-18T09:32:00.000-08:00

Critics say it can also cause high cholesterol and bad breath.) Its success spawned imitators like the popular South Beach Diet, a more lenient version ...

The holidays are upon us, which means 'tis the season to overindulge. But once the calendar turns, we'll have to shed some of those pounds, which is why Dr. Sanford Siegel appeared on the Today show on Dec. 14 to tout a mouthwatering diet plan: eat six cookies a day as part of a limited-calorie diet, and watch that extra weight melt away.

Forgive our skepticism, as these aren't snickerdoodles or chocolate-chip cookies but rather protein- and nutrient-packed biscuits that stretch the definition of cookie. The cookie-meal plan has actually been around since 1975, but the quest for the magic diet solution goes back much further. There's a (possibly apocryphal) story that after becoming too fat to ride his horse, William the Conqueror devised an alcohol-only diet in 1087. The monarch didn't grow thinner; instead, he died later that year after falling from his beleaguered steed, leaving his subjects to struggle with finding a coffin big enough to fit the corpulent king.
(See the 2009 Year in Health.)

Despite its dubious beginnings, fad dieting gained mass appeal in the 19th century. In 1829, Presbyterian minister Sylvester Graham touted the Graham diet — centered on caffeine-free drinks and vegetarian cuisine and supplemented by the eponymous graham cracker — as a cure for not just obesity but masturbation (and the subsequent blindness it was thought to cause). The diet became so popular that the students of Oberlin College were forced onto it for a brief period in the 1830s before they successfully rebelled through mass dissent in 1841. Thirty-five years later, an English casketmaker named William Banting became famous by pioneering the concept of a low-carbohydrate diet, which helped him lose 50 lb. He published his results in the 1864 "Letter on Corpulence," and the plan became so popular that banting became a synonym for dieting across Britain.
(See nine kid foods to avoid.)

From there, things got a little strange. In 1903 self-taught nutritionist Horace Fletcher became known as the Great Masticator for advancing the notion that one should chew food exactly 32 times before spitting it out completely. (Pleasant dinner guests, Fletcher's acolytes were not.) In 1928 dieters could choose between eating only meat and fat (sometimes in trimmings bought directly from the butcher) on the Inuit diet, or skim milk and bananas on Dr. George Harrop's aptly named bananas-and-skim-milk diet. As late as the 1960s, Dr. Herman Taller was touting the Calories Don't Count diet, which held that the quantity of food consumed was unimportant provided that you chased it with vegetable oil.

The bizarre early history of planned weight loss makes recent fad diets seem enlightened by comparison. The Atkins diet, a modern-day Banting plan that has eaters eschew carbs in favor of protein-rich meals, was written in 1972 and became in later years a weight-loss plan favored by millions. (Critics say it can also cause high cholesterol and bad breath.) Its success spawned imitators like the popular South Beach diet, a more lenient version that invokes the same low-sugar principle. But other modern diets remain pretty far-fetched. One example is the cabbage-soup diet, which promises that adherents will lose 10 lb. in a week by eating only cabbage soup. A more challenging competitor might be the lemonade diet, which requires dieters to subsist on a concoction of lemon juice, maple syrup, red pepper and hot water for as long as 10 days. While it may not rely on sound science, Siegal's cookie diet looks that much more appealing by comparison.

Source - Time (Health & Science

Copyright 2010

Health Care and Kidney Disease

2010-02-17T09:05:00.000-08:00

More than 26 million Americans—one in nine adults—have kidney disease. Millions more are at increased risk for getting it, and most don’t know it. Kidney disease can be found and treated early to prevent more serious kidney disease and other complications.

Chronic kidney disease includes conditions that damage your kidneys and decrease their ability to keep you healthy by doing the jobs listed, according to the National Kidney Foundation. If kidney disease gets worse, wastes can build to high levels in your blood and make you feel sick. You may develop complications like high blood pressure, anemia (low blood count), weak bones, poor nutritional health and nerve damage. Also, kidney disease increases your risk of having heart and blood vessel disease. These problems may happen slowly over a long period of time. Chronic kidney disease may be caused by diabetes, high blood pressure and other disorders.

Early detection and treatment can often keep chronic kidney disease from getting worse. When kidney disease progresses, it may eventually lead to kidney failure, which requires dialysis or a kidney transplant to maintain life. Chronic kidney disease is a growing health problem in the United States. A report by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) determined that 16.8% of all adults above the age of 20 years have chronic kidney disease. Thus, according to eMedicineHealth.com, one in six individuals have kidney disease, and over 400,000 patients are on dialysis or have received kidney transplants. About 67,000 people die each year because of kidney failure.

The prevalence of chronic kidney disease has increased by 16% from the previous decade. The increasing incidence of diabetes mellitus, hypertension (high blood pressure), obesity, and an aging population have led to this increase in kidney disease. Chronic kidney disease is more prevalent among individuals above 60 years of age (39.4%). Kidney disease is more common among Hispanic, African American, Asian or Pacific Islander, and Native American people. Much info is located on their website about kidney disease: http://www.emedicinehealth.com/chronic_kidney_disease/article_em.htm .

The kidneys, a pair of bean-shaped organs, are located at the bottom of the ribcage in the right and left sides of the back, according to LabTestsOnline.org. Although the body is equipped with two kidneys, you can function with one reasonably healthy kidney if the other is damaged or removed. The kidneys receive blood from the aorta, filter it, and send it back to the heart with the right balance of chemicals and fluid for use throughout the body. The urine created by the kidneys is moved out of the body via the urinary tract.

According to LifeOptions.org, many people who have chronic kidney disease don't know it, because the early signs can be very subtle. It can take many years to go from chronic kidney disease (CKD) to kidney failure. Some people with CKD live out their lives without ever reaching kidney failure. However, for people at any stage of kidney disease, knowledge is power. Knowing the symptoms of kidney disease can help you get the treatment you need to feel your best. If you or someone you know has one or more of the following symptoms of kidney disease, or you are worried about kidney problems, see a doctor for blood and urine tests. Remember, many of the symptoms can be due to reasons other than kidney disease. The only way to know the cause of your symptoms is to see your doctor.

Note the following 10 symptoms:

1.) Symptom 1: Changes in Urination. Kidneys make urine, so when the kidneys are failing, the urine may change. How?

--You may have to get up at night to urinate.

--Urine may be foamy or bubbly. You may urinate more often, or in greater amounts than usual, with pale urine.

--You may urinate less often, or in smaller amounts than usual with dark colored urine.

--Your urine may contain blood.

--You may feel pressure or have difficulty urinating.

2.) Symptom 2: Swelling. Failing kidneys don't remove extra fluid, which builds up in your body causing swelling in the legs, ankles, feet, face, and/or hands.

3.) Symptom 3: Fatigue. Healthy kidneys make a hormone called erythropoietin (a-rith'-ro-po'-uh-tin) that tells your body to make oxygen-carrying red blood cells. As the kidneys fail, they make less erythropoietin. With fewer red blood cells to carry oxygen, your muscles and brain become tired very quickly. This condition is called anemia, and it can be treated.

4.) Symptom 4: Skin Rash/Itching. Kidneys remove wastes from the bloodstream. When the kidneys fail, the buildup of wastes in your blood can cause severe itching.

5.) Symptom 5: Metallic Taste in Mouth/Ammonia Breath. A buildup of wastes in the blood (called uremia) can make food taste different and cause bad breath. You may also notice that you stop liking to eat meat, or that you are losing weight because you just don't feel like eating.

6.) Symptom 6: Nausea and Vomiting. A severe buildup of wastes in the blood (uremia) can also cause nausea and vomiting. Loss of appetite can lead to weight loss.

7.) Symptom 7: Shortness of Breath. Trouble catching your breath can be related to the kidneys in two ways. First, extra fluid in the body can build up in the lungs. And second, anemia (a shortage of oxygen-carrying red blood cells) can leave your body oxygen-starved and short of breath.

8.) Symptom 8: Feeling Cold. Anemia can make you feel cold all the time, even in a warm room.

9.) Symptom 9: Dizziness and Trouble Concentrating. Anemia related to kidney failure means that your brain is not getting enough oxygen. This can lead to memory problems, trouble with concentration, and dizziness.

10.) Symptom 10: Leg/Flank Pain. Some people with kidney problems may have pain in the back or side related to the affected kidney. Polycystic kidney disease, which causes large, fluid-filled cysts on the kidneys and sometimes the liver, can cause pain.

According to eMedicineHealth.com, although chronic kidney disease sometimes results from primary diseases of the kidneys themselves, the major causes are diabetes and high blood pressure. Note the following medical issues that can cause kidney disease:

--Type 1 and type 2 diabetes mellitus cause a condition called diabetic nephropathy, which is the leading cause of kidney disease in the United States.

--High blood pressure (hypertension), if not controlled, can damage the kidneys over time.

--Glomerulonephritis is the inflammation and damage of the filtration system of the kidneys and can cause kidney failure. Postinfectious conditions and lupus are among the many causes of glomerulonephritis.

--Polycystic kidney disease is an example of a hereditary cause of chronic kidney disease wherein both kidneys have multiple cysts.

--Use of analgesics such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) and ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil) regularly over long durations of time can cause analgesic nephropathy, another cause of kidney disease.

--Certain other medications can also damage the kidneys.

--Clogging and hardening of the arteries (atherosclerosis) leading to the kidneys causes a condition called ischemic nephropathy, which is another cause of progressive kidney damage.

--Obstruction of the flow of urine by stones, an enlarged prostate, strictures (narrowings), or cancers may also cause kidney disease.

--Other causes of chronic kidney disease include HIV infection, sickle cell disease, heroin abuse, amyloidosis, kidney stones, chronic kidney infections, and certain cancers. If you have any of the following conditions, you are at higher-than-normal risk of developing chronic renal disease, according to eMedicineHealth. Your kidney functions may need to be monitored regularly if you have any of the following medical issues:

--Diabetes mellitus type 1 or 2.

--High blood pressure.

--High cholesterol.

--Heart disease.

--Liver disease.

--Kidney disease.

--Amyloidosis.

--Sickle cell disease.

--Systemic Lupus erythematosus.

--Vascular diseases such as arteritis, vasculitis, or fibromuscular dysplasia.

--Vesicoureteral reflux (a urinary tract problem in which urine travels the wrong way).

--Problems of the joints or muscles that require regular use of anti-inflammatory medications.

--If you have a family history of kidney disease.

Important treatments for kidney disease are tight control of blood glucose and blood pressure. Blood pressure has a dramatic effect on the rate at which the disease progresses. Even a mild rise in blood pressure can quickly make kidney disease worsen. Four ways to lower your blood pressure are losing weight, eating less salt, avoiding alcohol and tobacco, and getting regular exercise. Not everyone with diabetes develops kidney disease. Factors that can influence kidney disease development include genetics, blood sugar control, and blood pressure. The better a person keeps diabetes and blood pressure under control, the lower the chance of getting kidney disease.

According to the American Diabetes Association, once kidneys fail, dialysis is necessary. The person must choose whether to continue with dialysis or to get a kidney transplant. This choice should be made as a team effort. The team should include the doctor and diabetes educator, a nephrologist (kidney doctor), a kidney transplant surgeon, a social worker, and a psychologist. Kidneys are remarkable organs, according to the American Diabetes Association. Inside them are millions of tiny blood vessels that act as filters. Their job is to remove waste products from the blood. Sometimes this filtering system breaks down. When our bodies digest the protein we eat, the process creates waste products. In the kidneys, millions of tiny blood vessels (capillaries) with even tinier holes in them act as filters. As blood flows through the blood vessels, small molecules such as waste products squeeze through the holes. These waste products become part of the urine. Useful substances, such as protein and red blood cells, are too big to pass through the holes in the filter and stay in the blood. In time, the stress of overwork causes the kidneys to lose their filtering ability. Waste products then start to build up in the blood. Finally, the kidneys fail.

This failure, ESRD, is very serious. A person with ESRD needs to have a kidney transplant or to have the blood filtered by machine (dialysis) as previously noted. Treatment varies depending on the type of kidney or urinary disease present, according to LabTestsOnline. In general, the earlier kidney or urinary disease is recognized, the more likely it is to be treatable. Dietary restrictions, drug therapy, and surgical procedures may be appropriate. If the kidneys can no longer effectively remove waste and water from the body, a dialysis machine used several times a week can take over kidney filtration. Also, as previously mentioned, kidney transplant surgery is another option when kidneys fail. If you have diabetes or hypertension, control of your blood pressure and blood sugar is extremely important to prevent or minimize kidney damage. Until next time.

Your Best Health Care is a blog that was created in 2007 to relay information to readers interested in how to navigate various health care topics. The notes contained on each topic are credited to sources relative to the material. Not all information is original, but the blog references additional sources that have been edited for the benefit of readers. Over the past 10 years as I have been involved in the health care industry, I have found that good information gives value to people who need help finding out how things work in the health care market place. This Blog also links to other valuable sources for health care information from sources like the CDC, the Mayo Clinic, Time, CNN, and many other news feeds. This material is for informational purposes only and should not be used for medical advice, which is only available from your doctor or a licensed health care professional. I hope you find the topics informative and helpful.

Source - Cypress Times

Copyright 2010

Questions About Swine Flu

2010-01-16T10:23:00.000-08:00

How Can I Avoid Catching It?

Good standards of hygiene can help protect you from catching Swine Flu.

1/ Wash your hands frequently with soap and water and carry an alcohol-based hand gel to use if water isn't available.

2/ Cover your nose and mouth when you cough or sneeze, using a tissue if possible

3/ Dispose of used tissues quickly and carefully

4/ Make sure you clean hard surfaces like door handles frequently.

How Do I Know If I Have Swine Flu ?

Just like normal Flu, the symptons of Swine Flu include:

1/ a sudden fever (a high body temperature of 38C/100.4F or above)

2/ a sudden cough

Other symptons may include:

* Headache

* Sore throat

* Tiredness

* Runny nose

* Chills

* Sneezing

* Aching muscles

* Loss of appetite

* Limb or joint pain

* Diarrhoea or stomach upset

If you think you have Swine Flu, do the following:

Stay at home and check your symptons on government (or your National Pandemic Flu Service) regulated websites.

Only call your doctor, if:

1/ You have a serious underlying illness

2/ You are pregnant

3/ You have a sick child under one year old

4/ Your condition suddenly gets much worse after 7 days (or 5 days for a child)

PLEASE DO NOT GO STRAIGHT TO YOUR DOCTOR OR PHARMACIST, AS YOU MIGHT INFECT OTHERS OR BE SENT BACK HOME TO AWAIT YOUR ANTIVIRAL.

Please remember to plan ahead

1/ Ask a fried or relative to be your 'Flu friend'

2/ If diagnosed, you will be given information on how your 'Flu friend' can pick up your medicines.

Also note, when collect the Antivirals, your 'Flu friend'will need to show some form of ID for themselves and for you.

Millions at risk from fake drugs

Do not under any circumstances buy antiviral drug from unregulated websites - You may be gambling with your life.

About 1 in 7 adults admitted to avoiding the healtcare system to get 'Presciption Only Medicine' which could be counterfeit.

Fake medicines can contain harmful ingredients such as rat poison, lead paint and the insecticide additive Boric Acid.

DO NOT BE A VICTIM

For further advice and information on Swine Flu, contact your regional (or local) National Pandemic Flu Service.

Copyright 2010, All Rights Reserved

The Linden Method - Why Is it Working?

2010-01-09T14:32:00.000-08:00

The world's premier Anxiety, Panic Attack, OCD and Phobia elimination program. Is it, really ?

This method was developed by an ex-anxiety sufferer Charles Linden, after he researched every piece of information and treatsments for Panic Attacks, Anxiety and Phobias and then systematically identified the ones which actually worked.

The Linden Method has been developed as a drug free natural Anxiety relief treatment program.

Charles Linden motto seems to be "you either decide to do this or not to do it" - You really cannot agrue with that.

To date, they have successfully treated/helped 126,668 ex-sufferers to permanently
and completely eliminate panic attacks, anxiety attacks, OCD, phobias and all the
associated symptoms that had previously dominated and ruled their lives.

This is more sufferers than any other therapist, doctor or psychologist would do in five lifetimes. Their experience in the field of Anxiety (and related Phobias) is second to none and their success rate is unquestionable.

The method obviously doesn't work for everyone (i.e. the 3.3% who fail, just don't do it correctly!) but with the 100% money-back guarantee, we cannot see why anyone should have reason to be displeased. If it works - great, if not - invoke the guarantee, as simple as that.

Remember - "Anxiety Disorder and Panic Attacks are not mental or physical illnesses. They are behavioral conditions, fueled solely by our own actions".

Startling Statistics

Nearly 7% of the American population currently suffer from Anxiety Disorders, including Panic Attacks and Phobias. There are many more worldwide. Today, his program has become one of the most highly respected treatments throughout the mental health industry.

It is endorsed by psychologists and doctors who have put The Linden Method to the test and seen incredible results among their clients.
(Click here to read about the Science Behind The Linden Method)

Try it, you have nothing to loose and a lot to gain.

The package consists of the Linden Method Manual and 6 audio CDs
which contain a mixture of 'The Method', visualisation exercises, the 'Nine Pillars'
method, interview with Charles Linden, some relaxing music tracks and 1 year of free unlimited counseling support. The staff are willing to talk for long sessions.

There are three versions of The Linden Method available to you. All three versions contain everything you will need to conquer your anxiety disorder and include delivery (where applicable):

1/ The Linden Method Downlaod Version - cost $99

2/ The Linden Method Printed Version - cost $117

3/ The Linden Method Junior Version (Age 7-15) - cost $197

If you think $197 is a lot of money for all that, you have clearly never been to see a psychologist or counsellor privately.

Charles Linden states right at the beginning of his method that "you either decide to do this or not to do it" and it is as simple as that.

Why is the Linden Method so successful? It can be attributed to a number of things:

1/ It was developed by a knowledgeable person who had suffered for many years

2/ The root cause of anxiety disorders is addressed

3/ There are no drugs involved and therefore no harmful side effects

4/ It is an easy to follow program

5/ It is soothing and gentle with nothing frightening, but at the same time extremely effective.

6/ Unlimited support and advice is available from trained and sympathetic counselors

7/ Tested and approved by doctors and psychologists, the Linden Method is on its way to becoming the number one treatment for panic attacks and anxiety disorders

Remember

1/ A Panic Attack is not dangerous and does not need to disrupt your life in any way.

2/ Anxiety Disorder and Panic Attacks are not mental or physical illnesses. They are
behavioral conditions, fueled solely by our own actions.

3/ It 100% money back guarantee - You have nothing to lose. Try It.

4/ You can make the choice today. It's so easy. Instead of existing in a state of constant Panic and Anxiety, with the Linden Method you can start living life to the full and do those things you never thought possible.

5/ A Donation from Every Linden Method Pack is Made to Unicef

About Charles Linden

19 years ago, Charles was living in Germany, travelling a total of 100 miles daily (50 miles each way to work) and working 18 hours days, when he had his first panic attack. Click here to find out more about Charles.

Copyright 2010, All Rights Reserved

The Linden Method - Science Behind It

2010-01-09T07:21:00.000-08:00

The Linden Method is a well-known method for eliminating anxiety disorders, panic attacks and phobias. The method was developed by an ex-anxiety sufferer Charles Linden. After years of living with a severe case of anxiety, he discovered a technique that finally helped him to fully recover.

Charles Linden described his technique in the The Linden Method. This program directly affects the Amygdala – a small, almond shaped organ in your brain that is responsible for anxiety, panic and phobias. The guide explains exactly what you need to do in order to undo the changes in the Amygdala and permanently get rid of anxiety and panic disorders.

This report is taken from Nature, an international journal of science.

"The amygdala, a large structure deep within each cerebral hemisphere, is the place where the brain stores memories of fear," said University of Southern California neuroscientist Richard F. Thompson, co-author of the Nature article.

"In the presence of threatening stimuli, the amygdala signals to the prefrontal cortex, triggering the expression of fearful behavior."

Researchers at USC and the Université de Bordeaux (France) trained laboratory mice by sounding a tone and then administering a small electric shock. The mice soon learned to associate the tone with the impending shock and froze in fear as soon as they heard it. Simultaneously, the researchers detected changes in the electrical impulses measured by electrodes implanted in the subjects' prefrontal cortex. When the amygdala was then surgically removed, both the freezing behavior and the altered neuronal activity disappeared.

Lead author René Garcia, of Bordeaux's Laboratoire de Neurosciences Cognitives, designed and completed the experiment in Thompson's USC laboratory during the summer of 1999. "While a mouse's brain is far smaller than a human's, it has essentially the same structures and operates in analogous ways," Thompson explained.

"The prefrontal cortex acts as a kind of 'executive office,' controlling other parts of the brain. It makes decisions that determine how you will react. Memories of fear are stored in the amygdala, which codes them into signals and transmits those signals to the frontal cortex for action."

"Why are you afraid when you're walking alone in the dark and hear footsteps behind you? You have learned to be afraid. Nearly all of our fears are learned fears." Anxiety disorders, such as panic attacks and phobias, are expressions of your memories of fear", said Thompson.

Thompson, director of the USC Program in Neural, Informational and Behavioral Sciences, holds the William M. Keck Chair in Biological Sciences and Psychology in the USC College of Letters, Arts and Sciences.

In addition to Garcia and Thompson, USC neurobiologist Michel Baudry and Université de Bordeaux neuroscientist Rose Marie Vouimba were co-authors of the Nature article.

The study was funded by grants from the National Science Foundation, NATO and Fondation Fyssen.

Further research on Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (one of the five main anxiety disorders) announced by Psychology Today, concluded that:

"It has been found that the fear response is coordinated by a small structure deep inside the brain, called the Amygdala. The Amygdala, although relatively small, is a very complicated structure, and recent research suggests that post-traumatic stress disorder may be associated with abnormal activation of the amygdala."

Further Read: The Linden Method

Copyright 2010, All Rights Reserved

Anxiety - Caused By Memories Of Fear

2010-01-09T05:12:00.000-08:00

Anxiety is caused 100% by 'memories of fear'

The extract below is taken from Nature, the international but UK based journal of science. These research findings confirm all of our research and theories into the way the amygdala works and confirms clearly that anxiety is caused 100% by 'memories of fear'. It then goes on to say that they would like to find a genetic or drug solution which would STOP the amygdala from signalling to the frontal cortex! No need folks, we have found a way to stop it!

Extracts from the British journal Nature, point the way toward possible treatments for anxiety disorders.

"The amygdala, a large structure deep within each cerebral hemisphere, is the place where the brain stores memories of fear," said University of Southern California neuroscientist Richard F. Thompson, co-author of the Nature article".

"In the presence of threatening stimuli, the amygdala signals to the prefrontal cortex, triggering the expression of fearful behavior".

Researchers at USC and the Université de Bordeaux (France) trained laboratory mice by sounding a tone and then administering a small electric shock. The mice soon learned to associate the tone with the impending shock and froze in fear as soon as they heard it. Simultaneously, the researchers detected changes in the electrical impulses measured by electrodes implanted in the subjects' prefrontal cortex. When the amygdala was then surgically removed, both the freezing behavior and the altered neuronal activity disappeared.

Lead author René Garcia, of Bordeaux's Laboratoire de Neurosciences Cognitives, designed and completed the experiment in Thompson's USC laboratory during the summer of 1999. "While a mouse's brain is far smaller than a human's, it has essentially the same structures and operates in analogous ways," Thompson explained.

"The prefrontal cortex acts as a kind of 'executive office,' controlling other parts of the brain. It makes decisions that determine how you will react. Memories of fear are stored in the amygdala, which codes them into signals and transmits those signals to the frontal cortex for action."

"Why are you afraid when you're walking alone in the dark and hear footsteps behind you? You have learned to be afraid. Nearly all of our fears are learned fears." Anxiety disorders, such as panic attacks and phobias, are expressions of your memories of fear", said Thompson.

"If we could find a drug or genetic treatment that would stop the amygdala from signaling to the frontal cortex, then we could effectively treat anxiety disorders," he suggested.

Thompson, director of the USC Program in Neural, Informational and Behavioral Sciences, holds the William M. Keck Chair in Biological Sciences and Psychology in the USC College of Letters, Arts and Sciences.

In addition to Garcia and Thompson, USC neurobiologist Michel Baudry and Université de Bordeaux neuroscientist Rose Marie Vouimba were co-authors of the Nature article.

The study was funded by grants from the National Science Foundation, NATO and Fondation Fyssen.

BIG, BIG News

Dr Francis Teeney, Research Psychologist from Queen's University, Belfast has endorsed The Linden Method. FINALLY, the scientific recognition that endorses Charles Linden program as a recognized therapy.

126,668 people around the world have used The Linden Method to eliminate their anxiety, panic attacks, OCD and phobias.

"So, why is The Linden Method such an effective solution to anxiety, panic attacks, OCD and phobias?"

Copyright 2010, All Rights Reserved

Why Therabreath Is Better Than Any Other Oral Care Product

2010-01-06T11:05:00.000-08:00

1/ TheraBreath active component are soothing and produces Oxidizing Power once it enters the mouth. This stabilization procedure permits TheraBreath to have maximum 3 year shelf life. When any of the TheraBreath products enter your mouth, a chemical reaction occurs, which permits bounty of Active Oxygenation to happen each and every time you make use of it. That’s why millions and millions of bottles and tubes of TheraBreath products are sold every week in just the U.S. single-handedly!

2/ TheraBreath has turn out to be the most “comprehensible” unsullied breath system, comprising of Oral Rinse, Toothpaste, Breath Spray, intense PowerDrops, Oxygenating Chewing Gum, (all in both normal and Extra Strength editions), together with Nasal Sinus Drops and ZOX Breath Lozenges, and Fresh Breath Strips, all intended to hit the origin of the trouble all through the day with the maximum of expediency. A few Breath-refreshing systems depend exclusively on mouthwash to get rid of Bad Breath(Halitosis).

3/ TheraBreath Toothpaste is also found in a Fluoride edition which protects against decay and tooth sensitivity, in addition to a non-fluoride edition which takes in Xylitol to protect against decay. Fluoride has also been revealed to be a successful de-sensitizing mediator. A few of the other “Anti-Halitosis” systems do not take in any Fluoride at all. In both the ways, TheraBreath Toothpaste helps to protect against decay, on top of Bad Breath (Halitosis), dreadful tastes, and dry mouth.

4/ We have added extremely strong Whole Leaf Aloe Vera to our toothpaste. Current research in Asia has revealed that Aloe Vera improves the body’s capability to form collagen, which also reinforces feeble and inflamed gums to restore to health more rapidly. Bleeding gums make available a protein source to the bacteria that produce Bad Breath (Halitosis). No other “anti- Halitosis” process takes in this type of Aloe Vera to fight this supplementary trouble.

5/ Therabreath toothpaste does not have Saccharin. A lot of other breath-refreshing products like Oxyfresh, TriOral, and Closys II have saccharin. Saccharin has been known to be carcinogenic in lab animals and the state of California has lately made available a long term research on its pessimistic consequences. In addition to this, for a few people, Saccharin produces a bitter savor, as a result of one of the chemical compounds formed during Saccharin’s chemical breakdown.

6/ TheraBreath toothpaste does not have Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (a strong detergent), which along with other things has been known to be linked to an augmented occurrence of canker sores. Nearly all toothpastes like TriOral and Oxyfresh have this chemical. Research has revealed that Sodium Lauryl Sulfate should not be applied by those who experience canker sores, those who are diabetic or those who experience dry mouth.

Toothpaste that contain Sodium Lauryl Sulfate will cause high levels of bubbles in the mouth. You will be better off rinsing out these odour-causing bacteria from your mouth by brushing more often.

7/ TheraBreath toothpaste is in reality a gel. Chemically speaking, gels are to great extent smaller molecules than pastes, permitting deeper infiltration under the surface of the tongue. TheraBreath toothpaste also have first showing tooth polishing and whitening agents, so as to maintain your smile white and dazzling, however without the harmful abrasives. They are animal cruelty-free and are not damaging to the atmosphere. And, we’ve lately got Kosher guarantee on all of our rinses, toothpastes, sprays, drops, and mints. This implies that we make use of simply pure vegetable or mineral based components – no animal or animal-based components.

8/ All of our toothpastes now have a new variety of mineral protectant known as Polypyrophosphate machinery. On the whole, these natural minerals stop calculus, tartar and plaque from attaching to tooth enamel, resulting in cleaner teeth and improved gums.

No other “breath” toothpaste has these valuable minerals. Actually, only a few manufacturers have worried to spend the funds to put in this to their formulas.

Well, I guess their bottom line comes prior to our gum line!

TheraBreath products can be found at www.therabreath.com

Copyright 2009, All Rights Reserved

Hygiene and Athlete’s Foot

2009-12-13T06:40:00.000-08:00

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

2009-12-13T06:36:00.000-08:00

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 ?

2009-12-13T06:32:00.000-08:00

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

2009-12-13T06:31:00.000-08:00

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

2009-12-13T06:27:00.000-08:00

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?

2009-12-13T06:23:00.000-08:00

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

Celebrities Have Asthma Too

2009-12-12T13:02:00.000-08:00

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

2009-12-12T12:58:00.000-08:00

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

2009-12-12T12:56:00.000-08:00

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?

2009-12-12T12:55:00.000-08:00

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

2009-12-12T12:13:00.000-08:00

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 ?

2009-12-12T12:08:00.000-08:00

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

Lung Cancer-Warning Signs And Symptoms

2009-12-07T11:59:00.000-08:00

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

2009-12-07T11:56:00.000-08:00

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

2009-12-07T11:54:00.000-08:00

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

2009-12-07T11:51:00.000-08:00

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

2009-12-07T11:49:00.000-08:00

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

2009-12-07T11:48:00.000-08:00

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

2009-12-07T11:45:00.000-08:00

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

2009-12-07T11:41:00.000-08:00

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

2009-12-07T11:39:00.000-08:00

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

2009-12-07T11:36:00.000-08:00

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

2009-12-07T11:32:00.000-08:00

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

2009-12-07T11:29:00.000-08:00

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

2009-12-07T11:23:00.000-08:00

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

Proof Mounts On Restricted Diet

2009-10-30T08:58:00.000-07:00

Cutting calories may delay the ageing process and reduce the risk of disease, a long-term study of monkeys suggests.
The benefits of calorie restriction are well documented in animals, but now the results have been replicated in a close relative of man over a lengthy period.

Over 20 years, monkeys whose diets were not restricted were nearly three times more likely to have died than those whose calories were counted.

Writing in Science, the US researchers hailed the "major effect" of the diet.

It involved reducing calorie intake by 30% while maintaining nutrition and appeared to impact upon many forms of age-related disease seen in monkeys, including cancer, diabetes, cardiovascular disease and brain atrophy.

Whether the same effects would be seen in humans is unclear, although anecdotal evidence so far suggests people on a long-term calorie-restricted diet have better cardiovascular health.

The precise mechanism is yet to be established: theories involve changes in the body's metabolism or a reduction in the production of "free radical" chemicals which can cause damage.

Seventy-six rhesus monkeys were involved in the trial, which began in 1989 and was expanded in 1994.

Half had their diets restricted, half were given free rein at feeding time.

The rate of cancers and cardiovascular disease in dieting animals was less than half of those permitted to eat freely.

While diabetes and problems with glucose regulation were common in monkeys who ate what they wanted, there were no cases in the calorie controlled group.

In addition, while most brains shrink with age, the restricted diet appeared to maintain the volume of the brain at least in some regions.

In particular, the areas associated with movement and memory seemed to be better preserved.

"Both motor speed and mental speed slow down with ageing," said Sterling Johnson, a neuroscientist at the University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Medicine.

"Those are the areas which we found to be better preserved. We can't yet make the claim that a difference in diet is associated with functional change because those studies are still ongoing".

"What we know so far is that there are regional differences in brain mass that appear to be related to diet."

Earlier this year, German researchers published findings from their study of elderly people which suggested that calorie reduction appeared to improve memory over a period of just three months.

Various studies on the positive effects of calorie restriction on the life spans of various organisms - from yeast to dogs - have been published over the last 70 years

But dieticians sounded a note of warning.

"Monkeys may be a close relation but there are significant differences which means not everything we see in them can be translated to humans," said Catherine Collins, spokeswoman for the British Dietetic Association.

"And there should be some serious reservations about cutting calories so dramatically, particularly for anyone under the age of 30. Any such diet would need to be very balanced to avoid malnutrition, and it would be a long-term commitment".

"People would have to weigh up whether they are prepared to compromise their enjoyment of food for the uncertain promise of a longer life, and a life which could be dogged by all sorts of problems - including osteoporosis."

Source - BBC

Copyright 2009

Obesity Drug Fears Investigated

2009-10-30T08:56:00.000-07:00

US authorities are investigating concerns an anti-obesity drug widely available over the counter at chemists may cause liver damage.

Orlistat went on sale under the brand name Alli without the need for a prescription in the UK in April.

The US Food and Drug Administration has received more than 30 reports linking the drug to serious liver injury.

However, manufacturer GlaxoSmithKline said there was no evidence the drug caused liver damage.

In six of the cases reported to the FDA patients went on to develop organ failure.

The pill, which works by blocking the absorption of fat in the body, is aimed at adults with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 28 or more. It is also available on prescription as Xenical.

Clinical trials suggest adding orlistat to a reduced-calorie, lower-fat diet, can help people lose 50% more weight than dieting alone.

Big sales

Since going on sale at UK pharmacies around 200,000 people have bought the drug.

Diarrhoea and gas problems are to be expected if users persist in eating fat while taking the drug.

However, concerns have been raised over the medication's other possible side-effects.

The FDA said the most commonly reported adverse reactions included the yellowing of skin or whites of the eyes, weakness and stomach pain.

Between 1999 and 2008, the agency received 32 reports of liver damage, 30 of which occurred outside the US. Of these 27 resulted in hospitalisation.

The agency said it was now conducting a review of the safety of the drug, but stressed no definite association with liver damage had been established at this stage.

It advised people who used orlistat to seek medical advice if they experience possible symptoms of liver injury, in particular weakness or fatigue, fever, jaundice, or brown urine.

Other symptoms may include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, light-colored stools, itching, or loss of appetite.

However, the number of reports of liver damage is very small when compared with the many thousands of people who have used the drug.

Experts also stressed that it is possible that many obese people have underlying physical problems which could increase their risk of liver damage.

Safety a priority

In the UK, the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) said it had received a total of 1,295 suspected adverse drug reaction reports associated with orlistat, including 137 involving suspected liver damage, since it was licensed in 1998.

The European Medicines Agency said there was no plan to change the product information at present - but the situation was under review.

In a statement, GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) said patient safety was its top priority, and reports of side effects were constantly monitored.

The statement went on to say the drug had been extensively tested in clinical trials involving 30,000 patients.

"Alli is a 'non-systemically' acting medicine - it is minimally absorbed in the blood and works locally in the gastro-intestinal tract.

"There is no obvious biological mechanism to suggest liver damage can occur with Alli" - GlaxoSmithKline

LIVER DAMAGE SYMPTOMS
* Weakness
* Fatigue
* Fever
* Jaundice
* Brown urine

Source - BBC

Copyright 2009

Eating Late At Night Adds Weight

2009-10-30T08:53:00.000-07:00

Late-night snackers are more likely to gain weight, research suggests.

A team from Northwestern University, Illinois, found that when you eat, not just how you eat, could make a big difference.

Scientists found that when mice ate at unusual hours, they put on twice as much weight, despite exercising and eating as much as others.

The study, in the journal Obesity, is said to be the first to show directly that there is a "wrong" time to eat.

Recent studies have suggested that circadian rhythms, the body's internal clock, have a role in how our bodies use up energy. However, this had been difficult to definitively pin down.

Deanna Arble, lead author of the study, said: "One of our research interests is shift workers, who tend to be overweight".

"This got us thinking that eating at the wrong time of day might be contributing to weight gain."

The experiment looked at two groups of mice over a six-week period. Both groups were fed a high-fat diet, but at different times of the mice "waking cycle".

One group of mice ate at times when they would normally be asleep. They put on twice as much weight.

This was despite them doing the same level of activity, and eating the same amount of food, as the other mice.

Groundbreaking

The findings may have implications for people worried about their weight.

"How or why a person gains weight is very complicated, but it is clearly not just calories in and calories out," said Fred Turek, from the Northwestern's Center for Sleep and Circadian Biology, where the research took place.

"Better timing of meals could be a critical element in slowing the ever-increasing incidence of obesity."

Tam Fry, from the National Obesity Forum, agreed. He said: "It is groundbreaking. It really gets you thinking why this has not been done before.

"It could be very dramatic if it affects whether you are going to get fat or not."

At this stage, the results could still be interpreted as controversial when applied to humans.

The scientists now hope they can find out more about how the process works. It is thought that sleep, hormones and body temperature all play a part in how we gain weight.

Source - BBC

Copyright 2009

Coping with Hair Loss

2009-10-24T02:43:00.000-07:00

Few fears strike at the hearts of men more than the prospect of going bald, and there are many unproven treatments that prey on this insecurity. Male pattern baldness, or androgenic alopecia, is the most common form of hair loss and is caused by an inherited sensitivity on the scalp to certain normally occurring hormones called androgens. By the age of 30, about one-third of males show signs of baldness, and by 50 half are affected.

So what can you do? Of all the available treatments, only two have been shown to have any effect. These are finasteride (trade name Propecia), which is a drug available on prescription, and the over-the-counter lotion called minoxidil (trade name Regaine). Both can delay loss, or even stimulate some regrowth in some circumstances, but are by no means universal cures. For a start they are most effective in the early stages of hair loss. “If you hardly have any hair left on the scalp, you can’t grow it back, so don’t bother,” says Dr John Gray of the Institute of Trichologists.

To work, they must also be taken for some time – between four months and a year – and if you stop the treatment any effects reverse. There are side effects. For example, about 2% of finasteride users experience decreased libido or reduced ejaculatory volume.

A more expensive long-term option is transplant surgery. Plugs of skin containing 3-6 hair follicles or just one hair are transferred from the back or side of the head to the scalp, where they will continue to grow unaffected by androgens. If you want to try this route, it’s essential first to consult a registered trichologist (see Taking It Further). Sessions over several years may be necessary, and these may cost up to £10,000.

1 How hair loss occurs

Each of the 100,000 hairs on your head grows in a 2-5 year cycle, after which it falls out and is replaced. In some men, a genetic sensitivity to androgens (a type of hormone) causes this cycle to shorten. It also reduces the diameter of each replacement hair. The gene responsible for this sensitivity can be inherited from either parent’s side of the family

2 Where loss occurs

Hair loss usually begins in the front temporal areas, progressing to the crown. The rate of loss varies between people, and the process can take from 5 to 25 years. As part of normal growth cycles, we lose around 100 hairs a day naturally

Source - Times Online

To naturally regrow lost hair, check out the 'How To Naturally Regrow Lost Hair in 15 Minutes in a Day' ebook and find out the 'Secret Techniques Hollywood Actors Use to Naturally Regrow Lost Hair Within Weeks'

The ebook uses a simple holistic approach. It works! You can leave parts of the program out (such as getting the stuff from the grocery store) and still regrow all or most of your hair back!

No chemicals, drugs or transplants involed - The only additional thing required of you is to make one trip to the grocery store with about $15.

Copyright 2009, All Rights Reserved

Angina Pectoris – Causes and Symptoms

2008-12-28T05:21:00.000-08:00

Angina Pectoris – Causes and Symptoms

What is Angina Pectoris ?

Angina refers to a painful constriction or tightness somewhere in the body. Angina Pectoris is constriction of the heart muscle that causes a pain or tightness across the centre of the chest that sometimes spread to the neck, jaw or arms. We men may develop angina as early as our 30s or 40s.

To confirm a diagnosis of angina pectoris, your doctor will normally carry out an electrocardiogram (ECG), which is a recording of the electrical activity passing through the heart muscle.

Angina Pectoris Pain

Description of angina pectoris vary from a mild aching sensation to a heavy crushing pain – sometimes mistaken for indigestion or heartburn.

Causes of Angina Pectoris

Angina Pectoris is caused by lack of oxygen and nutrients reaching the heart muscles, usually because the coronary arteries which encircles and supplies blood to the heart have become clogged up with fatty deposits – a condition known as Atherosclerosis.

Contributing factors could be

1/ smoking tobacco
2/ lack of exercise
3/ excessive alcohol consumption
4/ eating lots of foods that contain large amounts of saturated, polyunsaturated and Trans fats
5/ cholesterol

Symptoms of Angina Pectoris

Symptoms that often accompanies angina are
1/ sweating
2/ nausea
4/ dizziness
4/ difficulty in breathing

Angina Pectoris self-help measures (remedies) for sufferers

1/ stop smoking
2/ exercise regularly but only until the symptoms come on
3/ relax to reduce stress
4/ avoid exercising on hot or very cold days or soon after a meal
5/ lose weight to put less strain on the heart

Angina Pectoris Treatment (relieve)

1/ Using drugs to widen the blocked (or narrowed) coronary arteries
2/ Using drugs to reduce the heart’s demand for oxygen by slowing the heart rate
3/ Angioplasty (surgical procedures)
Inserting a catheter with an inflated balloon tip into the narrowed (blocked) artery to flatten the fatty deposits
4/ Bypass Grafting
Attachment of a blood vessel to redirect blood flow around the blood (or narrowed) artery.

Copyright 2008, All Rights Reserved

Symptoms of HIV

2008-12-27T12:32:00.000-08:00

Symptoms of HIV

HIV – Human Immunodeficiency Virus infection may be passed on between people in several ways:

1/ by having unprotected sex (anal or vaginal) with someone who has HIV

2/ a mother may pass HIV to her baby in the womb during delivery or through breast feeding

3/ through inoculation (or transfusion) using infected blood or blood product

Symptoms of HIV

The HIV virus invades the white blood cells and multiplies inside them any time between 3 to 12 weeks after exposure to HIV.
People infected with HIV have been known to have symptoms similar to Glandular Fever which may develop with high body temperature, headache and swollen lymph nodes. These symptoms usually disappear, enabling most people with HIV to continue leading normal lives with no obvious effects on their physical health.

Because HIV results in the formation of specific antibodies to the virus (this is when the HIV infected person is referred to as being HIV-positive), the diagnosis may be made from a blood test. It may take 12 weeks for these antibodies to appear and so a negative test result is only relevant if that individual has avoided all high risk activities for at least 12 weeks before the test.

Once an adult is confirmed as being HIV-positive, the antibodies won’t go away but he or she may remain in good health for many years. Currently, the average time for HIV infection to progress to AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome) is 8 to 10 years. People found to be HIV-positive should take care of their health by eating a varied balanced diet, following a regular exercise routine and using relaxation technique to prevent a build-up of stress.

All these measures will help them stay healthy for longer. They should also take every reasonable precaution to avoid passing HIV on to others.

Copyright 2008, All Rights Reserved

What is Hypertension ?

2008-12-26T07:30:00.000-08:00

What is Hypertension ?

Whether or not you develop high blood pressure (hypertension) is influenced by several factors such as your genes, the way you eat, the amount of exercise you take, whether or not you smoke and the amount of alcohol you drink.

Everyone needs a certain blood pressure (BP) to keep blood moving around their body and maintain their circulation. Blood pressure exist because your heart pumps blood around a closed system, rather like a boiler pumping water through a series of central heating pipes. The pressure in your arteries therefore depends on a number of factors such as

1/ the volume of fluid inside your circulation
2/ how hard your heart is pumping at any given time
3/ the elasticity or ‘resistance’ of the vessels the blood is passing through

Normal BP varies naturally throughout the day and night, going up and down in response to your emotions and level of activity. If you have high blood pressure, however, your BP will remain consistently high, even when you are asleep.

BP is measured according to the length of a column of mercury it can support. It is therefore expressed in millimetres of mercury (mmHg). BP is written down as the higher pressure (systole) over the lower figure (diastole).

As many as 1 in 5 adults have high blood pressure known medically as hypertension. This means that blood is forced through their system under a constantly high pressure. Hypertension is diagnosed when systolic pressure is consistently greater than 140 mmHg and diastolic pressure is consistently greater than 90 mmHg. A systolic blood pressure of between 140 and 160 mmHg and a diastolic value of between 90,-95 are sometimes referred to as mild hypertension.

If your BP is consistently greater than 140/90, then you are suffering from high blood pressure or hypertension.

Author
Dr Sarah Brewer is a qualified doctor, health writer and successful media columnist.

Michelle Berriedale-Johnson is a well known special diets cookery writer whose books include The Everyday Wheat-free and Gluten-free Cookbook.

Both authors of Eat to Beat High Blood Pressure: Natural Self-help for Hypertension, Including 60 Recipes

Copyright 2008, All Rights Reserved

Meat, Fish and Cancer

2008-12-26T04:37:00.000-08:00

Meat, Fish and Cancer

Scientific evidence have shown that many cancers are linked to the food we eat. By eating the right kind of food, we reduce the risk to cancer.

Meat (major source of fat in out diet) and fish provides us with most of our dietary nutrients such as Iron, Protein, Vitamin B, Magnesium and Zinc. These nutrients needed for everyday repair and growth of our body cells. Growing people and those who are ill need a good intake of protein foods, as well as energy to grow and get better.

In the dietary guidelines published by the American Institute for Cancer, they stress that reducing the intake of saturated, polyunsaturated and Trans fats will help in the long run to reduce our chances of getting cancer.

Try to

1/ avoid adding fat when cooking food
2/ avoid processed meats such as beef burgers, sausages, chicken dippers/nuggets
3/ avoid eating visible fat on meat joints and in meat products such as salamis and pork pie.

What are the Best Choices (for meat and fish)

1/ Include poultry or fish dishes frequently on the menu
2/ Use lean cuts of meat, poultry (without the skin) and fish without crumbs or batter
3/ Oven bake or dry fry wherever possible
4/ Beans and pulses (lentils and beans) are naturally very low in fat and are a good vegetarian choice or can be added to extend the meat in soups, casseroles and stews.
5/ Check portion sizes, as we tend to over meat and fish.

Copyright 2008, All Rights Reserved

Relieving Chronic Constipation

2008-12-25T15:15:00.000-08:00

Relieving Chronic Constipation

It is not necessary to have a bowel movement everyday. From 3 bowel movements each day to 3 each week is considered normal. Constipation can be accompanied by fatigue, bloating and mild cramps.

The following can cause chronic constipation

1/ diets low in fibre or roughage and high in animal fat
2/ stress can lead to constipation.
3/ certain drugs like antacids and pain relievers can cause constipation
4/ Travel can cause constipation. This is due to changes in drinking water, diet and daily activities.
5/ Older people sometimes suffer constipation because of not drinking enough fluids, lack of exercise and low fibre diets
6/ over-use of laxatives resulting in dependencies is a common cause

Suggestion for Relieving Constipation

1/ eat fruits, raw vegetables, bran, whole grain bread and cereals
2/ eat regularly
3/ get plenty of physical exercise
4/ drink a half glass of hot water half an hour before breakfast every day
5/ drink a total of eight glasses of fluids daily – two should be prune juice.
6/ never strain, relax
7/ have regular bowel movements at the same time of day. The best time is half an hour or so after breakfast
8/ if you’re still having difficulty add an ounce of mineral oil to fruit juice and drink before going to bed
9/ try a mixture of yoghurt and prunes. Researchers believe the lactobacillus acid ophilus in yoghurt helps promote regularity.

Copyright 2008, All Rights Reserved

Early Warning Symptoms for Cancer

2008-12-25T15:12:00.000-08:00

The number of us (men) expected to get cancer is up from 1 in 40 for those born in 1970 to 1 in 3 for those born after 1985. It is therefore important to be alert to the various early warning symptoms of cancer. The point is not to become a neurotic hypochondriac, totally obsessed with the idea that any vague symptoms we might develop is almost certainly the result of cancer, but to know which specific symptoms to have checked out by your doctor

The actual cause of one of these symptoms is often something much less serious. However, ruling out cancer will put your mind at rest and in those few cases where cancer is confirmed, treatment can be started before too much damage is done and before the cancer has advanced to a stage where it can no longer be dealt with successfully.

Some early warning cancer symptoms are:

1/ blood in urine
2/ unexplained weight loss
3/ headaches that persist or recur
4/ change in shape, size or firmness of a testicle
5/ bruising without injury
6/ a mole that changes shape, size or colour, bleeds or itches
7/ a scab, sore or ulcer that fails to heal within 3 weeks
8/ a persistent patch inside the mouth
9/ rectal bleeding, particularly when blood is mixed with faeces
10/ coughing up blood
11/ hoarseness that recurs or persists for longer than one week
12/ unexplained lumps or bumps
13/ swallowing difficulty that persists
14/ unexplained constipation or diarrhoea that is prolonged for more than a week

Lowering the Risk of Cancer

Scientific evidence have shown that many cancers are linked to the food we eat. By eating the right kind of food, we reduce the risk to cancer.

Here are some recommendations from the American Institute for Cancer:

1/ reduce your intake of both saturated and unsaturated fats.
2/ increase the consumption of fruits, vegetables and whole grains
3/ consume less salt-cured, smoked and charcoal broiled foods
4/ drink alcohol in moderation
5/ avoid smoking

Copyright 2008, All Rights Reserved

Where is Cholesterol Produced in the Body

2008-12-24T12:10:00.000-08:00

Cholesterol is a fat-like substance produced by the body in the liver and is essential for correct body functioning. It is needed for building blocks for healthy cell walls, some hormones and digestive juices.

We all produce cholesterol from fat we eat but some people produce more than others and this is where ‘raised cholesterol’ problem starts. Measuring ‘good' and ‘bad’ cholesterol is a way of showing that you are using and cleaning away excess cholesterol efficiently. The higher your ‘good’ cholesterol the better.

Causes of Heart Attack and Stroke

Studies have shown that high cholesterol levels increase your risk of heart attack and stroke. If ‘bad’ cholesterol is not checked it could seriously damage the body.

Cholesterol is carried in the blood stream where some is deposited into the inner linings of the arteries. These fatty deposits build up causing the artery walls to thicken and become less flexible. The arteries narrows and restrict blood flow. If the fatty deposits continues to build up, they will eventually shut off blood supply to the arteries. If the blood stoppage occurs in an artery feeding the brain, a stroke might occur. If the clogged artery feeds the heart, a heart attack may occur.

Types of Dietary Fat
1/ Saturated

Increases both ‘good’ and ‘bad’ cholesterol

Having too much saturated fat in the diet can increase the amount of total cholesterol in the blood.

High blood cholesterol increases the risk of developing strokes or heart disease.

Example of food containing saturated fats are meat, fatty sausages, beef burgers, pies, pastries, cakes, biscuits, chocolates, lard, butter, coconut and palm oil.

2/ Unsaturated

Unsaturated fats don’t raise cholesterol in the same way as saturated fats. There are 2 types of unsaturated fats, Polyunsaturated and Monounsaturated.

2.1/ Polyunsaturated

Decreases both ‘good’ and ‘bad’ cholesterol.

Polyunsaturated fats when substituted for saturated fats in the diet lower total cholesterol. This decreases the risk of strokes and heart attacks.

Examples of food containing polyunsaturated fats are vegetable oil, sunflower oil, oily fish .

2.2/ Monounsaturated

Increases ‘good’ cholesterol.
Decreases ‘bad’ cholesterol.

Monounsaturated fats are the most beneficial types of fat. This is because within total cholesterol, there are both ‘good’ and ‘bad’ fractions.

Monounsaturated fats lower ‘bad’ cholesterol without adversely affecting ‘good’ cholesterol.

Good cholesterol is cardio-protective.

Example of food containing monounsaturated fats are olive oil, groundnut oil, rapeseed oil and nuts.

3/ Essential Fatty Acids (Omega 3 fatty acids)

Oily fish is the best source of Omega 3 fatty acids. These have been shown to help protect against coronary heart disease and make the blood ‘less sticky’. Eating a couple of portion of oily fish such as the mackerel family( mackerel, tuna & swordfish) , the herring family (sardines, anchovies, herring, shad), the salmon family (Atlantic salmon & Pacific salmon), trout, pilchards, kipper, eel and whitebait can provide these health benefits.

4/ Trans Fatty Acid

Trans fats can be formed when liquid vegetable oil are turned into solid fats through the process of hydrogenation. This is often done to improve the production of superior properties in products.

Food containing hydrogenated vegetable oil might also contain trans fats. Trans fats are often found in biscuits, cake, fast food, pastry, palm oil and some margarines and in lower levels in foods such as dairy products, beef and lamb.

The human body simply does not know what to do with trans fats as they cannot be broken down and they then have a similar bad effect on blood cholesterol as saturated fat.

Copyright 2008, All Rights Reserved

How to Lower Cholesterol in your Diet

2008-12-24T12:08:00.000-08:00

Avoid eating Saturated fat
Too much increases both ‘good’ and ‘bad’ cholesterol

Avoid eating Polyunsaturated fat
Too much decreases both ‘good’ and ‘bad’ cholesterol

Eat more Monounsaturated fat
Increases ‘good’ cholesterol and decreases ‘bad’ cholesterol.

Avoid food containing Trans Fatty acids
The human body simply does not know what to do with trans fats as they cannot be broken down and they then have a similar bad effect on blood cholesterol as saturated fat.

Tips for Lowering Cholesterol

1/ Choose lean meat, fish, poultry, dried beans and peas as protein sources

2/ Moderate the use of eggs and organs meats such as liver and kidneys.

3/ Use skimmed or low-fat milk

4/ Limit your intake of butter, cream, coconut oil, palm oil and food made from such products.

5/ Eat less bacon, sausage and processed meats.

6/ Trim excess fat off meats

7/ Broil, bake, steam or boil, rather than fry.

8/ Read food labels carefully to determine the amount and types of fat in food before buying or eating.

Copyright 2008, All Rights Reserved

Tips to Help You Remember to Take Your Medication

2008-12-24T12:05:00.000-08:00

If you do forget to take you treatment occasionally, it is unlikely that you will come to any harm, however if you forget to take your tablets/capsules on a regular basis, you may run into problems.

I have come up with the following plan, to help me remember to take my medication

1/ I try to take my tablets/capsules regularly, at the same time everyday, so that I get into a routine.

2/ I have written notes on sticky paper (post-it notes) and stuck them to places where I can easily see them to help me remember

3/ I get my next prescription in plenty of time so as not to run out.

4/ If I am going on holidays, I make sure I take enough tablets with me to last the whole holiday.

5/ I always ask my wife and kids to help me remember.

6/ My daughter bought me a programmable alarm watch as a present, which I set to help me remember when to take my tablets

7/ I also keep my tablets in a dispenser box with separate containers for different times of the day

8/ I keep my medication close to my toothbrush and out of reach of my young child’s hands. I find it a lot easier to remember to take my tablets each mornings and evenings.

Copyright 2008, All Rights Reserved

How to Treat the Flu

2008-12-21T09:19:00.000-08:00

Simple really!!

1/ Stay in bed

2/ Take Aspirin or Paracetamol.
Do not take Aspirin with Vitamin C. It may increase stomach irritation. (For children consult your doctor before administering Aspirin).

3/ Avoid further complications by staying away from crowds.

4/ Drink plenty of liquids

5/ Do not smoke.
Cigarette smoking weakens resistance and lung power.

6/ Take Vitamin C supplements (but not with Aspirin). Eat properly and consult your doctor if your condition worsens.

And yes, it also applies to the dreadful and life threatening Man Flu.

Copyright 2008, All Rights Reserved

Man Flu – Myth or Fact ?

2008-12-21T09:03:00.000-08:00

Urban Dictionary Definition
A rare strain of flu so powerful and so deadly it can only be matched by the Bubonic Plague and Aids. An incurable virus which has adapted to only effect the "XY" gene found in men. The virus attacks the immune system 10,000 times harder than the average flu virus, causing excruciating pain for the victim. Man Flu has no cure and prayers can save the forsaken life of the infected. The often deadly virus is mostly laughed at by women who sadly cannot contract "Man Flu"

The condition shared by all males wherein a common illness (usually a mild cold) is presented by the patient as life-threatening and he will exhibit the standard symptoms (such as an overwhelming desire for compassion) while simultaneously rejecting any and all efforts you make to placate him.

This is also known as 'Fishing for Sympathy' or 'Chronic Exaggeration'.

From the UK Daily Telegraphy
Last Updated: 2:39AM GMT 06 Dec 2007
So-called "man flu" is just a myth and women are the weaker sex when it comes to catching sniffs and sneezes, according to new research.

A survey of 2,000 people, commissioned by the cold remedy maker Beechams, found that two thirds of men who suffered from cold and flu symptoms in the past 12 months fought it and carried on as normal while only half of the women did.

Young women in white-collar industries such as travel and public relations were most likely to take time off at the first hint of a runny nose. The cities with the highest proportion of "sickies" were Nottingham, Brighton and London.

Dudes, It’s the only time we are allowed to whine and complain, so enjoy it while it last!!

Copyright 2008, All Rights Reserved

Flu Doubles Risk of Heart Attack and Stroke

2008-12-21T08:48:00.000-08:00

More than 15 million flu jabs will be given to elderly and vulnerable patients in the next two months

A bout of flu doubles the immediate risk of having a heart attack or stroke, a groundbreaking study has found.

Sufferers are four times more likely to be affected within three days of falling ill with the flu and are at double the risk for up to a week, according to the study of two million people.

Flu dislodges fatty deposits that build up in the arteries, leaving them free to move around the body and get stuck in the brain or heart, where they block the blood flow.

Researchers describe the increased risks associated with flu as a "substantial public health problem" that is killing thousands of elderly people every year. The risks also apply to other serious respiratory infections, such as bronchitis and pneumonia.

Around 23,000 more people die in winter than in the summer months.

Prof Tom Meade, the co-author of today's study, said heart attacks and strokes brought on by flu and other respiratory infections would account for "several thousand" of these deaths.

More than 15 million flu jabs will be given to elderly and vulnerable patients in the next two months. Prof Meade, from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, is calling for as many as possible to have the vaccine to guard against the risks.

Prof Meade stressed that the risks did not apply to colds, only serious bouts of flu or other infections such as bronchitis which were severe enough for patients to see their GP.

Dr Tim Clayton, the lead author of the report, said the results suggested that putting more effort into preventing infection through vaccination and treating diseases sooner could save many lives. He said: "Since there may be a large number of vascular deaths attributable to respiratory infection … the benefits of reducing respiratory infection particularly in the winter months could be substantial."

Around one in three heart attacks and strokes is fatal.

The study, published online today in the European Heart Journal, was funded by the British Heart Foundation.

Its spokesman, Dr Mike Knapton, said: "We recommend that anyone with heart disease has the flu jab."

Joe Korner, of The Stroke Association, said it was "vital" that anyone at high risk of stroke or other cardiovascular conditions had the vaccine.

Of the two million people whose GP records were studied, 11,000 had suffered a heart attack. They were twice as likely to have been diagnosed with flu or a respiratory infection in the previous month.

Around 9,000 had suffered strokes. They were twice as likely to have been diagnosed with a respiratory infection in the previous three days. The risk tailed off with time and three months after being diagnosed with flu, patients were at only slightly increased risk.

The winter flu season usually starts in December or January and lasts up to two months. Vaccines are available on the NHS for the over-65s and for patients with certain illnesses, such as asthma.

The UK has not suffered a seasonal flu epidemic in seven years. However, experts warn that one is due.

By Nic Fleming, Dec 2007
UK Daily Telegraphy Medical Correspondent

Copyright 2008, All Rights Reserved

Kidney Stones – Symptoms and Prevention

2008-12-21T08:29:00.000-08:00

Kidney Stones are mostly common among white men between the ages of 20 and 30. The ‘stones’ are calcium oxalate crystals which form inside the kidney when the body is unable to flush out impurities and toxins that have accumulate in our urine.

The pain is in direct proportion to the size of the Kidney Stones, that is, the bigger the ‘stones’ the more pain we suffer.

Symptoms
1/ Passing of blood with urine
2/ frequent, painful urination
3/ severe pain between the stomach and the groin

If you are susceptible to Kidney Stones, they may recur every 3 or 4 years. You must take care to rid yourself of the pain.

You can prevent this from happening by altering your diet and following these simple steps:

1/ Drink at least 10 glasses of water a day
2/ Reduce your salt intake
3/ Do not take excessive amount of food high in oxalate e.g Spinach, Rhubarb, Black pepper or nuts
4/ Do not eat excessive amount of meat
5/ Limit vitamin C intake to 500 to 1000 mg per day
6/ Limit Calcium intake to 1000 mg per day

Like the saying goes, “prevention is better than cure”. You must do everything within your power to help dissolve your Kidney Stone over time.

Copyright 2008, All Rights Reserved

Salt - Too Much Too Bad ?

2008-12-21T04:24:00.000-08:00

Table Salt - Too Much Too Bad ?

Salt is made up of Sodium and Chloride. It's the Sodium in the salt that can be bad for our health. Sodium rather than salt is the word often listed in the nutritional information on food labels in supermarket and stores. Try as you may, you will not find the word salt 'salt' listed on food packaging at all!!

We all need some salt, but only around 6 grams per day for adults. On average we consume around 10 grams per day (not good).
So, to live a healthy lifestyle you need to reduce your salt intake from 2 to 1 teaspoon per day.

Salt is closely linked to water balance in our bodies and blood pressure control. Salt can raise blood pressure which can lead to heart disease and stroke. Recommendations for children are well under 6g per day, the younger the child, the less salt they need.

Where Do We Get Salt From ?

The major sources of salt in the diet are from processed foods, food mixes, sauces, bread some breakfast cereals, preserved and processed meats and fish such as bacon, salami and ham, cheese or from salt added at the table or in cooking.

How To Consume Less Salt

1/ Use less salt in cooking, for example add less ready-made bouillon and stock powders; try making soups and stock powder; try making soups and stocks from fresh ingredients

2/ Flavour foods with herbs, garlic, lemon juice and vinegar

3/ Steam vegetables and potatoes so you do not rely on added salt to bring out the flavours

4/ Buy canned products with less salt e.g Tuna i Spring water; reduced salt baked beans

5/ Cut down on cured meats such as bacon and ham

Simple Maths for Sizing Salt!!

Salt = grams of Sodium * 2.5

For example, if a portion of soup contains 640mg of Sodium, that is 0.64g of Sodium.
Then the soup contains (0.64g * 25g of salt) = 1.6g of salt

Please note that, 1 teaspoon of salt contains 5g of salt.

THE MORAL OF THE SALT STORY IS

"always taste food BEFORE you reach for the salt in cooking or at the table - TASTE BEFORE YOU SHAKE"

Copyright 2008, All Rights Reserved

Acne Free in 3 Days - Book Review

2008-11-28T12:17:00.000-08:00

WARNING! Don't Even Think About Buying Another Acne Product Until You Read This Review

The Acne Free in 3 Days™ natural program finally reveals the unbelievably easy, step-by-step actions you need to take to rid yourself of acne forever.

Acne Free in 3 Days™ program, gives you clear, concise, easy to follow and step-by-step directions so you can...

1. stop acne without drugs or over-the-counter products.
2. stop the unnecessary scarring acne causes.
3. start changing your life today.

Author Chris Gibson, let's you in on the scientifically-proven secrets that cured his acne in 3 days, without any harsh prescription drugs or the never-ending expense of over-the-counter products that don't work and in the process changed his life forever.

The program (a special detox diet, backed up by scientific evidence and case studies) shows what you need to do to take control of your skin problems yourself and do something about them inexpensively.

The book is jam-packed with years of scientific research, helpful information on understanding your specific type of acne and a simple, practical and easy-to-do natural program that really works!

After trying the simple, inexpensive approach, outlined in the "Acne Free in 3 Days" natural program, Chris Gibson has been acne free for over twenty years! He even include information on the only method that worked for him to remove acne
scarring!

This program will work...when you work with it. Chris can give you directions and show you the way - but only YOU can make it work for yourself.

Snake Oil merchants BEGONE!!!

Guarantee
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"If after sincerely giving the natural program within Acne Free in 3 Days™ a try, you do not find this helpful in curing of your acne - Chris will give you a full refund of the purchase price - and you can take 60 days to decide."

You get the following bonus when you buy the book

Bonus #1: "79 Fat Loss & Exercise Questions Answered"
Bonus #2: "Beauty and Weight Loss Tips" by Tracie Johansen.
Bonus #3: "Lessons from the Miracle Doctors", by Jon Barron.
Bonus #4: "Ultimate Acne Scar Prevention & Removal Guide" by Chris Gibson.
Bonus #5: "Fine Lines and Wrinkles Reduction Guide" by Chris Gibson.
Bonus #6: "Steps To Personal Growth"
SUPER Bonus #7: Online Access to Exclusive, One-On-One Interview:
Chris answers common questions and provides exclusive material (not found in the book) in this exciting and informative audio interview! It's exactly like having a personal consultation with Chris! In this groundbreaking dialouge, he offers a comprehensive exploration into all the aspects of acne and its negative effects on the body. In addition to talking about his breakthrough approach to healing acne in 3days, he also covers many other important topics.

Chris Gibson on Acne Free in 3 Days™ is jam-packed with over an hour of clear and relevant information that will change the way you look at acne and your personal health forever!

Get your Acne Free in 3 Days book.

Copyright 2008, All Rights Reserved

The Importance of Panic

2008-11-15T14:20:00.000-08:00

The generalist nature of primary care implies that every anxiety is relevant to the primary care physician. Anxieties that are truly important, however, are identified by their prevalence, severity, and treat ability. Only treatable severe anxieties that are prevalent in primary care settings are critical to primary care physicians.

Not only is panic anxiety prevalent in primary care settings but it also represents a serious anxiety as measured by comorbidity, quality of life, and economic costs. It is believed that subjects with panic anxiety may begin to fear situations in which they have experienced a panic attack. Soon, they develop anxiety in anticipation of those situations and eventually avoid them. Of the subjects with panic anxiety, 65% have some degree of phobic avoidance.

Panic anxiety is also associated with depression. The rate of major depression in subjects with panic anxiety is 48%. Irrespective of the presence of affective anxieties, panic anxiety is also linked to suicidality. The rates of suicidal ideation and suicide attempts seen in subjects with panic anxiety are higher than those seen in subjects with major depression. Either through a kindling phenomenon with repeated withdrawals or through attempts to self-medicate for their panic, there is an increased prevalence of substance abuse in subjects with panic anxiety.

Alcoholism is seen in 37% of subjects with panic anxiety, and illicit drug abuse is present in 31%. Quality of life is poorer in subjects with panic anxiety: not only is self-perceived physical and emotional health rated poorer but also 26% of subjects have moderate to severe social impairment. Financial dependency (25%) and panic-related work disability are common in subjects with panic anxiety. Compared with other anxiety, panic anxiety results in the worst outcomes and the most psychosocial impairment for affected patients. Economically, panic anxiety is responsible for high health care costs as well as work disability costs of over $33,000 per patient.

Panic anxiety is a severe condition prevalent in primary care settings; but to be considered of critical importance, it must also be treatable. Panic anxiety is eminently treatable through a variety of pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic means. With response rates of over 90% in some studies, panic anxiety is considered to have "the most favorable prognosis of any major psychiatric condition." In light of its severity, its prevalence in primary care, and its treat ability, knowledge about panic anxiety is of critical importance to primary care physicians.

Recommended Resource: The Panic Away Official Site
They have developed a Natural Technique To Stop Panic Attacks and General Anxiety Fast!

Copyright 2008, All Rights Reserved

Panic Anxiety and Panic attack - A Devastating Condition

2008-11-15T14:18:00.000-08:00

Panic Anxiety and Panic attack - A Devastating Condition

Panic anxiety is a devastating condition with a higher prevalence in female patients and young adults. Panic anxiety is frequently associated with major depression, agoraphobia, substance abuse, suicide attempts, and impaired quality of life. Only one half of the subjects with panic anxiety seek care for their attacks, and those who do seek care tend to present to primary care and emergency department settings. If treated correctly, panic anxiety has a favorable prognosis.

To a person who has never experienced a panic attack, it is hard to understand its psychologically devastating nature. An objective explanation of its symptomatology cannot confinement of the disturbance it causes.

Panic attacks have a distinguishing group of symptoms, beginning impulsively and quickly peaking in strength. The early symptoms have a propensity to be cardiopulmonary, with dyspnea time and again reported. Fear of death, becoming mad, or losing control, which may be a learned reaction, happens late in the attack. Even though there is significant symptomatic unpredictability both in and between subjects with panic, panic attacks have a tendency to be a consistent phenomenon. Because isolated panic attacks may occur in otherwise normal patients who are under extreme duress, the occurrence of panic attacks is not uniquely diagnostic of panic anxiety.

A discrete period of intense fear or discomfort, in which four (or more) of the following symptoms developed abruptly and reached a peak within 10 minutes:

• Palpitation, pounding heart, or accelerated heart rate
• Sweating
• Trembling or shaking
• Sensations of shortness of breath or smothering
• Feeling of choking
• Chest pain or discomfort
• Nausea or abdominal distress
• Feeling dizzy, unsteady, lightheaded, or faint
• Derealization or depersonalization
• Fear of losing control or going crazy
• Fear of dying
• Numbness or tingling sensations
• Chills or hot flushes

Panic anxiety is defined by recurrent panic attacks with a minimum one month of panic-induced behavior change or persistent concern about the attacks or their consequences

To meet the criteria for panic anxiety, the attacks cannot be the direct result of a general medical condition or of substance abuse. In addition, since panic attacks are seen in a variety of mental anxieties, they are not indicative of panic anxiety if they are better explained on the basis of a mental anxiety other than panic anxiety.

The onset of panic anxiety tends to occur in young adulthood (ages 20 to 40). Panic anxiety is heredity in nature, and its onset usually occurs during times of stress, hormonal instability, or cocaine use.

Recent evidence suggests that both panic anxiety and infrequent panic may be linked to childhood sexual abuse, increasing the possibility that panic anxiety may represent a form of posttraumatic stress anxiety.

Panic anxiety is a prevalent condition resulting in frequent use of the health care system. Without diagnosis and treatment, panic anxiety is a chronically disabling anxiety associated with significant comorbidity and decreased quality of life. Treatment is highly successful and can bring back patients to usual functioning.

Recommended Resource: The Panic Away Official Site
They have developed a Natural Technique To Stop Panic Attacks and General Anxiety Fast!

Copyright 2008, All Rights Reserved

How to Handle Panic Attack

2008-11-15T14:16:00.000-08:00

Stay cool, have something to eat, and keep in mind there's nothing to panic but panic itself.

Panic is a normal response to certain situations--if a bear charges you, for example; you recognize that unexpectedly you're face-to-muzzle with an animal that consider you safe to eat. But when you can't do anything that's reasonably routine to most, like crossing a high although established footbridge, you're unexpectedly the victim of a sequence of multifaceted disturbing and physical misfires, concerning self-perception, control problems, biology, background, even inheritance. The excellent news, though, is that you don't have to outline all that matters out to get control of your panic.

Initially, recognize that an attack generally becomes lighter in 15 – 20 minutes. Moreover, rest guaranteed that you won't faint, die of heart failure, or end in an asylum. "People need to understand they won't turn into psychotic and lose their minds, although the attack looks as if to go on and on."

Panic attacks go after a max out/plateau/indulgence pattern, in which neurons discharge a flood of adrenaline in the fight-or-flight reaction that's hard-wired into each and every one of us animals. At the same time as in this mode, any systems not necessary for a quick getaway--like rational consideration and digestion--shut down in anticipation of the time till the fear fades. In other words, your body has an integrated fail-safe system that handles the fear while maintaining essential organs pumping alongside.

Despite the fact that that may be small relieve if you're in the throes of a panic attack, there are a few uncomplicated things you can do to head them off:

• Prefer decaf, no sugar. Caffeine, nicotine, and sugar are dietary stressors. Caffeine, especially, makes it easier for your body to act in response to adrenaline, making the way for a panic attack. Moreover, if you have low blood sugar troubles, keep away from refined sugar; hypoglycemia can worsen panic symptoms.

• Pacify. Panic attacks have been connected to stress, thus work on staying stress-free. For 20 minutes daily, practice recreation techniques, like deep breathing from your abdomen. Breathe in gradually through your nose and make certain your abdomen rises as you gasp. Breathe out gradually, letting your complete body rest. Breathe in, breathe out, calm down, and repeat.

• Walk, run, and swim. Exercise, any variety of it, is an anxiety reducer.

• Expose yourself to panic. Make a pecking order of panic circumstances, ranking them from comparatively risk-free to the most terrible thing you can envisage. If heights make you panicked in a body-soaking sweat, list climbing a stepladder initially and taking a mountaineering class afterwards. Rate your developments on a 1 to 100 scale, with 1 being the simplest.

• Stay away from comparisons. Don't be concerned about what anybody else thinks. Your friends may be proficient to climb a trail or scale a wall that makes you flinch, however for all you know, they could be frightened of the dark.

Recommended Resource: The Panic Away Official Site
They have developed a Natural Technique To Stop Panic Attacks and General Anxiety Fast!

Copyright 2008, All Rights Reserved

Diagnosis of Panic Anxiety

2008-11-15T14:13:00.000-08:00

Panic Anxiety is generally unrecognized by clinicians. Recognition of panic anxiety was linked with increased use of general medical settings. Physicians in these settings were more likely to recognize panic if
• panic symptoms were severe,
• phobic avoidance was present, or
• Panic reduced work capacity.

It is important that physicians distinguish between panic anxiety and hyperventilation syndrome. Although hyperventilation may be important in panic anxiety, hyperventilation syndrome lacks the clear-cut diagnostic criteria that characterize panic anxiety. Hyperventilation provocation tests using room air are poor inducers of panic attacks, and hyperventilation syndrome fails to respond to anxiolytics or antidepressants.

The significance of subsyndromal panic, either infrequent panic attacks or limited-symptom attacks, is still unclear. Although little research has been done on limited-symptom attacks, studies comparing panic disorder with infrequent panic suggest that the prevalence of comorbid psychiatric conditions is similar in both panic groups. With respect to disability and quality-of-life measures, however, subjects with infrequent panic tend to be intermediate between controls and those with panic disorder. Thus, recognition of infrequent panic is important, and may represent management implications similar to those of panic disorder.

Below mentioned is a list of medical conditions thought to be associated with panic or panic-like attacks. These conditions must be considered with a thorough history and physical examination before instituting a management plan. Routine laboratory testing is unnecessary and may actually be detrimental, despite patients' tendency to believe that in a somatic cause for their attacks. Although panic disorder is associated with mitral valve prolapse, the presence of the latter in patients with panic anxiety does not alter either the clinical course or the treatment response. A drug screen, however, is appropriate in any patient in whom substance abuse is suspected.

Conditions Associated with Panic Symptoms

1) Psychiatric Disorders
• Major depression
• Agoraphobia
• Simple phobia
• Social phobia
• Generalized anxiety disorder
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder
• Substance abuse
• Posttraumatic stress disorder

2) Cardiovascular Disorders
• Mitral valve prolapse
• Paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia

3) Endocrine Disorders
• Hyperthyroidism
• Hypoglycemia
• Menopause
• Pheochromocytoma
• Carcinoid syndrome

4) Neurologic Disorders
• Temporal lobe epilepsy
• Cerebral tumor
• Parkinson's disease

5) Sleep Disorders
• Narcolepsy
• Sleep apnea

6) Drug-related Disorders
• Antidepressant withdrawal
• Sedative-tranquilizer withdrawal
• Stimulant (cocaine, cannabis, PCP) use
• Metronidazole use
• L-dopa use
• Neuroleptic use
• Organic solvent exposure

7) Miscellaneous
• Wilson's disease
• Acute intermittent porphyria
• Hyperventilation syndrome

Recommended Resource: The Panic Away Official Site
They have developed a Natural Technique To Stop Panic Attacks and General Anxiety Fast!

Copyright 2008, All Rights Reserved

Tips to Cure Acid Reflux

2008-11-15T14:08:00.001-08:00

The drug history may entail irritating agents like anticholinergics, antibiotics, and aspirin. Inquire about hematemesis, anemia, dysphagia, or pulmonary symptoms that may point toward ruthless disease.

Nearly all patients who have gastroesophageal reflux get better after a month of Acid Reflux Cures with antacids and life-style changes. Further grievances of heartburn, non-cardiac chest pain, regurgitation, or other symptoms of reflux after a primary trial of Acid Reflux Cures prompt further examination.

Start with separating probable causes for the breakdown of primary cure as you again converse the setback with the patient:

• Has he or she reduced foods that generally make worse gastric acid reflux? The normal anti reflux diet checks spicy, acidic, and fatty foods, together with coffee, tea, and cola drinks. Do other foods look as if to bring out the symptoms? Peppermint and chocolate reduce the lower esophageal sphincter pressure and can aid reflux.

• Does definite behavior improve symptoms? Activities that encourage salivation--chewing gum, sucking antacids or lozenges, and eating sweet pickles—many a times put down the symptoms of reflux by dipping the lower esophagus with alkaline dribble.

Still when the patient sticks on to the proper dietary limitations, symptoms are probable to continue if he doesn't limit the amount of food eaten per sitting or keep away from eating and drinking for a minimum 3-4 hours prior to lying down or sleeping. Doing exercises--especially those that entail bending or running--quickly after eating also can make the trouble worse.

What development has the patient made in the direction of amending behavior? Obesity, cigarette smoking, and alcohol consumption are major complications to triumphant anti reflux therapy. Make certain the patient is conscious that these aspects, even in temperance, are expected to cause symptoms to continue.

Do symptoms initiate post prandially or shortly? Usually, heartburn takes place 30-45minutes subsequent to a heavy meal. It gets worse when the patient lies down and may decrease when he sits up.

Which drugs does the patient should acquire? Tranquilizers, anticholinergic agents, calcium channel blockers, and nitrates may aggravate gastroesophageal reflux in definite patients. At times, symptoms quite similar to those caused by reflux may be irritated when pills consisting of frustrating chemicals happen to be trapped in the esophagus and dissolve. This is mainly liable with vitamin C, aspirin, and antibiotics like tetracycline.

Heartburn No More!!
Is designed to Cure Heartburn, Acid Reflux (Gerd) & Hiatal Hernia Naturally Using The Only Clinically Proven & Unique 5-Step Holistic Acid Reflux System.

Copyright 2008, All Rights Reserved

Natural Ideas to Aid Acid Reflux

2008-11-15T14:05:00.000-08:00

Observing esophageal pH for 24 hours is the most perfect test for gastroesophageal reflux, and it is completed more and more on an outpatient basis. Manometry is performed along with it. The Bernstein test can authenticate acid sensitivity however doesn't make out reflux. Technetium gastric emptying scans are most obliging when pH and motility studies are uncertain. At the same time as endoscopy is the finest means for assessing esophageal mucosal damage, it is not lucrative when utilized as a screening tool.

Less than half of patients with Acid Reflux Natural Treatment have lesser esophageal sphincter ineffectiveness. In others, the disorder generally is associated to abnormal peristalsis, a defective esophageal clearance mechanism, or a grouping of the two.

The most ultimate test for authenticating Acid Reflux Natural Treatment into the esophagus is 24-hour pH observance: The clinician places a pH investigation close to the lower esophageal sphincter. The incidence of acid reflux, noticeable by pH readings below 4, is a gauge of capability of the lower esophageal sphincter. Commonly, one incident of reflux in an hour that lasts not over two minutes is considered normal. The period of reflux associates with the possibility of esophagitis: Approximately half of those with extended esophageal disclosure to acid develop esophagitis.

The main benefit of 24-hour pH monitoring is that it presents a chance to document the consequences of activities like eating, sleeping, and smoking of pH status and to associate specific intra-esophageal pH with the incidence of symptoms. Although not commonly available, 24-hour pH monitoring is turning out to be an outpatient process using portable monitors.

A few esophageal specialists employ the Bernstein test to compare the patient's report of symptoms with esophageal acidity, setting aside the more expensive and long 24-hour pH test for probable surgical candidates. All through the Bernstein test, regular saline and 0.1 normal hydrochloric acid are infused one by one into the mid-esophagus.

If acid mixture reproduces the patient's uneasiness, the test is affirmative and implies that symptoms are because of acid reflux. The Bernstein test measures acid sensitivity at a specified time, although it fails to generate symptoms in probably half the patients with reflux. Besides, a number of patients can have acid sensitivity however not a reflux trouble. To help illuminate the importance of an affirmative test, you might think about additional assessment with endoscopy and manometry. The Bernstein test costs just about $ 100 and doesn't necessitate hospitalization.

Heartburn No More!!
Is designed to Cure Heartburn, Acid Reflux (Gerd) & Hiatal Hernia Naturally Using The Only Clinically Proven & Unique 5-Step Holistic Acid Reflux System.

Copyright 2008, All Rights Reserved

Heartburn, Acid Reflux Related To Throat Cancer

2008-11-15T14:03:00.000-08:00

People who experience regular heartburn and acid reflux have a greater risk of developing throat cancer, and taking antacids won't decrease the risk, a study revealed.

Heartburn is a burning ache in the chest that people generally relate with spicy foods or eating too much. Acid reflux is a regurgitation of acid from the stomach into the throat for the reason of a faulty valve.

Doctors believe that over time, the exasperating acid results in cellular changes in the throat that can lead to the most fatal form of throat cancer - adenocarcinoma. They said that as healing of heartburn and acid reflux doesn't diminish the cancer risk, sufferers with harsh symptoms should be watched vigilantly by their doctors for symptoms of cancer.

"Reflux symptoms should not be discharged as insignificant,'' said Dr. Jesper Lagergren of the Karolinska Institute in Stockholm.

"If you have reflux symptoms and you get fresh symptoms - maybe you have symptoms for a number of years and maybe the symptoms appear to change, like trouble swallowing - then you should look for medical care.''

The study revealed that the risk of cancer was approximately eight times more with people who suffered heartburn, regurgitation or both as a minimum one time a week. Acid reflux at night was related with a risk just about 11 times more.

There was no augmented risk for another form of throat cancer known as squamous-cell carcinoma.

The total risk of developing throat cancer is very low. At the same time as up to one-fifth of Americans suffer from heartburn, just about 12,500 people a year suffer from throat cancer, as per the American Cancer Society.

For the last 25 years, throat cancer has turn out to be more and more common among white men, statistics illustrate, although researchers don't know why. What is the actual reason of heartburn and acid reflux isn't understandable.

Earlier studies have shown a relation between acid reflux and obesity, smoking and alcohol use; however this study found no association among those habits and heartburn. And there is no evidence of the extensively held conviction that spicy foods is the main reason of acid reflux or heartburn.

The more the occurrence, relentlessness and duration of heartburn and acid reflux, the more was the risk of developing throat cancer.

The researchers found no clue that cure - either with antacids or surgery - concentrated the risk. Actually, patients who got medical treatment had a higher risk of developing throat cancer.

A probable cause for this is those persons who employ medication are time and again the persons with more symptoms.

Heartburn No More!!
Is designed to Cure Heartburn, Acid Reflux (Gerd) & Hiatal Hernia Naturally Using The Only Clinically Proven & Unique 5-Step Holistic Acid Reflux System.

Copyright 2008, All Rights Reserved

Acid Reflux - Painful Condition

2008-11-15T13:59:00.000-08:00

Acid reflux is a very painful situation that can in the long run show the way to severe health conditions. People who suffer from usual acid reflux are at a much greater risk for developing definite esophageal cancers. Even with the danger of cancer out-of-the-way, acid reflux can be devastating just by the stable and unrelenting pain.

Remedies for heartburn and acid reflux fall into some unusual categories. The oldest and most well-liked medications for acid reflux are the antacids. Antacids are generally chewable or liquid medicines that counterbalance the acids in your stomach. They're certainly the best ever performing medicine for acid reflux, however also the most impermanent. The most ordinary element appears to be calcium carbonate, which not only tastes similar to chalk, however is in truth chalk. In recent times, aluminum hydroxide has happened to be a well-liked alternative antacid.

Acid reducers are a different really well-liked group of medicines for acid reflux. Similar to antacids, these are sold over the counter. Acid reducers take much more time to start working; although once they start to work you can count on aid from heartburn for quite a few hours or longer. Two of the most preferred acid reducers are Zantac and Pepcid AC. The drugs in Zantac and Pepcid, 'ranitidine' and 'famotidine' correspondingly, are also sold in standard forms which are much cheaper and look as if to work immediately as well.

Proton pump inhibitors, or PPIs, are the next group of medicines for acid reflux. Most of these are obtainable by prescription; however the first PPI, sold under the brand name Prilosec, is now obtainable over the counter. PPIs can take days to generate their utmost effect, however if taken on a daily basis are an exceptionally successful medicine for acid reflux. They can also be taken carefully over and above acid reducers.

Finally, there are a number of non-drug medications for acid reflux as well. Even though all the drugs employed in acid reflux are harmless and have a very low rate of side effects, it's always an excellent thought to do consider what non-pharmaceutical steps you can take to flatter your treatment. Uplifting your bed, keeping away from large or greasy meals, and waiting in any case three hours prior to lying down after eating are all medications for acid reflux that don't necessitate taking a pill, and may be sufficient in them to avoid any heartburn you are having.

Heartburn No More!!
Is designed to Cure Heartburn, Acid Reflux (Gerd) & Hiatal Hernia Naturally Using The Only Clinically Proven & Unique 5-Step Holistic Acid Reflux System.

Copyright 2008, All Rights Reserved

Tips to Control Acne

2008-11-15T13:53:00.000-08:00

As fall comes closer and the tan fades, acne conditions - once became better by the sun's rays - could start to flare, resulting in ugly blackheads and bumps.

The sun can recover acne conditions. Dermatologists in the '40s and '50s even suggested that teens sit in the sun to decrease acne. The acne vanished, although decades later, the patients suffered from skin cancer. Actually the risks prevail over the benefits.

There are other successful treatments accessible.

Acne is hereditarily based. It can't be healed or prevented, however it can be controlled. The skin disorder is caused when hormones generate a reaction that stimulates oil production, thus clogging facial pores. This increase results in red bumps and blackheads.

A dermatologist can suggest treatments to treat various types of acne, either its unclogging the pores or falling oil glands. Generic drugs like Oxy works only in soft cases.

Treatments work on every special feature of what produces the acne. Over-the-counter medications are not as successful and put forward no durable avoidance benefits.

To keep acne under control, you have to take care of your skin with gentleness. Try to keep hands away from the face and evade picking or popping pimples.

Attach to a skin-care schedule, washing not more than two times daily with a gentle soap or cleanser. Stay away from buttery moisturizers and sunscreens and use products that do not block pores.

When the matter is skin care, it is significant to be practical, not imprudent."

Acne Myths/Realities

• Sweat is not the cause of acne. There is no direct association among perspiration and acne.

• Oily and fatty foods do not cause acne.

• Even though heavy creams are not good for keeping clear skin, it is significant to moisturize, even at the time of breakouts.

• Drinking plenty of liquids is vital for overall skin health, although it will not avert acne.

• Stress will worsen acne. It is not the root cause of acne.

Visit your dermatologist to find out which products are good for your skin type.

Ways to Thrash Breakouts

• Don't try out inventive zit busters similar to toothpaste, hemorrhoid creams or eye drops. They can aggravate already broken-out skin.

• Don't eat food products with high iodine, although don't be concerned about chocolate or fries. Dermatologists say there is no connection between these delicacies and acne.

• Don't apply heavy leave-in conditioners or fashionable products if you're apt to hairline acne.

• Don't pick or press pimples. It can cause blemishes on the skin.

• Do make use of acne medication.

Recommended Acne Resource: Acne Free in 3 Days report

Copyright 2008, All Rights Reserved

Acne: A Common Problem among Teenagers

2008-11-15T13:51:00.000-08:00

ACNE is the curse of teenage years. Almost every teenage boy and roughly 80% of girls will suffer from it.

Boys are more prone than girls to have severe acne at some stage in adolescence as androgens like testosterone encourages the production of keratin and sebum, which leads to clogged pores. On the contrary, women are much more expected than men to have acne in their 20s, 30s and 40s. A few doctors say it is due to the use of cosmetics and birth control pills.

The actual reason of acne is not known although there are various reasons: -
• Heredity
• Hormones
• Stress
• Cosmetics
• Occupational exposure
• Certain medications
• Certain nutritional factors that can aggravate acne

Acne is not caused by unclean pores, although most probably by over-active oil glands. The surplus oil makes the pores humid, permitting bacteria to become ensnared inside. Washing only takes away oil from the surface of the skin although not from inside the plugged ducts. However regardless of what the cause is, there are steps that you can do to help clear-up your skin.

Nutritional Aspect
1. Eat a fiber rich diet. This is significant for keeping the colon clean and removing the body of contaminants.

2. Eat more and more zinc rich food, like shellfish, soyabeans, whole grains, sunflowers, and a small quantity of uncooked nuts every day.

3. Eat a lot of sour products, like low-fat yogurt, to keep healthy intestinal flora.

4. Stay away from alcohol, butter, caffeine, cheese, chocolate, cocoa, cream, eggs, fat, fried foods, hot and spicy foods, soft drink.

5. Stay away from all forms of sugar, like refined carbohydrates and a decrease in animal fats, combined with multivitamin supplement and sensible doses of zinc.

6. Remove all processed foods from the diet and do not make use of iodized salt.

7. Other nutrients supplements:
• NutriBeaute sea food extract, to provide essential amino acids, Vitamin C and minerals of zinc and magnesium, which help to encourage total skin health, particularly in healing and tissues repair. It also helps to develop the suppleness and liveliness of the skin tissues.

• Essential fatty acids, to provide essential gamma-linoleic acid, required to keep skin smooth and soft, mend damaged skin cells, and melt fatty deposits that block pores.

• Vitamin B complex, to get better blood flow to the surface of the skin.

• Zinc, which helps in curing tissues and helps to check scarring. A crucial factor in the oil-producing glands of the skin.

Recommended Acne Resource: Acne Free in 3 Days report

Copyright 2008, All Rights Reserved

Growing Resistance of Acne Bacterium against Medications

2008-11-15T13:49:00.000-08:00

Organic and clinical resistance to common antibiotic acne medications is a rising problem and, if something isn't done about it quickly; present therapies could become ineffective, as per a leading British dermatologist.

The last 25 years has seen rise in the use of a number of antibiotics, equally oral and contemporary. Consequently the development of resistant Propioni-bacterium acne (P. acne) was "unavoidable," although it's taken several years for this resistance to present itself clinically, said Dr. William Cunliffe, chairman and director of dermatology at Leeds General Hospital.

The trouble has become mostly noteworthy within the last ten years, he told delegates to an acne conference at the American Academy of Dermatology's (AAD) annual meeting.

The discovery of resistant P. acne does not essentially involve clinical resistance, although Dr. Cunliffe said his observations are borne out by clinical studies and the reality he's seeing progressively recommendations of patients failing to respond to sufficient courses of antibiotics.

Among the probable aspects causative to resistance is a low antibiotic absorption, said Dr. Cunliffe. “If you've got low blood absorptions, for whatsoever cause, in your patient's ducts, you'll have condensed antimicrobial activity and this will add to the risk of P. acne resistance.”

A low antibiotic absorption may be caused by a high sebum secretion, which may perhaps “wash out what would otherwise be a useful therapy.” The absorption may also be exaggerated by differences in comedomal structures and reduced observance.

Dr. Cunliffe presented doctors “very helpful clinical hints” to raise their thoughts about resistance.

An unusual therapy to aid overcome P. acne resistance is minocycline. Though, it's much more costly than other antibiotics.

One more approach in England is to employ a hormone amendable product called
"Diane" (not obtainable in the U.S.) which, mainly when used with cyproterone acetate, "permits to decrease the absorption of sebum produced" and thus raise reaction.

Added "strategies" for primary care physicians take in using antibiotics “as long as extremely essential" and treating patients "for the least amount of time necessary generally around six months, said Dr. Cunliffe.

If more treatment is required, he recommended using "short prevailing courses" of the similar drug. "If the patient acts in response well, you discontinue the treatment, and if you have to use any more antibiotics, make use of the same one. Don't muddle up and match."

Dr. Cunliffe notified against simultaneous therapy. “You would by no means use, for instance, oral tetracycline and contemporary erythromycin all together. That will just raise the danger of resistance.”

For patients with easygoing acne to whom doctors may not prefer to give oral therapy, Dr, Cunliffe recommended using non-antibiotic antimicrobials. "The only drug so far proven in vivo to essentially conquer resistance is a mixture of benzoyl peroxide and erythromycin ... We have revealed very obviously that this will decrease this resistance."

Recommended Acne Resource: Acne Free in 3 Days report

Copyright 2008, All Rights Reserved

Acne Not Left Behind With Adolescence

2008-11-15T13:47:00.000-08:00

One of life's mean delusions is that acne is a problem you leave behind with adolescence. Unluckily, a lot of people who gust through their teens with ideal skin break out with acne as adults.

One inspirational truth about acne is that nobody has it perpetually. Ultimately, the situation clears up on its own. Correct analysis and treatment by a dermatologist can bring a large amount of cases under control.

At the same time as you can't heal acne, you can see spectacular progress and the sooner you care for it, the earlier your skin will look healthier. Fast action will also decrease your chances of enduring scarring.

Adult acne is time and again blamed on factors, similar to stress and cosmetics. Skin troubles caused by cosmetics are showy, and a lot of the unpleasant ingredients formerly used in makeups have been removed. Stress can worsen acne, but it's not believed to be a basic cause.

A mixture of causes creeps around behind acne breakouts. A few complexions explode into pimples at the least irritation. Others have nary a mark. Although around 95% of people have some type of acne at a short time in their lives. Medical science has enlightened a lot regarding the origin of acne, although much remains unheard of.

Basically, the situation is hormone-related. Several women, for example, discover that their breakouts happen together with a particular segment of their menstrual cycle.

It's ordinary for acne to initially appear at some point in puberty, when increasing hormone levels cause an increase in the size and movement of oil glands in your skin. Not shockingly, acne-prone areas, for example your face, chest and back, hold more of these glands. The forehead, for example, has more than 2,000 oil glands in every square inch.

Adult acne is more frequent in women. It frequently develops in the late 20s or early 30s, when hormone changes happen. Other acne-producing periods are post- pregnancy, or when a woman begins or stops taking the Pill.

In reaction to hormonal attacks, the glands generate surplus oil, which, together with bacteria, dead skin cells and other irritants, blocks your pores and causes irritation. In a comparatively open pore, the mark appears as a blackhead. When the pore opening is very tiny, a whitehead, pimple or swelling will form in your skin. The blocked pore happens to be reddened and infected, and a cut rises to the surface. Whiteheads and cysts stay underneath the skin.

Recommended Acne Resource: Acne Free in 3 Days report

Copyright 2008, All Rights Reserved

7 Tips To Prevent Bad Breath (Halitosis)

2008-11-08T13:15:00.000-08:00

Bad breath (Halitosis) may be caused by poor mouth hygiene, throat infection, teeth and gim decay, excessive smoking or the presence of bacteria in the mouth.

The following helpful suggestions may help prevent bad breath (Halitosis):

Acidophilus
Bad breath (halitosis) is often associated with putrefactive bacteria living on un-digested food in the stomach. This condition causes gas to be released through the breath. Supplementing the diet with the friendly bacteria Lactobacillus Acidophilus often helps.

Acidophilus can be found in youhurt or capsule or milk form. These are available in most stores.

Brushing Your Tongue
Dr John Toncetich from the School of Dentistry, University of British Columbia in Vacouver, Canada, performed a study to find out the best way to reduce bad breath. 8 volunteers, all of whom suffered from morning bad breath, participated in the study. The doctor found that brushing teeth reduced mouth odour by about 25%. Brushing the teeth and the tongue reduced mouth odour by 85%.

This study was published in journal call Oral Surgery.

Mouth Washes
Most contain high concetrations of alcohol. The alcohol kills bacteria in the mouth but only temporarily. When the bacteria return, more come back than before you used the mouth wash. Many dentists believe the alcohol-laced mouth wash can damage the tissue in the mouth, cause inflammation and result in bad breath (Halitosis).

Avoid Galic, Onions, Fish and Alcohol
They contain compounds that produce excessive odour when dissolved in the mouth.

Eat Parsley
It contains chlorophyll whichabsorbs mouth odour when chewed.

Go for Citrus as well as Mint Flavours
Citrus flovoured drinks and sweets stimulates salivation and activate the mouth's self-cleaning process.

Try Baking Soda and Hydrogen Peroxide
According to Dr Dan Watt, DDS, of the International Dental Health Foundation, a good way to freshen bad breath (Halitosis) is to brush once a day (preferably before bed) with home-made toothpaste made of one teaspoonful of baking soda and a capful of hydrogen peroxide. The baking soda is an abrasive which removes the bacteria and also kills it, while the hydorgen peroxide produces oxygen bubbles which also destroys the germs.

Recommended: The Bad Breath Report

Copyright 2008, All Rights Reserved

How To Cure Bad Breath (Halitosis)

2008-11-08T13:13:00.000-08:00

Review: “The Bad Breath Report” by Tomas O'Caomhanach

BEAT BAD BREATH WITH HOUSEHOLD INGREDIENTS

"How To Cure Bad Breath In Less Than 3 Days... & Have Strong Healthy Teeth & A Sparkling White Smile For The Rest Of Your Life"

"Discover How An Easy $2 Mix Of Safe Common Ingredients Can Cure Bad Breath With A 96.03% Success Rate... Even If Everything Else Has Failed"

By Tomas O'Caomhanach

Tomas O'Caomhanach “Bad Breath Report” unlocks the key to a “fresh breath system” that truly works by telling readers to simply give their mouths “5 minutes a day using common household ingredients.” It certainly might sound too good to be true but by Tomas O'Caomhanach claims that he has thoroughly researched the causes and effects of bad breath as well as hundreds of solutions. He has compiled the best of the best information to ensure that anyone willing to give the “5 minute a day” effort will have fresh breath for life! Alongside these A+ answers, Mr O'Caomhanach gives readers bonus briefs about the highs and lows of dentistry today and news that affects are mouths every day, whether we know it or not.

Mr Tomas O'Caomhanach begins his lesson by introducing the reader to exactly what bad breath, or in technical terms halitosis, really is. By explaining “in mouth” causes of halitosis, which he claims affects “80-90% of the general population,” he then carries on to effects; both inner and outer. Inner effects are the obvious; a smelly mouth, possible gum disease and tooth loose while outer effects are less thought of but just as apparent and include non-social behaviors, loss of sex life and possible depression. After thoroughly explaining these causes and effects, Tomas O'Caomhanach provides what all bad breath victims need – an uncomplicated solution!

The book’s “Knockout Punch” protocol tells readers exactly how to rid themselves of bad breath for good with a solution so simple, that most won’t believe it was right under their noses the whole time! By making easy lifestyle changes like drinking more water and stopping usage of oral hygiene products (yes that includes mouthwashes!), users will “cut the severity of a bad breath problem by as much as 50%.” Investing in a tongue scrapper is the next step, followed by the use of the common household product hydrogen peroxide. Mr O'Caomhanach provides two fantastic mouth rinse and mouth paste recipes that will not only shine up your smile but will bring your gums back to a healthy pink color, eliminate the white bacterial coating on your tongue and can almost guarantee no more mouth diseases or problems.

The “Knockout Punch” surrounds itself with the phrase “change the environment in your mouth from one that supports the growth of VSC-producing bacteria (the bad guy) to one that will not.” This simply fresh breath system, that takes no more than 5 minutes daily, does just that.

Next, the breath guru proceeds to answer any questions that have arisen from “The Bad Breath Report” in an easy to follow FAQ format. Is it safe for dentures? Can I still chew gum? How long does it take to get rid of my tongue discoloration? Does this actually work? Tomas O'Caomhanach answers all of these questions and more, stating that in order to maintain fresh breath, you must sustain the methods for life. It isn’t a once and done thing but an all the time thing that must be incorporated into one’s lifestyle. Once you have made the decision to proceed and use the “fresh breath system” your tongue will lose its whitish discoloration, your teeth will become pearly white and your breath will smell like roses; well maybe not quite roses but close to it!

As if the “fresh breath system” weren’t enough, Tomas O'Caomhanach continues to fill readers with useful knowledge that will keep them abreast of changes in the world of dentistry and the human mouth cavity. He fills us in on the natural way to fill cavities, how to reverse gum disease, the magical powers of the common product honey, how to use ice to kill toothaches and new fangled ideas such as the use of light to kill bacteria.

Tomas O'Caomhanach also unravels the mystery surrounding fluoride; somewhat of a conspiracy that the government has hidden from the public for ages to spare themselves from humiliation and lawsuits galore. Through an exclusive interview with Michael Connett, the project director of the Fluoride Action Network (FAN), by Tomas O'Caomhanach and Connett reveal the damaging secrets of the super agent fluoride. The twosome go through the reasons why ingesting fluoride through our public drinking water systems won’t help your teeth, how highly contaminated the fluoride that is added to our drinking water can be, how Europe has ceased putting fluoride in drinking water and have experienced “no rise in tooth decay whatsoever,” the role of fluoride in the development of atomic bombs (shocking but true!), the links between Alzheimer’s disease and fluoride that have been completely ignored by government agencies and the real reasons why the government simply won’t put an end to this madness. Lucky for us Tomas O'Caomhanach gives readers ways to avoid potentially harmful fluoride and keeps us abreast of FAN’s latest fight against fluoride.

Although the ending was a bit brief when he closes with a simple “and so it goes,” the report truly speaks for itself. By filling us in on the ins and outs of the workings of the mouth, new dentistry technology and easy clean mouth solutions, readers go from 0 to 100 in knowledge power within minutes. It has certainly changed my views on my mouth and having actually tried some of the suggestions, I know that Tomas O'Caomhanach and his “Bad Breath Report” are right on the money. This is a must read for anyone who wants a clean, healthy mouth for life!

The reviewed Bad Breath Report can be found here.

Copyright 2008, All Rights Reserved

Prevent Heartburn and Acid Reflux

2008-11-01T13:41:00.000-07:00

To help prevent heartburn:

1/ eat several small meals a day and don’t eat just before going to bed
2/ try to identify and avoid foods that bring on the pain
3/ cut down on alcohol, particularly neat spirits
4/ stop smoking
5/ don’t bend over, lie down or exercise within one hour of eating
6/ try losing weight
7/ don’t wear a tight belt or other restrictive clothing
8/ sleep with extra pillows, or elevate the bed head using 15 cm blocks
9/ take an antacid immediately after a meal

If the above measures don’t work, check out this resource for more helpful information: Heartburn No More!!

Heartburn No More!!
Is designed to Cure Heartburn, Acid Reflux (Gerd) & Hiatal Hernia Naturally Using The Only Clinically Proven & Unique 5-Step Holistic Acid Reflux System.

Copyright 2008, All Rights Reserved

Heartburn and Acid Reflux

2008-11-01T13:39:00.000-07:00

Heartburn is an extremely common symptom. This painful burning sensation under the the breastbone can vary from niggling discomfort to a pain so intense it may be mistaken for a heart attack.

Acid Reflux occurs when the muscular valve which prevents the backflow of stomach acid into the oesophagus (gullet) is put under severe pressure as a result of for example overeating or being obese.

If you are suffering from persistent or recurrent heartburn, check out this resource: Heartburn No More!!

Heartburn No More!!
Is designed to Cure Heartburn, Acid Reflux (Gerd) & Hiatal Hernia Naturally Using The Only Clinically Proven & Unique 5-Step Holistic Acid Reflux System.

Copyright 2008, All Rights Reserved

Immediate Panic Anxiety Relief

2008-11-01T13:16:00.000-07:00

Self-help measures to relive anxiety include:

1/ Talking to Someone
Discussing the problem with a trusted friend, neighbour or relative who is a good listener and whose opinions you respect is a start. Sharing your worries and feelings can put them into calmer perspective.

2/ Self-help Groups
Contacting the appropriate self-help group. It’s very likely you will come across someone who has been through a similar experiences. Talk to them

3/ Relaxation Technique
Relaxation exercises, regular physical activities and meditation keeps the mind active. Try practising a relaxation technique regularly not just when a crisis is already under way.

If symptoms of anxiety persist or recur despite this measures you might want to check out the following resource: The Panic Away Official Site

The Panic Away Official Site
They have developed a Natural Technique To Stop Panic Attacks and General Anxiety Fast!

Copyright 2008, All Rights Reserved

Panic Anxiety and Panic Attack

2008-11-01T13:06:00.000-07:00

The main causes of anxiety in people (men, both young and old) are worries about health, money and losing their jobs. Post Traumatic Stress Disorder is a form of anxiety that may be caused by being involved in an accident or incident (being attacked).

Symptoms relating to anxiety are:

Lack of emotion
Difficulty breathing
Headaches/tight band around your head
Sweating
Lack of sleep and feeling constantly tired
Difficulty swallowing
Loss of interest in anything
Depression
Racing heart
Disturbing thoughts
Constant worrying/feelings of stress
Paranoia about what people think
Blurred vision
Feelings of Panic
Pins and needles
Hyperactivity
Irritability
Constantly anxious
Depersonalisation
Feelings like you are going mad/not with it
Feelings of hopelessness
A Racing Heart
Chest Pain
Palpitations
Bowel Troubles
Nausea
General Fatigue
Dizziness
Butterflies in the Stomach

Mistaking these symptoms for a physical illness only serves to make the anxiety worse.

Recommended Resource: The Panic Away Official Site
They have developed a Natural Technique To Stop Panic Attacks and General Anxiety Fast!

Copyright 2008, All Rights Reserved

Taking a Look at Man Boobs

2008-11-01T11:44:00.000-07:00

Man boobs can be an extreme source of entertainment for members of the outside world. For the man who suffers from the condition, there is nothing to laugh about. Everyday life is wrought with obstacles like how to get out of a pool party invitation to wearing bulky sweaters in the heat of the summer.

It is a condition known as Gynecomastia in the medical world. It is common among males between the ages of 40 to 50 years old. Teenage boys are also prone to the development of man boobs. As the boys outgrow puberty the man boobs typically disappear. For many more men however, man boobs simply become a hated part of daily life.

Causes

There are no scientifically proven factors that the medical profession has been able to pinpoint as the cause of man boobs. Over time and evaluation of lifestyle, environment and general well being of men, it became apparent that there were some distinct causes at the root of man boob development.

Gynecomastia

First on the list is identifying the situation as being a medical condition known as Gynecomastia. In this instance, the male mammary glands grow to an unusually large size. As the glands increase in size so does the breast tissue. The end result is the development in boobs for a man. Treatment programs include prescription medications that counteract the high levels of estrogen present in a male body. Other medications are those that are used to treat female breast cancer. This doe not mean a man has cancer. It is simply an effective way to begin reducing the affects of excessive breast tissue in the body.

Food Products

Another possible cause of man boob development can be found in the surrounding environment and lifestyle of a man. In general, men consume more meat products than women do. There is an increasing risk of processed foods containing unknown chemical agents. One such chemical is female growth hormone. This is injected into meat and dairy cows to richen the quality of product given to consumers. Over time, the estrogen builds up in a man’s system as the levels of testosterone fall. This causes fat deposits which eventually turn into man boobs. This is a common cause in men who consume large portions of meat on a daily basis with no physical activity to reduce the effects of the meat consumption.

Environment

Population growth rates are surging in virtually every corner of the globe. With this rise in population comes the emission of toxins into the environment. When toxic chemicals from car exhausts and factory pipes are emitted into the air, it is injected into the body through the air that is breathed in. Research has indicted that the presence of toxins in the environment has a direct affect on the reduction of testosterone levels in males. Low testosterone levels mixed with high levels of estrogen result in the development of man boobs.

What to Avoid

Outside of Gynecomastia which is a genetic cause of man boobs, there are steps a man can take in everyday life to lessen the chances of developing man boobs.

At the top of this list is the consumption of certain food products that have shown to be high in estrogen levels. Soy products are one of the biggest sources of estrogen. The plant estrogen present in soy deceives the body into thinking it is digesting pure estrogen. Other food products to avoid when possible are sweet, sugary things such as chips, candy and chocolate. Alcohol and beer should also be avoided when possible. These beverages contain high amounts of empty calories and estrogen.

Perhaps the best thing for men to avoid in deterring man boobs is a sedentary lifestyle. The more physical activity a man can squeeze into a day the better.

Getting Rid of

There are three basic ways to get rid of man boobs. The first is through a surgical procedure such as liposuction. The recovery period is minimal and physical appearance changes are evident once the bandages come off. As mentioned earlier, exercise and physical activity can go a long way to reduce the appearance of man boobs. Cardio workouts and those targeting the development of chest muscle mass are ideal. Outside of these two options there are numerous programs available online to get rid of man boobs. Each features step by step program guidelines on successful changes that can be made in a man’s life.

Conclusion
Man boobs are no laughing matter to the millions of men suffering from the condition. Regardless of what the underlying cause is, men are just eager to find a solution that gives them back their life.

Check out this great blog for more information on Man Boobs.

Copyright 2008, All Rights Reserved

Acne Age Spot

2008-10-25T17:05:00.000-07:00

Try Taking Zinc

Age spots are those dark, purple blemish marks on the skin of older people caused by the haemorrhaging of ting blood vessels under the skin.

A study at England's East Birmingham Hospital revealed that elderly people with age spots had a low level of zinc in their bodies. When zinc levels were increased, the age spot disappeared.

Foods rich in zinc include sea food, onions, soya beans, spinach and whole grain

Recommended Acne Resource: Acne Free in 3 Days Report.

Copyright 2008, All Rights Reserved

What is Acne ?

2008-10-25T16:46:00.000-07:00

Acne is caused by the excessive build-up of sebum - the waxy substance produced by glands adjacent to the follicles which keeps the skin lubricated. As a result of this build-up, the oil glands and ducts beneath the skin becomes clogged and
inflamed, forming angry-looking spot(s).

While the spot remains covered it is called a whitehead; if it opens up, exposure of the sebum to oxygen causes chemical changes, the spot darkens as a result and is popularly referred to as a blackhead. Sometimes, one or
more of these spots may expand under pressure to form what is known as a cyst or abscess.

Mild cases are characterised by spots, whiteheads and blackheads appearing on the face, with a fresh crop of spots emerging as the older ones heal. In more severe cases, ance spreads to the skin on the chest, back and sometimes even the buttocks.

A number of factors can aggravate or trigger acne, the most important of which is the sudden increase in the production of male sex hormones around the time of puberty. These hormones, which women also produce but in small amounts, stimulate the production of sebum in addition to their influence on sexual development.

About 75% of adolescent boys and 50% of adolescent girls develop acne. Accumulation of bacteria on skin, high humidity, certain greasy cosmetics, certain foods and vitamins that contain iodine, and a few prescriptions medicines can also aggravate this condition.

Most sufferers grow out of acne in their early twenties and in those few cases where there is some residual scarring, a cosmetic medical procedure, such as gently shaving off the top layers of skin (dermabrasion), will usually help.

Recommended Acne Resource: Acne Free in 3 Days report

Copyright 2008, All Rights Reserved