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Friday, October 7, 2011

Diseases (Anorexia)


IntroductionAnorexia nervosa is a psychiatric illness leads to eating disorder characterized by extremely low body weight and body image distortion with an obsessive fear of gaining weight. Individuals with anorexia have extreme weight loss. Weight loss is usually 15% below the person's normal body weight.

The key factors associated with anorexia nervosa are:
• Refusal to sustain a minimally normal body weight
• Intense fear of gaining weight, despite being underweight
• Distorted view of one’s body or weight, or denial of the dangers of one’s low weight
Types:
Anorexia has been classified into two types include:

Restricting type: This is characterized by the patient adopting unhealthy habits, like fasting, to avoid weight gain.

Binge eating or Purging type: This type is characterized by the use of self-induced vomiting, or misuse of laxatives or diuretics to help in the prevention of weight gain.

Causes
There is no single cause of anorexia nervosa. Several different factors are usually involved in producing this disorder are as follows
   • Cultural pressures
   • Psychological issues
   • Family environment
   • Genetic factors
   • Life transitions
   • Perpetuating factors

Symptoms
The following are the symptoms of Anorexia nervosa
 • Anxiety
 • Body weight that is inconsistent with age, build and height
 • Brittle skin
 • Loss of at least 3 consecutive menstrual periods (in women)
 • Not willing or refusing to eat in public
 • Obsessiveness about calorie intake
 • Shortness of  breath
 • Weakness
Complications:
• Osteopenia- Osteopenia is increased bone resorption as well as decreased bone formation. It is one of the most severe complications of anorexia nervosa.
 Mitral valve prolapse (MVP) is a common cardiac change in patients with anorexia nervosa.
• Amenorrhea (absence of menses)
Diagnosis
Diagnosing anorexia nervosa is a complex process, made more difficult by the anorexic's refusal to accept that they have a problem, a complete medical and psychological history will be gathered if anorexia is suspected. This will include details such as previous weight, extent of weight loss, physical symptoms, dieting history, binge eating, exercise levels, and family or relationship problems. Blood tests will usually be part of the physical examination, and electrocardiogram tests will be performed if there is reason to believe the heart has been affected.




Treatment

Drugs- Medication treatments play less prominent role in anorexia than for many other psychiatric disorders. In some severe cases olanzapine, fluoxetine, risperidone and quetiapine are used.
Other treatments are as follows:
• Behaviour therapy
• Cognitive therapy
• Counseling therapy
• Family therapy
• Group therapy
• Nutritional therapy for anorexia

Prevention
There are no preventive measures available as such for anorexia but the following are some tips to lead a healthy life.
• A healthy view of self and others
• Teach children to take good care of their bodies
• Avoid making comments that link being thin to being popular or healthy
• A healthy approach to food and exercise
• Avoid punishing or rewarding your children with food




Images




Wisdom Tooth Extraction



Wisdom tooth is always related to knowledge, our grandparents often says that when wisdom tooth comes it means that now the person has become wise. This is how it is related to wisdom and knowledge. No such studies and facts are present to prove this saying, apart from the fact that everyone knows this story. Wisdom tooth usually comes till the age of 17 years. Its eruption is the most painful phase of teething in one’s life. If jaw size is big and enough space is present to erupt then it is not painful otherwise it results in swelling and even need small surgery.
In some cases wisdom tooth comes on its appropriate place, but in some case it erupts in different angulations as shown in figure.
Mesial Impaction:- Impaction is the word given to condition when sufficient space is not available for the eruption of tooth as shown in figure .Wisdom tooth is hitting second molar and even causing gum infection in surrounding area.
In this case small surgery is required in which dentist has to give incision to extract wisdom tooth. After surgery sutures are placed to promote proper healing.
Distal Impaction: - In this case when tooth is placed distally, extraction has to be done very carefully. Little negligence can prove to make task difficult.
Vertical Impaction: - In this, tooth is placed vertically and space is not available for its eruption. During the extraction of vertically placed wisdom tooth dentist has to remove even bone.
Horizontal Impaction: - Extraction of horizontal impaction tooth is quite difficult as second molar lies close to wisdom tooth. Sometimes during extraction , second molar gets affected unintentionally.
Some precautionary measures after wisdom tooth extraction are as follows:-
  1. Do not remove the cotton swab for at least half an hour.
  2. Do not smoke after extraction for at least 3 days.
  3. Do not miss any of the medication prescribed by the Doctor.
  4. Do not use straw to sip drinks.
  5. Do not spit frequently; try to swallow for at least 1 day.
  6. Do not stretch your cheeks or prick finger in lesion.
  7. Do not use vigorous brushing till the sutures are removed.
  8. Take fluid diet for at least 2 days.
  9. Do warm saline rinses twice daily for 3 days.
  10. Keep mouth clean, use mouthwash so that plaque does not deposit on teeth.

Diet » Health Articles » Nutrition facts of egg


Nutrition facts of egg


Eggs are rich source of nutrients except vitamin C. One egg contains 6 grams of high-quality protein and all 9 essential amino acids. Egg protein has high biological value. It has biological value of 100. One medium size egg contains 214 mg of cholesterol. The cholesterol present in egg yolk may be harmful for diabetes, cardiovascular, obesity and diabetes. Phosphorus and iodine present in egg is essential for making thyroid hormones. Egg is a good source of glutamine. Raw egg is not good for health as raw egg contains avidin and it binds with biotin and makes the vitamin unavailable. Avidin is destroyed by cooking the egg. Egg is a good source of albumin. Egg fat is highly emulsified. Eggs are rich in vitamin B12. One large egg provides 75 kcals. Choline present in eggs is helpful in fetal brain development. Eggs are of immense benefit for eyes. According to one study, an egg per day may prevent macular degeneration due to its carotenoids contents specifically lutein and zeaxanthin.   Lutein may lower risk of developing cataracts.

Health Articles » Food Additives


Diet  »  Health Articles    »   Food Additives

A food additive is defined as a substance or a mixture of substances, other than basic food stuff, which is present in food as a result of any aspect of production, processing, storage or packaging. Food additives are added in order to improve texture, flavor, color and appearance. Food additives are classified as antioxidants, Preservatives, Food colors, food Flavors, Emulsifiers and stabilizers, anti caking agents, acids, bases and buffers, sweeteners, enzymes, leavening agents, anti foaming agents.

Antioxidants: A substance when added to food prevents oxidative deterioration . Some of the anti oxidants added in different foods are gallic acid, resin guiace, citric acid, tartaric acid, octyl gallate, dodecyl gallate, propyl gallate, ethyl gallate, butytlated hydroxyanisole and tertiary butyl hydro quinone.
Preservatives: These are substances when added to food inhibit, retard or arrest the activity of microorganisms such as fermentation, acidification and decomposition of foods. Some of the preservatives are common salt, dextrose, honey, spices, sugar, vinegar, edible vegetable oils, glucose syrup, nisin, sodium diacetate, nitrates, nitrites, lactic acid, sorbic acid, acid calcium phosphate.
Food colours: These food colours are used to enhance colors that occur naturally but at levels weaker than usually associated with a given food. There are natural and synthetic food colours. The natural sources are turmeric, saffron, caramel, beta carotene. The artificial colours are Red, yellow, blue and green.
Flavorings agents:  Flavorings agents add flavor to foods. There are natural and artificial flavours.
Emulsifying agents: Substances which are capable of facilitating a uniform dispersion of oils and fats in aqueous media.
Anticaking agents: Substances that pick up moisture without themselves becoming wet. These are added to products such as table salt and dry mixes to a maximum level of 2%.
Anti foaming agents: The anti foaming agents are added to retard decorative changes and foaming height during heating of edible oils and fats.
Buffering agents: These are agents used to counter acidic and alkaline changes during storage or processing of the food, thus improving the flavour and increasing the stability of foods.

Monday, October 3, 2011

Nutrition Basics » Dietary Fat


Nutrition Basics    »   Dietary Fat

Fat is major source of energy. One gram of fat provides 9 kcals. It is recommended that 15 – 3-0% of total daily calories be derived from fats. The upper limit of fat should not exceed 30% of total calories. The visible fat intake should be 15 – 25gms/day. It plays a major role in your cholesterol levels. It serves number of functions in the body. Fat in the diet is important to absorb fat soluble vitamins like Vitamin A present in the food. Fat also provides fatty acids important for structure and function of cells. It also helps to use proteins and carbohydrates more efficiently in the body. Fats are a vital part of the membrane surrounds each cell of body. Kidneys, Heart and intestines are cushioned by fat that helps and protects from injury. Fat in the diet can be of two types visible fat and invisible fat. Fat provide palatability to food.
Visible fat:  The fats derived from animals and plants like butter, ghee, mustard, safflower, sunflower, groundnut etc. are visible fats.
Invisible fats: The fat present in food items like cereals, pulses, milk, eggs, meat etc. are called invisible fats.
Different types of fats are saturated and unsaturated fats:
Saturated fats: Saturated fats are mostly found in animal products such as meat, eggs, and dairy and sea foods. Plant sources like palm oil and coconut oil also contain high amount of saturated fats. These saturated fats increase LDL bad cholesterol. Daily recommended intake of saturated fats should be below 10% of total calorie intake. When we consume enough of good fats our body can produce saturated fats we need.
Unsaturated fats: These fats increase HDL cholesterol and decrease LDL cholesterol. Unsaturated fatty acids include both monounsaturated and polyunsaturated.
Polyunsaturated fats: Polyunsaturated fats should not exceed 10 percent of total calorie intake. Examples of these fats include sunflower oil, soy bean oil, safflower oil, flax seed oil , walnuts and fish oil. Polyunsaturated fat includes both omega 3 and omega 6.Omega 3 fats are anti-inflammatory Omega 3 fats are not synthesized by body , but we can get through some of the foods. Omega 3 fatty acids produce a metabolite DHA which reduces symptoms of depression. Omega 3 fatty acids improve oxygenation. Omega 6 fatty acids are proinflammatory.
Monounsaturated fats: The recommended intake of monounsaturated fats should be around 10 to 15 percent of total calorie intake. Monosaturated fats include olive oil, peanut oil, sesame oil and canola oil.

Diet for liver Health


Liver is the most important organ and has wide range of functions like protein synthesis and detoxification. This is the place where most of the medicines get metabolized. A balanced diet is very important to protect the liver from infections. Overeating adversely affect the liver and damages the liver cells.

Diet for liver:
• Include dietary fiber in your diet which binds with bile. This will help to transport toxins in large intestine, and helps to eliminates fat-soluble toxins.
• Your daily diet must contain vitamin C, vitamin E, vitamin B, beta carotene and calcium this will protect the liver from damage.
• To increase liver decongestion and functioning include food rich in folic acid, choline, betaine, methionine, vitamin B6 and vitamin B12.
• Fasting with proper medical supervision helps in the process of detoxification.
• Vitamin C and Vitamin E is an essential antioxidant to protect your liver. Some of the foods you can include are citrus fruits, mangoes, red cabbage, green leafy vegetables and almonds.
• Include nutritional yeast, peanuts and brown rice which are rich in Vitamin B complex.
• Include egg yolks, garlic, onions, whole grains and beans which are rich in methionine and cysteine.
• Avoid highly processed, refined foods such as coffee, chocolate, sugar, spicy foods, and fried foods.
• Avoid alcohol consumption.

Body Mass Index


 Fitness and Exercises

Body mass index is the ratio of weight to height to estimate body fat. It is advisable to use Body mass index along waist to hip ratio to get complete picture of your weight status. Body mass index is particularly helpful for identifying children and adults at risk of overweight. But it not gives completely accurate information.
The formula for Body mass index is WEIGHT (KG)/HEIGHT (MT2)

BMICategory
Less than 18.5Underweight
18.5 to 24.9Normal weight
25 to 30Over weight
More than 30Obese

Curative and Prevention Tips


Your ears require very little maintenance. However, since you only have two of them, here are some hints to protect and keep those two healthy:

NEVER use cotton-tipped applicators (such as Q-tips) in your ears!  Cerumen, or ear wax, is natural, lubricates the canal, catches dirt particles, and naturally moves itself and debris to the outside.
If you remove the cerumen, your ears will most likely become itchy.                                  
Using applicators in the ear canal can push the wax deeply into the canal creating even more difficult removal, scratching the canal results in infection and tear the skin of the canal with bleeding, or even perforate or tear the ear drum.

If a child observes adults using applicators in their ears, they mimic the adults, using them in their own ears -often with serious injuries!

To clean the wax:

 Clean the cerumen from the outer ear canal with a moist washcloth wrapped around your finger.

Provided there is no perforation or hole in the ear drum, limited use of wax removal drops or hydrogen peroxide in the ear as well as allowing warm shower to enter the canal will help soften and remove the wax.

Avoid loud sounds:

Exposure to loud music, fireworks, firearms, motorcycles, aircraft, power tools, and other sources of loud sound may cause permanent nerve-type hearing loss - even with one exposure!

Tinnitus, or ringing in the ear, often accompanies such loss and is also often permanent.
 
When exposed to loud noise, always wear adequate approved ear protection.

Keep children away from such sounds; they can permanently lose their hearing, too.

Ear pain may not be due to the ear itself.
Other conditions, such as temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disease, Eustachian tube dysfunction, tumors in the throat behind the nose, or referred pain from tumors or infections in the throat or voice box may cause pain in the ear.
If you have ear pain, see your physician or an otolaryngologist.

Recurrent ear infections or fluid in the middle ear in children can cause permanent damage to the ears and hearing.

Benefits of Neem Oil


Neem (Azadirachta indica) oil is obtained from its fruits and seeds. It is an Indian subcontinent evergreen tree. Neem oil is a vegetable oil.

Medicinal Benefits of Neem :
• Neem oil can help us from many unfriendly microorganisms since it has anti bacterial, anti parasitic, anti fungal, anti protozoal and anti viral properties.
• Apply neem powder or oil on wounds or cuts. This will help in fast recovery.
• If you suffer from body odour problems, then take bath in warm water with a few neem leaves. This is highly helpful.
• Neem powder and oil has been used for many skin problems like rashes, ringworm infection, eczema, allergy etc.
• Neem is known to have anti malarial activity.
• Neem oil has been used to remove lice from hair. It is also effective to treat graying of hair, dandruff and hair fall.
• Neem oil helps to relieve pain. A massage on muscle and joints with neem oil can help to relieve pain.
• Neem cures constipation and help from indigestion.
• Neem had deworming action and will help in better intestinal functioning.
• Neem will purify blood. And has anti-toxic effect.
• Neem is a very good medicine for diabetic patients to control blood sugar levels.
• Neem strengthens the immune system and destroys any foreign disease in the body.

Back Pain Remedies


Pain in the lower back is one of the most common medical problem. Back pain can be cause by either disease or injury to the muscles, bones, and nerves of the spine.
To overcome back pain, one should follow the simple steps as given below,
• Massage with eucalyptus or mustard oil in the stained area.
• Include garlic in daily diet.
• Daily drink mixture of warm tulsi water with salt.
• Take one tablespoon of honey with little amount dalchini powder, twice a day.
• While sleeping, sleep on a firm mattress.
• Include tomato, carrot, cabbage, cucumber, spinach in diet.
• Take equal amount of cuscus grass mixed with sugar in warm milk, two times per day.
• Take mixture of warm water with one tablespoon of honey.
• Go for regular exercise and brisk walk.
• Avoid carrying heavy weights.
• Apply ice pack to the painful area.
• Take hot bath.
• Maintain healthy weight.
• Avoid direct bending for picking any thing from the ground.
• Avoid Sedentary life style.
• Don’t sit in one posture for long time.
• Practice relaxing techniques such as meditation, deep-breathing exercise.

Childhood Obesity Prevention


Obesity has already acquired the role of an epidemic. The cases of childhood obesity have been continuously increasing throughout the world. There have been many articles in newspapers and documentaries on television asking the parents to get up and prevent their children from falling prey to obesity. There are easy ways that parents can become the first line of defense for their children and truly be instrumental in reducing the risk for childhood obesity within their child.

• Have the child evaluated regularly by the family physician or the pediatrician. A health and wellness checkup is important for every child, because it can help to evaluate medical problems while assessing risk factors for potential and future medical problems.
• Encourage healthy eating by removing high fat and sugary snacks, and replacing them with healthier choices like fresh fruits and vegetables. Numerous healthy low fat snacks are also available in the market.
• Take a stand against sedentary activity. Motivate and encourage your child for more physical activities rather than just sitting at one place and getting glued to television, computer or video games. Always remember that the child who abstains from physical activities is more prone to obesity.
• Communicate acceptance to the child in case he/she is already obese. An obese child knows they have a weight problem, and they do not need to have the parental ridicule to deal with on top of the peer ridicule they probably receive daily. Parents should love their child unconditionally and accept them for who they are. They should form a partnership to help their child reduce the risk of obesity and combat weight problems.
• Always remember to be a positive role model for your child because children learn from the example set by their parents. So, practice what you preach.

Monday, September 5, 2011

Birth Control Types, Options & Side Effects - Natural Birth Control Tips

birth control patch
Is Patch effective solution for birth control?

Birth control Patch is the latest and newest birth control measure used by women worldwide. The non-oral contraceptive contains 
hormones that help in curbing ovulation. It is used once every week except the week of menstruation.



Birth control Patch is infused with hormones like estrogen and progesterone. These hormones are not only responsible for controlling ovulation but also aid in making uterus lining thin. The sperms are stopped from meeting the eggs as they thicken the mucus around the cervix.


Birth control Patch is used for a period of three succeeding weeks. It can be put on body parts like abdomen, buttocks, torso (not breasts) and upper arms. The instilled hormones get transferred to the blood through skin. It can be worn under any weather conditions provided it doesn’t fall of the skin.


Birth control Patch is used once a week on a specific day for an entire 24 hour period and needs to be repeated each week on the same day. The periods become frequent and menstrual cramps are likely to lessen. It can reduce acnes or chances of cancerous situations.


Birth control Patch is ineffective if the woman is under certain other medication. Also, Patch is of no use if she is weighing over 90 kgs. In case, the Patch is off before 24 hours, alternative birth control method or a new patch cycle becomes necessary.
While adopting the use of Patch, a woman may experience headache, nausea, mood changes, breast tenderness or skin spots. For women aged 35 or more, it might not be an effective solution. Even in this age group, women with a history of smoking are not likely to get positive outcome.


vaginal sponge
Is vaginal sponge useful in controlling pregnancy? 

Birth control Sponge is an affordable and easy to use birth control method. There are chances of not falling pregnant if the sponge.  
is used in vagina properly. While using sponge, it is important to eliminate the entry of sperms.

Birth control Sponge is made of polyurethane with spermicide filled in it. The contraceptive stops the sperms from entering the uterus. With the aid of spermicide, it can even kill the sperms.
Dampened with water, the birth control Sponge is made spongy and placed inside the vagina to sit on the cervix. It can be used for more than 12 hours for repetitive sex but disposed within 24 hours. Removal is usually after a waiting period of six hours of sex.  

Birth control Sponge might not be useful for women who suffer from toxic shock syndrome or under menstruation period. It is necessary to remove the sponge as early as possible. However, a six hour wait is necessary before removal.

Birth control Sponge is likely to get shredded on use. Also, there is probability to get yeast infections. Sometimes, the infused spermicide can work as irritant making it impossible to use it a contraceptive.
The method gives a continued protection for a longer time. However, it cannot protect against the sexually transmitted diseases. Also, women with history of giving birth vaginally find this method non-effective for controlling pregnancy. Any sponge used for birth control must have a shelf life of not less than 24 hours. 


birth control PillsHow can you delay periods with birth control Pills?

By delaying your period with birth control Pills, you can make effective future plans. You can decide how to spend your vacations with your family. You can also work out time for wedding, get-together or simple family functions.

Delaying your period with birth control pills is possible through the use of 21 day Pills packet. The woman can adopt Pills containing estrogen and progesterone for the set period. To delay period, she can start with new pack of 21 day Pills instead of sugar pills taken in last week for birth control purpose.

Delaying your period with birth control Pills can work as effectively as the non-birth control pills. The Pills have to be taken at regular intervals each and every day. Missing any day might give menstruation a chance to start at once.

Delaying your period with birth control Pills will help in reducing menstrual cramps and unnecessary irritation for the time being. You can enjoy the moments with family and friends easily. You can also go on trips without any hassles.

Delaying your period with birth control Pills can cause nausea, headache, mood changes and weight gains or weight loss sometimes. It might have a negative impact on the body health at a later date. Women may likely have serious side effects like heart strokes or cervical cancer.
One of the major drawbacks of delaying period is that the woman may suffer from continuous bleeding. Also, the hormones may not suit or adjust with body when she adopts later. Blood clots are likely to become frequent.



Oral contraceptive
Oral contraceptive solution- Pills

Birth control Pills are one of the effective methods of controlling pregnancy. The Pill which is an oral contraceptive is taken on daily basis. 
It is safe but must be used after seeking advice from the doctor or health professional. 



Birth control Pills are recommended for 21 or 28 days. Usually, a combination pill of estrogen and progesterone is taken for 21 days that stops fertilization of eggs. The single pill of progesterone or placebo pill is taken during the last seven days which stops ovulation.


Birth control pills do not affect fertility and a woman can become pregnant once she stops having it. They are quite effective contraceptives when used in emergency. Found to have caused reduction in acne, they do not interfere with sexual intercourses too.


Birth control Pills might cause certain side effects when used initially. Women might suffer from dizziness, nausea or headache. The menstruation might become infrequent. Mood changes can take place too. It is possible that the woman gains weight or get skin blemishes.


Bill control pills are not recommended for women suffering from heart and liver diseases.  If blood clots and vaginal bleeding is detected then the pill must not be used. Also, if the woman is already pregnant with a child, it is definitely not advised.
The Pills will become ineffective where the woman has missed taking them during the pre-defined time schedule. Frequent miss or delayed usage might cause the chances to become pregnant rise resulting in ineffectiveness of the pills.


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In today’s advanced scientific era it is becoming very easy to get an option of birth control. But this can be very dangerous to use such options without knowing about the birth control side effects. Yes, there are surely many advantages of birth control patches but recently made researches have shown some results that there are certain birth control side effects. Some these side effects are given below:
  • Clotting of Blood: This is known that the birth control options raise the numbers of progestin and estrogen, thus the thickness of blood increases and blood may start clotting in the blood veins.
  • Risks of Blockage and Strokes: This is one of the birth control side effects. Because the clotted blood in the veins may gather and trouble the functions of heart.
  • Headaches: This is one of the most commonly faced birth control side effects. It has been observed that most of complains about severe headaches have been received from the couples who were using some of other birth control options.
  • Vision Disturbance: Not commonly but in certain cases one or both the eyes becomes weak under the birth control side effects.
  • Nausea and Vomiting: Mostly women have to suffer with this side effect of birth control patches.
  • Irregular and Painful Menstruation: The continuous use of birth control options may cause irregular or painful periods. This occurs due to the biological changes.
  • Disarray: This has been complained by many couples that after using the birth control options they have started facing disarray.

Sunday, September 4, 2011

Asthma Disease | Asthma Symptoms | Asthma Causes - Free Treatment Tips


- Free Treatment Tips

asthma affect
   

How does asthma affect breathing?

Asthma is one of the most common breathing disorders that affect mankind. This disease is especially prone in children, but can be seen in all age groups. The diseases like asthma affect breathing adversely. The main ways by which asthma affect breathing is by narrowing down the air pipe (also known as wind pipe), which in turn, cause shortage in breathing. A chronic asthma patient will always, as a precaution, carry an artificial inhaler, which is a medicine to tackle asthma attacks. The diseases like asthma affect breathing in other ways by creating a wheezing feeling and cause breathlessness and contraction of chest in many patients.

Even though the disease is widespread, there have been observations that suggest that in some cases, asthma can be cured. If an early diagnosis is made, or if the disease is diagnosed in early childhood and proper treatment is applied, then the disease can be cured. In addition to this, the disease can also be cause of asthma prone work environments. In professions that let the worker work in conditions with abundance of dust, fumes etc., the disease can occur. The diseases like asthma affect breathing in lots of other ways also. If an asthma patient inhales dry or cold air, then he or she is more prone to being hit by a bronchospasm; an advanced form of breathlessness which shrinks the lung pipe to enormous limits. Also, the asthma patients can get triggered asthma attacks in polluted areas and areas with great height.



Asthma Medications

What Medications are Used in the Treatment of Asthma?

Even though it is a belief of many people that asthma cannot be cured, it is not true. Like any other typical disease, asthma can also be cured by proper medication and diagnosis. For the treatment of asthma, there are a large number of medications available for all age groups and these have helped cure asthma in all parts of the world. The main medications that help in treatment of asthma are classified into two groups – depending upon their short term or long term usages. The short term medications are used for treatment of asthma during chronic attacks (also known as asthma attacks). The short term medications include anti allergic medications, typical inhalers (e.g. the SABA and USAN) and spacers. The type of medication and type of intake mainly depends upon the severity of the disease and the age of the patient concerned and must not be taken without prior consultation with a licensed medicine practitioner.

The long term medications are used in the treatment of asthma for total cure and must be taken at definite intervals for a long time. Prolonged use of such medications can be effective in curing the disease and enabling an asthma free life. Glucocorticoids and leukotriene antagonists are some of the most commonly used long term medications that are used in the treatment of asthma. These medications can be dose specific and intake more than the specified amount can be fatal in some cases. Hence, they must be taken only after prescription from a doctor.

Asthma Faces

The Many Faces of Asthma 

Asthma is one of the most common lung diseases seen in present day in people. The disease is classified as an inflammatory disorder which can be deadly if proper measure is not taken against it. The many faces of asthma exist in this world, with the most common ones being mild, moderate and severe. As the name suggest, the mild condition of asthma is not deadly and can be cured and kept in check if detected in a normal human being. These conditions of asthma are normally observed in infants and children and are curable. The condition involves the coming of asthma attacks to the patient. The many faces of asthma attacks involve shortness in breath (also known as breathlessness), increased frequency of breathing, the tightening of the chest and chronic wheezing. In addition to this, the other symptoms include frequent attacks and persistent attacks.

The many faces of asthma can be found in almost every profession in every walk of life. Even though some professions do have tendency to be inclined towards asthma induction, many others just happen to have asthma patients due to miscellaneous reasons. The many faces of asthma exist in professions like factory laborers and laborers in pollen fields etc. Asthma is also induced in patients due to heavy exercising or mechanical work, and thus patients must abstain from such activities. In addition to that, it has also been observed that the asthma patients are much more in urban areas than in rural. Thus, many faces of asthma also exist





Asthma Facts



Myths, facts, and statistics about asthma

Even though asthma is such a common disease all over the world, still there exist a large number of myths, facts and statistics about asthma. The main myth regarding the disease is that asthma is not curable. Actually, this is not true. In most of the cases, asthma can be cured and over prolonged treatment, the diagnosis of asthma will be negative. The disease is curable especially of the asthma is diagnosed at an early stage or at an early age. In such cases, the disease can be cured completely. Other myths, facts and statistics about asthma include relating asthma with the lunar cycle, which doesn’t have any scientific proof or valid theoretical explanation. In addition to this, there are more myths, facts and statistics about asthma, such as inhibiting asthma patients to participate in sports. This is not true. Actually, if the asthma patient is young, then sports will actually help him or her in overcoming asthma. Some sports like swimming and other aquatic sports actually have been proved to show a positive result in inhibiting the extent of this disease. Also, there are also some deadly myths, facts and statistics about asthma. There is a very ignorant myth that suggests that if a patient continues without any kind of treatment or medication, then he or she will slowly develop immunity towards this disease. This fact is entirely false and as soon as asthma symptoms show up, proper diagnosis and treatment should be followed. These myths, facts and statistics about asthma are rubbish and should not be believed.

Asthma Signs

Typical Asthma Symptoms and Signs

Asthma is one of the most common diseases that affect mankind in the present age. This inflammatory disease creates various lung disorders and shrinking of the wind pipe which in turn, lead to breathlessness and other lung disorders. The typical symptoms and signs of asthma include shortening of breath or difficulty in breathing, increased frequency of breathing and increased and chronic attacks of wheezing. The chronic patient of asthma is also vulnerable to geographic locations like high mountains and high humidity and can have triggered asthma attacks in these regions. Typical asthma symptoms and signs also include feeling breathlessness and unable to breathe in polluted regions and in regions which have higher dust quantity (measured in parts per million).


Also, Typical asthma symptoms and signs are the rapid heaving of the chest or contraction of the chest which involuntarily affect the patient during a chronic asthma attack. Also, Typical asthma symptoms and signs include heavy breathing rate after any mechanical work. If any of the above Typical asthma symptoms and signs are observed in a person, it is advisable to immediately visit a medical practitioner for timely diagnosis and proper treatment. Contrary to popular beliefs, asthma is actually curable and can be cured over time, if proper treatment and medication is followed. Also, the children who show these symptoms must be treated well as in most cases, such children or teenagers can have their asthma cured. So, it is important to get this disease diagnosed and have the proper intake of medicines.
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The studies have disclosed that there are more than 7% of US population is suffering from Asthma Disease. The certainty about the causes of this disease is yet not been discovered. The estimation is that more than 300 million people are having the problem of Asthma Disease in all around the world.


Earlier the symptoms of this disease were mostly seen in the children but now asthma can affect the person of any age group. Even if the Asthma Disease is cured in childhood in the later age there are the possibilities to get it back again. Asthma is related to the problem of lungs and it narrows down the breathing ways in the lungs. The patients of Asthma have the usual complain about the shortness of breathing, sneezing, coughing, pain in the chest and wheezing. All these symptoms are at higher stage in the early morning or late night.


Under the effect of Asthma Disease, the airways are swollen up and it becomes difficult to breath properly. It feels the heaviness and pain in the chest. The severity of the Asthma Disease may vary from person to person. But the later stage of it becomes very difficult and may even cause death.
The main cause of this disease is heredity. If your parents have this problem there are the strong chances of getting it. The weak immune system may also be the welcoming reason for Asthma Disease. Presently, there are no complete cures for Asthma but after having the long term treatments the severe problems can be eliminated.

Saturday, September 3, 2011

Arthritis - Arthritis Causes, Symptoms and Treatment Guides


Arthritis - Arthritis Causes, Symptoms and Treatment Guides

Arthritis symptomsWhat are Arthritis symptoms and signs?
Arthritis is one of the common problems that affect people of age, and is associated with problems in the movements and functioning of the bone joints in the body. The disease is also exists in over a hundred different types and thus, is one of the biggest threats to human beings at old age. The main arthritis symptoms and signs may vary according to the kind of arthritis, but there exist a number of common symptoms which can be the initial steps to diagnosing arthritis. These include the pains in joints and bones and stiffness in the bone joints. Other arthritis symptoms and signs include numbness in the joints and bones as well as restrictions in the movements in the body. All these signs and symptoms can be diagnosed to the arthritis.
Other arthritis symptoms and signsinclude sleep loss or insomnia, joint weakness and difficulty in walking. There are a number of other arthritis symptoms and signs like muscle weaknesses and tenderness in body. As a whole, any weakness in the body at old age can be a sign of arthritis. But the most noticeable arthritis symptoms and signs are pain the ankles and knees, especially during walking and the inability to life moderate loads due to pain in wrists and arm. These symptoms are a warning sign for the presence of arthritis in the person and should be immediately consulted with a doctor for diagnosis, prevention and medication. So, it is important to have knowledge of arthritis symptoms and signs.
Rheumatologist   

What is a Rheumatologist?

Rheumatologist is a doctor or medicine practitioner who specializes in the orthopedic medicine – especially in the diseases and ailments occurring at or related to the bone joints. The Rheumatologist treats a number of widely found diseases, the most known of them being the arthritis. The arthritis is a joint related disease, specially found in old people and typically makes movement and working difficult for the elderly people. The main symptoms for such disease include the pain in ankles and knees, restrictions in movements of joints, inability or problems faced in walking or movement. A Rheumatologist specializes in diagnosis arthritis and related diseases through these symptoms and many other factors like lack of sleep or lessening of sleep, tenderness and softness in the body and problems in muscles and weakening of muscles etc.
The main work of the Rheumatologist lies in the treatment of arthritis through various methods like physiotherapy and medication. Since the treatment for such a disease is not easy, most patients of such diseases like arthritis have to consult a Rheumatologist from time to time, all throughout their life. Thus the position of such a doctor is like a life saver for such patients. The orthopedics and joint specialist doctors also deal with diseases like movement disability and disability of arms and legs – another disease that can restrict someone’s movements for life. In addition to that, they are also responsible for the treatments, rehab and recuperation of top athletes, sportspersons and army persons from injuries and strains




Arthritis symptoms

What are Arthritis symptoms and signs?

Arthritis is one of the common problems that affect people of age, and is associated with problems in the movements and functioning of the bone joints in the body. The disease is also exists in over a hundred different types and thus, is one of the biggest threats to human beings at old age. The main arthritis symptoms and signs may vary according to the kind of arthritis, but there exist a number of common symptoms which can be the initial steps to diagnosing arthritis. These include the pains in joints and bones and stiffness in the bone joints. Other arthritis symptoms and signs include numbness in the joints and bones as well as restrictions in the movements in the body. All these signs and symptoms can be diagnosed to the arthritis.
Other arthritis symptoms and signsinclude sleep loss or insomnia, joint weakness and difficulty in walking. There are a number of other arthritis symptoms and signs like muscle weaknesses and tenderness in body. As a whole, any weakness in the body at old age can be a sign of arthritis. But the most noticeable arthritis symptoms and signs are pain the ankles and knees, especially during walking and the inability to life moderate loads due to pain in wrists and arm. These symptoms are a warning sign for the presence of arthritis in the person and should be immediately consulted with a doctor for diagnosis, prevention and medication. So, it is important to have knowledge of arthritis symptoms and signs.


Arthritis Treatment


What is the treatment for arthritis?

Arthritis is one of the most common diseases that affect the elderly and sometimes, even the young people. This bone and joints related problem can also be one of the most painful and unpleasant diseases for a person. The persons who are suffering from arthritis also suffer from one of the many side effects of this disease. The effects include pain in legs and arms, joints like ankles and knees, restrictions in the rotation and independent movement of ankles and wrists and inability or restrictions in walking and other physical activities. In addition to this, the patients who suffer from arthritis also find problems in lifting weights and heavy objects.
There is no guaranteed treatment for arthritis as the disease essentially weakens bones, joints and body muscles. The strength also decreases and hence, the disease doesn’t really have a viable cure option. But treatment for arthritis exists in terms of remedial solutions and temporary relief, which means that a patient of arthritis may have to visit clinics and specialists all throughout his or her life. The main treatment for arthritis includes physiotherapy, special messages and medications. In the treatment of arthritis via the process of physiotherapy, the patient undergoes ray treatment, or heat treatment which temporarily relaxes the muscles. There are also prescribed short exercises and calisthenics which can be effective for treatment for arthritis. In addition to this, treatment of arthritis can also be done by implementing a good diet containing adequate calcium and protein in order to maintain bone health and prevent or restrict bone decay.



Arthritis: Types and Medication

Mostly Arthritis Disease is associated to the old age but in certain cases younger person can also face the same problem of Arthritis. The studies have shown that generally, females have the higher risks of getting the Arthritis Disease.


The commonly visible symptoms of this Arthritis is acute pain, swelling, joint stiffness and enduring pain in the joints. The severity of Arthritis Disease may cause disability to move the affected body part, weakness, weight loss, muscular pain, tenderness and insomnia.


The Arthritis Disease can be categorized in following types
  1. Rheumatoid: The adults from the age of 20 or more are mostly the victim of this arthritis wherein the tissues start getting destroyed themselves without any reasons. The mostly triggered areas of this arthritis are elbows, fingers, arms, wrists and knees. The medication can be done through the intravenous injections of monoclonal antibodies, Remicade capsules the complete cure is still awaited.
  2. Osteoarthritis: Hips, Knees and back is mostly the victim of this Arthritis Disease. This is caused due to the depreciation of joints. The acute pain during night is the commonly visible symptom. People who are above 60 generally face this problem. Joint replacement and physiotherapy can only be the medication.
The 100% cure is still to be discovered for Rheumatoid and the osteoarthritis. The regular exercises, physiotherapy and balanced diet are advantageous. If you are feeling joint pain you must immediately concern with the physician so that the treatment can be started. If given timely treatment the intensity of the disease can be reduced. There are the proper medication and medicines available in the market but before you go for them consult the doctor first.


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