Health & Safety

Dengue Fever

2011-09-16T21:56:00.000-07:00

Neither vaccine nor drugs for preventing infection are available. The bite of one infected mosquito can result in infection. The risk of being bitten is highest during the early morning, several hours after daybreak, and in the late afternoon before sunset. However, mosquitoes may feed at any time during the day. Aedes mosquitoes typically live indoors and are often found in dark, cool places such as in closets, under beds, behind curtains, and in bathrooms. Travelers should be advised to use insecticides to get rid of mosquitoes in these areas and to select accommodations with well-screened windows or air conditioning when possible. Additionally, travelers should take measures to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes. Long-term travelers and expatriates can take extra precautions to reduce mosquito-breeding sites around their accommodations by emptying and cleaning or covering any standing water (such as in water storage tanks and flowerpot trays).

What is the treatment for dengue fever?

Because dengue fever is caused by a virus, there is no specific medicine or antibiotic to treat it. For typical dengue, the treatment is purely concerned with relief of the symptoms. Rest and fluid intake for adequate hydration is important. Aspirin and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs should only be taken under a doctor's supervision because of the possibility of worsening bleeding complications. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) and codeine may be given for severe headache and for joint and muscle pain (myalgia).

Signs of Pregnancy Over 40

2011-03-29T22:44:00.000-07:00

The signs are similar to normal pregnancy and you would be well acquainted with them if you have given birth earlier. If your internal health condition is absolutely fine, then getting pregnant is absolutely possible at this age. When you have planned to conceive, you would come to know about your pregnancy from the following symptoms.

Missed Period
Menopause usually doesn't take place at the age of 40. If you are having periods regularly every month, then this time you will miss your periods. Women usually wait for for this sign of a skipped period in order to confirm that they are pregnant. Carry out the pregnancy test at home and feel happy to see the strip turning pink. The other symptoms will follow automatically.

Morning Sickness
Feeling nauseated, and experiencing dizziness after waking up are early signs of being pregnant. Sometimes they become so intense that you will have to restrict yourself from working for the time being. A tendency to vomit immediately after eating or on an empty stomach is common. You will also feel sleepy and lethargic. To combat all these, you must take sufficient rest.

Appetite Changes
Pregnancy is the time during which mood swings become rampant. This leads to loss of appetite. You will be astonished to see yourself refraining away from your favorite dishes while gorging on foods that you would never eat. Incredible hunger pangs for specific dishes would drive you crazy. There will be a drastic fluctuation in your appetite and therefore you should try every possible means to satiate your hunger.

Physical Discomfort
Experiencing physical discomfort is something inevitable. Cramps in back, legs and abdomen are common and you have to bear with them. In extreme conditions, you can take pain killers under a doctor's suggestion to get relief from the pain. This happens due certain internal changes taking place inside body for accommodating your baby.

Weight Gain
With every passing day, you will feel heaviness in your body. Weight gain during pregnancy is unavoidable. Your appetite increases, you eat more, as a result of which you put on weight. Feeling bloated due to retention of water in legs and stomach are also natural. Swelling in face and hands are common observations during pregnancy.

Frequent Urination
You will feel frequent urgency to pee when you are pregnant. This happens because the volume of blood present inside your body rises dramatically and a lot of fluid needs to get dispelled from your bladder. Moreover, you are advised to drink a lot of fluids in the form of water and fresh juices, that further steps up the rate of urination.

These were the most common signs of pregnancy over 40. Women suffering from health complications like thyroid gland disorders, genetic problems, obesity, ovarian cysts and hormonal problems must take a doctor's advice before giving themselves a chance to conceive. The risks of pregnancy over 40 are mainly concerned with miscarriage, placenta previa and birth defects in the newborn child. All these are major concerns that should be taken care of. If you are unable to conceive after 40, then you must resort to artificial techniques of getting pregnant.

The signs explained in the aforementioned content will be experienced by you in early days and with passage of time you will be experiencing other types of physical changes. Thus, you should be prepared to endure the series of emotional and physical changes taking place throughout your gestation period. Last but not the least, I should say that it's a different experience altogether and you must stay happy and energetic for healthy development of your baby.

Health Benefits of Papaya

2011-03-28T23:21:00.000-07:00

Christopher Columbus named it "The Fruit of the Angels"! The papaya was first cultivated in the regions of Mexico, and then got introduced to various parts of the world. The fruit is deliciously sweet and can be availed throughout the year. As I have mentioned in the very fist lines, the papaya is attributed to be a power house of nutrients, which offers multiple benefits for your health. And what are these health benefits of papaya, we will see as we go further.

Nutritional Benefits of Papaya

Nutritional Value
Let us begin with the basic nutritional information of this deliciously healthy fruit.

For a serving size of 100 g, the values are:

Nutrients	Value
Total Fat	0 g
Cholesterol	0 mg
Sodium	3.02 mg (0%)
Total carbohydrate	10 g (3%)
Dietary fiber	2 g
Sugars	6 g
Protein	1 g
Vitamin A	1094 IU (22%)
Vitamin C	61.8 mg (103%)
Vitamin K	2.6 mcg (3%)
Vitamin B1 (Thiamin)	0.0 mg (2%)
Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin)	0.0 mg (2%)
Vitamin B3 (Niacin)	0.3 mg (2%)
Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine)	0.0 mg (1%)
Vitamin B9 (Folate)	38.0 mcg (10%)
Calcium	24.0 mg (2%)
Iron	0.1 mg (1%)
Magnesium	10 mg (2%)
Phosphorous	5.0 mg (1%)
Zinc	0.1 mg (0%)
Potassium	257 mg (7%)

Note: the values in percentages are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
After seeing the nutritional value provided by a papaya, let us take a look at the papaya fruit health benefits.

Benefits

Papaya acts as a natural exfoliating agent. This helps in forming newer skin cells, and also keeps the skin smooth and soft. Also, people who have this fruit as a regular part of their diet enjoy clearer and fairer skin. The fruit's richness in Vitamin A, E and C, provides the skin with the protection it requires.
One of the health benefits of papaya seeds is their protection against bacterial infection caused by the bacteria E. coli, and Salmonella. The seeds also help in reducing the risks of developing staph infections, and certain kidney diseases as well.
One of the most popular health benefits of papaya juice is dealing with constipation. The fruit is best in dealing with this condition when it is still raw. It is recommended to munch on two or three pieces of papaya after lunch.
Papain and chymonpapain are the two very important enzymes in this fruit. These are credited for the various health benefits of papaya. It is because of these enzymes that eating the fruit helps in the treatment of edema, inflammation, and wounds. Know that, these enzymes are at their best state when the fruit is still raw.
The nutrients in the fruit such as vitamin C, vitamin E and beta-carotene, posses anti-inflammatory properties. And this is the reason, patients of asthma or osteoarthritis, find great relief in their symptoms, once they increase their consumption of this fruit.
Again, rich amounts of vitamin C and vitamin A in the fruit adds in boosting the immune system thus, reducing the chances of contracting various illnesses.

Other Benefits:

Possible protection from cancer.
The fruit helps in treating morning sickness, and it is good for motion sickness.
It acts as a tonic for the stomach and intestines.
Another benefit of this great fruit is its ability to lower cholesterol. And this in turn, helps in the curbing the development of various heart conditions.
Apart from lowering cholesterol, it also keeps it from getting oxidized thus, preventing accumulation in the blood vessel walls. Cholesterol, if allowed to do otherwise, gives rise to the formation of plaque that eventually gives rise to heart attacks or strokes. To add to this, the folic acid in the fruit also helps in the prevention of heart attack or strokes.
Macular degeneration has been reported to be one of the leading causes of blindness. Eating papaya on regular basis, helps in reducing the risk of this eye disorder appreciably.

Why Body Temperature Rises during Fever

2011-03-27T04:49:00.000-07:00

The Hypothalamus present in the brain is the area that regulates the temperature of the human body, and when some agents known as Pyrogens enter the brain the hypothalamus causes the temperature to rise. These pyrogens reach the brain through the bloodstream of the body, so it is only a matter of time before they complete their route. Medical studies also show that certain microorganisms cannot survive in higher temperatures, and this is another reason why the body temperature rises. Hence this is the most natural kind of immune and defense mechanism that the human body undertakes in order to protect itself from the threat of any external agent.

The normal body temperature of a human bring should be 98 - 100° Fahrenheit (or 36.5 - 37.5° Celsius). Any person who has a temperature that is above this figure is said to be suffering from a high fever. It is necessary to curb a fever and bring the body temperature down because a very high temperature can cause permanent damage to the brain as well. This has led to an interesting debate in many medical quarters about whether a fever should be treated immediately, or should it be allowed to run its natural course and come down on its own.

Stages and Types of Fever

In order to achieve body temperature regulation it is important for doctors and individuals to know about the various types of fevers that they can contract. When a person realizes that they have a high body temperature they need to know the various stages of the fever as well. The fever also causes the blood vessels that are closer to the skin to contract and this results in the sensation of cold and chills and causes the person to shiver (since this action prevents heat loss). Other symptoms at this stage include headaches and loss of appetite and this stage is known as the invasion period. In the next stage the individual starts feeling very thirsty, and their heart rate and blood pressure rise to high levels. Even the respiration becomes faster and the person experiences a feeling of extreme hotness and flushness. The last stage occurs when the fever starts falling and the body temperature falls, and the individual perspires a lot.

One of the types of fever is continued fever and this is an instance when the fever just does not fall for prolonged periods of time. This is usually the most dangerous kind of fever since the prolonged state can lead to convulsions and deliriousness in a patient. The other type is called relapsing fever, and this happens when the person contracts a fever many days after the original fever struck. This is a sign that the disease has not been banished yet, and has only been dormant for the interim period. The last type is known as intermittent fever and this is a scenario when the fever comes and goes from time to time. This is perhaps the most commonly seen and least dangerous type of fever.

In most cases it is very easy for a doctor to find the cause of a fever. Once it has been located, treating this factor and lowering the high body temperature during fever is just a matter of time. There are hundreds of different infections that can cause the body to suffer from a fever, but even though the body temperature rises and leads to a fever as a defense mechanism, it can get quite uncomfortable sometimes.

Heart Failure Causes

2011-02-09T06:16:00.000-08:00

Left Sided Heart Failure
Well, left sided heart failure is the most common cause of right sided heart failure. When the left ventricle is unable to pump blood properly, it causes pressure to buildup on the left side, this in turn, affects the right side of the heart as well. In event of a left sided heart failure, blood backs up into the lungs and enters the right ventricle. This puts pressure on the right ventricle and increases the risk of a right sided heart failure. Coronary artery disease is one of the most common right sided heart failure causes as well. When the arteries supplying blood to the heart get blocked, the supply of the blood to the ventricles gets blocked and this can cause left sided as well as right sided heart failure.

Lung Diseases
People suffering from chronic lung disease are also at an increased risk of developing right sided heart failure. Diseases such as pulmonary hypertension, emphysema, chronic bronchitis or pulmonary embolism are some of the common right sided heart failure causes. Pulmonary artery is a specialized artery that is connected to the right ventricle. It carries deoxygenated blood from the heart to the lungs. Narrowing of the pulmonary artery can also put immense pressure on the right ventricle and can lead to serious damage to the heart muscle.

Heart Disorders
Besides these conditions, heart valve disorders could also be responsible for causing heart failure. Tricuspid stenosis is a condition wherein the tricuspid valve, a valve situated between the right atrium and the right ventricle, becomes constricted. Since this valve facilitates the passage of blood from the atrium to ventricle, the narrowing of this valve affects the flow of blood. When the blood is not able to flow out of the right atrium, it causes the right atrium to enlarge. Tricuspid regurgitation is another heart disease wherein the valve doesn't shut properly. Due to this anomaly, the back-flow of blood during the contraction of ventricle cannot be prevented. This causes volume overload and causes the right ventricular failure. Inflammation and thickening of the pericardium, a serous membrane surrounding the heart can also affect the heart's ability to pump blood. Certain congenital heart defects could also be responsible for heart failure.

Right Sided Heart Failure: Symptoms and Treatment

Now that you are aware of the common right sided heart failure causes, let's move on to the symptoms. The most common right sided heart failure symptoms are swelling of feet and ankles, weakness, fatigue, weight gain, irregular heart beat, palpitations, frequent urination and fainting spells. If you experience any of these symptoms, you must consult a cardiologist at the earliest. Blood tests, chest X-ray, echocardiogram or other imaging procedures can help in throwing light on the sufferer's heart health. Since heart failure could be caused due to various medical conditions, it's important that the disease responsible for causing heart problem is treated soon. The congestive heart failure treatment options will vary depending on the extent of damage to the heart as well as the patient's overall health. While medicines will be prescribed for improving the heart's health, surgery might be required in serious cases. Besides the use of medicines such as ACE inhibitors, beta blockers and diuretics, one will also have to make certain lifestyle-related changes. Patients are generally asked to follow a congestive heart failure diet and refrain from smoking and drinking alcohol.

This was all about right sided heart failure causes. If you have been experiencing any of the aforementioned symptoms, get yourself medically examined immediately. A timely diagnosis and treatment will surely help in averting serious damage to the heart and lower the risk of life-threatening situations. So, keep your heart in a good condition! Take care!

How to Detect a Heart Attack

2011-02-06T05:32:00.000-08:00

Heart attack, a medical condition that will change the pace of your life. Of all the people who experience a heart attack in a year, only 40% survive. This shows it is not a good idea to take heart health lightly. If you are over 35 to 40 years of age, it will be a good idea to undergo regular medical check ups and keep a tab on your health. Heart attack can strike suddenly with intense discomfort. A few people experience mild heart attacks with a little bit of pain and discomfort. Whether you have a signs and symptoms of a mild heart attack or a serious one, you need to seek medical help immediately. The important part of seeking immediate medical help is recognizing heart attack symptoms. The key to save a life, maybe your own is knowing how to detect a heart attack. We will discuss the symptoms that will help you in recognizing a heart attack.

Recognizing Heart Attack Symptoms
How to detect a heart attack is an important question as getting help in the first hour is a priority. The first hour is called the 'golden hour'. If you seek medical attention in this 'golden hour' by recognizing the early signs of heart attack, your chances of recovery is greater. Many 'atypical heart attack symptoms are mistaken as an upset stomach. The person experiencing this begins to wonder if it is an indigestion or heart attack. This mistake decreases the chances of recovery from a heart attack. Spotting the symptoms as early as possible will help you save your life by seeking immediate heart attack treatment. Let's go into the details of how to detect a heart attack.

Detecting a Heart Attack Precursor Symptoms
Before you get a coronary attack, your heart will give you signals that somethings is just not right. This means when you carry out physical exertion, have a big heart meal, travel or live in cold weather, are emotionally charged up like very angry or are under a great deal of stress, you will feel your heart rhythm change. It will begin to beat faster and continue beating in the same rhythm for a really long time. This happens because your arteries are blocked and this obstructs the flow of flood through the heart. You cardiac muscle tissues do not receive the required nutrients at the right time and they suffer from lack of oxygen. This condition leads to angina pectoris or angina. The symptoms of angina act as a warning sign of an oncoming heart attack. These symptoms of angina that help in recognizing a heart attack are as follows:

A heavy or squeezing sensation in the chest
Shortness of breath after little physical activity
One feels a constricting sensation in the throat
A discomfort or pain in the jaw, teeth, ears, both arms, stomach and in some rare cases between the shoulder blades

When the blood clots or fatty deposits restricting the blood flow rupture leads to a heart attack. Are you wondering is arm pain a heart attack symptoms.

Recognizing Heart Attack ~ Atypical Symptoms
I have already mentioned in the above paragraphs, that many people mistake some of the symptoms of heart attack as a simple digestive upset. However, it is important to understand the atypical symptoms for recognizing a heart attack. The atypical signs are also called as silent heart attack symptoms. These atypical signs are very commonly observed as heart attack symptoms in women. These atypical heart attack symptoms include heartburn, nausea, sweating, sudden light headedness, etc. A few people may experience tingling in the left shoulder and arm, palpitations as well as bloated stomach. Women, especially experience pain between the shoulder blades and not the typical crushing pain in chest. You can have a look at heart attack in women and heart attack symptoms in men in detail.

You can read more in detail about the signs of heart attack by going through the following articles:

Heart Attack Warning Signs
Heart Attack Warning Signs in Men
Heart Attack Symptoms in Women over 50

Recognizing Heart Attack ~ Typical Symptoms
Let us now have a look at how to detect a heart attack in detail. When one experiences heart attack, most of the symptoms are similar to an angina attack. Thus, it is important to seek medical attention as you do not know whether it is an angina attack or heart attack. The typical heart attack symptoms include:

Squeezing or pressure in the middle of the chest
Burning sensation in chest
Chest pain that radiates towards the jaw, neck, shoulder, arms and down to the back
Excessive, sudden sweating
Weakness
Shortness of breath
Chest pain that lasts more than 15 minutes
Feeling sick or indigestion
One feels faint
Pain in the middle of the abdomen

These are some of the symptoms that help detecting a heart attack. Most of the time, people associate the symptoms with indigestion and acidity. However, it is better to confirm this false alarm in the medical room, than suffering from effects of a heart attack. If you feel you are experiencing heart attack signs and symptoms, call the emergency medical services immediately. If you are over 50 years of age, diabetic, suffering from high blood pressure, hypertension, have a history of heart disease, etc then do not take any symptoms lightly. This was all about how to detect a heart attack. Remember, medical attention during the 'golden hour' of having a heart attack, will help increases the chances of your quick recovery.

Depression Symptoms in Women

2010-12-29T03:18:00.000-08:00

Women can suffer from depression at an early age and most of them will not consider taking professional help due to the stigma associated with going to a psychiatrist. For parents understanding signs of teenage depression is very important for timely intervention and help. Depression is a mood disorder which can play havoc with a person’s feelings and emotions. Some of the common depression symptoms in women are feelings of helplessness and eating disorders. A few severe depression symptoms in women are suicidal tendencies and hallucinations. Some of the signs and symptoms of depression are:

Clinical Depression
People go through phases of depression and those who show persistent signs of depression over a period of time are considered to have clinical depression. This is a more severe form of depression as women suffering from this type of depression will have consistent mood swings and feelings of guilt. A person with clinical depression or major depressive disorder shows lack of interest in daily activities. Some of the other clinical depression symptoms in women are:

Persistent feelings of sadness for no apparent reason
Disruption in sleeping patterns
Eating disorders leading to either weight gain or loss
Loss in concentration levels
Some even experience suicidal thoughts or show suicidal behavior

Bipolar Depression
Bipolar disorder or depression sees patients going through a manic episode, which at the beginning they like, but as it progresses the patients behavior becomes more risky. People with bipolar depression are prone to risk taking behavior and indulging in substance abuse like alcohol or drugs. A person suffering from bipolar disorder may complain of aches and pains which have no physical reason. Some of the bipolar depression symptoms in women are:

Lack of interest and increased need for sleep
Signs and symptoms of anxiety
Some women may also cry uncontrollably for no apparent reason
Neglecting personal hygiene
Intense and persistent feelings of sadness

Psychotic Depression
In this form of depression, a person will show all the tale tell signs of depression plus will showcase psychotic behavior like, paranoia and delusion. This type of depression is easily recognizable as the person will have extreme behavior and suicidal thoughts. Women suffering from psychotic depression may get angry without provocation and can become violent at times. Some of the psychotic depression symptoms are:

Psychosis is one of the clear indicators of this type of depression
High and persistent levels of agitation
Patient will also experience insomnia
Diminished thinking capacity and lack of interest in everyday activity
Mild symptoms include constipation and fatigue

Some of the other depression symptoms in women are feelings of worthlessness and an inability to make simple decisions. It is advisable to seek professional medical help when a person experiences symptoms of depression because, if left untreated it can cause serious problems. Depression medication and psychological counseling are known to help people suffering from depression.

Tooth Sensitive to Cold

2010-11-07T03:59:00.000-08:00

Tooth sensitive to cold is a common complaint that many patients present with to the dentist, and if you are lucky, then chances are that you may just have saved yourself from an impending root canal treatment, or worse still, a tooth extraction. Given below are the causes and treatment for a tooth sensitive to cold.

Tooth Sensitive to Cold: Causes & Treatment

Tooth Decay
One of the most common conditions that leads to a tooth sensitive to cold and sweet is a deep tooth decay. Whenever there is tooth decay or dental caries, it first begins in the enamel of the tooth, from where it proceeds to the second layer, which is the dentin. Dentin is the semi-porous structure that is present in the tooth and when caries reaches the dentin, it leads to exposure of the dentinal tubules. This is what makes the tooth sensitive to cold. More often than not, this will not be sensed as proper and full-blown pain related to a decayed tooth, but instead will be felt as a mild and dull pain, mostly associated only with consumption of cold food or water. If the tooth decay is in this stage, then you should ideally contact your dentist immediately and he will evaluate your condition and plan the sensitive teeth treatment accordingly. Usually, a tooth filling should be the treatment for such a condition.

Gum Recession
Another condition due to which you may land up with a tooth sensitive to cold water and food is receding gums. The usual gum line is at the point where the enamel ends and cementum begins, that is, at the point where the white crown ends and the yellow root begins. However, due to many habits, like tobacco chewing and vigorous brushing, the gum line may recede and and this could lead to exposure of the root surface of the tooth. The root surface of the tooth is sensitive in nature and this may be why you could suffer from a tooth sensitive to cold. The receding gums treatment entails a surgery where a gingival graft is placed over the exposed region so that the root is not exposed in the oral cavity anymore.

Other Causes
There may be other dental conditions that could lead to a tooth sensitive to cold. Sometimes, a person may have sensitive teeth after filling. This happens when a tooth has deep caries, and the dentist, in a bid to avoid doing something as invasive as a root canal, instead fills the cavity with silver amalgam while applying a base of calcium lining so as to encourage closure of the exposed dentin. So initially, there may still be sensitivity in the tooth after this treatment, till the dentin bridge is formed. So, you may complain of a tooth sensitive to cold after filling but there is no need for treatment for this complaint. But if a person has throbbing pain after the filling, then it means that the caries has reached the pulp and now, there is no other way out but to do a root canal treatment. At times, a tooth that has a dental crown over it may also be sensitive to cold. This would signify that either the root canal done was not proper, due to which the sensitivity points towards root canal pain after procedure or it may mean that the cap is ill-fitting and impinging on the gingival border, leading to a receding gum line and root sensitivity. Either way, the person will need to get an x-ray done so as to evaluate the cause, and then decide whether there is need for a second root canal treatment or whether the dental cap needs to be resized or refitted.

Pimples on Buttocks and Thighs

2010-11-02T06:40:00.000-07:00

Pimples, are perhaps, among the most common and frustratingly stubborn skin conditions that can affect anyone, and on any part of the body. Occurrence of red pimples on buttocks and thighs may not be a cosmetic concern for most, as it is when they affect the face. However, they may cause great discomfort while sitting or lying down. This condition of acne, according to most studies, has been found to a problem that is more prevalent among men, than their opposite sex. More information on the problem of butt pimples has been provided in the following.

What Causes Pimples on Buttocks and Thighs?

Red pimples on thighs and buttocks occur due to same reasons they appear on the face, and other parts of the body. Common causes of acne include too much production of sebum (it is known as the oily secretion of the sebaceous gland), buildup of bacteria in the area and irritation of the hair follicles on the skin.

Pimples on Buttocks - Treatment

Depending upon the severity of the condition, the treatment puts its focus on cutting down the production of the oil, keeping any bacterial infection in check, or reducing the inflammation. In some cases, the treatment might as well cover all these subjects. You can benefit from the use of over-the-counter medications, if you have got a mild acne problem. However, if such medications do not respond to your problem of pimples on buttocks and thighs, then you might need to let a dermatologist to take care of the condition. Some people might be required to follow a course of antibiotics, to deal with the bacteria.

How to Get Rid of Pimples on Buttocks and Thighs at Home?

Apart from what your doctors recommend you, there are in fact, a few things you can follow at home, to improve the condition. These are as follows:

Make a mix of yogurt and fine oatmeal. Mix it so, that you get a thick paste. Apply it on the affected areas and wait for sometime until the paste dries. Wash the area the lukewarm water and dry it properly. Thereafter, you can use the medicated cream that you have been prescribed. This may not be good enough for getting rid of pimples overnight, but it sure does improve the condition in a short duration.
Most people have benefited by using products which contain aloe vera as one of the active ingredients. You may use aloe vera gel or soap to treat your problem of pimples on buttocks and thighs. This method is also one of the popular ways of getting rid of pimples fast.
One of the simplest natural remedies for pimples is to rub orange peels on the affected area.
Get some cinnamon powder, and mix it with honey. Massage the affected area with it and leave it to dry. Wash it with lukewarm water and pat dry.
Make a paste of ripe tomatoes, and simply apply it as a cream on the affected area. After giving it a wait of about an hour, wash it with lukewarm water.

So these were some home remedies for pimples, which you can use at home, to cope with the condition of pimples on legs, buttocks and thighs, or let's say, for an effective acne control. And before I put down the conclusion, I would like to tell you about the importance of drinking plenty of water. Toxins and waste in the body may aggravate the pimples on buttocks and thighs dearly. So one of the simple ways to get rid of such agents is to drink at least 3 - 4 liters of water daily. Needless to say, healthy diet also plays a significant role in controlling the outbreak of pimples. And finally, wearing tight-fitting undergarments or those made from polyester or nylon, would be the worst option to go for, while suffering from such a condition. It is always advisable to wear cotton undergarments. And while at home, loose cotton clothing does best for keeping the pimple-affected areas cool and dry.

Ways to Avoid Miscarriage

2010-10-09T09:53:00.000-07:00

Every woman wants to have a normal and healthy pregnancy and see her pregnancy come to term without any health risks, but that does not always happen. There are times when women have miscarriages due to some reason or the other and then the emotional and mental trauma that they have to deal with cannot really be imagined or noted down into words. And that is why this article comes your way to provide you with some natural ways to avoid miscarriage. Read so that you up your chances of having a healthy pregnancy.

Ways to Prevent Miscarriage

What can cause a miscarriage? A miscarriage usually happens within the first 15 weeks of pregnancy and could be caused due to two main reasons. One, that the embryo is not strong enough to develop into a healthy baby, and two, the environment of the womb is not compatible enough to support the growing embryo. These are the two main reasons that should be looked into for preventing miscarriages. The remainder of this article deals with some of the best ways to avoid miscarriage.

Regular Checkups
If you've ever had a miscarriage before, you'll need to be extra careful when conceiving after miscarriage. Even if that is not the case, you need to still be careful. The best ways to avoid miscarriage is to have regular check ups done to detect if anything is wrong in the beginning itself so that it can be corrected. When a couple decides to conceive, both should go in for regular check ups and pregnancy tests to up their chances of how to get pregnant fast and easy. Other than the regular check ups you might be asked to do some other tests like:

Chromosome testing
Hormonal imbalance
Blood clotting tendency
Cervical strength
Quality of semen
Immunity count against German measles (Rubella)

Maintain a Healthy Diet
The diet plays a major role in maintaining the health of a woman and making sure that the environment in which the embryo grows is a conducive and nurturing one. Not only should one have a pregnancy diet that has all the basic food groups, but along with that also make sure that there are other health supplements that are consumed. Some of these include zinc, vitamin C, folic acid, proteins, fats (milk products mainly) and any other supplements like calcium that your doctor recommends.

Avoid Stress
How to avoid a miscarriage? Think happy thoughts and avoid stress. This is the point that most women ignore, whereas this should be right up there with the other factors. When you stress out and dwell on negative thoughts and feelings, you are producing an acidic environment that is harming your baby to no end. It has been scientifically proven that the kind of thoughts you have have a direct effect on your baby, if you are stressed and tensed, the baby will be severely affected. That is why it is said that you should always be happy and do things that make you happy during your pregnancy.

Exercise
Doing some form of daily pregnancy exercises or relaxation techniques (yoga or tai chi) is a must and should be done at any cost to keep your body fit and free of any diseases. Just make sure that you do not start out with some form of strenuous exercises after you get pregnant. If on the other hand, you've always been exercising then you need not stop. But always, always consult a doctor about the kind and degree of exercises that you should be doing.

Things to Avoid
These are some of the things that you should completely stop when you decide to get pregnant and once you are pregnant. These are some of the ways to avoid miscarriage:

Completely stop smoking (passive as well) and drinking or using any other substance abuse drugs as well. This goes for the male partner as well, 'coz these things will severely affect the quality of the semen and thereby the health of the baby and increase the chances of miscarriage.
Avoid caffeine and junk foods as they are loaded with bad fats that do nothing for your health.
Avoid any electrical appliances for use like food from the microwave, sleeping on a water bed, using an electrical blanket, avoid X rays etc.
Make sure that you do not get infected with herpes, fever and other infections because taking certain medication drugs becomes impossible during pregnancy.
Do not expose yourself to pesticides, paint fumes, pollen and cat or dog litter and insecticides.

These were some of the ways to avoid miscarriage and make sure that you enjoy a pregnancy to full term without any health complications. Having a baby in your arms at the end of it all will make it all worth it.

Early Signs of Pregnancy: Cramping

2010-10-08T07:04:00.000-07:00

Pregnancy is one of the most blissful phases in a woman's life. During pregnancy, a woman's body undergoes a lot of changes, in terms of physical, hormonal, and emotional aspects. So how do you know that you are pregnant, and what are the early pregnancy symptoms? If you have a missed period or you feel slightly nauseous, or you have a queasy feeling in the stomach, then there are chances that you may be pregnant. But is cramping a sign of pregnancy? Yes, early signs of pregnancy and cramping are related. Some women may experience cramping in early pregnancy.

So is cramping normal in early pregnancy? Some pregnant women who may experience cramping during the first trimester, often tend to panic, thinking that it may be a sign of miscarriage. But as mentioned before, early signs of pregnancy and cramping go hand in hand. Cramping is normal during pregnancy and is a common occurrence. When the fertilized embryo implants itself in the inner wall of the uterus, then it causes cramping.This is known as implantation cramping. This is also another sign that the uterus is preparing itself to carrying the embryo for the next nine to ten months. If you experience cramping and early pregnancy symptoms, then congratulations, you are on your way to becoming a mother. Let us take a look at the early symptoms the body exhibits during pregnancy.

Earliest Possible Pregnancy Signs and Symptoms

Most of the pregnant women experience early signs of pregnancy and cramping, almost after implantation, whereas some may experience it after a week or so. Given below are some early signs of pregnancy, which confirm that you are indeed pregnant.

One of the early signs of pregnancy is experiencing cramping in early pregnancy. Some women experience cramping shortly after they conceive. This occurs because the uterus grows and expands in order to support the weight of the embryo, when it develops completely. These abdominal cramps may be similar to menstrual cramps.
Some women may also experience implantation bleeding. This can be noticed as a pinkish discharge or spotting.
Tender and swollen breasts are another of the earliest signs of pregnancy. Sometimes a feeling of soreness, especially around the areola can be experienced.
An increase in the basal body temperature is another of the early symptoms of pregnancy. Basal body temperature implies to the lowest temperature that is attained by the body during its resting phase. This rise in temperature is usually felt in the oral cavity and is also a sign of ovulation.
A feeling of nausea accompanied by vomiting is experienced by some women. Aversion or craving towards certain foodstuff can be noticed during pregnancy.
During the entire term of pregnancy, there is a surge of hormones in the body. But level of hormones during the first term of pregnancy is higher, resulting in mood swings, from euphoria to depression in a matter of seconds. Some women may also feel weepy and emotional during the first few weeks.
Constipation, due to an increase in the levels of progesterone in the body, is yet another early pregnancy symptom. This hormonal increase can cause the digested food to pass slowly through the large intestine leading to constipation.
Fainting spells and dizziness are common occurrences during pregnancy. This condition is due to dilation of blood vessels resulting in a drop in the blood pressure. Sometimes, they are also followed by headache, which may range from mild to severe.

This was all about early signs of pregnancy and cramping. Eating healthy foods, plenty of rest, taking medicines on time and going to the gynecologist for a routine checkup will ensure a smooth and safe pregnancy. Enjoy your motherhood and take care!

Cholesterol Lowering Supplements

2010-10-05T09:11:00.000-07:00

Supplements derived from fenugree, garlic and flax seed have displayed cholesterol lowering properties in various studies. Other cholesterol lowering supplements are discussed below:

Fish Oil
Fish oil capsules come in the list of top 5 cholesterol lowering supplements. Fish oil supplements are loaded with omega 3 essential fatty acids that promote a healthy heart. Studies shows that it brings down triglyceride levels substantially.( a type of fat associated with cholesterol). Besides, lowering triglyceride levels, it may also help to increase good cholesterol levels, thereby reducing the risk of heart diseases.

Artichoke Extracts
Artichoke extracts can also contribute to reduce cholesterol naturally as revealed in various studies. In a study, more than a 100 high cholesterol patients were put on a specific dosage (450mg) of artichoke extract leaf supplements. After a period of 6 weeks, their blood tests showed lower cholesterol levels The bad cholesterol levels dropped sharply by around 19%. Thus, the study discovered a naturally remedy for decreasing cholesterol and suggested it as an effective treatment for high blood cholesterol patients.

Barley
Patients with high cholesterol levels must include this cereal grain in the diet. This is because studies suggest that barley rich meals can lower LDL (bad) cholesterol. Barley is a good source of soluble fiber and so eating it everyday can reduce cholesterol fast, thereby lowering the risk of coronary heart diseases. Taking barley supplements or a diet high in foods containing barley seems to be a healthy alternative to prescription medicines for lowering cholesterol levels.

Green Tea Extracts
To combat high cholesterol problems, green tea extracts can also be used as found in various small studies. Experts are of the opinion that that the positive result is due to the fact that green tea extracts compels the body to speed up elimination of cholesterol as well as reduce its ability to absorb cholesterol. This in turn helps to lower blood cholesterol. So, drinking green tea or taking it in supplemental forms can be useful to lower bad cholesterol levels.

Sitostanol
Sitostanal also comes in the list of cholesterol lowering supplements. Sitostanol is basically a chemical present in various plants and is chiefly derived from vegetable oils. It is an important constituent of margarine (butter substitute). In a study, a small group of people suffering from elevated cholesterol levels were put on sitostanol supplements. After a stipulated period of time, the patients showed a drop in blood cholesterol. These results clearly hints sitostanol as one of the cholesterol lowering supplements.

Vitamin B3
Vitamin B3, also referred as niacin when taken as supplements is found to lower high cholesterol levels. Although, niacin for high cholesterol is found in a variety of fruits and vegetables, vitamin B3 content in these foods is not enough for lowering bad cholesterol. Studies indicate that high doses of vitamin B3 (2000mg every day) provide natural means to decrease bad cholesterol levels. In addition to reducing bad cholesterol levels, studies suggested that there was a 30% increase in good cholesterol.

Caution

Considering the positive results shown by various studies conducted on aforementioned supplements, one may be tempted to replace prescription medicines with these natural cholesterol lowering agents. However, this decision should not be taken without consulting a qualified doctor. Some of these cholesterol lowering supplements produce side effects that manifest in the form of diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, bloating and gas. In order to lower the severity of these side effects, the dosage needs to be adjusted accordingly. So, for best results, these supplements have to be taken in the right dosage as instructed by the doctor.

Although small studies reveal cholesterol lowering benefits of of these supplements, extensive research has not yet been done. Therefore, one cannot consider these supplements as the first line of treatment for high cholesterol patients. A combination of cholesterol lowering supplements and prescription may work best for these patients. Apart from supplements, following a low cholesterol diet that consists of food items like fish (salmon), oatmeal (high fiber foods) and walnuts is recommended. These are cholesterol lowering foods, inclusion of which can ensure healthy cholesterol levels.

Increase Fertility Tips for Men and Women

2010-10-05T04:24:00.000-07:00

Sort Out Your Weight Issues
Obesity is directly associated with infertility. Hence, even if you are overweight by a few pounds, you hamper your chances of conception. Obesity in women can disrupt the hormonal balance which may lead to failure to get pregnant. Even overweight men should address their weight problems before trying for a baby. On the other hand, people who are super thin can also face infertility problems. Underweight women may lack estrogen and have irregular menses, which is definitely not a good sign. Maintain an ideal weight if you wish to increase fertility in women.

Get a Preconception Checkup Done
Preconception checkup is a must for both partners so as to diagnose any fertility problems beforehand. Some fertility problems can be quickly resolved by simple measures. With the help of certain drugs, increasing fertility becomes very easy. Preconception checkup ensures that there are no signs of infertility and that you can continue with your attempts of conception. Without a preconception checkup, you will never know if you have a fertility issue and hence will go on trying for years without any results.

Eat Right Foods
A balanced diet is an ultimate key to all your health woes, including infertility. There are certain foods which actually boost your fertility and increase your chances of conception. Nuts, seeds, green leafy vegetables are some of the foods that increase fertility. Similarly, incorporate dairy products like milk, cheese in your diet. Fresh fruits like yams and kiwis also restore your fertility, if consumed on a regular basis. Cut down your intake of fried, processed foods. Ensure that your diet includes vitamins A, C and E as well as minerals such as selenium and folic acid which increase chances of fertility.

Lead a Healthy Lifestyle
Most infertility problems erupt from unhealthy, sedentary lifestyle. Smoking and alcohol consumption lowers your chances of conception by 50%. Hence, if you really wish to increase fertility and conceive in near future, you will have to ditch your drinking and smoking habit. Smoking is a big no no for men as well as women. Cutting down on your caffeine intake can also relieve you of certain fertility issues.

Exercise
Exercising not only keeps your body in shape but also promotes mental and physical health. Stress can be detrimental for conception, especially in women. Exercises relieve you of stress and keeps you calm and relaxed. However, one must avoid overdoing exercises as it can adversely affect your chances of getting pregnant. Similarly, men should not indulge in exercises such as marathon runs, cycling as they can reduce the sperm count.

Do Your Math Right
It may sound weird but getting pregnant is all about understanding certain numbers. For instance, you naturally reduce your chances of getting pregnant after 30 in case of women and 35 in case of men. Every month you only have 25% chances of conception, even if you do everything right. Another thing that you need to know is that a woman is most fertile during her ovulation, which could be any day between 12 to 18 according to the length of her cycle. Having sex during these days can elevate your chances of pregnancy. Similarly, a man's sperm count is maximum in the morning, hence making love in the morning may help you to conceive.

Hope this article on, 'increase fertility tips' help you get pregnant soon. If you are unable to conceive even when there seems no obvious problem with either of you, do not hesitate to see a doctor. However, until then, be patient and let nature take its course.So don't worry Take care.

Infertility in Men

2010-10-05T04:08:00.000-07:00

How does one know that a man is infertile? The following are some signs of infertility that could suggest that there is that issue in the picture:

The most common sign that is taken as infertility in men and women is if the couple has not been able to conceive even after a year of unprotected sex.
If the man does not seem interested in sex (for a considerable period of time) and cites reasons like tiredness or stress or mood factors. It can be taken as a sign of infertility in men.
The inability to achieve an erection. This being one of the physical signs of infertility.
When a man cannot ejaculate, that is also taken as a sign of infertility.
An infertile man is usually unhealthy and this can be seen in his appearance - he will have dull looking skin and an overall haggard appearance.
Although this is not a common indicator, sometimes age can lead to a wrinkled penis and that might be a sign of infertility in men.

Causes of Infertility in Men

What could lead to infertility in men? Here are some of the reasons that have a major influence on this factor.

Environmental Factors
Environment has an overall effect on the health of human beings and is seen to have a major influence on a man's fertility as well. It therefore becomes an important factor to consider. With the ever increasing pollution, exposure to industrial waste, toxic pesticides, increase in temperatures, radiation, and other such and such, the quality of health has deteriorated considerably. This is seen to affect the overall health and in some cases can have a direct affect on a man's fertility as well.

Psychological Factors
Psychological factors such as stress, work pressure, responsibilities, dealing with failures and any other negative force can further take things out of hand.

Health Factors
There are several health factors that go on to influence the issue of infertility in men. These are some of the following:

Testicular Problems ~ Factors like high levels of FSH, pain and swelling in the testicles, uneven size of the two testicles, difficulty in urination and ejaculation, or premature ejaculation, abnormal sperm cells and the like.
Hormonal Problems ~ Less, high or no testosterone production, impotence, difficulty in varied sexual functions, insomnia, change in voice, hair growth pattern and blurred vision, muscle weakness and the like.
Difficulty in erection and maintaining it.
Orgasms without semen.
Decreased sexual health.
Old age
Milky and cloudy urine.
Low sperm count.
Sterility after vasectomy.
Low sperm motility rate.
Health disorders like liver disease, kidney disease, genital infections, autoimmune disorders, sickle cell anemia, prostatitis and epididymitis and obesity can all cause infertility in men.

Acquired/External Factors
There are certain acquired factors that need to be discussed as well. These include such pointers that are not caused by any external, psychological or health factors, but are a man's own doing (so to say). Here are some of them:

Smoking ~ It affects the quality of the sperm.
Unhealthy Lifestyle ~ This would include lack of exercise, a non nutritious and unhealthy diet, skewed sleeping patterns and the like.

There are several forms of treatments on how to increase fertility that can be taken up depending on the nature of the factors that have led to the problem of infertility in men. Lifestyle changes, taking of specific supplements or surgery to correct a health problem and other factors like artificial insemination (If none of the other methods help to improve the quality of the sperm and this remains the only option to start a family) are often used and are seen to help. One thing is clear though, what can be controlled should definitely be, so that it does not add to the long list of possible causes and threats that lead to infertility in men.

Methods of Birth Control

2010-09-28T21:25:00.000-07:00

A sexually active and fertile woman can prevent pregnancy by adopting any of the methods of birth control. The concept of birth control is not recent in its origin. The history of birth control practices has been traced to ancient Egyptians. It is believed that even ancient people had knowledge about birth control and they used various herbs for birth control, apart from withdrawal method and abstinence from sex. However, nowadays, there is a wide range of birth control methods for us to choose from. This article deals with various types of birth control.

Birth Control Methods

As mentioned above, there are many different types of birth control methods, that are chosen as per individual needs. While, there are natural methods of birth control, others include hormonal methods, barrier methods, intrauterine devices, permanent birth control methods, like, sterilization, etc. While, some are meant for use by men, others are for women. Let us take a look at the different methods of birth control.

Natural Methods of Birth Control
While, most of the methods of birth control are not foolproof, abstinence is 100% effective in preventing pregnancy. Abstaining from sex is one of the natural methods of birth control. Some people prefer withdrawal method, as compared to abstinence. In this method, the man withdraws, before ejaculating into the vagina. Another method is to abstain from sex, during the woman's fertile period. Even though, this method cannot be that effective, as you must have a good knowledge about the signs of ovulation for it to be effective. Usually, ovulation occurs on the 14nth day, before the next menstrual period. So abstain from sex during the fertile days (around three to four days before and after the date of ovulation). However, this method is not good for those with irregular menstruation. Others too must have good knowledge about the ovulation dates and symptoms, so as to practice this method effectively.

Nowadays, ovulation prediction kits are also available and these kits can help you in determining the date of ovulation. It is a common misconception that lactating women do not ovulate and there are no chances of getting pregnant during that time. These are some of the natural methods of birth control. The following are some of the other popular methods meant for men and women.

Methods of Birth Control for Women
Birth control pills is one of the most popular methods of birth control for women. These pills contain either estrogen or progestin or both, and have to be taken daily, so as to prevent pregnancy. These hormones prevent ovulation and thicken cervical mucus, so that the sperms do not cross it. Females can also go for intrauterine device (IUD) that are inserted into the uterus to prevent pregnancy. While, some of them contain copper (for its spermicidal properties), some others release hormones, like, progestin. These devices prevent the sperms from joining the egg, thus, preventing fertilization. A female condom is a plastic pouch that has to be inserted into the vagina, before sexual intercourse. This prevents the entry of semen into the vagina, thereby preventing pregnancy.

Another method of birth control for women is sponge, which is made of plastic foam and contains spermicide. This round-shaped device is inserted deep into the vagina, before intercourse. Apart from covering the cervix, it also releases spermicides to kill the sperms. Another such device is the diaphragm, which is a latex cup. It is also inserted into the vagina, before sex, so that the sperms do not enter the cervix. Cervical cap too works in the same way. There are birth control shots that release hormones that prevent ovulation. Each shot can prevent pregnancy for a period of three months. Sterilization is considered to be a permanent method of birth control, wherein the fallopian tubes are blocked and this procedure is called tubal ligation. Now, you know that, for women, there are various methods of birth control besides the pill.

In short, most of the birth control methods are meant for women. But, there are some methods of birth control for men too. These include condoms, which is one of the popular methods of birth control and is said to be the most effective one, as compared to other methods. Men can also go for vasectomy, which again is a permanent form of contraception, wherein the passage of sperms is blocked by severing the vas deferens (tube that carries sperms). If you compare the methods of birth control effectiveness, then, total abstinence is the only foolproof method. Male condoms are said to be 90% effective, female condoms are 80% effective, diaphragm and cervical cap has around 80% effectiveness, etc. So, these methods have to be used properly, so as to avoid failure.

Natural Ways to Get Pregnant with Twins

2010-09-02T20:42:00.000-07:00

There are chances of getting pregnant with twins, if one undergoes IVF (In Vitro Fertilization). But, this may increase your chances of getting triplets, quadruplets, or may be even quintuplets and more. This is the reason, many healthy couples look for natural ways to get pregnant with twins. But, before we see the natural ways to get pregnant, let us understand what are twins?

Twins means delivering two babies at the same time in one single labor. Normally, a woman's body releases one egg from the ovary sac during ovulation. This single egg get's fertilized by a single sperm that develops into an embryo and then fetus. However, in case of identical twins, the embryo splits into two equal parts. These two embryo's have same type and amount of DNA, are of same sex and even look exactly identical. However, sometimes there are two eggs released at the same time, that get fertilized by two different sperms at the same time, developing into fraternal twins. They share half of their DNA, but are not identical in appearance and can even be of different sex.

It is seen the chances of developing fraternal twins is more than identical twins. Identical twins is a very rare occurrence and is more of a fluke. However, the following natural ways to get pregnant with twins will help you increase your chances of a multiple pregnancy.

Family history plays a part in getting pregnant with twins. If you have someone from your father's or mother's side giving birth to twins (especially fraternal twins), your chances are likely to increase. This is because you may share some amount of common genes and have the vital genetic predisposition to release two eggs at the same time during ovulation. You may be the lucky one who was passed on the twin gene from your parents. However, keep in mind, identical twins are not thought to be hereditary.

Gain weight is one phrase that you may shrink your nose at, but this is a very important part for natural ways to get pregnant with twins. If has been found taller and women with a BMI of 30 or higher are more likely to conceive twins than their thin and lean counterparts. These statistical numbers are found to be true for fraternal twins and not identical twins. So, shed your inhibitions related to the extra kilos as they will help increase your chances of conceiving twins.

Yams and cassava are rooted vegetables that are considered to help shorter and thinner women get pregnant with twins. According to the National Organization of Mothers of Twins, these root vegetables included in diet helps one conceive twins. Wild yams, cassava and maca are known to increase the progesterone levels in the body. This hormone stimulates hyperovulation and so does soy isoflavones, whole grains, tofu, walnuts and wheat germ. So, in order to increase your chances of fraternal twins, make sure you include these foods in your diet.

Full fat dairy products also work in the same principle of yams and cassava. The fat content in dairy products is cholesterol that helps in stimulating production of progesterone. This increases hyperovulation and the chances of two eggs begin fertilized at the same time.

Big family is also one of the natural ways to get pregnant with twins. The more number of times you get pregnant, more are your chances of getting pregnant with twins. You may just have to keep trying, till you succeed. However, make sure you have the time, finances, resources and the strength to take absolutely good care of all the children you give birth too.

Older women have more chances of getting pregnant with twins than their young counterparts. Women over the age of 45 are found to have 17% increased chance of multiple pregnancy. But, then there is a fear of infertility at an older age. Chances of conceiving twins at an older age may be higher as older women produce higher levels of Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH). This hormone directs the ovary to mature an egg and in older women there may be over stimulation due to extra FSH. This may cause the ovary to release two eggs instead of one. Thus, becoming one of the natural ways to get pregnant with twins.

Get lucky! Most parents giving birth to fraternal twins just get lucky. Those with identical twins hit a jackpot in the game of fate. There are no sure shot natural ways to get pregnant with twins. You just need to follow the above advice and speak to your doctor to help you increase your chance to have a multiple pregnancy. Apart from that, just keep your fingers crossed and hope your wish comes true.

Note: Readers are advised there is no guarantee that any of the above natural ways to get pregnant with twins will be successful. However, some of them have been proven to increase the odds of having twins considerably. You need to combine a few methods together to increase your chances and hope for the best.

Low Sex Drive

2010-06-30T01:58:00.000-07:00

Possibilities
There are a few possibilities that we might need to examine before we really conclude reasons for this lowered sexual drive. There are some who are fed up with the same sexual position, but perhaps don’t know for sure that this may be the reason for boredom in the bedroom. There are some who are probably medically unfit for having a healthy sex life. Hypothyroidism is another great reason for low sex drive. Hormonal imbalances may not always look all that severe but the fact is that they are known to be doses of slow poison that seep through our lives without we being completely involved in the process.

Domestic problems and improper understanding amongst both partners can also be another reason for their worry as the mind, especially the sub conscious mind never forgets. It slowly deprives your vagina to get all that heated up and lubricated, so much so that even if you want to change the situation and get there, its rather difficult as you’ve already frozen your system.

Certain amount of prolonged illness may also provide to this problem. But most importantly, this occurs after the birth of a child, especially after the first child. The trauma of child birth as it were and the boon of breast feeding is a feeling so orgasmic that the need for sex is thrown out of the window. Its always a case with men feeling left out after a baby is born. First the woman needs to get back on track with her body and the new entrant in life and secondly, the joy of holding the little bundle of joy in one’s arms is so great that all other joys that seem momentary are eluded.

For fathers, its quite a different case altogether. Men need to feel loved and unlike women, their need for this sort of love is through sex. Women tend to draw in closer after their new life gets set after the baby and its is perhaps nothing short of boredom, that brings them closer to their man again. For men too, erection problems and their pot bellies can pose a threat to their sexual life. To pump your lady with your stream of love can only be possible to your satisfaction if you have a normal, and less bloated tummy. Sure your libido might be high but if your body isn’t in your hands then its quite depressing for a man to fulfil his lover’s needs. It is in this scenario that a man often loses hi erection, causing a lowered sexual drive in him. He may be turned on by a sexy lady by his side, but if he cannot perform, something that’s absolutely essential for him as a man, then he’s already lost the battle even before he began!

Solutions
An interesting feature of this sort of a problem is that out of the many cases reported, its almost always women who suffer from a low sex drive. Sexologists have tried understanding the real reason, but none of them have even the remotest idea for this problem. Although there may be millions of reasons why men and women suffer from this, the only way to put back the zing in your life would be to bring in large doses of variation, from ideas, to places to positions, to even spells of abstinence, the punch line is to remain fit, with gymnastic levels of stretching your body, to even keeping your self busy.

Its quite another thing if you have a physical impediment like thyroid hampering yourself to sexual freedom and quite another when you be a loner. The former still has miles to go in allowing people to reach their sexual gratification, the latter, however, can be dealt with, with the methods mentioned, with a dash of creativity thrown in, after all if you really wanna live a fulfilling life, along with right eating and exercise, its also huge doses of gratifying sex that can do the trick!

Nine reasons to drink green tea daily

2010-06-11T18:16:00.000-07:00

Here are nine reasons to start drinking green tea or continue drinking it if you’re already hooked.

1. Green tea is a superb fat fighter. Its active ingredient, EGCG, increases the rate at which fat is burned in your body.

2. It targets belly fat. Research at Tufts University indicates that EGCG in green tea, like other catechins, activate fat-burning genes in the abdomen to speed weight loss by 77 percent.

3. Green tea keeps energy stable by balancing blood sugar levels. EGCG improves insulin use in the body to prevent blood sugar spikes and crashes that can result in fatigue, irritability, and cravings for unhealthy foods.

4. Research shows it may be helpful against lung cancer. In an April 2010 study published in Cancer Prevention Research, EGCG was found to suppress lung cancer cell growth.

5. Green tea may halt colorectal cancer. In numerous other studies, EGCG appears to inhibit colorectal cancers.

6. In research, it appears to cause prostate cancer cells to commit suicide. A March 2010 study in Cancer Science indicated that EGCG aids the body by causing prostate cancer cells to commit suicide.

7. Green tea may prevent skin damage and wrinkling. EGCG appears to be 200 times more powerful than vitamin E at destroying skin-damaging free radicals. Free radicals react with healthy cells in the body, causing damage, so lessening their numbers may help reduce wrinkling and other signs of aging.

8. It contains a potent antioxidant that kills free radicals. Because it is a potent antioxidant green tea can positively impact a lot more than skin cells. Free radicals are increasingly linked to many serious chronic illnesses like arthritis, diabetes, and cancer.

9. Green tea tastes good. If you’re not wild about the flavor, try a few different kinds. Try it iced or hot. Add some of the natural herb stevia to sweeten it if you want a sweeter drink. I wasn’t crazy about green tea the first few times I tried it, but now I love it with a fresh squeeze of lemon and a few drops of stevia over ice -- et voila! Green tea lemonade. Mmmmm.

Reap the rewards
Add one or two teaspoons of green tea leaves to a cup of boiling water, preferably in a tea strainer. Let steep for five minutes. Pour over ice if you prefer a cold beverage. Most experts recommend three cups daily. And, don’t worry, green tea contains a lot less caffeine than coffee or black tea.

How to Get Pregnant With Twins Naturally

2010-05-27T09:18:00.000-07:00

Instructions

Be familiar with your family history. Twin births tend to run higher in certain blood lines than others. It is also know that twins tend to skip a generation. So if your grandparents had twins, there is a good chance that you will be able to conceive twins as well.
Put on a few extra pounds. Women that are a few pounds overweight are more likely to give birth to twins. However, don't stuff yourself to a point where you are unhealthy. This will only decrease your chances of having twins.
Eat a diet high in dairy products. Dairy has been shown to increase twin conceptions by 7 times the normal rate.
Add wild yams to your diet. Studies show that cassave, a type of sweet potato or yam is a form of progesterone which is a hormone involved in the female menstrual cycle. The skin of these yams are believed to contain a chemical that causes hyperovulation.
Wait until you are in your mid to late 30's. Studies show that women in this age range are more likely to conceive twins naturally.
Have a lot of kids. No Ocotomom stuff, but the more kids you have, the greater your chances of conceiving twins are mathematically.

5 Foods that Boost Your Mood

2010-05-19T02:24:00.000-07:00

COLD CEREAL
Eat it for your brain: A handful of MultiGrain Cheerios or Kashi Heart to Heart offers folic acid, which can help fend off the blues. Those with low levels of the nutrient experience more symptoms of depression, a study in the Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health suggests, and a folic acid deficiency may prevent your antidepressants from working.

Eat it for your body: A quick bowl of whole-grain cereal brims with iron and vitamins, and gets your metabolism humming—and it sure beats skipping breakfast altogether, since that can lead to all sorts of problems later in the day. People who skipped breakfast only once every three months were 34 percent more likely to be obese than those who didn't, according to a study from the University of Massachusetts Medical School in Worcester. So even if your body doesn't want it when you first wake up, find a breakfast you can live with, and eat up.

FISH
Eat it for your brain: Those with the highest levels of omega-3 fatty acids, found in several kinds of fish, were happier than those with lower levels, a study from the University of Pittsburgh reveals. Omega-3 fatty acids enhance areas of the brain that affect disposition. Certain fish also pack B12, a known mood booster, which wards off the doldrums by stimulating the brain's production of serotonin, helping you relax. Aim to eat two servings of low-mercury fish (like catfish, cod, crab, flounder and halibut) weekly for more smiles!

Eat it for your body: Wild salmon, trout, herring and other cold-water fish are filled with vitamin D, which helps curb appetite, as well as omega 3's, which lower the risk for heart disease. Research also shows that eating fish regularly improves insulin insensitivity, which helps build muscle and decrease belly fat.

EGG YOLKS
Eat them for your brain: Feel sunnier by adding a bit of yellow. Egg yolks contain choline, a mood enhancer. Being low on this nutrient could lead to feeling anxious.

Eat them for your body: Yolks act as a multivitamin, delivering vitamins A and D, as well as folate and calcium.

CHOCOLATE
Eat it for your brain: Sweeten your mood by indulging your chocolate urges. Half of depressed people reported craving chocolate, and most of them felt soothed after indulging, according to a survey in The British Journal of Psychiatry. Since chomping too much chocolate sends you into a sugar coma, munch just 1 ounce and savor every bite!

Eat it for your body: Eating a couple ounces of dark chocolate a week (about one Ghirardelli square a day) may cut your risk for heart disease by 33 percent, according to a study in The Journal of Nutrition. Plus, it has more disease-fighting antioxidants than green tea, red wine or blueberries. Perhaps Willy Wonka was on to something!

FRUITS & VEGGIES
Eat them for your brain: Want a buzz booster? Frequent the produce aisle! People who ate the most fruits and veggies were least likely to feel depressed, a study by the University College London found.

Eat them for your body: Munching the recommended 2 cups of fruit and 2 1/2 cups of veggies a day reduces your calorie intake and bolsters your immunity. The darker and more colorful, the better! The shades in fruits and vegetables come from phytonutrients, which protect different organs. For example, lutein in greens protects your eyes, while lycopene-packed red tomatoes shield your heart. Color yourself healthy!

Six Tricks to Double Your Calorie Burn

2010-05-08T20:33:00.000-07:00

A plateau is a lovely thing when you get to it after hiking all day. It's not, when describing your fitness efforts!

Plateauing means that despite dragging your body to the gym every day, it's gone into slacker mode. Your weight won't budge, your muscles go on hiatus. Bikini season is only three months away. This is no time for your workout to conk out.People get into an exercise rut," says Jenkins, whose students have included Queen Latifah and Christina Applegate. "You can go to the gym for 30 minutes and burn 300 calories. Or go and burn 600. You can literally double the amount.
Here, she shows six ways to do that.

1. Combine upper and lower body: For example, instead of standing there doing biceps curls with dumbbells, add simultaneous stationary lunges.

2. Shuffle with your walk: During a 30-minute power walk, include 5 intervals of side shuffles lasting 60 seconds to 2 minutes each.

3. Insert cardio blasts: Instead of resting or texting between sets on the weight machines, do 25 to 30 jumping jacks, alternating knee lifts, or front kicks.

4. Wear a weighted vest: This will double your burn while walking, hiking, running, or taking a cardio class.

5. Do drop sets: For weight training, start off each set with the heaviest amount you can lift for 10 to 15 reps; then drop the weight 50 percent and continue to 25 reps.

6. Bump up your weights. While taking a sculpting class, push yourself to use 2 to 3 pounds more than you normally would. "It will make an incredible difference,"

3 $ Life Saving Medical Tool

2010-04-15T19:38:00.000-07:00

No one really knows why, but for an open wound, simply applying suction dramatically speeds healing times. (The theory is that the negative pressure draws bacteria out, and encourages circulation.) But for almost everyone, that treatment is out of reach--simply because the systems are expensive--rentals cost at least $100 a day and need to be recharged every six hours.

No more. Danielle Zurovcik, a doctoral student at MIT, has created a hand-powered suction-healing system that costs about $3. The device is composed of an airtight wound dressing, connected by a plastic tube to a cylinder with accordion-like folds. Squeezing it creates the suction, which lasts as long as there's no air leak. What's more, where regular dressings need to be replaced up to three times a day--a painful ordeal--the new cuff can be left on for several days.

Zurovcik originally intended to field-test the device in Rwanda, but then the Haiti Earthquake struck. At the request of Partners in Health, an NGO, she traveled to Haiti with 50 of the pumps.

Currently, Zurovcik is verifying the healing benefits of the device, and developing a new model that can be readily carried and concealed. The one technical hurdle that remains is ensuring the bandage seals tightly--but after that, the device could benefit a huge portion of the 50-60 million people in the developing world that suffer from acute or chronic wounds.

Leucoderma

2010-04-11T10:13:00.000-07:00

Leucoderma is a rare skin disease characterized by white spots and patches. In this distressful but not contagious disease, there is a gradual loss of pigment called melanin from the dermal layers that results into white patches. Leucoderma may begin with a small patch but slowly and steadily spreads throughout the body. The actual cause is still not known though several studies have been conducted on the subject. Some of the perceived causes are emotional stress, hereditary factors, worms, sunburns and physical illness.

What causes Leucoderma is still not known. Despite advanced research, medicine is still trying to figure out the exact cause of Leucoderma. There are numerous theories as to what could cause this disease. To-date three theories have been widely accepted. The first theory is one of mistaken identity states that the immune system mistakes the pigment cells for foreign bodies and destroys them. The second theory says that certain chemical agents destroy the pigment generating cells.

The third theory, on the other hand, suggests that the cells are destroyed due to chemical exposure. Whatever the cause, the course of the disease is certain which is the destruction of pigment cells. But why do only certain areas or parts of the body get affected? Despite of the fact that pigments cells are present throughout the body then why doesn't this disease affect the entire body is still a mystery. However, there are many health experts who believe that the main causes of leucoderma are excessive mental stress.

Chronic or acute gastric diseases can contribute to Leucoderma. People who have impaired hepatic function as in jaundice, worm infestations or other parasite infestations in the alimentary canal are prone to have those white patches. White patches need not always spell doom as only a fraction of them could be the dreaded Leucoderma. A majority of the cases including why Leucoderma spots are white are amenable to medical management.

Symptoms of Leucoderma may include loss of hair, premature graying of hair and white patches. The whiteness generally appears as a small discolored white/pale or brown spot that later spreads in size. The spots become whiter day-after-day and finally become milky white. There might be general weakness and lassitude and a victim may have sensitivity towards cold. The patches or marks can be caused due to plenty of reasons; the most common among them are worm infestation and/or calcium deficiencies. These patches may produce lot of psychological stress in the victim.

Noteworthy is the fact that Leucoderma can not be caused by consuming contrasting food items like fish/onions with milk. Vitamin-C rich foods, which were once thought to promote the disorder process, are no longer restricted either. Several researches proved their beneficial role as antioxidants.

The general population is at a risk of 1-2 % to develop leucoderma. Considering if the Leucoderma is hereditary, we'll come to know that children of parents where one or both have Leucoderma are only at a fraction of a higher risk than the general population. The researches show that even with no family history for generations, any normal and fit person too stands a chance of developing Leucoderma. White patches need not always spell doom as only a fraction of them could be the dreaded Leucoderma.

A majority of the cases including why Leucoderma spots are white are amenable to medical management. To confirm whether a white patch is Leucoderma or not, they have an outline darker than the skin, must be irregular in appearance, gradually increase in size and appear milky white under an ultraviolet light.

Leucodermal conditions have huge psycho-social impact. No age is exempt and genetic re-disposition is there. The most affected areas of the disease include the hands, the neck, the back and the wrists in the order. The condition does not cause any harm to the body organs. Those with Leucoderma must consult a doctor in case of feeling depressed. You'd be wise to consult mental health professionals and doctors before you fall a victim of depression or anxiety.

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Dengue Fever

2010-04-08T19:13:00.000-07:00

Dengue fever is a disease caused by a family of viruses that are transmitted by mosquitoes. It is an acute illness of sudden onset that usually follows a benign course with headache, fever, exhaustion, severe joint and muscle pain, swollen glands (lymphadenopathy), and rash. The presence (the "dengue triad") of fever, rash, and headache (and other pains) is particularly characteristic of dengue.Dengue (pronounced DENG-gay) strikes people with low levels of immunity. Because it is caused by one of four serotypes of virus, it is possible to get dengue fever multiple times. However, an attack of dengue produces immunity for a lifetime to that particular serotype to which the patient was exposed.Dengue hemorrhagic fever is a more severe form of the viral illness. Manifestations include headache, fever, rash, and evidence of hemorrhage in the body. Petechiae (small red or purple blisters under the skin), bleeding in the nose or gums, black stools, or easy bruising are all possible signs of hemorrhage. This form of dengue fever can be life-threatening or even fatal.

What are the signs and symptoms of dengue?

After being bitten by a mosquito carrying the virus, the incubation period ranges from three to 15 (usually five to eight) days before the signs and symptoms of dengue appear. Dengue starts with chills, headache, pain upon moving the eyes, and low backache. Painful aching in the legs and joints occurs during the first hours of illness. The temperature rises quickly as high as 104° F (40° C), with relative low heart rate (bradycardia) and low blood pressure (hypotension). The eyes become reddened. A flushing or pale pink rash comes over the face and then disappears. The glands (lymph nodes) in the neck and groin are often swollen.

How is dengue fever treated?

Because dengue is caused by a virus, there is no specific medicine or antibiotic to treat it. For typical dengue, the treatment is purely concerned with relief of the symptoms (symptomatic). Rest and fluid intake for adequate hydration is important. Aspirin and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs should be avoided. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) and codeine may be given for severe headache and for the joint and muscle pain (myalgia).

Get Fresh and Beautiful Skin

2010-04-02T10:40:00.000-07:00

Here are few tips about changing eating and drinking habits to get a more beautiful and fresh skin:

When gets up in the morning, do not wash off the oil which you get on your face, specially around your nose and chin, rather spread this oil from your nose to all over face in upward strokes. It's the natural oil, which your body produces and is very good for one's skin to keep it young and supple. After that you can wash your face but without soap. First face wash of the morning should be just with water.
Fill water in your mouth and then splash water on your face and on eyes. It's a kind of exercise.
Drink 2 glass of lukewarm water in the morning empty stomach with a spoonful of honey and lemon juice added to it. It's good to clean your stomach, and detoxify the toxins. With the consumption of this skin starts glowing within a month.
Cut off the use of caffinated and saturated drinks. Stop eating much of junk and fried food, which spoils the body and damages the skin.
Rather drink lots of water at least 8-10 glasses of water in a day. Fresh juices and even buttermilk is good to keep you fit and healthy.
Try to walk whenever you get an opportunity. Exercise is must for a healthy mind, body and skin. If your schedule is too busy to get time to workout then get it this way. Try to climb stairs then taking lift. Park your car a little more away from your destination so that you will have to walk.
Always sit in a right posture and keep your abs muscles tight. It will strengthen your tummy muscles and make it look flatter.
Always breathe properly. The correct breathing pattern makes surprising difference to your body and skin. When inhale air should reach till abdomen and when exhale you should feel light in your abdomen.
Always add green fresh salads with your meals. This will reduce the quantity of food calories you are eating and will help you remain fit.
Consume more of fruits and vegetables with a balanced healthy diet.
Do wash face often but not every time with soap. If you are working keep wiping off your face with wet tissues.
Whenever in the kitchen, you can rub lemon peel from the pulp side on your face to get rid of the grease and can apply any fruit juice on face with a cotton roll. You can wash it off after few minutes.

To start with the morning, wash your face with water and when you take bath use mild soap on your face. Apply a good moisturizer depending on your skin type and remember that if should be having sun protection. Never go out without applying sunscreen lotion.

Parkinson's disease

2010-03-28T09:32:00.000-07:00

Parkinson's disease (also known as Parkinson disease or PD) is a degenerative disorder of the central nervous system that often impairs the sufferer's motor skills, speech, and other functions.

Parkinson's disease belongs to a group of conditions called movement disorders. It is characterized by muscle rigidity, tremor, a slowing of physical movement (bradykinesia) and a loss of physical movement (akinesia) in extreme cases. The primary symptoms are the results of decreased stimulation of the motor cortex by the basal ganglia, normally caused by the insufficient formation and action of dopamine, which is produced in the dopaminergic neurons of the brain. Secondary symptoms may include high level cognitive dysfunction and subtle language problems. PD is both chronic and progressive.

Causes

Most people with Parkinson's disease are described as having idiopathic Parkinson's disease (having no specific known cause). There are far less common causes of Parkinson's disease including genetic, toxins, head trauma, cerebral anoxia, and drug-induced Parkinson's disease.

Treatment

Parkinson's disease is a chronic disorder that requires broad-based management including patient and family education, support group services, general wellness maintenance, physiotherapy, exercise, and nutrition. One could consult an occupational therapist on a broad range of methods, therapy, and assistive equipment to make Parkinson's more manageable in the areas of personal care, productivity and leisure. At present, there is no cure for PD, but medications or surgery can provide relief from the symptoms.

Headache

2010-03-21T10:38:00.000-07:00

How are tension headaches diagnosed?

The key to making the diagnosis of any headache is the history given by the patient. The health care practitioner will ask the appropriate questions to understand when the headache began, learn about the quality, quantity, and duration of the pain, and ask about any associated symptoms. The history of tension headache will include pain that is mild to moderate, located on both sides of the head, described as a tightness that is not throbbing, and not made worse with activity. There will be no associated symptoms like nausea, vomiting, or light sensitivity.

The physical examination is important in tension headaches because it has to be normal to make the diagnosis. The only exception is that there may be some tenderness of the scalp or neck muscles. If the health care practitioner finds an abnormality, then the diagnosis of tension headache would not be considered.

How are tension headaches treated?

Tension headaches are painful, and often patients are upset that the diagnosis is "only" a tension headache. Though it is not life-threatening, a tension headache can affect daily life activities.

Most people successfully treat themselves with over-the–counter (OTC) pain medications to control tension headaches. The following work well for most people:

aspirin,
ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil),
acetaminophen (Tylenol) and
naproxen (Aleve)

If these fail, other supportive treatments are available. Recurrent headaches should be a signal to seek medical help. Massage, biofeedback, and stress management can all be used as adjuncts to help with headache control.

It is important to remember that OTC medications, while safe, are medications and may have side effects and potential interactions with prescription medications. It is always wise to ask your health care practitioner or pharmacist if you have questions about OTC medications and their use. This is especially important with OTC pain medications, because patients use them so frequently.

It is important to read the ingredient listing of OTC pain medications. Often an OTC medication is a combination of ingredients, and the second or third ingredient may have the potential for drug interaction or contraindication with medications the patient is currently taking. For example:

Some OTC medications include caffeine, which may trigger rapid heartbeats in some patients.
In night time preparations, diphenhydramine (Benadryl) may be added. This may cause drowsiness and driving or using heavy machinery may not be appropriate when taking the medication.

Other examples were caution should be used include the following:

Aspirin should not be used in children and teenagers because of the risk of Reye's Syndrome, a disease where coma, brain damage, and death can occur with a viral like illness and aspirin use.

Aspirin and ibuprofen are irritating to the stomach and may cause bleeding. They should be used with caution in patients who have peptic ulcer disease or who take blood thinners like warfarin (Coumadin) and clopidogrel bisulfate (Plavix).
Acetaminophen, if used in large amounts, can cause liver damage or failure. It should be used with caution in patients who drink significant amounts of alcohol or who have liver disease.
One cause of chronic tension headaches is overuse of medications for pain. When pain medications are used for a prolonged time, headaches can recur as the effects of the medication wear off. Thus, the headache is a symptom of medication withdrawal (rebound headache).

Walking

2010-03-19T09:20:00.000-07:00

"Walking is man's best medicine."
There's a wealth of research to prove that walking is good for you and the results are impressive: major reductions in both diabetes and heart disease, decreases in high blood pressure, increases in bone density, and more all follow regular walking exercise.

In this article, I'll cover how walking can help you, how much you need to do to gain benefits, types of walking and techniques, how to get started, and other valuable information.

What are the top 9 reasons to walk?

1. Walking prevents type 2 diabetes
2. Walking strengthens your heart.
3.Walking is good for your brain.
4.Walking is good for your bones.
5.Walking helps alleviate symptoms of depression.
6.Walking reduces the risk of breast and colon cancer.
7.Walking improves fitness.
8.Walking in short bouts improves fitness, too!
9.Walking improves physical function.
A 150-pound man burns 100 calories per mile; a 200-pund man burns 133 calories per mile; and a 250-pound man burns 166 calories per mile. You burn virtually the same number of calories whether you run or walk a mile; you just get there faster if you run.A good average walking speed is 3 to 4 miles per hour (mph) and depends on your leg length and how quickly you can move your legs.
The Surgeon General recommends 30 minutes or more of accumulated moderate intensity physical activity on five or more days per week to improve health and fitness. "Accumulated" means you can do it in shorter bouts throughout the day (for example, 10- or 15-minute intervals throughout the day), and "moderate intensity" means you feel warm and slightly out of breath when you do it. Walking counts!

Bird of Paradise - Yoga Pose

2010-03-16T04:37:00.000-07:00

Yoga is an age old practice of traditional physical and mental disciplines from India. Although there is no physical evidence that can claim how long the principles of yoga have existed, early archaeological evidence depicts that the stone seals of yoga poses have been around 3,000 B.C. In today's world, yoga has made the journey across the entire world and earned its glory. Many western cultures have adopted yoga as a part of their physical regime and reaped the benefits as well. As there are many yoga poses and postures that are performed at different physical levels, let's take a look at one of the advanced pose: bird of paradise yoga pose. This pose, along with other poses, is extremely effective in increasing flexibility, flushing toxins from the body, increasing lubrication in joints, ligaments and tendons, massaging all the organs, toning the muscles, and much more. Read more on benefits of yoga.

How to Do the Bird of Paradise Yoga Pose

If you're a beginner in learning yoga, then you probably shouldn't try to imitate the posture at this point. The bird of paradise yoga pose is taught much later, actually, it's taught in more advanced levels of yoga. For those who have had practice and have studied different yoga postures should attempt it. Before we begin, you'll need a yoga mat, comfortable clothing, a strap for the bind, and do some stretching before you begin the bird of paradise yoga pose. Read more on advanced yoga poses.

Step #1: The first thing about yoga is that you have to keep breathing normally. So don't forget to do so in this powerful and challenging bird of paradise yoga pose. Place the yoga mat on the floor and stand with your feet part. Keep it apart as much as you can (beyond shoulder length). Keep your feet turned out and bend your right leg in the right direction, but keep your thigh parallel to the floor and your knee shouldn't go beyond your right foot.

Step #2: Place your right elbow on the right knee and keep your left arm stretched out and over your head. Breathe as deeply as you can because it helps you stretch very easily. Now take the bind in your right hand and bring the left arm behind, towards the back. The right arm (which has the bind) will go and meet the left arm from between your legs. Hold the bind with both ends.

Step #3: Bring your right shoulder to point towards the floor and the left shoulder opens up. Gaze over the left shoulder towards the ceiling. Keep breathing normally. Both the hands will keep holding the bind and only the lower body will change position. Bring your right leg in, while placing the left leg firm on the yoga mat. Slowly make the transition and try not to lose your balance or leave the bind. Keep your right hand between your legs and do the switch with the legs.

Step #4: Keep your legs shoulder width apart and lift your right heel up (keeping the ball of your right foot still on the floor). Slowly lift your entire right leg off the yoga mat, breathe normally, and try to balance your body weight on the left leg. With your hands still in the bind, lift your right leg as high as you can. Straighten the right leg to the right side and hold the pose.

Step #5: Keep your knees straight and relax your shoulders. Stand as tall as possible and keep breathing normally. Slowly bring your right leg down and unlock yourself from the bind. Viola, you have successfully completed the bird of paradise yoga pose. Now it's time to perform the exact same thing on the other side.

WAYS TO INCREASE EYESIGHT

2010-03-15T22:57:00.000-07:00

Many people use or work on computer for many hours a day. Some use computer for study researches. Some people use computer for reading news, playing games, Internet browsing and many more. Many people has addicted to computer. Everyone watch television daily. This was also increase the risk of weakness in eyesight. This will result in weakness in eyesight if we did not use prevention. This will reduce the eye power to see distance objects. This happens because our eyes have focused on much closed objects.

Some exercise that will help you to prevent the eyesight problems are:

1. Stare on some distance object for 30-40 seconds in every 25-50 minutes when you are working on computer. You can look at the other end of the room or some other person if you are in office

.2. Hold any object in your hand and keep this near to eye. Slowly increase the object distance and then look other object at large distance or you can look out from your window.

3. The third exercise is nodding your head up and down. Look at your room fan or ceiling and down to your shoes. This will increase your blood circulation in your head and eyes.

Some very important tips that will help in increasing your eyesight are:

Get Some Bilberry extract

Avoid sugar foods

Focus on distance exercises

Improve your hand to eye coordination

Do not wear glasses for reading if you do not have eyesight problem

Eat more vitamin A enriched fruits and vegetables

Drink milk and fruit juice

Never sit very close to computer while working

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)

2010-03-15T10:44:00.000-07:00

What is rheumatoid arthritis?

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease that causes chronic inflammation of the joints. Rheumatoid arthritis can also cause inflammation of the tissue around the joints, as well as in other organs in the body. Autoimmune diseases are illnesses that occur when the body's tissues are mistakenly attacked by their own immune system. The immune system contains a complex organization of cells and antibodies designed normally to "seek and destroy" invaders of the body, particularly infections. Patients with autoimmune diseases have antibodies in their blood that target their own body tissues, where they can be associated with inflammation. Because it can affect multiple other organs of the body, rheumatoid arthritis is referred to as a systemic illness and is sometimes called rheumatoid disease.

While rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic illness, meaning it can last for years, patients may experience long periods without symptoms. However, rheumatoid arthritis is typically a progressive illness that has the potential to cause joint destruction and functional disability.

A joint is where two bones meet to allow movement of body parts. Arthritis means joint inflammation. The joint inflammation of rheumatoid arthritis causes swelling, pain, stiffness, and redness in the joints. The inflammation of rheumatoid disease can also occur in tissues around the joints, such as the tendons, ligaments, and muscles.

In some people with rheumatoid arthritis, chronic inflammation leads to the destruction of the cartilage, bone, and ligaments, causing deformity of the joints. Damage to the joints can occur early in the disease and be progressive. Moreover, studies have shown that the progressive damage to the joints does not necessarily correlate with the degree of pain, stiffness, or swelling present in the joints.

Rheumatoid arthritis is a common rheumatic disease, affecting approximately 1.3 million people in the United States, according to current census data. The disease is three times more common in women as in men. It afflicts people of all races equally. The disease can begin at any age, but it most often starts after 40 years of age and before 60 years of age. In some families, multiple members can be affected, suggesting a genetic basis for the disorder.

Kidney Disease of Diabetes

2010-03-15T07:35:00.000-07:00

The Burden of Kidney Failure

Each year in the United States, more than 100,000 people are diagnosed with kidney failure, a serious condition in which the kidneys fail to rid the body of wastes.¹ Kidney failure is the final stage of chronic kidney disease (CKD).

Diabetes is the most common cause of kidney failure, accounting for nearly 44 percent of new cases.¹ Even when diabetes is controlled, the disease can lead to CKD and kidney failure. Most people with diabetes do not develop CKD that is severe enough to progress to kidney failure. Nearly 24 million people in the United States have diabetes, ² and nearly 180,000 people are living with kidney failure as a result of diabetes.¹

People with kidney failure undergo either dialysis, an artificial blood-cleaning process, or transplantation to receive a healthy kidney from a donor. Most U.S. citizens who develop kidney failure are eligible for federally funded care. In 2005, care for patients with kidney failure cost the United States nearly $32 billion.¹

Diagnosis of CKD
Effects of High Blood Pressure
Preventing and Slowing Kidney Disease
Dialysis and Transplantation

The Course of Kidney Disease

Diabetic kidney disease takes many years to develop. In some people, the filtering function of the kidneys is actually higher than normal in the first few years of their diabetes.

Over several years, people who are developing kidney disease will have small amounts of the blood protein albumin begin to leak into their urine. This first stage of CKD is called microalbuminuria. The kidney’s filtration function usually remains normal during this period.

As the disease progresses, more albumin leaks into the urine. This stage may be called macroalbuminuria or proteinuria. As the amount of albumin in the urine increases, the kidneys’ filtering function usually begins to drop. The body retains various wastes as filtration falls. As kidney damage develops, blood pressure often rises as well.

Points to Remember

Diagnosis of CKD

People with diabetes should be screened regularly for kidney disease. The two key markers for kidney disease are eGFR and urine albumin.

eGFR. eGFR stands for estimated glomerular filtration rate. Each kidney contains about 1 million tiny filters made up of blood vessels. These filters are called glomeruli. Kidney function can be checked by estimating how much blood the glomeruli filter in a minute. The calculation of eGFR is based on the amount of creatinine, a waste product, found in a blood sample. As the level of creatinine goes up, the eGFR goes down.

Kidney disease is present when eGFR is less than 60 milliliters per minute.

The American Diabetes Association (ADA) and the National Institutes of Health (NIH) recommend that eGFR be calculated from serum creatinine at least once a year in all people with diabetes.
Urine albumin. Urine albumin is measured by comparing the amount of albumin to the amount of creatinine in a single urine sample. When the kidneys are healthy, the urine will contain large amounts of creatinine but almost no albumin. Even a small increase in the ratio of albumin to creatinine is a sign of kidney damage.

Kidney disease is present when urine contains more than 30 milligrams of albumin per gram of creatinine, with or without decreased eGFR.

The ADA and the NIH recommend annual assessment of urine albumin excretion to assess kidney damage in all people with type 2 diabetes and people who have had type 1 diabetes for 5 years or more.

Dialysis and Transplantation

When people with diabetes experience kidney failure, they must undergo either dialysis or a kidney transplant. As recently as the 1970s, medical experts commonly excluded people with diabetes from dialysis and transplantation, in part because the experts felt damage caused by diabetes would offset benefits of the treatments. Today, because of better control of diabetes and improved rates of survival following treatment, doctors do not hesitate to offer dialysis and kidney transplantation to people with diabetes.

Points to Remember

Diabetes is the leading cause of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and kidney failure in the United States.
People with diabetes should be screened regularly for kidney disease. The two key markers for kidney disease are estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and urine albumin.
Drugs used to lower blood pressure can slow the progression of kidney disease significantly. Two types of drugs, angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs), have proven effective in slowing the progression of kidney disease.
In people with diabetes, excessive consumption of protein may be harmful.
Intensive management of blood glucose has shown great promise for people with diabetes, especially for those in the early stages of CKD.

AIDS ( HIV ) SAMPTOMS

2010-03-14T22:40:00.000-07:00

What are HIV symptoms? This is the question I get more than any other. But because many people who have been infected with HIV have few or no HIV symptoms initially, testing is the only way to know for sure if you are infected with HIV. There are, however, an assortment of HIV symptoms that can be associated with a new infection.

Symptoms Early After Infection - Acute HIV - In emergency departments and family practice offices, people come in with symptoms like fever, headache, muscle and joint pain, sore throat, rash and diarrhea. In response to these symptoms, physicians diagnose the flu and send the patient on their way. In the majority of cases, their diagnosis proves correct. But unfortunately, a number of people with these vague, indistinct symptoms have a more serious illness than the flu; these symptoms may signal the acute stages of HIV infection.

Acute HIV - Recognize the Symptoms

Symptoms of the Immune System - The immune system is the body's natural defense against invading foreign agents such as viruses and bacteria. HIV attacks the immune system, weakening it and making the body more susceptible to infection. After infection, some symptoms affect the immune system.

Swollen lymph nodes in the neck, axilla, or groin (lymphadenopathy)
Fever / night sweats

Symptoms of the GI Tract - HIV can have a profound affect on the gastrointestinal system and nutrition. Like any virus, HIV can cause symptoms ranging from poor appetite to diarrhea. Here are some of the most common:

Rapid weight loss
Diarrhea
Poor appetite
Profound fatigue

Respiratory Symptoms - Some of the most serious symptoms of HIV involve the respiratory system. Symptoms associated with breathing and respiration usually occur later in course of the disease. Unfortunately, many people's first symptom of HIV involves the respiratory system, illustrating why HIV testing is so important. Any cough or shortness of breath could be a sign of bacterial pneumonia or pneumocystis (carinii) jiroveci pneumonia (PCP).

Shortness of breath
Dry cough / productive cough

Symptoms of the Skin and Mucous Membranes - Many of the symptoms of HIV are a result of infection by other viruses, fungi or bacteria. Often, these infections involve the skin or mucous membranes (for example, inside the mouth).

HIV Effects on Dental Health
Skin rash
Red, brown, pink or purple lesion on the skin - suggestive of Kaposi's sarcoma
White patches on the tounge, inside of the mouth, or gums - could be signs of thrush, candida, or hairy oral leukoplakia
Canker sores / apthous ulcers

Neurological / Emotional Symptoms - Very early on in the epidemic, experts realized that HIV affected both the physical and emotional self. Neurological and emotional symptoms of HIV can include the following.

Depression
Numbness, tingling, or burning in the feet, hands, or face. (peripheral neuropathy)
Confusion, weakness, or changes in level of conciousness

Surgical Abortions

2010-03-14T20:56:00.000-07:00

There are many methods of abortion. The procedure used depends largely upon the stage of pregnancy and the size of the unborn child. Dr. J.C. Willke, in his book, Abortion: Questions and Answers (Hayes Publishing Co. Inc, Cincinnati, 1985), has divided the methods of abortion into three main categories: those that invade the uterus and kill the child by instruments which enter the uterus through the cervix; those that kill the preborn child by administration of drugs and then induce labour and the delivery of a dead baby; and, those that invade the uterus by abdominal surgery.

Dilation of the uterus is required in cervical methods of abortion. The usual method of dilation is to insert a series of instruments of increasing size into the cervix. A set of dilators, metallic curved instruments, are used to open the cervix sufficiently to accommodate the instruments of abortion. In contrast with a normal birth, where the dilation occurs slowly over a period of many hours, the forceful stretching by the abortionist to open the cervix takes a matter of seconds. This premature and unnatural stretching of the cervix can result in permanent physical injury to the mother.

Laminaria (dehydrated material, usually seaweed) is sometimes used to reduce damage to the cervix. Inserted into the cervix the day before the scheduled abortion, it absorbs water and swells, gradually pushing open the cervix in the process.

At Eight Weeks

At eight to nine weeks the eyelids have begun forming and hair appears. By the ninth and tenth weeks the preborn child sucks her thumb, turns somersaults, jumps, can squint to close out light, frown, swallow, and move her tongue.

At this early stage of development, suction abortions are performed using a smaller tube, requiring little dilation of the cervix. This is called "menstrual extraction." However, if all the fetal remains are not removed, infection results, requiring full dilation of the cervix and a scraping out of the womb.

Suction Aspiration

This is the most common method of abortion during the first 12 weeks of pregnancy. General or local anaesthesia is given to the mother and her cervix is quickly dilated. A suction curette (hollow tube with a knife-edged tip) is inserted into the womb. This instrument is then connected to a vacuum machine by a transparent tube. The vacuum suction, 29 times more powerful than a household vacuum cleaner, tears the fetus and placenta into small pieces which are sucked through the tube into a bottle and discarded.

Dilation and Curettage (D&C)

This method is similar to the suction method with the added insertion of a hook shaped knife (curette) which cuts the baby into pieces. The pieces are scraped out through the cervix and discarded [Note: This abortion method should not be confused with a therapeutic D&C done for reasons other than pregancy.]

At Twelve Weeks

By the end of the third month all arteries are present, including the coronary vessels of the heart. Blood is circulating through these vessels to all body parts.

The heart beat ranges during this fetal period from 110 to 160 beats per minute. All blood cells are produced by the liver and spleen, a job soon taken over by the bone marrow. White blood cells, important for immunity, are formed in the lymph nodes and thymus.

Vocal chords are complete, and the child can and does sometimes cry (silently). The brain is fully formed, and the child can feel pain. The fetus may even suck his thumb. The eyelids now cover the eyes, and will remain shut until the seventh month to protect the delicate optical nerve fibers.

14 weeks: Muscles lenghten and become organized. The mother will soon start feeling the first flutters of the baby kicking and moving inside.

15 weeks: The fetus has an adult's taste buds and may be able to savor the mother's meals.

16 weeks: Five and a half inches tall and only six ounces in weight, eyebrows, eyelashes and fine hair appear. The child can grasp with his hands, kick, or even somersault.

At Eighteen Weeks

The fetus is now about 5 inches long. The child blinks, grasps, and moves her mouth. Hair grows on the head and body.

20 weeks: The child can hear and recognize mother's voice. Though still small and fragile, the baby is growing rapidly and could possibly survive if born at this stage. Fingernails and fingerprints appear. Sex organs are visible. Using an ultras

At 40 Weeks

The baby, now approximately seven and a half pounds, is ready for life outside its mother's womb. At birth the placenta will detach from the side of the uterus and the umbilical cord will cease working as the child takes his first breaths of air. The child's breathing will trigger changes in the structure of the heart and bypass arteries which will force all blood to now travel through the lungs.

ound device, the doctor can tell if the child is a girl or a boy. The one on the left is a baby girl.

SWINE FLU

2010-03-12T21:36:00.001-08:00

What is swine flu?

The H1N1 flu, often called "swine flu," isn't related to pigs. It’s a new flu virus circulating among people. First seen in April 2009, the H1N1 flu virus has gone on to become a "pandemic," which means that it has been seen worldwide

What are swine flu symptoms?

Symptoms of swine flu are like regular flu symptoms and include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills, and fatigue. Some people have reported diarrhea and vomiting associated with swine flu. Those symptoms can also be caused by many other conditions, and that means that you and your doctor can't know, just based on your symptoms, if you've got swine flu. It takes a lab test to tell whether it's swine flu or some other condition.

When should I see my doctor?

If you only have mild flu symptoms and you're not at high risk of severe disease, you don't need medical attention unless your illness worsens. If you are at high risk (pregnant women, young children, people with chronic medical conditions such as asthma, and elderly people), call or email your doctor at the first sign of flu-like symptoms

Is there a swine flu vaccine for people?

Yes. The vaccine has been tested in clinical trials. WebMD Senior Writer Dan DeNoon, pictured here, took part in one of those trials. The vaccine will come in a shot and in a nasal spray. The CDC has made recommendations about who should get the H1N1 vaccine. Remember, you still need to get your regular seasonal flu vaccine -- the s

How can I prevent swine flu infection?

The CDC recommends taking these steps:

Wash your hands regularly with soap and water, especially after coughing or sneezing. Or, use an alcohol-based hand cleaner.
Avoid close contact with sick people.
Avoid touching your mouth, nose, or eyes.

Got flu symptoms? Stay home, and when you cough or sneeze, cover your mouth and nose with a tissue. Afterward, throw the tissue in the trash and wash your hands.

wine flu vaccine is different.

Cancer

2010-03-12T21:08:00.000-08:00

Cancer /ˈkænsə(r)/ ( listen) (medical term: malignant neoplasm) is a class of diseases in which a group of cells display uncontrolled growth (division beyond the normal limits), invasion (intrusion on and destruction of adjacent tissues), and sometimes metastasis (spread to other locations in the body via lymph or blood). These three malignant properties of cancers differentiate them from benign tumors, which are self-limited, and do not invade or metastasize. Most cancers form a tumor but some, like leukemia, do not. The branch of medicine concerned with the study, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of cancer is oncology.

Cancer affects people at all ages with the risk for most types increasing with age.^[1] Cancer caused about 13% of all human deaths in 2007^[2] (7.6 million).^[3]

Cancers are caused by abnormalities in the genetic material of the transformed cells.^[4] These abnormalities may be due to the effects of carcinogens, such as tobacco smoke, radiation, chemicals, or infectious agents. Other cancer-promoting genetic abnormalities may randomly occur through errors in DNA replication, or are inherited, and thus present in all cells from birth. The heritability of cancers is usually affected by complex interactions between carcinogens and the host's genome.

Genetic abnormalities found in cancer typically affect two general classes of genes. Cancer-promoting oncogenes are typically activated in cancer cells, giving those cells new properties, such as hyperactive growth and division, protection against programmed cell death, loss of respect for normal tissue boundaries, and the ability to become established in diverse tissue environments. Tumor suppressor genes are then inactivated in cancer cells, resulting in the loss of normal functions in those cells, such as accurate DNA replication, control over the cell cycle, orientation and adhesion within tissues, and interaction with protective cells of the immune system.

Definitive diagnosis requires the histologic examination of a biopsy specimen, although the initial indication of malignancy can be symptomatic or radiographic imaging abnormalities. Most cancers can be treated and some cured, depending on the specific type, location, and stage. Once diagnosed, cancer is usually treated with a combination of surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy. As research develops, treatments are becoming more specific for different varieties of cancer. There has been significant progress in the development of targeted therapy drugs that act specifically on detectable molecular abnormalities in certain tumors, and which minimize damage to normal cells. The prognosis of cancer patients is most influenced by the type of cancer, as well as the stage, or extent of the disease. In addition, histologic grading and the presence of specific molecular markers can also be useful in establishing prognosis, as well as in determining individual treatments.

Treatment of Malaria

2010-03-12T07:04:00.000-08:00

Treatment of malaria depends on the following factors:

Type of infection.
Severity of infection.
Status of the host.
Associated conditions/ diseases.

Type of infection: Treatment obviously depends on the type of infection. Patients with P. falciparum malaria should be evaluated thoroughly in view of potential seriousness of the disease and possibility of resistance to anti malarial drugs.

P. vivax: Only Chloroquine 25 mg/kg + Primaquine for 14 days.

P. falciparum: Treat depending on severity & sensitivity. Primaquine as gametocytocidal is a must to prevent spread.

Mixed infections: Blood schizonticides as for P. falciparum and Primaquine as for P. vivax.

Severity of infection: All patients with malaria should be carefully and thoroughly assessed for complications of malaria. Acute, life-threatening complications occur only in P. falciparum malaria. Malaria is probably the only disease of its kind that can be easily treated in just 3 days, yet if the diagnosis and proper treatment are delayed, it can kill the patient very quickly and easily.

All cases of severe malaria should be presumed to have P. falciparum malaria.
If there is any uncertainty about the drug sensitivity of the parasite, it is safer to treat these cases as chloroquine resistant malaria with drugs like quinine or artemisinin.
All cases of severe malaria should be admitted to the hospital for proper evaluation, treatment and monitoring.
All cases of severe malaria should be treated with injectable antimalarials (chloroquine, quinine, artemisinin) so as to ensure adequate absorption and plasma drug levels. It is better to use two blood schizonticidal drugs, one fast acting and another slow acting, to ensure complete treatment. Newer drugs available for only oral administration (eg. Mefloquine, Halofantrine) should be avoided.
All associated conditions should be carefully assessed and treated.

Status of the host: Treatment of malaria is also dependent on host factors.

Patient's age and weight should be recorded so as to administer adequate doses of anti malarial drugs.
Functional capacity- independent, dependent, bed ridden etc. All patients with severe prostration and who are looking ill should be admitted to a hospital and monitored.
Patients with nausea and vomiting should be given anti emetic drugs to ensure adequate treatment. While high-grade fever frequently stimulates vomiting, this may be further aggravated by anti malarial drugs. Therefore it is better to avoid administration of oral antimalarials at the height of fever. One can wait for the fever to subside before taking the drugs. If the patient vomits within one hour of taking the anti malarial drugs, the same should be re-administered. In case of persistent vomiting, patient should be admitted and vomiting should be controlled with parenteral anti emetics. Parenteral anti malarials are needed only in cases of severe malaria or uncontrolled vomiting.
Adequate hydration should be ensured.

Associated conditions/ diseases: Treatment of malaria may have to be modified due to certain associated conditions/ diseases. Therefore, all such should be carefully assessed before starting the patient on anti malarial treatment.

http://healthappear.blogspot.com

2010-03-11T03:51:00.000-08:00

Sexually transmitted disease

sexually transmitted disease (STD), also known as sexually transmitted infection (STI) or venereal disease (VD), is an illness that has a significant probability of transmission between humans or animals by means of human sexual behavior, including vaginal intercourse, oral sex, and anal sex. While in the past, these illnesses have mostly been referred to as STDs or VD, in recent years the term sexually transmitted infection (STI) has been preferred, as it has a broader range of meaning; a person may be infected, and may potentially infect others, without showing signs of disease. Some STIs can also be transmitted via the use of IV drug needles after its use by an infected person, as well as through childbirth or breastfeeding. Sexually transmitted infections have been well known for hundreds of years.Various bacterial (Shigella, Campylobacter, or Salmonella), viral (Hepatitis A, Adenoviruses), or parasitic (Giardia or amoeba) pathogens are transmitted by sexual practices that promote anal-oral contamination (fecal-oral). Sharing sex toys without washing or multiple partnered barebacking can promote anal-anal contamination. Although the bacterial pathogens may coexist with or cause proctitis, they usually produce symptoms (diarrhea, fever, bloating, nausea, and abdominal pain) suggesting disease more proximal in the GI tract.

Neck Massage Techniques

2010-03-10T00:19:00.000-08:00

Most of us suffer from stiff neck muscles. They are caused due to tension and stress which is accumulated. Massage helps a great deal in relieving tension, neck pain and to relax the stiffened muscles in the neck, shoulders as well as the back. With the shoulder and neck massage techniques, you can help your friend or loved one to de-stress and unwind by giving stress relief massage. At the same time, stiff neck massage techniques can be used at your desk at work, at home or even in the car, whenever you are experiencing a stiff neck. You may want to read about massage tools.

Shoulder and Neck Massage Techniques

These massage techniques for neck can be used on yourself and they can also be administered on others. They are simple massage techniques, which are easy to give and also bring about instant relief. Click to read on massage therapy.

Massage Technique # 1
This is a self massage technique for the shoulders.

Squeeze and knead the right shoulder with the left hand.
You can also make use of some massage oil on the skin, to ensure smooth and frictionless movements.
Repeat the same on the other side as well.

Massage Technique # 2
This is a massage technique for the neck. You may want to read on Swedish massage therapy.

Gently hold the back of the neck with one hand, then squeeze the neck firmly, to ease muscle tension.
Now shrug the shoulders and bring them closer to the ears.
Hold in the shrug position for 5 seconds and release, to feel the tension drain away.

Massage Technique # 3
With this exercise, you will be able to relieve the tension and stiffness from the neck. Read on Asian massage therapy.

Move the fingers in a circular motion on the neck on any one side of the spine.
Apply deep pressure to feel the tension accumulated in the area.
Release and repeat the same on the other side as well.

Massage Technique # 4
Another neck massage technique. Read on neuromuscular massage.

Clasp hold of your hands tightly and place them on the back of your neck.
Press forward, but gently, as if you apply too much of pressure, chances are high you will hurt a nerve in the neck.
Hold for a few seconds and release.
Repeat the same a number of times for better relief.

Massage Technique # 5
This is self massage technique, rather a stretching technique to relive the tension in the neck and also relieve it of its stiffness. It also loosens the muscles in the affected part and the recovery is much faster. The other advantage is that it also helps in expanding the neck muscles.

Keep looking forward, then slowly turn your neck towards the left; try to turn the neck as much as you can towards the left.
Gradually start turning towards the right and repeat the same process on the right side as well.
After repeating both the steps 4 to 5 times, slowly drop your head to look towards the floor and then come back to drop your head backwards.
This step is also to be repeated 4 to 5 times.

Massage Technique # 6
This technique is also not exactly a massage technique, but helps in stretching of the muscles. Read on Reiki massage.

Rotate your head clockwise at very slow speed 5 to 7 times. It is important to rotate slowly, else chances are high you may feel giddy.
Take a break for a few minutes and then rotate your head anti-clockwise 5 to 7 times again in slow motion.
This needs to be repeated all through the day every few hours, so that tension is not accumulated in the neck. Click to read on massage therapy techniques.

Gas and Bloating After Eating

2010-03-08T00:39:00.000-08:00

Sometimes, immediately after having meals, a person may feel as if his stomach is filled or puffed up with something, which is intestinal gas actually. On an average, a small amount of gas is produced in a person's intestines everyday. However, certain foods or factors trigger off the production of intestinal gas to excess which results in bloating. What are the different causes of gas and bloating after eating? Let us have a look.

Causes of Gas and Bloating After Eating
Most of the times, production of gas in the body occurs due to certain foodstuffs. Foods that cause gas and bloating include cabbage, asparagus, broccoli, corn, nuts, seeds, yeast, whole grains, Brussels sprouts, etc. Also, it has been observed that excessive gas and bloating is a symptom of food intolerance like wheat intolerance or lactose intolerance. Secondly, air swallowing is one of the most significant causes of stomach gas and bloating. Excess air can pass into the stomach by chewing gum excessively or by having excess amounts of sodas. On the other hand, eating food or gulping water rapidly can also lead to air swallowing. Similarly, people having a sensitive digestive system, or those suffering from diseases like the irritable bowel syndrome or dyspepsia also experience gas and bloating after eating. Read more on what causes bloating.

Symptoms of Gas and Bloating After Eating
Stomach gas and bloating itself is a symptom which is easier to identify. However, as the gas gets trapped in the stomach, a person may experience lower abdominal pain and cramping. If a person experiences other symptoms like nausea, vomiting, heartburn, chest pain, diarrhea, lack of appetite, blood in stools, etc. then he should consult the doctor as these are symptoms of some other serious medical condition. One may not require any test for the diagnose of stomach bloating after eating. So here's how to get rid of gas and bloating.

Treatment of Gas and Bloating After Eating
Gas and bloating, when not accompanied with other symptoms, is a fairly mild condition that requires hardly any medical treatment. However, there are several over-the-counter medication available that help in reducing gas and abdominal pain associated with it. Also, antacids help in relieving the person of the symptoms of stomach pain and bloating. It is believed that medication containing activated charcoal are very useful in treating gas and bloating after eating. You can get these medication over-the-counter or even consult your doctor for the same.

However, there are several home remedies for gas and bloating that are more effective than any home remedy. Mint is considered as one of the best gas and bloating remedies. You can either chew raw mint leaves or even have peppermint tea to relieve gas. Secondly asafoetida mixed with lukewarm water is also very helpful. However, if a person experiences frequent bloating and flatulence, he should make dietary changes in order to treat and prevent the condition. It is better to identify the food causing gas and prevent their consumption altogether. In most cases fibers, dairy foods and lactose containing foods are found to be the main culprits causing bloating after eating. Secondly, it is essential to avoid chewing gum or aerated drinks and even smoking to prevent gas and bloating.

Asthma

2010-03-04T04:09:00.000-08:00

What is asthma?

Asthma is a chronic inflammation of the bronchial tubes (airways) that causes swelling and narrowing (constriction) of the airways. The result is difficulty breathing. The bronchial narrowing is usually either totally or at least partially reversible with treatments.

Bronchial tubes that are chronically inflamed may become overly sensitive to allergens (specific triggers) or irritants (nonspecific triggers). The airways may become "twitchy" and remain in a state of heightened sensitivity. This is called "bronchial hyperreactivity" (BHR). It is likely that there is a spectrum of bronchial hyperreactivity in all individuals. However, it is clear that asthmatics and allergic individuals (without apparent asthma) have a greater degree of bronchial hyperreactivity than nonasthmatic and nonallergic people. In sensitive individuals, the bronchial tubes are more likely to swell and constrict when exposed to triggers such as allergens, tobacco smoke, or exercise. Amongst asthmatics, some may have mild BHR and no symptoms while others may have severe BHR and chronic symptoms.

Asthma affects people differently. Each individual is unique in their degree of reactivity to environmental triggers. This naturally influences the type and dose of medication prescribed, which may vary from one individual to another.

From the past to the present

Physicians in ancient Greece used the word asthma to describe breathlessness or gasping. They believed that asthma was derived from internal imbalances, which could be restored by healthy diet, plant and animal remedies, or lifestyle changes.

Allergy jargon

Asthma is derived from the Greek word Panos, meaning panting.

Chinese healers understood that xiao-chiran, or "wheezy breathing," was a sign of imbalance in the life force they called qi. They restored qi by means of herbs, acupuncture, massage, diet, and exercise.

The Hindu philosophers connected the soul and breath as part of the mind, body, and spirit connection. Yoga uses control of breathing to enhance meditation. Indian physicians taught these breathing techniques to help manage asthma.

Allergy fact

Maimonides was a renowned 12th-century rabbi and physician who practiced in the court of the sultan of Egypt. He recommended to one of the Royal Princes with asthma that he eat, drink, and sleep less. He also advised that he engage in less sexual activity, avoid the polluted city environment, and eat a specific remedy...chicken soup.

The balance of the "four humors," which was derived from the Greco-Roman times, influenced European medicine until the middle of the 18th century. In a healthy person, the four humors, or bodily fluids -- blood, black bile, yellow bile, and phlegm -- were in balance. An excess of one of these humors determined what kinds of disorders were present. Asthmatics who were noted for their coughing, congestion, and excess mucus (phlegm) production were therefore regarded as "phlegmatic."

By the 1800s, aided by the invention of the stethoscope, physicians began to recognize asthma as a specific disease. However, patients still requested the traditional treatments of the day, such as bloodletting, herbs, and smoking tobacco. These methods were used for a variety of conditions, including asthma. Of the many remedies that were advertised for asthma throughout the 19th century, none were particularly helpful.

Allergy fact

As early as 1892, the famous Canadian-American physician Sir William Osler suggested that inflammation played an important role in asthma.

Bronchial dilators first appeared in the 1930s and were improved in the 1950s. Shortly thereafter, corticosteroid drugs that treated inflammation appeared and have become the mainstay of therapy used today.