Natural Pinworm Treatment

Pinworms are roundworm parasites that rely on the human body as a host for survival. You can get pinworms after consuming infested food or through unwashed hands. Pinworms lay tiny eggs inside the body which later hatch, grow and reproduce. These worms will move through your digestive tract and lay eggs in your anal area. Symptoms include itchiness in the vagina or anal area, sleep disturbances and gastrointestinal upset. Thankfully, there are some herbal treatments for the condition.

Garlic

Garlic, an herb of the onion family, can be used to treat pinworm infections. Garlic has natural antiseptic, antifungal and antibiotic agents. Garlic works well as a pinworm defense because it contains allicin; this ingredient works in destroying roundworm infestations. You can consume garlic as a food supplement by eating 2 to 4g of fresh garlic daily: each garlic clove, when minced, is equivalent to 1g. You can also consume garlic in capsule form by taking 200mg three times a day to alleviate pinworm conditions. Bear in mind that consuming large amounts of garlic can cause gastrointestinal upsets in some people.

Quassia

Quassia, found in the form of chips or shavings, is an herb that works well as a defense for pinworms, and the herb also improves your appetite. You can make an infusion of Quassia by soaking 12g of the shavings for 12 hours in a pint of cold water. After soaking, strain the mixture and consume 1 oz. of the mix three times a day. Since Quassia has a bitter flavor, you can also mix it in ginger tea to make it more palatable; use 1 to 2 droppersful of Quassia tincture to a cup of ginger tea. You should not consume more than 1 to 2g of Quassia a day. Pregnant women should refrain from using this remedy, because the effects on the fetus have not been determined.

Rue

Rue contains rutin, which helps suppress worm infections. Rue is derived from Ruta; it is a flavonoid that can be toxic to animals and/or humans in excessive doses. This herb has a bitter flavor; you can consume the tincture by adding 1 to 2 droppersful to a cup of water. Consume this two to three times daily to manage pinworm infections. This herb can upset your stomach, and it can increase your sensitivity to sunlight. This herb is not recommended for pregnant women since it stimulates the uterus. It is also not recommended for those with kidney problems.

Wormwood

Wormwood is an excellent herb for digestive ailments; this herb helps to improve your appetite, stimulates your stomach bile, and is an effective remedy against pinworms. You can make a tea out of wormwood by brewing 1 oz. of the herb in 10 oz. hot water for 15 minutes. Strain the mixture and consume ½ cup before each meal three times daily. This remedy should not be used by pregnant women or breastfeeding women, and you should not consume more than 1½ grams of wormwood two to three times a day to avoid toxicity.

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Treatment For Seconddegree Burns

A second-degree burn penetrates the first and second layers of skin: the epidermis and dermis, respectively. These painful burns can cause redness, swelling, pain and blistering. Because they are more than superficial burns, second-degree burns typically occur due to scald injuries, exposure to an open flame, chemical burns or scalding burns due to liquid or steam. While not the most severe level of burn, second-degree burns raise the pulse rate and can cause the victim to go into shock if the burn covers a significant portion of skin.

Immediate Reactions

Immediately after a burn occurs, a person should remove any clothing or jewelry covering the burn (to prevent it from sticking to the wound), then run the burn under cool water for at least 10 minutes. This slows the lingering sensation of burning as well as immediately begins to relieve pain. The water should not be icy cold nor contain ice, as these can cause an adverse reaction and damage tissue.

If a person is going into shock, have them lie flat on the ground and cover them with a blanket if they appear to be shivering.

Assess the Severity

After the burn occurs, evaluate whether professional medical attention is needed. Seek medical attention if the following occurs:

• The burn is on the genitals.

• The person is going into shock.

• The burn is due to chemical exposure.

• The burn covers a large area of the skin.

Also, if a person experiences a fever, numbness or swollen lymph nodes, they should seek medical attention. For all other burns, at-home treatment might be suitable.

At-Home Treatment

If blisters are present, take great care not to open the blisters. Opening the blisters increases the rate of infection as well as slows healing. Instead, take great care to work around the blisters and do not put bandages or adhesive over them or any other burned areas.

Instead, use dry, sterile gauze pads to keep the skin from being exposed to germs or rubbing up against other surfaces. If the burn is on the arms or legs, it might be a good idea to elevate them to reduce swelling. The burn should be loosely wrapped to allow air to circulate around the burn. If the gauze pad does stick to the burn, soak the bandage in warm water to make it more easy to remove. It may also be a good idea to occasionally move the burn area so the skin does not heal too tightly.

Over-the-counter pain medications, such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen or other anti-inflammatory drugs may help ease pain and reduce swelling. Second-degree burns can take anywhere from 10 days to three weeks to heal; however, if the burn does not show signs of improvement in three to five days, medical attention might be needed. Also, if the wound has blisters filled with green or brown fluid or oozing pus, an infection might have occurred, and medical attention is necessary.

Chemical Burns

While second-degree chemical burns should almost always be treated by a medical professional, it is important to use a large amount of water (such as under a shower) to begin initial treatment. Chemicals might react negatively with water, which is why a large amount of water is needed to overcome the chemical reaction. An intravenous line might be necessary to replenish fluids as well as deliver antibiotics to reduce infection.

Tags: medical attention, into shock, amount water, area skin, burn covers, burn occurs

Which Type Of Drinks Are Bad For Men'S Sexual Health

Soda is widely believed to reduce sperm count.

Sexual health, in both males and females, can be affected by what one eats and drinks. Experts have identified various types of drinks that have a negative impact on male sexual health, but these drinks tend to impact health when consumed with regularity over a period of time. Having one drink on occasion will not significantly impair sexual health.

Soda

Soda is widely thought to negatively affect men's sexual health, although experts disagree about why. According to a study conducted at Copenhagen University Hospital, men who regularly consume a liter or more of soda per day have a sperm count that is reduced by as much as 30 percent compared to men that abstain from soda. Some experts believe it is the caffeine in soft drinks that lowers sperm counts. Others maintain that the sugar in soda reduces sperm count and leads to obesity, which impairs vitality and performance. A study published in the medical journal Fertility and Sterility suggests that the bisphenol A chemical commonly found in plastic soda bottles and soda cans is responsible for lowering sperm count and sperm quality.

Coffee

Coffee can affect male sexual health both negatively and positively. According to various studies, drinking a cup of coffee one to three hours before sexual activity can increase sperm activity and improve performance. However, according to a study conducted by the Medical Research Council, too much coffee can lower sperm count because it contains high levels of phytoestrogen. In particular, a type of phytoestrogen called isoflavone (which is like a female sex hormone) found in coffee is responsible for lowering sperm counts because it counteracts normal male sex hormones. Excessive caffeine consumption also leads to other health problems, such as headaches, tiredness and fatigue and possibly obesity, which can affect sexual health indirectly.

Alcohol

Alcohol affects male sexual health in various ways. According to a Kasturba Medical College study performed on male rats, alcohol caused sperm abnormalities and a reduction in sperm count. This study suggests that excessive consumption of alcohol (past the point of intoxication) can have similar effects in humans. Further, alcohol can cause social, mental and emotional changes that, in turn, can adversely affect sexual drive and impair performance. Interestingly, the impact of alcohol on male sexual health even extends to pregnant women who consume drinks. According to ErekAlert, Danish scientists found that the sons of women who consumed 4.5 drinks a week had lower sperm counts that the sons of women who had fewer than 4.5 drinks a week.

Mint Tea

Despite the many benefits of tea, there is some evidence that mint tea may have a negative impact on the sexual health of men and women. According to Healthy Fellow, mint tea is responsible for hormonal shifts and a reduction in testosterone. In males, mint tea affects androgens (sex hormones). Androgens are responsible for masculine development, including hair growth patterns, vocal changes and fertility. By interfering with androgens, mint tea is thought to interfere with these features of masculine development.

Tags: sperm count, sexual health, male sexual, male sexual health, affect sexual, sexual health

Natural Help For Adrenal Problems

Adrenal problems can manifest as a general malaise with a host of symptoms, including body aches and pains, fatigue, nervous tension, sleeplessness and digestive issues. It is often referred to as "adrenal fatigue" by alternative-health providers, a condition that is not recognized as an official medical diagnosis. There are dietary and other steps you can take, in consultation with your physician, to try to remedy your symptoms.

The Theory

Your adrenal glands produce various hormones essential to your overall health. According to the Mayo Clinic, "adrenal insufficiency" (also known as Addison's disease) is a medical term for the insufficient production of a critical adrenal hormone(s) due to an underlying health condition. Alternative and certain other health-care providers assert that "adrenal fatigue" is a less severe form of adrenal insufficiency that is often triggered by chronic stress. The theory holds that a small decline in hormonal levels is sufficient to make you feel ill, tired and depressed, but doesn't represent such a drop that it would be flagged by a standard blood test.

Diet

Adopt a well-balanced, high-fiber diet loaded with vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, legumes, fruits, nuts and healthy fats, such as olive oil. Divide your daily calories among five or six small meals per day. This will help keep your glucose (blood sugar) level steady and help prevent the afternoon fatigue that comes with spikes and dips in blood sugar.

Exercise

Engage in at least 30 minutes of exercise daily. Exercise keeps the circulatory system healthy, helps reduce stress, keeps your weight under control and releases endorphins for an increased sense of well-being. If the underlying cause of your adrenal problems is stress or depression, exercise is a clear choice to combat the condition.

Supplements

Alternative health practitioners recommend the following vitamins and supplements: vitamins C and E, vitamin B-100 complex, niacin (vitamin B-3), pyridoxine (vitamin B-6), pantothenic acid (vitamin B-5), magnesium citrate, "liquid trace" minerals, free-form amino acids, proline and adrenal glandular supplements.

Alternative practitioners also recommend the following herbal supplements: rhodiola rosea, to reduce fatigue caused by stress and to improve memory and concentration; ashwagandha, to help heal the digestive and nervous systems; and Siberian ginseng, which is said to stimulate the adrenal glands, increase alertness and help the body cope with stress.

Caution

Consult with your doctor before making any changes to your diet or exercise regimen. Bear in mind that even natural supplements can react adversely with medications or may be otherwise contra-indicated, so let your physician know everything you are taking to try to treat your symptoms.

Tags: adrenal fatigue, adrenal glands, adrenal insufficiency, blood sugar, recommend following

Find A Good Acupuncturist In Queens New York

If you need acupuncture treatment for pain relief or pain prevention, it is crucial that you approach qualified acupuncturists. The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) warns that an inexpert administration of acupuncture can result in serious side effects.

In addition to acupuncturists, acupuncture healing is also practiced by a number of conventional medical practitioners, including physicians, dentists and others practitioners. These recommendations will help you find qualified acupuncturists in Queens, New York.

Instructions

1. Ask your health care providers for referrals. Family physicians and drug stores where you regularly buy your medicines are a good start. You can also ask friends and relatives. If this doesn't work, use health websites and online directory services.

Health websites such as Wellness.com have directories for medical practitioners based on region. You can search for acupuncturists and acupuncture specialists in Queens.

2. Visit official websites of the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM) or the American Academy of Medical Acupuncture (AAMA). These are nationally-recognized acupuncture organizations and are good sources to find qualified acupuncturists in Queens.

3. Check for the credentials of the acupuncturists. New York State government requires acupuncturists to complete a three-year professional acupuncture training program after at least two years of college, and undergo a state-approved license exam to become licensed acupuncturists.

New York State necessitates certification by the state for licensed physicians and dentists to practice acupuncture within New York. Accreditation requires hundreds of hours of acupuncture training, practical and supervised experience in general as well as specialized acupuncture techniques. Certification is provided only if all requirements are met.

4. Additionally, check for NCCAOM national board certification. It indicates high standards of knowledge of the acupuncturist. The NCCAOM certification program sets rigorous standards for accreditation including several hours of training, education and experience requirements.

Certified practitioners earn the title Diplomate in Acupuncture. You can also go for acupuncturists that hold medical acupuncture certification from the AAMA; these members require hundreds of hours of education, training and practical experience for accreditation through board exam.

5. Gather basic information about acupuncture from NCCAOM, the AAMA website or from your local library.

6. Place a call to the acupuncturist's clinic and talk to her for more details. Make an appointment to meet the acupuncturist in person so you get to know each other better. You can use your knowledge obtained from the research and ask the acupuncturist relevant questions. If you are satisfied, seek treatment.

Tags: qualified acupuncturists, acupuncture training, acupuncturists acupuncture, acupuncturists Queens, acupuncturists York, acupuncturists York State

Rf Cancer Cure

Radiofrequency ablation, also known simply as RF ablation or RFA, is a form of local hyperthermic treatment for malignant tumors. Liver cancer has by far seen the most positive results from this type of therapy, largely due to the size and growth pattern of the tumors, but it has also been beneficial in other forms of cancer, like kidney, lung and bone. Though its moniker implies that RF ablation is a form of radiation therapy, the two forms of treatment are actually quite different.

Radiofrequency Ablation

With radiofrequency ablation, a needle is inserted directly into the malignant tumor itself to emit high-frequency radio waves. As the radio waves penetrate the malignant tissue, they elevate the internal temperature of the tumor to anywhere between 122 to 212 degrees F. This increase in temperature effectively damages the abnormal cells, often causing them to die and scar. However, this procedure only diffuses into a parameter of about 3 to 5 centimeters, so this form of treatment is commonly used for smaller cancers, as would be seen in the liver as well as the kidney, lung or bone.

Efficacy

As mentioned before, cancers of the liver have seen the most benefit from the use of RF ablation. Liver cancer is a much more slowly growing form of cancer that usually stays contained within the organ, allowing for this type of localized treatment. When RF ablation is administered, it often results in "complete cell death" of the tumor, according to the Mayo Clinic, especially when the tumor is between 3 to 4 centimeters in size. Yet this procedure is also constructive in treating metastatic cancers of the liver and can be used as a form of adjunct care, such as with surgery, chemotherapy and even radiation therapy.

With other forms of cancer, as seen in the kidney, lung or bone, RF ablation may be used when traditional treatments are either not an option or have failed. Surgical procedures, chemotherapy and radiation therapy are the most relied upon treatments for these types of cancer, but RF ablation has seen success in these cases. It is still a viable and beneficial course of care, particularly when tumors are small and low in number.

Benefits

As with any form of treatment, RF ablation has its own particular grouping of benefits. Two of the most favorable are its invasiveness and its risk. RF ablation is both minimally invasive and presents minimal risk for the patient. This is largely due to the lack of incision needed to perform the procedure. All it takes is the insertion of a needle to administer the radio waves. It is also quite easy to perform the procedure again, making it an effective form of care for recurrent tumors.

Tags: kidney lung, kidney lung bone, lung bone, radiation therapy, radio waves

Prevent Injuries In Your Workplace Environment

As an employee or employer there are many steps that you can take to prevent workplace injuries. Here are some of them.

Instructions

1. Familiarize yourself with all of the hazards that exist in your workplace, whatever kind of industry it is. Ask questions of you manager and other employees as to what practices are safe and which are not.

Familiarize yourself with all of the chemicals that are used in your job. Your employer should provide MSDS or Material Safety Data Sheets for all such products used in your work environment and you should be able to go and look at them anytime you wish.

To help prevent workplace injuries employees should always wear the PPE or Personal Protective Equipment that is provided such as steel toe boots, gloves, safety glasses and hard hats.

You should know the location of the first aid kit and administer first aid to a fellow employee. A list of emergency numbers such as poison control should be posted in an area where it can be easily found.

The locations of eye wash stations and fire extinguishers should be noted and your employer should train you in use them.

2. Wear the required safety protection. As an employer it is your duty to provide the PPE that your employees need. You should make sure that safety glasses are worn at all times during dangerous jobs and items such as hard hats worn when needed. An enforcement policy should be drawn up with penalties for those employees that do not comply.

Your duty as an employer is also to keep up the MSDS sheets. This is required by OSHA and there are fines for non compliance. Make your employees aware of where to find these sheets and what information they contain. Address any language barrier issues that exist and communicate to your non English speaking employees the hazards that exist.

Keep your first aid kit stocked and fire extinguishers and fire alarms in good working condition.

Keep guards and safety control devices on your equipment even if removing them saves work time. A workplace injury could cost much more than the few dollars disabling a safety device saves.

3. Be aware of danger all around. The duty of both employers and employees is to constantly monitor the work environment for dangers that may cause an accident. Keep equipment in good running condition and make sure guards are across dangerous moving parts. Keep warning signs up around dangerous machinery.

Good housekeeping is crucial to a safe workplace. Keeping electrical cords neat, floors swept and clean and items stacked safely and neatly is very important. Safety is not just one persons responsibility but everyone's.

Hold regular safety meeting to discuss what steps to take to prevent workplace accidents.

Tags: prevent workplace, that exist, employer should, Familiarize yourself, Familiarize yourself with

Natural Cures For Lung Health

Natural Cures for Lung Health

Lung problems are some of the most debilitating and intractable health issues that a person can be saddled with. In most cases, chronic lung problems are caused by smoking, second hand smoke or environmental pollutants like mold or emissions. Natural remedies for lung ailments include vitamins, increased exercise, improved nutrition and alternative respiratory treatments.

Warning

Beware of marketed cures of herbal supplements and vitamins that are not backed by scientific studies. Although it is illegal to market cures without having some sort of proof for the claims, many supplements marketers ignore such advice and produce vast amounts of promising marketing material designed to rope in the unwary consumer. Alternative medicine is often a better choice than turning to the medical establishment, but that doesn't mean accepting any marketing claim as the plain truth without any proof backing up claims.

Function

Breath exercise machines are good natural alternatives to drug treatments and surgeries that cost very little. These simple plastic devices add resistance to breathing and push their user to become more mindful of their breath. They apply air pressure to make it more difficult to breathe, exercising the lungs. Using such a device multiple times daily can have a marked effect on lung health.

Features

Improving cardiovascular health is the best way to improve lung strength and effectiveness without expensive and dangerous medical treatments. Regular strenuous exercise at least three times a week trains the heart and lungs to become stronger, making them oxygenate the blood more efficiently. This helps the body get the most out of lungs that may have been weakened over time.

Time Frame

Repairing the lungs is a process that can take months and years. Don't expect instantaneous results with any alternative treatments. Herbal supplement marketing that suggests that it can solve intractable lung problems rapidly are almost certainly using deceptive marketing. Be wary of words like "cleansing" and "detoxification" when used in regards to supplements. No treatment can destroy accumulated tar or repair lung scarring. Successful lung healing requires committed effort applied over a period of years.

Nutrition

Increasing vitamin A and D intake can improve lung function, whether it's taken in through supplements or improved nutrition. When beginning a vitamin program, be sure to stick with it over the long run. Only taking vitamins for a short time may result in an improved feeling of well-being, but the effects on lung health will not take hold without repeated intake of a healthy, vitamin-rich diet. Regular exposure to sunlight is necessary for the body to synthesize vitamin D. Work some regular time outdoors into your schedule to make sure that your body produces the vitamins that it needs to strengthen its lungs.

Tags: Cures Lung, Cures Lung Health, improve lung, improved nutrition, lung problems, Natural Cures, Natural Cures Lung

Rectal Bleeding And Liver Disease

Rectal bleeding can be a symptom of many different conditions and should always be checked out by a medical professional. Depending on the way it appears, the gastrointestinal bleed can come from different areas of the body, and be due to several underlying conditions. One serious possible cause of rectal bleeding is esophageal varices, which are indicative of liver cirrhosis, a dangerous and potentially fatal disease which should be treated immediately by a doctor.

Significance

Rectal bleeding can be a symptom of many different kinds of disease. Often, it will be first noticed as blood seen in bowel movements, and occasionally as a sort of dark black stool called melena. Rectal bleeding is a sign of bleeding somewhere in the gastrointestinal tract and always requires advice from a medical professional as soon as possible.

Effects

Mild gastrointestinal bleeding can go unnoticed for a long period of time unless discovered during a examination by a hemoccult test, which is a way to detect small amounts of blood in the stool. Mild bleeding over a long time can result in iron deficiency anemia, as chronic bleeding can deplete the body of iron. More severe cases can present with more obvious symptoms of anemia, such as paleness, dizziness, shortness of breath, and weakness. If the bleeding is especially severe, hospitalization may be necessary, especially if the patient goes into shock. Hypovolemic shock occurs when about 40% of the body's blood is lost. This is a serious condition and must be treated immediately with IV fluids and, possibly, blood transfusions.

Types

Bleeding can happen from many places in the gastrointestinal system, each with its own cause. Bright red blood in the stool usually indicates a bleed very near the rectum, often due to hemorrhoids, though other conditions such as colon polyps or infections can also cause it. Black, tarry stools can result from a bleed earlier in the system, possibly from an ulcer that has formed in the esophagus, stomach lining, or the duodenum (the first part of the small intestine), or from esophageal varices. Esophageal varices, which are varicose veins in the esophagus, are a very serious condition and are indicative of liver cirrhosis.

Effects

Esophageal varices happen when certain veins in the esophagus get extremely dilated, allowing them to easily rupture and bleed. These vessels dilate in response to portal hypertension, which is often a consequence of cirrhosis and liver disease. Portal hypertension occurs when blood flow through the liver becomes obstructed, causing the blood to be routed through other veins in the esophagus, stomach, abdominal wall, and rectum. These veins are thin-walled and not designed to handle higher pressures, so they swell and become vulnerable to rupturing. Although it is possible to close off these swollen and damaged blood vessels, it is often more difficult to treat the underlying portal hypertension because it is caused by liver cirrhosis.

Expert Insight

Liver cirrhosis happens as a result of long-term chronic liver disease that ultimately leads to the loss of liver tissue. This tissue is replaced by small nodules of regenerating tissue and fibrous scar tissue. Common causes of cirrhosis include alcoholism, hepatitis B and C, and the progression of fatty liver disease, but sometimes cirrhosis has no identifiable cause. One of the most common complications of cirrhosis is the accumulation of fluid in the abdomen, called ascites, which raises the risk of infection. Cirrhosis is generally irreversible once it happens, and most treatments aim to slow the progression and to treat complications. For advanced cases, the only treatment is a liver transplant.

Tags: liver cirrhosis, liver disease, veins esophagus, bleeding symptom, bleeding symptom many, blood stool, esophageal varices

Increase Metabolism With Protein

There are many ways to lose weight. One way, in which many diets and theories are built around, is speeding up metabolism. This is the process in which the body either converts food into energy or stores it as fat. The faster your metabolism works the more fat you will burn and the slower your metabolism the more fat you will store. As you begin to age, your metabolism will likely start to slow but there are things that you can do to prevent that from happening. One such way is by monitoring your daily protein intake. Eating protein is a good way to increase metabolism, especially since the body burns more calories to digest protein than it does digesting carbs or sugars. Read on to learn increase metabolism with protein.

Instructions

1. Consult with your doctor. As with all diet and exercise plans, you should first consult with your doctor to ensure that this plan is safe for you and your body. Be sure to follow his or her instructions, directions and suggestions closely, as not all programs are correct and safe for everyone.

2. Calculate your minimum daily protein intake. Take your total body weight and multiply it by .37 if you are using pounds or multiply it by .8 if you are using kilograms. This will tell you how many grams of protein that you should be taking in on a regular basis. This is the basic method used by many nutritionists to determine your estimated minimum daily protein intake recommendation.

3. Plan and prepare meals ahead. Take time to plan your meals as well as in between snacks. Make sure that each meal contains the correct amount of protein in order to ensure that you are getting the right amount of protein on a daily basis.

4. Eat four to six smaller meals a day. Instead of eating three big meals a day, eat four to six smaller meals per day with protein-packed snacks in between each meal. This will speed up your metabolism and also prevent you from feeling hungry and overeating.

5. Exercise. Although protein does build muscle, which will speed up the metabolism and burn fat, keep in mind you will still need to do at least moderate exercise daily (providing your doctor approves it). Find an exercise regimen and stick to it. This will not only increase your metabolism it will also benefit your body on many different levels, including your cardiovascular system.

6. Carry protein-packed snacks. Pack yourself protein snacks for the car or the office or wherever you might be temped to snack. Nuts, a protein bar, a protein shake, sunflower seeds and dairy products are great choices. These are excellent for a quick snack full of protein instead of sugar and by keeping them available you will be less tempted to grab a candy bar or bag of chips or something less healthy.

Tags: your metabolism, daily protein, daily protein intake, protein intake, This will

Signs Of Mild Autism In Toddlers

Autism Spectrum Disorder is an umbrella term for a wide spectrum of disorders that affect social skills, communication, and repetitive or obsessive traits. It can be mild or very severe. Some of the disorders under the autism umbrella are Asperger's syndrome, pervasive development disorder and Rett syndrome. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention's 2007 autism prevalence report, one in 150 American children has autism. There is no cure for autism, but it is treatable. Early diagnosis and intervention can have a significant, positive effect on autistic children. This is why it is so important to recognize the signs of autism during the toddler years.

Early Signs

Some early signs of autism are an infant who does not respond to his name, does not smile in response to smiling at him, or has poor eye contact. Other signs are infants who are not comforted by cuddling and do not gesture or attempt to communicate.

Language Clues

A delay in spoken language is one of the most important signs of autism. Children who do not babble or gesture by 12 months and do not have any words in their vocabulary by 16 months are showing signs of autism. Autistic children may also repeat the same phrases over and over again.

Play Signs

Lack of social skills and little or no interest in interacting with others are signs of autism. Autistic children do not "pretend" play. This means they do not imitate or play make-believe, i.e. pretending to talk on the phone. These children may have unusual comfort objects, not dolls or blankets.

Repetitive and Obsessive Traits

Repetitive motions are another sign of autism. Autistic children may repeatedly flap their hands or twirl things. They may also become fixated on one object and have a hard time transitioning to something else when playing.

What To Do

If you suspect your toddler may have autism, talk to your doctor about referring you to a specialist or your local intervention agency. If your child is over 3 years of age, your local public school can help, too.

Tags: signs autism, autism Autistic, autism Autistic children, Autistic children, signs autism Autistic, social skills

Diy Oil Diffuser

Essential oils add fragrance to a room when placed in a diffuser.

The National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy claims essential oils, or fragrant plant extracts, can "harmonize and promote the health of body, mind and spirit." The oils evaporate readily, to quickly spread their perfume through a room. A diffuser is a device that controls the release of the oils into the air, ensuring evaporation takes place gradually, so that the fragrance does not become overwhelming. There are many types of oil diffusers on the market, but a homemade one is easy to make from simple materials.

Instructions

1. Measure 3 tbsp. of jojoba oil into a jug. Add 250 drops of an essential oil of your choice. Mix the oils briskly with the spoon. Essential oils are too volatile to use undiluted, as they would evaporate very quickly, so they are normally combined with a less-volatile base oil such as jojoba. You can find both jojoba and essential oils in craft shops or health stores.

2. Pour the mixed oils carefully into a small glass bottle, using a funnel to avoid spills. A container with a narrow neck is best, as it will help to slow the evaporation of the essential oils. Choose a glass container, as the oil mixture may react with metal or plastic ones.

3. Stand the eight rattan reeds in the jar or bottle, so that one end of each reed is dipped in the oil. You can obtain rattan reeds from craft stores and basketry supply shops or from online suppliers.

4. Fan out the reeds that emerge from the bottle-neck, to make an attractive display. This also allows the air to circulate around them freely. Over the next day or two, the reeds will soak up the oil mixture. The oil will gradually creep up the reeds and diffuse into the air, gently scenting the room.

5. Wrap a string of colored glass beads around the bottle or jar to decorate the diffuser. Stand the bottle in a saucer. Take out the reeds and top up the bottle with more mixed oils when the fragrance begins to fade.

6. Pour a little hot water into the saucer when you wish to increase the strength of the perfume. The heat will penetrate the bottle and cause the essential oil to evaporate more rapidly.

Tags: essential oils, Essential oils, mixed oils, rattan reeds, reeds bottle

Side Effects Of Liporexin

Liporexin, first introduced to the U.S. market in 1999, promises weight loss of 6 to 9 pounds per month. The product is supported by testimonials and scientific evaluations, and the drug is made of several natural ingredients including broccoli, spinach, dandelion root, green tea and cayenne pepper. Some of these ingredients have been known to cause adverse side effects in some people.

Significance

Liporexin is one of several "all-natural" diet supplements on the market; it promises to control cravings, reduce the appetite and stimulate weight loss. Liporexin was listed in the top-20 best diet supplements in a double blind study on PricesExposed.net, and is available for purchase on eBay. The supplement is designed to support healthy liver functioning so that fat can be metabolized easily and weight loss becomes a simple process.

Effects

Liporexin contains several thermogenic ingredients that can speed up the metabolism and increase the heart rate. The effects of these ingredients can be too powerful for some people, and side effects may include headaches, insomnia, dizziness, heart palpitations, dry mouth, jitteriness, anxiety, extreme high and low energy levels, inability to concentrate and an exceptionally strong appetite when the pills wear off. The high concentration of caffeine may also act as a diuretic and deplete the body of water and essential minerals

Features

Liporexin contains several ingredients found in many appetite suppressants and metabolism boosters on the market. Many ingredients help to increase the heart rate and act as a diuretic to "detoxify" the body. Key ingredients in Liporexin include caffeine, chromium, gymnema sylvestre, Brazilian green tea extract, dandelion root, milk thistle, cayenne pepper, noni fruit extract and apple cider vinegar. Liporexin also contains a proprietary "Intelislim Blend" that helps control the appetite. In early 2009, Liporexin retailed for $59.99+ for a bottle of 60 capsules, but may be purchased for under $15 on eBay and online auction sites.

Considerations

Women who are pregnant, nursing or have a history of high blood pressure or heart disease should not take Liporexin or any other type of diet pills. Even though Liporexin is available over the counter, dieters considering taking the drug can review the ingredients and potential side effects with a physician to ensure that they are not jeopardizing their health. Liporexin reviews and feedback have been posted on eBay and other sites that sell the diet pill.

Warnings

While many of the ingredients in Liporexin have been individually approved for consumption by the Food and Drug Administration, they have not approved Liporexin as a safe and effective weight-loss pill or supplement. Liporexin claims to reduce insulin resistance because of the chromium picolinate in the drug; however, this claim is not supported by clinical studies or research, and consuming high concentrations of chromium may not be directly linked to weight loss. Many consumers who have posted reviews and insights about Liporexin on discussion forums claim that Liporexin is actually an imitation product of the much pricier Lipovarin, and does not have any effect on weight loss.

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What To Do After A Stroke

According to the National Stroke Association, about 25% of stroke patients recover from the event with only slight impairments, and about 10% recover nearly completely. Stroke recovery can be a long, difficult journey. Surround yourself with patient caregivers and loved ones who can help motivate you to continue to work toward rehabilitation. You or your caregivers can make simple changes in your home environment to help you cope with changed abilities. Work with your doctors and therapists to regain your perceptions and skills.

Diet

A stroke patient's diet should be focused on preventing another stroke from occurring. If the patient has high blood pressure, he should limit the sodium in his meals. Try using spices as a replacement for salt and avoiding pre-packaged foods that are high in sodium, such as canned soup and frozen dinners. Patients, especially those with high cholesterol, should also follow a low-fat and low-cholesterol meal plan. Try substituting protein sources like lentils, soy, and nuts instead of fatty red meat. Caregivers for stroke victims who are severely mobility-impaired should be careful that the stroke patient does not become overweight due to lack of exercise and too many calories. Some stroke patients may no longer be interested in food, due to an impaired sense of taste or smell. Try preparing foods with intense flavors to increase the appetite.

Memory Loss

Some stroke patients may experience memory loss. They may have difficulties finishing sentences, calculating numbers, remembering daily tasks, or they may forget which activity they were about to complete. Caregivers can best help the patient cope with short-term memory loss by keeping the patient's environment as orderly as possible. Place objects in the same location every time. Gently guide the patient through activities if necessary.

Therapy

Therapy can help stroke patients rehabilitate. For patients with communication difficulties, communication therapy can help relearn basic writing, comprehension, speaking and listening skills. Physical therapy can include regaining muscle coordination, strength and range of motion. Therapists can also help the patient learn use walking aids, such as walkers or braces. A therapist may also recommend using electrical stimulation to contract weakened muscles. Finally, because many stroke patients also suffer from depression, a psychologist can help counsel the patient. The patient may also benefit from antidepressant medications.

Environment

There are many simple changes a stroke survivor can implement to make her life easier. Select loose-fitting clothes that are easier to put on. Wear clothes that fasten in the front, rather than clothes that are slipped over the head. Choose velcro instead of zippers or buttons. Caregivers can help stroke patients by providing devices such as silverware with large handles that are easy to use. Devices to aid in grooming and hygiene are also helpful, such as raised toilet seats, a bench for the tub, as well as grab bars, and a mat for the tub for extra traction. A long-handled brush, electric razor and electric toothbrush can also help patients maintain independence over their routines.

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Where Does Emu Oil Come From

Emu oil is a versatile product derived from the rendered and refined fat of the emu, a flightless bird related to the ostrich. The bird is indigenous to Australia. The commercial farming of emus gained broader practice during the 1980s and is now a global industry. The American Emu Association states that the oil has healing, anti-inflammatory and anti-aging properties. It is used in cosmetics and body treatments.

Source

The emu is a flightless bird indigenous to Australia. Like other birds belonging to the ratite group of birds, such as ostriches, rhea and kiwi, it can run fairly quickly---up to 30 miles per hour---and has feathers that appear similar to hair because of their structure. They are raised on farms in many parts of the world including the United States. They are raised primarily as a source of lean meat and for the oil made from their rendered and refined fat. Their claws, feathers and leather made from their skin are also sold commercially.

Good Fat

Three gallons (13.6 liters) of oil can be rendered and refined from the fat present in an emu's body. Cosmetics and alternative medicinal treatments include emu oil in their recipes, because of its perceived beneficial effects. The oil's high linoleic acid content, composed of omega-3, omega-6 and omega-9 essential fatty acids, make it beneficial for those seeking to lower their cholesterol. Research conducted at the Center for Health and Disease at the University of Massachusetts-Lowell supports the anecdotal claims that emu oil possesses anti-inflammatory, healing and anti-aging properties.

Uses

Human skin is composed of three layers, epidermis, dermis, and subcutnaeous fat. When applied to the skin, emu oil passes easily through the exterior layer of skin, the epidermis, to the lower dermis where nerves and blood vessels connect to the skin and the subcutnaeous fat level where the skin attaches to muscle and bone. This makes it an excellent choice for body care and and alternative treatments, because the oil acts as a carrier for the active ingredients. Lotions, soaps, shampoos and skin treatments containing emu oil are sold to treat psoriasis, hair loss, acne, fine lines and wrinkles, and arthritis. Pure emu oil and emu oil supplements are also available.

Regulation

Vendor members of the American Emu Association abide by three rules in their manufacture and trade of emu oil. One rule states that crude emu oil must meet the association's specifications in order to be eligible for further refinement and trade. Another rule outlines the grading system applied to emu oil in order to determine the applications for which the oil can be used, soap or industrial, cosmetic or nutritional and pharmaceutical. The third details the standard trade net weights for emu oil. Additional rules define how the oil is packaged, transported and delivered.

The American Emu Association also offers a certification program based on these rules. Certified emu oil has been tested by an American Oil Chemist Society chemist for compliance with the grading system. It is assigned a batch number for tracking. Participants are also required to keep a record and sample of their certified batches for two years.

Availability

Emu oil products are not widely available. Individuals who want to try them have two options. They can search for local vendors---usually smaller health food stores and alternative therapies and alternative medicines providers. If a local supplier is not available, several options exist on the internet. As with any purchase made online, it is best to seek reputable vendors (see Resources).

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Signs & Symptoms Of Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a skin condition or disorder, chronic in nature, that afflicts both children and adults. The causes are unknown, but it is believed that psoriasis might be an autoimmune disorder, where the body attacks itself. Understanding the signs and symptoms of psoriasis will help individuals recognize the condition and seek prompt treatment that prevents embarrassment, self-consciousness and sometimes even more severe complications such as blisters and inflammation of joints.

Skin Symptoms

In most cases of psoriasis, individuals notice reddened areas of flaky skin that are often covered with a white or silver film or layer of skin known as a scaly patch. Others experience tender patches of skin that often crack and bleed. The most common location for psoriasis to appear is on the arms, elbows, chest, back and knees. Some people develop psoriasis on the scalp, while others on the legs, although more often than not, the patches tend to appear above the waist.

Pain and Swelling

Some people diagnosed with the scaly skin disorder also experience joint pain and swelling. This is often called psoriatic arthritis, more commonly known as inflammation of the joint, which is caused by psoriasis.

Itching

Many people diagnosed with psoriasis find that the reddened, scaly patches of skin itch, and while sometimes the itch is mild, at times it can be quite aggravating. Itching leads to breaks in the skin, which may lead to infection, so individuals are cautioned to resist the urge to scratch.

Risks

Psoriasis can be hereditary, and risks for contracting the condition rise with a family history of the disorder. Triggers such as smoking, stress and sometimes alcohol can trigger flare ups. Some people find that prolonged exposure to the sun also causes flare ups.

Treatment

Psoriasis cannot be cured, as of today at least, but symptoms can be controlled by different methods, depending on the severity of the condition. Many people find relief through skin ointments or oral drugs, while others benefit from phototherapy, or artificial light.

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My Crepe Myrtle Has Yellow Leaves

Ladybugs often kill and consume pest aphids.

Crapemyrtle, also spelled crape myrtle and crepe myrtle, is an ornamental plant originally native to Asia. In the United States, most specimens are either common crapemyrtle (Lagerstroemia indica), Japanese crapemyrtle (Lagerstroemia faurei) or hybrids of the two species. These plants range from dwarf shrub types to medium-sized trees, and they do best in well drained soils and direct sun. They produce attractive flowers in pink, red, purple or white. Like many other landscape plants, crapemyrtle can suffer from a number of diseases and problems, including yellow leaves.

Natural Yellowing

Many species of crapemyrtle produce leaves that turn yellow or gold in the fall. This natural process is caused by the plant ceasing to produce chlorophyll, exposing the yellow compounds already present in the leaf. White-flowered crapemyrtles usually produce yellow leaves exclusively, while pink or red-flowered varieties may have red, orange or yellow autumn color. One specimen may show several different colors of leaves in the fall, producing a patchwork look.

Crapemyrtle Aphids

The crapemyrtle aphid is among this plant's most common pests. These tiny insects grow to be about 1/16 of an inch in length, with a pale green-yellow body and black abdominal spots. Like other aphids, crapemyrtle aphids pierce the plant to consume its sap. They may cause the plant to grow more slowly or develop distorted leaves in small infestations. Large populations of crapemyrtle aphids produce yellow leaves, early leaf drop, and sooty mold growth. Control these insects by encouraging their natural enemies, including ladybugs, or by applying horticultural oil or pyrethroid, organophosphate or carbamate insecticides.

Cercospora Leaf Spot

This disease is caused by the Cercospora lythracearum fungus, and can result in heavy autumn leaf loss. Since it happens when leaves are already changing color and dropping from the crapemyrtle, this disease may be hard to diagnose. Cercospora leaf spot happens on Indian crapemyrtle and its hybrids, and starts as round brown spots about ¼ inch across on the leaf surface. Over time, the leaves may distort or twist. The spots eventually enlarge, turning leave bright red or yellow, then causing them to fall off. Spotting usually starts near the base of the plant and spreads through the canopy to younger growth. The Alabama Cooperative Extension System recommends choosing fungus-resistant cultivars, spacing plants widely, and applying fungicide at 1 to 2 week intervals after spotting appears.

Powdery Mildew

This fungal disease of crapemyrtle causes cottony buff to white patches on leaves, flower buds and new shoots. On plants with a heavy infestation, the shoots and leaves may twist and distort. Powdery mildew also causes flower bud abortion, keeping the plants from blooming. On susceptible cultivars, the shoot tips and leaves may turn yellow, wither and fall off. This condition may appear as early as mid-April, but usually goes unnoticed until May or the beginning of June. To combat powdery mildew, provide plenty of ventilation around plants, avoid allowing water to remain on the leaves overnight, and apply fungicide shortly after the plants leaf out, at 1- to 2-week intervals until midsummer.

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Ear Magnets For Weight Loss

Can magnetic earrings help you lose weight?

A good portion of the American populace is at least a little overweight, creating a large market of people looking for ways to curb their appetite or increase their metabolism. Ear magnets are one product purported to help you lose weight, among other benefits. However, these claims are dubious, and losing weight may require you to make long-term lifestyle changes.

Identification

Ear magnets are placed on certain parts of the ear that are said to be associated with organs that control bodily function, according to Earreflexology.com. For instance, placing a small magnet on the part of the ear linked to the endocrine system would increase metabolism.

Function

Using ear magnets for weight loss requires wearing the magnets for 30 to 60 minutes a day--sometimes even multiple magnets on different sectors of the ear--during a single treatment, reports EarReflexology. You will need to place magnets on both ears because of differing sensitivity between the left and right ears. Typical treatment cycles last six weeks with two-week breaks in between.

Significance

If ear magnets successfully curb weight gain, the public would reap several health benefits. Statistics from the Centers for Disease Control show that America has an obesity epidemic. As of 2008, only Colorado had an obesity rate of less than 20 percent. In 76 percent of all states, at least one-fourth of the population is overweight, with six states climbing over 30 percent.

Considerations

In addition to weight loss, the power of magnetism has been touted to cure other significant ailments such as arthritis, cancer and HIV/AIDS. The Federal Trade Commission advises that these treatments have no scientific backing for their claims. The Food and Drug Administration has not approved any magnetic earring products for weight loss.

Prevention/Solution

The Office of the Surgeon General of the United States says that you can effectively lose weight without having to purchase products such as ear magnets by eating right and exercising regularly. You can determine if you are overweight using the Body Mass Index calculation. Divide your weight in pounds by your height in inches squared, and then multiply that by 703. A normal BMI falls between 19 and 24.

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Sound Therapy For Adhd

Advocates suggest that sound therapy is an effective method for treating children suffering from Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). By learning to better focus auditory attention, children should theoretically improve their ability to exert conscious control over attention more effectively. While some research suggests that sound therapy may help improve attentional abilities in ADHD children, the current body of research does not provide conclusive evidence.

What is Sound Therapy?

Sound therapy is a type of auditory therapy in which the patient responds to tones and frequencies over headphones. The goal of the therapy is to improve the patient's ability to consciously attend to sounds and to discriminate between various tones and frequencies. Training the patient to attend more closely to his hearing processes will help train his brain to be more consciously aware of how attention is being allocated. In theory, this improved ability to focus attention consciously should help eliminate the symptoms of ADHD.

Sound Therapy Used to Treat ADHD

Audio Integration Training (AIT) is the primary variety of sound therapy that purports to serve as a beneficial treatment for ADHD. AIT is based on the Tomatis Method of hearing amelioration and consists of 10 to 20 half-hour training sessions over a span of two weeks. Costs for a set of AIT sessions range from $1000 to $2000. Since AIT is an educational therapy, rather than a medical intervention, it is not eligible for coverage under health insurance plans.

Research on Audio Integration Training and ADHD

Four independently conducted academic studies indicate that children with ADHD demonstrate an improved ability to focus auditory attention after a 10-week AIT regimen (as detailed at aitinstitute.org; see References below). However, none of these studies provide conclusive evidence of the effectiveness of AIT due to methodological issues, such as insufficient sample size and lack of appropriate control groups. Further research is needed before any substantial claims can be made about the effectiveness of AIT for improving the symptoms of ADHD.

Tags: Sound Therapy, ability focus, ADHD Sound, ADHD Sound Therapy, Audio Integration, Audio Integration Training, auditory attention

Treat Charley Horse

Have you ever woken up in the middle of the night with this awful pain in your leg and the more you move your foot the worse the pain becomes? Your not alone, this is a charley horse and many people suffer them on a nightly basis and some just once in a while. No matter how many times you get them, here is the one of the best ways to treat them.

Instructions

Treat Charley Horses

1. Rub your calf muscle as soon as you feel the charley horse coming on. Point your foot towards the ground while you are rubbing out the muscle spasm. Move your foot in a circular motion while rubbing the muscle, this allows the muscle to relax even more.

2. Rub muscle cream on the calf muscle once the charley horse has subsided or you can rub on during the spasm. This ensures that the muscle will stay loose while resting or sleeping.

3. Prop a pillow under your legs while you are laying down. This allows blood to flow freely and the muscle not to tense up as much as it would with your legs directly flat.

4. Turn the heating pad on medium and place on the calf muscle. You can even place it on the pillow that is propping your legs up to get a double effect.

5. Visit your physician if the charley horses appear continuously night after night. This could be a symptom of something more serious.

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Latestage Symptoms Of Underactive Thyroid

An underactive thyroid, also known as hypothyroidism, can cause many problems throughout the body since the thyroid is an important part of keeping the body functioning. A slowdown of thyroid production results in fatigue, weight gain and constipation. Left untreated, however, hypothryoidism can lead to more severe symptoms.

Cognitive Problems

Untreated hypothyroidism can cause memory loss and depression. Both conditions can lead to difficulty in concentration and daily activities.

Muscle Pain

Muscle aches and cramps are not uncommon in people with underactive thyroids. As the thyroid production slows even further, these symptoms become more frequent and severe.

Goiter

The lack of thyroid hormone can cause the thyroid gland to enlarge and form a "goiter." This mass on the neck can interfere with the function of the esophagus and trachea.

Potential Dangers

Life-threatening symptoms from an underactive thyroid are rare. Still, heart failure and comas have occurred in extreme cases of hypothyroidism.

Considerations

An underactive thyroid is easily treated with medication. As long as the levels are monitored by a physician and kept in the normal range, there should be few symptoms from hypothyroidism.

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The Effects Of Strontium In Diet

Strontium is a chemical element found in various minerals. It is naturally common in the environment, and also has various uses such as an additive in diesel fuel. Strontium can be found in air, soil, dust, surface water and groundwater, plants and animals. Radioactive forms of strontium are formed in nuclear reactors and during nuclear explosions, and most adverse effects of strontium being consumed in food or water are from the radioactive form of the element.

Source

Because stable and radioactive strontium fall as tiny dust particles onto surface water, plant surfaces and soil, it can accumulate in food and drinking water. Both types have a tendency to accumulate in fish, vegetables and livestock more than in other food sources. Most dietary strontium results from eating grains, leafy vegetables and dairy products.

Bone Storage

The body removes most strontium as it does other excess minerals and waste substances, through sweat, urine and feces. However, some strontium may accumulate on and inside bone, because strontium acts like calcium in the body. In adults, strontium typically attaches to the bone surface, but a child's developing body may use strontium to create bone. Strontium then might be stored in the body for years. Because bones continuously dissolve cells and replace them with new cells, much of the strontium likely is eliminated over time, but some will be reused.

Children Considerations

It is uncommon for people to consume high levels of strontium. If children do so, they may experience problems with bone growth. However, if they are eating enough calcium and protein, this is not likely to occur. Children who drink milk, particularly milk fortified with vitamin D, probably will not have bone growth problems even if they consume a large amount of stable strontium.

Radioactive Effects on Bone

Significant amounts of radioactive strontium, like other radioactive material, is dangerous. When it accumulates on or inside bone, adjoining tissue can be damaged by radiation. This includes bone marrow, the primary source of blood cells. Radiation can severely reduce both red and white blood cell counts, as occurs when radiation is intentionally used to destroy bone marrow in cancer patients. Low levels of red blood cells lead to anemia and fatigue, while low levels of platelets can prevent the blood from clotting properly. Loss of white blood cells inhibits the body's ability to fight infectious disease.

Cancer

Radioactive material, including strontium, can cause cancer because it damages genetic material in cells. Both the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) have defined radioactive strontium as carcinogenic to humans. The U.S. Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry notes that individuals in one population showed increases in leukemia after their water supply was contaminated by radioactive strontium and other radioactive materials from a nuclear weapons plant. This was an area along the Techa River in Russia, beginning in the late 1940s.

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Multiple Sclerosis Diet Recommendations

Multiple sclerosis is a disease of the central nervous system that can range in the severity of debilitation it causes the patient. But when an attack hits, the patient is often bedridden for extended lengths of time. While most medical professionals agree that MS is caused by both environmental and genetic factors, many treatments focus on diet in the belief that processed foods cause many of medical problems, including MS.

The Swank Diet

The Swank Diet was popularized by Dr. Roy Laver Swank in "The Multiple Sclerosis Diet Book." The Swank diet claims to eliminate the symptoms of MS by lowering saturated fat, red meat and dairy intake, while increasing the amount of fish oil in the diet.

To follow the Swank diet, do not eat red meat for a year. This includes all beef and the darkest meats of the traditionally leaner meats, such as chicken and turkey. After the first year, eat no more than 3 oz. of red meat per week, though consumption of red meat is encouraged to be reserved for special occasions only.

The Swank diet also forbids any dairy that has 1 percent butterfat or higher and all processed foods that have any saturated fat at all. Reduce unsaturated fat to 20 to 50 grams a day. Reduce saturated fats to less than 15 grams per day.

Consume daily supplements of fish oil in the form of four capsules of cod-liver oil along with one multi-vitamin.

In his book, Swank reports a 5 percent death rate of patients who followed his diet over a period of 34 years. Those who did not follow his diet experienced a death rate of 85 percent. His study included more than 150 participants.

Other Diets

In addition to Swank's diet, other diets have been proposed to help treat MS. Unlike the Swank diet, most of the remaining diets have not been scientifically documented. Instead, they rely on personal anecdotal success stories from MS patients.

While each diet is different, based on the allergies of the individual patient, each has a few factors in common. They also have facets in common with the Swank diet. The major difference is that the focus of the Swank diet is on fat and saturated fats, whereas other diets focus on the possible sensitivity to foods.

Other diets urge the patient to concentrate on consuming fresh fruits and vegetables. Take produce from the produce section, not from the canned section of the grocery store. Eat white meat and fish products only.

Eliminate processed foods. This includes white flour and processed sugar.

Eliminate any foods that could cause allergies. Consult with a doctor to have an allergy test done if necessary. Especially eliminate foods containing wheat, dairy, yeast and legumes.

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Abdominal Symptoms Of Hepatitis

Abdominal symptoms of hepatitis are usually described as pain in or around the liver. The pain indicates the liver is inflamed and is generally present during a flareup in someone with liver disease.

Significance

It is important to recognize the signs and symptoms of a flareup associated with hepatitis or chronic liver disease to rule out other causes of abdominal pain.

Effects

A hepatitis flareup and inflammation usually subsides in 6 months or less, although people suffering from hepatitis rarely experience pain from the liver. In many cases, abdominal pain can indicate other complications or conditions.

Types

There are different types of hepatitis: hepatitis A, B, C, D and E. Knowing which form of hepatitis you have been exposed to or have contracted will make a difference in determining the causes of abdominal symptoms, if any are associated with hepatitis.

Considerations

Unlike hepatitis B, C and D, where abdominal pain or symptoms generally are not present, hepatitis A and E are acute forms of the virus and can be fatal. Abdominal pain is a symptom associated with these types. It is important to follow up with your health-care provider if you are experiencing fever, nausea and vomiting.

Prevention/Solution

People infected with hepatitis A or E should refrain from cooking or sharing food with others. Eating utensils should be kept separate. Of the viral types, hepatitis B (which can lead to type D) and C, abstinence from sexual relations and alcohol consumption is recommended.

Tags: abdominal pain, associated with, with hepatitis, associated with hepatitis, causes abdominal, generally present, liver disease

Blood Test Used To Prescribe Medication For Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is a painful, chronic disease that causes inflammation in the lining of the joints. Over time, this can cause severe damage to the joints and result in limited movement. Since rheumatoid arthritis is also an autoimmune disease, it affects the entire body and can have serious complications if it's not monitored and treated. Doctors need to do regular blood tests in order to prescribe medication for rheumatoid arthritis.

Diagnosis

To diagnose rheumatoid arthritis and begin to prescribe medication for it, a doctor will use a combination of test results. The most important is a blood test for the rheumatoid factor. The higher the level of the rheumatoid factor in the blood, the more severe rheumatoid arthritis is. Another initial test used is the anti-CCP. The level of antibodies binding the citrulline modified proteins is usually only elevated in those with rheumatoid arthritis, even in its developmental stages.

Anti-Inflammatories

There are many different drugs that are used to reduce inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis patients. NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatories) like Motrin or the COX-2 inhibitor Celebrex can be taken long term. For severe inflammation, Glucocorticoids or Prednisone are used. There are two different blood tests most often used done to diagnose and monitor inflammation for prescribing medication for rheumatoid arthritis. Both the sed (erythrocyte sedimentation) rate and CRP (C-reactive protein) measures the amount of inflammation that is in the body.

Analgesics

Analgesics are used in some rheumatoid arthritis patients to control pain. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) can be purchased over the counter, but sometimes it is not enough. It can be given by prescription with codeine, hydrocodone (Vicodin) or propoxyphene (Darvon). The use of acetominophen, however, has been linked to liver problems. Blood tests must be done regularly to test liver functions when any medications with acetaminophen are used for rheumatoid arthritis.

DMARDs

Disease modifying antirheumatic drugs (Imuran, Plaquenil) help stop the immune system from causing damaging inflammation in the rheumatoid arthritis patient. Unfortunately, by doing this, they also leave the patient prone to infection. Anyone taking DMARDs must be monitored for illness. A white cell count blood test is taken before prescribing the medication for rheumatoid arthritis and periodically after to keep an eye on the patient's immune system.

Biologic Response Monitors

Enbrel, Humira and Remicade are part of a class of drugs to treat rheumatoid arthritis called biologic response monitors. They target the cytokines in the immune system which triggers inflammation. Taking biologic response monitors can slow the progression of the disease. Like DMARDs, these drugs can also increase risk of infection so white cell counts need to be done repeatedly.

Considerations

Sed rates and CRP levels are done continually on rheumatoid arthritis patients to monitor inflammation so necessary medication changes can be made. While these blood tests are important, there are other factors in prescribing. Exact treatment for rheumatoid arthritis will vary depending on the patient. A patient's ability to function physically, extent of joint deterioration, mental well-being, allergies, additional conditions (like gastrointestinal problems that prevent the use of some drugs) and quality of life are taken into consideration when medications are chosen for rheumatoid arthritis.

Tags: rheumatoid arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, arthritis patients, immune system, medication rheumatoid, rheumatoid arthritis patients

Naturally Treat The Common Cold

The average adult typically gets four colds every year and for most people, the treatment is as simple as running down to the drugstore and picking up a bottle of cough syrup and a box of decongestant. Unfortunately, if you suffer from certain medical conditions or if you're taking prescription medications, the treatment may not be that simple. Luckily, there are a few ways you can naturally treat common cold symptoms without interfering with your medication or affecting your medical condition.

Instructions

Naturally Treat the Common Cold

1. Use hard candies to soothe your sore throat. Keeping your throat moist will help lesson the scratchiness and soreness associated with the common cold.

2. Blow your nose often. Blowing your nose helps to relieve stuffiness that can cause headaches and worsen your sore throat as you try to breathe through the mucus. Use soft tissues that contain lotion to prevent irritation to your nose.

3. Sip a cup of hot tea. A cup of hot decaffeinated tea with a tablespoon of honey and a lemon wedge works wonders for sore throats and stuffy noses.

4. Apply a cold compress to your forehead and sinus areas. Use a cold washcloth to help relieve sinus pain and the dull headache that usually accompanies the common cold.

5. Stay close to a humidifier. A humidifier will help relieve chest congestion by loosening phlegm to make your coughs more productive. Use this step as an excuse to get plenty of rest. While there's no cure for the common cold, adequate rest will make you feel better and allow your body the energy it needs to fight the cold virus.

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Schizophrenia & Low Levels Of Dopamine

Schizophrenia & Low Levels of Dopamine

Low levels of dopamine may play a role in the development of negative symptoms of schizophrenia. According to Psychiatric-Disorders.com, the exact relationship between dopamine imbalances and schizophrenia is not fully understood.

Definition

Schizophrenia is a chronic mental disorder characterized by hallucinations, delusions and disorganized thoughts and speech. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter associated with feelings of pleasure and reward.

Symptoms

Schizophrenia has positive symptoms, which involve behavioral disturbances, such as hallucinations, delusions, emotional disturbances and incoherent speech. Schizophrenia also has negative symptoms, which involve a lack of certain behaviors, such as emotion, speech and social interaction.

Features

According to research conducted by the Department of Psychiatry at Columbia University in New York and published in The International Journal of Neuropsychopharmacology, the dopamine hypothesis of schizophrenia suggests that high levels of dopamine may be associated with positive symptoms of schizophrenia, while low levels of dopamine may be related to negative symptoms.

Cause

According to Psychiatric-Disorders.com, the cause of schizophrenia is undetermined, though genetics, birth defects, environment and an imbalance of dopamine may be factors.

Treatment

Positive symptoms of schizophrenia may be treated by antipsychotic medications that block dopamine receptors.

Tags: levels dopamine, negative symptoms, According Psychiatric-Disorders, associated with, hallucinations delusions, Levels Dopamine

Regulations For Assisted Living Homes

Although regulations for assisted living homes are set by individual states, there are some general areas all states regulate. These areas include licensing, levels of care and services offered, staffing, financial policies, and medical components such as medication distribution. In addition, assisted living homes must participate in monitoring and on-site inspection.

Licenses

Individual states set up regulations governing what guidelines must be met in order to obtain a license to operate an assisted living facility.

Services Offered

Each assisted living site must specify what level of care it offers for residents, as well as what qualifies the site to offer specific levels of care. In addition, the specific services offered must be made clear.

Staffing

Each state sets the minimum requirements for direct care staff as well as administration for an assisted living site; some states may also specify the minimum ratio of staff to resident care.

Medical Components

Regulations are set by some states for what type of medical care needs to be offered by an assistant living facility, including such areas as training of those assigned to assist patients with medication needs.

Financial Regulations

States may require that residents be clearly informed of all costs associated with residency at an assisted living facility, as well as policies regarding the facility's Medicaid policy.

Tags: assisted living, living facility, assisted living, assisted living facility, assisted living homes, assisted living site, levels care

What Is A Margin Of Safety

Every machine, building and piece of infrastructure is intended to function correctly within a certain range of factors. Weight, temperature, pressure, vibration, quality of contstruction, durability of materials, and climate factors all affect safety. Most buildings and equipment are engineered to ensure that the ability to respond to extreme changes in any of these factors far exceeds the failure point. Engineers are expected to adapt building plans to account for various failure scenarios such as overloads, deliberate destruction or weather.

Geography

Buildings in flood plains, earthquake zones and tornado paths are engineered to withstand the most likely strength, duration and depth of each event. Flood plain maps will typically depict the average annual, ten year, twenty five year and hundred year high water marks. Machinery such as pumping stations and water treatment plants are typically located above the expected twenty five year high water mark, and may even be located above the expected hundred year high water mark. Buildings in flood zones are often required to be built on stilts, piling or platforms above the twenty five year high water mark. Earthquake zone engineering allows the building to bend and sway within a certain tolerance, without compromising structural integrity. The ability to bend and sway, even though it is usually slight enough to be unnoticeable, prevents cracking and collapse. Tornado zone planning includes creation of hallways and corridors which can be used as shelters. It also includes accounting for excessive load limits both from wind and from debris piled on roofs.

Types

Another term for margin of safety is tolerance. This refers to the range of conditions within which the building or machine will operate without breakage or failure. Triple redundancy is a term used in maritime, military and space applications. Each system has two additional, complete copies of itself in case of failure. Testing is a third term used in relation to margin of safety. Playground equipment, toys, child car safety seats, elevators, boats and exercise equipment are tested to a rating beyond their expected use. For example, a toy intended to be used by children 65 pounds and under will typically be tested to 300 or even 500 pounds. Elevators are tested to between 2000 and 5000 pounds. Overweight switches can stop the elevator if the weight limit is reached. Regularly operating a piece of equipment at either extreme of the margin of safety is not recommended.

Considerations

Margin of safety is not intended to remove all risk, but to minimize potential damage to property and prevent loss of life. Failure to observe safety recommendations, calibrate equipment, maintain warning systems and safety features, and address concerns about signs of potential failure of systems can make a company liable for any damage or loss of life incurred.

Buildings and equipment which have been engineered to withstand extremes, allow people to live and work in confidence. Engineering to increase tolerance for one factor may cause problems in other factors. For this reason, designs are often tested as computer simulations before being used in real world applications.

Effects

Build in margins of safety to lower risk. Insurance costs are reduced, lawsuits are prevented and injury or loss of life is minimized. Engineers brainstorm potential failures to protect public safety while contributing to the creative process of research and development. Each version of the product beyond the prototype is then progressively safer.

Significance

Price is affected by built in margins of safety. The demand for stronger, more flexible, more durable building materials drives price upward, while the increase in safety drives insurance costs, legal awards and emergency medical care downward. It is important to analyze the costs of making anything safer versus the benefits in order to ensure that a given application is financially sound while adequately protecting public safety.

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Acupuncture & Peripheral Neuropathic Pain

One of the most commonly accepted uses of acupuncture is for the relief of pain. Many studies have been done in this area, including ones specifically to study the effect of acupuncture on peripheral neuropathic pain. The results show that most patients do receive at least some pain relief with acupuncture.

Syndrome

Peripheral neuropathic pain is pain that is felt along the peripheral nervous system. This is the system of nerves that carries signals from the brain and spinal column to the rest of the body.

Symptoms

Along with pain, sufferers of peripheral neuropathy may have such symptoms as numbness, tingling and heightened sensitivity to the touch. The pain can be so extreme as to be burning. It may be intermittent or may be present constantly.

Causes

Peripheral neuropathic pain can be caused by a variety of diseases such as autoimmune diseases, diabetes and alcoholism. It can also be caused by the physical compression of nerves as happens in such conditions as carpal tunnel, thoracic outlet syndrome and even pregnancy.

Acupuncture Approach

Chinese medical theory views peripheral neuropathy as an imbalance in the energy of the body as it flows through the acupuncture meridians. By stimulating different points on these meridians, the blockages can be removed. Once the energy flows freely, the pain will be relieved. A Western view is that the acupuncture stimulates the release of endorphins, which then relieves the pain symptom.

Diagnosis

When you visit your acupuncturist, he or she will ask you many questions to arrive at a diagnosis according to Chinese medical theory. Some of them may seem to be unrelated to your symptoms, as they will cover every system of the body. How your digestion is working, for example, can give an acupuncturist clues about your nerve pain. The more information you provide, the more accurate the diagnosis will be.

Treatment

Acupuncture needles are very thin. You often do not feel any pain whatsoever when the needle is inserted. Once inserted, the acupuncturist may stimulate the point further by twisting the needle. Alternatively, electroacupuncture may be used. This involves a device that passes a slight electric impulse to the needle. Neither of these techniques is painful. The acupuncturist will normally leave the needles in for 20 to 30 minutes while you rest. Some people feel relief after just one treatment but more often several are needed to get lasting pain relief. Generally, the longer you have had the neuropathy, the longer it will take to be resolved.

Tags: neuropathic pain, acupuncturist will, Chinese medical, Chinese medical theory, medical theory, pain relief, peripheral neuropathy