Showing posts with label Conditions and Diseases. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Conditions and Diseases. Show all posts

Ginger Health Power

Posted by Admin Sunday, 10 October 2010

Ginger is not just another spice in your cabinet, Its definitely more than that. I'm not the first person who will ask you to don't take that ginger for granted! It's my grandma! She always make it a point to boil some ginger and add just a little sugar and drink it like tea. I've decided to write down the most common health benefits of ginger.
Ginger is very much known for promoting lower cholesterol,Recent studies show that ginger might also have a role in lowering LDL cholesterol because the spice can help reduce the amount of cholesterol that is absorbed. It has also been shown in animal trials to help slow or even prevent cancerous tumor growth.
It can also help reduce inflammation. So it can be used to treat any disease that is caused by inflammations such as arthritis or ulcerative colitis. Some studies show that it can even help inhibit the replication of the herpes simplex virus.
In addition to its knack for curing nausea and indigestion, ginger is also potent in treating circulation problems, arthritis and stomach cramps. Other great benefits of ginger include promoting lower cholesterol, treating motion sickness, relieving gas and bloating, stopping diarrhea, and naturally freshening bad breath. The ginger herb root is also able to promote bile flow and improve the cardiovascular system by producing platelets that don’t stick to the artery walls.
The great thing about ginger that allows it to be so potent is that it is the one natural ingredient that does not cause any known side effects. This is because it does not have the tendency to interact negatively with other drugs prescription.
So don't take those ginger for granted and try to add some spice in your life.

Do the Annual Check-Up

Posted by Admin Sunday, 22 August 2010

Just last Saturday i went out to bring my mom to her doctor. She doesn't like to do annual check up, because she believes that you only visit your doctor if you feel something strange or your not feeling well.(So wrong) I always tell her, Its' not about that. It's more than that. I explained to her that if there's something wrong with her health it's like a given early opportunity to address her problems. So what should be checked to maintain good health?
So compute your body mass index to see if you are still within your ideal body weight.Being overweight as a young adult or even as a child will soon catch up with you in the form of many chronic conditions as you grow older.
Have your blood pressure taken. Many have access to a clinic at their workplace or even at a local health center. Hypertension maybe detected this early, and elevated BP may be even lead to the discovery of other conditions such as kidney disease.
Eye examinations should also be performed every year. This may diagnose certain eye conditions that need medical attention. You may also find an explanation for the frequent headaches you may have been having- an error of refraction. Why suffer for a long a time when just a pair of corrective lenses can dramatically improve your quality of life.

Lack of Sleep leads to Poor Performance

Posted by Admin Friday, 30 July 2010

Do you get better sleep? well, you must.

Just right after i finished college. The first job i got was in a call center, An outbound agent. And i was on a grave yard shift. That was (9pm until 6am) It was ok at first but after just 2 months i felt that i was lacking of sleep.

Even though i knew that i was sleeping around 7 hours a day, it wasn't easy sleeping in the morning. I tried to closed the door of my bed room and pulled down my curtain, but the broad day light was just peeking at my windows.

Of all the health complains i had while i was on that job. There was one thing i learned while working in that kind of environment that up to this moment, I still apply in my daily life. That is to complete your 8 hours of sleep. Why? Because there might be dangers waiting for you especially if you are working.

So what happens when you never complete your 8-hour sleep very often.

Poor vision. this is so true to me. I got blurry vision at work, or just when I'm walking to the elevator. It sucks so much. Short term memory, People tend to lose some parts of their memories due to lack of enough sleep.

Your reaction is slow. Have you ever felt that when everyone is laughing, you seem to be just smiling? why because you don't get it. because you don't understand. Or if somebody is talking to you. You seem to be somewhere else.

Never drive yourself to work if you think you can't focus. My dad caused a very long traffic when he doze off on a green light few years ago. That was humiliating so he got his self a driver.

Moody. you switch moods so easily. Poor performance. Your work suffers because you can't concentrate. So if you feel that you are stating to see these signs. better take a goodnight sleep. or tale some power naps in the afternoon.

Risk of having Atherosclerosis

Posted by Admin Tuesday, 29 June 2010

Athero....what? That is the first question i asked my friend (MD) while she is trying to explain what exactly it is. Coming from the geek words athero(gruel or paste) and sclerosis (hardness). Atherosclerosis involves deposits of fatty substances, cholesterol, cellular waste products, and other substances in the artery 's inner lining. Called plaque this build up usually affects both large and medium sized arteries.

It starts as early as childhood. A slow complex disease, it often progresses as people age. In some people though the progress is more rapid and happens even in their twenty's Scientists believe that this disease begins with damage to the innermost layer artery, called endothelium.

Researchers show that males and those with family history of premature cardiovascular disease have a greater risk of atherosclerosis.Unfortunately these factors cannot be controlled. However, reducing the controllable risk factors of atherosclerosis prove to be beneficial: these controllable risk factors include:

  • High blood cholesterol
  • Cigarette smoking /exposure to tobacco smoke
  • High blood pressure
  • Diabetes mellitus
  • Obesity
  • Physical inactivity

knowing these factors, you should be able to control it in your own ways like lose weight, eat well-balanced diet. quit smoking, try to expose yourself to outdoor activities or engage into different sports. A healthy body should have a healthy heart, So love your heart and add more years to your life.

Women should know Cervical Cancer

Posted by Admin Sunday, 20 June 2010

Cervix cancer can be seen in the neck of the uterus and it's extended up to the vagina. This cancer is 100 % curable if diagnosed earlier or of it still at the early stages and i mean very early stages.
The symptoms of cervix cancer are the following:

  • Vaginal spotting or bleeding in between menstrual period.
  • Bleeding after a sexual intercourse
  • Abnormal flow of menstruation
There are no visible symptoms if it's still in a very early stage. Based on research studies, It's been seen that there is a relation between Herpes simplex 2 or genital herpes with cervix cancer. Woman who usually diagnosed with this kind of cancer are :
  • women who belongs to low socio economic status and the possibility that they we're once very sexually active in their younger years.
  • Women who had many sexual partners are also prone to this cancer.
  • Those who had many children.
  • And those who have uncircumcised husband.
If this cancer are diagnosed early. It can be 100% curable. But if the cancer is already confined in the cervix, there' will be 70 % to 90% chances of survival 5 years after the treatment. If the surrounded tissues are already invaded by cancer, There will be 40 % to 60 % chances of survival 5 years after the treatment. If the cancer is already in the bladder and rectum, there will be 20% chances of survival. If it spread in lymph nodes. The survival percentage will decrease.
Is cervix cancer contagious? No. There are two modes of therapy for the treatment of this cancer:

  1. Surgical removal of cervix, uterus, fallopian tubes and the lymph nodes around it. The ovaries can be remove. It really doesn't depends on the age and the extent of the cancer.
  2. Radiation therapy. It can be the special x- ray machine or radioactive implants.

These two treatments are highly recommended. Annual pap smear is the best thing to do for early detection.

Soberweight! Sober because Overweight

Posted by Admin Tuesday, 9 March 2010


Before you grab that large size coke or that mouthwatering bacon cheeseburger, You may want to read this, Being overweight can be just as problematic as being underweight. The health consequence can be risky, if not fatal. The patients who are obese die younger. Moreover, exceeding your ideal weight can put you at risk for the following:

1. Arthritis: Due to increasing weight joint pains leading to arthritis couldn't be far behind. Besides, Studies says Even if you tell people to exercise, They cannot move anymore. (scary ei?!) because their weight is so heavy.

2. Infertility: Because weight affects processes such as ovulation, and even quality sperm production, infertility is a consequence for overweight males and females. too fat, too lazy. no sex no baby. Reduce your weight so you can conceive.

3. Diabetes: "It has been found that there's a parallel increase of the diabetes threads(in overweight people)" In The United States, 60% of the population is gaining weight, and type 2 diabetes is increasing in prevalence as well. You can see children are very big, and you will see the prevalence of diabetes also increases. Just imagine getting fat and getting diabetic. two concerns will be prevented if you will just slow down in your calorie intake and carefully plan your diet.

4. Social stigma: Although not a medical consequence, It's one that's equally important. " On TV now, Everybody are extremely thin. All these ads, all the models looks anorexic. So whenever vain women see this It puts signals on their brains, So fat people are stigmatized.

5. Sleep Apnea- This is a sleep disorder characterized by pauses in breathing just imagine this , your so big the lungs become affected. This makes you prone to sudden death. Nobody want that to happen .

No matter how hard it is, Patience and discipline leads to a healthier life!So eat well. Eat healthy food well!

Dengue Treatment and Prevention

Posted by Admin Tuesday, 19 January 2010


Dengue is an acute fever caused by a virus transmitted by the bite of an Aedes Argypti mosquito. The mosquitoes are found indoors, in the closet and other dark places. Outdoors they rest in a cool and shaded areas. Contrary to popular belief, it is not only a danger during the rainy season (when eggs hatches faster), but the whole year through. The World Health Organization (WHO) says, "The female mosquitoes lay their eggs in water containers in and around the homes , and other dwellings. These eggs will develop, become larvae, and further develop into adults in about 10 days."
Incurring in tropical and sub-tropical parts of the world, dengue fever is severe, flu-like illness that affects infant, young children, and adults. It spreads rapidly, and in the event of epidemic, it will affect a large number of people and eventually cause the loss of lives. Another cause for alarm: More than 2.5 billion people (or 40 percent of the world's population), including 1 billion children lives in areas where there is a risk of dengue transmission.
Dengue takes 2 forms: dengue fever and dengue haemorrhagic fever. Although both should be taken seriously, dengue fever can be seen the lesser evil. It's symptoms includes high fever, severe headache, and pain behind the eyes, muscles and joints.
Dengue haemorrhagic fever (DHF), onthe other hand is a more severe form. Leading and sometimes shock occurs. It is most serious in children, it can be fatal. In addition to the symptoms of dengue fever, WHO enumerates the following symptoms of DHF:

  • Severe, continuous pain in the abdomen.
  • Bleeding from the nose, mouth and gum's and skin bruising.
  • Frequent vomiting with or without blood .
  • Black stools.
  • Excessive thirst and dry mouth.
  • Pale, cold skin.
  • Restlessness and sleepiness
WHO describe how the dengue virus invades the body, saying, after the entry of the virus in the person, it multiplies in the lymph glands in the body. The symptoms develop when the virus has multiplied in sufficient numbers to cause the symptoms. This happens generally about four to six days average after infecting the virus.


Treatment

The centers for disease control and prevention in the United States says there is no specific medication for treatment of a dengue infection. However, proper and early treatment can relieve the symptoms, and prevent complications. If you suspect dengue:
  1. Give analgesics (pain relievers) with paracetamol. Avoid close containing aspirin, as well as ibuprofen, since these can increase the risk of bleeding.
  2. Rest and plenty of fluids are also recommended.
  3. Even if you're not sure that it's dengue, it's best to consult a physician. A trip to the hospital is a must if vomiting and severe abdominal pain develop in the first 24 hours after the fever declines.
  4. For DHF, fluid replacement therapy is and option for treatment if the condition is detected early. However, this frequently require hospitalization.

Prevention:

There is only one way to avoid dengue, prevent mosquito bites, especially during the daytime when dengue mosquitoes attack. According to WHO, highest biting intensity is about 2 hours after sunrise and before sunset. Since there is no way to tell if a mosquito is carrying the dengue virus, we must keep ourselves protected from mosquito bites. Here are some tips to follow:
  1. Dispose or destroy containers in which water easily collects bottles, plastic bags, tins, used tires, and so on.
  2. Spray insecticides in your home regularly. Spray Eco-friendly and health friendly insecticide.
  3. Use repellent every time you head outdoors. Follow the instructions on the package you are using .
  4. Install screens on your windows to keep mosquitoes out.
  5. Outdoors, use mosquito coils which can provide up to 8-10 hours protection from mosquitoes.
  6. If you want convenience, opt for a liquid mosquito repellent, which can last up to 30 nights.

The right way to Treat Psoriasis

Posted by Admin Friday, 6 November 2009


Do you have skin problem that characterized by thick, red patches of skin covered by white or silvery scales? maybe its a skin disorder called Psoriasis. It is not that infectious, and may manifest in alternating periods when the psoriasis goes into remission and when it becomes worse. It usually appears between the ages of 20 and 30, and tends to run in families, means it can be inherited. Psoriasis, even in mild cases, may cause sever embarrassment, shame, and social isolation. It cannot kill, but it can ruin people lives. The causes of Psoriasis are not yet fully known but the disorder is associated with, Overproduction of new skin cells (10 times faster than normal), leading to the buildup of live cells (the caused of thickened patches) and profuse shedding of outer skin layer. Also with combination of factors, including heredity, stress period after physical illness or infection, certain medications.

Here are some of the complications that can be experienced by a person with Psoriasis

  • Arthritis (inflammation of the joint) in severe cases
  • Impaired use of hands or feet
  • Depression due to low self esteem.

So here are the right way to treat Psoriasis
  • Sunbathe 15 to 30 minutes daily, though not to the point of being sunburn. A sun ultraviolet lamp is an alternative.
  • Apply some Petroleum jelly to affected areas.
  • Learn to manage stress.
  • Follow a healthy lifestyle, Keep a healthy body weight.
  • Avoid drinking alcohol. It may decrease the effectiveness of treatments.
  • If you are not sure on what your doing then its time to call the doctor and seek some medical help.

WHO experts to help Leptospirosis Patients

Posted by Admin Tuesday, 3 November 2009

Health News:

Because of the increasing cases of Leptospirosis in the Philippines
Health Secretary Francisco T. Duque III accompanies the World Health Organization expert team on leptospirosis control headed by Dr. Shin Young –soo (WHO Regional Director for Western Pacific) and Dr. Soe Nyunt-U (WHO Country Representative to the Phil.) during their visit on Wednesday (October 28, 2009) to flooded areas in Binan, Laguna. The team, whose members are drawn from the Global Outbreak Alerts and Response Network (GOARN), will be assisting the Philippine government by providing technical assessment and assistance in the surveillance, epidemiological and clinical care of those who fall sick from the disease. The GOARN team will cover parts of Pangasinan, Metro Manila and Southern Luzon where a heightened alert was declared after the extensive flooding caused by tropical storm Ondoy and typhoon Pepeng. The Department of Health remains on heightened alert against further outbreak of leptospirosis. As of October 27, a total of 181,932 individuals have been given prophylaxis (for NCR: Marikina-56, 426 persons; Malabon-2,364; Quezon City-25,916; Taguig-19,224; Pateros-4,116; Parañaque-12,166; Pasay-5,948; Muntinlupa-3,533; and Pasig-1,417; for Region IVA: Rizal-19,608; and Laguna-7,652. The DOH also distributed 1.8 million capsules of doxycycline.

He also warned the public not to wade in flood waters and to use protective boots in order to prevent leptospirosis, and other diseases such as typhoid fever, cholera, and hepatitis. Leptospirosis is usually caused by exposure to water contaminated with urine of infected animals. The disease’s signs and symptoms include high fever, severe headache, chills, muscle aches, and vomiting. In extreme cases, jaundice, abdominal pain, and kidney damage may result.

Leptospirosis’ signs and symptoms include fever, body aches, chills, and yellowing of the skin. All suspected cases are advised to seek medical consultation immediately to prevent complications.

source: http://www.doh.gov.ph/

Diabetes linked to Kidney Problems

Posted by Admin Friday, 16 October 2009


Diabetes is a disastrous problem that affects kidneys, blood vessels, intestines and every other organ in the body. It is a condition in which the body is unable to produce or properly use insulin. Insulin, a hormone that is necessary for converting starches, sugar and other food into energy. The cause of diabetes is unknown and there is no known cure. It can early on also be controlled and managed through proper diet. And you should know, effective management may be achieved under a doctor's care.

It was estimated that there were 20.8 million children and adults who are afflicted with the disease. That is just about 7% of the population. Of that figure, 14.6 million people had been diagnosed, but 6.2 million people were thought to have diabetes but it had not been discovered yet. In addition, just about fifty four million folks are pre-diabetic with 1 1/2 million new disease found in people older than 20, showing up annually.

Diabetes is the most common cause of kidney disease. In fact, hypertension and diabetes are the two primary causes of kidney disease. This causes an estimated 70 percent of kidney failure with diabetes accounting of 44 percent of kidney failure cases. The early stages of kidney disease have no symptoms . It injures your body and by the time it is finally detected, the disease is so far advanced that it quite often is too far to prevent failure of the kidneys. Once your kidneys fail, you have two options: kidney transplant or dialysis. If you do not receive one of these, you will die.

How Diabetes causes Kidney Disease

When the kidneys are working properly, the glomeruli (tiny filters that are in the kidneys) keep all proteins inside of your body. Protein is essential for a variety of operations within your body and are required to keep you healthy. Diabetes creates too high of a concentration of glucose in the blood which damages the glomeruli. The result is that they can no longer keep the protein in the body and it seeps into the urine from the kidneys.

When kidneys are damaged they no longer function efficiently and do not cleanse our waste as they should. When this occurs, the waste and fluids build up in the blood instead of being expelled in the urine. The longer this happens, the worse the damage becomes until the kidneys eventually cease to function.

The Progression of Renal Disease

It can require years for diabetic kidney disease to develop. Some diabetics experience hyper filtration in the first few years of their having diabetes. This means that the glomeruli actually function at a much higher capacity than normal. Once damage starts, however, it continues. As a person develops kidney disease, they will have a blood protein named albumin that finally starts to leak into the urine in small amounts. At this time, the glomeruli are really functioning normally.

The progression of the disease leads to more protein leaking into the urine and the glomeruli begin to progressively fail as the filtering begins to drop. Waste is retained in the serum causing the filtration failure. As a result, the kidneys stop functioning.

How to Prevent Kidney Problems if you have Diabetes

Having diabetes, you can often prevent kidney problems. Use these steps to keep your kidneys healthy: * Control your diabetes by eating the right foods and a good exercise regimen * Take your medicine as prescribed * Have your physician test your blood and urine routinely for kidney problems * If testing shows that you do have kidney problems, ask your doctor about medications like ARBs (angiotensin II receptor blockers) and ACE inhibitors that can help keep your kidneys healthy.

A diagnosis of diabetes does not have to result in kidney disease. As long as you stay on top of your condition, manage it well and follow your provider's orders, there is no reason that you can't live a long, healthy, happy life - without kidney disease.

Healthy Diet helps prevent Cancer

Posted by Admin Monday, 14 September 2009


You may know how painful it is to die from Acute Myeloid Leukemia. That is true, but there is good news.

Scientists have known for quite a few years that diet can help you avoid disease. In fact, it has been shown that about 34% of all cancer is related to what you eat and drink. And it has also been shown that diet can reduce your chances of getting cancer.

Nutrients in some food can decrease your chance of cancer. You can also improve your chances of not getting cancer by avoiding some foods.

The Power of Fruits and Vegetables

Fruits (like Hackberry and Loquat and Dragonfruit (Hylocereus spp.; Cactaceae) and Okra) and vegetables are proven to help prevent many types of cancer including cancer of the mouth and colon. Currently, it is unknown if there are any specific nutrients in these foods that provide protection. There have been experiments on some of the nutrients found in fruits and vegetables like beta-carotene. However, isolating these substances from the original source have not been found to prevent cancer. In fact, some by themselves are found to be harmful. So remember - the whole fruit is many times better than some supplement taken from that food.

Current recommendations are to eat at least one serving of a fruit or vegetable with each meal. They can be fresh, canned or dried. But, they should not be fried like chips.

Whole Grains Keep You Moving

Whole grains like kamut brown rice, cracked wheat and corn on the cob are excellent sources of vitamins, minerals and fiber. These are well known to help prevent colorectal cancer. Despite being vital, just using a fiber supplement is not as effective because you need the other nutrients in the whole grain.

Scientists think that the increased fiber helps to keep the stool in the bowel moving smoothly. This prevents constipation in the colon. That being said, there is no evidence that laxatives or any colon cleansing regimen is of any help. In fact they have often been shown to be harmful.

Foods to Avoid

Red meat is a proven contributor to cancer especially colorectal cancer and cancer of the prostate. The best advice is that you make sure to limit the amount you eat to less than three ounces a day. Cutting it out altogether is even better.

Any high fat food will have a similar effect. All of those french fries and corn chips that you have been eating? We know now that they may contribute to your chance of getting cancer.

You may not want to hear this, but alcohol is another culprit. The latest research shows that any alcohol can bump up your chance of getting cancer. But, it is especially a big risk when you have more than two drinks a day for men and one for women. Sorry ladies. Alcohol along with cigarettes contribute to cancer of the mouth, esophagus and larynx (your voice box).

The Four Rules of Diet

1. Most of your food should be directly from plants.

2. Limit your intake of high-fat foods, especially from animal sources.

3. Be physically active: Achieve and maintain a healthy weight, Ok. I cheated a bit on this one - but, you should limit your intake to the amount needed to keep your weight down.

4. No more than one or two drinks a day, if you drink at all.

Use these tips and you will avoid cancer related to your diet.

Common Cold Home Remedies

Posted by Admin Friday, 11 September 2009

The common cold is a common but bothersome problem that is caused by an invasion of a number of viruses that have spawned in the nose and throat - such as corona virus, metapneumo virus, human para influenza viruses and over 100 serotypes of rhino virus, a type of picorna virus. It has been estimated that the basic cold can be caused by over two hundred viruses! The viruses that result in the cold pass into the body through the area of the mouth and the nose - often from your own hand. They then travel to the tract of the respiratory system. Here, these viruses grow and multiply. Once they have sufficient numbers, these viruses cause the individual to experience many signs and symptoms making it clear that you have the common cold.

It has been discovered that individuals who have weak or suppressed immune systems, experience high levels of stress, or those who fail to get the proper amount of rest can develop colds more easily than others. In addition to these risk factors, those that experience mild to severe allergies may develop this type of sickness easily. Here, you will be introduced to the symptoms of the cold, as well as various home remedies for the common cold.

Symptoms of Your Cold

There are many symptoms associated with the common cold. One of the first things that become evident is soreness in the throat. The throat will probably feel dry and scratchy. It is also relatively common for a fever early on. The fever is usually somewhat less than one hundred degrees. The eyes may become watery and irritated. Furthermore, you may get a persistent sneeze, cough and a runny nose. When you get a severe cold, the body will probably have scattered aches and pains. There may be an altered taste, or even no appetite.

Remedies for Your Cold

There are lots of different home remedies for the common cold. It is important to know that if you are looking for a good remedy, there is no one set guaranteed best remedy for the common cold. Any and all home remedies that you engage in will either alleviate the symptoms that you are experiencing with your cold, or simply provide you with a higher comfort level while the cold runs its course. The following are some of the best home remedies for the common cold:

1. Get plenty of rest. Rest is essential when you fall ill because it allows your body to devote its time and energy to fighting off the infection. You should not overly exert yourself before you are better, or you may find yourself getting worse!

2. If you are searching for an herbal remedy for the results of the cold, you may find garlic to help. Garlic has been found to be a natural antiseptic. This helps to clear the body of viruses and any bacteria that have colonized the body.

3. Individuals who are cursed with congestion have found that vaporizers are indispensable for helping the congestion. Once you have inhaled the steam for a while, you should then drink some peppermint in a glass of warm milk. This will soothe the throat and open the sinuses.

Conclusion

As written here, there are some very useful home remedies for the common cold. You must first decide on the symptoms you want to soothe, and then pick out the home remedies that will help you in that symptom. Furthermore, you should guarantee that you get sufficient rest and keep up on your consumption of fluids. Then you will get relief with a rapid recovery.


Best Way to Detox our Liver

Posted by Admin Tuesday, 8 September 2009


Actually there is no exact way to detox our liver, because its always different from person to another person, it depends on how you want to do it, and your way of life. But here some useful tips on how to detox our liver, its going to involve looking at diet, particular nutrition supplementation, herbal remedies, and of course lifestyle the way we live our life. In terms of using all those four strategies, we get a synergy or just like approach to detoxifying the liver and the entire body for that matter as oppose in just picking out one magic remedy, we get the synergy of all four of those items. So the thing to think about in terms of detoxing our liver, is bile flow, so the liver makes bile and the gall bladder stores it. Now bile is the way that toxins can leave the body, that's how they leave the system through the bile to our bile movements, certain toxins will grabbed on to that bile and the bile will grabbed on those toxins through the bile movements. So that's the thing to think about on detoxing our liver, so if we want to cleanse the liver, we must keep the bile moving.

One of the easiest way to do that is to corporate bitter taste into our diet. There are many herbs that are bitter in nature like gentian, artichoke leaf. For diet we can add bitter greens into our daily intake of vegetables so bitter greens are like dandelion, winter cress, garlic mustard and leafy greens that can facilitate the movements of bile. Another thing is stay hydrated a key part on cleansing the liver. And last as much as possible avoid toxins so things like sugar, artificial ingredients, MSG, saturated fats, and alcohol must be consumed in moderation.

Diabetes (type 1): The facts we should know

Posted by Admin Friday, 28 August 2009


Traditionally thought to be a quite uncommon disease, Type I diabetes affects just about one out of every 250 people, both adults and young, living in the US today. Although the term "juvenile" has long been associated with this type of the disease, as in Type I juvenile onset diabetes, the illness may actually occur at any time in life, and appears equally among both men and women.

There are thousands things that can go wrong with your body. Consider this short list:

  • Beta hydroxylase deficiency -
  • Dwarfism stiff joint ocular abnormalities -
  • Anonychia -
  • Dystrophinopathy -
  • Arthrogryposis spinal muscular atrophy -
  • Chronic hiccup -
  • Cantu Sanchez Corona Fragoso syndrome -
  • Costochondritis -
  • Cantu Sanchez Corona Hernandes syndrome -
  • Alopecia -
  • Erysipelas

Fortunately, even most doctors have not heard of some of these. But even though it is considered fairly uncommon, you probably know someone with Type I Diabetes.

Symptoms

While the symptoms of Type I diabetes tend to be subtle in most cases, if not treated, they will eventually become fairly severe. Some of the most common symptoms include:

Blurry vision - Frequent urination - Frequent skin, vaginal, or urinary tract infections - Dry mouth, even after drinking - Increased hunger, even just after eating - Increased thirst - Heavy or labored breathing for no apparent reason

Some of the more serious signs associated with Type I diabetes that demand an emergent need for medical attention may include:

Abdominal pain Shaking, trembling Fruity or sweet smelling breath Loss of consciousness, rarely in extreme cases

Causes

Scientists still aren't aware of some of the factors leading one to have Type I diabetes. But, they do know that a tendency to the condition may be inherited from one or both parents. Researchers have discovered that Type I diabetes may also be caused by something in the environment that causes a problematic reaction within the body's immune system. However, they are not sure as to the exact origin of these triggers.

Diagnosis

For an accurate diagnosis of Type I diabetes, a doctor must check for abnormal blood sugar levels by performing a blood test, or also testing for the presence of glucose or keystone in the urine. With today's knowledge, there is no way to test for impending Type I diabetes, or a method to prevent one from developing this type of diabetes.

Treatment

There are many, of all ages, who enjoy long, quite healthy lives despite having Type I diabetes. It's imperative to keep blood sugar levels under tight control, which may be achieved by eating the right foods, getting enough exercise, and the correct insulin therapy consistently one or more times a day. Anyone with this form of the disease must have insulin injections in order to properly manage their blood sugar level, which will also have to be tested regularly.

Without treatment, Type I diabetes may evolve into or cause several serious conditions, some of which may be life-threatening. Kidney damage is a quite common problem in those with the disease with a condition known as nephropathy. Other possible complications include retinopathy, which causes a loss of vision, heart disease, poor blood circulation and gastrointestinal disorders which may also result without medical treatment.

Although a serious disease, Type I diabetes is a disease that can still be successfully managed with the right medical care.

What Causes High Blood Pressure? Salt?

Posted by Admin Friday, 7 August 2009


What causes hypertension? About 10 percent of all cases are due to kidney or adrenal disease, but the remaining 90 percent have no definitely known cause. There are however, some factors that may contribute to high blood pressure.

  • Atherosclerosis (narrowing of blood vessels by cholesterol build-up) is also thought to be a factor in hypertension. If this proves to be true, avoiding excessive fat and cholesterol in our diets would be a great help.
  • Estrogen, a female hormone found in birth control pills or given for menopause, causes the body to retain salt, and has the same effect as consuming too much salt.
  • Some people are more sensitive to salt than others. In fact, the sodium in salt may actually be the number one cause of hypertension. A study shows that those people consuming very little salt, like Eskimos, new guinea and Solomon island tribes, Australian aborigines, have no incidence of high blood pressure. Northern Japanese farmers preserve their food with salt and eat an average of 30 grams of salt per day. Sixty percent of these farmers have hypertension, and strokes are the most common cause of death among them. This does not mean that salt should be eliminated from the diet entirely. Salt is vital to health, but our bodies need only 0.2 grams of sodium per day. If we cut our salt intake to one teaspoonful of salt per day, including those used in preparation of food, we could solve one of the biggest health problems. Individuals with hypertension would have to cut salt even more.
  • Obesity may also contribute to hypertension. Every pound of fat requires thousands of extra blood vessels. These in turn require a higher blood pressure to circulate blood through them. It is any wonder, then, that obese people are five times more likely to have hypertension? Anyone who is more than 20 percent overweight is considered obese.
  • Stress can cause hypertension, whether it be social stress, noise stress, or work stress. All of these may increase hypertension.
  • Over consumption of refined sugar a possible contributing factor in persons with decrease kidney function is associated with the aging process.
Diet is the key in preventing high blood pressure (hypertension). Many of our food habits are begun in youth so for parents start teaching your kids about what to eat and not to eat, because some food habits can be difficult to change. How much better it would be for parents to train their children from babyhood to use salt, fried foods, and refined sugar products sparingly. Even though there are variety of anti hypertensive drugs on the market today, these are safer and cheaper ways of fighting this disease.


Fight Bowel Cancer (Colon Cancer)

Posted by Admin Tuesday, 21 July 2009


Scientist have focused on several risk factors associated with bowel cancer. One is age. The older one becomes, the weaker the natural immune forces. Diet is now considered to be the most important factor in bowel cancer. Years of eating a rich diet or fried or broiled fatty meats with accompanying low fiber content , and deficient protective vitamins and trace minerals sets up a person for colon cancer. Early detection and surgery are also essential as the best cure for colo cancer. But we can avoid having bowel cancer by just living a healthy life here are some simple tips to follow to fight bowel (colon) cancer:

  • Do not over eat.
  • Avoid rich diets, especially foods high in fat.
  • Avoid fried meat.
  • Use whole grain rich in fiber, which dilutes and absorbs many harmful chemicals in the bowel.
  • Eat fruits and vegetables especially those of the cabbage family(broccoli, cauliflower, and others) which have anti-cancer properties. Yellow and green vegetables contains vitamins A and C, also important in caner prevention.
  • Keep a healthy bowel by drinking plenty of water, eating high fiber foods like beans, potatoes, whole grains and fresh fruits which prevents constipation.
  • Exercise regularly.
  • Get regular medical check-up. A change in bowel habits is an important sign. A test for invisible blood in the stool should be part of the examination.
Remember, Colon or Bowel Cancer is curable, specially if it is discovered early and removed promptly, but prevention is still the best remedy.

Water therapy beats Headache

Posted by Admin Tuesday, 7 July 2009


No man can say he/she didn't experience a headache in his/her lifetime, all of us has suffered from different kinds of headaches. One of mankind most common paint is headache. I actually I have experience headache from the past few days because of unpredictable weather. Headache are usually a symptom of some underlying disorder rather than a disease itself. It can be a result of alcohol or dietary abuse, or an early signs or symptoms of a upcoming health condition.

Tension Headache

Commonly a tension headache is from stressful situation. This headache is caused by the contracting of the muscles in the neck and shoulders. And some of us can't find a comfortable position, whether to sit or lying down, our head and shoulder aches. Early in tension headaches, tight muscles usually respond to the application of moist heat packs. But some small tender nodules, or trigger points in the neck and shoulder muscles, requires a special attention. A great massage can fixed this problem. Stretching and strengthening exercises repeated 3 or 4 times a week for several weeks will bring complete relief. Tension producing factors must be eliminated. Try to changes your lifestyle and attitude , have a daily exercise program and proper rest. As soon as possible or its only a mild headache don't use medication (pain killers, tranquilizers) because they are all temporary relief. If sleeplessness is associated with the tension headache, try a lukewarm bath for 10 to 15 minutes before going to bed a soaking bath is better than a shower. Try to repeat this simple program every night, you may find it relaxing, and relieves headache.

Vascular Headache

Vascular headache is accompanied by a throbbing and sense of increase pressureeinside the head. It may be painful to move the head. If this is your problem, don't reach for the aspirin bottle for there is a safer or more effective option and available to us. To correct the casue of pain, instead of taking something that only covers it up, try this simple remedy:

  • Find a comfortable chair
  • Fill a container large enough to hold both feet comfortably and deep enough so that if filled with warm water, it reaches nearly to the knees.
  • Then put a folded hand towel wrung out of cold or ice water on the forehead or back of the neck.
  • Within 10 to 15 minutes, relief should come
Don't worry if you become so relaxed that you can take a short nap, if you perspire end the treatment with a short, soothing warm shower.

This two types of headache are the headache we almost experience everyday. Fortunately they respond well to water treatments, which may be also combined with massage. That's why there are many spa's popping everywhere because water therapy and massage therapy are good natural ways to beat headaches.

Asthma Attack revenge of the allergen

Posted by Admin Wednesday, 1 July 2009

Asthma is a chronic lung disease characterized by inflamed, swollen and narrowed airways, making breathing difficult. Although no cure has been found for asthma, it can be controlled.If you are asthmatic, you have sensitive airways that react to certain factors such as stress, infection (flu, common colds), dust, mites, feathers, cigarette smoke, and changes in the weather. These can trigger the selling and the narrowing of your airways.

No one really knows exactly what causes asthma. In asthma, the irritation of your ultra sensitive airways results to the three changes:

  • cells in your air passages produce excessively thick and sticky mucus that tends to clog your airways
  • your air passages swell or become inflamed
  • the muscles in your airways constrict and tighten

These changes cause your air passages to narrow or constrict, causing difficulty in breathing, wheezing, and tightness in the chest.

In case of asthma attack try to do this tips,
  • take only asthma medications prescribed by your doctor
  • do not take cough medicines
  • if your attack is caused by a bacterial infection, take the appropriate antibiotics prescribed by your doctor.
  • if your symptoms persist, or you are experiencing a moderate attack or a severe one, get emergency help right away.
To minimize or prevent an asthma attack do this tips,
  • take controllers (as prescribed by physician)
  • know the signs and symptoms of an incoming acute asthma attack
  • know what trigger your asthma attack
  • avoid triggers
The sign and symptoms of an incoming acute asthma attack
  • coughing a lot during exercise or even during rest after exercising
  • shortness of breath
  • wheezing when breathing
  • tightening of the chest
What triggers an asthmatic attack?

There are numerous causes that "trigger" your asthma attack. However, these can be divided into three major groups:

Allergens - the largest group includes common "triggers" like pollen, molds, mildew, cockroaches, feathers, and dust mites.

Irritants - this group are found in common household items such as acrosol sprays, cleaning products, and perfumes. Tobacco smoke, air pollution and industrial chemicals also belong to this group.

Physical Conditions - this group includes exercise, weather changes and emotional stress. It also includes viral infections like common cold and flu.

How do you know you are having an asthma attack?

Asthma attacks may start suddenly, or may take days to develop. Attacks range from mild, moderate to severe.

Mild-to-moderate attacks - are more common. There is a feeling of tightness in your chest and you may start coughing and spitting out mucus or phlegm. You may also feel restless or irritable and have difficulty sleeping. You oftentimes make a whistling or wheezing sound when you are breathing air in and out, which may be due to narrowed air tubes.

Several Attacks - during severe attacks you may become breathless and may have difficulty talking. Your neck muscles become tight as you breathe. Your lips and fingernails may have a grayish and bluish color. Your breathing becomes more forceful, usually accompanied by the upward movements of your chest.



Influenza A (H1N1) FAQ

Posted by Admin Tuesday, 9 June 2009

Here in our country the cases of Influenza A (N1H1) is beginning to rise as of this moment there are 54 cases in our country this virus is spreading fast, but still many Filipinos doesn't know what is this virus and what to do in case they have it so I decided to post here the FAQ about Influenza A (N1H1) from The DOH, Lets help to spread the information about this virus to avoid the fast spreading of the virus. Spread the word not the virus. Post the Health Advisory on any, anywhere you can post it.

What is Influenza A (H1N1)?

* Influenza A(H1N1) is caused by a novel virus that resulted from the re assortment of 4 viruses from pigs, human and birds
* It is a new virus causing illness in people
* It was first detected in people in April 2009 in the United States
* This virus is spreading from person-to-person, probably in much the same way that regular seasonal influenza viruses spread
* There is no vaccine yet to protect humans from this virus
* There are existing and recommended medicines that are effective in treating these Influenza A(H1N1)
* Influenza A(H1N1) can be fatal to humans due to severe respiratory distress (pneumonia)


Why this new Influenza A(H1N1) virus is sometimes called “swine flu”?

* This virus was originally referred to as “swine flu” because laboratory tests showed that many of the genes in this new virus were very similar to influenza viruses that normally occur in pigs in North America. But further study has shown that this new virus is very different from what normally circulates in North American pigs. It has two genes from flu viruses that normally circulate in pigs in Europe and Asia and avian genes and human genes. Scientists call this a “quadruple reassortant” virus.


Do pigs carry this virus and can people catch this virus from a pig?

* At this time, there is no evidence that swine in the United States are infected with this new virus. However, there are flu viruses that commonly cause outbreaks of illness in pigs. Most of the time, these viruses do not infect people, but influenza viruses can spread back and forth between pigs and people.


Are there human infections with this virus?

* Yes. Cases of human infection with this virus were first confirmed in the U.S. in Southern California and near Guadalupe Country, Texas. The outbreak intensified rapidly from that time and more and more states have been reporting cases of illness from this virus. Other countries with confirmed cases include Mexico, United States, Canada, Australia, Austria, New Zealand, Japan, Korea, China (Mainland China, Hongkong), Portugal, Poland, Guatemala, Spain, Costa Rica, Colombia, Denmark, El Salvador, France, Germany, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom, Brazil, Argentina, Panama.


Is this new virus contagious?

* Yes, Influenza A(H1N1) virus is contagious and is spreading from human to human. However, at this time, it is not known how easily the virus spreads between people.


What are the signs and symptoms of this virus in humans?

* Similar to the symptoms of regular flu such as:
* Fever
* Headache
* Fatigue
* Muscle or joint pains
* Lack of appetite
* Runny nose
* Sore throat
* Cough
* Some cases have reported diarrhea, nausea and vomiting.


How severe is illness associated with this virus?

* It is not known at this time how severe this virus will be in the general population. Experts are studying the medical histories of people who have been infected with this virus to determine whether some people may be at greater risk from infection, serious illness, or hospitalization from the virus.


How does Influenza A(H1N1) virus spread?

* Coughing or sneezing by people with influenza
* Touching things with flu viruses on it and then touching one’s mouth, nose or eyes


Can I get infected with Influenza A(H1N1) from eating or preparing pork?

* No, you can’t get influenza A(H1N1) by eating properly handled and thorough cooked pork and pork products
* The virus is killed by cooking temperatures of 160 F/70 C.


What is the incubation period?

* 7 to 10 days from the time of exposure to the first onset of signs and symptoms


How long can an infected person spread Influenza A(H1N1) to others?

* Infected person maybe contagious from one day before they develop symptoms to up to 7 days after they get sick. Children might potentially be contagious for longer periods.


Are there medicines to treat infection with AH1N1?

* Yes. Oseltamivirr or zanamivir are the recommended drugs to treat and or prevent infection with this virus. You have to consult a doctor before using these drugs to avoid resistance.


Is there prophylaxis for the Influenza A(H1N1)?

* Yes. For further information refer to Interim Guideline # 1.


Is vaccine available to protect people from getting infected with AH1N1?

* No, at present there is no vaccine against this virus.


How can we prevent the spread of the virus?

1. Observe proper personal hygiene:

* Cover your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing
* Wash hands regularly with soap and water, at least for 20 seconds (or use alcohol-based hand sanitizers) especially after handling patients and specimen, before and after eating, after using the toilet and as necessary.
* Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread this way.

2. Increase your body’s resistance

* Have at least 8 hours of sleep
* Be physically active
* Manage your stress
* Drink plenty of fluids
* Eat nutritious food, especially fruits and vegetables

3. Social distancing.

* Avoid crowded places.
* Avoid close contact with sick people.
* Stay home if you are sick until you are free from symptoms to prevent the spread of the virus.


What to do if somebody gets sick?

* • If there is flu like symptoms, consult the doctor immediately.
* Report to the proper health authorities .


Is there a pandemic risk on Influenza A(H1N1)?

* Yes. If the Influenza A(H1N1) establishes efficient and sustained human-to-human transmission then it can cause an influenza pandemic. The impact of a pandemic is difficult to predict. It depends on virulence of the virus, existing immunity among people, cross protection by antibodies acquired from seasonal influenza infection and host factors.


The following DOH Hospitals are designated as Referral Centers for Emerging and Re-emerging Infectious Diseases like Influenza A(H1N1):

National Referral Center
Research for Tropical Medicine (RITM)
Alabang, Muntinlupa, Metro Manila
Tel No. 809-7599

Sub-national Referral Centers

A. Luzon and Metro Manila

San Lazaro Hospital
Quiricada St., Sta. Cruz, Manila
Tel. No. (02) 732-3776 to 78

Lung Center of the Philippines
Quezon Avenue, Quezon City
Tel. No. (02) 924-6101/Fax No.:924-0707

B. Visayas

Vicente Sotto Medical Center
Cebu City
Tel. No. (032) 253-9891/254-0057

C. Mindanao

Davao Medical Center
Bajada, Davao City
Tel. No. (082) 227-2731

Satellite Referral Hospitals

Regional Hospitals/Medical Centers of 16 regions (list down the 16 regional hospitals)

Mariano Marcos Memorial Hosp. and Medical Center
Batac, Ilocos Norte
(077) 792-3144; 792-5002; 792-5051

Cagayan Valley Medical Center
Tuguegarao, Cagayan
(078) 844-3789; 844-1410; 844-0033; 0917-9356201

Jose B. Lingad Memorial General Hospital
San Fernando, Pampanga
(045) 961-3921; 961-3380; 961-3363

Batangas Regional Hospital
Batangas City, Batangas
(043) 723-0911; 980-1743

Bicol Regional Training and Teaching Hospital
Legaspi City, Albay
(052) 483-0016; 483-0015; 480-0635; 483-0808

Western Visayas Medical Center
Mandurriao, Iloilo City, Iloilo
(033) 321-1797; 321-0638; 321-2841

Western Visayas Regional Hospital
Bacolod City
(03) 433-2697 435-1591 loc. 241

Eastern Visayas Regional Medical Center
Magsaysay Blvd., Tacloban City
(053) 321-133; 321-3129; 321-2816; 325-8438

Zamboanga City Medical Center
Zamboanga City
(062) 991-2934

Northern Mindanao Medical Center
Cagayan de Oro City
(08822) 728-829; 723-735
(088) 858-4064
(0917) 950-4287
(0918) 534-5333

Cotabato Regional and Medical Center
Cotabato City, North Cotabato
(064) 421-2192; 421-2340 local 103

Baguio General Hospital and Medical Center
Baguio City
(074) 442-3165

Caraga Regional Hospital
Surigao City, Surigao del Norte
(086) 231-7090; 826-2459; 826-3157

Be vigilant!
If you have flu like symptoms and history of travel to Influenza A(H1N1) affected countries/areas, immediately consult a doctor.

For more information on Influenza A(H1N1), call (02) 711-1001 or 711-1002

source: www.doh.gov.ph

Melanoma Awareness

Posted by Admin Tuesday, 2 June 2009

Melanoma left footImage via Wikipedia


I have a friend who's foot had a small spot that looked different. It was purple and white and itched. That spot started because a melanocyte had gone out of control. He was informed by his personal physician that he had a melanoma.

Melanocytes are the cells that produce melanin. Melanin gives dark or tan color to the skin. But, when one of these cells gets out of control, it can produce one of the most dangerous cancers known. And more than 52,0007 people are told that they have melanoma every year just inside the United States.

Risks for getting Melanoma

The most common risk factor for melanoma known is over exposure to ultraviolet rays. When melanoma was first studied, it was found that people who worked outdoors had a much higher risk of melanoma. Then it was found out that mostly those who had gotten a sunburn that caused blisters were much more likely to get a malignant melanoma.

People with light skin are much more likely to get melanoma. This might likely be related to the fact that they are more likely to get skin damage by sun exposure. But, this is not a hard and fast fact.

Those who have lots of nevi (moles) are at higher risk for melanoma, especially those who have over 50. Also, those with a particular type of mole called a dysplastic nevus are at higher risk.

Some people have had other skin cancers successfully treated including squamous cell carcinoma. Those people are more likely to get melanoma.

If you have had other people in your family that had melanoma, then you are more likely to get a melanoma as well.

Finally, those who have a weakened immune system get malignant melanomas more frequently. Whether a person has AIDS, an organ transplant needing medications to curtail the immune system or others using those medications, that person will have a higher risk.

One published case exemplified the role of genetics in melanoma. A man who was a chimera got melanoma. A chimera is someone who has different parts of the body having two different sets of DNA. This could be the result when twins are formed and somehow join into one body. This man had large metastatic lumps on one side of his body and none at all on the other!

How to Identify a Malignant Melanoma

The only way to be sure whether a bump on your skin is a melanoma or not is to have your doctor take it off and get it studied by a pathologist. However, there are some ways to know if you should be suspicious of one of those lumps or bumps.

Irregular Border - A melanoma will usually have an uneven border. The average mole has a sharp border. You can point to any spot on your skin and say for sure whether it is part of the mole or not. This is not the case with melanoma.

Asymmetric Shape - The melanoma lesions typically have two halves that don't look like mirror images.

Different Color - Malignant Melanomas often will have different parts of the tumor that have different colors.

Size - most melanomas are larger than other moles. And they also tend to grow and may bleed or itch.

If you have a supicious lesion that you have a question about, get it examined by your doctor early. Getting that tumor removed early gives you a much better chance of a cure. Particularly when the lump is still quite small.