Common Skin Conditions: Dermatitis and Moles

Two of the most common skin conditions are the presence of moles and dermatitis. Moles can have more serious consequences than the irritation of dermatitis.

Moles occur when the cells in the skin that give it its pigment, called melanocytes, grow in clusters. These cells normally grow throughout the skin, but when too many grow in the same place a mole occurs. Most moles appear before the age of 25, but some may appear much later. Moles can remain static or change over time. Although most are not dangerous, some can be malignant and lead to melanoma. Any mole that oozes or becomes painful or sensitive should be checked out by a dermatologist. Moles that suddenly appear after the age of 25 or begin to change or grow should also be evaluated.

When evaluating your moles, keep the following in mind. Moles should be round. If your moles are asymmetrical, or irregular in shape, have it evaluated. If you find a mole that is larger than ¼”, mention it to your doctor or dermatologist. If you find that your mole has an irregular or jagged edge, or is not all one color, have your doctor look at it. Finally, any mole that is red or blue may be cause for concern.

Treating moles is not difficult. If a mole is embarrassing, or becomes irritated under your clothing, you may ask your doctor to remove it. Moles can be frozen with a chemical, after which they dry up and fall off. Other moles can be simply cut off of the skin. Often, doctors will remove entire moles that seem suspicious and test the tissue for cancer. If any malignancy is found, they may cut out a slightly larger area of skin and then suture the site closed.

Check your skin regularly for changes in your moles. If any seem suspicious, or any changes have occurred, let your doctor know. Preventing a problem is as easy as going on “mole patrol.”
by: Claire Bowes
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Sensitive Skin? 8 Tips for Preventing Contact Dermatitis

Skin care products, makeup, perfumes and other cosmetics are a large part of our life.

Nothing can ruin your day like a rash on your face. They seem to magically appear just before the big reveal. For all of us, especially those with sensitive skin, “irritant contact dermatitis” or the more serious “allergic contact dermatitis” is a risk associated with any chemical substance applied to our skin. Fortunately, severe allergic reactions to cosmetics are rare. Unfortunately, mild or even severe skin irritations, which can include itchy red patches, swelling, burning or stinging, blistering and later scaling and peeling, are not uncommon. Here are some practical tips which can reduce your chances of experiencing skin reactions to cosmetics:

1) Look for products that are hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic. These are less likely to cause a problem. I prefer to select products with simple formulas, thus fewer ingredients. This helps me narrow down the offending ingredient if I experience a problem. I find that “natural” or “organic” products seem safer to me, but by all means, this doesn’t mean they cannot give you a rash.

2) Try a skin test by applying the product to your inner wrist and wait 24 hours to see if you develop a negative reaction.

3) If you use a product that irritates you skin – Stop applying any cosmetics to the affected area at once. In most cases of mild skin irritation, treatment with a low dosage over-the-counter topical ointment is recommended. However, your doctor should be consulted for proper treatment. He may also help you identify allergies through skin patch testing.

4) Do not share makeup or makeup applicators or brushes with anyone. You should use disposable applicators whenever available. Clean brushes and reusable applicators frequently.

5) Discard outdated products. Many products require preservatives. Over time they may no longer be effective against bacterial contamination.

6) Perfumes and fragrances are sometimes a cause of allergic contact dermatitis. Try putting these on your clothing rather than on your skin. Select fragrance–free cosmetics if you have experienced a problem with perfume in the past.

7) Read the product’s directions for use and any warning labels. Follow the directions and heed the warnings. Avoid excessive or inappropriate use of any skin care product.

8) Read the label and make a note of the product’s ingredients if you experience a negative reaction. This is the 1st step in the process of eventually identifying the ingredient that you should avoid in the future.

Following these simple tips cannot guarantee success but they should help you avoid that rash before your next Big Reveal.
by: Mark Stephen Thevenot
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Urinary Incontinence - The Abnormality Behind Recurrent Urinary Infection

Urinary incontinence is a urinary abnormality that tampers with the functioning of urinary bladder. It happens due to loss of neurological or muscular control in the bladder. This leads to frequent and inadequate flow of urine. This abnormality is directly or indirectly linked to the occurrence of urinary infection.

The kidney transfers the urine to the urinary bladder via the ureters. As soon as the urinary bladder gets completely filled, the neurological and muscular control starts operating. When the person gets ready to urinate, the system sends a message to the nervous system. This relaxes the inner sphincter muscles and opens the internal valve of the bladder.

However, the person urinates once the external sphincter muscle starts contracting. This leads to contraction of urinary muscles and aids the flow of urine from the bladder to urethra. If the urine doesn't flow out completely, then it gets contaminated and gives birth to urinary infection. Thus, it’s necessary that the urinary muscles function properly and decode the neurological messages in time.

The malfunctioning of the neurological control occurs due to the following reasons. This inadequacy leads to frequent occurrence of urinary infection. The factors that lead to urinary incontinence are brain or spinal cord damage, bladder tumors and enuresis (frequent bed wetting). These factors fail to send a message to the brain which leads to delay in the action of the sphincter muscles.

You can gage the presence of muscular incontinence, if the patient secretes under stressed environment. This problem is faced by women after the pregnancy. At times, the abnormality can be cleared through pelvic exercises while sometimes the patient requires a surgery. This muscular abnormality also occurs in the elderly age. Old people are unable to control their sphincter muscles for a long time and secrete before they reach the bathroom.

Hence, it is highly important to cure urinary incontinence else it leads to recurrent urinary infection that is highly problematic for the patients.
by: Robert Henry

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Are Hoodia Gordonii Diet Pills The Best Diet Pills?

You've undoubtedly heard about Hoodia Gordonii, or seen it somewhere. Maybe on TV or the internet. Maybe you've even noticed it in other diet pills.


Have you ever wondered what Hoodia is all about?

Let's explore a few things about Hoodia.Hoodia Gordonii (or Hoodia Gordoni as it's sometimes referred to) comes from the Hoodia Gordonii plant. It's also sometimes referred to as the hoodia cactus plant. It grows in the South African Kalahari desert.

It's been used for, literally, for hundreds of years as an appetite suppressant by the San tribe of South Africa.It was eaten by the San tribe during famine to avoid excessive thirst and hunger. They would also eat it on journeys where there would be very little food available to avoid becoming too hungry or thirsty.

It has since been discovered that hoodia pills work by the presence of the P57 molecule. The P57 molecule 'tricks' the brain into thinking you're full. With a natural feeling of fullness, your desire to eat is lessened, and your daily caloric intake is reduced.

A few reasons why the hoodia pill should be considered in a weight loss program:

- For those who eat from an emotional need, Hoodia Gordonii is a great answerWhen taking Hoodia, because of the feeling of fullness it provides, most people say they do not have a desire for food. Some have even reported they don't think about food or eating.

For these people, weight gain can be more from eating because of boredom, or even emotional needs, instead of actually being hungry. If you feel full and satisfied, it's easier to both make healthier food choices, and eat less.This will certainly contribute to overall vitality and health.

- The higher quality hoodia pills contain natural ingredients. Actually, the highest qualify pills contain pure hoodia, without any binders, fillers, caffeine, or chemicals.Why take caffeine and chemical laden diet pills to lose weight? These are probably causing harmful effects to your body. A great benefit of Hoodia Gordonii is that it's natural and safe.

- With the Hoodia pill, you lose weight without being hungry, and without any feeling of being deprived.A study of obese patients in Great Britain, where half the volunteers were given hoodia pills, and the other half were given a placebo.

The only activities the volunteers were allowed were to eat, watch television, and read.After two weeks, those taking the hoodia pills had a reduced caloric intake of 1,000 calories daily. These individuals lost weight, even though there was ample food available, without being hungry, or feeling deprived.

It has been reported that people have lost up to four pounds in a week, eighty four pounds in five months, even 100 pounds in six months, taking pure Hoodia Gordonii.

If you'd like to lose weight, without dieting, Hoodia pills can help you. Because Hoodia is not a manufactured chemical, but rather a natural cactus plant, there's little likelihood of side effects.

Interestingly, Hoodia is classified as a food, not a drug, by the government of South Africa!

Studies of Hoodia by scientists for about the last decade have not discovered any negative side effects. Considering that the San Bushmen have been eating Hoodia for hundreds of years, without ill effects, then it's easy to see why Hoodia is a preferred alternative to chemical and caffeine laden diet pills.

These benefits certainly point out why Hoodia is superior to manufactured diet pills, but there are a few things that should be kept in mind.

Be aware that there are inferior brands of Hoodia being sold. Why? It requires two to five years for the hoodia plant to mature. It is also a protected species. Because of this, the demand for hoodia is outstripping the supply. This has led some manufacturers to sell inferior forms of hoodia pills - with insufficient amounts of hoodia gordonii and/or with fillers and binders. These forms don't provide the appetite suppressing properties of pure Hoodia.

If you're looking to buy Hoodia, always look for a Certificate of Analysis. Check the seller's website. This is the real proof that the Hoodia you're buying is 100% pure Hoodia.

Also, you want to look for the C.I.T.E.S. certificate. This is one of the most important documents, because a A genuine C.I.T.E.S. certificate is proof that you are purchasing authentic Hoodia Gordonii.

And - avoid products with binders and fillers in them. Buy Hoodia that's 100% pure.

Last, but certainly not least: Consult your physiciam before beginning a Hoodia regimen. If by any chance a medical situation is present, then Hoodia will not provide the benefits you're looking for. Don't waste your time and money. See your physician first.

Even though Hoodia Gordonii provides excellent results, eventually, you will most likely want to stop taking it. Consider changing your diet to one including fruits and vegetables, lean meats, and whole grains. Doing this before you stop taking the hoodia pills will help greatly to maintain the weight loss you'veachieved.
by: Zane Quincy Johnson
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Swine Flu, SARS, and Kimchi

A couple of thousand years ago, makers of Kimchi (a Korean pickled cabbage side dish), long before the appearance of SARS and the Swine Flu, would never have imagined their diet staple might prevent and possibly cure these viral infections.

In April ’09, The World Health Organization (WHO) raised the influenza pandemic status to phase four warning.

What’s the difference between the yearly flu season and being infected by the A (H1N1) flu? According to the World Health Organization:

“Influenza A (H1N1) is a new virus and one to which most people have no or little immunity and, therefore, this virus could cause more infections than are seen with seasonal flu. The new influenza A (H1N1) appears to be as contagious as seasonal influenza, and is spreading fast particularly among young people (from ages 10 to 45). The severity of the disease ranges from very mild symptoms to severe illnesses that can result in death. The majorities of people who contract the virus experience the milder disease and recover without antiviral treatment or medical care. Of the more serious cases, more than half of hospitalized people had underlying health conditions or weak immune systems”. [1]

"If there is anywhere in the world that took a beating by SARS, it was Hong Kong," says Peter Cordingley, spokesman for the World Health Organization (WHO) in Manila. "The lesson was learned." Drawing on the past, Hong Kong has already issued travel advisories and stepped up controls at airports, including the use of infrared temperature scans and the detainment of travelers arriving with flu-like symptoms. [2]

The countries and overseas territories/communities that reported their first pandemic (H1N1) 2009 confirmed case(s) since the last web update (6 July 2009) as of 22 July 2009:

Afghanistan, Andorra, Belize, Bhutan, Botswana, La Réunion (French Overseas Community), Haiti, the Marshall Islands, the Federated States of Micronesia, Namibia, Sint Eustatius (Netherlands Antilles), Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Seychelles, Solomon Islands, the Sudan, Tonga, Turks and Caicos Islands (UK Overseas Territory), the United Republic of Tanzania, American Samoa (US), Guam (US)

As of July 22, 2009, the Grand Total of deaths attributed to swine flu is 1,154. For updated information of reported cases visit the WHO Pandemic (H1N1) 2009 site.

A Google Map depicting areas of the swine flu outbreak provides an accurate geographical image of infection outbreaks.

How is it treated?

For suspected cases of the virus, a five-day treatment of zanamivir alone or combination of oseltamivir and either amantadine or rimantadine is initiated. For confirmed cases of swine influenza A (H1N1) virus infection, either oseltamivir (Tamiflu) or zanamivir (Relenza) may be administered. [3]

Will a facemask protect me from being infected?

We have very limited information of the effectiveness of facemasks and respirators in combating and control of influenza. If used correctly, facemasks and respirators may help reduce the risk of getting influenza, but they should be used along with other preventive measures, such as avoiding close contact and maintaining good hand hygiene.

"Unless otherwise specified, "respirator" refers to an N95 or higher filtering face piece respirator certified by the U.S. National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). Three feet has often been used by infection control professionals to define close contact and is based on studies of respiratory infections; however, for practical purposes, this distance may range up to 6 feet. The World Health Organization uses "approximately 1 meter"; the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration uses "within 6 feet." [3]

Any prognosis for the future?

Approximately 90-95% of infected people recover despite harsh symptoms to include 100+ degree temp. headaches, extreme fatigue, chills, diarrhea, sore throat, aching muscles, basically all the common flu symptoms.

To date, caution must be taken as swine flu (H1N1) is still spreading and may become a pandemic affecting entire regions or countries. Annual Flu outbreaks are expected and predictable. However this outbreak has not followed usual flu patterns. The future speculated prognosis is split among those who believe swine flu (H1N1) will diminish and die out this summer '09 and those who believe it will return to claim more cases similar to the influenza pandemic of 1918.

So, what's this potential wonder drug at the Korean dinner table?

Since 2003 when SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome) rolled across Asia, Koreans remained unaffected for the most part. Being the daily and national side dish that it is, Kimchi was promoted to status of natural preventative and cure for SARS with virtually no scientific evidence to support the claim. Believe me, as someone who eats kimchi daily and loves it so much I operate a site called http://www.LoveThatKimchi.com, I welcome and listen to the suggestions, and hope for further scientific investigation validating such claims. Imagine being obsessed with a food that is suddenly found to save lives in the face of a new and deadly health threat.

Scientists at Seoul National University fed a kimchi extract to thirteen chickens infected with avian flu. A week later, eleven of the thirteen chickens apparently recovered. To date, such studies remain unpublished and certainly not recognized by any medical or scientific community. Professor Kang of the Seoul National University who observed the thirteen chickens stated Leuconostoc (lactic acid bacteria) found in Kimchi had a positive effect on the bird flu. .

Hong Jong Hoon, a technical consultant with the Korea Agriculture Development Institute, suggested another possible and connecting factor is the ways Koreans eat most of their garlic!

Hong began his researching studies at the Center for Disease Control and Prevention's website where he found a connection between SARS and the corona virus. He then made his way to Stanford University's site, which lists - along with reducing stress, getting more sleep and frequently washing your hands - putting drops of garlic juice on the nostrils as a way to fight infection. Put it all together, he says, and you see why South Korea has had only a handful of suspected cases of SARS and no fatalities, despite its close proximity to China, where the virus originated, and to hard-hit Hong Kong and Taiwan. Hong concedes that many other countries make ample use of garlic in their diets, including Italy and China. But they cook their garlic; Koreans eat theirs raw in kimchi. His theory may be tough to prove, but that doesn't mean it isn't true, he says. [4]

Park Yong Woo, a doctor of family medicine at Seoul's Samsung Hospital, welcoming needed clinical testing, says, he's convinced of its healing properties.

"I'd like to compare it with an orchestra," Park says. "It's made of cabbage. But within that are a lot of healthy constituents, including garlic, ginger and chile peppers. It's very harmonious food."

Kim Man Jo, a food industry consultant and author of several books, including Kimchi, Kimchi, believes Kimchi's curing or managing properties against some infectious disease is created and found in the fermentation process - "They haven't done experiments yet, but harmful diseases can be dominated by the lactobacilli.” she says.

Depending on the variety, I know the most common nappa cabbage kimchi variety has a strong combination of cabbage, red chili pepper powder, fish sauce, lots of garlic, salt, green onions, daikon radish, sugar, and yes, even more garlic - all fermented to perfection to deliver the heavenly flavor and strongest anti-microbial punch. Withstanding the lack of research in swine flu and kimchi as a preventative or cure, research has found that these friendly bacteria to boost the immune system. Further research has shown live indigenous bacteria and chemicals they produce can penetrate the intestinal wall and stimulate growth and maintenance of immune cells. Strains of Lactobacillus can also stimulate defense cells and increase anti-viral chemicals like interferon.

To date we do have specified medical treatment and course of action despite no vaccine. While it excites me to find kimchi may possess combative properties against certain viral strains, until the claims are subjected to the "scientific method", it shall remain a folkloric home remedy alongside chicken soup. Despite the lack of evidence, If a pandemic condition swept the area I live in, I would certainly heed Westerm medical approaches and most importantly, double up on my kimchi consumption. Shall we say to each his own?

With the unfortunate number of those who've died from SARS or Swine Flu (Swine flu killing over 1100 victims worldwide as of July '09 and over 700 claimed by SARS) perhaps it will take a pandemic and desperate condition to even consider researching these currently unfounded beliefs and claims. Today, at least 168 countries and territories have reported confirmed swine flu cases.

Since I first ate kimchi in 1990, it remains a favorite daily side dish that I always look forward to. Whether it cures anything or not, it certainly makes my taste buds and overall system feel great. I just can't sit to dine at home or a Korean restaurant without it.

While these flu strains come and go or stay, those who enjoy eating kimchi (touted as one of the five healthiest foods in the world by Health Magazine) continue to get more than their share of nature's probiotic which some day may add new flu strains to it's long list of combated enemies.

In the meantime, for various flu strains we have existing vaccines and for those we don't or other still standing bugs such as the common cold, we have Gatorade, chicken soup, and old-fashioned but very effective rest.
by: Randy Stewart
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What Is Parkinson Disease

Parkinson disease is a brain disorder that affects nearly 1.5 million Americans and 60,000 new cases are diagnosed annually. There is no known cure but with research and medication there is hope.

A British physician, Dr. James Parkinson, first described the disease in 1817. It is characterized by slowness, tremors, stiffness and a loss of balance. Only two of these symptoms need to be present, especially if they are more apparent on one side of the body over the other, for a diagnosis of the condition to be made.

Brain cells called neurons are responsible for passing along electrical impulses throughout the brain, from one cell to the next, allowing the brain to function normally. In Parkinson disease, cells in a certain part of the brain called the substantia nigra begin to die or become impaired. These cells are particularly important because they produce a chemical called dopamine. This chemical is responsible for smooth and coordinated movement of the body’s muscles. According to the National Parkinson Foundation, “When approximately 80% of the dopamine-producing cells are damaged, the symptoms of Parkinson disease appear.”

So who’s at risk for developing Parkinson disease? Almost everyone; the disease doesn’t seem to be selective and affects women and men equally; and while it is generally considered a disease of the elderly that occurs after the age of 65, about 15% of the affected population are diagnosed under the age of 50. Parkinson affect 1 out of every 100 people and there doesn’t seem to be any social, ethnic, economic or geographic boundaries either. “Currently, researchers suspect that the cause of Parkinson disease in most individuals reflects a combination of genetic factors and environmental exposures.” (National Parkinson Foundation)

Parkinson’s isn’t easy to diagnose either. There is no blood test or brain scan that definitively points to the condition – doctors diagnose based on the process of elimination and patient symptoms. Other signs of the disease include: a shuffling walk, small cramped handwriting, muffled speech, depression and stiff facial expressions. There are doctors, neurologists, who specialize in the treatment of neurological disorders and of these even more specialized practioners who specifically treat Parkinson disease.
by: Gray Rollins
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Postpartum Depression (PPD)

Clinicians and researchers use the term “postpartum depression,” or “PPD,” to refer to non-psychotic depression that occurs shortly after childbirth.

Does it differ from other depressions?

Apart from the fact that it happens soon after childbirth, PPD is clinically no different from a depressive episode that occurs at any other time in a woman’s life. The symptoms are the same as in general depression, and must meet the same criteria for diagnosis. However, not surprisingly, the content of the symptoms of PPD often focuses on motherhood or infant care topics.

What causes it?

Although health professionals do not know what causes depression (and therefore PPD), they accept that there is no single cause. Physical, hormonal, social, psychological and emotional factors may all play a part in triggering the illness. This is known as the biopsychosocial model of depression, and is accepted by most researchers and clinicians. The factor or group of factors that trigger PPD vary from one individual to the other.

How common is it?

PPD is the most common complication of child-bearing. Although the rates given in individual studies vary greatly, a meta-analysis of 59 studies of more than 12,000 women found that PPD affects an average of 13 per cent of women (O’Hara & Swain, 1996).

When does it start?

The time period used to define “postpartum” varies, from immediately following childbirth to four weeks (according to formal diagnostic classification systems) after childbirth or up to a year, according to some research studies. Symptoms usually begin within the first four weeks postpartum, although they can start up to 12 months afterwards. However, service providers may not detect and treat PPD until much later. Often, questioning will reveal that the symptoms actually began much earlier than the woman had disclosed to a health care provider.

How do clinicians diagnose it?

A physician or licensed psychologist makes a formal diagnosis of depression. Professionals use numerous methods to elicit the information needed to make a diagnosis, including standardized clinical interviews. The clinician’s judgment is essential in deciding whether or not an individual’s symptoms meet diagnostic criteria, in terms of severity or duration of symptoms. The formal classification system used in North America is the American Psychiatric Association (APA) Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth edition, or DSM-IV (American Psychiatric Association, 1994).

To indicate an episode of PPD using DSM-IV criteria, the physician or psychologist would indicate that it is an episode of major depressive disorder with the specifier “postpartum onset” (which means that the symptoms occurred within four weeks of the woman’s having given birth).

Individuals must have exhibited either a depressed mood or a loss of interest or pleasure in usual activities (called anhedonia) continually, for a minimum of two weeks. In addition, they must have experienced other symptoms from a given list of seven, for a minimum of two weeks.

A clinician will diagnose major depression if the individual has a low mood or anhedonia, plus four other symptoms (for a minimum of five symptoms). People with a low mood or anhedonia with fewer than four symptoms will receive a diagnosis of minor or moderate depression.

How can service providers rule out other causes?

It is imperative that the symptoms displayed a) represent a change from the individual’s normal functioning and b) cause impairment in everyday life. Through referral to the family doctor or another physician, as appropriate, providers should rule out other medical conditions that may cause similar symptoms and may be common in the postpartum period (e.g., thyroid dysfunction, diabetes, anemia, autoimmune diseases).

How long does it last?

The length of an episode varies from a number of weeks to a number of months. Some women say it can take up to a year for them to feel back to their normal selves. In a small number of cases, the episode may not remit and the women experience chronic episodes of depression.
by: Arthur Buchanan
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Dealing with Sexually Transmitted Diseases During Pregnancy

One of the risks that people take during sexual intercourse is the possibility of contracting a sexually transmitted disease or STD. The consequences of acquiring one are even greater during pregnancy because the condition can severely affect the health of both the mother and her baby. Moreover, contracting such diseases during pregnancy may result to long-term effects on the health of the baby.

Sexually transmitted diseases are one of the leading complications during pregnancy. The infection affects approximately two million women during their pregnancy. This is because getting pregnant offers no fail-safe protection from acquiring the disease, and a woman who is pregnant is as vulnerable as any other woman active in sexual activities. If sexually transmitted diseases are dangerous enough for a woman who is not pregnant, the risks multiply even more for a pregnant woman.

Why STDs are More Dangerous during Pregnancy

Sexually transmitted diseases that are acquired during pregnancy are potentially life threatening. This is because a pregnant woman’s health is very fragile. She must learn how to protect herself and her baby from infection.

The following are the common consequences when contracting sexually transmitted diseases during pregnancy:

1) Cervical cancer and other infections in the reproductive system

2) Chronic hepatitis

3) Cirrhosis

4) Early onset of labor

5) Uterine infection

Premature rupture of the uterine membranes that surround the baby

Once a pregnant woman learns that she is infected with sexually transmitted diseases, the first thing that she needs to do is to seek medical treatment right away. However, just like in the case of sexually transmitted diseases affecting non-pregnant women, detection of the disease is difficult. Often, it is only detected when it is already in its advanced stages. Detection at an earlier stage is often difficult and is a very critical element towards proper treatment.

What is even more dangerous with sexually transmitted diseases acquired during pregnancy is the possibility of the transmitting the disease or causing an infection to the infant. For example, syphilis is known to cross the placenta and cause fetal infection, which may affect the development of the baby. Aside from syphilis, other sexually transmitted diseases that can be transmitted to the infant are HIV and genital herpes.

Once infection is passed on to the infant, there are many consequences that will result such as cirrhosis, liver disease, meningitis, hepatitis, blindness or deafness, neonatal sepsis, brain damage, pneumonia, conjunctivitis, low birth weight, and stillbirth.

The Best Treatment for Sexually Transmitted Diseases during Pregnancy

Medical experts suggest that the best way to protect one from sexually transmitted diseases is through a monogamous relationship. This is because any medication taken by a pregnant woman has to be considered against the possible risks, especially towards the health of the baby. Fortunately, there are antibiotics that are safe for pregnant women and can cure some sexually transmitted diseases. However, some STDs such as HIV and genital herpes are not curable during pregnancy and any medication against them is only to reduce the symptoms.
by: James Pendergraft


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Condoms- a Safe Way to Birth Control

Why do I need to use a condom?

Condoms are the only form of protection, which can both help to stop the transmission of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) such as HIV and prevent pregnancy.

Choosing the right condom

A number of different types of condom are now available. What is generally called a condom is the 'male' condom, a sheath or covering which fits over a man's penis, and which is closed at one end. There is also now a female condom, or vaginal sheath, which is used by a woman to fit inside her vagina.

What are condoms made of?

Condoms are usually made of latex or polyurethane. If possible, you should use a latex condom, as they are slightly more reliable, and in most countries, they are most readily available. Latex condoms can only be used with water-based lubricants, not oil based lubricants such as Vaseline or cold cream as they break down the latex. A small number of people have an allergic reaction to latex and can use polyurethane condoms instead.

Polyurethane condoms are made out a type of plastic. They are thinner than latex condoms, and so they increase sensitivity and are more agreeable in feel and appearance to some users. They are more expensive than latex condoms and slightly less flexible so more lubrication may be needed. However both oil and water based lubricants can be used with them.

It is not clear whether latex or polyurethane condoms are stronger - there are studies suggesting that either is less likely to break. With both types however, the likelihood of breakages is very small if used correctly.

The lubrication on condoms also varies. Some condoms are not lubricated at all, some are lubricated with a silicone substance, and some condoms have a water-based lubricant. The lubrication on condoms aims to make the condom easier to put on and more comfortable to use. It can also help prevent condom breakage.
by: David Chandler
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Tuberculosis, a Cause for Concern?

Despite advances in treatments available, tuberculosis (TB) still remains a global pandemic. One third the human population is currently infected with tuberculosis. What is tuberculosis?

The disease tuberculosis is caused by the bacteria Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Tuberculosis can affect any part of the body but usually infects the lungs. Tuberculosis is spread through airborne droplets occurring when an infected individual sneezes, talks, or coughs. However, prolonged exposure to the infected individual must occur before you may become infected. The body may harbor the bacteria while the immune system prevents sickness. For this reason, there are two forms of TB: latent tuberculosis and active tuberculosis.

With latent tuberculosis, the immune system is able to prevent the bacteria from growing. The tuberculosis bacteria remain alive within the body but are inactive at this time. However, the bacteria can become active later in life. Those with latent tuberculosis have no symptoms, do not feel sick, are not contagious, and may develop TB later in life if they do not receive treatment.

Active tuberculosis simply means that the tuberculosis bacteria are growing within the body causing an active infection. Signs and symptoms of active tuberculosis include fatigue, slight fever, chills, night sweats, loss of appetite, unintended weight loss, a cough that lasts three or more weeks producing discolored or bloody sputum, and pain with coughing or breathing. Active tuberculosis is highly contagious.

What is causing the tuberculosis pandemic? Improved public health programs have helped to create a steady decline of tuberculosis cases in the United States. However, the problem is far from solved. Factors that contribute to the spread of tuberculosis in the U.S. and elsewhere include the increase in number of foreign born nationals, crowded living conditions, increase in drug resistant strains of tuberculosis, lack of access to medical care, and the increase in poverty.

Poorly ventilated and crowded conditions help to spread TB. This is one reason tuberculosis cases have reached epidemic proportions. Although the incidence of TB cases in the U.S. is declining, the incidence in other parts of the world is increasing. Half of the reported cases in the U.S. (in 2000) occurred in individuals that were born outside of the U.S. Individuals that live in poverty, move or migrate often usually do not finish the tuberculosis treatment. This is leading to drug resistant forms of tuberculosis.

Drug resistant strains of tuberculosis are a serious problem. Tuberculosis bacteria have developed strains of the bacteria that are resistant to each of the major tuberculosis medications. There are also strains of tuberculosis that are resistant to at least two tuberculosis medications. This multidrug-resistant TB (MDR-TB) is posing an even deadlier threat to those affected. Individuals affected with MDR-TB are much more difficult to treat requiring a long term therapy of up to two years. The medications required to treat these strains can cause serious side effects. This is one great reason to complete the entire course of medication as prescribed by your doctor.

Certain factors increase your risk of contracting tuberculosis. An individual in an immunocompromised state is at risk of developing TB. A number of factors can cause the immune system to be in a weakened state. Some diseases can suppress the immunity such as diabetes, HIV/AIDS, and silicosis. Certain medications can affect the body’s immune system which includes chemotherapy drugs and corticosteroids. An increased risk of reactivated tuberculosis has been associated with the use of arthritis medications Enbrel and Remicade.

Individuals within close proximity of those infected with tuberculosis are at an increased risk of developing disease. Individuals in areas of high rates of tuberculosis (Asia, Africa, Latin America, former Soviet Union) have an increased risk of developing tuberculosis. Certain races (Hispanics, American Indians, Asian Americans, African Americans) in the U.S. are at risk of developing tuberculosis. What other factors may increase your risk of developing tuberculosis?

The older adult is at an increased risk of developing tuberculosis due to a weakened immune system. Individuals who are malnourished, lack adequate medical care, or who suffer from long term drug or alcohol abuse are at increased risk of developing tuberculosis. Health care workers are at increased risk of developing tuberculosis also.

If you develop any of the signs or symptoms listed above, you should seek medical advice. Individuals with HIV should be tested for tuberculosis, since the leading cause of death in the AIDS patient is tuberculosis. HIV and tuberculosis have a deadly symbiosis, in which TB increases the rate at which the AIDS virus replicates and HIV reactivates inactive TB. Health care workers are usually tested at least yearly for tuberculosis by Mantoux test. Individuals with latent tuberculosis reveal a positive Mantoux even though no symptoms of the disease are evident. Tuberculosis is also tested by chest x-ray and culture tests (urine, sputum).

Tuberculosis is a preventable disease. There are a few measures one can take to protect their health. First, you should be tested regularly. If you have an immune suppressing disease, live or work in a prison or nursing home, were born in a TB prevalent country, or have other risk factors, then a Mantoux test should be done every six months.

If you test positive without symptoms, speak with your doctor about treatments to reduce the risk of developing active tuberculosis. The most important step you can do for the public and yourself is to finish the entire course of medication.
by: Kristy Haugen
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Malaria Initiative Succeeding

Africa Malaria Day, April 25, is a reminder that Malaria is one the deadliest diseases in the world -- killing more than one million people per year, mostly poor women and young children in tropical countries. Because of this urgent need, in 2002, Freedom from Hunger, with help from the drug company GlaxoSmithKline, launched an anti-malaria pilot program in six West African countries.

This Malaria Initiative educates women in poor rural areas about malaria; brings them access to subsidized, insecticide treated bednets; and provides linkages to local health services for treatment. Education, provided in the form of role-play, story and song, is the key because it teaches women who have never been to school how to prevent malaria, when and how to treat it, and even how to organize community safeguards.

Overcoming Cost Barriers

Many women whose families are threatened by malaria cannot afford insecticide–treated mosquito nets. So Freedom from Hunger has convinced manufacturers and distributors to provide the nets at a substantially reduced cost (about $4 per net). Freedom from Hunger also arranged for local sources of appropriate and reliable anti-malarial drugs to be provided at reasonable prices to individuals when the disease strikes. Because Freedom from Hunger’s Malaria Initiative is layered onto a self-financing microcredit program, women gain sustainable access to credit to build home-based business, earning money to buy nets and pay for health services.

In a recent visit to program areas in Burkina Faso, it was seen that many of the women had already purchased the nets and the rest were setting aside money to buy them soon. One participant, Fatoumata Monomata, expressed the essence of the program, "I learned how to keep my children safe from malaria." By the end of the three-year pilot, the Malaria Initiative will be reaching 180,000 women in West Africa.

Achieving Sustainability

Wherever poverty, hunger, and poor health combine they often form a vicious cycle that lasts for generations. To break this chain of hopelessness permanently, Freedom from Hunger will make the anti-malaria activities a regular part of the Credit with Education program whenever it is implemented in malaria-endemic areas. The women themselves cover the local costs of the anti-malaria program through earnings generated by their loan repayments. The powerful combination of services provided by Credit with Education creates a ladder out of poverty, hunger, and ill health—with each step leading to a life of self-reliance, health, and hope.
by: Dottie Duncan

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What Is Good For Watery Diarrhea? Let's Get Some Help

What Is Good For Watery Diarrhea? Let's Get Some Help

Thinking back I have never forgotten how I would get scared to death if one of my young babies not yet two or three years old got watery diarrhea. They always attracted a fever. What is going on with the inside of my baby’s body? This watery diarrhea was getting worse by the minute. Whatever my wife or I gave one of them it didn't matter. Our remedies were not relieving our children’s problems. Keeping the food in their bodies did not take place. It was one diaper after another. I felt so awful I often suffered like my wife did.

When my kids had watery diarrhea they looked so pale. They had a colorless face and a wasted appearance. Like there was nothing left inside them. This watery diarrhea knocked them for a loop. This watery diarrhea made me feel so helpless. Hopefully you never went through this with your kids. But if you did you know how punishing this can be.

What is Acute Watery Diarrhea?

A greater number of stools or looser form of bowel movement is a symptom of watery diarrhea. This will last less than 2 weeks, and is frequently combined with abdominal issues such as cramping, bloating, and gas. Although frequently gentle, acute watery diarrhea can be a pre cursor to dehydration as a result of large fluid and electrolyte losses. Often the person feels weak. Patients have often had to rest for hours when they have contacted watery diarrhea because they are just drained of energy.

Acute bloody watery diarrhea suggests a bacterial force like Campylobacter, Salmonella or Shigella. One way that this can happen is to visit underdeveloped locations of the world. Some of these places lack the technology to maintain a higher level of hygiene. Eating rotten foods such as ground beef or fresh fruit can cause diarrhea due to E.coli.

Watery diarrhea causes

Acute, watery diarrhea is usually caused by a bug (viral gastroenteritis.) Applications such as antibiotics and drugs that specialize in magnesium products are also routine offenders. Sudden changes in your eating pattern can again contribute to acute watery diarrhea. An intake of coffee, tea, colas, dietetic foods, gums or mints that contain poorly absorbable sugars can contribute to watery diarrhea.

Acute bloody watery diarrhea implies a bacterial consideration like Campylobacter, Salmonella or Shigella. Visiting to newly developed areas of the world can result in exposure to bacterial pathogens common in certain areas. Some of these areas lack the waste removal technology present in more developed countries. Eating unhealthy foods such as bad ground beef or unfresh fruit can cause watery diarrhea due to E.coli.

Do not rest your intestine during this time. This can cause dehydration. Drink plenty of liquids. Like water and herbal teas. There has not been a safe and effective drug to treat watery diarrhea. There have been herbal remedies that have worked.

Feel free to pass this article on to anyone you think it would help.
by: aron wallad

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Solving Insomnia and Sleep Problems Without Drugs

If you’ve been watching TVand paying attention, both of the best selling and most advertised drugs for sleep problems (Lunestra and Ambien) have been causing serious problems for some users.

If you really listen to their TV ads, (and all drug advertising ads) you’ll learn that both have various (and dangerous) side effects. As with all drug ads, a “spin” of the facts is done so as to make them seem pretty harmless, but if you listen carefully, these are actually pretty dangerous drugs, not “safe” for many people. Who wants to drive a car while asleep? (The clever “spin” in these ads does fool most people.)

Insomnia affects many thousands of persons. It is often a component of depression, and/or other “brain problems”, such as ADD/ADHD. It was recently estimated that up to 25% of teenagers are not getting sufficient sleep. Many of these are also having attention problems in school as well, even if not diagnosed as ADD or ADHD.

24 million prescriptions were filled for insomnia last year according to Nightly News of NBC. This is a 2 billion dollar business.

Up to now, there have been three alternatives for sleep problems:

1. Suffer with it.

2. See a doctor and get a prescription with possibly dangerous side-effects.

3. Spend large amounts of money on EEG biofeedback (AKA neurofeedback).

Because of the cost of EEG BF, the only real alternative for most families has been prescription drugs. This is the same situation that applies to most “brain problems” - including depression, insomnia, ADD/ADHD and many others.

Now, there’s an inexpensive alternative that actually does the same thing that EEG BF does - namely raise one brain wave, and lower another. Most people don’t know what EEG BF does, and most of the people getting rich using it don’t want you to know the facts and how simple it really is.

There are thousands of audio signals that are actually generated as the brain goes abut its business. Some have compared it to a “Symphony in the brain”. These signals are extremely weak, on the order of a few millionths of a volt. As the ability of electronics grew over the last century, it became possible to actually amplify these signals, and to even see and hear them.

Of course, if you just put them on a speaker, it’s a cacophony of noise without rhyme or reason. However, as electronic filters were developed, it became possible to filter out all except a narrow band. These were classified by early experimenters into several bands, and partially classified as to what each “band” was doing. It was an attempt to “read minds”, but, of course, it didn’t succeed.

In 1969, a Dr Sterman found that by raising a small band of waves just above the Alpha brain wave some strange effects were noticed. Later this small band (12-14 Hz (cycles per second) was re-named SMR (Sensory Motor Response) because the “usual” sensor location on the head was over this brain area.

Sterman and many after him found that if the amplitude of SMR was raised, several important effects were noticed. In particular, cats that died from exposure to hydrazine (anaphylaxis) normally didn’t die after being trained to raise SMR. Other experimenters found with biofeedback training, most other “brain problems” of ADD, ADHD, depression, insomnia, and many others either lessened or were solved!

This was an important clue, because the cats died from anaphylactic shock - that is severe allergy response (well known to people who are highly allergic to things like peanuts, bee stings, etc) When I first found out about EEG BF, I theorized that raising SMR somehow changes the brain affect from allergens. As an Orthomolecular Psychologist, I was very aware that allergy/sensitivity can cause any and all of the “brain problems” such as ADD/ADHD, Depression, Insomnia, and many others, even Schizophrenia.

In 2000, I started a company devoted to lowering the cost of EEG BF so that mid and non-rich families would have an alternate to Ritalin and the rest of those very dangerous drugs. (Again, the cost of “clinical” EEG BF runs upwards of 4000-10,000 dollars.)

In 2004, I suddenly realized that it should be possible to use subliminal messaging techniques to raise the SMR. I set up a volunteer program, and the results showed clearly that both my theories were probable at least.

1. Raising SMR does change the brain affect from allergens.

2. Subliminal Messaging does work to raise the SMR brain waves.

In other tests from that point with several volunteer tests from 2004 up to the present, with over 150 volunteers, these two theories have been expanded and proven over and over to be correct. We now have CD’s that not only raise the SMR brain wave, but also lower Theta, and/or increase brain blood flow. (NASA found that lowering Theta definitely raises “attention” or concentration. However, it also seem to lower creative or artistic abilities. This is why we offer a CD Package that raises SMR, and blood brain flow, but does not lower Theta for those without “attention” deficit problems.

To use it is simplicity itself. Simply place a special CD player near the bedside, and turn on every night. For insomnia and sleep apnea problems, most have found that after 2-3 weeks of play, their sleep problems are solved for good. Others keep using the CD every night, as they like the overlay audio keeping out exterior noises, and with further use, it seems that other allergic problems are solved for many.

It’s important to realize that in all three original tests (using over 100 volunteers), there were NO failures with Insomnia! Over a dozen insomniacs - some who had not even listed insomnia on their input data sheets completely solved this particular problem. Other testimonials from recent users confirm this as well.

Depression has been always alleviated, and the ADHD cases all improved in about the same success rate as they would with EEG BF (neurofeedback). At the present time, we do not have good data on schizophrenia, or anaphylactic shock, however, based on similarity to results to date compared to EEG BF, we expect that this would be similar.
by: Phil Bate PhD

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