Effects of High Blood Pressure - A Deadly Disease

The effects of high blood pressure are undoubtedly uncomfortable, painful, and even deadly. High blood pressure is known as the "silent killer," as many people do not know they have a such problem until it is already affecting his or her health.

Human bodies can handle a great deal of damage before the effects of the damage are noticed by the person. The main organs affected by high blood pressure are the heart, brain, eyes, arteries, and kidneys; while these organs are built to handle a great deal, extended periods of ongoing damage will lead to a stroke, heart attack, and kidney failure.

Eyes

Blood vessels in the eye can build up on the high pressure and eventually bleed or burst. This result will cause blurriness, temporary or permanent blindness.

Arteries

The heart, brain, and kidney arteries will be affected by high blood pressure, by harden or becoming stiff. Hard arteries cause the organs to work at double the maximum capacity. This is the cause because a constant flow of blood throughout the arteries causes the arteries themselves to overwork.

Brain

A stroke is a common occurrence in people with it. A weak blood vessel will break from the overwhelming pressure, causing a bleed into the brain. Besides a break in the vessels, it can also cause blood clots.

Kidneys

Waste is filtered through the kidneys to exit the body, it may be impossible to do so with people who have high blood pressure. It causes the narrowing and thickening of blood vessels in the walls of the kidneys, not allowing proper filtering. Possible kidney treatments or transplant may be needed.

Heart

-Heart Attack

Besides the narrowing of the arteries that carry blood to the heart becoming blocked or clogged, it also does not allow the correct amount of oxygen to the heart; both of these cases will cause a heart attack.

-Congestive Heart Failure

After much abuse of the heart from high blood pressure, congestive heart failure will occur. Congestive heat failure occurs when the heart can not make enough blood (or pump) to supply to the rest of the body. Commonly, congestive heart failure results in death if not, a heart transplant at the very least.

The effects of high blood pressure out weigh the inconvenience of simple lifestyle changes. This is a serious condition that should be treated as soon as one discovers one may have a problem.

Using Green Tea to Help Prevent Heart Disease

Many of us who are trying to prevent heart disease have begun to take steps to change our lifestyle so that we can reduce our risk of heart disease. And, it's important to note that heart disease is one killer that you can do much to prevent. Sure, if you have a family history of heart disease, you are immediately at a higher risk than those who don't; but the biggest risk factors for most of us are the life we lead. Many heart disease risk factors are entirely preventable.

Dietary and exercise habits are two of the most important ways to reduce your risk of heart disease. A sedentary lifestyle and poor diet are surefire ways to get cardiovascular disease as you get older. Here are ways you can improve your lifestyle to reduce your risk.

Exercise - Most doctors recommend some form of cardiovascular exercise for at least 30 minutes, at least 3 times a week. Many doctors suggest walking as your primary form of cardiovascular exercise. This is because walking is something everyone can do, and it requires no special equipment, beyond a good pair of shoes. You can walk anywhere, and as you gain strength and endurance, it's easy to make your walk more difficult simply by walking longer and adding some hills to your walk.

Many doctors also recommend that you get in about 15 minutes of strength training 3 times a week. Strength training will help you build muscle, which will make you stronger overall. Muscle also burns more calories at rest than fat, so adding muscle will help you burn more calories in a day.

Diet - A diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol is important for heart health. Limit red meats, butter, and eggs. Learn to read food labels, and avoid any food whose ingredients include "partially hydrogenated" anything, anything with trans fats and anything with "high fructose corn syrup".

Your diet should also be rich in fresh fruits and vegetables. Not only will this help you reduce the amount of fatty foods in your diet, but it will also provide vitamins, nutrients and anti-oxidants. Anti-oxidants are critical because they fight free radicals that are created in the body as we convert our food to energy. These free radicals damage cells and DNA, eventually leading to disease and aging if we don't consume enough anti-oxidants to neutralize them.

Lose weight- One of the best things you can do to help your heart stay healthy is to maintain a normal weight. If you follow the diet and exercise plan mentioned above, you should be able to lose weight without a lot of trouble.

Don't smoke - Smoking significantly increases your risk for heart disease, as well as your risk for cancer. It also contributes to high blood pressure, which contributes to heart disease as well.

Know your numbers - Know your cholesterol levels, and know your blood pressure. High blood pressure and high cholesterol levels lead to heart disease. The diet and exercise plan outlined above can help you lower blood cholesterol and blood pressure levels naturally. However, for some people, diet and exercise are not enough. Other factors, such as family history, may cause you to have high blood pressure or high cholesterol no matter how much you diet and exercise.

For this reason, it's important to work with your doctor to determine the best approach for getting your cholesterol and blood pressure in line. He can help you come up with the right combination of diet, exercise and medication, if necessary to protect your heart health.

Drink green tea - Drinking green tea each day may be the easiest thing you can do to protect your heart. Many studies in recent years have pointed to green tea as an effective way to prevent many forms of disease, including cardiovascular disease. Green tea has been shown to work in several ways:

Green tea seems to prevent cholesterol from turning into arterial plaque - Some studies have shown that green tea prevented the oxidation of LDL cholesterol. Oxidation is the process by which LDL cholesterol hardens and sticks to arterial walls, narrowing the arteries. When arteries are narrowed, you are at a higher risk of stroke and heart attack.

Green tea is very high in anti-oxidants - As mentioned above, anti-oxidants are potent disease fighters. And, green tea is loaded with some of the most potent anti-oxidants you can find.

One study was performed to see if adding green tea to your diet could improve your body's overall oxidative status. This study, reported by the UK Tea Council examined a group of healthy participants. All of the participants were placed on a heart healthy diet. Half of the participants were also given two cups of green tea each day. The results were quite impressive.

After 42 days, the participants who consumed green tea showed lower blood plasma lipid levels, lower LDL cholesterol and higher resistance to oxidative damage than the participants who ate a healthy diet, but did not drink the green tea.

The study concluded that, when coupled with an overall healthy diet, green tea can improve your body's lipid and cholesterol levels and make you more resistant to the oxidative damage of free radicals.

Green tea may create thermogenesis - In some studies, green tea has been shown to help burn fat and regulate blood sugar. This is especially important to those who need to lose a few pounds for optimum heart health.

So, as you can see, drinking green tea may have lots of potential in the battle against heart disease. And, it's such an easy beverage to add to your diet. Green tea is inexpensive and readily available.

Green tea can be found in loose form, tea bag form and bottled. Whether your preference is hot or cold, flavored or plain, there is probably a green tea our there that you'll like. And, knowing that you're helping to protect yourself from a heart attack makes green tea even more enjoyable for all of us!

GERD - Conditions That Could Aggravate the Disease

Gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD is a recurring digestive illness that occurs when the food or liquid in your stomach flows back into the esophagus which irritates the esophagus lining, resulting to heartburn and acid reflux. People suffering from GERD need more than just home remedies or over-the-counter medications as these only gives temporary relief. Instead, they may require taking stronger medications or even undergoing surgeries to reduce its symptoms. If left untreated, it may lead to serious complications such as esophageal ulcer, esophageal stricture and esophageal cancer. Moreover, if you are suffering from GERD, you must educate yourself further on health conditions that could worsen the disease. Here are the conditions that could aggravate Gastroesophageal reflux disease.

First, muscle function abnormality in the stomach slows down the digestion of food and stomach acid which delays the stomach from emptying its contents. This increases stomach pressure and increasing the chances of acid reflux to occur.

Second, medications can also aggravate the symptoms of GERD. Whether it is a prescription or over-the-counter drug, the chemicals therein are contraindicated to GERD symptoms. Therefore, be cautious in taking medication drugs and talk to your physician for sound advice.

Third, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can also worsen gastroesophageal reflux disease because they are usually associated to cause peptic ulcers and could contribute to the seriousness of GERD symptoms. In fact, research reveals that long-term use of NSAIDs increases their chances of developing symptoms of gastroesophageal disease. Aside from NSAIDs, other drugs can also worsen GERD condition such as antibiotics, sedatives, potassium, iron pills, bisphosphonates, anticholinergics, calcium channel-blockers and beta adrenergic agonists. Notably, these drugs are used in treating other health problems such as osteoporosis, lung diseases, asthma, Parkinson's disease, hypertension, angina, glaucoma and urinary disorders. Consult your doctor immediately if you are experiencing any symptoms of GERD.

Fourth, pregnancy hormones can also aggravate to the symptoms of GERD. This is because hormones affect LES (lower esophageal sphincter), the muscle fiber preventing the food from flowing back to the esophagus. During pregnancy, progesterone hormone usually increases and these loosen up the LES resulting to heartburn. Therefore, heartburn is normal during pregnancy.

Fifth, diabetes can also worsen GERD. Gastroparesis often develops among Type 1 diabetes sufferers. This condition develops in nearly 20% of diabetics due to delayed emptying of the stomach which increases stomach pressure causing reflux to happen.

Sixth, esophagus abnormalities also deteriorate gastroesophageal disease. These abnormalities are characterized by a recurring cough, throat inflammation and hoarseness. Study shows that abnormalities in the esophagus are unusual symptoms of GERD.

Remember that heartburn is the common sign of gastroesphageal disease. If this happens frequently, never ignore this by just simply taking over-the-counter medication. The best thing you should do is consult a physician and have him or her make further examination to figure out the underlying causes of recurring heartburn. If the physician finds out that you have a gastroesophageal reflux disease, the information above will surely help you avoid the conditions which could aggravate your symptoms of GERD. GERD is something you should not ignore as this may only add complications to a more serious health condition.

Do You Have Chronic Renal Disease? Know The Symptoms

Your kidneys are probably not something you think about very often, but they are vitally important to how your body processes everything that you digest on a regular basis. Every time you eat a meal, drink beverages or alcohol, take vitamins, prescription medication or drugs, your kidneys are hard at work processing all of that, disposing of unneeded waste, filtering your blood and monitoring your body's natural acidity level (PH). It's the silent workhorse that is easy to ignore, until something goes wrong.

Studies show that 1 in 9 American adults have some form of medical renal disease or kidney failure. Renal is the Latin word for kidney, so when you hear your doctor talking about renal problems, he or she is discussing the state of your kidneys. Renal (or kidney) disease has reached epic proportions in America, especially with the rise of obesity and diabetes. Both conditions are directly linked to chronic renal failure (CRF).

This is often called a silent disease, because it's really hard to detect in its early stages. Most people only discover they have it during a later stage of the disease. Unfortunately, many don't get diagnosed until they are at the stage where they need dialysis or a kidney transplant. When caught earlier, it is treatable, so that's why it's important for you to know some of the symptoms that come with this condition.

In general, there are five stages of renal failure:

Stages 1 and 2 - There will be mild kidney damage.

Stage 3 - There is moderate kidney damage.

Stage 4 - There is a severe decrease in kidney functions.

Stage 5 - There is acute kidney damage and drastic life saving measures are needed.

In the early stages, you will probably not notice much of anything. However, as the disease progresses, more symptoms will reveal themselves, such as: frequent urination, or the opposite, urinating less than you normally do, bloating of hands, face, ankles and abdomen, headaches, itchy skin and feeling lethargic. These symptoms will develop gradually as your kidneys slowly degenerate over a period of time. This is what makes it a chronic condition.

As long as you are not at the end stages of the disease, you can regain normal kidney function by making some strict dietary changes. There is a diet plan that addresses chronic renal failure and the toxins building up in your system. Your kidneys may fail for a variety of reasons, but this failure guarantees that they will be unable to process all the toxins that are accumulating in the bloodstream. Without this filtering, you will increasingly become ill. It is now known that people with chronic renal failure have abnormally high levels of phosphorous in their body. You will also have accumulated too much protein. Your health will continue to degenerate because of this build up.

Since you are getting most of your phosphorous and protein from the foods you eat, the amount of foods that contain these elements will need to be greatly reduced. A good chronic renal disease diet plan will give you a list of foods that you can eat, and recommend that you do not eat others. You may have to consult with your physician or a dietitian before beginning such a diet, especially if you're already being treated for diabetes or heart disease.

Monitoring Your Protein Intake

As you already know, the human body needs protein in order to function normally. Protein contains a lot of nutritional benefits and helps build muscle tissue and red blood cells. However, when the kidneys break down, they can no longer process protein as they normally do, so it starts building up in your bloodstream. In order to get your protein levels back down to normal, you'll have to eat a lot less meats and other foods that contain protein. In order to keep your energy levels up at all times, you can add a protein supplement to your every day diet that won't conflict with your meals.

Foods With Low Phosphorous

Part of the kidneys job is to regulate the amount of phosphorous in your blood. When they can't do this normally, your phosphorous levels increase. These high levels of phosphorous decreases the amount of calcium in your blood. Calcium is necessary for healthy teeth and bones. When you lose calcium, your bone density decreases, which puts you at a greater risk for developing osteoporosis.

That's why the end stage renal disease diet will show you which low phosphorous foods you should be eating to correct this problem. Some of the foods on the list of things you are allowed to eat are: cottage cheese, rice milk, cabbage, eggplant, white bread, crackers, pasta, beef, poultry, fish (except pollock, walleye salmon or sardines), potatoes, green peas, onions, cucumbers, bagels, white rice, broth-based soups, mayonnaise, salad dressing, butter, margarine, sherbet, ginger ale and hard candy.

Some of the foods you'll be giving up are: milk (including soy milk), hard cheese, ice cream, foods made from whole grains, soup containing milk, peas or beans, cornbread, biscuits, sweet potatoes, pumpkin, broccoli, mushrooms, spinach, asparagus, organ meats like liver, cream (all varieties), sesame butter, sour cream, soft drinks (except root beer and lemon lime soda) and chocolate.

As you can see, this is an eating plan that excludes many foods that you probably enjoy eating. But, when it comes to your kidneys, they are so important to the quality of your life, that you should be willing to do anything to get them back to a normal state. The alternative is to ignore the problem until it becomes too late to do anything but hook you up to a dialysis machine. While this would save your life, it's not an ideal situation. There are many end stage renal failure patients who must spend every two to three days in the hospital getting a dialysis treatment. Too many of them are on a long waiting list to receive a kidney transplant.

By making some simple dietary changes, you (or a loved one you know with this disease), can avoid that fate and turn things around while there is still time. If you feel that you have even one of the above symptoms, make an appointment to see your doctor for a full kidney evaluation. The sooner you find out that you have chronic renal disease, the sooner you can take action to solve the problem.

The Early Signs of Diabetes and Your Health

Diabetes is everywhere. Everyday more and more people in the United States are being diagnosed with Diabetes because of numerous reasons affecting their health. Learning about the early symptoms of diabetes can help one fight the long term effects of this disease. But first, what exactly is diabetes? Diabetes, in blatent terms, is a disease in which the body does by malfunction, does not produce or use insulin. For those who do not already know, insulin is a hormone within the body that helps the body convert sugars and other substances in to energy. It helps break down such nutrients to balance the bodies energy consumption and distribution.

It is estimated that there are somewhat over twenty million individuals in the United States alone that has diabetes. Although so many individuals suffer from this disease, early indication can significantly play a role in proper treatment. There are basically three different types of diabetes, type 1, type 2 and gestational diabeties in which only effects pregnant women. To help understand the diabeties symptoms better we have listed some general early signs of diabetes which may indicate a need for a doctor visit to get tested.

1. Irritability - Now, we are all a little irritable at times, but constant irritability may be an early sign of problems to come.

2. Frequent Urination - Commonly, frequent urination can be a cause for concern and is a very visible sign of early diabetes.

3. Fatigue - Simply put, diabetes affects the individuals ability to process energy, hence fatigue is an early symptom.

4. Excessive thirst - constant dry mouth and being overly thirsty in accordance with the other symptoms above may indicate a need to get checked out by a doctor.

There are plenty more diabeties symptoms however these are some of the most common. Having one of these symptoms does not mean you have diabetes, they are just some common indicators that everyone at some time in their life will have. Also, you may want to find out if someone in your family has diabetes as well. Many of those who have been diagnosed with diabetis were found to have it within their genetic heritage from another family member.

Learning how to live with diabetes can be difficult however certain upgrades in technology and science have made it easier for those who are diagnosed to live more comfortably. Also it is important to have a healthy diet and exercise regularly. The importance of a good diabeties diet is second to none. Ask a physician whether they can refer a book to you that properly explains a healthy diabetic diet. Early detection and properly being diagnosed can make your situation much easier and as technology progresses one can have confidence in providing better treatments of such a disease.

A Cold, a Flu, Or Something More Serious?

Getting a cold or the flu is a common problem. We often go to extremes to ensure that we don't get sick; but the inevitable will happen, and life will be unpleasant for a few days. You can't catch the same cold or flu virus twice, but they are constantly mutating and each new strain may feel slightly different. When you get sick they all feel bad, but you may not know if you have a cold, the flu or something more sinister right away. There are many illnesses that can display similar symptoms, but almost all of them aren't dangerous unless you have a compromised immune system. Some people go to the doctor with the slightest sniffle, and others won't go to the doctor even on their deathbed.

A cold virus usually presents itself 3 or 4 days after you have caught it and starts with a soar back of the nose or throat. Keep in mind that each person's reaction is different and it could be a little shorter or longer for you. Symptoms come on slowly over the course of several hours and may not feel full blown until you wake up the following morning. Coughing, sneezing, congestion and minor muscle aches are common for a cold and the flu. You are contagious within hours of catching it so you can give it to someone else days before you even know you have it, and you stay contagious for about a week. The symptoms are at their worst about 2 days after you start to feel it and will last around 48 hours, but you may remain congested for up to 2 weeks.

The flu virus is very much like a cold, but with a few added bonuses. The most noticeable difference is that the flu comes with a fever and a cold doesn't, so if you have a fever you don't have a cold. Nausea, vomiting and diarrhea can also accompany the flu and the symptoms will come on much faster than a cold; maybe even in minutes. You don't start to feel bad for about 3 days after you get the flu, but just like a cold, you are contagious before you even know you have it. Also like a cold, the worst of it lasts about 48 hours but the symptoms can linger for up to 2 weeks. The flu can be very dangerous to the elderly, young children and people with compromised immune systems or heart disease, so see your doctor if you know you're a high risk.

Infections and other diseases can display symptoms very much like a cold or the flu; but unlike a cold or the flu, they won't get better in a few days. You know it's time to see a doctor if you keep getting worse 4 days after you start having symptoms. A fever is common with the flu, but if your temperature goes above 102 it's time to get to the hospital right away. You may also consider a trip to your doctor if any of the symptoms seem unusually severe; like serious pain in your sinuses or coughing that nearly knocks you over. You can usually tell if something feels far worse than what you would expect from a common cold or the flu.

There are many over the counter medications that can help alleviate the symptoms, but there is no cure for the most common ailments we face every year. The rates at which these two viruses mutate make them impossible to get rid of completely and they will continue to plague us for a long time to come.

Sjogren's Syndrome And Pregnancy

Since it is less common, many pregnant women are caught in surprise when they learned from their doctors that they are suffering from Sjogren's syndrome. It commenced the moment of constant worry and anxiety because the disease exposes their babies to higher risks for neonatal lupus, heart problems and even death. What is Sjogren's Syndrome exactly?

Sjogren's Syndrome and Its Symptoms

Sjogren's Syndrome is a type of autoimmune disease primarily characterized by the drying up of the eyes and the salivary gland which may lead to the dryness of immediate body parts that require moisture including the skin, throat, vagina and nose. Sjogren's syndrome may also affect the blood vessels, joints, lungs, digestive organs, nerves, liver, pancreas, brain and kidneys.

It primarily involves the inflammation of tissues and glands of the body. The swelling of the salivary gland usually results to cavities, dental decay, swallowing difficulties, mouth dryness, stones, mouth sores, infection of the parotid gland and mouth inflammation.

According to research, people with Sjogren's syndrome have deficiency in Omega 3 essential fatty acids, magnesium, zinc and selenium. Aside from the dryness of the mouth and eyes, some patients suffer from symptoms such as swollen parotid glands, recurrent mouth infection, eye discomfort, hoarseness, blurred vision and difficulty in eating and swallowing. It can also cause pain and fatigue which can affect the patient's quality of life.

What Is An Autoimmune Disease

When we say autoimmune diseases, it refers to the abnormal functioning of the immune system. Instead of helping the body fight against diseases, the immune system tends to attack the organs of the body. In Sjogren's Syndrome, the immune system attacks the salivary gland which produces saliva, and the lacriminal gland which produces tears. This eventually leads to the dryness of the eyes and mouth.

Risk Factors For Sjogren's Syndrome

According to research, this autoimmune disease can occur to people of all ages but it is more common to people who are over 40 years of age, and women are 9 times more susceptible to this condition compared to men.

Even people diagnosed with rheumatic diseases such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis are at a greater risk of suffering from Sjogren's Syndrome.

Sjogren's Syndrome in Pregnant Women

Women who have been diagnosed with Sjogren's Syndrome should consult their doctors especially when they are planning to get pregnant. It can actually increase a woman's risk for miscarriage. Women who are suffering from this condition usually have antibodies known as antiphospholipids. It makes the blood more prone to clotting. Thus, miscarriage is more likely to occur when the blood in the placenta has clotted.

Many babies were lost during the course of pregnancy due to this condition. It actually causes the amniotic fluid to be filled with hardened crystal-type particles which can suffocate and kill the developing baby in the uterus.

In rare cases, this autoimmune disease can cause congenital heart block which is characterized by an abnormal heart rhythm or rate in infant. When this happens, doctors usually prescribe corticosteroid medications to reduce the inflammation.

Also, doctors have to carefully monitor the baby's condition throughout the pregnancy. According to research, congenital heart block sometimes necessitates early delivery. In very rare cases, Sjogren's syndrome increases the fetus' risk for heart problems. Also, it heightens the baby's susceptibility to lupus.

Treatment Options For Sjogren's Syndrome

In most cases, treatments for Sjogren's syndrome are directed towards providing relief to its symptoms. Some doctors recommend the use of eyedrops which can reduce the inflammation of the glands surrounding the eyes, in order to increase the production of tears. Frequent intake of water, saliva substitutes and chewing gum can also help in preventing the mouth from getting dry. Meanwhile, for nasal dryness, patients can use nasal saline irrigation and humidifiers.

Sucking on glycerine swabs and sugarless lemon drops can also help in inducing the production of saliva. Also, drinking plenty of fluid and getting adequate dental care can help in preventing mouth dryness. Saliva stimulants such as cevimeline and pilocarpine can also help in addressing dry mouth.

Surgery may sometimes be prescribed by doctors in order to seal the tear ducts which drain tears from the eyes. Silicone plugs or collagens are then inserted into the ducts for temporary closure. Eventually, collagen dissolves and silicone plugs are removed. In this case, doctors may recommend laser to seal the ducts permanently.

Basic Knowledge of High Blood Pressure

The disease and its causes. Blood pressure readings are taken to learn the force with which blood is pressing on artery walls. The heart exerts the highest pressure (systole phase) when it is pumping a fresh supply of blood, and the lowest pressure (diastole phase) when it pauses between beats to fill with blood. When readings are repeatedly above 150 systolic and 100 diastolic, they indicate that the blood circulation of the patient is impaired, and he is said to have high blood pressure, or hypertension.

Factors within the blood vessels, such as the elasticity and resistance of the circulatory system, play a major role. The amount of blood within the circulatory system, the thickness of that blood, and the amount of blood put out by the heart with each beat are other considerations.

Known causes of high blood pressure include anemia, hyperthyroid disease, chronic kidney disease, certain endocrine disorders, brain tumors, and congenital defects in the aorta. However, in most patients suffering from high blood pressure, the cause is unknown.

Symptoms. Elevated or high blood pressure itself rarely produces any significant symptoms. There can be complaints of dull, pounding headache over the back of the head, which start in the morning and wear off during the day. There can be nervousness, dizziness, palpitations, and weakness. Nosebleed is sometimes a symptom.

With kidney disease there may be blood in the urine.

When there is cerebral arteriosclerosis or coronary hearth disease, the symptoms are as described in the book under those headings. When hypertensive heart disease develops, heart failure and its symptoms can follow. On rare occasions, hypertension will develop rapidly and progressively - with acute attacks marked by headaches, visual disturbances, vomiting, coma, and convulsion.

Complications. These depend upon the organ involved. With the kidneys, kidney failure with uremia can develop. With coronary artery disease, myocardial infarction, in which there is death of some of the tissues of the heart muscle, can develop. If hypertensive heart disease develops, a common follow-up is congestive heart failure. When there is involvement of blood vessels of the brain, complications include cerebral vascular accidents such as strokes.

Prevention. The cause should be established, if possible. If one kidney is involved, surgery very often can either cure the condition or delay the onset of serious symptoms. If tumors of the endocrine system are the cause, surgery may be the cure. If a patient is badly overweight, that condition should be corrected.

The emotional state of a patient could be a factor and should be investigated and treated, if possible. When no cause is found, the doctor will prescribe a program of diet and medication to make the patient more comfortable.

8 Signs You May Need Your Thyroid Checked

It's estimated that anywhere from 20 million to 59 million Americans suffer from thyroid disease, but many remain undiagnosed. Because symptoms vary widely, and sometimes are not present at all, it's possible to live with thyroid problems for years without knowing it... a scenario that puts your health at risk.

In fact, the Colorado Thyroid Disease Prevalence Study found that nearly 10 percent of study participants had an unrecognized thyroid abnormality, a finding that suggests on a national level that 13 million Americans may be living with undiagnosedthyroid problems.[1]

In the United States the most common thyroid problem is hypothyroidism, or underactive thyroid. If left untreated, hypothyroidism has been linked to heart problems, including diastolic heart failure and coronary heart disease, even at the subclinical level,[2] along with worsening symptoms and decreased quality of life.

Is Regular Thyroid Screening Important?

If you're showing signs of thyroid problems, which I'll describe shortly, it's crucial to get your thyroid checked. But what if you feel normal?

Because thyroid problems often exist with no symptoms at all, it may be a good idea to have yours checked regularly.

The American Thyroid Association recommends adults be screened for thyroid dysfunction starting at age 35 and continuing every five years thereafter.[3] Since thyroid disease is much more common in women than men, this is especially important for women, although men may benefit as well.

However, there are other signs that signal it's time to have your thyroid screened as well, signs that are easy to miss or mistake for other health conditions.

8 Signs You Should Have Your Thyroid Checked

If you're experiencing any of the symptoms below, it's time to have your thyroid evaluated.

1. Fatigue

Utter exhaustion is a common sign of thyroid trouble, but one that is also caused by numerous other variables as well. If you've felt fatigued for a long time, are so tired you feel you can't get through your day or feel like going back to sleep even after you've had a full night's rest, it could be your thyroid.

2. Unexplained Weight Gain or Loss

If your weight has fluctuated wildly recently for no apparent reason, it could be due to a thyroid imbalance. This includes both weight gain (hypothyroidism) and weight loss (hyperthyroidism).

3. Family History of Thyroid Disease

Thyroid problems tend to run in families, so if you have a relative with hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, Hashimoto's disease, Grave's disease or goiter, you should watch your thyroid health more closely.

4. Mental/Emotional Trouble

Changes in your mood ranging from depression to anxiety and panic attacks can all be related to thyroid problems, as can difficulty concentrating, "foggy brain," and memory problems. This is especially true if these symptoms appear rather suddenly, as opposed to being an issue you've dealt with your entire life.

5. You've Taken Certain Medications

The following medications can increase your risk of hypothyroidism: Amiodarone, Lithium, Interferon alpha, Interleukin- 2, and (possibly) Thalidomide.

6. Cholesterol Problems

Both high and low cholesterol can signal thyroid trouble, especially if your levels have not responded to dietary and exercise changes or even medications. High cholesterol is associated with hypothyroidism while low cholesterol is linked to hyperthyroidism.

7. Skin and Hair Issues

Hair loss, along with dry and brittle hair, is a common symptom of thyroid abnormalities, as is dry or scaly skin.

8. Irregular Menstruation or Fertility Troubles

Women with thyroid disease may experience heavier, more painful periods or, on the other end of the spectrum, less frequent, lighter menstruation. Thyroid problems can also lead to infertility or miscarriages.

More Reasons to Look Into Your Thyroid Health... and What to Know About Thyroid Testing

It's important to keep a close watch on your thyroid even if you've already been diagnosed with hypothyroidism and are taking thyroid hormones. Why? Because even among people taking thyroid medication, studies have found that only 60 percent fell within the normal ranges for thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) level [4] -- putting the other 40 percent at risk of the numerous health issues associated with untreated thyroid problems, such as cardiovascular diseases, osteoporosis and infertility.

Further, if you've had a TSH or T4 test to check for hypothyroidism and your levels came back normal, but you're still experiencing unexplained symptoms, this warrants further testing as well -- even if your doctor is telling you that everything looks fine.

Research suggests that reference ranges for "normal" TSH are actually too wide, so your levels may be off kilter even if they appear normal according to current lab reference ranges. If you fall into this category, where your lab tests came back normal but you still suspect thyroid trouble, you'll need to find a practitioner who can use alternative methods to help with your diagnosis.

Unfortunately, low-functioning thyroid, especially, is often completely missed due to inadequate testing and a general lack of understanding of the complexities of thyroid function among the medical community.

And remember, the need for further analysis holds true even if you've already been diagnosed and are taking thyroid hormones, as regular reevaluation and attention to the mechanisms triggering the disease are essential to your recovery.

References

1. Archives of Internal Medicine 2000 Feb 28;160(4):526-34.

2. Journal of the American College of Cardiology 2008; 52:1152-1159

3. Archives of Internal Medicine 2000;160:1573-1575.

4. Archives of Internal Medicine 2000 Feb 28;160(4):526-34.

How Cigarette Smoking Causes Disease and Amputation of Fingers, Arms, and Legs!

Nicotine itself is not addictive, but it is responsible for releasing dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reinforcements in the brain, thus inducing addictive tendencies in humans. Nicotine is a chemical found in tobacco leaf, the main ingredient in cigarettes and is said to cause addiction and disease in cigarette smokers, (World Health Organization (WHO)).

Nicotine mimics the activities of acetylcholine, a naturally occurring neurotransmitter in the central nervous system and the nerve-muscle junction of skeletal muscles. Acetylcholine is responsible for excitability, which causes increase heart rate, alertness, and reaction times, (Psychopharmacology (Berl). 1989; 97(2):257-61.). Because acetylcholine and nicotine are chemically similar, they trigger the same cholinergic receptors in the brain. The nicotine-acetylcholine receptors consist of nerve endings that release dopamine when coupled or bind with nicotine or acetylcholine. Receptors are like cups having the exact dimensions that will fit a neurotransmitter molecule, such as acetylcholine.

The cup itself is lined with nerve endings (tips of neurons). It is these nerve endings that release dopamine when the neurotransmitter acetylcholine binds with the cup-like acetylcholine receptors (cholinergic receptors). A reinforcing and reward phenomenon of dopamine develops because the dopamine that is released from the nerve endings initiates a feeling of pleasure in the individual's brain. The reinforcement mechanism is initiated when the brain becomes addicted to the pleasure caused by the dopamine that is released from the cholinergic receptors. This means that the brain is constantly seeking to be pleasured. So, what will happen in the case of cigarette smokers is that they will continue to smoke cigarettes so the nicotine from the cigarette can induce the release of dopamine in the brain, causing them to feel happy every time they smoke a cigarette, (Nature Reviews Neuroscience 7, 967-975 (December 2006)).

The first time cigarette smokers smoked cigarettes there were only a few cholinergic receptors available because the natural action of acetylcholine only needs the normal amount of receptors provided by nature to do its job. However, the increase concentration of nicotine available caused the normal amounts of cholinergic receptors to become desensitized to the presence of the increased number of nicotine in the cholinergic receptors. This desensitization causes the production or growth and development of more cholinergic receptors. These extra cholinergic receptors will soon become desensitized from the excess nicotine available. Such processes occur until equilibrium is reached. Equilibrium is reached when cigarette smokers decide on the amount of cigarettes they will consume or smoke in a given day. At this time, a fixed amount of receptors will be available for the addiction to continue. Smokers will normally say they smoke one or two packs per day. They said so because of the amount of receptors available to accommodate two packs of cigarettes in a day.

A detrimental effect of all this is the fact that such large amounts of cholinergic receptors are now available and hungry for nicotine. So, they can stimulate dopamine to pleasure the cigarette smoker. This is the reason why cigarette smokers have a very difficult time quitting. The best approach therefore for a cigarette smoker to use in quitting is to gradually cut back on the amount of cigarettes smoked in a given time interval.

In addition to the dopamine-inducing effect of nicotine, is the speeding-up of the heart rate by nicotine every time a cigarette is smoked. From a medical perspective, constantly having an artificial increase in heart rate isn't a great idea either. For one thing, a constant increase in heart rate by drugs such as nicotine can cause heart disease, (WHO).

According to the World Health Organization, tobacco use leads to diseases affecting the heart and lungs, such as heart attacks, strokes, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), emphysema, and cancer. Most cigarette induced cancers are lung cancer, cancers of the larynx, mouth, and pancreas. Cigarette smoke also causes myocardial infarctions, peripheral vascular disease and hypertension. The World Health Organization estimates that tobacco is responsible for about 5.4 million deaths in 2004 and about 100 million deaths during the 20th century.

In addition to its addictive effects on the central nervous system, cigarette smoke contains a multitude of cancer-causing agents. They work by binding to DNA causing many genetic mutations. Nicotine could be the main culprit that is doing the binding to DNA causing genetic mutations, which leads to cancer. Nicotine is said to disrupt the natural processes of apoptosis (programmed cell death) by binding to DNA in cells, (National Institute of Health (NIH)). Defective cells consist of junk DNA and other waste materials. When apoptosis is inhibited, natural cell death does not occur; instead, defective cells are allowed to proliferate or grow larger, uncontrollably. This is what happens in cancer and the main reason why cigarette smokers are more susceptible to developing cancers.

When apoptosis is uncontrollably triggered by chemicals, such as nicotine, it causes normal cells to die off. This could possibly be what is happening in the heart tissues of cigarette smokers who suffer from heart disease and could also be what is taking place in the extremities of cigarette smokers, who often complain of excessive coldness in their fingers, arms, toes, and legs, where circulation is lowest.

There are no existing studies to support this exact explanation. However, based on the knowledge of known scientific evidence of apoptosis and the increase in death rates of cigarette smokers, this hypothetical explanation has some credence; and will continue to have credence until proven otherwise! There is something deadly that is happening to cigarette smokers and nicotine is one of the agents behind it.

The tar in cigarette smoke is also an agent that sucks the life out of cigarette smokers. The lung of a cigarette smoker is as black as the color of asphalt. It is like a severe piece of burnt pot roast. This is why most cigarette smokers have difficulty breathing. It is next to impossible for air to pass freely down the airways of smokers. The sad thing is that it is difficult for cigarette smokers to quit. So, they continue down the road of destruction, day after day, puffing on the silent killer--cigarette smoking.

One very important solution to quitting smoking is smoking one less cigarette a day or even one less cigarette in a month if one less cigarette a day is too steep of an adjustment to the deadly habit. If one normally smokes a pack of cigarettes a day, that individual should remove one of those cigarettes and discard it--throw it in the trash can. Remember that the smoking of cigarettes started gradually. No one started smoking a pack of cigarettes a day in that awful beginning stage of smoking cigarettes. Smoking one less cigarette per a particular time frame will help eliminate the excessive cholinergic receptors that nicotine so dearly craves.

Wellbutrin is another method for helping people stop smoking. Wellbutrin is an antidepressant drug used by people with depression. However, it is very potent in helping people kick the deadly habit of cigarette smoking. It can be taken while smoking, unlike other smoking cessation agents. Wellbutrin blocks nicotine receptors and weakens the action of dopamine reuptake by neurons, (J Pharmacol Exp Ther. 2000 Oct; 295(1):321-7.).

Cigarette smokers who are interested in quitting should implement an exercise program in their schedule because the lack of nicotine in ex-cigarette smokers causes weight-gain. How do we know this? Former cigarette smokers who kicked the habit complain of putting on weight after they quit smoking. Ask any ex-cigarette smoker. One will hear the same thing. Nicotine induces weight-loss in smokers. This is why most cigarette smokers are skinny or slim. If a cigarette smoker is overweight while smoking cigarettes, then that person should definitely seek medical attention because there could be a very dangerous medical condition lurking in the shadows.

Sarcoidosis Pneumonia Connection - A Comprehensive View and Newfound Hope

Sarcoidosis pneumonia connection - What is sarcoidosis?

In this article we will look at the basic of the sarcoidosis-pneumonia connection and then look into some recent developments that seem to offer new-found hope for people suffering from this terrible thing.

Sarcoidosis is an autoimmune disease, it is an inflammation that involves granulomas, which are small masses formed by immune cells when the immune system tries to fight off strange substances. Sarcoidosis may affect various organs in the body, such as lungs, skin, lymph nodes, liver, spleen, eyes and others. It is possible for the sarcoidosis granulomas to subside, but sometimes they can stay inflamed and lead to complications such as scarring. Sarcoid scarring in the lungs can lead to a disease by the name of pulmonary fibrosis, which is a type of chronic pneumonia that causes scarring or thickening of the lungs and creates breathing problems.

Granulomas that persist can be found in the airways and they can be accompanied by an infection or organizing pneumonia (which is an inflammation of the bronchioles and surrounding tissue in the lungs).

Sarcoidosis pneumonia connection - What is pneumonia?

Pneumonia is a respiratory disease that can be caused by several types of bacteria infecting the lungs. People with other conditions are in higher risk of contracting pneumonia and in those cases it may be severe and in some cases even cause death. Those diseases include: sarcoidosis, asthma, emphysema or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), diabetes and immune system disorders. Other risk factors that can lead to pneumonia are: smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, recent surgery or a respiratory infection (such as cold, influenza or laryngitis).

If the patient has an underlying disease and gets pneumonia, he is likely to be treated with stronger medications, and not only with antibiotics, which are used to treat pneumonia in most cases.

Sarcoidosis pneumonia connection - What are the symptoms of the two?

Sarcoidosis symptoms include:

• Persistent dry cough


• Shortness of breath


• Wheezing


• Chest pain


• Swollen lymph nodes


• Fatigue, weight loss


• Fever


• Skin rashes and lesions


• Eye inflammation and pain

Pneumonia symptoms include:

• Cough (with mucus)


• Fever and chills


• Fatigue, loss of appetite


• Shortness of breath


• Headaches, confusion (in some cases)


• Excessive sweating


• Chest pain

Sarcoidosis pneumonia connection - Conclusion

As we can see the symptoms of sarcoidosis and pneumonia can be very similar. If you have sarcoidosis, it is important that you talk to your doctor as soon as you notice worsening of your symptoms, particularly in the lung and chest area.

New development in the field of sarcoidosis research that we mentioned previously is the holistic protocol known as the Aden protocol that has stirred the waters by offering amazing success rates to people with sarcoidosis. You can visit the home page of the Aden protocol and learn more about the sarcoidosis pneumonia connection and the news in the field of sarcoidosis research.

Effects of Binge Eating - Treatments, Side Effects, and Symptoms

With all of the many effects binge eating disorder contains their still is a mystery. Which is why I am determined to uncover many if not all of the side effects. And give you a sure list of symptoms and treatments to ending any and all emotional eating problems in your life!

Physical Effects To Binge Eating Disorder:

*High blood pressure

* High cholesterol

* Type-2 diabetes

* Muscle and joint pain

* Difficulty sleeping and/or apnea

* Gastrointestinal problems

* Gallbladder disease

* Heart disease

* Higher risk for certain forms of cancer

Emotional Effects:

*Lack of acceptance

*Poor social life

*Indecision

Hopefully your eyes are open because the symptoms or effects are hazardous. Which is why you need to start to treat yourself, make improvements, and change....

Treatments...

The first step is to recognize and place attention to your connection with you eating large meals to compensate for a emotional issue.

* Pin-point the though before overeating. Are you becoming stressed about money, losing weight, family. Whatever it is you must KNOW what it is and come up with a solution for it. "You see to lighten up a room that is dark you do not focus on the dark but the light. Your sole focus is increasing the light (hence you flip the switch on). So one of the exercises I do with clients is help them fix their problem with the solution instead the with negativity!

*The second step is to replace your food in the house with more nutrient dense food. With this form of treatment to combat binge eating your understanding that you won't beat emotional eating disorder in a day. Now with healthier foods to over eat you'll ultimately address some of those dangers on the "effects list"...

Pneumonia and Its Effects

Pneumonia is a problem that affects the lungs and can be deadly if not treated properly or detected early. Pneumonia involves the inflammation of the lungs and is caused when the alveolar are filled with fluid. The alveolar are sacs filled with air and their primary responsibility is absorbing oxygen. Pneumonia can be caused from an infection with viruses, fungi, bacteria and parasites. It can also be caused by physical injury to the lungs or chemical injury to the lungs such as inhaling poisons. Pneumonia causes excessive coughing, wheezing, a fever, chest pain and increased difficulty with breathing.

Pneumonia is diagnosed after a series of x-rays, MRIs and tests done on the mucus or phlegm from the throat. It can also be detected with a blood count test. If there is a high number of white blood cells then that means there is an infection present in the body. Pneumonia caused by bacteria is easily treatable with antibiotics. Pneumonia, as mentioned earlier, can be deadly. It is especially deadly in the elderly and anyone that is chronically or terminally ill. Other symptoms of pneumonia are coughing up blood, vomiting, nausea, joint and muscle pain, getting the chills and having blueness of the skin.

Pneumonia can be treated without hospitalization but severe cases sometimes call for hospitalization. Home care that involves rest, antibiotics and lots of fluids can help to rid the body of pneumonia. If patients do not heal within a specified amount of time by the doctor then they will have to be admitted into a hospital.

There are two classifications of pneumonia. They are community-acquired pneumonia and hospital-acquired pneumonia. People who acquire pneumonia from friends or family members fall into the first group and people who acquire pneumonia while spending time in the hospital fall into the second group. The first type of pneumonia is the most common form amongst patients today and is the sixth most common form of death in people in the United States.

Pneumonia can cause other complications within the human body. Some complications are respiratory failure, circulatory failure and abscesses. When pneumonia is in a chronic stage some patients need breathing assistance to stay alive. The breathing assistance comes in the form of a ventilator or even a breathing tube. Respiratory failure is caused by the lungs filling with fluid, becoming stiff, and cannot operate on their own. Sepsis can also set it while a patient is suffering from pneumonia. Sepsis can cause liver failure, heart failure, kidney failure and other problems that can lead to death.

Pneumonia can be cleared up within two to four weeks of the onset of treatment. Pneumonia can cause poisoning of the blood, which will kill over 20 percent of patients whereas one of every 20 sufferers of normal pneumonia will die in the United States from their illness. The quickness of recovery for patients depends on how sick they were upon diagnosis. If pneumonia was caught early it can be cured within a two week span but could take up to four weeks if not found in its early stages.

Top Tips To Treat Chest Pain

Chest pain is a serious symptom meaning "heart attack" to most people. Serious chest discomfort should usually be evaluated by a physician right now. On the way to the emergency room or while waiting for the ambulance, take two aspirin tablets. While pain from the heart may sometimes be mild, it is usually intense. Sometimes a feeling of pressure or squeezing on the chest is more prominent than actual pain. Almost always the pain or discomfort will be felt in part below the breastbone. It may also be felt in the jaw or down the inner part of either arm. There may be nausea and sweating. If dizziness, shortness of breath, or irregularity of the pulse is present, it is particularly important that a physician be seen immediately.

A related form of heart pain is not a heart attack but is termed "angina pectoris" or "angina." These pains also can occur in the upper arms or the jaw, but usually involve part of the breastbone. Angina pains occur with exercise and sometimes with stress, and they go away with rest and relaxation. They are a result of narrowed arteries to the heart that are unable to supply enough blood when the heart is working hard. In a heart attack, one of these same arteries has actually become totally blocked. However, all chest pain does not come from the heart. Pain can also come from the chest wall, the lungs, the outside covering of the lungs, the outside covering of the heart, the esophagus, the diaphragm, the spine, the skin, or the organs in the upper part of the abdominal cavity. Often it is difficult even for a physician to determine the precise origin of the pain. Therefore there are no absolute rules that enable you to determine which pains may be treated at home. The following guidelines usually work and are used by doctors, but there are occasional exceptions.

A shooting pain lasting a few seconds is common and means nothing. A sensation of a "catch" at the end of a deep breath is also trivial and does not need attention. Chest wall pain can be demonstrated by pressing a finger on the chest at the spot of discomfort and reproducing or aggravating the pain by this maneuver. Pleurisy gets worse with a deep breath, heart pain does not. When pericarditis is present, the pain may throb with each heartbeat. Ulcer pain burns with an empty stomach and gets better with food, gallbladder pain often becomes more intense after a meal. Each of these four conditions, when suspected, should be evaluated by a physician.

Spasm of the esophagus can cause severe pain mimicking a heart attack and is quite different from the acid-burning that we called heartburn. This spasm pain feels as if it is expanding from inside the chest rather than squeezing from the outside as does heart pain. And it is often relieved by a drink of water, while heart pain is not.

If your chest pain is a new sensation and you are not sure what is going on, you should be evaluated promptly in an emergency medical facility. This is a complaint for which it is better to be conservative. See a doctor. Exceptions are chest wall pain, particularly if you had unusual exertion a day or so before, or pain that you are sure is coming from the esophagus. These you can treat with rest and acetaminophen, in the case of chest wall pain, and water and antacids, in the case of pain coming from the esophagus.

5 Tips On How to Prevent Kidney Disease Naturally

Cases of chronic kidney disease (CKD) continue to rise. It's not surprising considering that the number one cause of the disease, diabetes, has exploded over the same period. According to the International Diabetes Federation, about 285 million people around the world are living with diabetes. They estimate that the number will rise to about 440 million people by the year 2030.

Diabetes accounts for over 40 percent of the cases of kidney disease. So it's clear that one of the primary ways to prevent kidney disease is to prevent diabetes. Or, if you already have it, effective treatment can reduce the impact that the condition has on your kidneys.

Here are the best ways to prevent kidney disease:

1. Eat healthy and exercise. Obesity is the leading cause of type 2 diabetes, which interferes with insulin function and increases your blood glucose levels. Persistent high blood glucose levels damage your kidneys.

Try to eat calories within a healthy range for your weight, height, gender and activity level. Also, reduce unhealthy fats, limit alcohol and avoid processed or refined flour and sugars.

Most health organizations recommend getting at least 30 minutes of exercise at least five days a week. But, you don't have to be a high-performance athlete to get the benefits of exercise. Even moderate-intensity activity such as brisk walking, light jogging, dancing or doubles tennis can help to prevent diabetes.

If you're already overweight, you should try to get at least an hour of exercise five days a week to speed weight loss and lower your risk further.

2. Control high blood pressure. Hypertension is the second leading cause of CKD. The increased pressure in the blood vessels causes damage and narrows blood vessels. It affects nephrons in the kidneys as well as other organs such as the heart, which is also stressed by kidney disease.

Normal blood pressure is 120 systolic over 80 diastolic. Systolic refers to the pressure when your heart is pumping blood out, while diastolic is the pressure of your heart between beats when it's filling with blood. If your pressure is over 140/90 in three consecutive readings, you may have high blood pressure.

Exercise and healthy eating also helps to control high blood pressure. As far as diet goes, try to reduce sodium and caffeine intake, and eat more vegetables, whole grains, poultry, fish and nuts. Other natural remedies for hypertension include: hawthorn leaves, lime flowers, coenzyme Q10, magnesium, meditation and yoga.

If natural methods don't help to control your blood pressure, your doctor may recommend medications. Two of the most common types used are angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEs), and angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs). Both of these medications prevent your blood vessels from narrowing.

3. Follow prescribed treatment for illnesses that cause kidney disease. Several other health conditions can cause kidney disease including autoimmune diseases such as lupus and rheumatoid arthritis. Other culprits include an enlarged prostate, HIV, a urinary tract infection or pancreatitis.

If you have any condition that causes kidney disease, see your doctor or naturopath as soon as possible for treatment. Make sure you take your medication as directed, and make the necessary dietary and lifestyle changes that help to alleviate these health problems.

4. Know your family history. Some conditions that cause kidney disease are genetic, which increases your risk of developing them. Diabetes and hypertension fall under this umbrella. Also, kidney disease itself has a genetic connection. If your immediate family members have these diseases then you should be more cautious about preventing them.

Have your blood pressure checked regularly and go for that annual checkup so your blood glucose levels can be tested. You can reduce your risk even more by changing your diet - and lifestyle. For instance, both hypertension and diabetes are linked to smoking and alcohol consumption. Eliminating these habits reduces your risk of kidney disease

5. Drink lots of water. Good old H20 helps your kidneys to flush out toxins, waste products - and excess fluids. It's also an effective natural treatment to prevent kidney stones, which can cause blockages in your kidneys that can lead to CKD. Water also helps you to stay well hydrated; dehydration can cause acute kidney disease.

Legionnaires' Disease - Ayurvedic Herbal Treatment

Legionnaires' disease is a severe form of pneumonia caused by a bacterium known as legionella. Common symptoms include high fever, chills, body pain, cough, hemoptysis, breathlessness, chest pain, fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, confusion and other mental illnesses. This disease may rarely cause infections in wounds and in other parts of the body including the heart. Old age; a history of smoking; the presence of chronic disorders like lung disease, diabetes, kidney disease or cancer; a weakened immune system; and having a job related to air conditioning systems-maintenance, are risk factors for this condition.

The Ayurvedic treatment of Legionnaires' disease is aimed at treating the basic infection and preventing complications like respiratory failure, kidney failure and septic shock. Medicines like Shwas-Kuthar-Ras, Tribhuvan-Kirti-Ras, Maha-Sudarshan-Churna, Sitopaladi-Churna, Talisadi-Churna, Ras-Sindur, Malla-Sindur, Sameer-Pannag-Ras, Abhrak-Bhasma, Shrung-Bhasma, Pushkarmool (Inula racemosa), Kantakari (Solanum xanthocarpum), Kushtha (Saussurea lappa), Kulingan (Alpimia galangal), Som (Ephedra vulgaris), Karkatashrungi (Pistichia integerima), Yashtimadhuk (Glycerrhiza glabra) and Vasa (Adhatoda vasaka) are used to treat fever and lung infection.

Medicines like Vasa, Naagkeshar (Messua ferrea), Laxa (Purified wax) and Sphatik-Bhasma are used to prevent hemoptysis. Nausea, vomiting and diarrhea can be treated using medicines like Laghu-Sutshekhar, Praval-Panchamrut, Sutshekhar-Ras, Shankh-Vati, Kutaj-Ghan-Vati and Panchamrut-Parpati. Confusion and mental changes can be prevented using medicines like Mandukparni (Centella asiatica), Vacha (Acorus calamus), Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri) and Bruhat-Vat-Chintamani. Respiratory failure and septic shock can be treated using medicines like Laxmi-Vilas-Ras, Shrung-Bhasma, Maha-Laxmi-Vilas-Ras, Abhrak-Bhasma, Arjun (Terminalia arjuna) and Makardhwaj-Ras. Kidney failure can be treated using medicines like Punarnavadi-Guggulu, Gokshuradi-Guggulu, Saarivadi-Churna, Gomutra-Haritaki and Chandraprabha-Vati.

Legionnaires' disease may be fatal, especially in the presence of a weakened immune system. Prompt and aggressive hospital treatment is therefore very important in the management of this condition. Ayurvedic medicines may be given as additional therapy to improve the therapeutic response and prevent complications. It is equally important to prevent outbreaks of Legionnaires' disease by meticulous cleaning and disinfection of water systems, pools and spas.

Natural Remedies for Gum Health

Gum disease and periodontal disease are serious issues especially when it gets to its advanced stages, as it creates inflammation and destruction of the tissues that are responsible for supporting the teeth with the most common symptoms of severe gum disease being pain, infection and loosening of the teeth. If the gum disease is left untreated, it could lead to the loss of the tooth or infections within the tooth and jaw and as gum disease and heart disease, stroke diabetes and even cancer could have related symptoms it makes sense to deal with any potential mouth issues. The effects of the gum disease are long-term and can even spread to different parts of the body through the blood stream.

Dentists are the best people to treat gum disease, but to prevent the problem from happening there are a few things you could do at home, so that the gums are kept healthy and free from infections. Of course these home remedies need to followed along with the general steps of oral hygiene maintenance, but they add more strength to the gums and thus help in longevity of the teeth and gum health.

Healthy Gums can be maintained by many natural ways but if serious problems are seen, it's better to visit the Dentist for the additional treatment and advice.

Maintain Vitamin C Intake

Vitamin C intake is very necessary to maintain the health and integrity of the gums, and there is a strong link between deficiency of Vitamin C and the gum troubles. The recommended amount of Vitamin C for daily intake is 60 mg (which is a maintenance dose for a healthy individual), and this can be increased up to 2000mg for those who are already suffering from gum disease or gum problems. Vitamin C rich foods include citrus fruits, and many fruits and vegetables such as dark leafy greens, broccoli, chili peppers, fresh herbs and strawberries.

When taking vitamin C supplements it is best to take a buffered or ascorbate version rather than ascorbic acid as the high acid content can erode your enamel and cause acid stress to the body.

Toothpastes with CoEnzyme Q10 or A CoQ10 Supplememt

One of the other proven ways to keep the gums healthy and free from infections is the usage of either a supplement or toothpastes which contain the natural CoEnzyme Q10, which allows damaged or diseased gum tissues repair. CoQ10 like vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory. CoQ10 is found in meat and fish, fruit and vegetables and some oils.

Natural Cranberry Juice without sugar

This is an easily available product just make sure to purchase one which doesn't have any added sugar. Cranberry juice works by removing bacteria that adhere to the surface of the teeth or gums, and prevents further bacteria to attach and attack your oral tissues.

Tea tree Oil

This is a gel rather than oil, which is available directly in the form of tubes at stores and pharmacies and this is one of the proven ways to reduce the symptoms of gum disease. There have been several tests done with patients with gingivitis/periodontitis who used this gel while toothbrushing, after a number of days people reported that the bleeding of gums while brushing the teeth had reduced and that their symptoms of gum disease lessened. Tea tree oil is a natural antibacterial and works by reducing the amount of bacteria on the gum surfaces.

Vitamin D

Vitamin D is one of the ways to reduce the inflammation and the inflammatory effects caused by the bacteria on the gums. Studies and research suggest that there is a link between low Vitamin D and gingivitis, and it was found that people with higher blood levels of Vitamin D were less likely to have problems like bleeding gums.

Sun light during the early mornings or late afternoon during summer and at noon during winter is one of the sources of Vitamin D, as skin exposure triggers the synthesis of Vitamin D in the skin and then the liver.

Lifestyle and overall wellbeing also impact on our oral health so there are other ways to keep the gums healthy and free from infections. One is to keep yourself free from any mental stress and get quality sleep. In times when people are under mental stress the incidence of mouth ulcers and gingival symptoms also increase.

Apart from the above remedies, the maintenance of good oral hygiene through regularly brushing and flossing is a must for healthy gums.

What Is Chronic Costochondritis?

Chronic costochondritis is often mistaken for Tietze's syndrome. It is important to know that the two conditions are not alike. Tietze's syndrome is different for there will be notable inflammation or swelling on the affected rib joint or costosternal joint. Although costocondritis is caused by an inflammation of the cartilage, the inflammation is not severe enough that it will result to an obvious and palpable swelling of the rib cage.

Ordinary or acute costochondritis can be caused by repeated microtrauma on the chest, injury to the sternum, and even as a complication a surgery performed at the sternum. Usually the condition can last for hours to days. However, prolonged chest wall pain can lead to chronic costochondritis. Chronic costochondritis is often believed to be due to fibromyalgia. Fibromyalgia is a medical disorder where there is chronic spread of pain and heightened perception to pressure.

Chronic chostochondritis does not always have to be caused by Fibromyalgia. Once costochondritis affects you for a long period of time that span from months to years, it is thereby considered as chronic. The treatment can still be the same as with acute chostochondritis, such as NSAID's for pain relief. Some combine muscle relaxants with pain medications to help ease chest wall pain. If these do not work, then an injection of local anesthetic combined with cortisone is given by the doctor if the pain is so severe and debilitating. Severe measures can be chest wall surgery that involves removal of the cartilage that causes the pain.

Some patients often fear that they are suffering from a heart attack as costochondritis can mimic the symptoms of a heart attack. Symptoms often include pain when breathing deeply, coughing, lifting heavy objects, or doing something that you are not accustomed of doing. The nature of the pain is the same with both acute and chronic costochondritis. The pain can be dull, allowing you to do your work with discomfort. Other times, the pain can be so severe, you would have to sit down and rest to calm your breathing and ease the pain. You must go for a check-up, however, if you have a history of heart disease and you experience chest wall pain. Chest pain is considered an emergency and should be seen to the doctor right away to rule out the presence of a heart attack.

Symptoms of Magnesium Deficiency

Many of us suffer for months and years from chronic conditions, that no one seems to detect the source of (not even the so-called experts). Only a few lucky ones realize that the true source of these conditions is due primarily to a magnesium deficiency. Many conditions are caused primarily by a deficiency and for many other conditions it is a major contributing factor.

Magnesium is a very important mineral for the body and is responsible for numerous functions. Some of which are the creation of new cells, the proper functioning of your heart and kidneys. It is sometimes known as the heart mineral,or the mineral of the heart.Other functions are the production of energy, proper digestion, the relaxation of muscles and the function of muscle. It also activates B vitamins, the adrenals ,the brain and the nervous system.

To understand the importance of this mineral, consider that 90-95% of the population is deficient, and many thought that regular magnesium supplements will fix this deficiency. But if it is not water soluble or available in ionic form it will literally pass through the digestive track with very little benefit to the body. For minerals to be absorbed into the body they must be available in ionic form.

Deficiency of magnesium, to any extent, will interfere with any of the functions that this mineral is responsible for. The solution is to take it in a form where it is completely dissolved in water. In this ionic form the it assimilates into the body fast, producing almost instant relief.

Symptoms of magnesium deficiency

* FATIGUE & LOW ENERGY

This mineral has a key role in the energy process within each cell, and our overall energy level. Energy production is inhibited, with inadequate amounts of magnesium, with the eventual outcome being fatigue and weakness. It is essential to regulating potassium levels and functioning of the adrenal glands which are both important to maintaining high energy levels.

* NERVOUSNESS & INSOMNIA

Deficiency in this mineral can cause insomnia, and wake us up with muscle spasms, cramps, tension and feeling uncomfortable. The proper functioning of the nervous system requires magnesium and without sufficient quantity the nerve cells cannot give or receive messages and tend to become excitable and highly reactive. Noises will seem excessively loud and the person will jump at sudden sound and be generally nervous and on edge. Light can appear to be too bright and the person can become highly sensitive and nervous.

* PMS & OSTEOPOROSIS

Instant relief can be obtained by taking a magnesium drink because PMS is mostly a magnesium deficiency and excess calcium. When it comes to OSTEOPOROSIS, this mineral is crucial in regulating bone density, as it is magnesium which allows calcium to assimilate. Calcium alone is potentially harmful.

* THE HEART CONNECTION

Without sufficient of this important mineral you would actually die as your heart will stop beating and the doctors will call it "a heart attack". Thus it is critical to have the proper levels of it in the body. Early signs of terminal extinction are unusual changes in heart rates (beats), angina pain, collapsing from exhaustion after heavy physical exercise or sports related activities. With low magnesium the heart muscle develops a spasm or cramp and stops beating because there is insufficient of it to relax the heart ready for the next contraction.

HEADACHES, DIABETES, HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE

Asthma, headaches, migraines, seizures, depression, fibromyalgia, anxiety, ADD, arthritis and kidney stones get worse when a sufficient amount of this mineral is not consumed.

Excess calcium DEPLETES magnesium from the body and as a result brings about symptoms of a deficiency. It is not important how much you take but how much is left in the body. Remember calcium and magnesium need to be in correct proportions, otherwise calcium goes from being a nutrient into a pollutant. When this mineral is deficient in the body excess calcium can cause heart disease, arthritis, senility, calcification of organs and tissues that eventually degenerate. Thus excess calcium can become a real problem, while excess magnesium is not any concern. This mineral does not build up in the body but the excess is eliminated while excess calcium builds up. This situation can be the cause of senility, arthritis, heart disease, calcification of organs and tissues, causing them to degenerate.

Besides calcium, there are other factors that deplete this mineral in the body. Learn what depletes it, and avoid them as much as possible. These factors dramatically deplete your body's storage and make it necessary for greater consumption of the mineral:

- coffee

- sugar

- mental stress

- alcohol

- cola type soda

- high sodium diet

- tobacco

- medical drugs of all types

- high perspiration

- low thyroid

- diabetes

- diuretics

- chronic pain

- a high carbohydrate diet

- a high calcium diet (yet too much calcium can be a problem)

Deficiency symptoms include Muscle Cramps, Anxiety, Spasms, Fatigue, Headaches, Irritability, Sleep-Disorders, Low Energy and Body-Tension.

Heartworm Prevention - Low Cost Prevention Beats Expensive, Risky Treatment

More than 300,000 dogs in the U.S. are infected with heartworms every year. Treating an infected animal is costly and weakens the animal for some time. Using one of the heartworm medications monthly throughout the year will protect your precious pet from heartworm disease throughout his life.

Heartworm disease is diagnosed in dogs throughout the country but is most prevalent in the Southeastern states where hot, humid climates have high mosquito populations. Heartworm medicine for dogs is routine care for responsible pet owners and just as important as keeping your canine's vaccinations up to date.

The medical problems caused by heartworm are often seriously debilitating to canines and lead to damage not only in the animal's heart but also in the kidneys, liver and lungs.

This is an insidious parasite that may not have visible symptoms until the disease is advanced. If your dog has a light heartworm infestation and is not highly active the symptoms of heartworm may not become apparent. In most dogs, symptoms of heartworm are detected by your vet as changes in heart or lung function.

Though early signs of the disease are rare, coughing is often one of the first indicators a dog is infected with heartworm. Your veterinarian may detect unusual lung sounds during a routine physical examination and you may notice the animal tires quickly when exercised.

Severe heartworm disease may display as an enlarged liver and loss of consciousness due to poor blood flow to the brain. The dog may be unconscious for only a few seconds which can be confused with a mild seizure that leaves the animal seeming confused for a few moments. Fluid accumulation in the abdomen can be a symptom of advanced heartworm disease but is also an indicator of other heart diseases in canines.

Veterinarians often recommend a routine blood test for heartworm as part of your pet's annual checkup. The test strip for a positive indicator may vary from a pale blue indicating a light case of heartworm to a darker blue showing a heavy infestation.

A positive result from the blood test for heartworm may be followed up by an angiogram and ultrasound to determine the amount of damage caused to the animal's organs. The antigen tests now used will not detect heartworm disease in its earliest stages but are accurate in detecting heartworms that are seven or eight months old. The blood smear exam that is often part of a routine examination will verify the presence of heartworm disease but is not sensitive enough to rule out the early presence of the parasite.

It is unfortunate that so many dogs are infested with heartworm as the disease is so easily prevented. Mosquitoes carry the larvae and transmit the parasite when they bite the animal. More than thirty species can be infected with heartworm but dogs seem to be the perfect host.

Once transmitted by the mosquito, the heartworm larvae develop in the canine's body and migrate after several months to reside in the lungs, the heart and in blood vessels. The mature worms mate and microfilariae are released by the female into the dog's blood stream. From there the cycle begins again with mosquitos ingesting the microfilariae and transferring them to another dog.

Adult heartworms are large with males reaching 4-6 inches in length and females measuring 10-12 inches. After a year of maturing, heartworms can live in dogs for five to seven years. A lightly infected animal may have one or two heartworms while another dog with a severe form of the disease can be host to as many as 250 of the threadlike parasites.

Heartworm medicine for dogs provides protection for the animal in a manner that is safe and cost effective. There are topical treatments applied monthly and injections that shield the animal for six months at a time.

The most popular heartworm medicines for dogs are:

Heartgard (Ivermectin) - A beef flavored wafer given monthly prevents canine heartworm disease and also treats roundworms and hookworms. Heartgard may be used after a diagnosis of heartworm disease to limit further development of the parasite.

Sentinel - Flavor tabs administered monthly kill heartworm larvae before signs of the disease appears. Sentinel should not be used for animals who test positive for heartworm disease.

Revolution (selamectin) - A spot on treatment with multiple benefits. Revolution is an effective heartworm medication for dogs and also protects from fleas and other parasites.

Interceptor (milbemycin oxime) - A monthly oral pet medication that can be used on puppies over 4 weeks of age and also controls roundworms and hookworms. Interceptor is safe to use in pregnant and nursing dogs.

Speech Dysfunctions In Parkinson's Disease

Parkinson's disease often affects the patient's ability to speak clearly and this is often considered one of its worse symptoms. For many patients, the loss of their ability to communicate clearly to others is heartbreaking. For these patients, they have the added problem of feeling as if they have some sort of dementia. It is important to remember that a Parkinson's patient can hear himself just fine.

It has been estimated that between 65-90% of Parkinson's disease sufferers will ultimately have troubles with their speech, and these problems can become apparent in explicit ways which include speaking in either a monotone or unintelligible gibberish. At times, patients hesitate before actually speaking which can give the impression that there is some memory impairment or dementia with the patient. At other times, the speech is faster than normal, and very often the same words are repeated over and over. Again, this can give the impression that the patient is suffering from dementia or memory impairment problems.

Dysarthria is another speech problem associated with Parkinson's disease. This speech problem shows itself in ways such as a weak, soft spoken, slow or incoherent speech. As both the pitch and volume of speech is also affected by dysarthria, eventually speech becomes unintelligible.

Dysarthria is caused by the speech muscles weakening and becoming uncoordinated due to the Parkinson's condition. Severity can vary from one patient to the next. In fact, some patients may have this in very severe form, while others may only have slight effects from it.

Speech therapy can often help with this problem for some patients. If speech therapy is carefully introduced in conjunction with medication extremely good results can often be achieved.

Voice exercises to improve vocal cords and muscles can also improve speech difficulties caused by Parkinson's disease. Regular voice exercises can be very effective.

Regardless of the therapy used, a person with Parkinson's disease who is also suffering from a speech impediment should always be treated with consideration and patience. Visitors should remember that they need time to formulate their words and then must deliver the words through the mouth. It can frustrating for both parties, the speaker and the person listening to the Parkinson's sufferer, but patience and respect must win out. Trying to get the speaker to speak faster will only make the problem worse.

Everyone should keep in mind that Parkinson's disease steals many things from a person. The fact that it can also steal a person's ability to communicate only makes it more dreadful.

How to Cure Liver Disease Permanently and Naturally

If you, or anyone you know has been diagnosed with Liver Disease, first it's important to know that can be healed and what the liver is responsible for. The liver is the only organ in your body that can regenerate itself.

Our Livers are responsible for:

• Digesting Food

• Eliminating Toxins, Chemicals, Heavy Metals, and Pollution in the Blood.

• Lowers Cholesterol and Brings it to Healthy Levels

• Heats our Bodies

• Burns and Regulates Excess Fat

• Regulates Carbohydrate and Protein Metabolism

• Digests All Sensory Input

• Regulates Blood Sugar Levels

• Regulates all Glands

• Stores the fat soluble vitamins, such as A, D, E, and K; assimilates calcium, and converts beta-carotene to vitamin A

Knowledge and understanding is the first and foremost step to curing any disease.

Second, you need to begin researching on what causes the liver to become diseased and then begin investigating the cause.

What Causes Liver Disease

There are many different factors on what pollutes the liver, and the truth it can be almost impossible to get away from it all in today's society. But there are a few things you can do that will make a huge difference in healing your liver.

Here's a few examples:

• Eating only processed foods, white flour and sugar, saturated fats, carbohydrates, and pure junk food

• Overeating

• Foods Containing Pesticides, Preservatives, Artificial Colors, Sweeteners, MSG, Aspartame, and Corn Syrup

• Excessive Use of Alcohol, Drugs, Tobacco, and other Pharmaceutical Drugs

• Pollution In The Air and Home

• Constant Sensory Input Overload

Curing Liver Disease

A lot of these can easily be limited if you begin to become aware and want to heal. You need to start thinking about what kinds of foods you're eating on a regular basis. Are they mostly junk foods? Or healthy foods such as green vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds, etc..?

If you're eating mostly junk, processed foods such as stated above, there's a few things you can eliminate that will make a huge difference. The main culprits would be soda, meats, and fast food. All of these contain dangerous amounts of chemicals and toxins that just simply overload your liver when it tries to digest them.

Do you ever exercise?

Do you spend most of your free time in front of the TV?

TV's and other electronic devices are extremely hard on the liver because your liver not only digests foods, but also all sensory input. So if you're watching anything violent on television, that negative energy is going through your liver. Why not spend time in nature sitting next to a river or under a tree?

Next, you'll need to find yourself a high quality liver cleanse. Doing a cleanse is very simple and will flush out all the toxins and chemicals in your liver and give it a fresh start.

This is critical, and you don't need prescription drugs either. Do a liver cleanse and drink 8-10 glasses of water everyday. After, continue eating healthier and exercising.

I must also say I'm not a doctor or qualified professional, everything stated above is from my own experience and has helped myself, and many others in curing diseases naturally and safely.

Gall Bladder - Diseases - Symptoms - Treatments

First Gall Bladder Symptom-Jaundice the most obvious symptom

When the skin becomes jaundiced(yellow or orange)and the whites of the eye take a yellow colour as well there is most likely an issue with the gall bladder or the liver. Jaundice shows that the liver is not working properly and can't transform the old blood into bile or that there is a blockage in the gall bladder.

Second symptom is the pain

Pains can appear in the upper abdomen or below the ribs on the right side they are rare once in a while. It may be accompanied by nausea and vomiting and may spread in the right shoulder, the attack of pain can be severe and frequent and may have different durations from minutes to hours. Pain in gall bladder may be confused with other types of pains in different diseases: kidney stones, gastric ulcer, heart pains, back problems. Attacks are triggered by chocolate, cheese or pastry and other fatty foods.

Third symptom are the gall stones

There may be silent stones of the existence of which people don't know and are found accidentally from X-rays. These stones usually do not require treatment. Other symptoms are: abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, indigestion, fatty food intolerance, gas, biliary colic, belching, abdominal bloating. Symptoms that require immediate attention and medical intervention are: fever, sweating, jaundice, persistent pain, chills, pale stools.

Fourth symptoms-gall bladder attack symptoms

May occur any time at night or after a fatty meal, attacks last for 1-2 hours, may cause nausea and vomiting and severe pain in the back between the shoulders. After a true attack occurs, subsequent attacks are more frequent.

Remember that the following are gall bladder attack symptom:

Upper abdominal pain, back pain, pain - between the shoulder blades, nausea, vomiting, steady severe pain that increases rapidly and lasts up to 40 minutes each 2-3 hours with nausea, vomiting, pain - between the shoulder blades.

During the night gall bladder attack symptoms follow after fatty meals and manifest with: colic, bleching, gas, indigestion, abdominal bloating, recurring intolerance of fatty foods. As a treatment: it is treated with antibiotics and in urgent cases emergency surgery is required to remove the gallbladder.

Painful attacks are to be treated with painkillers. Keeping a low fat diet and placing something warm on the pain spot are also helpful methods. Gallbladder disease affects mostly women. Those symptoms are not to be dismissed because they suggest if the state of health is changing and how is this happening.

It is important to intervene with the treatment as soon as possible before becoming too late and dangerous with its complications for the patient's life.The treatment may be surgical or alternative treatment.

Five Common Symptoms of Thyroid Problems

If you are reading this page you are probably wondering if you have Graves' Disease and Hyperthyroidism. Most people have just a few of the symptoms, but they are very representative and clear, such as, heart palpitations when they are not a result of normal physical activity, menstrual period that has been the same for years and now you are experiencing changes, losing a lot of weight without any particular reason. In those cases- I would say trust your intuition and if you think that something may be wrong, it's better to check and find out earlier than later.

As Graves' Disease and Hyperthyroidism are usually "booked" for women 45-55 years old, and this also is the period when most of them get into menopause, all the symptoms can be usually mistaken for menopause symptoms, or panic attack related symptoms, or just nervousness due to stress.

If you find that you have 3-5 of these symptoms present, you should inform your doctor and insist on further tests.

1. Excessive sweating

2. Heat intolerance

3. Increased bowel movements

4. Tremor (usually fine shaking)

5. Rapid heart rate

6. Weight loss

7. Decreased concentration

8. Pretibial myxedema (lumpy, reddish-colored thickening of the skin, usually on the shins)

9. Weakness

10. Shortness of breath

11. Double vision

12. Muscle wasting

13. Mental impairment, memory lapses, diminished attention span

14. Brittle nails

15. Diminished sex drive

16. Abnormal breast enlargement (men)

17. Goiter (enlarged thyroid gland)

18. Nervousness, agitation

19. Trembling hands

20. Irritability

21. Fatigue

22. Insomnia (inability to get enough sleep)

23. Diarrhea

24. Protruding eyeballs (Graves' disease only)

25. Decrease in menstrual periods (oligomenorrhea), Irregular and scant menstrual flow (Amenorrhea)

26. Eye irritation

27. Change in the sex drive

28. Hair loss

29. Increased sweating

30. Heat intolerance

31. Unexplained weight loss despite increased appetite

32. Itchy skin, hives

33. Heart palpitations

34. Memory loss

35. Restlessness

36. Tachycardia (rapid heart rate: 100-120 beats per minute, or higher)

37. Arrhythmia (irregular heart beat)

38. Elevated blood pressure

39. Erratic behavior

40. Chronic sinus infections

41. Eye pain, irritation, or the feeling of grit or sand in the eyes

42. Swelling or redness of eyes or eyelids/eyelid retraction

43. Sensitivity to light

44. Difficulty conceiving/infertility/recurrent miscarriage

45. Hypertension

46. Lumpy, reddish skin of the lower legs (pretibial myxedema)

47. Smooth, velvety skin

48. Increased appetite

49. Increased energy

50. Muscle weakness (especially in the large muscles of the arms and legs) and degeneration

Out of the above 50 symptoms there are 5 that usually stand out and many times the doctor can suggest a diagnose based on them, and of course require further thyroid blood tests to confirm the correctness of the diagnose. These 5 very specific symptoms are as follows:

1. Protruded, watery eyes, light-sensitive, sand feeling

2. Palpitations and shortness of breath, especially when resting

3. Significant weight loss, but increased appetite

4. Insomnia or trouble sleeping

5. Emotional sensitivity, irritability

If you have any of the above mentioned symptoms, please consult your family practitioner so the corresponding thyroid tests will be performed, usually your TSH, FT3 and FT4 will be enough to determine if you have a hyperthyroid condition or Grave's disease.

Amyloidosis - Ayurvedic Herbal Treatment

Amyloidosis is a group of diseases that result from the abnormal deposition of a particular protein, called amyloid, in various tissues of the body. This condition can be either localized or systemic. The protein that deposits in the brain of patients of Alzheimer's disease is a form of localized amyloid. Systemic amyloidosis can be primary, secondary or hereditary. Long-standing kidney failure can cause Beta-2 micro globulin amyloidosis.

Symptoms in patients with amyloidosis result from abnormal functioning of the involved organs like the heart, kidneys, liver, intestines, skin, nerves, joints and lungs. The Ayurvedic treatment of this condition is aimed at treating the presenting symptoms and preventing organ failure. Medicines which act specifically on the seven dhatus (tissues) of the body are used according to known tissue and organ involvement. Specially, medicines which act on the 'Rakta', 'Mansa' and 'Meda' dhatus are used to prevent or reduce the protein deposition. These medicines include Patol (Tricosanthe dioica), Kutki (Picrorrhiza kurroa), Saariva (Hemidesmus indicus), Patha ( Cissampelos pareira), Musta (Cyperus rotundus), Triphala (Three fruits), Nimba (Azadirachta indica), Kutaj (Holarrhina antidysentrica), Chirayta (Swertia chirata),Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia), Chandan (Santalum album) and Vishwa (Zinziber officinalis) .

In addition, medicines like Arogya-Vardhini, Triphala-Guggulu, Punarnavadi-Guggulu and Medohar-Guggulu are used for a generalized therapeutic action on the whole body. The most frequent cause of death in systemic amyloidosis is kidney failure. To prevent this, special emphasis is placed on treating the kidneys, using medicines like Gokshuradi-Guggulu, Chandraprabha-Vati and Punarnavadi-Qadha. Medicines like Suvarna-Malini-Vasant, Laghu-Malini-Vasant and Abhrak-Bhasma are used to stabilize the damaged tissues and organs.

Amyloidosis is frequently discovered after significant organ damage has already occurred. An early and definite diagnosis of this condition is therefore, very important.

Acid Reflux Disease - The Truth About Heartburn

It is the coincidence of two medical conditions that causes acid reflux disease, or GERD - gastro-esophageal reflux disease, as it is known. The backward flow of food and acid from the stomach to the esophagus is the first condition contributing to acid reflux disease. Nonetheless, the reflux can happen in healthy individuals as well, when it is referred to as "physiologic gastroesophageal reflux" and does not always result in symptoms of acid reflux disease or changes in the organic tissues.

The second factor encouraging acid reflux is a malfunction of the LES, the lower esophageal sphincter. The LES is a circle of muscle acting as a valve between the esophagus and the stomach, measuring 3-4 cm, some two to three times thicker than the proximal esophagus. In cases of acid reflux disease, the stomach contents is pushed back into the esophagus because the LES does not shut properly. This is then called acid reflux disease, when symptoms of the disease then follow.

Heartburn is the burning feeling in the chest or the throat, when the stomach contents is pushed back to the lining of the esophagus. The usual sensation of acid reflux disease is persistent (every 3 days or more) heartburn. Occasional heartburn is common as well and does not necessarily mean acid reflux disease, as light reflux can also affect individuals in good health.

Some sufferers say they feel food being blocked, a choking sensation or tightness in the throat. It is the continual flow back of stomach contents in contact with the esophagus that causes this, and the result is a swelling of the esophagus due scars from histological damage. Other sufferers of acid reflux disease may also feel chest-pains or suffer from nausea, coughs, burning pains in the chest, hoarseness in the morning, lasting earache, sinusitis, vocal changes, or problems in swallowing (notably lumpy foods).

Some patients can develop a condition known as Barrett's esophagus, where cells occur in the esophageal lining take on abnormal shapes and colors. Notably in adults over 60 years old, this is a first stage leading to esophageal cancer. Other effects include narrowing of the esophagus, ulcers, bleeding, and spasms. When the stomach acid gets to the trachea and not only the upper esophagus, several severe conditions such as sinusitis, asthma, and pneumonia can occur. Acid reflux disease that is not treated can have serious consequences on health.

Surgery, medical therapy and holistic therapy are the three options for treating acid reflux disease. The latter includes diet and lifestyle modifications as well as use of specific herbal supplements. PPIs and H2 blockers are among the medical options in cases of acid reflux disease. While one can use prescribed medications or acid blockers like these, remember that the results are sometimes no more than temporary and that conventional medicine can lead to serious side effects. The use of surgery needs very careful reflection, as certain underlying problems, such as constriction and muscular contraction disorders, can be complicated.

Acid reflux disease, seen from a holistic viewpoint, is a warning signal for an internal imbalance of consequence that must be correctly treated. For this reason, alternative medicine such as herbal medicine, changes in lifestyle, homeopathic remedies as components of a complete holistic schedule are the clear recommendation for heartburn sufferers.