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June 6 2011 1 06 /06 /June /2011 08:49

Certain diseases have an interrelationship which may not be obvious, especially when the diseases affect different systems of the body then one another. The correlations amongst different diseases include the use of the same medication to treat the conditions, same causes and the diseases may even cause similar symptoms.

Gall bladder disease

The gall bladder is located above the duodenum or the first section of the small intestines, and below the liver. This sac-like organ's job is to provide bile from the liver. The organ sometimes experiences an infection, inflammation, gallstones or defects.

Cholecystitis

For instance, cholecystitis is a condition whiere inflammation occurs in the gall bladder. Gallstones build in the ducts of the gall bladder to cause the inflammation of cholecystitis as well as the condition known as cholelithiasis.

Others

Other conditions that affect this organ include gangrene, sclerosing cholangitis, chronic acalculous gall bladder disease, polyps and tumors.

Prostate problems

The prostate is both a member of the reproductive system and the endocrine system. This particular male gland is quite small. In fact, it is equivalent to the size of a walnut and is wrapped around the opening of the bladder.

Enlarged prostate

As a male ages, the prostate increases in size, potentially causing certain health conditions. The most common prostate problem is an enlarged prostate. This just means that the prostate has increased in size. A majority of symptoms associated with this condition deal with problems urinating such as frequent urination or difficulty urinating.

Acute prostatitis

Other conditions of the prostate include acute prostatitis, which is a bacterial infection in the gland and benign prostatic hyperplasia, which is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate.

High cholesterol

High cholesterol, sometimes referred to as hypercholesterolemia is a condition when the waxy substance known as cholesterol builds up in your blood stream. During this time, your arteries become blocked and your risk of heart attack and stoke increase.

Interrelationship

Each of these three conditions are related. For instance, there is an increased chance of developing gall bladder disease, if you have high cholesterol. Gallstones are also caused by a build up of cholesterol in the gall bladder. Your cholesterol and prostate are interrelated as well.

Your low-density lipoprotein level affects your level of the male hormone dihydrotestosterone. The result is an increased risk of prostate problems because of cholesterol. An increased likelihood of developing problems with your cholesterol, prostate and gall bladder all stem from obesity.

ButterAnatomy of the biliary tree, liver and gall bladder | Source | Date 10
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June 3 2011 5 03 /06 /June /2011 07:48

A headache is just what its name describes - an ache in your head. Though this is true, a headache is actually a more complicated condition than that. For instance, the severity and location of the headache vary depending on the underlying cause. In general, there are three different types of headaches including primary, secondary and cranial neuralgias.

Types

Primary headaches

Primary headaches do not coexist with other conditions such as meningitis. These headaches do have causes. However, they are a primary symptom. Three main types of primary headaches exist including tension headaches, migraine headaches and cluster headaches.

Cluster headaches are the rarest of primary headaches and cause debilitating, recurring headaches. The headache pain comes in waves of pain and then periods when the pain is non-existent.

Secondary headaches

Secondary headaches are a symptom of an underlying cause. For example, sinus headaches, encephalitis, tumor and brain traumas are all causes of secondary headaches. Aneurysms, alcohol, caffeine withdrawal, drug-induced headache and even a stroke are other known causes of this type of headache.

Cranial neuralgias and other headaches

A cranial neuralgia is a type of headache which is caused by nerve pains.

Facial headaches classify under this category since they cause pains in the facial nerves.

Causes

The cause of a headache is dependent upon the type of headache you are experiencing. The cause of a tension headache or a stress headache’s is stress.

A sinus headache’s cause is sinus pressure, usually allergies, sinusitis or another related condition.

Blood pressure is also a known cause of headaches and migraines. Any secondary headache has an underlying cause, which is because of the primary condition.

With cranial neuralgias, the pain is caused by the inflammation of the nerves.

Treatment

The treatment of the headache can mean one of many things. Generally speaking, the underlying cause or condition which is causing the headache needs to be treated.

Relieving the headache

For primary headaches, relieving the headache is usually the best method of treatment. This is conducted via a pain reliever like acetaminophen or reducing stress. Secondary headaches are more complicated to treat. In fact, treating the headache is not the primary goal.

With a combination of a pain reliever and treating the condition causing the headache, you are able to treat the headache.

Lowering blood pressure

A primary example is if a headache’s cause is blood pressure. The most effective way to treat the headache is by lowering your blood pressure. Typically, lowering blood pressure occurs via an antihypertensive medication.

Usually, a stronger pain reliever such as tramadol or sumatriptan is used for the pain.

90/365: The headache look (+13 things)
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May 31 2011 2 31 /05 /May /2011 15:59

Back pain is a common issues affecting many individuals. In fact, 80 percent of the British population will experience back pain at one point in their lives states the Health and Safety Executive. In other words, four out of five people will experience a back issue. This is why it is imperative to know how to find relieve the pain.

Medication

Non-narcotic

Acetaminophen, the generic of the popular over-the-counter drug Tylenol, is a commonly used pain remedy with little side effects. However, it is not ideal for inflammation or any kind of severe or even moderate pains. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) like ibuprofen and naproxen treat pain associated with inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis.

The generic drug tramadol treats lower back pain. Tramadol isn't an anti-inflammatory nor a narcotic; however, it acts like a mild narcotic version of acetaminophen. Corticosteroid are also used for spinal pain management. Typically, these steroids reduce pain and inflammation. Additionally corticosteroids are administered in of two ways -- by mouth or via injection.

Narcotics and Muscle Relaxers

Relief for pain via narcotics is usually only a solution for a short time. These medications are usually prescribed as a last resort when NSAIDs are unsuccessful. Additionally, these medications treat moderate to severe pains. Examples of narcotic pain relivers include hydrocodone, oxycodone, codeine, oxymorphone, morphine and meperidine. Muscle relaxers are another option for back problems. These medications assist with easing the tension of back spasms by depressing the central nervous system. Examples of these drugs include methocarbamol and carisoprodol.

Therapy

A chiropractor is doctor capable of relieving back pain through back therapy. This particular doctor uses spinal manipulation to relieve back pain without medication. After a back injury a physical therapist may aid in reducing back aches and assist in your recovery process so resuming your normal routine is simpler. The alternative practice of acupuncture is another treatment of lower back pains. Acupuncture provides back relief via the use of needles. Sometimes back pain is associated with stress, and a psychotherapist is necessary for stress management.

Other

Surgery

Sometimes pain medications and therapy aren't the answer. In some cases, surgery is required to ease the pain. For instance, when spinal nerves are compressed, they oftentimes cause numbness in the legs, along with pain. This particular condition requires surgery. Fractures and deformities are other reasons for a surgical procedure.

Natural Remedies

Shiatsu is a spreading trend that uses a the holistic approach of Chinese medicine for natural relief of back pain. Basically, it is similar to acupuncture only with fingers instead of needles. Other natural remedies include water therapy, capsaicin cream, vitamin B12 and yoga.

pills in handHand with syringeInserting acupuncture needles, Charlotte Stuart treating a patient wit
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May 27 2011 5 27 /05 /May /2011 08:48

Blood pressure remaining around a healthy level is an important aspect of overall health. Temporary changes in blood pressure are oftentimes signs of other health issues. On the other hand, habitually higher than normal blood pressure readings have the potential to be fatal.

Overview of blood pressure

In general

Blood pressure cuffs, also known as sphygmomanometer, measure the blood pressure. Basically, the reading is the pressure of the blood against the artery walls. There are two numbers which represent the blood pressure reading - the top number is known as the systolic and the diastolic is the bottom number. The systolic number corresponds to the pressure when the heart contracts. On the other hand, the diastolic represents the pressure when the heart relaxes in between beats.

Blood pressure readings

A healthy blood pressure ranges between 120 over 80 mmHg (millimeters of mercury) and below. Pre-hypertension occurs when the systolic pressure is between 120 and 139. Additionally, a diastolic pressure of 80 to 89 mmHg falls under the category of pre-hypertension. An elevated blood pressure level of 140 over 90 is considered high.

Dangers of hypertension

Consistently, high blood pressure levels are extremely dangerous. Though hypertension usually doesn't cause symptoms, the damage hypertension causes is more severe. High blood pressure levels increase your risk of a stroke or heart attack. In addition, metabolic syndrome, vision loss, heart failure, aneurysms and trouble to concentrate are effects of high blood pressure.

Maintaining a healthy blood pressure

Diet

Maintaining a healthy blood pressure is not impossible. In fact, there are many steps to reduce high blood pressure levels or prevent hypertension. Following a healthy blood pressure diet is essential. A diet low in sodium is a heart healthy diet. Sodium accumulates in the blood causing the body to respond by increasing water. This increases blood volume, which ultimately causes increased blood pressure. A diet which contains adequate amounts of potassium is ideal. Potassium balances your sodium levels.

Weight management

Managing your weight is another necessity for maintaining a healthy blood pressure. Obesity increases the likelihood of developing hypertension. Excess weight means that more blood is needed to circulate oxygen throughout your body. This increased blood volume causes blood to hit harder off the artery walls.

Smoking, alcohol and drugs

Smoking, excessive consumption of alcohol, some prescriptions and some street drugs cause hypertension. For instance, abuse of cocaine, amphetamines and methamphetamine are also causes of secondary hypertension. Avoid illegal drugs, quit smoking and reduce your alcohol intake, in order to reduce your risk of hypertension.

Other

Avoid knwon stressors and learn stress management techniques. Check your blood pressure at home. Visit your physician annually. If you have hypertension, take your hypertension medications as ordered.

sphygmomanometer
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May 27 2011 5 27 /05 /May /2011 08:23

New York-born cardiologist Dr. Arthur Agatston created the South Beach diet to assist both diabetics and cardiac patients with their blood chemistry levels. The creation of the diet was for a weight loss strategy for these patients. Since its beginnings in 1995, this diet has branched into not just a diet, but basically its own lifestyle for more than just cardiac care patients and diabetics.

Phases

Phase one

The first step or phase is the shortest of all the phases, lasting only two weeks. Its foremost purpose is to eliminate cravings for unhealthy foods such as simple carbohydrates and sweets. By completing phase one, you are stabilising your blood glucose level and reducing foods which commonly lead to excessive weight gain. During this stage, it is recommended to eat foods high in fibre. In this phase, snacking is encouraged but in a healthy manner. Ultimately, eating to satisfy your hunger is an important aspect to staying on the diet.

Phase two

Phase two consists of your long-term plans and goals for weight loss. This ranges in the degree of weight loss you wish to experience. This diet is for everyone. The overall gist of the diet is living a healthy lifestyle even if losing 10 lbs is your weight loss goal. It’s an ideal option. During this phase, the refined starches and sugars are still “no-nos“. However, more “good” carbohydrates – whole-wheat pasta, brown rice, fruits and vegetables - are added to your diet.

Phase three

Phase three involves a continuation of the diet, therefore incorporating it as a lifestyle. This stage doesn't even begin until you reach your weight loss goal. After reaching your ideal weight, phase three helps you maintain it. At this point, the occasional indulgence of a sweet or unhealthy snack is allowed, as long as you continue eating based on the diet’s guidelines.

Foods

Since the release of the first South Beach diet book, nine other books have been released regarding Agatston diet. Several are cookbooks based on the diet. South Beach diet include in these recipes, foods which contain whole-grain pasta, goat cheese, tomatoes, sweet potatoes, low-fat cottage cheese, pears, bran muffins, buttermilk waffles, part-skim mozzarella, whole-wheat pizza shells, tenderloin and skinless chicken, just to name a few ingredients.

Final word

South Beach diet recipes are for every meal, including the dessert. The desserts use healthy ingredients such as green tea, fresh raspberries, peanut butter, ricotta cheese and even chocolate. The diet's main focus is on healthy eating while still enjoying foods. This makes South Beach diet menu a diet plan that works.

Olive Bread LoafOlive Bread LoafPasta
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May 23 2011 1 23 /05 /May /2011 14:53

Diet pills are popular alternatives to losing weight naturally or there are more advanced options such as surgery. There is a variety of weight loss pills on the market. Knowing the types is the biggest deciding factor, when making a decision if a diet pill is right for you.

Natural weight loss aid

Alli diet pills

Alli which is a commonly known diet pill, is all natural and shows to have no effect on organs such as your kidneys or heart. The Alli diet pill, also known as Orlistat, works by blocking the fat from being absorbed by your body. Diet is essential to the Alli program. So, if you do not plan on diet along with your weight loss aid, then Alli is not for you. With that being said, Alli offers a diet online program to assist you with weight loss. Alli is now available in a chewable tablet.

Others

Other natural weight loss supplements contain the herbs such as ginseng, a natural metabolism booster, Hoodia which is an appetite suppressant and green tea is a metabolism stimulant. The stimulant herb ephedra should be avoided, because of its dangerous cardiac side effects. The herb cascara sagrada, should likewise be avoided because of the intestinal issues associated with it.

Appetite suppressants and metabolism boosters

Appetite suppressants and metabolism boosters include some of the top weight loss products on the market. These pills include energy boosters that contain caffeine, capsaicin, Glucomannan, psyllium and a variety of stimulants. These boosters and laxatives do have the potential to cause some side effects. Stimulants, especially have ill effects if you have certain medical conditions such as a heart condition, restlessness, insomnia or other related condition.

Harmful diet pills

Compared to the relatively safe diet pill mentioned above, these diet solutions are dangerous and may possibly cause serious side effects. This group of drugs includes amphetamines, which are illegal in the United States but legal in other countries such as the United Kingdom.

Not only are amphetamines addictive but they can cause tachycardia, chest pains, heart palpitations, other heart problems, confusion, involuntary muscle movements and various other side effects. These pills are often times, a physician's top choice for diet aids. However, these medications should be avoided if at all possible.

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May 20 2011 5 20 /05 /May /2011 11:55

Human brain function shares a relationship with aerobic exercises, especially swimming. The brain requires an adequate amount of oxygen to complete even the most mundane tasks. Oxygen also helps establish new neurological connections in the brain.

Oxygen is a necessity for the brain to function. According to MedlinePlus, an online resource of the National Institutes of Health, a lack of oxygen to the brain reacts with many devastating. This includes inattentiveness, a lack of coordination and poor judgment. Swimming aids in treating neurological conditions, such as cerebral palsy and autism. Maternal swimming has showed beneficial to an unborn baby's brain development. This includes both the enhancement of short-term memory and also neurogenesis, which also known as the formation of neurons.

According to MedlinePlus, this study was conducted in the South Korea's College of Medicine which is part of Kyung Hee University. This study used two groups of pregnant rats. One group was the control group and the other group was the rats who swam each day. This study began on the fifteen day of pregnancy and continued until birth. The rats brains were dissected and the rats who swam showed to have better short term memory and an increased hippocampal neurogenesis. According to the University of Pittsburgh's Department of Psychology, there is a direct connection between dementia and swimming. Firstly, swimming has a direct effect on slowing down the progression of memory impairments. According to the study that was published in Br J Sports Med entitled "Aerobic Exercise Effects on Cognitive and Neural Plasticity in Older Adults", swimming effects memory and volume of the brain. More specifically, the uppermost part of the brain, which is the largest part of the brain.

This part is known as the cerebrum and it controls the higher learning areas and also memory Many areas of the brain are affected when you are swimming. To begin with your cerebrum is working hard while swimming. You need your cerebrum to know how to swim. In addition, your cerebrum controls movement. In fact, both sides of the cerebrum are being used during swimming. The medulla oblongata is also being used during swimming. This is because you are holding your breathing and regulating your own breathing. Typically, the medulla oblongata controls this task involuntarily.

swimming
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