Coming from the Greek words athero (meaning gruel or paste) and sclerosis (hardness), atherosclerosis involves deposits of fatty substances cholesterol, cellular waste products, and other substances in the artery's inner lining. Called "plague," this buildup usually affects both large and medium-sized arteries.
Atherosclerosis starts as early as childhood. A slow and complex disease, it often progresses as people age. In some people though the progress is more rapid and happens even in their twenty's.
Scientists believe this disease begins with damage to the innermost layer of the artery, called endothelium. Damage to this arterial wall are caused mainly by three things:
- Increased levels of cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood
- High blood pressure and
- Tobacco smoke
Research shows that males and those with a family history of premature cardiovascular disease have a greater risk of astherosclerosis. Unfortunately, these risk factors cannot be controlled. However, reducing the controllable risk factors for atherosclerosis prove to be beneficial. These controllable risk factors include:
- High bllod pressure
- Cigarette smoking / exposure to tobacco smoke
- High blood pressure
- Diabetes mellitus
- Obesity
- Physical inactivity
Tobacco smoke contributes to the worsening of atherosclerosis. It also speeds its growth in the coronary arteries, the aorta and arteries in the legs. Damage to the endothelium cause fats, cholesterol, platelets, cellular debris, calcium and other substances that bring about the further buildup of cells. These cells and the surrounding material then may increase in mass, enough to thicken the endothelium. This results in a shrink in the artery's diameter, decreasing blood flow and consequently reducing oxygen supply.
Atherosclerosis
Posted by TeamRx | 6:03 PM | Atherosclerosis, blood pressure, Cardiovascular disease, cholesterol, Health, Heart disease | 0 comments »Sharpen Your Memory
Posted by TeamRx | 9:34 PM | build better brain, build better memory, cause of memory loss, Health, how to build better brain, how to sharpen memory, memory loss, sharpen memory | 0 comments »
Why you forget some things (and not others)
Different kinds of memory are created and stored in different parts of the brain and respond differently to aging. Here are some examples:
EPISODIC MEMORY - The kind that you use to recall the name of a restaurant or the plot of a movie you saw a week ago. It starts to decline in your early 40s.
SEMANTIC MEMORY - The type that gives you the ability to collect and retain new facts and figures. It holds up pretty well, which is why you know what a blog is but forget your dentist's address.
PROCEDURAL MEMORY - The kind we draw on for tasks we do automatically, such as driving a car or playing the piano. This is also fairly resilient-so even if you can't think of your best friend's phone number, you can press the right keys on the telephone pad.
Mental Congestion
Multitasking makes it hard to commit things to memory in the first place. "Attention is the gateway to retention," says Barry Gordon, M.D., Ph.D., a professor of neurology and cognitive science at the Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions in Baltimore. "If the information doesn't get in to begin with, forget trying to save it and access it later."
If your days is filled with multiple activities, don't rely on your recall skills. Make lists and take notes, and ask others to do the same.
Interestingly, people tend to blame age, rather than busyness, for their slips-and then may think their memory is worse than it really is.
Take the common lapse of forgetting someone's name. It happens to everybody, young and old. "Names are difficult to handle because they're abstract," says Dr. Gordon. The person's face and his name aren't logical ideas for the brain to link together. The older we get, the more data we have to sort through. Some mental lapses are nothing but congestion, says Dr. Gordon, who compares the middle-aged brain to a bridge at rush hour.
Also, we blank on names because we know too many of them. Anxiety makes it worse by creating more traffic. "That's why the name often pops into your mind later," he says, "when the mental traffic has died down."
Could it be an illness?
Certain medical problems can interfere with your ability to recall, notes Martin Goldstein, M.D., director of the division of cognitive neurology at the Mount Sinai School of Medicine in New York City. If you're struggling, see a doctor to rule out such possible cause as:
DEPRESSION - Mood disorders affect attention and concentration, so you don't form strong enough memories to start with.
HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE - Hypertension can cut down on blood flow to the brain.
THYROID DISEASE - Hypothyroidism slows down information processing; hyperthyroidism can cause distracting physical sensations, which make it hard to concentrate.
CONCUSSION - Even a mild blow to the head can lead t memory problems later on.
DIABETES - Fluctuations in blood sugar interfere with attention.
DRUG SIDE EFFECTS - Sleeping pills, antihistamines, and anti-anxiety medications are some culprits.
Building a better brain
With training, people have improved their mental agility after just two weeks, says Gary Small, M.D., director of the Memory Clinic at UCLA's Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior. These strategies can help:
STRETCH YOUR THINKING - Crossword puzzles have long been touted as a mental strengthener. But if crosswords aren't your thing, try Sudoku, the new number puzzle (sudoku.com). Or sign up for a class in a subject new to you.
GET MOVING - Exercise increases blood flow, which helps nourish brain tissue. It also helps prevent or control other health conditions that can interfere with memory.
EAT RIGHT - Yes, fish really does seem to be brain food-as do nuts and olive oil. All these foods contain omega-3 fatty acids, which may slow down brain aging. Antioxidants-found in brightly colored fruits, vegetables, and green tea-also protect brain cells. Coffee boosts attention and alertness, which can enhance learning. But stop after a cup or two: Too much has the opposite effect.
CREATE CONNECTIONS - When you need to remember something specific, such as where you parked the car, make associations. The more vivid, the better: If you left the car at level 3, section C in the parking garage, imagine a billboard of flashing "3C" in neon lights.
MANAGE STRESS - Try whatever works for you-yoga, gardening, walking. Not only does tension distract you, making it hard to learn and remember things, but it also takes a direct toll on the brain. "In studies, humans injected with stress hormones, can't learn or remember," says Dr. Small.
What's the perfect birth control for you?
Posted by TeamRx | 6:12 PM | Birth control, Health, Reproductive health, Tubal ligation, Vasectomy | 0 comments »
When it comes to birth control, it's good to be well-informed. So we've come up with a couple of questions to help you identify the type or method that fits you perfectly. Each has its advantages and disadvantages; we suggest that you go to your doctor before making a decision. He can answer all of your questions, give you more information, and take into account your current state of health.
Answer yes or no to the following:
1. Do you think you'll change your mind in the future about wanting children? 2. Do you have a regular and predictable menstrual cycle? 3. Do you have regular sleeping schedules and working hours? 4. Do needles and insertions make you uncomfortable? 5. Do you feel the need to plan ahead for sex? 6. Do you think a surgical operation is costly and unnecessary? 7. Do you dislike taking medicine as a form of birth control?
If you answered mostly YES: You might want to consider natural birth control. The calendar method requires you to refrain from sexual intercourse seven days after the first day of your period and up to seven days prior to your next cycle. The cervical discharge method requires you to check your vaginal discharge to see if it's "safe" to have sexual intercourse. The basal body temperature method requires you to check your temperature first thing in the morning to see if you're about to ovulate in the next couple of hours.
If you answered mostly NO: Couples who are not keen on having children anymore may want to consider bilateral tubal ligation (the two fallopian tubes are cut) and vasectomy (a surgical operation for males). Others who require non-permanent methods might want to consider modern contraceptives such as condoms, IUD (a copper or plastic T-shaped wire inserted in the uterus), oral contraceptives (check with your doctor to find out what will work best for you), injectables (visit your doctor every 12 weeks to get it) and the patch (applied once a week).
The Secret To 6 Pack Abs
Posted by TeamRx | 11:02 PM | Diet, Health, how to get six pack abs, Muscle, Nutrition, secret to six pack abs, Vitamin | 0 comments »
By Vince DelMonte
Everywhere you turn, someone's promising the next secret to getting 6 pack abs. Some of these so called 'secrets' have some degree of accuracy, while others, not so much. Deciphering which are the best methods to getting 6 pack abs is going to be critical to your having success with this goal.
The biggest area you need to focus on when trying to obtain 6 pack abs is going to be on your diet. Like it or not, the old saying that 'abs are made in the kitchen', is probably one of the most truthful statements in the fitness industry. If your diet isn't in line, your stomach is going to show it.
So, what should you be doing with your diet?
First, ensure you are getting enough protein. Not only is protein going to form the key building blocks you need to build muscle tissue, but it's also going to provide you with a better feeling of fullness than eating just carbohydrates alone would for example. Protein is more "expensive" than any other macronutrient meaning that your body will burn more calories breaking down protein compared to carbs and fats.
Next, don't be afraid of dietary fat that comes from primarily monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats such as olive oils, fish oils, a mix of nuts, natural peanut butter and avocado. While it's true that eating fat will increase your calories fast, as long as you keep it between 20-30% it can be one of the best things to get 6 pack abs fast. The important point here is that dietary fat helps keep your insulin level stable, which, when high enough can actually cause fat gain itself.
Furthermore, dietary fat will keep you feeling the fullest for the longest duration in time; longer than both protein or carbohydrates would. Interestingly, some diets high in fat can get you 6 pack abs fast because your body learn to metabolize fat for energy.
So, while you do need to watch it, be sure you are getting some in your diet.
Finally, when it comes to carbohydrate intake and getting 6 pack abs, you want to focus most of your carbohydrate intake around the post workout period.
Why?
The biggest reason for this is because this is when your body is going to need those carbohydrates the most and will really suck them up into the muscle tissue. When you eat them at this time, it is least likely that they will turn into body fat.
Additionally, consuming carbohydrates during this period will also help to aid with muscle recovery and repair, so that means less down time from the gym for you.
If getting 6 pack abs fast is your goal than each meal you should consist of 1-2 cups of raw vegetables to control insulin levels, improve absorption of your protein and flood your body with vitamins, minerals, fiber and antioxidants.
So, if you are aiming to get 6 pack abs in the coming months, have a good hard look at your diet. That is the big secret that must not be overlooked if you are to succeed.
Drug Alert
Posted by TeamRx | 8:11 PM | Antibiotic, Antibiotic resistance, Drugs and Medications, Health, Resistance Issues | 0 comments »
Do you save unused medicines for future use? Don't! A doctor's prescription given to you at certain time is only good for the period indicated. Not following it can lead to antibiotic resistance. In a global survey of 4,500 people in 11 countries, including the Philippines, it was found that many were concerned about the effects of antibiotic resistance, but did not understand how improper use of antibiotic medications contribute to the problem.
Bacteria become drug-resistant through changes in their genetic material. Giuseppe Cornaglia, president of the European Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, says, "Many patients forget to take medication or interrupt their treatment when they begin to feel better, creating an ideal environment for bacteria to adapt rather than be killed." Repeated and improper use of antibiotics, two of the main cause of increase in resistant bacteria, make bacteria adapt to these weapons, despite the development of more potent medicines.
According to the World Health Organization, drug-resistant infections can result in increased illness, death, and health care costs.
Why Calorie Counting Doesn’t Work for Weight Loss
Posted by TeamRx | 10:51 PM | Calorie, Diet, Health, Overweight, weight loss | 0 comments »
Most people believe that calories are the "enemy", since eating excess calories leads to excess fat, right? That’s why most people believe that the fastest way to lose weight is to cut way back on calories each day.
After all, if a dieter is eating 2,500 calories per day and they decide to cut back to 1,500 calories per day – then obviously those extra 1,000 calories have to result in weight loss, right?
Well, actually this is not exactly true.
In fact, if you try to cut your calories too much (via starving yourself and skipping meals) then you'll quickly reach a dieting "plateau" (a point where the scale refuses to drop any lower no matter how little your are eating).
Firstly, let’s talk about how the average person begins a new diet...
The scenario usually sounds something like this...
One day you look in the mirror and see that your clothes are fitting tighter than normal, and you look more overweight than normal. ...And on this day you get “angry” with yourself, you’re angry with what you see in the mirror – and you decide that you’re going to lose weight no matter what it takes.
You are filled with lots of motivation and anger on this day, and you feel determined to do whatever it takes to get slimmer.
So what's the first thing you do?
...You begin skipping meals and cutting way back on calories in an attempt to starve yourself thinner, since you're convinced that calories are the enemy.
Anyway, the above scenario is how you begin your “starvation diet.”
On the first day of dieting you feel so “motivated” to lose weight that you decide to skip breakfast.
Unfortunately, this motivation doesn't last for long, because after a few hours your hunger begins making you feel weak -- because your body is not accustomed to "skipping meals" like this, and your body is not accustomed to being without calories for so long.
Anyway, by the time lunchtime arrives you’re so hungry (and weak) that you feel absolutely miserable --- but yet you bravely tell yourself that you can handle this diet (because after all, you certainly don’t want to feel like a quitter).
So you perhaps have a piece of fruit for lunch (or perhaps another small food item instead), since you're still convinced that you can starve yourself thinner.
Finally, hours later when dinnertime arrives you’re so miserable and hungry that you have a major headache – and this is the moment when you finally begin to realize that starving yourself might not be such a good idea after all.
After this first day of starving yourself you feel horrible, but you’re determined to stick to your diet since you don't want to be a quitter so soon -- so you’ll likely hold out for another few days on this diet.
Or, if you are particularly brave then you may even hold out for a week or two.
However, regardless of how long you actually hold out -- you won't get any slimmer and the final result will still be the same.
You see, even after two weeks of starving yourself you won’t have achieved any serious weight loss at all. In fact, your body will still look the same when you look in the mirror.
Why is this true?
This is true because most of the weight lost during a “starvation diet” is just water weight, and not real fat loss.
You must remember that any “water weight” lost during a starvation diet will be gained back immediately when you stop dieting and start eating normally again.
Also, whenever you starve yourself you cause a “hidden” factor to come into play...
You see, whenever you starve yourself your body will begin burning fewer calories each day.
For instance, let’s say that you normally eat about 3,,000 calories per day.
....But then you suddenly cut way back on calories -- so that you're now eating only 1,000 calories per day.
Guess what happens?
Even though you’re eating 2,000 fewer calories per day your body will begin burning 2,000 fewer calories per day – so in reality your weight will remain the same even though you’re eating 2,000 fewer calories per day.
When this happens the scale will stop going down regardless of how little you are eating each day, and this is known as a weight loss “plateau.”
This is why most starvation dieters cannot make the scale go down anymore after just two weeks of dieting. They all hit a “plateau” where the scale just refuses to go down any further, no matter how little they are eating each day.
Now you know why you’ve always failed when trying to starve yourself in the past, since it’s just not possible to lose weight by starving yourself.
The truth is that “serious” weight loss can never be achieved by starvation dieting.
Serious weight loss can only be achieved by giving your body the right types of calories at the correct times each day, which is something that we talk about below...
Your body is actually like a big “engine” -- and the truth is that your body needs all 3 types of calories (protein, carbs, and fat) to some degree.
To begin losing weight fast we recommend using the new Idiot Proof Diet from Fat Loss 4 Idiots -- because it does not require any calorie counting (it's one of the only diets in the world which forces fast weight loss without the need to count calories).
You can begin this new diet right here.
Beauty: Make It Work
Posted by TeamRx | 7:43 PM | Antioxidant, Beauty, Dermatology, Exfoliation, Health, Skin Care, Ultraviolet | 0 comments »It takes a while for whiteners to take effect. Here are some tips to help them along the way:
1. Cleanse. It's important that the topmost layer of your skin is free from grime and dirt, so cleanse well with the proper cleansing and exfoliating products. "Exfoliating products may help increase the penetration of topical lightening agents," explains Dr. Cecile J. Clemente-Ocampo, a board-certified dermatologist from the Philippines who is a consultant at the Capitol Medical Center (CMC) Skin and Laser Center. "Exfoliation also creates the appearance of lighter skin, as light is better reflected on a smooth epidermal surface." 
2. Moisturize. "Some whitening products can cause dryness, and moisturizing can counteract their effects," says Dr. Clemente-Ocampo. If your whitening product isn't made to moisturize your skin, supplement your regimen with a cream that can help smoothen it out. If you have dry, flaky skin, she says moisturizing is a vital step to "allow a more even application of your whitening product."
3. Increase Immunity. Because treated skin often exposes it to unnatural elements, it's important to use products that enhance the skin's immunity. Dr. Clemente-Ocampo suggests using "antioxidants like topical vitamin C to boost skin's immunity." They protect the skin from the harshness of whitening and they also :counteract the damage which daily exposure to the sun, stress, pollution, and smoking can cause the skin."
4. Block the sun. An important tool to kepp glowing and block off the harmful and darkening sun is to use UV-blocking products. "Studies on the SPF of products are based on a very thick application to maximize the results," says Dr. Clemente-Ocampo. It's wise to reapply sunblock to the skin regularrly, approximately every two hours, because factors like perspiration may remove the product from the skin.
Nail Fungus
Posted by TeamRx | 6:21 AM | Athlete's foot, Fungus, Health, Health care, Infection, Nail, Onychomycosis | 0 comments »Image via Wikipedia
Nail Fungus Causes
Fungi are microscopic organisms that don't need sunlight to survive. Some fungi have beneficial uses, while others cause illness and infection. Nail fungal infections are typically caused by a fungus that belongs to a group of fungi called dermatophytes. But yeasts and molds also can be responsible for nail fungal infections. All of these microscopic organisms live in warm, moist environments, including swimming pools and showers. They can invade your skin through tiny invisible cuts or through a small separation between your nail and nail bed. They cause problems only if your nails are continually exposed to warmth and moisture — conditions perfect for the growth and spread of fungi.Infection with nail fungus occurs more in toenails than in fingernails because toenails are often confined in a dark, warm, moist environment inside your shoes — where fungi can thrive. Another reason may be the diminished blood circulation to the toes as compared with the fingers, which makes it harder for your body's immune system to detect and eliminate the infection.
Is it Possible to Get Artificial Nail Fungus From Nail Shops
Artificial nails have come to stay. It is rare to find a woman who doesn’t wear it these days. This naturally follows that they are used in covering their natural toes and to make them more beautiful. However, women have been known to use artificial nails to cover up nail fungus infection hence resulting in a coined word “artificial nail fungus”. Unfortunately, this doesn’t cure nor solve the problem. Instead, it worsens it. Let me explain. Nail fungus grows in a favorable environment in which there is a lot of moisture and it is dark. Now when you apply artificial nails to the already infected toe nails, it creates an environment that is both dark and has a lot of moisture. Since these fungi grow only in areas that are airless and on feet that are both damp and warm, the artificial nail thus inhibits the easy flow of air around the toenail. Fungal nail infections are more common among the toe nails than among the finger nails. But please note that any finger nail that isn’t natural but attached to the real finger nail is a huge contributor to the spread of the fungal infection. It is understandable that when the nails look yellowed as a result of the infection, the natural inclination is to want to put it out of sight and hide because of the stares you get on the fingers or toenails. But know that when you hide the nails under artificial nails, you are creating a more enabling environment that will foster the faster growth and spread of the fungus. So, while it is covered, no one else of course sees the nails while it keeps getting destroyed and the condition worsens. If this gets to the extreme, you may not even be able to hide it any longer as the nail becomes so bad that it is virtually impossible to even apply the artificial nails. This is the reason it is better for you to nip the “monster” in the bud.The spread of the fungus nail infection is even more common among the women than men because of the flourishing beauty industry. It is common fact that women these days visit nail shops where professional nail experts help apply the artificial nails they want. Now, it very easy for women to get their pedicures and manicures done for them at these shops and because of this, nail spas are very rampant and well patronized by women and even some men. However, these same shops which are a source of satisfaction to women can also be a source of sadness as they beautiful nails they go to sculpt their nails, can become infected by the nail fungus infection. This is possible because certain women who also visit these shops may have the nail fungus growing in their fingernails.
Nail Fungus Complications
Nail fungal infections can be painful and may cause permanent damage to your nails. They may also lead to other serious infections that can spread beyond your feet if you have a suppressed immune system due to medication, diabetes or other conditions. Fungal infections of the nail pose the most serious health risk for people with diabetes and for those with weakened immune systems, such as people with leukemia or those who've had an organ transplant. If you have diabetes, your blood circulation and the nerve supply to your feet can become impaired. Therefore, any relatively minor injury to your feet — including a nail fungal infection — can lead to a more serious complication, requiring timely medical care. See your doctor immediately if you suspect nail fungus.
Nail Fungus Symptoms
You may have a nail fungal infection — also called onychomycosis (on-i-ko-mi-KO-sis) — if one or more of your nails are: * Thickened * Brittle, crumbly or ragged* Distorted in shape* Dull, with no luster or shine. A dark color, caused by debris building up under your nail infected nails may also separate from the nail bed, a condition called onycholysis. You may even feel pain in your toes or fingertips and detect a slightly foul odor.
Nail Fungus Risk factors
Nail fungus is more common among older adults for several reasons, including diminished blood circulation, more years of exposure to fungi and because nails may grow more slowly and thicken with aging, making them more susceptible to infection. Nail fungus also tends to affect men more than women and those with a family history of this infection. Resistance to fungal infection likely has a genetic component. These factors also can increase your risk of developing nail fungus:* Perspiring heavily* Working in a humid or moist environment* Wearing socks and shoes that hinder ventilation and don't absorb perspiration* Walking barefoot in damp public places, such as swimming pools, gyms and shower rooms. A minor skin or nail injury, a damaged nail or another infection Diabetes, circulation problems or a weakened immune system.
Nail Fungus Prevention
To help prevent nail fungus and reduce recurrent infections, practice good hand and foot hygiene by following these steps: * Keep your nails short, dry and clean. Trim nails straight across and file down thickened areas. Thoroughly dry your hands and feet, including between your toes, after bathing.* Wear appropriate socks. Synthetic socks that wick away moisture may keep your feet dryer than do cotton or wool socks (you can also wear synthetic socks underneath other socks). Change them often, especially if your feet sweat excessively. Take your shoes off occasionally during the day and after exercise. Alternate closed-toe shoes with open-toed shoes.* Use an anti-fungal spray or powder. Spray or sprinkle your feet and the insides of your shoes. * Wear rubber gloves. This protects your hands from overexposure to water. Between uses, turn the rubber gloves inside out to dry.* Don't trim or pick at the skin around your nails. This may give germs access to your skin and nails.* Don't go barefoot in public places. Wear shoes around public pools, showers and locker rooms.* Choose a reputable manicure and pedicure salon. Make sure the salon sterilizes its instruments. Better yet, bring your own. * Give up nail polish and artificial nails. Although it may be tempting to hide nail fungal infections under a coat of pretty pink polish, this can trap unwanted moisture and worsen the infection.* Wash your hands after touching an infected nail. Nail fungus can spread from nail to nail.
The Best Tips to Curing Nail Fungus
Nails must be kept clean and dry always and breath fresh air. Nail fungus naturally occurs on toenail. Some reason is wearing shoes that are tied too tight, wearing shoes for a very long time can cause your feet to perspire and build fungus. Borrowing of nail cutter and other tools from other people might also cause you the transferring of fungus, because if the user has fungus infection it might get to you. Trauma can be one of the reasons for its cause. If one of your gets injured it allows the bacteria to get in. Those people with low immune system have a great chance of getting this disease. Once it occurs in one toenail it spreads to other nails at the same feet. There are mild and aggressive kinds of medications. It can be treated in the traditional way, self treated, or it can be doctor prescribed. Most probably it is much to be preferred by doctors to guarantee the effectiveness and safeness of the treatment. Some medicines can cause side effects especially on those people who are suffering from liver diseases and can also cause allergies because of its high toxic contents. People who have depressed immune systems like those people with problem in their circulatory system, Diabetic people, elderly people and those who have HIV. Medication for nail fungus is a long-term treatment. Awareness in preventing it can minimize its risk to preserve your healthy nail. It takes almost 3 months to be done. In three months, while your nails grow, the medicine applied prevents the fungi from growing, bringing back the healthy nail. Curing Nail fungus has its success rate at 60–80 percent and it is not assured that it will not occur again. In fact it has a 15 percent chance to reoccur.Nail Fungus is a long lasting kind of infection. That is why after treating it the doctors still recommend their patients to continue the use of anti-fungal creams. This is to prevent another build up of fungus infection. The best way to keep a healthy nail is to keep your hygiene always. To prevent fungus infection we must follow some certain methods. The first is, wear open footwear as much as possible. Second, change socks immediately if it becomes damp or wearing absorbent socks is more preferable. Third, don’t wear high top boots if not needed. Fourth, Treat fungus as early as you can to stop its spreading.
Things to Look For When Treating Nail Fungus
Nail fungus has been a big problem for many people since it first appeared on earth. Consequently people have been so irritated with it and have tried to fix their problem, in numerous ways, in both conventional and unconventional terms. Surgery, topical solutions, medicine and various plant remedies, and any other imaginable concoctions have been developed to permanently cure this problem. So many people were so hyped up into curing themselves of this problem that they buy countless medicines and various solutions that has helped the industry balloon up. Such actions against nail fungus are drastically made, but one would eventually think, are the medicines claiming that their unique formulas are the best worth their hefty prices? Although in the market there are available nail fungus remedy products that do actually work well, not all of these creams can be trusted. There are some “medicines” or “remedies” that are just plain scams, and they do not help the person who is suffering even for the small bit. While there are scam treatments, there are also some which are very effective in treating the ailment. Such medicines are not effective solutions because nail fungus should not be taken that lightly, as it is also bacteria. As it should be, people should first make an extensive investigation when it comes to the treatments that they are interested in undergoing because any kind of medication affects ones body. One must remember that the creams that are for combating nail fungus creams cannot function as perfectly when they are only used alone. The professional medical experts who have studied nail fungus strongly suggest that one should take special pills that are made for targeting nail fungus and not just depend on nail fungus creams. If you give all your faith to topical creams alone, well this is not a good idea as your nail fungus will not disappear quickly. Another focus that should be pointed out to a person who is having nail fungus problems is the fact that nail fungus strongly damages ones (used to be) healthy nail, and a nail which is not in a good condition (especially if it is already dead and black) should not be left unnoticed. Not only is it unsightly but it is also a health problem. This is where oral medicine comes in, as approved medicines and prescribed by doctors should quickly treat one’s nail fungus problems.
What Nail Fungus Remover Is The Best
Toenail fungus has a medical term of “onychomycosis” but the most frequently used term is “fungal toenails”. Onychomycosis expresses together fungus and yeasts illness in the nail. Men get the nail disorder more than women. This is also affects elderly diabetics. Back in year 1800s, cases of fungal toenails are minimal. The swelling number of infected people is related to high contact to fungus which is usually accumulated though the utilization of public shower rooms in gyms, hot tubs, saunas and public swimming pools. Factors that are main causes of toenail fungus are due to maturing, being a male, nail trauma, perspiring feet, deprived circulation, foot fungus and weak immune system. Athletes are more prone to have fungus infection. Perspiration in the shoe joined with frequent nail trauma adds to the possibility of infection. Athletes bearing slack fitting shoes which permits congestion of the nails next to the shoe and anyone who is wearing shoes that are too tight are at greater risk of building up toenail fungus. There are many nail fungus removers. One of the treatments for fungus is through oral anti-fungal treatment. The most popular of these medications are Sporonox and Lamisil. These medications can be costly and is to be in used once a day for three months. The efficiency of these medications may vary from 60-80% and reappearance time is 15%. Lamisil shows to be much efficient and has lesser side effects compared with Sporonox. Taking these medications has been proven to produce benevolent drug interactions such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, rash, taste disorders and lightheadedness. Serious unpleasant incidents but very rare to occur which comprises hepatitis and also acute hepatic necrosis.This topical solution can only be purchased with prescription and can also be costly. Other prescriptions that are proven to lessen the thickness of the infected nails are Keralac Nail Gel and Carmol 40. This can definitely lessen the thickness and yellowing of the nail in several incidents.
How to Avoid H1N1 Flu
Posted by TeamRx | 3:23 AM | Conditions and Diseases, Health, Infectious Diseases, Influenza, Influenza A virus subtype H1N1, Swine influenza, Viral | 0 comments »The H1N1 flu, also known as swine flu, is a respiratory illness similar to seasonal influenza. Washing your hands thoroughly using soap and water is the number one prevention to help avoid the H1N1 flu virus. Keeping your hands away from your face, covering your nose and mouth when coughing and sneezing, avoiding sick individuals, and staying home when sick are the best ways to prevent contracting and spreading the flu.
Candidiasis (Yeast Infection)
Posted by TeamRx | 2:06 AM | Candida, Candida albicans, Candidiasis, Conditions and Diseases, Health, yeast infection | 0 comments »Image via Wikipedia
Candidiasis is an infection caused by a group of microscopic fungi or yeast. There are more than 20 species of Candida, the most common being Candida albicans. These fungi live on all surfaces of our bodies. Under certain conditions, they can become so numerous they cause infections, particularly in warm and moist areas. Examples of such infections are vaginal yeast infections, thrush, skin and diaper rash, and nailbed infections.
- Candidal infections commonly occur in warm moist body areas, such as underarms. Usually your skin effectively blocks yeast, but any breakdown or cuts in the skin may allow this organism to penetrate.
- Typical affected areas in babies include the mouth and diaper areas.
- In adults, oral yeast infections become more common with increased age. Adults also can have yeast infections around dentures, under the breast and lower abdomen, nailbeds, and beneath other skin folds. Most of these candidal infections are superficial and clear up easily with treatment.
- Rarely, the yeast infection may spread throughout the body. In systemic candidal disease, up to 75% of people may die. Even common mouth and vaginal yeast infections can cause critical illness and can be more resistant to normal treatment.
- Yeast infections that return may be a sign of more serious diseases such as diabetes, leukemia, or AIDS.
Yeast Infection Causes
- In women, yeast infections are the second most common reason for vaginal burning, itching, and discharge. Yeasts are found in the vagina of most women and can overgrow if the environment in the vagina changes. Antibiotic and steroid use is the most common reason for yeast overgrowth. But pregnancy, menstruation, sperm, diabetes, and birth control pills also can contribute to getting a yeast infection. Yeast infections are more common after menopause.
- In people who have a weakened immune system because of cancer treatments, steroids, or diseases such as AIDS, candidal infections can occur throughout the entire body and can be life-threatening. The blood, brain, eye, kidney, and heart are most frequently affected, but the candidal fungus also can grow in the lungs, liver, and spleen. Candida is the leading cause of esophagitis (inflammation in the throat) in people with AIDS.
- Almost 15% of people with weakened immune systems develop a systemic illness caused by Candida. These infections enter into the bloodstream through breakdowns or cuts in the skin or mucous membranes. Candidal organisms may build up in an area because of frequent use of strong antibiotics, which kill the bacteria that normally keep it under control.
- Use of devices implanted in the skin such as urinary catheters and IV ports also provide access for the yeast to enter the body. IV drug addicts using dirty needles may inject the yeast directly into their bloodstream or deep tissues.
Signs and symptoms of a candidal infection can vary depending on the location of the infection.
- In women, signs and symptoms of a vaginal yeast infection are a white cheesy discharge that typically itches and irritates the vagina and surrounding outer tissues. On occasion there may be pain with sexual intercourse or burning with urination.
- In infants and adults, a candidal infection can appear many different ways.
- Oral candidiasis is called thrush. Thick, white lacy patches on top of a red base can form on the tongue, palate, or elsewhere inside the mouth. These patches sometimes look like milk curds but cannot be wiped away as easily as milk can. If the white plaques are wiped away with a blade or cotton-tipped applicator, the underlying tissue may bleed. This infection also may make the tongue look red without the white coating. Thrush can be painful and make it difficult to eat. Care should be given to make sure a person with thrush does not become dehydrated.
- Candidal organisms naturally live on the skin, but breakdown of the outer layers of skin promote the yeast's overgrowth. This typically occurs when the environment is warm and moist such as in diaper areas and skin folds. Superficial candidal skin infections appear as a red flat rash with sharp scalloped edges. There are usually smaller patches of similar appearing rash nearby, known as "satellite lesions." These rashes may cause itching or pain.
- Oral candidiasis is called thrush. Thick, white lacy patches on top of a red base can form on the tongue, palate, or elsewhere inside the mouth. These patches sometimes look like milk curds but cannot be wiped away as easily as milk can. If the white plaques are wiped away with a blade or cotton-tipped applicator, the underlying tissue may bleed. This infection also may make the tongue look red without the white coating. Thrush can be painful and make it difficult to eat. Care should be given to make sure a person with thrush does not become dehydrated.
- In people with weakened immune systems, candidal infections can affect various internal organs and cause pain or dysfunction of the organ. Approximately 85% of people with AIDS contract a yeast infection called esophagitis in their upper gastrointestinal (GI) systems. This infection is similar to thrush but extends down the mouth and esophagus to the stomach. Candida esophagitis can cause painful ulcers throughout the GI system, making it too painful to swallow even liquids. If the infection spreads into the intestines, food may be poorly absorbed. People with this condition are in danger of becoming dehydrated.
- If Candida gets into your bloodstream, you may become sick with or without fever. If the infection spreads to your brain, you may have acute changes in mental function or behavior.
When to call the doctor
For healthy children and adults, if you try a medication and it fails or symptoms worsen, then consult your doctor. All people with weakened immune systems should contact their doctors with any new symptoms or infections.
- Various conditions can cause nonmenstrual vaginal discharge in women, such as gonorrhea, chlamydia, trichomoniasis, and bacterial vaginosis.
- If vaginal discharge lasts for more than 1 week, consult your doctor.
- If yeast infections recur, see your doctor for a more thorough work-up. Candidiasis that comes back may be a symptom of a hidden disease such as diabetes, leukemia, or AIDS.
- Other symptoms such as bloody discharge, abdominal pain, fever, and increased urination also can indicate more serious problems, and you should seek medical help.
- If vaginal discharge lasts for more than 1 week, consult your doctor.
- Oral thrush needs a prescription medication and a quick visit to the doctor. If children take no fluids for longer than 12 hours, contact your doctor for possible IV fluid replacement. Any fever or prolonged problems with feeding also warrant a visit to a doctor.
- Diaper rash or other candidal infections on the skin can be treated with over-the-counterantifungal creams and lotions.
nystatin powders (Mycostatin, Nilstat, Nystat-Rx, Nystex, O-V Staticin) or- If the rash worsens at any time, or if the lesions do not clear in 1-2 weeks, call your doctor.
- Fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, or the rash spreading to other parts of your body may be a sign of a more serious illness.
- If the rash worsens at any time, or if the lesions do not clear in 1-2 weeks, call your doctor.
- People with weakened immune systems must take all forms of candidiasis seriously and treat them aggressively. The infection may indicate that your immune system is functioning poorly. Your doctor should evaluate any symptoms of candidal infections.
- If you already are being treated for a candidal infection and the symptoms worsen or do not improve, notify your doctor.
- Fevers, chills, vomiting, general illness, or worsening rash needs to be investigated promptly.
- If you already are being treated for a candidal infection and the symptoms worsen or do not improve, notify your doctor.
Most cases of candidiasis do not have to be treated in the hospital. People with weakened immune systems may have more serious infections, however, and may need to be hospitalized.
- Women should go to the hospital when fever, chills, nausea and vomiting, or abdominal pain accompanies vaginal discharge. These symptoms can indicate a more serious problem such as kidney infections, appendicitis, or pelvic inflammatory disease. These potential conditions need to be investigated promptly.
- If thrush interferes with drinking liquids or eating for long periods of time, people may need to be hospitalized for more aggressive medications and reestablishing body fluids.
- Candidal skin infections rarely require hospital treatment.
- People with weak immune systems run the risk of the candidal organisms growing in their blood or internal organs, which can cause life-threatening illness. IV medication may be necessary to combat this systemic illness. Your doctor should promptly investigate symptoms of illness or general malaise.
Exams and Tests
For healthy people, most physicians can diagnose a candidal infection without laboratory tests. Occasionally, if the infection won't go away or involves the entire body, more extensive tests may need to be performed.
- The only definitive way to diagnose a vaginal yeast infection is to complete a full gynecologic exam.
- This exam includes a speculum exam, using a specialized instrument to hold open your vagina. The exam can be uncomfortable because of pressure against the tissues. The doctor will take a swab of the discharge and may obtain other cultures to rule out other diseases. The swab for yeast will be mixed with a drop of potassium hydroxide and will be placed on a slide. If yeast are present, a specific branching pattern will be seen through the microscope.
- The doctor then may insert 2 fingers into your vagina and gently press on your uterus, ovaries, and surrounding areas to check for any tenderness or other problems. The doctor also may take blood and urine specimens after this exam. You should not douche or have sexual intercourse 1-2 days before the exam, because doing so may make the diagnosis more difficult.
- This exam includes a speculum exam, using a specialized instrument to hold open your vagina. The exam can be uncomfortable because of pressure against the tissues. The doctor will take a swab of the discharge and may obtain other cultures to rule out other diseases. The swab for yeast will be mixed with a drop of potassium hydroxide and will be placed on a slide. If yeast are present, a specific branching pattern will be seen through the microscope.
- In healthy children and adults, a quick exam in the mouth or of the skin usually confirms the diagnosis of candidiasis. If there is any confusion about the diagnosis, the doctor may obtain a small scraping of the area, which will be placed on a slide with potassium hydroxide and examined for a branching pattern consistent with yeast.
- In people with weakened immune systems, oral, vaginal, and skin candidal infections usually can be diagnosed by sight. When you become sick, the doctor may perform more invasive tests to confirm the diagnosis. Specimen collection may be necessary to check for Candida in the blood and urinary tracts. People with catheters may have their catheters changed and the catheter tips sent for culture. If a CT scan or MRI indicates candidiasis of the brain, doctors may take a biopsy to distinguish between Candida and other diseases. Usually doctors give IV antibiotics for serious systemic infections.
Self-Care at Home
Most candidal infections can be treated at home with over-the-counter or prescription medication and can clear within a week. But if some other disease has weakened your immune system, consult your doctor for any new symptoms before attempting self-treatment. You may risk getting an infection.
- Yeast infections
- Most women can treat yeast infections at home with over-the-counter medications:
- Miconazole (Monistat-Derm, Monistat Vaginal)
- Tioconazole (Vagistat Vaginal)
- Butoconazole (Femstat)
- Clotrimazole (Femizole-7, Gyne-Lotrimin)
- Miconazole (Monistat-Derm, Monistat Vaginal)
- Massage these remedies into your vagina and surrounding tissues for 1-7 days depending on the formulation. If increased irritation occurs to the area, discontinue the medication immediately.
- If you are pregnant, consult your doctor before using these treatments.
- If symptoms continue for more than 1 week, consult your doctor.
- Most women can treat yeast infections at home with over-the-counter medications:
- Thrush
- In thrush, swish the antifungal agent nystatin around in your mouth. Take care to maintain excellent oral hygiene.
- All objects put into a child's mouth should be sterilized after each use.
- Breastfeeding mothers should be evaluated for Candida of the breast.
- If you wear dentures, clean them thoroughly after each use and practice good oral hygiene.
- Adults have several treatment options not available to babies, such as troches (antifungal lozenges) or pills such as fluconazole (Diflucan), to help clear the infection in addition to nystatin.
- Skin and diaper rash
- Clotrimazole creams and lotions can be applied to superficial skin infections. Other medications need a prescription and a visit to your doctor.
- The affected area should be kept clean and dry.
- For diaper rashes, frequent diaper changes and the use of barrier creams will speed recovery.
- Clotrimazole creams and lotions can be applied to superficial skin infections. Other medications need a prescription and a visit to your doctor.
- If your immune system is weak, your doctor may handle minimal local infections with home care. More serious infections may need IV medications given at the hospital.
A wide array of treatment options is available to treat candidiasis. Options include creams, lotions, pills, troches (lozenges), and vaginal suppositories. Talk to your doctor to find the option that is right for you.
- Azole medications are a family of antifungal drugs that end in the suffix "-azole." They block the manufacture of ergosterol, a crucial material of the yeast cell wall. Without ergosterol, the yeast cell wall becomes leaky and the yeast die. Fortunately, ergosterol is not a component of human membranes, and azoles do not harm human cells.
- Polyene antifungals include nystatin and amphotericin B. Nystatin is used for thrush and superficial candidal infections. Doctors reserve amphotericin B for more serious systemic fungal infections. The antifungals work by attaching to the yeast cell wall building material, ergosterol. These medications then form artificial holes in the yeast-wall that causes the yeast to leak and die.
Acne Vulgaris: What is it?
Posted by TeamRx | 6:52 PM | acne, Acne Vulgaris, Beauty, Health, Scar, Shopping, Skin, Skin Care | 0 comments »Image via Wikipedia
The cause of acne is not complicated. It is caused by the blocking of the skin pores by oil and dead skin layers. When the oil and the skin block the skin pores, it gives room for bacteria that is trapped under the pores to grow causing infection. Androgen hormones cause the sebaceous glands to produce too much oil, then when excessive skin oils and the bacteria are trapped below the surface of the skin, the area becomes inflamed and the mixture begins to leak into surrounding skin. This build up, causes swelling, redness and pus, which is seen on the surface of the skin as a pimple; either a whitehead or a blackhead.
Although acne has been around since the beginning of man, it is a fairly under-studied disease. This means that there is still a lot of frustration for those that suffer from acne, since a lot of trial and error is involved in treating the condition. Doctors still can not identify one single treatment to resolve all cases of acne. More often than not, they ask their patient to try one treatment after another until they find the solution that will work for them. To add to this frustration, the skin takes a long time to show improvements even when treatment is working.
There are effective treatments for all types of acne, even for the most severe of cases. It is best to seek treatment for acne sooner rather than later as acne is a progressive condition that moves from mild, to moderate to severe quickly over time. Severe acne can, and often does, cause permanent scarring of the skin. Once this happens, the acne sufferer will either have permanent scars or will have to seek regular treatment to have the scars removed. This is a hassle that they do not need after years of painful acne.
The person that seeks medical treatment for their acne before it reaches the stage of being severe has a better chance of fully recovering unscathed. They can go on to lead "normal" lives with no visible signs of the skin disease that at one time ailed them. If you are currently suffering from acne, the most important decision that you can make is the decision to seek treatment and to halt the progression of the skin disease.
Do You Need A Reason To Quit Smoking
Posted by TeamRx | 5:45 PM | Addiction, Cigarette, Health, Lung cancer, Quitting, Substance Abuse, Tobacco, Tobacco smoking | 0 comments »Image via Wikipedia
Some Reasons Why You Should Stop Smoking - Today
If you look for one reason to quit smoking, you will find many. Some are very well known and some not so popular. Check out the following list and get motivated to stop this habit before it stops your life.
1. Repair your looks – did you know that smoking is ‘stealing’ oxygen from your blood? The under-oxygenated blood in turn affects most of the organs in the body – negatively. One of the organs thus attacked and very obvious to the naked eye, is the skin. The skin of a smoker would have an unhealthy pallor and would suffer from dryness. Very often the skin would look like parchment paper and it is easily wrinkled at a very young age. A good reason to quit smoking is hence, to look better and prevent premature wrinkling of your skin.
2. Protecting those who live around you – these obviously would be your family and friends. A good number of reports point to the fact that passive smoking is much more harmful than smoking itself. In this case you would be guilty of poisoning your children, spouse, parents and friends. Is that not a sufficient reason to quit smoking?
3. Prevent lung cancer – more than 80 percent of smokers would suffer from some or other respiratory related diseases; a very high percentage of this number would be of cancer; lung cancer. This is a horrendous, torturously slow and extremely painful death. You would literally suffocate over 6-36 months dying a lingering death that you would not wish on your worst enemy. Don’t you think this is an excellent reason to quit smoking?
4. You do not smell so terrible – a smoker smells of cigarettes; all the time. No matter what deodorant you use, you would still smell of cigarette smoke. It is often that your breath too, would be invaded by this smell, which is definitely not at all pleasant. Are you still searching for a reason to quit smoking?
Hair Loss is a Major Problem
Posted by TeamRx | 8:12 PM | Alopecia, Baldness, Hair, Hair care, Hairstyle, Health, Shampoo, Shopping | 0 comments »Image via Wikipedia
It is really hard to tell if your hair is starting to get thin. Bald spots may be one of the signs but there is no assurance for it. There is a way to find out if your hair is starting to thin. The so-called “Tug test”, using your thumb and index finger, hold about 15-20 strands of hair. Pull it firmly and slowly. If more than 6 hairs were removed, you can say it is starting to get thin.
Hair loss can be caused by heredity and such major illness. Hair loss is generally a major problem for adults (elderly). But in some cases, teens start to loss their hair too. It is a great sign that there is something going wrong. Hair loss in adolescence stage is caused by illness or improper diet. Some caused by medical treatments, like chemotherapy. Wearing hairstyles that pulls hair also causes it, like braids, because there is tension on it.
Losing hair is really a great worry especially for teenagers that are concern with their appearance. The good news is, in adolescence stage it is really often happening. Once the causes of it were corrected, hair usually grows back.
Here are common mistakes of people about hair loss. It is not true that when you brush your hair about 100 times it will be stimulated. It might only cause you hair injury. Hairs really don’t breath. They get their oxygen from our blood in our scalps. Our hair will be damaged only because of wig or caps if it is too tight. Frequent cleansing and shampooing of hair is really not one cause of hair falling. Most hairs that are being removed by shampoo are the hairs that are already fallen out. Protein-containing conditioners and shampoos help our hair grow and nourished? False. It only fills the surface of the hair shaft. Making it thicker and much smoother.
We must take care of our hair to prevent hair loss, avoid too much style that would put tension on it. Avoid unnecessary gadgets for our hair to maintain its natural beauty.
Hypothyroidism
Posted by TeamRx | 7:01 PM | Conditions and Diseases, Endocrine Disorders, Health, Hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, Iodine-131, Medicine, Thyroid | 1 comments »Image via Wikipedia
Hypothyroidism is caused by varied causes. It could stem from a singular cause or a mixture of various causes such as complications arising from thyroid gland diseases, afflicted brain activities, exposure to medical treatments, and autoimmune disorders. It is common knowledge that hypothyroidism can arise from a chronic thyroid disease known as Hashiloto’s thyroiditis. This ailment is characterized by thyroid glands that are inflamed or enlarged. This inflammation can be responsible for the brutal damaging of the thyroid cells if it is not attended to early enough and on time. The reason the thyroid cells are damaged is because of the body’s antibodies attacking the thyroid cells and tissues in the body instead of functioning as a protector. Certain diseases that are autoimmune may even be responsible for hypothyroidism. Examples of such autoimmune diseases are diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, Addison’s disease, vitiligo, and anemia.
Exposure to various forms of medical treatments can leave an individual lacking adequate thyroxine in the body. Treatments such as lithium, radioactive iodine and surgery can be responsible as certain research have proven. For instance, someone who takes doses of lithium as a form of treatment for manic depressive disorder –a form of psychiatric disease- is likely to develop hypothyroidism over time as a result of the thyroid’s gland inability to produce the hormone. The production of this hormone in itself is actually hindered by the presence of the lithium in the body.
Also, an individual suffering from both goiter and hyperthyroidism can be treated using radioactive iodine therapy. This form of treatment is very likely to produce symptoms of hypothyroidism and if not stopped on time, will actually result in hypothyroidism. The radioactive iodine is useful in the hindering of the production of excessive thyroxine. This is achieved by its getting rid of or preventing the secretion of excess thyroid hormones. The use of radioactive iodine is not a bad idea in itself as it effectively eliminates the production of too much thyroid hormones. The thing with it is in its excessive application. Because it functions by eliminating the thyroid hormone-producing cells which get rid of hyperthyroidism, it has a tendency to also eliminate the normal ones that will allow the production of the normal hormone quantity.
Surgery can also be responsible for hypothyroidism. Although in this case, most patients have to choose between the lesser of two evils: either death or the total or partial removal of the thyroid gland. For instance, a patient whose thyroid gland cannot be saved or who has cancer of the throat has to choose between leaving the thyroid like that, and getting rid of it. Therefore allowing the individual’s thyroxine producing capacity dwindle.
Are There Alternative Therapies For Curing Hypothyroidism
In recent times, there has been so much focus on the effect of alternative remedies in treating ailments generally. Some even make claims that orthodox medicine cannot make. This has of course led to most people looking for alternative medicines and solutions to their ailments. Fortunately, some who have used these alternative remedies and have had good success with it.
Hypothyroidism which is an illness stemming from the malfunction of the thyroid gland leading to the inadequate production of the thyroid gland’s hormone called thyroxine. The thyroid gland is found at the lower end of the neck just below the “Adam’s apple”. The thyroid gland like any well functioning organ does not just suddenly cease to function. Its malfunction is a product of certain unfavorable conditions. So, if certain steps are taken earlier, there won’t be any need in the first place to start treating hypothyroidism. There are some ways to effectively keep the thyroid gland in normal healthy condition.
The very first move an individual can make is to be mindful of his diet. An individual’s diet is capable of either prolonging his existence on the surface of the earth, or helping him move faster to the grave than he ought to be moving. Watching what you eat is not only important in keeping away hypothyroidism, it is an effective way of keeping most diseases away. What you throw inside your belly is partially responsible for your general well being. So if you consume all that comes in your way without any regards for your insides, then you might as well realize that your internal organs will be adversely affected rendering them ineffective. There are certain foods that will inhibit the production of thyroxine. Some of them are mustard greens, broccoli, soybeans, cauliflowers, cabbage etc.
Foods like sugar, refined foods, dairy products should be avoided in excess. If you discover that you’ve got hypothyroidism, avoid caffeine, wheat and alcohol. Start including fatty acids in your diet. Taking about 1000-15000mg of these essential fatty acids thrice a day helps the thyroid glands in its production of thyroxine.
Research has also shown that vitamins A, B complex, C and E are important in thyroxine production and in generally improving the thyroid’s health. Before taking them however, consult with your doctor as he would know in what quantities you should take them and for how long. Supplements like calcium, iodine L-tyrosine and selenium are also recommended by dietitians. Try all these, but ensure you run them by your doctor before you begin to use them.
Is it Possible to Overcome or Prevent Hypothyroidism?
It is a known fact that hypothyroidism is a condition that can be overcome. All you really need is information on what it is, its mode of operation, its causes and what to do in the eventuality that it occurs. Now, it is possible that you might have been to see your physician and he’s talked to you about the possible outcomes and all. But you see, your doctor does not have the time to give you a total breakdown on everything regarding hypothyroidism. As a result, you’ll find that getting to spend about five minutes of learning quality information is almost an impossibility given the fact that your doctor is a very busy person and can only spare so much time talking to you about it.
This write up is not meant to ridicule or in any way, take the place of a doctor’s advice. It is just a general overview on hypothyroidism. Hypothyroidism, if you aren’t already familiar with the word is a situation where the thyroid gland situated at the lower end of the neck; just under the famed “Adam’s apple” under-produces the required thyroxine hormone useful in balancing the body’s metabolic activities. Let me explain here.
You see the body is made up of any important components; all of them playing a vital role in the sustaining of human life and enabling the optimal functioning of the human body system. Part of these important components are the various hormones. One of which is thyroxine. When the body lacks of these important hormones, the individual starts manifesting certain symptoms. Unfortunately symptoms manifested as a result of hypothyroidism are also common to other ailments. So there is an inclination towards treating them as other ailments when in truth, it is to be treated as hypothyroidism.
The symptoms are very common. Some of them are weight loss, lethargy, extreme fatigue, dry flaky skin, and in some extreme cases, acute depression. So you can see now that it looks just like any other common ailment that you probably know. It for this reason that hypothyroidism is deemed deadly. It might be too late before you realize it hypothyroidism. It is the reason why as soon as you notice these symptoms and you have taken energy boosters, mood enhancers or antidepressants without getting any adequate results, you have to go see your doctor as soon as possible. This will at least stem its tendency to become worse.
As far as we know, sickness is not a welcome visitor and is something that is totally abhorred by many people. Sicknesses in whatever form reduce the quality of an individual’s life and makes it painful. The best gift a individual can have from God is to be in good health. In the first part of this two part series, hypothyroidism was briefly introduced. In this concluding part, we’ll be examining other aspects of it.
Hypothyroidism is caused by many things. In this article, only three of them will be looked into.
1. The drugs people take have been known to contribute to incidents of hypothyroidism. For instance, drugs used in treating extreme depression and mood swings have been known to reduce the amount of thyroxine produced by the thyroid gland. One of these drugs going by the name of lithium is responsible for such. So, the very first cause is antidepressants which are capable of restricting the production of thyroxine.
2. The foods that people eat. We guess this is very surprising to you. The day we found it out too, we were totally shocked. You mean what we are eating can be giving us hypothyroidism?! People who suffer from hypothyroidism have been known to have a slower metabolic process in their bodies. As a result, what they eat do net get broken down very fast leading to weight gain.
3. Weight loss diets. If you are willing to lose weight, it is a good thing. But when you have to go the extreme, then you can be sure kit will adversely affect your health. Foods such as raw broccoli have been known to grossly affect the thyroid gland’s ability to produce the thyroxine hormone. Also on this list are radishes, raw turnips, brussel sprouts and cauliflower. All these are not very good for the thyroid gland. So, do no consume them in excess. A little bit here and there is alright though.
This list like we stated in the beginning is just a part of the total list of the varied causes of hypothyroidism. If you are willing to get a complete list, you can read some of the other articles on this website or do a search on any search engine you use. You should be able to find more than enough to suit your taste.
With this article, we are sure that you can say for a fact it is possible to prevent hypothyroidism. All it takes is a bit of knowledge and you are good to go. Remember: You cannot substitute anything for your health. It is the most important aspect of your life. So, guard it jealously.