Sunday, July 31, 2011

About hair loss

The hair loss on account of any specific reason like medication, abnormal hormone levels or infection of scalp can be treated. The most troublesome and the most common forms of baldness is the common male/female baldness in which the hair recedes along the temples and the forehead in case of men and recedes in density all over in case of women. Such baldness is usually genetic. Genetic baldness is usually caused by an enzyme alpha reductase that converts testosterone to dehydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT leads to shrinking of hair follicles. This results in generation of thinner and weaker strands of hair that fall off very quickly.
The special herbal hair care product Renew contains a group of herbs that provide overall scalp and hair root nutrition and also help in the control of dandruff. The special herbs in Renew help in stopping hair follicle shrinkage. Regular use leads to reversal of shrinkage and hair gain. Renew is helpful in all kinds of hair loss situations.
Renew is available in the form a hair oil that has to be applied locally. Local application means that unlike when systemic hair loss medicines like Fenasteride and dutasteride, hair growth does not happen in undesirable areas like the back or the bums.
Massaging of hair and scalp with Renew provides additional nutrition to the scalp and prevents hair loss. Massaging also increases the blood circulation in the scalp and this keeps the hair roots strong.
Part your hair and apply Renew all over the scalp, massage the scalp gently with fingers in a circular motion so that the oil gets absorbed into the scalp. Leave for an hour and then wash with mild shampoo if required. Alternatively you could apply Renew to your hair and scalp before going to sleep and then wash your hair in the morning.
Renew has no known side effects.
Each 10 ml of Renew oil contains:

Eclipta Alba 3%
Herpestis/Bacopa Monnieria 2%
Emblica officinalis 2%
Cyperus scariosus 1%
Vetiveria zizanioides 1%
Santalum album 1%
Pongamia glabra 1%
Crataeva nurvala 0.5%
Abrus precatorius 0.5%
Glycyrrhiza glabra 0.5%
Nardostachys jatamansi 0.5%
Valeriana jatamansi 0.5%

More information about this and other health products at: http://www.healthstore.4yz.com
And see this and other products in http://www.allthemarket.net

Saturday, July 30, 2011

About Emu Oil

About Emu Oil - Emu oil is non-greasy and would not clog pores, it makes a good skin moisturizer and softener. Research has shown emu oil can thicken the skin, which reduces the appearance of aging. If you suffer from arthritis or have a nagging skin condition, Emu Oil may be just what you need. Headily stated that after conducting massage treatments using the emu oil on her abdomen, the texture of the skin changed and elasticity was renewed. Topical application of emu oil can deliver these nutrients deep into the skin to support healthy cell growth. Is an excellent emulsifier - it can be blended with products that will not feel oily on the skin. A study looking at factors that stimulate and inhibit skin and hair growth using emu oil and corn oil. While all parts of the emu are used (meat, nails, feathers, skin and oil), it is not cruelty-free. Clinical Studies have shown that two major properties of Emu Oil are its ability to penetrate the skin and its anti-inflammatory properties. Because it penetrates the skin so deeply and quickly, Emu Oil helps to deliver fast respite from leg cramps, muscle aches, pains and pulls. produces and manufactures emu oil products for skin care products and increases skin layer thickness by up to 50 per cent as well as decreasing wrinkles and age spots.

Anti-inflammatory - Research has shown that Emu oil has superior penetrating properties and it is now a registered anti-inflammatory in its own right. There is much anecdotal material available on the anti-inflammatory abilities of emu oil. shown to be an anti-inflammatory agent, a pain reducer, and an active ingredient carrier, Emu Oil also has the potential to lower cholesterol. Properly rendered emu oil is penetrating, anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, healing, moisturizing, and non-comedogenic. To determine the acute anti-inflammatory effects of topically applied emu oil. As a medical application, emu oil is pain relieving, anti-inflammatory, burn and wound healing and has even been shown to grow hair. A gentle, low temperature refining process is used resulting in a superior, premium quality, natural emu oil with high anti-inflammatory biological activity. The potency of the anti-inflammatory effect from Emu Oil is similar to ibuprofen without the negative side-affects. On the other hand, a more recent study compared the anti-inflammatory ability of emu oil with several other oils, including olive and flaxseed. For several years specialists have been interested in emu oil%u2019s anti-inflammatory and transdermal properties.

Pain Relief - The results indicated that emu oil may substantially reduce the pain caused by arthritis. The indigenous people of Australia, the Aborigines, use emu oil for its healing and restorative effects, particularly with regard to joint pain. After intensive training sessions, using emu oil on his knees helps alleviate pain and stiffness. - Emu oil contains high levels of linoleic acid, known to relieve arthritic pain. - Emu oil promotes faster healing for burn victims with reduced pain and scarring. Used on burns, sunburns and scrapes, emu oil can reduce pain and blistering and is even thought to reduce scarring. The most promising use of emu oil is in pain management. Linoleic acid (an Omega-6), the second most abundant fatty acid in emu oil, has been shown to ease muscle and joint pain. emu oil hot rub for pain relief - the original and the best For the temporary relief of muscular and arthritic pain. There seems to be a lot of research taking place on the following: Emu oil: wound healing, antibacterial, hair loss, muscle pain. Enjoy natural pain relief with emu oil. A commercial market for meat, hides, feathers, and emu oil is developing. This means that more and more people are using the emu for its meat than just having the emus to use for its oil. On-farm sales: pure emu oil, handmade soap and lip balm made with emu oil, emu meat, ground steaks and roasts. Besides the oil, the EMU also produces a red, low cholesterol and low fat meat as well as a world class leather. Most vegetarians will use emu oil because 97% of the bird is utilized (meat, hide, carcass, organs, feathers, fat). Try and choose an emu oil product that has other ingredients that can help your pain condition as this will give you more relief. There are many companies with product experience that are using emu oil in their product line. In modern times, emu oil enthusiasts have recommended the product for a variety of uses, both externally and internally. So impressed was I with this product that I became fascinated and started researching the extraordinary healing properties of emu oil. Perhaps the bottom line on emu oil is that large clinical trials are lacking in this product. Retail and wholesale emu oil product distributors. With standardisation, emu oil from diverse sources can be prepared with optimal activity, enabling consumer confidence in the product. Retail, wholesale product, bulk and distributor emu oil sales. top arthritis ingredients in one proven product, including glucosamine, chondroitin, capsacin, tea tree oil, emu oil and much more

Research - The earliest research studies in emu oil come from Australia, and Australia continues to export emu oil to this day. Over a decade of clinical research into the effectiveness of emu oil has validated years of anecdotal evidence in support of emu oils efficacy. Such significant successes have prompted more government research to discover and isolate the active components in Emu oil. Veterinary Applications Though much more research needs to be done, the veterinary uses for emu oil appear to extensive.

Massage - When there is something as good as Emu oil or Massage the word should get out and spread like wild fire. The combination of Emu oil used with Massage compliments each other and the good affects of both are increased. "Since I have been doing massage, emu oil has become a major part of my practice. I do both massage and adjustments and the emu oil is used virtually from head to toe. People with chronic shoulder and knee problems get help from the adjusting, but the emu oil really does the final trick during the massage. Significant reduction in sports related muscle strains post-exercise emu oil massage. Gently massage a single drop of emu oil around the opening of the piercing (entrance and exit) with clean finger. When used as a post-exercise oil massage, emu oil brought about significant reduction in sports-related muscle strains.

Use as an acid - When linoleic acid is combined with gammolenic acid (also found in emu oil), it forms prostaglandins, which are found most notably in human breastmilk. First, the fatty acid profile of emu oil is very similar to that of humans. The monounsaturated fatty acid, oleic acid, (an Omega-3) is the major fatty acid in emu oil. The fatty acid esters contained in Emu Oil provide the benefit of increased blood flow, accelerating the healing process. And the ratios of fats in emu oil are critical to the normalization of the healing process. Also, emu oil should not be used on scarification or branding as emu oil hastens the healing process and inhibits scabbing. And the rations of fats in emu oil are critical to the normalization of the healing process. So, the healing process occurs from the dermis and emu oil has an impact on healing at the dermal level. Topical application of Emu Oil enhances the healing process due to its powerful hyper-oxygenating properties. Their natural refining process produces superior, consistent quality emu oil.

Side Effects - There are no known adverse side effects to using emu oil. Known as the "wonder from down under," the oil of the emu possesses very special properties. Many people are discovering the benefits of natural Emu Oil, known and used by the aborigines for thousands of years. Notably, emu oil has no known side effects.

Type Of Emu Oil - Two of these oils are tea tree oil and emu oil. Essential oils can be combined, and emu oil is an excellent carrier of essential oils, including tea tree oil. It has all the value of neem, tea tree and emu oil combined. Contains emu oil, tea tree oil and peppermint.

Cosmetic - Emu oil is 100% fully refined, pure, all natural, odorless, creamy, edible emu oil that is used by cosmetic, pharmaceutical, alternative medicine companies. Our emu oil is pure and cosmetic grade. This article is about emu oil and it's medical and cosmetic benefits. Well, it turns out emu oil is probably the best cosmetic ingredient in the world. Craig-Schmidt noted that the properties of the emu oil made it quite suitable to be used by the cosmetic industry.

Friday, July 29, 2011

About Chinese Diet Teas: Are They Safe?

Chinese teas have long been considered great for dieters. In fact, many companies have manufactured and distributed these products labeled “Chinese diet tea” for those who wish to lose weight. Perhaps the main reason for this production is that many believed that tea by itself carries only 4 calories per serving, and the caffeine in tea is potent enough to increase body function to help burn more calories. Also, it is believed that the polyphenols in tea seem to aid in the digestion of fat, truly making it a Chinese diet tea.

Chinese diet tea, fasting tea, slimming tea, super dieter’s tea, weight loss tea, although they come with somewhat different names, all promote a common message – drink this tea and you will lose weight. However, many experts noted that what you are actually drinking from these products is a plant based laxative that can cause certain disorders like diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, fainting, chronic constipation and perhaps even death when consumed in excessive amounts.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) once stressed that the laxative teas and dietary supplements of most concern are those containing one or more of the substances, such as aloe, senna, rhubarb root, buckthorn, castor oil, and cascara. These products are derived from plants and have been used since time immemorial for their ability to relieve constipation and promote bowel movements. They are deemed effective for such purposes with occasional use.

When the labeled “Chinese diet teas” are excessively used based on the misconception that frequent bowel movements prevent the absorption of calories that problems tend to occur. Numerous studies have shown that the laxative-induced diarrhea does not significantly reduce absorption of calories for the reason that laxatives don’t work in the small intestine, where the calories are absorbed. It rather works on the colon, which is the lower end of the bowel.

Also found out is that when the Chinese diet teas are misused by steeping the tea longer than product labeling recommends can lead to short as well as long term adverse condition. This is also true when the Chinese diet teas are taken more than the recommended amount.

It has been noted that for those first-time users who drank Chinese diet teas more than the recommended amount, stomach cramps, vomiting, nausea and diarrhea are the common disorders to occur and will last for several days. When these laxatives are used continually, laxative dependency will tend to develop with bouts of chronic diarrhea, abdominal pain as well as constipation. In the most severe cases, these laxatives can cause fainting, dehydration and serious electrolyte disorders. As noted, these after-effects of excessive use of Chinese diet teas are most likely to develop in people who are nutritionally compromised due to rigorous weight-loss dieting.

Because of these concerns, the FDA is now considering requiring the manufacturers of labeled “Chinese diet teas” to place warning labels on all of their product stimulant laxatives. It is also important that those who are using Chinese diet teas for any purpose must read and follow the recommended directions carefully. The words indicated on the label under “warning” must then be given attention.

Thursday, July 28, 2011

About Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Did you know that one in every one hundred people is affected by what is known as carpal tunnel syndrome at some point in their life? While commonly found in women in the thirty to fifty-year age range, carpal tunnel syndrome can affect nearly anyone, from assembly line workers, to surgeons and dentists, to secretaries and computer data entry personnel, to even those who play musical instruments or video games.

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a very painful and progressive condition that occurs in the wrist, caused by compression to the median nerve. The median nerve runs into the hand starting from the forearm, and when it is squeezed or pressed at the wrist, the message carrying and receiving from the brain is inhibited.

The name carpal tunnel syndrome, however, comes from the eight bones in our wrists that are known as carpals. They form a tunnel-like structure, hence the term "carpal tunnel syndrome."
Compression of the tunnel walls is the most basic of causes of carpal tunnel syndrome.

Other factors, such as congential predispostion and even trauma based injury can also be to blame. Carpal tunnel syndrome can develop quickly, especially if the wrist has been fractured or injured or rheumatoid arthritis has set in. In many cases, repetitve stress induced carpal tunnel strain can cause the syndrome, especially in those who spend a great deal of time typing.

Symptoms of carpal tunnel can include tingling, numbness, and burning in the fingers, as well as the inability to make a fist or grip things. A person eventually loses the ability to squeeze things and may even find it hard to tie their shoes. In the most extreme cases of carpal tunnel syndrome, the patients are unable to determine hot or cold by touch.

Treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome is available. Most physicians will advise against repetitive and exhaustive activities related to hand movement. Stretching exercises and medicines like corticosteroids can help in relieving the syndrome. However, if the condition worsens, surgery may be the only available course of treatment.

If you feel as though you may be suffering from carpal tunnel syndrome, you should consult your physician immediately to discuss symptoms and treatment options.

Wednesday, July 27, 2011

About alternative health supplements

These days, there are plenty of pills out there offered by your local pharmacy to cure what ails you. But you can never be too sure that the products pushed on us by the food and drug administration are the best thing for you. A lot of these pills have side effects, and some of them are not tolerated well by certain people.

To that end, there are numerous alternative health supplements offered that can help your body get into the best shape it’s ever been. Here are the facts on some of them:

Coral calcium- This supplement is great to help your body. You probably know that your body needs calcium to maintain its bones and teeth, but most people don’t realize that you need a certain level of calcium in your bloodstream as well.

If you don’t keep replenishing this calcium, your body will begin to sap the calcium from your bones and teeth to maintain the level in your blood. This can result in bone and teeth shrinkage, and can make them brittle and cause movements to be painful. Coral calcium is a source of calcium that surpasses most of the others. Available in supplement form, coral calcium can be a great buy.

Another one of the alternative health supplements offered is fish oil. Harvested from fatty fish, this oil contains substances known as omega-3 essential fatty acids. Containing the fatty acids DHA and EPA, fish oil has been linked to memory improvement and general brain health, considering DHA is a substance that needs to maintain its presence in the brain. Also, the American Heart Association recommends that you take fish oils to help maintain heart health. It can help to decrease your risks of heart disease or cardiac arrest!

These are two of the alternative health supplements offered these days that can help lead your body to great health. Hopefully they can help you!



Why not check out our nutrition guide at http://www.nutritional-supplement-guides.com/nut-ebook.html

and also what supplement we personally use for our nutrition needs at http://www.nutritional-supplement-guides.com/what-we-use.html

Tuesday, July 26, 2011

About Acne - What can you do to cure or alleviate acne?

Acne gives the combination of symptoms like greasy skin, white heads, black heads, pimples, inflammation and scar formation. Acne mostly affects young people in the age 14 - 25, but also sometimes older persons, like women in their menopause. Most teenagers experience outburst of acne, some only little, but for others acne may develop into a serious skin ailment with great cosmetic impact.


THE SKIN ANATOMY

To understand the acne process, some knowledge about skin anatomy and physiology is essential:

The skin has there layers: The outer layer called epidermis consists of epithelial cells. Under this lies the dermis consisting of connective tissue. At the bottom there is a layer called the hypodermis consisting mostly of fat cells.

The skin has narrow pores extending from the surface down to the top of the sub-dermis, called hair follicles. A hair extend from a growth zone in the bottom of each hair follicle and out at the skin surface. Around the hair in the dermis, there are small glands called sebaceous glands. These glands produce a fatty substance, sebum, which empty through the follicle opening and lubricates the hair and the skin.


THE ACNE PROCESS

Acne starts by the glands in the hair follicles increasing their sebum production. This will in the beginning only cause greasy skin. Eventually the sebum in the entrance of the follicles mixes with dead epithelial cells. This mix reacts chemically to forms hard props, comedones that close the pore entrances. According to the color of the comedones, they are called black heads or white heads.

Then the closed hair follicle gets filled with sebum and swell. The swollen follicle then gets infected by bacteria. The bacteria and the accumulated sebum cause the follicle and the surrounding skin to get inflamed, forming a pimple. At last the inflamed follicle burst and empties its content. Eventually the affected area heals. Sometimes the inflammation reaches deep into the skin surrounding the follicle and destroys skin tissue. This will cause more or less distinct scars that may reside permanently. Typically an affected person will have follicles in all these stages of the process at any given time.


THE CAUSES OF ACNE

The increased hormone production in the puberty stimulates to increased sebum production. The male hormone, testosterone, seem to contribute most. Also girls begin to produce more testosterone in the puberty. Also in other periods, altered hormone production may give acne, for example by women in the menopause.

Since not all teens get acne in any degree, the increased hormone level cannot be the whole cause of the increased sebum production. The follicles of affected persons must for some reason react stronger upon the higher hormone level.

Dietary factors, like eating too much fat, too much sugar or the wrong kind of fat may aggravate acne by some individuals. Lack of vitamins, minerals and essential fatty acids may also contribute to development of acne.

Poor digestion, lazy colon and constipation aggravate acne in some individuals, probably due to productions of toxins in the intestines. Lazy colon may be caused by dietary faults, like lack of fiber.

Very frequent washing and use of strong soaps aggravate acne, and does not alleviate the condition as many think. Rubbing, scrubbing or squeezing the skin may also aggravate acne.

Here are some other factors that may contribute in causing acne or aggravating the condition.

- Stress
- Some contraceptive agents
- Environmental or domestic pollution.
- Humid environments.
- Some antidepressants.
- Testosterone and anabolic steroids used for treatment or by body-building.
- Use of some types of greasy cosmetic products.
- Some antiperspirant products.
- Exposing the skin for chlorine or other halogens, or medicines containing halogens.
- Women may get aggravated acne 2-7 days before menstruation.


WHAT CAN YOU DO YOURSELF TO AVOID OR TO TREAT ACNE

Sometimes Acne is so severe that special medical treatment is required, and sometimes the causes of acne necessitate medical treatment. But you can do much yourself also. Here are listed things you can do yourself to prevent or treat acne:

1. Some advices about diet that may help prevent and cure acne:

- Do not consume a great amount of fat.
- The fat you add to the food should be natural oils. Olive oil is ideal, but use other types of oils too, like walnut oil, sunflower oil and soy oil. However, do not use only soy oil as many tend to do. Using only soy oil will give you too much of some fatty acids and too less of others.
- Eat much fish, seafood and not so much meat.
- Eat food with a high fiber content to regulate the digestion, like vegetables, whole cereals, full corn bread and fruit.


2. Here are some things you should avoid.

- Do not use greasy or heavy cosmetics that clog your skin and are difficult to wash away.
- Do not use strong irritating antiperspirants.
- Do not wash with strong soap or cleaners that dry up your skin and take away all the natural oily protection in your skin.
- If you perform body-building, do not use anabolic steroids or other hormonal supplements.
- Use clothes that allow air to reach your body surface to avoid collection of humidity and overheating of your skin.


3. Use of rinsing milk or solutions

You can rinse your skin with mild products especially made to dissolve the plugs in your pores, and to make the environment in your skin unfriendly to bacteria causing infection. Some of these products are just products to wash your skin with one ore more times a day; others should be on during night and flushed away in the morning.

Salicylic acid is a mild ingredient often used in these products to dissolve the comedones. The products usually also contain ingredients that work antibacterial and stimulate the skin's own cleaning activities, like Tea tree oil or Echinacea extract.

4. Use of gels and creams to treat acne and protect your skin

After the rinsing, you should apply some treatment gel, cream or lotion onto your skin to achieve these effects:

- To make your skin soft and elastic.
- To protect your skin against the environment.
- To acts further to dissolve the clogging of your pores.
- To soothe and alleviate inflammation.
- To kill the bacteria causing infection or make an environment hostile for the bacteria.
- To stimulate the skin to clean itself.
- To stimulate the skin to heal.
- To be used as a isolating layer between the skin itself and cosmetics

In order to protect, make the skin soft and further dissolve the comedones, many products contain natural plant oils that are easily absorbed into the epidermis, like Tea tree oil, Rose hip oil, Lavender oil and Olive oil.

Ingredients used in products to reduce inflammation and to stimulate healing may be: Aloe Vera extract, Viola Tricolour extract, Rose hip oil, Vitamin E and Vitamin A.

Tea tree oil and Grapefruit seed extract are natural antibacterial agents used in many of these products. In other products artificial compounds like Benzoyl peroxide are used.


5. Oral supplements to fight the acne process and nourish the skin

Supplements taken by mouth to nourish your skin may be useful. The purpose of these supplements is more or less the same as that of nourishing creams.

- To make the sebum more fluid so it drains more easily.
- To stimulate the substance exchange and cleaning processes in your skin,
- To stimulate your skin to heal,
- To give your skin building nutrients necessary to heal.

Ingredients often used in these supplements to stimulate the cleaning and healing processes in the skin are: Vitamins A, C, B1, B2, B3, B6, C, D, E, Folic acid, Beta carotene, Bioflavonoids, Magnesium, Copper, Zinc, selenium, anti-oxidants from Green tea, Metylsulfonyl methane.

Nutrient found in these products used as material to rebuild damaged skin and to give a sebum with better consistency are: Evening primrose oil, Olive oil, Flax seed oil, Borage oil, Soy oil, Wheat germ oil and Lecithin.

Gum guggul extract used in oral products has an anti-biotic effect, and helps against spreading of the acne infection and thus helps against scar formation.

Monday, July 25, 2011

About Acne: Getting the Most from Your Doctor

There’s nothing trivial about having acne problems. If you are one of the millions that suffer from acne outbreaks, you know that it can be uncomfortable and even sometimes devastating to someone who is seriously afflicted. As you consider treatment options, you may want the professional help of a physician or dermatologist. These highly trained specialists can be invaluable in helping you achieve clear skin again. While they are not magicians who can make your acne disappear overnight, they can be essential in diagnosing and treating you so that you don’t have to suffer any longer than necessary.

It is important to remember a few things when visiting a skin care specialist. Because there are so many people in the world that suffer from acne outbreaks, dermatologists are often very busy with lots of clients. Don’t let this vex you; a doctor is concerned about your condition and wants to help you. Here are some things that you can do to maximize your visit when you see them. Having effective doctor visits will help you overcome your acne sooner and also help you save money and time.

First, don’t be afraid to ask questions about your condition. Remember, we are all different, so a treatment that is highly effective with one person is not necessarily what is going to work for you. Knowledge about the particulars of your condition will help you better understand the condition you are trying to overcome. You may even want to write down any specific questions you may have to make sure you cover all the topics you want to know about.

The most important aspect of having an effective doctor visit is good communication. By keeping some facts or aspects about your condition from the dermatologist, you are only hurting yourself by giving them an incomplete knowledge of the facts. The doctor can only base his diagnosis on what you have told him, so try to be thorough with the details about your acne. Tell them how long your acne has been affecting you, what other treatments you’ve attempted to do before, what worsens your condition, and any other factors that you think may apply. Tell them how your acne is affecting you emotionally and socially, as mental health is synonymous with your physical health.

Once your doctor and you have discussed your condition, make sure that you fully understand what they will be doing in regards to your treatment. Be sure to understand the correct way to apply the treatment, how long the treatment will last, and how long it will be before you begin to see results. Also, be sure and find out if there are any side effects that go along with the use of the treatment; this will help you be better prepared for any occurrences or problems that may arise. Schedule a follow-up appointment with the doctor and discuss what the status of your condition should be when you return. If you are knowledgeable about the treatment and looking for the desired results, you will know sooner whether your current method is working or not.

Remember that there are many treatments available that work better or worse for different people. Don’t be discouraged if the first method you try does not attain the desired results. Be patient and work with your doctor and you will soon be able to find the most effective treatment that is right for you.

Sunday, July 24, 2011

Abdominal Exercises For Beginning Bodybuilders.

The abdomen contains the muscles that most beginners struggle with because they take a long time to develop and need a low level of body fat to be seen. The abdominal muscle group consists of three main muscles:

1. Rectus abdominis - commonly known as the abs, this is a large flat muscle wall that runs from the lower chest to the pubic bone.

2. Obliquus abdominis - commonly known as the obliques, this muscle runs diagonally along the side of the mid-section from the lower ribcage to the pubic area. The internal obliques lie underneath the external obliques.

3. Transversus abdominis - this is a thin strip of muscle that runs horizontally across the abdomen.

You can target these muscles effectively by performing the following exercises:

1. Crunches - 3 sets of 15-20 reps. This exercise will work the upper abs.

2. Pelvic tilts - 3 sets of 15-20 reps.This exercise will target the lower portion of the abdomen below the navel.

3. Side bends - 3 sets of 15-20 reps. This exercise will work the obliques.

As with all exercises you need to take care in scheduling specific body parts. To begin with you should incorporate your abdominal exercises into a program similar to the one suggested below:

Day 1: Biceps, Back, Abs

Day 2: Hamstrings, Shoulders, Abs

Day 3: Quads, Forearms, Calves

Day 4: Triceps, Chest, Abs

For the first couple of weeks complete one set but then add one set each week to a maximum of three. At the end of three months you will be ready to move on to more intensive intermediate level exercises.

Saturday, July 23, 2011

Abdominal exercise machines

Abdominal exercise devices are many in number and range form simple inflatable balls to complicated structures with springs hinges and hydrolic resistance mechanism.
The Exercise equipment industry also recognises the the motivation for many people to exercise is to reduce a growing layer of fat around the mid-section, so an obvious choice for any one looking to loose weight in this area would choose a device to directly taget this area.

Althogh this strategy seems to be logical, the effectiveness of an abdominal exercise device on the abdominal area is much less than one would think, in fact the effects of abdominal exercises are far less than that of walking, jogging or cycling for a similar level of perceved effort. The fact that most abdominal exercise devices use a muscle isolation form, will give a far greater feeling of a good workout because the lactic accid build up during exercise causes some discomfort which is normaly ascociated with vigerous exercise and thus giving a percieved level of exercise which has actually not depleted the normal level of blood sugar in the bodies energy system and thus not effected the bodies energy system to break down stored fat into usable energy.

Many people also use fitness product purchases as a means of motivation for a healthy lifestyle. I thin every one at some point in there life has bought something as a means of motivation a lifestyle change, when in actual fact these changes are usually short lived and have very litle effect. My advice would be to change your lifestyle then buy devices or gadgets to re-enforce the changes.

If you are still determined that an abdominal device is the right choice I would recoment a small device that doesnt take up half you house, unless you have a spare room, some thing like the 6 Second abs or the Ab King Pro will certainly give you a good workout.

Friday, July 22, 2011

Abdominal Exercise And Weight Loss

Abdominal Exercise

When most people start on a weight-loss regime the first thing they wish to attack is their waistline. They start off with visions of turning a beer gut into an abdominal six-pack. After a few weeks of strenuous exercise nothing appears to happen and soon they lose confidence and give up.

This article is designed to explain, in laymen's terms, why this happens and why you may be using the wrong exercises, or possibly the right exercises at the wrong time. Either way you are doing yourself no favors.

Never give up because only losers quit. We've all heard the old saying: "The height of stupidity is to repeat the same thing and expect a different result." If it isn't working you try a different routine and you keep doing that until you find the routine that does work, that is the way of winners.

Why These Exercises do not Reduce Waist

The first thing you must accept is that all abdominal exercises only strengthen abdominal muscles, if those muscles are covered by a layer of fat when you start they will still be covered by the same layer of fat when you finish. You will have stronger abdominal muscles but you will not look any different. Therefore your attempt to create figure from fat will have failed. The secret to making these abdominal exercises work is to lose fat first. You lose fat by diet and aerobic exercise, by burning more calories than you take in with food. When you have reduced your waistline to a more natural size you can then take up abdominal exercises and start working on that perfect six-pack.

Weight Loss

In a nutshell you need to reduce your calorie intake and burn some calories off by using light exercise. Losing weight can only be achieved by eating less and moving more. Forget the complicated scientific formulae, it all boils down to eating less and moving more.

Exercise Wisdom

Conventional wisdom claims that you need to exercise for 30-minutes each day and that this demand can be broken down to six five minute sessions or three ten minute sessions, whichever suits you best. You can carry out aerobic exercise using simple methods like parking your car as far from the store as possible and forcing yourself to walk further. Maybe walking up the stairs instead of using the escalator, any small act of this nature that adds to your normal exercise output is aerobic exercise and burns calories.

Eating habits

Furthermore it makes sense to eat five or six meals each day rather than two or three. Why? Because you will eat smaller meals and it is better for your metabolism to deal with smaller meals rather than large meals. You can also eat between these meals providing you restrict it to a piece of fruit or a raw carrot. Dieting doesn't have to be hard it has to be sensible.
Your brain doesn't get the message that your stomach is full for at least twenty minutes after it is full. How often have you eaten way beyond the capacity that is required simply because the message hasn't got through?

Conclusion

There is no point in attempting abdominal exercises while you still have a layer of fat and expecting a figure improvement. Muscle building and weight loss are separate subjects that should be approached individually if you are to get the best results.

This article is (c) Copyright David McCarthy 2005 and may be reproduced in its entirety with no additions.

Thursday, July 21, 2011

Abdominal Chemo Increases Ovarian Cancer Survival Rate

A large clinical test shows that giving chemotherapy directly into the stomach, as well as into a vein, can improve survival of women with advanced ovarian cancer by about sixteen months. The results of the study, which pop up in this week's issue of the New England Journal of Medicine, prompted the National Cancer Institute to issue a statement supporting doctors to employ this plan of attack for appropriate patients.

Why is this new treatment reigmine so important? Ovarian cancer is the fourth greatest reason of cancer demises in women, affecting more than 22,000 women and killing more than 16,000 in 2005. Although this disease is super treatable when saw ahead of time, virtually all cases are not noticed until they have dispersed beyond the ovaries. Because so many ovarian cancer patients are diagnosed at a later stage, it is crucial to find ways to better treatments for further progressed disease.

What is already known about ovarian cancer? virtually all women with advanced ovarian cancer get chemotherapy after surgery to get rid of the tumor. That chemotherapy is usually given into a vein and moves through the bloodstream to reach tumor cells in the stomach. Doctors have also experimented with rendering the chemotherapy straight into the abdomen through a catheter, a system called intraperitoneal (IP) chemotherapy. Eight clinical trials of this approach have been done, and most showed a gain to IP chemotherapy. But this technique is not widely wore, according to the study's author, Deborah Armstrong, MD.

"There has been a prejudice against IP therapy in ovarian cancer because it's an old idea, it requires skill and experience for the surgery and for the chemotherapy, and it's additional complicated than IV chemotherapy," said Armstrong, who is a medical oncologist and associate professor at the John Hopkins Kimmel Cancer Center in Baltimore.

How this study was done: Women with stage III ovarian cancer were randomly assigned to get either standard chemotherapy in a vein (210 women), or a combination of chemotherapy in a vein and IP chemotherapy (205 women). The women had already had surgery that successfully removed all or most of the tumor; none had tumors remaining that were larger than 1 cm in diameter. All the women were treated with the same drugs, cisplatin and paclitaxel. Six cycles of chemotherapy were planned for both groups.

What was found? Women who had IP chemo operated long without their cancer coming back and lived longest overall. Women who had traditional chemotherapy in a vein survived about 4 years after treatment, while those who got chemotherapy in the stomach as well as a vein stomach an median of nearly 5 ½ years after treatment.

That improvement is "one of the largest benefits ever observed for a new therapy in gynecologic oncology," based on data from Stephen A. Cannistra, MD, who composed an editorial published with the study. He is a professor at Harvard Medical School and managing director of the division of gynecologic medical oncology at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston.

Nonetheless, the IP treatment was very much more difficult on the patients. Women who had this treatment had many additional terrible or life-threatening side effects, including low white blood cell counts, infection, tiredness, and anguish. Many side effects were associated to the catheters that must be introduced into the stomach to deliver the chemotherapy. These problems were so serious that fewer than half of the women designated to undergo IP chemotherapy finished all six designed treatment cycles. That makes the survival advance that good deal supplementary noteworthy, Cannistra composed.

Women who got IP therapy also reported significantly worse caliber of life during and just after treatment. By one year out, nonetheless, both groups described similar quality of life.


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Wednesday, July 20, 2011

Ab Exercise Equipment - An Honest Review

Are you in perfect shape for summer yet? Those sunny days are just around the corner and everyone is out shopping for their revealing, sexy bathing suits. How will your new swimwear fit on you? Let's run a quick check. Are those legs toned and those arms fit? Have you been keeping up with your daily crunches and sit-ups?

Uh-oh, that one always gets people, I know it . Those darn abs workouts. Let me tell you the truth. Although they can be a little annoying at times, they're necessary to say the least. I can't overemphasize them. Come on, we all want to display a great set of abs and walk around showing them to everyone. Why else do you think we have so much abs exercise equipment reigning the fitness market at all times? Regardless of your gender, the abs are absolutely critical. Are you testing out some of the new-age abs exercise equipment?

When it comes to abs exercise equipment, I don't have any. I prefer to do all my exercises without machine interference. You know, all those traditional exercises like pull-ups, push-ups, leg-raises, dips, etc. Now, this is not the chosen route for every individual who is striving to stay fit. Many people prefer some of the latest benches, treadmills, stairmasters, and abs exercise equipment on the market. This stuff is great if you can afford it. Why not take advantage of any contemporary aids if available? If you have the money and think it fits you, I say go for it.

Let's take my wife as an example. My wife has one of those big rubber balls you see pretty girls swear by on television ads. While I'm pretty certain that they have a more politically correct name, I don't know what it is. She uses this abs exercise equipment for a wide array of stomach and back workouts. I have to admit that I was rather surprised the first time I saw it. I could certainly see how it would provide you with a strenuous workout and build your muscles. She continues to use it daily for a variety of exercises.

What abs exercise equipment do you prefer? Maybe you get your frequent dose of abs exercise equipment at the local gym or fitness club. They typically have a variety of abs exercise equipment ready at your service. Regardless of what regimes you prefer, you know that your daily dose of abs workouts are compulsory for keeping that bare, tight, flat tummy. If you are in need of advice concerning abs exercise equipment or just simple routines, you can hop online and acquire anything your heart desires. From diet plans, to fitness regimes galore, you will find it all on the World-Wide-Web. They are abundant and free! Get started today and get those abs you've always wanted!

Tuesday, July 19, 2011

A Workout For People Who Don't Want To Work Out

There's good news for people who want to watch their weight without giving up watching TV. Now there's a new workout for couch potatoes and people who think they're too busy to find time to stay fit.

With time at a premium, many Americans are turning to creative forms of exercise. In a recent survey conducted by Harris Interactive for the North American Spine Society, three out of four people said they used the stairs rather than the elevator at work, 58 percent said they started parking their cars far away in parking lots and almost half reported walking while on the phone.

At the same time, however, 46 percent of people described themselves as couch potatoes--a major contributing factor to being overweight. Many adults say they have procrastinated working out in order to do other activities, such as watching television, sleeping in, doing household chores or working.

Approximately three in four adults say they would exercise more if they could fit it into their daily routines, however, and a majority of adults say they would exercise more often if they could do it at home. Among noncouch potatoes, 80 percent would like to get more exercise, but say they don't have the time.

Meanwhile, more than 4 million Americans suffer disc problems. One out of four Americans over 30 will have recurring back pain, and one in 14 will seek medical care for back or neck pain this year, totalling almost 14 million visits per year. Back pain is the second most common reason that people visit a physician. Back and neck pain result in more lost workdays than any other condition. Due to absenteeism, medical and other related expenses, the cost of back injuries exceeds $80 billion each year in the United States. Exercise is one way to avoid back problems.

That's why it's important to find time to incorporate exercise into your daily routine. In addition to things such as climbing stairs and parking farther away, there are a number of fun ways to make your daily tasks opportunities to exercise:

• Feet Alphabet. This exercise can be done anywhere you are sitting, except while driving. It should not be hard to find a place. Simply write the alphabet in the air with each of your feet and ankles. You can do the letters in capitals or small letters and, for that matter, in any language you would like. Doing this two or three times on each ankle will begin to strengthen the ankle and maintain or improve motion.

• Doing the Dishes Neck Circles. This exercise is easily done while doing the always fun task of washing the dishes. As you are standing there at the sink, slowly rotate your neck in a clockwise position, trying to extend the tip of your head out as far as possible. After three or four rotations, repeat the exercise in a counter-clockwise position. Remember, these rotations should be done slowly and in a pain-free range of motion. Besides increasing the flexibility of the neck, these exercises can pass the time of doing dishes.

• Overhead Laundry Toss. Put the laundry basket directly in front of you and have the washer or dryer directly behind you. Grab a piece or two of dirty clothes, reach over your head slowly and drop the laundry into the washer. Again, start with dry clothes, then progress to wet clothes from the washer into the dryer.

• Remote Wrist Lifts. This can be done on any Sunday afternoon watching multiple football games. Simply take the remote control (use the biggest one you have from the pile of remotes) and, while sitting watching your favorite team or movie and with your arm pointing toward the TV, aim the remote at the ceiling, moving your wrist only. Hold it there for 10 seconds, then aim it at the floor, again only moving the wrist. Repeat this three to four times during every commercial. Be careful not to accidentally change the channel when doing this exercise or it may irritate people who are watching TV with you.

These are just some ideas from "The Couch Potato Workout: 101 Exercises You Can Do At Home!" by Joel M. Press, M.D., president of the North American Spine Society and medical director of the Spine and Sports Institute at the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago. "The Couch Potato Workout" describes numerous practical and functional exercises people can do to build strength, balance and flexibility as part of their normal daily routine.

Monday, July 18, 2011

A Wonder Pill To Surmount Over Obesity - Phentermine

We all crave for a perfect and healthy body. Losing weight is like a dream come true for obese people. I too was flabby earlier. My bulkiness always landed me up in a thwarting state. The fear of facing embarrassment stopped me from socializing with friends and attending parties. As a result I lost my self-confidence and my individual personality was shattered. I was over-whelmed with joy when a friend introduced me to a weight reducing drug. I tried it and the results were marvelous. Thanks to Phentermine!

A healthy mind resides in a healthy body. If you have a body that is hale and hearty, you will definitely have a positive attitude towards life. You will always be well groomed with an influential personality. Nowadays, as more and more people are becoming health conscious, the field of medical science has emerged with various ways to overcome obesity. Phantermine- a weight reducing drug is an apt solution to your excessive body weight.

Phentermine is a sympathomimetic amine, similar to amphetamine. It is also known as an anorectic or anorexigenic drug. It acts as an appetite suppressant that is helpful for obese people to reduce weight within a short span of time. It stimulates the nervous system increasing your heart rate and blood pressure, thus reducing your hunger.

The weight reducing drug- Phentermine should be used for a short period say for a few weeks. It should be consumed as a part of physician-guided weight loss program including a low fat diet and regular exercises.

Phentermine is available in different colors in the form of capsules and tablets as well. The pharmacist normally keeps the medicine in three strengths- 15mg, 30mg and 37.5 mg. Let your doctor decide which one is right for you depending upon your weight, height and other health problems.

It is important to take phentermine under the supervision of a medical practitioner only. The medicine should be consumed in correct quantity exactly as directed by your physician.


• Phentermine should be stored at room temperature away from heat and moisture.
• Phentermine is usually taken on empty stomach once or twice in a day.
• It is necessary to take the medicine with a full glass of water.
• Avoid taking a dose in the evening as it may cause insomnia.
• Do not crush or chew the capsule. Swallow it whole.
• If you skip a dose never try taking a double.

One may not be able to take phentermine if you have any of the following problems:

o High blood-pressure
o Heart disease
o Arteriosclerosis
o Glaucoma
o History of drug or alcohol abuse

Nursing mothers should consult their doctor before taking phentermine, as it can pass into breast milk and can affect your new-born baby.

Cautions have to be taken at the time of driving or operating machinery. There are chances of phentermine causing dizziness, restlessness or blurred vision. If any of these effects are experienced by you avoid performing hazardous activities.

Phentermine works as a wonder pill to surmount over obesity.

Sunday, July 17, 2011

A Winning CAUSE. Kirstie Alley Shares Her Mantra For Weight Loss Success

In her role as Jenny Craig's star client, Kirstie Alley inspires and encourages men and women across the country to increase their health, energy and self-confidence by decreasing their weight.

"As soon as I saw Kirstie's first television commercial, I felt like she was speaking right to me," said Annette Blake of Kingston, N.Y., who joined Jenny Craig in January and has since lost 56 pounds*. "I decided to be her 'I'm fat, too' sidekick and lose weight right along with her. And so far, I am!"

Like Annette, Kirstie is more than 60 pounds* slimmer and has less than 20 pounds to go to reach her desired weight. The award-winning actress and mother of two attributes her success not only to the program and her consultants, but also to the following acronym that helped "steer her ship" along her weight loss journey.

"I think the biggest accomplishment anyone can achieve is to be the cause of something, rather than the effect," said Alley at a recent gathering of fans and friends in New York City. "A cause makes something happen-ideally, a positive outcome, such as losing weight, finding someone amazing or getting a new job. It puts you in a position of control and confidence, rather than reaction and reluctance."

• Change-I first had to alter a few perceptions: one, that being fat is just something that comes with age, and two, that losing weight involves suffering, deprivation and working out for 30 to 40 hours a week. Once I changed my mindset, I was ready to take a leap of faith.

• Attitude-For a while, I had this less-than-fantastic attitude that it was okay to be 70 pounds overweight because the man of my dreams would love me for me and wouldn't care if I was fat. Although this could be true…I finally realized that this was not about someone else's view of me-but my view of myself-and that only I could make me happy.

• Understanding-We all have unique talents and attributes. Most of them are good; those that are not, we have the ability to change. Realizing that the positives outweigh the negatives helped me appreciate what is unique about me and also helped me identify areas for personal enhancement.

• Signified Spirituality-This has meant the strengthening of my faith and an increased connection to the people who mean the most to me. I can apply my religious beliefs to enhance myself and my body, help my children and friends, and improve my artistic endeavors.

• Enthusiasm-I now have an abundant amount of endless energy and boundless enthusiasm. I jump on the trampoline with my children, I run and play with them, and my happiness and zest for living permeate their lives as well.

Saturday, July 16, 2011

A Weighty Issue: Does Soda Promote Weight Gain?

As childhood obesity continues to increase, researchers are looking at a link between what kids drink and their expanding waistlines.

While experts stop short of laying the blame completely at the feet of soda makers, most acknowledge that people in general, and kids specifically, consume too many soft drinks.

In an effort to curb the problem, some school districts are removing soda machines from school campuses -; and, some say, for good reason. One 12-ounce can of soda has 150 calories; a 20-ounce can has 250 calories.

According to the Center for Science in the Public Interest, "Carbonated soft drinks are the single biggest source of calories in the American diet, providing about 7 percent of calories." Non-carbonated drinks (such as fruit juice and iced teas) push that figure to 9 percent.

One study of 548 sixth and seventh-graders in Boston showed that each 12-ounce can of soda consumed increased their risk for becoming overweight by 60 percent, according to an article in the Journal of Pediatrics.

Besides having a high-sugar content - which can contribute to weight gain and promote tooth decay - there is little nutritional value in a can of soda, just empty calories.

So what's a parent to do?

A diet rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains should be the first line of defense. But because what they drink matters just as much as what they eat, one option may be to consider replacing soda with a health beverage like NuVim, which contains a variety of vitamins, minerals, calcium; low amounts of sugar; and no caffeine.

Tested and proven effective in 19 clinical studies for its muscle flexibility and immune-boosting properties, this beverage contains the antioxidant vitamins A, C and E, along with B-12, zinc, calcium and essential amino acids.

NuVim comes in a variety of fruit flavors and is located in the refrigerated juice section of your local supermarket.

Friday, July 15, 2011

A Wake-Up Call From The Heart

Frank Rella was teaching a high school music class when he had a wake-up call that changed his life. Frank felt pain in his chest and left work early.

When the pain got worse at home, he was rushed by ambulance to the hospital. Frank's greatest fear came true when the doctors said he had a heart attack.

"My heart attack was really a wake-up call," said Rella, a 42-year-old New Jersey resident who became a paramedic after his life-altering heart attack, so he could be on the frontlines of medical care. "I went through a lot of emotions and was worried about having a second attack. So now I make sure to take the right medications and work with my doctor to live a heart-healthy lifestyle."

Frank's story is not uncommon. A new survey of more than 500 heart attack survivors found that survivors see their attack as a wake-up call that gave them a second chance at life. However, most survivors also said their heart attack left them with feelings of depression and hopelessness. In fact, survivors said they feared another heart attack more than death. Even though survivors had these feelings, 40 percent said they were not doing everything they could to prevent another attack. This fact is troubling since one in five men and one in three women will have another heart attack within six years.

"I see these survey results come to life in my practice every day. While many of my patients who have suffered a heart attack are very aware and afraid of their increased risk of having another one, they are not doing everything they can to live a heart-healthy life. The good news is that if they take certain steps, they can prevent another attack. I tell my patients to eat healthy, exercise and take their medications. Those medications may include a beta-blocker, ACE inhibitor, statin and aspirin," said Dr. William Abraham, director of the Division of Cardiovascular Medicine at The Ohio State University Medical Center.

In the survey, 80 percent of heart attack survivors said they needed more information to learn about their heart health. As a result, Mended Hearts, a nationwide heart patient support group affiliated with the American Heart Association, started a program called "Heartfelt Wake-Up Call." This program offers education and support to heart attack survivors and their families. For tips on "Heartfelt Living" and "Heartfelt Support," such as information about local support groups, tip sheets, survivors' stories and heart-healthy recipes, visit www.mendedhearts.org.

GlaxoSmithKline provided funding and assistance in the development of "Heartfelt Wake-Up Call."

"I encourage patients to take their health to heart" said Abraham.

Thursday, July 14, 2011

A Very Effective Way Of Avoiding And Relieving Neck Pain

Are you one of the millions Americans who suffer from neck pain? If not, it’s very probable that you know someone who does. Indeed, neck pain is a very widespread problem because the head and neck area is very susceptible to several stresses. Besides, neck pain can be produced by muscle strains, osteoarthritis, herniated intervertebral discs. In fact, something as trivial as a bad position can produce an unhealthy alignment of the neck and spine; consequently, neck pain will take place. Thus, what measures can you take to avoid or relieve neck pain?

One of the most common causes of neck pain is a bad posture while sleeping. Well, most people have incorrect posture habits not only when they sleep but also during the day without noticing. Even when you perform a task that you may judge harmless (like reading in bed without a posture pillow) can eventually produce to neck pain or even more serious issues.

A basic suggestion is to avoid sitting in the same position for a prolonged periods of time. Unfortunately, most of us have to because of myriad reasons. We have to not curve or bend the neck forward during long periods, as the neck and back should have enough support to achieve a better posture.

As you can see, the sleep positions you take while you rest in the night are more important than you believe because they are the most frequent cause of neck troubles. Why this happens? Because most of us use regular pillows, which make you sleep with your neck at a too high or too low angle and does not maintain your spine straight; consequently, it cause neck pain, back pain, discomfort and exhaustion. This drooping sleep surface typically provokes an unhealthy spine alignment, thus the muscles of the back will attempt to balance by tensing up trying to restore a more natural posture of the spine. However, this muscle tension produces the morning stress and the neck and the back pains.

Therefore, the best way to avoid and relieve neck pain is to maintain a correct posture. That is reason why the Better Sleep Pillow is so beneficial, because this neck pillow easily adjusts to the form of your neck and brings you correct spine alignment. This pillow is made with memory foam technology, which effectively redistributes the weight of your head, neck and body, encouraging better circulation and eliminating neck and spinal pressure.
Besides, it is not a problem if you prefer side sleeping or back sleeping because this memory foam pillow let you sleep comfortably in any position you may sleep and helps you wake up energized the next morning.

An orthopedic neck support pillow is necessary to have a relaxing night’s sleep without neck pain and other problems. With its hypoallergenic urethane memory foam that provides full support to the neck and head’s contours, the Better Sleep Pillow brings the most restorative sleeping experience alleviating strain on the neck and back.
You don’t need to keep suffering neck pain. Just try the Better Sleep Pillow to start sleeping well and pain-free.

Wednesday, July 13, 2011

A vast array of vital information about generic cialis dosage.

Sometimes your doctor can explain something to you and, while you may understand it, you really want more information about the topic to really help you become completely familiar with it. When it comes to Generic Cialis dosage there is no such thing as too little information. Information on the effects of the Generic Viagra dosage and other erectile dysfunction medications is something that you should take the time to sit down and read because understanding the effects of too much medication can help you better understand why it is so important to follow your doctor's instructions. That is what our site is designed to do. We offer you complete information on the positive and negative effects of the generic Cialis dosage . We let you know what should happen when you take the recommended generic Cialis dosage and what can happen if you take too much.

All medications have negative side effects if you take them incorrectly and it is always a great idea to stay informed as to what those negative side effects would be if you tampered with your generic Cialis dosage . Our staff of experts has compiled very thorough and detailed information on the effects of tampering with your generic Cialis dosage and we want to be the source you trust for information such as this that can be so vital to your health and possibly stop you from making a terrible mistake.

Tuesday, July 12, 2011

A Variola Story

Let me start by introducing myself; my name is Variola. It is a latin name, so most people just call me "Smallpox". I'm not going to lie to you, I am a horrible friend. I tend to keep you all to myself during our time together. I am highly contagious and only like to hang around with humans, as other mammals scare me. I can attack you in 2 forms: Variola major and Variola minor.

Variola major owns my more devilish qualities. In this form i tend to kill about 35% of those i get tied up with. Now, if me and you are to become friends, you should probably request that i give you my brighter side, Variola minor. This way, you only have a 1% chance of our friendship ending in death - to you. In the 20th century, I was responsible for up to 500 million fatalities.

If, after my wrath, you survive, i make sure that i have left my mark. You'll be very lucky to forget about our little fling, as in most cases i leave you with scars known as "potmarks". And i'm merciless when it comes to that. i dont mind leaving them anywhere and everywhere on your body, including your face. If you are even luckier, I will simply leave you blind so that you do not have to look at your scarred body in the mirror everyday. I do this through "corneal ulcerations", which is not in the least bit enjoyable for you.

After telling you this story my message should be clear; STAY AWAY! If you see me coming, pretend as if you didn't notice, and walk slowly in the other direction.

Yours truly,

Variola

Monday, July 11, 2011

A True Bestfriend

Most dogs, because of their wonderful characteristics, never fail to attract attention wherever they go. With their soft, fluffy hair, kind round eyes, cute little noses, and joyful strutting, it is not hard to understand why a lot of people easily fall in love with them. What makes them really amazing, though, is their seeming ability to show unconditional love and loyalty to the people they live with. Also, they usually project so much liveliness and playfulness that any person cannot help but feel the same way. On the other hand, their calm disposition when they are lying on their owners' lap or anywhere nearby can also cause a certain feeling of comfort and peacefulness. These are actually the same characteristics that make it so easy for dogs to create strong bonds between them and their keepers.

Dogs are observed to bring out a lot of positive feelings and reactions from people. Because of this, a lot of recent studies had been conducted regarding their effectiveness in being instruments for relieving stress, anxiety, and depression. One study stated that having dogs can actually lessen people's stress and anxiety through improving people's moods, improving their social support, encouraging them to exercise, and eliminating their feeling of loneliness. Another study showed that men with AIDS had a lesser tendency to experience depression by keeping dogs as pets. Also, dogs had been noted to provide a sense of companionship to people and are even said to improve a person's self-esteem. They prevent people from experiencing and thinking about negative feelings and ideas, thus, lessening the possibility of those people to feel stressed, anxious, and depressed.

Among the most stressful and, possibly, depressing professions there are, considering the pressure imposed upon them by other people, are probably those of Hollywood stars. Aside from the load of work that they have to handle, they also have to watch out for possible reasons that people can find and use to criticize them. Hollywood actors and actresses are actually forced to do certain things such as to constantly show happiness, to always dress well, or to lose more weight, especially when they need to appear in public, even if that is not how they really feel or what they really like. This must be the reason why a lot of Hollywood stars keep dogs as pets. They probably need these canines to relieve them from all the stress, anxiety, and depression that comes with celebrity fame and fortune. Famous actors and actresses such as Will Smith and Courtney Cox have been noted to say that their dogs help them to become more happy aside from the companionship and sense of security that these canines provide. Another article about celebrities and their dogs reported that people in Hollywood choose to have pet dogs because “they need the unconditional love and support man's best friend provides.” Among the Hollywood stars who are known as dog lovers are Paris Hilton, Oprah Winfrey, Jennifer Aniston, Orlando Bloom, and Jessica Alba.

Aside from Hollywood stars, other famous and powerful people such as politicians, a dictator, and monarchs, surprisingly, have pet dogs. Among those personalities are George W. Bush who has a Scottish terrier named Miss Beazley. Bill Clinton has a cocker spaniel and a Labrador retriever. Adolf Hitler had a dog named Blondi. Queen Elizabeth II and Queen Koningin of the Netherlands are also dog lovers. Dogs must have made so much difference in their owners' lives that some of them are even given large amounts of inheritance after their owners die. Luxury-hotel queen Leona Helmsley and tobacco heiress Doris Duke have been reported to have left their dogs at least 12 million dollars and one hundred thousand dollars, respectively.

Sunday, July 10, 2011

A Tree Root for Your Manly Root

Sexual impotence, or erectile dysfunction, is a condition characterized by a man's repeated inability to obtain or maintain an erection suitable for sexual intercourse. Erections are managed by two different mechanisms, the reflex and the psychogenic erection. Reflex erections are achieved by directly touching the male shaft. Psychogenic erections are achieved by erotic or emotional stimuli. Sexual impotence can be caused by psychological issues, stress, alcohol abuse, smoking, hormonal deficiency, or diseases like diabetes and cardiovascular disease. When the underlying medical or psychological condition causing the sexual impotence is determined, the proper course of treatment will then be prescribed. Patients will have the option to take either testosterone injections, oral prescriptions, direct injections to the shaft, vacuum pumps, surgery, or in cases of psychological issues, counseling. Apart from those there are other, more unconventional treatments available, like herbal medicine, acupuncture, or experimental medicine.

One of the most popular treatments for sexual impotence is the use of oral phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors such as Viagra (sildenafil), Cialis (tadalafil), and Levitra (vardenafil) which are reliable, non-invasive and conveniently packaged in pill form. PDE5 inhibitors work by relaxing smooth muscle tissue in the blood vessels of the penis enabling their dilation and increasing blood supply to the corpus cavernosum, which helps enable men to obtain and retain an erection. But these pills are not without their complications, and may cause a myriad of side effects. These medications are also hazardous for patients taking nitrate-based drugs or alpha-blockers, because drug interaction with PDE5 inhibitors can be fatal.

But lately, another drug has been increasingly gaining a following among patients with sexual impotence. Yohimbine hydrochloride is a substance derived from the bark of the yohimbe evergreen tree, which grows in West Africa where it traditionally has been used as an aphrodisiac and sexual enhancer. It works by increasing the amount of blood that is allowed to flow into the penis and prevents blood from flowing out of the penis, thereby resulting in an erection. While the substance is naturally occurring in the tree's bark, the latter contains minimal amounts of yohimbine. In the United States it is sold in a standardized form that is available as a prescription drug for the treatment of male sexual impotence. It may come in capsule, tablet, liquid, or powder form.

Yohimbine hydrochloride has not conclusively been proven to be an effective treatment for sexual impotence. However, some studies suggest that it may be most effective on men with mild erectile problems regardless of whether it was caused by an underlying physical or psychological condition. The drug itself does cause side effects like the other medications for sexual impotence. Among these side effects are dizziness; anxiety, irritability, or nervousness; tremors (shaking); headache; or skin flushing. Other, more dangerous side effects are an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives); a very irregular or fast heartbeat; or confusion or unusual behavior. If any of these symptoms occur after ingesting the drug, medical attention should be sought immediately.

Saturday, July 9, 2011

A Treadmill Reader Rack - What Is It And What Does It Do?

A treadmill reader rack is a generic term for the basket which holds the varying amounts of instruments that the modern day treadmill offers the consumer as part of accessory pack that comes with your treadmill.

Bearing in mind the cost of a new treadmill, the quality of the machine itself should not surpass the quality needed, and expected, of the read out equipment that will come with it. In addition to the durability that one expects from a treadmill, the reader rack should be easy to use and give you the information that you require to complete your work out with the optimum effect. You really don't want to be worrying about the onboard computers when you are doing a 20k run on your treadmill!

The treadmill reader rack should offer good ergonomic designs, as well as an ease of use. They should supply the information that you require on a wide range of relevant statistics, such as calories used up, speed, miles (or kilometres) run and heart rate amongst other things.

In addition to statistics on your own personal well being during your work out, a treadmill should also offer lots of practical functionality. By that I mean the means to control the type of workout that you are experiencing, by altering the speed at which you can run, or the incline of the slope. In an ideal world, a good treadmill should also let you vary both of these factors during the course of a workout, to give you precisely the type of exercise that you are looking for.

Some treadmills are specially designed for the rehabilitation of either the athlete or the patient, but, in either case, the machine should give you all the information that you require. If you are a sports person or just someone in the recovery room, the right information must be delivered in order to fulfil the criteria of the treadmill that you are using to give you the maximum benefit.

Some machines actually go a stage further and go beyond the functional to what could only be described as luxury. What else could you call magazine racks and space for your MP3?

The onboard computers of some treadmills also allow you to program and save custom routines that you might have entered yourself.

Either way, a treadmill should give you what you need - you should not compromise on quality, nor functionality.

Friday, July 8, 2011

A Tough Love approach to Health and Fitness

Yesterday at the grocery store, I came across a child, who was about 8-years-old. She was lying on the floor flailing her arms and legs yelling “I want a chocolate bar.” I could have predicted the outcome. The child continued to scream until mom put a chocolate bar in the cart. The crying ceased instantly.

As they passed, I took note of the contents of the grocery cart - Coco Puffs cereal, soda, 3 bulk bags of potato chips, chocolate covered granola bars, macaroni & cheese, hot dogs…you get the drift. Try as I might I couldn’t help but feel scared for that child’s future.

You see, a long time ago I was that obese little girl. I was unhappy with my body, but I dulled the pain by eating – chips, chocolate bars, hotdogs. I threw tantrums because I knew my mother didn’t have the patience and would just give me what I wanted.

By the age of 12 I was 4-foot, 11-inches and 135-pounds. My doctor put me on a restrictive diet. However, I would steal money from my parents to buy candy. It didn’t make sense to me. I was allowed to eat those foods before. Why were punishing me? I hated myself more.

In the early 80’s, being a fat child was rare. However in 2006 one in three North American kids are overweight. Both parents likely have full time jobs, which means less time for healthy meals and exercise. Fast food and activities have taken over the family roost.

I’m sorry I have to lay this responsibility on the parents, but kids only practice what you preach. If they see you eating poorly; they’ll follow suit.

Practice what you preach by adopting and enforcing these FitnessGear101.com family lifestyle changes:

• Explain the difference between health food choices and non-healthy food choices.
• Sit down and compile a weekly grocery lists with your child.
• Let them go with you to the grocery store and shop only for the foods on the list.
• Get kids involved in preparing healthy meals, so they adopt healthy habits for life.
• It’s normal to shelter our kids from ridicule. However if your child is obese their health is at risk and tough love encouragement is needed, for example: “honey, you are overweight, but I believe in you and I’ll support you because I love you.”
• Never use food as a reward. Instead reward them with mini-golfing or baseball.
• Ditch the clean-plate policy. If your child is full, don't force them to finish.
• Institute an open policy about food. Kids should be comfortable telling you when they’re hungry and not hungry without fear you’ll get mad.
• Don't eliminate snacks. It will lead to lying and binge eating outside the home. Instead plan a cheat meal once a week when they’re allowed any foods they want.
• Encourage physical activity. It will get them up and out and encourage them to socialize with other active kids.
• Never allow eating in front of the TV. This encourages passive eating, and the child won’t concentrate on how much they’re eating or when they’re full.
• Limit TV or video games to 1 hour per day. The rest of the time, keep them busy with outdoor activities.

Thursday, July 7, 2011

A to Z of Vitamin C

Vitamin supplements are very important in prevention of unwanted health ailments that is partially caused by vitamin deficiencies. Many people today use vitamin supplements to make up for lost nutrients or the shortage of vitamins in their system. A shortage in Vitamin C may lead to scurvy, a condition that may causes tooth loss, hemorrhage, bruising, weakening of inability to fight infection, mild anemia, and bleeding. Essential amounts of vitamin C is necessary to promote overall health and well being. In many instances a good diet might be enough, but when it is not, vitamin supplementation necessary to take care of the deficiency.

Ascorbic Acid or Vitamin C is one of the most popular health supplements that is supposed to boost the immune system. It may strengthen the capillaries or the tiny blood vessels that carry oxygen and other necessary nutrients to all parts of the body via the bloodstream. Vitamin C is also a potent antioxidant, which means that it can eliminate free radicals from the body. It also helps deal with harmful oxygen molecules that could damage the cells. It is also believed that Vitamin C helps maintain cellular health and prevent cancer and a host of other health problems.

In addition to these health benefits, Vitamin C also plays an important role in promoting the health and beauty of the skin. This vitamin inhibits the production of melanin, the pigment that gives the skin its dark color. Vitamin C is also necessary for collagen synthesis, a process that improves skin elasticity and holds back the aging process. Applying skin-care products which contain Vitamin C may improve collagen production and result to a more youthful and hydrated looking skin.

The current recommended daily allowance (RDA) for Vitamin C is 75 milligrams (mg) a day for women and 90 mg a day for men to get the minimum amount the human body needs. However , medical specialists suggest that an intake of 200 mg is accepted since that amount is the most the human body can absorb at one time. Vitamin C can be found in citrus fruits like oranges, grapefruit, and tomatoes. Vegetables like bell pepper and broccoli are also good sources of Vitamin C.

It's easy to get ample amounts of Vitamin C from one's diet as long as it contains adequate amounts of fruits and vegetables. But if one feels there is a deficiency that needs to be taken care off, individuals are advised to take Vitamin C supplementation to take care of that deficiency. If a cold is starting to develop, it may also help to increase one's consumption. Medical studies show that taking 1000 mg of Vitamin C a day may reduce the severity of cold symptoms by about 20 percent.

Individuals who want to Vitamin C supplementation should seek the recommendation of doctors and other health professionals to side effects and drug interaction. Most people may take up to 2000 mg of Vitamin C without ill effects while some can develop diarrhea from as little as 500 milligrams. It is also important to drink plenty of water because Vitamin C needs to be dissolved in order to be metabolized properly. Sufficient water may also ensure that excess Vitamin C is eliminated from the body.

Wednesday, July 6, 2011

A Time For Woolgathering and Healing

It was a worldwide day of reckoning. On September 11, 2001, the entire world became a witness to the darkest evil as well as the highest good that man was capable of doing. On that day, it was as if time had stopped and everyting stood at a standstill. It was a time when most people began to ponder about their lives and how they lived, individually and collectively as human beings.
Amidst the concrete rubble and stench of death, people from all walks of life came together to lend each other a hand. Each came to bring their skills to save the trapped and wounded; all worked together with a heart that wanted to provide comfort in a time of great crisis for the people of New York and the rest of the United States. Yet the cries of shock and protest against that act of terrorism resounded from different countries around the globe. It was a defining moment in modern history, a turning point in the on-going war against terror.
Reminiscent of the horrors of the holocaust during World War II, and the devastation wrought by the atomic bomb in Hiroshima and Nagasaki, the events of 9/11 has been recorded as one of the most destructive man-made disasters of the 21st century.
Surely, even relatively smaller scale incidents produce the same kind of gried and sense of loss. Day after day, other tragedies happen to people around the world, around the clock. Vehicular accidents, kidnappings, robberies, rapes, hurricanes and other natural disasters all bring death and destruction.
The tragic 9/11 bombings of the World Trade Center generated extensive media coverage worlwide. Millions of viewers who are not really closely related to any of the victims felt a great sense of loss, fear, anger, surprise, shock and disbelief.
Those who escaped and survived the collapse of the World Trade Center bore scars on their body and within themselves. Many of the survivors, including their families now suffer from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). This is a type of anxiety disorder is acquired when an individual's undergoes a life-threatening experience or a very traumatic event. Those with PTSD have an anxiety attack whenever they remember the traumatic incident. Some of of the symptoms of PTSD include having a feeling of history repeating itself; sleep problems like insomia; nightmares; a feeling of isolation; agitation or irritability; and even guilt.
Many PTSD sufferers report that they always feel and think that the tragic event is happening all over again. These painful memories are called flashbacks and may consist of images, sounds, smells, or feelings that can be triggered by even the most ordinary things. A person having a flashback may lose touch with reality and believe that the traumatic incident is happening all over again. The anxiety can be very distressing and could lead to another panic attack. PTSD usually occurs about three weeks after the traumatic incident. In some cases, signs of PTSD may be delayed and would only start to appear after a couple of years later.
Insomia or having some troubles getting sleep may be caused by worrying or unresolved feelings about the tragic event. Nightmares may be about the same traumatic experience or it could be anything that is frightening and threatening to the person. Survivors of the 9/11 terrorist attack may even develop a feeling of isolation characterized by not feeling close to people. It is similar to socio phobia in the sense that there is fear in being with strangers, and sometimes, even with their own loved ones. People experiencing PTSD are highly irritable and get angry even at the slightest provocation. Guilt haunts people with PTSD. They feel guilty about surviving the tragedy while others did not. They feel irrational guilt that they could have done something for others who were in the same tragedy, or blame themselves for being the cause of the incident or accident.
Anti-anxiety medications may help people with PTSD feel less afraid and tense. It may take weeks before they experience its full medical benefits. Consulting with health care specialists and counselor for therapy may greatly help.
It is important that we keep family ties and other relationships tight. We need to surround ourselves with people who will always be there to reassure us, affirm us and comfort us in times of life's great challenges. People suffering from PTSD need a lot of reassurance, comfort, and encouragement. Survivors of 9/11, as well as other people suffering from PTSD, need enough time for “wool gathering” in order to heal from the hurts and pains of their tragic memories.

Tuesday, July 5, 2011

A Sure Way To Get Rid Of Your Back-Ache Problem

I know how terrible it can be for you at nights and even when you wake up. The burning back pain you experience can be a terrible problem.

I know that because of this burning pain, you hardly get all the sleep you need at nights.

You are not alone... and thankfully there are workable solutions that you can use to not only prevent future causes, but also solve the present back pain you are experiencing.

Experts have agreed that the kind of mattress you sleep on plays a very important role in back pains suffered by most people.

There are some mattresses that do you a lot of harm when you sleep on them. And the fact that you spend many hours EVERYDAY on such mattresses will only mean one thing!

You are only spending more time hurting your back...without your knowledge.

To solve this problem you should check the kind of mattress you are sleeping on. By simply changing the mattress for a better type, like a memory foam mattress, you can help to completely eliminate the problem of back-pain from your life.

Over 20 years ago when they were invented by NASA, memory foam mattresses have stood the test of time. Today, many people like you with back problems use memory foam mattresses and it helps them when they sleep.

Memory foam mattresses work by giving you a natural position when you sleep, so that you don't experience any pressure points. Back pains are mostly a result of sleeping at the wrong position at night, either due to the poor quality of the mattress or due to your wrong sleeping position.

Memory foam mattresses handle both of these problems.

So, if you want to end your back pain nightmare, you should try a memory foam mattress.

Monday, July 4, 2011

A Sure Shot in Pregnancy Prevention

Some people may feel embarrassed and find it inconvenient to go to the pharmacy to purchase birth control products. But there is another birth control method that will not require anyone to stand in line for a long time at the local pharmacy. It will also free a person from the usual embarrassment of buying what is considered as a “private” product. The Depo-Provera (medroxyprogesterone acetate injectable suspension, USP) Contraceptive Injection lasts for 13 weeks, and is highly effective at preventing pregnancy with a failure rate of less than 1%. There are no daily pills to remember, no IUD strings to check, diaphragms or cervical caps to worry about inserting into the proper position --- all you have to do to achieve effective contraception.
Depo-Provera stops the ovaries from releasing eggs. It causes the cervical mucus to thicken and changes the uterine lining, making it harder for sperm to enter or survive in the uterus. These changes prevent fertilization. Depo Provera is a very private form of birth control because it cannot be seen on the body and requires no home supplies. It does, however, require a clinic appointment every 3 months. Depo-Provera, otherwise known as birth control shot is a birth control method for women. It is made up of a hormone similar to progesterone and is given as a shot by a doctor into the woman's arm or buttocks. Each shot provides protection against pregnancy for up to 14 weeks, but the shot must be received once every 12 weeks to remain fully protected. Protection begins immediately after the first shot if given within the first five days of a woman's menstrual period. After 24 hours, the shot is effective birth control for the next 13 weeks. Many women find it useful to schedule their next shot slightly earlier than necessary. If something prevents them from making their appointment, there will be a window of opportunity to receive their next shot.
Depo-Provera is said to be 99% effective in preventing pregnancy. According to statistics, only about three women out of every 1,000 will get pregnant each year while on this birth control shot. When it is done correctly, Depo-Provera can be a very effective birth control method. It is important to keep in mind that it takes two weeks for the birth control shot to work effectively, so it is advisable to alternate birth control methods, such as using condoms, when receiving the Depo-Provera injection every month.
However, due to the risk of serious health problems, women with unexplained vaginal bleeding or there is a suspected pregnancy, are not recommended to use Depo Provera. It may not also be recommended for women who are planning on becoming pregnant in the near future, are concerned about weight gain, have liver disease, gallbladder disease, or a history of depression. They should study the risks and talk with their health care practitioner as much as possible.
While it is known to be true about any method of birth control, many people who go on Depo-Provera seem to experience a lot of side effects. There are some women who experience irregular or unusual spotting during the first few months that they begin using Depo-Provera, or after long-term use. Although there is not much supporting research, many also believe that the birth control shot can be held accountable for weight gain or fluctuations. There are also reports of hair loss, headaches, abdominal pain and nausea. If a woman experience any of these side effects for longer than two weeks after she had her first birth control shot, it is best to contact a doctor. As always, it is important before making any decision to go on birth control methods to weigh the advantages and disadvantages.

Sunday, July 3, 2011

A Summary Of Chronic Hepatitis C Infection

Hepatitis C is a stealthy virus that mutates while hiding in liver cells and other organ cells like the spleen and gall bladder. The fact that the viral cells "hide" makes it very difficult for the body's immune system to eradicate it. Hepatitis C is a slowly progressing disease sometimes taking many years until symptoms are noticeable. It is at this point that the virus has reached advanced chronic stage and becomes difficult to eradicate. Hepatitis C results in 8,000 to 10,000 deaths annually. Hepatitis C is also the leading cause of liver transplants in the U.S.

Hepatitis C infection is caused by blood contact with someone who has the virus infection himself. The transmission of the virus can occur by illicit drug use with needles, sharing toothbrushes or razors with an infected person, by sexual means, by unsanitary tattooing or by exposure to blood at your workplace (like a hospital or blood bank). Some HCV infection may have been caused by receiving blood from a transfusion prior to 1992.

Hepatitis C is diagnosed via a blood test. Usually, the first thing that is noticed is that the liver enzyme levels for ALT and AST are elevated well above normal levels. Further investigation via HCV-RNA testing identifies whether the Hepatitis C virus is in your blood or not. Other tests for HCV include qualitative viral load tests, which measure the RNA particles in your blood. If you are being treated for HCV, your doctor is probably using either a HCV-RNA or viral load test to determine the effectiveness of the treatment.

The symptoms of Hepatitis C infection often do not occur in a person until 20 years after he/she had been infected. Since the HCV infects the liver and the liver is the organ in the body that makes all the energy for our daily activities possible, liver function deterioration often results in fatigue. Fatigue is the primary complaint or symptom of HCV infection. Other more severe symptoms are jaundice (yellowing of the skin/eyes), bile retention (which can cause jaundice), portal vein hypertension, skin rashes and itching, and autoimmune problems resulting from your body's immune system attacking normal cells.

Long term HCV infection may result in fibrosis or even cirrhosis of the liver. Fibrosis results from unchecked liver inflammation. As the HCV infection progresses, the damage to the liver results in scarring or hardening of the liver cells (fibrosis). Long term fibrosis may lead to cirrhosis which is when the scarring from fibrosis overtakes the normal liver cell structure causing deformity and loss of function in the liver. About 15%-20% of HCV patients end up with cirrhosis. A liver biopsy is currently the most accurate means of determining the amount of inflammation and fibrosis the liver has sustained.

Hepatitis C progression in the body can take several years or even decades to come to chronic stage or to a stage where severe liver damage is evident. This period of time allows a person to determine how to properly treat the disease and to decide on a course of disease management. Currently, the main treatment for HCV infection to eradicate the virus is combo alpha-interferon and Ribavirin. Sometimes a doctor may prescribe interferon alone. Interferon comes in standard form or in pegylated form. Standard form interferon is administered 3 times per week, while the pegylated form is administered only once per week. Your body makes its own interferon, which is a protein that fights viral infection and viral replication.

Hepatitis C may often be managed by taking herbal and vitamin supplements that help your body fight infection and limit inflammation. These supplements help your liver with the inflammation and give it the nutrients it needs to regenerate healthy new cells. Your doctor can recommend alternative or adjunct solutions you may want to try.

Proper treatment of the disease, a healthy and active lifestyle, a good diet, abstinence from alcohol and stress management are important factors in controlling Hepatitis C progression.

Saturday, July 2, 2011

A Stroke..Why it is so important to read this!

Copyright 2006 Ted Crawford

A stroke, also known as a CVA (cerebrovascular accident), is a life-threatening event in which the brain’s oxygen supply has been cut off causing problems with such functions as speech, sensation, behavior, memory, and thought processes. A stroke may also result in paralysis, coma, and even death.

Stroke is the third leading cause of death in the United States and the second leading cause of neurological disability after Alzheimer’s disease. The incidence of stroke has slowly declined over the last 30 years partly due to increased awareness of risk factors and improvement in prophylactic measures and better surveillance of those individuals at increased risk.

Strokes occur when an artery to the brain becomes either blocked by a blood clot (thrombotic stroke) or when an artery bursts due to an aneurysm (hemorrhagic stroke). Brain tissue deprived of oxygen dies within a few minutes causing part of the body controlled by that portion of the brain affected to lose function.

Symptoms of a stroke can include sudden numbness and weakness in the face, arm, and leg; usually on one side of the body. Other signs and symptoms that can be associated with a stroke can include difficulty talking (getting words out), slurred speech, blurred or complete loss of vision, usually in one eye, unexplained dizziness, or a sudden severe headache.

Approximately 10 per cent of strokes are preceded by TIAs (transient ischemic attacks; also called mini-strokes). These TIAs can precede a major stroke days, weeks, or even months before a major stroke. They frequently last less than 5-10 minutes with symptoms similar to a stroke, but symptoms usually completely resolve. TIAs generally do not cause permanent damage or functional loss, but they are a warning sign indicating that something critical is looming. One should immediately visit their doctor or go to the emergency department for an evaluation because a stroke can be frequently prevented if the site of the problem is identified and proper medical care is instituted.

A stroke usually results in varying degrees of loss of sensation or function throughout the body determined by the portion of the brain that has been affected. Some stroke victims are unable to speak but everything else maybe normal. This is because the speech area of the brain has been damaged. Others may have right arm and leg weakness or complete paralysis because the damage of a stroke is usually limited to one side of the brain and each half of the brain controls the function of the opposite side of the body. So if a patient presents with left sided arm and leg weakness, we know that the stroke has occurred on the right side of the brain. An MRI or MRA scan can usually identify where the stroke has occurred. Most of the time, strokes are treated with medications to prevent further damage and lessen the chances of developing additional strokes. Sometimes a surgical intervention is required depending on the type and location of the vessel blockage.

You can greatly reduce your risk of a stroke by eating a healthy low fat diet, keeping your blood pressure low, exercising, keeping your weight down, not smoking, and by getting regular checkups and measurements of your cholesterol levels. Elevated homocysteine levels have also been associated with the incidence of stroke. I also recommend that it is a good idea to take a baby aspirin (81 mg) daily if you are past the age of 50 or sooner if you have multiple risk factors for stroke. Make sure that you check with your doctor first before doing this as you should not be taking aspirin if you have a bleeding disorder or a history of peptic ulcer disease.

Treatment of stroke initially involves using thrombolytic (clot breaking) medication and measures to prevent further brain damage or another stroke. It is paramount in getting patients who have had a stroke to reduce their risk factors such as getting them to quit smoking, bringing their blood pressure under control, and treating their lipids (cholesterol) if those are elevated. Physical therapy and occupational therapy are important and often required in the management and rehabilitation of patients after a stroke in an attempt to improve and restore motor function. The goal of therapy is to enable the patient to gain enough strength and motor function to be able to carry out their activities of daily living. Speech therapy may also be important to those patients suffering from speech difficulties.

The most important points to take from this article are to be aware of the seriousness of the problem, the signs and symptoms of a stroke or an impending stroke, and to modify your lifestyle to prevent a stroke from occurring.