Maintaining sustaining cholesterol levels can greatly slash your risk of cardiovascular disorder. What makes cholesterol so essential? It gives your body the faculty to repair cell membranes, creates vitamin D and helps to produce significant hormones. When cholesterol levels become too extreme they interfere with these critical body functions and put you at risk for heart complications.
What do the numbers mean? Total cholesterol is the sum of three chief elements. These are LDL (low density lipoprotein) cholesterol (bad kind), HDL (high density lipoprotein) cholesterol (splendid kind) and blood triglycerides. Disease-free total cholesterol is under 200mg/dL with 180 mg/dL being optimal. LDL cholesterol should be under 100 mg/dL, HDL should be over 40 mg/dL and blood triglyceride levels under 150 mg/dL. When is cholesterol considered too extreme? When total cholesterol is over 240mg/dL with LDL levels over 160 mg/dL, HDL levels under 40 mg/dL and blood triglycerides 200 mg/dL you are at risk.
There are plenty of ways to lower cholesterol levels naturally. Medications are widely at hand but have been known to cause muscle pains and inflict damage on the liver. Lowering levels naturally is a much safer alternative. Natural remedies can also save you coinage on your prescriptions. It is necessary to note that roughly 20% of cholesterol comes from your diet while nearly 80% comes from your liver. So changes in your diet may need to be taken further by adding nutritional supplements to your day-to-day regimen. Cholesterol levels should be checked at least once every five years for people aged 20 or older. Use the following tips to assistance maintain energy-giving levels.
- Cut back on consuming sugar, white flower, rich desserts and fried foods.
- Switch to using disease-free oils such as olive or walnut oil.
- Eat baked or poached fish a few nights a week.
- Consume more soluble fiber such as apples, barley, oats, psyllium, kidney beans and pears.
- Eat more nuts such as pecans, hazelnuts, peanuts, pistachios and walnuts.
- Load up on leafy and green vegetables during mealtimes. These include lettuce, broccoli, spinach and green beans.
- Switch to eating whole grain foods instead of starchy white bread and pastas.
- Eat more fruits and berries. These are exorbitant in antioxidants and phytonutrients.
- Soy can lower bad cholesterol by three percent.
- Exercise at least 30 minutes on most or all days of the week.
When an altered diet is not enough to maintain energy-giving cholesterol levels, you may prefer to ponder taking some nutritional supplements. Always follow directions specified on labels and be sure to contact your doctor if you have any questions or concerns. Below are some natural supplements that can a remedy you achieve your goals.
- Octacosanol is derived from wheat germ oil. It is proven to moderate total cholesterol levels.
- Omega 3 Fatty Acids come from fish oil and flax seed oil. These not only help lower cholesterol but also dwindle inflammation, a common risk consideration associated with cardiovascular disorder.
- Garlic can lower total levels.
- Niacin is a B vitamin that can a remedy cholesterol when used in larger doses. It lowers bad cholesterol and raises positive cholesterol.
- Chromium (GTF) which aids in metabolizing sugars can assistance lower overall cholesterol.
- Guggul which is made from herbs is a medicine to support rid the body of bad cholesterol.
Always follow your doctor's advice before starting any natural supplement regimen.
Sunday, January 13, 2008
Friday, January 11, 2008
Can I Pass My Kidney Stones Please?
Several diseases are the eventuality of the accumulation of toxic materials in the body. Unnecessary accumulation of waste materials indicates the poor health of excretory organs. Toxic substances like lead, benzene cadmium and numerous other pollutants in the body are cleared by the kidneys. Apart from the several other key functions, the fluid balance in your body is also maintained by them.
The aptitude of the kidneys to remove waste materials is quite often impaired by kidney stones. In such a situation, kidney cleansing is very essential. Kidney cleansing is a process used to flush out toxins and wastes in kidney tissues. It is also an imperative procedure in dissolving the highly harmful kidney stones. When there is a malfunctioning in the urinary system, toxins get accumulated which in turn hampers the functions of the kidneys. Through kidney cleansing, all the ill effects caused by the malfunctioning of the urinary system are cleared and the kidneys regain their typical functional aptitude. The cleansing also helps in getting rid of urinary tract infections. But the most paramount role of kidney cleansing is in removing kidney stones.
Kidney stones are solid crystals found in the kidneys and ureters. They are the aftereffect of the dissolved minerals in urine and normally leave the body in the urine stream. The crystals in urine are the emanation of various salts, which get precipitated. Occasionally, the salts get deposited on the inner surfaces of the kidneys. Prolonged deposition of the crystals gives rise to stones of varying sizes. The salts, which typically pass out as solution, get accumulated when there is exorbitant concentration of the salts. Improper functioning of the urinary system can also give rise to kidney stones. The accumulation of kidney stones can be avoided to a greater length through kidney cleansing.
Kidney cleansing of kidney stones is needful because as the size of the kidney stones raises it becomes almost inconceivable to urinate. Think back to the Seinfeld episode where Kramer had a terrible time passing his kidney stones. It's hilarious on the show, but trust me you wouldn't laugh if it happened to you! The stones can stop the passing of urine by blocking the ureter. This can lead to severe pain in the flank, groin and lower abdomen. During their passage, the crystals, which have sharp edges, can damage the inner surface of ureter. This can lead to blood in the urine. Apart from this stones can lead to the improvement of several bacteria. Kidneys also purify blood; the presence of kidney stones can create variation in blood pressure and thus making the heart work harder. All kidney stones cannot be detected by X-ray, so the ideal option is to defend against kidney stones through kidney cleansing.
There are numerous methods of kidney cleansing. The most attractive routine is the watermelon cleansing. There are also several herbal recipes for clearing the kidney stones. Another method is juice fasting or water fasting. Apart from these methods, there are also numerous homeopathic solutions. The cleansing usually does not have any side effects but it is insightful to take the advice of a health practitioner before pursuing a kidney cleansing.
The aptitude of the kidneys to remove waste materials is quite often impaired by kidney stones. In such a situation, kidney cleansing is very essential. Kidney cleansing is a process used to flush out toxins and wastes in kidney tissues. It is also an imperative procedure in dissolving the highly harmful kidney stones. When there is a malfunctioning in the urinary system, toxins get accumulated which in turn hampers the functions of the kidneys. Through kidney cleansing, all the ill effects caused by the malfunctioning of the urinary system are cleared and the kidneys regain their typical functional aptitude. The cleansing also helps in getting rid of urinary tract infections. But the most paramount role of kidney cleansing is in removing kidney stones.
Kidney stones are solid crystals found in the kidneys and ureters. They are the aftereffect of the dissolved minerals in urine and normally leave the body in the urine stream. The crystals in urine are the emanation of various salts, which get precipitated. Occasionally, the salts get deposited on the inner surfaces of the kidneys. Prolonged deposition of the crystals gives rise to stones of varying sizes. The salts, which typically pass out as solution, get accumulated when there is exorbitant concentration of the salts. Improper functioning of the urinary system can also give rise to kidney stones. The accumulation of kidney stones can be avoided to a greater length through kidney cleansing.
Kidney cleansing of kidney stones is needful because as the size of the kidney stones raises it becomes almost inconceivable to urinate. Think back to the Seinfeld episode where Kramer had a terrible time passing his kidney stones. It's hilarious on the show, but trust me you wouldn't laugh if it happened to you! The stones can stop the passing of urine by blocking the ureter. This can lead to severe pain in the flank, groin and lower abdomen. During their passage, the crystals, which have sharp edges, can damage the inner surface of ureter. This can lead to blood in the urine. Apart from this stones can lead to the improvement of several bacteria. Kidneys also purify blood; the presence of kidney stones can create variation in blood pressure and thus making the heart work harder. All kidney stones cannot be detected by X-ray, so the ideal option is to defend against kidney stones through kidney cleansing.
There are numerous methods of kidney cleansing. The most attractive routine is the watermelon cleansing. There are also several herbal recipes for clearing the kidney stones. Another method is juice fasting or water fasting. Apart from these methods, there are also numerous homeopathic solutions. The cleansing usually does not have any side effects but it is insightful to take the advice of a health practitioner before pursuing a kidney cleansing.
Thursday, January 10, 2008
Can Your Teenagers Get Lung Cancer?
Each year more than 1 million people die from tobacco and lung cancer related illnesses. Because of advertisements and other forms of media that build up smoking, bountious teens think it is hip and cool to smoke. Now more than ever bounteous teens are getting addicted to nicotine and cigarettes.
What Influences Teens To Smoke?
Often the biggest influences for teen smoking are the kid's parents. When a child sees a parent smoking they begin to think it is okay for them to do the same thing. Though parents are a big influence some other massive influences for teens to smoke are: movies, television, advertising and friends. Advertisements for smoking that target kids are so energetic that the government has issued a policy to discourage tobacco advertisement to children on penalty of fine.
Your teen's friends are also a big influence. Friends of your teen can often be the source that provides the cigarettes. Friends use peer pressure to stimulate smoking. When your teen gets a hold of cigarettes and starts experimenting, nicotine's addicting traits assist in quickly ingraining the smoking habit.
Nicotine - The Addicting Drug in Cigarettes
Nicotine is a key ingredient in cigarettes. It is key because it is so highly addictive to the smoker. Nicotine not only is the outstanding determinent of the smoking addiction, it is also extremely toxic and causes irritation of lung tissue. It constricts blood vessels, increases blood pressure and heart rate and stimulates the central nervous system. In recent years, cigarette makers have been boosting the levels of nicotine in their cigarettes - no doubt to swell smoking addiction and sell increased cigarettes.
Smoking's Long Term Health Problems
Of the bountious long-term health problems you can get from smoking, emphysema, heart disorder and cancer are the worst. Most people think the only cancer you can get from smoking is lung cancer. This is not accurate. You can also get mouth, pharynx, esophagus, pancreas, urinary gland and kidney cancer.
Smoking is Hard To Quit
The tangible craving for nicotine makes it hard for smokers to resist. It may seem hopeless once a smoking habit has begun; however there are numerous treatments for quitting smoking.
5 Tips To Support Smokers Surrender
1- Get rid of all your cigarettes, tobacco, lighters and other smoking paraphernalia.
2- Get support from friends, family or a smoking cessation group.
3- Master modern skills and behaviors you can do when you get the urge to smoke.
4- If needed, get medication for smoking cessation and use it correctly to cut the craving for cigarettes.
5- Be prepared for arduous situations and temptations to relapse.
For some people getting prepared to withdraw by following the tips above is not enough to successfully follow through. Various people who yearn to give up smoking have to give themselves additional motivation to stop smoking.
Some additional motivators include:
- Parents focus on how stopping smoking will help their children have diminished chance of becoming smokers themselves.
- Innumerable people remind themselves of the money they will save each day by not smoking. If cigarettes are averaging $4/pack, and a person smokes a pack a day that is $120/month or $1,440 each year.
- Other smokers who require to resign focus on the ill health effects they are exposing themselves to like heart attack, stroke or cancer.
Bottom line is that smoking is a detrimental habit that causes sickness and wastes moolah. Smoking cigarettes is foolish - the only way to be cool is to withdraw.
What Influences Teens To Smoke?
Often the biggest influences for teen smoking are the kid's parents. When a child sees a parent smoking they begin to think it is okay for them to do the same thing. Though parents are a big influence some other massive influences for teens to smoke are: movies, television, advertising and friends. Advertisements for smoking that target kids are so energetic that the government has issued a policy to discourage tobacco advertisement to children on penalty of fine.
Your teen's friends are also a big influence. Friends of your teen can often be the source that provides the cigarettes. Friends use peer pressure to stimulate smoking. When your teen gets a hold of cigarettes and starts experimenting, nicotine's addicting traits assist in quickly ingraining the smoking habit.
Nicotine - The Addicting Drug in Cigarettes
Nicotine is a key ingredient in cigarettes. It is key because it is so highly addictive to the smoker. Nicotine not only is the outstanding determinent of the smoking addiction, it is also extremely toxic and causes irritation of lung tissue. It constricts blood vessels, increases blood pressure and heart rate and stimulates the central nervous system. In recent years, cigarette makers have been boosting the levels of nicotine in their cigarettes - no doubt to swell smoking addiction and sell increased cigarettes.
Smoking's Long Term Health Problems
Of the bountious long-term health problems you can get from smoking, emphysema, heart disorder and cancer are the worst. Most people think the only cancer you can get from smoking is lung cancer. This is not accurate. You can also get mouth, pharynx, esophagus, pancreas, urinary gland and kidney cancer.
Smoking is Hard To Quit
The tangible craving for nicotine makes it hard for smokers to resist. It may seem hopeless once a smoking habit has begun; however there are numerous treatments for quitting smoking.
5 Tips To Support Smokers Surrender
1- Get rid of all your cigarettes, tobacco, lighters and other smoking paraphernalia.
2- Get support from friends, family or a smoking cessation group.
3- Master modern skills and behaviors you can do when you get the urge to smoke.
4- If needed, get medication for smoking cessation and use it correctly to cut the craving for cigarettes.
5- Be prepared for arduous situations and temptations to relapse.
For some people getting prepared to withdraw by following the tips above is not enough to successfully follow through. Various people who yearn to give up smoking have to give themselves additional motivation to stop smoking.
Some additional motivators include:
- Parents focus on how stopping smoking will help their children have diminished chance of becoming smokers themselves.
- Innumerable people remind themselves of the money they will save each day by not smoking. If cigarettes are averaging $4/pack, and a person smokes a pack a day that is $120/month or $1,440 each year.
- Other smokers who require to resign focus on the ill health effects they are exposing themselves to like heart attack, stroke or cancer.
Bottom line is that smoking is a detrimental habit that causes sickness and wastes moolah. Smoking cigarettes is foolish - the only way to be cool is to withdraw.
Tuesday, January 8, 2008
How Can You Fight Anxiety?
Distress and anxiety is believed by the medical profession to be the most ongoing illness of our time. The fear of developing heart problems or cancer alone is enough to cause tremendous stress and accompanying depression. There is a tremendous malaise circulating our world today. Both the medical profession and the media are constantly "threatening" us of the dangers and probabilities of incomparable diseases, some of which seem numerous than likely to shorten our life span. For illustration, if there is cancer in your family, you're most likely going to get it! And of course, if cancer is not threat enough there is always the West Nile virus, Bird flu, AIDs and a host of other diseases to frighten us...
One thing is for sure, we will never hear the end of calamities that are likely to beset us, whether from infirmity or some other form of challenge we may face. It seems inevitable that there will always be something that will get our blood pressure soaring.
So, what is the answer to this quandary? How can we carry-on with our lives without being constantly afraid and anxious of what lies around the next corner? Here are several suggestions about how to effectively deal with life's challenging situations:
1) Obtain interpersonal support
People need other people, and there are bountious splendid and practical ways to relieve stress and anxiety. Exercise, positive nutrition and certain thinking are tremendous antidotes. These not only a remedy to relieve the angst; they actually give us a sense of empowerment over our lives.
2) Pursue spiritual guidance about spoken words
The Bible tells us that the power of life and casualty are in the tongue. Words can both bless and curse (James 3). Negative words can evoke fear, anxiety and actually produce negative effects in a person's life.
Whenever a word is heard - any word - the mind paints a picture of it. For exemplification, when someone says "black cow" immediately you will see that cow in your mind's eye. Although words are not tangible, they have the power to bring about temperamental and tangible change! Remember - The Bible teaches that the earth was created by the Word of God! Now that's real word power!
We all have a choice when it comes to listening and what we hear. We can determine to empower ourselves by listening to certain words and encouraging thoughts or we can do otherwise. Think about the last time you listening to some of your favored music. Did your feet start tapping? Did you start to hum the melody? Didn't your mood lighten-up a bit as a aftereffect of hearing the melody and the words? Negative words almost always produce negative results, whether apparent or lurking. On the other hand, certain words instill a sense of well-being. A mere smile and a swift, jolly-sounding, "Have a great day!" can instantly produce admirable feelings and joy.
3) Develop a "gratitude" attitude.
Thankfulness is one of the greatest virtues. A clever man once said that if we divided a page in two and wrote all our setbacks on one side and all our blessings on the other, we would obtain that the blessings far outweigh the negatives. The Bible teaches us to give thanks with a grateful heart for all things. Don't look back on past hurts, nor fret about tomorrow. Live each day to the fullest to determine joy and thankfulness.
In conclusion, remember that our thoughts respond to what we feed the mind through our senses. Therefore, it naturally follows that content is a choice. This may be a foreign brainchild to quite a few of us initially, but when applied, the results can be truly amazing! Break the habit of feeling trapped in a world of negative thoughts and anxiety and form opinions to switch-on the power of affirmative thoughts today!
One thing is for sure, we will never hear the end of calamities that are likely to beset us, whether from infirmity or some other form of challenge we may face. It seems inevitable that there will always be something that will get our blood pressure soaring.
So, what is the answer to this quandary? How can we carry-on with our lives without being constantly afraid and anxious of what lies around the next corner? Here are several suggestions about how to effectively deal with life's challenging situations:
1) Obtain interpersonal support
People need other people, and there are bountious splendid and practical ways to relieve stress and anxiety. Exercise, positive nutrition and certain thinking are tremendous antidotes. These not only a remedy to relieve the angst; they actually give us a sense of empowerment over our lives.
2) Pursue spiritual guidance about spoken words
The Bible tells us that the power of life and casualty are in the tongue. Words can both bless and curse (James 3). Negative words can evoke fear, anxiety and actually produce negative effects in a person's life.
Whenever a word is heard - any word - the mind paints a picture of it. For exemplification, when someone says "black cow" immediately you will see that cow in your mind's eye. Although words are not tangible, they have the power to bring about temperamental and tangible change! Remember - The Bible teaches that the earth was created by the Word of God! Now that's real word power!
We all have a choice when it comes to listening and what we hear. We can determine to empower ourselves by listening to certain words and encouraging thoughts or we can do otherwise. Think about the last time you listening to some of your favored music. Did your feet start tapping? Did you start to hum the melody? Didn't your mood lighten-up a bit as a aftereffect of hearing the melody and the words? Negative words almost always produce negative results, whether apparent or lurking. On the other hand, certain words instill a sense of well-being. A mere smile and a swift, jolly-sounding, "Have a great day!" can instantly produce admirable feelings and joy.
3) Develop a "gratitude" attitude.
Thankfulness is one of the greatest virtues. A clever man once said that if we divided a page in two and wrote all our setbacks on one side and all our blessings on the other, we would obtain that the blessings far outweigh the negatives. The Bible teaches us to give thanks with a grateful heart for all things. Don't look back on past hurts, nor fret about tomorrow. Live each day to the fullest to determine joy and thankfulness.
In conclusion, remember that our thoughts respond to what we feed the mind through our senses. Therefore, it naturally follows that content is a choice. This may be a foreign brainchild to quite a few of us initially, but when applied, the results can be truly amazing! Break the habit of feeling trapped in a world of negative thoughts and anxiety and form opinions to switch-on the power of affirmative thoughts today!
Sunday, January 6, 2008
Are the Myths About Skin Cancer Valid?
Jennifer spends much of her summer near the beach. She lives in a mellow climate and is very athletic. She loves to swim, bike and play games outdoors. Jennifer knows the dangers of the sun and so she opts for tanning salons to get her 'golden glow' while being sure to apply sunscreen every day before heading out.
Michael lives in a cooler, northern climate. The summers can be very humid, but most of the year is clear or even below freezing during the harshest winter months. The beach has never been much of a draw for him and he spends most of his time doing indoor activities or at his job. Michael doesn't worry about sunscreen and only had one sunburn that he can remember and that was when he was a child.
Which of these examples do you most associate yourself with? Did you know that Jennifer and Michael are both at risk of developing skin cancer? We have all heard the warnings about the dangers of sun exposure. We know all about the importance of wearing sunscreen and hats. But are YOU protected from skin cancer? Contemplate these myths and facts:
MYTH ONE: Tanning Beds are Safer than the Sun
20 minutes of exposure in a tanning bed is roughly equivalent to four hours in the sun. Although sun beds use UVA rather than UVB rays, 'The Skin Cancer Answer' states that "UV-A penetrates increased deeply into the skin than UV-B, can determine skin cancer, and may suppress the immune system."
MYTH TWO: Wearing Sunscreen at the Beach is Protection
85 percent of UV rays can even make it through on dim days. That means you are equally at risk in the car, walking the dog or letting your children out to play at any time of year - even when you're not at the beach. Of course, you are usually less affected at the beach and so covering up is recommended even when wearing sunscreen. Sunscreen also wears off with sweat and water and should always be applied every two hours or after getting wet.
MYTH THREE: Taking Care Of Your Skin Now Will Shelter You
Sadly, skin cancer can take 20 or deeper years to evolve. The Skin Cancer Foundation states that most people gather about 80 percent of their lifetime sun exposure before the age of 18. Just one blistering sunburn in childhood is estimated to double the risk of melanoma later in life. Taking preferable care now will dwindle the risk, but not eradicate the debasement already done.
MYTH FOUR: Having a Tan Means You're Better Protected
Dark skinned individuals are less likely to establish cancer, but tanned skin is actually damaged skin. Repeated tanning injures the skin and increases the risk of skin cancer.
So how do you plan to shelter your family this year? Some suggestions are to limit exposure to the sun - especially for infants. Examine your skin for early signs of damage. Use a sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher and apply it at least 30 minutes before exposure and every two hours after that. Teach your children exceptional safety habits and be sure you and they are covered up when outdoors. Have fun and be safe.
Michael lives in a cooler, northern climate. The summers can be very humid, but most of the year is clear or even below freezing during the harshest winter months. The beach has never been much of a draw for him and he spends most of his time doing indoor activities or at his job. Michael doesn't worry about sunscreen and only had one sunburn that he can remember and that was when he was a child.
Which of these examples do you most associate yourself with? Did you know that Jennifer and Michael are both at risk of developing skin cancer? We have all heard the warnings about the dangers of sun exposure. We know all about the importance of wearing sunscreen and hats. But are YOU protected from skin cancer? Contemplate these myths and facts:
MYTH ONE: Tanning Beds are Safer than the Sun
20 minutes of exposure in a tanning bed is roughly equivalent to four hours in the sun. Although sun beds use UVA rather than UVB rays, 'The Skin Cancer Answer' states that "UV-A penetrates increased deeply into the skin than UV-B, can determine skin cancer, and may suppress the immune system."
MYTH TWO: Wearing Sunscreen at the Beach is Protection
85 percent of UV rays can even make it through on dim days. That means you are equally at risk in the car, walking the dog or letting your children out to play at any time of year - even when you're not at the beach. Of course, you are usually less affected at the beach and so covering up is recommended even when wearing sunscreen. Sunscreen also wears off with sweat and water and should always be applied every two hours or after getting wet.
MYTH THREE: Taking Care Of Your Skin Now Will Shelter You
Sadly, skin cancer can take 20 or deeper years to evolve. The Skin Cancer Foundation states that most people gather about 80 percent of their lifetime sun exposure before the age of 18. Just one blistering sunburn in childhood is estimated to double the risk of melanoma later in life. Taking preferable care now will dwindle the risk, but not eradicate the debasement already done.
MYTH FOUR: Having a Tan Means You're Better Protected
Dark skinned individuals are less likely to establish cancer, but tanned skin is actually damaged skin. Repeated tanning injures the skin and increases the risk of skin cancer.
So how do you plan to shelter your family this year? Some suggestions are to limit exposure to the sun - especially for infants. Examine your skin for early signs of damage. Use a sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher and apply it at least 30 minutes before exposure and every two hours after that. Teach your children exceptional safety habits and be sure you and they are covered up when outdoors. Have fun and be safe.
Saturday, January 5, 2008
How Can I Protect My Liver?
There are multitudinous diseases associated with the liver. This brief article is going to cover some conventional knowledge about three major and most common diseases that can affect the liver.
First of all there is jaundice. Yellow Jaundice is a diseased state in which bile accumulates in the blood stream and colors all the body tissues yellow. This is number one noted in the whites of the eyes, but eventually it covers the entire body and may even be noticable in urine and perspiration which may have a yellowish tint. This infirmity is usually caused by one of these three situations. Firstly, it may be an inherited condition involving the spleen. Secondly, it may be due to gallstones blocking the duct from the liver. Thirdly, it may be caused by a liver infection commonly known as Hepatitis.
Uncovering the exact cause of jaundice may be a very laborious task even for the most learned physicians. Besides requiring an accurate and lengthy history, a detailed examination is necessary along with numerous laboratory tests to confirm or dispel all possibilities. We should conceive that only the physician is qualified to determine the extremely resolute symptoms of this condition. Though its basis may be deeply rooted, jaundice is often relieved through splendid medical treatment. Do not self medicate for this affliction as delays in getting treatment may actually contribute in worsening of the condition.
The second disease that may harm the liver is Hepatitis. Hepatitis is often caused by a viral attack on the liver in which painful swelling of the organ may be felt on the right side of the body. It has a long course of recovery and full recovery is not guaranteed, although innumerable patients do recover fully. The diagnostics of hepatitis has a decelerate onset and therefore, immense for early detection. It is usually accompanied by the usual fever, a distinct loss of appetite, vomiting and diarrhea. Jaundice also frequently occurs with hepatitis, a disease which demands the very finest of medical care.
The third infirmity that is commonly known to detriment the liver is the cirrhosis of the liver. Although it is one of the most common liver diseases, it is also one of the most poorly understood. The liver has a roughened, hobnail emergence which was formerly thought to be the direct sequence of chronic alcoholism. As its causation still remains a mystery, it may exist undetected for bounteous years.
Occasionally, swelling of the abdomen from an accumulation of watery fluids within may arouse the patient's suspicion that something is wrong. At other times, sudden vomiting of large amounts of blood from a ruptured, enlarged vein within the stomach is the prime indication of affliction. In the later stages of cirrhosis, blood cannot circulate easily through the liver and is forced to procure and build cutting-edge channels through which to flow. Excessive veins can then be discernible on the surface of the abdomen and the skin covering the chest wall of these individuals. Cirrhosis usually is diagnosed after it has existed a long time, and is then considered incurable but physicians can usually prolong life comfortably through medication, blood transfusions, diet and other measures.
The liver is one of our most vital organs. Therefore, a nourishing lifestyle and diet is vital in preventing these life threatening diseases. Continued study of liver functions and diseases are being carried out constantly in many medical research programs in the hope of providing patients with a better quality of life.
First of all there is jaundice. Yellow Jaundice is a diseased state in which bile accumulates in the blood stream and colors all the body tissues yellow. This is number one noted in the whites of the eyes, but eventually it covers the entire body and may even be noticable in urine and perspiration which may have a yellowish tint. This infirmity is usually caused by one of these three situations. Firstly, it may be an inherited condition involving the spleen. Secondly, it may be due to gallstones blocking the duct from the liver. Thirdly, it may be caused by a liver infection commonly known as Hepatitis.
Uncovering the exact cause of jaundice may be a very laborious task even for the most learned physicians. Besides requiring an accurate and lengthy history, a detailed examination is necessary along with numerous laboratory tests to confirm or dispel all possibilities. We should conceive that only the physician is qualified to determine the extremely resolute symptoms of this condition. Though its basis may be deeply rooted, jaundice is often relieved through splendid medical treatment. Do not self medicate for this affliction as delays in getting treatment may actually contribute in worsening of the condition.
The second disease that may harm the liver is Hepatitis. Hepatitis is often caused by a viral attack on the liver in which painful swelling of the organ may be felt on the right side of the body. It has a long course of recovery and full recovery is not guaranteed, although innumerable patients do recover fully. The diagnostics of hepatitis has a decelerate onset and therefore, immense for early detection. It is usually accompanied by the usual fever, a distinct loss of appetite, vomiting and diarrhea. Jaundice also frequently occurs with hepatitis, a disease which demands the very finest of medical care.
The third infirmity that is commonly known to detriment the liver is the cirrhosis of the liver. Although it is one of the most common liver diseases, it is also one of the most poorly understood. The liver has a roughened, hobnail emergence which was formerly thought to be the direct sequence of chronic alcoholism. As its causation still remains a mystery, it may exist undetected for bounteous years.
Occasionally, swelling of the abdomen from an accumulation of watery fluids within may arouse the patient's suspicion that something is wrong. At other times, sudden vomiting of large amounts of blood from a ruptured, enlarged vein within the stomach is the prime indication of affliction. In the later stages of cirrhosis, blood cannot circulate easily through the liver and is forced to procure and build cutting-edge channels through which to flow. Excessive veins can then be discernible on the surface of the abdomen and the skin covering the chest wall of these individuals. Cirrhosis usually is diagnosed after it has existed a long time, and is then considered incurable but physicians can usually prolong life comfortably through medication, blood transfusions, diet and other measures.
The liver is one of our most vital organs. Therefore, a nourishing lifestyle and diet is vital in preventing these life threatening diseases. Continued study of liver functions and diseases are being carried out constantly in many medical research programs in the hope of providing patients with a better quality of life.
Thursday, January 3, 2008
Can Women Really Safeguard Themselves From Breast Cancer?
Every woman who hears the words 'breast cancer' feels a sense of fear. What is breast cancer and can you safeguard against it? Here are some facts about breast cancer every woman should know.
What Should I Know About Breast Cancer?
According to the American Cancer Society breast cancer is the second most common form of cancer in women after skin cancer. While it is also possible for a man to get breast cancer, women are 100 times more likely to get it than men. Breast cancer is the second leading basis of death from cancer in women. Lung cancer is the leading basis. The chance of dying from breast cancer is one in 33, but that number is decreasing as advanced forms of treatment and early detection are being implemented.
There are several forms of breast cancer that occur in different areas of the breast. Most breast cancers are treated with radiation, chemotherapy or surgery. It depends on the type of cancer, how far it has spread and where it is located which treatment program is determined for any individual. Ample strides are taking place to handle and stave off breast cancer. Women with a high risk should discuss the possible preventive measures currently obtainable with their doctor.
Who is Most Likely to Get It?
The American Cancer Society order reports that 1 in 8 women in the US will incident invasive breast cancer in her lifetime. While every woman is at risk there are certain considerations that boost the likelihood a person may get breast cancer. Not having these risk components does not mean you will not get cancer just as being at a high risk doesn't mean you will get cancer. Smoking, age and family history are the common components that are assessed when determining risk.
While smoking can be controlled, age and family history cannot. The older you are the greater the risk that you will get breast cancer. Almost 8 out of 10 women diagnosed with breast cancer are over 50. If women in your family developed breast cancer you are also at an increased risk. Certain genetic changes boost the risk to as high as 80% that a woman will develop the cancer. Testing for these changes can a help a woman and her doctor discuss preventative measures that might be taken.
Caucasian women have a higher risk of developing breast cancer but African-American women more often die from the condition. Asians, Hispanics and American Indian women are less likely to get it.
Starting your period (menstruation) before age 12 or going through menopause after 55 slightly increases the risk.
Having taken the drug DES (diethylstilbestrol), which some women were given in the belief it would counter them from losing a baby, slightly increases the risk while radiation to the chest earlier in life greatly increases the risk. Being overweight, use of alcohol, long term use of HRT (hormone replacement therapy) and not having children have all been linked to an increased risk of breast cancer. Using birth control pills may increase the risk and should be discussed with your doctor.
On the other hand exercise, sustaining eating (especially reducing the intake of alcohol and red meats) or having had children early in life and breastfeeding for as long as 1 ½ -2 years have been linked to a REDUCED risk of developing breast cancer.
What Can Women Do to Decrease the Risk?
Since early detection is so important it is vital that women master how to detect lumps in their breasts and accept what precautions must be taken. Those who are more at risk of developing cancer should take additional steps to detect cancer as early as possible since the lumps found by self-examination are much farther progressed than those found by other forms of detection. While a doctor or nurse can show you how to perform a BSE (breast self-exam) the American Cancer Fellowship still recommends women in their 20's and 30's should have a clinical exam every three years and once a year after 40. After 40 most women should also have typical mammograms to catch cancers earlier.
Changes in the breast including dimpling, swelling, discharges other than milk or any other change to the nipple should be brought to the attention of a doctor. While most of changes can be linked to non-cancerous causes catching the cancer early is definitely the most necessary aspect in surviving breast cancer.
What Should I Know About Breast Cancer?
According to the American Cancer Society breast cancer is the second most common form of cancer in women after skin cancer. While it is also possible for a man to get breast cancer, women are 100 times more likely to get it than men. Breast cancer is the second leading basis of death from cancer in women. Lung cancer is the leading basis. The chance of dying from breast cancer is one in 33, but that number is decreasing as advanced forms of treatment and early detection are being implemented.
There are several forms of breast cancer that occur in different areas of the breast. Most breast cancers are treated with radiation, chemotherapy or surgery. It depends on the type of cancer, how far it has spread and where it is located which treatment program is determined for any individual. Ample strides are taking place to handle and stave off breast cancer. Women with a high risk should discuss the possible preventive measures currently obtainable with their doctor.
Who is Most Likely to Get It?
The American Cancer Society order reports that 1 in 8 women in the US will incident invasive breast cancer in her lifetime. While every woman is at risk there are certain considerations that boost the likelihood a person may get breast cancer. Not having these risk components does not mean you will not get cancer just as being at a high risk doesn't mean you will get cancer. Smoking, age and family history are the common components that are assessed when determining risk.
While smoking can be controlled, age and family history cannot. The older you are the greater the risk that you will get breast cancer. Almost 8 out of 10 women diagnosed with breast cancer are over 50. If women in your family developed breast cancer you are also at an increased risk. Certain genetic changes boost the risk to as high as 80% that a woman will develop the cancer. Testing for these changes can a help a woman and her doctor discuss preventative measures that might be taken.
Caucasian women have a higher risk of developing breast cancer but African-American women more often die from the condition. Asians, Hispanics and American Indian women are less likely to get it.
Starting your period (menstruation) before age 12 or going through menopause after 55 slightly increases the risk.
Having taken the drug DES (diethylstilbestrol), which some women were given in the belief it would counter them from losing a baby, slightly increases the risk while radiation to the chest earlier in life greatly increases the risk. Being overweight, use of alcohol, long term use of HRT (hormone replacement therapy) and not having children have all been linked to an increased risk of breast cancer. Using birth control pills may increase the risk and should be discussed with your doctor.
On the other hand exercise, sustaining eating (especially reducing the intake of alcohol and red meats) or having had children early in life and breastfeeding for as long as 1 ½ -2 years have been linked to a REDUCED risk of developing breast cancer.
What Can Women Do to Decrease the Risk?
Since early detection is so important it is vital that women master how to detect lumps in their breasts and accept what precautions must be taken. Those who are more at risk of developing cancer should take additional steps to detect cancer as early as possible since the lumps found by self-examination are much farther progressed than those found by other forms of detection. While a doctor or nurse can show you how to perform a BSE (breast self-exam) the American Cancer Fellowship still recommends women in their 20's and 30's should have a clinical exam every three years and once a year after 40. After 40 most women should also have typical mammograms to catch cancers earlier.
Changes in the breast including dimpling, swelling, discharges other than milk or any other change to the nipple should be brought to the attention of a doctor. While most of changes can be linked to non-cancerous causes catching the cancer early is definitely the most necessary aspect in surviving breast cancer.
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