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evelyn de matias

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Natural Ways to Neutralize Your Blood Pressure

Nov 13, 2014

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Blood pressure may rise without the person being aware of it. As a consequence, significant damage to the blood vessels occurs in the long term and may result to debilitating and serious health conditions like heart attack, damage to the kidney and stroke. Self awareness about your blood pressure level can help you reduce the risks of experiencing the potential complications due to a high blood pressure. Taking medication can help control your blood pressure, but it is crucial to see your doctor for proper assessment, diagnosis and prescription of medicine.

When does high blood pressure occurs?

Each time the blood is pumped by the heart to the blood vessels, it causes an increase in the pressure on the arterial walls. The pressure is increased whenever the heart muscles contract and allow the blood to be pushed into circulation in the body. There are certain conditions that cause an increase in the blood pressure. Physical activities, for instance, can cause the blood pressure to rise when the muscles need to contract more in order to meet the physical

checking your blood pressure regularly

work it needs to pump more blood. The more energy a person spends for physical activity, the blood pressure compensates by increasing the muscle work needed to meet the demands of the body. The opposite results when the body is relaxed, especially while sleeping.

There are various causes why the blood pressure rises. It is a normal occurrence, however, when it tries to compensate with the rate of the physical activity that the body goes through. Certain medications may cause the blood pressure to rise beyond the normal rate and can result in complications. It is rare that a high blood pressure can result in organ failure or disease. Primary hypertension may also occur where the cause is unknown. There are known risk factors that can trigger the blood pressure to rise significantly. This includes being overweight and lifestyle causes, such as being sedentary and smoking.

Common complications when the blood pressure rises

Long standing high blood pressure can cause damage to the walls of the arteries or the blood vessels that may result in serious complications like having a heart attack, stroke, and damage to the kidneys. Doctors can help your reduce the risks of complications by providing you medication and treatment that will not only lower the blood pressure but also in determining preventive measures against potential complications.

Taking a regular measurement of your blood pressure can help you act immediately to neutralize your blood pressure activity. This is important as one begins to age (age 55 years and older) because of their risk in developing cardiovascular diseases. High risk individuals are those with medical conditions like type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, family history of a stroke or a heart disease.

How to neutralize and manage your blood pressure level

There are different approaches in managing the blood pressure. During the early signs of a high blood pressure, modifying the lifestyle can help remedy the condition. In certain cases, doctors will prescribe medications immediately for blood pressure control, especially when one is a high risk patient. Antihypertensive drugs are most effective in causing an immediate decrease in blood pressure. However, there are conservative ways in controlling the blood pressure level, such as reducing weight, doing exercises, and maintaining a low-salt diet. Other forms of lifestyle modification are also recommended, such as avoiding alcohol intake, quit smoking, learning relaxation techniques and eating fruits and vegetables.

While exercise causes physical exertion that results in a high blood pressure, this response is temporary. With long term exercise, one can manage their blood pressure better because the blood vessels become more elastic as it become accustomed to the physical exertion involved and to the level of pressure needed to compensate for the energy demands needed by the body.

Takign medications can help protect you against the risks of complications from a high blood pressure. However, this protection is only good as long as you take them. Learning how to naturally manage your blood pressure is more essential, especially during the initial stages of your condition. This can help you become less dependent on medications.

Talk to your doctor

Your doctor knows best whether the natural means of neutralizing your blood pressure is ideal for your condition. In certain cases where the blood pressure is less controlled and due to unknown causes, as in the primary high blood pressure, taking antihypertensive drugs will keep you safer as a mainstay form of protection against an unpredictable rise in blood pressure. Most of the time, control by natural means should be coupled with the taking of medication to get long term results.

Keeping a primary doctor who knows your medical history is the best thing that you can do to help protect yourself against the danger of getting a stroke or heart disease. Self monitoring and seeing your doctor regularly is the most prudent step to be in control of your blood pressure.

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NSAIDs Treat Colon Cancer by Inducing Cell Death in Mutated Carriers

Nov 10, 2014

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Following previous studies on prostate and other forms of cancer that have recently discovered promising information in terms of treatment, a new study from Pittsburgh has discovered an effective measure against colon cancer. The latest research from the University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute as well as the School of Medicine has revealed a potential treatment for colon cancer. The results of the study showed that non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) induce programmed cell death in potential cellular carriers for colon cancer. The findings, published online in the Scientific Journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, describe the positive effects that NSAIDs have for colon cancer treatment and their exact mechanism behind preventive intervention.

What is colon cancer?

Colorectal cancer, more widely known as colon cancer, is a form of cancer that attacks that colon and rectum in the large intestine. Around the world, colon cancer is the third most common type of cancer were as much as 65% of global cases are found among developed countries. It is believed that the major risk factors for colon cancer involve harmful lifestyle choices, such as an unhealthy diet that promotes obesity, smoking, excessive alcohol intake, and a significant lack of regular exercise. People who have had inflammatory bowel disease are also at a greater risk of contracting the disease. Intestinal or adenomatous polyps, that grown along the inner wall of the colon, both present high colon cancer risks, and may lead to the development of the disease if not treated early.

NSAIDs

NSAIDs is a type of medication that relieves pain and inflammation symptoms. Examples of NSAIDs include ibuprofen and aspirin, all of which are commonly prescribed and sold over the counter. These drugs work by controlling the activity of cyclooxygenase�enzymes, which are in turn responsible for regulating sensations of pain and the common symptoms of inflammation. Aspirin and ibuprofen inhibit the action of these enzymes. The various medicinal uses of NSAIDs make them ideal for the treatment of several conditions, such as arthritis, spondylitis, dysmenorrhoea, migraine, back pain, and fever. NSAIDs have long been associated with colon cancer, however, their exact link had not yet been established. It was known that they decreased the risk of any intestinal polyps from forming, but the exact scientific reason behind it remained unknown.

Prevention mechanism

NSAIDs prevent colon cancer from developing by causing autophagic programmed cell death. The team of scientists from Pittsburgh, headed by Doctor Lin Zhang of the Pitt School of Medicine, performed a series of clinical experiments on animal subjects. The experiments revealed that the NSAIDs activated a cellular death receptor pathway in the intestines. This initiates a suicide program among stem cells with a mutation present in the adenomatous polyposis coli (APC) gene. Defects or mutations in this gene create the cancer risk and also leave the cell dysfunctional. The medications do not affect healthy cells while initiating the destruction of any cells that present a risk for cancerous tumors or polyps.

Cancer treatment

The findings of the study provide very positive results in the field of colon cancer treatment. They have given experts a new insight into the biological functions of NSAIDs. They provide proof of the effectiveness of the drugs for treating colon cancer. Doctor Zhang claimed that this new knowledge on the function of NSAIDs may be used as a stepping stone to produce further forms of treatment and medication. It may also be utilized to improve the current available kinds of colon cancer treatment and discover ways to reduce any adverse side-effects with their usage, such as ulcers and gastrointestinal bleeding.

A New Treatment for Veterans Suffering From Gulf War Syndrome

Nov 10, 2014

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Gulf War syndrome

The Gulf War syndrome is a serious condition that plagues veterans from the Gulf War. It has affected as much as one-third of the entire United States contingent that was sent to fight in the war. The condition goes beyond post-traumatic stress disorder and causes actual illness symptoms to manifest among those inflicted. The most commonly prescribed forms of treatment include medication and behavioral therapy. A new study from the University of California, San Diego School of Health Sciences has revealed information on a new potential treatment that could help alleviate the debilitating effects of Gulf War Syndrome. The key to helping veterans with Gulf War syndrome keep healthy and combat their symptoms may lie in the�coenzyme Q10.

The Gulf War syndrome

The Gulf War syndrome (GWS), also called Gulf War illness, is a chronic disorder that presents multiple symptoms among both veterans and workers from the Persian Gulf War. According to a study carried out by the U.S. Institute of Medicine in 2010, as many as 250,000 veterans from the 697,000 that were part of the war experienced various illness symptoms. Fatigue, headache, body pains, memory problems, diarrhea, respiratory problems, and post-traumatic stress disorder are some of the common symptoms that veterans go through. Over time, the health of the veterans that were deployed into combat was shown to have deteriorated faster than those who were not deployed. GWS can affect veterans from around the world, the most frequent cases of which occur among soldiers from the U.S. and the U.K. Veterans from Afghanistan and Iraq were also shown to have suffered from the syndrome.��

Coenzyme Q10

Coenzyme Q10�(CoQ10) was discovered to produce significant health benefits for veterans suffering from Gulf War illness. It is naturally found in the mitochondria of eukaryotic cells and plays a role in generating ATP. CoQ10�is available as a dietary supplement and can be taken in addition to the prescribed treatments for certain conditions. There is some evidence that CoQ10 can moderately improve the conditions of patients with Huntington’s disease and Parkinson’s. It can also be used to improve the quality of sperm among infertile males, as well as to treat any signs of muscle breakdown that are a common side-effect of certain statin medications.

Findings of the study

The study, headed by Beatrice Golomb�of the UC San Diego School of Medicine, gathered 46 U.S. veterans of the Gulf War who were all suffering from the syndrome. For three and a half months, the test subjects were given a capsule of either CoQ10�or a common placebo in randomized order. The researchers discovered that as much as 80% of the veterans that were given CoQ10�experienced significant improvement in their conditions, as opposed to those that only took the placebo. The symptoms of chronic fatigue, headaches, and memory problems were all improved. The extent of the improvement was relative to the amounts of CoQ10 they were given.

Treating veterans

Golomb�claims that the results of this study will have great effects in the treatment of Gulf War syndrome and possibly for other related illnesses. It has produced an effective medication that can help cure the veterans' symptoms. Golomb�also stresses the importance of studying the health conditions of the veterans in an attempt to help them overcome their illnesses. Golomb�and her team are conducting further work on creating a mitochondrial mix of nutrients and CoQ10�that could become more effective than taking CoQ10 alone. The U.S. Department of Defense is also supporting continued clinical studies to help any Gulf War veterans in need.

Developments in the Treatment Depression in Children and Adolescents

Nov 6, 2014

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Child Depression

Depression in children and adolescents is a very real and serious issue. Many perceive depression as being a disease that only strikes adults. They perceive any depression symptoms in young children as simple moods or phases that they will eventually get over. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, by the tender age of 18, as much as 11 percent of all adolescents are already suffering from or would have previously had depression. Some of the many symptoms of adolescent and child depression include hostility, irritability, and a lack of focus, low energy levels, a lack of interest in previously enjoyed activities, and an increased emotional vulnerability to failure. Some adolescents may even be driven to abusing alcohol or drugs and even attempting suicide. Because of the seriousness of the issue, many forms of treatment have been developed to treat juvenile depression.

�Psychosocial therapies

Psychosocial therapies are designed to give young depression patient guidance and support through “talk therapy.” These kinds of sessions are meant to explore a patient’s past, emotional problems, feelings, relationships, and thoughts. With the help of a licensed psychiatrist, young children and adolescents will be able to learn more about the reasons behind their depression. This technique is also helpful in getting them to learn how to open up to another person and put their trust in them. There are different kinds of psychotherapies that depend on the specific case of a patient. Sessions may also be conducted either by an individual or in a family or group. Psychosocial therapy is one of the leading and most widely recommended forms of treatment for any kind of depression.

Exposure therapy

One possible and prominent cause of juvenile depression is trauma. A traumatic experience can cause severe depression in both children and adolescents. Exposure therapy targets this traumatic source and aims to help young patients overcome their distress over it. A patient is exposed to whatever may have caused his or her trauma in a controlled environment. They are then taught techniques and methods to help overcome their feelings and reactions. Exposure therapy also works for obsessive compulsive disorder, which has been known to be a sign of depression, especially in very young children. This form of therapy is very helpful in discouraging depressive behavior and helping patients directly tackle their emotional issues.

Music

A juvenile depression treatment that has only recently been discovered is music. Researchers at Queen’s University Belfast learned that music can effectively increase children’s confidence and self-esteem, while drastically reducing the effects of depression. They were also able to communicate more properly and developed better social skills. It is believed that the effectiveness of music therapy lies in its aesthetic value, and in how this becomes a therapeutic aspect that helps patients feel more optimistic. More research is now going into the nature of music therapy and how it can be designed to become an even more effective form of treatment.

Psycho education

This form of treatment involves educating depressed children and their families about the symptoms of and nature of depression. During psycho education, families are taught how to spot severe depression bouts and what to do to help their children cope. This method also assures that children are following proper treatment guidelines. It teaches parents how to become aware of possibly dangerous behavior, especially suicidal tendencies, and how to respond to them. Psycho education is a good method for establishing trust between young patients and their families and assuring that their parents are properly equipped with the knowledge of how to help them overcome their sickness.

How Meditation Help You Recover From Migraine

Nov 6, 2014

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Meditation

Migraine is a form of headache that is characterized by a throbbing pain that is felt either at the front of the head or on one side only. The condition affects women more than men and it usually begins to manifest during early adulthood. Individuals with migraine may have different symptoms. Some may experience nausea and vomiting with the headache while others will not. When migraine occurs without any warning signs, such as the symptom of flashing lights, it is called a migraine without aura. But when signs of flashing lights precede the symptoms of migraine, the condition is called as migraine with aura.

Episodes of migraine can be debilitating to the individual. It can interfere with the person's ability to perform his activities of daily living. Migraine can be a recurrent condition and it may become dormant for quite some time and will recur months or years later. Understanding what triggers the symptoms of migraine to occur can help reduce the risks of experiencing its debilitating symptoms. Various forms of migraine management are available. Medical researchers are now focusing their efforts of using meditation to help individuals with migraine in order to get relief from their symptoms.

Meditation can mitigate the impact of the symptoms of migraine

In the latest study conducted by the Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center, stress has been considered to be a major trigger for the symptoms of migraine to occur. They are able to correlate the interventions happening between the mind and the body in causing the classic headache felt during a migraine attack. Under this stressful condition, the headache occurs and meditation can help bring back the mind in its relaxed state. Standardized meditation techniques and yoga were used as the forms of meditation intervention in adults with migraines, which the researchers referred to as the mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR).

During the evaluation of the participants in the research study, it becomes apparent that those patients undergoing the MBSR have reduced migraine level as compared to those without undergoing through the meditation intervention. The effect of meditation to patients showed some improvement in their ability to control their stress level and self efficiency in managing their condition. The headache becomes less disabling and it becomes shorter in duration. The research study was conclusive as an effective and safe form of management of migraine.

Forms of meditation therapy for migraine management

There are different forms of meditation therapy available in the management of migraine symptoms. Not all of them will be effective for all and it is important to find the one where your body will best respond positively.

Vipassana

The person tries to remain calm and detached to the environment while focusing his concentration between the connection of the mind and body.

Transcendental

This form of meditation is performed by repetitious sound, phrase or words that are called as a mantra. By repeating the mantra, the individual is able to keep himself alert and focused about his goals while blocking some distracting thoughts.

Mindfulness

This form of meditation exercise is performed with breathing exercises. This teaches the person to bring balance to his life with a more positive perspective.

The mechanisms of meditation

Although many doctors are already patronizing the use of meditation therapy in keeping their patients efficient in managing their migraine symptoms, there is no clear understanding about the mechanisms involved in meditation and how it helps reduce the headache in migraine. Some believe that meditation helps to increase the body and brain's tolerance to pain and a relaxed mind promotes a healthy general well-being.

Doctor’s Order:�For Further information grab a copy of “End Your Depression” �The Most Comprehensive Ebook On Treating Depression Naturally

What Is Behind Binge Eating Disorder (EDNOS)

Nov 5, 2014

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Food Addict

Binge eating is a form of an eating disorder that is classified as an eating disorder not otherwise specified (EDNOS). The person usually manifests a behavior of overeating until it makes them feel uncomfortably full. People with EDNOS are often obese, but the disorder may affect any person of different weight. Binge eating as EDNOS is classified under the Fourth Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV). Individuals with this type of eating disorder may manifest the symptoms of bulimia nervosa minus the purging behavior commonly seen in it like self induce vomiting and using laxatives in losing weight.

Characteristics of EDNOS

People with binge eating disorder has often been referred to as compulsive over-eaters, emotional eaters, or food addicts. About 30% of individuals seeking treatment for obesity have binge eating disorder. Obesity, however, is not a criteria for EDNOS. There is also a higher risk for individuals with a history of physical and sexual abuse, low extreme and extreme shyness to develop EDNOS.

While binge eating is often associated with other eating disorders like anorexia and bulimia nervosa, the condition fails to meet the criteria for appropriate diagnosis under these two eating disorders. EDNOS is often seen in 40% of patients seeking treatment eating disorders. It is also present among people manifesting a distorted body image and resorting to unhealthy weight loss practices. Binge eating affects men and women equally and is most common during adolescence and adulthood.

What are the potential health risks with EDNOS

EDNOS can open the flood gate for the development of serious medical conditions like the following:

Kidney failure
Constipation
Diarrhea
Osteoporosis (brittle bone)
Ruptured esophagus due to frequent vomiting
Irregular heartbeat
Infertility in both sexes
Irregular menstrual cycle

Causes of EDNOS

The specific cause of EDNOS is unknown, but there are causative factors that are highly associated to binge eating disorder as follows:

Psychological factors
Negative emotional factors
Biological factors
Socio-cultural factors
Anxiety
Depression

There are also recognized risk factors for binge eating disorder that include sexual abuse, dieting, lack of self control, media and the society.

Symptoms of EDNOS�

Binge eating usually manifests as a combination of the following symptoms:

Feeling out of control when one eats
Eating unusually large quantities of food
Eating very fast
Eating until one feels uncomfortable or until one can no longer take another bite
Eating a lot, even when not hungry
Feeling embarrassed about the quantity of food one eats
Feeling disgusted, depressed or guilty about overeating

�Diagnosing EDNOS

Prior to making a diagnosis for binge eating disorder, your doctor will first ensure that your symptoms are not indicative of bulimia nervosa or anorexia nervosa. Researchers often find it difficult to make an accurate diagnosis for EDNOS because its symptoms may often overlap with that of the other eating disorders and major depressive disorders. The current standard guidelines for diagnosing binge eating disorder is the Fourth Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV) that proposes the following diagnostic criteria.

Repeated eating within a short time interval (usually two hours).
Consumption of food quantities that are more than the regular dietary consumption under normal circumstances.
The feeling of being out of control of one's appetite
The act of eating fast until one feels uncomfortably full to the point of being ill.
A marked feeling of distress after the binge eating episode
Binge eating episodes take place two days a week and have been persistent for six months
Binge eating behavior is not characterized by purging, fasting, and over-exercise as compensatory behavior.
The absence of bulimia and anorexia diagnostic criteria for symptoms

Treatment for EDNOS

The treatment for EDNOS mainly focuses on binge eating behavior, compulsiveness with food, an inability to control food intake, and the use of food as a method of coping with anxieties and other underlying issues.

Dialectic Behavior Therapy

The intervention introduces the development of a healthy mind and emotional control. The person also learns to skills of tolerating distressing conditions with various coping mechanisms. Interpersonal skills are also learned to divert unhealthy eating behavior.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

The therapeutic treatment is focused on managing the eating behavior and the adoption of healthy eating patterns. The person is also taught to disintegrate self esteem to body weight and shape. Collaborative treatment is also provided towards self acceptance with lifestyle counselling and learning various self monitoring strategies as relapse preventive measures.

Behavioral Weight Control Treatment

The treatment focuses on introducing healthy lifestyle change and proper dietary measures that will not compromise health. The process helps binge eaters to attain a long term remission of their condition.

Interpersonal Therapy

Interpersonal therapy provides binge eaters the ability to cope with relationships and interpersonal problems that might be encouraging their unhealthy eating behavior.

When to see a doctor

It is important to take someone with an EDNOS to a doctor to get an immediate medical intervention. People with binge eating disorder often keep their condition a secret. Others feel that it is normal to behave the way they do. There are different ways by which a person with a binge eating disorder may behave and if you recognize the above symptoms from someone you know that will likely indicate the disorder, make sure to get help immediately.

It is a big mistake to ignore the symptoms of EDNOS. While it may not fall under the most accurate diagnostic criteria for anorexia and bulimia, doctors view binge eating as the initial stage of a full blown destructive eating disorder. The existence of the abnormal behavior can lead to more serious health consequences that doctors want to prevent. People may not view binge eating as an abnormal eating behavior, but doctors always emphasize that eating disorders have psychological implications that can progress into a condition that may become difficult to treat.

In order to detect abnormal eating behavior, there are warning signs that can give an indication for the presence of the disorder. The common primary signs are the unusual inclination of a person to monitor food intake and weight.� Binge eaters usually want to eat alone or hide their hoarding of foods for consumption. It is important therefore for family members to be vigilant whenever they suspect that their loved one is showing some indication of an eating disorder.

Self Help Initiatives for EDNOS

The following are helpful therapeutic suggestions for binge eating disorder:

Make an appointment with a health professional to discuss your eating behavior.
Seeing a nutritionist will help you recognize your healthy dietary requirements.
Make healthy lifestyle changes and engage in productive social activities to develop positive self esteem and divert attention from eating.
Seek for a counseling therapy
Develop positive interpersonal skills to learn various forms of coping mechanisms
Look for another diversion for anxiety instead of eating. Learn different relaxation techniques, take a walk or jog to clear your mind from the inclination to eat.
Learn meditation techniques
Keep a journal where you can express your thoughts and feelings. By expressing yourself in your journal you can help ease the burden of anxiety that can reduce your inclination to binge eat.
Look for a support group that can help you overcome your binge eating.

Is Passive Immunotherapy for HIV Beneficial?

Nov 4, 2014

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Passive Immunotherapy for HIV

In the absence of active vaccines that can prevent HIV, medical research showed that the use of passive immunotherapy provides an alternative form of preventive measure against the spread of the virus. Passive immunotherapy uses antibodies that are not naturally produced in the body. These antibodies are made from laboratories and are administered to HIV infected patients to provide the body an adequate immunity against the human immunodeficiency virus. While these antibodies do not stimulate the body's natural immune system, these agents can help prevent the symptoms and fight off the virus in like manner as vaccines do.

What is HIV?

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is an autoimmune deficiency that can produce flu-like symptoms such as the common cold. The pathology of HIV is related to the virus' ability to invade the normal cells in the body where it reproduces itself with the resulting HIV symptoms. The virus weakens the body's immune system, thereby making the infected person more susceptible in contracting other diseases and infection.

The body's immune system can normally fight common diseases and infections. However, in HIV, the body's ability to combat the virus is inefficient. Individuals with the infection will have this disease throughout their lifetime because there is no cure for the condition. The virus specifically targets the body's T cells, more particularly the CD4 cells. These are the cells that are responsible for combating disease and infections in the body. The invasion of the HIV virus to these cells results in the process of HIV virus replication and then destroying them, making the immune system weak.

Once the HIV becomes a full blown condition, the infected individual may reach its final stage of contracting AIDS. Only those with a compromised immune system to a greater extent acquire AIDS after an HIV infection, but not all HIV cases results in AIDS. Being a lifetime condition, infected individuals need continued therapy and medication to keep the body healthy and protect it against other infections.

The benefits of immunotherapy for HIV

In the absence of a cure for HIV infection, the use of laboratory-made antibodies can help suppress the spread of the infection and control its symptoms. A medical research revealed that passive immunotherapy showed some repression to the progression of the infection and it helps to neutralize the HIV specific antibodies (bNAbs) that prevents the virus from multiplying. The antibodies PGT121, VRCO1 and VRCO3 are shown to be effective in blocking the HIV virus. They are known to prevent the virus from entering the CD4+ T cells and also prevent their replication inside the cells.

Because there are antiretroviral drugs that can help suppress HIV, these agents are costly and sometimes not appropriate among patients with drug intolerance. As a result, many HIV patients remain to be susceptible from the infection because of some of these barriers. Passive immunotherapy using the bNAbs, either as an individual treatment or in combination with other drugs, is known to be a successful medical breakthrough that can help patients with HIV. Further clinical trials are still underway and it can become a promising treatment for HIV in the future.

Common side effects

Clinical trials conducted for passive immunotherapy apparently produced some side effects like fever, headache, nausea, mild rashes and cold hand and feet. The most common of all these symptoms of adverse effect of passive immunotherapy is the rash. It appears are redness with papules and appears between the 3^rd to the 25^th day of treatment. The rash, however, typically resolves within two days for mild rash and 7 days for the more severe rash. Rare but serious side effects are neuropathy and varicella-zoster infection. In some cases, the patient may also feel fatigue.

Overcoming Tension Migraine

Nov 3, 2014

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A tension migraine is a combination of both a headache and a migraine and is caused by tension in the muscles of the head and neck. This tension can result from a variety of factors, like stress, sleep deprivation, and maintaining bad posture for long periods. These migraines, also called mixed tension migraines, are very common and affect as much as 20 percent of the global population. They are 25 percent more likely to affect females than males. The severity of tension migraines often varies for different people, while its duration can last for as long as 72 hours. Some of the symptoms of tension migraines include nausea, light sensitivity, fatigue, neck pain, pain on either both or only one side of the head, and numb sensations in the legs. Tension migraines may be diagnosed by a neurological exam and a CT or MRI scans. Many kinds of treatment have been developed to help patients cope with and overcome these migraines.

Stress management

Stress can be a major cause behind many migraines. Periods of great stress can cause headaches, which can in turn lead to migraines. Work, school, relationship problems, family, and many environmental elements are all common sources of stress that can overload the brain and lead to a tension migraine. Many of the common factors associated with stress also play a role in tension migraines, such as irregular eating patterns and sleep deprivation. Proper stress management can help alleviate the symptoms of tension migraines. Taking time to rest is important in dealing with migraines. Certain practices like breathing exercises, meditation, and yoga all help fight stress-induced tension migraines. Exercise is especially useful for loosening the muscles and preventing tension from developing. Acupuncture is also a common headache and migraine treatment.

Maintaining good posture

Tension migraines primarily occur among people with bad posture. Activities that keep people hunched or with their necks craned for long periods of time commonly lead to tension migraines. Having poor posture also puts tension in the neck. Regularly stretching the neck and back can help relieve any tension or muscle pains that could build up. Doing these stretches during long work periods can help reduce the chances of a migraine from forming. There are also certain exercises that help to straighten the back and improve posture so that less stress is placed on the neck. Physical therapy can further help to reduce any posture problems.

Self-applie therapy

Self-therapy applied directly onto the neck is a simple way to overcome tension migraines. Apart from stretching, placing an ice pack or a warm towel on the neck and alternating between the two helps relieve muscle tension. It is also important to keep the top of the head erect while doing so to assure neck muscles are stretched out and relaxed. A massage is also helpful for loosening up the muscles and relieving any tension migraines. Certain topical ointments are also available that, when applied to the tense area, help lessen any muscle pains.

Medications

Different medications can help one deal with tension migraines by relieving symptoms and preventing further migraines from occurring. Analgesics, like ibuprofen, aspirin, ketorolac, naproxen, and paracetamol, are all commonly used migraine relievers. Triptans cause the blood vessels in the neck to constrict and relieve the pain from the migraine. Amitriptyline, velafaxine, and mirtazapine are all treatments for chronic pains. Any other pain relievers or muscle relaxants may also be taken as medications, provided that they have been given clinical approval for use for migraines. The most widely recommended tension migraine treatments are prescription painkillers sold over the counter.

Front Line Treatments for Neonatal Infections

Nov 2, 2014

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While many newborn babies come into the world healthy and strong, some are less fortunate and are born with infections. These problems develop in approximately 8 to 9 out of 1,000 live births weighing between 1,000 to 2,000 grams. Neonatal infections are acquired in a variety of ways. They may be contracted in the utero through the placenta during the period before birth, during the actual delivery through the birth canal, or from any external environmental sources postpartum. Newborns, or neonates, are extra vulnerable in this state and must be kept under close observation in a neonatal intensive care unit. Some of the common symptoms of neonatal infections include a lack of movement, non-stop crying, an elevated temperature, breathing difficulties, problems feeding, irritability, and unusual rashes or patches of color on the skin. These infections must be treated as soon as a problem is detected. Any symptoms should be observed immediately so that a diagnosis can be made and therapy can start quickly. There are certain treatments available to help combat several neonatal infections.

Meningitis

Meningitis is an inflammatory condition that affects the neural and spinal cord membranes. This condition is caused by several pathogens, such as E. coli, Listeria, and Group B streptococcus. The symptoms of neonatal meningitis are less specific than in adult meningitis. The more obvious signs are diarrhea, vomiting, jaundice, and swollen fontanels. The treatment for neonatal meningitis depends on the pathogen that caused it. Fluids and antimicrobial medications help combat the pathogen. Serious meningitis cases can be treated with anticonvulsants. The neonate brain should also be closely monitored to detect any cerebral abscesses, as well as for any water in the brain, referred to as hydrocephalus. Any perceived signs of these should be treated immediately.

Pneumonia

Neonatal pneumonia is acquired during the delivery, or intrapartum. There are different bacteria or viruses that could cause pneumonia, including Staphylococcus aureus, E. coli, Pseudomonas, Bacillus, Serratia, and Citrobacter. Difficulty breathing is the most telling symptom of pneumonia. A diagnosis can be through a chest x-ray or through examination of blood cultures. Neonatal pneumonia is treated with antimicrobial medication. The most commonly used medications are vancomycin and cefotaxime. Exposure of the neonate to chlamydial bacteria intrapartum can lead to chlamydial pneumonia. This form of pneumonia is treated with erythromycin and azithromycin.

Sepsis

Sepsis is a very serious infection that spreads throughout the body’s bloodstream and tissues. It may be acquired in the utero from maternal sepsis via amniotic fluid that has been infected, or postpartum upon exposure to certain harmful microorganisms in the environment. The immediate symptoms of sepsis in newborn babies include fever, hypothermia, jaundice, skin rashes, unstable blood sugar, lethargy, apnea, and respiratory problems. Antibiotics should be administered immediately to treat neonatal sepsis. Amoxicillin and gentamicin should be administered for the first five days after a sepsis diagnosis is made. After this initial period, neonates may be given flucloxacillin and amikacin, which may be used in conjunction with amoxicillin for certain kinds of pathogens.

Conjunctivitis

Conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye, manifests as swelling and redness in the eyes and may result in discharge. A close analysis of this discharge can help doctors diagnose neonatal conjunctivitis. Aside from bacterial and viral infection, conjunctivitis may also be caused by inflammation related to chemicals. Conjunctivitis is treated with either topical, systemic, or a combined form of antimicrobial therapy. Erythromycin and azithromycin are the medications of choice for systemic treatment. Other medications include ceftriaxone, acyclovir, and cefotaxime. Erythromycin is an effective form of topical treatment. Other such ointments include bacitracin, tetracycline, trifluridine, and certain kinds of eye drops.

Severe Allergic Reaction From Acne Products

Nov 2, 2014

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Severe Allergic Reaction

The most common skin condition affecting the face is acne vulgaris. It is a spot that may cause blemishes to the skin and may take different forms like whiteheads, blackheads or pimples. The most serious forms of acne are those appearing to be inflamed pustules filled with pus that is deep and inflamed, thereby causing more serious scarring on the skin. Acne can affect both men and women of any age. Because acne can cause scarring and skin blemishes, those affected are inclined to use acne treatment products to resolve the issue. However, not all of these products are considered safe. The Food and Drug Authority (FDA) in fact warns the consumers about using acne products that may produce allergic reactions when using them.

The dangers of using acne products

Many over-the-counter acne products are sold in the market. This means that anyone can purchase an anti-acne medication without the doctor's prescription. While most of these products are safe and effective, not everyone has a positive response to the ingredients used in acne products. The FDA recognized the ingredient that may produce a severe allergic reaction in the body as benzoyl peroxide, also called as salicylic acid. It is the most active ingredient or chemical used in most anti-acne topical products and formulation.

The salicylic acid rarely causes an adverse reaction, but when it does, it can be serious and fatal to the user. The ingredient can cause severe irritation that may become potentially harmful as a life threatening condition. The FDA reported that most of these products do not include in their label the potential adverse effects of their products, thus the consumers should be vigilant about the potential harm when using acne products.

The consumers should be prudent about performing a skin test of acne products prior to using them, especially when the label of the product indicates salicylic acid as one of its active ingredients. Applying a small amount to the skin of the back of the hand and wait whether or not an allergic reaction will occur is a safe way of taking precautions when using the products. If no adverse reaction occurs in three days, such as redness or irritation in the small area of application, the user can safely proceed to use the product.

The symptoms of severe allergic reaction from acne products

Not all individuals using acne products will manifest an adverse effect. But among those who appear to be allergic to the active ingredient of salicylic acid, about 44 percent of them need hospitalization. The severe form of allergic symptoms includes shortness of breath, a drop in the blood pressure, throat tightness and fainting. These symptoms are usually experienced by about forty percent of patients. Other forms of adverse reactions include swelling of the eyes, lips and face, itching of the face and hives. The moment the first sign of these symptoms begin to manifest, make sure to see your doctor immediately to obtain treatment.

Taking precautions when using acne products

The safest way to avoid the adverse reaction when using acne products is to know whether you are allergic to the active ingredient of salicylic acid. Consulting your doctor, usually a dermatologist, will give you more peace of mind when taking a medication for acne with prescription. Your doctor will ensure that the acne product you are using is safe, especially when you have a standing medical condition. Because acne products come in different forms like lotion, gels, creams, toners and cleanser, it is always prudent to read the label and see if the active ingredient is present. When it does, make a skin test prior to using the product to ensure that you are not allergic to the acne product you are using.

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