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Fatty Liver Disease: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments

Life Style

Oct 1, 2014

4618

Fatty Liver Disease

Even though little bit of fat in your liver is normal but fat in the amount of 5% to 10% of the total weight of the liver means fatty liver disease. Sometimes this disease may result in serious medical complications.

Fatty liver disease can be of two types -alcoholic and non-alcoholic liver disease.

Alcoholic liver disease (ALD)

Alcohol abuse leads to fatty livers. Fatty liver disease occurs if you drink large amount of alcohol. Even heavy drinking for a short period may result in fatty liver.

Genetics or heredity has a big role to play. It decides how much alcohol someone consumes and the possibility of the development of alcoholism. Genetics may also influence the levels of liver enzymes which break down alcohol.

The following factors may also increase the possibility of alcoholic fatty liver disease-

Hepatitis C
More iron
Diet
Obesity

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)

NAFLD is considered as one of the most common causes of liver disease. In general fatty liver is not serious, even though not normal, unless it results in damage or inflammation.

In Another fatty liver disease called as non-alcoholic steatohepatisis (NASH), people who don't drink alcohol or drink little alcohol have fatty liver. NASH can result in permanent liver damage. In this condition, the liver may enlarge and scar tissues may replace the common liver cells. This condition is known as cirrhosis. It may lead to liver failure, liver related deaths and liver cancer.

Causes of NAFLD

The cause of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is not yet known. Some of the most common causes that are thought to increase the risk are-

Genetics
Middle age
obesity and overweight
medicines
rapid weight loss
viral hepatitis
malnutrition
autoimmune or inherited liver disease

Symptoms of fatty liver disease

Fatty liver disease generally does not produce any symptoms at this initial stage. When it advances after a long duration of time, it may show symptoms like-

Fatigue
Weakness
Weight loss or loss of appetite
Nausea
Confusion, impaired judgment,
Trouble concentrating
An enlarged liver
Pain in the center or right upper part of the abdomen
Patchy, dark skin discoloration, generally on the underarm area or neck.

In case of cirrhosis, the following symptoms are generally seen-

Fluid retention
Muscle wasting
Internal bleeding
Jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes)
Liver failure

Treatment of fatty liver disease

Even though, no specific treatment is available for fatty liver disease today, you can always treat the underlying disease like diabetes. It can also take measures to improve your present condition.

In case of alcoholic liver disease, you will need to quit drinking to save yourself. If you continue drinking alcohol when you have ALD, it will advance the disease and may result in cirrhosis or alcoholic hepatitis. People with NAFLD should also avoid alcohol.
If you are obese or overweight, you should lose weight but lose it gradually.
Diet- you need to eat a balanced diet. Your diet should be healthy. It should also increase the level of physical activity. It will need to cut your calories and avoid diets with lots of refined carbohydrates. Do not eat foods like rice, bread, potatoes, concentrated sugar, corn etc. Avoid the juice and sports drinks.
If you can, stop using some medicines that interferes with reversal of the disease.
There are some vitamins and antioxidants that can help in treatment of fatty liver disease. They include- vitamin E, selenium, Metformin, Betaine, Rosiglitazone, Pioglitazone etc.
Try to get the vitamins and antioxidants to your diet.

If cirrhosis of the patient is severe, in that case the doctor may advise a liver transplant.

Get rid of fatty liver problem, Click Here!

Teeth Whitening: How much do you really know?

Sep 30, 2014

4704

As more people become conscious of cosmetic dentistry, teeth whitening is a priority to many across the world.� Teeth whitening lighten teeth and help you get rid of stains and other forms of discoloration.� It is among the popular cosmetic dental procedures � loved by men and women alike- because it can greatly enhance the look of your teeth. Whitening (or bleaching) treatments are readily available to meet the needs of different people and the budget is flexible as well.

Whether you opt for a bleaching session after a one-hour appointment with your dentist, or a convenient home-use bleaching kit that can be purchased at a local drugstore, the initial drive is the desire to have sparkling teeth.� However, even with the ease of access to teeth whitening, the risks abound especially when the participants don't do a proper research prior to the procedure. Although only 15 percent of the world's populations have tried this cosmetic procedure, lack of proper information on teeth whitening is still rife.

Even with contradicting information on the subject, the baseline remains that teeth whitening works. Virtually all people who have opted for this teeth whitening have seen relative improvement in whiter and brighter smiles. However, this cosmetic treatment doesn't guarantee permanent teeth whitening, thus the need for regular touch ups� to ensure extended effect.

Why Teeth Whitening?

Most of us often have sparkling white teeth in the beginning, but over time the porcelain-like enamel surface is stained.� The enamel is composed of crystalline rods designed to facilitate gnashing, but trauma and acids drawn from sugars make it wear down. �As years go by, the enamel is worn down, becomes more transparent thus allowing the dentin's yellow color to get exposed.

Teeth whitening gets rid of the stains and debris, this leaves the enamel open and susceptible to periodic wear and tear as you use your teeth on a daily basis.� Teeth discoloration is caused by two types of stains: extrinsic stains-that manifest on the surface of teeth due to beverages and foods with dark colors as well as tobacco; and intrinsic stains that form from the inner section of teeth.� They often result from continuous trauma, aging, and exposure to minerals and excessive fluoride in meals and drinks.

What causes Teeth Staining?

Age

The color of your teeth and age are highly correlated. Stain accumulation accompanied with wear and tear causes teeth darkening. Teenagers are more likely to experience remarkable results from bleaching. By the twenties teeth whitening will yield better results, but by the forties whitening may require more effort. By the late fifties, the teeth will have gathered all the stubborn stains that are difficult to remove but with extra effort it can be achieved.

Starting colour

All of us are born with different teeth coloration, which ranges from light brown to greenish-grey, and the color, persist over time. During bleaching, yellow-brown is easily reversed as compared to green-grey.

Eating habits

If you are a habitual consumer of red wine, or even coffee, tea, carrots, oranges or any other deeply pigmented foods and beverages then expect considerable staining on your teeth over the years. Additionally, acidic foods contribute to periodic enamel erosion, especially citrus fruits and vinegar, which expose the dentin's yellow color in the enamel.

It doesn't matter how white you want to go, there are various options in the market to give you the white smile once again. You can opt for in-office whitening whereby �which is advisable- a controlled amount of highly concentrated peroxide gel is applied by the dentist or trained technician after the teeth have been protected with a paint-on rubber dam. Generally, it costs more but the result is amazing.

Alternatively, you can purchase a teeth-whitening kit in your local store or online and have it delivered to your destination. There are teeth whitening kits that have been found to produce the best results over the long haul. The cheapest method must be over-the-counter teeth but the associated risks may also be high since all procedures may not be followed, which may affect teeth sensitivity, gum irritation and even Technicolor teeth.

Want to be Healthier? Finish Your Undergraduate Degree

Sep 16, 2014

5075

There are many paths to better health, including a daily yoga practice, eating only organic produce, and living on top of a mountain, but one path that feels considerably more mainstream than those options is getting a college degree. While researchers can’t fully explain why, data suggests that college graduates experience better health than peers with only a high school education or a smattering of college. So, if you’ve been toying with all the reasons why you should finish up your undergraduate degree, let your health and a longer life be one more reason you add to the list. Here is a look at a handful of ways in which a college degree and better health join forces in a college graduate’s life.

Lower Blood Pressure

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, and high blood pressure is one of the largest predictors of developing it, which means that keeping your blood pressure sweet and low will keep you safer from the disease. Not smoking, exercising regularly and maintaining an ideal weight are all tried and true paths to keeping blood pressure within a safe range, but finishing a college degree is another way to lower your blood pressure � at least compared to people with only a high school degree.

Less Stress

When it comes to work-related stress, having a college degree provides a helpful buffer. Whether it’s due to the fact that people with college degrees can generally count on greater financial rewards, employment stability and benefits, or to the helpful way in which increasing your knowledge betters your overall ability to cope with the challenges and difficulties of life, when you finish your college degree, stress becomes less of a factor in your life. Less-educated workers report more work-related stress, financial stress and overall stress than do workers with a college diploma.

Less Smoking

The more educated a person gets, the healthier her behaviors becomes. Perhaps this is why only 9 percent of adults with a college diploma smoke cigarettes, compared to 34 percent of individuals with a high school diploma or less, and 21 percent of individuals with some college education but no degree. And because smoking is related to higher risks for all kinds of health difficulties, from cancer to heart disease, anything that helps you kick the habit � like getting your bachelor’s degree � is a boon to your overall health and longevity.

More Exercising

Regular exercise is linked to a host of health benefits that include everything from staving off dementia to lowering your risk for developing diabetes, and yet most Americans still lack the motivation to engage in it on a regular basis. Americans with a college degree, however, report greater levels of exercise than their not-as-educated counterparts. In fact, according to a recent College Board Education Pays report, 63 percent of all college graduates surveyed exercise vigorously at least once a week, compared to only 37 percent of people without a college degree.

A Longer Life

Most people would like to live a long, healthy and fulfilling life, and while accidents do happen, aiming at behaviors that are known to promote health is a good way to try and achieve that, and one of those behaviors turns out to be getting a college degree. According to the Centers for Disease Control, people with a college degree live an average of nine more years than people without a high school diploma, and the more education you get, the better your long life prospects become.

More Happiness

While it doesn’t always make everyone’s list of healthy traits, being happy is actually a great predictor of health and overall life satisfaction, and it turns out that people with a college degree report greater levels of happiness than people with less education. So, if you’re looking for a path of personal fulfillment that includes happiness, a bachelor’s degree is a good place to start.

Lower Infant Mortality Rates

The infant mortality rate in America is one of the highest in the industrialized world, and while it’s still low compared to our pioneer days, one contributing factor seems to be a mother’s education. Babies born to women with only a high school education or less are twice more likely to die in the first year of their lives than babies born to women with a college degree or higher.

When it comes to having good career prospects and making enough money, most people would argue that a college degree is necessary, but it turns out that the benefits of a college education extend to physical and emotional health as well.

Short on Time and Cash? You Can Still Have a Healthy Diet

Sep 14, 2014

3768

“Eat right and exercise.” How many times have you heard that advice? It’s true that a healthy diet, coupled with regular workouts, can help keep your weight in check and your heart in good shape, but it’s often easier said than done. Busy schedules coupled with tight budgets often lead families to turn to processed, packaged convenience foods or restaurant meals. What they save in time and money, though, they often spend on health care down the road.

Budgetary issues are often the primary reason that people don’t eat as healthfully as they should. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, feeding a family of four a healthy diet � including all meals and snacks � costs an average of $150 to $300 per week. A number of factors influence that amount, including grocery store variations and actual items purchased. Another key factor is geographic location. In some areas, both urban and rural, a wide variety of fresh healthy food simply isn’t readily available, and residents must rely on restaurants, convenience stores, or small markets for their food.

Even with these barriers, with some planning and preparation, it is possible to overcome them and still have a healthy diet. Try some of these tips for maximizing your food budget.

Make Friends With the Freezer

When it comes to healthy eating on a budget, your freezer can be your best friend. Buy meat, bread, and veggies when they are on sale, and freeze them to use later. For example, the average price per pound for boneless chicken breast is about $3.40, making a five-pound package about $17. Purchase chicken when it’s on sale for $1.99 per pound, though, and that same package is less than $10. Freeze the package into 2-3 smaller portions, and you’ll be able to cook several meals for less.

And speaking of healthy meals for less, when you’re on a tight budget, your slow cooker can be your best friend. Cheaper cuts of meat actually work best with this type of cooking, meaning that you don’t have to pay extra for the premium cuts to have a tasty meal. A simple, hearty stew can fill up a family of four for about $8.00, without all of the preservatives found in the canned varieties.

Canned vegetables are also an option when it comes to adding produce to your diet, but frozen vegetables might give you more bang for the buck, health wise. Fresh produce can be expensive; broccoli crowns, for example cost about $1.80 per pound, with most families purchasing two pounds for a meal. However, a one-pound bag of frozen florets runs about $1. In some cases, frozen produce has an advantage over fresh, as it’s usually frozen at the peak of freshness and maintains all of the essential nutrients. It’s also less likely to spoil, meaning less waste. In short, if you are on a tight budget, it’s possible to include a serving of veggies with each meal for less than $10 per week.

Buy in Bulk

Warehouse clubs can be a great bargain for a family on a budget, especially when you are purchasing snacks or frozen items. However, you don’t need a warehouse membership or space to store a dozen boxes of crackers to save money.

Many grocery stores offer bulk purchases of certain grains, nuts, and spices � and usually, the per pound price for the items are far less than packaged versions. Dried beans, for example, cost about half as much when purchased in bulk than when pre-packaged. Learn to read the unit prices on your food. While the larger bottle of ketchup may cost more up front than the smaller version, the unit price could be significantly lower, making the larger bottle a better value.

Go Green

Growing your own food is the cheapest way to access a supply of vegetables � and you don’t need a much space. Patio pots are ideal for growing tomatoes, peppers, and lettuce, for example.

If you don’t have the time, space, or inclination to grow your own produce, consider joining a food co-op. Co-ops allow you to purchase a “share” entitling you to fresh veggies every week or two; most cost from $25-$100 per month to join, or even let you work for some or your entire share. If you don’t have a local co-op, consider forming one with friends. Or make your own version of a “community garden,” with each member growing one or two crops, which are then shared with the other members.

Eating a healthy diet can be challenging when money is tight, but it’s not impossible. Take a close look at how you shop and cook, and make some small adjustments that will have big benefits for your health and your wallet.

Small Changes Add Up to a Healthier Workplace

Sep 12, 2014

3666

With recent health legislature and Obamacare fully enacted, more employers now required to offer health insurance coverage to their employees, there's a growing push for employees to get � and stay � healthy. According to The Wall Street Journal, approximately 90 percent of all employers offer some type of incentive for employees to improve their overall physical health, ranging from gift certificates to local businesses to reductions in health insurance premiums. Not only does encouraging employees to live healthier lifestyles benefit businesses in terms of insurance costs, it also boosts productivity. In�one study of a major manufacturing company, chronic health conditions were determined reduce work productivity by as much as 37 percent, thanks to missed work, decreased ability to function, and distractions created by the conditions. The increased focus on wellness has led many companies to hire�directors of health services�or engage health and wellness services for their employees, but for those companies that do not have the budget to hire dedicated personnel, there are some easy changes that can be made to the work environment to improve employee health. Many of these changes do not require spending large amount of money or making wholesale changes to the working environment, but they can have measurable results on your employees' health � and your overall bottom line.

Smoking Bans

The Centers for Disease Control estimate that tobacco use costs employers almost $200 billion per year in direct medical costs and lost productivity. Smoking is a risk factor in almost every chronic condition, including cancer and heart disease, and second-hand smoke is proven to increase health risks for non-smokers. In short, there is no reason that employers should allow smoking on their property, and the CDC recommends that companies ban tobacco use in buildings, on company grounds, and in company-owned vehicles. In fact, smoking bans have been shown to increase the number of people who quit smoking or reduce the number of cigarettes they smoke each day while also lowering non-smoker’s exposure to second-hand smoke by more than 70 percent. A smoking ban may be met with some resistance, but a firm policy combined with access to smoking-cessation resources (the American Lung Association, the Partnership for a Tobacco-Free America, and most state offer free or low-cost programs for people who want to quit) is one of the best ways to improve the overall health of your employees.

Exercise

Exercise is vital for good health, but many adults struggle to squeeze in their workouts each day. Employers can help by making exercise part of the culture. Onsite workout facilities or subsidized gym memberships are great, but they come with substantial costs and do not solve the time problem. Instead, establish a lunch hour walking club, or encourage employees to use their break time to walk; you might even offer suggested routes that will help employees traverse a specific distance. Install bicycle racks near the building to encourage another form of commuting. Make it easy for your workers to get in at least a few short bursts of exercise each day, and you’ll see improvement in their health.

Bring in the Experts

Having in-house wellness experts to assist and educate employees on their path to wellness is ideal, but even if you don’t have those resources, you can get expert help. You can find experts in a number of areas. For example, your insurance company may offer the services of a nurse or health advisor to provide health assessments and/or educational sessions to identify and mitigate health risks. Try organizing a series of “Lunch and Learn” events where employees can learn more about different ways to get healthy or alternative health. In fact, some companies even contract with local massage therapists, Reiki healers, acupuncturists, and other complementary medicine practitioners to provide services throughout the workday; in most cases, practitioners offer discounted rates that employees pay out of pocket.

Support Each Other

Employees can be each other’s greatest supporters and effective teachers, so encourage them to help keep each other on the path to wellness. Try organizing a healthy potluck, in which employees share their favorite healthy recipes with the office. Weight loss or fitness challenges, sports leagues, and even training groups for fitness events or fundraising walks or runs build team camaraderie while improving wellness. A comprehensive employee wellness program doesn’t have to be a complex or expensive � or even a formal � program. With some small changes to the workplace that encourage wellness and focus on improving and maintaining good health, even the smallest business can enjoy the benefits of a healthier workforce.

Ovarian cyst causes, diagnosis and herbal remedies

Life Style

Sep 12, 2014

14380

Causes of ovarian cyst

Ovarian cyst problem can be caused by different factors. There are different types of ovarian cysts and the causes are also different for those different types of cysts.

The general causes of ovarian cysts include

Hormonal imbalance
Irregularities in the menstrual cycle
Smoking
Early menstruation
Hypothyroidism
More fat
Use of Tamoxifen in case of breast cancer patients
Clomiphene (Clomid, Serophene) use. If specially increases the possibility of Corpus Luteum cyst.
Infertility treatment using gonadotropins

Every month during the menstrual cycle, an egg is released which is enclosed by a follicle. During ovulation the egg is released from the follicle. If the follicle does not break and release the egg, then fluids in the follicle can result in follicular ovarian cyst.

Corpus luteum cyst occurs after the release of the egg from the follicle.

Diagnosis of ovarian cyst

Diagnosis of ovarian cysts is done based on the symptoms that usually show up in case of ovarian cyst. The doctor may review the medical history and perform a physical examination to find if the patient is suffering from ovarian cyst problem. There are several tests available for conforming presence of cysts in the ovary.

The most common symptoms that help in diagnosis of ovarian cysts are-

Severe and sudden pain in the pelvis or abdomen
Fever and vomiting with severe abdominal pain
Irregular, painful or delayed menstrual periods
Occurrence of pelvic pain during sex
Swelling of fullness of the abdomen
Increase in facial hair
Pelvic pain just before the beginning or end of period
Problem in completely emptying the bladder

There are several diagnostic tools that the doctors use for diagnosis of ovarian cyst. The doctor may go for any or all of the diagnostic tools mentioned below-

1. Endovaginal ultrasound

This is one type of vaginal ultrasound which is found to be more useful as it provides a better image of the possible ovarian cysts. It's considered better than abdominal wall ultrasound system.

2. Laparoscopic surgery

Laparoscopic surgery helps in finding out the type of cyst. It is also used for taking a biopsy.

3. Serum CA-125 assay

It is a blood test which is used for diagnosis of ovarian cyst. The blood test helps in finding out if the cyst is cancerous. However, this is not the most accurate test as increased levels of CA-125 may also occur due to endometriosis, adenomyosis etc.

4. �MRI and CT scan

It is used for further confirmation of the presence of ovarian cyst.

Herbal remedies for ovarian cyst

Even though there are several medical treatments for different types of ovarian cysts, they may not be very effective and may result in some other side-effects. In case of a complex situation, when the ovarian cyst is too large and risk of rupture is there, doctors may surgically remove the ovarian cysts present in the ovary.

However, there are several natural therapies available for ovarian cyst problem. Natural options are very effective in case of functional cysts. Natural therapies can help you in two ways- clearing out the problems and prevention.

Different herbs are used for treatment of ovarian cysts. Ovarian cysts happen due to imbalance of hormones estrogen and progesterone. Herbs can help in restoration of that balance. The herbs used in treatment of ovarian cyst also helps in increasing overall vitality and cleansing the liver of the patient.

Some of the important herbs that will help you in treatment of ovarian cysts-

1.�� Chasteberry (Vitex agnus-casta)

It is a herb that helps in restoration of hormonal balance. More estrogen may result in ovarian cyst. Vitex brings estrogen levels down and helps in prevention of ovarian cyst.

2.�� Black cohosh

For balancing hormones, black cohosh is used along with red clover or other herbs. This herb is especially useful in restoration of irregular periods, which often results in ovarian cysts.

3.�� Red clover

Red clover has estrogen like effects. Besides using it for restoration of hormonal balance, it is also used for treatment of PCOS, which is another cause of ovarian cyst.

4.�� Dandelion

Dandelion is a diuretic and so it helps in cleansing of the liver. With a healthy liver, the body can flush out the excess hormones produced in the body. Such excess hormones are the cause of ovarian cyst.

5.�� Bee pollen

The poll is often used as a herbal remedy for different problems related to women reproductive health. It is also useful against ovarian cyst.

6.�� Wild yam

The chemicals found in wild yam are similar to estrogen. They can mimic the hormone in human body. Wild Yam creams can help in correction of the hormonal imbalance, which results in cyst.

7.�� Maca root (Lepidium meyenii)

Maca is a well-known fertility herb. It produces progesterone and helps in balancing hormones in the body. It also helps natural progesterone in working better by creating a conducive environment.

8.�� Dong Quai root (Angelica sinensis)

It reduces the pain created by ovarian cyst. The herb helps in hormonal balance.

9.�� Milk Thistle seed (Silybum marianum)

It is considered as one of the best herbs for liver. A healthy liver is very important for ensuring hormonal balance since it helps in removing excess hormones from the body.

10.Tribulus

Fruit and aerial parts of the herb are used. If it is used before ovulation, it normalizes ovulation. Normal ovulation reduces the risk of ovarian cyst. Tribulus is also considered as a nourishing tonic for the complete reproductive system of women. It is very useful for the ovaries.

11.Yarrow

Aerial parts of Yarrow is used in treatment of ovarian cysts. This herb helps by relieving pelvic conservation in the patients. The herb also improves the timing of the menstrual cycle.

Castor oil pack

This is another home remedy for ovarian cyst which is very useful and effective. This has been in practice for a long time. It not only cleanses the body but also heals it. Castor oil can draw the excess tissues and toxins and clears them out of the body. It also stimulates the circulatory system and the lymphatic system. The lymphatic system in the body is important because it removes waste and toxins from the body where castor oil is applied. The circulatory system is stimulated by Castor oil which results in bringing in more fresh oxygenated blood with more nutrients. Ovaries and other reproductive organs get this rich oxygenated blood, which helps in reduction of the ovarian cyst by dissolving them. However, Castor oil should not be used during menstruation.

The herbal and home treatment focuses on removal and prevention of ovarian cysts. It emphasises on balance of hormones in the body because hormone imbalance causes ovarian cyst. The balance is achieved by reducing estrogen and increasing progesterone with the help of the specific herbs. Herbal treatments also offer the solution for dissolution and reduction of ovarian cysts in the ovaries.

Treatments using herbs will not cure ovarian cysts in one day. It may need few weeks to 3 months since the herbs and the elements in them works slowly but effectively. It is important for you to consult a qualified herbalist while undergoing the herbal treatment for ovarian cyst.

Click Here! to find herbal remedies.

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Sources

1.�https://www.ovariancystmiracle.com/Ovarian-Cyst-Video.php

2.�https://news.psu.edu/story/320417/2014/07/09/research/letrozole-may-help-women-pcos-become-pregnant

3.�https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/ovarian-cyst/Pages/Introduction.aspx

4.�https://www.womenshealth.gov/publications/our-publications/fact-sheet/ovarian-cysts.html

Bacterial Vaginosis- Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis and Herbal Remedies

Sep 11, 2014

11308

Bacterial vaginosis is a common bacterial infection occurring in the vagina. It usually occurs among women between the age of� 15 and 44 years old. It is characterized by an increased vaginal discharge and vaginal malodor. This condition is formerly known as nonspecific vaginitis, but was named as bacterial vaginosis since the etiologic agents of the condition involve bacteria infection.

Causes for bacterial vaginosis

There are different good bacteria thriving along the vaginal areas to keep the balance between acidity and alkalinity to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria.�In the case of bacterial vaginosis, the balance between the alkalinity and acidity along the vaginal flora is disrupted. As a result, bad bacteria thrive to cause infection on the area, resulting to the condition of bacterial vaginosis. A common bacteria responsible for the infection is the Gardenerella Vaginalis which has been associated with Lactobacillus, Prevotella and anaerobes species.

There is no accurate evidence to support the fact that the infection is exclusively transmitted through sexual activity. It is still possible for bacterial vaginosis �to occur among women who are not sexually active. It is also unclear as to how the changes in the vaginal flora occur, but the following are the risk factors that predispose women in developing the condition:

Sexually active, especially having a new partner
Using intrauterine device
Use of scented soaps, antiseptic bath liquids and feminine wash
Douching or cleaning out your vagina with water and other fluids.
Using vaginal deodorant
Having strong detergents used to wash underwear

Although bacterial vaginosis is not considered a sexually transmitted disease, it has been linked to the development of STDs. The observation presented by studies support such claim and they include the following:

The incidence of bacterial vaginosis� with an increase in the number of recent and lifetime sexual partners
A new sexual partner can be related to the development of bacterial vaginosis
Male partners of infected women may also be infected but are asymptomatic.

Although there is an indirect link between the condition and STDs and sexual relations, there are other factors that have been associated with bacterial vaginosis. They include douching, tub bathing (particularly with bubble bath), use of over-the-counter intravaginal hygiene products, swimming, and the use of an intrauterine device in the presence of sexually transmitted disease and high frequency of intercourse. The theory as to why they contribute to the development of bacterial vaginosis is that they disrupt the normal flora of the vagina.

Symptoms

Up to half of the cases of women having bacterial vaginosis do not display any symptom. Bacterial vaginosis may be found by chance when vaginal swabs are taken for some other reasons.

Vaginal discharge is the major symptom of bacterial vaginosis. It is characterized by white-grey in color and often has a fishy smell. They may be more noticeable during sex. The discharge tends to be heaviest after sexual intercourse.
Vaginal odor is the most common symptom. It is also the initial symptom that is observed and is often recognized during sexual intercourse.
Vulvar irritation occurs, but is less common
Discomfort during urination and during sexual intercourse (very rare)

Diagnosis

The typical discharge and its characteristics increase the suspicion of having bacterial vaginosis. Diagnosis of the condition includes history taking, physical examination, vaginal examinations and microscopic examinations.

The history regarding the patient's symptoms and nature of discharge is necessary to differentiate the condition from other reproductive infections. Individuals with bacterial vaginosis may report an increase in the vaginal discharge and vaginal malodor. Some may also report valvular irritation in very rare cases and they may also report discomfort in urination and sexual intercourse.

The health care provider visually examines the external genitalia and performs an internal examination which involves the insertion of the physician's two fingers into the vagina while pressing the lower abdomen to check for the pelvic organs. Vaginal examination does not usually have any significance in diagnosing the inflammation for bacterial vaginosis.

Testing for the acid level of the vagina

The vaginal discharge produced by bacterial vaginosis has a typical pH level as compared to other discharges. The health care providers may suggest taking a sample of the discharge and test it with a pH strip. In some cases, the health care provider may add an alkaline solution to the discharge causing a characteristic fishy smell.

Taking a Swab

Microscopic examination may detect cells that are diagnostic for bacterial vaginosis, which are called clue cells.� Bacterial flora or characteristics may be observed under the microscope to check what particular bacteria are predominant. Characteristic discharge may also be observed.

Complications of bacterial vaginosis

Bacterial Vaginosis during pregnancy

Bacterial vaginosis may cause a number of complications that may lead to life-threatening conditions if left untreated. Pregnant women who have been infected with bacterial vaginosis have increased risk of developing complications of pregnancy. The infection is associated with early labor, miscarriage, having a low birth weight baby or developing an infection in the uterus after the delivery of the baby. Other adverse outcomes related to pregnancy that is linked with bacterial vaginosis are premature rupture of membranes and fetal membrane infections. Bacterial vaginosis also increases the risk following surgical procedures which may include termination of pregnancy and hysterectomy although antibiotics are usually given prior to these procedures. There is an increased risk for infection among individuals with pelvic inflammatory disease that would eventually cause infertility. It also predisposes a woman of being infected with HIV if she had sexual intercourse with an HIV infected person.

Herbal remedies for bacterial vaginosis

The mainstay treatment of bacterial vaginosis is antibiotics. Individuals with bacterial vaginosis are advised to stop douching, using bubble bath, taking any over-the-counter vaginal hygiene products, liquid soaps or body washes. It is recommended that women having the condition use hypoallergenic bar soaps or no soap at all.

Aside from the standard treatment of bacterial vaginosis, there are a number of complementary and alternative therapies (CAT) for the condition. Although some of them may not be proven effective, individuals with bacterial vaginosis usually resort to these therapies.

Herbal remedies are one of the CAT used in managing bacterial vaginosis. It is recommended that you contact your primary health care provider before starting a treatment using herbal medicines. Herbs are prepared as teas and known to be helpful in boosting the immune system of the body. Others use dried extracts, glycerites or tinctures and preparing them as an herbal tea.

It also helps to know that taking herbal remedies while you are on medication can cause an adverse reaction to the body, often leading to a life threatening situation. It is best to discuss your condition to your doctor prior to taking herbal remedies while on medication.

Herbal remedies that you can prepare as teas are the following:

Green tea, which is known to be a powerful antioxidant, anticancer and immunity booster.
Cat's claw is also common and known to have anticancer, antibacterial and antifungal effects, but have shown to interact with many medications
Milk thistle for detoxification support which acts mainly in the liver.
Garlic for antifungal and immune activity, but may cause blood thinning effects.

Bacterial vaginosis is a commonly taken for granted condition as you may fail to recognize the symptoms at its early stage. It may cause life-threatening conditions once the infection spreads throughout the body. The use of herbal remedies should be discussed with your doctor before resorting to it. Should you have any of the above symptoms, it is best to contact your doctor before starting any home treatment.

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Work Out Like a Firefighter

Sep 10, 2014

4201

When it comes to physically demanding jobs, firefighting certainly tops the list. It would be difficult to rush into a burning building or manage a fire hose weighing several hundred pounds without some degree of physical fitness.

Firefighters, in addition to understanding the science of fire � how it starts and spreads and how it can be contained and extinguished � must meet strict physical standards. While the exact physical standards vary by fire department, in general, firefighters must be able to carry a certain amount of weight, complete running and climbing exercises within specified time limits, and perform other tasks related to flexibility and balance. These standards not only improve firefighters’ on-the-job performance, but also lessen the likelihood of injury or death in the line of duty.

Even if you don’t plan to become a firefighter, you can use firefighter physical standards as a guide for your own workout. A workout inspired by fire crews will ensure that you have cardiovascular fitness, strength, flexibility, and endurance to spare.

Before You Begin

As with any workout, talk with your doctor to determine whether you have any risks or other issues that could cause injury or illness. Depending on your current level of fitness, start gradually and increase the amount of weight you lift, the number of repetitions, and speed as you gain strength. Listen to your body: If an exercise causes pain or discomfort, stop and get help from a professional trainer or rest until you can continue. A severe injury can sideline you for weeks or months and set you back even further.

While having access to free weights and strength-building equipment will increase the effectiveness of this type of workout, you do not need any special equipment. In fact, body weight exercises, in which you use the weight and resistance of your own body instead of equipment, are very effective and an important part of this plan. Otherwise, all you need are some stairs and a decent pair of running shoes.

Cardiovascular Training

Firefighters need speed and endurance, so cardiovascular training is necessary. Most fire departments require staff to run at least an 8-minute mile, so begin by jogging and build up your endurance until you can comfortably sustain that pace for at least two miles. As you build your strength, add some hills or stairs into your workout. Explosive or burst training is also good for building cardiovascular endurance, and emulates the type of work that firefighters often do. Perform a series of sprints, or try hopping, burpees, jumping rope, or a series of other high intensity exercises to build endurance in short bursts; many experts find that timing the exercises is more effective then counting repetitions or sets.

Bodyweight Exercises

When firefighters are maneuvering through burning buildings, they often have to climb over obstacles or find alternate means of entering or exiting the space � which may or may not be easily accessible. That’s why exercises that rely on using one’s own body weight are so useful. Firefighter fitness trainers recommend combining body weight training with high-intensity intervals, which means several periods of intense exercise with limited rest periods in between. This type of interval training mimics the environment in which firefighters work � after all, there is little time for rest when you are conducting a rescue or putting out the flames. Develop a circuit of exercises that works all of your major muscle groups using your own weight as resistance. Lunges, squats, crunches, planks, burpees, lateral jumps, pull-ups, push-ups, and Pilates inspired moves will all build muscle strength and endurance, while burning fat and calories.

Flexibility and Balance

Even people who work out regularly and are in good physical shape often neglect to include flexibility and balance exercises into their routines. These exercises are important, though, to prevent injury and improve overall strength and conditioning. And for a firefighter, flexibility and balance could mean the difference between life and death. Imagine trying to maneuver through burning debris without injury if you have little to no flexibility in your back or legs.

All workouts should begin and end with periods of light stretching as part of a warm up and cool down. However, consider adding other flexibility exercises to your routine several times a week; yoga and Pilates are always good choices. If nothing else, a series of neck, shoulder, and torso rotations followed by some toe touches and hamstring, quadriceps, and buttocks stretches will help maintain flexibility.

Even if you never enter a building that’s engulfed in flames to save an entire family or rescue a kitten from a tree, you can still be as physically fit as a firefighter � and it might just be the best shape of your life.

Natural Solutions for Insomnia – Treatment Advice

Life Style

Sep 6, 2014

8155

Getting enough sleep helps a person regain better energy during the day that helps them to accomplish more and become productive. However, the lack of sleep can produce a different effect where sleep deprivation results in frequent daytime sleepiness and the lack of energy to perform tasks. Everyone understands how important getting enough sleep and rest at night to make the body and mind highly functional. But occasionally or sometimes in the long term, sleep difficulty becomes a major problem that results in the condition called insomnia.

What is insomnia

Insomnia is a sleep disorder that results in the lack of sleep due to inability to sleep or difficulty in maintaining sleep. Individuals with insomnia may either have difficulty in falling asleep or to maintain sleep with frequent awakenings. Sleeplessness can result in many problems that can make a person lose energy and vitality during the day and may often develop depression. Learning how to cope with insomnia is important in order to make a person become more energetic and to feel more vibrant during the day.

Treating insomnia naturally

Chronic insomnia may require drug treatment, especially when the sleep disorder is caused by a long standing medical condition that results in the development of insomnia as its symptoms. Thus, treating the underlying medical condition with drugs may be indicated to get relief from insomnia as well. On the other hand, short term insomnia or one in its milder form may be treated naturally. Unlike chronic insomnia, the cause of the lack of sleep and difficulty in getting a good sleep is manageable in this case and there are many natural solutions for insomnia that can help you without resorting to other formal therapeutic treatments.

�Meditation

Meditation is a form of mind conditioning that helps the body feel relaxed and at peace with its inner soul. When a person meditates, it helps calm down the senses, promote slow breathing and reduces the production of stress hormones. This natural remedy for insomnia allows a person to focus on a specific object such as a sound or his breathing that helps increase awareness about his body and learn to calm the mind.

The commonly used form of meditation in helping relieve insomnia is visualization, which allows the mind to entertain the thoughts of relaxing images. This can be done within 20 minutes before going to bed as it prepares the body to be in a relaxed state, making it easier to fall asleep. This is a relaxation response that can put the mind at ease.

Avoiding energy slowdown

Some people tend to resort to taking too much caffeine during the day in order to give them enough energy to carry on with their activities. However, taking caffeine to prevent slowing you down can have a detrimental effect on your sleep, especially when taken late in the afternoon. Caffeine, alcohol and nicotine are stimulants that can make a person active even at night, making it difficult to get a sleep. Snacks loaded with high sugar content during midday can provide a quick surge of energy, however, the effect is short term and it can cause daytime sleepiness and a decline in energy. Healthier snacks from fresh fruits are better alternative to provide you sustained energy during the day without causing sleep problems later at night.

Use insomnia herbs to fight stress

Stress is a powerful source of fatigue that can result to insomnia. When the body feels tired, the production of stress hormones increases. As a result, the feeling of restlessness and fatigue may result in the difficulty of sleeping. Fighting off stress can reduce the risk of sleep problems and using herbs can be a natural cure for insomnia by helping relieve stress. There are known herbs that can fight off stress, which increases the body's ability to relax and enhance physical and mental alertness during the day. Magnesium and calcium is needed by the body to fight off stress. Herbal supplements for magnesium and calcium can help the body more able to fight off tiredness. Coenzyme Q10 can also naturally helps the body to increase its cellular energy to prevent fatigue and stress. Eleuthero ginseng can also increase the mental alertness of a person and at the same time enhances the body's physical endurance. Other herbal remedies for insomnia include the Ayuverdic herb called Ashwagandha that increases the body's vitality against stress and the medicinal mushroom called the Cordyceps that is famous among the Chinese in fighting off fatigue and stress as an energy boosting herb.

Aromatherapy

The use of essential oils like the English lavender is famous among massage parlors to promote mind and body relaxation. Using essential oils before sleeping can help promote a relaxed stated of mind that can induce a deep sleep that avoids midnight awakenings due to insomnia. You can place a lavender sachet near the bed or apply two drops of the essential oil to your pillow before sleeping. Some find the comfort of taking a warm shower with essential oil to promote a better sleep. Other famous essential oils that can promote a better sleep are the ylang ylang and chamomile.

Promote a sleep friendly room

Difficulty sleeping can be caused by a distracting environment. Make sure that your room is conducive for sleeping. A noisy room or a well lighted room can distract your sleep or can make falling asleep difficult. Sometimes a hard pillow or bed can also make sleeping uncomfortable. Turning off the television in your room can help promote a peaceful sleep. If this is not possible such as when someone else is watching it, you can always use an earplug and play soothing or relaxing music to promote better sleep. A dark or dimly lighted room is more conducive for sleeping.

Get light exposure during the day

Light therapy can have an effect on your ability to sleep. Persons who are exposed to light during the day produces melatonin, which helps regulate the sleep-wake cycle of the body. Exposure to light increases the production of melatonin in the body which improves the body's ability to sleep at night and promotes morning alertness. Melatonin supplements are also available, but you can get it naturally in your body by enhancing its production with light exposure outdoors.

Create a regular sleep schedule

The body has a circadian rhythm which is the body clock that tells it when to sleep and to wake up. Observing a regular routine for your sleep and wake cycle will help the body to adapt to this schedule naturally. By sleeping and waking up regularly at the same time every day, the body's own circadian rhythm will take control and you will find feeling sleepy at the same time at night and will wake up almost at the same time in the morning.

Keep a sleep journal

Every individual has his own sleeping pattern and needs. Not all of the above mentioned natural remedies for insomnia will work for everyone. It is best to keep a sleep journal in order to understand your sleep patterns better and to identify which natural solutions for insomnia you have tried to have a positive result to your sleep and what doesn't work. This will give you a better opportunity to understand your body and how it responds to the different natural solutions for insomnia.

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Bacterial Vaginosis Symptoms, Treatment and Home Remedies

Life Style

Sep 6, 2014

13677

Bacterial vaginosis infection

Bacterial vaginosis is the occurrence of mild infection in the vagina, causing it to become inflamed from itching as well as having a smelly discharge. Bacterial vaginosis can be classified as a mild disease, however, if untreated, it can eventually lead to a more serious one. Vaginal infection can be treated at home, especially if its symptoms are mild. In fact, some cases of bacterial vaginosis eventually go away in time. This however doesn't mean that it is not going to occur again.

Diagnosis of bacterial vaginosis is not hard. In fact, symptoms may not appear during the early stage. However, physical symptoms are commonly present, which can help you determine whether you should treat it at home or see a doctor.

When seeing a doctor, a MED tech will normally take a look at the vagina for any irregularity in its physical form. Aside from this, they will also gather samples of vaginal fluid to be brought to the laboratory for proper testing.

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Symptoms of vaginal infection:

Vaginal infection doesn't always show symptoms. In fact, most women don't know they have it until after they visited their gynecologist. Depending on the type of bacteria, the following can be observed when someone has a vaginal infection:

Significant vaginal discharge that is normally accompanied by a foul odor.
Pain during urination (Most commonly a burning sensation)
Itching in the vaginal area (In and outside)
A fishy� discharge especially after having intercourse

Prevention of Bacterial vaginosis:

Avoid multiple sex partners. Your chance of having a vaginal infection when practicing multiple sex partners increases up to 85% of the time. If your sexual practices don't include safe and protected sex, this may increase up to 100% of risk.
Avoid regular douching. Although douching is considered to be one of the remedies for vaginal infection, regular practice of douching can also be harmful. The vagina's normal pH balance becomes depleted over time. This can lead to extreme exposure to infection.

Home remedies for bacterial vaginosis:

Keep it dry and ventilated. Vaginal infection can occur when there's constant moist around the vaginal area. Doctors recommend wearing cotton underwear that is not tight to keep the area dry and clean.
Avoid sharing your bathing stuffs. This is to avoid others from contacting the disease as well as preventing you from other bacteria too.
Make sure not to use soap and feminine hygiene during infection. Their alcohol and chemical content will trigger more irritation to the affected area.
Try using mild vinegar to clean and disinfect the area. This helps in maintaining the area's normal pH balance while instantaneously using a natural aid to treat the infected area.
Lie down in the tub or if you don't have one you can do this anywhere you can properly lay down. Make sure that you put a towel under your buttocks to help elevate your hips.
Open your legs and aim it to your vagina by carefully inserting the nozzle deep inside before you let the fusion flow in. Once inside, hold your vaginal lips together to keep the solution from flowing out. Do this for 10 minutes.
Using plain yoghurt is another step in treating bacterial vaginosis. While you regularly eat yoghurt as a medical aid, it is best used when you can apply at least two teaspoons of plain yoghurt to the affected area. The live lactobacillus present in yoghurt is a good remedy for vaginal infection. You can also use this as a douche by dissolving it in warm water.
Some doctors will treat you with certain types of suppositories that may tend to be a little bit expensive when bought from the drugstore. Try using boric acid, those that come in capsules and use it as a suppository. Depending on the severity of the infection, you can use this once a day or twice every week.
The antifungal properties of garlic will help you fight off yeast infection. By consuming at least two cloves of it, whether you eat plain or mix it with your food, it will help ease the infection.
Practice safe sex. One of the most common causes of acquiring bacterial vaginosis is unsafe sex. Make your partner wear condom in order to protect both of you from such infection.

Bacterial vaginosis is curable, whether by means of home remedies or the antibiotic given by your doctor. Vaginal infection may occur again even after treatment, this is why it is very important to treat the area with care to prevent it from contacting the disease again.

Antibiotics used in the treatment of bacterial vaginosis:

Clyndamicin and Metronidazole are the most common antibiotic taken in the treatment of such vaginal infection. This can be taken orally or as a suppository.

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What can happen if Bacterial vaginosis is left untreated?

Bacterial vaginosis

Any abnormality, especially in the vaginal area must be diagnosed immediately to prevent further infection. In the event that it is left untreated the following can occur:

Your chance of risking Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD) is very high.
If you had sexual intercourse with some infected with HIV, you are at high risk of developing this too.
The amount of bacteria present in the infection can accumulate and affect the pelvic area making pregnancy at risk.

Pregnant women are not exempted from this type of infection. In fact, there is greater risk in them as well as the baby mostly brought by premature birth and malnourished child. Home remedy for bacterial vaginosis is commonly recommended for pregnant women as a medically induced oral remedy can affect the child.

Microorganisms are normally present in a healthy vagina. This includes lactobacillus, L, crispatus, L. gasseri and L.jensenii. Lactobacilli that is said to eliminate other kinds of vaginal microorganisms are known to be present in hydrogen peroxide-generating group. When this occurs, symptoms of bacterial vaginosis symptoms start to show.

The diversity of microorganisms present in bacterial vaginosis is very complex. It includes mycoplasma hominis, garnerella vaginasis, ureaplasma urealyticum and microorganisms belonging to the group of peptostreptococcus.

Your best defense against the disease is to see your doctor regularly. If this is not the case, you may at one point visit them if the following occurs.

If it is your first time to experience or acquire the infection. This way, your doctor can diagnose you at an early stage, an important factor in the treatment of the disease.
If you have experienced this type of infection before, yet seeing different symptoms or if the infection is more severe than in the past.
If you suspect contacting sexually transmitted disease or have practiced in the past having sex with multiple partners as already mentioned. The STD itself is the medium in contacting bacterial vaginosis thus treatment is a must.
If you ever tried a home remedy or over the counter pills but still experience the symptoms of bacterial vaginosis over time.

Early detection of this disease can be your best defense against this recurring infection. Once your doctor makes the diagnosis, he will prescribe you the proper medication as well as discuss with you the possible reasons you acquired the infection and the various ways you can avoid it.

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