Understanding Sexual Impotence: Causes, Treatments and Cures

There are many different types and levels of sexual dysfunction. It is very common for men and women alike to suffer from some form of sexual dysfunction at various points in their lives; occasional sexual dysfunction, meaning problems occur in less than 15-20% of all sexual experiences, is often considered normal and does not usually require treatment. Persistent problems with sexual health that affect a person’s quality of life in a negative way should be evaluated by a physician as soon as possible, just as with any abnormal health issues that may arise.

Some forms of sexual dysfunction are more debilitating than others, and long term sexual impotence in men is considered one of the most debilitating forms. The good news is most cases of sexual impotence can be treated with one or more of the variety of methods available today. Not all treatments, devices or medications used to help relieve the effects of sexual dysfunction are covered by insurance companies.

Sexual impotence in men, also commonly referred to as erectile dysfunction, can impede normal sexual function by making it difficult to achieve an erection. Some men who experience erectile dysfunction will find they can achieve an erection, but not maintain one long enough to engage in full sexual satisfaction. Women may also experience sexual dysfunction, however in most cases sex is still possible. Without an erection, a man cannot effectively complete the normal sexual response cycle.

Possible Causes of Sexual Impotence

There are a number of possible causes for sexual impotence. For men and women, hormones may play a big role in several forms of sexual dysfunctions. In women with sexual dysfunction disorders, a lack of estrogen and progesterone may cause vaginal dryness, which may result in painful sexual intercourse. In men, a lack of testosterone may inhibit sex drive, or the desire to be sexually active.

Lack of desire and other more emotional aspects of sexual dysfunction should be ruled out or addressed as early on as possible. The psychological approach to sexual impotence and other dysfunctions can help pinpoint where the root of the problem lies in a particular individual. In some cases, an inability to achieve or maintain an erection may be a matter of not being sexually attracted to one’s partner. The issue of attraction, or a lack thereof, might be easily remedied if one is single, but can cause obvious complications between people in a monogamous relationship.

Dealing With Trauma

Psychological traumas or moral conflicts can also impede sexual function and lead to sexual impotence. In both men and women, individuals raised to believe that sex is “dirty” or “wrong” may have a difficult time engaging in healthy sexual relationships as adults, and may experience sexual dysfunction. Issues of molestation, rape or other types of abuse can also greatly contribute to, or indeed, define, one’s reaction to sexual stimuli.

Performance anxiety and other types of nervousness related specifically to the sexual experience may be a primary cause of inability to achieve or maintain an erection in men. Issues with intimacy can be the root of sexual dysfunction for men and women alike, and can greatly affect the quality of a person’s life.

Physical Problems

In addition to psychological causes of sexual impotence or erectile dysfunction, there are also many very common physical causes. Certain diseases and medical conditions, even if seemingly unrelated to sexual health, can have a great impact on sexual functions.

Problems with the vascular system can cause erectile dysfunction if there isn’t adequate blood flow to the penis. Cardiac conditions, such as heart disease, can also affect sexual performance, as can organ failure. Conditions such as failure of the liver or kidneys can cause many of the body’s systems to stop functioning normally, and emergency medical attention is required if this is suspected.

Glandular Problems

Erectile dysfunction, or sexual impotence, can also be related to glandular problems or conditions affecting the body’s central nervous system. Aging can accelerate the deterioration of many of the body’s functions and cause an overall decline in health, including sexual health, though aging alone should not be considered a typical “cause” of sexual dysfunction.

Cause of sexual dysfunction can be determined by a physician through a battery of tests and screenings. For example, a neurologist may perform tests to determine if the underlying cause of a person’s sexual impotence could be related to their nervous system. If the sensory systems are not working properly, or if signals sent from the body to the brain are misfiring, touch stimulation may not cause the intended arousal and therefore would impede an erection or orgasm.

Additional Monitoring & Testing

In cases where it is initially difficult to pinpoint the source of the sexual impotence of a man, he may be monitored at sleep clinic to determine if the inability to achieve erections during desired sexual activity is psychological or physical. If normal, “nighttime erections” occur during testing, the inability to attain a sexual erection may be deemed to be psychological.

Preventing Sexual Impotence

In men and women, sexual health can best be maintained by practicing habits of a healthy lifestyle. Since sexual impotence and other sexual dysfunctions can be so directly tied in to other aspects of total health, it makes sense that keeping the body healthy will promote good sexual health. Eating well, staying physically fit and taking generally good care of the entire body will help prevent many health conditions.

To stay sexually healthy, avoid ingesting toxins known to harm the body, and always practice safe sex. Making the decision to avoid dangerous, unhealthy habits such as unprotected sex, smoking cigarettes and drinking large quantities of alcohol can mean being able to achieve sexual satisfaction on a reliable basis. Especially in men, cigarettes and alcohol have been shown to lower sex drive, cause a difficulty in achieving erections and even result in embarrassing situations like premature or delayed ejaculation.

Healthy Personal Relationships

Maintaining a healthy, open relationship with one’s partner is another effective way to prevent sexual dysfunction for both partners. Partners who communicate regularly and openly discuss sexual health issues are more likely to avoid trouble, and may be able to identify and resolve problems more quickly and effectively should they arise.

Sex can be more satisfying for both partners if issues of performance anxiety, past bad experiences, likes, dislikes and physical limitations are discussed without fear of judgment. Keeping an open mind in the bedroom can lead to a more satisfying sex life, and a healthy attitude toward sex by both partners.

Prescription Medication

Certain prescription medications can cause unwanted sexual side effects, and any concerns should be addressed to the prescribing physician or pharmacist before beginning a new medication. Also, if a patient begins to notice sexual health changes after starting a new medication, these should be brought to the attention of the physician. Doses may be adjusted, or different medications prescribed, to help alleviate sexual side effects such as impotence or lack of desire.

Treatments and Cures for Sexual Impotence

The course of treatment for impotence and other sexual dysfunctions will depend on the causation. If erectile dysfunction is determined to be related to an individual’s emotional imbalance or unhealthy mental approach to sex, prescription medicines to simply stimulate blood to the penis and promote erections will not solve the underlying problem. Likewise, in patients who are experiencing erectile dysfunction due to blood flow problems or a blockage in an artery, sex therapy would not be an adequate treatment.

In cases where problems with blood flow are determined to be preventing erections from developing when desired, certain medications can be prescribed to improve circulation. Constricted blood vessels, hardening or the arteries and blockages can all affect sexual performance and satisfaction, as the rush of blood to the sex organs is a primary part of the experience. Several medications have been approved for treatment of erectile dysfunction or sexual impotence that were originally intended to be used in patients with heart or vascular conditions, likely because in either application, they have been proven to promote healthy blood circulation.

Hormone Supplements

In men, hormone supplements may be prescribed in cases where sexual impotence is the result of a testosterone deficiency. If the body cannot produce normal levels of the chemicals which affect sexual health on its own, medical hormone therapy may be the best course of action.

Women who experience sexual health problems as a result of insufficient hormone production may also be helped by hormone supplements, though there is thought to be an increased risk of certain cancers in women who use synthetic hormone replacement therapy. All risks and benefits should be thoroughly explained to the patient by the treating physical prior to beginning treatment.

Medical Devices

There are also numerous vacuum devices, surgical penile implants and other medical devices on the market. These devices are sometimes used to help cure sexual impotence and allow a patient to engage in satisfying sexual experiences when medication or therapy alone aren’t enough.

While many insurance companies will cover some of the costs of prescription medications approved to treat sexual disorders brought on by legitimate medical conditions, most insurance will not cover devices and treatments not specifically approved by the Food and Drug Administration.

Psychotherapy

In cases where the sexual dysfunction or inability to achieve an erection is thought to be psychologically-rooted, including long term issues with impotence, therapy may be advised. Both general psychotherapy and sex therapy may be used to help overcome mental blocks to sexual satisfaction, and help determine if medication may be appropriate.

If depression or anxiety is present, medications to treat these issues may relieve symptoms enough for the patient to see a marked improvement in sexual functioning. Conversely, if a patient who is currently on anti-depressants or anti-anxiety medication has begun experiencing unwanted sexual side effects, medications or doses may need to be adjusted to lessen the effect.

While sex therapy may not be covered by most medical insurance companies, general mental health services may be covered. Much progress can be made during general therapy, as long as the provider is comfortable with the nature of the problem. Before beginning any treatment of sexual dysfunction disorders, patients should consult their insurance company to find out what is covered and what claims will be denied.

Herbal Supplements

There are many new-to-market herbal supplements and topical creams that advertise to help those suffering with sexual dysfunction, though these are not approved by the Food and Drug Administration. For this reason, these products are not recommended, and are unlikely to be covered by medical insurance. Though there are a multitude of these erectile dysfunction supplements and creams being promoted and sold on the internet, through television infomercials and in health food stores, there is no real way to know exactly what is in them short of lab testing.

Products not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration are potentially dangerous because they often do not contain the amounts of active ingredients listed on the label, and may include additional ingredients not listed at all. Some supplements geared toward improving sexual health may contain ingredients contraindicated with prescription medications, or ones that are being delivered in unhealthy amounts.

Topical creams will not likely produce the dramatic results they promise unless they are capable of delivering medicinal levels of the hormone testosterone. Testosterone supplements are by prescription only, and should only be used under the direction of a physician.

The prognosis for recovery from sexual impotence is generally good with treatment. The first step is to identify the source of the dysfunction, and evaluate how to best approach the underlying medical condition.

Causes and Cures for Bacterial Vaginitis

Bacterial vaginitis is a condition that occurs in the vagina and causes irritation, inflammation and vaginal itching. Mainly caused by the three most common vaginal infections and diseases, vaginitis affects many women of childbearing age each year. As many as 75% of adult women will report an incidence of vaginitis in their lifetimes.

Some of the most common causes of bacterial vaginitis bacterial vaginosis, yeast infection and trichomoniasis.

Bacterial vaginosis

Bacterial vaginosis is caused by an imbalance in the naturally occurring bacteria normally present in the vaginal tract. Under normal circumstances, there is an equal distribution of good bacteria (lactobacilli) and bad bacteria (anaerobes) in the vagina. Vaginosis is a result of an overgrowth of bad bacteria that overtake the good bacteria and cause infection.

Symptoms of Bacterial Vaginosis

Many women who contract bacterial vaginosis will not exhibit symptoms. Others will experience a strong, fishy odor accompanied by vaginal discharge. The discharge is usually white in color, but is sometimes grayish and thin. Most women will notice this increase in discharge immediately following sexual intercourse.

Bacterial vaginosis, in and of itself, is not a life-threatning condition. However, it can be indicative of a woman’s tendency to be susceptible to more serious diseases such as HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted infections. Women who are diagnosed with bacterial vaginosis have a higher chance of developing these infections than women who are uninfected.

Risk Factors for Bacterial Vaginosis

There are several risk factors that cause a woman to be susceptible to contracting bacterial vaginosis.

A woman who has had bacterial vaginosis in the past is most likely at risk for recurrence

• New or multiple sexual partners
• Cigarette smoking
• Vaginal douching

Other activities that introduce foreign bacterial into the vaginal tract put a woman at risk for developing this condition. Bacterial vaginosis is not commonly thought to be sexually transmitted, although sexual activity can present an added risk factor. Bacterial vaginosis may also develop in women who have never been sexually active.

Prevention

Lifestyle changes are most effective in preventing incidences of bacterial vaginosis. The following behaviors help prevent bacterial vaginosis.

• Rinsing the vaginal area with clean water after bathing prevents the introduction of irritants into the vagina.
• Wearing cotton underwear instead of synthetic fabrics protects the vaginal area and allows breathability.
• Wiping from front to back after a bowel movement will avoid transferring feces into the vagina.
• Avoiding douching, which has the tendency to upset the ph balance in the vaginal tract.

Tests and Diagnosis

The first step in diagnosing bacterial vaginosis is ruling out other causes for the symptoms. When a woman is exhibiting indications of bacterial vaginosis, her doctor will usually ask a series of questions to eliminate other possible causes for the symptoms. The doctor will perform a pelvic exam and take a sample of the vaginal or cervical fluid. During the exam, the doctor will check the cervix and ovaries for tenderness, which could indicate a more serious problem. The doctor may also check for sexually transmitted diseases such as chlamydia or gonorrhea infection.

Samples of the vaginal secretions may be sent to an outside lab to examined by microscope. These tests can differentiate bacterial vaginosis from other conditions such as trichomoniasis and yeast vaginitis. An unusual vaginal cell, referred to a clue cell, when seen under a microscope, is a clear indicator of bacterial vaginosis. In addition to the clue cell, the lack of adequate lactobacilli (normal vaginal bacteria) is a strong indication that the woman is indeed suffering from bacterial vaginosis.

In addition, a “whiff test” may be performed. In a whiff test, several drops of potassium chloride (KOH) are added to the vaginal fluid sample to test for the presence of the bacteria. If a strong fishy odor is produced by the chemical, it is an indication that bacterial vaginosis is present.

Treatment Options

There are several options available to treat bacterial vaginosis. Treatment of bacterial vaginosis usually includes a round of antibiotics. The most commonly prescribed antibiotic treatment is a seven-day course of metronidazole (Flagyl), taken orally or by internal vaginal gel suppositories (Metrogel). Vaginal suppositories usually do not carry any side effects. However, the oral antibiotic metronidazole has been associated with the following adverse side effects:

• Metallic taste in mouth
• Dizziness
• Insomnia
• Irritability
• Depression
• Confusion

A number of herbal and home remedies are commonly used to treat the symptoms and ease the discomfort of bacterial vaginosis. Since bacterial vaginosis is a bacterial infection, it will not usually go away on its own, and doctors strongly recommend only using herbal remedies as a supplement to a course of antibiotics. The most common herbal and home remedies used to ease the symptoms of bacterial vaginosis are:

Cold Compress

Applying a sterile, cold cloth to the labial area eases the irritation and soreness of the outer vaginal area.

Tea Tree Oil

Noted for its strong antimicrobial properties, tea tree oil is used both externally and internally to treat bacterial vaginosis. Some women use tea tree soaked tampons, douches and suppositories. Others use tea tree oil externally, adding to a sitz bath with apple cider and pure vinegar.

Garlic

Many sufferers swear by the strong antibacterial properties of garlic to treat bacterial vaginosis. Garlic has been known to fight infection by enhancing cell immunity and inhibiting bacteria and other microorganisms. Garlic produces a compound called Allicin that produces antibacterial activity. Allicin is released when garlic is crushed or cut. Women who use garlic to treat bacterial vaginosis insert cloves of garlic wrapped in gauze into the vagina to treat the symptoms and ward off the overgrowth of bad bacteria.

Complications of Bacterial Vaginosis

Recurrence of bacterial vaginosis after treatment is common, and occurs in about 50% of cases. However, if symptoms do not reappear, no further treatment is necessary.

Bacterial vaginosis has serious indications when found in pregnant women. Left untreated, bacterial vaginosis can cause infection of the amniotic fluid, premature birth, premature labor and infection of the uterus both during and after the pregnancy. Currently, testing for bacterial vaginosis is not commonly performed in pregnant women unless there is a history of preterm births, or if the woman is exhibiting symptoms.

Yeast Infection

Yeast infection is another main cause of bacterial vaginitis in women. Common to women of childbearing age, about 75% of women will experience a yeast infection in their lifetime.

Yeast, scientifically referred to as Candida, is commonly found on the body in places of moisture such as the vagina, rectum, underarms and mouth. Most healthy women have a small amount of yeast in the body at any given time. A yeast infection occurs when there is an overgrowth of the bacteria Candida Albicans in the vaginal tract and vulva.

Symptoms

Common symptoms of yeast infections include irritation and itching in the vagina, redness or inflammation of the outer labial area and increased vaginal discharge that is white in color and has a cottage cheese texture. Usually there is no odor associated with the vaginal discharge that occurs in a yeast infection. Other symptoms may include burning during urination, pain during sexual intercourse, a rash in the genital area and soreness of the vagina.

Risk Factors for Yeast Infection

Several risk factors make developing yeast infection more likely.

Antibiotic Use

The use of antibiotics, birth control pills or steroids upset the balance of bacterial flora in the vaginal tract, allowing yeast to grow to dangerous levels and cause infection.

Weakened Immune Function

Stress, lack of sleep and poor diet can weaken the immune system and make the body more susceptible to infection. Some diseases, such as diabetes, lupus and HIV/AIDS infections have been known to cause recurring yeast infections.

Behavioral Factors

Certain behaviors make developing a yeast infection more likely. These include wearing tight or poorly ventilated clothing, such as wet swimsuits or athletic clothing for extended periods of time, wiping from back to front following a bowel movement and vaginal douching which destroys healthy bacteria in the vagina.

Prevention

The most effective ways to prevent yeast infections are behavioral in nature. Certain steps can be taken to minimize the chance of developing a yeast infection.

Wearing underwear with breathable, natural fabrics. Exposing the vulva to air on a regular basis also helps in eliminating the moist environment that yeast requires to thrive.

Switching to a non-hormonal contraceptive. Yeast thrives in the acidic pH found in the hormone estrogen. The high levels of the hormone estrogen in birth control pills and pregnant women make yeast infection more likely. Switching to a non-hormonal birth control method will reduce the chance of developing a yeast infection.

Tests and Diagnosis

The first step in diagnosis is determining whether the woman’s symptoms are indicative of a yeast infection or another condition. The doctor will ask a series of questions relating to lifestyle and general health to determine if the symptoms could be caused by other factors. The doctor will perform a pelvic exam and collect samples of the vaginal secretions. These tests determine whether the woman is suffering from a bacterial infection, such as bacterial vaginosis or a protozoan infection, such as trichomoniasis. A pap smear may also be performed to rule out any cervical abnormalities that may be causing the symptoms. During the pelvic examination, the doctor will visually examine the vagina to check for swelling, discharge, sores or vaginal tenderness.

Treatment Options

The most common treatment option for vaginal yeast infections is over-the-counter, non-prescription treatments. Products such as vaginal yeast infection creams and suppositories usually clear up the infection in 75%-95% of cases.

It is important that a woman seeking an over-the-counter remedy be properly diagnosed with the condition. Using a yeast infection treatment when no infection is present can lead to an increased likelihood that a yeast infection will develop at a later time, and be resistant to treatment.

There are several natural and herbal remedies commonly used to treat yeast infection.

Probiotics

Also called “friendly bacteria,” the use of probiotics involves introducing the necessary lactobacilli (good bacteria) that are outnumbered in yeast infections. The friendly bacteria flood the vaginal and intestinal tract, so there is no room for yeast and harmful bacteria to thrive. Probiotics come in capsule form, and can be purchased at health food and vitamin stores.

The probiotic most often taken for yeast infection contains 100 billion CFU (colony forming units), and are taken twice daily for one week or until the infection is cleared. Probiotics are not known to have adverse side effects. Any extra that body does not need will be passed from the body from the stool.

Psyllium Husk

Commonly used as a colon cleanser, Psyllium husk has been used for centuries to rid the body of toxins and harmful bacteria. Psyllium husk is a high-fiber supplement that absorbs water and forms a gel within the body. It forces waste matter from the body and cleans the colon. Cleaning the colon has been shown as effective in ridding the body of candida infection.

Boric Acid

Used as an insecticide and a fire retardant, boric acid has been known to be effective in relieving the symptoms associated with yeast infection. When mixed with water, boric acid is a mild antiseptic with a low acid content. It has been used for years to treat inflammation, irritation, cuts and scrapes.

Boric acid has also been used to cleanse wounds and speed healing. When used to treat yeast infections, boric acid can soothe the skin and help restore the vagina’s healthy alkaline pH factor. Since boric acid only serves to ease the discomfort, it should only be used in conjunction with other methods of curing the infection.

Yogurt

Many women swear by yogurt as a natural cure for yeast infections. Non-sweetened yogurt that contains live acidophilus has active cultures that restore the balance of natural bacteria in the vagina. Eating 4-6 ounces of live culture, non-sweetened yogurt has been known to clear up vaginal yeast infections within several days.

In addition to eating yogurt, it can be used in suppository form to speed up the healing process. Inserting a tampon dipped in yogurt into the vagina delivers the active cultures directly into the vaginal tract. The tampon should be left in the vagina for one hour, then removed.

Complications of Yeast Infection

Most yeast infections respond well to treatment and do not carry long-term complications. However, women with suppressed immune systems should take candida infections seriously, as they can be indicative of a more serious, underlying issue.

Trichomoniasis

Trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted disease, caused by the parasite Trichomonas vaginalis. Also known as trich, the disease infects both men and women, attacking the urinary tract in men and the vagina in women. The organism latches on to the tissue walls of the vagina, this causes the inflammation and subsequent infection. Men usually do not exhibit symptoms of trichomoniasis, although some will experience burning after urination and ejaculation, mild discharge, or an irritation in the penis.

Trichomoniasis is usually contracted through unprotected vaginal intercourse, but can also be transmitted through vulva-to-vulva intercourse, mutual masturbation and sharing infected sex toys.

Symptoms of Trichomoniasis

Symptoms of trichomoniasis usually include strong vaginal odor, frothy yellow-green vaginal discharge, and discomfort during intercourse. They may also experience itching and soreness of the vaginal area, and in rare cases, lower abdominal pain.

Risk Factors for Trichomoniasis

Since trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted disease, the risk factors for developing this form of bacterial vaginitis have a strong correlation with sexual activity. Risk factors include:

• ·Having multiple sex partners
• ·Having gonorrhea or non-gonococcal urethritis (NGU)
• ·Engaging in sexual activity during adolescence

Prevention of Trichomoniasis

There are effective ways to prevent contracting the bacterial vaginitis associated with trichomoniasis.

• ·Wearing condoms during sexual intercourse to prevent transmission of sexually transmitted diseases
• ·Limiting the number of sexual partners
• ·Getting tested regularly for sexually transmitted diseases and infections

Tests and Diagnosis

Diagnosing trichomoniasis is relatively simple. The doctor will perform a pelvic exam and take a swab of the vaginal fluid. This fluid will be sent to a laboratory to be tested under a microscope and cultured for several days. This testing will determine if the trichomoniasis parasite is present.

Treatment

Treatment for trichomoniasis is similar to other treatments of bacterial vaginitis. A seven-day course of antibiotics is often prescribed to clear up the infection and relieve the symptoms. The most commonly prescribed antibiotic is Metronidazole, either in oral or suppository form. Sexual intercourse should be avoided during the time of treatment.

Several natural and herbal treatments have been shown effective in restoring the body’s health after infection, and may be effective in treating trichomoniasis and its symptoms.

Echinacea

A powerful, immune-boosting herb, Echinacea has been shown to fight off parasitic infection in the intestinal tract. Many swear by a daily course of Echinacea to ward off trichomoniasis.

Milk Thistle

Best known for its liver-support properties, milk thistle is effective in removing toxins from the body.

Vitamin E and A

When used topically, vitamins A and E have been known to soothe and repair inflamed and irritated skin associated with trichomoniasis.

Complications of Trichomoniasis

Left untreated, trichomoniasis can cause serious health problems. Symptoms will gradually get worse, and the infection can cause permanent organ and tissue damage. Prolonged infection with trich can lead to inflammation of the fallopian tubes and eventual infertility. People with trichomoniasis are five times more likely to be diagnosed with HIV, the virus that causes AIDS.

In pregnant women, a trich infection is most associated with preterm birth, preterm premature rupturing of membranes (PPROM) and low birth weight. In rare cases, the parasite can be passed along to the baby during delivery.

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is the most common hormonal disorder among women of reproductive age and is named for the appearance of the ovaries in this syndrome. Polycystic means many cysts and the ovaries of women with this disorder appear enlarged and contain a populous amount of small cysts on the outer edge of each ovary. Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome is also known as Polycystic Ovary Syndrome and Stein-Leventhal Syndrome.

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome is a systemic endocrine and metabolic disorder, which normally develops in women between puberty and the onset of menstruation through the mid-20s. PCOS can be a misleading term, since most people believe the syndrome is only an ovarian disease. It is a combination of disorders and there is no universal definition of the syndrome.

Symptoms

Subset criteria that must be met for PCOS to be determined as a cause of a woman’s medical condition is the patient must have evidence of increased androgen, a male hormone, production in the body. Interestingly, women with PCOS show a marked insulin resistance with elevated serum insulin levels – hyperinsulinemia.

Overweight women, even with evidence of increased androgen production, do not usually have hyperinsulinemia if they have regular ovulatory menstrual cycles.

Worldwide Statistics

Worldwide statistics show that PCOS affects six to ten percent of all women. While it is not known to be hereditary, it is true that women in the same family will have a higher incidence of the disorder. Recent studies show that it is possibly a genetic abnormality that causes the insulin resistance, overproduction of androgen and lack of ovulation.

Women who suffer from Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome are likely to exhibit telltale symptoms of the disorder. Symptoms may be mild in the beginning stages of the syndrome and increase in severity as a woman ages. The only clear symptom of PCOS is the complete or almost complete lack of ovulation. Researchers and endocrinologists believe that women who suffer other symptoms and still maintain an ovulation cycle actually belong to a subset of the disorder.

Menstrual abnormality

Women with PCOS have irregular or missed periods. These women may have as few as six to nine periods per year. The periods themselves may be accompanied by heavy bleeding, pain and severe cramping.

Lack of ovulation

Women with PCOS have little to no ovulation although they commonly have menstrual periods.

Difficulty conceiving

Fertility problems are a tremendous factor for women with PCOS. The infertility rate with polycystic ovaries is very high. The women usually will have great difficulty getting pregnant and usually require treatment to improve chances for pregnancy. The treatments can vary in scope but are costly. Some women with polycystic ovary syndrome will ovulate (release a mature egg) occasionally, others do not ever ovulate. In order to conceive, sperm must find and fertilize a mature egg. so the woman needs to ovulate.

Hursutism

Hursutism is excess body hair in abnormal locations or amounts. Women may experience increased hair growth of the chin, breast, abdomen, chest and back. The hair may be thicker or coarser than normal. Hair growth is normal for all women in these areas but women with PCOS have noticeable or thick hair. It is caused by the overproduction of androgen.

Obesity and inability to lose weight

Normally, food is absorbed into the bloodstream in the form of sugars such as glucose. Whenever there is an increase in sugar, the pancreas (an organ located behind the stomach) increases the secretion of a hormone known as insulin. Insulin attaches itself to cells, converting the extra sugar into energy. Insulin resistance means the cells have a sluggish response to the action of the insulin. The pancreas then secretes more insulin as compensation. Over time insulin resistance may lead to high sugar levels or diabetes.

Acne

In women with PCOS, androgen levels are often elevated. Production of a metabolite of testosterone rises, leading to an increase in oil production. Excessive oil production is the leading cause of acne.

Alopecia

Alopecia is a condition of thinning hair on the scalp.

Depression

Women with PCOS suffer a greater degree and severity of clinical depression.

Complications

Untreated PCOS may lead to type-2 diabetes, heart disease and stroke. In reproduction, it causes a higher degree of spontaneous abortion in women who do conceive and a higher risk of ovarian cancer. Women with PCOS can suffer severe depression or mood swings.

Holistic Approach

PCOS can be helped by both western and eastern philosophies of medicine. Aromatherapy, acupuncture, and vitamin therapy have all had some success in treating the symptoms of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome.

Aromatherapy

While aromatherapy is not a cure, it can help lessen the severity and duration of some symptoms.

Aromatherapy is the process of pressing plants for its true essence, which is then used in combination with other oils and lotions for different conditions and ailments. Aromatherapy can be used to help restore the hormonal balance in women with PCOS. It is also known to aid relaxation, release emotional stress and elevate the mood.

When using aromatic oils, it is either rubbed into the skin, inhaled through the nose or used in massage or a bath. Aromatic oils work by stimulating the sense of smell and affecting the part of the brain associated with mood swings, self-esteem levels and instinctive behavior.

An effective aromatherapy mixture is a balance of jasmine, geranium and clary sage in an oil or lotion base. Two drops of both jasmine and geranium with an additional 3 drops of clary sage to 20ml of base lotion or oil will suffice. On the other hand, you can mix the three oils in a small container and inhale them directly. These aromatherapy oils cannot be directly applied to the skin because of their potency. Use the combination as frequently as needed.

Acupuncture

A Swedish university published a study showing a definitive increase in ovulation for women undergoing acupuncture. Electro-acupuncture was applied rather than traditional acupuncture. In this method, an electrical pulse was administered to the needles, stimulating the acupuncture trigger points. After a 10-14 treatment series over a 2-3 month period, 38% of the women experienced an increase in ovulation.

Traditional acupuncture has also shown promising results in regulating periods in women with polycystic ovarian syndrome. The success rate of regulating periods was an impressive 83%. Acupuncture may also help in losing weight, eliminating headaches and achieving a calmer state of mind.

Vitamin Therapy and Herbal Treatments

Increasingly, studies show that herbal treatments and vitamin therapy can reduce the symptoms of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome.

Cinnamon Bark

Cinnamon bark is believed to help the digestive tract, alleviating symptoms such as nausea or vomiting, diarrhea and menstrual cramps. Dried cinnamon bark is a natural pain reliever and is considered a stabilizer in blood stasis, leading to menstrual periods that are more normal. The properties of cinnamon bark support insulin production and enhance the body’s ability to absorb sugar.

Fish Oil

In a study by the Mayo Clinic, fish oil contains essential fatty acids needed to regulate hormone levels to an efficient standard of production.

Vitamin B and Folic Acid

These two B vitamins are thought to help control body weight. It can also help metabolize glucose in the body. Research shows that vitamin B can help stimulate scalp hair growth.

Iron

Because of the heavy menstruation cycle of women with PCOS, anemia is a distinct possibility. A normal daily dose of a multivitamin provides the necessary iron, which should be taken with calcium to improve absorption.

Chromium

Chromium also reduces the body’s resistance to insulin and promotes healthy blood sugar levels. Chromium is found in many foods such as chicken breast, fresh fruits, whole wheat breads, liver, and mushrooms.

Vitamin D

Recent studies of insulin resistance and Vitamin D have been very encouraging. Women with PCOS are shown to have a Vitamin D deficiency and a single dose of 300,000 units of Vitamin D were was sufficient to bring levels back into a normal range. Vitamin D sufficiency helps with the insulin resistance of PCOS.

When to See the Doctor

If an individual suspects she has Polycystic Ovanrian Syndrome, it is wise to diagnosis and treat the condition as soon as possible.

Diagnosis

After the doctor is apprised of the symptoms, he will do a physical exam to look for the signs of PCOS, and check weight, height and body mass index (BMI). The doctor will take a complete history regarding menstrual cycles, periods and past health. Then there will be a series of blood tests run to determine blood sugar, insulin levels, and hormone levels. Additional hormonal tests will be added to rule out thyroid and other glandular issues that could cause similar symptoms.

Some doctors will conduct an ultrasound to detect the presence of cysts on the ovaries, looking for the standard signs of PCOS.

Standard Treatment

Recommended treatments for PCOS are usually consist of a heavy emphasis on lifestyle changes, although, hormonal medications may be prescribed. Diabetes protocol may be initiated if the patient proves to be positive for diabetes. Birth control pills may be added to help regulate menstrual cycles and alleviate excessive hair growth and acne. Infertility drugs may be used for those women trying to conceive.

Infertility Treatments

For many women, infertility is the most heartbreaking result of PCOS. However, there have been great strides in the medical profession to help women achieve a cycle of ovulation and increase their chances of becoming pregnant.

A common approach is ovulation induction, which is the use of medication to stimulate production of mature follicles.

These follicles are the breeding ground of the embryonic egg. This method is helpful to women who do not regularly develop the mature follicles on their own. Other more expensive methods such as ovarian stimulation and intrauterine insemination can be tried if ovulation induction does not succeed.

Treatment Costs

The cost of treating PCOS will vary a great deal depending on the patient. A mild case of PCOS may require limited medications and doctor visits, while other patients may incur huge bills when struggling with infertility.

Costs of Initial Diagnosis

• Cost for an initial doctor visit $100-250.
• Cost for a new visit to endocrine specialist $250-400.
• Cost for pelvic ultrasound to evaluate uterus and ovaries $250-500
• Cost of hormonal and blood tests $250-700

Costs of Basic Fertility Treatments

• Cost of fertility related blood tests $250-$500
• Cost of semen analysis or sperm test $35-350
• Cost of Clomid medication $10-100
• Cost of monitored Clomid cycle (bloods and ultrasound x 2) $500-1600
• Cost of intrauterine insemination or artificial insemination $300-900

Cost of Advanced Fertility Treatments

• Cost of IVF, In Vitro Fertilization costs $11,000
• Cost of In Vitro fertilization plus ICSI $12,500
• Cost of injectable fertility meds for an IVF cycle $1500-4500
• Cost of IVF with donor eggs (includes agency, donor and legal fees) $28,000
• Cost of injectable fertility drugs for a donor egg cycle $1500-4000

Lifestyle Changes

There are many steps an individual can take to ease and help the symptoms of PCOS.

• Exercise is the one of the most vital elements in the containment of PCOS. Moderate to vigorous sessions of exercise 2-3 times a week will be extremely beneficial. Weight lifting, yoga, Pilates and aerobic exercise are good examples of exercise for the woman with PCOS. If nothing else, walk at least 5 times a week for 45 minutes each time.
• Eat a heart-healthy diet. This means a large amount of fresh fruit, vegetables, nuts, beans and whole grains. Eliminate as many foods high in saturated fats as possible. Avoid cheeses, sugary snacks, sodas and fried foods. If a patient has blood sugar problems or diabetes, they should eat the same amount of carbohydrates at every meal to avoid spikes in blood sugar levels.
• Lose Weight. Even a 5 or 10-pound weight loss may bring the hormones back in balance and help regulate the menstrual cycle. The number one fact for women with PCOS to remember is the disease lends itself to the stubborn retention of fat, especially belly fat. Do not get discouraged because it will take longer to lose the weight than the average person. Have realistic goals.
• Quit smoking. Smoking leads to a higher androgen level and contributes to the increased risk of heart disease.
• Use over-the-counter or prescription acne medications for troubled skin eruptions and blemishes.
• Hair removal can be achieved in a variety of ways. Smaller areas of hair growth can be waxed, plucked or shaved off. Electrolysis or laser treatments may remove most of the hair permanently, but the cost is significantly higher. You can also try a salon epilating session or try some of the epilating creams and lotions at home.

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome has no known cure. Even the origin of the syndrome remains murky in the light of medical research. However, with smart lifestyle changes and medical advances in the study of this syndrome, today’s woman with PCOS can lead a healthy, happy, stable life.

Menstrual Problems

Could It Be More Than Just a Pain in the Abdomen?

Is it really that time of the month already, has it been 28 days? Do you dread certain parts of the month because you know what you have in store for you? If you are between the ages of 12-45, then you can relate to the problems that many women have to deal with every month. Cramps, bloating, and discomfort are some of the issues you may face on a monthly basis. Fortunately, not every woman experiences these problems, but at one time or another may have.

Menstruation, which is when the uterus begins to shed its lining if fertilization has not occurred. There are hormones produced when menstruation begins called prostaglandins. Prostaglandins indicate to the uterus that it is time to start disposing of its inner lining. The uterus is a muscle that is very strong and will start contract once levels of prostaglandins are reached. High levels of prostaglandins are said to be the cause of cramping or muscle spasms that occur in the uterus.

Do you have a normal menstrual cycle? Well that is hard for anyone besides you to answer. What is normal for one woman may be completely abnormal for another woman. Menstrual cycles differ drastically between women. The average length of a menstrual cycle is between two and seven days and can arrive as frequent as every 24 days. The amount of flow that occurs also varies among woman. Some may bleed heavy for the first 2 days and then reduce the amount as there cycle moves forward.

Causes

Every woman is not susceptible to these annoying monthly misfortunes. There are contributing factors that target certain groups. Being over-weight can definitely be a cause of menstrual problems; this is due to the face that when you are over-weight your fat cells produce more estrogen than is needed. When your body starts to produce excess amounts of estrogen, you body will start to believe that you are pregnant, and menstruation will change, or stop altogether.

Being greatly under weight can be just as much of an issue as being over-weight. Poor nutrition or malnourishment means that your body isn’t getting enough nutrients and vitamins that it needs. Therefore, your body doesn’t function the way that it should. Being under weight may also cause Amenorrhea, which is when your period doesn’t come at all.

Genes also play a role in this cycle as well. You should be aware of your family history and inquire if anyone else related to you has experienced these same issues. Your birth control could also be playing a part in your discomfort. Any Intrauterine Devices (IUD) may cause heavy bleeding and painful cramps, whereas when taking a birth control pill can actually relieve symptoms by reducing the length of your menstrual flow and regulating it.

Home Remedies

Although there is no known cure for menstrual problems such as fatigue, bloating, or cramps, there are some common treatments that you can try at home. A great way to try and reduce bleeding during menstruation is by eating foods that contain bioflavonoids, such as seeds or nuts. With heavy bleeding, your iron levels become very low, so you are going to want to seek foods that are rich on iron, like, shellfish, fortified breads, citrus fruits, and apricots.

Many soothing aids can be found right in your own home with no added costs for you. Cinnamon has an antispasmodic and acts as an anti-inflammatory, which can reduce cramping. Simply, make a cup of tea and add a dash of cinnamon to your delicious warm beverage and wait for results. Ginger is also said to work just as well as cinnamon to help in reducing the signs of cramps.

Perhaps you are experiencing some pain in either your neck or your back, try some basil. Basil is a great tool to relieve headaches and backaches. Caffeic acid, which is found in basil acts as a pain reliever. You may also want to try and soak in a nice warm bath. The heat from the water is sure to relax your muscles and ease your pain.

Water

Water is also a key element that you want to include in your diet everyday. The consumption of water is beneficial to clean or flush out your body and get rid of unwanted waste. Remember to drink at least 8 glasses of water a day. This can also be beneficial if you are prone to acne while menstruating. Water is great for the skin and keeps it hydrated.

OTC Medicine

Over the counter aids such as Pamprin or Midol are commonly used to treat these types of conditions. They work great to reduce water retention that causes bloating, also to relieve minor head and back aches. These medications should only be used as the directions indicate on the package.

Medical Issues & Treatments

Perhaps you have tried all of these methods but to no avail, you may want to call and speak with your doctor, there may be something more going on. Depending on your symptoms, your doctor may prescribe you hormone treatments. There are also anti-prostaglandins available through your doctor that would help with the abdominal pain that you feel. For more invasive procedures your doctor may think it is necessary to have a dilation and curettage (D & C). During this process a portion of the uterus is removed making it easier and more manageable to shed the lining monthly. This procedure is very rare today and not used as often as it was many years ago.

If you occasionally experience some of these troublesome ailments I wouldn’t fret, it’s when your menstrual cycle becomes abnormal in any way that may cause alarm. There are many serious menstrual problems that you may encounter, that are slightly more crucial, and above the mild cramping you may experience. There are many factors that doctors use to determine what the exact issue is, so treatment can begin as soon as necessary.

Fibroids

Fibroids are a common issue that doctors treat on a regular basis. Fibroids are growths inside of the uterus that are non-cancerous. Some of the warning signs include: bloating and swelling in the stomach, heavy and painful menstruation, and a dull pain in the abdomen. You can use these signs as an indicator; however, fibroids sometimes offer no warning signs at all. During your regular yearly examine is when your doctor would notice these growths.

Depending on the severity of your case and the pain it brings, treatment could be as minor as letting them take care of themselves, if they are small enough, or in rare cases having a hysterectomy, which would entail removing the uterus. Fibroids grow due to high levels of the hormone estrogen. The good news is that again, depending on the size, once you reach menopause your hormone levels decrease and these fibroids reduce in size and almost disappear.

Abdomen Pain & Endometriosis

If you are experiencing a sharp pain in your pelvic or abdomen area, along with your normal cramps, or experience pain after having sexual intercourse, this is something you are going to want to mention to your medical professional. These are common signs of Endometriosis.

Endometriosis is one of the main causes of pain in that region of your body. There is still no sure reason what causes Endometriosis, or how to cure it fully at this point. There are many treatment options that you may want to research. Since pain is the leading complaint, often doctors will prescribe a pain killer of some sorts, depending on allergies.

Hormone treatments may also be an option. It is shown that large levels of oestrogen on set Endometriosis, with the hormone treatments, doctors are trying to keep these levels at bay. As mentioned there is no sure cure for Endometriosis, so what relief that you do experience, unfortunately, are only temporary and will not last.

PMS

Possibly you are experiencing both emotional and physical issues, and are starting to feel depressed or anxious. This could be more than just Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS). There is a severe case of PMS referred to as Premenstrual Dysphoric disorder or PMDD. While doctors are not fully aware of the causes of PMDD, they do believe that it could be cause by a chemical imbalance of serotonin in your body. There are three avenues that should be taken into consideration.

1. Psycho behavioral Therapy- This treatment is used to assist you in dealing with your emotions and sometime offer relaxation therapy, assist with providing you information to deal with coping skills, and cognitive behavioral therapy.
2. Medication- Medication may be used in conjunction with the other treatment options. Different medications are used to treat PMDD. These drugs may include anti-anxiety medication, hormones, or anti-depressants.
3. Diet modification- The amount of vitamins and minerals that your body takes in greatly effects the way your body will run. It is so crucial to stress the importance of a health balanced diet and regular exercise. You are also going to want to drink plenty or water. This not only keeps you hydrated, but is necessary to keep your body at its best.

Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS) is a rare but serious infection caused by bacteria. TSS is associated most of the time with the use of tampons, or the overuse of tampons. When tampons are left in for a long period of time they become the perfect spot for the production of bacteria. Often TSS is caused by toxins that are produced by Staphylococcus aureus or (staph) bacteria. Some signs of TSS include:

• Vomiting and/or diarrhea
• A fever higher than102° Fahrenheit
• Muscle aches or weakness
• Confusion
• Headaches
• A bright red rash in your vaginal area

There are not any specific tests that can identify TSS, however through blood work, urine samples, and a cervical exam or scrape, your doctor can locate the issue and start treatment as necessary. Since TSS is a very serious condition, hospitalization may be required. You will be given antibiotics to assist in fighting the infection. Although extremely serious, this condition if caught soon enough, is not life threatening.

Costs of Treatment

Depending on the severity of your menstrual problems, costs can vary. For minor issues such as mild cramping, bloating, and fatigue you can try and use some of the known home remedies above to help and reduce some of the aches. If you require medical treatment for more severe menstrual problems then there are many things to consider.

Hormone treatments can be either in the form of a pill that is taken daily, or injections that may be self administered, either option does get costly. Including lab work, doctor’s visits, and the hormones themselves, you could be looking at about $150 a month or about $1,800 a year. Most insurance companies will cover medically necessary procedures, but you would want to check your benefits ahead of time to find out what your out of pocket expense would be.

Troublesome dental problems can create a mouthful of pain and discomfort for anyone dealing with a toothache. One of the biggest difficulty dental patients have regarding their dental health is how to treat and cure toothaches. Dental pain, regardless of its origin, can be so disruptive to everyday life, that millions of people each year are unable to cope effectively when the mouth pain occurs.

Toothache discomfort may range from a mild ache to excruciating throbbing pain. Whether the sufferer is experiencing pain great or small, the search for remedies to stop dental pain takes many individuals straight to their computers with the hopes of seeking out some sort of relief from the toothache.

Causes Of Tooth Discomfort

In relation to tooth discomfort, causes may range from excessive tooth decay or cavities, abscesses, broken or damaged teeth, sinus infections, and gum disease. Tooth decay is one of the most prevalent causes of illness throughout the world, especially in locations that do not promote preventative dental hygiene. Lack of brushing, flossing, and poor nutrition are also suspect in creating an environment ripe for potential dental problems.

With tooth decay, the rotten portion of the tooth tends to progress into the pulp and root of the tooth, causing pain.

If a decaying tooth is left untreated by a dental professional, the resulting damage may ultimately lead to infection and possibly the loss of the tooth. Pain and discomfort in and around the affected tooth can be quite severe.

When teeth have an excess of plaque and tartar, there is a greater risk of tooth decay and dental pain due to the increase in of digestive acids that tend to further aggravate toothache pain.

Toothache Symptoms

Quite often a toothache may appear to arise with little or no warning. However, the majority of tooth pain can be traced back to small clues that progressively worsened over time. Taking special notice to the visual condition of the tooth may give the individual an indication of why the toothache has presented itself. Important things to take notice of when experiencing a toothache:

• Broken or chipped teeth
• Pits or dark spots on tooth surface
• Small holes or crevices
• Red or swollen gum tissue
• Puss-filled bump around the base of the tooth
• Other important warning signs to look for when a toothache begins to take hold are:
• A bad taste in the mouth
• Bleeding gums
• Bad breath
• Tooth sensitivity
• Pain when chewing
• Discomfort when brushing or flossing
• Facial swelling or puffiness
• Risk Factors And Toothaches

Common risk factors and health choices that may adversely affect dental health and wellness are eating disorders such as anorexia and/or bulimia, dry mouth, poor oral hygiene habits, lack of flossing, heartburn (high levels of stomach acid may erode tooth enamel), smoking, chewing tobacco, and underlying health problems such as medications and cancer treatments. As individuals age, teeth naturally will weaken and become more susceptible to decay and sensitivity. Continuation of proper oral hygiene can help extend the health and life of teeth in older individuals.

Toothache Complications

While most people can overlook minor aches and pains associated with intermittent toothaches, ignoring serious signs of dental distress may lead to severe oral infections and tooth loss. It is essential to overall health for anyone suffering from a toothache to take immediate steps to discover the underlying cause of the tooth pain in order to avoid dangerous complications down the road.

The real threat of serious infection from toothaches must not be underestimated. Abscesses and infection can lead to sinus and blood infections which may be potentially life threatening. It is imperative to seek out medical assistance when there is the presence of infection.

Home Remedies For Toothaches

In the event that visiting the dentist for treatment must be put off briefly, finding a home remedies that can lessen toothache pain in the interim can help bring the tooth discomfort to a tolerable level. Popular and proven remedies made from natural ingredients found in most homes that may improve the pain level of a toothache are effective enough to take a closer look at.

Garlic and rock salt placed on the affected tooth, or a garlic clove positioned directly on the painful site can alleviate discomfort. Consuming raw onion, usually one per day, can improve the overall health of the teeth. Lime is well-known remedy for toothaches and oral health. The vitamin C found in lime improves tooth health. Another common home remedy for toothaches is vinegar and bayberry. The mixture of the two natural ingredients has been known to relieve mouth pain when applied to the teeth and gums.

Clove Oil

One of the most identifiable natural toothache remedies that has been in use for thousands of years is clove oil. The antiseptic properties found in cloves acts as a numbing agent when applied to the teeth and gums. Clove oil is very strong, so a little goes a long way.

Butternut Bark

In the Native American culture, the use of butternut bark for the alleviation of tooth pain has been used for many years. Another natural cure for toothache pain is asafoetida, which when applied directly to the cavity-filled tooth, will relieve even the most gnawing discomfort.

Gum Massaging

Gum massaging is an old tried-and-true natural remedy for oral pain. By gently manipulating the gums, increased blood flow occurs and effectively allows more oxygen to the affected area in order to generate healing. The use of calendula petals for toothache pain has been in use in native communities to treat dental disorders. Another effective method of treating toothaches is yarrow root. Yarrow is known for stopping a toothache that is in the beginning throws of irritation.

A largely overlooked herbal remedy that can be used as a mouthwash and antiseptic is slippery elm powder. The powder is dissolved in water and is a safe alternative to standard mouthwashes. Tarragon leaves are also an excellent choice in natural toothache prevention. Tarragon is commonly utilized as an herbal anesthetic when applied to the affected tooth.

Eastern Herbal Remedies

Eastern ayurvedic cures and remedies for toothaches employ similar herbal and mineral applications for eliminating the dental discomfort. Babool tree bark is an excellent ayurvedic herbal remedy that helps to arrest the bleeding and pain of an injured or infected tooth. The use of marjoram, which has a mint-like aroma may also be used in the natural curing of a toothache. The use of East Indian rosebay root is also an effective means of pain relief as well.

Western Herbal Toothache Remedies

There are several western home remedies available for the treatment of toothache pain. Cayenne is a wonderfully versatile natural remedy for ending the discomfort of dental pain. When used in small amounts, cayenne provides a natural local anesthetic to the painful area. A very effective natural cure for toothaches is the fig.

Figs have natural pain-relieving compounds. When heated, the fig can be placed directly on the tooth to provide immediate relief of painful abscesses and irritated gums. The use of cider vinegar has antiseptic properties that assist the natural bacteria-killing elements that are found naturally in saliva. Used as a mouthwash, cider vinegar promotes healing and germ-ridding agents.

Applied topically as a poultice, fennel helps to alleviate inflammation that so commonly aggravates the nerves of the teeth, creating pain. Sage and myrrh both provide an essential numbing effect when applied as a tincture to an irritated tooth. The antiseptic properties of both of these herbs will ease the pain of a toothache seconds after its application.

Safety And Precautions Of Herbal Toothache Cures

Most herbal remedies are completely safe and effective to use as a cure for toothaches.However, a misconception that many toothache pain sufferers fail to remember when using alternative natural toothache remedies is assuming that because it is a natural element, it must be safe to use. Caution must be maintained when ingesting or absorbing any herbal or natural remedy into the body. Natural does not always mean safe. Proper research and precautions to avoid possible toxicity and side effects must be done before attempting to use any natural toothache remedy.

Emergency Pain Relief For Nighttime Flareups

A toothache always seems to surface at the least convenient of times. The middle of the night is the most frequent time of day for mouth pain to erupt. One reason for tooth discomfort to occur at night is the position of the head when sleeping. Being in a horizontal lying position causes blood flow to be more centered around the head and mouth area. This increases the likelihood of a sensitive tooth to flare up. When late night dental pain interrupts sleep, some of the quickest methods of relieving the discomfort in order to rest throughout the night can be found in the kitchen and bathroom cupboards.

The application of an ice pack may lessen the intensity of the toothache. Alternating twenty minutes on with twenty minutes off for maximum effect. If the cold happens to worsen the discomfort, applying a warm washcloth to the cheeks may be used instead. Heat and cold both have pain relieving properties. Some people react better to one or the other.

Salt and Pepper Shakers

A strange, yet rather effective method of curbing a midnight toothache can be found in your salt and pepper shakers. Mixing the two flavor enhancers together and applying the mixture to the affected tooth can bring immediate pain relief. The use of turmeric powder in conjunction with mustard oil work well together as an antiseptic for dental pain. By applying a mixture of the two directly to the teeth, a numbing of the tooth will occur.

Using a Potato

An old remedy to stop toothache pain in its tracks can be found in a sack of potatoes. Cut a small wedge out of a raw potato and place the wedge on the affected tooth for approximately fifteen minutes. This should halt the discomfort and allow for a more restful night.

Vanilla Extract

Vanilla extract has been used for years as a home remedy for emergency toothache relief. Apply a few drops of the extract to the affected area. The toothache pain will vanish instantly. This method can be repeated as often as painful flareups occur.

Dietary And Traditional Toothache Remedies And Prevention

While the use of herbal remedies are excellent alternatives to conventional treatment options for toothaches, there are a number of traditional remedies that work very well at controlling and relieving the pain and discomfort of dental problems that can be used alternately or in conjunction with each other. Tylenol, Ibuprofen, and aspirin work well to stave off a moderately painful toothache. Rinsing the mouth with salt water can decrease mouth irritation as well.

In the unfortunate event of an excruciating toothache, the employment of any of the effective natural treatments can lessen the discomfort until a dental professional can be seen. Proper oral hygiene is always the best preventative defense against oral pain.

When a person feels that fluttering feeling in the heart or feels rapid or pounding heartbeats, they are experiencing what is known as heart palpitations. When a person experiences heart palpitations, it may be due to a number of triggers, such as medication, exercise, stress or, much less commonly, a medical condition that is underlying.

Even though it is a worrisome experience to feel heart palpitations, it is usually a harmless occurrence since the heart is still effectively pumping blood. A person can usually prevent the heart palpitations from recurring by avoiding whatever the cause of the trigger is.

In rare cases, experiencing heart palpitations may actually be a symptom of a heart condition that is much more serious, such as arrhythmia, which is an irregular heartbeat, and this may require treatment.

Symptoms of Heart Palpitations

• The symptoms of heart palpitations generally feel like:
• Skipping a heartbeat;
• Fluttering heartbeats;
• A heartbeat that is going too quickly; or
• A heartbeat that is pumping harder than normal.

Heart palpitations can be felt in the neck or in the throat, or they may also be felt in the chest. The feeling of heart palpitations may occur whether a person is at rest, active, and it can happen whether they are seated, laying down or standing.

When to See a Doctor

If the occurrence of heart palpitations is ultimate a concerning one, it is recommended to go see a doctor. He or she may wish to conduct tests to monitor the heart in order to determine whether or not the heart palpitations are due to a much more serious underlying heart problem. It is highly recommended that a person seek emergency medical attention in the event that the heart palpitations come accompanied with:

• Chest pain or discomfort;
• Dizziness;
• Fainting; or
• Shortness of breath.

Causes of Heart Palpitations

It is often the case that the true cause of what triggers heart palpitations cannot be determined. There are a few common causes that are believed to be responsible for instances of heart palpitations, such as:

• Stress, anxiety or any other similar strong emotional responses;
• Strenuous exercise;
• Nicotine;
• Fever;
• Caffeine;
• Hormone changes related to pregnancy, menstruation or menopause;
• Taking cough or cold medications that have the stimulant ingredient pseudoephedrine; or
• Taking any kind of asthma medication inhaler that has a stimulant in it.

However, it is possible, though uncommon, for a heart palpitation to be the symptom of a more serious underlying condition, such as an abnormal heart rhythm, or arrhythmia, or hyperthyroidism, which is an overactive thyroid gland. Arrhythmias might include unusually slow heart rates (bradycardia), very fast heart rates (tachycardia) or simply a heart rhythm that is irregular (atrial fibrillation).

Risk Factors for Heart Palpitations

Those are at risk for developing heart palpitations are those who:

• are very stressed;
• have a present anxiety disorder or otherwise regularly undergo panic attacks;
• are pregnant;
• have an overactive thyroid gland (hyperthyroidism);
• take medications that have stimulants in them, such as certain asthma or cold medications; and
• have other similar heart problems, such as a heart defect, an arrhythmia or have previously had a heart attack.

Complications Arising From Heart Palpitations

Unless the heart palpitations are a sign or a symptom of an underlying, more serious heart condition, there is very little risk of developing any complications. If the heart palpitations are a sign or a symptom of an underlying, more serious heart condition, some of the more possible complications arising from heart palpitations include:

Fainting

When a heart beats quicker than it normally does, it is possible for the blood pressure to drop dramatically, which causes a person to faint. The likelihood of fainting is higher for those who have a certain kind of heart problem, such as some valve problems or problems with congenital heart disease.

Cardiac Arrest

Though this is a very rare occurrence, it is possible for palpitations, which are caused by a life threatening type of arrhythmia, to suddenly cause the heart to stop beating in an efficient manner (cardiac arrest).

Stroke

Should the palpitations further worsen to the point where the heart does not properly beat but instead quivers, it may cause blood to begin pooling. When blood pools, it may cause the formation of blood clot. Should a blood clot break loose, it may lead to a brain artery and it may obstruct it, which causes a stroke. Complications from this may include damaging a portion of the brain or it may even lead to death.

Heart Failure

When the heart is not effectively pumping for a prolonged period of time, and when the heart palpitations is caused by arrhythmia, such as atrial fibrillation, this may be a complication. Sometimes, in order to improve the way the heart functions, it is possible to control the rate of arrhythmia that is beginning to cause heart failure.

Preparing For an Appointment with the Doctor

If a person is experiencing heart palpitations along with a severe shortness of breath, fainting or chest paint, it is extremely important to immediately seek emergency medical attention. However, if the heart palpitations are brief and no other worrisome symptoms or signs seem to be present, it is recommended to make an appointment to see a doctor. The doctor may be able to determine whether the heart palpitations are a harmless occurrence or if they are the symptom of something much more serious, such as a heart condition.

Because an appointment with the doctor is usually limited in time and can be brief, and because it is important to cover a large amount of ground with the doctor, it is recommended that a person get fully prepared for an appointment before attending one. This section is provided in order to offer some insight with regards to the best way to prepare for an appointment for a doctor, as well as what to expect when attending the appointment.

What Can Be Done

Know all of the pre-appointment restrictions, if any. When calling to make the appointment, be sure to ask if any exist, as well as whether or not there is anything that should be done in advance, such as restricting the diet.

Take a notepad and write down what other symptoms, including heart palpitations, that may be present, even if they do not appear to have any direct correlation to the heart palpitations in the first place.

Take a notepad and write down any personal information that may be key to diagnosis, including any family history of arrhythmias, heart disease, high blood pressure, stroke or diabetes, in addition to any recent life changes or major stresses. Write down all medications that are currently being taken, since heart palpitations are a possible side effect, including any supplements or vitamins.

If it is possible, take a friend or a family member along for the ride so that they can recall or remember information that may have otherwise been missed or forgotten. It can often be a difficult process to remember every detail that the doctor discussed during an appointment, since there is plenty of ground to cover in a short period of time.

Be ready to talk about habits with regards to exercise and diet. If no diet or exercise routine is currently strictly followed, be prepared for the possibilities of discussing with the doctor about any challenges that may be faced with regards to getting started on a routine.

Write down any questions to ask the doctor.

Because the time spent with the doctor is usually limited, it can be beneficial coming up with a list of questions so that the time that would otherwise be spent thinking up questions can be reserved for going over other points in greater detail.

List the questions from the ones that are more important to the ones that are least important in case time runs out. Some basic questions to ask about heart palpitations may include:

• What is the most likely cause of the heart palpitations?
• What are some other likely causes for the heart palpitations?
• What should be done if the heart palpitations recur?
• What kinds of tests are necessary to determine the cause?
• What is likely the best course of action?
• How much activity is an appropriate level?
• What are some of the other alternatives to the primary approach that is being suggested?
• These other health conditions are also present. What is the best way to effectively manage them together?
• Should any certain restrictions be followed?
• Should a specialist be seen?
• Does there exist a generic alternative to the medication that is being prescribed?
• Are there any printed materials, such as brochures, that may be taken home to read or any Web sites that may be recommended?

Feel free to ask any other questions that arise if there is time or to ask more questions to go over points that are not fully understood the first time around.

What to Expect From the Doctor

The doctor will probably have a list of questions to ask as well, and being ready to answer these questions will reserve even more time for clarifying other points later on. The doctor may wish to ask:

• When did the first onset of heart palpitations occur?
• Have the symptoms been occasional or continuous?
• Do these heart palpitations suddenly start and stop?
• Does it appear as if though the palpitations come with some kind of pattern, such as always occurring during a certain activity or during the same time of each day?
• During the heart palpitations, does the heart still continue to beat steadily?
• If anything, what seems to improve the heart palpitations?
• If anything, what seems to worsen the heart palpitations?
• Are there any other symptoms present during these heart palpitations, such as dizziness, fainting, chest paint or shortness of breath?
• Have there ever been heart rhythm problems experienced before, such as atrial fibrillation?

What Can Be Done in the Meantime

Prior to attending the appointment, it is possible to attempt improving the symptoms by avoiding the usual stresses or activities that may trigger heart palpitations. Some of the more common triggers include drinking too much caffeine or alcohol, anxiety or panic attacks, or taking any kind of medication or supplements that have stimulants in them, such as some cold medicines or energy drinks.

Tests and Diagnosis

If the doctor feels that there are heart palpitations, he or she will wish to listen to the heart using a stethoscope to check whether or not the heart is beating either irregularly or too rapidly. He or she will also probably search for any symptoms of medical conditions that are known to cause heart palpitations, such as an overactive thyroid gland.

Some other tests that the doctor may wish to conduct include:

Electrocardiogram, or ECG. This is a noninvasive test in which a technician takes probes and places them on the chest so that it can monitor the electrical pulses that are responsible for making the heart beat. The device will record the electronic signals and the results should help a doctor figure out whether or not there are any irregularities within the rhythm of the heart and its structure, which may cause the palpitations. It is possible to have an electrocardiogram while exercising (stress electrocardiogram) or while at rest.

Holter monitoring. This is similar to an ECG exam, except it is a portable device that is worn to record the electrical pulses for up to three days. This device is used when heart palpitations cannot be found by way of a standard ECG.

Treatments and Drugs

Unless the doctor finds that there is some kind of underlying medical condition, an onset of heart palpitations rarely requires any kind of medication or surgery. The doctor will likely recommend staying away from the common triggers. If an underlying condition is present and is the cause of the heart palpitations, then he or she will likely recommend ways to treat the underlying condition in question.

Lifestyle and Home Remedies

The best way to handle heart palpitations at home is to simply avoid the common triggers, such as:

• Reducing stress or anxiety;
• Avoiding stimulants; and
• Avoiding illegal drugs.

Gastritis refers to a group of different conditions that have a single thing in common, and that is the lining of the stomach being inflamed. The inflammation that gastritis causes is usually due to an infection that is responsible to the majority of stomach ulcers. However, there are several other factors that can contribute to the development of gastritis, such as traumatic injury, regularly taking in some pain relievers or drinking much more alcohol than necessary.

Gastritis may be a sudden occurrence (acute gastritis) or it can be a problem that happens over time (chronic gastritis). In some instances, this condition may lead to ulcers and have an increased risk towards developing stomach cancer. However, for most people, it is not a serious condition and it gets better with treatment.

Symptoms

Symptoms of gastritis may include:

Indigestion, which is a burning or a gnawing ache or pain in the upper abdomen, which can become either better or worse with eating;

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Bloating
• Belching
• Fullness in the upper abdomen after eating
• Weight loss

Acute gastritis occurs on a sudden basis and is the more likely of the two to bring on nausea and a discomfort in the upper abdomen. Its chronic counterpart develops over time and is the more likely of the two to cause fullness and a lack of appetite after only a few bites of food. However, many people do not experience symptoms who have chronic gastritis.

Sometimes, gastritis may cause the stomach to bleed, though it is rare for this to be severe. Keep in mind that any bleeding in the stomach that results in vomiting blood or stools to be black and tarry will require immediate medical assistance.

When to See a Doctor

Almost everybody has dealt with some form of indigestion and stomach irritation. Most instances of such are short lived and do not need any kind of medical attention. However, if the symptoms are present and consistent for over a week, a doctor should be called. A doctor should also be told if there are any stomach problems after taking any kind of over the counter or prescription drugs, especially if they are pain relievers such as aspiring.

See the doctor immediately if there is blood in the vomit or in the stools.

Causes

Many factors may contribute to the development of gastritis, such as:

Bacterial infection. People who are infected with Helicobacter pylori, or H. pylori, may suffer gastritis, and most likely, it is chronic. It is believed that half of the people in the world are infected with H. pylori and that it is passed from person to person. However, most people who are infected do not suffer any complications. Some people may experience H. pylori breaking down to protective lining of the stomach, which can causes changes to it. However, it is not known why some people do not experience problems with H. pylori while some others do. Doctors feel it may be due to lifestyle choices or inherited vulnerability.

Regularly using pain relievers. NSAIDS, or nonsteroisal anti-inflammatory drugs, including ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, others), aspirin and naproxen (Aleve), might cause both kinds of gastritis. By using these drugs on a regular basis or by taking too many of them, it is possible to lose a key substance within the body that is supposed to preserve the protective lining within the stomach. Occasional usage of these substances should not result in stomach issues.

Excessive alcohol use. Alcohol is known to erode the lining of the stomach, making the stomach much more vulnerable to digestive juices.

Stress. Severe stress related to traumatic injury, major surgery, severe infections or burns are known to cause acute gastritis.

Bile reflux disease

Body cells attacking stomach cells. Autoimmune gastritis is a rare instance in which a person’s own body cells are responsible for the condition, attacking the cells within the stomach lining. This causes the immune system to pick away at the protective barrier. This is more common with those who have other autoimmune disease, such as type 1 diabetes, Hashimoto’s disease or Addison’s disease. This may also be connected with vitamin B-12 deficiency.

Other conditions. Other medical conditions may be to blame for the gastritis, such as Crohn’s disease, HIV, AIDS, parasitic infections, liver failure, connective tissue disorders or kidney failure.

Risk Factors

Some factors which may increase the risk of developing gastritis include:

• Infection of H. pylori;
• Regularly using aspirin; or
• Old age.

Complications

When left untreated, gastritis may lead to stomach bleeding and stomach ulcers. There is also the risk of stomach cancer in some forms of chronic gastritis, especially when the lining of the stomach is extensively thinned and there are changes to cells thereof.

Tests and Diagnosis

The doctor will likely be able to diagnose gastritis after discussing medical history and undergoing an examination, though there may still be some tests performed to figure out the true cause. Some tests include:

Blood tests. The doctor may require that a blood test be ordered in order to determine whether or not there are any antibodies for H. pylori present. If the test comes back positive, it only confirms that, at some point in life, H. pylori has visited the body, but it does not necessary mean that the person is currently infected. The blood tests may also check for instances of anemia, which can be caused by stomach bleeding, which is caused by gastritis.

Breath test. This is a test that can easily tell if someone is infected with H. pylori.

Stool tests. Checking a sample of stool will allow a doctor to check for H. pylori. A positive test usually suggests a person is currently infected and usually prompts a doctor to check the stool for blood, which is a sign of stomach bleeding.

Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy.

Upper gastrointestinal X-ray. This will require taking X-rays of the stomach and of the small intestine so that the doctor can monitor them for signs of gastritis and any other digestive problems which may be present. This is usually taken only after having swallowed barium, which is a liquid that is supposed to coat the lining present in the digestive tract, which allows the tract to appear more clearly when taking an X-ray.

Treatments and Drugs

Treating gastritis depends on what is causing it to develop. If a person is experiencing acute gastritis due to alcohol or pain relievers, the treatment would be to cease usage of the substances. When the gastritis is chronic and due to H. pylori, the treatment would involve eradicating traces of the bacteria. Most of the treatment plans also include having to take medicine which is meant to treat stomach acid, so that healing within the stomach may also be promoted.

Medicines That Can Treat Stomach Acid

Stomach acid further irritates the already irritated and inflamed tissue within the stomach, which causes it to be even more inflamed and results in pain. This is why it is recommended to neutralize stomach acid, including:

Antacids. Maalox and Mylanta are two examples of over the counter antacids, which can come in tablet or liquid form, which can be a common kind of treatment for a mild case of gastritis. These are useful in neutralizing the acid within the stomach and can usually provide pain relief quickly.

Acid blockers. When the antacids are not helping on their own, another medication may be recommended by the doctor, such as ranitidine (Zantac, cimedtidine (Tagamet), famotidine (Pepcid) or nizatidine (Axid), so that the stomach does not produce as much acid as usual.

Shutting down acid pumps. There are some medications that are called proton pump inhibitiors, which aim to reduce acid by blocking off the little pumps that are located in the cells of the stomach where the acid secretes. These kinds of medications include rabeprazole (Aciphex), lansoprazole (Prevacid), esomeprazole (Nexium) and omeprazole (Prilosec).

Medicines That Can Treat H. Pylori

There are several different regimens that serve to treat infections of H. pylori. Most doctors will simply use a combination of a couple of antibiotics in addition to using a proton pump inhibitor. On some occasions, bismuth, more commonly known as Pepto-Bismol, might be included in the mixture. The antibiotics serve to destroy the bacteria and the proton pump inhibitor is present to relieve nausea and pain, increase the effectiveness of the given antibiotics and to heal the present inflammation.

Lifestyle and Home Remedies

There are many reasons that digestive problems can develop for many different reasons, which include several lifestyle choices that can be controlled. It is recommended to:

Eat well. Not only is what is consumed important, but it is important to eat it well. Only eat a moderate amount at once, eat at normal times and try to relax while eating.

Maintain a healthy weight. Digestive problems are likely to occur in any weight class, but it is more common in those who are overweight, as are bloating, heartburn and constipation.

Make sure to get plenty of exercise. Aerobic exercise can stimulate the intestinal muscles, as can increased breathing and heart rate. This will allow the food to pass through more quickly. Try to perform at least half an hour of aerobic activity as often throughout the week as possible.

Manage stress.

Prevention

Even though it is not always possible to prevent being infected with H. pylori, there are a few ways to reduce the risk of developing gastritis:

Eat smart. Those who experience indigestion frequently should attempt having more frequent, but smaller meals that can ease stomach acid effects. For that matter, it is wise to avoid the foods that are most irritating, include those that are acidic, spicy, fatty or fried. Though this step lowers the risk, it will not always prevent the occurrence.

Limit alcohol or avoid it completely. Excessively drinking alcohol has a tendency to erode the lining or mucous in the stomach, which results in bleeding and inflammation.

Do not smoke. Like alcohol, smoking has a habit of interfering with the lining present in the stomach, which makes the stomach not only more susceptible to developing gastritis, but also for developing ulcers. Additionally, smoking increases stomach acid, which delays stomach healing and it is one of the leading risk factors with regards to stomach cancer.

Use different pain relievers. Whenever possible do not take aspirin, naproxen or ibuprofen. If pain relievers are needed, stick with the ones that have acetaminophen.

The kidneys play a huge role in the body. Not only do the kidneys remove waste from the body, but they also maintain fluid and electrolyte balance, and are able to respond to different body needs by either concentration or diluting urine. The kidneys also secrete hormones that are important to many different physiological functions of the body, such as rennin, which regulates blood pressure. The kidneys are vital to the human body and each body must have at least one good kidney in order to function.

Nephritis is general inflammation of one or both of the kidneys. It is not a disease itself but rather a symptom of a bigger problem. It can affect both young and old alike. The inflammation can be caused by many different things.

There are two classifications of nephritis; acute and chronic. If symptoms appear very quickly, the nephritis is classified as acute. If symptoms develop very slowly over a long period of time, the nephritis is called chronic.

In addition to the two different classifications of nephritis, there are also many different types of nephritis. These include:

• Glomerulonephritis – This is characterized by inflammation of the glomerulus, which is a tuft of capillaries that carries out the first steps of filtering the blood. This is usually caused by an autoimmune disease or an infection.
• Lupus nephritis – This is inflammation of the kidney caused by systemic lupus erthematosus, which is an immune system disease.
• Pyelonephritis – This is a kidney infection from bacteria that usually spreads to the kidneys from the bladder.
• Interstitial Nephritis – This is an inflammation of kidney cells that are non fluid-collecting.

In about 60 per cent of adults and 90 per cent of children, nephritis will completely resolve. It can come and go many times in any individual’s life and cause only mild or no pain.

Symptoms of Nephritis

Chronic nephritis can fail to show symptoms for up to thirty years. When symptoms are present, they commonly appear as:

• Feeling the need to urinate often
• Cloudy or bloody urine
• A buildup of fluid in the tissues which causes swelling. This is a symptom known as edema.
• Loin pain
• Feeling lethargic
• Losing weight without effort
• Trouble sleeping
• Headaches or problems thinking
• Protein in the urine

Causes of Nephritis

Acute nephritis is most commonly caused by an allergy to drug therapy. Usually, the drugs involved are analgesics, immunosuppressant used in transplantation and when treating autoimmune disorders, depressive disease drugs, and anti cancer drugs. Acute nephritis can also be caused by Streptococcus, viral infections, Legionella, and Sarcoidosis.

Both kinds of nephritis are caused by some sort of kidney damage. Things that can damage the kidneys are:

• High blood pressure.
• High blood sugar.
• Kidney infections or diseases.
• Inherited kidney problems.
• Narrowed or closed off renal artery. This can reduce the amount of blood that the kidney receives and needs.
• Long term use of certain medications.
• Allergic reactions to medications.
• Streptococcal infections that are left untreated.

Risk Factors of Developing Nephritis

People who are at higher risk for nephritis can often do something to lower their risk. Some of the risks of nephritis are:

• Diabetes
• Chronic high blood pressure
• Blockages
• Overuse of certain medications such as painkillers
• Drug abuse
• Untreated streptococcal infections
• Having a family history of nephritis
• Premature birth
• Age
• Trauma
• Certain diseases, such as AIDS, cancer, sickle cell anemia, systemic lupus erthematosus, hepatitis C, and congestive heart failure.
• Bacterial infection

Preventing Nephritis

There are many different ways to prevent or reduce the risk of most kinds of nephritis. Even if a person has a disease which makes nephritis more likely, there are steps that can be taken to reduce the chances of developing it.

• If you have diabetes, keep a very good watch on your blood sugar.
• If you have high blood pressure, there are certain medications that can be prescribed to keep it lower. Follow the doctor’s orders about how often and how much of the pills to take, even if your blood pressure seems to be under control. Some of these medications actually work to protect the kidney as well as lower blood pressure.
• If you suspect you may have a blocked renal artery, see a doctor. Sometimes, blockages can be opened or repaired, or kidney stones removed if they are the cause of the blockage.
• Cut back on the amount of painkillers you take. The painkillers that are bad for the kidneys include ibuprofen, naproxen, and acetaminophen.
• Don’t use illegal drugs.
• If your family has a history of kidney problems, have regular checkups to hopefully catch any issues early on.
• If you contract strep throat, get proper treatment so it doesn’t develop into nephritis.
• If you have any signs of kidney damage, see a doctor quickly. It is much easier to treat kidney damage in early stages of the disease than it is in the later stages.

Diagnosing Nephritis

If a patient has the symptoms of nephritis, a doctor will order a couple different lab tests. The purpose of the tests is to find out why the kidney are be swollen. Kidneys don’t just swell up on by themselves; there is a cause, it may just be hard to find. The doctor will test the urine for an infection or for protein. He or she will also test the blood. The blood test will measure how much urea and creatinine are in the blood. This will tell the doctor if the kidneys are filtering well or not.

A physical exam can be done to determine if the either of the kidneys are in fact inflamed. Ultrasounds, CT scans, and MRIs can all be done to look at the kidney and see how big the kidneys actually are. These tests also allow the doctor to estimate how much blood is getting to the kidneys and see any blockages. Another test that may be done is a kidney biopsy. In a biopsy, the doctor takes a small sample of kidney tissue and tests it to figure out what is causing the swelling. The doctor may do other tests if he or she suspects something different then a kidney disease.

Treating Nephritis

Since nephritis is caused by some other condition besides the actually inflammation itself, the main course of treatment is to fix the underlying problem. Diabetes and hypertension (high blood pressure) are the two most common causes for nephritis. If either of these are the problems, there are a couple things that can be done. If the person is overweight, the doctor may suggest losing weight to help manage the blood pressure or diabetes. Also, the doctor will suggest that the patient watches his or her blood pressure or blood sugar very closely. It is important for both of them to stay in the right ranges.

Regular exercise and a good diet are important parts of slowing down or treating a kidney disease. Abstaining from tobacco, smoking, and alcohol are also good ideas.

There are many ways to treat nephritis at home. These methods are pretty cheap and consist of going to the local grocery store and shopping around the produce section. Here is a list of some of the suggested methods:

• Carrot juice: mix a glass of carrot juice with a tablespoon of honey and a bit of fresh lime juice. Drink this first thing in the morning. This is said to be one of the most effect ways to treat nephritis at home.
• Banana: since bananas are low in protein and salt and high in carbohydrates, they are good for treating nephritis.
• Avocado: Avocados have a lot of minerals and not much protein, so they are also helpful for treating nephritis.
• Grapes: Grapes have low albumin and low sodium chloride, so they are good to eat during any kind of kidney disease process.
• Coconut Water: The water of one green coconut, taken twice a day, is a very safe diuretic.
• It is also suggested that a person with nephritis go on a fruit juice only diet for around 9 days. After the fruit juice diet, there should be six days of a fruit and fruit juice diet, followed by 4 days of a juice only diet.

Herbal Remedies for Nephritis

• Wild Yam Root is a good way to naturally treat nephritis. It is available in supplement form for about $6 a bottle. Some people do have mild side effects from the root, including nausea, and it is not tested for pregnant women. It has been proven to interact with some hormone therapies, so contact a doctor before starting a Wild Yam Root supplement if you are on any type of hormone medication.
• Nettle seed tincture is another herb that can be used to treat nephritis.
• Astragalus root and cooked rehmannia root mixed together seem to be an effect way to improve a diseased kidney. There are many supplements available with the two ingredients, among other things. The supplements are available for about $15 a bottle.
• Salvia root has been proven to help with nephritis. Some people experience dry mouth, dizziness, weakness, edema in the hands and feet, shortness of breath, gastrointestinal problems, nausea, a fast heart beat, vomiting, and anxiety. The symptoms are usually very temporary. One hundred grams of salvia costs about $12.

Medicine used to treat nephritis

Generally, medicine prescribed when a patient has nephritis is to treat the cause of the inflammation. For example if a person has high blood pressure, they will be given pills to lower the blood pressure. The pills usually prescribed for blood pressure control when nephritis is a symptom are thaizide diuretics and beta blockers. Other medications prescribed are diuretic or anti-inflammatory medications. Diuretics work to get rid of excess fluid. If nephritis is caused by a bacterial infection, antibiotics will be used to treat the cause.

If the disease gets to the point where one or both kidneys are not functioning, dialysis may be needed. Dialysis is a process where toxins are cleansed from a person’s blood. Normally, the kidney does this job, but if the kidney is diseased, it may not be able to perform this task. Dialysis normally takes three to four hours, and usually is done in a hospital. Treatments cost around $44,000 per year.

If a kidney’s efficiency drops down to 15 per cent or less, a transplant may be needed. To be a candidate for a transplant, the heart and lung should be working well, the patient must be willing to follow a strict regiment before and after surgery, and the infection must be gone. Transplants can cost as much as $38,000.

Acne General overview

Blemishes, also known as acne, zits and pimples, are a skin condition that form as a result of excess oil and skin cells that have become clogged inside your pores. Blemishes can occur almost anywhere on the body, but are most commonly observed on the face, neck, back, shoulders and chest. However, you may notice acne on the upper arms, buttocks and areas of the body where you sweat.

Blemishes look like raised bumps on the surface of the skin that can vary in size and may have a white, red or even black appearance. These blemishes can become infected, causing pain, inflammation and even scarring once the acne has healed.

Severe Acne

Acne is often dictated by genes and the hormonal changes that come with the surging hormones and increase oil production of puberty, pregnancy and even adulthood. Many people think that eating greasy foods causes acne, but this is a common misconception. Most teens will develop at least mild acne, though some may never have a problem with it, and others may develop a severe case.

Severe acne can have a negative affect on your quality of life and self-esteem, and can even contribute to anxiety and depression. Some people, particularly teens, may become shy or embarrassed and may start to avoid social situations or having their photo taken.

Adults who develop acne later in life are usually unprepared and may find the appearance of blemishes stressful and humiliating. However, with the technology and medications available today, there are ways to treat and prevent virtually any type of acne.

Types

Whiteheads

Whiteheads form as the result of excess oil and dead skin cells which clog the pores. The pores are closed off by these materials and the surface of the pore appears white. This is the form of acne that most people are tempted to ‘pop’ or squeeze, but this should be avoided.

Blackheads

Blackheads are the result of pores that have become clogged with sebum and dead skin cells. In the case of blackheads, the pore surface remains open, allowing you to see into the pore which appears black.

Cysts

Excess oil can become a breeding ground for bacteria, and as the bacteria multiply inside the pore, the pore can become inflamed and appear red, swollen and become very painful and even warm to the touch. This type of severe inflammation can form cysts, which is the most severe kind of acne. Cysts often leave permanent scarring once healed.

Common irritants or behaviors that can cause or worsen acne include:

• Wearing restrictive clothing or equipment that can rub against the skin and cause irritation. Straps or other tight-fitting items that are often associated with sporting equipment, as well as bra straps and even turtleneck shirts can irritate acne. If you are on the phone a lot, or perform any activity where something is pressed against your skin or face (such as playing a violin), this can also lead to acne.
• Over-washing, using harsh skin care products, or not following directions for each specific product property can irritate acne.
• Stress. Stress can cause an inflammation response in the body as well as an increase in androgens, or male hormones, in both men and women. Both inflammation and higher levels of androgens can increase the production of oil and may increase the occurrence and severity of acne.
• Touching your face. Your hands and fingers contain oils that can irritate and contribute to the formation of acne.
• Sweat. Be sure to remove clothing after any physical activity that induces sweating, and if possible, shower to remove sweat from the skin.
• Hair also contains oils and if you have a style where the hair touches the face a lot (like bangs), you may experience an increase in acne in those areas.
• Medications. Some medications that can cause acne include corticosteroids, hormones, Dilantin (an anti-seizure medication), lithium and some birth control pills. Most medication related acne will disappear once you stop taking the drug.
• You have a job that involves handling harsh chemicals and oils.

At-Home Treatment

If your acne is mild or has not yet reached a point where you feel a trip to the doctor is necessary, there are a variety of effective products on the market for you to try. You should also follow a regular cleansing routine to keep bacteria and oil at bay.

Skin Care Tips:

• Wash the affected skin up to two times per day, and be sure to rinse well. Use warm or room temperature water as opposed to hot to avoid irritation.
• Use only water-based cleansers and avoid any products that contain oils or perfumes.
• To avoid infection, increased acne and scarring, resist the temptation to squeeze your pimples.

Use Over-the-Counter Products with these key ingredients:

• To unplug pores use Benzoyl Peroxide.
• To dry up blemishes use Alpha-Hydroxy Acid or Salicylic Acid. These ingredients also cause the top layer of skin to peel.
• To kill bacteria, use products containing Tea Tree Oil.
• You may find strips that were designed to unclog pores very effective. These strips are typically applied to wet skin on the face (usually the nose, chin and cheeks) and when dried, you pull them off. The sticky side of the strips pull blackheads and dirt as well as leftover make-up out of your pores.
• You can also find several over-the-counter kits that contain a series of products that are meant to be used as a treatment package. Some kits include heat activated products while others provide a gentle at-home alternative to microdermabrasion.
• There is a large market for products that are only available through the internet or telephone orders that you may have noticed on television. Skin care lines designed to combat and prevent acne such as Proactiv, ANSR Acne Care, Murad Acne Complex and Curactin all claim to be the most effect acne fighting skin care lines available and have been found to be effective. As a consumer, you need to research the ingredients, side effects and consumer reviews associated with each product, and consider the costs involved (typically around $20 for the basic starter package) before ordering.

Effectiveness

While this list of products as a whole are often effective for the treatment of acne, they may not work for everyone. The success of these products depends on your individual skin and may take some trial and error to find the product, or combination of products that treat and prevent your acne. It is very important to only use products as directed.

Cost

Over-the-Counter products found at your local retailer typically cost anywhere from $5.00 for a basic cleanser, and up to $50.00 for a kit that contains a series of products.

Tests and Diagnosis

When acne becomes a burden and you are unable to find any over-the-counter products that alleviate the problem, you may choose to schedule an appointment with your doctor. During your visit, she will perform a physical exam and will ask a series of questions pertaining to your medical history, including any medications you are taking. Women may be asked about their menstrual cycle to determine if fluctuating hormones are contributing to the problem.

Typically, your doctor will not need to do any special tests unless she feels that the acne is an indicator of high testosterone levels (in women).

Clinical Treatment Options – Acne

Your doctor may use one or a combination of any of these medications to help banish your mild to severe acne.

• Benzoyl Peroxide to unclog pores.
• Salicylic Acid to dry out the acne.
• Azelaic Acid, which unclog pores and promotes healing.
• Isotretinoin, which is a potent oral retinoid used to treat cystic acne and acne that is not responding to other medications. Side effects for this man-made drug can be serious and include severe headaches, chest pain, and severe birth defects. Women who are pregnant, nursing, or plan on becoming pregnant should not take this medication.
• Tretinoin, which is a topical retinoid.
• Oral or topical antibiotics like sulfacetamide or erythromycin.
• Women may be prescribed low-dose birth control pills such as Ortho Tri-Cyclen or Yaz. These medications are typically prescribed for women with mild acne, or acne related to their menstrual cycles.
• Medications known as androgen blocks which decrease the amount of oil production, such as spironolactone.

Note: Common side effects associated with these medications include yeast infections in women, and diarrhea.

Cost

These prescription medications can cost anywhere from $15.00 to $140 per tube or bottle. Be sure to check with your insurance provide for any potential coverage.

If you are experiencing severe acne, your treatment may also include one of the following procedures:

• Interlesional Corticosteroid Injection, which is injected directly into cysts that have become inflamed. The corticosteroid decreases inflammation and encourages healing.
• Drainage and Surgical Excision, typically used on large cysts. Your dermatologist will drain the cyst under sterile conditions. Never attempt this type of procedure at home as it can cause infection and scarring.

Clinical Treatment Options – Scarring

Your doctor may be able to lessen the appearance of acne scarring using one or more of the following procedures:

• Chemabrasion, dermabrasion and microdermabrasion, are all procedures remove surface scars through either a buffing type process or a chemical peel.
• Laser resurfacing which removes the top layer of skin.
• Gelatin implants or collagen injections which can improve the appearance of scars.

Note: These treatments often require aftercare instructions to reduce pain and swelling, like applying cold compresses and avoiding sunlight, so be sure to ask your doctor about these instructions and follow them as directed.

Most acne treatments, whether it is for the acne itself or scarring, take time to show noticeable improvement. You may wait 6 to 8 weeks before seeing changes and acne may in fact get worse before it begins to decrease.

Cost

Clinical treatments can be quite expensive, especially those used to treat scarring. While costs vary greatly between procedures and individual doctors, procedures are typically priced from $100 to $3000 per treatment. Be sure to check with your insurance provider for potential coverage.

General care for acne prone skin:

• – Avoid picking at or ‘popping’ blemishes. If done incorrectly or by using hands or instruments that have not been sterilized, popping blemishes can not only spread bacteria but may also increase blemishes and cause scarring.
• – Avoid skin products that contain oil or pore clogging ingredients.
• – Avoid products that contain harsh chemicals or perfumes as these may also irritate the skin.
• – Many hair products contain oils which could trigger acne. When showering, use any shampoos, conditioners or other hair treatments before washing any affected or acne-prone areas with a wash that contains ingredients like benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid.

Schizophrenia, also known as Paranoid Schizophrenia, Disorganized Schizophrenia and Catatonic Schizophrenia, is a brain disorder that causes those affected to interpret reality in an abnormal fashion. It is the most chronic and disabling of all mental disorders, and while this disorder can often be managed, there is no cure. It hinders the ability of those suffering from it to care for themselves, becoming gradually worse over their lifetime.

The term Schizophrenia, while meaning “split mind”, is often confused with split or multiple personality disorders. In reality, the term “split mind” refers to the way Schizophrenia distorts a person’s ability to express emotion, think, behave in social settings and their perception of the world around them. Those suffering from Schizophrenia cannot tell the difference between what is real and what is imagined. Without treatment, they are stuck in a frightening and confusing world.

The severity of schizophrenia varies from person to person. There are several subtypes of this mental disorder, with the main ones being Paranoid, Disorganized and Catatonic Schizophrenia. Paranoid Schizophrenics believe that either certain people or all people are attempting to harm them, whether for punishment or revenge.

Variations of the Disease

They are usually fairly in control of their emotions, speech and actions, yet go out of their way to avoid being found or harmed by imaginary villains. Disorganized Schizophrenics often have trouble performing normal activities such as showering, dressing or preparing a meal. They are highly confused, incoherent and childish.

They may come across as emotionless and respond inappropriately to everyday situations. A Catatonic Schizophrenic is generally unable to move or speak. A few assume odd postures and stay in these positions, and may repeat everything said to them. They are at an increased risk of malnutrition or inflicting injury upon themselves.

Symptoms

The first signs of schizophrenia are sudden and severe changes in ability to perform tasks and in a patient’s personality. Symptoms typically begin in the teens or 20s in men, and in the 20s or 30s in women. It is highly uncommon for a child to be diagnosed with schizophrenia, and even rarer for those over 40 years old to develop symptoms. Signs and symptoms of this disorder or usually divided into four categories: positive, negative, cognitive and affective.

Positive symptoms include anything that distorts a person’s ability to function normally. Delusions, which cause a person to misinterpret an experience, are one of the most common symptoms. Hallucinations cause someone to see or hear things that do not exist. The most common hallucination is hearing voices, though hallucinations can affect any number of the five senses, even smell and touch. Thought disorders and disorganized behavior cause someone to mix words together and excessively lose their train of thought, as well as experience unpredictable anger or silliness.

Negative Symptoms

Negative symptoms are often harder to detect, and includes losing the ability to function at a “normal” level (normal being the way a schizophrenic functioned before the onset of symptoms). Negative symptoms can be a withdrawal from society, loss of interest in usual activities, apparent lack in emotion, and an inability to make or stick to plans, neglect of hygiene and loss of motivation.

Cognitive Symptoms

Cognitive symptoms affect a person’s way of thinking. These symptoms are usually the most apparent to others and the most disabling for the person suffering from them, because they affect one’s ability to go about their daily life. It is thought that those with schizophrenia are born with these symptoms, but they usually do not have a major impact until the disorder itself actually starts. Cognitive symptoms include a lapse or absence of memory, difficulty or inability to pay attention and issues making sense of spoken, written or implied information.

Affective Symptoms

Affective symptoms cause the person to come across as odd, resulting in others avoiding or ignoring them. This leads to isolation, which contributes to a schizophrenic’s severe mood swings and/or depression. It is also common that those suffering from schizophrenia often entertain or act upon suicidal thoughts. Due to the nature of schizophrenia causing one to lose grasp of reality, it is often up to family or friends to find help for a loved one suffering because they are unable to see the problem them self.

Causes

While the exact cause of schizophrenia is currently unknown, it is known that it is primarily biological. Current research indicates that a variety of factors contribute to the development of this disorder, most notably genetics and the chemistry of the brain itself. Schizophrenia often runs in families, meaning the possibility of someone developing this disorder increases if one or both of the parents suffer from schizophrenia.

It is also believed that people with schizophrenia have a chemical imbalance in the brain, most often an extreme sensitivity to or overproduction of dopamine and/or glutamate. These chemicals are neurotransmitters that help nerve cells send messages, or “talk”, to one another. An imbalance of dopamine or glutamate interferes with the way a person reacts to certain smells, sounds and sights, and often leads to hallucinations and delusions, two of the primary symptoms of schizophrenia.

Neuroimaging

The newest research in schizophrenia has found, through neuroimaging, that the actual structure and function of the brain in many schizophrenics is abnormal. Abnormalities can also be found in the entire central nervous system, even the spine. However, this abnormality can also occur in people without the disease, though these findings do support the theory that schizophrenia is a brain disease.

Environmental factors can also play a role, more often than not being the cause of the onset of the disorder rather than the disorder itself. Viral infections, traumatic social experiences and continuous and large amounts of stress can trigger schizophrenia in those already predisposed to the disorder. However, schizophrenia can also become apparent when the body is undergoing hormonal or physical changes, typically puberty (which can last well into the twenties). Interestingly enough, the onset of schizophrenia is not typical in older adults, even women experiencing menopause.

Current Research

Current research is focused on finding one organic or neurobiological cause of schizophrenia, though as of now nothing has been found. Therefore, there is a debate among scientists and doctors as to whether schizophrenia is one disorder or a host of discrete syndromes not yet named. Because schizophrenics can present with one, a few or all of the current recognized symptoms, this theory of more than one disorder is not out of the realm of possibility.

Risk Factors

Among mental disorders, schizophrenia is relatively common. Almost 2.2 million Americans over the age of 18 will develop schizophrenia, and it is diagnosed worldwide in all races and cultures. It is most often developed during or closely after the onset of puberty, though children as young as five have been diagnosed.

Researchers have also identified certain risk factors that either increases the risk of developing schizophrenia or triggering it, including older paternal age, use of psychoactive drugs during young adulthood, stressful life circumstances, a family history of schizophrenia and exposure to toxins, malnutrition and viruses in the womb during the first and second trimesters.

Prevention

Because the exact cause of schizophrenia is unknown and varies from person to person, prevention of this disease is limited. The most effective prevention of schizophrenia is education, and includes public campaigns to provide information on early symptoms and signs. The earlier treatment is begun, the less likely it is to produce permanent damage to the individual.

People who are at a high risk for developing schizophrenia, such as those with a family history of the disease, often begin treatment before any signs of schizophrenia occur. This is highly controversial, as there is a very good chance that even those at increased risk of schizophrenia will never develop it, and the drugs used to treat and manage the disease come with a laundry list of possible debilitating side effects. However, many argue that the effects of late treatment of schizophrenia are more damaging than treating for a disease that may or may not present.

For those already suffering from schizophrenia, continued and thorough treatment is highly recommended. Any lapse in therapy can cause damage to the mental, emotional and physical life of the patient. Schizophrenics should be closely monitored for any lapse in treatment or sudden psychotic episodes even while on treatment.

Tests and Diagnosis

According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders published by the American Psychiatric Association, three criteria must be met in order for a person to be diagnosed with schizophrenia. Before diagnosis is even begun, all other mental disorders must be ruled out, as well as the use of illegal substances or alcohol. Then the patient must present with at least two of the common symptoms of schizophrenia such as disorganized speech or behavior, catatonic behavior, hallucinations, delusions or the presence of any one of the negative symptoms associated with schizophrenia.

The patient must also experience significant to severe impairment in their ability to perform daily tasks or attend school or work. However, if any one of the symptoms is severe enough (an example would be a patient constantly hearing the same or a number of voices for the majority of the day), diagnosis can be made based on the one severe symptom. Lastly, all of these symptoms must be ongoing for at least six months before an official diagnosis is made.

In order to determine if the requirements for a schizophrenic diagnosis are met, doctors perform a number of laboratory and psychological tests. Blood tests are used to rule out other disorders with similar symptoms as well as screen for alcohol or drug use, as abuse of such could produce schizophrenic-like symptoms. MRI and CT scans are also used to look for any possible brain or central nervous system abnormalities. Lastly, a mental health provider will assess the patient, and base their diagnosis on the patient’s appearance as well as their responses to questions regarding their delusions or hallucinations, moods, thoughts of suicide and potential for violence.

Due to the nature of schizophrenia, diagnosis is often largely based on reports from friends, family and onlookers. Because schizophrenia alters the way a person views themselves and the world around them, the reports of family and friends is often the deciding factor in the diagnosis of schizophrenia.

Treatment

Schizophrenia requires treatment from the onset of the disease until the end of the life of the patient, even if symptoms subside or disappear entirely. Treatment is restricted primarily to medication and psychosocial therapy. During psychotic episodes, hospitalization may be required to ensure the safety and health of the patient.

Treatment is typically administered by a trained psychiatrist, with support from psychologists, social works and psychiatric nurses. In severe cases, a manager may be appointed to coordinate the care of the patient, and the patient may require continued in-hospital treatment, especially in the case of those suffering from catatonic schizophrenia.

Medications

Prescription medications, most typically antipsychotic medications, are the main treatment for schizophrenia. Without medication, no amount of therapy or other natural treatments will be completely effective. However, due to the possible severe side effects of these medications, patients are often reluctant to take them.

Antipsychotic Medications

Antipsychotic medications control symptoms that are caused by an imbalance in the chemical neurotransmitters of the brain. The willingness of the patient to submit to treatment can affect the choice in medication, and may require additional medication such as Lorazepam to calm them enough to submit to treatment.

Atypical antipsychotics are newer medications, and are preferred by doctors for treatment of schizophrenia due to the lower risk of side effects. These medications include Aripiprazole, Ziprasidone, Risperidone, Clozapine, Quetiapine, Olanzapine and Paliperidone. The main side effects of these medications are weight gain, high blood cholesterol and diabetes.

Conventional antipsychotics frequently cause irreversible neurological disorders, such as tardive dyskinesia, a movement disorder. They are typically used only when atypical antipsychotics fail to work, and include medications such as Chlorpromazine (also known as Thorazine), Haloperidol, Perphenazine and Fluphenazine.

Considering the fact that treatment of schizophrenia is a lifelong process, these antipsychotics are also considered for use when cost is a factor, as they are often cheaper than atypical antipsychotics.

Medication Timeframe

It can take nearly a month after starting any medication to notice a significant improvement in a schizophrenic patient. The goal of medication is to use the lowest dosage possible, and doctors often try a number of different types of medications, dosages and combinations of the two to control symptoms. Often, antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications are also utilized to treat suicidal thoughts and the stress and fear of patients caused by their hallucinations, delusions and paranoia.

Psychosocial Treatments

Once medications take effect, psychosocial treatments are extremely important to help the patient return to and maintain a normal-functioning lifestyle. These can include social skills training to improve communication skills, family therapy to aid caregivers in supporting their loved ones, vocational rehabilitation to allow those suffering from schizophrenia to acquire and maintain a job, as well as individual therapy to help the patient deal with their illness as well as monitor medications and identify early signs of relapse.

Other Treatments

Electroconclusive therapy is used only when all other medications have failed. It is only recommended for catatonic schizophrenics, and involves using electric shock to induced seizures while the patient is under anesthesia. Typically, there are six to twelve electroconclusive therapy treatments. While highly controversial, this treatment has been proven relatively safe and effective.

The Soteria method of treatment involves patients living in a communal home with little to no medical staffing. Antipsychotic drugs are taken only by choice, and patients participate in excessive social therapies and classes. Recent studies indicate that those suffering from less debilitating cases of schizophrenia do just as well with the Soteria method as they would with the usual treatment of medication and therapy. The Soteria method is used primarily in Germany, Sweden, Switzerland and Hungary and is considered the more gentle and kinder way to treat the disorder.

Prognosis

The earlier treatment is begun for schizophrenia, the better the outcome. Researchers believe that the first two years of treatment, and continued treatment thereafter, has the most effect on a positive outcome for patients. The goal of treatment is to allow a person suffering from schizophrenia to function properly in society and maintain an independent lifestyle.

Studies indicate that at least 62% of those treated for schizophrenia meet this goal within five years of beginning treatment. Females, those who are older at the onset of symptoms and those in good physical health before symptoms occur are more likely to receive a good prognosis and reach some semblance of remission status, which is not yet clinically defined.

The stigma placed on those suffering from schizophrenia has diminished over the years, though it is still one of the main obstacles in a schizophrenic seeking out treatment. Increased public awareness of this disease, as well as continued research, can increase the rate of a good prognosis for those diagnosed with schizophrenia.