The skin is the body’s largest organ. Its functions are to protect the body, keep the body at a good temperature, and allow for the sense of touch. It is the only organ that is always exposed to the external environment. There is over 20 square feet of skin on an average human adult. The skin is made of three layers. The innermost layer is made of subcutaneous fat. This layer helps the body to stay warm. The middle layer is called the dermis. The dermis contains nerve endings, oil and sweat glands, and blood vessels. The upper layer is the epidermis. This layer is made up of mostly dead skin cells.

Any time the skin is irritated, it can become itchy. Itching is a common feeling that all people and animals get at some point in their lives. Around 20 per cent of adults experience some kind of itching on a regular basis. It can be a very discouraging and uncomfortable feeling. It is known in the medical field as pruritus.

It leads to a desire or reflex to scratch the area that is itching. Itching is a defense mechanisms which tells the spinal cord and then the brain when something is touching the nerve endings of the dermis layer of the skin. Scratching is the immediate response to the stimulus. Scratching has one goal and that is to remove whatever is bothering the skin. Itching brings on a feeling similar to that of pain, except that instead of the withdrawal reflex that pain leads to, itching leads to a scratch reflex. Itch receptors are also more sensitive than pain receptors.

Causes of Itching

There are over 1000 things that can make a person itch. For the most part, these things include anything that can touch and irritate the skin and certain diseases.

An itch can be caused by something physical or neurological. An itch can come on by skin irritation or as a symptom of another disease. Just thinking about itching can make a person want to scratch themselves. Itching can come on without any symptom at all when the skin is irritated. Itching can also be associated with dry skin, bumps, spots, blisters, or redness.

On a human, there are many small insects that can be the cause itching, whether by the presence of the insect or by its bite or sting. These include:

• Head lice
• Pubic lice
• Body louse
• Mosquito or chigger bites.
• Spider bits
• Parasitic infections

Other things that cause itching include:

• Urticaria, commonly known as hives, which is a common allergic reaction
• Fungal infections
• Certain skin conditions, such as dermatitis, psoriasis, scabies, and tinea infections. Tinea infections are commonly called ring worm, jock itch, or athlete’s foot.
• Hodgkin’s disease
• Xerosis, commonly called dry skin. This is more common in the winter time or after frequent hot baths.
• Scab healing or scar growth
• Development of moles, pimples, or ingrown hairs
• Dandruff
• Chicken pox
• Psychiatric diseases
• Certain medications
• Menopause
• Malignant or internal cancer
• Sunburns
• Dry air
• Pregnancy
• Withdrawal from certain drugs
• Chronic stress
• Some internal diseases such as liver disease, kidney failure, celiac disease, iron deficiency anemia, certain types of cancer, diabetes, or thyroid problems. In these cases, the itch usually includes the entire body.

Prevention of Itching

• If your skin is sensitive, take extra precaution when washing. Take baths instead of showers.
• Use bath oils to keep the skin moisturized.
• Use mild soaps. Supper fatted or oil based soaps are less likely to cause dryness, but should not be used all the time.
• Use moisturizer on your hands often.
• Use sunscreen when outside.
• After you get out of a bath or shower, immediately put on moisturizer.
• Use mosquito repellant.
• Drink lots of water.
• Don’t wear wool or acrylic fabrics. Cotton and silk clothing are good for itches.
• Use unscented and mild laundry detergent.
• Don’t scratch. While scratching can solve some of the less serious itches, it can also cause problems.

For the most part, avoid scratching. Long term scratching can lead to a condition called neurodermatitis. Neurodermatitis is characterized by thick, leathery skin. Scratching can also cause bacterial infections and permanent changes in skin color or even scaring.

Treatment of itching

Since itching is such a common problem, and is usually not serious, there are many remedies that can be done at home to soothe the itch. Some of these remedies are:

– Baking Soda. Baking soda can be used many different ways to relieve itches. One cup of baking soda can be added to a bath to soothe all over itches or itches that are hard to reach. A baking soda paste can also be made out of one part water and three parts baking soda. This paste is applied directly to the skin, but shouldn’t be used if the skin is broken.

• Oatmeal. One or two cups of ground oatmeal in a warm bath tub can soothe itches.
• Evaporated Milk. Add one can to a bath and let it soothe away the itch.
• Apple cider vinegar. One tablespoon in a bath can help an itch.
• Ice can often relieve the itchy area. If ice is not readily available, cold water can help.
• If it’s the hands or feet that are itching, and the reason is dryness, apply a layer of petroleum jelly and wear gloves or socks.
• Cut your nails short to avoid irritating the skin if scratching is a problem.
• If itching is caused by dry skin, a simple moisturizing lotion may be the solution.

Treating itches using herb

• Peppermint or yellow dock in a bath tub is supposed to help itches
• Burdock root oil applied to the skin will stop itching and heal rashes
• Fresh chickweed – Soak two large handfuls in water until it softens. Allow it to cool then apply onto the itching area.
• Cloves and Juniper berries – American Indians were known for using these two things to stop an itch. The berries have anti-inflammatory properties and the cloves numb nerve endings. To make this concoction, melt three ounces of unsalted butter. In a different pan, melt about two tablespoons of beeswax.
• Basil – Basil also contains a nerve numbing agent. To use on itches, place a half ounce of dried basil leaves in one pint of boiling water. Cover it and allow it to cool. Use a cloth to spread the tea onto the itch.
• Mint – mint contains substances that are both anti-inflammatory and anesthetics. Place one ounce of mint leaves in a pint of boiling water. Cover and wait until it cools. Strain the tea and use a cloth to spread the tea onto the affected area.
• Thyme -Thyme also has anesthetic and anti-inflammatory properties. Make a thyme tea using one half ounce of dried thyme in a one pint jar of boiling water. Just like the mint and basil tea, cover it and allow cooling. Strain the tea and use a cloth to spread onto the affected area. In China, this mixture will often contain an ounce of dandelion root as well.

Over the counter and store bought remedies for itching

Most over the counter medications for itching fall into two categories. They are either oral antihistamines or corticosteroid creams. Here is a list of some of the popular over the counter solutions.

• Aloe Vera Gel – Aloe vera gel is made from the aloe vera plant. When a leaf of an aloe vera plant is cut or crushed, a transparent fluid comes out. This fluid has soothing properties. It is commonly used for burns, but it also helps to relieve itching feelings. It is available for about five dollars a bottle.
• Ivarest – Ivarest temporarily relieves itching. It, like Benadryl, also blocks histamines. It can cause mild skin irritation.
• Calamine Lotion – Calamine lotion works well for itching that is associated with poison ivy, chicken pox, insect bites, and sun burns. It can occasionally irritate the skin or cause a rash. It can be bought for as little as $2 a bottle.
• Aveeno anti-itch concentrated lotion or cream – This lotion or cream brings quick relief to itches caused by minor skin irritations, insect bites, and chicken pox. There are no known side effects of the lotion. It can be bought for around $5 for an ounce of cream or $5 for 4 ounces of lotion.

Benadryl

There are many Benadryl products that can stop itching. Benadryl produces an anti itch cream that can be applied right onto the itch. It should not be used for chicken pox, measles, or on a large area of the body. Some people experience skin irritation when using the Benadryl cream. If an allergy or hives is what caused the itching, an oral Benadryl product can work to stop the itch.

Benadryl is an antihistamine. Histamines are what the body produces during an allergic reaction. Histamines cause swelling and sometimes itching. Benadryl blocks the histamines. Oral Benadryl has many side effects. Some of them include: tiredness, dizziness, coordination problems, heartburn, and thickening of bronchial secretions. All Benadryl products are available in most grocery or drug stores for under $15.

Doctors and Itching

If itching doesn’t improve in about two weeks, it is time to see a doctor. It is also good to seek medical attention if the itching is so severe that it distracts you from day-to-day activities. Unexplained itching or itches that include the entire body, or if the itch has other symptoms with it are also reasons to see a doctor.

When you see a doctor, the doctor will ask specific questions to determine the cause of the itch. The doctor may also perform certain tests if he or she thinks the cause of the itching is an internal problem.

If the doctor finds an underlying cause for the itching, he or she will treat that cause. When the cause is treating, the itching will go away. There are other ways that doctors may suggest treating itching. They include:

• Over the counter medications
• Light therapy – This is also known as phototherapy. During this procedure, the skin is exposed to specific wavelengths of ultraviolet light. Multiple sessions may be needed to get itching under control, and each session can be very expensive.
• Wet dressings – This is a process where medicated creams are put on the itchy area and then covered with a damp material made of cotton. The cotton is usually soaked in water before being applied.

Also called pertussis, whooping cough is a severe infection that occurs in the respiratory system from the Bordetella pertussis bacterium, also called B. pertussis. The condition received its name from the main characteristic of the infection which causes a quite severe spell of coughing that is concluded with loud whooping sounds as the person inhales. There was a time when the vaccine was not yet available, in which whooping cough claimed 5,000 to 10,000 people each year in the US. The development of the vaccine provided a treatment that was effective enough to severely decrease the death rate to less than 30, which has began to rise again in the most at risk patients.

Whooping Cough Becoming More Common

It is quite common and occurring more frequently in the most recent years. There are several cases that could occur with the symptoms lasting for about six weeks. There could be prolonged symptoms or short-term, but treatment must be sought out during the first onset of the infection in order for the main antibiotic used to be effective in treatment. If there is not prompt diagnosis or attention paid, the infection could run its entire course only causing minor coughing spells that over-the-counter medications are good for treating.

Whooping cough arrives with several symptoms, progressing with the infection, with various groups at a higher risk than others for getting the infection. Thos with a compromised or developing immune system are typically at a greater chance of developing the condition, in which case there is a slight chance of fatality if the immune system is considerably low.

There is a highly effective preventative measure involving the DTaP vaccine that will protect against infection. As this infection is highly contagious, the necessary safeguards should be in place, especially in school age children that are currently attending school or daycare.

There are also various complications associated with whooping cough which include:

• Pneumonia
• Convulsions
• Mental impairment
• Brain damage
• Apnea
• Death

Whooping cough also presents other severe complications such as a permanent seizure disorder that will afflict the infected causing an epileptic like condition. Nose bleeds and ear infections can also be quite common with bleeding in the brain also possible. There is a lack of oxygen that occurs during a spell or from a complication which is the cause of any brain damage or mental retardation.

With children being so susceptible to the infection, it is important to contact a doctor if there are any symptoms that resemble pertussis. Emergency should be contacted if there are symptoms of:

• Bluish tint to the skin
• Apnea, or periods of stopping breathing
• Seizures
• High fever
• Vomiting
• Dehydration

These symptoms could be an indication that there is a serious complication that requires immediate attention.
Infants are the most susceptible and most in danger in the event of the pertussis infection, therefore will require much more care and monitoring than adolescents and adults.

Many times, whooping cough can carry out its course and leave no effects other than the coughing which can be relieved through the use of cough suppressants and various home remedies that provide a better and more suitable environment for treatment of whooping cough.

Symptoms

Once there has been exposure to the bacteria, it will take about a week for the initial symptoms to present. These symptoms are very similar to a simple cold that will continue to progress. Typically, 10-12 days after the initial symptoms arrive there will be severe coughing spells that will end in a whooping noise when seen in children. The sound is the result of attempting to inhale and is rare in adults and children under six months.

When coughing spells begin, they may be followed by severe persistent vomiting and even possibly unconsciousness.

When vomiting accompanies coughing, this is a big indicator that there is pertussis present. Infants can have choking spells as a common symptom of the condition. There are other symptoms as well including cold and flu like symptoms such as a runny nose, a fever up to 102 degree Fahrenheit, and even diarrhea. These accompany the initial symptoms and can lead to a wrong diagnosis of the flu or a minor cold.

Many times in adults, the condition remains as a dry and persistent cough that could cause:

• Thick phlegm
• Vomiting
• Reddish or bluish face from lack of oxygen
• Extreme fatigue

Adults and adolescents don’t typically experience the characteristic whoop and will likely just experience progressive coughing spells. In some cases, apnea or pneumonia could develop, especially in the case of a compromised immune system due to other diseases or infections.

Causes

The bacterium Bordetella pertussis, also known as Bordetella parapertussis or B. pertussis, is a highly contagious bacterium that causes the upper respiratory infection, pertussis, or whooping cough. This is a very serious disease that has been seen in infants to cause permanent disabilities, including brain damage, and can even be fatal.

The disease is interpersonal, spreading from person to person as the infected cough into the air and the uninfected inhale the bacteria. The bacteria travel through the air in tiny droplets, seeking a new host to infect. The infection generally lasts up to six weeks, but could be more or less depending on the patient.

Once the bacteria have entered the airways, it will begin to multiply, producing toxins that inhibit the respiratory tract’s ability to rid the germs that try to invade. Thick mucus begins to accumulate within the airways, causing the coughing spells and whooping sound as children try to inhale. As the airways are narrow, the whooping is the effect of a gasp of air seeking travel through a tube in the lungs that has been severely narrowed. In some cases, this gasping goes on to cause choking or even unconsciousness.

Risk Factors

Since infants’ immune systems are still in development, they are not able to fight off infections as well as adolescents and adults. Typically, those six months and younger are the most at risk as the resistance to the disease doesn’t generally build enough strength until at least three doses of the vaccination have been administered.

As whooping cough cases have been on the increase, it is now thought that the vaccination effects will begin to wear off through time, leaving teenagers and adults more susceptible in the case of an outbreak of pertussis, which seems to be occurring often and regularly.

Aged adults are also susceptible as their immune systems are not as strong as they used to be and in many times are compromised due to other health conditions. This increases the risk during an outbreak. Any individual who has not received the vaccination is also at great risk of contracting the infection.

Prevention Tips

The most common and effective, as well as the main and most necessary prevention against whooping cough are the pertussis vaccine, which is administered in the DTaP imunization given to children. The immunization consists of diphtheria, tetanus, and acellular pertussis vaccines that are given in five doses routinely in most children before the age of six. It is now recommended that for added protection after the vaccine has begun to wear off, children 11-18 receive the new Tdap vaccine. The recommended age is between 11 and 12, and the Tdap replaces the traditional Td booster.

With whooping cough being so contagious, it is best to avoid public areas during an outbreak if the vaccine hasn’t been administered. It has been shown that up to 80% of family members that haven’t been immunized will develop the infection when in the same house as an infected person.

If exposure to an exposed family member or other individual occurs, it is imperitive to seek a booster dose for children that haven’t received all five doses, and antibiotics in adults to avoid spread of the disease.

The vaccine does have side effects that include fever, irritability, and soreness around the injection site. There can be more severe side effects in more serious and rare cases including:

• Persistent crying spells that last over three hours
• High fever
• Seizures, shock, or coma

Test and Diagnosis Considerations

Diagnosis typically begins with evaluation of the symptoms; however this can sometimes be difficult when the symptoms aren’t as obvious. There are some cases in infants when the symptoms can be from pneumonia, leading to more testing needed beyond symptoms checking. It is more often easier to diagnose in children from evaluation of the symptoms due to the whooping sound that accompanies the cough.

There is usually a sample taken of the mucus secreted from the nasal passage, which is sent to the lab and tested for the B. pertussis bacteria. This is a time-consuming test, which causes many treatments to already be started before results are shown.

There are blood tests used to diagnose the disease by showing an elevated white blood cell count indicating an infection is present. There are some patients that will show a complete blood count with high numbers of lymphocytes present. There may also be a throat culture taken in order to test at the lab for the bacteria.

In some cases a chest X-ray is used for the physician to look for any type of inflammation or fluid present in the lungs. This is a sign of pneumonia which could complicate the pertussis and create a higher fatality risk. This is a worst case scenario for children as they are often unable to fight off both conditions at once.

Treatment Options

The actual treatment taken to rid whooping cough is determinant upon the patient including information such as:

• Health and medical history
• Severity of the condition
• Tolerance for medications, procedures, and various therapies
• Expectations of the course of the infection
• Patient preference

The most acute infections when caught in the later stages may only require minimal treatment, which typically consists of cough and respiratory relief.

The actual treatment of whooping cough greatly depends on the patient. Infants are more likely to receive hospital care for treatment as the disease is much more dangerous in that age. Intravenous fluids are also often used in children that aren’t able to keep fluids or foods down.

There will be a quarantine of the infected patient to prevent further spreading, with treatment for adolescents and adults being more appropriate within the home. There are several remedies used to treat, as well as medications in order to kill the bacteria and restore the respiratory tract.

Herbal and Home Remedies

There are many herbal and home remedies that provide relief of the symptoms and aid in the healing process. The most important tips given to alleviate the coughing spells and ease the treatment process for in-home treatment include:

• Make sure to get plenty of rest.
• Drink many fluids, including water, juice, and soup.
• Eat small and frequent meals.
• Vaporize the area.
• Maintain clean air within the home: no smoking.

Garlic is often used as a very effective remedy for whooping cough. Syrup of garlic taken in five drop to one teaspoon doses two to three times per day can have a great effect in treating the infection. If there are more frequent and violent coughing spells and the condition is worse, the dose frequency can be increased. Almond oil is another effective treatment that can provide great relief of the symptoms. Honey, onion, and at least 10 to 12 glasses of water can wash the system of the toxins and replenish the respiratory tract. There are several other herbal and home remedies that can greatly benefit patients suffering from whooping cough.

Medical Treatment

It is encouraged to seek treatment for pertussis early to simplify the treatment process. Early treatment can be highly effective with antibiotics like erythromycin, which can alleviate the symptoms much quicker. Although most patients are diagnosed too late for effective treatment with antibiotics, they will still be given to prevent spreading of the disease.

Any infant 18 months or younger should be receiving constant supervision to monitor breathing. During continuous coughing and choking spells, infants have a tendency to stop breathing which could cause mental dysfunction or death. The more severe cases should be receiving 24/7 hospital care until the infection has been fully treated. Many times, there will be an oxygen tent used that provides high humidity and promotes the unblocking of mucus, allowing easier breathing.

Over the Counter Medicine

Once antibiotics are no longer useful as an effective treatment, a minor infection will commonly be treated with cough relief using over-the-counter cough medicine. The infection will be monitored either from home until it has dissipated and there are no more symptoms.

Erythromycin is typically the main drug used for treatment of whooping cough. If the patient seeks treatment before the coughing spells have begun, Erythromycin is effective at preventing the progression to the paroxysmal stage, which is when the coughing begins. If the coughing spells begin, it is necessary to treat the symptoms, but no medications can target the bacteria.

Surgery

Surgery is not a typical treatment for pertussis as it is an infection and cannot be treated with any form of surgery. However, there are cases when whooping cough creates a larger underlying condition that may require some sort of surgery. This could include the development of a hernia or other intestinal or organ issues. The severe coughing spells can create a force within the body that can damage some organs and specific areas.

Whooping cough is a quite common disease associated with the B. pertussis bacterium that is spread very easily. There are many patients each year treated for whooping cough and many times the infection remains minimal. There are some cases, however such as in infants where more serious attention must be given to the disease as their immune systems are not properly developed or as strong as others. Proper treatment of pertussis can vary depending on the age of the infection, age of the patient, and the severity.

Special Treatment Options

While most cases can be solved with rest and nourishment, there are some cases that can provide such restraint on the respiratory system that death can occur. There are always other conditions that can affect the patient and cause more severe and life-threatening issues, such as pneumonia. In the case of pneumonia, proper treatment should be sought out and there should be isolation of the infected person to ensure that spreading of the infection does not occur.

Children may be required to remain in the hospital for the duration of the infection to ensure that there are no further and more permanent complications associated with the disease.

Avoidance

To avoid getting the B. pertussis infection, it is necessary to avoid unsanitary contact with those who may be infected, as well as ensure that all children immunizations are administered to ensure protection. Children can be much more susceptible to the more serious risks and complications associated with the disease, which causes more urgency to ensure that all immunizations and boosters are received per schedule.

Flatulence is a subject with a bit of a stigma attached; not really appropriate for polite conversation, and not something that is encouraged in most settings. But the reality is that flatulence is extremely common and is a natural occurring process that most people experience. While this may be the case, some individuals are afflicted more severely by excessive flatulence, and it is good to know that there are remedies available to try and alleviate this problem.

What is Flatulence?

Present in your intestines at most times is a mixture of different gases, known as “flatus”. Flatulence occurs upon the expulsion of these gases. Flatus occurs through a combination of bacteria and yeast located in the gastrointestinal tract, and upon a buildup of pressure, is released through the anus. While a buildup of gas in the intestine can result in pain and bloating, its release in the form of flatulence, while able to provide relief, is typically not deemed acceptable in most social settings.

Ever the source of bemusement by adolescent males, flatulence is oftentimes accompanied by sound and a noxious odor. Excessive flatulence can be a sign of gastrointestinal problems, a needed change in diet or other digestive difficulties.

Symptoms are flatulence are pretty straightforward. They include bloating, pain in the abdominal area, excessive belching, and persistent expulsion of gas. These symptoms can present themselves regularly or vary according to time of day, food and drink consumed and overall digestive health.

Flatulence is also often termed as farting, passing gas, breaking wind, releasing flatus, and tooting. Regional nomenclature is also common.

What Causes Flatulence?

There are many things that can cause flatulence. One is an abundance of swallowed air. Some people have a condition that causes them to swallow more air than normal, and the nitrogen content in the air is typically expelled as flatus, as it does not absorb well into the lining of the intestinal tract. Another cause is a diet that is rich in fiber.

While this will keep waste disposal regular and does a great job cleaning out your system, it also leads to an increase in flatulence. As well, a diet that is high in fat can lead to an excess amount of carbon dioxide in the digestive system, which can lead to more flatulence.

Medical Conditions

There are also documented medical conditions that can lead to an increase in flatulence. For instance, there are digestive disorders that affect the gastrointestinal tract, such as gastroenteritis. This is an inflammation of the intestinal tract, mainly concentrated in the stomach and the small intestine. It can lead to excess gas, bloating, as well as diarrhea. It is typically contracted by contact with contaminated food or water.

Another medical condition that can lead to flatulence is irritable bowel syndrome. Along with abdominal pain and unusual bowel movements, IBS can lead to an increase in flatulence. It is documented that emotional stress can actually exacerbate the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome. If bloating and flatulence in excess are present over a long period of time, it can be a sign of a more serious medical condition, such as colorectal cancer, also known as colon cancer. This is the third most frequent cause of cancer-related deaths in the western world.

Risk Factors of Flatulence

Use of antibiotics: While using are necessary at times to treat infection, they do have minor side effects, including destruction of normal bacteria in the bowels. These bacteria are necessary for proper digestion, and if they are not present, that can lead to a buildup of gas.

Intolerance to certain foods:

Dairy products can cause a buildup of gas and bloating in some people. Sometimes, the body is not properly able to break down the lactose sugars present in dairy products, leading to a buildup of gas. Another common irritant is gluten, which is typically found in many wheat and grain products. If people are sensitive to gluten, it can lead to gas and diarrhea.

Constipation:

If digestive waste is not being properly expelled from the colon, it also can lead to bloating and a buildup of gas. In this case, flatulence might be welcome to relieve the pressure, but oftentimes, gaseous expulsion in this case can be difficult.

Irritation by artificial sweeteners:

A small portion of the population has an aversion to sweeteners found in some sugar-free drinks and foods, such as sorbitol. If the digestive system has a low tolerance for these artificial sweeteners, gas and diarrhea can develop.

Chronic health conditions:

Certain health conditions, whether developed or pre-existing, can lead to an excess of gas and bloating. These include diverticulitis and Crohn’s disease. These can lead to constipation and the inability to move gas and feces through the rectum.

All of these factors can lead to painful distension, or bloating, of the abdominal region. A normal person passes gas at a rate of ten to twenty times per day. Going above that for an extended period of time can be a sign of a larger problem. If pain in the abdomen persists for a long period of time, or if excessive flatulence alters the normal routine of your life, then it might be time to seek out a medical professional.

If abdomen pain and excessive gas is accompanied by blood in the stool, fever or vomiting, seek medical attention right away. However, if it just a matter of a little excessive flatulence, there are some home-based remedies that have been shown to lessen the amount of gas.

Remedies for gas buildup and flatulence

Home remedies

First off, it is important to get a clear understanding of what causes gas and what symptoms you are experiencing. Oftentimes, excessive gas can be limited simply by understanding what foods in your diet are leading to high gas buildup. As mentioned previously, high-fiber foods will lead to excess gas in the gastrointestinal system. If you are experiencing heavier-than-normal amounts of flatulence, examine how much of the following high-fiber foods you are eating and see if cutting back on them can help limit gas:

• all types of beans
• cabbage
• brussels sprouts
• cauliflower
• greens

If certain foods seem to affect you the most, simply make a note of these and try to avoid them as much as possible. Many dairy products can be difficult, so either limiting them or eating them with other food can help. Make sure you are drinking plenty of water to help digestion. There are really no risks with this, and it can be a simple step to alleviate gas buildup. Plus, it could save you a little money at the grocery store. Replacing some of these high fiber foods with other healthy options can help lessen gas buildup, but still provide a positive lifestyle choice.

Diet and Lifestyle Choices

Speaking of lifestyle choices, making some subtle changes that will not significantly impact your life can also provide more comfort and lessen your bloating and gas. One simple one is limit the amount of gum you chew and candies that you suck on. Not only will lessening these sweets prove healthy for your overall well-being, but chewing gum and sucking on candy both increase the amount of air you swallow. When you sit down to a meal, try to make it a relaxed occasion.

Quick eating can lead to increased swallowed air, and if you are hurried or stressed when eating, this can negatively impact the digestion process, leading to bloating and excess gas. Lastly, another choice with multiple benefits is to not smoke. Not only does tobacco lead to a myriad of health problems throughout the body, but the act of smoking also increases the amount of air swallowed.

If you’re looking for a quicker fix that can provide quick relief from excess gas, there are kitchen-based home remedies that have been tried and provide alleviation of pain in many people. Among these natural remedies are:

• Mix 2 teaspoons of brandy with warm water and drink at nighttime.
• Chew on ginger slices that have been soaked in a lime juice solution. Doing this after meals can limit the gas buildup from the foods you’ve just consumed.
• Also after a meal, a drop of dill oil mixed in with some honey can provide gas relief.
• Combined a teaspoon of ground pepper, a teaspoon of dry ginger and a teaspoon of ground cardamom spice seeds. Dissolve this in water and drink about an hour after a meal for a natural gas pain reliever.
• Lastly, try a little peppermint! Not only will it freshen your breath, but peppermint leaves or a cup of peppermint tea will provide menthol, which aids in the digestion process, by soothing the smooth digestive muscles of the GI tract. However, be aware that in a small portion of the population, peppermint can lead to heartburn and mild cases of acid reflux.

If you don’t have some of these ingredients on hand, and you are suffering from occasional bloating and bouts of flatulence, pick some up the next time you are at the supermarket. They are not costly, and having them on hand in the future can provide a much-needed quick relief from abdominal discomfort and odorous flatulence.

Medication Remedies

There are both over-the-counter and pharmaceutical remedies available that can lead to relief from gas buildup, abdominal pain and bloating.

Over-the-counter

There are a number of digestive enzyme products that are available without a prescription. These supplements can help the body better digest carbohydrates and can allow many people to eat foods that would otherwise produce excess gas and bloating. One common one is enzyme lactase, which aids in dairy and lactose digestion.

One well-known all-natural solution is Beano. This product will help you not have to avoid eating the high-fiber foods like beans and vegetables. It has been designed to counteract a food intolerance known as Complex Carbohydrate Intolerance. These carbohydrates, found in many healthy foods, are not always digested properly if a digestive enzyme known as alpha-galactosidase is deficient. Beano naturally contains this enzyme and works with the body’s digestive system to break down these carbohydrates. It is relatively inexpensive and can be found at supermarkets and wholesale clubs.

Many parents have experienced the difficulty of a baby with gas problems. One popular treatment is Mylicon, which are drops that are safe for even newborns, as they are not absorbed into the baby’s system. The active ingredient in Mylicon is simethicone.

The good news is there are no common side effects of note from taking these medications, and risks to take them are minimal.

Prescription Medications

If you seek assistance from a doctor for excessive flatulence, belching, or abdominal pain, a doctor may prescribe medicine, especially for someone with something like irritable bowel syndrome. A couple of these medicines include:

• Activated charcoal: You can take these tablets both before and after you eat to help with absorption and digestion of various toxins that can lead to a buildup of gas. There are many brands available, both in drugstores and a natural food store.
• Simethicone: This is a medication that dissolves gas bubbles, which, in some cases, can provide relief from buildup and gas pain.

Other Alternative Treatments

Along with traditional remedies and medications, some people benefit from psychological treatments as well. Since digestive health is assisted by low stress and reduced anxiety, some people are helped by relaxation or behavioral therapy. This is typically tried only after dietary and lifestyle changes are attempted, and problems with flatulence and bloating are still present.

Flatulence in Other Cultures

Flatulence is typically seen as a publicly embarrassing activity in most cultures, but can also be seen as a source of amusement. However, in some cultures (mainly Asian), farting in public is seen as no more uncouth than coughing. In Japan, the kombu kelp (a type of seaweed) is seen as a natural remedy to counteract the production of gas. The typical diet of a region, and its reliance of high-fiber foods, oftentimes directly correlates with the acceptance of flatulence in that culture.

Flatulence, while seen by some as taboo, is a naturally occurring process that is perfectly normal and is helpful in relieving minor, typical gas buildup in the gastrointestinal system. Flatulence has even been erroneously identified as a cause of the rise in greenhouse gases being released into the atmosphere.

Expulsion of methane, primarily from bovine, is thought by many to be released as part of the flatus, when, in fact, the majority of it is expelled through exhalation or belching, meaning cow farting is having a minimal environmental impact.

In humans, when it becomes excessive, however, steps can be taken to alleviate the pain, discomfort and potential embarrassment that flatulence can cause.

Through careful attention paid to dietary concerns, lifestyle choices and advice of a medical professional, flatulence is something that can be controlled and perhaps even celebrated as a vital part of our digestive health.

Appendicitis is an inflammation of the appendix. It causes severe pain in the abdomen and can be treated surgically. An appendectomy is an operation to remove the appendix.

The appendix is a small tube, shaped rather like a finger. The average appendix is approximately 4 inches long and about 0.31 inches in diameter. It is closed at one end, and at the other is attached to the cecum, a pouch shaped part of the colon of the large intestine. This section of the large intestine is near to the place where it is joined to the small intestine. Food travels from the stomach, through the small intestine and into the large intestine, passing the appendix on its way.

Type of Organ

The appendix itself is usually considered to be a vestigial organ, that is one that no longer has any function. Some research points to possible secondary functions for the appendix, but it is not an essential organ, and it is possible for a human to live a perfectly healthy life without an appendix. One secondary function that has been suggested for the appendix is that it could provide an environment in which useful bacteria can grow, and perhaps one in which they can survive when illness, specifically diarrhea, flushes bacteria out of the digestive system. Another suggestion is that the appendix could play a role in the immune system, since it usually contains many lymphoid cells, which are involved in the fight against infections.

Appendicitis is a common condition that affects one in every fifteen Americans. It usually presents in patients between the ages of 10 and 30, and is very rare in children under 2 years of age.

Medical Emergency

Appendicitis is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention. If left untreated it can be fatal, since the inflammation can increase until the appendix bursts, releasing the contents of the intestine and infectious material into the abdomen. The resulting infection, known as peritonitis, requires strong antibiotic treatment in order to save the patient. If left untreated, the patient can go into shock and die.

Abscesses, which are pockets filled with pus, can sometimes form on the outside of an infected appendix. These must be treated before the appendix can be removed. If the abscess tears, the pus will leak into the abdomen, where it could spread the infection.

In some cases, the infected appendix can be sealed off from the abdomen by scar tissue produced by this type of abscess on the outside of the appendix. This can prevent peritonitis, since it becomes impossible for infectious material to be leaked from the appendix. It is not possible to recognize an abscessed appendix before conducting surgery, however, therefore all cases of appendicitis must be treated as emergencies with the potential to develop into peritonitis.

Symptoms

The first symptom of appendicitis is a dull pain that occurs near the upper abdomen or navel. It then moves down towards the lower right of the abdomen, becoming a sharp pain over a period of several hours. The pain generally increases over approximately 12 to 18 hours, becoming very severe. The patient will often be unable to find a comfortable position or to sit still, due to the pain. In some cases, the pain may occur in a different part of the abdomen than would usually be expected, particularly when the patient is a child or a woman who is pregnant.

Other common symptoms are:

• Nausea or vomiting, soon after the abdominal pain begins
• Loss of appetite
• Swelling of the abdomen
• A fever (99 to 102 degrees Fahrenheit)
• An inability to pass gas

Some patients may also experience other symptoms. In approximately half of the people who have appendicitis, there will also be a sharp or dull pain elsewhere in the abdomen, the back or the rectum, cramps, diarrhea with gas, constipation, pain when urinating, or vomiting before the abdominal pain begins.

Anyone who is experiencing the symptoms of appendicitis should seek medical attention as quickly as possible. Many people begin by making an appointment with their family doctor, since their symptoms have not yet become severe. If the doctor suspects appendicitis, they will then be referred on to a surgeon. If the pain has become severe, then the patient is likely to seek help at the emergency room instead, and be transferred to surgery from there.

Diagnosis

If a patient arrives at the hospital or a family doctor’s offices with abdominal pain that may be appendicitis, the doctor will want to know how long the pain has been there, how severe it is, where exactly in the abdomen it is, and whether there has been any change in the pain since it first began. They will also ask whether there have been any other symptoms.

A doctor will perform a number of diagnostic tests when a patient presents with some or all of the symptoms of appendicitis. A number of other conditions can cause similar symptoms, therefore it can be difficult to correctly make the diagnosis, and the patient may not be able to recognize the condition for themselves.

The doctor will physically examine the abdomen to check for any inflammation. They will probably press down upon the abdomen and ask the patient whether there is any change in the pain. In cases of appendicitis, the pain increases when the pressure is released. This happens because the peritoneum is inflamed. The doctor will also check for any rigidity in the abdomen, and whether the patient’s muscles are reacting to the pressure by becoming tense. This is known as guarding, and is common during appendicitis.

They will usually also perform a rectal exam and conduct tests on the blood and urine to check whether the body is fighting off an infection and to rule out the possibility that the patient is actually suffering from a urinary tract infection. A high count for white blood cells in the blood test implies that the patient has some sort of infection. Urine tests can identify urinary tract infections, and if there is are red blood cells in the urine when it is examined under a microscope, it suggests that the pain is being caused by kidney stones rather than appendicitis.

A CT scan or an ultrasound may also be used to investigate the abdomen. This can confirm the diagnosis of appendicitis, or find any other reasons why the person could be suffering from abdominal pain.

It is usual for the doctor to recommend surgery whenever appendicitis is suspected, even if they are not entirely certain that the patient is suffering from this condition, since it is vital to operate as quickly as possible if the condition is present.

Causes

Appendicitis occurs when the appendix is blocked. This blockage can be caused by stool, a foreign body, cancer, or swelling of the appendix due to an infection.

Risk Factors

Anything that increases the chances of a blockage that could affect the appendix can increase the risks of developing appendicitis.

There is no way to prevent appendicitis, but when the symptoms do occur, it may be possible to reduce the chances of the appendix rupturing. The best way of preventing this is to get medical attention before the appendix can burst, but there are certain things that anyone with suspected appendicitis should avoid, since they can cause an inflamed appendix to rupture. They should not eat or drink anything, take any pain medication, laxatives or antacids, or use a heating pad.

People who eat plenty of fiber are less likely to suffer from appendicitis, so a diet rich in fruits and vegetables may reduce the chances of developing this condition.

Treatments

Appendicitis is treated by surgical removal of the appendix. A dose of antibiotics is usually given before the operation in order to protect the patient from the possibility of peritonitis developing.

If the appendix has abscessed, then the patient may need to have an operation to drain the pus before the appendectomy is performed. The pus is drained through a tube that is inserted into the abscess. The patient will usually need a few weeks to recover from this procedure before the appendix can be removed. Patients who have an abscessed appendix will therefore require two separate operations.

If the appendix has burst, then treatment with antibiotics will also be necessary in order to cure the resulting infection, which is known as peritonitis, since the lining of the abdominal cavity is called the peritoneum.

There are two ways in which an appendectomy can be performed. Both require a general anesthetic, which will put the patient to sleep while the surgery is performed.

An open appendectomy requires an incision of about four inches in length to be made in the abdomen, through which the appendix is removed. If the appendix has ruptured, or if there is an abscess on the appendix, then an open operation will probably be necessary, since it provides the surgeon with the opportunity to clean out the abdominal cavity.

A laparoscopic appendectomy is conducted through a number of much smaller incisions in the appendix. This technique uses a laparoscope, which is a thin instrument with a camera on the end of it that can be inserted into the abdomen and used to find the appendix and provide a view inside while performing the procedure. Since the incision is smaller, patients whose appendectomy was laparoscopic will usually recover from the operation faster from those whose operation was open.

After the surgery, the patient will usually need to take pain medication while the incision is healing. There are no alternative therapies that can help to treat appendicitis, but there may be strategies that can help the patient to cope with the pain they experience while recovering. Some patients benefit from techniques such as guided imagery while dealing with postoperative pain. This involves imagining a favorite place in order to create a distraction from the pain. Other activities such as listening to music, watching TV, reading or talking with a friend, can also help patients to forget about the pain.

There is some recent evidence that antibiotics alone may be an effective treatment in some cases of appendicitis, without the patient having to undergo surgery. This treatment is currently being tested in clinical trials. It depends upon recognizing which patients are at low risk of the appendix rupturing, which there is not currently a reliable means of doing.

Traditional Remedies

There are no traditional cures that can treat appendicitis, but there are some remedies that have been used in the past to cope with this condition. None has been scientifically proven to be effective, and it is essential that anyone who suspects they have appendicitis visits their doctor and receives proper treatment.

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, certain herbs are believed to be able to treat appendicitis. A scientific study was conducted on 425 patients with appendicitis. They were given herbal preparations from Chinese medicine. Some patients also received antibiotics. Most of the patients who were included in the study experienced an improvement in their condition, without having an appendectomy, but 30 of the patients relapsed with appendicitis soon afterwards. Although these results are interesting, and may suggest possible research topics for the future, surgery is still the only option for curing appendicitis.

In addition to herbal remedies, acupuncture and electro acupuncture have been used in Chinese medicine in order to treat appendicitis. No clinical trials have been conducted to test the efficacy of these treatments.

Outside of the Chinese tradition, other cultures have attempted to treat appendicitis with herbal remedies. Homeopathic remedies for the condition include Bryonia and Belladonna. Indian ayurvedic medicine suggests a number of remedies for mild cases of appendicitis, including drinking buttermilk, carrot or beetroot juice, or water in which fenugreek seeds have been boiled. There is no scientific evidence that any of these herbal remedies work for appendicitis.

Traditional remedies are unlikely to help in cases of appendicitis, although some may help to improve the digestion or to alleviate some of the symptoms. In ayurveda, for example, ginger is suggested as a remedy for nausea and vomiting.

Alternative therapies for appendicitis probably only exist because of the difficulty in diagnosing the condition, which may have led to supposed cures when the patient did not in fact have appendicitis. Practitioners may also have believed that they cured appendicitis when the condition was very mild and resolved itself, with no help from their remedies. This could have led to the treatment being passed down over the generations as a remedy that was believed to help people with appendicitis.

Prognosis

If the condition is treated quickly, with an appendectomy and antibiotic treatment if the appendix has burst, then the prognosis is good. The patient should expect to spend a day, or possible two days, in the hospital after receiving the surgery. It will take up to three weeks for the patient to recover from the operation, but there should be no further problems and they will be able to lead a completely normal life, without their appendix. Open surgery requires a longer healing period than laparoscopic surgery. The patient will also take longer to recover from their appendicitis if the appendix burst before it could be removed.

Patients who have had an appendectomy should contact their doctor if they experience any dizziness or faintness, uncontrolled vomiting, blood in their urine or vomit, increased pain in the abdomen or the incision, redness or pus in the incision.

During the recovery period, the patient can take a number of measures to help themselves to heal and to avoid complications resulting from the surgery. They should avoid any strenuous physical activity. If the procedure was performed laparoscopically, they will need to limit their activity for between three and five days after the surgery. If their operation was open, then they should avoid any physical strain for ten to fourteen days afterwards. The recovery time will vary between patients, but the doctor will be able to advise on when each patient can return to their normal activities.

While the patient is recovering, they should be careful when they are coughing, laughing or otherwise placing a strain on their abdomen. They may feel some pain when doing any of these things. The abdomen can be protected during these actions by placing a pillow across the abdomen and placing pressure upon it in order to brace the stomach.

Once the patient is ready to begin moving around again, they should begin gradually and start with short, sedate walks. It is important that the patient does not try to push themselves too hard before they are ready to return to their normal lifestyle. The doctor will be able to advise the patient on when they should expect to go back to work or take up other activities again. Children who have undergone an appendectomy are usually able to return to school after about a week, as long as they avoid any particularly strenuous activities such as sports and gym classes, which they should usually avoid for between two and four weeks after surgery.

While they are recovering, the patient should ensure that they get plenty of rest and sleep. The healing process can use up a lot of energy, and they may require more sleep than they normally get, and could feel sleepier than usual.

The patient will probably be taking some pain medication during the recovery period. If this is not effective, then they should contact their doctor in order to discuss the problem. They may need to take a different type or dosage of medication, or there may be a complication with the healing incision.

Complications

Any surgery that requires a general anesthetic presents some risk to the patient. There is also a chance of a postoperative infection. If the appendix ruptured prior to removal, then complications are more likely to develop due to the spread of infectious material through the abdomen. There is a 59 percent chance of a complication occurring after a burst appendix, compared to a chance of 3 percent when the appendix was removed before it could burst.

There are an estimated two cases per million in which appendicitis leads to death in the US, due to the high levels of health care that are available. Death is usually caused by peritonitis after an untreated appendix has ruptured.

Cost

An appendectomy can be expensive since it is a surgical procedure and because it usually requires a stay of at least a day in hospital. Some patients may need to stay for several days. A number of tests are also required before the diagnosis of appendicitis is made.

There are stories of people in the US paying up to $30,000 for appendicitis treatments, but the cost is usually lower than this. It is not unusual for the patient to pay between $10,000 and $20,000. The Healthcare Blue Book, a guide to medical costs, lists the price of an appendectomy carried out in the US in 2010 as $10,856. This price is based on the average fees charged to patients, but some people will be asked to pay more than this.

Eye Infections

Types, Symptoms, Causes and Cures

The first step to treating an eye infection is to identify what type of eye infection you have. There are many types of eye infections, including bacterial, viral and fungal. Allergies can also cause eye irritation that can closely mimic an eye infection. Many types of eye infections may be treated at home with no ill effect, and with a recovery time of around five days.

Explore some causes, types and symptoms of several common eye infections here, and find out what can be done to treat this condition at home. Also, learn when to recognize signs that medical attention is required. All information presented here is done so for educational purposes, and is not a replacement for being under the care of a physician. If severe eye pain, decreased vision or high fever are present, seek professional medical attention immediately.

Common Symptoms of Eye Infections

In some types of eye infection, the first symptoms may be a discoloring of the sclera. The sclera are the parts of the eyes commonly referred to as the “whites”. Some eye conditions, like pink eye or conjunctivitis, can cause the sclera to take on a pinkish hue or even turn blood-red during a flare-up. Yellowing of the sclera is not typically a sign of an eye infection, and could indicate more serious medical problems, such as liver problems. See a doctor immediately if the “whites” of the eyes take on a yellow tinge, or begin to turn gray.

The eye or eyes may also weep bodily fluids such as mucous or pus when infected. The presence of pus coming from the eyes can be a sign of contamination of the eye by fecal matter. The ooze that comes from the eyes should not have a bad odor, but may feel sticky and tacky.

As the patient sleeps, fluids from the infected eye may drain into the lash line and form crusts. When the patient awakes and attempts to open their eyes, they may even find the eyelashes essentially glued shut by the dried fluids. The crusty pieces of dried material shouldn’t be pulled off the lashes, as this can cause the lashes to be painfully ripped out.

Removing the Gunk

If the eye or eyes have become encrusted with the weeping secretions after being closed for a long period of time, there is an easy way to safely remove the “gunk” and allow the eye to open comfortably. A clean washcloth can be immersed in hot water, wrung out and applied to the lashes. As the heat and moisture softens the material, it may be wiped from the eye more easily with a clean tissue. Do not use fingers near an infected eye unless the hands are thoroughly sanitized and washed before and after contact. Never allow anyone who hasn’t washed their hands to touch an infected eye.

Pain and itching are two additional common symptoms of most eye infections. These symptoms can present before or after the onset of reddening of the eyes, but all three are usually present at some point of an active eye infection. Rubbing the eye during an infection may provide temporary relief, but should be avoided as it can cause more bacteria to spread and in some cases may even scratch or damage the eye. If fluids from the eye form crusts, tiny pieces of the dried-up material could become lodged inside the eyelid and cause damage if rubbed around.

If there is more itchiness than pain, there may be an allergic reaction going on rather than an acute infection.

Causes and Cures for Common Eye Infections

In many cases, contracting the occasional eye infection is just a part of life. Children pass “pinkeye” around school, and then bring it home. Dirty hands touch an eye, and the next day, there is weeping and itchiness. However, sometimes an eye infection is a serious medical matter that must be treated by a physician. In cases where symptoms of eye infection persist without positive progress beyond three days, or if symptoms are unbearable, it is recommended the patient see a doctor immediately.

There are cases where eye irritation is caused by allergies as opposed to infection. Exposure to pollen or other irritants can bring on an allergic episode that mimics infection in many ways. The exception to this is most people suffering an eye allergy will not experience pus or weeping. In these cases, bothersome symptoms may resolve significantly with a combination of oral allergy medications and the use of saline eye drops or “artificial tears”. Many over-the-counter allergy medications and eye drops are available to help treat the condition at home.

Do You Need Medical Treatment

For minor viral or bacterial infections of the eye or eyes, professional medical treatment may not be required. In many cases, such as with bacterial/viral conjunctivitis or “pinkeye”, a dose of common sense may be treatment enough. Inexpensive, simple things such as practicing good hand-washing techniques, washing all bedding and frequently replacing used bath towels with clean ones may be enough to stop the spread of the infection.

Pinkeye and Antibiotics

Pinkeye is a bacterial form of conjunctivitis, often caused by the transfer of and contamination by fecal matter. Anyone experiencing the symptoms of an eye infection such as pinkeye should avoid touching their eye for any reason. If the eye or area around the eye is touched, the patient should immediately wash their hands. Members of the patient’s household should also practice good hand-washing techniques, and never share towels or pillows, especially during a time when an infection is going around.

Though they should speed up the healing process, antibiotics may or may not be deemed necessary for a simple eye infection. A few days of rest and hydration should help promote the body to heal on its own. However, for families that easily share germs and routinely catch each others’ illnesses, antibiotics can help those with bacterial eye infections become non-contagious faster than on their own. Those patients diagnosed with a viral eye infection will not be prescribed antibiotics, as viruses aren’t affected by them.

Eye Drops

Antibiotics for a bacterial eye infection are usually prescribed in the form of eye drops. If eye drops are to be applied by someone other than the patient, the person applying the drops should wear gloves or wash their hands thoroughly before and after assisting the patient. The applicator tip on the bottle of eye drops must not touch the eye or the medicine can become contaminated, and allow the bacteria to breed in the moist conditions of the capped bottle.

Treating a viral eye infection doesn’t require a doctor’s visit unless prescription pain medication is desired. Typically, symptoms will begin to dissipate after a few days of rest. Clean, cold compresses can be applied to the affected eye or eyes to soothe itching and reduce inflammation of the eyelids. When the eyelids swell slightly from inflamed tissue, this can cause an uncomfortable feeling of pressure, and the counter-pressure of a compress applied lightly to the eye can alleviate that feeling.

Avoid Making it Worse

Never rub or scratch at the eye, during an infection or at any other time. Friction between the eyelid and the eyeball can cause damage to the cornea, and result in prolonged discomfort. Applying gentle pressure with a clean tissue or washcloth can help with some of the more frustrating symptoms of an eye infection, and do so without causing further irritation or damage like rubbing may.

The use of artificial tears or saline eye baths may provide some relief from itching, burning reddened eyes, and are typically safe to use during an infection. There are many types of over-the-counter eye drops that may help, but be sure to read the package labels. Some eye drops are geared more toward allergy sufferers, and other are for sensitive eyes. Avoid eye drops medicated with menthol if severe pain or burning is present, as these drops will likely sting beyond the point of being worth any potential relief.

Are There Safe Home Remedies For Eye Infections?

While there are numerous home remedies many people swear by in terms of curing the painful and unpleasant symptoms of an eye infection, home remedies involving pouring anything on one’s eye should be approached with extreme caution and restraint.

One supposed home remedy for relieving the irritation of an eye infection involves lemon juice. Lemon juice is highly acidic, and while it is unlikely even undiluted lemon juice would cause permanent damage, it will likely sting and burn.

Aloe vera has incredible soothing properties when used as a topical salve on burns, poison ivy and other skin irritations.

Some people suggest applying some of the pure aloe vera secretions directly into the eye with a clean fingertip can help cure an eye infection, though these patients do so at their own risk.

Another homemade eye solution for an eye infection involves a more soothing natural substance: honey. Mix several tablespoons of pure honey in a cup of water, boil for one minute and allow the solution to cool. Place several drops of the solution into the eyes with an eye dropper. Honey may have anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties, and should not make the infection worse as long as the solution is boiled and cooled completely before use, and applied with a clean eye dropper.

Using Tea Bags

Regular black or green tea bags that have been steeped in warm or cool water may help reduce swollen eyelids and redness of the eyes. The natural antioxidants and tannins in the tea may also provide some comfort from itchiness and burning. Placing tea bags on an infected or irritated eye shouldn’t have any adverse effects. If using warm or hot tea bags, always test the heat by placing the tea bag on the inside of the wrist for a moment before applying to the eyes.

In general, when it comes to the eyes, it is better to err on the side of caution than to introduce a harmful substance that could cause permanent injury. Though lemon juice, tea and honey are unlikely to do any real harm, they also have no proven impact on clearing an eye infection or improving eye health.

Causes For Concern

Sometimes eye irritation is more than a sign of a simple eye infection. Rarely, symptoms may be severe and indicate serious medical conditions. For example, acute glaucoma can present with symptoms including redness and eye pain, similar to many common eye infections. However, if the eye pain is very severe and gets worse as time goes on, and if vision is cloudy or otherwise impaired, see a doctor right away. Acute glaucoma can result in permanently decreased vision or even blindness in extreme cases.

Temporal arteritis is another serious condition that requires immediate medical attention. This condition can be marked by pain and redness in the eye, but also with more full-body symptoms such as fever, body aches and pain and other flu-like signs. Pain in one or both temples, along with the other symptoms listed, may indicate temporal arteritis. This is an inflammatory disease that only a physician should attempt to treat. An aggressive round of oral antibiotics will likely be prescribed as treatment for this condition.

A kidney stone is a small stone shaped buildup or concretion that forms within the kidney as a result of a calcium or other buildups within the urinary tract, ureter, or other area within the bodies digestive system. The concretions are also known as calculi, which is a crystal aggregation. There are a few different types of kidney stones and vary according to what mineral is primarily found in the buildup.

Alternative Names for Kidney Stones

Nephrolithiasis is the name given to the condition of having kidney stones. Ureterolithiasis is the physician’s term for having a calcium buildup in the tube that connects the bladder and the kidneys. This tube is called the ureter. Urolithiasis is the term for the condition of having a calcium buildup in the urinary tract, including within the kidneys or in the urinary bladder.

The condition of having kidney stones in other animals, such as cats and dogs, is often called bladder stones and is similar to urolithiasis.

Symptoms That Accompany Kidney Stones

The most common symptom associated with kidney stones is a severe pain in the groin area that can extend into the body and across the lower back. This pain may be continuous or come and go in spurts. This pain will typically increase in degree and become more defined with time. Other symptoms associated with kidney stones include:

1. Nausea and vomiting as the result of the intestine becoming infected.
2. Small amounts of pus in the urine.
3. Reduced amount of urine which is caused by the kidney stone obstructing the urinary tract.
4. Hydronephrosis is the dilation of the renal pelvis and can often accompany kidney stones.
5. A burning sensation while urinating. This symptom can also be the cause of many other urinary disorders such as a urinary tract infection.
6. Small traces of blood can be found in the urine of a person who has kidney stones.

If the kidney stones are small enough, the person may not feel any of these symptoms and can pass the kidney stone through the urinary tract without even noticing any pain. Other symptoms may also be present that are not directly caused by kidney stones but can be the result of an infection or other problem. These symptoms can include a high fever, diarrhea, trouble sleeping, and severe headaches.

Causes of Kidney Stones

Kidney stones and calcium crystals within the kidney can be caused by some condition such as renal acidosis, medullary sponge kidney, or Dent’s disease. If a person is known to have one of these disorders or a similar one, they may be subjected to recurring kidney stones. The most common form of kidney stones is a buildup that consists of calcium oxalate crystals and is caused by excessive calcium intakes or an inability of the kidneys to digest this calcium.

Some activities may cause kidney stones, besides a health disorder. These activities might include not drinking enough water or a sudden change in diet. When your body does not get enough water, the kidneys are less able to pass salts, minerals, and other substances through the urine. This will cause a buildup that eventually forms kidney stones.

Uric acid is another cause of many kidney stones. Uric acid is a chemical that is produced from purine and is the final oxidation product of purine metabolism. This acid is typically excreted in the urine, but if it is unable to be released may cause a buildup that will eventually form a kidney stone. This form of kidney stones is more common in mammals other than humans.

It is common to have kidney stones occur in members of the same family for several generations. Tests are still being performed to determine how kidney stones may be part of a persons genetics.

Risk Factors for Kidney Stones

Family history plays one of the largest roles in determining whether or not a person may contract kidney stones. If someone in your family has a strong history of kidney stones, you are more likely to develop the problem, also. If a person has had kidney stones in the past, they are more likely to get them again at some point in the future.

Adults are much more likely to have kidney stones than children. Also, adults over the age of 40 are at the greatest risk of having kidney stones. Men are much more likely to have kidney stone problems then women, and race is not known to play a factor in kidney stone development.

A person who becomes dehydrated on a regular basis or has a history of dehydration is at a high risk of developing kidney stones. This is due to the important role that water plays in the digestive system and organs such as kidneys. People who have a high BMI (Body Mass Index) or are generally obese and overweight are linked to having an increased risk of kidney stones.

A person who has been diagnosed with one of several digestive diseases or has recently had a surgery that is related to the digestive system may develop kidney stones. Some of the digestive diseases that may be related to kidney stones include inflammatory bowel disease and chronic diarrhea. Surgeries such as gastric bypass surgery may cause kidney stones.

How to Prevent Kidney Stones

The best way to prevent the presence of kidney stones is to eat a healthy diet and to be involved in regular exercise. A good diet to avoid kidney stones should not be excessively high in protein, sodium, or sugar. The diet should also follow a few of the following tips:

1. A diet high in fiber will help to have a healthy digestive system with properly functioning kidneys. Oats, beans, wheat, cabbage, and carrots are all examples of foods that are rich in fiber.
2. Do not eat meat excessively, especially beef and pork.
3. Get the recommended amounts of calcium. Try to get your calcium intake from dairy products such as milk, cheese, and yogurt.
4. Avoid dark green vegetables, nuts, chocolates, and other foods that are known to be high in oxalate. Vegetables are healthy, but do not eat them excessively.
5. Cut back on salt intake. Salt buildup is one of the most common ways in which kidney stones begin to form.

Another recommendation given by scientists and physicians is to drink more fluids. The more fluids you drink the clearer your urine becomes. If you notice clear urine, it is a sign that your kidneys are functioning properly. Most physicians recommend 8 to 10 glasses of water every day. If your body is not used to this much water then you should not immediately begin drinking 8 to 10 glasses per day, begin by increasing your water intake by 1 or 2 glasses per day until you can handle adequate amounts of water. If you notice that urine is a dark yellow color then this might be a sign of not enough water entering the kidneys.

Tests and Diagnosis Considerations when Dealing with Kidney Stones

Urine and blood tests are the most common methods of diagnosing kidney stones. Doctors will look for blood, calcium, and high amounts of protein in the urine, which can denote the presence of an obstruction or irritation within the urinary tract. X-ray and radiological imaging techniques are also used to diagnose kidney stones. Because calcium is very dense, they can be detected by most hospital X-ray machines. The X-ray will show a buildup within the kidney, ureters, and bladder.

A physician may also perform an Intravenous Pyelogram, or IVP. This test requires that a special dye be injected into the patient’s bloodstream just passed the kidneys. An image can be taken following the injection of the dye which will reveal any buildup locations.

Computed tomography, or CT scans can be used to detect the presence of a kidney stone. This is a method that is used only in extreme cases and not when other methods can be used because of the relatively high cost associated with CT scans. Another drawback of using CT scans is that the patient is exposed to small amounts of radiation.

Ultrasound imaging is another useful tool when diagnosing kidney stones. Ultrasounds can detect the presence of a swollen kidney, which suggests that there is some type of obstruction in the bloodstream just past the kidney. Many hospitals and physicians will use ultrasound techniques first when diagnosing kidney stones because it is relatively inexpensive and poses no severe risks.

Treatment Options

Herbal and Home Remedies to Treat Kidney Stones

Kidney beans have long been regarded as one of the most effective home remedies for kidney problems. A common mixture is to boil the inside pods of the beans in water for six hours and then straining the liquid and allowing it to be cooled. Patients should drink this mixture every two hours for 1 to 2 days.

Basil and celery are vegetables that are helpful in fighting against kidney stones and other kidney related problems. Apples, grapes, pomegranates, and watermelon are fruits that have essential vitamins and minerals used to keep your kidneys healthy.

Scientists have shown that vitamin B6 and pyridoxine are effective treatments of kidney stones. Physicians recommend doses of roughly 100 milligrams of vitamin B6 and other forms of vitamin B be taken to cure kidney ailments.

Pharmaceutical Treatments for Kidney Stones

Kidney stones are generally known to pass through the body’s digestive system within 48 to 72 hours on their own, though often cause excruciating pain. Because kidney stones can pass through the body without help, most medications prescribed to patients are pain killers.

Narcotics can be prescribed to help reduce pain if over-the-counter medicines do not allow for pain relief.

Scientists have been able to create several medications that can speed up the process of passing a kidney stone. The most common form of prescription medication is what is known as a “calcium channel blocker”, typically nifedipine. Nifedipine is known by product names such as Adalat, Procardia, and Nifediac.

Alpha-blockers are also used in treatment of kidney stones. A common alpha-blocker is the prescription drug Flomax.

A non-invasive procedure called lithotripsy is often used to break up larger kidney stones. Lithotripsy involves the use of shock waves to break large kidney stones into smaller pieces that can be more easily passed through the urinary tract and urinary system.

Surgical Treatments for Kidney Stones

Several surgical techniques can be used to treat kidney stones, but are typically only used in the case of extremely large buildups accompanied by intolerable pain. The operation is often avoided because of the costs of performing any type of surgery. Kidney stone surgery allows the surgeon to enter the urinary tract through a small incision in the skin and remove the crystalline buildup and kidney stones. An instrument that is called an ureteroscope is allowed to enter the ureter through the urethra and bladder.

Risks associated with this type of operation are small compared to other types of surgeries, because it is not extremely invasive. However, as with any surgery there is always the risk of complications due to heavy bleeding or a poor reaction to anesthesia.

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.