DiseaseIllness

AIDS: is now a commonly-used term for Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome and also for HIV/AIDS; WHO uses the term to กฐdenote the entire health problem associate with HIV infection.กฑ

American Foundation for AIDS Research (AmFAR): was co-founded in 1985 by Dr. Mathilde Krim and by Dr. Michael Gottlieb. It remains an influential advocate for HIV/AIDS research and programs.

Anal sex: Sexual intercourse when the penis is inserted in the anus. Often used as a birth control measure by young adults.

Antibiotic: A substance that kills or inhibits the growth of organisms. Once considered a magic bullet
antibiotics are now commonly used to combat disease and infection. Indications are growing that many human viruses and bacteria are becoming resistant to current antibiotics.

Antibody: Members of a class of proteins known as immunoglobins. Antibodies may tag
destroy and neutralize bacteria
viruses or other harmful toxins. Antibodies attack infected cells
making them vulnerable to attack by other elements of the immune system.

Antigen: A foreign protein that causes an immune response (the production of antibodies to fight antigens). Common examples of antigens are the bacteria and viruses that cause human disease. The antibody is formed in response to a particular antigen unique to that antigen
reacting with no other.

For Detailed info about AIDS education: http://treatments-4-incurable-diseases.us/healthtalk/?p=76

If you or someone you know has a history of cancer
it is important to be aware of the potential health consequences from cancer and its treatment. Frequently
patients and families are not informed or do not recall discussions that occurred during the stress-filled days after diagnosis about such potential problems as pain
depression
infertility and other physical and emotional changes. Regardless of whether problems are temporary or permanent
most can be managed.

To begin to address the many and varied health-related needs of long-term cancer survivors
the American Journal of Nursing (AJN) recently released a report
based on a July 2005 symposium
that offers action strategies and recommendations.

"The late effects of cancer and treatment for survivors diagnosed as adults remain poorly documented
said Pamela J. Haylock, MA, RN, symposium co-director, cancer care consultant and doctoral student at the University of Texas Medical Branch School of Nursing in Galveston, TX.
Yet up to 75 percent of survivors have some health deficits related to their cancers and therapies. Knowing about potential risks and learning and using risk reduction strategies are important steps in survivors' recovery."

Nurses recommend that cancer survivors heed the following advice:

• Incorporate regular exercise
stress management
a healthful diet and weight control as part of a healthy lifestyle.

• Schedule regular health checkups.

• Ask your oncology team for a written summary of your cancer diagnosis
treatments
tests and recommended follow-up once treatment is complete. Create a folder to organize diagnostic and laboratory reports
and give it to your current health care provider to make a copy for his or her records.

• Ask your nurse or physician to help you and your caregivers learn about possible long-term effects of your cancer therapy and ways to prevent or minimize them. Effects differ from person to person; therefore
educating yourself is important.

• Inform physicians and nurses about your previous cancer history
treatment
current medications and long-term effects you may experience
including infertility
early menopause
indigestion
dry mouth or taste changes
constipation
diarrhea
sleep issues
fatigue
dry skin
memory loss
changes in thinking
vision or hearing problems
depression
relationship/sexuality issues
anxiety
confidence issues
pain
tingling
or numbness or swelling in the fingers and toes.

• Look for resources to assist with any physical
emotional or financial issues that you may experience.

Helpful Internet sites are www.acor.org
www.cancer.org
and www.canceradvocacy.org.

Adult Scoliosis is a spinal abnormality that occurs during adulthood
or is a continuation of the disease that was undiagnosed or ignored during childhood or adolescence.

Adult Scoliosis is generally idiopathic
which means that its cause is unknown. However
several other types of Scoliosis also occur in adults. These include congenital curve
paralytic curve
and myopathic deformity.

A congenital curve is present at birth
and if undiagnosed or untreated
may worsen in adulthood due to age and weakening of the spine. This results in Adult Scoliosis. A paralytic curve may be caused by an injury to the spine
while myopathic deformity may result from diseases like polio or cerebral palsy. Degeneration
osteoporosis
and spinal surgery are other causes of Adult Scoliosis.

Signs of Adult Scoliosis include one shoulder or hip higher than the other
a rib or back hump
and one arm longer than the other. Severe cases of Scoliosis are often accompanied by pain because the abnormal curvature creates pressure on the spine. This may even lead to difficulty in walking.

Doctors subject individuals suspected to be suffering from Scoliosis to the Adam’s Forward Bending Test. Test results are confirmed through X-ray
CT scan
or MRI. Treatment options include medication
physical exercise
bracing
and surgery.

Medication is recommended by doctors to relieve pain caused by Scoliosis. Physical exercise
such as walking
cycling
and swimming
helps to keep the body fit and maintain a correct posture. These counter the deforming effect of Scoliosis. Exercise also helps to reduce pain. Physical therapists can design exercise programs to suit the different needs of patients. Bracing in adults is used to ease pain and discomfort rather than prevent worsening of the curve
while surgery is generally used as the last resort.

Surgery becomes essential if the spinal curve is greater than 50 degrees and is accompanied by continuous pain. It is also conducted if the curve is increasing
because this could cause heart and lung problems. In certain cases
deformity caused by the disease necessitates surgery.

To conclude
Scoliosis in adults can be largely avoided through proper treatment of the disease in its early stages
during childhood or adolescence. The earlier the treatment commences
the lesser will be the pain and discomfort
and chances of surgery. Leading a healthy lifestyle can also curb its occurrence during adulthood.

Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) is usually identifiable in early stages of childhood. There are instances when the disorder continues until adulthood if treatment is not prompt or effective. This is known as Adult Attention Deficit Disorder (AADD). The impact of AADD is severe compared to ADD because as an adult
coping strategies are required to a greater extent with regard to disorganization and other symptoms of the syndrome. The visible signs and symptoms of the disorder in adults are as below:

Impulsiveness. ADD adults have difficulties handling their impulsiveness. Sudden bouts of anger
impulsive spending
butting into conversations
and breaking relationships are all side effects of impulsiveness. This in turn leads to lack of cordial atmosphere and feelings of regret at later stages.

A high level of distraction. The ADD adult is always thinking of a myriad subjects and incidents that leave him/her unfocused and distracted. Apart from this
external stimuli introduce further distraction to the overactive mental process. When the adult leaves home and mixes with the society
he/she is bombarded with words
visuals
and noises that disturb and irritate.

Anxiety and lack of focus. Since the patient is also on the thinking track
there is tendency to do the task at hand with lesser concentration. This leaves them confused as to why mistakes occur in their work or why they leave their work half-completed. The patient resorts to writing important things in hand notes or schedulers.

Impatience. Just like children with ADD
adults too are fidgety with staying put in one place. They are always taking in things
keeping their hands busy
or keeping engaged in multiple activities. This tends to make them feel exhausted at times.

Socializing problems. Making friends
retaining relationships
caring for family members
and working co-operatively with colleagues are a strain for ADD adults due to their impatience and impulsiveness. This further brings down trust levels.

Lack of planning and disorganization. It is difficult for ADD adults to comprehend instructions
work procedures
do time estimates
and complete work within deadlines. They are unable to chalk out tasks involved in an activity and estimate the time likely to be taken for completing each task. This issue is the result of all the factors discussed above.

Memory problems. Short term memory loss is a hurdle for ADD adults that leads them to forget the task at hand or instructions given only a little while before. Their mind tends to jump from though to another in a matter of minutes
leaving them with no idea of the real situation.

Several strategies such as maintaining reminders in mobile phones
keeping notes in calendars and schedulers
attending skill-developing sessions
and deploying pneumonic to remember things would help these adults lead a comparatively normal life.

One of the things people with Adult ADHD symptoms really struggle with is procrastination. And procrastination really comes out of fear. What kind of fear?

There are two main fears people with Adult ADHD symptoms face when they try to start a big project.

1. How do I know I'm choosing the right thing to work on?

2. How do I know I won't fail
especially if I don't know anything about this yet?

First of all
you've got to ask yourself
What am I so afraid of?
Let’s just bring it out into the open. If I pick an opportunity
the fear becomes
Oh, my gosh. What am I going to miss?


The truth is
the second someone with Adult ADHD focuses on something
you're missing a lot of other things. That’s just the way it works.

It’s not about the opportunity. It’s not about which Internet-type thing you should be doing. It’s "why." You've got to ask yourself
How would this particular opportunity fit in with my larger vision?


Some people with Adult ADHD might not feel like they know exactly what they want to do with their whole lives. And this is where a lot of fear about choosing what to do next comes from.

Well
you know what? Whatever you want to do with your life right now
it probably is going to change at some point (especially if you have Adult ADHD). Just because you're going full tilt on something right now doesn't mean you have to do that for the rest of your life.

It does mean that
if you're going to spend your time doing something
it should be something you're incredibly passionate about to begin with
something that you'd like to spend all your time on anyway.

Most likely
if you have Adult ADHD symptoms
you'll find yourself in the exact same situation at some point in the future. It happens. You work really hard. You go full speed at something
and occasionally
you look up and you say
What the heck am I doing?


That's ok. At that point
if you really want to
you can shift your focus. No one's stopping you. But don't let that fear stop you from starting.

The second fear those with Adult ADHD symptoms feel has to do with how much there is to learn about a subject or skill
and the information overload that occurs so often with Adult ADHD.

My experience was
I said
I'm going to learn this Internet thing. I'm going to go out and I'm going to learn everything that I possibly can,
and I didn't realize at the very beginning that there were so many different subspecialties. It’s an entire industry.

You could be a specialist in list building
in search engine optimization
in advertising or all these different subspecialties
and you realize that what you're trying to do is go out and learn an entire industry. Of course
it doesn't really work that way.

You don't go out one day and say
Okay, I'm going to be a lawyer,
and understand every aspect of law. Even lawyers have to pick a specialty
be it corporate
criminal
bankruptcy or whatever. You don't say
I'm going to go out and learn everything there is to know about foreign language,
right? You pick one.

So
if that is true
that brings up another question for people with Adult ADHD symptoms: "What sub-specialty do I pick then? I have to pick one."

Again
we're teaching you ways to think with your Adult ADHD brain instead of against it here. As you're thinking about the anxiety of having to pick one area of specialty
for example
to grow your business or to work on in your life
remember that people with Adult ADHD symptoms have something that they use automatically every day they don't usually appreciate
and that is a very highly-developed intuition.

Intuition is why people with Adult ADHD make snap decisions all the time. You're really good at it naturally. It’s coming from your gut.

But you need a clear head to do it. So if you've got information overload
and you can't decide to focus on one thing
how do you clear your head?

What you need to do is this: You need to go on an "unsubscribe" campaign! Start with the information you have coming in on your computer every day.
You should continue subscribing to or buying the information from the people that you intuitively know are going to help you with your one main focus. But clear out the rest
so you don't even see it. Let your computer sort it so your head doesn't have to.

Do this with other things in your life too. Once you decide what you're main focus is (at least for now)--then "unsubscribe" or disconnect from anything
and anyone
that doesn't contribute to that one goal.

Then you can get down to the business of choosing a specialty and learning all about that one thing. You'll be amazed how much more focused you'll be
automatically! To learn more about how to beat procrastination and focus on your goals with Adult ADHD
see below.

ADHD stands for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and it is a chronic condition that can have a great impact on a child if a child does not get help
or if the right ADHD treatment is not prescribed.

Some of the most common symptoms of ADHD are impulsivity
inappropriate behavior
and hyperactivity. These children have difficulty staying on task and completing projects
which if not identified and treated early can be a huge barrier throughout the school years and eventually on the job. Before there was a diagnosis
these children were just seen as having lots of energy
or were just wild and always getting into trouble. Now that ADHD treatments are available
parents have the option of getting their child help so that they can be more productive in school and have fewer disruptions at home.

Not all parents and professionals agree on what type of ADHD treatment is the best
or if it should be used at all. Some parents feel that it is unnatural to treat a child with prescription medication that could have significant side effects
or otherwise harm the child. Side effects are dose dependent and can be lessened by reducing the dosage or switching to a different medication. Many times behavior modification therapy is not effective on its own
which is why ADHD treatment usually requires use of a stimulant drug. Stimulants have a paradoxical effect on children; these drugs do not increase hyperactivity
which is a normal response in adults
but help the child focus
control behaviors
and improve self-esteem. Stimulants used in ADHD treatment help children to complete tasks
learn more efficiently
and interact more positively with their peers.

Physicians and psychiatrists develop individualized ADHD treatments for each child
because not all experience the same symptoms or have the same level of severity. There can also be other conditions that are present as well
such as mental or physical disorders that need to be addressed in addition to ADHD treatment. Such conditions may have a great impact on how the child responds to therapy
and if not treated simultaneously will tend to slow down progress. There are a number of sites on the internet that discuss ADHD
the symptoms
and how to go about getting help for your child. ADHD treatments and the controversies surrounding them are also discussed in depth. If you suspect your child has ADHD have him or her evaluated by a professional as soon as possible
so that your child can get the treatment he or she needs.

While most people enjoy casino gambling
sports betting
lottery and bingo playing for the fun and excitement it provides
others may experience gambling as an addictive and distractive habit. Statistics show that while 85 percent of the adult population in the US enjoys some type of gambling every year
between 2 and 3 percent of will develop a gambling problem and 1 percent of them are diagnosed as pathological gamblers.

Where can you draw the line between harmless gambling to problem gambling? How can you tell if you or your friend are compulsive gamblers? Here you can find answers to these questions and other questions regarding problem gambling and gambling addiction.

What is the Meaning of Problem Gambling?
Problem gambling or compulsive gambling is defined as an uncontrollable urge to gamble despite the destructive effect of gambling on the gamblers life and despite feelings of guilt and remorse. Problem gambling tends to have a negative effect on the gamblers financial state
relationships and daily life. Severe cases of problem gambling can be defined as pathological gambling.

Am I a Compulsive Gambler?
1
Do you gamble until your last penny runs out?
2
Do you gamble to win back your former losses or debts?
3
Did you ever had to borrow money to continue gamble?
4
Did your gambling habit ever made you lie to your friends or family?
5
Did you ever skip work or other obligation to gamble?
6
Do you tend to gamble to forget about your personal problems or to celebrate happy occasions?
7
Does gambling have a negative affect on your daily life or relationships?

If you have answered yes on at least one of the questions listed above
then you have a problem.

Can Anyone Become a Compulsive Gambler?
Theoretically
yes. Any gambler can develop gambling problem regardless to the type of gambling he is occupied with
the amount of money and time he is spending on gambling. Researches show that slot machines that can be found in bars and convenient stores are the most addictive type of gambling activity
while lottery draws and bingo games are located on the other end of the scale. Gambling addiction is an emotional problem; its symptoms
causes and treatments are similar to any other form of addiction.

How Can I treat Gambling Addiction?
1
Group Therapy:
Gamblers Anonymous offers a 12 step self help program similar to the one offered to alcohol addicts in Alcoholics Anonymous. Group therapy also offers gambling addicts advice and support from professional counselors and other gambling addicts in different phases of their recovery process. Gambler Anonymous centers are available in more than 1
200
locations statewide.

2
Individual Therapy:
Cognitive or behavior therapy can help gambling addicts to identify their unaware thinking and acting patterns
which led them to gamble compulsively
and to replace them with controllable and healthier ways of thinking.

3
Psychiatric Medication:
It has recently been proven that antidepressant medications from the family of SSRIs
selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors can be affective in treatment of gambling addicts.

ADD is often accompanied by a coexisting condition. On the other hand
often ADD and these other conditions have similar symptoms and
therefore
are easily misdiagnosed. Of course
this creates a plethora of problems as these disorders
when separate
must be treated differently. A misdiagnosis will lead to ineffective treatment. As coexisting conditions
these are especially of concern
because they increase the severity of many of the symptoms of ADD
as well as the negative impact on those that suffer them.

One such condition is Oppositional Defiant Disorder or Conduct Disorder. Children with this disorder tend to be very aggressive and defiant. They usually lose their tempers very easily and challenge authority figures. This is the most easily diagnosable behaviors
as teachers and parents become aware of this conduct quickly and seek treatment almost immediately. This particular disorder is common in children that are the hyperactive/impulsive type of ADD and occurs in 35% of children with ADD. This coexisting condition makes it much more likely that these sufferers will get in legal trouble as they age due to their authoritative defiance.

Many children that have ADD also suffer from mood disorders and/or depression. The complication associated with this coexisting condition is the increased likelihood of suicide common during teen years. 18% of ADD children also suffer from some type of mood disorder
and is it more likely to occur within the inattentive type of ADD. This is often not as easily diagnosed as compared to other conditions. Children with mood disorders as a coexisting condition must be treated with different medication than typical ADD treatment; therefore
such therapy may be more difficult.

Also a concern is anxiety disorders among ADD sufferers
which constitutes roughly 25% of those with ADD. Traits common of Anxiety Disorders are fear
panic
and worry
which may necessitate medication and/or counseling. As with mood disorders
combined treatment make therapy more complex and arduous.

Learning Disabilities are also conditions common with children that have ADD. While ADD
in itself
is not a learning disability
it can make it extremely difficult for children to perform well in school. If coupled with a learning disability
it makes it considerably more challenging for children to grasp academic concepts and utilize such knowledge.

For the most part
coexisting conditions make treatment more difficult and the side effects of both disorders more severe. The typical signs and symptoms of ADD are difficult enough to deal with
but with more intense severity
it often makes side effects deadly or incredibly negatively life altering.

Anthrax is an acute infectious disease that exists in animals and can by transmitted to humans. Caused by Bacillus anthracis
Anthrax
primarily affects farm animals such as goats
hogs
sheep
horses. In the majority of these cases the disease is fatal. To simply how the disease works: Bacillus anthracis creates toxins that cause fluid to accumulate in the body's tissues and kill cells.

Found in the soil
Anthrax spores have been been discovered to be able to survive for decades. It is most common for an animal to contract the disease while grazing in a field. Although you can become sick from eating the meat of an infected animal
it is most common that infected individuals have come in direct contact with an infected animal. This characteristic of Anthrax makes it almost completely restricted to certain occupations that handle animals first hand
such as veterinarians
and farmers.

In it's simple state
Anthrax is not generally fatal to humans. However
if not treated
the disease can work it's way through the blood vessels causing posoining of the blodd and death. Another type of Anthrax is
Gastrointestinal anthrax
which is much more fatal. Typically Gastrointestinal anthrax will begin with symptoms such as nausea
vomiting
and fever
and can then be followed by abdominal bleeding
tissue death
and septicemia.

Anthrax is a very well known
disease that ages back to ancient history. Most recently
in 2001
Anthrax was raised to a top concern when letters containing the Anthrax bacteria were mailed to several individuals
killing 5. These events were part of the growing terrorist problems in the United States
such as the Sept. 11 attacks on the World Trade Center.

*Introduction :
Any Chemical released from the Pituitary gland induces physical activities or changes in the body. Pituitary gland is an endocrine gland present in the brain.

The release of chemical from the gland in a moderate quantity leads to correct growth of the human body. But if the release of the chemicals that induces the growth increases
then size of the bones increases and also results in the increase of the growth of soft tissues. This results to many abnormalities in the human body.

The hormone or chemical that induces growth is called as Growth Hormone or Somatotropin. Excess of release of this hormone from the pituitary gland will cause an alteration in the use of nutrients in the body. In children as the bones are still in the growing condition
these changes will cause more and more growth of the bones and this is called as Gigantism.
And in adults
after the bone formation has stopped
this change can cause an abnormality which is called as Acromegaly.

*Description :
Acromegaly is a rare condition caused in a very few people i.e. one person per 20
0
people can experience this abnormality. This is common in males and females. The identification is not easy for middle aged people till extreme conditions are observed.

*Cause of the Abnormality :
Pituitary gland is present at the base of the brain which release a number of chemicals that are responsible for many functional activities of the systems and organs of the body. The hormones are released and travel throughout the body and are mainly involved in the growth and reproductive activities.

A Gland called Hypothalamus which is present on the base of the brain regulates the secretion of the pituitary. It induces or stops the release of hormones from the pituitary by releasing hormones and sending to the pituitary gland. Growth Hormone Releasing Hormone(GHRH) is released from the hypothalamus which induces and also stops pituitary gland to release hormones.

In the liver
growth hormone produces IGF-1 called "Insulin-like Growth Factor-1" which is responsible for the growth throughout the body. In the condition of Acromegaly
the pituitary refuses to stop the Growth hormone which leads to increase in the levels of IGF-1 andthe body now loses the capacity to produce and utilise the nutrients.

*Conditions :
Induvidual's hands and feets grows more than normal
and they become thicker.
The conditions on the face also change i.e. the nose
jaws become large and the teeth are spread more wider. Tongue also becomes larger. These changes on the face are called as "Coarsening". the voice of that person becomes Deep and develop Snoring.

*Symptoms :
-Profused sweating
-Skin becomes Oily
-Body hair increases
-Blood Pressure increases
-Calcium increases in the urine
-Risk of Gallstones increases
-Swelling of thyroid glands
-Patients often suffer from headache.

Important cause : In about 90% of the patients
it is seen that a non-cancerous tumuor occurs in the pituitary gland
it is called as Pituitary Adenoma. And it is a major factor that causes Acromegaly.

How Does Pituitary Adenoma cause Acromegaly :
The tumuor increases in size and presses the adjacent structures present in the brain which cause headache
and also effects the vision. This may damage the pituitary tissues and also brings changes in the production of the hormones and due to this
the Growth Hormones are released in excess. And so this results in Acromegaly.
Also due to this
the sexual drive in the males and females decreases and brings changes in menstrual cycle in the females.

The condition if not treated
can cause an early death of the person as this would effect lungs
heart
brain
and also cause Cancer in the large intestine.

Natural stomach acid is in your stomach for a reason. The actual acid is not the cause of acid reflux disease. It is not a nasty poison that someone put there. The acid breaks down foods and sorts them out into the right department so to speak. Proper digestion depends on the presence of adequate stomach acid while you are eating.

When you eat
food moves from the mouth through the esophagus and into the stomach to be digested. At the end of the esophagus
there is a band of muscles that open and allow the food to go into the stomach. It then closes to prevent the food and acid from coming back up into the esophagus. Many people experience acid reflux when foods or digestive juices escape the stomach and come back up through the esophagus.

To make sure your stomach has enough acid at mealtimes
make sure you chew your food thoroughly. Getting saliva mixed into the food as you chew will get the digestion process off to a good start.

Snacking throughout the day causes the stomach to pump out acid gradually instead of saving it for mealtimes when it is needed the most. It is best to not eating closer than three hours apart. For example - if you eat breakfast at six a.m. and lunch at twelve p.m. then a snack at nine a.m. would be fine.

Next
make sure you do not drink too much liquid while eating a meal. Too much liquid dilutes the necessary acid in the stomach. The best policy is to drink a glass of water 30 minutes to one hour before or after your meal
with only a few ounces consumed during the meal. After you have eaten
one hour or two feel free to guzzle down all the pure natural water you want.

Another cause of acid reflux comes from eating large meals. This increases pressure on the stomach causing the stomach contents to be forced out and up into the esophagus. You will need to give your body at least two hours to digest your food properly. In addition
never ever lie down immediately after eating a large meal.

To avoid overproduction of acid eat smaller portions of food at each meal. It would also help a lot to eliminate any fried food or food that contains refined sugar
or caffeine.

Obesity can also increase abdominal pressure
and your risk of suffering from acid reflux as well. If you are overweight
cutting back on the amounts of food that you eat at each meal
and exercising daily should put you on the right path to helping you shed a few pounds.

Acid reflux is caused in some people when the sphincter muscle at the end of the esophagus becomes weak or does not close correctly. Prescription drugs
certain foods
alcohol
and smoking have been known to weaken the sphincter muscles.

Try not to use antacids since they cut down the acids you will need when you eat. Without enough acid
your stomach is unable to do its job of breaking down the food into the various nutrient components.

Inadequate digestion of proteins can cause the liver to increase production of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol
which is the bad cholesterol that does the most damage to your body.

Instead of taking antacids
try the following natural approach. If you still have sour stomach in between meals try eating something that will settle it without triggering more acid production such as sauerkraut. Your stomach should relax after eating sauerkraut in five to ten minutes.

The benefits of natural solutions are they normally cost a lot less
but even more important is the fact that natural solutions are a healthier alternative. They tend to reduce the possibility of becoming dependant on addictive chemical drugs.

There are also three herbs that are well known for soothing stomach muscles
which are chamomile
gentian
and ginger. If your problem does not respond successfully to natural remedies within a few days
please see your health care provider.

The lower end of the esophagus is protected by a valve called the Lower Esophageal sphincter (LES). This valve opens to allow food from the esophagus into the stomach and then closes up to protect the esophagus from the acid content of the stomach. Several conditions can compromise this valve
allowing gastric content into the esophagus. As in adults
infants also suffer from heartburn on occasions. This is mainly attributed to the fact that infants consume essentially liquid and soft foods
which tend to be rich in diary proteins. The most unfortunate part of infant acid reflux disease is that
unlike in adults
it is very difficult to determine if an infant has developed chronic gastroesophageal reflux disease. An infant is most unlikely to be able to complain of heartburn or any symptoms of the disease.

Acid reflux in infants is always as a result of a lot of factors
however
most of the causative factors tend to be aggravated by the fact that infants
spend a great deal of their days lying on their back or in a supine position and consume mostly liquid food. The tendency for liquid food to cause regurgitation
when combined with the pressure lying in a supine position exerts on the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) constitutes a greater risk of reflux acid incidence in infants. The incidence
however
could also be attributed to some other factors like
the anatomy of the infant's stomach
improper or incomplete development of the lower esophageal sphincter during fetal growth
poor diet
overweight
food allergies and a host of other factors.

Because infants
unlike adults
cannot complain of symptoms or explain how they feel
it is always very difficult to know when an infant is suffering from acid reflux. The best bet is to consult a pediatrician. Nevertheless
there are signs and clues that you may look out for in your infant that could suggest the presence of the disease. Some of these clues are:

- Sleeping problems
- Coughing
- Weight loss
- Lack of appetite
- Spitting up frequently
- Apnea
- Unusual irritability
- Chest pain
- Sore throat
- Bad breath
- Crying

Acid reflux disease can also cause respiratory problems including pneumonia
strictures and ulcerations on the esophageal wall
and malnourishment. Although
these signs don't always mean your infant is suffering from acid reflux disease
but they constitute a good enough reason to go see your pediatrician.

Of course
there are a few things you could do to help your child avoid acid reflux. Simple things like changing the child's food
keeping him/her upright for some time
especially after eating
keeping a eye on the child for any sign of chest pain or heartburn and a host of others. This extra attention could be all your child really needs.

The first explanation for the cause of this condition is that because of the incompetence of the Lower Esophageal Sphincter (LES) acidic contents of the stomach are allowed up into the esophagus
which results in a burning sensation. The LES is a valve that is found at the lower end of the esophagus and separates it from the stomach and its contents but when this valve becomes dysfunctional
it allows the acidic content of the stomach to be regurgitated into the esophagus.

A separate school of thought believes that acidic reflux disease is caused by our eating habits. As it's often said
living in the civilized world entails eating more junk food and packaged and processed food than the stomach can digest. So
when we put so much into the stomach
most of the food ends up undigested. These undigested food materials turn into acidic waste in the stomach. This waste causes stomach spasms or twitching that causes an increase in stomach gas that pops open the LES valve between the esophagus and stomach sending acidic contents up the esophagus.

Yet
acidic reflux disease can be traced to aging in adults. It is believed in some quarters that as we age
the activity of the stomach reduces
so also its ability to produce hydrochloric acid. The reduction in the stomach activity and acid content of the stomach creates a breeding ground for infections which in themselves cause stomach pain and acid production leading to further symptoms of acid reflux.

Whatever the cause of acid reflux disease
what is constant about it
is the fact that it is a chronic disease. Most medicines
which inhibit production of acid in the stomach
only help to relieve the burning effect and other symptoms and not actually cure the condition. As a matter of fact
these drugs help in relieving the symptoms quite effectively
but the other side of the coin is that these drugs also cause several side effects in the body by cutting down the acid production in your stomach. Some of their side effects are that they reduce the ability of the stomach to digest food efficiently
they make you more vulnerable to diseases and microbes transmitted through food
increases the risk of food poisoning and a host of others.

While there are many medications and natural methods to rid yourself of that burning sensation that accompanies each acid reflux bout
the first line of action should be a thorough assessment of the your food and lifestyle. Some food materials are known to aggravate acid reflux
some of the foods include; citrus
caffeine
chocolate
fatty fried foods
garlic
and onions. Cutting down or avoiding these foods as much as possible is a good first attempt at preventing future acid reflux bouts.

Additional lifestyle assessment and modification that can help reduce acid reflux episodes include:

- Losing weight if you are overweight
- Cutting down alcohol to the barest minimum
- Eating just enough food to keep hunger away
- Don't go to bed until at least three hours after eating
- Raise your bed head six to eight inches

These very simple lifestyle improvements can keep you off those acid blockers and other acid reflux medications that cause almost the same amount of damage as the good they do to your body.

Commonly called 'heart burn'
acid reflux disease is a condition in which the liquid content of the stomach regurgitates (backs up
or refluxes) into the esophagus.

It's annoying and painful.

But you want to know the truth
the reflux of the stomach's liquid contents into the esophagus occurs in most normal individuals. However
when heartburn becomes acid reflux disease or Gastro esophageal reflux disease
commonly referred to as GERD
it is s real problem. That is because with GERD
the acid is stronger and stays in the esophagus longer causing more discomfort.

Most often
you will experience this during the daytime when you are upright
sitting straight
or standing. You body handles this reflux by the fluid flowing back down into your stomach. You swallow more during the daytime therefore draining the acid back to where it belongs. Your salivary glands produce saliva that also contains bicarbonate that acts to neutralize the acid your stomach has kicked up.

At night though
you may have a greater problem when acid reflux disease occurs that is because while sleeping
gravity does not work as well lying down
your constant swallowing stops
and the production of saliva is reduced.

Certain conditions make a person more prone to acid reflux disease
this GERD. For example
while you are pregnant
this can be a serious problem. Elevated hormone levels of pregnancy probably cause reflux by lowering the pressure in that part of your body known as the lower esophageal sphincter. Also
the growing baby puts more pressure on the abdomen. Both of these effects of pregnancy tend to increase the risk of GERD.

If your acid reflux disease is a minor condition
then you should only experience minor symptoms. These would include primarily heartburn
regurgitation
and nausea. However
if the condition is complicated
then watch out for the following symptoms.

The liquid that comes back into the esophagus damages the lining of the esophagus. The body tries to protect itself from the acid reflux disease by 'inflaming' the esophagus. Trying to speed the healing process through the inflammation
the wall of the esophagus may form an ulcer. The ulcer is a break in the lining of the esophagus wall. Then what happens is that there may be bleeding. If the bleeding is very severe
patients might need a blood transfusion or even surgical treatment.

If your heartburn is severe or acute
happening very frequently
you need to see a doctor.

What can you do for yourself to help the condition? Try sleeping a pillow a night that raises your chest up slightly so that gravity can bring the acid back down more easily. Since this condition usually occurs on a full stomach
eat earlier and eat less to keep the stomach from being too full. Ease off on the chocolate
peppermint
alcohol
and caffeinated drinks. Reduce fatty foods and of course
cut down or quit smoking. Other foods may aggravate the conditions. Avoid spicy or acid-containing foods
like citrus juices
carbonated beverages
and tomato juice.

Antacids and Alignates

Antacids are generally available without a doctor's prescription and relieve the symptoms of acid indigestion and heartburn (dyspepsia).

The usual ingredients of antacids are magnesium or aluminium and they work by neutralising the acid produced in the stomach which is the cause of indigestion and acid reflux. This group often contain sodium alginate which forms a protective coating over the lining of the gullet and the stomach.

Proton Pump Inhibitors

Proton pump Inhibitors are drugs which shut down the system in the stomach called the proton pump. It is this system which produces acid in the stomach
the leaking of which into the oesophagus causes acid reflux.

These drugs are taken in the form of tablets or capsules
as a powder to be diluted in water or as injections and are used to treat stomach ulcers and a rather rare condition called Zollinger-Ellison syndrome as well as acid reflux.

Omeprazole and Lansoprazole are well known varieties of this particular type of drug although there are several others.

Side effects are rare although they can include diarrhoea or constipation
stomach pains
wind
drowsiness
dizziness and headaches. In unusual cases
a severe allergic reaction can result. My personal experience with Omeprazole was seriously raised blood pressure and severe head pain. However
replacing Omeprazole with Ranitidine and taking blood pressure reduction medication for a couple of weeks sorted out that problem.

H2-Receptor Antagonists

This group of drugs works by attaching to and blocking the H2 receptor area on stomach cells which
when stimulated by the naturally produced chemical
histamine
generates acid.

Ranitidine is the best known of this drug group
others being Nizatidine
Famotidine and Cimetidine.

Side effects are few but can display as diarrhoea
headaches
dizziness and tiredness. Loss of hair has been reported by takers of Cimetidine and with nizatidine
sweating.

Both proton pump inhibitors and H2 receptor antagonists are used together with antibiotics to get rid of Helicobacter pylori infection which can cause stomach ulcers and duodenitis.

Warning: If symptoms of heartburn persist
consult your doctor. They could be indicative of something much more serious than indigestion. Never embark on a course of medication without consulting a doctor. Never take medicines prescribed for somebody else.

It seems that one of the major culprits causing acid reflux is alcohol. Not good news for the drinkers amongst us. Take heart though
it is probably only excessive drinking that's to blame - perceived wisdom is that a couple of glasses of wine with your dinner won't hurt you
although there is some argument as to whether red or white is better. Personally
I find white wine more acidic and therefore assumed that it would be more likely to cause acid reflux. However
as alcohol prevents the oesophageal sphincter from working properly and thus allows stomach acid to reflux into the oesophagus
the acidity of the alcohol may be irrelevant. Notwithstanding that
when drinking alcohol
limit quantities and dilute spirits with water or a mixer. Wine may also be diluted with water or lemonade. Gassy drinks like champagne and beer should be avoided if possible.

Alcohol is not the only culprit - chocolate
peppermint
coffee
tea
caffeinated soft drinks such as colas and citrus fruit juices also inhibit the normal workings of the oesophageal sphincter so keep intake of these to an absolute minimum
if you can't give them up completely.

Chewing gum and eating hard sweets cause excessive air to be swallowed
thus causing wind and reflux.

Fatty and fried foods also delay the emptying of the stomach so steer clear of any fatty meat
particularly those found on the delicatessen counter
such as salamis
sausages and pat้s. "Fatty" includes full fat milk and other dairy products (cheese
cream
butter
margarine). Tomatoes can aggravate the condition in some people
as can spices such as chillies (powdered
fresh or dried) and any derivatives like Tabasco. Condiments such as Worcestershire and soy sauces and any sort of horseradish or mustard should also be taken with care.

Now for the good news - you can eat
with some freedom
vegetables (not tomatoes)
chicken and turkey (without skin)
fish
apples
peaches
melons
pears and berries. You can eat
in moderation
skimmed or semi-skimmed milk
low fat spreads and cottage cheese. Oh
and you can drink water until you float!

A few other things you can do to avoid or alleviate acid reflux are:

Avoid eating large meals - little and often is better.
Avoid eating too late at night.
Don't lie down or bend over when you've just eaten a meal.
Put blocks of wood under the head of the bed to raise it by six inches or so.
Try not to wear tight clothing around the area of the abdomen and stomach.
Nicotine weakens the lower oesophageal muscle - give it up - it's not good for you anyway!
Lose weight if you need to. Obesity is not only usually caused by eating all the foods that you should be avoiding
but leads to worsened acid reflux.

Ultimately
everyone is different and foods that some people can tolerate cause incredibly painful indigestion for others. Only you can tell
so be sensible and avoid those foods that have an adverse effect.

What is acid reflux though?

It is the liquid in the stomach regurgitating into the oesophagus (gullet). Much of this liquid is acid produced in the stomach which is harmful to the walls of the oesophagus. Reflux happens to most people but because we spend much of our time upright
gravity ensures that the liquid returns to the stomach unnoticed. In addition
we swallow frequently which again returns regurgitated liquid to the stomach and saliva contains bicarbonate which helps to neutralise the acid in the stomach liquid.

It doesn’t do to ignore repeated instances of painful indigestion though
as it could be symptomatic of something much more serious. That refluxing acid can cause lasting damage to the lining of the oesophagus
which
if left untreated
can lead to other conditions.

A friend relates that when she was a child
her father was always chewing on Rennies
a well known antacid in the UK. He used to say that a good belch would cure the indigestion. It later turned out that he had a stomach ulcer. Despite that
when my friend
in turn
started suffering from frequent indigestion
she too chewed on the Rennies and went about her business.

Eventually
she realised that the extent of the indigestion couldn’t be normal so she consulted her doctor who referred her to a specialist for an endoscopy.

An endoscopy is a procedure whereby an endoscope
a thin
lighted tube
is inserted down the throat. The endoscope transmits images of the oesophagus
stomach
and duodenum
enabling the specialist to identify problem areas and
if necessary
obtain biopsies. The endoscope is usually inserted while the patient is under sedation thus avoiding the gagging reflex.

To return to my friend
a hiatus hernia was diagnosed. A hiatus hernia occurs when the upper part of the stomach pushes through the opening in the diaphragm where the oesophagus connects with the stomach
allowing the acid from the stomach to reflux. Fortunately
this was a small hiatus hernia
which could be easily treated with a course of medication.

A couple of years went by with only minor instances of indigestion
then my friend started to experience occasional bouts of very severe heartburn and sickness which she treated with the usual array of antacid preparations. Suddenly
one day she woke up with a severe pain in her lower stomach which didn’t respond to the usual remedies and in any event
didn’t resemble any of the normal symptoms of acid reflux.

A visit to the doctor and my friend found herself hospitalised for tests which revealed that the original small hiatus hernia was larger and bleeding and had lead to gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining) and duodenitis (inflammation of the duodenum)
both caused by an infection with the Helicobacter pylori bacteria. This bacteria is extremely common
thought to infect 70% of the world’s population
although most people do not display any symptoms of the infection.

The moral of this story is “Don’t ignore persistent acid reflux
it may be much more that just indigestion”.

Watch out for my next article on the treatment of acid reflux.

Definition of Cerebral Palsy

Cerebral palsy is a general term describing a group of chronic non-pregressive neurological symptoms which cause impaired control of movement and which are evident in the first few years of life
usually before age 3. The disorders are induced by damage or faulty development of the motor areas in the brain
disrupting the patient's ability to control movement and posture. Symptoms of cerebral palsy include difficulty with fine motor tasks such as writing
poor balance and walking
and involuntary movements. The exact combination of symptoms differs from patient to patient and may vary over time. Some patients also have seizures and intellectual disability
however
this is not always the case. Babies with cerebral palsy are frequently slower than average in achieving developmental milestones like learning to roll over
sit
crawl
smile
or walk. Cerebral palsy is usually thought of as congenital or perinatal
however
it can also be acquired after birth. Many of the causes of cerebral palsy that have been identified through research are preventable or even treatable: head injury
Rh incompatibility
jaundice and rubella (German measles).

Diagnosis of Cerebral Palsy

Doctors diagnose cerebral palsy by tests of motor skills and reflexes and by medical history.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Computerized Tomography (CT) scans are typically ordered when the physician suspects cerebral palsy; howerer
they are not definitive. These tests can provide evidence of physical abnormalities such as hydrocephalus (an accumulation of fluid in the cerebral ventricles of the brain)
and they can be utilized to exclude other brain disorders. These scans do not prove that the patient has cerebral palsy; nor do they predict how well a specific patient will function in the future. Patients with normal scans may have severe symptoms
and while others whose scans are clearly abnormal have only modest physical signs. However
as a group
patients with cerebral palsy are statistically more likely to have brain scars
cysts
and other changes visible on scans. When physical examination suggests cerebral palsy
an abnormal scan helps confirms the clinical diagnosis.

Even though specific symptoms can change as time passes
cerebral palsy by definition isn't progressive
so if a patient shows increasing impairment
the problem is usually another neurological disorder.

Varieties of Cerebral Palsy

Cerebral palsy is classified by the type of movement problem (such as spastic or even athetoid cerebral palsy) or by he body parts affected (hemiplegia
diplegia
and quadriplegia). Spasticity refers to the inability of a muscle to relax
while athetosis refers to an inability to control its movement. Babies who are initially hypotonic ("floppy") may later develop spasticity. Hemiplegia is cerebral palsy that involves 1 arm and 1 leg on one side of the body
whereas diplegia is the involvement of both legs. Quadriplegia refers to symptoms involving all 4 extremities as well as trunk and neck muscles. Balance and coordination problems are referred to as ataxia.

For instance
a patient with spastic diplegia has mostly spastic muscle problems of the legs
while perhaps also displaying a smaller component of athetosis and balance problems. The patient with athetoid quadriplegia
on the more hand
would have lack of control of the muscles of both arms and legs
however such a patient will usually have smaller problems with ataxia and spasticity as well. Normally a child with quadriplegic cerebral palsy will be unable to walk independently. The degree of impairment can vary from patient to patient and range from mild to severe.

Cerebral Palsy Therapy

There is no standard therapy that benefits all patients. Drugs are useful to control seizures and muscle cramps and braces can compensate for muscle imbalance. Surgery
mechanical aids to help overcome impairments
counseling for emotional and psychological needs
and physical
occupational
speech
and behavioral therapy are all effective.

Prognosis for Cerebral Palsy

Though cerebral palsy is incurable to date
many patients can enjoy near-normal lives if their neurological symptoms are properly managed.

Medical Research

There is evidence which suggests that cerebral palsy results from incorrect cell development early in prenatal life. As an example
a group of researchers has recently observed that approximately one-third of cerebral palsy patients also have missing enamel on certain teeth. Bleeding inside the brain
breathing and circulation problems and seizures can all cause cerebral palsy and each has separate causes and treatment. Researchers are currently conducting trials to determine whether certain drugs can help halt neonatal stroke
and more investigators are examining the causes of low birth-weight. More studies are being done to determine how brain trauma (like brain damage from a shortage of oxygen or blood flow
bleeding in the brain
and seizures) can cause the release of brain chemicals which lead to premanent brain damage.

Organizations Funding Cerebral Palsy Research & Therapy

Easter Seals
Epilepsy Foundation
March of Dimes Birth Defects Foundation
United Cerebral Palsy
National Disability Sports Alliance
Childrens Neurobiological Solutions Foundation
Childrens Hemiplegia and Stroke Foundation.

Plainly put
anorexia is an eating disorder where a person starves him or herself. Anorexia mainly affects adolescent girls. They have an intense fear of becoming fat. They think they are overweight
but in fact most anorexics weigh a full 15% below their normal body weight. Anorexia strikes about 1% of adolescent females. This is about one in one hundred women.

Some psychiatrists think anorexia is not just about being thin or fat. It stems from fear a of growing up and losing control. It's about fear of becoming a women
growing up
building relationships
leaving home.
Her body is changing and growing and she doesn't like it and wants to be child sized again. Some psychiatrists think that eating disorders can also be caused by life experiences such abuse.

Some studies have shown that if a mother has anorexia a child is 12 time more likely to develop it than someone with no family history.

The person who suffers with anorexia cannot help herself. She must be treated by a mental health professional experienced in dealing with anorexia. Some receive long term psychotherapy.

The first thing however is to get this girl's health back as best as you can. This person may need to be coaxed to eat
and
may need a supportive caregiver to actually watch to make sure she eats. There are numerous health concerns with anorexia. Some of these are osteoporosis
irregular heart beat and in the most severe of cases permanent failure of normal growth development. Most women sufferers of anorexia will lose their normal menstrual cycle. If an anorexic woman would conceive a child she would be likely to miscarry or have a baby born prematurely.

Without treatment up to twenty percent of anorexia suffers will die. With treatment 60% can recover and maintain healthy weight. However
even with treatment about 20% of people will continue to have an unhealthy lifetime obsession with weight and food.

If you confront a loved one about anorexia get ready to deal with someone in a true state of denial. They will be angry
and may become more withdrawn and depressed. There is nothing that you can do to change your loved one's perception of him or herself. You can't make your loved one eat. There are many organizations that are available to help anorexia sufferers and their families get the help they need.

Frank Rella was teaching a high school music class when he had a wake-up call that changed his life. Frank felt pain in his chest and left work early.

When the pain got worse at home
he was rushed by ambulance to the hospital. Frank's greatest fear came true when the doctors said he had a heart attack.

"My heart attack was really a wake-up call
said Rella, a 42-year-old New Jersey resident who became a paramedic after his life-altering heart attack, so he could be on the frontlines of medical care.
I went through a lot of emotions and was worried about having a second attack. So now I make sure to take the right medications and work with my doctor to live a heart-healthy lifestyle."

Frank's story is not uncommon. A new survey of more than 500 heart attack survivors found that survivors see their attack as a wake-up call that gave them a second chance at life. However
most survivors also said their heart attack left them with feelings of depression and hopelessness. In fact
survivors said they feared another heart attack more than death. Even though survivors had these feelings
40
percent said they were not doing everything they could to prevent another attack. This fact is troubling since one in five men and one in three women will have another heart attack within six years.

"I see these survey results come to life in my practice every day. While many of my patients who have suffered a heart attack are very aware and afraid of their increased risk of having another one
they are not doing everything they can to live a heart-healthy life. The good news is that if they take certain steps
they can prevent another attack. I tell my patients to eat healthy
exercise and take their medications. Those medications may include a beta-blocker
ACE inhibitor
statin and aspirin
said Dr. William Abraham, director of the Division of Cardiovascular Medicine at The Ohio State University Medical Center.

In the survey, 80 percent of heart attack survivors said they needed more information to learn about their heart health. As a result, Mended Hearts, a nationwide heart patient support group affiliated with the American Heart Association, started a program called
Heartfelt Wake-Up Call." This program offers education and support to heart attack survivors and their families. For tips on "Heartfelt Living" and "Heartfelt Support
such as information about local support groups, tip sheets, survivors' stories and heart-healthy recipes, visit www.mendedhearts.org.

GlaxoSmithKline provided funding and assistance in the development of
Heartfelt Wake-Up Call."

"I encourage patients to take their health to heart" said Abraham.

Let me start by introducing myself; my name is Variola. It is a latin name
so most people just call me "Smallpox". I'm not going to lie to you
I am a horrible friend. I tend to keep you all to myself during our time together. I am highly contagious and only like to hang around with humans
as other mammals scare me. I can attack you in 2 forms: Variola major and Variola minor.

Variola major owns my more devilish qualities. In this form i tend to kill about 35% of those i get tied up with. Now
if me and you are to become friends
you should probably request that i give you my brighter side
Variola minor. This way
you only have a 1% chance of our friendship ending in death - to you. In the 20th century
I was responsible for up to 500 million fatalities.

If
after my wrath
you survive
i make sure that i have left my mark. You'll be very lucky to forget about our little fling
as in most cases i leave you with scars known as "potmarks". And i'm merciless when it comes to that. i dont mind leaving them anywhere and everywhere on your body
including your face. If you are even luckier
I will simply leave you blind so that you do not have to look at your scarred body in the mirror everyday. I do this through "corneal ulcerations"
which is not in the least bit enjoyable for you.

After telling you this story my message should be clear; STAY AWAY! If you see me coming
pretend as if you didn't notice
and walk slowly in the other direction.

Yours truly


Variola

Hepatitis C is a stealthy virus that mutates while hiding in liver cells and other organ cells like the spleen and gall bladder. The fact that the viral cells "hide" makes it very difficult for the body's immune system to eradicate it. Hepatitis C is a slowly progressing disease sometimes taking many years until symptoms are noticeable. It is at this point that the virus has reached advanced chronic stage and becomes difficult to eradicate. Hepatitis C results in 8
0
to 10
0
deaths annually. Hepatitis C is also the leading cause of liver transplants in the U.S.

Hepatitis C infection is caused by blood contact with someone who has the virus infection himself. The transmission of the virus can occur by illicit drug use with needles
sharing toothbrushes or razors with an infected person
by sexual means
by unsanitary tattooing or by exposure to blood at your workplace (like a hospital or blood bank). Some HCV infection may have been caused by receiving blood from a transfusion prior to 1992.

Hepatitis C is diagnosed via a blood test. Usually
the first thing that is noticed is that the liver enzyme levels for ALT and AST are elevated well above normal levels. Further investigation via HCV-RNA testing identifies whether the Hepatitis C virus is in your blood or not. Other tests for HCV include qualitative viral load tests
which measure the RNA particles in your blood. If you are being treated for HCV
your doctor is probably using either a HCV-RNA or viral load test to determine the effectiveness of the treatment.

The symptoms of Hepatitis C infection often do not occur in a person until 20 years after he/she had been infected. Since the HCV infects the liver and the liver is the organ in the body that makes all the energy for our daily activities possible
liver function deterioration often results in fatigue. Fatigue is the primary complaint or symptom of HCV infection. Other more severe symptoms are jaundice (yellowing of the skin/eyes)
bile retention (which can cause jaundice)
portal vein hypertension
skin rashes and itching
and autoimmune problems resulting from your body's immune system attacking normal cells.

Long term HCV infection may result in fibrosis or even cirrhosis of the liver. Fibrosis results from unchecked liver inflammation. As the HCV infection progresses
the damage to the liver results in scarring or hardening of the liver cells (fibrosis). Long term fibrosis may lead to cirrhosis which is when the scarring from fibrosis overtakes the normal liver cell structure causing deformity and loss of function in the liver. About 15%-20% of HCV patients end up with cirrhosis. A liver biopsy is currently the most accurate means of determining the amount of inflammation and fibrosis the liver has sustained.

Hepatitis C progression in the body can take several years or even decades to come to chronic stage or to a stage where severe liver damage is evident. This period of time allows a person to determine how to properly treat the disease and to decide on a course of disease management. Currently
the main treatment for HCV infection to eradicate the virus is combo alpha-interferon and Ribavirin. Sometimes a doctor may prescribe interferon alone. Interferon comes in standard form or in pegylated form. Standard form interferon is administered 3 times per week
while the pegylated form is administered only once per week. Your body makes its own interferon
which is a protein that fights viral infection and viral replication.

Hepatitis C may often be managed by taking herbal and vitamin supplements that help your body fight infection and limit inflammation. These supplements help your liver with the inflammation and give it the nutrients it needs to regenerate healthy new cells. Your doctor can recommend alternative or adjunct solutions you may want to try.

Proper treatment of the disease
a healthy and active lifestyle
a good diet
abstinence from alcohol and stress management are important factors in controlling Hepatitis C progression.

~ A Sudden Paralysis ~

It was after a weekend in St. Augustine
Florida that Jim Olbrich had his too-close-for-comfort brush with death. That night a blood clot rushed into his brain and caused a major hemorrhagic stroke. A stroke that has left Jim walking like Frankenstein.

Jim had driven the two hours back to his home in Orlando. Tired
he went to bed ... but
found he had trouble rolling over ... couldn't easily get into position for sleep.

During the night
it felt as if a little girl's hand pulled him out of bed. Jim headed for the bathroom ... not yet aware that his left side was already losing control. He banged off the walls ... stumbled his way ... finally made it. Jim fell off the toilet ... lay on the floor for awhile.

Next thing ... Jim was in a helicopter -- being whisked to the hospital. It happened that quick! And
it happened while he was sleeping.

~ Blood Pushing on the Brain ~

Later
in the ICU
Jim heard his skull crack ... a cracking sound on his right side. Then
his head started hurting. The on-duty nurse offered a simple solution
Well ... I'll get you a couple Tylenol.


But ... this wasn't a simple headache to be solved by a couple of pills. Soon
Jim was in a coma.

In the operating room
his skull was opened ... blood was drained ... the pressure was released. But ... "My brain fell out!"

When Jim woke up the next morning
I got a gazillion staples in my head ... holding everything together.
He'd also died.

~ Waking Up in the Morgue ~

Declared was declared dead and put in the morgue. A body bag was nearby and a nurse was putting a tag on Jim's big toe. Luckily for Jim
the rubber band tangled with the hair on his toe. When the nurse pulled it back ... she ripped out some of Jim's hair. He woke up!

When Jim sat up and spoke ... the startled nurse ran for the door. Instead she ran headlong into the wall. Now ... Jim had to wait for her to come to. Finally
he was wheeled back to his room ... a lot nicer than spending a night in the morgue.

"I would have spent the rest of my life looking at somebody else's feet."

~ What caused the stroke? ~

After years of being checked out constantly ... Jim feels the doctors are still guessing. His cardiologist believes it was an artery on the front of Jim's heart ... it exploded and blew off ... sending the deadly clot on its way to Jim's brain.

The clot caused a "brain bleed" -- a destructive hemorrhagic stroke. Pressure from the pooling blood "crushed" Jim's brain.

~ Jim's Still Paralyzed ~

Now
three years later
how's Jim doing? "Not bad." Jim's not one to complain. His sense of humour is one thing that has gotten him through this ordeal.

Sporting a carbon-fiber plate in his skull ... completely paralyzed on his left side ... suffering from constant headaches ... Jim chuckles at all his problems. "I walk like Frankenstein ... on a cane."

Jim is still on therapy and hopes to one day "become more graceful." If Jim's doctor had been correct ... Jim wouldn't walk at all. But ... Jim is stubborn. He may not walk pretty ... but
with his persistence
he does walk.

It is a source of relief to Jim ... he never lost his ability to talk. Also
his memory is still quite good ... barring a few blank spots. "They're a total mystery to me."

They may be lingering in a small piece of brain ... in a jar. A piece of brain -- "The size of my small finger" -- is still sitting in a jar downtown. Jim hasn't been able to see it yet ... but he'd like to. "I want to see where my memory is."

~ Can Jim's paralysis be treated? ~

"That's forever!"

Or
until more T-cell research is permitted. Jim needs that ... he's on everybody's list to volunteer. What Jim needs now is a new president ... someone who won't be against such research.

Why is the current administration against T-cell research? "That's because they're healthy!"

~ How to Avoid a Stroke ~

Jim's advice? "Keep an eye on your cholesterol. Arteries clog up ... that's the problem."

High levels of LDL cholesterol will lead to atherosclerosis. And
the poor dietary habits that create this problem also bring on high blood pressure
diabetes
and obesity. All put you at a high risk of heart attack and stroke.

Take some time out today ... look at your diet. Could it be healthier? Start eating better
get some exercise
live a healthier
longer life.

Jim doesn't want you to join him. He's quite content being the only one who walks like Frankenstein. If his story can keep you from suffering what he has suffered ... you'll put a bigger smile on his face.

I’ve found a cool apartment! Okay
okay…so it’s not perfect. Just a few bugs. I mean literally! First expense? An exterminator! Is it worth the cash? Well
I can’t afford a more expensive place
so a one-time (please!) cash outlay should be okay. Maybe just a can of “Raid?”

I need a way to move my stuff. Daddy
can I borrow your truck? You don’t have one? Why not? Do you want one? I’ll help you pick it out! Well
it was just a suggestion. No need to get all bent out of shape! I guess I’d better call the truck rental places. What do you mean…$200…PLUS mileage? AND Gas? Good grief!

While I’m on the phone I’ll call the utility and phone companies. Yes
I know I haven’t used your services before. No
I don’t have a credit card; this is my first place. You want what? A $100 deposit? For EACH? Holy cow…do you people have a license to steal?

Daddy
I need $500 for moving expenses! I used all my money for the first and last months rent AND the damage deposit. Well
how was I to know this was going to be so expensive? Sell something? Daaaaad…I NEED my TV!

Boy
this place is pretty empty. Maybe I should buy a couch and a chair. Nah…I have my bed. That’ll be good enough. I don’t need a table; I’ll just use this box.

Renters Insurance? I don’t think so! What do I have to insure?

Just got my first phone call! I’d love to come to your party! Daddy
I need a car. Because it’s too far to walk to work
that’s why. Umm
Daddy…there’s car insurance too! Thanks
Dad…you’re the best! And gas? I didn’t think so…

Time for dinner. Let’s look in these boxes. Oh
No! No dishes or pans. No FOOD!

Uhhh
Mom?

This is according to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases.

You might not know it
but you could be suffering from rheumatoid arthritis. Although rheumatoid arthritis is commonly associated with the older generation (people over the age of 65)
the disease is found in younger generations - even including children. How could you tell if you have it? Well if you're experiencing morning stiffness for no apparent reason (like if you had done a lot of strenuous exercise the night before
for example)
you might be suffering from one of it's symptoms. As mild as you might think morning stiffness is
you really ought to give it some serious thought and consult with your doctor because if that morning stiffness is related to rheumatoid arthritis
you can work to prevent it from disabling or crippling you later on down the road to a point where you can barely function. But rheumatoid arthritis isn't just a physical condition. It has the propensity to tax your mental and emotional state of well-being tpp.

This is because arthritis can change the way you work
the way you interact with your family
and the way you entertain yourself with recreational activities. You might even know someone with rheumatoid arthritis and have observed how this disease changed not only his or her mobility
but also his or her outlook on life. Those of us without rheumatoid arthritis tend to take our ability to move anyway we want for granted
but when that ability slowly disappears right before our eyes
it's no surprise that we get depressed about it.

But it doesn't necessary have to be that way. With proper medications
education
support
and prescribed exercises
you could work to prevent the most severe forms of the disease - or at least prolong the worst case symptoms.

Arthritis works in two ways. First
it inflames the muscles
ligaments
and cartilage that sit in-between joints. And it's this inflammation that causes the pain
swelling
and heat. Those are symptoms that are typical indications of an injury and they're vital to understanding more about this disease. Second
arthritis works by releasing enzymes that basically consume or otherwise destroy the muscles
ligaments
and cartilage that have become inflamed to a point where they're not very useful and don't allow for easy movement. In the worse cases
cartilage disappears completely and as you can guess
this is extremely crippling and uncomfortable.

That's why we call rheumatoid arthritis a disease. Typically
inflamed muscles
ligaments
and cartilage are the result of an injury
like falling on the knees for example. But with arthritis
no injury has to occur. In fact
arthritis is a type of autoimmune disease and the cartilage inside joints is one of the things that it destroys. And any joint can be affected - one
two
maybe even more but most of the time
the disease targets fingers
hips
feet
and knees.

Bird flu is a disease caused by a specific type of avian (bird) influenza virus
the so-called H5N1 virus. This virus was first discovered in birds in China in 1997 and since then has infected 125 people in Vietnam
Cambodia
Thailand
and Indonesia
killing 64 of them. It is spread by infected migratory birds (including wild ducks and geese) to domestic poultry (primarily chickens
ducks
and turkeys)
and then to humans.

Since 1997
and especially since the beginning of 2004
approximately 150 million birds have either died from the disease or been killed to prevent further spread. Nevertheless
this very infectious and deadly virus has spread relentlessly to China
Thailand
Cambodia
Vietnam
South Korea
Japan
Taiwan
Laos
Russia
Indonesia
Mongolia
Kazakhstan
Malaysia
Turkey
Romania
England
Croatia
Macedonia
and other countries. This ongoing geographic extension of the virus is of great concern around the world. It is feared that it will continue to spread to all continents
including the Western Hemisphere—and it no doubt will.

Normally
different types of viruses infect just one
or a limited number
of species specific to the particular virus type. The bird-flu virus
however
has infected a large number of birds and animals
including ducks
chickens
turkeys
tree sparrows
peregrine falcons
great black-headed gulls
brown-headed gulls
gray herons
Canada geese
bar-headed geese
little egrets
pigs
clouded leopards
white tigers
mice
domestic cats
crows
magpies
peacocks
blue pheasants
rare eagles
turtledoves
swans
terns
and others. This is another sign of the virulence or destructiveness of the virus.

Researchers
historians
and infectious-disease experts have determined that influenza pandemics (global epidemics) occur approximately once every 30 years. The most deadly pandemic ever recorded occurred in 1918-19
killing more than 100 million people across the globe in less than two years. Two other much less severe pandemics occurred
one in 1957
when approximately two million people died
and one in 1968
when about one million people died. Because we have already had three pandemics in less than 100 years
we are “overdue” for another one.

And so this disease-causing virus continues to infect more and more species in more and more countries. In laboratory experiments
it has been shown to be one of the most lethal influenza viruses ever known. In addition
just recently and after 10 years of work
researchers determined that the H5N1 bird-flu virus is genetically more similar to the deadly 1918-19 influenza pandemic virus than to the viruses which caused the much less severe pandemics of 1957-58 and 1968-69.



To summarize the important points so far: The bird-flu virus is a very deadly strain of avian influenza called H5N1 that has killed millions of birds; 2) the virus is spreading relentlessly around the world; 3) the virus has infected many species
which is uncharacteristic of most viruses; 4) the virus has been shown to be similar to the most deadly virus ever known
which caused the 1918-19 pandemic; 5) the virus has been shown to be much more deadly in laboratory experiments than regular influenza viruses; and 6) the virus is known to have infected at least 125 humans and killed 64 of them so far
yielding a fatality rate of approximately 50 percent.

The virus continues to kill humans
but at a slow rate—it has not yet acquired the capacity to be easily transmissible between humans; humans become infected primarily from sick birds. Because humans alive today have no natural immunity to the H5N1 virus
once it becomes easily transmissible between humans a pandemic or global epidemic will occur. The central question is
when will it exchange enough genetic material with the usual seasonal human influenza-viruses to become more like a human-influenza virus—and thus become easily transmissible between people?

Many people believe that the virus will continue to spread around the world until it is present in most or all countries—before it will “go human” (become easily transmissible between people). And that may be the case. The pandemic of 1918-19 is thought to have started in Kansas (of all places). So it is certainly possible that the coming pandemic could start somewhere else than in Asia—although most experts believe it will
in fact
start there. It could start in a country which has not yet been host to the virus.

However
it is most certainly not necessary for the virus to march all the way around the world before a pandemic can begin. The fact that the virus already has spread to more than 15 countries
and to many different bird and animal species
provides the opportunity for it to commingle with a human-influenza virus and create the dreaded human contagion. There is no known reason why this could not happen tomorrow. While it is true that the probability of the switch increases with time
the probability of its happening tomorrow is far from zero.

The flip side to the possibility that the crossover could happen at any time is the fact that the virus has been around at least since 1997 and
as a matter of record
has not yet switched to a deadly human-to-human form. At least a few scientists believe that the virus can’t and won’t make the switch to a deadly form
possibly ever.

And so we are left with these two very different possibilities—at any time
and as soon as tomorrow
the virus could mutate into a deadly form
readily transmissible between people—or it might never transform itself into such a form. There appears to be much more evidence for the former and
presumably
that is why the vast majority of scientists and governments are scrambling to prepare for the worst.

This situation is analogous to living on the Gulf Coast during the beginning of hurricane season. Residents there have been through it before
but most of the time the storms are not too severe and the people can get by without too much hassle. However
there have been rare severe storms that have been devastating. Some day another hurricane is coming
and it appears that it might well be a Category IV or even V by the time it strikes land. However
that’s not certain—no one can say for sure
and no one knows exactly when it will strike land. So what should the residents do? What should the residents have done before hurricane Katrina?

The coming bird-flu pandemic might be mild and it might not come for years. On the other hand
it might be severe and it might start tomorrow. The U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) has said
“While the severity of the next pandemic cannot be predicted
modeling studies suggest that its effect in the United States could be severe.” We should also be mindful that the pandemic could come at any time
even before the virus methodically marches around the globe. No matter how advanced science has become
we still can not predict when the switch will occur; it is currently unknowable—and that does not mean it will come later
in a predictable fashion. As Miguel de Cervantes admonished
“Forewarned
forearmed.”

Bradford Frank
M.D.
M.P.H.
M.B.A.
The Frank Group
P.O. Box 138
Lakewood
NY 14750
http://www.AvoidBirdFlu.com

The term "Arthritis" refers to more than 100 different types of diseases which all cause pain
stiffness
and inflammation in the joints of affected people. All arthritis conditions involve some form of joint pain or the other. However
the seriousness of the joint pain
the duration of the joint pain and degree of the joint pain vary from one type of arthritis to another.

The two most prevalent types of arthritis include Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid arthritis. Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis
in which joint cartilage is destroyed. In other cases of Osteoarthritis
the patient experiences bony outgrowth
also known as bone spurs and also lose of cartilage particles.

Osteoarthritis affects mostly aged people
from 55 years and older. That is why most people say it is an 'aged disease' of the joints. Osteoarthritis is mostly common in the hands
feet
spine
hips and knees of victims.

In rheumatoid arthritis
the patient experiences white blood cells in the synovial membrane dividing
growing and multiplying. These produce inflammation of the joint capsule and synovial membrane
loss of space in the synovial cavity
pain and stiffness in the joint. If there is no arthritis relief and treatment
this may lead to cartilage destruction.

Apart from these types of arthritis
another type of arthritis that commonly affects people is "Inflammatory Arthritis". This type of arthritis causes very severe inflammation in the joints and the tendons of the victims.

This is mostly characterized by the swelling and inflammation of the synovial membrane - thereby causing severe pain and stiffness in the joints of the victims. Inflammatory arthritis makes the joint look red and warm when touched. Arthritis relief for victims is necessary to reduce the pain.

Arthritis relief is therefore very important
especially in a country like the United States where Arthritis is the number one cause of physical disability. There are an estimated total number of 43 million Americans - 16 percent of the population
suffering from one form of arthritis or the other.

It is not only adults who need arthritis relief
but also children. In the United States
about 300
0
children suffer from one type of arthritis related disease or another. Children
being very susceptible to pain
need arthritis relief and treatment more than ever before. Unlike adults who can endure joint pains to a great degree
children cannot and therefore need arthritis relief as soon as the problem starts.

Flowering landscape trees are the crown jewels of the yard.
Perhaps no other plants
individually
can have as great an
impact on how a yard looks in spring. Browse the articles to
which I've linked below for information on particular varieties
of flowering landscape trees. Pictures are included.

Crape Myrtles: Landscape Trees of the South

A popular choice in flowering landscape trees for Southerners

crape myrtles have a long blooming period (mid-summer to
fall). The blooming clusters of these flowering landscape trees
come in pink
white
red and lavender. The clusters appear on
the tips of new wood. Northerners can sometimes get away
with treating these flowering landscape trees as perennials
that die back in winter but come back in spring.

Trees

Not all specimens with a weeping habit are flowering
landscape trees
but this article looks at several weeping
varieties that do bloom
headed by four types of cherry.
Saucer Magnolias

The size and shape of the blooms are what suggested the
common name for these flowering landscape trees. Want a
specimen with a brilliant bloom as big as a saucer? Access
information on these beauties here.

Rose of Sharon

Although some people think of it as a landscape "tree"
(because it gets tall and can be pruned so as to have a single
trunk)
rose of sharon is
in fact
a flowering shrub. The fact
that it blooms relatively late -- and for a long time -- makes it
a valuable plant for those looking to distribute their yard's
color display throughout the growing season.
Top 10 List of Flowering Landscape Trees and Shrubs for
Spring |

This article features information on ten flowering landscape
trees and shrubs that brighten our spring seasons. Included
are redbud
callery pear and crabapple.
Hawthorn: Late-Blooming Landscape Trees

This article offers information on Washington hawthorn trees

which are perhaps most valued for the time at which they
bloom (late spring to early summer). Many of the popular
flowering specimens bloom earlier in the spring
and while
their blossoms are pleasant sights for eyes sore from winter's
barrenness
they desert us too quickly!

Bipolar disorder
also known as manic depression
is a life-long illness affecting the chemistry of the brain. In classic cases
it causes severe mood swings from manic episodes of extreme highs to depressive episodes of debilitating lows
with relatively normal periods in-between. According to the National Institute of Mental Health
over 2 million people age 18 and older have been diagnosed with bipolar disorder.

Unfortunately
there is no cure for bipolar disorder at this time. But as with any chronic illness
such as diabetes
heart disease or epilepsy
proper treatment
management and understanding of the illness is crucial. Most people with bipolar disorder can lead full
productive and satisfying lives by taking crucial steps to control and manage their illness.

Some key steps to consider if you or a loved one have bipolar disorder include:

1. Find a mental health professional you trust. A person diagnosed with bipolar disorder needs to establish a relationship with a trusted mental health professional where an open and honest exchange can take place.

2. Take medication as prescribed. This is first and foremost the most important step in taking control of bipolar disorder. It is the one element that needs to be strictly adhered to. In order for medication to work effectively it must be taken consistently and for the long term. It may be tempting to stop taking medication as symptoms lessen and one starts feeling better. However
this could have devastating consequences.

3. Reduce Stress. Mental health professionals typically believe that increased stress can trigger an episode of manic depression. Finding time to relax
sharing extra responsibilities
or simply talking to someone during a stressful event may help to bring on an increased feeling of calmness.

4. Do not become isolated. Do not try to "handle" bipolar disorder alone. Seeking out the comfort and understanding of family and friends is central to a person's treatment. It can be very helpful to join a bipolar disorder support group because the people there understand the feelings and difficulties of living with the illness. They can lend insight and encouragement to a person confronting a diagnosis.

5. Maintain a healthy lifestyle. It is important to establish regular healthy routines such as exercising the same time everyday
going to bed at the same time each night and waking up at the same time each morning. Maintain a healthy diet and get plenty of sleep
because erratic sleep patterns can increase the symptoms of bipolar disorder. Do not use caffeine or recreational drugs.

6. Become an expert on bipolar disorder. Become involved in understanding the symptoms and treatment of bipolar disorder and the effects it can have on family and friends. Consult a qualified mental health professional with questions and concerns. Read books about the illness or listen to lectures by experts. Learn as much about bipolar disorder as possible because knowledge is a powerful tool in taking out the mystery of the illness.

7. Enhance life with enjoyable things. Make it a priority to engage in things that bring about feelings of joy
happiness
and accomplishment. Hobbies or activities that enhance a sense of peace or relaxation serve one well in dealing with the confusion of bipolar disorder.


A diagnosis of bipolar disorder does not have to mean the end of one's world; rather it can be considered a new beginning. One that
at last
provides an explanation and ultimate relief from some of the unexplained and destructive behaviors a person might exhibit
freeing them to live rich and fulfilling lives.

Mental health authorities estimate that more than 2 million adults have been diagnosed with bipolar disorder (also called manic-depression)
a chemical imbalance in the brain causing extreme mood swings from manic highs to agonizing lows. Although a diagnosis of bipolar disorder can be frightening and confusing
it is a treatable and manageable condition.

If you or someone close to you has been diagnosed with bipolar illness
the first step in relieving fear and uncertainty is education. The more you know about the disorder
the less control it will exert over you and others who may be affected.

The National Institute of Mental Health (www.nimh.nih.gov)
The National Alliance for the Mentally Ill (www.nami.org)
and The National Mental Health Association (www.nmha.org) are just a few of the recognized national organizations providing information
facts and support to anyone who may be directly or indirectly affected by bipolar disorder.

Below are some essential facts about bipolar disorder provided by these organizations that may alleviate some of your concerns and questions surrounding a recent diagnosis.

Bipolar disorder affects many people: According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)
bipolar disorder affects approximately 2.3 million adults
or 1.2 percent of the population
in any given year.

Bipolar disorder has many potential causes: There does not appear to be one cause for bipolar disorder. Evidence suggests that many components may come into play
all of which affect the chemical balance of certain parts of the brain. Several studies on the occurrence of bipolar disorder in families demonstrate a genetic disposition toward the illness. Other factors may include extremely traumatic life events
chronic illness
alcoholism
and drug abuse.

Bipolar disorder has varied symptoms: The most pronounced symptoms of bipolar disorder are dramatic mood swings consisting of extremely “high” manic episodes to debilitating episodes of depression and then back again with relatively normal moods in between. Behaviors during a manic episode include heightened feelings of euphoria
extreme energy
decreased need for sleep
extreme irritability and distractibility
and increased aggression. Depressive episodes bring about excessive feelings of despair
hopelessness
worthlessness
guilt
and sometimes thoughts of suicide.

Bipolar disorder affects both sexes in children to adults: Manic depression is not selective in who it touches. Women and men are equally affected
as are children and adolescents (although a diagnosis in children and teens is more difficult to determine). A majority of those diagnosed with bipolar disorder have a least one family member with the illness. And children of parents with the illness are more likely to develop it themselves.

Bipolar disorder has effective treatment modalities: Bipolar disorder is treated with medications
called mood stabilizers
to assist in controlling fluctuation in moods. The important thing to understand about bipolar disorder is that it is a life-long
recurring illness requiring ongoing care. In addition to medication
psychotherapy is also prescribed in the management of the illness. Psychotherapy assists people to understand their illness and to develop coping skills to help deal with life events and stressors that may trigger manic and depressive episodes.

Bipolar disorder has no cure: As of today
there is no known cure for bipolar disorder; however
it is a treatable and manageable illness. With a close relationship with a mental health professional
a proper diagnosis
and vigilant adherence to taking medications and sticking to prescribed treatment plans
most individuals with bipolar illness lead very productive and rewarding lives.

These are just a few of the facts pertaining to bipolar disorder. It is not a simple illness
yet it is manageable and treatable. If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with bipolar disorder
do not hesitate to seek information and help. Any one of the above-mentioned organizations can offer you education
guidance
and support. Obtaining knowledge is one of your first steps in alleviating the uncertainty and anxiety of dealing with such a diagnosis.