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What is Bell's Palsy?

Bell's Palsy is a rare disease that affects the nerves in the face. It makes the patient unable to move the affected side of their face. Usually patients are under fifteen or over sixty. Sometimes pregnant women can develop the disease. People become self-conscious when they have Bell's Palsy because it alters the appearance of their face. The paralysis does not last forever, but sometimes it can reoccur in the other side of someone's face.

The cause of Bell's Palsy will vary. You can get it if you are hit hard in the face, such as in a sports injury or something. You can get it from the virus that causes shinglees, herpes, or even mono. If you are very sick with a flu or pneumonia you can also develop Bell's Palsy.

The facial nerves that are affected when a patient develops Bell's Palsy are in the skull and near the ear. There are two main domestic nerves, one for each side of your face. The condition is named after the Scottish surgeon, Sir Charles Bell, who was the first to research and describe the condition. When someone has Bell's Palsy their brain stops telling the facial nerves how to move. Patients will find that when they smile or make a facial expression, only one side of their face will react.

It can also be difficult for patients to blink or chew. They may experience some pain around their ear or have a headache. They'll notice they have twitching or drooping on only one side of their face. The symptoms of Bell's Palsy will usually be pretty straightforward, and if you go to a doctor they will be able to diagnose you and give you any pain or anti-inflammatory medication you might need.

There is no real cure for Bell's Palsy. Usually it goes away on its own, but there are ways to speed up the process. For example, you can take medication in order to reduce any swelling or infection you might be experiencing. You can also visit a physical therapist if your Bell's Palsy has not gone away on its own in two to four weeks.

It can be extremely frustrating to experience a condition such as Bell's Palsy, because you know what you want your face to do, but it will not respond. Patients with this condition should seek counseling or forums to ask the advice of others who have suffered the same thing. This way, they will not feel as frustrated or as embarrassed about the fact that their face will not move.

While this article provides some basic information about Bell's Palsy and what it looks like, there are many other resources that provide even more information. Check out books at your local library or bookstore or purchase an eBook on the internet that will give you more information. People who have Bell's Palsy may want to share their story with you so that you can avoid the pain and embarrassment they might have gone through.

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Migraine – Or is Nerve Damage Causing Your Headache?

Millions of people suffer from headaches. This often causes missed work days. less productive days, and less enjoyable days. Migraine is a specific intracranial vascular headache. Many use the term mistakenly to describe other types of heads. There are many other causes of headache and many of these can be caused by nerve dysfunction.

The occipital nerve is a large nerve in the neck. It can be damaged by such things as whiplash injuries and improper patient posture during oral surgery. Occipital neuralgia causes pain in the back of the head but this can be referred to other areas. This is because the ganglion interconnects with the trigeminal ganglion in the brain stem. Throbbing is often associated with this type of headache because of proximate to the occipital artery.

The auriculotemporal nerve is located near the ear and the top of the jaw on both sides. Common headaches with problems to this nerve are temple headaches. This nerve is commonly damaged in TMJ surgery. it is usually pounding because it is near the temporal artery.

Another nerve that can cause problem is compression of the ethmoid nerve in the sinuses. An ear nose and throat doctor can diagnose this problem by seeing if the patient has tenderness when using the instrument commonly used to explore the sinuses.

Another type of neuralgia that can be found involves the supraorbital nerve and can be caused by a head hitting a windshield or a punch to the front of the head. Treatment and diagnosis involves injection of local anesthetic with steroid. The headache can sometimes take years before it starts to present problems.

The infraorbital nerve can also cause problems and is often misdiagnosed as maxillary sinusitis.

Nerve problems causing headaches are different than migraines and need to be treated as such. Diagnosis is made by injection of local anesthetic into the nerve that appears to be the problem. Treatment is directed at reversing the underlying pathology. Entrapments are treated with injectable anti-inflammatory medications. Always remember you can not treat what you can not diagnosis. Patients as well as doctors need to be proactive in finding a potential source for chronic headaches.

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Tonsilloliths 101 – Quick Relief For Tonsilloliths

Tonsilloliths, or also often known as tonsil stones, are nasty whitish or yellowish colored, foul smelling bumps on your tonsils. They are caused by the accumulation of sulfur producing bacteria, food particles, post nasal drip, overactive salivary glands, mucous and other mouth debris that build up and lodge near the throat. There are some people that confuse this problem with tonsillitis.

Tonsillitis is an infection of the tonsils that can either be caused by a bacterial or by a viral infection. A tonsillitis caused by a bacterial infection can be treated with the use of antibiotics. Penicillin is one of the most common prescribed antibiotics. A viral infection takes time to go away and does not receive treatment. However, there are some natural remedies that can ease the pain and inflammation. One example is drinking boiled milk added with turmeric and powdered pepper or you can also try lime juice in warm water.

Tonsilloliths can be treated in the comfort of your own home. Gargle with saltwater every morning and every after meal, use an antibacterial non alcohol based mouthwash, rinse your mouth with water after eating and drinking, and brush your teeth and scrape your tongue regularly. These nasty chunks are not contagious and can not be transferred to another person even when kissing or coughing them up. However, it is possible that you pass the bacteria that might settle on another person.

Paying a regular visit to a dentist, practicing good oral hygiene and doing your own self diagnosis are the best things you can ever do to terminate tonsilloliths and prevent them from coming back.

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Diabetes and the Adrenal Glands

Diabetes Mellitus or simply diabetes is a medical condition caused by extremely high blood sugar in the body. The elevation of blood sugar in diabetics occurs either because the pancreas does not produce enough insulin or there is an ineffective use of insulin in the cells. There are two main types of diabetes, Type I or the Insulin Dependent Diabetes (IDD) and Type II diabetes or the Non-Insulin Dependent Diabetes (NIDD). Of these types, Type 2 diabetes is the most common, affecting 90% of diabetics worldwide. Common symptoms of diabetes are known as the 3 Ps of diabetes including polyuria (frequent urination), polydipsia (increased thirst), and polyphagia (extreme hunger). Diabetes is often a result of multiple conditions, one of which is hormonal imbalance in the adrenal glands.

Adrenal glands or suprarenal glands are hormone releasing (endocrine) glands located on top of both kidneys. The functions of the adrenal glands are influenced by the hypothalamus and the pituitary "master" gland located under the brain. These glands are composed of two main parts, the adrenal medulla or the inner section, and the adrenal cortex or the outer section. Each section produces specific hormones essential to life and total wellness. The adrenal cortex produces cortisol, aldosterone, and androgen hormones while the adrenal medulla manufactures adrenaline and noradrenaline. Of all the adrenal hormones, cortisol is implicated in diabetes as it is involved in the production of blood sugar.

Overproduction of cortisol, a condition known as Cushing's syndrome can lead to diabetes. Cortisol increases blood sugar because it stimulates the metabolic pathway called gluconeogenesis. Gluconeogenesis is a process that takes place mainly in the liver in which non-carbohydrate substances, more often than protein and amino acids are converted into glucose. The glucose produced in the liver then goes to the blood circulation and supplied to the cells. To correct the overproduction of cortisol and the resulting diabetes, cushing syndrome must be treated. Treatment options for cushing's disease include surgery and medications. Surgery is aimed at removing tumors in the adrenal cortex causing the cortisol imbalance. Medication for caching's syndrome are designed to lower cortisol in the body. Drug treatment for caching syndrome typically includes ketoconazole, metyrapone, and mitotane.

Clearly, diabetes is a complication of disorders in the adrenal glands. Thus, healthy adrenal functioning is equivocal to diabetes prevention and wellness. Eating foods with high vitamin and fiber content, normal salt intake, effective stress management, and regular exercise all contribute to healthy adrenal glands, normal cortisol production, and normal blood sugar levels.

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How to Prevent Obesity

Why for example are we faced with an obesity epidemic in children in the first place? The answer lies in the fact that our children's lifestyles and habits have changed dramatically in recent years. This is the age when the great outdoors has been abandoned in favor of video games where children will instead sit indoors for hours on end peering at some screen. So an important part of the answer to obesity is the need to cultivate weight gain prevention habits among our children. More exercises, physical pastime and more outdoor activities will there help a great deal in fighting off obesity in children.

Then we need to appreciate the fact that genes also play a major role in the obesity problem. Obese parents are there much more likely to have obese children. It goes beyond genes because obese parents are also much more likely to pass down their poor habits, which promote and cause obesity, to their children.

Still the biggest cause of obesity has to be oveating. We all enjoy good food and that is the reason why diets are illegally to work over the long run. A key point to remember here is the fact that it takes almost 20 minutes for the stomach to signal the brain that it has had enough. What this means is the most powerful weight control tip is to reduce the speed of eating. Eating slowly will help children tremendously to know when to stop and is a great way to control obesity.

The diet also matters. Diets rich in fruits, vegetables and whole-grains are very important in the fight against obesity in children.

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Fungus Under Nail – Natural Nail Fungus Treatments

Have you noticed fungus under your nail? Symptoms of fungus under nail usually begin with discoloration of the nail. You may also notice that your nail is dull and less shiny than your non-infected nails. Nails may also thicken or emit a slight odor. If you have any of these symptoms, you may have nail fungus and it is important that you treat this as soon as possible.

You should regard fungus under nail the same way you do any other infection. It needs immediate treatment or it can do more damage and it can be passed on to other nails, or even other people in your family. While nail fungus begins as more of a cosmetic problem, you will eventually begin to notice soreness and discomfort surrounding the infected nails.

There are natural home remedies that can be used to treat fungus under nail. Below I have listed 3 homeopathic methods for clearing up the symptoms of nail fungus.

Vicks VapoRub

After bathing, be sure to get your hands and feet are completely dry. Then lather Vicks VapoRub all over your affected nails. Make sure they are well covered with the medicinal rub. Then protect the medicine from spreading to carpet, floors, and furniture by covering with a sock or glove. Do this every day and you should begin to see results after a few weeks

Antiseptic Mouthwash

Make sure nails are clean and dry. Then soak them thoroughly in mouthwash for 20 to 30 minutes. The germ killing power of the mouthwash will also work to kill the fungi as well. After soaking, rinse and dry hands.

Tea Tree Oil

Apply tea tree oil into your infected nails using a cotton tipped swab. Tea tree oil has been used for centuries to get rid of fungus under nail, and it works well. This technique should be repeated several times daily. Tea tree oil acts as a natural antibiotic.

If you have fungus under nail, be sure to keep your nails trimmed as short as possible. With proper treatment, the fungus will eventually grow completely off of your nail. Also be sure that you keep your nails clean and dry. Fungi love warm, moist places. Keeping your nails dry will prevent the fungi from multiplying and spreading. If the fungus under nail is on your toenails, go barefoot or wear sandals when possible. This will prevent perspiration and will also relieve the pain you may be experiencing when your toes are enclosed.

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How to Get Rock Solid Erections Without Prescription Drugs

Erectile dysfunction is a medical condition that can make life miserable for any man. This is because it's extremely important for a man to be able to satisfy his woman sexually. I must say that happy couples almost always enjoy a great sex life. In other words, good sex is one of the keys to a healthy and strong relationship.

ED or weak erections due due to poor blood flow to the penis. Some of the other factors that can take a toll on your erections include a drop in testosterone levels, too much stress and other psychological issues like depression, anxiety, nervousness etc. Even certain medicines and drugs can also result in impotency.

Prescription drugs are well-known for treating ED. They can ensure almost instant results. Most of these drugs can help you get a hard erection within 30-60 minutes. However, such drugs can have a lot of harmful side effects too.

Here are some simple and easy ways to help you get harder and stronger erections naturally:

1. Get Ready to Jog

One of the most important and basic factors that affects your libido and erection hardness is blood flow to the penis. Lack of blood flow makes it impossible to get a solid erection. Exercise or any other physical activity is the best natural way to enhance blood flow through your body and to your penis.

So, put on your jogging shoes every morning and step out for a good 15-20 minutes jog.

Jogging can also help burn excess body fat. This turns out to be a big help in unclogging arteries resulting in improved blood flow.

2. Change Your Diet

I know you love burgers and pizzas. However, if you want to get a boost in the bedroom, its important to change your diet and move away from foods that are rich in saturated fats and sugars.

It's important to include fresh vegetables and fruits in your diet. Nuts and beans are also important in moderation since they are a good source of Omega 3 fatty acids that keep your arteries lubricated or well oiled in order to ensure good blood flow. Not just this, such fatty acids are also important for the production of testosterone which is the primary male sex hormone.

You must include lean protein in your diet. Fish and chicken are a great source of such proteins. They are good for increasing testosterone.

You must also give up smoking since it can cause cause irreversible damage to your arteries. It's also important to quit alcohol which is a suppressant and can play havoc with your testosterone levels.

3. Cut Down on Stress

Cutting down on stress can do wonders for your sex life. Stress not only affects your testosterone production but also destroys the brain and body connect required to get a rock solid erection. One of the best ways to deal with stress is with the help of yoga and meditation. Anything that you enjoy can help bring out stress levels.

4. Try Natural Penis Pills

Natural male enhancement pills are a great way to get rid of ED. Such pills build your body's reserves over time so that you can get a solid erection, instantly on arousal. Although such pills take some time to show results, they are safe and free of side effects. Moreover, they offer a host of benefits that include stronger libido, instant arousal, rock solid erections, amazing staying power or ejaculatory control and improved semen production.

Good quality pills contain ingredients like tribulus, long jack, pomegranate extract, ginseng, ginkgo biloba, l-arginine etc.

Some of the best pills are backed with clinical approvals and recommended by doctors too.

So, if you want to get rock solid erections, check out the Best Penis Pills that have helped thousands of men like over the past decade.

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Understanding Oral Thrush in Infants

Few things rattle parents more than health problems with their baby. While ideally parents will enjoy a complication free beginning to their new child's life, some parents have to learn about new conditions and illnesses, as well as how to treat them and provide the best care for baby. Oral thrush is one health issue that may alarm parents caring for the new addition to the family.

Typically characterized by white sores inside the mouth or on the lips, resembling curdled milk or cottage cheese, oral thrush can not be scraped or wiped away. The inside of the mouth or lips may also appear red or present with red edges around the white lesions. Often these thrush sores are sensitive to touch and irritate the baby's mouth, causing pain and discomfort for the baby when sucking.

It is very common for babies to develop oral thrush after a course of antibiotics. The antibiotic kill good bacteria as well as the infection; therefore, the yeast candida albicans has the ability to grow and multiply with little good bacteria to fight it, leaving the baby's immune system susceptible to yeast overgrowth problems such as yeast infections, diaper rashes or oral thrush.

Other potential culprits for oral thrush in infants include pacifiers and formula bottle nipples that have not been properly sterilized. Women can also develop thrush on their nipples through breastfeeding and then pass on the thrush to their child.

While many babies' immune systems are designed to battle candida and thrush, if their systems have been compromised in any way-through antibiotics or otherwise-they are more likely to develop the oral thrush condition.

Possible treatments for oral thrush in infants include boosting the baby's immune system and healthy, yeast-fighting bacterium with a good probiotic and / or sugar-free yogurt containing live active cultures. This will replenish the child's healthy bacteria, so the body can do its job to destroy candida and restore a healthy intestinal flora.

Avoiding unnecessary antibiotics is another way to help the child heal from oral thrush. Especially if the infant is already dealing with thrush symptoms, antibiotics will only hinder healthy bacteria growth.

A very common treatment for oral thrush in infections is gentian violet-an antifungal agent used to treat a variety of fungal infections and problems. Although it is not derived from the gentian flower, it does have a bright purple color similar to the gentian flower petals.

With treatment, the oral thrush should improve and eventually go away entirely. Children under six months of age are more susceptible to the condition, and once they are one-year-old the chance of developing oral thrush is significantly reduced.

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Acute Hepatitis – How to Cure It

Acute hepatitis is a form of hepatitis which rapidly progresses and has very noticeable symptoms. Patients with this disease usually experience vomiting, nausea, and almost constant tiredness. Fortunately, some new innovations in the field of medicine have made it possible to cure acute hepatitis quickly and at home. Read on to learn more.

Hepatitis is a disease, caused by the hepatitis virus. There are four classes – a, b, c and g. They can be chronic or acute. Acute hepatitis is more damaging to your health than chronic hepatitis. There is a long period during which people with the infection do not notice it, and have no symptoms whatever. You can catch hepatitis, by usually coming in contact with contaminated blood, but that's not the only way. Let's look at some of the treatment forms for acute hepatitis.

Interferon therapy – that's a form of treatment, which is fairly new, and it involves taking certain proteins, also known as interferons. Interferons are made in the body when you have infection. Most patients with hepatitis do not have high enough levels of interferon in their blood, and so it is artificially supplied. The method usually does not cure the disease itself, but it does help you get better quicker, as it speeds the rate at which antibodies are produced in the liver.

Herbal cure – that's the newest innovation, and it involves simple herbs. It simply supplies your body with the proper tools, so that it can get rid of the infection on it's own. That method is very effective and has been proven to work in close to 100% of all patients, who have been subjected to it.

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Lympha Press – Home Solution for Lymphedema

For millions of people who suffer from lymphedema, a lymphphax press can be the optimal home solution. Lymphedema is the term used when the lymphatic system does not function properly. Fluid that would normally drain through the lymph vessels builds up and this in turn causes swelling in the affected area. This generally occurs in the arms or legs, but it can affect other areas of the body.

Not only does the excess fluid cause swelling, but it is very painful and can limit movement. There are several causes from complications associated with cancer surgery to infection. Although people may experience temporary lymphedema, the condition can be chronic and this is when a lympha press can be quite beneficial.

What are the advantages of a Lympha Press?

There are several reasons a lympha press can be advantageous for those who are suffering from lymphedema. It can be used to treat the lower lower part of the body including the abdomen and the legs. It can be adjusted – setting the pressure as well as the time of use – depending on the need and the recommendation of your doctor. It is simple to use even for those with limited ability to move about freely.

This is a treatment option that is highly regarded by many doctors. Rather than surgery for lymphedema, several prefer treating the condition non-surgically. Research shows this is a method that can be very beneficial for those who are suffering from this disorder. Tests conducted show impressive results for reducing edema or swilling are experienced by those who used the machine. There were very few side effects and the long-term benefits, such as maintaining the reduction in swing, are another benefit.

Providing Relief for Lymphedema is Essential

Due to the amount of water in blood that is filtrated by the lymphatic system, when it is not functioning correctly blockages cause swelling. Constant swapping is responsible for other problems such as hardening of the tissues. The limit that is affected can become disfigured. Infections are another problem because the buildup of lymph fluid is a breeding ground for bacteria.

Cellulitis is one of the skin infections that can be caused by lymphedema. This is a serious condition that can make people very ill. In addition to all of these problems, loss of the ability to move about freely is experienced because of pain. This can result in difficulty walking from room to room, dressing and even simple tasks such as brushing your hair. Along with all of these problems, depression is common. The loss of the ability to do the things that are part of most people's daily routine can cause stress.

How the Lympha Press Works

A lympha press includes garments that can be worn to treat many areas of the body from the abdomen to the chest, shoulders and back. Based on the practice of manual drainage of the lymph fluid, the machine uses compression to massage the affected areas of the body. This is similar to the way the lymphatic system works. The lymph fluid is moved to the lymph vessels and drained from the body.

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Diabetes in Senior Citizens

Your body obtains glucose from the food you take in, the liver and muscles also supply your body with glucose. Blood transports the glucose to cells throughout the body. Insulin, a chemical hormone, helps the body’s cells to take in the glucose. Insulin is made by the beta cells of the pancreas and then released into the bloodstream.

If the body does not make enough insulin or the insulin does not work the way it should glucose is not able to enter the body’s cells. Instead the glucose must remain in the blood causing an increase in blood glucose level. This high blood glucose level causes pre-diabetes or diabetes.

Pre-diabetes means that blood glucose level is higher than average but not high enough for a diabetes diagnosis. Having pre-diabetic glucose levels increases risk for developing type 2 diabetes as well as heart disease and stroke. Still, if you have pre-diabetes there are many ways to reduce your risk of getting type 2 diabetes. Moderate physical activity and a healthy diet accompanied by modest weight loss can prevent type 2 diabetes and help a person with pre-diabetes to return to normal blood glucose levels.

Symptoms of diabetes include excessive thirst, frequent urination, being very hungry, feeling tired, weight loss without trying, the appearance of sores that slowly heal, having dry and itchy skin, loss of feeling or tingling in feet, and blurry eyesight. Still, some people with diabetes do not experience any of these symptoms.

Diabetes can be developed at any age. There are three main types of diabetes: type 1, type 2, and gestational diabetes.

Type 1 diabetes is also referred to as juvenile diabetes or insulin-dependent diabetes. It is usually diagnosed in children, teens, or young adults. In this type of diabetes, the beta cells of the pancreas are no longer able to produce insulin because they have been destroyed by the body’s immune system.

Type 2 diabetes is also referred to as adult-onset diabetes or non insulin-dependent diabetes. It may be developed at any age, including childhood. In this type of diabetes is the result of insulin resistance, a condition in which the body’s cells do not interact properly with insulin. At first, the pancreas is able to produce more insulin to keep up with the increased demand for insulin. However, it loses the ability to make up for the body’s cells inability to interact properly with insulin with time. The insulin is unable to help the cells take in glucose, this results in high blood glucose levels. Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes. An unhealthy weight contributed by a high calorie diet and lack of physical activity increases the risk for developing this form of diabetes.

African Americans, Hispanic Americans, American Indians, Alaska Natives, and Asian and Pacific Islanders are at especially high risk for developin Type 2 diabetes.

Gestational diabetes refers to the development of diabetes in the late stages of pregnancy. It is caused by hormones associated with pregnancy and a shortage of insulin. This form of diabetes goes away after the baby is born, but puts both the mother and child at a greater risk for developing type 2 diabetes in later life.

Diabetes is a serious disease and when it is not well controlled, it damages the eyes, kidneys, nerves, heart, gums, and teeth. Having diabetes makes one more than twice as likely as someone without diabetes to have heart disease or stroke.

It is important to keep blood glucose, blood pressure, and cholesterol under control to avoid the serious complications associated with diabetes. Taking steps to control diabetes can make a large impact in the one’s health.

Risk Factors and Prevention

Diabetes is a serious disease with no cure. Controlling blood glucose levels, blood pressure, and cholesterol can help prevent or delay complications associated with diabetes such as heart disease and stroke. Much research is being done to find ways to treat diabetes.

Risk Factors

Type 1 diabetes is classified as an autoimmune disease. An autoimmune disease is the result of the body’s own immune system, which fights infections, turning against part of the body.

Currently, it is unclear what exactly causes the body’s immune system to turn on itself attacking and destroying the insulin producing cells of the pancreas. There are genetic and environmental factors, such as viruses, involved in the development of type 1 diabetes. Researchers are working to identify these factors and prevent type 1 diabetes in those at risk.

Type 2 diabetes is associated with being overweight, high blood presure, and abnormal cholestorol levels. Being overweight can contribute to one’s body using insulin correctly.

Other risk factors include:

  • Having a family history of diabetes, perhaps in a parent, brother, or sister.
  • Being of African American, American Indian or Alaska Native, Asian American or Pacific Islander, or Hispanic American/Latino descent.
  • Having a history of heart disease.
  • Having a history of gestational diabetes.
  • An inactive lifestyle

Prevention

Modest changes in lifestyle can help prevent the development of type 2 diabetes in those at risk. Here are some helpful tips.

  • Maintain a healthy body weight. Being overweight has many negative effects on one’s health and can prevent the body from properly using insulin. It also can contribute to high blood pressure. Research shows that even a modest amount of weight loss can reduce one’s risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
  • Make healthy food choices. What we put into our bodies has big consequences in our health and how our body functions. Eating healthy helps control body weight, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels.
  • Be active. Find a physical activity you enjoy and that gets your heart pumping, perhaps walking briskly, dancing, or yard work. Try to be physically active for at least 30 minutes a day 5 days a week – research shows that this helps to reduce the risk for type 2 diabetes.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

Diabetes is sometimes referred to as a “silent” disease because people may not show any signs or symptoms. Symptoms of diabetes include: excessive thirst frequent urination, being very hungry, feeling tired, weight loss without trying, the appearance of sores that slowly heal, having dry and itchy skin, loss of feeling or tingling in feet, and blurry eyesight. Still, some people with diabetes do not experience any of these symptoms.

Symptoms for type 2 diabetes develop gradually, while type 1 diabetes develops more quickly.

Doctors use different tests to diagnose diabetes. Tests to diagnose diabetes and pre-diabetes include the fasting plasma glucose (FPG) test and the oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT). A random plasma glucose test allows doctors to diagnose only diabetes.

If any of these tests show that you might have diabetes, your doctor will need to repeat the fasting plasma glucose test or the oral glucose tolerance test on a different day to confirm the diagnosis.

Because type 2 diabetes is more common in older people, especially in people who are overweight, doctors recommend that anyone 45 years of age or older be tested for diabetes. If you are 45 or older and overweight, getting tested is strongly recommended.

Older adults are at higher risk for developing Type 2 diabetes, particularly if they are overweight. Doctors recommend that those over 45 years of age be tested for diabetes especially if they are overweight.

Diabetes is a serious disease that can lead to pain, disability, and death. Sometimes people have symptoms but do not suspect diabetes. They delay scheduling a checkup because they do not feel sick.

Despite the risk of diabetes due to age and weight status, people often delay having a checkup because they do not feel any symptoms. Sometimes, people experience symptoms do not realize that it may be diabetes. Still, diabetes is a serious disease which, if left untreated, may lead to hazardous complications and even death.

Often times, people are not diagnosed with diabetes until they experience one of its complications, such as heart trouble or difficulty seeing. Early detection can prevent or delay such complications, making checkups all the more important.

Treatment

There is no cure for diabetes, but with careful control of blood glucose level, as well as cholesterol levels and blood pressure, it can be managed.

People with type 1 diabetes use insulin injections, by shots or an insulin pump, to control their blood glucose levels. People with type 2 diabetes use oral medications, insulin, or both to control their blood glucose levels. In some cases of type 2 diabetes, a person can use diet and exercise alone to maintain appropriate blood glucose levels.

Managing your blood glucose includes several lifestyle changes. These include:

  • Follow a meal plan that makes sense for you and how your body responds to the different foods that you eat.
  • Incorporate physical activity into your daily life.
  • Take the appropriate diabetes medicine and check your blood glucose levels in a manner that is consistent with your doctors recommendations is also key.

Treatment and Research – Diet and Exercise

Follow a Meal Plan

To keep your blood glucose level in the correct range, it is very important to make healthy choices when it comes to what foods you eat. People with diabetes should have their own meal plan that makes sense with how their body responds to the different type so of food that they eat. If you ask, doctors can give you the contact information of a dietitian or diabetes educator who can help you to construct an appropriate meal plan.

When you develop your meal plan, several things should be considered such as your weight, daily physical activity, blood glucose levels, and medications. A meal plan will help you to achieve a healthy weight for those who are overweight in addition to helping control blood glucose levels. A dietitian can help clarify misconceptions about healthy eating as well as ease you and your family into a plan that fits your goals and lifestyle.

It is not necessary for people with diabetes to only eat particular foods, rather food that are good for everyone are also good for diabetics. Such food includes those that are low in fat, salt, and sugar. Foods that are high in fiber, such as whole grains, beans, fruits, and vegetables are also great choices. Making healthy choices in your diet will help you to achieve and maintain a healthy weight, control your blood glucose levels, and prevent heart disease.

Get Regular Physical Activity

Staying active is very important for people diagnosed with diabetes. Research has shown better blood glucose levels in older adults and senior citizens who take part in a regular fitness program. Exercise offers many health benefits that are especially important for people with diabetes. It helps you to reach and maintain a healthy weight, promotes insulin functioning to lower blood glucose, strengthens the heart and lungs, and increases energy.

If exercise is new to you, talk with your doctor before you begin. Some exercises, for example weightlifting, may not be safe for people with eye problems or high blood pressure. Ask your doctor to check your heart and feet to make sure you do not have any special problems associated with diabetes. Moreover, ask you doctor to help you find exercises that are safe for you.

Make physical activity a part of your daily life. Go on walks, ride a bike, or garden. Try dancing or swimming, or simply stay active by doing work around the house. Try different activities and look for ways to increase physical activity in your everyday life. Try to get some sort of exercise every day for at least 30 minutes. If you are new to exercising, start slowly and gradually increase the amount and intensity of your exercise.

Medication

Insulin

People with type 1 diabetes and some people with type 2 diabetes use Insulin to lower blood glucose levels. People must take insulin when their body does not take enough of it. Insulin is a liquid hormone that must be injected with shots or an insulin pump.

Diabetes Pills

In many cases of type 2 diabetes, the body makes enough insulin but is not properly used by the body. Diabetes pills are used to correct this problem. Some are taken once daily while others must be taken more often. It is important to ask your doctor or pharmacist how to take your pills. Also, be sure to talk with your doctor if you are experiencing side effects or your pills make you sick. Finally, remember that diabetes pills should be used in addition to a healthy diet and exercise.

Other cases of type 2 diabetes do not require insulin or diabetes pills, rather a healthy diet and regular physical activity will treat their diabetes.

Self-Monitoring

It is important to keep track of your blood glucose levels regularly by using a blood glucose monitor. Logging these levels in a diary may also be helpful to get a better idea of how your treatment is going. Some people must check their blood glucose levels several times a day while others check it once daily. Ask your doctor how often you should test your blood.

Monitoring your glucose levels will help you detect “highs” and “lows.” A condition referred to as hypoglycemia results when glucose levels fall too low. When this happens a person may become shaky and confused. If blood glucose levels decrease too much, a person may faint. Following the treatment plan recommended by your doctor as well as monitoring your blood glucose levels can help you avoid “lows.” If you check your glucose level and it is too low, you can increase it by taking in sugary foods or drinks like fruit juice.

A condition referred to as hyperglycemia results when glucose levels are too high. If blood glucose is too high, it can cause a person to go into a coma. If you experience persistent “highs,” talk with your doctor, you may need to adjust your treatment plan.

ABCs of Monitoring Diabetes

People with diabetes are at especially high risk for developing heart disease and stroke. Because of this, it is very important to monitor your diabetes using your “ABCs.”

A. A1C or average blood glucose

B. Blood pressure

C. Cholesterol

The A1C (A-one-C) test is a good measure of what your blood glucose level is most of the time. A test result lower than 7 is positive sign that your diabetes is under control. A test result that is greater than 7 means that blood glucose levels are too high. If your A1C is too high, take action. Talk with your doctor about changing your treatment plan and lifestyle to reach your goal. Lowering your A1C to a healthy level, will help you avoid the complications associated with diabetes such as heart disease and kidney damage.

High blood pressure can lead to stroke, kidney disease, and other complications. Generally people with diabetes want to keep their blood pressure less than 130/80. Have your blood pressure checked at every doctor visit. If it is too high, talk with your doctor about how you can lower it.

Cholesterol, particularly LDL cholesterol, is a fat like substance that builds up in your arteries. If your cholesterol levels are too high it causes your arteries narrow. This can lead to heart disease or a heart attack. People with diabetes should try to keep their cholesterol less than 100. Have your doctor check your cholesterol, and if it is too high talk with him or her about how to reach your cholesterol goal.

Foot and Skin Care

High glucose levels and decreased blood supply to the limbs can cause severe nerve damage and loss of feeling. Unnoticed injuries can contribute to ulcers, which may lead to amputation. Because of this, foot care is very important for people with diabetes. Check your feet every day for cuts, ret spots, sores, infected toenails, and swelling. Report any issues to your doctor, and be sure to have your feet checked at every doctor visit. People with diabetes are more likely to experience skin injuries and infections; for this reason, taking care of your skin is also important.

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Your Ayurvedic Constitution – Are You Vata, Pitta Or Kapha?

In Ayurveda there are three different types of constitution or doshas: Vata, Pitta and Kapha. The three doshas represent the combination of the five elements present in nature: air, space, earth, fire and water. These elements combine to create the three doshas. It is very important to know your dosha because it can help you understand what is good for your body and mind. When your health is in imbalance you should choose the right remedies accordingly to your constitution (or dosha).

It is quite rare that someoneodies the characteristics of only one dosha. Most people are the combination of two, even three doshas.

Here is a little test you can do to find out what dosha is predominant in your body. Select the statements that describe you the best.

Type A

o Small-boned, the built is thin, does not gain weight easily

o Joints and veins are prominent

o The skin is quite dry, cool and rough

o The hair is dry and rough

o Cracked nails

o Eyes are small and active

o Lips are dry, discolored and thin

o Has little strength and tires easily

o The appetite is variable, at times can get very hungry

o Very physically active

o Bowel movements are irregular, the stool is hard and dry

o The mind is very active and restless

o Has tendency to be fearful and anxious when under stress

o Recent memory is good but long-term memory is poor

o Has light sleep

o Tendency toward cold hands and feet, light perspiration

o Dreams are fearful and full of movement (falling and flying)

Type B

o Medium build

o Normal body weight, may be athletic and muscular

o The skin is oily, reddish and sensitive, warm

o Hair is fine and oily, tendency to balding or premature graying

o Medium and penetrating eyes that are light sensitive

o Lips are medium-sized and soft

o Nails are soft and flexible

o Medium strength

o The appetite is quite strong, tends to be irritable if misses a meal or can not eat when hungry

o Enjoys physical activity, especially if competitive

o Bowel movements are regular, oily, soft and loose

o The mind is sharp and focused

o Tendency toward irritability, anger and frustration when in stress situations

o Has excellent memory

o Usually sleeps well

o Has good circulation and perspires frequently

o Dreams are passionate, sometimes fulfilled with anger and violence

o Tendency towards aggression, high blood pressure, inflammatory processes

Type C

o The build is thick and stocky build, larger bone-structure

o Often overweight

o The skin is thick skin and cool, prone to acne

o The hair is strong, thick, oily, shiny

o Eyes are round, big and prominent

o Lips are full, large and smooth

o The nails are strong and thick

o Strong with good endurance

o Not very active, sometimes lazy even lethargic

o Bowel movements are slow, with thick, heavy and oily stools

o The mind is slow and calm

o Tends to avoid situations that are difficult

o Has slowed but sustaining memory

o Has sound and heavy sleep

o Perspiration is moderate

o Dreams are peaceful, calm, filled with water

o Has tendency towards respiratory and lymph congestion, water retention, acne

If you selected mostly A, you are Vata. Vatas are creative and fast thinking types, the artistic types. They are dominated by air so they need routine in their life in order to control their energy. They should avoid cold, dried, raw or frozen food and in order to achieve balance they need to eat warm foods (to help their digestion). They should avoid cold weather as well. When they are in imbalance, emotionally they tend to be fearful, insecure, anxious (even suffering from mental problems) while physically they may suffer from digestive problems, constipation and excess gases. Their main organ is the colon.

If you selected mostly B, you are Pitta. Pittas have strong will and determination. Their dominant element is fire so they have the tendency to be hot and fiery. When in imbalance the may have inflammations (the -itis alterations like gastritis, otitis, laryngitis, etc.), skin rashes, fever and ulcers, and a certain tendency to aggressive outbursts. Their main organs are the small intestine and stomach. They should avoid excessive heat and steam in order to cool down. They should avoid as well all the foods that are oily or foods that may cause irritation of some kind (like caffeine, hot spices, salt). Expressing emotions should be very important for Pittas.

If you selected mostly C, you are Kapha. Kaphas have good strength and stamina. They are dominated by earth. They have a certain tendency towards routine so they should try to periodically break it. They tend to get attached to things and people. Financial and emotional security is very important to Kaphas (quite materialistic types). Production of mucus is quite typical for Kaphas so they have a tendency towards congestion, sinusitis and sluggishness. Their main body part is the chest. When in imbalance they suffer from obesity, diabetes and water retention. In order to be in balance Kaphas should try to be more physically active, avoid heavy and fatty foods, large amounts of sugar and bread. They should engage in more exciting and challenging activities in order to avoid their indelence.

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Broken Ankle – What Are Some Symptoms of a Fracture?

Snap! There goes the loud popping sound, somewhere in the vicity of your ankle bones. Are you now faced with a broken ankle, or is it just a sprain or other injury? There are different symptoms that can point to a fractured ankle, although receiving qualified medical assistance from a professional worker is still advised, either you ever think it is broken or not (and even if you are correct, the severity of the injury may be something you can not tell, or it may need treatment that you do not know about or are unable to perform properly).

One of the symptoms of a broken ankle is a deformity in the area. Whether it's directly on the ankle, or nearby, it may point to a fraction. Of course, it could be a bone out of place, a partial dislocation of texts (technically called a "subluxation"). If the deformity includes a sharp fragment or edge of a bone protruding out through the skin then you can even physically see the broken bone.

Pain does not necessarily mean that the ankle is broken, as it can accompany other conditions that may exist in the area. For instance, a sprain may have pain involved, sometimes even in a certain way in some circumstances. Also, a popping or snapping sound does not always mean a bone is broken, as sprains can also make this audible noise.

If the area is sensitive or tender to the touch, or when pressure is applied, it is possible that there could be a broken ankle bone. Also, if weight can not be put on the leg that has been affected by the injury, a fraction is a possibility. Again, these symptoms do not necessarily mean that the bone has been fractured, as you could feel tenderness or be (or seem) unable to place weight on the leg despite a different issue being the problem.

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Birth-Injury-Related Cerebral Palsy

For most parents, the birth of a child is an exciting and joyous experience. But nowdays, 3 to 4 percent of newborns suffer from birth-related injuries. In the United States, cerebral palsy has become a serious birth-related injury which affects 5,000 to 10,000 infants each year.

There are different types of birth-related injuries that may happen before, during, or after the birth of a child. Although there are several types of birth injuries, one of the most popular and common type of birth injury is cerebral palsy.

Rather than a disease, cerebral palsy in newborn infants is a physical condition that is caused by brain damage before, during, or after birth. There are four different types of cerebral palsy: spastic cerebral palsy, ataxic cerebral palsy, athetoid cerebral palsy, and mixed cerebral palsy. Each type of cerebral palsy has its own characteristics. Of the four types of cerebral palsy, spastic cerebral palsy is the most common type. It accounts for eighty percent of all cases today in the United States.

Birth injury-related cerebral palsy is usually caused by birth asphyxia (lack of oxygen during the birth process), a complex condition which is difficult to predict or prevent.

Premature birth, low birth weight, hemorrhage in the child's brain, an infection or illness in the mother like rubella, toxoplasmosis; intrauterine exposure to drugs or alcohol are other reasons for birth injury related cerebral palsy.

Even though doctors and nurses are trained to identify symptoms of cerebral palsy, in most cases they fail to recognize the problem of brain injury in newborn infants. This failure may lead to birth injury related cerebral palsy. When cerebral palsy is caused due to birth injury (negligence), it becomes a case of medical malpractice. The parents of victims can claim for compensation for life long care. With the help of a cerebral palsy lawyer, victims can easily win compensation for medical malpractice.

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Treatment For Sleep Paralysis – Effective Techniques

There are some drugs and medication that can be prescribed as a treatment for sleep paralysis, but is it really necessary to resort to taking medicine for this condition? Believe me I know what it feels like, all I'm saying is simpler and easier ways of dealing with the problem are there and you just need to know them.

What you need to know about this illness are things that cause it. In understanding what triggers the episodes, by employing simple avoidance and preventive measures then you can tackle the problem. The underlying cause of the condition is sleep being suddenly disrupted in the middle of a dream. The sudden interruption causes you to be trapped between the two states of full consciousness and the dream.

In that moment because you can not differentiate reality from fiction the body becomes paralyzed. So the first thing you need to do as treatment for sleep paralysis is to organize your sleeping schedule into fixed times. The body needs to learn to sleep and wake up the same times everyday. Another thing is to sleep in a room that will keep light and sound out. These typically stimulate the brain out of sleep.

I am yet to come across a medical condition that is not aggravated by smoking and alcohol. Sleep paralysis is also made worse by these two including caffeine as well. You would be doing yourself a favor if you avoid taking them at night.

There are many more things that you need to avoid. There are some drugs and medication that can be prescribed as a treatment for sleep paralysis, but is it really necessary to resort to taking medicine for this condition? Believe me I know what it's like, all I'm saying is simpler and easier ways of dealing with the problem are there and you just need to know them.