Friday, September 25, 2009
Appendicitis
What is Appendicitis?
Appendicitis is inflammation of the appendix, a small pouch attached to the cecum, the beginning of the colon, on the lower right side of the abdomen. The appendix is not necessary for life, but it can become diseased. If untreated, an inflamed appendix can burst, causing infection and even death. Appendicitis can affect people at any age. It is most common in people ages 10 to 30.
The cause of appendicitis is usually unknown. It may occur after a viral infection in the digestive tract or when the opening connecting the large intestine and appendix is blocked. The inflammation can cause infection, a blood clot, or rupture of the appendix. Because of the risk of rupture, appendicitis is considered an emergency. Anyone with symptoms needs to see a doctor immediately.
Symptoms of Appendicitis
The most common symptoms of appendicitis are:
pain in the right side of the abdomen
nausea
vomiting
constipation
diarrhea inability to pass gas
low fever that begins after other symptoms
abdominal swelling
anorexia
The pain usually begins near the navel and moves down and to the right. The pain becomes worse when moving, taking deep breaths, coughing, sneezing, and being touched in the area.
Not everyone with appendicitis has all the symptoms. People with symptoms of appendicitis should not take laxatives or enemas to relieve constipation because these medicines could cause the appendix to burst. Pain medicine can mask symptoms that the doctor needs to know about, so it should not be used before consulting a doctor when appendicitis is suspected.
The doctor bases an appendicitis diagnosis on symptoms, a physical exam, blood tests to check for signs of infection such as a high white blood cell count, and urine tests to rule out a urinary tract infection. Usually doctors use CT scan or ultrasound to see whether the appendix looks inflamed.
If the diagnosis of appendicitis is not certain, people with equivocal signs of appendicitis may be watched and sometimes treated with antibiotics. People with definite appendicitis have surgery to remove the appendix, which is called an appendectomy. Doctors may use laparoscopic surgery for appendectomy. This technique involves making several tiny cuts in the abdomen and inserting a miniature camera and surgical instruments. The surgeon then removes the appendix with the instruments, so there is usually no need to make a large incision in the abdomen. People can live a normal life without their appendix--changes in diet, exercise, or other lifestyle factors are not necessary.
Causes and Risk Factors of Appendicitis
Appendicitis can occur in persons of any age, but it is most prevalent in young adults. It tends to occur on its own with no particular cause.
Treatment of Appendicitis
The surgery that corrects appendicitis, called an appendectomy, is a procedure with relatively little risk. Normally, the patient stays in the hospital for less than a week and can usually count on being back to a normal routine in three weeks. Many surgeons are performing laparoscopic appendectomy in which the appendix is removed through three small incisions (less than half an inch long) using special instruments and a special camera. With laparoscopic appendectomy, most patients can go home within 24 hours of the operation. However, if the appendix is ruptured, the patient may need to stay in the hospital for a considerably longer period of time and the risk of complications is much greater. A very ill patient may require special measures, such as stomach tubes and intravenous medications. If such complications have occurred, it may be two to three months before the patient can resume normal activity. Once the useless appendix is removed, there is no danger of appendicitis recurring.
Laparoscopic Surgery
Minimally invasive surgery performed with the aid of a tiny camera threaded into the abdomen has transformed some forms of abdominal surgery. For example, 80 to 90 percent of gallbladder operations are done using laparoscopy. Now a number of doctors are using the same technique to remove the appendix.
Gastric Problems
Gastric Problems is the most often pronounced ailment of modern times branching out into varied abdominal diseases. The most common one would be Gastritis. To research into the symptoms of this ailment would be acid reflux or heartburn, pain in the abdomen, excessive burping, puking or vomiting, nausea and difficulty in releasing gas.
The causes that underlie this ailment could be fast eating without good chewing, heavy meals, and excessive intake of alcohol, stress, anxiety and intake of strong drugs. Is there no definite cure to curb this problematic aliment that ties your tongue into not venturing into the dishes that it would like to savor?. No other way out other than scurrying to your physician?. Here are some useful tips that help you encounter your problem better.
Soups as an aperitif at least 20 minutes before meals helps in digestion, as they are ideal for replacing liquids and salts as well as stimulating the production of gastric acid.Drinking water with two three drops of mint essence .
To prevent acid in digestion, lime juice with cider vinegar in a glass of water before meals
Ginger tea after meals aids in promoting digestion.
Herbal tea prepared using blackberry, raspberry, mint and chamomile helps effective digestion.
Baking soda in a glass of water produces instant relief.
A pinch of asafetida in buttermilk helps in releasing gas.
Sucking cloves after meals aids in reducing gas problems.
A flake of garlic swallowed with water in empty stomach solves gas problems.
Soaking little methi in water in the night and drinking it empty stomach in the morning is also an effective remedy for indigestion.
Avoidance of wearing tight clothes, a daily walk of about a half an hour, non engagement in active sports immediately after meals regular exercise and most importantly timely meals and good chewing are a few suggestions for keeping indigestion at par.
Adherence to at least a few of these tips would keep indigestion at bay. If the problem is acute it is advisable to consult a physician.
Varicose veins
WHAT ARE VARICOSE VEINS
Varicose veins are abnormally swollen or enlarged blood vessels in the leg caused by the failure of the valves in the veins. Varicose veins and spider veins can be found in 35% of women and 20% of men above the age of 20.
WHAT CAUSES VARICOSE VEINS?
The reason varicose veins developed is not fully understood. The basic problem appeared to be that of damaged valves. Normally, the veins transport blood from the leg to the heart. In order for this to be possible, it has one-way valves to allow blood to travel in only one direction. In varicose vein, these valves have failed. Without the proper valve function, the blood tends to flow down (leaky), giving rise to blood pooling in the leg, thus causing the vein to bulge.
People who have varicose veins often have an inherited weakness of this valve. They may also give history of prolonged standing at work or multiple pregnancies, situations that will cause significant stress on the veins in the leg. These ultimately cause the veins to stretch and the valves to fail.
SYMPTOMS OF VARICOSE VEINS
These can be grouped into Asymptomatic-some patients has no symptoms at all apart from the veins being unsightly. They are usually very active physically and their active leg muscles compensate for the weakness of the vein function.
Mild symptoms-aching and cramps in the leg, itchiness near the area of the veins and swollen ankle. All these are worse with prolonged standing.
Severe symptoms and complications –leg ulcers, bleeding and thrombophlebitis.
PREVENTION
This may not always be possible; however some simple measures and changes in our lifestyle can potentially delay the onset of varicose veins.
Regular exercise will improve circulation and strengthen the veins. Focus on exercises that work your legs, like walking or running.
Watch your weight. Obesity can put a lot of pressure on the legs and is known to cause spider veins.
Do not cross your legs when sitting.
Elevate your legs when resting or sleeping. To achieve this, the ankle should be place above the level of the heart. Try sleeping with 2 pillows under the feet, or lean on a couch and elevate the leg while watching TV
Try not to sit or stand for long periods of time. When you have to sit for a long time, get up and take a walk every now and then. If you must stand for a long time, shift your weight from one leg to the other or do tip toeing exercises to improve circulation in the leg.
Wear elastic support stockings as much as you can.
Avoid wearing tight clothing and high heel shoes. They can constrict your waist and legs and impede circulation.
Eat a well balanced diet with sufficient fibers and cut down on salt intake.
Treatment
Endovenous Laser Treatment (EVLT) - get rid of varicose veins with no surgery, scar or anesthesia
Endovenous Laser is a minimally invasive, clinically proven alternative to surgical vein stripping that effectively and safely treats varicose veins by using a laser fiber to deliver energy inside the vein, directly into the vein wall. The precise laser energy achieves optimal therapeutic effect while limiting collateral damage.With over 70,000 procedures performed worldwide, and over 60 clinical articles documenting its efficacy out to five years, EVLT is the proven alternative.
Benefits of EVLT include:
Treatment in less than an hour
Can be performed in the doctor’s office
Up to 98% success rate
Immediate relief of symptoms
Minimal post procedure pain
Immediate return to activity
NO general anesthesia or hospitalization
NO Scar
Here's what to expect on the day of procedure:
Ultrasound examination to map out your vein.
Local anesthetic is applied. Sedation can also be given if you are needle phobic
A thin laser fiber is inserted through a tiny entry point (usually near the knee).
Laser energy is delivered to seal the faulty vein.
You will be required to wear tight surgical stocking for 4-5 days
Your normal day activity is then resumed. In fact, walking immediately after the procedure is encouraged (just avoid rigorous activities).
Thursday, September 24, 2009
neckpain
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pjwHL8-b-VM
Neck pain is a common problem, with two-thirds of the population having neck pain at some point in their lives.
Neck pain, although felt in the neck, can be caused by numerous other spinal issues. Neck pain may arise due to muscular tightness in both the neck and upper back, or pinching of the nerves eminating from the cervical vertebrae. Joint disruption in the neck creates pain, as does joint disruption in the upper back.
The head is supported by the lower neck and upper back, and it is these areas that commonly cause neck pain. The top three joints in the neck allow for most movement of your neck and head. The lower joints in the neck and those of the upper back create a supportive structure for your head to sit on. If this support system is affected adversly, then the muscles in the area will tighten, leading to neck pain.
Neck pain may also arise from many other physical and emotional health issues.
Causes
Major and severe causes of neck pain include:
Carotid artery dissection
Referred pain from acute coronary syndrome
Infections: retropharyngeal abscesses, epiglottitis, etc.[3]
Spondylosis - degenerative arthritis and osteophytes
Spinal stenosis – a narrowing of the spinal canal
Spinal disc herniation – protruding or bulging discs, or if severe prolapse.
The more common and lesser neck pain causes include:
Stress – physical and emotional stresses
Prolonged postures – many people fall asleep on sofas and chairs and wake with sore necks
Minor injuries and falls – car accidents, sporting events and day to day minor injuries
Referred pain – mostly from upper back problems
Over-use – muscular strain is one of the most common causes.
Treatment
Treatment of neck pain depends on the cause. Many acute problems in the spine/neck generally resolve themselves in as little as a few days to a few months. Persistant problems involving the cervical spine should be evaluated by a health care practitioner. Common treatments could include medication, body mechanics training, ergonomic reform, or physical therapy.
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Types of acne
Acne Vulgaris is the most common form of acne which includes several types of pimples. These acne lesions include blackheads, whiteheads, papules, pustules, nodules and cysts.
Whiteheads
Whiteheads result when a pore is completely blocked, trapping sebum (oil), bacteria, and dead skin cells, causing a white appearance on the surface. These types of acne lesions sometimes seem to be begging to be popped.
Make sure you read about how to pop a pimple before you attempt this. Whiteheads are normally quicker in life cycle than blackheads.
Blackheads
Blackheads result when a pore is only partially blocked, allowing some of the trapped sebum (oil), bacteria, and dead skin cells to slowly drain to the surface. The black color is not caused by dirt. Rather, it is a reaction of the skin's own pigment, melanin, reacting with the oxygen in the air.
A blackhead tends to be a stable structure, and can often take a long time to clear.
Papules
A papule is defined as a small (5 millimeters or less), solid lesion slightly elevated above the surface of the skin. A group of very small papules and microcomedones may be almost invisible but have a "sandpaper" feel to the touch. A papule is caused by localized cellular reaction to the process of acne. This photo shows papules and comedones on the face of an acne patien
Whiteheads
Whiteheads result when a pore is completely blocked, trapping sebum (oil), bacteria, and dead skin cells, causing a white appearance on the surface. These types of acne lesions sometimes seem to be begging to be popped.
Make sure you read about how to pop a pimple before you attempt this. Whiteheads are normally quicker in life cycle than blackheads.
Blackheads
Blackheads result when a pore is only partially blocked, allowing some of the trapped sebum (oil), bacteria, and dead skin cells to slowly drain to the surface. The black color is not caused by dirt. Rather, it is a reaction of the skin's own pigment, melanin, reacting with the oxygen in the air.
A blackhead tends to be a stable structure, and can often take a long time to clear.
Papules
A papule is defined as a small (5 millimeters or less), solid lesion slightly elevated above the surface of the skin. A group of very small papules and microcomedones may be almost invisible but have a "sandpaper" feel to the touch. A papule is caused by localized cellular reaction to the process of acne. This photo shows papules and comedones on the face of an acne patien
Sunday, September 20, 2009
Constipation
Constipation, costiveness, or irregularity is a condition of the digestive system in which a person (or animal) experiences hard feces (faeces) that are difficult to expel. This usually happens because the colon absorbs too much water from the food. If the food moves through the gastro-intestinal tract too slowly, the colon may absorb too much water, resulting in feces that are dry and hard. Defecation may be extremely painful, and in severe cases (fecal impaction) lead to symptoms of bowel obstruction. The term obstipation is used for severe constipation that prevents passage of both stools and gas. Causes of constipation may be dietary, hormonal, anatomical, a side effect of medications (e.g. some opiates), or an illness or disorder. Treatments consist of changes in dietary and exercise habits, the use of laxatives, and other medical interventions depending on the underlying cause.Signs and symptoms
Types 1 and 2 on the Bristol Stool Chart indicate constipation.
In common constipation, the stool is hard, difficult, and painful to pass. Usually, there is an infrequent urge to void. Straining to pass stool may cause hemorrhoids. In later stages of constipation, the abdomen may become distended and diffusely tender and cramp, occasionally with enhanced bowel sounds.
The definition of constipation includes the following:[1]
infrequent bowel movements (typically three times or fewer per week)
difficulty during defecation (straining during more than 25% of bowel movements or a subjective sensation of hard stools), or
the sensation of incomplete bowel evacuation.
Severe cases ("fecal impaction") may feature symptoms of bowel obstruction (vomiting, very tender abdomen) and "paradoxical diarrhea", where soft stool from the small intestine bypasses the impacted matter in the colon.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis is essentially made from the patient's description of the symptoms. Bowel movements that are difficult to pass, very firm, or made up of small pellets (such as those excreted by rabbits) qualify as constipation, even if they occur every day. Other symptoms related to constipation can include bloating, distension, abdominal pain, or a sense of incomplete emptying.
Inquiring about dietary habits may reveal a low intake of dietary fiber or inadequate amounts of fluids. Constipation as a result of poor ambulation or immobility should be considered in the elderly. Constipation may arise as a side effect of medications, including antidepressants, which can suppress acetylcholine and opiates, which can slow the movement of food through the intestines. Rarely, other symptoms suggestive of hypothyroidism may be elicited.[citation needed]
During physical examination, scybala (manually palpable lumps of stool) may be detected on palpation of the abdomen. Rectal examination gives an impression of the anal sphincter tone and whether the lower rectum contains any feces or not; if so, then suppositories or enemas may be considered. Otherwise, oral medication may be required. Rectal examination also gives information on the consistency of the stool, presence of hemorrhoids, admixture of blood and whether any tumors or abnormalities are present.
X-rays of the abdomen, generally only performed on hospitalized patients or if bowel obstruction is suspected, may reveal impacted fecal matter in the colon, and confirm or rule out other causes of similar symptoms.
Chronic constipation (symptoms present for more than 3 months at least 3 days per month) associated with abdominal discomfort is often diagnosed as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) when no obvious cause is found. Physicians caring for patients with chronic constipation are advised to rule out obvious causes through normal testing.
Colonic propagating pressure wave sequences (PSs) are responsible for discrete movements of content and are vital for normal defecation. Deficiencies in PS frequency, amplitude and extent of propagation are all implicated in severe defecatory dysfunction. Mechanisms that can normalise these aberrant motor patterns may help rectify the problem. Recently the novel therapy of sacral nerve stimulation (SNS) has been utilized for the treatment of severe constipation.
Causes
The main causes of constipation include:
Hardening of the feces
Insufficient intake of dietary fiber
Dehydration from any cause or inadequate fluid intake
Medication, e.g. diuretics and those containing iron, calcium, aluminum
Paralysis or slowed transit, where peristaltic action is diminished or absent, so that feces are not moved along
Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid gland)
Hypokalemia
Injured anal sphincter (patulous anus)
Medications, such as loperamide, opioids (e.g. codeine & morphine) and certain tricyclic antidepressants
Severe illness due to other causes
Acute porphyria (a rare inherited condition)
Lead poisoning
Lactose Intolerance
Dyschezia (usually the result of suppressing defecation)
Diverticula
Tumors, either of the bowel or surrounding tissues
Obstructed defecation, due to:
Mechanical causes from morphological abnormalities of the anorectum including megarectum, rectal prolapse, rectocele, and enterocele
Functional causes from neurological disorders and dysfunction of the pelvic floor muscles or anorectal muscles, including anismus, descending perineum syndrome, and Hirschsprung's disease
Retained foreign body or a bezoar
Psychosomatic constipation, based on anxiety or unfamiliarity with surroundings.
Functional constipation
Constipation-predominant irritable bowel syndrome, characterized by a combination of constipation and abdominal discomfort and/or pain[8]
Smoking cessation (nicotine has a laxative effect)[9]
Abdominal surgery, other types of surgery, childbirth
Severe dehydration
Some causes are with particular respect to infants:[10]
Switching from breast milk to bottle feeds, or to solid meals
Potty training anxiety
Hirschsprung’s disease - a condition from birth where the child has a nerve cell defect that affects communication between the brain and bowels.
Treatment
In people without medical problems, the main intervention is to increase the intake of fluids (preferably water) and dietary fiber. The latter may be achieved by consuming more vegetables and fruit and whole meal bread, and pulses such as baked beans and chick peas and by adding linseeds to one's diet. The routine non-medical use of laxatives is to be discouraged as this may result in bowel action becoming dependent upon their use. Enemas can be used to provide a form of mechanical stimulation. However, enemas are generally useful only for stool in the rectum, not in the intestinal tract.
Lactulose, a nonabsorbable synthetic sugar that keeps sodium and water inside the intestinal lumen, relieves constipation. It can be used for months together. Among the other safe remedies, fiber supplements, lactitiol, sorbitol, milk of magnesia, lubricants etc. may be of value. Electrolyte imbalance e.g. Hyponatremia may occur in some cases especially in diabetics.
In alternative and traditional medicine, colonic irrigation, enemas, exercise, diet, and herbs are used to treat constipation. The mechanism of the herbal, enema, and colonic irrigation treatments often includes the breakdown of impacted and hardened fecal matter.
Laxatives
Main article: laxative
Laxatives may be necessary in people in whom dietary or other interventions are not effective or are inappropriate. Laxatives should be used with caution and only as necessary. The following sequence of laxative use is recommended: bulk forming, then stool softeners, then osmotic, then stimulants, then suppositories, and finally enemas (only as a last resort). The reason for this cautious use is because laxatives can lead to dependence, and like all medications they have side effects. Laxatives should not be used if there are signs and/or symptoms of a bowel obstruction.
Prevention
Constipation is usually easier to prevent than to treat. The relief of constipation with osmotic agents, i.e. lactulose, polyethylene glycol (PEG), or magnesium salts, should immediately be followed with prevention using increased fibre (fruits, vegetables, and grains) and a nightly decreasing dose of osmotic laxative. With continuing narcotic use, for instance, nightly doses of osmotic agents can be given indefinitely (without harm) to cause a daily bowel movement.
Recent controlled studies have questioned the role of physical exercise in the prevention and management of chronic constipation, while exercise is often recommended by published materials on the subject.
In various conditions (such as the use of codeine or morphine), combinations of hydrating (e.g. lactulose or glycols), bulk-forming (e.g. psyllium) and stimulant agents may be necessary to prevent constipation.
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
High Blood Pressure
High Blood Pressure
High Blood Pressure is the most commonly rated diseases in the modern world. People leading a hyperactive and stressful life tend to suffer from High Blood Pressure. Surprisingly enough, High blood Pressure can be the cause as well as effect of some severe diseases. People who consume a diet rich in calories and saturated fats can also suffer from High blood Pressure in Future. A diet rich in sodium can also result into increased blood pressure in human beings.
Although High Blood Pressure and Hypertension are used synonymously, they are not similar to each other. In fact, all secondary cases of hypertension can lead to High Blood Pressure. During High Blood Pressure, the heart pumps faster than usual and there is a significant change in blood flow and blood pressure. All kinds of occupational hypertension and stress can lead to High Blood Pressure.
Blood pressure in human beings increases during all kinds of physical and mental excitement. During this time the body needs more oxygen, and the heart must pump in more and more oxygen rich blood into various parts of the body, to suffice the demand.
High blood pressure is dubbed as the silent killer because this is one disease where the signs and symptoms are not visible most of the times. This is one disease which is said to hit every one at some point in life. If you are 55 and still haven’t suffered high BP there are 90 percent chances you will be hit by it at any time. This is what the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute says. But it is not that tough to detect it. Once you have checked with your doctor for any signs and symptoms of high blood pressure, you can take his advice for controlling it.
signs or symptoms of high BP
Mostly the signs or symptoms of high BP are not visible even if the blood pressure readings show high levels. However, the high blood pressure signs and symptoms part cannot be ruled out completely. This is because at the early stages the patients may have suffer from dull headaches accompanied by dizzy spells. Many a times occasional nosebleeds can also be observed. But this is considered to be one of the signs and symptoms that mainly occur when the blood pressure has reached a seriously high level.
Diagnosis
Measuring blood pressure is a painless procedure and everyone has the experience of it at least once in his life time. Measuring blood pressure can render useful information on the physical condition of the heart and the blood vessels. Blood pressure measurement includes measuring systolic, the maximum pressure and diastolic, the lowest pressure.
The systolic pressure can be defined as the maximum pressure in an artery at a specific physical condition when the heart is functioning and pumping out the blood through the body.
Treatment
Though hypertension is counted as one of the most common forms of health complications, yet it would be very wrong to ignore hypertension as this might lead to several complications which can even endanger your life. Hypertension can be treated with medicines if it is detected at the initial stage. Weight reduction is advised to control hypertension. Regular aerobic exercise can do wonders as afar as the treatment of hypertension is concerned. Mild or moderate hypertension can be treated with jogging. Mild exercise improves blood flow and thus reduces the heart rate and blood pressure when the heart is at rest.
But, drugs are essential for the treatment of severe hypertension. Drugs might not be effective in eradicating hypertension complications but, they can surely bring down the blood pressure to a safer level. People suffering from hypertension should opt for a salt free diet as the level of sodium is an important factor which is known to elevate blood pressure. Low fat free diets are also prescribed and you should intake lots of fresh fruits and vegetables. Fruits and vegetable increase the potassium level in your blood and that in turn reduces the sodium level.
Treatment of hypertension with drugs would not be much effective if you fail to come out of certain habits like tobacco and alcohol consumption. Coffee drinking also elevates blood pressure. Treatment also includes a string advice for meditation. Meditations reduce stress and reduction of stress is necessary for controlling hypertension complications.
water for weightloss
Water Works for Weight Loss
Nothing quells the appetite like water, lots and lots of water. Start out with two quart bottles in the morning and carry one with you to work or wherever you go. If you like, divvy up the 64 ounces of water into eight (8-ounce) bottles or four pint (16-ounce) bottles to carry around with you all day. Freeze half of them the night before and they will last all day, even in a hot car. Keep some unfrozen so they will be ready to drink immediately.
Yes. You will have to make more frequent bathroom trips, but it is worth it. Drink your 64 ounces of water before dinner, if possible, so you're not up half the night going to the bathroom.
Water not only fills you up and lessens your appetite, it prevents those "hungry horrors" we all encounter when our blood sugar drops and we reach for cookies, candy, ice cream, fries or other high-calorie treats. Water also flushes out the system, rids the body of bloat and toxins and rosies up the complexion. Now, start splashing.
Stomach ulcer
A stomach or gastric ulcer is a break in the tissue lining the stomach. The term 'peptic ulcer' refers to those that occur in either the stomach or the first part of the small intestine that leads out of the stomach, called the duodenum. It was once commonly thought that stress, smoking and diet were the principal causes of stomach ulcers. However, the Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) bacterium is now known to be responsible for most duodenal ulcers and 60 per cent of stomach ulcers. The H. pylori bacterium also prompts many symptoms of dyspepsia, or indigestion. Treatment for stomach ulcers includes the use of antibiotics to kill the infection, and acid-suppressing drugs.
Symptoms
Some stomach ulcers are asymptomatic. The symptoms of a stomach ulcer can include:
Abdominal pain just below the ribcage
Indigestion
Nausea
Loss of appetite
Vomiting
Weight loss
Altered blood present in the vomit or in the bowel motions (occasionally)
Symptoms of anaemia, such as light-headedness.
The stomach
The stomach is an organ of the digestive system, located in the abdomen just below the ribs and on the left. Swallowed food is squeezed down the oesophagus and pushed through a sphincter (small muscle ring) into the stomach, where it is mixed with powerful gastric juices containing enzymes and hydrochloric acid. The stomach is a muscular bag, so it can churn the food and break it down mechanically as well as chemically. Once the food is the consistency of smooth paste, it is squeezed through a second sphincter into the first part of the small intestine (duodenum). The lining of the stomach - the mucosa or gastric epithelium - is layered with multiple folds. Ulcers occur in this lining.
A variety of causes
A stomach ulcer can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
Helicobacter pylori - these bacteria is thought to be responsible for around 60 per cent of stomach ulcers and at least 90 per cent of duodenal ulcers.
Certain medications - including aspirin, taken regularly to help prevent heart attack or stroke, and drugs for arthritis. Anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDS) are thought to cause around two fifths of stomach ulcers.
Cancer - stomach cancer can present as an ulcer, particularly in older people.
Helicobacter pylori
The Helicobacter pylori bacterium (H. pylori) is the main cause of peptic ulcers. The discovery of this micro-organism in 1983 revolutionised many aspects of gastroenterology, including the treatment of stomach ulcers. It is thought that about one in three people over the age of 40 years are infected with this strain of bacteria in Australia. The germs live in the lining of the stomach, and the chemicals they produce cause irritation and inflammation. H. pylori directly causes one third of stomach ulcers, and is a contributing factor in around three fifths of cases. Other disorders caused by this infection include inflammation of the stomach (gastritis) and dyspepsia (indigestion). Researchers believe the germ could also play a contributing role in the development of stomach cancers. The infection is more common among poor or institutionalised people. The mode of transmission is so far unknown, but is thought to include sharing food or utensils, coming into contact with infected vomit, and sharing of water (such as well water) in undeveloped populations.
Perforated ulcer
A severe, untreated ulcer can sometimes burn through the wall of the stomach, allowing digestive juices and food to leech into the abdominal cavity. This medical emergency is known as a perforated ulcer. Treatment generally requires immediate surgery.
Diagnosis methods
Diagnosing a stomach ulcer is done using a range of methods, including:
Endoscopy - a thin flexible tube is threaded down the oesophagus into the stomach under light anaesthesia. The endoscope is fitted with a small camera so the physician can see if there is an ulcer.
Barium meal - a chalky liquid is drunk and an x-ray is performed, showing the stomach lining. These tests are less common nowadays, but may be useful where endoscopy is unavailable.
Biopsy - a small tissue sample is taken during an endoscopy and tested in a laboratory. This biopsy should always be done if a gastric ulcer is found.
C14 breath test - to check for the presence of H. pylori. The bacteria convert urea into carbon dioxide. The test involves swallowing an amount of radioactive carbon (C14) and testing the air exhaled from the lungs. A non-radioactive test can be used for children and pregnant women.
Treatment options
Special diets are now known to have very little impact on the prevention or treatment of stomach ulcers. Treatment options can include:
Medications - including antibiotics, to destroy the H. pylori colony, and drugs to help speed the healing process. Different drugs need to be used in combination; some of the side effects can include diarrhoea and rashes. Resistance to some of these antibiotics is becoming more common.
Subsequent breath tests - used to make sure the H. pylori infection has been treated successfully.
Changes to existing medications - the doses of arthritis medications, aspirin or other anti-inflammatory drugs can be altered slightly to reduce their contributing effects on the stomach ulcer.
Reducing acid - tablets are available to reduce the acid content in the gastric juices.
Lifestyle modifications - such as quitting cigarettes, since smoking reduces the natural defences in the stomach and impairs the healing process.
Where to get help
Your doctor
Gastroenterologist.
Things to remember
A stomach or gastric ulcer is a break in the tissue lining of the stomach.
Most stomach ulcers are caused by infection with the Helicobacter pylori bacterium or anti-inflammatory medication, not stress or poor diet as once thought.
Treatment options include antibiotics and acid-suppressing medications.
Monday, September 14, 2009
What is acne
Localized skin inflammation as a result of overactivity of the oil glands at the base of hair follicles.Acne happens when oil (sebaceous) glands come to life around puberty, when these glands are stimulated by male hormones that are produced in the adrenal glands of both boys and girls. The oil glands, which are located just beneath the skin, continuously produce and secrete oil through openings in the skin. The oil lubricates and protects the skin. Under certain circumstances, cells that are close to the openings of the oil glands block the openings. This causes a buildup of oil underneath the skin.
Bacteria, which live in everyone's skin but generally mind their own business, feast on this oil, multiply, and cause the surrounding tissues to become inflamed.
If the inflammation is right near the surface, you get a pustule; if it's deeper, a papule (pimple); deeper still and it's a cyst. If the oil breaks though to the surface, the result is a " whitehead." If the oil becomes oxidized (that is, acted on by oxygen in the air), the oil changes from white to black, and the result is a "blackhead.
Acne (acne vulgaris, common acne) is not just a problem for teenagers; it can affect people from ages 10 through 40. It is not unusual for women, in particular, to develop acne in their mid- to late-20s, even if they have not had breakouts in years (or ever). On the positive side, those few individuals who have acne into their 40s may well grow out of it. Acne can appear on the skin as any of the following:
Bacteria, which live in everyone's skin but generally mind their own business, feast on this oil, multiply, and cause the surrounding tissues to become inflamed.
If the inflammation is right near the surface, you get a pustule; if it's deeper, a papule (pimple); deeper still and it's a cyst. If the oil breaks though to the surface, the result is a " whitehead." If the oil becomes oxidized (that is, acted on by oxygen in the air), the oil changes from white to black, and the result is a "blackhead.
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
Head ache
What is a headache?
Headache is defined as pain in the head or upper neck. It is one of the most common locations of pain in the body and has many causes.
What causes tension headaches?
While tension headaches are the most frequently occurring type of headache, their cause is not known. The most likely cause is contraction of the muscles that cover the skull. When the muscles covering the skull are stressed, they may spasm and cause pain. Common sites include the base of the skull where the trapezius muscles of the neck inserts, the temple where muscles that assist the jaw to move are located, and the forehead.
There is little research to confirm the exact cause of tension headaches. Tension headaches occur because of physical or emotional stress placed on the body. Physical stress that may cause tension headaches include difficult and prolonged manual labor, or sitting at a desk or computer for long periods of time Emotional stress may also cause tension headaches by causing the muscles surrounding the skull to contract.
What are the symptoms of tension headaches?
The symptoms of tension headache are:
A pain that begins in the back of the head and upper neck as a band-like tightness or pressure.
Described as a band of pressure encircling the head with the most intense pain over the eyebrows.
The pain is usually mild (not disabling) and bilateral (affecting both sides of the head).
Not associated with an aura (see below) and are not associated with nausea, vomiting, or sensitivity to light and sound.
Usually occur sporadically (infrequently and without a pattern) but can occur frequently and even daily in some people.
Most people are able to function despite their tension headaches.
How are tension headaches treated?
Tension headaches are painful, and often patients are upset that the diagnosis is "only" a tension headache. Though it is not life-threatening, a tension headache can affect daily life activities.
Most people successfully treat themselves with over-the–counter (OTC) pain medications to control tension headaches. The following work well for most people:
aspirin,
ibuprofen
When should patients with headache seek medical care?
A patient should seek medical care if their headache is:
The "worst headache of your life"
Different than your usual headaches
Starts suddenly or is aggravated by exertion, coughing, bending over, or sexual activity
Associated with persistent nausea and vomiting
Associated with fever or stiff neck
Associated with seizures
Associated with recent head trauma or a fall
Associated with changes in vision, speech, or behavior
Associated with weakness or change in sensation
Not responding to treatment and is getting worse
Requires more than the recommended dose of over-the-counter medications for pain
Disabling and interfering with work and quality of life.
Saturday, September 5, 2009
Herbs
Herbs for Oily Skin
Aloe vera has excellent healing properties. Apply aloe vera gel topically, as needed.
Burdock root, chamomile, horsetail, oat straw, and thyme nourish the skin.
Lavender is very good for oily skin. Mist your skin with lavender water several times daily.
A facial sauna using lemongrass, licorice root, and rosebuds is good for oily skin. Two or three times a week, simmer a total of 2 to 4 tablespoons of dried or fresh herbs in 2 quarts of water. When the pot is steaming, place it on top of a trivet or thick potholder on a table, and sit with your face at a comfortable distance over the steam for fifteen minutes. You can use a towel to trap the steam if you wish. After fifteen minutes, splash your face with cold water and allow your skin to air dry or pat it dry with a towel. After the sauna, you can allow the herbal water to cool and save it for use as a toning lotion to be dabbed on your face with a cot- ton ball after cleansing.
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