Post Traumatic Stress Disorder

Post Traumatic Stress Disorder Post traumatic stress disorder was earlier known as “shell shock” is a serious mental condition that occurs to a person who undergoes or witness a traumatic event. People who experience terrifying event in their life would take some time to overgrow the trauma. But for few people, the symptoms of helplessness, intense fear, flashbacks, nightmares, negative feelings and avoiding social life would continue for years after the event.

Actual cause of PTSD is not known clearly, since not all the people who witness traumatic events in their life are developing this disorder. It is believed to occur due to certain changes in chemical reaction in the brain. The symptoms can be managed with effective medications and therapy. Report indicates that 3.5-4% of Americans have PTSD (about 7.8 million Americans). This disorder can occur to anyone at any age and more women than men suffer from this anxiety disorder.

Symptoms :

Initial symptoms would start anytime after a person experiences traumatic event. The signs and symptoms can be broadly categorized into 4 main streams namely disturbed memories, avoidance, having negative changes in mood and finally change in emotions. Disturbed memories can cause recurrent thoughts about traumatic event, flashbacks, nightmares, upsetting dreams and intense emotional disturbance.

Symptoms of avoidance include avoiding people, avoiding certain places and avoiding thinking or talking about the stressful event. Negative changes in mood and thought can cause guilt feeling, low self esteem, hopelessness, lack of interest and inability to maintain relationships. The person may not remember certain aspects of the event and he may lose interest in important activities.

Changes in emotions can cause difficulty in sleeping, concentrating, guilt feeling, and trouble in remembering and concentrating, always expecting some danger and engaging in self destructive behavior. The person may get frightened easily even by small events. The intensity of symptoms may not be the same for all. The memories would become severe when the person is stressed or witness certain events that remind them about the past. Children with PTSD at young ages can have delayed development of motor skills.

Causes :

PTSD is classified as an anxiety disorder affecting certain people who witness terrifying event or undergo increased stress. A child who is sexually abused for prolonged period may develop PTSD. An individual who witness gruesome accident, who is in part of personal assault, who sees violent deaths of loved ones and military combat can develop this disorder.

People who are held as captives by terrorists and those who are part of natural disasters can have high risk of developing traumatic disorder. Symptoms can begin shortly within weeks but for some people it might take months or years also. PTSD is believed to occur due to inherited mental aspects of your personality and the response of your body to stressful events and changes in chemical reaction in your brain.

Who are at Risk?

• Military personnel and people facing prolonged physical or mental abuse are at high risk of developing PTSD.


• People who lack good family system and grow up in neglected childhood have increased chance of getting this disorder.


• You are at risk of getting this problem if you have family history of anxiety disorder or other mental health problem.


• People who are involved in natural disasters like flood, earthquake and who witness’s accident or plane crash may develop PTSD.


• As such PTSD can cause complications like depression, anxiety and emotional disturbance if not treated. It can cause complications like developing addiction to alcohol or substance and increased suicidal thoughts.

Diagnosis :

PTSD can be detected based on symptoms. Your doctor will refer the case to a psychologist who will evaluate the disorder by asking series of questions. She would ask you about the traumatic events in your life. According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of psychiatric disorders, a person is said to have PTSD if he/she has some of the above mentioned symptoms for more than a month or two. For some people it can cause great distress and make them unable to carry on with daily tasks.

Treatment :

The main purpose of treating PTSD is to help the person to overcome the stress caused by traumatic event or experience. Based on the severity of the symptoms, the person will be given psychotherapy and medications.

• Psychotherapy :

Cognitive behavior therapy can help the person to change his thought patterns and manage his feelings and emotions caused by trauma. Exposure therapy is one in which the therapist will take the person through artificially created traumatic experience and teach him to confront the fear. Many approaches like psychodynamic therapy, family and group therapy are used to change the behavior of the person effectively and to remove the distress caused by traumatic experience.

• Medications :

Antidepressants like sertraline or paroxetine are prescribed for relieving symptoms of anxiety and depression. Anti anxiety drugs can help the person to overcome stress and improve his sleeping pattern. Prazosin is an effective drug used to control nightmares and relieve the symptoms of PTSD. You need to consult your doctor about the side effects of these medications and follow his instructions and usage and dose.

Discuss with your doctor and therapist freely about PTSD. Stick on to your treatment plan even if you feel better and continue taking medications till your doctor says to stop them. Do regular exercise and eat healthy diet. Get in touch with your family and friends and share your feelings. You can also join a support group to get ideas about their coping strategies.

Many of us would confront with traumatic experience in life, but not all of us develop symptoms of PTSD. You will be able to come out of it within few days. Do not delay in getting treatment if you feel that you are not able to overcome the stress caused by traumatic experience. The more you delay the treatment, the more will be the severity of symptoms of PTSD.

Prognosis :

In most of the cases, recovery is possible but it can take some time since it is a gradual process. You cannot totally forget the event but you can manage to carry on with life with well developed coping methods.

What is Sour Stomach

What is Sour Stomach Sour stomach is the feeling that you get when you have excess of belching or fullness or bloating sensation in your stomach. It is the term used for many types of gastrointestinal disturbance in the stomach like acidity or indigestion. Acid reflux is the common problem faced by millions of people across the world. Some may have digestive problems leading to sour stomach. This term has wide variety of meaning describing several ailments of the stomach.

Symptoms :

People having sour stomach can have range of symptoms depending on the causative factor. Regurgitation is the retrograde flow of the stomach wherein the food that passes through the stomach and intestine will be sent back into the esophagus and sometimes it may reach till your throat. This condition occurs when the sphincter muscles present in the lower esophagus is not able to prevent the back pressure that forces the food particles till the throat.

Nausea and vomiting is another sign of sour stomach. Nausea is the sensation that you get before vomiting. It can be described as the feeling of uneasiness or discomfort that something is wrong in your stomach. For some people vomiting may not occur but the feeling of nausea may still remain for long. Bloating of stomach is another symptom of sour stomach. It is the feeling of “fullness” that you get after taking only little quantity of food. It can occur due to excess of gas accumulation in the stomach. This condition can also cause excess of belching. In addition to the above, many people may also have stomach pain, burning feeling in the chest (heartburn) and stomach noises due to acidity and other digestive problems. It can also cause bad taste like metallic or acidic taste in your tongue.

Causes :

There are various causes for sour stomach since it can be caused due to number of conditions. GERD (Gastro Esophageal Reflux Disease) is the main cause for sour stomach. Due to improper function of the sphincter muscles in the upper stomach, food particles from the stomach may be forced into the esophagus region causing heartburn and acid reflux.

Severe indigestion can also cause sour stomach. Over-eating and drinking large quantities of carbonated beverages and coffee/tea etc can cause sour stomach. Consuming alcohol can also cause this condition leading to acidity. Eating food very quickly, eating without proper chewing and lying down after eating can cause indigestion problems and sour stomach. Some people swallow too much of air while eating which can also upset the stomach. In some cases chronic health problems like peptic ulcer or gastritis can also cause sour stomach.

Tests :

No test is needed to diagnose sour stomach. It is clearly evident from the above symptoms.

Treatment :

Before taking any medical treatment you can manage most of the symptoms of sour stomach by making small changes in your daily diet and lifestyle. Avoid eating spicy and hot foods that can upset the normal acid balance of your stomach. Take small meals frequently instead of eating a hefty meal. Select foods rich in protein and reduce the fat content in your diet. For many people, eating fat contents can aggravate the symptoms of sour stomach causing acidity and stomach reflux.

Including garlic and ginger in your food can help in overcoming acidity to some extent. If you are allergic to dairy products then completely avoid taking milk products in any form. Sometimes you can be allergic to gluten products. Do not go to bed just after eating. You can read something or go for a relaxed walk before sleeping so that the intestine would complete its function by the time you go to sleep.

In case you are drinking, take little quantity of alcohol. Don’t take coffee/tea or any other carbonated beverages after evening, since it can trigger acidity and sometimes it can disturb your quality sleep. Most of the indigestion problems can resolve by choosing right set of diet and doing exercises. In case the problem persists you can consult your doctor.

• Medications :

Chronic issues like ulcer or GERD needs to be treated. Your doctor will order for series of test before diagnosing the exact cause of sour stomach and prescribe suitable medications based on the result. Taking antacids can give you temporary relief from the symptoms of acidity and heartburn. Over the counter antacids suspensions are fast acting providing good relief from acidity symptoms. But do not use antacids for long since it can cause complications. For severe cases of acidity your doctor may prescribe H2 receptor blocking agents like cimetidine or pepacid AC or ranitidine.

Proton pump inhibitors like omeprazole or lansoprazole would block the acid secreting cells of the stomach helping in relieving the symptoms. Prokinetic drugs are useful in strengthening the sphincter muscles of the esophagus preventing regurgitation. You can practice yoga and meditation course or get help from your therapist to learn relaxation techniques that helps in reducing stress. Do regular exercises that help in managing most of the symptoms of acidity and sour stomach.

Understanding Skin Wounds

Understanding Skin Wounds
Our protective armor, skin, is the largest organ in the body. But armor only, skin is

not. This highly dynamic network of cells, nerves, and blood vessels serves the body in

diverse ways.

Clearly, skin's protective function is paramount, providing internal organs and tissues

with a physical barrier from the environment and the dangers therein: toxins, heat and

cold, and disease-carrying microbes. But skin also plays an important role in preserving

fluid balance and in regulating body temperature and sensation. Nerves buried deep within

skin allow us to sense the presence of potentially harmful invaders, such as bees. Immune

cells resident in skin help the body prevent and fight disease.

For these reasons, the loss of skin due to burns or trauma can deal the body a severe

blow, impairing or even eliminating the many vital functions this organ performs.

In spite of recent advances in the basic mechanisms of wound healing, knowledge of

factors involved in the development and treatment of chronic wounds and their prevention

remains limited.

A number of reports have established that the application of growth factors to acute

experimental wounds in animals enhances healing. However, it is unclear what role growth

factors play in chronic wounds. Indeed, recent clinical trials of topical application of

single growth factors to pressure, venous and diabetic wounds have not been very

encouraging. It should be appreciated that growth factors are multifunctional with both

stimulatory and inhibitory actions depending upon cellular context.

In normal skin, the basal cells are attached to the basement
membrane and lose anchorage upon skin injury. The signals responsible
for epidermal migration after wounding are unknown, but keratinocytes
begin to migrate toward the site of injury. The "tractor tread"
hypothesis, whereby keratinocytes stop at the wound bed with
progressive climbing of proximal cells over the now resting cells has
gained wide acceptance as a model of keratinocyte migration.
Investigations of the epidermal edge of venous ulcers has shown that
the epidermis displays mitotic activity, resulting in increased
epidermal thickness at the edges of chronic wounds. This has led to the
hypothesis that a fundamental defect exists in the chronic wound
situation, perhaps a failure of cells to adhere to one another or
their substrates. There has been substantial recent information on the
signals for keratinocyte movement and substrate requirements at least
in the context of acute injury. The concept that the extracellular
matrix is an integral part of keratinocyte migration
has also received experimental support. Migration enhancing and
inhibiting molecules found in extracellular matrix and/or in wound beds
have been described.

For the last several years, evidence has suggested that chronic wounds may be growth

factor deficient or represent a microenvironment hostile to the repair process. More

recently, however, there is new evidence suggesting that wounds may not necessarily be

deficient in growth factors, but that the stimulatory action of the peptides may be prevented from being expressed.

Scrapes and abrasions are superficial injuries to the skin and mucous membranes.

Although scrapes and abrasions are relatively minor injuries, like all open wounds they

are painful and highly susceptible to infection. Following an abrasion or scrape, a

physician should be consulted about antitetanus injections. If dust and grit are left in

the wound, scars may form on the skin. Any foreign matter should be removed before the

wound has healed.

Clean the abrasion with soap and water, and rinse thoroughly. If the victim has other

injuries or extensive abrasions, summon medical aid. Do not remove any scabs that may form

over the injury. They will fall off when the wound has healed. If scabs are removed before

the wound has fully healed, the abrasion may begin to bleed again.

The list below includes wound care medications and other helpful items. Remember, if

you have a serious injury or illness, you should seek professional medical attention.

• Analgesic - preferably acetminophen



• Antacid



• Anti-inflammatory - preferably Ibuprofen



• Calamine lotion



• Expectorant cough syrup



• Decongestant (pseudoephedrine)



• Ointment



• Antiseptic solution (Hydrogen Peroxide)



• Petroleum jelly



• Sunscreen (SPF-15 or higher)

Wood sage, chickweed, goldenseal, myrrh, echinacea, slippery elm are effective as

poultices and/or washes.

See also: Wounds

Itchy Bottom

Itchy Bottom Itchy bottom is called as Pruritus ani in medical terms. It causes persistent itchy feeling around the anus. You will feel like scratching the anus all the time and it is more after using toilet. The soft skin around the anus area will get damaged and subsequently you may develop skin infection. It can be treated by soothing ointment and topical corticosteroids.

Causes :

Itchy bottom is actually a symptom and not a disease. It can develop due to known causes and unknown causes as well. Skin disease like eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis can cause itchy bottom. You can develop this condition if you rub the anal area strongly or if there is excess of moisture in the anus or if you use strong perfumes or soaps on that area. Certain type of infections like thrush, scabies, herpes and sexually transmitted diseases can spread itchy bottom.

Certain diseases like anal fissure, piles and use of some medications for diarrhea can cause itchy bottom. In some cases the exact cause of itchy bottom is not known. In case you have itchy anus you may gently scrap it or use a scented soap for cleaning it. This may worsen the condition causing severe itching as the skin around the anus develops inflammation. This process is called vicious circle and pruritus ani.

Symptoms :

Some of the common symptoms of itchy bottom are persistent itching on the anus, inflammation of the skin around the anus and formation of red patches in that area.

Risk Factors :

Itchy bottom is common for both sexes and is more for those who are not practicing good hygiene. For no apparent reason it is more prevalent in men than women. An individual who rubs his anal area more frequently can develop itchy bottom.

Diagnoses :

Your doctor can detect the disease by listening to your symptoms. No specific test is needed.

Treatment :

Home Remedies :

You need to keep your private parts clean and dry to avoid itchy bottom. For that you need to bath daily, avoid wearing tight fitting underwear, avoid using perfumed soaps and avoid taking bubble baths. Trim your fingernails regularly so that it does not hurt your anus when you are washing it. Choose only cotton underwear so that it absorbs moisture. Change your panties if you feel it is not dry or clean. Keep a cotton tissue handy so that you can put it in your underwear to keep the anus dry.

Though it is difficult to control the urge of itching, still you need to avoid scratching the bottom often. Avoid taking spicy foods, nuts, chocolate, dairy products and excess of coffee/tea. Avoid taking sweets often. Include high quantity of fiber diet like grains, whole-wheat breads, oats and pulses. Drink plenty of liquids and add fresh fruits and vegetables in your daily diet.

Medications :

Antifungal cream is given for treating fungal infections or thrush. In case of bacterial infection your doctor may prescribe antibiotics. Separate treatment is given for anal fissure. For mild to moderate itchy feeling, your doctor may give antihistamines either orally or in the form of creams. For severe cases, ointments that contain corticosteroids are prescribed.

Prevention :

You should practice good hygiene while using toilet. Always use plain unscented toilet tissue. Avoid allergic foods. Keep your anus area dry and clean. Wear cotton underwear so that it can absorb moisture. Do not scratch the area since it can make things worse. Remember to trim your fingernails regularly.

Tinea Versicolor – Pictures, Symptoms, Causes, Natural Treatment

Tinea Versicolor – Pictures, Symptoms, Causes, Natural Treatment

What is Tinea Versicolor?

This is a fairly common infection of the skin caused by a fungal infection. It is also sometimes referred to pityriasis versicolor. This fungus hinders the normal pigmentation of the skin which results in discolored, small patches. These areas may be mildly itchy or flaky. The many spots which are small can blend into much larger patchy areas, normally on the oily areas of the upper body for instance the back or chest. These spots may be either darker or lighter than the surrounding skin around them.

Tinea versicolor is most frequent in young adults as well as teens. This is because these are the ages when individuals have the most problems with oily skin. Sun exposure can also make tinea versicolor more evident. This condition does not spread from person to person.

Antifungal creams, shampoos or lotions may help treat tinea versicolor. But even when there is successful treatment, the skin color can remain uneven for many weeks until the repigmentation occurs and tinea versicolor may return, especially in humid, warm weather.

Tinea Versicolor Symptoms

The symptoms of this condition include flat, round, small, or oval spots that can given time, form patches.

During the summer especially in mild climates, these spots can be very noticeable since they do not tan with the rest of the skin. During the winter, these spots can seem to go away as the summer tan fades as well as becoming less obvious.

The symptoms and signs of this condition include:

• Scaly, small patches of skin which is discolored


• Patches which slowly grow


• Patches which have a tendency to become more obvious after exposure to the sun


• Mild itching is possible


• Patches may be various colors, including: White, Pink, Tan and Dark brown

Even though this discoloration can be very apparent on skin which is dark, the infection may affect anyone regardless of skin color. Each person’s spots are normally just one color. The spotted skin can be scaly. Although it is not common, the skin can be itchy, especially when it is hot.

This fungal infection is most common in humid, warm temperatures, and normally affects the:

• Back


• Neck


• Chest


• Upper arms

Other things which can increase the chance of getting tinea versicolor include:

• Have an immune system which is impaired which may occur during pregnancy or from some other illnesses


• Using some medicines such as corticosteroids, birth control pills or antibiotics


• Less likely to occur as you age, when the skin starts becoming less oily

When to See the Doctor?

An individual should see the doctor if:

• The skin does not improve with measures of self-care


• The fungal infection returns


• The patches cover areas of your body which are large

Your physician can usually tell if you have tinea versicolor just by examining the spots. She or he can look at a sample or scraping of the skin which is infected under a microscope.

Tinea Versicolor Causes

Healthy skin may normally have this fungus which causes this disorder growing in areas where hair follicles are opening onto the skin’s surface. Tinea versicolor normally occurs when this fungus for some reason becomes overgrown. There are numerous factors which can trigger this overgrowth, including:

• Humid, hot weather


• Oily skin


• Sweating excessively


• Hormonal changes


• Immunosuppression – when the immune system is not able to protect the body from this growth of fungus or yeast on the skin or elsewhere.

Tinea Versicolor Treatment

This infection is usually easy to treat with skin creams, solutions or shampoos. But not everyone chooses to get treatment.

If this infection is severe or if it covers very large areas of the body, does not get better with skin care or returns often, your primary care physician can prescribe pills which are antifungal. These antifungal pills may not be taken by some individuals, especially those with heart or liver conditions. You can get your blood tested so that your physician can make certain that your liver or kidneys are functioning properly.

Medications

Some medications used for tinea versicolor treatment include:

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Topical

• Selenium sulfide 2.5% lotion


• Ciclopirox (Loprox) cream, lotion or gel


• Ketoconazole (Nizoral) shampoo or cream

Oral

• Ketoconazole (Nizoral) tablets


• Itraconazole (Sporanox) capsules


• Fluconazole (Difucan) tablets

Even if the treatment is successful, the skin color can remain uneven for many weeks, or even months. And, the condition can return when the weather gets humid or warm. In really persistent cases, there is the possibility that the individual will need to take medication once or twice a month to prevent the fungal infection from returning.

For cases of tinea versicolor which are very mild, an individual can apply OTC or over the counter antifungal lotion, ointment, shampoo or cream. The majority of fungal infections respond well to topical agents, which include:

• Selenium sulfide shampoo – (Selsun Blue)


• Miconazole (Monistat-Derm)


• Clotrimazole (Lotrimin)


• Terbinafine (Lasmisil)

Wash and dry the area which is affected. Then, apply a very thin layer of the topical agent once or twice a day for at the least – 2 weeks. If you are using the shampoo, leave it in for 5 to 10 minutes before rinsing it out. If there is no improvement after 4 weeks, see your primary care physician as you may need stronger medication.

Tinea Versicolor Natural Treatments

There also are quite a few natural treatments for tinea versicolor that can be prepared at home. These treatments for tinea versicolor are particularly gentle and also well help to revitalize the skin. It has been suggested that several of these be used as a regular skin program.

You may make a body scrub which is homemade by grinding lightly about a handful of rice which is unpolished so that will create flour which is coarse. You then add several spoons of tomato juice which is fresh to this flour until a paste is made. Shower as normal and then use this special paste to apply all over the areas of the skin which are affected. Leave the paste to stay on the skin for 5 minutes and massage gently into the skin. Because tomato juice is acidic it prevents the fungus from spreading. The flour from the rice contains many nutrients which are considered important for healthy skin and since it is also coarse it serves as an exfoliating agent. You can also apply vinegar made from apple cider as this vinegar is also acidic and provides an environment which is hostile for fungus to grow and therefore aids in controlling the spreading of the condition. While treating this condition using home treatments, it is very significant that you remember it will probably take some time for the skin top to recover its unique color.

Oil from a tea tree is an extremely powerful fungicide and there are quite a few “tea tree oil” treatments which you may use to care for this condition. It’s essential to dilute this “tea tree oil” with carrier oil prior to using it since “tea tree oil” is vital oil and has extremely sturdy natural composites. You should mix identical quantities of sweet almond oil, tea tree oil as well as olive oil and use the blend of oils following a shower rather than a moisturizing cream.

Prevention of Tinea Versicolor

Evade using oily products or oil on the skin or wear restrictive, tight or clothes which are non-ventilating. Exposure to the sun will make the infection more evident.

To help to avert tinea versicolor from reoccurring, your primary care physician may prescribe an oral or topical treatment which can be taken 1 or 2 times a month. Other treatments for prevention include:

• Selenium sulfide (Selsun) lotion applied to areas every 2 to 3 weeks


• Itraconazole (Sporanox) capsules once a month


• Ketoconazole (Nizoral) tablets once a month

Tanning will cause the condition to become more obvious as it should be avoided so that the change in color of the skin will be less obvious.

Some physicians believe fungi can remain in clothing and can cause this infection to return. Normal cleaning and washing is usually effective in ridding the clothes of the fungi. But if the tinea versicolor is persistent, it is possible that you need to dry-clean the clothes or wash them in extremely hot water.

It is also believe that eating a healthy and balanced diet will also help to avert the returning of tinea versicolor. This diet contains foods which are very fresh and it is best to steer clear of foods which are processed as much as possible. Junk foods as well as fried foods can exacerbate these skin problems and so it is best to pass up them totally until the skin has healed totally.

This diet should also include raw vegetables, raw fruits as well as whole grains. This reinforces the immune structure by containing antioxidants. Excellent sources of antioxidants include tomatoes, citrus fruits as well as grapes. These foods also are rich in many vitamins.

Also include fermented lactic acid food such as yogurt as it has acidophilus which aids in keeping bacteria levels in balance and also aids in preventing infections to spread.

This diet should also avoid white flour as well as sugar. Pastries as well as cakes need to be completely avoided. Garlic is good for antifungal agent.

Tinea Versicolor Pictures

Pictures of Tinea Versicolor



Tinea Versicolor on arms



Tinea Versicolor on back



on chest



on face



Tinea Versicolor on neck



on Scalp



on shoulders

Joint inflammation – Causes, Treatment, Diet, Medications, Surgery

Joint inflammation – Causes, Treatment, Diet, Medications, Surgery

What is Joint Inflammation?

Joint inflammation which is chronic is usually known as rheumatoid arthritis and this affects mostly the smaller joints in the hands and feet. It is different than the wear and tear damage of osteoarthritis. This normally causes the painful swelling that will eventually result in erosion of the bone as well as joint deformity.

This common inflammation of the joints is an autoimmune disorder – for some reason the immune system begins to attack the body’s own tissues. As well as joint problems, RA also affects the whole body with fatigue and fevers.

Joint inflammation Causes

Inflammation of the joints especially with rheumatoid arthritis develops when the immune system attacks the synovium which is the lining of the membranes which surrounds the joints. This resulting inflammation thickens the synovium and can ultimately attack and destroy the cartilage as well as the bone that is within the joint. The ligaments as well as the tendons which hold the joint together stretch and weaken. Usually, the joint will lose its shape and alignment.

Physicians do not know what starts this procedure, but a genetic component does seem to be likely. Your genes do not actually cause these joint problems, but they can make the individual more vulnerable to factors in the environment such as infection with certain bacteria as well as viruses and that can trigger problems with the joints.

Joint inflammation Diet

There are foods which increase inflammation as well as increases the pain and can also raise any risk of chronic joint problems. Eating a lot of high-fat meats, junk food, fast foods as well as sugar all can increase inflammation in the joints and the body. This can be partially attributive to the fats which are unhealthy and are used to process and prepare these types of foods, especially saturated and trans fats. Meats that are processed for example hot dogs, sausages, and lunch meats contain chemicals such as nitrates which are linked to increases in inflammation as well as chronic disease.

Adding foods to the diet which can reduce inflammation will greatly improve how an individual feels and aids in decreasing your risk for chronic disease. Below are some suggestions:

Fats and Oils
The correct types of fats in your diet can impact inflammation and pain in a very positive way. Omega-3 essential fatty acids are extremely powerful anti-inflammatory agents. These are found in walnuts, cold-water oily fish, canola oil, flax seeds as well as pumpkin seeds. Adding the Omega-3 fatty acid supplements from fish oil or flax oil can help to reduce any inflammation.

Olive oil is another type of oil which will also reduce inflammation. It has been shown to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease as well as helping to reduce pain. Some other oils which are healthy include grape seed oil, rice bran oil as well as walnut oil.

Protein
The body needs protein in order to build healthy body tissue. High sources of protein include fish, lean poultry as well as nuts, seafood, legumes and seeds. Cut back on fatty red meats as they can trigger inflammation.

Soy milk, soybeans and tofu are 3 excellent sources of soy proteins which can help reduce inflammation and pain.

Carbohydrates and Fiber
Carbohydrates should come from vegetables, whole grain and fruits. Any cereal, bread as well as pasta should be 100% whole-grain products. High-fiber diets will reduce inflammation and whole grains are great sources for fiber.

Individuals should choose green as well as brightly colored vegetables, as well as green leafy vegetable and lots of fruits which are fresh. Everyone needs at least 5 or more servings of vegetables as well as fruits each day.

Berries are also important; especially strawberries and blueberries which are simply packed with anti-inflammatory phytochemicals and antioxidants.
Healthy Beverages
The body needs water in the form of beverages as well as foods each day. Water is the best form. Other fluid sources include 100% fruit juices, vegetable juices, low-fat milk and herbal teas. Approximately 20% of the water needed each day will normally come from the foods that are eaten.

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Joint inflammation Treatment

There is no cure for rheumatoid arthritis or inflammation of the joints. There are drugs which can reduce inflammation in the joints and can relieve pain and also prevent or slow joint damage. Physical and occupational therapy can help to protect the joints.

Medications

NSAIDS
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs relieve pain and reduce inflammation. Over-the-counter NSAIDS include Advil, Motrin as well as Aleve. There are stronger versions of these NSAIDs as well as others are available by prescription. Some side effects can include ringing in the ears, increased bruising, heart problems, gastric ulcers, liver and kidney damage, as well as stomach bleeding.

Steroids
Corticosteroid drugs such as prednisone and methylprednisolone reduce inflammation, pain as well as slow joint damage. Some side effects can include easy bruising, cataracts, thinning of bones, weight gain, a round face as well as diabetes.

Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs or DMARDS
These drugs can slow the progression of rheumatoid arthritis as well as inflammation of joints – and they can save the joints and other tissues from damage which is permanent. Side effects can vary but can include liver damage, severe lung infections as well as bone marrow suppression.

Immunosuppressants
These have actions to tame your immune system, which is out of control when there is excessive inflammation. Examples are Azasan, Neoral, Sandimmune, Gengraf and Cytoxan. These medications increase susceptibility to infection.

Other drugs
There are other reheumatoid arthritis drugs which target various inflammatory substances produced by your body. These drugs include Kineret, Orencia and Rituxan. Some side effects include injection site reactions, headache, white blood cell counts, and an increase in upper respiratory infections.

Therapy
Therapy can help you do everyday tasks in order to take stress off painful joints. For example, if your fingers are sore, pick up an object using your forearms and there are many other suggestions.

Surgery

When medications fail to prevent or slow joint damage, surgery can be considered to repair damaged joints. This can help restore your ability to use the joint. It can also reduce pain and correct deformities. These procedures include:

Total joint replacement also known as arthroplasty
The surgeon removes the damaged parts of your joint and inserts a prosthesis made of plastic or metal.

Tendon repair
Joint and inflammation damage can cause tendons around the joint to loosen or rupture. The surgeon may be able to repair the tendons around the joint.

Removal of joint lining or synovectomy
This is the removal of the lining of the joint when the lining has been inflamed or damaged.

Joint fusion or arthrodesis
Fusing of a joint can be recommended to realign or stabilize a joint and for pain relief when joint replacement is not an option.

Surgery does carry a risk of bleeding, pain and infection.

Itchy Skin – Symptoms, Causes, Treatment, Medications

Itchy Skin – Symptoms, Causes, Treatment, Medications

Symptoms of Itchy Skin

Skin which is itchy can occur in very small areas, such as on the arm or leg. Or can occur over the whole body making an individual wanting to scratch everywhere. Itchy skin can happen without any visible or other noticeable changes on the skin. It can be associated with:

• Bumps, blisters or spots


• Redness


• Scaly or leathery surface to the skin


• Cracked or dry skin

Often itchiness will last for a very long time and may be very intense. And as you scratch or rub the area, it only gets worse. And the itchier it gets, the more you scratch and worse it gets. The challenge is to break this itch-scratch cycle.

An individual should see their primary care physician or a specialist in skin disease – dermatologist – if the itching:

• Is a problem for more than 2 weeks


• Does not improve with self-care measures


• So severe and uncomfortable that an individual is distracted from daily routines or prevented from sleeping


• Is not able to be explained


• Affects the whole body

Has other symptoms, such as:

• Weight loss


• Extreme fatigue


• Changes in urinary or bowel frequency


• Redness of the skin


• Fever

Causes of Itchy Skin

Dry Skin
Skin which is itchy and that is not accompanied by any skin modifications, for example, a rash, is often caused simply by skin that is dry or xerosis. Skin which is dry normally is caused from factors in the environment that can be influenced. These include cold or hot weather together with humidity levels which are low, air conditioning or central heating used for long period of times, and bathing or washing too often.

Other Probable Causes
Other situations such as internal diseases, skin disorders, drug reactions as well as allergies can as well cause skin to be itchy. These include:

Skin rashes and conditions
Numerous conditions of the skin can cause skin to be itchy, including psoriasis, eczema (dermatitis), scabies, chickenpox, lice, hives as well as dermatographism. It is these cases where itching normally distresses definite areas as well as causes other problems, such as irritated, red skin or blisters and bumps.

Disease of the Internal system
This can include abnormal absorption of wheat (celiac disease), liver disease, kidney failure, thyroid problems, iron deficiency anemia, and cancers, including lymphoma and leukemia. It is these cases where the itching normally affects the total body, instead of just one precise area. The skin can look normal otherwise except for this repeatedly need to scratch itchy area.

Nerve disorders
These are circumstances that upset the nervous system –for example diabetes, multiple sclerosis, nerves that are pinched as well as herpes zoster or shingles – and cause itching.
Allergic and Irritation reactions
Chemicals, wool, soaps and other materials may aggravate the skin and cause intense itching. Often the matter causes what is known as an allergic reaction for example poison ivy or cosmetics. Allergies of food can also cause skin to have itchy reactions.

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Drugs
Drug such as antifungal drugs, antibiotics or narcotic pain drugs can cause itching and rashes which is widespread

Pregnancy
Many women develop skin which is itchy during pregnancy, particularly on the thighs, arms, abdomen and breasts. As well, other itchy skin problems for instance dermatitis can get worse during pregnancy.

Itching and scratching which is prolonged can actually increase the intensity of the itch and this leads to neurodermatitis – lichen simplex chronicus. Neurodermatitis is a condition where the area of skin that is scratched frequently becomes leathery and thick. The patches can become red, raw or darker than the other parts of the skin. Scratching which is persistent may also lead to a bacterial infection of the skin as well as causing permanent scarring as well as changes in color of the skin.

Itchy Skin Treatment

As soon as a cause is diagnosed, treatments for skin which is itchy can include:

Medications

Corticosteroid creams
This is applied topically to control itching. The doctor may advise applying this medicated cream to the affected areas, and then cover the areas with cotton material which is damp with water or other solutions. This moisture in the wet dressings will help the skin to absorb the cream.

Antihistamines Oral
Used for hives or allergies to add with corticosteroid creams for itching for skin inflammation.

Treating the underlying disease
If a disease internally is found, whether it is iron deficiency, thyroid problem, or kidney disease, treating the disease will most of the time relieve the itch.

Light therapy or Phototherapy
Phototherapy encompasses exposing the skin to wavelengths of ultraviolet light. Many sessions are normally scheduled until the itching is under control.

Relief which is short-term:
Even with many kinds of itching responding well to treatment, relief may not always be immediate. But, there are a number of ointments and creams which are specifically created to relieve short-term itching including:

• Topical anesthetics such as benzocaine or lidocaine


• Lotions and ointments such as calamine, menthol, or camphor

Although these products can offer immediate relief of the itching, treatment of the causal problem is the most important method for any relief which is long-term.

Goiter – Pictures, Symptoms, Causes, Treatment, Surgery, Cure

Goiter – Pictures, Symptoms, Causes, Treatment, Surgery, Cure

What is a Goiter?

The thyroid gland is an organ that is butterfly-shaped found at the base of the neck right below the Adam’s apple. Often this thyroid gland will grow larger than is normal – and this condition is referred to as goiter or in the United Kingdom goitre. While goiters are normally painless, a goiter that is very large can trigger a cough as well as making it hard for the individual to breathe or swallow.

The more common reason for a goiter globally is an absence of dietary iodine. In the United States, most individual use salt that is iodized, so goiter is most often caused by the underproduction or overproduction of hormones from the thyroid gland or due to nodes that grow in the gland itself.

Treatment for a goiter is determined by the goiter size, the symptoms as well as the underlying reason for the problem. Small goiters which are not noticeable and do not cause any problem normally do not need treatment.

Goiter Symptoms

Symptoms and signs are not cause by all goiters. When they do develop, they can include:

• A swelling that is visible at the base of the neck which can be especially obvious when the individual shaves or applies makeup


• Feeling of tightness in the throat


• Hoarseness


• Coughing


• Difficulty in breathing


• Difficulty in swallowing

Goiter Causes

The thyroid gland manages 2 hormones –triiodothyronine or T-3 and thyroxine. These hormones flow in the blood system and help to regulate the body metabolism. They do the following:

• Manage the rate which the body uses carbohydrates as well as fats


• Helps manage the control of the temperature of the body


• Effect the heart rate


• Helps control the manufacture of proteins


• Produces calcitonin – hormone that manages the calcium amount in the blood

The pituitary gland as well as hypothalamus manages the degree at which these hormones are released and produced. This process starts when the hypothalamus –a tiny organ at the base of the brain that performs as a thermostat for the entire system – motions to the pituitary gland to create a hormone referred to as “thyroid-stimulating hormone” or TSH. The pituitary gland – also situated at the base of the brain – discharges a definite amount of TSH, contingent on how much T-3 and thyroxine are in the blood. The thyroid gland then in turn controls the creation of hormones built on the quantity of TSH received from the pituitary gland.

A goiter does not automatically mean the thyroid gland is not working routinely. Even if it is enlarged, the thyroid may create amounts that are normal of hormones. It can similarly, still, produce too little or too much T-3 and thyroxine.

There are numerous factors that may cause the thyroid gland to expand. Amid the more common are:

Deficiency of Iodine
Iodine is vital for the creation of hormones of the thyroid and occurs generally in seawater as well as in the soil on the coast. In the unindustrialized areas of the world, individuals living at higher elevations or live inland are very frequently iodine-poor and may develop goiters when the thyroid grows as the result of a struggle to acquire further iodine. The iodine deficiency initially can be made worse by diets which are high in hormone hindering foods, for instance broccoli, cabbage as well as cauliflower. While a deficiency of iodine in the diet is the major cause for a goiter in numerous areas of the globe, this is not the situation in those countries anywhere iodine is routinely added to regular table salt as well as added foods.

Graves’ disease
Goiter may often occur when the thyroid gland creates too much hormones (hyperthyroidism). With Graves’ disease, antibodies created by the immune system incorrectly attack the thyroid gland, causing an excess production of thyroxine. This causes the thyroid to swell.

Hashimoto’s disease
A goiter can result also from a thyroid that is underactive (hypothyroidism). Like Graves’ disease, Hashimoto’s disease is a disorder of the autoimmune type. But rather than causing the thyroid to create too much hormone, Hashimoto’s damage the thyroid so that it creates too little. Detecting a lower level of hormone, the pituitary gland creates more TSH to motivate the thyroid. Detecting a lower level of hormone the pituitary gland creates more TSH to encourage the thyroid that then causes the gland to become enlarged.

Solitary thyroid nodules
With this condition, a single nodule grows in one side of thyroid. Most nodules are non-cancerous (benign) and does not develop into cancer.

Multinodular goiter
With this disorder, some fluid-filled or solid lumps referred to as nodules grow in both sides of the thyroid, causing whole growth of the gland.

Thyroid cancer
Thyroid cancer is much less common than benign thyroid nodules. Thyroid cancer typically seems as an expansion on one side of the thyroid.

Pregnancy
A hormone created during pregnancy, human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG), can trigger the thyroid gland to increase to some degree.

Inflammation
Thyroiditis is an inflammatory problem that may cause swelling as well as pain in the thyroid.

Goiters may affect everyone. They can exist at birth and arise at any time thru out life, although, they are most common after the age of 50. Certain common issues that are risks for developing a goiter include:

Lack of dietary iodine
Individuals living in those areas where iodine is a small resource and do not have access to iodine supplementation have a high risk of developing goiters.

Sex
Since women are most prone to illnesses of the thyroid, they are also most probable to develop goiters.
Age
The chances of developing a goiter will increase with age.

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Medical history
A family or personal history of diseases that are autoimmune increases the risk of developing goiters

Menopause and Pregnancy
For causes that are not quite clear, problems with thyroids are most likely to happen during menopause or pregnancy.

Certain medications
Certain medical therapies, including antiretrovirals, immunosuppressants, the heart medication amiodarone (known as Pacerone, Cordarone, others) as well as the psychiatric medication lithium (known as Lithobid, Eskalith, others), rises the risk.

Exposure to radiation
The risk rises if there has been radiation therapy to the chest or neck area or exposure to radiation in a nuclear test, facility or accident.

Goiters which are small that do not cause cosmetic or physical problems are not of any concern. But those goiters which are larger can often make it harder to swallow or breathe and in some cases cause hoarseness or a cough.

Goiters resulting from other problems such as hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism can be linked to numerous symptoms which range from weight gain to fatigue, weight loss, problems sleeping as well as irritability.

Goiter Treatment

A primary care physician can ascertain a thyroid gland that is enlarged merely by examining the neck as well as examining the neck as the individual swallows in the course of routine physical exam. In several cases, the physician can also be capable of feeling the occurrence of any nodules.

Making the diagnosis of goiter can also involve:

Hormone test
Tests of the blood can define the hormone amounts being produced by an individual’s pituitary and thyroid glands. If the thyroid is underactive, the thyroid hormone level will have dropped. At this identical time, the hormone that stimulates the thyroid known as TSH will be higher due to the fact that the pituitary gland is trying to stimulate the thyroid gland to create additional thyroid hormone. Goiters which are connected with a thyroid that is overactive normally consist of an elevation of thyroid hormone in the blood system and a lesser than usual level of TSH.

Antibody test
Several reasons for goiter involve the production of antibodies that are abnormal. A blood test can endorse the occurrence of such antibodies.

Ultrasonography
A wand-like device called a transducer is positioned over the neck. Waves of sound are then bounced thru the back and neck, forming images on a screen of a computer. These images can disclose the size of the thyroid gland as well as whether the gland has any nodules that the doctor cannot have felt.

Thyroid scan
With this exam, an isotope that is radioactive is injected into the vein located on the inside of the elbow. The individual is then laid on a table with the head stretched backwards while a different camera will produce images of the thyroid on the screen of the computer. The time that is needed for this procedure can vary, dependent on how long it can take for the isotope to reach the thyroid gland. These scans will deliver data about the size and nature of the thyroid, but they are more intrusive, time-consuming as well as costing more than ultrasound tests.

Biopsy
Using a biopsy with a fine-needle aspiration, the ultrasound is used to situate the needle into the thyroid in order to obtain a fluid or tissue sample for testing.

Treatment for goiter is dependent on the goiter size, the symptoms and signs, and the causal reason. The physician can advise:

Observation
If the goiter is slight and does not cause any problems and the thyroid is working normally, the physician can advise a wait and see period.

Medications

When and individual has hypothyroidism, thyroid replacement therapy with levothyroxine (known as Synthroid, Levothroid) will usually resolve any symptoms occurring with hypothyroidism and slow the release of TSH from the pituitary gland. This often will decrease the goiter size. For a thyroid gland that is inflamed, the physician may advise aspirin or corticosteroid drug to manage the inflammation. For goiter linked with hyperthyroidism, the physician will advise drugs to normalize the levels of hormone.

Goiter Surgery

Taking out all of a part of the thyroid gland (partial or total thyroidectomy) is one option if the goiter is so large that it is causing difficulty with swallowing or breathing or is uncomfortable or other cases if the goiter nodular causes hyperthyroidism. This surgery is as well the therapy for cancer of the thyroid. The individual will need to take levothyroxine following surgery, dependent on the size of the portion of the gland that is detached.

Radioactive Iodine
In other cases, iodine that is radioactive is utilized to treat a thyroid gland that is overactive. The iodine is taken by mouth and extends to the thyroid gland thru the blood system, eliminating thyroid cells. This therapy results in a reduced size of the goiter, but ultimately can also create a thyroid gland that is underactive. Hormone replacement therapy will the synthetic hormone levothyroxine becomes necessary, normally for life.

Goiter Cure

An underactive or overactive thyroid gland will need medication for the remainder of the individual’s life, but a goiter that is causing any problems can be removed or medication can be given in order to alleviate any increase in size of the gland.

Goiter Pictures

Sciatic Nerve Pain – Symptoms, Causes, Treatment, Relief, Medications, During Pregnancy

Sciatic Nerve Pain – Symptoms, Causes, Treatment, Relief, Medications, During Pregnancy

What is Sciatic Nerve Pain?

This is also known as sciatica and denotes the pain radiating along the track of the sciatic nerve as well as its divisions – from the back down the leg and buttocks. This sciatic nerve is the lengthiest nerve in the body running from the spinal cord to the hip and buttock area and down each leg’s back.

Sciatic nerve pain is actually a symptom, not an actual disorder. The pain radiating from the sciatic nerve is an indicator of some other difficulty which involves this nerve, for instance a disk that is herniated. Dependent on the cause of the sciatic nerve pain – which can be quite painful – it usually goes away on its own within several months.

Meanwhile, self-care procedures might help ease this pain. Often, your physician will suggest some other treatment.

Sciatic Nerve Pain Symptoms

Any pain that radiates from the lower spine or lumbar region to the buttock and down the back of the leg is the mark of sciatic nerve pain. An individual might feel this discomfort anywhere along the pathway of this nerve but it is likely to follow the path from the low back to the buttock and the back of the thigh and calf.

This pain may be widely various, from an ache that is mild to a burning, sharp sensation or excruciating pain. Often it might feel like an electric shock or jolt. It might be worse when the individual sneezes or coughs as well as sitting prolonged amount of time may aggravate symptoms. Normally only one lower leg is involved.

Sciatic nerve pain symptoms consists of:

• Pain – It is especially likely to happen along a path from the lower back to the buttock as well as back of the calf or thigh.


• Muscle weakness or numbness along the pathway of the nerve in the foot or leg. In many cases, the individual might have pain in one part of the leg and numbness in another.


• Pins-and-needles or tingling feeling, often in part of the foot or toes


• A loss of bowel or bladder control. This is a sign of cauda equina syndrome, which is a rare but serious problem requiring emergency care. If an individual experiences either of these symptoms, seek help medically immediately.

Sciatic nerve pain that is mild normally goes away given enough time as well as patience. Call the physician if self-care remedies fail to ease the symptoms or if the pain lasts much longer than a week, is severe or if it becomes increasingly worse. Get immediate medical assistance if:

• There is severe, sudden pain in the lower back or leg as well as numbness or weakness of the muscle in the leg


• Pain follows an injury that is violent, such as a traffic wreck


• There are problems controlling the bladder or bowels

Sciatic Nerve Pain Causes

The sciatic nerve runs from the spinal cord thru the buttocks and hips area as well as down the back of each leg. This nerve has control over many of the muscles in the lower legs as well as provides feeling to the legs, thighs and feet. Sciatic nerve pain can develop when a nerve root is compacted in the lower spine – usually because of a disk that is herniated in the lower area of the back.

Disks in the back are cartilage pads that separate the vertebrae or bones in the spine. They are filled with a gel-like material and keep the spine flexible as well as act as shock absorbers to pad the vertebrae when moving.

If the outer cover of a disk tears or herniates, gel can seep out and press on a nerve root, causing pain in the back, leg or both. If the damaged disk is in the lower area of the back, the individual can as well feel numbness, weakness or tingling in the buttock, foot or leg.

Even though a disk that is herniated is a frequent cause of sciatic nerve pain, there are other conditions that also can apply pressure on this sciatic nerve, including:

Lumbar spinal stenosis
Spinal stenosis is the narrowing of one or more areas in the spine – most often in the upper or lower back. When the narrowing occurs in the lower spine, the lumbar as well as the sacral nerve roots can be affected.

Spondylolisthesis
This is a condition, normally caused by degenerative disk disease, occurring when one vertebra slides a little forward above another vertebra. This displaced bone can pinch the sciatic nerve where it leaves the spine.

Piriformis syndrome
The piriformis muscle begins at the lower spine and is connected to each femur or thighbone. Piriformis syndrome happens when this muscle becomes tight or goes into a spasm, putting more pressure on the sciatic nerve. Sitting that is prolonged, auto accidents as well as falls can add to the piriformis syndrome.

Tumors on the spine
In the spine, tumors can develop inside the spinal cord, within the meninges or membranes that cover the cord or in the spaces between the cord and the vertebrae. As these tumors grow, they compress the cord or the nerve roots.

Trauma
An auto accident, blow to the spine or fall can all injure the sacral or lumbar nerve roots.

Sciatic nerve injury or tumor
Often the sciatic nerve can be affected by an injury or tumor.

Other causes
There are some cases where the physician may not be able to find a cause of sciatic nerve pain. There are a number of problems that can affect the bones, muscles as well as joints, all which can potentially cause sciatic pain.

Risk factors for sciatic nerve pain include lifestyle options, health problems as well as inherent qualities such as race or age that can make it much more likely an individual will develop a certain condition. Major risk factors for sciatic nerve pain consist of:

Prolonged sitting
Individual who sit for long periods of time or have a very inactive lifestyle are most likely to develop sciatic nerve pain than active individuals are.

Age
Changes that are age-related in the spine are common causes of sciatic nerve pain. Most individuals are likely to have some wear in the disks of the back by the age of 40.

Diabetes
This disease, that affects the way the body uses blood glucose, increases the risk of nerve damage.

Occupation
Any job that requires an individual to twist the back, drive a motor vehicle for long time periods, or carry heard loads can make an individual more prone to develop sciatic nerve pain.
Even though many individuals will fully recover from sciatic nerve pain, often without any precise treatment, sciatica may cause potentially nerve damage that is permanent. Depending on what is the cause of the nerve being compressed, other complications can occur, these include:

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• Feeling loss in affected leg


• Movement loss in the affected leg


• Function loss of bladder or bowel

Treatment for Relief

For the majority of individuals, sciatic nerve pain does react well to measures of self-care. These can include using alternating hot pack and cold packs, exercise, stretching as well as using “over the counter” or OTC medicines. The primary care physician can endorse the following:

Physical therapy
If an individual has a disk that is herniated, physical therapy may contribute a vital aid in the individual’s recovery. As soon as acute pain gets better, the physician as well as a physical therapist may design a rehab program in order to aid in the prevention of recurrent injuries.

Rehabilitation normally involves exercises to aid in strengthening the muscles which support the back as well as improve flexibility and correct posture. The primary care physician will have an individual begin exercise, physical therapy or both together as soon as possible. It is the foundation of any treatment program as well as needing to become a part of permanent management plan for home.

When these conservative methods do not alleviate the pain within several months, any one of the below can be a preference for sciatic nerve pain treatment:

Epidural steroid injections
The physician can recommend injections of a corticosteroid drug into the area that is affected. These injections suppress any inflammation surrounding the nerve that is irritated, thus aiding in relieving the pain.

The usefulness of these injections in treating sciatic nerve pain is still up for debate. Research has discovered that corticosteroids may provide only short-term relief of symptoms and are not a long-term resolution. Additionally, corticosteroids may have side effects; therefore the total number of injections a person may receive is restricted. If the primary care physician recommends corticosteroids, she/he will decide on a safe number of these injections for the patient.

Surgery
Normally surgery is only reserved for those periods when the nerve compression causes substantial weakness, bladder or bowel incontinence or if the pain progressively gets worse or does not improve with any other therapies.

Surgical preferences include:

• Diskectomy


• Microdiskectomy

Diskectomy
Surgeons take away a part of a herniated disk that is pressing on the nerve. Idyllically, the majority of the disk remains complete to reserve as much of the usual structure as is possible. Often a surgeon will accomplish this surgery thru a very small incision while watching thru a microscope – microdiskectomy

Rates of success of normal discectomy as well as microdiskectomy are fairly equal, but the patient can have a lesser amount of pain and gets better faster with microdiskectomy.

Medications

The primary care physician will first suggest over the counter medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as aspirin and ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, others), and acetaminophen (Tylenol, others) can both be helpful for sciatica.

When these are not effective, the physician can prescribe anti-inflammatory drugs along with muscle relaxants. Narcotics can also be prescribed but only for short-term pain relief. Tricyclic anticonvulsant and anti-depressants medications can also aid in helping chronic pain. They also can aid by obstructing the messages of pain that go to the brain or by enhancing endorphin production which is the body’s natural painkillers.

Sciatic Nerve Pain Management

For the majority of individuals, sciatic nerve pain reacts well to measures of self-care. You will heal rapidly if you carry on with daily activities but need to avoid what caused the pain originally. Resting for several days can offer some relief; bed rest that is prolonged is not a great idea. Inactivity will make the symptoms and signs only worse.

As well as resuming normal activities, attempt the following:

Cold packs
Use initially to decrease inflammation and get rid of discomfort. Wrap the ice pack or a pack of frozen vegetables in a towel and put on the areas which are painful for about 20 minutes numerous times a day.

Hot packs
After 2 to 3 days, put on heat to the area that hurts. Use hot packs, a hot pad or a heating lamp on the low setting. If pain continues, try alternating cold and warm packs.

Stretching
Exercises for stretching of the lower back may help and may be able to release nerve root that is compressed. Evade jerking, twisting, or bouncing while stretching as well as try to hold the stretch for at least 30 seconds.

Over-the-counter medications
These fall into 2 categories – some diminish pain and inflammation and other treat only pain. See above for further information. Although they may deliver real relief, there is a limit to exactly how much pain they may control. Also, NSIDs may cause side effect such a stomach bleeding, ulcers, as well as nausea and acetaminophen such as Tylenol can cause problems with the liver when taken in excess.

Regular exercise
It can seem wrong to exercise when an individual is in pain but exercise on a regular basis is one of the best methods to battle any chronic discomfort. Regular, sustained exercise prompts the body to issue endorphins which are the body’s natural painkillers.

Early in course of sciatic nerve pain, water exercise as well as other low-impact exercise, for example a stationary bike, will help the individual to remain active devoid of causing any worsening of symptoms. As the individual improves and the pain diminishes, a program of strength training, core stability and aerobic exercises can aid in limiting the properties of back problems that are age-related.

Sciatic Nerve Pain during Pregnancy

Sciatic nerve pain can occur when a woman is pregnant. But there are several simple changes that often can provide relief. The American Pregnancy Association has recommended the below:

• Lie on the side of the body that is not in pain


• Do not lift heavy objects


• Avoid standing for long periods of time


• Try some exercises that make you feel lighter, for instance swimming

Do not hesitate to speak with your healthcare provider for some medications to ease the pain. Most over the counter medicationa such as acetaminophen will not harm the unborn baby and normally will help with the discomfort.

Angina Pain – Location, Symptoms, Causes, Treatment

Angina Pain – Location, Symptoms, Causes, Treatment

Angina Pain Location

Angina is typically described as a squeezing, heaviness, pressure, tightness or pain in the middle or the left side of the chest. Many individuals have stated that angina feels like someone is standing on the chest.

Angina can often be hard to distinguish from other kinds of chest pain for instance pain or discomfort of indigestion.

Angina Pain Symptoms

Angina symptoms consist of:

• Chest discomfort or pain


• Pain in the neck, arms, jaw, back or shoulder associated with pain in the chest


• Fatigue


• Nausea


• Breathing shortness


• Anxiety


• Dizziness


• Sweating

The discomfort or chest pain that is frequent with angina is often defined as fullness, pressure, and pain or squeezing in the middle of the chest. Some individuals with angina describe it as if the chest is being squeezed by a vise or feels like a weight that is heavy has been put on the chest.

The duration, type as well as the severity of angina may vary. It is significant to distinguish if this is changing or new chest pain. Different or new symptoms can be a signal of a more perilous angina – unstable angina – or a heart attack.

Stable angina characteristics

• Triggers when exercising or climbing stairs or any activity when the heart must work harder


• Can be predicted since this pain is normally similar to prior chest pain


• Lasts only a short period of time, 5 minutes or even less


• Goes away sooner when the individual rests or uses medication for angina


• Often resembles indigestion


• May spread to the back, arms or other parts of the of the body


• May also be brought on by emotional or mental stress

Unstable angina characteristics – medical emergency!

• Happens even while resting


• Unexpected


• Change in the usual form of angina


• Lasts longer and is more serious than angina that is stable, perhaps as long as ½ hour.


• Might not end with medication for angina or with rest


• Can be a signal or indication of a heart attack

Prinzmetal’s or variant angina characteristic

• Normally occurs when individual is at rest


• Often severe


• Can be comforted by medication for angina

Women with angina – A woman’s symptoms of angina may be unlike the symptoms that are classic for angina. For instance, a woman can have pain in the chest that resembles pulsating, sharp or stabbing type of pain in the chest instead of the characteristic vise-like pressure. Also women are likely to have symptoms such as shortening of breath, nausea or pain in the abdomen. These variances can lead to postponements in pursuing treatment.

Angina Pain Causes

The cause of angina is blood flow reduction to the muscle of the heart. Blood transports oxygen, which the muscle of the heart needs to persist. When the muscle of the heart is not getting sufficient oxygen, it triggers a condition referred to as ischemia.

The more frequent cause of blood flow that is reduced to the muscle of the heart is coronary artery disease or CAD. The heart or coronary arteries may become narrow because of fatty deposits called plaques. This is referred to as atherosclerosis.

Angina that is stable
Angina that is stable normally brought on by physical exertion. When the individual climb stairs, walks or exercises, the heart wants more blood, but it is harder for this muscle to get the amount of blood when the arteries are narrowed. In addition to physical activity, other factors such as emotional stress, heavy meals, cold temperatures as well as smoking also may cause the arteries to narrow and cause angina.
Angina that is unstable
If plaque or fatty deposits in a blood vessel ruptures or forms a blood clot, it may quickly block or reduce the flowing of blood thru a narrowed artery, suddenly as well as severely lessen the flow of blood to the muscle of the heart. Unstable angina gets worse and is not relieved by rest or the usual angina medications. If the flow of blood does not improve, the muscle of the heart that is deprived of oxygen dies – a heart attack. Unstable angina is dangerous as well as needs emergency treatment.

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Angina that is variant
This angina is caused by a spasm in a coronary artery where the artery will momentarily narrow. This narrowing also reduces the flow of blood to the heart, causing chest pain. Variant angina is rare and accounts for only about 2% of cases of angina.

Angina Pain Treatment

There are lots of options for the treatment of angina including:

• Medications


• Lifestyle changes


• Coronary bypass surgery


• Angioplasty and stenting

If the angina is very minor, modification of lifestyle can be all that is needed. Even if the angina is serious, these lifestyle changes may still help.

Lifestyle changes consist of:

• No smoking. Also avoid smoke that is secondhand


• If overweight, consider weight loss choices


• Diabetics need to have the diabetes well controlled


• With exercise, pace yourself as well as take breaks to rest


• Evade meals that are large


• Avoid stress and look for things that help you relax


• Eat healthy by limiting saturated fats, consuming plenty of whole grains as well as fruits and vegetables

Medications

When changes in lifestyle by itself do not help angina, the individual could need to take drugs. These consist of:

Aspirin
Aspirin lessens the capability of the blood to clot, helping it to be much easier for the flow of blood thru heart arteries that are narrowed. Stopping blood clots also can reduce the risk of heart attack.

Nitrates
Nitrates widen and relax the blood vessels allowing additional blood flow to the muscle of the heart. The more common type of nitrate is nitroglycerin tablets that are put under the tongue.

Beta blockers
These work thru blocking the hormone epinephrine, identified as adrenaline. This makes the heart beat slower and with less force and reduces the blood pressure. The also helps blood vessels improve blood flow by relaxing and opening up.

Statins
These are medications used to help lower blood cholesterol.

Calcium channel blockers
These widen and relax the blood vessels thru affecting the cells of the muscle in the walls of the arteries. This increases the flow of blood to the heart.

“Angiotensin-converting enzyme” or ACE inhibitors
These drugs help relax blood vessels.

Medical procedures and surgery

Angioplasty with stenting
During this procedure, a small balloon is put in the narrowed artery. After inflating the balloon the artery is widened and a very small wire coiled mesh – stent – is normally inserted in order to open and keep open the artery.

Coronary arteries bypass surgery
This surgery involves an artery or vein from another area of the body being used to bypass or evade a heart artery that is narrowed or blocked. This will increase blood flow to the heart and eliminate or reduce angina.