Thursday, September 4, 2014

Natural Diet and Medication for Treating Graves’ Disease

Natural Diet for Graves’ Disease

Diet for patients that have Graves’ disease usually would involve lesser intake of iodine-rich foods. There are also several tips that should be followed while maintaining this natural diet. These tips include the following:

Patients with the disease need to eat more whole grains. Whole grains are better options since it is considered a much healthier choice that can aid proper digestion.

Allow the body to have lots of fiber-rich food. Fiber aids digestion and also helps patients feel full in a shorter amount of time which will prevent them from eating unnecessary food.

Healthy examples of foods that are rich in fiber include all kinds of vegetables, fruits, and whole grains.

Patients should remember to drink lots of water several times day. When the disease strikes, it usually makes a patient insulin resistant that is why it is vital to stay hydrated all day long. Water can also aid in proper weight loss which is beneficial.

Besides having loads of fiber, fruits and vegetables are important sources of different vitamins and minerals that can help energize the body and make it lose unwanted fats.

It is also best for patients with the disease to have tests for allergies since there are fiber rich foods that can cause reactions to those that have sensitivities.

Foods that are rich in iodine should be avoided. Common examples of these include broccoli, turkey, beef liver, and iodized salt.

Treatment for Graves’ Disease

There are several treatment options in managing the symptoms brought about by Graves’ disease but there is still no treatment in stopping the body from producing antibodies that cause the disease. Most of the medications are designed to block action of thyroxine.

Anti-thyroid Medications. Administration of the medicines will usually take two years to complete.

Beta Blockers. Helps in preventing the action of the thyroid hormone that causes the disease’s symptoms to appear. This kind of medication is usually partnered with other treatment options.

Radioactive Iodine Treatment. The procedure is used to lower down thyroid activity by destroying overactive thyroid cells. Treatment may result to a mild case of Graves’ ophthalmopathy.

Surgery. When patients are unable to tolerate anti-thyroid medications and radioactive iodine treatment, thyroidectomy will be used. This involves removal of the thyroid gland and administration of thyroxine to provide the body with the needed amounts of thyroid hormones. Risks of the procedure include damage of the vocal chords and the parathyroid glands.

For those patients with Graves’ ophthalmopathy corticosteroids, orbital decompression surgery, eye muscle surgery, prisms, and orbital radiotherapy can be used to manage symptoms.

For those that have Graves’ dermopathy, creams and ointments that contain hydrocortisone and compression can be used.

What are the Causes and Treatments for Lupus Rash Disease

What are the Causes and Treatments for Lupus Rash Disease

Lupus which is also known as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic inflammatory disease of unknown etiology. It is characterized by inflammation in many different organs and tissues. The annual incidence in United States is estimated to be 2 to 8 one lac of population. More than 85 % of the patients of lupus are females and the highest incidence is seen between 20 to 50 years of age.

This autoimmune disease can affect the internal organs, skin and joints. Like any other auto immune disease, the immune system of the body reacts with its own system manifesting various symptoms and health issues.

Lupus rash is the skin symptom of lupus disease. More than 90 % of the patients suffer from skin rash as one of its symptom. Lupus rash is also called butterfly rash if it occurs on the face and it extends on the cheeks and the bridge of the nose. In almost all the cases, lupus rash is triggered due to exposure to sunlight. This form of lupus rash occurs in acute cutaneous lupus, it persists for few days before subsiding without scarring. There may be lupus rashes on body in different parts as well.

However they are commonly seen in chronic lupus erythematosus, which involves the scalp, ear, and other parts of the body. The lesions in the beginning are raised and become red with itching. Later on the lesion leaves scars when they heal.

Lupus Rash Causes and Symptoms

The exact cause of lupus rash is unknown. Genetic hormonal and environmental factors have been implicated as the cause for skin rash in lupus disease. However in many patients it has been observed that there is no predisposition to genetics. Apart from the classical malar area, rash is characteristically seen in front and behind the ears. When the lupus rash affects the larger area of the skin it may cause hyper pigmentation, crusting and scaling. The areas often involved are face, neck, scalp and shoulders. The common symptom of lupus rash is red skin patches, urticaria, vasculitis, skin rash, raised painful skin nodules. Lupus rash in the scalp can cause temporary hair loss unless there is scarring on the scalp which results into scarring alopecia.

Lupus Rash Treatment

SLE ranges in severity from a mild disease with rash to more serious illness with renal failure and neurological damage. As it is a chronic disease, the rash may often recur. It is difficult to treat the rash; however there are natural measures to alleviate the symptoms.

Avoidance to sun exposure.

Good nutrition, adequate rest.

Avoid excessive fatigue and stress.

Extracts from pine bark or grape seed extract taken twice in a day in 50 milligrams is said to be effective in alleviating lupus rash symptoms.

Turmeric is also effective in reducing the intensity and suffering caused due to lupus rash.

Eat plenty of green leafy vegetables. Eat sardines and salmons which are rich in fish oils omega 3 as it helps in reducing inflammation and heal skin conditions of lupus.

Drink enough water so as to flush out the toxins.

Do not eat red meat, colas and food containing artificial sweeteners.

Causes of Autoimmune Diseases | Reasons of Auto Immune Disorders

Causes of Autoimmune Diseases | Reasons of Auto Immune Disorders

Autoimmune Diseases Causes:
Although there are no known causes or cause for autoimmune disorder or diseases, it is generally known that this is not contagious. You will never get this just by getting exposed to an affected person.

However, it is believed that there is a connection between autoimmune diseases and environment factors as well as a person’s genes. Researchers think that if a person has a gene combination or a certain gene, it places her at higher risk for getting the disease.

It is said though that persons with these genes will not get the disease unless something causes the immune system to malfunction and start attacking its own cells thus affecting bodily functions.

These triggers could include infections, the sun, pregnancy or drugs.

There are also many other factors that could be attributed as reasons behind autoimmune diseases. Among these are pollution, drugs, heredity, and certain kinds of viruses. It is also believed that marriage to close family members is also another factor.

There are also other possible causes of autoimmune diseases, and these include stress and anxiety, environmental toxins, and iodine.

The immune system may also get weak and damaged due to improper diet, poor sleep, lack of physical activity, and cigarette or alcohol abuse.

Symptoms of Autoimmune Diseases | Signs of Auto Immune Disorder

Symptoms of Autoimmune Diseases | Signs of Auto Immune Disorder

Autoimmune Diseases Symptoms:
Signs of autoimmune diseases can affect almost any body system because there are over 80 different types of these diseases. The problem a person would have with this disease will depend on the tissues that are affected.

The most common autoimmune diseases are the rheumatoid arthritis and the type I diabetes mellitus. Because of the great number of these diseases, the symptoms that accompany them could differ and would depend on the specific disease.

However, there are few similarities to these symptoms and these include muscle aches, fatigue and low fever, which are among the first to appear.

Below are also among the other symptoms associated with the disease:

Disorientation or a rather non-specific feeling of being ill

Giddiness or dizziness

Anxiety and irritability

Limbs’ sensitivity to cold is increased

Weight fluctuations

Gastric or digestive problems

If you experience one or more of these symptoms, especially the first three mentioned above, then it is best to consult with your doctor. You have to be cautious of everything that you might be feeling as this could lead to a more serious problem.

Although you would not know at the onset of these symptoms if you really have an autoimmune disease or not, it is still best to be fully aware of what you might have.

This is so it could be addressed early.

What Causes Lumbar Disc Disease? Symptoms And Natural Treatment

What Causes Lumbar Disc Disease? Symptoms And Natural Treatment

Lumbar disc disease is one of the most common complaints which affect over 90% of the elderly population. This disease is also referred to as a degenerative disorder which is associated with manifestation of symptoms like lower back pain. In most cases, episodes of lumber disc disease are self-limiting and don’t require any treatment. This article will provide relevant information about lumbar disc disease or lower back pain and the treatment of alleviate the symptoms associated with the condition.

Lumbar disc disease is a natural degenerative process which is associated with advancing age.

The human spine comprises of vertebral bodies which are connected to each other by an inter-vertebral disc, which acts as a cushion and aids the movement of the spine.

This inter-vertebral disc is largely composed of water. As age advances, the outer layer of the disc cracks and tears, this eventually results in disc disruption. This reduces the ability of the disc to act as a shock absorber and also interfere with the disc movements. Eventually these changes may lead to structural damage to the spine due to instability of the inter-vertebral disc.

Causes And Symptoms Of Lumbar Disc Disease

As mentioned, lumbar disc disease is often linked with the natural aging process; however there are certain other causative factors that may be associated with the presence of the symptoms of the condition in younger age groups,

Trauma or injury to the spine can lead to lumbar disc disease.

Nutritional deficiencies and dietary disorders can also contribute to lumbar disc disease.

Faulty postures especially among individuals with a sedentary life.

Lifting heavy weights, obesity, etc are other contributing factors.

Lumbar Disc Disease Symptoms
Lumbar disc disease is associated with chronic lower back pain which is aggravated by sitting or bending forwards. The condition may be associated with localized tenderness and the pain usually persists for longer than six weeks, if not treated with painkillers.

Natural Treatment For Lumbar Disc Disease

Lumbar disc disease can be managed promptly at home, with simple home remedies and natural treatment options,

Simple stretching exercises of the lower back can aid in strengthening the muscles that support the spine and reducing pain. Initially limit the exercise depending upon your pain threshold and then gradually increase the range of movements.

Massage the lower back with clove essential oil. Massaging with clove oil helps improve blood circulation and also hastens recovery. It also alleviates the pain. Hot water compresses before or after the massage can also add value to the massage and reduces the associated pain.

Ensure that your posture is correct and upright, especially if you have a desk job. While sleeping at night, put a small pillow below your spine, to support the spine and reduce pain. Ideally use hard mattresses compared to soft mattresses to alleviate the pain.

Homeopathic drugs like Bryonia and Rhus Tox taken in low dosage can help alleviate the pain.

Healthy and nutritious diet rich in vitamins, minerals and proteins is very crucial for the management of lower back pain. Avoid processed and refined food and instead consume organic and fresh foods.

Causes Of Upper Back Pain Between Shoulder Blades And Its Relief

Causes Of Upper Back Pain Between Shoulder Blades And Its Relief

Upper back pain between the shoulder blades is associated with a host of factors. More often than not, upper back pain is a referred pain. Relief from pain between shoulder blades depends upon the cause of the condition, though in most cases it can be treated promptly with simple exercise and home remedies.

It is therefore important to identify the cause of the back pain between shoulder blades as it can also be referred pain associated with cardiac disorders.

Upper back pain between shoulder blades can be quite annoying and distressing. While in most cases this pain may be associated with bad posture, in some cases this pain may be a referral pain associated with cardiac or gastrointestinal disorder.

While upper back pain may itself be very annoying, it may be associated with certain other symptoms,

Restricted range of movement of the neck or pain on any effort extends beyond the restricted range of movement.

Inability to focus or concentrated on the work, due to persistent gnawing pain in the back.

Pain in the upper back may be associated with tingling numbness in the upper extremities.

Typically the pain is relieved by massage of the muscles of the upper back or hot fomentation.

What Causes Pain In Upper Back Between Shoulder Blades?

While there are a host of factors that are associated with upper back pain between the shoulder blades, some of the common causes include the following,

Bad or faulty posture, especially when working in front of the computer screen for prolonged period of time.

Faulty posture while going to bed or while sitting in the chair can also lead to pain in the upper back.

Occasionally cardiac disorders, especially myocardial infarction is associated with referred pain to the upper back, between the shoulder blades. In such cases, the pain may be associated with profuse perspiration, palpitation, breathlessness and nausea.

Gall bladder disease, especially gall bladder stone is associated with referred pain which radiates to the upper back. In most cases the pain is intermittent and severe, lasting for 15-20 minutes at a time. In addition to the pain, the patient may manifest other symptoms like jaundice, fever, loss of appetite, etc.

Liver cancer or Esophageal cancer are also associated with referred pain to the upper back between the shoulder blades.

Herniation of a spinal disc, either cervical or thoracic is also associated with upper back pain. In addition to the pain, the patient may complain of tingling numbness with a history of fall or injury.

How To Relieve Pain In Between Shoulder Blades?

As mentioned above, as the upper back pain is associated with a host of factors and the treatment regimen would also depend upon the underlying cause for the condition. Here are some simple home remedies and treatment options that can be beneficial.

Massage the upper back portion for about 15 – 20 minutes each day. Massage with oil helps improve blood circulation to the affected area and thereby reduces pain, especially when associated with postural problems.

Vitamins and calcium supplements play a vital role in management of back pain. These nutrients help strengthen the muscles and the spine.

Simple neck and upper back exercises also help improve the circulation of blood to the back and thereby reduce pain.

Sciatica Stretching Exercises: Sciatica Pain Relief Natural Remedies

Sciatica Stretching Exercises: Sciatica Pain Relief Natural Remedies

The commonest cause for sciatica is pressure from a herniated disc. The Piriformis Syndrome is another significant cause. The piriformis muscle exerts pressure on the sciatic nerve when the muscle gets imbalanced, thus causing the joints in the pelvis to become displaced, and impinging on to the sciatic nerve.
Narrowing of the space in the spinal canal causes an irritation due to constant pressure on the sciatic nerve.

The common manifestations of sciatica are: pain in the lower back, which radiates downwards to the back of the thighs and calves. There is also associated tingling numbness.

Natural Remedies For Sciatica Nerve Pain

Potato and celery: a combination of celery and potato juice provides great sciatica relief. They supply the body with all the essential minerals and vitamins necessary for nerve health.

Garlic: garlic promises to ease pains, enhances circulation, is a powerful anti oxidant and provides the body with energy and vitality.

Vitamin B supplementation: vitamin B supplementation is very important. Make sure that you eat loads of vitamin B rich foods.

Important natural sources are: whole grains, green peas, spinach, meat, beef, nuts, pinto beans, kiwis, bananas, soybeans, unpolished rice and pulses. Ensure that you get a liberal dose of these foods in the daily menu. Also starting a vitamin B complex supplement, twice daily is recommended. It allays tingling numbness and also alleviates the intensity of pain.

Horse radish: is a wonderful home remedy to manage sciatica. Fresh, minced horse radish poultice, applied to the affected areas, and kept on for at least 30 minutes stimulates the sciatica nerve and gives remarkable respite from the sciatica pain.

Stretching Exercises For Sciatica Pain Relief

The following two exercises help manage sciatica pain effectively. They stretch the muscles, strengthen them efficiently, ease out stiffness and pain, and appreciably improve the range of motion. Regular practice is essential.

Lie on your abdomen.

Place the palms parallel to the face and slowly raise your head.

The lower part of the body from the hip should lie on the floor; then, raise your upper body upwards.

Hold for 10 seconds

Perform at least 5 repetitions.

Lie on your back.

Slowly, pull up your knees towards the chest.

Ensure that the lower half of the legs stays in contact with the thighs.

Hold the position for 20 seconds and slowly come back to the initial position.

Perform 10 repetitions.

Diet For Sciatica

Make sure that your protein intake is high. Consume 1 bowl of legumes daily, and ensure that you have soy in some form every day. Important natural sources are: meat, chicken, egg, legumes and pulses, milk, etc.

A vitamin B complex supplement, once or twice every day, at least for six months is a very crucial part of the diet.

Carrot is another important food that must be a part of your daily diet. Either have 1 raw carrot daily or have carrot juice every other day.