What Is Lupus Disease
Lupus is an auto immune disease which affects different organs of the body, joints, skins and internal organs also. This disease is found in both males and female but according to the stats lupus disease is mostly found in females. This is a hereditary disease and it is carried from parents, in special cases lupus disease has nothing to so with family. The normal age group for this disease is from eight to fifty years. Lupus disease is mostly found in Asian and African American peoples.
The main disorder of this disease is that the antibodies starts attacking and destroying the healthy body cells. Most of the lupus disease patients are having this disease because of their family history, but some cases have no family involved in the disease. Certain drugs are also responsible for the lupus disease. Other symptoms are also being related to the lupus disease but only in theory there is still no practical evidence for that.
Symptoms of this disease are very acute, and lupus disease causes extreme pain in joints and other parts of the body. Lupus is well known for causing arthritis in the hands. Patients suffer from rashes on the skin and they also form bruises and painful nodules. Major kidney problems occurs which can even lead to dialysis. In the nervous system part it can cause psychosis, dysfunction and mild headaches. Pulmonary embolism can have blood clots. Chest pain can occur because of heart problem. Heart problem can even create endocarditis and myocarditis. Lupus disease causes several problems in heart and nervous system. Lupus disease causes serious damage to the body regarding internal organs and other body parts. As lupus destroys the healthy cells it is very difficult to predict a perfect area where lupus disease occurs as it can attack any working cell.
There is no permanent cure of the disease and so only the symptoms of the lupus disease can be cured. For different symptoms there are different symptomatic cures, for example pain in joints can be treated by external lotions and anti inflammatory drugs, problems in nervous system can be treated accordingly. The perfect cure of the disease is not at all possible so symptoms are minutely observed and then on that basis medicines are given to the patient. The patients of lupus disease are instructed to live a healthy life style with balanced diet and some daily exercise, exercise helps the body to fight against this disease.
Sunday, June 29, 2014
What Is Kidney Disease?
What Is Kidney Disease?
The kidneys are known be vital body organs which are responsible for performing several important life-sustaining functions in the body. Principally, the kidneys cleanse the body by removing waste and excess fluids, maintaining salt and mineral balance in the blood, and also helping to regulate blood pressure.
When confronted with the question, 'what is kidney disease?' one can simply respond that it is failure of the kidneys to perform the functions that they are meant to perform. This means that consequently, waste products and fluid can build up in the body, leading to swelling of the hands, feet, difficulties in breathing and more commonly, problems with passing urine. This condition, if left untreated, may result in the kidneys failing and stopping to functioning completely. This is a serious, and could be a potentially fatal situation.
To understand properly what kidney disease is, it is necessary to understand the functions and importance of the kidneys as one of the organs of the body. Basically, the kidneys serve to filter off waste products from the blood. This is achieved through an intricate and complex process that the kidneys perform. Due to the nature of the kidney functions, they are constantly removing toxic substances from the body to maintain a balance in the body system. As a result, the kidney is also one of the most susceptible organs to infection in the body system due to constant contact with waste and poisonous substances.
The quicker the filtration of blood in the kidneys, the better their functioning. In understanding what kidney disease is, the basic fact to recall is that with a poor performing kidney, the rate of blood filtration is lower. Likewise, a healthy well functioning kidney is able to filter waste substances from the system at a faster rate.
A healthy kidney is able to maintain the body's balance of water and mineral concentration. These minerals include magnesium, potassium, sodium and phosphorous, which are contained in the blood, and must be maintained at certain levels for optimum body system functioning. Or else, they have the potential to turn into poison, and harm the body. Kidney disease or kidney failure can be caused by reduction of blood flow to the kidneys, kidney damage due to infection, or damage as a result of toxins or certain drugs. This may also be a result of lack of sufficient fluids and infection.
The kidneys are known be vital body organs which are responsible for performing several important life-sustaining functions in the body. Principally, the kidneys cleanse the body by removing waste and excess fluids, maintaining salt and mineral balance in the blood, and also helping to regulate blood pressure.
When confronted with the question, 'what is kidney disease?' one can simply respond that it is failure of the kidneys to perform the functions that they are meant to perform. This means that consequently, waste products and fluid can build up in the body, leading to swelling of the hands, feet, difficulties in breathing and more commonly, problems with passing urine. This condition, if left untreated, may result in the kidneys failing and stopping to functioning completely. This is a serious, and could be a potentially fatal situation.
To understand properly what kidney disease is, it is necessary to understand the functions and importance of the kidneys as one of the organs of the body. Basically, the kidneys serve to filter off waste products from the blood. This is achieved through an intricate and complex process that the kidneys perform. Due to the nature of the kidney functions, they are constantly removing toxic substances from the body to maintain a balance in the body system. As a result, the kidney is also one of the most susceptible organs to infection in the body system due to constant contact with waste and poisonous substances.
The quicker the filtration of blood in the kidneys, the better their functioning. In understanding what kidney disease is, the basic fact to recall is that with a poor performing kidney, the rate of blood filtration is lower. Likewise, a healthy well functioning kidney is able to filter waste substances from the system at a faster rate.
A healthy kidney is able to maintain the body's balance of water and mineral concentration. These minerals include magnesium, potassium, sodium and phosphorous, which are contained in the blood, and must be maintained at certain levels for optimum body system functioning. Or else, they have the potential to turn into poison, and harm the body. Kidney disease or kidney failure can be caused by reduction of blood flow to the kidneys, kidney damage due to infection, or damage as a result of toxins or certain drugs. This may also be a result of lack of sufficient fluids and infection.
UNderstanding The Causes Of Worms
UNderstanding The Causes Of Worms
Parasitic diseases are much more widespread than many people realize. These diseases
affect not only impoverished peoples in remote countries but they also can be important
health problems for rich and poor throughout the world, including the United States.
As with other parasitic diseases, roundworm infections are more common in warm climates
than in cooler, temperate areas of the world. Many roundworm parasitic diseases result
from human carelessness and a lack of appropriate personal hygiene and sanitation
measures. Thus, the best solution to the problem rests in preventing these infections
rather than in curing them.
Roundworms, or nematodes, are a group of invertebrates (animals having no backbone)
with long, round bodies. They range in size from those plainly visible to the naked eye to
those several hundredths of an inch long and visible only under a microscope. Most
roundworms or their eggs are found in the soil and can be picked up on the hands and
transferred to the mouth or can enter through the skin. With the exception of Trichinella
spiralis, which causes trichinosis, mature roundworms eventually end up or reside in the
intestine and cause a variety of health problems.
Nematodes are the most numerous multicellular animals on earth. A handful of soil will
contain thousands of the microscopic worms, many of them parasites of insects, plants or
animals. Free-living species are abundant, including nematodes that feed on bacteria,
fungi, and other nematodes, yet the vast majority of species encountered are poorly
understood biologically. There are nearly 20,000 described species classified in the
phylum Nemata.
Nematodes are structurally simple organisms. Adult nematodes are comprised of
approximately 1,000 somatic cells, and potentially hundreds of cells associated with the
reproductive system . Nematodes have been characterized as a tube within a tube ;
referring to the alimentary canal which extends from the mouth on the anterior end, to the
anus located near the tail. Nematodes possess digestive , nervous, excretory, and
reproductive systems, but lack a discrete circulatory or respiratory system. In size they
range from 0.3 mm to over 8 meters.
Most nematodes feed on bacteria, fungi, and other soil organisms. Others are parasitic,
obtaining their food from animals (such as the dog heartworm), humans (such as the pinworm)
, and plants.
Some of the most common parasitic roundworms in humans are: Enterobius vermicularis,
the pinworm that causes enterobiasis; Ascaris lumbridoides, the large intestinal roundworm
that causes ascariasis; Necator and Ancylostoma, two types of hookworms cause
ancylostomiasis; Trichuris trichiura, the whipworm that causes trichuriasis; Strongyloides
stercoralis that causes strongyloidiasis; and Trichonella spirae that causes trichinosis.
Nematodes that do not infect human intestines are not discussed in this fact sheet.
Pinworms generally find a home in the colon, or large intestine. At night, they come
through the anus to lay their eggs on the surrounding skin outside of it. Sometimes the
worms migrate to other areas of the body, such as the urethra (the tube that takes urine
from the bladder outside the body), vagina, fallopian tubes (tubes connecting the ovaries
with the uterus) or pelvis, causing inflammation. After leaving the colon to lay eggs or
migrate to other parts of the body, the worms usually die, so the infection can be
self-limiting. Often, though, children, and sometimes adults, reinfect themselves.
An itchy anus is the most common symptom of pinworms. It is caused by the adult worm
migrating out through the anus to lay eggs. This usually occurs at night, which is when
the itching will be most intense.
Presently there is no way to prevent pinworms. Treatment is not usually needed, though
parents are often concerned about the pinworms in their children. One dose of a
combination of the drugs mebendazole and pyrantel pamoate is usually given and repeated
again 2 weeks later.
Parasitic diseases are much more widespread than many people realize. These diseases
affect not only impoverished peoples in remote countries but they also can be important
health problems for rich and poor throughout the world, including the United States.
As with other parasitic diseases, roundworm infections are more common in warm climates
than in cooler, temperate areas of the world. Many roundworm parasitic diseases result
from human carelessness and a lack of appropriate personal hygiene and sanitation
measures. Thus, the best solution to the problem rests in preventing these infections
rather than in curing them.
Roundworms, or nematodes, are a group of invertebrates (animals having no backbone)
with long, round bodies. They range in size from those plainly visible to the naked eye to
those several hundredths of an inch long and visible only under a microscope. Most
roundworms or their eggs are found in the soil and can be picked up on the hands and
transferred to the mouth or can enter through the skin. With the exception of Trichinella
spiralis, which causes trichinosis, mature roundworms eventually end up or reside in the
intestine and cause a variety of health problems.
Nematodes are the most numerous multicellular animals on earth. A handful of soil will
contain thousands of the microscopic worms, many of them parasites of insects, plants or
animals. Free-living species are abundant, including nematodes that feed on bacteria,
fungi, and other nematodes, yet the vast majority of species encountered are poorly
understood biologically. There are nearly 20,000 described species classified in the
phylum Nemata.
Nematodes are structurally simple organisms. Adult nematodes are comprised of
approximately 1,000 somatic cells, and potentially hundreds of cells associated with the
reproductive system . Nematodes have been characterized as a tube within a tube ;
referring to the alimentary canal which extends from the mouth on the anterior end, to the
anus located near the tail. Nematodes possess digestive , nervous, excretory, and
reproductive systems, but lack a discrete circulatory or respiratory system. In size they
range from 0.3 mm to over 8 meters.
Most nematodes feed on bacteria, fungi, and other soil organisms. Others are parasitic,
obtaining their food from animals (such as the dog heartworm), humans (such as the pinworm)
, and plants.
Some of the most common parasitic roundworms in humans are: Enterobius vermicularis,
the pinworm that causes enterobiasis; Ascaris lumbridoides, the large intestinal roundworm
that causes ascariasis; Necator and Ancylostoma, two types of hookworms cause
ancylostomiasis; Trichuris trichiura, the whipworm that causes trichuriasis; Strongyloides
stercoralis that causes strongyloidiasis; and Trichonella spirae that causes trichinosis.
Nematodes that do not infect human intestines are not discussed in this fact sheet.
Pinworms generally find a home in the colon, or large intestine. At night, they come
through the anus to lay their eggs on the surrounding skin outside of it. Sometimes the
worms migrate to other areas of the body, such as the urethra (the tube that takes urine
from the bladder outside the body), vagina, fallopian tubes (tubes connecting the ovaries
with the uterus) or pelvis, causing inflammation. After leaving the colon to lay eggs or
migrate to other parts of the body, the worms usually die, so the infection can be
self-limiting. Often, though, children, and sometimes adults, reinfect themselves.
An itchy anus is the most common symptom of pinworms. It is caused by the adult worm
migrating out through the anus to lay eggs. This usually occurs at night, which is when
the itching will be most intense.
Presently there is no way to prevent pinworms. Treatment is not usually needed, though
parents are often concerned about the pinworms in their children. One dose of a
combination of the drugs mebendazole and pyrantel pamoate is usually given and repeated
again 2 weeks later.
Explaining Wilson's Disease (Hepatolenticular Degeneration)
Explaining Wilson's Disease (Hepatolenticular Degeneration)
Wilson's Disease (Hepatolenticular Degeneration) is a genetic disorder that is fatal
unless detected and treated before serious illness develops from copper poisoning.
Wilson's Disease affects one in thirty thousand people world wide. The genetic defect
causes excessive copper accumulation. Small amounts of copper are essential as vitamins.
Copper is present in most foods, and most people get much more than they need. Healthy
people excrete copper they don't need, but Wilson's Disease patients cannot.
The gene for Wilson's disease (ATP7B) was mapped to chromosome 13. The sequence of the
gene was found to be similar to sections of the gene defective in Menkes disease, another
disease caused by defects in copper transport.
The liver of a person who has Wilson's disease does not release copper into bile as it
should. Bile is a liquid produced by the liver that helps with digestion. As the
intestines absorb copper from food, the copper builds up in the liver and injures liver
tissue. Eventually, the damage causes the liver to release the copper directly into the
bloodstream, which carries the copper throughout the body. The copper buildup leads to
damage in the kidneys, brain, and eyes. If not treated, Wilson's disease can cause severe
brain damage, liver failure, and death.
Symptoms usually appear between the ages of 6 and 20 years, but can begin as late as
age 40. The most characteristic sign is the Kayser-Fleischer ring--a rusty brown ring
around the cornea of the eye that can be seen only through an eye exam. Other signs depend
on whether the damage occurs in the liver, blood, central nervous system, urinary system,
or musculoskeletal system. Many signs would be detected only by a doctor, like swelling of
the liver and spleen; fluid buildup in the lining of the abdomen;
anemia; low platelet and white blood cell count in the blood; high levels of amino acids,
protein, uric acid, and carbohydrates in urine; and softening of the bones. Some symptoms
are more obvious, like jaundice, which appears as yellowing of the eyes and skin; vomiting
blood; speech and language problems; tremors in the arms and hands; and rigid muscles.
The disease is treated with lifelong use of D-penicillamine or trientine hydrochloride,
drugs that help remove copper from tissue. Patients will also need to take vitamin B6 and
follow a low-copper diet, which means avoiding mushrooms, nuts, chocolate, dried fruit,
liver, and shellfish. Taking extra zinc may be helpful in blocking the intestines'
absorption of copper.
Zinc and Vitamin C supplementation increases the excretion of copper. With the use of
oral binders of copper eg penicillamine, Vitamin B6, and multi mineral must be taken to
reduce side effects of this drug. Iron and zinc are also bound by this binder.
The newest FDA-approved drug is zinc acetate (Galzin). Zinc acts by blocking the
absorption of copper in the intestinal tract. This action both depletes accumulated copper
and prevents it reaccumulation. Zinc's effectiveness has been shown by 15 years of
considerable experience overseas. A major advantage of zinc therapy is its lack of side
effects.
The
nutrients mentioned above reflect the major nutritional supplements
that may help the condition. Please do remember however that
nutritional supplementation is an adjunct to medical treatment and in
no way replaces medical treatment.
Wilson's Disease (Hepatolenticular Degeneration) is a genetic disorder that is fatal
unless detected and treated before serious illness develops from copper poisoning.
Wilson's Disease affects one in thirty thousand people world wide. The genetic defect
causes excessive copper accumulation. Small amounts of copper are essential as vitamins.
Copper is present in most foods, and most people get much more than they need. Healthy
people excrete copper they don't need, but Wilson's Disease patients cannot.
The gene for Wilson's disease (ATP7B) was mapped to chromosome 13. The sequence of the
gene was found to be similar to sections of the gene defective in Menkes disease, another
disease caused by defects in copper transport.
The liver of a person who has Wilson's disease does not release copper into bile as it
should. Bile is a liquid produced by the liver that helps with digestion. As the
intestines absorb copper from food, the copper builds up in the liver and injures liver
tissue. Eventually, the damage causes the liver to release the copper directly into the
bloodstream, which carries the copper throughout the body. The copper buildup leads to
damage in the kidneys, brain, and eyes. If not treated, Wilson's disease can cause severe
brain damage, liver failure, and death.
Symptoms usually appear between the ages of 6 and 20 years, but can begin as late as
age 40. The most characteristic sign is the Kayser-Fleischer ring--a rusty brown ring
around the cornea of the eye that can be seen only through an eye exam. Other signs depend
on whether the damage occurs in the liver, blood, central nervous system, urinary system,
or musculoskeletal system. Many signs would be detected only by a doctor, like swelling of
the liver and spleen; fluid buildup in the lining of the abdomen;
anemia; low platelet and white blood cell count in the blood; high levels of amino acids,
protein, uric acid, and carbohydrates in urine; and softening of the bones. Some symptoms
are more obvious, like jaundice, which appears as yellowing of the eyes and skin; vomiting
blood; speech and language problems; tremors in the arms and hands; and rigid muscles.
The disease is treated with lifelong use of D-penicillamine or trientine hydrochloride,
drugs that help remove copper from tissue. Patients will also need to take vitamin B6 and
follow a low-copper diet, which means avoiding mushrooms, nuts, chocolate, dried fruit,
liver, and shellfish. Taking extra zinc may be helpful in blocking the intestines'
absorption of copper.
Zinc and Vitamin C supplementation increases the excretion of copper. With the use of
oral binders of copper eg penicillamine, Vitamin B6, and multi mineral must be taken to
reduce side effects of this drug. Iron and zinc are also bound by this binder.
The newest FDA-approved drug is zinc acetate (Galzin). Zinc acts by blocking the
absorption of copper in the intestinal tract. This action both depletes accumulated copper
and prevents it reaccumulation. Zinc's effectiveness has been shown by 15 years of
considerable experience overseas. A major advantage of zinc therapy is its lack of side
effects.
The
nutrients mentioned above reflect the major nutritional supplements
that may help the condition. Please do remember however that
nutritional supplementation is an adjunct to medical treatment and in
no way replaces medical treatment.
Preventing Yellow Nail Syndrome With Proper Nutrition
Preventing Yellow Nail Syndrome With Proper Nutrition
Fungal infections make up approximately 50 percent of all nail disorders and can be
difficult to treat. More common in toenails than fingernails, they often cause the end of
the nail to separate from the nail bed. Additionally, debris -- white, green, yellow or
black -- may build up under the nail plate and discolor the nail bed. The top of the nail
or the skin at the base of the nail can also be affected. Toenails are more susceptible to
fungal infections because they are confined in a warm, moist, bearing environment.
The nails can reveal much about a person's overall health. Many diseases and serious
conditions can be detected by changes in the nails. Most doctors will check the nails
carefully during a physical examination.
The Yellow Nail Syndrome is a poorly understood syndrome in which hypoplasia of the
lymphatics causes the triad of yellow discoloration and dystrophy of the nails, lymphedema
of the lower extremities, and bilateral pleural effusions. The underlying cause of the
syndrome is unknown, but congenital, hereditary, and paraneoplastic causes have been
suggested.
The YNS is a rare condition. The incidence of this condition in the general population
is not known; the pathogenesis is not yet fully understood. Pathologic examination of
pleurectomy specimens from YNS patients have suggested lymphatic hypoplasia, or even frank
absence of lymphatic vessels as the cause. It is believed that the pleural effusions and
peripheral lymphedema are due to the same defect in the lymphatics. Lymphatic stasis in
the lower extremities has been demonstrated in YNS patients; such stasis has been
demonstrated lympho-graphically, revealing a variety of hypoplastic abnormalities. While
no data exists concerning the status of lymphatics of the genitalia in these patients, it
would not be unreasonable to assume that the pelvic lymphatic channels were similarly
hypoplastic.
YNS may be associated with swelling of the hands and feet, a variety of respiratory
diseases such as chronic bronchitis (Yellowing and thickening of the nail, slowed growth
rate) or Diabetes (Yellowish nails, with a slight blush at the base).
Vitamins have been increasingly used to prevent and treat a variety of skin disorders.
A new study in the October '99 issue of the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology
suggests that vitamins A, C and E are increasingly important because of their antioxidant
capabilities.
The three antioxidants most commonly found in antioxidant supplements are vitamins A, C
and E. Each works independently and in conjunction with other vitamins to reduce the
effects of free radicals.
Vitamin A is found in many yellow and green vegetables, egg yolk, butter, liver and
fish oils. Retinoids, the active ingredient in Vitamin A, are more commonly known as
retinol in topical skin creams, lotions and ointments.
Retinoids, whether synthetic or natural, have many important biological effects such as
regulating growth and differentiation in cells, diminishing malignant cell growth and
strengthening the immune system. Most retinoid research has focused on acne treatments,
the main treatment use of the compound since 1971.
Recently, multiple controlled studies have shown that retinoids can reduce and prevent
wrinkles, brown spots and actinic keratoses. Patients reported noticeable improvement in
skin texture and tone after starting a retinoic acid treatment program. The positive
results can be reversed, however, if the patient discontinues topical application of the
retinol products. At one time, retinoids were only available in prescription treatments.
Now, many retinoids are available in over-the-counter preparations.
Ascorbic acid (Vitamin C), found in vegetables and citrus fruits, is considered by
researchers to be the most important antioxidant in numerous cellular activities. It acts
as an antioxidant by scavenging and quenching free radicals throughout the body.
Vitamin E is present in vegetables, oils, seeds, corn, soy, whole wheat flour,
margarine, nuts, and some meats and dairy products. The antioxidant properties of vitamin
E are well-documented, especially in relation to plasma and red blood cells. Vitamin E may
also be important in reducing sunburn severity, as well as the lines and wrinkles
associated with sun exposure.
The effects of vitamins A, C and E in the prevention and treatment of skin cancers show
that each works independently to reduce skin cancers. They also work together to help
prevent the formation of new lesions. Vitamin A was effective in the treatment of some
premalignant and malignant skin conditions. The current consensus is that it probably does
not cure skin cancer, but treatment may prevent the formation of new lesions as long as
therapy is continued. This was true for a variety of skin cancers ranging from malignant
basal cell carcinomas to premalignant actinic keratoses lesions when treated with oral
retinoids.
One study found that regular supplements of both vitamins A and E were associated with
a 70% reduced risk for basal cell carcinomas. In addition, an increase in dietary vitamin
C has been shown to reduce UV-induced tumors in mice.
Wound healing is an important indicator of skin health. To enhance wound healing, it is
important that patients receive adequate amounts of each vitamin. Patients whose bodies
are vitamin A deficient experience diminished wound healing, which is correctable by
vitamin A supplementation. Vitamin C is considered critical in wound healing because it
acts as a cofactor for several enzymes, which stabilize collagen.
Through its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, topical vitamin E may enhance
would healing, although the benefits remain controversial. More research is needed to
determine if and how vitamin E supports the wound healing process.
The
nutrients mentioned above reflect the major nutritional supplements
that may help the condition. Please do remember however that
nutritional supplementation is an adjunct to medical treatment and in
no way replaces medical treatment.
- Beer, D.J.; Pereira, W.; Snider, F.L. Pleural effusion associated with primary
lymphedema: A perspective on the Yellow Nail Syndrome. Am Rev.
Respir. Dis. 117: 595-599; 1978.
Fungal infections make up approximately 50 percent of all nail disorders and can be
difficult to treat. More common in toenails than fingernails, they often cause the end of
the nail to separate from the nail bed. Additionally, debris -- white, green, yellow or
black -- may build up under the nail plate and discolor the nail bed. The top of the nail
or the skin at the base of the nail can also be affected. Toenails are more susceptible to
fungal infections because they are confined in a warm, moist, bearing environment.
The nails can reveal much about a person's overall health. Many diseases and serious
conditions can be detected by changes in the nails. Most doctors will check the nails
carefully during a physical examination.
The Yellow Nail Syndrome is a poorly understood syndrome in which hypoplasia of the
lymphatics causes the triad of yellow discoloration and dystrophy of the nails, lymphedema
of the lower extremities, and bilateral pleural effusions. The underlying cause of the
syndrome is unknown, but congenital, hereditary, and paraneoplastic causes have been
suggested.
The YNS is a rare condition. The incidence of this condition in the general population
is not known; the pathogenesis is not yet fully understood. Pathologic examination of
pleurectomy specimens from YNS patients have suggested lymphatic hypoplasia, or even frank
absence of lymphatic vessels as the cause. It is believed that the pleural effusions and
peripheral lymphedema are due to the same defect in the lymphatics. Lymphatic stasis in
the lower extremities has been demonstrated in YNS patients; such stasis has been
demonstrated lympho-graphically, revealing a variety of hypoplastic abnormalities. While
no data exists concerning the status of lymphatics of the genitalia in these patients, it
would not be unreasonable to assume that the pelvic lymphatic channels were similarly
hypoplastic.
YNS may be associated with swelling of the hands and feet, a variety of respiratory
diseases such as chronic bronchitis (Yellowing and thickening of the nail, slowed growth
rate) or Diabetes (Yellowish nails, with a slight blush at the base).
Vitamins have been increasingly used to prevent and treat a variety of skin disorders.
A new study in the October '99 issue of the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology
suggests that vitamins A, C and E are increasingly important because of their antioxidant
capabilities.
The three antioxidants most commonly found in antioxidant supplements are vitamins A, C
and E. Each works independently and in conjunction with other vitamins to reduce the
effects of free radicals.
Vitamin A is found in many yellow and green vegetables, egg yolk, butter, liver and
fish oils. Retinoids, the active ingredient in Vitamin A, are more commonly known as
retinol in topical skin creams, lotions and ointments.
Retinoids, whether synthetic or natural, have many important biological effects such as
regulating growth and differentiation in cells, diminishing malignant cell growth and
strengthening the immune system. Most retinoid research has focused on acne treatments,
the main treatment use of the compound since 1971.
Recently, multiple controlled studies have shown that retinoids can reduce and prevent
wrinkles, brown spots and actinic keratoses. Patients reported noticeable improvement in
skin texture and tone after starting a retinoic acid treatment program. The positive
results can be reversed, however, if the patient discontinues topical application of the
retinol products. At one time, retinoids were only available in prescription treatments.
Now, many retinoids are available in over-the-counter preparations.
Ascorbic acid (Vitamin C), found in vegetables and citrus fruits, is considered by
researchers to be the most important antioxidant in numerous cellular activities. It acts
as an antioxidant by scavenging and quenching free radicals throughout the body.
Vitamin E is present in vegetables, oils, seeds, corn, soy, whole wheat flour,
margarine, nuts, and some meats and dairy products. The antioxidant properties of vitamin
E are well-documented, especially in relation to plasma and red blood cells. Vitamin E may
also be important in reducing sunburn severity, as well as the lines and wrinkles
associated with sun exposure.
The effects of vitamins A, C and E in the prevention and treatment of skin cancers show
that each works independently to reduce skin cancers. They also work together to help
prevent the formation of new lesions. Vitamin A was effective in the treatment of some
premalignant and malignant skin conditions. The current consensus is that it probably does
not cure skin cancer, but treatment may prevent the formation of new lesions as long as
therapy is continued. This was true for a variety of skin cancers ranging from malignant
basal cell carcinomas to premalignant actinic keratoses lesions when treated with oral
retinoids.
One study found that regular supplements of both vitamins A and E were associated with
a 70% reduced risk for basal cell carcinomas. In addition, an increase in dietary vitamin
C has been shown to reduce UV-induced tumors in mice.
Wound healing is an important indicator of skin health. To enhance wound healing, it is
important that patients receive adequate amounts of each vitamin. Patients whose bodies
are vitamin A deficient experience diminished wound healing, which is correctable by
vitamin A supplementation. Vitamin C is considered critical in wound healing because it
acts as a cofactor for several enzymes, which stabilize collagen.
Through its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, topical vitamin E may enhance
would healing, although the benefits remain controversial. More research is needed to
determine if and how vitamin E supports the wound healing process.
The
nutrients mentioned above reflect the major nutritional supplements
that may help the condition. Please do remember however that
nutritional supplementation is an adjunct to medical treatment and in
no way replaces medical treatment.
- Beer, D.J.; Pereira, W.; Snider, F.L. Pleural effusion associated with primary
lymphedema: A perspective on the Yellow Nail Syndrome. Am Rev.
Respir. Dis. 117: 595-599; 1978.
Treating Wounds
Treating Wounds
A wound is a break in the tissues of the body. Some injuries, like cuts and scrapes,
are called open wounds; others, like deep bruises, are called closed wounds. They are
usually caused by external forces such as motor vehicle accidents, falls, and the
mishandling of sharp objects, tools, machinery and weapons.
All wounds need first aid (and medical attention if the wound is serious) in order to
ensure proper healing and to avoid infection.
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.
Matrix degrading proteinases are proenzymes that need to be activated and are
considered to be the physiologic mediators of matrix degradation. The prototypic one is
interstitial collagenase, but there are at least ten of these enzymes that are secreted as
zymogens. Stimulated by growth factors and by extracellular matrix, they all utilize zinc
with a zinc atom binding at the center of the molecule at a conserved sequence. They are
stabilized by calcium and inhibited by various chelators such as the tissue inhibitor of
metalloproteinase. It is clear that collagenases are present in acute wounds, but little
or nothing is known about their possible role in chronic wounds.
Chronic wounds, including pressure ulcers and venous ulcers, are characterized by the
presence of fibrin within the wound bed and surrounding tissues. Fibrin accumulation in
acute wounds is removed within days, but it is not degraded in chronic wounds. Knowledge
of the process of fibrin formation and polymerization that has accumulated in recent years
may provide the basis for understanding the persistence of fibrin in chronic wounds. The
role of fibrin retention and the adherence of other molecules to it in interacting
with cytokines and growth factors in the wound healing process have just begun to be
investigated.
An important focus of wound healing research is the improvement of
patient care through the interdisciplinary collaboration between
clinicians and basic scientists. Restoration of physical integrity and
function of the injured or diseased tissue can best be
accomplished by integrating bio/molecular technology with clinical
treatments as clinicians and basic scientists work together. Examples
to encourage opportunities for clinicians to collaborate with basic
scientists include:
Serious complications may occur to neglected wounds and, at times, even the best cared for
wounds. If you notice any of these signs when examining your wounds, you should see a
doctor immediately:
Always wash your hands with soap before and after giving first aid in order to avoid
infection.
The following types of wounds are more likely to become infected: bites, punctures,
crushing injuries, dirty wounds, wounds on the feet, and wounds that do not receive prompt
medical attention.
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.
Wood sage, chickweed, goldenseal, myrrh, echinacea, slippery elm; effective as
poultices and/or washes.
See also: Skin Wounds
A wound is a break in the tissues of the body. Some injuries, like cuts and scrapes,
are called open wounds; others, like deep bruises, are called closed wounds. They are
usually caused by external forces such as motor vehicle accidents, falls, and the
mishandling of sharp objects, tools, machinery and weapons.
All wounds need first aid (and medical attention if the wound is serious) in order to
ensure proper healing and to avoid infection.
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.
Matrix degrading proteinases are proenzymes that need to be activated and are
considered to be the physiologic mediators of matrix degradation. The prototypic one is
interstitial collagenase, but there are at least ten of these enzymes that are secreted as
zymogens. Stimulated by growth factors and by extracellular matrix, they all utilize zinc
with a zinc atom binding at the center of the molecule at a conserved sequence. They are
stabilized by calcium and inhibited by various chelators such as the tissue inhibitor of
metalloproteinase. It is clear that collagenases are present in acute wounds, but little
or nothing is known about their possible role in chronic wounds.
Chronic wounds, including pressure ulcers and venous ulcers, are characterized by the
presence of fibrin within the wound bed and surrounding tissues. Fibrin accumulation in
acute wounds is removed within days, but it is not degraded in chronic wounds. Knowledge
of the process of fibrin formation and polymerization that has accumulated in recent years
may provide the basis for understanding the persistence of fibrin in chronic wounds. The
role of fibrin retention and the adherence of other molecules to it in interacting
with cytokines and growth factors in the wound healing process have just begun to be
investigated.
An important focus of wound healing research is the improvement of
patient care through the interdisciplinary collaboration between
clinicians and basic scientists. Restoration of physical integrity and
function of the injured or diseased tissue can best be
accomplished by integrating bio/molecular technology with clinical
treatments as clinicians and basic scientists work together. Examples
to encourage opportunities for clinicians to collaborate with basic
scientists include:
- Investigations designed to determine the biological or molecular
reason for successful wound healing with currently used clinical
therapies, such as electrical stimulation, laser, or nutritional
regimens. For example, clinicians have reported faster healing of
pressure sores with patients on high protein diets. In order to
identify the pivotal amino acid, methionine, cysteine, or arginine
might be studied. Because zinc is a necessary cofactor of DNA
polymerase and reverse transcriptase, studies could be pursued to
determine whether or not the healing impairment associated with zinc
deficiency is due to an inhibition of cellular proliferation. - Investigations designed to identify specific biological/molecular
markers that could be used to define standardized outcome measures.
For example, various dressings such as hydrocolloid, polyvinyldiene,
polyethylene, polyurethane, and human skin are used in health care
facilities to increase the rate of epithelial healing. Can serum
protease inhibitors or tissue inhibitors be identified in the fluid
of chronic wounds to standardize use of specific wound cleansers and
dressings in the treatment of pressure sores/venous leg ulcers?
Serious complications may occur to neglected wounds and, at times, even the best cared for
wounds. If you notice any of these signs when examining your wounds, you should see a
doctor immediately:
- Redness, excessive swelling, or tenderness in the wound area
- Throbbing pain or tenderness in the wound area
- Red streaks in the skin around the wound or progressing away from the wound
- Pus or watery discharge collected beneath the skin or draining from the wound
- Tender lumps or swelling in your armpit, groin or neck
- Foul odor from the wound
- Generalized chills or fever
Always wash your hands with soap before and after giving first aid in order to avoid
infection.
The following types of wounds are more likely to become infected: bites, punctures,
crushing injuries, dirty wounds, wounds on the feet, and wounds that do not receive prompt
medical attention.
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; effective as
poultices and/or washes.
See also: Skin Wounds
What Is Crohn's Disease
What Is Crohn's Disease
Crohn's disease is basically an inflammatory disease of the alimentary canal. The inflammation is of the granulomatous variety and is characterized by non specific inflammatory spots. The location of the disease can be anywhere along the alimentary tract, beginning from the mouth or the buccal cavity to the anus.
Previously it was known as Regional Ileitis or Enteritis. But those were misnomers considering the fact that the inflammation is not confined to the small or the large intestine.
Aetiology:
The exact causes or Aetiology of Crohn's disease is unknown. But several factors like Infections, usage of Oral contraceptives, Smoking and Abnormal immunological responses of the body have all been found to contribute to the cause of Crohn's disease.
Clinical features:
The Crohn's disease likes to surprise its patients by several unwarned exacerbations and remissions. The main symptoms are as listed below:
Pain:
Pain is frequently complained of in the lower abdomen, on the right side. The pain may be accompanied by local tenderness. On palpation, a lump or mass may be felt by the attending physician. The pains may come repeatedly, and in case of acute exacerbations, there may be loose and formed stools, with attending fever.
Diarrhea:
Diarrhea may be there but it is usually only found in patients with an exacerbation of the existing disease.
Weight loss:
There may be marked weight loss due to the chronic loss of appetite, diarrhea and general digestive troubles.
In addition to the above digestive symptoms, there may be other symptoms associated with the Crohn's disease, like Uveitis, Arthritis etc.
The skin symptoms range from erythema nodosum to pyoderma gangrenosum.
It can affect the veins and the circulatory system and be manifested as deep vein thrombosis, autoimmune hemolytic anemia etc.
It affects the loco motor system and the bones creating a clinical picture of Osteoarthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, seronegative spondylo arthropathy etc. The nails may also present a picture of clubbing which may be related to the chronic anemia or even due to the circulatory disorders.
Neurological symptoms include epileptic convulsions, cardiovascular stroke, peripheral neuropathy and chronic depression.
Diagnosis:
Diagnosis is usually done by clinical symptoms and Colonoscopy. A Barium meal X-ray is very helpful in locating the exact spot of inflammation and stricture.
Treatment:
There is no specific treatment discovered yet. The treatment is usually symptomatic, and is necessary only during acute exacerbations. The acute symptoms are generally treated with anti-biotics and in severe case steroidal treatment like Hydrocortisone is given.
Crohn's disease is basically an inflammatory disease of the alimentary canal. The inflammation is of the granulomatous variety and is characterized by non specific inflammatory spots. The location of the disease can be anywhere along the alimentary tract, beginning from the mouth or the buccal cavity to the anus.
Previously it was known as Regional Ileitis or Enteritis. But those were misnomers considering the fact that the inflammation is not confined to the small or the large intestine.
Aetiology:
The exact causes or Aetiology of Crohn's disease is unknown. But several factors like Infections, usage of Oral contraceptives, Smoking and Abnormal immunological responses of the body have all been found to contribute to the cause of Crohn's disease.
Clinical features:
The Crohn's disease likes to surprise its patients by several unwarned exacerbations and remissions. The main symptoms are as listed below:
Pain:
Pain is frequently complained of in the lower abdomen, on the right side. The pain may be accompanied by local tenderness. On palpation, a lump or mass may be felt by the attending physician. The pains may come repeatedly, and in case of acute exacerbations, there may be loose and formed stools, with attending fever.
Diarrhea:
Diarrhea may be there but it is usually only found in patients with an exacerbation of the existing disease.
Weight loss:
There may be marked weight loss due to the chronic loss of appetite, diarrhea and general digestive troubles.
In addition to the above digestive symptoms, there may be other symptoms associated with the Crohn's disease, like Uveitis, Arthritis etc.
The skin symptoms range from erythema nodosum to pyoderma gangrenosum.
It can affect the veins and the circulatory system and be manifested as deep vein thrombosis, autoimmune hemolytic anemia etc.
It affects the loco motor system and the bones creating a clinical picture of Osteoarthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, seronegative spondylo arthropathy etc. The nails may also present a picture of clubbing which may be related to the chronic anemia or even due to the circulatory disorders.
Neurological symptoms include epileptic convulsions, cardiovascular stroke, peripheral neuropathy and chronic depression.
Diagnosis:
Diagnosis is usually done by clinical symptoms and Colonoscopy. A Barium meal X-ray is very helpful in locating the exact spot of inflammation and stricture.
Treatment:
There is no specific treatment discovered yet. The treatment is usually symptomatic, and is necessary only during acute exacerbations. The acute symptoms are generally treated with anti-biotics and in severe case steroidal treatment like Hydrocortisone is given.
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