Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Bipolar
It is normal to experience ups-and-downs, good days and bad days and the occasional I should never have gotten out of bed day, but as a general rule it is important to retain an inner calm or a middle ground to which we always return.
However, individuals with Bipolar disorder experience extreme fluctuations of mood. They tend to lose their inner balance, finding themselves at the far ends of the emotional spectrum.
They may even find themselves alternating between periods of exuberant elation or mania, when anything seems possible, and periods of deep despairing depression that leaves them in bed for weeks and unable to function in their day-to-day lives.
Symptoms of Bipolar disorder (sometimes referred to as manic depression) differ greatly between individuals. Some may enter a state of hypomania which is a milder form of mania, while others may have full blown manic episodes.
These episodes often involve elaborate ideas, an elevated state of happiness and wild plans. For example, a person having a manic episode may max out three credit cards and start tearing down walls with the idea of building themselves a mansion.
At the time, these irrational ideas seem absolutely possible and will lead to great success and fortune. People with Bipolar disorder (manic phase) may have a contagious optimism where life is limitless and so is their energy.
Some individuals with Bipolar disorder may experience mixed states where the symptoms take the form of great restlessness, agitation and even rage. But what goes up must come down and, as a result, these manic states are often followed by periods of deep depression as the individual comes down from their high.
Diagnosing Bipolar Disorder
When making an appointment with a health care practitioner, it is advisable to arrange for a close friend or family member to accompany you to the appointment. They will be able to help you provide a clearer picture of your symptoms and how they are affecting your daily life, as well as the lives of people closest to you.
A medical check may be necessary to ensure that the symptoms are not caused by thyroid problems or the affects of certain drugs in your system. If Bipolar disorder is confirmed, remember to ask your doctor about ALL possible treatment options, their long-term effectiveness and any potential side effects
What Causes Bipolar Disorder?
The cause of Bipolar disorder is not yet fully understood. The neurotransmitters that regulate mood, such as serotonin, seem to be out of balance and brain functioning differs in individuals with the disorder. Studies have shown that this phenomenon runs in families, which suggests a strong genetic component.
More than two-thirds of individuals with Bipolar disorder have at least one relative who have suffered either from the same condition or major depression. Other theories suggest that manic states could be triggered by drug abuse, sleep deprivation and stressful life events.
Help for Bipolar Disorder
One of the biggest difficulties with Bipolar disorder is that those suffering from the disorder are often unaware of the severity and disruption caused by their alternating mood states. In the throws of a manic episode, the individual is usually convinced that there is absolutely nothing abnormal about his or her behavior, and may even assert that they have never felt better.
For this reason, it is often family, friends or health care practitioners who notice that there is a serious problem and suggest professional help. Left untreated, the effects of Bipolar disorder can be very disruptive and even fatal.
People in manic states have often taken huge irrational risks that could have serious consequences such as bankruptcy, car accidents, losing a job or unintentionally harming themselves or others.
Depressive states are equally dangerous and suicide rates are extremely high in this disorder. If you notice these symptoms in yourself or others, it is advisable to seek or encourage professional help.
SCHIZOPHRENIA
This prodrome phase is what experts have long known exists many times before a schizophrenia patient becomes fully sick, many times this phase starts to occur to teenagers or young adults, and they don’t know how to handle it. When they explain it to a mental health professional who is trained to recognize this, they may be entered into a preventive treatment for schizophrenia. Just simply knowing that this is symptomatic of an illness that is known many times can help the patients come to terms with what they are experiencing, since many of them fell that there is something really wrong and that they are embarrassed or ashamed to treatment.
However, the pretreatment has not been proven to be effective in actually keeping full blown schizophrenia at bay, although it has shown to be therapeutic in easing the patient’s mind that their symptoms are known and there are ways to help them. What are the symptoms of schizophrenia and pre-schizophrenia? Well, many times patients will hear voices in their ears or they will see images of light of people or other objects that aren’t really there. It is not totally known what causes the disease, and sometimes people who have these types of visions and delusions actually make a full recover, without going into full blown schizophrenia, which is even harder to explain.
However, if someone recognizes the early signs, they may be able to help the patient get treatment earlier and also help them to prevent cascading down into a depression over a total misunderstanding of their illness and feeling of ilsolation, all of which help to contribute to the intensity of the mental disorder. If you know someone who has confided in you about having these early signs of this disease, urge them to seek professional help, as it may help them in the long run.
Thursday, August 20, 2009
How To Stop Back Pain
Sometimes back pain simply results from weak back muscles. Consider taking part in regular strength training exercises that work out the lower back as this will help to build up these important muscles. Stretching can also help to relieve tension in the back area. Another common reason for getting back pain is caused by sitting for too long. Make sure that you are moving and walking every now and then to avoid getting back pain from excessive periods of being seated.
Remember that your muscles need rest and your back muscles are no different. If you barely get any sleep then this can make or cause back pain so be sure to lie down and rest more often. Take a few naps in the afternoon if you can or when you get home from work. Rest is very important in order for your body to function and recover from daily activities.
Drinking enough water is also very important in order to avoid muscle fatigue that can then result in back pain. Make sure that you do not get dehydrated during the day. Your posture is also important in helping to prevent back pain. Ensure that you are always standing upright and are not slouched or bending forward as you walk. Strength training and building your back muscles will help to promote an upright posture so make sure to either join a gym or use your own piece of fitness equipment to build up your muscle strength.
Also if you work a job that requires regular lifting of heavy object remember to always use the correct lifting technique that focuses on lifting with the legs rather the back. Always take your time when lifting heavy objects and be very careful and deliberate. Also make sure that you are eating properly and consuming lots of fruits and vegetables as these kinds of foods help to heal your body and make it stronger and healthier.
Ginseng Benefits - Learn How Ginseng Can Help You Attain Better Health
Ginseng is great at increasing energy levels as well as endurance so athletes can benefit greatly from taking a quality ginseng supplement. If you suffer from regular fatigue then adding this supplement could help to increase your energy levels. It is also effective at keeping you alert and mentally sharp.
Ginseng can also be effective at reducing the signs of aging and it has been shown in a few studies to be useful at helping people that suffer from diabetes. There are many types of ginseng including the wild, panax and american types.
Wild ginseng is quite rare and is often priced as the highest. However the demand for this variety is still quite high since consumers regard this as one of the best forms and most beneficial to your health. The wild American ginseng that is harvested in the United States is mostly exported to Asia as the demand for American ginseng is very high in the East.
American ginseng made from Pennsylvania is the preferred location for ginseng buyers from Asia due to the unique climatic and soil conditions found in that region. Harvesting of wild American ginseng from this region has been on a decline over the last ten years with 915lbs harvested in 2005 versus 4,211 lbs harvested in 1990. Perhaps degradation in soil conditions is the primary reason for the reduction in production.
Wild ginseng differs from the others also in the shape, color and better developed stress rings of the roots. The age of a ginseng root is also important in evaluating the value of it. Older more mature roots command a higher market price.
Panax ginseng comes in 2 forms the red and the white. The white is not processed and dries naturally. The red variety though is believed to be stronger and it is kept preserved using steam. Panax ginseng benefits include greater energy and also effective stress relieving properties.
American ginseng can be found in many different forms as a food or beverage or a supplement (pill). Siberian ginseng is also a useful type and can be effective at increasing energy and stamina. It is also the least expensive out of the different types. Ginseng is also believed to be effective at helping to fight against cancer.
The active ingredients in ginseng are called ginsenocides and these are the chemical constituents that are believed to give this product many of its potent health benefits. Western scientists are only just beginning to uncover the benefits of ginseng that the eastern societies and healers have known for centuries. Ginseng can indeed be beneficial at many levels to your health and may be something to consider as part of an overall program to attain better health and wellness.
Gingko Biloba
Gingko contains 2 important antioxidant chemicals called flavonoids and terpenoids. These substances help to fight free radicals which reduce your chances of getting cancer and also premature aging. Free radicals are also believed to contribute towards heart disease and dementia like Alzheimer’s disease.
The Gingko biloba tree is one of the oldest trees living today. They can often survive for over a thousand years. The leaves are what are used to produce the extract that is used for many health purposes. The terpenoids in the gingko extract have been reported to improve blood flow by causing the blood platelets to move more freely among themselves and not stick to each other.
Europeans use gingko for treating mental problems like dementia. The improved blood flow to the brain is what is believed to be effective at treating this illness. Also people with Alzheimer’s disease may benefit from Gingko as it has been shown to improve memory, learning, social behavior and helps to combat depression.
Gingko could also be effective at helping to reduce eye problems. It is the flavonoids in gingko that are believed to be effective at treating many eye problems. Several studies seem to show that gingko may help those with age related macular degeneration which is responsible for causing blindness in most people in the United States.
Gingko is also believed to be useful at treating intermittent claudication which is pain that is caused by poor blood flow to the legs. Gingko’s ability to improve blood flow is the reason it could be effective at treating this condition. It has been shown in studies to be quite effective at treating this ailment. Only exercise has been shown to be more effective.
It is also added many times in nutrition bars and fruit smoothies to help with improved brain function. Gingko helps to improve your ability to remember things more easily. Other studies have found that gingko could be useful in helping to reduce the side effects of menopause. It has also been shown to be effective at helping people with multiple sclerosis(MS). It increased coordination, energy levels and mental performance of those suffering with MS.
Gingko is available in many different forms including standardized extracts, tablets, capsules, dried leaves that are used for teas and liquid extracts. Children under the age of 12 are not recommended to take gingko. Adults should take gingko for at least five to six weeks to see any noticeable results. When taking gingko you need to be aware of any other supplements or drugs you may be taking and make sure you consult with a qualified health professional to ensure there will be no negative side effects.
Echinacea
Some other recognized names for this herb are purple coneflower and American coneflower. The most popular uses for Echinacea is to treat or to help prevent common colds, the flu and infections. It is also effective at helping to make our immune system stronger so you are less susceptible to getting sick. Sometimes Echinacea is also used to help with skin problems such as acne.
Research suggests that this herb has been used by native Americans for nearly 400 years to help with preventing many illnesses and to help maintain good health. The popularity of Echinacea use in the United States has declined after the introduction of antibiotics however this herbal supplement could still be effective and beneficial to your health without the potential side effects that taking antibiotics can give.
Many laboratory studies have been done showing that Echinacea can be effective at enhancing the immune system, helping to relieve pain, reduce inflammation and also provide antioxidant effects. Antioxidants are chemicals that help to fight free radical damage which can cause cancer and premature aging.
The plant has single pink or purple flowers and has a cone in the middle that is purple-brown in color. Out of the nine recognized species, three are considered to be effective for the health – Echinacea angustifolia, Echinacea purpurea and Echinacea pallida. The primary ingredients that offer health benefits in this plant are polysaccharides, glycoproteins, volatile oils and flavonoids. Chemicals differ based on where they are located on the plant, for instance the root contains different compounds than those found in the leaves or flowers.
Research suggests that it is the above ground section of the plant in particular of the Echinacea purpurea species that has the most health benefits. The above ground sections of the Echinacea purpurea are approved in Germany to treat colds and to help heal infections. Germany unlike the US does regulate herbal supplements. The Echinacea pallida root is also approved in Germany to treat the flu.
Echinacea is available as an extract, tablets, capsules and ointments. It is also added to many other nutritional supplements such as multi-vitamins and whole food supplements like green drinks, just check the ingredients to see if Echinacea is a part of that supplement. Make sure you purchase your Echinacea supplement from quality sources you can trust because many Echinacea products actually do not contain the Echinacea that they claim to contain in their labels so choose wisely. Consider Echinacea as a natural solution to help you get healthier.
Article is provided by the freelance authors of Superhealthy.org and is the sole property of Superhealthy.org.
Disclaimer: This article is not meant to provide health advice and is for general information only. Always seek the advice of a qualified health professional before taking on any health program.
Aloe Vera
While there are hundreds of different species of aloe only a handful are known for having great nutritional value. The Aloe barbadensis miller is considered to be the most beneficial variety. Aloe vera is consumed by many people as a drink but many people also apply the gel on their skin, hair and scalp.
Some of the major benefits of aloe vera include increased energy, better immune function and improved digestion. Aloe vera gel has over 80 nutrients, including 25 minerals, 20 amino acids and 15 vitamins. Many people grow aloe vera in their backyard, Tucson, Arizona can offer ideal conditions for the aloe plant to grow. They simply cut a leaf off the plant and then extract the gel and mix it with a favorite drink.
Many people consider aloe vera to be among the top herbs as far as health benefits are concerned. Aloe vera has also been shown to be effective at reducing the growth of cancer tumors, lowering bad cholesterol levels, assists inflammation and helps with arthritis, has an alkalizing effect on your body which helps to neutralize an acidic bloodstream, can lower high blood pressure, provides the body with significant vitamins, minerals and enzymes.
It can also used in making many first aid products such as bandages and it also offers good antibacterial properties. Also it is great at lubricating the digestive tract which helps to keep you regular and prevents constipation. It is also useful at preventing candida infections. Athletes can also benefit greatly from this drink since it will help to boost energy and endurance levels. Aloe vera is also great for the skin as it helps to prevent dry skin since it is a very effective moisturizer.
When you do look for an aloe vera supplement make sure that it is grown in a pesticide free environment, ideally organic as the benefits will be the greatest. Aloe vera gel can also be an effective preservative as studies have been conducted showing that certain foods dipped in aloe vera gel outlasted those that were not. Thus it can be a great natural preservative instead of the chemical preservatives being used today.
A study done on rats showed that aloe vera increased lifespan by 10%. It is also effective at fighting acid reflux disease. Drinking aloe vera juice can also be effective at reducing heartburn. It can also be effective at helping to reduce gum disease. Just add some aloe gel to your toothbrush and lightly brush your gums. These are just a few of the many benefits of this powerful herbal supplement. Consider aloe vera as a part of your diet to help maintain optimal health.
Sunday, July 12, 2009
COMMON COLD
- Mix a gram of dalchini powder with a teaspoonful of honey and drink it. This will help to curb a cold.
- Prepare a cup of tea to which you could add ginger , clove, bay leaf and black pepper. This should be consumed twice a day.
- Garlic soup (4 to 5 crushed cloves of garlic are boiled in 1 cup of water with a pinch of salt and honey added to it) is another remedy to reduce the severity of a cold, and should be taken once daily.
- To get rid of an irritating cold in no time, eat a pinch of black pepper in the night before turning in.
BACKACHE
- Oil is prepared with 5 to 6 cloves of garlic mixed in 2 to 3 tbsp of mustard/ coconut oil and heated till the cloves become black. When rubbed on the back the mixture provides great relief to the back.
- The juice of one lemon mixed with common salt mixed in a glass of water should be taken twice daily to get relief from backache.
- Application of raw potatoes on the back is also a useful remedy.
ASTHAMA
Boil a teaspoonful of Bishop’s weed seeds in a cup of water. Add a little salt to it and take this decoction at least once a day for quick relief.
Among fruits, figs have proved very useful in controlling asthama.
One or two teaspoons of honey prove helpful in asthama.
ARTHERITIS
Raw potato juice is beneficial in curing arthritis considerably. Cut a medium sized potato into thin slices and without peeling the skin, place the slices overnight in a large glass filled with cold water. This water should be drunk the next morning on an empty stomach.
A teaspoon of black sesame seeds, soaked in a quarter cup of water and kept overnight, has proved effective in preventing frequent joint pains.
Garlic with its anti-inflammatory properties, is another effective remedy for countering arthritis, two cloves of garlic should be taken daily on an empty stomach.
ANEMIA
- The leaves of fenugreek help in blood formation as they contain iron.
- Lettuce is another effective remedy for this ailment as it contains a considerable amount of high grade iron. On absorption, it helps in the formation of haemoglobin and red blood cells.
- Spinach is a leafy vegetable which is rich in iron. On absorption, it helps in the formation of haemoglobin
ALLERGIES
Lime juice provides an effective remedy for any kind of allergy. Half a lime is squeezed in a glass of lukewarm water and sweetened with a teaspoon of honey for drinking early in the morning.
One or two bananas a day are useful for those who are allergic to certain foods and who constantly suffer from skin rashes, digestive disorders or asthma.
To reduce severe itching, apply ice on the affected part
INSOMNIA
These are few remedy for some disease you can cure your every illness like this.
GASTRITIS
COCONUT water is an excellent remedy for gastritis. It gives the stomach necessary rest and provides vitamin and mineral.
Consuming rice gruel is another excellent remedy.
Potatoes juice has been found to be valuable in curing the ailment. Half a cup of the juice taken two or three times daily is very effective
ACNE
- Usually acne occurs when skin gets clogged with oil and bacteria. Orange peel has been found very effective in the local treatment of acne. Pounded well with water on a piece of stone, the peel should be applied to the affected areas.
- The juice of lemon if applied regularly provides considerable relief.
- Garlic has been used successfully in the treatment of acne. Pimples disappear without scars when rubbed with raw garlic several times a day.
- Salicylic acid is a clarifying agent for the skin. Since cloves contain salicylic acid, a face pack for pimples should contain cloves as essential ingredients.
