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Allergies

The Allergy Anaphylaxis : The most serious allergic reactions involve the entire body. An anaphylactic reaction can be triggered by exposure to any allergen through inhalation, ingestion, injection, or skin contact. It is a severe, rapidly developing, fatal allergic reaction. An estimated 1.21% to 15.04% of the American population are at risk for anaphylaxis and causes around 400-800 deaths annually. If left untreated, the condition may lead to shock or even death.

Mechanism of the Reaction

The most severe of allergic reaction is anaphylaxis. Upon the initial exposure of a person to an allergen, the body automatically produces antibodies that are specifically matched to the foreign agents. These antibodies called IgE antibodies bind to the surface of the mast cell found in connective tissues and a type of white blood cell called basophils.

Anaphylaxis is mediated when this foreign antigen (allergen) is re-introduced into the body, and binds to a specific IgE. Within minutes or even seconds, this triggers the release of histamine and other chemicals that result into smooth muscle spasms, narrowing of the airway, edema, and eventually circulatory collapse.

Anaphylaxis is triggered by various allergens that a person may be sensitive to. Common causes are:

* Foods— nuts, shellfish, fish, milk, eggs, soy, wheat
* Medications— antibiotics, allopurinol, iodine-based contrast agents, anesthesia, vaccines, hormones, aspirin, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
* Other biologic agents— tetanus antitoxin, snake venom antitoxin, antigens for skin testing
* Insect stings— bees, wasps, hornets, ants
* Latex—medical and nonmedical paraphernalia

The time elapsed upon the exposure to the antigen to the onset of symptoms would help indicate the severity of the reaction. Mild reactions range from itching, sneezing, tearing of the eyes, to nasal congestion and puffiness around the eyes than begins within the first 2 hours of exposure to the antigen, while moderate reactions include generalized flushing and feeling of warmth. Severe reactions occur abruptly and rapidly progresses to swelling of the throat that could possibly lead to the constriction of airways or even blockage. Cardiac arrest and coma may follow.

What Your Doctor Can Do For You

Severe allergic reaction may take place rapidly, thus, it is important to seek professional help. Signs and symptoms are evaluated by the physician before rendering appropriate intervention. The sooner the condition is diagnosed, the better the prognosis. In addition, the patient may need to be tested for allergies, and be taken some blood samples to rule out any other condition.

Emergency care is needed in cases of anaphylaxis. The severity is first evaluated, followed by the respiratory and cardiac status. In cases of cardiac arrest, cardiopulmonary resuscitation is started. Oxygen is administered in high concentrations to prevent brain damage. And intubation may further be instituted as necessary.

Epinephrine, the primary drug for anaphylaxis, is administered in very low concentrations into the subcutaneous tissue of the upper thigh. EpiPen is a handy autoinjector of premeasured doses of epinephrine. Antihistamines and corticosteroids may be given to relieve symptoms of inflammation and also to prevent recurrence. Bronchodilators like aminophylline helps improve the airway function. Further treatment includes drugs that improve the vascular status. The patient is closely monitored on the first 12 hours.

What You Can Do

Strict avoidance of potential allergens is an important preventive measure. If avoidance is impossible, an emergency kit containing epinephrine should always be available. Once you suspect an allergic reaction with the signs mentioned, call 911 for medical help. Assess the breathing and cardiac condition of the patient, and administer CPR. People with recognized allergy reactions should wear some form of identification such as a Medic Alert bracelet. Those who’ve had mild to moderate reactions should also seek medical help. If you don’t, you may be missing out on a treatment that may of great help and perhaps save your life.

Allergies

Water Allergy : Almost all life forms depend on water. Man himself is composed mainly of water and couldn’t even survive for a week without water intake. What will happen if a person becomes allergic to water?

What you should know

There have already been cases of water allergy documented and published in various journals. Water allergy or aquagenic urticaria is an extremely rare case of allergy characterized by intense burning and itching sensation after any contact with water—even with one’s own perspiration.

Water allergy is a very rare skin condition that only 30-40 cases are documented in literature. The mechanism of the condition is not entirely known, but it is thought to be caused by a hypersensitivity to chemicals, minerals, and ions found in water rather than an IgE-mediated allergic reaction. Any form of contact with water—sometimes, even drinking will cause sore, rashes to appear and lasting for a few minutes to several hours. The type and temperature of the water may also cause some differences in the symptoms, with tap water being the most common offender. One prominent story of aquagenic urticaria is the case of an Australian teenage girl who unfortunately caught the disorder at the age of 14. The histamine levels in her body went berserk after a heavy dose of penicillin. Now, a small drop of water causes her to break out in painful hives and welts all over. In some cases, drinking water can cause swelling of the throat.

Medical practitioners haven’t yet found a cure for water allergy than to avoid water at all cost. The person should avoid humid conditions, rain, even their own tears and sweat. Taking a shower should not take long, and if possible, they should omit doing so. Antihistamines could provide helpful relief. Other options include capsaicin cream (Zostrix) to relieve the pain, and ultraviolet phototherapy.

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Ways to Live Well With Allergies : Owing to modernization and technological advances in science, countless medications and therapies have been developed that can now be offered to persons suffering from various diseases. Ranging from the mild to the terminally sick, patients have a number of options to choose from regarding their treatment regimen. For example, nowadays the life-threatening complication of anaphylaxis can already be countered by the administration of measured doses of exogenous adrenaline. We also have better and safer chemotherapeutic drugs for managing certain types of cancer. Even the smallpox virus has been successfully eradicated throughout the entire planet. Then again, there are also conditions that cannot be fully treated however; their symptoms can still be managed. Many have tried unsuccessfully to develop a potent drug or vaccine that can cure diseases like HIV.

The same goes for allergies. Individuals who have allergies might have to carry the condition for an entire lifetime. The disorder stems from an exaggerated immune response to allergens which you take in through food, skin contact, and inhalation. A person with allergies experiences symptoms ranging from sneezing and stuffy nose to a full-blown allergic asthma or anaphylactic shock. But don’t let these words scare you. Luckily, virtually ANY allergy can be controlled by medications and lifestyle changes.

Know Your Allergens

Early diagnosis is essential for early prevention. Once you notice any association between allergy and a particular food, product, or activity, you have to take note of this and refer immediately to your physician.

Beating The Sneezing

Recurring allergies would mean that the allergens are present in your very own surroundings. If your allergies occur at home, you may begin by keeping the indoors clean at all times. Avoid using rugs and carpets that may harbor dust. Rodents and pests are likely to be attracted to open garbage bins. You should always keep them covered and regularly emptied. Your kitchen and bathroom are favorable places for mold growth. Scrub tiles and counters as often as possible to keep their numbers to a minimum. And lastly, keep the air inside your home clean by incorporating an air filter. If possible, avoid using air conditioning systems. The goal of home environment modification is to improve the ventilation inside.

Be Prepared

Regardless of the cause, if you have allergies, and have experienced a severe attack even at least once, you are a good candidate for anaphylaxis. I used to think that an Epinephrine auto-injector would suffice an emergency kit. But there are also other important things that an allergy sufferer should bring in handy.

If you are prone to asthma attacks, you should always bring bronchodilators with you. These are fast acting medications that are available only with a physician’s order. Some antihistamines, nasal decongestants and sprays can be bought over-the-counter, while others are regulated and may need a prescription. Nevertheless, for the no-holds-barred coughing, itching, and sneezing, these medications may be of great help to you. Eye drops will also relieve the eye-itching.

Feel Better

Learn to relax. Emotional upsets can also trigger asthma attacks which is far worse. Keep fit and have a regular exercise routine. Research has shown that the more you exercise, the more hours of activity you can tolerate. Start from light activities. But be sure to have your emergency kit with you at all times, especially for those who have exercise-induced anaphylaxis.

In the meantime, studies are continuously being conducted and products are being enhanced so as to better understand the mechanism of each disease as well as to cater to the special needs of allergy sufferers. Lifestyle changes are a good start. In the long run, you will simply get used to live through it.

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The Truth about MSG Allergies : For many years, MSG or monosodium glutamate has served our kitchen as an all-around seasoning working to improve the world’s dining experience. Yet regrettably, it has suffered a bad reputation because of several health concerns associated with it.

A common misconception is the so-called “MSG allergy” that many people claim to experience after eating food that contains this food additive which is very popular among Chinese and other Asian dishes, gaining its nickname, the Chinese restaurant syndrome.

Since then, this adverse effect has been the subject of many debates among medical professionals due to a failure to establish a clear relationship between MSG usage and the development of the reactions. Although several studies have been performed to attest to the veracity of MSG allergy, the consistency of the responses remains an issue. For this reason, the FDA or any governing body has not issued any warning against consuming food products containing monosodium glutamate.

But despite this, many are drawn to believe that this is certainly an allergy to MSG. In fact, maybe you yourself are among those who adamantly adhere to a No-MSG diet. Because of this, countless restaurants and food establishments have joined the bandwagon against MSG and are claiming that they have “no MSG” in their dishes or other products.

So what is the reality behind the sensitivity reactions following the ingestion of MSG-laden foods?

To set the record straight, it is essential for one to know that what causes allergic reactions in people.

MSG Facts

Milk, tree nuts, peanuts, seafood, shellfish, soy, wheat and eggs are only few among the many substances that can cause food allergies. A common factor between these allergens is that they are primarily made up of protein. While MSG is a form of glutamate, an amino acid which is found in protein, it is non-bound which makes it not exactly a protein. If glutamate were the cause of untoward reactions, we must have experienced such as there are several common food products that have high quantities of free glutamate in them such as mushrooms, seafood, cheese, and meat.

There have been quite a number of studies that were conducted to prove or disprove MSG sensitivity. In a study conducted in 1986, individuals who claim to be sensitive to MSG were challenged to participate in a double-blind placebo study. Of the six participants, only two have reported untoward effects after MSG and placebo ingestion such as tingling sensation, warm feeling behind the ears, and tightness of the face.

Furthermore, in 2001, another study led by a renowned American Immunologist, together with a team of researchers from distinguished universities in the United States have concluded that MSG does not cause the allergic reactions due to the inadequacy of the adverse effects from MSG. The responses were also inconsistent.

Ultimately, on May 2009, the medical journal of Clinical and Experimental Allergy made a review on monosodium glutamate on the alleged issue of causing allergies such as asthma and rhinitis. They have concluded that while the ingestion of large amount of MSG without food can elicit symptoms of sensitivity, as a food-additive, it does not increase the risk of developing allergic reactions.

No MSG

We commonly encounter food establishments claiming to serve food without MSG. The fact is, even though these restaurants do not actively include commercial MSG (e.g. Ajinomoto, Vetsin, and Accent) in the preparation of their products, there is a high likelihood that some products and seasonings are also made from MSG. MSG can also be hidden under the following names: hydrolyzed protein, yeast extract, sodium caseinate, calcium caseinate, bouillon, broth, and natural flavouring.

There are naturally-occurring glutamates in cheese, marmite, ripe tomato, eggs, peas and many others. So, in our entire life, almost all of us must have been exposed to MSG even at least once.

Sensitivity, Allergy, and Intolerance

Despite these, if you feel any untoward reaction such as a warm sensation in the face and neck, flushing, numbness, tingling, chest palpitations, rhinitis, nausea and vomiting, and wheezing, consult your physician for immediate management. These symptoms may show a few minutes to an hour after ingestion of food containing monosodium glutamate. Although the condition is rare, the reaction may vary among individuals. These “allergic” reactions may even be more severe if MSG is taken in high doses on an empty stomach.

To verify your condition, your physician will establish whether what kind of food sensitivity or allergy you have. Should there be an association with your condition to MSG ingestion, then you should start taking measures against the eating food that is prepared using this seasoning.

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Soy Allergies : The soybean is an important food source that man has been utilizing since time immemorial. Because of its high protein content, low-cost, and high production, soybeans and soy derivatives ranging from soybean oils, soymilk, soy flour, soy cheese, to meat analogues like tofu and tempeh, are considered valuable products in the market.

Soy Usage

Despite its size, the soybean is a highly versatile crop. It can be the primary ingredient of more than a dozen food products, or it can be also used as an additive to several commodities.

This humble legume that is widely grown in the United States, South America, and Asia is actually a good source of protein, omega 3 fatty acids, isoflavones, and antioxidants. Whole soybeans even have a high biological value similar to that of whey protein. For this reason, products containing soy is highly recommended for vegans and vegetarians who wish to limit the amount of meat they eat but maintain a stable amount of protein in their bodies.

But apart from its use for human nutrition, soybeans can also be utilized as a stock feed, a form of biodiesel, cosmetics, soap, crayons, resins, plastics, and clothing. This just proves that soybeans are an important constituent of many industries.

Protein Content and Allergic Reactions

Many food products that are good sources of protein can trigger allergic reactions to several people. Soy and other soy-based products are no exception, despite its countless use to man.

Soy allergy is a type of food allergy brought about by foreign proteins found in soybean. Some people have a hypersensitive immune system which makes them allergic to these proteins that is normally not elicited in others. In response to their presence, the immune system produces antibodies specific to these proteins found in soy so that the next time the body encounters them, it will automatically launch an attack against them. A number of chemicals, including histamine, shall be released to counter the soy proteins which lead to a cascade of biological events that result to the following symptoms:

1. Hives
2. Difficulty of breathing
3. Runny nose and sneezing
4. Cough and wheezing
5. Abdominal cramping
6. Nausea and vomiting
7. Light-headedness
8. Swelling of the face, lips, tongue and throat, and other parts of the body
9. Anaphylaxis

Soy allergy may begin as early as infancy when the child demonstrates a reaction to soy-based infant formulas. However, most children tend to outgrow soy allergies by the age of three. This allergy is not exclusive to children as some cases may persist even in adulthood.

Studies have identified as many as 15 possible allergens in soy that is said to trigger the allergic reaction. However, the exact mechanism on how soy protein may provoke allergic reaction is still not clear.

What Your Doctor Can Do

The doctor will need to perform tests and ask a few questions to confirm the allergic reaction and determine the causative agent. More commonly, a skin prick test will be performed using a lancet containing soy proteins or soy extracts. A positive reaction is elicited when the suspected person develops a red raised bump on the area tested. Blood tests may also be necessary to measure the amount of antibodies a person has against a certain allergen.

Once confirmed, the person is strongly advised to avoid consuming products containing soy. He or she should also be more vigilant in food products that may be contaminated with soy such as soybean oil, soy-based cream cheese, soy flour, soy-based infant formulas, soymilk, soybean meal, soy sauce, hydrolyzed vegetable protein, vegetable oil, and soy-based meat and dairy substitutes to name a few.

Allergy to soy products is considered as one of the most common food allergies but is also highly manageable. Mild symptoms can be treated with antihistamines such as Benadryl (diphenhydramine). However, there are also a few instances in which exposure to soya may result into a severe allergic reaction called anaphylaxis that may possibly progress into anaphylactic shock. In such scenarios, emergency intervention is required. The person should be administered with epinephrine immediately. People who have a high-risk for developing extreme allergic reactions should be prescribed with a pre-loaded portable epinephrine at all times.

What You Can Do

All allergies are managed by strict avoidance of the offending agent. But because of the number of processed foods containing soy nowadays, patients who have soy allergies must be very cautious in choosing food and ingredients, especially when dinning out. Affected vegans and vegetarians will need to consult a dietician or a nutritionist regarding the replacement of tofu and soy-based products in their diet.

Gluten Allergy

Let us define gluten first before discussing gluten allergy and sensitivity. Gluten is a protein that is found in foods such as wheat, barley, and rye. It is extracted from flour and final gluten product has a meat-like, chewy texture which is found to be high in protein and is used widely in commercial food products as additives, to give the food more valuable nutrients.

A person suffering from gluten allergy has an unfavourable bodily response towards gluten and foods containing such. This form of allergy is somehow confused with celiac disease (occurring in people with a genetic impairment). People with Celiac disease are suffering from an autoimmune disease. In the case of gluten allergy, it is plainly a food allergy wherein the symptoms can range from mild inflammation of the small intestines to severe celiac disease.

Mechanism of the Allergic Reaction

Allergy to gluten is a hypersensitivity reaction of a person’s immune system to the proteins prolamin and glutelin that make up gluten. These proteins may be present in various forms in cereal grains such as gliadin in wheat, hordein in barley, secalin in rye, zein in corn. Hence, gluten allergy has a broad scope of food products that can be considered as allergens.

Gluten allergy may develop at any point in a person’s life and is relatively common. It occurs as a result of the ingestion of the abovementioned allergic components of gluten that activates an immune response which leads to the release of histamine and other inflammatory chemicals in the body. The response is immediate and may start within minutes after exposure to wheat or other gluten-containing products. Once this happens, it can set off a range of symptoms that includes abdominal cramping, nausea and vomiting, indigestion, flatulence, bloating, diarrhea, and constipation. On some instances, a person might experience hives, swelling, angioedema, difficulty of breathing, and asthma. Anaphylaxis would be the worst case scenario if the person is highly sensitive to gluten.

Over time, if left untreated, gluten allergy in children may cause a short stature, failure to gain weight, fatigue, and anemia, secondary to malabsorption of nutrients.

What Your Doctor Can Do For You

Food allergies are commonly diagnosed by conducting a skin prick test and blood test to identify the specific cause. However, because there is a tendency that gluten allergy may be misdiagnosed as other gluten-related diseases such as Celiac disease, there might be a need to perform other exams like endoscopy or the visualization of the gastrointestinal tract, particularly the small intestine.

Though allergies are generally untreatable, gluten allergy is simple to manage. Children who have gluten allergy are most likely to outgrow the allergy.

The person who has this condition must eliminate gluten in his/her diet. That includes wheat and wheat products. But keep in mind that symptoms can vary greatly among individuals. Hence, some individuals are able to tolerate tiny amount of gluten in their diet. But those with severe sensitivity must avoid products that contain gluten at all costs and maintain a gluten-free diet.

What You Can Do

The only and best way to treat this allergy is by minimizing the intake of gluten in your diet. Should there be a need to entirely eliminate gluten, here is a list of gluten-free foods:

- Amaranth
- Arrowroot
- Buckwheat
- Corn
- Rice
- Tapioca
- Potatoes
- Fresh meats
- Rice
- Gluten-free flours (rice, soy, corn, potato, bean)
- Hominy grits
- Quinoa
- Fish and poultry
- Most dairy products
- Vegetables (fresh)
- Wine and distilled liquors

Be careful of the following foods that contain gluten:

- Bagels
- Biscuits
- Bread
- Cake
- Cereal
- Croissants
- Cookies
- Crackers
- Most flours
- Ice cream cones
- Pastas
- Pretzels
- Pizza
- Beer
- Candies
- Syrups
- Vegetables with commercially prepared sauces

There is no need to be anxious on how to effectively avoid food with gluten. This is a common type of allergy. Medical surveys have shown that 1 in 167 healthy children and 1 in 111 adults have gluten allergy. People with digestive issues are more prone to acquiring this type of allergy. It is highly recommendable to seek a medical help as to verify your possible allergy in the safest and most accurate manner. Consult your allergist for proper testing and management.

You also need to note how you feel after eating food containing gluten several times before having a medical examination in order to rule out other diseases associated with gluten.

Pork Allergy

Almost everyone loves to eat pork. Swine meat is the most common meat in the market. Common as it may be for consumption, at present there are very rare cases of pork allergy. The immune system overreacts to the proteins found in pork. It can put up a variety of defense mechanisms (called antibodies) against these proteins that are perceived as “harmful” to the body.

Mechanism of the Allergic Reaction

Like most food allergies, proteins found in pork are what trigger an allergic reaction in humans. Specifically, the 65-kDa protein is the main allergen found in pork meat. For those who have this rare allergy, the body’s immune system reacts to the intake of the allergen stimulating a type 1 hypersensitivity reaction consequently casting symptoms abdominal symptoms, asthma, rashes, sneezing, and breathing problems. Allergy to pork is said to be prevalent in patients with severe food allergy. Those with a bad case of childhood asthma have a higher risk of developing complications from the allergic reaction.

In some cases, the allergic reaction may not be caused by the animal itself, but from the chemicals used to process pork meat such as papain (used as a meat tenderizer) or casein (used as a stabilizer). Certain chemicals and preservatives contaminate and mix with the protein of the food and are the major causes of food allergies. A least common source of pork allergy is the use of antibiotics to the farm animals. When the animal is injected with antibiotics such as penicillin prior to processing, these drugs may potentially enter into a person’s system who may be allergic to that certain drug.

What Your Doctor Can Do For You

What makes it difficult to identify the food allergen in some people is that they may not be aware of the relationship between the offending agent and their symptoms because the symptoms may appear at a later time. More often, people are sometimes confused with what really causes their allergies due to the variety of food they consume. This is why food challenges are performed. Food elimination diets may also be necessary to rule out any other culprits. However, they may take longer periods in order for the allergy to be diagnosed; hence, laboratory tests are the most frequent method of diagnosis.

A skin prick test must be properly conducted by medical professionals to detect if you have pork allergy. Once tested positive, be very wary of the following symptoms:

- Feeling of warmth
- Itchiness and hives
- Abdominal upset
- Headaches
- Nausea and vomiting
- Wheezing
- Breathing difficulties
- Asthma attacks

A more severe reaction would lead to anaphylaxis where in the body experiences generalized urticaria (hives), sudden drop in the blood pressure, swelling of the lips, tongue, and throat that may cause breathing difficulties. If the swelling continues, the airway may become fully obstructed compromising oxygenation which is highly fatal in a matter of minutes.

Allergies are a medical emergency as they have the potential to progress into anaphylactic shock. Fortunately, they are highly manageable with drugs like antihistamines and corticosteroids to relieve the symptoms. Individuals with food hypersensitivity should avoid the foods that cause their allergies.

What You Can Do

Many people lose their sensitivity to food allergens over time, although not entirely for some. You should always be mindful in what you take.

The safest way to prevent pork allergy is avoidance of pork meat and products that include it in the list of ingredients. Adults as well as children should learn to scrutinize food labels and ingredients carefully.

Some medications and food supplements will help ease the symptoms, such as quercitin, bromellain, vitamin A, eucalyptus, L-carnitine and iron.

Quercitine is more popularly known as flavanoid. These are potent antioxidants that can reduce inflammation, strengthen the immune system and blood vessels, thus improving overall blood circulation. It blocks the histamines effectively. Bromellain will further enhance the absorption of quercitin and must be taken along with it.

Vitamin A greatly improves the immune system’s function. While eucalyptus oil, poured into boiling water (inhalation of its steam) will provide relief of the respiratory symptoms. Iron is vital for blood production and is an important element of hemoglobin (oxygen-carrying substances in the blood).

L-Carnitine will act as a detoxifying agent to the cells and decrease the allergens in our system.

Remember that if you have confirmed your allergy to pork, always find a good doctor specializing in allergies first before practicing the do-it-yourself treatments aforementioned. This article is purely educational and informative. Always guard yourself by being safe.

Hip Replacement Recall - What to Do If Your Hip Replacement Implant Has Been Recalled

Hip replacement surgery is an ordeal. No one would put up with this if they weren't in big pain, and if there weren't the expectation that they could walk again pain free. But what if your hip replacement implant gets recalled?

What a horrific thought! Recalls in general are bad enough. Whether it's your car's brakes that get recalled, or your baby's formula, or maybe your dog's chew toys, it's scary. But you CAN send them back and get them replaced.

But what do you do if the recalled item has been implanted in your body and requires major surgery to replace?

That's exactly what's been happening to tens of thousands of people who have received the DePuy ASR XL hip replacement implant. And there are many more who have received other types of implants that have been recalled, for example the Zimmer Durom Cup implant or the Stryker Trident implant.

And it gets worse. Other implants haven't yet been recalled, yet the rates at which they have to be replaced are showing a familiar pattern -- growing rapidly within just the first few years when your average hip replacement implant should last at least 10 to 15 years, and preferably the entire rest of your life.

So what can you do about this? Here are five steps you should take:

1) Check to see if you have one of the above implants

If you have one of the implants listed above, i.e., the DePuy ASR XL, the Zimmer Durom Cup, or the Stryker Trident, you definitely have one of the recalled implants.

2) Check your symptoms

Do you have any of the familiar symptoms that indicate hip implant failure? These include pain and swelling, instability, grinding noises, slipping of the implant, trouble walking, and many more. If you have any of those symptoms, you should assume that you may have an implant that is causing problems, and those problems are bound to get worse. Don't delay taking action.

3) See your doctor

Whether you have one of the listed implants or you don't know what your implant is and whether it has been involved in a recall (yet), if you have any of the symptoms, you need to see your doctor right away.

4) Keep careful records

You also need to keep careful records of all your symptoms as well as every treatment and doctor's visit. Also be sure to get a copy of your complete medical records and keep them in a safe place.

5) Get legal advice

You also need to get legal advice right away. There's such a thing as statute of limitations. This means that if you miss certain deadlines, no lawyer can help you get compensated for your pain, no matter how obvious or serious your case.

Hip Replacement Recall - What to Do If Your Hip Replacement Implant Has Been Recalled

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Yoga for Kids

Some of the advantages of kids doing yoga are -

1. It keeps the kids fit
2. It makes them strong mentally.
3. Yoga from early stages can improve the memory, concentration, and creativity of the kids.
4. It distresses them
5. Improves confidence

With so many benefits, you should take your kids to the yoga classes. Start early to get the maximum benefit and better results.

* Kids can practice yoga in their day-to-day life.
* Yoga for kids may include various postures, movements, breathing practices
* It also includes meditation techniques like Kundalini yoga and Hatha yoga.
* It can be practiced in different times. Your kids may practice it in the lunchtime, after school or in the morning.
* Kids like yoga when it is combined with playing, songs, and movements. This is a better way to attract and keep them in the yoga classes.
* It’s a natural way for health of your kids
* It improves your kids mind and body
* It also helps in curing any problem that kids may have.
* Schools can introduce yoga in their curriculum. Many schools already have it in their courses.
* Check whether your kids’ school has it or not. Before you select a school for your kids, check out whether it has yoga or not. It is always better to go for a school with yoga for kids in their curriculum.

Courses –There are various courses of yoga for kids. You can go for these courses. These courses teach yoga practically. So, they are beneficial for you. Some specific courses are prepared for the kids. These courses are suitable for their mind and body.
Why you need a yoga for kids course?

1. Such a course teaches the correct postures and poses
2. The teachers know it, so learn from them

A few basic yoga postures that kids can try are –

1. Sun salutation- it is good for kids. It is easy to perform and the benefits are many. It helps to improve the physical capacity. It also builds stamina in the kids.

2. Omkar Chanting- This is a old and effective yoga practice. It is related to the mind. This practice increases the mental strength, concentration and memory of the kids. It also removes tiredness of the kids.

3. Yoga Nidra – This is a special posture. It is mainly effective for kids. It reduces stress and helps to refresh the mind. This is beneficial for the kids for their examinations and tests.

14 ways to get Rid of Child Snoring

In this article I am going to discuss the Changes that female body goes through during pregnancy.

Pregnancy brings lot many changes along with it in female body. During these 9 months many thing change for the pregnant women or say the mother. Your body will change externally and internally. It may cause some problem or discomfort to you, but as it leads a greater gift at the end, so you probably will not min these discomfort.

The changes during pregnancy can be divided into physical change and emotional changes.

Physical changes- Your body will change a lot during pregnancy. Your body parts like breasts, abdomen, skin etc will change a lot during pregnancy.

The changes occur during different time of the pregnancy period. As the pregnancy stage advances, the changes will vary in their features and degrees.

In the 1st Trimester (1-3 months) you will find Morning Sickness and Fatigue.

In the 2nd Trimester (4-6 months) you will experience Fetal Movement and Weight gain. You will better during this time. Tiredness will no be there.

In the 3rd Trimester (7-9 months) you will find Braxton-Hicks contractions and shortness of Breath. You may feel more tired. You will need more energy
If you month wise divide the changes during pregnancy then it would be

-
Month One
In the first month, you may not see many changes. The body is still to show the symptom. You may feel little nausea. Sometimes you may want to sleep more. In some cases, you may feel tenderness or tingling in your breasts. As the time passes by nausea may increase. It is generally felt in the morning or in the evening. Breasts may enlarge and may be tender at the end of the first month.

Month Two
Your weight will increase. Your breasts will become firm again. You may find a bump at the tip. Tired ness is more and likely to be there. Your hormone progesterone and estrogen levels will increase by many times. So, you may find mood swinging as a normal happening. You may feel very hungry at times and at times may feel that you do not want to eat anything.

Month Three
Your energy reduces fast. Your activities will drop and you will become tired soon. Heart beat may be more as the heart will work more and blood volume will be more.

Month Four
Pregnancy can be seen physically. Some other problem like skin problems, joint pain, running nose may arise. Abdominal pain may be there.

Month Five
Your blood circulation will increase many fold. Light headedness may be there. So be patients while moving. Move slowly.

Month Six
You will fin dark ring around you nipples. Breast will grow larger. Sometimes you may leak 'colostrum' from your nipples. Breasts start to get ready for lactation. Blood pressure may increase.

Month Seven
Your lungs, digestive tracts, and liver may be squeezed upward.

Month Eight
You may find back pain. Walking may be little problematic. Sleep may not be sound.

Month Nine
Breast may become heavier and you may find "Braxton Hicks" contractions.

It is very difficult to cover everything here but hopefully you have found this article informative and helpful.

Baby Colic

Bowel pains and the clenching of fists and tucking in of the legs are also common symptoms of baby colic. For first time parents this situation can be very distressful because they just don’t understand why this is happening and what they can do about it.
Understanding baby colic

If you are looking to understand baby colic then medical science will not be able to give you one solid definite answer explaining the causes. What exist are some theories that doctors have formulated analyzing the possible causes of baby folic. The theory that seems most probable is that baby folic is caused when the baby ingests air while being fed milk either from the mother or from a bottle. Gastrointestinal pains caused by the fast consumption of milk causes the baby to become colic. Another theory although possible but seems less probable is related to the consumption of the mother’s food. If the mother has an increased intake of gas producing foods then this is transferred to the baby via the breast milk. Yet another possible and probable theory is that of identifying the baby’s nervous system as immature. This renders it incapable of being able to process all the new stimulations forced onto it by life.
Managing colic babies

Regardless of the causes the parents are more interested in knowing how to handle their babies with colic. This is because they hate to see it crying and also because the constant crying can be a source of great stress for the entire house hold. Rest assured baby colic does not develop because of poor parenting and the problem usually disappears in the first three months of the baby’s life. But because the medical causes have not been identified there is no accurate cure for the problem as yet. There is however certain common sense suggestions which parents are bound to try by instinct.

Most parents will begin to rock their child in their arms or put them in a swing to rock them back and forth. This is a very natural way to put the baby to rest. You can even take your baby for a car ride because that often puts them to sleep. Carriage rides are also a good idea. You can also try using a pacifier or alternatively try and pacify the baby by giving him a nice hot bath.

If you can try and get the baby to burp without causing him too much trouble then that is the best. Medication like simethicone drops can also be used that can help relieve the baby from gas pains. Lastly the mother should be watchful of her diet because it just may be that there is some particular food that is causing this problem in the baby. These are but suggestions which parents can try out in combinations but the most important thing for parents is to be patient and hope for the best.

Treatment for Baby Colic

For a new mother this situation can be quite distressful and she is bound to become overwhelmed by the situation. In fact the entire house hold just doesn’t know what to do when something like this happens to a new born baby.

The condition known as baby colic happens in infants at the very early stages of its life. The good news is that it is a problem that disappears with age. It has been observed that in most cases the problem goes away when the baby passes the age of three months. The problem however is for the parents and how to pass those three months of intense crying, fist clenching and watching their baby suffer from gastrointestinal pain.

Parents desperately seek for ways to give their baby and themselves relief from this nerve testing situation. The problem is further heightened when parents discover that no medical causes have been determined for baby colic. Traditionally it was believed that colic is the result of the baby suffering from abdominal pain due to gases stuck in its digestive tract. With medical advancements being made this theory has gained credibility over time but it is still not determined to be the definite cause of the problem.

Irrespective of the causes of baby folic what the parents are more interested in is the cure. Much to their dismay there is no established medical treatment for the problem simply because there is no established cause. The suggestive approaches taken by medical experts vary greatly in terms of their methodology and effectiveness. The majority of the doctors are however of the opinion that the condition is not treatable and the best idea is to wait it out because the condition is likely to disappear in a few months time.

Some doctors prescribe the use of simethicone which are drops that can help treat the trapped gas. Again the effectiveness of this method has varied results. Yet other doctors have prescribed the use of dicyclomine which is an anti spasmodic drug. But your child is vulnerable to develop certain side effects because of the use of this medicine.

In other cases doctors have made use of herbal medicines that have digestive benefits. Even gripe water has been found to be effective in some cases. The truth of the matter is that there has not been any major medical study to establish the best known treatment for baby folic.

There are a number of other medicines that have been used in certain instances for treating the gas problem but most good doctors will warn you against using drugs that have not been scientifically proven to be safe. So what can parents do when there baby has folic? All they can do is be patient and stick with some traditional soothing measures for the time being!

Avoiding Childhood Constipation and Getting Things Moving

It’s never a fun time when your kids are having trouble pooping; in fact, for them, it can be really painful. You may have already had one or two issues with your kids experiencing some kind of blockage and are looking for ways to prevent it from happening again. Well, here are some helpful tips and information that can go a long way to making sure they stay regular and letting you keep your sanity.

How often should it be?

The cycle of pooping differs depending on the diet of the child. A child who has a consistent healthy diet of no junk food and mostly vegetables, fruits, whole grains and some meat proteins will usually poop once to twice a day. The ideal poop should resemble long slender strands of sausage or look like chicken nuggets.

However, if they don’t it doesn’t mean that they’re constipated. Constipation in a child results when s/he has not pooped in about 3 days or they are straining to poop and nothing comes out (that can usually be sooner than 3 days). The poop that is trapped in the rectum can begin to solidify making it even harder and more painful to pass. Children can even be pooping little pellet-sized poops and be constipated because the idea is to completely expel all fecal content from the body, not in small quantities.

What causes childhood constipation?

Physical Health Causes & Solutions

Let’s start with the obvious, and that is diet. Doctors and nutritionists are now discovering that as little as one “bad” meal a day can throw a child’s digestive system completely out of whack. What does “bad” mean anyway—here are some of the worst offenders:

Lack of Water. It’s that simple sometimes. Making sure your child gets enough water and not soda or sugary fruit juices can help keep the body stay constipation-free and make the stools soft and easy to pass.

Solution:
If your child is on a healthy diet with lots of fruits and veggies, chances are, they will get most of the water they need from the food. Bottled water with electrolytes can also help maintain hydration, especially if they eat fast food or have been ill.

Foods that are loaded with sodium/salt are at the top of the list and include all fast food and processed foods from boxes.

Solution:
Ban fast food and processed foods at your house, at first; scale back modestly until you can phase them out completely. These types of food do more harm to your child than just constipation. Increase fresh fruits, beans, nuts and vegetables to your child’s diet.

Foods with little to no fiber, including ice cream, pizza, chips, kid cereals and fries.

Solution: Look for little ways to sneak in fiber rich food; mix in fruit with your dessert—whole fruit, not juice, has lots of fiber. Use recipes for goodies that include incorporating vegetable puree as an ingredient. There are some online cookie and brownie recipes that call for carrot, cauliflower or broccoli purees. Get creative, make Friday night veggie bean chili with fresh cornbread instead of pizza; and you can always add a cup of mixed frozen vegetables to mac-and-cheese.

Cut back on high protein diets full of saturated fats like beef, milk, cheese and to some extent chicken.

Solution: Beans, nuts, fish and soy based foods made to look and taste like hamburgers and chicken fingers are also loaded with protein but have more fiber, especially beans which are also heart healthy.

Lack of exercise coupled with a poor diet can give your child the express ticket to constipation.

Solution:
Exercise is good for the digestive process and promotes stool regularity. Turning off the video game system and taking a twenty-minute walk around the neighborhood with your kids can go a long way to keeping them regular while also teaching them healthy exercise habits.

Mental Health Causes & Solutions

Kids can develop some pretty awful hang-ups about poop. They can develop fears about doing it in public restrooms or have been constipated once and carry that lingering unpleasant association into all future pooping efforts. This kind of stigma can make them poop-avoidant and thus lead them down the road to constipation. Here are some common problems and solutions:

Embarrassed to use public toilets. Who taught your child to fear using a public toilet? It may have been you, and it may be why they are holding their poop inside giving them constipation. You, the parent, are the most powerful voice on earth to them, whatever you say…they believe.

Solution:
Vocalize how important it is to for them to poop whenever they feel they need to and that it’s perfectly natural. If you have public toilet issues, teach them some basic steps for hygiene, like building a ring of toilet paper on the toilet seat before pooping, and washing their hands with soap and water after finishing. Giving them a travel pack of wet wipes to use might also signify to them that it’s OK to use a public toilet.

Doesn’t like going in general. Sometimes children for a variety of reasons do not like going. That’s when you need to have a discussion with them—is it psychological, physical or both.

Solution:
If it’s psychological, try to have fun with the discussion. Explain to them everybody poops, even the furry cute little animals and birds do it. Tell them it’s part of being healthy and happy and that there’s nothing wrong with it. Encourage them to talk about the issue whenever they need to and that it’s perfectly welcomed.

When it’s Chronic

Even after doing everything “right” your child may still have “poop” issues. Here are some remedies that can help unblock the problem. Chronic constipation is usually defined as your child having at least two to three bouts with constipation in a two-week period.

Relieve the painful pressure and straining: If a child has been straining and it hurts, try a hot bath (as hot as they can handle). The heat will release the muscles in the sphincter and relieve the terrible pain and discomfort, instantly. Creams with hydrocortisone can also help with the burning and throbbing after a painful expulsion.

Try Natural Laxatives and Softeners:
Senna Leaf Powder is natural and a powerful laxative that can help cleanse the system. Making a tea and adding some honey can make it more palatable. Even allowing the child to simply smell the brew can be enough to make them go. Olive oil and olives are also natural stool softeners.

Any kind of laxative should only be used as an interim measure and not be used as a routine method for defecation.

Visiting your Pediatrician:
If your child suffers from chronic constipation, it’s always best to include your pediatrician in the equation. There might be something else that is underlying the issue that a trained medical professional can detect. In addition, chronic constipation may also require medicine or advanced treatments that should only be performed under the supervision of doctor.

Foods to Avoid when you have Hyperacidity

Hyperacidity is a very uncomfortable condition to have, especially as it seems to affect just about every area of your life. Not only will you have trouble eating certain foods that you enjoy, certain amounts may also become intolerable. Extreme cases of hyperacidity can bring about nausea or dizziness that can even keep a person from performing as optimally as he can at an otherwise healthy moment. It can also sometimes manifest as heartburn that you may worry about a more serious condition behind it.

In any case, if ever you suspect yourself to have hyperacidity, it will be best to steer clear of the following foods, at least until it seems to have cleared:

1. Acidic fruits – Citrus fruits like oranges and lemons are high in ascorbic acid, which can irritate your stomach all the more. It would be best to avoid these fruits, including their juice form. Mangoes and apples are also slightly high in acid content. Fruits that are relatively easy on a tummy with high acid levels are bananas and cantaloupes. Grapefruit, cranberry, and tomato juice are also a strict no-no. Other fruit like blueberries, peaches, raspberries, grapes, strawberries, and apple cider may be consumed, but preferably with discretion, as too much of these can also trigger heartburn.

2. Certain vegetables – Raw onions are found to be a big trigger of gas and hyperacidity. When cooked, onions may be consumed but only in limited quantities. Garlic, scallions, and leeks should also be taken with discretion. However, Asian studies show spring onions to help a lot with improving hyperacidity.

3. Hot and spicy foods – If you are a fan of hot and spicy foods, this may be the best time to say a temporary farewell to your palate’s best friends. Spicy foods are known to trigger the release of acids in your stomach, and during severe hyperacidity it would be best to avoid eating much of them.

4. Dairy products – Certain dairy products have been linked to worsening heartburn symptoms, likely because they are a bit more difficult to digest. When you are suffering from symptoms of hyperacidity, it would be best to reduce or avoid intake of sour cream, milk shakes, ice cream, and cottage cheese. Dairy products like yogurt, skim milk, and low-fat cottage cheese may be taken, but not in large quantities.

5. Heavy grains and similar by-products – Pasta is typically difficult to digest when one has hyperacidity. As such, meals like macaroni and cheese or spaghetti would best be avoided. Muffins and granola cereals may also pose a risk when taken in large quantities, as is garlic bread.

6. Sweets or desserts – While hyperacidity does not mean you need to fast, you may need to steer clear of high-fat and high-sugar treats like brownies, chocolates, doughnuts, corn chips, and potato chips.

7. Alcoholic beverages, sodas, coffee, and tea – Although some people recommend teas for clearing an upset stomach, in reality, tea is on the same plane as liquors and coffee in terms of not being friendly to hyperacidity. As much as possible drink plenty of water instead, as it seems nearly all beverages offered in this generation are high in acid, from colas to coffee, tea, and alcoholic drinks.

8. Great quantities of food – In this case, it is no longer the nature of the food but rather the quantity of food in question. Hyperacidity means your stomach is releasing more acid than usual, so during this time, please refrain from indulging too much in food as it will be difficult for your stomach to digest the large quantities. If anything, give your stomach time to rest between meals, and preferably take small servings across the day instead of having three big meals.

Of course, this list is just a guide to help you make wise choices. The main thing to consider if you really cannot avoid eating some of these foods is to make sure you don’t overdo consumption of any of the items on this list. Also, if your hyperacidity persists, be sure to consult your doctor, as serious cases might require prescription of antacids or similar medication.

The Benefits of Exercise on your Skin

The primary reason why people go the gym and exercise is to burn fat and build muscles. But do you know that regular exercise does not just benefit your heart and your muscles but your skin as well? You do not always meet people in your dance class or in the gym who make sweating out as part of their skin care routine. However, studies suggest that regular physical activity such exercising can improve the skin’s complexion. According to experts, exercise can prevent the development of acne and the early signs of aging such as skin sagging and wrinkling. That means by exercising regularly, you can be sure to have healthy and beautiful skin at all times.

Not all people realize that regular exercise is very essential for the improvement of the skin’s health. Your skin needs an adequate amount of oxygen and essential nutrients in order for it to stay healthy and aglow. Through exercise, the circulation of blood in your body is improved, and so is the provision or both oxygen and nutrients to the cells in your skin. Exercise also promotes heavy sweating, which is very important for the flushing out of toxins and wastes from your body. Sweating itself helps cleanse the skin’s pores so that it becomes free from dead cells, dirt, and sebum. Experts advise people to take a bath right after heavy sweating as it helps get rid of bacteria from the skin and eliminate bodily odor.

Dehydration is very common to people who loves to exercise a lot. Athletes most especially are at a high risk for dehydration as a result of working out that’s why it advised that you drink lots of water after working out. During exercise, your body loses a huge amount of fluid, which should immediately be replaced to keep the skin and other organs of the body well hydrated. Drinking water also promotes the excretion of bodily wastes, which is essential in keeping the skin and body in top shape.

Not only is exercise beneficial to your skin and muscles, it also plays a role to improve your general well-being. The ability of physical activity to boost the mental health has been well documented, and today, we all know that exercise is one of the best stress busters and mood lifters. Every time you exercise, your brain releases what we call endorphins, hormones that help you feel good for long periods of time. This is the reason why exercise is perfect for people who are suffering from depression or stress. In fact, if you start your day with exercise, you will have a lower chance of being moody for the rest of the day than when you don’t exercise at all.

Too much exercise can be bad for your health too. Aside from overexerting your muscles from long periods of intensive trainings, you can also compromise your immune system by going to the gym every single day without rests in between. Scientists who conducted a study on several volunteers found out that moderate exercises can actually boost the immune system, but overdoing it can result to the opposite. Before ever applying for a workout program, make sure you hire your own personal trainer who will guide you with the right kind of exercises that will actually help you rather than hurt you. Your body has limits so learn to recognize them and stick to simple routines that you can perform without putting your health at risk.

Whether you are a child or an adult, exercise should be part of your daily activity as it is crucial not only for the development of your bones and muscles but for the improvement of your skin’s complexion. You don’t necessarily need to register to the nearest gym but simply set aside a few minutes of your time each day for exercise or some physical activities. A simple routine such as jogging or even walking can offer your body multiple benefits so get the most out of it as much as you can. In the end, you will realize how such simple activity can actually boost not just your skin tone but your health in general.

Massage Therapy – An Excellent Way to Get Rid of Cellulite

Cellulite is a problem faced by most women today. While it may seem to be a medical condition, it is actually just a term used to refer to the dimple like appearance of the skin as a result of the accumulation of fat deposit in the subcutaneous glands. Also known as cottage-cheese skin, cellulite does not pose any kind of threat to the human health, but most women prefer to have it surgically removed because of its unsightly appearance. However, for those who do not want to go under the knife, surgery is just a last resort.

Besides surgery, another ideal way to deal with cellulite is massage therapy, also called a cellulite massage. Massage has been used as therapy for several health conditions for thousands of years now, and today, many women try it to get rid of cellulite. This method works by improving blood circulation in areas of the body were cellulite usually forms, such as the buttocks, thighs, and the legs.

According to those who believe in the effectiveness of massage for removing cellulite, what causes cellulite to form is a poor lymphatic system. Since the lymphatic system is the one responsible for the elimination of toxin from the body, its malfunction can lead to fat, fluid, and toxin to deposit underneath the skin, resulting to the formation of cellulite. Massage, however, helps break down these fat deposits so that the skin’s firmness is restored.

A cellulite massage consists of several different techniques. For a basic massage, the session is usually initiated by the pulling or the pinching of the skin, which is done for five minutes. This is followed by the wiggling of the skin. Certain levels of force and pressure are applied to the skin to make sure that the tissues separate from the skin layers. The purpose of these actions is actually to warm the skin up for the actual session.

One session of a cellulite massage can last up to an hour, depending on how severe the cellulite formations are. Sometimes, it would only take 30 to 40 minutes to complete a session especially if the cellulite problem is not that serious. To increase the effectiveness of cellulite massage, therapists use cellulite lotions or creams. This is one of the most important factors that determine the result of a cellulite massage, because without lotion or cream, it would be very difficult to work on the skin due to the friction. In addition, the lotions and creams used for cellulite massage are not of an ordinary kind but are the ones designed for the removal of cellulite. Aside from acting as lubricants, these products also contain ingredients that help reduce the appearance of cellulite by tightening the skin.

While massage therapy may be an ideal way to deal with cellulite, it is in no way the ultimate solution to such a problem. The result of such method usually depends on how long the treatments go and how severe the cellulite problem is. If you decide to undergo a series of massage therapy, see to it that you are realistic enough to understand that there is not a single formula for cellulite, because until today, experts haven’t discovered the ultimate cure for cellulite yet. The good thing is that you actually can depend on cellulite massage to reduce the appearance of cellulite on your skin.

Usually, focusing on a specific part of your body with a series of massage therapy sessions would give you more positive results. You may be able to see some amount of changes to the appearance of your skin after only three successive sessions but if you want more significant results, you may need to undergo more sessions. Prior to a session with your therapist, you can perform exercises for firming and toning the muscles to increase the efficiency of the massage. Some of the best firming exercises include stationary biking, brisk walking, and Pilates. These exercises are proven for tightening muscles in the buttocks, legs, and thighs.

Most massage parlors and salons today offer cellulite massage, but make sure your massage therapist is certified and is a professional. In a nutshell, massage therapy is one of the best ways to eliminate cellulite and improve your skin’s condition, so don’t hesitate to try it especially if surgery is not in your options.

Early Signs of Pregnancy

Many couples who are hoping to have a baby will likely react to the very slightest discomfort that they hope might signal that the woman is finally pregnant. Of course, pinpointing pregnancy so early on is typically difficult, as some of the discomfort that the lady feels may be attributed to something other than pregnancy. The following symptoms may be present but they may not necessarily be caused by a pregnancy:

1. Tiredness or fatigue – Extreme tiredness can happen as early as a week following conception. But this is more difficult to use as a gauge because fatigue can be caused by many other things, such as lack of sleep or a general physical exhaustion from a busy week or weeks.

2. Breast tenderness – You may notice your breast starting to feel tender, swollen, or simply more sensitive than usual. Although this also happens just before you get your period, as a sign of pregnancy, it can happen about one to two weeks following conception.

3. Irritability or moodiness – Hormonal changes can cause mood swings that are more pronounced than usual. Of course, you need to remember that you may also feel moody when your period is approaching. As such if this is a symptom of pregnancy it is usually disregarded in the absence of the other symptoms.

4. Headaches – Raised levels of hormones may cause headaches; as such, some women experience headaches early on in a pregnancy. But this symptom is a little too common to attribute directly to a pregnancy, as it can be caused by any myriad of factors.

5. Food cravings – Although cravings are generally joked about around someone who is pregnant, it may not be an accurate gauge of pregnancy minus other confirmation. After all, a woman may just happen to have a mood-directed choice of food, such as yearning for comfort food like ice cream during a particularly depressed moment. Women happen to be among the most emotionally-driven eaters, so this may not be too accurate.

6. Frequent urination – Some women experience a need to empty their bladders more frequently than usual. However, this is usually not noticed as a sign as many women feel it to be too normal a change.

However, there are also early signs that are more definite in telling you that you are indeed pregnant. Among these are:

1. Missing a period – This is typically the main sign that women take before they buy a pregnancy test. Of course, an important thing to remember is that you may also miss your period, if you have it regularly, due to hormonal changes in rare cases, such as if you suddenly lost a lot of weight. It may also happen when you are taking anti-pregnancy pills, as some of them curb the production of egg cells, which eventually result in amenorrhea.

2. Morning sickness or nausea any time of the day – This is the most commonly portrayed symptom for pregnancy in movies and books. This is because you don’t normally undergo this when you are about to have your period, except for severe cases of dysmenorrhea. This can happen at about two to eight weeks following conception as your hormone levels reach higher levels than usual.

3. Implantation bleeding – When the fertilized egg cell is implanted onto the uterus, some women experience implantation bleeding. This typically happens between six to twelve days following conception, and the bleeding is not as pronounced as a period. It is aptly described as spotting.

Although these are typical early signs of pregnancy, with the exception of a missed period, not all women experience them, as every pregnancy is unique. So if you find yourself experiencing most, if not all, of these symptoms, it might be the best time to buy yourself a pregnancy testing kit. If you don’t and yet confirm yourself to be pregnant, do not worry, as these signs are in no way an indication of a healthy pregnancy. In any case, just celebrate the new life growing within you and enjoy every step of the journey as you welcome a new member into your family.

Healthy Eating: What It Really Means

Many people are familiar with strict dieting as a means to lose weight, but most have never really heard of healthy eating. While both may seem to be the same thing, healthy eating is far different from strict diet programs that require you to cut back on certain types of foods in order to maintain a healthy weight. In fact, healthy eating doesn’t restrict you from eating any type of food that you want. This may sound too good to be true but there is actually a way to stay fit without starving yourself to death.

Simply put healthy eating this way: during breakfast, try to eat like a king, filling your plate with every nutritious and delicious food you can feast on. At lunch time, limit your meals as if you’re a prince. And when dinnertime comes, eat as if you’re a pauper and there’s very little food left for you to eat. This way, no matter how much and what type of food you eat, you will have very little chance of becoming obese or even sickly. Healthy eating doesn’t require you to cut back on all food; however, you still have to make sure you’re eating the right type of food at the right time of the day.

Do your best not to skip meals during breakfast. Most people think that by not eating in the morning, they can actually lose weight fast. Nothing could be further from the truth because studies show that skipping breakfast can actually increase a person’s risk for becoming obese. The reason is that when you miss your breakfast, there’s a huge chance that you’ll get hungry even before lunch time comes, and when that happens, you will be tempted to snack on junk food and consume more calories than you should. Again, eat breakfast like a king, filling your plate with eggs, oats, mushroom, bacon, and a piece of fruit. These types of food contain all the essential nutrients and energy you need throughout the day.

When lunchtime comes, you can limit your eating since you’ve had a huge breakfast. There’s no need for a heavy meal during this time so you can basically go for fruits, vegetables, and fish. There will also probably not be many healthy choices of food in your office pantry or cafeteria so it would be a good idea to pack your own lunch especially if you don’t have time to look for a restaurant that serves nutritious dishes. In the same manner, instead of drinking coffee or soda during your break in the afternoon, why not try some fruit juice or shake instead? Coffee can indeed give you a boost but only for a moment, while fresh orange, pineapple, or mango juice can not only quench your thirst but also replenish lost bodily energy. If you want to snack out, go for fresh fruits or nuts. This, too, will help you eliminate the urge to eat more at dinner.

Since you’ve had a well-balanced meal during the day, you won’t feel as hungry anymore when nighttime comes. During dinner, try not to overeat, as having a full belly a few hours before going to bed might give you some hard time falling asleep. At the same time, having too much to eat at night will give your body some difficulty to digest food and your metabolism to function properly. Perhaps the best time to eat dinner is three to four hours before bedtime, so that your body will have enough time to digest your food and burn some unwanted fat.

It’s not easy to adjust to this kind of practice especially if you’re used to indulging your every food whim. However, once you get use to it, you will realize that the rewards your body will reap will surpass any difficult things you will undergo in the whole course. So what does healthy eating really mean? It means simplifying your eating habits; choosing the right kind of food, and eating them at the right time during the day. Not even the strictest of diet can help you achieve a healthy mind and body, but if you can provide your body with the nutrition it needs through healthy eating, you can enjoy a quality kind of life for a very long time.

The Best Way to Care for Skin with Eczema

One of the most common skin problems faced by thousands of people all over the world today is eczema. Also referred to as atopic dermatitis, eczema is a chronic condition that results when the skin is exposed to certain allergens or irritants that causes inflammation in the epidermis. While the exact cause of such skin condition is not clearly known, experts believe that eczema can be inherited and is most of the time linked to asthma and rhinitis, the other two most popular allergic conditions known to man. Scientists are yet to discover the ultimate cure for eczema, but while dealing with such a problem may be easier said than done, overcoming eczema is not at all impossible. In fact, by following very simple guiding principles, you can stop eczema on its tracks.

Keeping your skin well-moisturized is a very effective way of preventing flare-ups. Since skin dryness is one of the contributing factors of eczema, applying moisturizer regularly will help you deal with it. There are many reasons why you should wear a high quality moisturizer every day especially if you have skin problems like dermatitis. For one, a good moisturizer helps maintain the moisture level in your skin, making sure that it is well-hydrated at all times. It also helps increase your skin’s capacity to retain moisture and strengthening the protective barrier of your skin. When looking for a moisturizer, choose a brand name that you can trust, and one that contains ingredients that are not harsh to your sensitive skin and will be able to protect it not just outside but also from within.

Furthermore, look for a moisturizer that contains a combination of these ingredients: glycerin, silicone, hyaluronic acid, mineral oil, panthenol, propylene glycol, butylenes glycol, petrolatum, stearyl alcohol, tacopheryl acetate, cetyl alcohol, and prolipids. These ingredients make a good moisturizer that should be able to protect your skin from irritation, keep its moisture level at the top, and help promote cell turnover and skin rejuvenation, a very important factor that contributes to healing and stopping eczema.

Hydrocortisone should also be part of your ammunition when battling with eczema. Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, hydrocortisone is often applied in the form of a cream or ointment. According to studies, almost 80% of people suffering from eczema have full recovery from the condition by using hydrocortisone as part of their treatment. In treating mild eczema, hydrocortisone with strength of 1% should be enough. However, a higher strength may be needed if you are dealing with severe eczema that affects tough skin.

Significant results are usually seen within 3 days of using hydrocortisone, although it may take some more time for the skin’s original state to be completely restored. Using hydrocortisone may be indeed one of the best ways to deal with eczema, but always remember to consult with your skin doctor before trying it as there are reports of how hydrocortisone may produce some negative side effects when not administered properly.

Another simple yet very effective way to deal with eczema is regular bathing. Water has a soothing effect on the skin that helps reduce inflammation and irritation that occurs during flare-ups. However, you should keep in mind that excess washing of the skin will also strip your skin off of its natural moisture so limit your bathing to once a day and three to four times a week. Using soap that’s specially designed for skin with eczema is advisable, as most ordinary soap contain harsh chemicals that can dry your skin and exacerbate your condition. Such harsh ingredients can also cause some damage to your ski’s barrier, leaving your skin susceptible to various conditions. In the same manner, avoid bathing for too long and use only lukewarm water, as hot water can dry the skin. Some experts suggest that adding oatmeal to your bath water can be helpful as well. Most importantly, never forget to apply moisturizer after every bath to restore moisture that has been stripped off by water.

Dealing with a skin condition such as eczema should neither be difficult nor expensive, since there are plenty of natural and safe ways to treat it. As long as your doctor gives you the go signal to try a certain method, you will have no problem at all.

Answers to Common Pregnancy Stretch Mark Questions

Besides gaining too much weight, having stretch marks is one of the aftermaths of pregnancy that women wish to avoid. If you are an expectant mother, you might be wondering if there’s a way for you to get exempted from acquiring these ugly marks. Perhaps, you are one of those who are finding some answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about pregnancy stretch marks.

Probably the most commonly asked issue is how you can avoid having stretch marks during pregnancy. But before that question is answered, you may want to ask first: what exactly causes these stretch marks? Studies say that 6 out of 10 pregnant women get stretch marks. This is brought about by genetics, which means developing it runs in the family. Next is rapid or too much weight gain during pregnancy. Ideally, women should acquire less or maximum 35 pounds for the full term through a slow and gradual manner. If not, then quick changes in weight would force the skin to keep up with the growth and result to tears in the skin, which are called “striae”. However, if a woman is bearing large babies or having multiple babies, she is more likely to have stretch marks.

Other causes include skin color wherein fair-skinned women show more development of marks as compared to dark-skinned women. Having dry skin is also vulnerable to pregnancy scratches because of its lack of elasticity. Knowing the causes of stretch marks will help answer the most asked question about pregnancy stretch marks – how to avoid it! But, you have to know that there are no proven ways to prevent this from happening. However, there are certain precautions that you can try so you won’t end up wallowing about what you could have done to avoid it.

First off, you have to keep your skin healthy and moisturized. One of the most popular and experts swear to be very effective in preventing belly marks is cocoa butter. Palmer’s brand of cocoa butter has specially created stretch marks cream and lotions that you can buy at any drugstore. Apply this cream every day after taking a shower on all spots that are prone to stretch marks like the belly, butt, thighs, breasts and hips. You will get better results if you apply the cream using a circular massage motion. It will not just keep the skin moisturized, but it can also relieve the itch and encourage cell reproduction. Most stretch mark creams contain other ingredients as well like collagen and elastin that make the skin more pliable.

A great way to avoid rapid weight gain and somehow prevent striaes from forming is for you to strictly follow a diet plan. Getting the right food and nutrients is important for you and your baby’s health. This will also make sure that you are gaining weight in a safe and gradual manner. If you follow this well, you will have lesser chances of getting belly scratches. In terms of creating a pregnancy meal plan, consult your practitioner or a pregnancy nutrition specialist. Your doctor may also recommend food supplements that will help you gain the right amount of vitamins and minerals that you cannot get alone from the food that you eat. These supplements can also benefit your skin especially Vitamins E, A and essential fatty acids.

There are also a lot of available stretch mark creams in the market today that claim to be effective in keeping the skin smooth and stretch mark-free. But, you might want to know if these creams contain ingredients that are safe for expectant moms. Some of these stretch mark removal creams contain Retin-A but in small amounts that may not be harmful for the baby. But, in any case, consult your physician first before using any of these products.

However, if all these precautions fail and you still end up with stretch marks, there are cosmetic treatments available like non-invasive laser treatments and retinoid creams. You have to remember though that there is no absolute way to fade marks completely. These cosmetic procedures are meant to lessen the appearance but not actually remove the pregnancy marks. They are also quite expensive and needs several sessions for you to get the best results.

Fight the Common Cold Effectively!

Millions of people suffer from the common cold each year. It starts off from a single sneeze, and then later on you realize that you are already having a headache and a runny nose. Usually, a cold would just leave on its own accord after a few days or so, but while there is no definite cure for it, there are some things you can do hasten your recovery. The common cold is actually caused by a virus, which takes advantage of a compromised immune system. If your immune system is in top condition, there will be no way the cold virus can affect you.

Getting enough sleep and rest is one of the most effective ways to boost your immune system and in turn help ward off colds. In one study, two groups of healthy volunteers were exposed to a cold virus. The researchers found later on that the group who got less than seven hours of sleep was three times more likely to acquire the cold than those who were able to sleep for eight hours. According to the researchers, even a single disturbance during sleep had a huge impact on a person’s susceptibility to the illness. Their advice: get to bed as early as ten in the evening and get at least eight hours of sleep. It is during the period between 10pm to 6am that the healing and repairing activity of the body is at its peak.

Aside from sleep, exercise too, has been found to greatly boost the immune system. Each time you exercise, the number of immune cells in your body increases by up to 300%, according to scientists. It means that even if you can only spend 15-30 minutes of your time each day exercising, you can greatly boost your immune system in such a way that viruses like the ones that cause common colds cannot affect you. Moderate exercises such as brisk walking or biking are especially effective in bolstering the immune system and are required for people who always fall susceptible to the common cold. However, you may want to go easy on exercise especially when you are sick, because over-activity can have a reverse effect on your immune system.

So what do you do in case you get infected with the cold virus? Aside from practicing the proper hygiene of washing your hands and avoiding touching your mouth and nostrils, there are a number of ways on which you can recover from the common cold fast and easy. One is by drinking plenty of water. Water works by flushing out waste and toxin out of your body and promote the production of mucus. When you have colds, your body will use more fluids than usual, so by drinking plenty of water, you are preventing yourself from being dehydrated. If you have cough and phlegm to go along with your cold, water can help thin out mucus in your lung area and help loose phlegm for a less difficult time when coughing.

In the same manner, adding salt to warm water can help if you find yourself having sore throat as well. Salt has anti-bacterial properties, and whether you drink or gargle it, you’ll be amazed at how effective it is in soothing pain associated with sore throat.

Drinking fruit juice rich in vitamin C is also ideal when you have the colds. While there’s very little evidence on the effectiveness of vitamin C in preventing and fighting the cold virus, taking it regularly will help boost the immune system and help alleviate any illness.

If you’re a smoker or a drinker, you might want to get rid of the habits ultimately since both are found to greatly lower the immune system. According to statistics, people who smoke and drink alcohol regularly have frequent occurrences of severe colds than those who do not.

Finally, do your best to give more time for resting and de-stressing. Stress is probably the largest factor that can contribute to a compromised immune system. On the other hand, if you can learn the art of resting and relaxing, you can actually activate your immune system by will. Scientists found evidence that cold and flu virus-fighting cells increase in the bloodstream each time a person tells his mind and body to relax.

Baby Eczema: What you Need to Know

Baby eczema or its medical term atopic dermatitis affects twenty percent of the population of babies and small children in America. It is characterized as tiny, itchy, dry, red and scaly rashes on the skin. It is commonly seen on the forehead, face or scalp but it can also be seen on the arms, legs and chest. The very cause of this skin disorder among infants is still a mystery. But experts can tell that it is genetically transferred and can be triggered by an allergic reaction to dust, food and various external factors.

Baby eczema is quite a difficult skin disorder to handle and unfortunately, it is easier to make it worse if one does not know how to take care of it or if the baby is left alone to scratch on the affected parts. If your baby is suffering from eczema or you are simply preparing yourself in case you face this disease with your child in the future, then here are some basic treatments that you can learn to effectively manage baby eczema.

First, it is important that you find the culprit that may have triggered the rashes. This is essential information because once your child gets in contact with it again, the condition might worsen. Be keen to remember the happenings of the day before you saw the signs of eczema on your child’s face. List down the foods that baby ate and what you ate—this is crucial if you are breastfeeding. You may also want to consider the weather if it was the time of the year to change seasons. Pets and dust are also some of the common culprits. Perhaps, you have bathed your baby too much which made her skin dry and more sensitive to the surroundings.

There are so many possible irritants that your child might have encountered or can possibly encounter, these stuff are almost all found inside the house. Food is by far the most common allergen and this includes chocolate, nuts, cow’s milk, egg whites and citrus fruits. As previously mentioned, animal hair and dust are also very common particles that cause allergic reactions. The usual laundry detergent and fabric conditioner that most people use to wash clothes can also be too harsh on baby’s skin. You need to be careful as well with the material that touches your child’s sensitive skin such as those of his or her clothes, your clothes, beddings and diapers. Lastly, baby bath products can also cause skin reactions especially if they are fragranced and not soap-free.

Baby’s skin becomes sensitive and dry when plagued with eczema. So, one of the first rules is to keep the skin moisturized. Avoid long baths that can remove the skin’s natural moisture. Instead, doctors advice to give the child quick lukewarm soaks without using any soap. Then, as soon as your baby is out of the water, gently pat his skin dry with a soft towel and apply baby moisturizers or lotion. Make sure that you lather some more during the day and just before the infant retires at night. Using a humidifier may also help to keep the skin from getting too dry and itchy.

Baby eczema is difficult to treat mainly because it is impossible to teach a baby not to scratch on something that itches. So, as a parent, you must help your child not to scratch at all cost. You can try covering his or her hands with cotton mittens or keeping the nails short. Keeping the baby comfortable, cool and distracted may also help him or her stop the urge to scratch.

Last but not the least and this may not come as a surprise, breastfeed your child. Breastfeeding may help heal or avoid eczema altogether. Breast milk contains natural disease-fighting ingredients that also works double-time in strengthening the infant’s immune system.

No parent would like their child suffer from baby eczema. Learning these simple steps is very important if you want your child to grow out of this skin disorder completely. Do not hesitate to go directly to your trusted physician to get full advice on what to do and get the best and most effective baby eczema treatment for your child.

Stress Solutions for Women

Studies have proven that working women experience higher stress than men. There is also evidence that women are more likely to bring work-related stress at home than their partners. The reason behind is that women’s responsibilities do not end at the workplace. It’s quite normal for men to grab a can of beer and relax in the sofa while watching TV once they get home from work, but most women still have to finish a lot of household chores such as prepare dinner and take care of the kids after office. While there’s nothing wrong with multitasking, women who put too much pressure on themselves by doing too many things at a time have a chance to snap and succumb to severe stress.

The thing with stress is that it can be a silent killer. Most experts agree that stress is the root of most chronic disease known to man, and when left unchecked, it can lead to several health problems such as obesity, heart disease, hypertension, and many more. Not only does stress affect a woman’s health but also her time with her family. When pressured by a deadline or a presentation, a mother will usually end up giving all her time to work. In this kind of situation, she loses quality time that should otherwise have been spent with her children. And when she gives little priority to her chores such as preparing a healthy meal for her family, it is the latter that suffers.

Stress can also affect a woman’s mood. Upon arriving from work, she might either be too tired physically or grumpy that she couldn’t enjoy time with her husband and kids anymore. Some mothers might try to fight stress, but more often than not, they are the one who lose the battle. So what does a working mother do to manage her stress load and be the woman that she ought to be – to her husband and children?
When it comes to managing work-related stress, the first key is to leave your work at the office. This may be easier said than done especially since most women have the tendency to play superwoman and try to finish everything at a time. However, the same way that you don’t bring your household chores to the office, so should you not bring your paperwork at home. Whether you’re single or married, you should consider going home as a reward for a long day at the office and not an extension of it.

If you know how to set your priorities, you should have no problem dealing with stress at all. “There is a time for everything”, as the old proverb goes. There is no point spending all your energy into office work if it’s going to give you a heart attack in the end. Your company can easily replace you if you die, but to your family, there is no one out there who can take your place. It is simply not wise to pour out your efforts into something that is not stable as your career, and it’s never worth it in the long run. Therefore, focus your time and energy to spending time with your family and consider your career only as second priority. The more you are happy with your family life, the healthier you become, and the more productive you will be in the workplace. It’s not the other way around.

Making time for yourself is also a good way for a working mother to beat stress. Each day, set aside even just an hour doing something you love – on your own. It could be going the spa, getting a facial or a manicure, or even reading a good book. And when your “me” time is over, engage in some relaxing activities with your family like strolling in the park, playing in your backyard, or just enjoying a good movie. The key is to keep your mind off work and just enjoy.

Finally, do your best to stay healthy by living a healthy lifestyle. Make sure you get eight hours of sleep every night. A good night’s sleep is enough to work magic for a tired mind. It also helps you become more productive in the workplace. In the same manner, see to it that you load up with nutritious food so that you’ll have the energy you need to face the day ahead.

Libya: NATO Steps Up Air Strikes on Tripoli

The night skies light up as NATO bombed Tripoli

BBC

NATO planes have launched a series of air attacks on Libya's capital Tripoli, with correspondents saying they may be the largest so far of the campaign.

Some of the strikes appear to have targeted Libyan leader Col Muammar Gaddafi's Bab al-Aziziya compound.

They came after France announced it and the UK would also deploy attack helicopters to escalate strike power, reports the BBC.

NATO is enforcing a UN resolution to protect civilians, following the uprising against Col Gaddafi's rule.

Between 12 and 20 explosions were reported in the early hours of Tuesday.

The BBC's Andrew North, in Tripoli, said the first blasts were in the vicinity of Bab al-Aziziya and were followed by more in other parts of the city.

He says the hotel journalists have been staying in was shaken to its foundation by some of the blasts.

After each a NATO aircraft could be heard in the sky.

Plumes of smoke were rising from the area of Bab al-Aziziya and anti-aircraft guns were firing.

Libyan government spokesman, Moussa Ibrahim said three people were killed and 150 wounded in the strikes.

Ibrahim said barracks of a volunteer unit of the Libyan army had been targeted but most of the casualties were civilians living nearby. The statements could not be independently verified.

Our correspondent says he has not been taken to the barracks but was escorted to a hospital and shown people said to have been injured in the strikes.

He says people have come out on to the streets to show support for Col Gaddafi.

The attacks came after French Defence Minister Gerard Longuet confirmed media reports that France was deploying attack helicopters to NATO's Libya mission.

He also said Britain would send helicopters. He said both countries would deploy the new forces as soon as possible.

The UK has yet to confirm the deployment.

Earlier, France's Le Figaro newspaper said that 12 helicopters were despatched to Libya on the French carrier Tonnerre on 17 May. The helicopters involved were allegedly Tigre and Gazelle.

The deployment would increase pressure on Col Muammar Gaddafi's forces, as helicopters can hit targets on the ground more accurately.

BBC defence correspondent, Caroline Wyatt says using attack helicopters marks a significant escalation of the campaign.

She says the UK's Apache attack helicopters would deploy from HMS Ocean, the Royal Navy's largest warship. Our correspondent says the BBC understands their use was authorised by Prime Minister David Cameron at a meeting of the National Security Council.

NATO jets have been targeting Col Gaddafi's military infrastructure, but have been unable to stop the fighting.

Rebels control much of Libya's east, while Col Gaddafi's forces control most of the west of the country.

Vuvuzelas 'May Spread Diseases'

Vuvuzelas came to global prominence in the 2010 World Cup

Vuvuzelas - the horns used by football fans celebrating last year's World Cup - not only cause noise pollution but may also spread diseases, say experts.

A short burst on the instrument creates a spittle shower similar to a sneeze, travelling at a four million droplets a second, a PLoS One journal study shows.

According to the BBC, in crowded venues one person blowing a vuvuzela could infect many others with airborne illness like the flu or TB.

Organisers are considering whether to allow them at the 2012 London Olympics.

Critics say they are anti-social and unsafe because of their potential to generate a din louder than a plane taking off.

Dr Ruth McNerney, who carried out the latest work at the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, said a "vuvuzela blowing etiquette" may be needed rather than a ban.

"Just as with coughs or sneezes, action should be taken to prevent disease transmission, and people with infections must be advised against blowing their vuvuzelas close to other people," she said.

Her team investigated the vuvuzela hazard using a laser device to measure how many droplets were produced by eight volunteers using the horns.

On average, 658,000 lung particles, or aerosols, per litre of air were expelled from the instruments.

The droplets shot into the air at the rate of four million per second.

In comparison, when the volunteers were asked to shout, they produced only 3,700 particles per litre at a rate of 7,000 per second.

"When attending a sporting event and surrounded by vuvuzela players, a spectator could expect to inhale large numbers of respiratory aerosols over the course of the event," Dr McNerney warned.