Expat World Philippines HEALTH PROJECT

Shaking Hands: What Are My Treatment Options?

noreply@blogger.com (Gilman Jones) — Sat, 12 May 2018 03:07:00 +0000

What causes shaky hands?

Shaky hands are commonly referred to as a hand tremor. A hand tremor isn’t life-threatening, but it can make daily tasks difficult. It can also be an early warning sign of some neurological and degenerative conditions. You should speak with your doctor if you experience hand tremors.

Many people associate shaky hands with Parkinson’s disease, but the most common cause of shaking hands is actually essential tremor.

Essential tremor is also the most common neurologic disorder affecting adults, but it’s not well-understood. It’s likely caused by a disruption in the normal functioning of the cerebellum. Researchers aren’t entirely sure what causes the interruption nor how to stop it. They’re also unclear about whether it’s a degenerative process.

People with essential tremor experience frequent shaking. The shaking can’t be controlled and most often occurs in the hands, arms, head, and vocal cords.

Keep reading: Essential tremor »

By comparison, people with Parkinson’s disease typically experience a hand tremor when their muscles are at rest and see a reduction in the tremor when their muscles are in use. Shaky hands can also be caused by:
seizure
overactive thyroid
cerebellar disease
Huntington’s disease
medication side effects
caffeine overdose
alcohol abuse or addiction
anxiety
low blood sugar

What medications treat shaky hands?

Not everyone with shaky hands will need treatment, but if your doctor decides you’re a good candidate, you may first begin by taking prescription medication.
Commonly prescribed medications

The most commonly prescribed medications for essential tremors or shaky hands are:

propranolol (Inderal)
primidone (Mysoline)
long-acting propranolol (Inderal LA)

Propranolol is a beta-blocker designed to treat arrhythmia and hypertension, while primidone is an anti-seizure medication.

If these do not work for you, your doctor may recommend other medications.

Other beta-blockers

Sotalol (Betapace) and atenolol (Tenormin) are also beta-blockers that may be used to treat essential tremor. Your doctor may prescribe one of these medications if other medications don’t help your tremor.
Other antiseizure medications

Gabapentin (Neurontin) and topiramate (Topamax) are other medications primarily used to treat seizures. They may be helpful for people with essential tremor.
Anxiety medication

Alprazolam (Xanax) is used to treat anxiety and panic disorders, but research indicates that it may be an effective treatment for essential tremor. This drug should be taken with great caution because it’s known to be habit-forming.
Botox

Botulinum toxin type A (Botox) shows promise as a treatment for essential tremor in the hands. This medicine may cause permanent muscle weakness where injected, so be sure to talk with your doctor about the potential risks and benefits. The benefits from a successful injection can last up to three months. Subsequent injections may be needed.

5 Most Common Allergens in the Philippines

noreply@blogger.com (Gilman Jones) — Fri, 09 Mar 2018 03:30:00 +0000

Allergies are one of the most common chronic conditions worldwide. It may be common but it should be taken care of for allergies can be risky and lethal.

According to the leading experts in the field of allergy, asthma, and immunology, a person's allergy starts on the immune system. The immune system fights and protects our bodies to organisms that causes illness. The substance which causes the allergies is called an allergen. It is when the immune system mistakes an otherwise harmful substance as an invader. The immune system overreacts to the allergen by producing antibodies called Immunoglobulin E(IgE) which will help the antibodies to travel to cells which will eventually release histamine and other chemicals that's causing the allergic reaction.

It is easy to spot the warning signs of a building allergy. Such symptoms typically triggers in the nose, lungs, throat, sinuses, ears, lining of the stomach, or on the skin. Do take note that such symptoms if not treated may lead to asthma, and eventually build to a serious case that has a life-threatening reaction called Anaphylaxis. Anaphylactic reactions mostly come from foods, insect stings, medications and latex. The most common allergens include:

Pollen
Dust
Food
Insect stings
Animal dander
Mold
Medications
Latex

The allergens stated above may or may not be present depending on someone's area. The most common allergens that can detected in the Philippines are as follows:

Molds - Molds can be found in moist, dim, damp and warm places. It can grow specifically on bathrooms, basements, logs, and leaves as well. It usually occur in warmer months specifically during the summer. But, if your house is mold-infested, it can persist all-year round. Clearing up mold and preventing mold growth is effective to avoid it.

Dust mites - Microscopic critters, which loves warmth and humidity just like molds, are usually found on cushiony household articles like beds, fabrics, plush toys, pet fur, and carpets. Dust mites usually multiply fast and die slow in the following areas so it's important to soak sheets in hot water every week and keep all nooks and crannies dust-free.

Pollen - These are found in trees and plants. It is easily windswept and inhaled. Pollens are responsible for seasonal allergies or hay fever. Such evergreen trees like elm, oak, maple, cypress and also pine trees shed the most amount of pollen.

Fish - It is a common food allergy in the Philippines. Fish comprises a significant number of allergies across the world. The Philippines has rich expanse of coastal lines which makes it more prone to this allergen. In one study of food allergies, it was found out that about 81 percent of Filipino subjects are allergic to seafood.

Pet dander - Dander is considered one of the common allergies coming from furry pets like cats and dogs. It is where animal saliva, urine and skin can be found. It is easily transferred to each home, even from some households which aren't pet owners. When you've gone from somewhere who has a pet make sure to shower and change as once. Regularly clean fabric covered items, it may be traced there.

If you want to know what type of allergen causes your allergies, you can immediately reach an allergist, also called as an immunologist. An allergist has the expertise to properly diagnose the condition and prescribe an allergy treatment and management plan to help you feel better and live better. You can do also essential first aid for yourself to make sure about what happened to you.

DOH Insulin Access Program - Get The Cheapest Insulin In The Philippines!

noreply@blogger.com (Gilman Jones) — Sat, 03 Mar 2018 07:56:00 +0000

Click link below to access -

DOH Insulin Access Program - Get The Cheapest Insulin In The Philippines!

Insulin Access Program

How Nutritional Needs Change for Seniors and What You Can Eat For Good Health

noreply@blogger.com (Gilman Jones) — Mon, 12 Feb 2018 05:05:00 +0000

The Secret to Eating Well for Healthy Longevity

Nutrition is a never-ending concern since what you eat impacts the quality of your life whether you are a child, adult or senior. Food is vital to life. You know it is important to “eat right” but as you age it can become harder to know which foods are good for you. Nutritional needs change for seniors. Even the taste, smell and texture of food can change making it hard to eat for good health.

That doesn’t mean you can’t eat healthy in your golden years though! Good nutrition is delicious and satisfying. You might even find that the foods recommended for good health are ones you remember from your childhood and will fill you with not only the fuel you need but those warm, nostalgic feelings that add to overall wellness.

How Nutrition Needs Change in Seniors

Good nutrition is the cornerstone of good health. Unfortunately, healthy eating habits can decline as you or your parent ages. One-third of seniors in North America admitted to the hospital will be suffering from some form of malnourishment.1

Loss of Smell

Malnourishment can often arise as a result of not understanding how your nutritional needs change as you age. Seniors will often report a loss of taste and smell. 75% of people over the age of 80 report losing their sense of smell 2. Without smell, you also lose the majority of your taste sensation. Food becomes boring when you can’t taste it!
It’s a good idea to talk to your doctor about testing for a loss of smell if you find food bland and tasteless. A loss of smell can be treated and allow you to enjoy your food once again.

Also, don’t be afraid to be heavy handed with the spices. Your taste and smell sensations can be tantalized by adding healthy and nutritious spices and herbs to almost any food. Unlike sugar, spices and herbs don’t add empty calories while increasing your enjoyment of food again.

Dental Issues

Changes in the health of your mouth can make chewing and swallowing difficult. If you are suffering from dental pain, eating will seem like a chore instead of something you enjoy. Loss of teeth and gum disease can also make it impossible to chew meat. This makes it harder to meet protein requirements, which is horrible! As you age, you need more protein due to a decrease in stomach acid production, which inhibits the ability to absorb protein 3.

Digestive Needs

Your kidneys and lungs are responsible for maintaining a blood pH of 7.34-7.45. As you age, your kidney and lung function will be decreased. It becomes more difficult for your body to neutralize the acids that a diet high in refined carbohydrates, meat and salt produces. Providing your small intestine with more alkaline producing foods can protect your bones and muscles.

Your large intestine needs to have a healthy colony of bacteria to digest your food and reward you with regular bowel movements. Research shows that seniors have less than half the intestinal bacteria that they had in their 30s and 40s.

What You Should Eat for Healthy Longevity

Eating for healthy longevity can be a simple and rewarding challenge. As you eat healthier foods you will find your body feels stronger and you get more enjoyment out of life.

Eat Your Veggies

Mom was right. Eating fruits and vegetables is good for your health. Almost every diet will include a recommendation to eat more fruits and vegetables. They are like nature’s multivitamins. Some of the most powerful sources of nutrition will be fruits and berries like grapes, pomegranates, blueberries, raspberries, strawberries, blackberries and goji berries.

Make sure you find room on your plate for all types of fruits and veggies. The MIND diet reports that an increase in leafy greens was able to lower the risk of Alzheimer’s disease, protect against heart disease, prevent strokes and decrease hip fractures.

Dr. Terry Wahls recommends eating 9 cups of fruits and vegetables a day4, including 3 cups of leafy greens kale, collards, chard, spinach and lettuce; 3 cups of sulfur rich veggies like broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, asparagus, onions and Brussel sprouts; as well as 3 cups of the beautiful, colorful vegetables and fruits like berries, peaches, citrus, beets, carrots and peppers.

According to Dr. Wahls this specific blend of fruits and vegetables will provide your body and brain with the 31 micronutrients essential to optimal functioning. As well a diet high in fruit and vegetables provide high levels of vitamin C and will alkalize the small intestine and provide protection for muscles and bones.

Don’t Be Afraid of Fat

Did you know that all those healthy nutrients found in vegetables are better able to be absorbed when you eat them with healthy fat 5? That’s right! Your body needs fat to be healthy. Fats can make your brain more resilientand make less tasty foods like vegetables more enjoyable to eat.

Some of the best fats to include are found in fish, almonds, walnuts, brazil nuts, pecans, flax seeds, chia seeds, pumpkin seeds and sunflower seeds. Don’t forget the heart friendly olive and coconut oil!

Fats that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids protect your heart, help you maintain normal cholesterol levels and boost your brain health 6.

Embrace Healthy Bacteria

Just like fat isn’t necessarily bad for you neither is gut bacteria. Eating foods that are fermented provide your intestines with strong and healthy bacteria that will fight off the true invaders like cold and flu viruses and infections. Probiotics (good bacteria) also help to digest your food and are good for your mental health.

Fermented foods are high in flavor which helps when your taste buds are tired. Try to include foods such as yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut and kimchi each day. Start in small amounts if you aren’t used to fermented foods and soon your gut will thank you with better digestion and improved bowel function.

For probiotics to flourish they need to be matched with prebiotics. Prebiotics are foods that are high in fiber and feed the probiotics in your gut. Good sources of prebiotics are bananas, berries, legumes, garlic, onions and nuts.

See? We are back to more fruits and veggies!

Beef Up Your Diet

Protein continues to be foundational for physical functioning. You might remember that reduced levels of stomach acid make it more difficult to absorb protein as you age. Making it even more important to be eating adequate amounts of protein in a day to keep your muscles strong.

Protein can be found in meats, eggs, beans and nuts. Although meat and nuts can become difficult to chew with dental issues you can try slow cooking your meat in sauces to make it more tender. Or a scoop of nut butter on a slice of toast.

Drink Your Water

Hydration is a serious issue for seniors and a vital part of healthy nutrition in old age 7. As you age it can become more difficult to feel cues of thirst and to forget to drink. Some good ideas would be to drink water flavored with lime juice and to enjoy foods regularly that are naturally high in water like soup and melons.

A pot of soup prepared with a generous helping of sulfur containing veggies, leafy greens, carrots, onions and some slow cooked meats served with a side of yogurt and berries would meet most of your nutritional needs in a day.

How to Promote Good Senior Health Through Nutrition

Good nutrition is not about how much you eat but focuses more on the quality of food that you eat. As you age, most people will report a decreased appetite. A normal part of aging caused by a quieter life with fewer physical demands.

Large meals can often be daunting. Try instead to focus on meals for seniors that provide high nutrition while in a small amount. Aim to include a few of the foods from this article in your day. Even a small change can benefit you and promote good health. Home Care Assistance caregivers are trained in healthy nutrition and can help you or a loved one by preparing a diet rich in essential nutrients. They can even do the grocery shopping and meal preparation making it even easier to eat for healthy longevity.

Sources:

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/robert-b-blancato/senior-malnutrition-a-nat_b_6832238.html

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2579627/

http://time.com/3694094/nutrition-health-advice-senior-citizens/

http://www.phoenixhelix.com/2013/04/08/wahls-veggie-protocol-qa/

https://chriskresser.com/have-some-butter-with-your-veggies/

https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/your-brain-food/201205/dietary-fats-improve-brain-function

http://dailycaring.com/dehydration-in-elderly-is-dangerous/

Pneumonia Prevention - Expat World PH Health Project

noreply@blogger.com (Gilman Jones) — Fri, 26 Jan 2018 03:01:00 +0000

Pneumonia Prevention
By Mary Gallagher, RN, MSN, CCRN - January 26, 2018

PNEUMONIA, AN INFECTION that inflames the air sacs of one or both lungs, affects millions of Americans each year. The air sacs, or alveoli, are where the oxygenation of the blood occurs. The alveoli may fill with fluid or pus, causing a cough with phlegm or pus. Pneumonia can range from mild to life-threatening and is most serious in infants, young children, people older than 65 and people with health problems or weakened immune systems.

Bacteria, viruses and fungi can cause pneumonia. This is why foreigners in the Philippines are so vulnerable.

In adults, bacteria are the most common cause. Bacteria and viruses living in your nose, sinuses or mouth may spread to your lungs. You may breathe some of these germs directly into your lungs, or you may inhale food, vomit or fluids from the mouth into your lungs (aspiration pneumonia).

The most common type of pneumonia-causing bacteria is Streptococcus pneumoniae (pneumococcus). Walking pneumonia, often called atypical pneumonia, is caused by other bacteria. The fungus Pneumocystis jiroveci can cause pneumonia in people whose immune systems are not working well, such as those with advanced HIV infection. Viruses such as the flu are also a common cause of pneumonia.

Risk factors that increase your chances of getting pneumonia include chronic obstructive pulmonary disease; bronchiectasis; cystic fibrosis; dementia; stroke; brain injury; cerebral palsy or other brain disorders; and immune system problems due to cancer treatment, HIV/AIDS, organ transplant or other diseases. Other risk factors include serious illnesses such as heart disease, liver cirrhosis or diabetes mellitus; recent surgery or trauma; or surgery to treat cancer of the mouth, throat or neck. Smoking cigarettes, excessive use of alcohol or being undernourished also increases your risk of pneumonia.

The most common symptoms of pneumonia are cough (you may cough up greenish or yellow mucus or bloody mucus), mild or high fever, shaking chills and shortness of breath. The shortness of breath may only occur when you climb stairs or exert yourself. Other symptoms include confusion, especially in older people; excess sweating and clammy skin; headache; loss of appetite; low energy and fatigue; not feeling well; or sharp or stabbing chest pain that gets worse when you breathe deeply or cough.

See your health care provider as soon as possible. Your provider will examine your lungs with a stethoscope, listening for decreased breath sounds and crackles in your lungs. A pulse oximetry will check your oxygen saturation on room air. You may have a chest X-ray, blood work such as a complete blood count and arterial blood gases, blood and sputum cultures to look for the organism causing the infection, a CT scan or a bronchoscopy to examine your lungs and take sputum samples.

If the assessment points to early pneumonia, you will likely be told to force fluids and be placed on a broad-spectrum antibiotic, Mucinex or its generic form (600 mg two to three times a day) to assist in coughing up secretions, and mini nebulizer treatments every eight hours while at home.

If your pneumonia has progressed, you may be hospitalized to be monitored closely. You may be placed on IV antibiotics, oxygen and breathing mini nebulizer treatments plus an incentive spirometer to help open your airways. If you are diagnosed with viral pneumonia, you may receive other medications, such as an antiviral if the cause is the flu. Antibiotics do not kill viruses. Get plenty of sleep. If you cannot sleep at night, take naps during the day. With treatment, most people improve in two weeks; recovery may take six weeks. Adults older than 65 or very sick individuals may take longer to recover.

Possible complications of pneumonia include the need for a mechanical ventilator; bacteremia, in which the infection spreads into the blood; septic shock, an overwhelming infection attacking the body; lung abscess; other pulmonary problems such as respiratory failure, pleurisy or pleural effusion, in which fluid collects in the lungs; and kidney failure.

You can prevent pneumonia by washing your hands or using alcohol-based sanitizers often, especially before preparing or eating food and after blowing your nose, going to the bathroom, changing a baby’s or adult’s diaper or coming in contact with people who are sick. Do not smoke. Tobacco damages your lungs’ ability to fight infections.

Vaccines may prevent some types of pneumonia. The flu vaccine can help prevent pneumonia caused by the flu virus. The pneumococcal vaccine lowers your chances of getting pneumonia from Streptococcus pneumoniae and helps protect against some of the 90-plus types of pneumococcal bacteria. Vaccines are even more important for older adults and people with diabetes, asthma, emphysema, HIV, cancer, organ transplants and other chronic diseases and conditions.

Get your children vaccinated with the child strength of pneumococcal, flu, pertussis and Hib vaccines. Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) is a bacterium that can cause pneumonia and meningitis. The vaccine is recommended in the United States for all children younger than 5 years of age. It is often given to infants starting at 2 months old.

When infants are too young to be immunized, parents, family members, relatives and caregivers should be vaccinated. Keep yourself healthy: Limit your intake of alcohol, keep your immune system strong, get enough sleep, exercise regularly and eat a healthy diet.

The content of this article is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Finally, a blood test to screen for early-stage cancer

noreply@blogger.com (Gilman Jones) — Tue, 23 Jan 2018 06:20:00 +0000

Scientists at Johns Hopkins University have developed a blood test that will detect early signs of the eight most common cancers normally diagnosed in their late stages, according to research published in the journal Science. This means early detection will finally be available for patients who have cancer of the ovary, liver, pancreas, esophagus, bowel, lungs or breast.

The screening test, then known as “liquid biopsy” and now called CancerSEEK, works by looking for mutated DNA that dying cells shed into the blood, and protein biomarkers associated with bowel, breast, liver, lung, esophageal, ovarian, pancreatic and stomach cancer. The test looks for mutations in 16 genes that regularly occur in cancer, and eight proteins that are often released.

The test detected 70 percent of the cancers in more than 1,000 patients with cancers in the ovary, liver, stomach, pancreas, esophagus, colon, lung or breast. More importantly, it did so before the cancers had spread, giving patients a fighting chance at beating the disease.

About 800 volunteers who had not yet been diagnosed with cancer were also tested. According to ABC News, US researchers are currently conducting the test on 10,000 more people to examine its effectivity as well as to help determine its cost to patients in the future.

“This field of early detection is critical, and the results are very exciting. I think this can have an enormous impact on cancer mortality,” Dr. Cristian Tomasetti of Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine told BBC.

Current screening tests available for some cancers reduce the risk of death by up to 50 percent. CancerSEEK allows early detection of five cancers that previously had no screening program for early detection.

Pancreatic cancer, for example, has so few symptoms and is usually detected so late that four in five patients die in the year they are diagnosed. Women with ovarian cancer detected early on could have 92 percent chance of surviving, but only 15 percent of all ovarian cancers are found at an early stage.

CancerSEEK could change all that. The journal Science reported that CancerSEEK is novel because it hunts for both the mutated DNA and the proteins. The blood test could complement other cancer screening tools as well.

An Australian researcher involved in the study, professor Peter Gibbs from the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute, told ABC News, ”For the first time we’re seeing potential for a blood test that can screen for many types of nasty cancers that until now we’ve had to wait until symptoms are diagnosed quite late.”

While not everyone might be too keen on getting a colonoscopy to rule out cancer of the colon, Gibbs said pretty much everyone “would be happy to have a blood test.”

“This is of massive potential. This is the Holy Grail—a blood test to diagnose cancer without all the other procedures like scans or colonoscopy,” Dr. Gert Attard, team leader in the Center for Evolution and Cancer at the Institute of Cancer Research, London, and consultant medical oncologist at the Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, told the BBC.

CancerSEEK is designed for people 50 and above as well as younger people with a family history of cancer. Gibbs told ABC he hopes the test would become part of an annual regular checkup.

What is MSG? Is it bad for you?

noreply@blogger.com (Gilman Jones) — Thu, 09 Nov 2017 02:43:00 +0000

What is MSG? Is it bad for you?

Monosodium glutamate (MSG) is a flavor enhancer commonly added to Chinese food, canned vegetables, soups and processed meats. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has classified MSG as a food ingredient that's "generally recognized as safe," but its use remains controversial. For this reason, when MSG is added to food, the FDA requires that it be listed on the label.

MSG has been used as a food additive for decades. Over the years, the FDA has received many anecdotal reports of adverse reactions to foods containing MSG. These reactions — known as MSG symptom complex — include:

Headache
Flushing
Sweating
Facial pressure or tightness
Numbness, tingling or burning in the face, neck and other areas
Rapid, fluttering heartbeats (heart palpitations)
Chest pain
Nausea
Weakness

However, researchers have found no definitive evidence of a link between MSG and these symptoms. Researchers acknowledge, though, that a small percentage of people may have short-term reactions to MSG. Symptoms are usually mild and don't require treatment. The only way to prevent a reaction is to avoid foods containing MSG.

Healthy Aging for Expats In The Philippines- Live Longer- Be Stronger

noreply@blogger.com (Gilman Jones) — Wed, 08 Nov 2017 03:57:00 +0000

People in the west are living longer than ever before but people who transplant themselves from the west to the philippines need to take particular care, for many reasons.

Many seniors live active and healthy lives. But there's no getting around one thing: as we age, our bodies and minds change. There are things you can do to stay healthy and active as you age. It is important to understand what to expect.

Some changes may just be part of normal aging, while others may be a warning sign of a medical problem. It is important to know the difference, and to let your health care provider know if you have any concerns.

Having a healthy lifestyle, whether you are an expat or not, can help you to deal with normal aging changes and make the most of your life.

Healthy Lifestyle

Healthy aging

Wonder what's considered a normal part of the aging process? Here's what to expect as you get older — and what to do about it.

You know that aging will likely cause you to develop wrinkles and gray hair. But do you know how the aging process will affect your teeth, heart and sexuality?

It is helpful to understand the changes you can expect in your body as you continue aging — and what you can do to promote good health at any age.

What's happening?

As you age, your heart rate becomes slightly slower, and your heart might become bigger. Your blood vessels and your arteries also become stiffer, causing your heart to work harder to pump blood through them. This can lead to high blood pressure (hypertension) and other cardiovascular problems.

What you can do

To promote heart health:

Include physical activity in your daily routine. Try walking, swimming or other activities you enjoy. Regular moderate physical activity can help you maintain a healthy weight, lower blood pressure and lessen the extent of arterial stiffening.

Eat a healthy diet. Choose vegetables, fruits, whole grains, high-fiber foods and lean sources of protein, such as fish. Limit foods high in saturated fat and sodium. A healthy diet can help you keep your heart and arteries healthy.
Don't smoke. Smoking contributes to the hardening of your arteries and increases your blood pressure and heart rate. If you smoke or use other tobacco products, ask your doctor to help you quit.
Manage stress. Stress can take a toll on your heart. Take steps to reduce stress — or learn to deal with stress in healthy ways.
Get enough sleep. Quality sleep plays an important role in healing and repair of your heart and blood vessels. People's needs vary, but generally aim for 7 to 8 hours a night.

What's happening?

With age, bones tend to shrink in size and density — which weakens them and makes them more susceptible to fracture. You might even become a bit shorter. Muscles generally lose strength and flexibility, and you might become less coordinated or have trouble balancing.

What you can do

To promote bone, joint and muscle health:

Get adequate amounts of calcium. For adults ages 19 to 50 and men ages 51 to 70, the Institute of Medicine recommends 1,000 milligrams (mg) of calcium a day. The recommendation increases to 1,200 mg a day for women age 51 and older and men age 71 and older. Dietary sources of calcium include dairy products, almonds, broccoli, kale, canned salmon with bones, sardines and soy products, such as tofu. If you find it difficult to get enough calcium from your diet, ask your doctor about calcium supplements.
Get adequate amounts of vitamin D. For adults ages 19 to 70, the Institute of Medicine recommends 600 international units (IU) of vitamin D a day. The recommendation increases to 800 IU a day for adults age 71 and older. Although many people get adequate amounts of vitamin D from sunlight, this might not be a good source for everyone. Other sources of vitamin D include oily fish, such as tuna and sardines, egg yolks, fortified milk, and vitamin D supplements.
Include physical activity in your daily routine. Weight-bearing exercises, such as walking, jogging, tennis, climbing stairs and strength training can help you build strong bones and slow bone loss.
Avoid substance abuse. Avoid smoking and don't drink more than one or two alcoholic drinks a day, depending on your sex and age.

What's happening?

Constipation is more common in older adults. Many factors can contribute to constipation, including a low-fiber diet, not drinking enough fluids and lack of exercise. Medications — such as diuretics and iron supplements — and certain medical conditions — such as diabetes and irritable bowel syndrome — also might contribute to constipation.

What you can do

To prevent constipation:

Eat a healthy diet. Make sure your diet includes high-fiber foods, such as fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Limit meats that are high in fat, dairy products and sweets, which might cause constipation. Drink plenty of water and other fluids.

Include physical activity in your daily routine. Regular physical activity can help prevent constipation, and is important for your overall health.
Don't ignore the urge to have a bowel movement. Holding in a bowel movement for too long can cause constipation.

What's happening ?

Loss of bladder control (urinary incontinence) is common with aging. Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, might contribute to incontinence — as can menopause, for women, and an enlarged prostate, for men.

What you can do

To promote bladder and urinary tract health:

Go to the toilet regularly. Consider urinating on a regular schedule, such as every hour. Slowly, extend the amount of time between your toilet trips.
Maintain a healthy weight. If you're overweight, lose excess pounds.
Don't smoke. If you smoke or use other tobacco products, ask your doctor to help you quit.
Do Kegel exercises. Tighten your pelvic floor muscles, hold the contraction for five seconds, and then relax for five seconds. Try it four or five times in a row. Work up to keeping the muscles contracted for 10 seconds at a time, relaxing for 10 seconds between contractions.
Avoid bladder irritants. Caffeine, acidic foods, alcohol and carbonated beverages can make incontinence worse.
Avoid constipation. Eat more fiber and take necessary steps to avoid constipation, which can worsen incontinence.

What's happening?

Memory might naturally become less efficient with age. It might take longer to learn new things or remember familiar words or names.

What you can do

To keep your memory sharp:

Include physical activity in your daily routine. Physical activity increases blood flow to your whole body, including your brain. This might help keep your memory sharp.

Eat a healthy diet. A heart-healthy diet might benefit your brain. Focus on fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Choose low-fat protein sources, such as fish, lean meat and skinless poultry. What you drink counts, too. Too much alcohol can lead to confusion and memory loss.

Stay mentally active. Mentally stimulating activities help keep your brain in shape — and might keep memory loss at bay. Do crossword puzzles. Take alternate routes when driving. Learn to play a musical instrument.

Be social. Social interaction helps ward off depression and stress, which can contribute to memory loss. Look for opportunities to get together with loved ones, friends and others.

Lower your blood pressure. Reducing high blood pressure might reduce vascular disease that might in turn reduce the risk for dementia. More research is needed to determine whether treating high blood pressure reduces the risk of dementia.

Quit smoking. Some studies have shown smoking in middle age and older might increase your risk of dementia. Quitting smoking might reduce your risk.

If you're concerned about memory loss, consult your doctor.

What's happening?

With age, you might have difficulty focusing on objects that are close up. You might become more sensitive to glare and have trouble adapting to different levels of light. Aging also can affect your eye's lens, causing clouded vision (cataracts).

Your hearing also might diminish. You might have difficulty hearing high frequencies or following a conversation in a crowded room.

What you can do

To promote eye and ear health:

Schedule regular checkups. Follow your doctor's advice about glasses, contact lenses, hearing aids and other corrective devices.

Take precautions. Wear sunglasses or a wide-brimmed hat when you're outdoors, and use earplugs when you're around loud machinery or other loud noises.

What's happening

Your gums might pull back (recede) from your teeth. Certain medications, such as those that treat allergies, asthma, high blood pressure and high cholesterol, can also cause dry mouth. As a result, your teeth and gums might become slightly more vulnerable to decay and infection.

What you can do

To promote oral health:

Brush and floss. Brush your teeth twice a day and clean between your teeth — using regular dental floss or an interdental cleaner — once a day.

Schedule regular checkups. Visit your dentist or dental hygienist for regular dental checkups.

What's happening

With age, your skin thins and becomes less elastic and more fragile with a simultaneous decrease of fatty tissue just below the skin. You might notice that you bruise more easily. Decreased production of natural oils might make your skin drier. Wrinkles, age spots and small growths called skin tags are more common.

What you can do

To promote healthy skin:

Be gentle. Bathe in warm — not hot — water. In the Philippines where most folks do not have a bath-tub use warm water and a nice thick washcloth .. Ask your wife to help with your back... Use mild soap and moisturizer.
Take precautions. When you're outdoors, use sunscreen and wear protective clothing. Check your skin regularly and report changes to your doctor.
Don't smoke. If you smoke or use other tobacco products, ask your doctor to help you quit. Smoking contributes to skin damage, such as wrinkling.

What's happening?

Maintaining a healthy weight is more difficult as you get older. As you age, your muscle mass decreases and body fat takes its place. Since fat tissue burns fewer calories than does muscle, you need fewer calories to maintain your current weight.

What you can do

To maintain a healthy weight:

Include physical activity in your daily routine. Regular moderate physical activity can help you maintain a healthy weight.

Eat a healthy diet. Choose vegetables, fruits, whole grains, high-fiber foods and lean sources of protein, such as fish. Limit sugar and foods high in saturated fat.

Watch your portion sizes. You might not need as many calories as you used to.

What's happening?

With age, sexual needs and performance might change. Illness or medication might affect your ability to enjoy sex. For women, vaginal dryness can make sex uncomfortable. For men, impotence might become a concern. It might take longer to get an erection, and erections might not be as firm as they used to be.

What you can do

To promote your sexual health:

Share your needs and concerns with your partner. You might experiment with different positions or sexual activities.

Talk to your doctor. He or she might offer specific treatment suggestions — such as estrogen cream for vaginal dryness or perhaps oral medication to increase libido in women or oral medication for erectile dysfunction in men.

Remember, it's never too late to adopt a healthy lifestyle. You can't stop the aging process, but you might be able to minimize its impact by making healthy choices.

Always Out of Breath When Exercising? You Might Have Dyspnea

noreply@blogger.com (Gilman Jones) — Sun, 29 Oct 2017 07:24:00 +0000

Always Out of Breath When Exercising? You Might Have Dyspnea
If you find yourself gasping for air while exercising, you could be out of shape… or it could be a sign of something more serious.

If you have chronic shortness of breath while exerting yourself or exercising, it could be a condition called dyspnea.

What causes it?

Again Dyspnea is a shortness of breath on exertion. It can be driven by a lot of things. A lot of the time it's due to stiff hearts or diastolic dysfunction. Other times it's due to chronic lung disease; asthma, emphysema, bronchitis, etc. Obesity in particular can also contribute to it. Then sometimes, of course, it can be due to deconditioning.

However, most of the time we see a combination. People have problems with their heart and problems with their lungs and then become deconditioned, and then their shortness of breath begets more shortness of breath and begets more dyspnea. Therefore, in dyspnea when you have the chronic shortness of breath in the setting with exertion, there will be knock-on effects on your heart, on your lungs, on your waist, and also, incidentally actually, on your mood as well.

So it may be all of these things tie together . Dyspnea is more of a symptom.

It's what people describe or what they complain of. Ironing it out is not difficult, but it just takes time or takes testing to figure out what the cause is.

We need to try and rule out the things that will shorten our length of life, like coronary artery disease, valvular disease, pulmonary hypertension, and then once they have been ruled out then we re-focus on improving the quality of our life so that we are able to do more.

If your doctor does not use this approach here in the Philippines then perhaps it is best to take more control of your health care by requesting tests and actively guiding your doctor . It may seem a strange approach but this is YOUR health and YOUR quality of life that hangs in the balance…

You can use your knowledge to team with your doctor so that you will feel years younger and active again..

10 Essential Health Tips For Expat Seniors

noreply@blogger.com (Gilman Jones) — Sat, 28 Oct 2017 08:30:00 +0000

10 Essential Health Tips For Seniors

From baby boomers to senior boomers: 10 tips to keep you healthy and fit..In the last census baby boomers, those 65+, accounted for 13% of the population. This age group grew at a faster rate than the population under age 45, and it’s clear that the US is an aging population.

Happily, aging is the goal of every Expat but it will certainly be much different as an expat in the Philippines than it was for our parents and grandparents.
Today, there are more people living longer than at any other time in history. In fact, boomers from all progressive countries will hit record numbers by 2030. We need to become activists in promoting healthful behaviors for ourselves and try our best to remain active and healthy the rest of our lives, even in a 3^rd world country.

How to do it?

Doctors recommend these 10 easy health tips for seniors to live longer and thrive as seniors:

Quit smoking

Take this critical step to improve your health and combat aging. Smoking kills by causing cancer, strokes and heart failure. Smoking leads to erectile dysfunction in men due to atherosclerosis and to excessive wrinkling by attacking skin elasticity. Many resources are available to help you quit.

Keep active

Do something to keep fit each day-something you enjoy that maintains strength, balance and flexibility and promotes cardiovascular health. Physical activity helps you stay at a healthy weight, prevent or control illness, sleep better, reduce stress, avoid falls and look and feel better, too.

Eat well

Combined with physical activity, eating nutritious foods in the right amounts can help keep you healthy. Many illnesses, such as heart disease, obesity, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, and osteoporosis, can be prevented or controlled with dietary changes and exercise. Calcium and vitamin D supplements can help maintain strong bones and prevent osteoporosis.

Maintain a healthy weight

Extra weight increases your risk for heart disease, diabetes and high blood pressure. Use the Kaiser Permanente BMI (body mass index) calculator to find out what you should weigh for your height. Get to your healthy weight and stay there by eating right and keeping active. Replace sugary drinks with water…water is calorie free!

Prevent falls

We become vulnerable to falls as we age. Prevent falls and injury by removing loose carpet or throw rugs. Keep paths clear of electrical cords and clutter, and use night-lights in hallways and bathrooms. Did you know that people who walk barefoot fall more frequently? Wear shoes with good support to reduce the risk of falling.

Stay up-to-date on immunizations and other health screenings

By age 50, women should begin mammography screening for breast cancer. Men can be checked for prostate cancer. Many preventive screenings are available even in the Philippines.

Prevent skin cancer. As we age, our skin grows thinner; it becomes drier and less elastic. Wrinkles appear, and cuts and bruises take longer to heal. Be sure to protect your skin from the sun. Too much sun and ultraviolet rays can cause skin cancer. The sun is much stronger in the tropics.

Get regular dental, vision and hearing checkups

Your teeth and gums will last a lifetime if you care for them properly…that means daily brushing and flossing and getting regular dental checkups. By age 50, most people notice changes to their vision, including a gradual decline in the ability to see small print or focus on close objects. Common eye problems that can impair vision include cataracts and glaucoma. Hearing loss occurs commonly with aging, often due to exposure to loud noise.

Manage stress.

Try exercise or relaxation techniques…perhaps meditation or yoga…as a means of coping. Make time for friends and social contacts and fun. Successful coping can affect our health and how we feel. Learn the role of positive thinking.

Fan the flame. When it comes to sexual intimacy and aging, age is no reason to limit your sexual enjoyment. Learn about physical changes that come with aging and get suggestions to help you adjust to them, if necessary.

Prostate cancer - the second most common cancer among men.

noreply@blogger.com (Gilman Jones) — Tue, 14 Mar 2017 02:59:00 +0000

Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer among American men

Medically Reviewed by Robert Jasmer, MD

What Is Prostate Cancer?

Cancer is a disease characterized by the out-of-control growth of abnormal cells, which may invade healthy cells in the body.

As its name suggests, prostate cancer is one that starts in the prostate, a walnut-sized gland in men that's located below the bladder and in front of the rectum.

The prostate surrounds the urethra and produces prostate fluid, which is part of semen.

Prostate cancer often progress very slowly, though in some cases it can be quite aggressive.

In its early stages, it usually doesn't cause any symptoms.
However, there are numerous possible symptoms in the later stages of the disease, including urination issues, painful ejaculation, and constant pain in the back, hips, or pelvis.
Prevalence and Demographics

After skin cancer, prostate cancer is the most common cancer in American men, affecting one in seven men (about 14 percent), according to the American Cancer Society (ACS).

Though only one in 38 men will die from the disease, it's second only to lung cancer in terms of cancer deaths among men.

The ACS further estimates that there will be some 220,800 new cases of prostate cancer and about 27,540 prostate cancer deaths in the United States in 2015.

Prostate cancer doesn't affect all races and ethnicity equally.

In 2011, African-American men had the highest prevalence rates of prostate cancer, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

White men had the second highest prevalence rates of prostate cancer in 2011, followed by Hispanic, Asian and Pacific Islander, and finally, American Indian and Alaska Native men.

According to the CDC, African-American men were also the most likely to die from prostate cancer, followed by white, Hispanic, American Indian and Alaska Native, and Asian and Pacific Islander.

How Prostate Cancer Develops

Various genes oversee the life and death of cells.

For instance, oncogenes help direct the growth and division of cells, while tumor suppressor genes play a key role in keeping cell division in check and promoting apoptosis, or programmed cell death.

Changes or mutations in the DNA of prostate cells may alter the expression or behavior of these and other genes, causing the cells to stay alive longer than they should, and experience accelerated growth and division.

These abnormal cells accumulate to form a tumor, which can invade nearby tissue. The cancer cells can also spread to other parts of the body, or metastasize, causing cancer in other tissues.

Though there are several types of cells in the prostate, almost all prostate cancers develop from gland cells, which produce the prostate fluid.

It's unknown what, exactly, causes the DNA mutations in cells that can lead to prostate cancer.

However, scientists have identified risk factors for the disease.
Risk Factors

Aside from race (described above), there are numerous other risk factors for prostate cancer, most notably age and family history.

A man's risk of prostate cancer increases with age. The average age of prostate cancer diagnosis in the United State is 69, and more than 65 percent of all prostate cancer diagnoses occur in men over age 65, according to the Prostate Cancer Foundation (PCF).

Prostate cancer appears to run in families, suggesting a hereditary basis for some cancer development. Men are two to three times more likely to develop prostate cancer if they have fathers, brothers, or sons who have prostate cancer, according to the CDC.

Additionally, men who have mutations in eight specific genes — including BRCA1 and BRCA2, which are known to increase women's risk of breast and ovarian cancers — have an increased risk of advanced (aggressive) familial pancreatic cancer, according to a 2014 report in the British Journal of Cancer.

Other probable risk factors include obesity and a diet high in saturated fat.

Sources
What I need to know about Prostate Problems; National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse (NKUDIC).
How many men get prostate cancer?; American Cancer Society.
Prostate Cancer Rates by Race and Ethnicity; CDC.
What is prostate cancer?; American Cancer Society.
Do we know what causes prostate cancer?; American Cancer Society.
Leongamornlert et al. (2014). "Frequent germline deleterious mutations in DNA repair genes in familial prostate cancer cases are associated with advanced disease." British Journal of Cancer.
Prostate Cancer Risk Factors; Prostate Cancer Foundation.
Risk Factors for Prostate Cancer Development; National Cancer Institute.

Ringing in The Ears.. Common causes for Seniors

noreply@blogger.com (Gilman Jones) — Wed, 22 Feb 2017 11:23:00 +0000

Tinnitus is the medical term for a ringing or buzzing noise in the ears. Most people refer to tinnitus as “ringing in the ears.” However, you may hear more than just ringing. If you have tinnitus, you may also hear: roaring buzzing whistling hissing...

Here are some common reason for this to be happening to you. If this occurs and will not go away see your doctor.Tinnitus can be a warning sign..

Labrinthitis

What is labyrinthitis?

Highlights

Labyrinthitis is an inner ear disorder. It occurs when a vestibular nerve, important to spatial navigation and balance control, becomes inflamed.

Symptoms include dizziness, loss of balance, nausea, vomiting, tinnitus, and vertigo.

With proper treatment, most people find relief from symptoms within 1 to 3 weeks. And they usually achieve full recovery within 1 to 2 months.

Meniere's Disease

What Are the Symptoms of Meniere’s Disease?

Meniere’s disease symptoms tend to come on as “episodes” or “attacks.” Most people with Meniere’s disease don’t experience symptoms between episodes.

Symptoms of Meniere’s disease include:

-vertigo (attacks can last anywhere from a few minutes to 24 hours)

-loss of hearing in the affected ear

-tinnitus (a sensation of ringing) in the affected ear

-a feeling of fullness in the affected ear

-loss of balance

-headaches

-nausea, vomiting, and sweating caused by severe vertigo

Many of these symptoms can be caused by other problems in the ear. Someone with Meniere’s disease will experience at least two to three of the following symptoms at one time:

-vertigo

-hearing loss

-tinnitus

-aural fullness (a feeling that the ear is full or plugged)

Eardrum Rupture

What is an eardrum rupture?

Highlights

An eardrum rupture is a small hole or tear in your eardrum, or tympanic membrane.

Ear infections, pressure changes, and injury are common causes of eardrum ruptures.

A ruptured eardrum often heals without any invasive treatment, and it rarely leads to permanent hearing loss.

An eardrum rupture is a small hole or tear in your eardrum, or tympanic membrane. The tympanic membrane is a thin tissue that divides your middle ear and outer ear canal.

Earwax Overview

Earwax blockage (called cerumen impaction) can occur when your body produces too much earwax or when the existing wax pushes too far into your ear canal. In some cases, you may not be able to hear out of the affected ear, but this typically lasts only until you can have the excess wax removed. In most cases, home treatment works well, but a doctor can also help eliminate and unplug the earwax blockage.ax Blockage

Age-Related Hearing Loss

What Is Age-Related Hearing Loss?

As you age, you’ll experience a number of changes in the way your body functions. Hearing loss might be one of these changes.

Hearing loss due to aging is a common condition that impacts many older adults. Almost 1 in 2 adults over age 65 experience some degree of hearing loss.

Age-related hearing loss is also known as presbycusis. Although age-related hearing loss is not a life-threatening condition, it can have a significant impact on your quality of life if left untreated.

High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)

What is high blood pressure?

High blood pressure, or hypertension, occurs when your blood pressure increases to unhealthy levels. Your blood pressure measurement takes into account how quickly blood is passing through your veins and the amount of resistance the blood meets while it’s pumping.

Treatment for hypertension includes both prescription medication and healthy lifestyle changes. If the condition isn’t treated, it could lead to health issues, including heart attack and stroke.

TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint) Disorders

What Is TMJ?

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the joint that connects your mandible (lower jaw) to your skull. The joint can be found on both sides of your head in front of your ears. It allows your jaw to open and close, enabling you to speak and eat.

This abbreviation is also used to refer to a group of health problems related to your jaw. These disorders can cause tenderness at the joint, facial pain, and difficulty moving the joint. According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, as many as 10 million Americans suffer from TMJ. TMJ is more common among women than men. These disorders are treatable, but there are many different possible causes. This can make diagnosis difficult.

What Are the Symptoms of TMJ?

The symptoms of TMJ disorders depend on the severity and cause of your condition. The most common symptom of TMJ is pain in the jaw and surrounding muscles. Other symptoms typically associated with these disorders include:

-pain that can be felt in the face or neck

-stiffness in the muscles of the jaw

-limited movement of the jaw

-locking of the jaw

-clicking or popping sound from the TMJ site

-shift in the jaw, changing the way that the upper and lower teeth align (called malocclusion)

Bell's Palsy

What Is Bell’s Palsy?

Bell’s palsy is a condition that causes a temporary weakness or paralysis of the muscles in the face. It can occur when the nerve that controls your facial muscles becomes inflamed, swollen, or compressed.

The condition causes one side of your face to droop or become stiff. You may have difficulty smiling or closing your eye on the affected side. In most cases, Bell’s palsy is temporary and symptoms usually go away after a few weeks.

Although Bell’s palsy can occur at any age, the condition is more common among people between ages 16 and 60. Bell’s palsy is named after the Scottish anatomist Charles Bell, who was the first to describe the condition.

What Are the Symptoms of Bell’s Palsy?

Symptoms

The symptoms of Bell’s palsy can develop one to two weeks after you have a cold, ear infection, or eye infection. They usually appear abruptly, and you may notice them when you wake up in the morning or when you try to eat or drink.

Bell’s palsy is marked by a droopy appearance on one side of the face and the inability to open or close your eye on the affected side. In rare cases, Bell’s palsy may affect both sides of your face.

Other signs and symptoms of Bell’s palsy include:

-drooling

-difficulty eating and drinking

-an inability to make facial expressions, such as smiling or frowning

-facial weakness

-muscle twitches in the face

-dry eye and mouth

-a headache

-Sensitivity to sound

THE GILMAN JONES DAILY: Cataract surgery, The lens inside your eye- Phil H...

noreply@blogger.com (Gilman Jones) — Wed, 14 Dec 2016 12:20:00 +0000

THE GILMAN JONES DAILY: Cataract surgery, The lens inside your eye- Phil H...: I n cataract surgery, the lens inside your eye that has become cloudy is removed and replaced with an artificial lens (c...

THE GILMAN JONES DAILY: Cataract surgery, The lens inside your eye- Phil H...

noreply@blogger.com (Gilman Jones) — Wed, 14 Dec 2016 12:20:00 +0000

Drone delivers transfusion blood intact

noreply@blogger.com (Gilman Jones) — Fri, 09 Dec 2016 06:39:00 +0000

Thursday, December 8, 2016

In findings announced yesterday, scientists from John's Hopkins University took ordinary commercial drones, swapped out their cameras for coolers and packed them with human plasma, platelets and blood cells. The drones were found to deliver their cargo in usable condition after flights lasting almost half an hour, at distances of up to 12 miles.

"For rural areas that lack access to nearby clinics, or that may lack the infrastructure for collecting blood products or transporting them on their own, drones can provide that access," says pathologist and lead author of the paper Dr. Timothy Amukele.

Although earlier studies have confirmed that drone flights do not affect the useful properties or microbe populations of human blood products, those experiments were performed on small, vial-sized samples. Here, the drones carried much larger quantities of blood, in the proportions and packaging that doctors and medical technicians would actually use on patients, with units purchased directly from the American Red Cross. Unlike Rwanda's medical delivery drones, which were custom-made for blood product delivery by Zipline, these experiments were completed with regular, commercially available S900-model machines with minimal modification.

Post-flight, the samples were tested for cell rupture, changes in pH, air bubbles and other damage that might indicate that the packages had thawed out or otherwise become unsuitable for use in transfusions. The samples were found to have arrived intact.

Although the test was performed in an unpopulated area, it is speculated that drones might be useful not only for delivery of blood products to rural medical facilities but also for distributing blood resources through urban areas. John's Hopkins pathologist and research team leader Dr. Timothy Armukele speculates that emergency medical teams may one day be able to transfuse patients on the spot by calling for a drone to bring blood of the appropriate type.

The details of the experiment have been published in the latest issue of Transfusion.

Sources:

Press Release. "Study shows blood products unaffected by drone trips" — Johns Hopkins Medicine, December 7, 2016

Kelsey D. Atherton. "Good news: It's safe to use drones to fly blood around" — Popular Science, December 7, 2016

Timothy Armukele, Paul M. Ness, Aaron A.M. Tobian, Joan Boyd, and Jeff Street. "Drone transportation of blood products" — Transfusion, November 11, 2016

Amar Toor. "Country launches world's first national drone delivery service with help from a Silicon Valley startup" — The Verge, October 13, 2016

Timothy K. Amukele, Jeff Street, Karen Carroll, Heather Miller, and Sean X. Zhang. "Drone Transport of Microbes in Blood and Sputum Laboratory Specimens" — Journal of Clinical Microbiology, August 17, 2016

Pushing Bionic Limits at the Cyborg Olympics

noreply@blogger.com (Gilman Jones) — Sat, 19 Nov 2016 05:48:00 +0000

Pushing Bionic Limits at the Cyborg Olympics

Disabled competitors gather to show off, and help improve, the latest in assistive technology.

Sixty-six teams of competitors from countries all around the world converged on Zurich, Switzerland, for what’s been called the first cyborg Olympics. But “Cybathlon” is much more than just a series of games—it’s a more like a super trade-show for assistive technology, where cutting edge creations that help humans grapple with disability can be displayed, and ideas exchanged about how to improve them.

People who have been robotically enhanced are paired with researchers including roboticists and neurologists. Competitors with similar disabilities compete in Olympic-style races where the fastest time wins: One arm prosthetic race included household chores like hanging clothes and cutting bread.

The researchers use the experiences of disabled competitors to explore the limitations of current technology in an effort to develop and commercialize the unique devices being used in the games.

Inflammation and Autoimmune Disease...The Truth of the Situation is that FOOD MATTERS

noreply@blogger.com (Gilman Jones) — Sat, 29 Oct 2016 07:13:00 +0000

Carlsvilleproject Health

Inflammation and Autoimmune Disease

The truth of the situation is that FOOD MATTERS. That's right, it's not just a movie (which by the way you should all watch!). Hyper-permeability of the gut, regardless of whether you can feel it or not is often a significant cause of an extremely long and ever growing list of conditions. The inflammatory cascade that takes place by any inflammatory trigger (diet, medications, infections, stress, hormonal, neurological, or metabolic) can break down the intestinal permeability and allows for the leaky gut mechanism to initiate.

Due to the variety of triggers, it is often possible to reduce an individual's immune reactivity but not cure it if leaky gut is not the primary trigger for the inflammatory process. There are multiple models of autoimmunity although it is becoming more well accepted that once you develop autoimmunity you will have increased Intestinal Permeability also.

Autoimmunity can be put into remission and this can have profound improved life consequences but it can also be turned on again if life circumstances change. It is considered "Incurable". You may be able to change the expression of it but to think that you are going to be able to take a boat load of supplements and change your diet and cure the condition you are generally going to be let down.

Waxing and waning responses are par for autoimmunity. When stress picks up despite dietary intake a person will be expected to flare up. This inflammation is initiated by increased levels of iNOS (inducible nitric oxide) which causes an immediate increase in intestinal permeability much like elevated cortisol levels from stress. Once this occurs serum protein particles leak through and become extremely reactive. Gluten is an extremely common serum protein in a situation of increased permeability simply due to the commonality of daily exposure.

If you take on too many projects, eat poorly, have limited or poor sleep patterns, then you can bet that intestinal permeability will increase and food will start to leak through.

Your immune system will then begin to recognize these proteins as other similar proteins like cerebellum, thyroid, etc... When that occurs you will experience symptoms that generally are far removed from what someone would consider to be food related since they are not felt in the gut. Instead you experience brain fog, pain, fatigue, poor sleep, anxiety, or endocrine dysfunction. When antibodies combine with our structural proteins, specific genes are turned on in a special type of immune cell in the body. Inflammatory chemicals are created called cytokines, which are strongly damaging to brain function. In fact, elevated cytokines are seen in such devastating conditions as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis and even autism.

You see, autoimmune disease is not clinically diagnosed until you have tissue destruction. For some neurodegenerative conditions, you need up to 70 percent demyelination (nerve damage) before it will show on an MRI. You cannot afford to wait for that type of advanced destruction before taking action.

If you are symptomatic in any way and show to have antibodies or test positive on any of the tests listed above, you have Autoimmune Reactivity and that is enough to take action and make life changes to potentially stop the process from continuing. Inflammation can be a great friend in this sense. Look at it as an early warning sign and take action before it turns into a fire that rages out of control from one body tissue to another.

The Best Foods For Men's Healthy Living in The Philippines

noreply@blogger.com (Gilman Jones) — Mon, 03 Oct 2016 11:15:00 +0000

If you want to know the secret to keeping your doctor’s visits at a minimum, look to your kitchen. Unfortunately, as men get older, their chances of developing health problems such as high blood pressure, heart disease, high blood sugar, diabetes, and prostate cancer increase. None of those conditions are inevitable, of course, but lifestyle habits — particularly how you eat — can make a huge difference in how healthy you remain.

You can reduce the risk of these conditions by improving your diet, focusing on foods that have been shown to boost health and reduce the likelihood of a scary diagnosis.

Here are seven of the best foods men over age 50 should add to their diets, and why. If you aren’t already eating these items, there's no need to fret over what to do with them: We've got tips on how to painlessly include them.

Mushrooms

Mushrooms ''beef up'' dishes — even vegetarian fare — by giving them a meatier taste that many men like, says Leslie Bonci, RDN, director of sports nutrition at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center's Sports Medicine center and a sports dietitian for the university's athletics department. They only have about 20 calories per cup and contain potassium, which is helpful in offsetting the effects of sodium and in lowering blood pressure, according to the American Heart Association.

Add them to your diet: "Throw some on a salad, chop them up for chili, or grill them," Bonci says. Or try these barbecued portobello mushrooms the next time you grill.

Tart Cherries (We need to substitute in the Philippines)

Tart cherries can work as an anti-inflammatory agent, Bonci says. In her work consulting with sports teams, she often recommends that athletes drink tart cherry juice to reduce inflammation from vigorous training.

Cherries are very good but you can't get them in the Philippines.. For an inflammatory agent in your diet use Turmeric in your daily cooking . You can also take Turmeric by capsule. I get them at the local church where the nun prepare it.. About 4p per capsule...

Eggs

''As men age, their muscle mass decreases," says Jim White, RDN, a spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and a personal trainer in Virginia Beach, Virginia.

"Eggs are a great source of protein," he says, and that can help with the dwindling muscle mass. Although the pendulum has swung back and forth on the healthfulness of eggs, most experts see a role for them in our diet. Eggs also have lutein, which may reduce the risk of the macular degeneration, an eye condition that can cause blindness.

Add them to your diet: Enjoy eggs for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. These nine ways to cook an egg can help you fit them into your day.

Berries

Berries may reduce the risk of cancer, says Deepak Talreja, MD, a cardiologist at Eastern Virginia University Medical School in Norfolk.

Hard to impossible to get fresh berries but frozen you can buy and has all of the antioxidants present..

Also you can get berries in yorgurt here in the Philippines...

Research is ongoing, but some studies have found that blueberries, for instance, inhibit inflammation, which may decrease the risk of some cancers. A research review examining the anti-cancer properties of blueberries, published in the October 2013 issue of Anticancer Agents in Medicinal Chemistry, concluded that the little blue orbs might help inhibit the growth of cancer cells.

Blueberries aren’t the only berries that might help fight cancer. A diet that includes freeze-dried black raspberries and strawberries inhibited esophageal cancer by 30 to 70 percent and colon cancer by 80 percent, according to studies on rats done at the Medical College of Wisconsin Cancer Center in Milwaukee. Whether humans would experience the same anti-cancer benefits has yet to be proven.

Add them to your diet: Simply put, you can snack on berries straight. They're also easy to add to salads, yogurt, or hot cereals.

Kefir

Gut microbiota — the bacteria in our intestines — have recently garnered a lot of attention from the scientific community. It turns out that they might be key for good health, as they've been linked to how our immune system functions, how we absorb nutrients, and even how we regulate mood.

Kefir is fermented milk with prebiotics and probiotics that can help promote healthy gut microbiota. Probiotics are good bacteria, and prebiotics are the food ingredients that feed them. So kefir is a symbiotic gut health food, meaning it contains both the bacteria and the bacteria's food source. Kefir may help ward off GI problems that can occur later in life, White says. In addition, scientists have found that kefir helps reduce inflammation in the guts of mice and reduces blood sugar levels in patients with diabetes.

The difference between Kefer and Yogurt is this:

Milk Kefir

The bacteria in milk kefir, on the other hand, can actually colonize the intestinal tract. Kefir also contains a far larger range of bacteria, in addition to containing yeasts.

Yogurt

The beneficial bacteria found in yogurt help keep the digestive tract clean and provide food for the friendly bacteria found in a healthy gut. They pass through the digestive tract and are called transient bacteria.

Add it to your diet: Kefir is sometimes referred to as the yogurt you drink. "Having a serving of kefir a day would be great," White says. You can use it like you do milk by drinking it plain, adding it to cereal, or using it in smoothies.

Avocado

Like you needed a new reason to indulge in guacamole: Avocados are loaded with heart-healthy monounsaturated fats that may help keep cholesterol levels low. And that's something that men need as they age, White says. One medium California avocado has about 230 calories, but it also has about 10 grams (g) of fiber and about 20 g of fat. Plus, avocados have also been linked to weight loss and lower levels of inflammation.

Add them to your diet: Like many of the foods on this list, avocados are easily added to dishes that you already love, like burgers, omelets, salads, sandwiches, and tacos.

Beans

These little spheres of protein carry lots of blood benefits that may help keep heart disease and diabetes at bay. A scientific review of 26 clinical trials published in May 2014 in the Canadian Medical Association Journal found that eating 3/4 of a cup of beans daily could lower LDL (bad) cholesterol levels by 5 percent. And that, of course, can reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke.

But that isn’t the only way beans can help your blood profile. When people with type 2 diabetes consumed 1 cup of beans daily over the course of three months, they had lower blood pressure and blood sugar levels, according to a study published in October 2012 the Archives of Internal Medicine.

Add them to your diet: A cup of cooked kidney beans has approximately 225 calories, 15 g of protein, 13 g of fiber, and 1 g of fat. This makes them a great addition to salads or a filling for tacos or burritos. Also rice and beans make a perfect protein...

Eat well..Stay healthy

Forget What You've Heard About Grumpy Old Men

noreply@blogger.com (Gilman Jones) — Tue, 13 Sep 2016 01:13:00 +0000

Forget What You've Heard About Grumpy Old Men

Carlsvilleproject Health

Expat World-Tagum

By J. Dalessio & C. Gilman Jones

After middle age, adults actually grow happier as they get older, despite the fact that their physical quality of life may decline. Here's the bright side of going over the hill.

Turns out the number of candles on your last birthday cake may not influence your disposition the way you might think. Instead of turning adults into grumps, growing older actually makes many of them happier.

By definition, development is a process of adaptation and successful development demands that people learn from experience, understand contingencies in their environments, approach rewarding situations, and avoid punishing ones. As a consequence, knowledge (or expertise) determines future actions, which are increasingly effective within relevant environments.

This is particularly true with expats. Most, although not all, come to the Philippines for example, with an entire life of experience behind them. Even though there is an expected adjustment period, our wide life experience actually contributes to having a happier life. It looks like our senior years can be the best ever.

Researchers from the University of Warwick, in the United Kingdom , found that disposition improves after middle age, despite declining physical ability. Good news for some of us is that being overweight or obese doesn’t appear to make people any less happy, either.

Acceptance, wisdom, and awareness seem to come to the fore and play a larger part in our lives, despite adversity. Have you found yourself generally to be more tolerant than when you were young?

A study done at the Warwick Medical School showed that heightened happiness may have something to do with better coping abilities among seniors. Makes perfect sense and would actually help us, as expats, adjust more completely to a new life….

Older people are better at dealing with life’s crises than those who are younger, a fact that was supported by a University research team. Then again, older people might just be better at letting things go.

Increased happiness could also be due to a lowering of expectations from life, with older people less likely to put pressure on themselves in the personal and professional spheres. Having the wisdom to prioritize in life; what is really important and what is actually not so important at all…

It sounds like seniors may be more “chill” than twenty-somethings.

Finally, the researchers found that those who slept between six and eight hours per day tended to score better, both physically and mentally, than those who caught less or more ZZZs.

Those of us who haven’t yet reached our happiness peaks should take a lesson from our older, wiser, and scientifically proven happier elders: Give yourself a break and get to bed early tonight.

Do you think you’ve gotten happier with age? Tell us in the comments section below!

Heart Health.. Bundle Branch Block

noreply@blogger.com (Gilman Jones) — Thu, 08 Sep 2016 23:26:00 +0000

Bundle Branch Block

Sometimes part of the heart's conduction system is "blocked." If an impulse is blocked as it travels through the bundle branches, you are said to have bundle branch block.

For the left and right ventricles to contract at the same time, an electrical impulse must travel down the right and left bundle branches at the same speed. If there is a block in one of these branches, the electrical impulse must travel to the ventricle by a different route. When this happens, the rate and rhythm of your heartbeat are not affected, but the impulse is slowed. Your ventricle will still contract, but it will take longer because of the slowed impulse. This slowed impulse causes one ventricle to contract a fraction of a second slower than the other.

The medical terms for bundle branch block are derived from which branch is affected. If the block is located in the right bundle branch, it is called right bundle branch block. If the block is located in the left bundle branch, it is called left bundle branch block.

What causes bundle branch block?

The block can be caused by coronary artery disease, cardiomyopathy, or valve disease. Right bundle branch block may also occur in a healthy heart.

What are the symptoms?

If there is nothing else wrong with your heart, you probably will not feel any symptoms of bundle branch block. In fact, some people may have bundle branch block for years and never know they have the condition. In people who do have symptoms, they may faint (syncope) or feel as if they are going to faint (presyncope).

So why should we worry about bundle branch block? Because it can be a warning sign of other, more serious heart conditions. For example, it might mean that a small part of your heart is not getting enough oxygen-rich blood. Also, researchers have found that people who have left bundle branch block may be at greater risk for heart disease than are people who do not have the condition.

How is bundle branch block diagnosed?

Your heart has a natural "pacemaker" called the sinoatrial (SA) node which sends an electrical impulse throughout your heart to cause it to beat (contract). That electrical impulse from the SA node first travels through the heart's upper chambers (the atria). It then passes through a small group of cells called the atrioventricular (AV) node. The AV node checks the impulse and sends it along a track called the bundle of His. The bundle of His divides into a right bundle branch and a left bundle branch, which lead to your heart's lower chambers (the ventricles).

Doctors can use an electrocardiogram (EKG or ECG) to record the electrical impulses of your heart. The electrical patterns can show bundle branch block and whether the block is located in the right or left bundle branch.

How is bundle branch block treated?

In most cases, bundle branch block does not need treatment. But patients who have bundle branch block along with another heart condition may need treatment. For example, if bundle branch block develops during a heart attack, you may need a pacemaker. After a heart attack, your heart is fragile, and bundle branch block may cause a very slow heart rhythm (bradycardia). A pacemaker helps regulate the heart's rhythm.

For patients with both bundle branch block and dilated cardiomyopathy, a new type of pacing called cardiac resynchronization treatment (CRT) may be used. Normally, pacemakers pace only one of the lower heart chambers (the ventricles) at a time. But CRT re-coordinates the beating of the two ventricles by pacing them at the same time.

Even if you do not have other conditions, you should still see your doctor regularly so that he or she can be sure there are no other changes in your heart.

Healthy Lifestyles For Seniors- by Expat World-Tagum

noreply@blogger.com (Gilman Jones) — Sun, 28 Aug 2016 04:31:00 +0000

Wise health decisions can make for a longer and happier life

Protect Your DNA

As you age, the ends of your chromosomes -- called telomeres -- become shorter. This makes you more likely to get sick. But lifestyle changes can boost an enzyme that increases their length. Plus, studies show diet and exercise can protect them. The bottom line: Healthy habits may slow aging at the cellular level.

An 80-year study found that people who are conscientious -- meaning they pay attention to detail, think things through, and try to do what's right -- live longer. They do more things to protect their health and make choices that lead to stronger relationships and better careers.

Make Friends

Here's one more reason to be grateful for your friends -- they might help you live longer. Australian researchers found elderly social butterflies were less likely to die over a 10-year period compared to people with the fewest friends. A look at results from 148 more studies shows a clear link between social ties and a long life.

Choose Your Friends Wisely

Your friends’ habits rub off on you, so look for buddies with healthy lifestyles. Your chances of becoming obese go up if you have a friend who adds extra pounds. Smoking also spreads through social ties, but the good news is that quitting is also contagious.

Embrace the Siesta

A siesta is standard in many parts of the world, and now there's scientific evidence that napping may help you live longer. A study that involved 24,000 people suggests those who have a regular snooze are 37% less likely to die from heart disease than those who rarely steal a few winks. Researchers think naps might help your heart by keeping stress hormones down.

Follow a Mediterranean Diet

The Mediterranean diet is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, olive oil, and fish. An analysis of 50 studies involving more than half a million people confirms the benefits. It can put a serious dent in your risk of metabolic syndrome -- a mix of obesity, high blood sugar, increased blood pressure, and other factors that make you more likely to get heart disease and diabetes.

Get Hitched

Married people tend to outlive their single friends. Researchers say it's due to the social and economic support that wedded bliss provides. While a current union offers the greatest benefit, people who are divorced or widowed have lower death rates than those who've never tied the knot.

Lose Weight

If you're overweight, slimming down can protect against diabetes, heart disease, and other conditions that take years off your life. Belly fat is bad for you, so focus on deflating that spare tire. A 5-year study of Hispanics and African-Americans suggests eating more fiber and exercising regularly are great ways to whittle your middle.

Keep Moving

The evidence is clear -- people who exercise live longer on average than those who don't. Dozens of studies show that regular physical activity lowers your risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, some forms of cancer, and depression. It may even help you stay mentally sharp in into old age. Ten-minute spurts are fine, as long as they add up to about 2.5 hours of moderate exercise per week.

Drink in Moderation

Heart disease is less common in moderate drinkers than in people who don't drink at all. On the other hand, too much alcohol pads the belly, boosts blood pressure, and can cause a host of other health problems. If you drink alcohol, the limit should be one drink a day for women and one or two for men. But if you don't drink, don't start. There are better ways to protect your heart!

Forgive

Letting go of grudges has surprising physical health benefits. Chronic anger is linked to decreased lung function, heart disease, stroke, and other ailments. Forgiveness will reduce anxiety, lower blood pressure, and help you breathe more easily. These benefits tend to increase as you get older.

Use Safety Gear

Accidents are the fifth most common cause of death in the U.S., and the top cause of death for people ages 1 to 24. Wearing safety gear is a simple way to boost your odds of a long life. For example, seatbelts reduce the chances of death or serious injury in a car wreck by 50%. Most deaths from bike accidents are caused by head injuries, so always wear a helmet.

Make Sleep a Priority

Getting enough good quality sleep can lower your risk of obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and mood disorders. It'll also help you recover from illness faster. Burning the midnight oil, on the other hand, is bad for you. Snooze for less than 5 hours a night and you might boost your chances of dying early, so make sleep a priority.

Manage Stress

You'll never completely avoid stress, but you can learn good ways to control it. Try yoga, meditation, or deep breathing. Even a few minutes a day can make a difference.

Maintain a Sense of Purpose

Hobbies and activities that have meaning for you may lengthen your life. Japanese researchers found men with a strong sense of purpose were less likely to die from stroke, heart disease, or other causes over a 13-year period compared to those who were less sure of themselves. Being clear about what you're doing and why can also lower your changes of getting Alzheimer’s disease.

Be happy be healthy

Salt and Your Health

noreply@blogger.com (Gilman Jones) — Wed, 10 Aug 2016 02:58:00 +0000

While it is common knowledge that excessive salt is bad for you many do not understand the physiology of it . We have distilled some very relevant information here that we hope is helpful for you.

We can note that salt and sodium are not the same. Salt is made up of sodium and chlorine (chemical name: "sodium chloride"). But there are other forms of sodium in food, including baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) and food additives, such as monosodium glutamate (MSG), sodium nitrite, and sodium benzoate. Any form of sodium adds to your intake, but salt makes up about 90% of the sodium you get.

Second.. sodium isn't all bad. It is used to bind and stabilize ingredients and as a preservative, flavor enhancer, and color enhancer.

The human body needs some sodium to work right. Sodium helps control your blood pressure, blood volume, and the balance of other fluids in your body. It also helps with your nerves and muscles.

But your body needs only 180 mg to 500 mg a day. That's less than the amount in 1/4 teaspoon of salt.

In an average diet only about 6% of our daily sodium comes from salt added at the table. About 5% comes from salt added during cooking. Only 12% is from foods with natural sources of sodium while up to an estimated 75% comes from processed or restaurant foods. The easiest way to cut down on sodium is to eat more home-cooked meals made from fresh ingredients.

By far, the biggest health problem caused by a high-salt diet is high blood pressure. On average, the more salt you get, the more likely you are to have high blood pressure. High blood pressure raises your risk for stroke, kidney problems, heart failure, blindness, and heart attacks.

You can help counter the bad effects of a high-salt diet with physical activity. Studies show that the more active you are, the less your blood pressure rises from a high-salt diet. So if you are not active, you need to be even more careful about eating less salt.

Too much salt can have bad effects on the heart, kidneys, and blood vessels. According to the CDC, too much sodium can raise your risk of having heart attack or a stroke.

The American Heart Association says adults should limit their sodium to less than 1,500 mg per day. That's equal to about 2/3 of a teaspoon of salt. On average, Americans get more than 3,400 mg of sodium per day, or the amount in about 1 1/2 teaspoons of salt.

Certain people are more prone to high blood pressure or at risk from its effects. For these groups -- including people 51 or older, African-Americans, and people who have high blood pressure, diabetes, or chronic kidney disease --1,500 mg per day is the recommended maximum amount of sodium. Some people may need to get even less.

Men eat more sodium than women, mainly because they eat more food. On average, men eat between 3,100 mg and 4,700 mg of sodium per day; women eat between 2,300 mg and 3,100 mg. Dietary guidelines also recommend 2,300 mg for healthy people age 2 to 50.

It can take a while to adjust to a low-salt diet. Salt is an acquired taste, but most of us acquired it as children. As adults, after years of eating overly salted foods, we have to make a big effort to changing our tastes. Experts say it takes about 8 to 12 weeks.

Table salt, sea salt, and kosher salt are all the same thing: sodium chloride. And they all have the same sodium content (40%). The differences are primarily in texture and taste.

Table salt is made from rock salt harvested from inland deposits (with iodine sometimes added as an extra nutrient). Kosher salt is made from similar sources, but it's usually additive-free and has a coarser texture. Sea salt, as its name suggests, is harvested from evaporated seawater. Consequently, it has a slightly different flavor. In the end, though, they all contribute equally to your total sodium consumption.

Food labeling rules allow up to 5 mg per serving in a product labeled "sodium-free." Products labeled "very low-sodium” are allowed to have up to 35 mg per serving. "Low-sodium" means 140 mg or less. "Reduced sodium" means the usual sodium level has been cut by at least 25%. "Unsalted," "without added salt," and “no salt added” mean that it contains no extra salt beyond the amount that occurs naturally in the food..

Adjust your salt intake to improve your overall health… An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.

C. Gilman Jones

The Connection Between Sleep Difficulties and GERD for Seniors

noreply@blogger.com (Gilman Jones) — Fri, 13 May 2016 01:08:00 +0000

Could Acid Reflux Result in Sleep Apnea?

Gastroesophageal reflux and sleep problems go hand in hand. Millions of affected people who have been diagnosed with GERD report worse symptoms at night, and three in four say they routinely wake up from sleep because of them. GERD affects more than many people with heartburn symptoms.

This association between GERD and sleep disorders make sense because when you're awake, gravity helps keep acids needed to digest food down where they belongs -- in the stomach. But when you're lying down, these acids can leak back into the esophagus, damaging its lining and significantly boosting the risk of esophageal cancer.

Here in Philippines there are tropical fruits that will help controlling the symptoms of GERD. Another advantage is that you may actually sleep better as well

While pineapple should be considered one of the most acidic fruits on the planet, it is actually very good for your acid reflux. The reason for this is that it contains bromelain, which is excellent to help your digestion, reduce your acid reflex, and calm your stomach down.

Fresh Papaya is readily available here and this tropical fruit is highly recommended by doctors, as it contains papain.

This enzyme found in papayas improves your digestion and helps to handle the absorption of protein in your body. It can help to reduce your acid reflux, improve your digestion, and bring peace to your stomach.

Some researchers believe that obstructive sleep apnea results in airway pressure changes that can cause reflux to occur, yet other researchers believe that the reflux of acids may result in spasms of the vocal cords that can then lead to sleep apnea.

With sleep apnea, people tend to breathe harder because their breathing has stopped, and that could induce reflux to flow into the esophagus

But so far, it's largely a chicken-and-egg question: Does sleep apnea cause acid reflux, or does this reflux cause sleep apnea by pooling in the esophagus and making it harder to breathe?

News for millions of people with GERD, which is most common after middle age, when the valve at the bottom of the esophagus weakens making acid more likely to flow upward, is that the risks for GERD are similar to those for obstructive sleep apnea, and obesity, which is controllable, is one reason people develop GERD.

Obstructive sleep apnea is also more common after middle age, especially in obese people. It is caused by relaxation of tissues in the neck, resulting in a temporary obstruction of the air passages. A person with sleep apnea may have as many as 50 or more episodes of breathing stoppage in a single night, raising their risk of high blood pressure and heart attack.

Preliminary study results do show what researchers have long suspected: reflux does cause people to wake up from sleep. Yet it may be a reflux of other back-flowing liquids and not just stomach acids.

Remember, many people with obstructive sleep apnea have no symptoms of heartburn.. What we will be doing, as physicians, is to evaluate whether these patients are having more esophageal injuries than are expected. It may turn out that if you have obstructive sleep apnea, you need to be examined for reflux -- even if you have no symptoms of GERD. If you are diagnosed with sleep apnea and your doctor does not associate it with GERD then ask him/her for an evaluation.

Psoriatic Disease and the Autoimmune Connection

noreply@blogger.com (Gilman Jones) — Tue, 29 Mar 2016 07:11:00 +0000

What is an autoimmune disease?

Researchers agree that psoriatic disease is an autoimmune disease. That means that psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis are actually caused by an overactive immune system. But how can your immune system—which is built to keep you healthy—actually cause an illness? The explanation can be found in the word itself. Autoimmunity occurs when the immune system automatically launches an inflammatory response against your own body.

When the immune system functions properly, it protects the body against any “invaders” that might make you sick, such as bacteria, viruses or other pathogens. But in people with psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis, the immune system goes into action even without these invaders. Instead, the immune system fights the body’s own tissues. In psoriatic disease, this battle is waged in the skin and joints.

Researchers who study psoriatic disease are still working to identify the substances inside the body that the immune response mistakes for antigens. One possibility could be certain kinds of bacteria. For example, in some cases, streptococcal infection (known as strep throat) can trigger a case of guttate psoriasis. Another possible antigen could be antimicrobial peptides, molecules that are a part of the immune system and work as the body’s own antibiotics. Research funded by the National Psoriasis Foundation found that a particular antimicrobial peptide can cause an autoimmune reaction in many people with moderate to severe psoriasis.

The role of inflammation

Inflammation is one of the weapons used by the immune system to fight an invader. For example, when you catch a virus or develop a bacterial infection, a type of immune cell called a T cell springs into action. When T cells recognize something as an invader – also called an antigen—T cells begin an inflammatory attack against the invader.

This attack is carried out by cytokines, which are proteins that help control the immune system’s inflammatory response. Cytokines trigger inflammation, causing the blood vessels to expand and send more immune cells to different parts of the body. In psoriasis, this inflammation happens in the skin, leading to the red, itchy and scaly patches known as plaques. In psoriatic arthritis, this inflammation happens inside the body, leading to swollen and painful joints and tendons.

Treating the immune system

The immune system is not only the key to what causes psoriatic disease—it may be the key to treating it, too. In 1979, researchers discovered on accident that a drug called cyclosporine that suppresses the immune system also clears psoriasis. This offered one of the first clues that psoriasis was actually an autoimmune disease. Since then, many effective treatments directed toward the immune system have been developed for psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis.

Methotrexate, another systemic drug that suppresses the immune system, is often used to treat psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. Newer drugs called biologics affect certain parts of the immune system to treat psoriatic disease.

What's next?

Scientists are continuing to study the complex relationship between the immune system and psoriatic disease. Researchers are working to identify the antigens that trigger the autoimmune response in psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis, to better understand the role played by different kinds of immune cells in psoriatic disease, and develop new therapies that target cytokines or other parts of the immune system.

Under The Filipino Sun ~ An Expat's Need For Hydration..

noreply@blogger.com (Gilman Jones) — Sun, 28 Feb 2016 06:44:00 +0000

Physiologically western bodies will never be the same as our Asian counterparts.
Paying special attention to a climate adjustment is a wise thing
especially maintaining adequate hydration.

Stay Slimmer With Water

For those of you battling with a bit of a weight problem , surprisingly , water can help. Water revs up metabolism and helps you feel full. This can actually help you loose weight.

Replace calorie-filled beverages with water, and drink a glass before meals to help you feel fuller.

Drinking more water helps amp up metabolism - especially if your glass is icy cold. Your body must work to warm the water up, burning a few extra calories in the process.

Water Boosts Your Energy

If you're feeling drained and depleted, get a pick-me-up with water. Dehydration makes you feel tired.

The right amount of water will help your heart pump your blood more effectively.

And water can help your blood transport oxygen and other essential nutrients to your cells

Lower Stress With Water

About 70% to 80% of your brain tissue is water. If you're dehydrated, your body and your mind are stressed.

If you're feeling thirsty, you're already a little dehydrated.

To keep stress levels down, keep a glass of water at your desk or carry a sports bottle and sip regularly.

Build Muscle Tone With Water

Drinking water helps prevent muscle cramping and lubricates joints in the body.

When you're well hydrated, you can engage in your daily activities easier because you will feel stronger .

Nourish Your Skin

Fine lines and wrinkles are deeper when you're dehydrated. Water is nature's own beauty cream.

Drinking water hydrates skin cells and plumps them up, making your face look younger.

It also flushes out impurities and improves circulation and blood flow, helping your skin glow.

Stay Regular With Water

Along with fiber, water is important for good digestion.

Water helps dissolve waste particles and passes them smoothly through your digestive tract.

If you're dehydrated, your body absorbs all the water, leaving your colon dry and making it more difficult to pass waste.

Water Reduces Kidney Stones

The rate of painful kidney stones is rising. One of the reasons could be because people -- including children -- aren't drinking enough water.

Water dilutes the salts and minerals in your urine that form the solid crystals known as kidney stones.

Kidney stones can't form in diluted urine, so reduce your risk with plenty of water!

Dehydration and loss of electrolytes

When you sweat your body loses both fluid and electrolytes. If you don’t stay properly hydrated, especially in a tropical climate like the Philippines . Staying properly hydrated, particularly during periods of activity, is of particular importance.

Dehydration will impact your performance in several negative ways . Perhaps you’ve even experienced extreme consequences such as muscle cramps and fatigue dizziness etc. But even if you don’t feel a difference, as little as 2% dehydration can result in a decrease in performance, even if it is only light gardening.

Remember that the sun in the Philippines is very strong which means that expats from cooler climates will tend to sweat more and become dehydrated faster than normal. Thirst is the #1 indicator that you may be dehydrated so be sure that you drink especially when you are thirsty..

Good ways to replenish electrolytes are via quality sports drinks which will help to replenish your mineral losses; but electrolytes also help make the most of your water, which is the key to proper hydration. Sports drinks high in sodium, potassium, magnesium, and calcium can help retain fluids, and proper fluid balance contributes to an optimal, healthy state of hydration.