General Medicine

Mariner Energy shares fall after platform explodes

2010-09-02T12:23:00.000-07:00

Shares of Mariner Energy tumbled Thursday after an explosion in one of the company's production platforms in the Gulf of Mexico.

The explosion, on Mariner's Vermilion Oil platform 380, took place at least 80 miles south of Vermilion Bay on the Louisiana coast, according to John Edwards, chief petty officer of the U.S. Coast Guard in New Orleans.

7digg Mariner Energy said that all 13 members of the crew were evacuated safely from the fire. There were no injuries and no evidence of a spill, the company said.

"The cause is not known and an investigation will be undertaken," said the company, in a press release.

Shares of Mariner Energy (ME) fell more than 4%, partially recovering from its initial plunge of 5%.

The Coast Guard said the platform is in 340 feet of water. The workers started emergency shut down procedures before abandoning the platform, which does not have a blowout preventer, according to the Coast Guard.

The Coast Guard initially said that the platform was in production at the time of the accident, but then retracted that statement due to conflicting information.

A faulty blowout preventer has been blamed for the devastating spill from the BP (BP)-controlled platform that killed 11 workers in April, also in the Gulf of Mexico.

Neal Dingmann, analyst for Wunderlich Securities, said that the occurrence of two high-profile platform accidents within a few months of each other is rare. The likely outcome will be a more tightly regulated industry.

"Although this incident is very different from Macondo [the well operated by BP,] I think the government will continue to look at this and will add more rules and regulations," he said.

In April, Mariner Energy announced that it had formed a merger with another oil exploration company, Apache Corp. (APA, Fortune 500) The stock price for Apache slipped more than 1% in afternoon trading.

Mariner Energy would still be considered the operator of the platform because the merger isn't scheduled to be completed for several weeks, according to Apache spokesman Bob Dye.

A production platform is built after the drilling of an oil or gas well. The platform often remains in operation for years, pumping pressure down the hole to keep the well flowing.

Nicholas Pope, an analyst for the investment bank Dahlman Rose, said the Mariner Energy platform is in the Gulf Shelf, which is not a deepwater area so it would not be affected by the ban on deepwater drilling.

CNN's Tim Lister contributed to this story.

Auto dealers close to escaping consumer rules

2010-08-01T15:14:00.000-07:00

WASHINGTON (CNNMoney.com) -- Auto dealers are a step closer to escaping increased oversight from a new consumer financial protection regulator that will be created by the Wall Street reform push.

In a nonbinding, largely symbolic motion, the Senate on Monday directed its key negotiators to advocate exempting auto dealers from tougher oversight as they enter negotiations with the House to reconcile Wall Street reform bills.

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The motion passed 60-30.

The Senate passed its reform bill last week, which would create a consumer financial protection bureau that will have the ability to craft new rules barring unfair practices with consumer loans, mortgages, credit cards and auto loans.

The Senate bill did not exempt auto dealers. But the House of Representatives bill, passed in December, did exempt them. Those two versions now need to be hashed out into a final, compromise bill.

With Monday's vote, the Senate made it more likely that auto dealers will be able to continue making auto loans without extra regulation -- a move strongly opposed by President Obama and the Department of Defense, which got involved in the issue after military personnel complained about predatory auto-lending practices.

A final decision will be made during the House and Senate negotiations, which are expected to begin in two weeks

Important Information About Dinosaur Bones

2010-07-26T09:33:00.001-07:00

Your mental, emotional and physical health are interconnected, so take this knowledge to help you get back in control for optimal health and wellness.

While there is no shortage of diet books and new fitness equipment on the market, the problems of being overweight and obese continue to grow with the number of people being affected by these serious but preventable conditions. There must be something else going on here.

All of us have our own special relationship with food. We don’t just use food to satisfy our physical hunger; we sometimes use it to quell our emotional hunger as well.

What is Emotional Eating?
As we learn more and more about why we eat and why we choose the foods we eat, we begin to understand how our emotions play such an instrumental role in our health. roger gould, MD, Associate Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at UCLA and author of Shrink Yourself: Break Free from Emotional Eating Forever, defines emotional eating as eating to satisfy emotional hunger.

In this fashion, you use food for comfort or as a way to cope with life. That means you eat for reasons other than what your body needs. We all indulge in emotional eating at one point or another. Reaching for chocolate after a disagreement with your spouse or comforting yourself after a grueling meeting at work with an entire pizza are prime examples of emotional eating.

But when this condition goes too far, it crosses the line into food addiction, where you actually lose control over what and how you eat.

Why do We do It?

Dr. Gould points out that all of us have emotional hunger. The difference between an emotional eater and a non-emotional eater is how they respond to this hunger. When presented with a challenge, an emotional eater has a knee-jerk reaction to reach for whatever food will offer him or her a moment of comfort.

Our comfort foods are usually not the healthiest choices, including ice cream, refined carbohydrates, heavy pastas and fast food.

Emotional eating happens without much regard to health, nutrition or even real hunger. In fact, eating is usually hurried, with very little awareness of what is being consumed and, therefore, emotional eaters are more prone to overeating.

Food offers relief from stress or emotional discomfort and provides a refuge and safety net that we can quickly turn to for solace and security. Food becomes the drug that distracts us from whatever discomfort we are feeling.

The more we emotionally eat, the less likely we are to focus on the real cause of our unrest. But food is just a temporary bandage. The feeling that drove you to emotionally eat in the first place is still there, and will quickly return. And worst of all, now there are usually new feelings of guilt, remorse, anger and isolation once you realize you’ve been giving in to emotional eating.

Six Ways to Make Liposuction Affordable

2010-07-26T09:30:00.000-07:00

Plastic surgery is indeed a way to look and feel better. As effective as these new methods are, these can also be pricey. You need to have something changed, and if you go to a cheap cosmetic surgeon, you are also risking a lot. After all, are these people certified? If you’ve watched enough TV, you’ll see that many have regretted their reckless choice. The real experts come with a high price, and because this isn’t covered by your health insurance, you just have to settle with the face or body that you have right now. But there’s actually good news for people who need cosmetic surgery: there is a way to make it affordable for you. Here are some suggestions that you can consider so you still get what you want without breaking the bank:

1. Get a list of certified doctors in your area and compare the liposuction prices they offer. Surely, you’ll find more than one. Some beauty centers actually offer payment schemes. You will be able to pay with your credit card with zero interest. See if you have enough money to pay off the installments. If you go past the allotted time, you can actually get charged with higher interest rates.
2. Check for countries that are known for certain cosmetic procedures. This can actually be cheaper for you because these are packaged deals for the liposuction procedure that cover airfare and hotel accommodations. Ask your doctor if this is a viable option for you and see if they have connections in that country. It helps a lot if they know someone because you will already have the recommendation of someone you trust. If you have flyer miles, you can use this as well.

3. Generic medications are a lot cheaper as well. If you need to take painkillers, you can take this route and save yourself a lot of trouble. Generic meds contain the same formulations and are just as effective.
4. See if you can take some time off from work. If you need extra money, see if you can get into an online business that you can do while you sit home and recuperate. You can do your work while you’re in bed. If your forte lies elsewhere, ask your boss if you can make up for lost time via online communication. Or, you can always work extra hours before and after the procedure.
5. Use your connections. If you have friends or relatives that are in the medical field, ask if it’s alright to get their services. If you can ask them to lower their prices, that helps as well.
6. Opt for local anesthesia instead of general. Not only is it cheaper, but most medical practitioners consider it to be safer as well.

These are some of the things you can do. If you can even pull one of them off, you’ll see that you can save yourself the extra liposuction cost. The most important thing you can do right now is to do research. Read up on your procedure as much as you can and see where you can save. Weigh the pros and cons, but most importantly, always seek the opinion of your doctor.

Beverly Hills Aesthetics is comprised of a group of specialists who cater to people’s beauty needs. The company offers a multitude of services and has equipped their clinic with the latest technology so you can take care of what diet can’t without going for highly invasive surgeries

Changing Your Way To Buy Glasses Online

2010-07-20T23:28:00.001-07:00

The generally accepted way of purchasing prescription glasses and sunglasses at a retail store is fast changing. With the rising demand of prescription glasses and the increasing advantages of internet – business – model, a surge of online stores have taken place. The difficulties of shopping at retail stores have given a much needed impetus to this change. Life has become fast and to find time for purchasing prescription glasses is hard to find. Unlike the retail stores, the online stores can be reached all round the day, giving you the luxury to buy anytime you want and from anywhere you want.

Compared to the retail stores, the price charged at the online stores are far lower too. The retail stores have to incur extra overheads and expenses which seep into the price of the product. These costs are practically absent in case of online stores, so the rates charged are way below than their retail store counterparts. Needless to say, this helps you to save money and you can buy almost three frames for the price of one at a retail store. The frames which you previously declined to buy due to their cost can present themselves at really affordable rates, and this can happen only at online stores.

If we consider the average then a retail store generally has in their collection few hundred glasses. But at an online store, the catalogues almost include countless options, which sport various designs and unique colour combinations. Unorthodox designs can be also found to add that dash of individuality to your looks. These sites generally have dedicated pages to each of their frame which display all the information about the pair, from the measurement to a written description of the design. And no other place is better to browse for designer glasses from renowned fashion houses, than to check the comprehensive collections at the online stores.

Finally, the accessibility of the glasses online stores is a boon to those who are finding it increasing difficult to dedicate time to these purposes. From the comfort of your home also you can log into these stores and take your time to go through them, so that you can spend your hard earned money on a pair which reflects your true personality.

Top 10 Health Benefits Of Lecithin

2010-07-20T23:27:00.003-07:00

There are numerous benefits of lecithin to the human body that many of us are not aware of and many of which can help us become healthier as it is a proven substance that’s essentially needed by our body. The benefits of lecithin are limitless, but to give you an idea, here are the top 10 benefits of lecithin:

1. One of the great benefits of lecithin is it breaks up cholesterol and fats in our body so it is very advisable for those who want to lose weight. Consuming more lecithin means increasing the body’s metabolism rate.

2. The benefits of lecithin also reach out to people suffering from memory loss. Lecithin utilizes Vitamins A, E, K, and D which promote better concentration and memory. It is very beneficial to students and the elderly who wish to enhance their memory skills. As a matter of fact, those with Alzheimer’s or amnesia are advised to include lecithin in their diet.

3. Lecithin also cleanses the kidneys and liver which is important to those who are suffering from urinary tract infection and those who love to eat salty and spicy foods. It prevents diseases like gallstones and gallbladder infection.

4. Protection against heart diseases is one of the many benefits of lecithin. It lowers cholesterol level and prevents toxins from clogging the arteries. People who include lecithin in their diet noticed remarkable development in their cardiovascular health.

5. Other benefits of lecithin worth mentioning are its roles in helping our body absorb better essential nutrients and supporting the movement of our body fluids inside and outside the cells.

6. One of the major benefits of lecithin is it protects our spinal cord and brain cells from damages. We all know how important and delicate our spinal cord and brain are for the whole functioning of our body and lecithin can keep them in good working condition.

7. Lecithin is also beneficial to our skin. If we are taking in enough lecithin into our body, it nourishes our skin and lessens the possibility of dealing with skin problems like pimples, acne, whiteheads, and blackheads.

8. Increasing your daily intake of lecithin will very much increase your physical performance, very helpful to those who are into body building and sports and people who are always on the go. Lecithin can boost the body’s energy level without making you fat.

9. If you are suffering from arthritis, you’ll be surprised with the benefits of lecithin especially in helping you deal with this painful ailment. Lecithin contains essential fatty acids that keep muscles, bones, and joints strong and healthy.

10. There are also benefits of lecithin for pregnant women. Studies proved that it can contribute a lot to the development of the fetus’ brain and nervous system.

The lecithin benefits are numerous but it doesn’t mean it’s all good. Too much intake of lecithin can also lead to nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and dizziness. The body normally needs only 30 to 50 grams of lecithin per day and you can get it from eating egg yolk, fish, and peanuts.

Top 10 Health Benefits Of Lecithin

2010-07-20T23:27:00.001-07:00

Chemotherapy – It's Side Effects

2010-07-20T23:24:00.000-07:00

Cancer cells are identified by abnormal cells that grow and divide very rapidly. Drugs used for chemotherapy for cancer go through out the body and kill these fast growing cells. This can also cause side effects of chemotherapy, as these drugs can also kill the normal healthy cells that are growing in the body. The damage to healthy tissues can cause few side effects of this treatment, although it is not as bad as it seems.

The cells of our body that are normal, which can be affected by chemotherapy are mainly the blood forming cell in the bone marrow, hair follicles, cells in the mouth and the cells in the reproductive system. Some of the drugs used in chemotherapy can also damage cells of the heart, kidneys, bladder, lungs or the nervous system. Many a times, doctors give medicines with chemotherapy which help to protect the normal cells of the body.

Often chemotherapy also affects different parts of your body:
• Intestinal or stomach problems
• Change in appetite and weight
• Sore mouth, throat or gums
• Problems in muscles or nerves
• Experience dry or discolored skin
• Irritation in the bladder or kidney
• Issues of fertility because of effects on the reproductive organs

The most common side effects of chemotherapy are listed and described in detail below:

Anemia (low count of red blood cells)
When there is a low count of red blood cells, the body tissues don’t get enough oxygen to complete their functions. This causes anemia, wherein you might have the following symptoms:
• Tiredness
• Dizziness
• Paleness
• Tending to feel cold

• Experiencing shortness of breath
• Weakness in body
• Racing heart

Fatigue (extreme tiredness)
This is one of the most common side effects of chemotherapy. It varies from mild lethargy to being completely wiped out of energy. It very different from the tiredness you feel after a day’s work and this does not get better with sleep or rest. Fatigue is usually the worst at the beginning and the end of the therapy. Mostly this side effect goes as the treatment is completed.

Hair loss
Almost all chemotherapy drugs cause hair loss. Some people might only experience a mild thinning. This chemotherapy effect does not last long after the treatment and the hair tends to grow back as the treatment ends, though it might be of a different texture and color.

Increases chances of bruising, bleeding or infection
Due to chemotherapy, cells of the bone marrow can get affected and thus fewer blood cells are produced. Due to the effect on the bone marrow the following parts can get affected:
• Red blood cells- These cells carry oxygen to the other cells in your body
• White blood cells- These cells fight infection
• Platelets- These cells help the clotting of blood and also stop bleeding

Nausea/vomiting
Nausea and vomiting is the most common side effect of chemotherapy. The frequency of these symptoms depend on the type of drugs you are been given.

Mostly these side effects go away as the treatment is over as the healthy cells recover and grow back over time. The time of recovery from the side effects of chemotherapy and regaining the energy varies from person to person and depends on many things like your health on the whole and the drugs you were treated with.

Sometimes the chemotherapy effects go very quickly and could also take months or even years to get over. Some drugs cause damage to the cells of the heart, lungs kidneys and reproductive system and so a person could suffer from these side effects of chemotherapy for life.

Our Asperger's Story - the Early Years Part 1

2010-07-14T20:00:00.001-07:00

Our Asperger's story started well before we knew what it was. Our daughter Jess was finally diagnosed as having Asperger's Disorder when she was 13. We had put up with years of anti-social behaviour from Jess and agonised over the bullying she endured and her apparent inability to make friends.

This was our precious daughter. We were so proud when she was born. We already had a 3� year old son, Matt and our family was now complete with a pigeon pair.

From a young age, Jess was incredibly self-contained and would entertain herself for ages. Matt needed constant entertaining whereas Jess would spend hours playing quietly with great focus.

When she commenced pre-school at 3 years of age, it started to become apparent that she was somewhat different. She had an extensive vocabulary which she was able to use pretty much in context. We thought it was funny, this tiny little thing with a cute pageboy haircut coming out with these big words. It kept a lot of people amused. Not so funny was the realization that she was not interacting well with the other kids. She didn't really make any friends and wasn't asked to play over at others houses like most of the kids. On the occasional times that she did go over to other people's homes, she didn't really want to play with the children but went into her own little world and played with their toys. This was no doubt quite frustrating for the would-be friends not to mention their parents. She would not make eye contact when speaking and still to this day finds it difficult to do so.

Her first year at school was quite positive. She learnt to read very quickly, in fact she could read to some degree prior to commencing school. It was obvious that she was bright. Because her reading skills were so superior it was suggested that she skipped the next year and went straight into the following year. In retrospect it probably wasn't our wisest decision but hindsight is great!

This was the point that she started being bullied because she didn't fit the mould. We were not aware of the bullying until some time later and had no idea as to how bad it was. She was bullied to the point whereby she was unable to function at school and we were called in to speak to her teacher and deputy headmistress. They said that they thought it was a mistake that she had been accelerated and that she wasn't coping. There were inferences to her lack of intelligence. This was astonishing to us given the previous feedback. It was suggested that she underwent a psychological test to measure her verbal and non-verbal skills. The results were a puzzle. Although her verbal reasoning ability was in the very superior range and higher than 99 out of 100 students of her age, her non-verbal reasoning ability was only in the average range and higher than 66 out of 100 students of her age. This was a very unusual result and should perhaps have alerted the School Counsellor. It didn't however, and rather than dropping her down a grade, she was included in a program for gifted children.

Look out for Part 2 of our story coming soon.

How To Stop Snoring Without Surgery

2010-07-14T19:50:00.000-07:00

Snoring can be difficult for both the sufferer and his/her family. Sleep disruptions are very common in a household where snoring is present and can often lead to headaches, an inability to concentrate and an overall feeling of exhaustion. That is the bad news, but the good news is that you can stop snoring. In fact, you can even stop snoring tonight.

After many failed attempts to stop snoring, many individuals turn toward their physician for help. In the most extreme cases, or when other attempts have proven unsuccessful, the snoring sufferer may be recommended for surgery. However, even if other attempts to stop snoring have failed, there may be ways to correct snoring problems before having to undergo invasive surgery.

There are a number of anti-snoring devices on the market, but how can one determine which ones help to stop snoring and which do not? The best sign to look for is a product that a doctor recommends directly or one that has been medically tested. One such product is known as the Sleep Genie, which is an anti-snoring device that supports the jaw comfortably while helping the mouth to remain closed during sleep. It is nearly impossible to snore with one's mouth closed, which is why the Sleep Genie typically provides results during its first use. The benefits of these types of anti-snoring aids is that they may help the snoring sufferer from having to take prescription medication, which can always lead to other health problems, or having to undergo surgery.

It is important to keep in mind that, while many patients undergo surgery with success, there are no guarantees that any type of surgical procedure will be effective. Rather than going through this type of a situation, many snoring sufferers are turning to anti-snoring devices, such as the Sleep Genie, to help them stop snoring. By eliminating snoring, they feel more rested throughout the day after a quality night's sleep, are able to concentrate better in everything that they do and are overall more pleasant to be around. The loss of sleep can affect every part of an individual's day and, if prolonged, can pose a danger while driving and during other everyday activities.

This article is intended for informational purposes only. It should not be used as, or in place of, professional medical advice. Before beginning any treatment for snoring, please consult a doctor for a proper diagnosis and remedy.

Fight Cystic Fibrosis With Vitamins And Over The Counter Products

2010-07-14T19:27:00.000-07:00

Cystic fibrosis is a hereditary disease that affects the entire body, causing progressive disability and early death. Cystic fibrosis affects the entire body and impacts growth, breathing, digestion, and reproduction. Difficulty breathing and insufficient enzyme production in the pancreas are the most common symptoms.

The Pancreas of patients with Cystic Fibrosis fails to produce enough enzymes that are necessary to break down food. As a result the food eaten retains its fats and most of its nutrients as it passes through the body.

The bronchial tubes in the lungs also malfunction and produce a thick, sticky mucus. Germs multiply in this mucus and cause respiratory infection such as pneumonia, accompanied by a cough and high fever that is more severe than normal.

A multitude of other symptoms, including sinus infections, poor growth, diarrhea, and potential infertility (mostly in males) result from the effects of cystic fibrosis on other parts of the body. Patients with Cystic Fibrosis also sweat profusely and their perspirations also contains an unusually high percentage of salt.

Cystic fibrosis is the most common life-limiting recessive disease among people of European heritage. Two copies of the recessive mutated gene, one from each parent is needed by the human body to develop Cystic Fibrosis.

Because cystic fibrosis testing is expensive, testing is often performed on just one parent initially. If that parent is found to be a carrier of a CFTR gene mutation, the other parent is then tested to calculate the risk that their children will have cystic fibrosis. Cystic fibrosis can result from more than a thousand different mutations and, as of 2006, it is not possible to test for each one. Most commercially available tests look for 32 or fewer different mutations.

Couples who are at high risk for having a child with cystic fibrosis; i.e. cystic fibrosis has developed in family members, will often opt to perform further testing before or during pregnancy. After birth cystic fibrosis may be diagnosed in newborn with sweat testing, or genetic testing.

Most states and countries do not screen for cystic fibrosis routinely at birth. Children with cystic fibrosis typically do not gain weight or height at the same rate as their peers and occasionally are not diagnosed until investigation is initiated for poor growth. Males tend to have a longer life expectancy than females but the reason is unknown.

Use a mask nebulizer and other inhalations treatments are the most common forms of treatments for cystic fibrosis. The goal is the treating and limiting the amount of lung damage caused by thick mucus and infection. Albuterol and ipratropium bromide are inhaled to increase the size of the small airways by relaxing the surrounding muscles. As lung disease worsens, breathing support from machines may become necessary.

Most individuals with cystic fibrosis take additional amounts of vitamins A, D, E, and K and eat high calorie meals.

Common Vitamins and over the counter products can help with treating Cystic Fibrosis such as Vitamin E, Vitamin K, Vitamin A, Lactase Enzyme, Papaya, Protein Tablets, Vitamin B, Amino Acid and L-Carnitine.

Dr. Harry Schwachman reported "most patients with cystic fibrosis have low levels of vitamin E". Vitamin E protects lung tissue form inhaled pollutants and aids the functioning of the immune system.

Vitamin K helps the blood to clot after and injury.

A number of studies have suggested that taking antioxidants such a Vitamin A reduces the risk of bronchoconstriction. Vitamin A is stored in the liver and fat cells of the human body and can reach toxic levels. DO NOT take more than the recommended dosage of Vitamin A.

Lactase Enzyme makes milk products more readily digestible.

Papaya contains lipase, which assists in Fat and Cellulose digestion.

Protein tablets increase protein intake.

All of the different Vitamin Bs taken together as B-Complex work together as a team to perform vital biological processes, such as energy production and efficient metabolic function. Vitamin B boost energy levels and help fight fatigue.

Amino Acid help regulate growth, digestion and maintaining the body's immune system.

L-Carnitine is essential for the body's ability to turn food into energy. L-Carnation increases energy at the cell level by increased fat burning, increases the body's ability to remove toxic disease-causing compounds and helps cells live longer.

Always consult your doctor before using this information.

This Article is nutritional in nature and not to be construed as medical advice.

Healthy Way of Losing Weight

2010-07-14T18:57:00.000-07:00

The success of weight loss programs relies on healthy diet and physical exercises done regularly. Eating healthy diet and regular workouts enable to lose weight on a long term basis. Losing weight should be done on a slow and steady pace rather than relying on the diet pills and fad diets, which actually are good only for a shorter period of time and bounce with weight gain after a certain period with lot of side effects. Eating healthy foods is the ideal way to loose weight.

Positive steps towards eating healthy foods and reducing weight at the same time:

Having a breakfast is a very important meal of the day, as it starts the day with some nutritious meal. Breakfast provides the necessary energy for the whole day and keeps the metabolism moving. Having a healthy breakfast will keep you away from unhealthy snacking or binging during lunch time. It is good to have a breakfast which is of a small portion with good amounts of protein and fiber, so that it keeps you filled until lunch time. High fiber foods are very good for the reason that they are not rich in calories and they pass through without being absorbed by the body.

While taking foods, it is good to check the calorie value and fat content of the food. Also, one needs to eat meals regularly, otherwise it might lead to binge eating. Small and frequent meals consumed daily keep people to have control over their diet and to be sure of what they eat. The meal pattern chosen should be ideal for the lifestyle of the person. However, meals have to be eaten at least three times a day without fail.

Fiber intake is the best way to loss weight and they are available in two forms, one is the soluble form found in the beans and oatmeal, the other is the insoluble form found in the vegetables, fruits and whole grains. Both the forms are good, as the soluble form lowers the cholesterol in the body while the insoluble form adds bulk to the diet. Fibers swell in the stomach, giving a feeling of fullness to the person. Fresh fruits and vegetables provide the necessary vitamins and minerals to the body and curb the urge to eat more.

Drinking enough amounts of water is very good to the body. It is very much needed to regulate temperature regulation of the body and to add viscosity to the blood. It is also a natural hunger suppressant. Drinking ice cold water helps to heat up the body and aids in burning up to 400 calories a week. Amazing isn't it?

Allergic Rhinitis - Symptoms and Treatment

2010-07-13T16:26:00.001-07:00

Allergic rhinitis, more commonly known as "hay fever," happens when you breathe in something you are allergic to. The inside of your nose becomes inflamed or swollen.

When this happens, the body's immune system overreacts to specific particles such as plant pollens, molds, dust mites, animal hair, industrial chemicals, tobacco smoke, foods, medicines, and even insect venom.

Allergic rhinitis affects 40 million people in the United States and is an extremely common condition, affecting approximately 20% of the population. While allergic rhinitis is not a life-threatening condition, complications can occur and the condition can impair one's quality of life leading to a number of indirect costs. Recently, the total direct and indirect cost of allergic rhinitis was estimated at around $5 billion annually.

What are the symptoms of allergic rhinitis?

Signs of allergic rhinitis are similar to signs of a common cold. But, unlike symptoms for the common cold, allergic rhinitis can last for more than 8-10 days. Symptoms include:

-stuffy or runny nose

-sneezing

-itchy or watery nose

-itchy or watery eyes

-coughing (caused by clear mucus running down the back of the throat)

-feeling of a 'permanent cold' that never goes away

-headaches and earache

-constant sore throats and postnasal drip

-sleep disturbances and snoring

-loss of taste and smell

-poor concentration

Children who have allergic rhinitis might have dark circles under their eyes known as Allergic shiners" (related to nasal congestion). They may also use either the palm or the back of their hand to push their nose up as they try to stop the itching (called the "allergic salute").

What causes allergic rhinitis?

Like our previous discussion, allergic rhinitis is caused by substances that trigger allergies, called allergens. These allergens are found both indoors and outdoors. When allergic rhinitis is caused by common outdoor allergens, like mold or trees, grass and weed pollens, it is often referred to as seasonal allergies, or "hay fever."

Allergic rhinitis may also be triggered by allergens found in your house like animal dander (tiny skin flakes and saliva), indoor mold, and cockroach or house dust mite droppings.

If you experience symptoms during spring, you may be allergic to tree pollens which we will discuss in detail further on.

To know for certain what causes your symptoms, an allergist or immunologist can perform skin tests to determine what you are allergic to.

What are my choices or treatment?

Over-the-counter antihistamines and nose sprays can help at first, but they can have a number of unpleasant side effects. These antihistamines can make you feel tired and drowsy while nasal sprays can make your stuffiness worse.

Doctor-prescribed nose sprays and antihistamines are different types of medication and are very helpful for controlling long-term symptoms. Some are safe for young children and all are safe for adults.

Consultation with an allergist will determine the medicine and treatment that is right for you.

Can I do anything to avoid getting allergic rhinitis? As prevention is worth a pound of cure, there are some things you can do in your house that might make your symptoms better if not avoid them altogether:

For those who have rhinitis, it may be best not to have pets. But if it cannot be helped, make sure to wash your pet (especially if hairy and furry) once a week. Keeping them out of the bedroom and off the furniture will help as well.

Put pillows and mattresses in sealed plastic covers that keep out dust mites, and wash sheets in hot water weekly. Washing machines at the local Laundromat will have hot enough water to kill the dust mites.

Keep windows closed. If possible, get an air conditioner and run a dehumidifier, so that there will not be so many pollens and molds getting in the house.

What are allergy shots?

For some patients, allergy shots, also known as immunotherapy, are very helpful, and safe. Allergy shots help how your body handles allergens by injecting into your body small amounts of the substances causing your allergy. Over the period of the therapy, your body will learn to accept the allergen without overreacting to it (which is the reason for the allergic reactions).

Your doctor may talk to you about allergy shots if your allergy symptoms are very bad and if they happen for most of the year. You can also consider this if you are constantly around the allergens (such as pollens and dust mites) and if in spite medicines, you are still symptomatic.

Acne Scars Treatment With Chemical Peeling Or Lasers

2010-07-13T14:58:00.000-07:00

Acne treatment is incomplete without removing the dirty looking acne scars. Acne may go away but the scars remain for a lifetime. Many treatments are suggested for treatment of acne scars. Out of these chemical peeling and laser are very popular. Let us compare both of them.

Acne scars- treatment with chemical peeling-

Chemical peeling is one of the popular cosmetic procedures to remove old skin and get a fresh new skin. Chemical peeling is also called derma-peeling or chemexfoliation. As the name implies, in this procedure, the skin is peeled off with chemicals and when the new skin grows it is fresh and with lesser sun damage and wrinkles. Depending on the strength of the peeling chemical, the peeling procedure may be called- superficial, medium-depth or deep. The name refers to the depth of the skin to which the chemical peels off the old skin.

The common chemicals used for chemical peeling are alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), trichloroacetic acid and phenol. Your doctor may also choose other chemicals to get the desired result. With superficial peeling, you can go back to work immediately while after getting medium or deep peeling done, you may have to let the new skin grow for some days before you go out. The pain and trouble associated with peeling also depends on the depth to which peeling is done. Superficial peeling will remove fine lines, wrinkles etc. while with deep peeling, deep scars and pre-cancerous sun damage gets removed.

Acne scars- treatment with lasers

A laser is focused high energy light. The scientific name of LASER is 'Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation'. Ordinary light emits photons in all the directions and consists of many wavelengths. Unlike that, laser emits photons in a single direction and consists of a single wavelength. Laser therefore has very high energy and can be focused on any object or in any direction. In laser skin resurfacing, the laser burns away the unwanted skin tissues bloodlessly and gives a new shape with precise control.

Laser resurfacing is a bloodless process and doctors can control the resurfacing more accurately with it. The risk of infection is also low with this procedure. With latest lasers available, this process is revolutionizing the procedure of facial resurfacing and scar removal.

Both lasers and chemical peeling give good results. Lasers are more expensive than chemical peeling. Lasers can also be controlled much better than chemical peeling. But chemical peeling is much cheaper.

The author CD Mohatta writes on acne for acnedoctor.us which has info about skin care, acne treatments, causes, medicines, myths, acne scars, etc.

Toxic chemicals finding their way into the womb

2010-07-12T22:27:00.000-07:00

Is enough being done to protect us from chemicals that could harm us? Watch "Toxic America," a special two-night investigative report with Sanjay Gupta, M.D., June 2 and 3 at 8 p.m. ET on CNN.

Five years ago Molly and Zachery Gray were in the midst of a dark, lonely spiral. It began with Molly's first miscarriage.

"It was a really emotional process of being so joyful and so happy and ready to make that step into parenthood and that being pulled away from you," said Molly, 32. "[The pregnancy is] happening and all of a sudden it's gone. It's really hard."

After a second miscarriage the Grays were on a desperate hunt for answers. After Molly got pregnant a third time, she heard about a small study to test the blood of pregnant women for chemicals. She signed up.

The Grays wondered, as many do, if chemicals in the environment could be to blame. The science on this matter cannot yet give them an answer.

A growing number of studies are finding hundreds of toxic chemicals in mothers' and, subsequently, their babies' bodies when they are born. While there is no science yet that demonstrates conclusive cause and effect between this mix of toxic chemicals children are born with and particular health problems, a range of studies are finding associations between elevated levels of chemicals in a baby's body and their development. Not definitive cause and effect, but associations.

Special Report: Toxic America

Despite her best efforts to avoid anything unhealthy while she was pregnant with her son, Molly's blood tested high for mercury, a heavy metal that can cause brain damage to a developing fetus.

"It's really scary and disheartening," said Molly. "Somehow my son was being exposed to mercury and that's a weight to carry because I feel like our jobs as parents is to protect them, to care for them, to nurture them and to keep them out of harm's way."

Scientists at the Columbia Center for Children's Environmental Health in New York City have been following hundreds of pregnant women over the past 12 years to measure chemicals entering the womb during pregnancy.

Special backpacks with vaccuum devices measure pollutants in the air breathed by pregnant women.The women trudge through the city for 48 hours wearing special backpacks, each with a long tube that is slung over the shoulder. The tube, resting inches below the pregnant mom's mouth, sucks air into a special filter, giving an approximate measurement of the air that she is breathing. The backpack is designed to measure ambient toxics spewed by vehicles, pesticides, and chemicals from common household products.

"It surprised me when we analyzed the air samples [from the backpacks] and found 100 percent of them had detectable levels of at least one pesticide and the air pollutants we were interested in," said Dr. Frederica Perera, director of the CCCEH and professor at the Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health. "Every single one."

The concern does not stop with mothers breathing in toxics. The CCCEH study suggests moms are passing on those toxic chemicals to their babies. So far, the toxics measured in the backpacks match what scientists are finding in the cord blood of the babies once they are born.

It is a finding that begs questions for scientists like Perera about how these chemicals might be influencing the baby - whose ability to fend off toxic chemicals is considerably less than adults - while it develops in utero.

Small studies by other groups are also finding common household chemicals in babies.

"We've measured hundreds and hundreds of toxic chemicals in the blood of babies that are still in the womb," said Ken Cook, president of the Environmental Working Group, a non-profit environmental advocacy organization. "Flame retardants, the chemicals in consumer products like personal care products, makeup, shampoos. It's a very long list."

The EWG study found an average of 232 chemicals in the cord blood of 10 babies born late last year.

They are chemicals found in a wide array of common household products -- a list that is as long as it is familiar -- shampoos and conditioners, cosmetics, plastics, shower curtains, mattresses, electronics like computers and cell phones, among others.

"For 80 percent of the common chemicals in everyday use in this country we know almost nothing about whether or not they can damage the brains of children, the immune system, the reproductive system, and the other developing organs," said Dr. Phil Landrigan, a pediatrician and director of the Children's Environmental Health Center at Mount Sinai School of Medicine. "It's really a terrible mess we've gotten ourselves into."

Landrigan demonstrated the dangers of lead

"Paxton and all of our future generations are carrying around this burden that we don't know what it means yet," says Molly Gray, with baby Paxton and husband ZacheryPerera and her colleagues are following the children in their study from in utero, to birth, up to their first several years of life. They recently published a study in the journal Pediatrics demonstrating an association between the chemicals they found in babies' cord blood, and later problems on IQ tests and development.

"Fifteen percent of children [in our study] have at least one developmental problem," said Perera.

The amount of chemicals measured in the cord blood of the babies seems to matter. The higher the concentration, the more the IQ among children seems to dip. The study is also being conducted among pregnant women in Poland and China, and finding similar results.

Molly Gray still struggles with the idea that mercury from her blood may have been passed to her baby. This concern about chemicals is something she can't shake.

"There's plastics, there's mercury, there's pesticides," said Molly Gray, who is also a practicing midwife. "The things that we're cleaning our homes with, the things we're building our houses with. I think the sheer volume of the things we have to worry about is a little overwhelming."

Even when their son Paxton, now 11 months old, was born healthy, the Grays remained vigilant. As Paxton grows and develops, they steer clear of any products with potentially toxic chemicals. Still, they worry about what is out there in the environment that they cannot control.

"Knowing that he got these chemicals from my blood it's really scary," said Molly Gray. "Scary that we don't know what this means. Paxton and all of our future generations are carrying around this burden that we don't know what it means yet. It's the huge sea of unknown."

While studies continue about potential health risks to children from chemicals, experts suggest ways to protect them from potential toxics, ranging from incorporating organic food into their diet, to keeping the home relatively dust-free (many toxic chemicals are conveyed in dust), to avoiding using toxic chemicals found in common household products.

Fish Oil Linked to Lower Breast Cancer Risk

2010-07-12T19:20:00.000-07:00

Millions of Americans already take fish oil to keep their hearts healthy and to treat ailments ranging from arthritis to depression. Now, a new study suggests that the supplements may also help women lower their risk of breast cancer.
Postmenopausal women between the ages of 50 and 76 who took fish oil were 32% less likely to develop certain types of breast cancer than women who didn’t, the study found.

The researchers looked at 14 other popular supplements (including gingko biloba, black cohosh, soy, and St. John’s wort), but only fish oil—which contains concentrated amounts of the omega-3 fatty acids found in salmon, tuna, and other fish—had any connection to breast cancer risk.

Despite their findings, the researchers say it’s too soon to recommend that women start taking fish oil to stave off breast cancer.

“People should try to achieve nutrients through a healthy diet, so eating fish is a better recommendation than fish oil,” says the lead author of the study, Emily White, PhD, an epidemiologist at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, in Seattle. “We think that fish oil is promising in terms of disease prevention, but it’s not proven.”

White and her colleagues measured fish oil consumption using surveys, and they simply compared the rates of breast cancer diagnosis among women who took the supplements and women who did not. Though their analysis took a number of other factors into account (such as age, family history of breast cancer, and whether the women were on hormone therapy), unknown factors could have affected the results.

“We tried to equalize the two groups in terms of other health behaviors, but only a randomized trial would offer more definitive information,” White says, referring to a study in which women would be randomly assigned to receive fish oil or a placebo.

In the past, a number of studies similar to White’s that have found an apparent link between supplements and reduced cancer risk haven’t been confirmed by more rigorous studies, says Jay Brooks, MD, an oncologist at Ochsner Health System, in Baton Rouge, La.

“This is an interesting study, but we’ve done a lot of [these] studies that have turned out not to be helpful in terms of prostate cancer prevention,” Dr. Brooks says.

Cancer prevention: 7 steps to reduce your risk

2010-07-10T17:09:00.000-07:00

Small changes in your everyday life might help reduce your risk of cancer.

By Mayo Clinic staff

You've probably heard conflicting reports in the news about what can or can't help you in terms of cancer prevention. The issue of cancer prevention gets confusing — sometimes what's recommended in one report is advised against in another. What you can be sure of when it comes to cancer prevention is that making small changes to your everyday life might help reduce your chances of getting cancer. Try these seven cancer prevention steps.

Cancer prevention step 1: Don't use tobacco

All types of tobacco put you on a collision course with cancer. Rejecting tobacco, or deciding to stop using it, is one of the most important health decisions you can make. It's also an important part of cancer prevention.

Smoking has been linked to several types of cancer, including:

Bladder

Cervix

Esophagus

Kidney

Lip

Lung

Mouth

Pancreas

Throat

Voice box (larynx)

Chewing tobacco has been linked to multiple types of cancer, including:

Esophagus

Mouth

Pancreas

Throat

Inhaled chewing tobacco (snuff) may increase the risk of cancers, including:

Esophagus

Mouth

Even if you don't smoke, avoid exposure to secondhand smoke. Being around others who are smoking may increase your risk of lung cancer.

Cancer prevention step 2: Eat a variety of healthy foods

Though making healthy selections at the grocery store and at mealtime can't guarantee you won't get cancer, it may help reduce your risk.

The American Cancer Society recommends that you:

Eat an abundance of foods from plant-based sources. Eat five or more servings of fruits and vegetables each day. In addition, eat other foods from plant sources, such as whole grains and beans, several times a day. Replacing high-calorie foods in your diet with fruits and vegetables may help you lose weight or maintain your weight. A diet high in fruits and vegetables has been linked to a reduced risk of cancers of the colon, esophagus, lung and stomach.

Limit fat. Eat lighter and leaner by choosing fewer high-fat foods, particularly those from animal sources. High-fat diets tend to be higher in calories and may increase the risk of overweight or obesity, which can, in turn, increase cancer risk.

Drink alcohol in moderation, if at all. Your risk of cancers, including mouth, throat, esophagus, kidney, liver and breast cancers, increases with the amount of alcohol you drink and the length of time you've been drinking regularly. Even a moderate amount of drinking — two drinks a day if you're a man or one drink a day if you're a woman, and one drink a day regardless of your sex if you're over 65 — may increase your risk.

Cancer prevention step 3: Stay active and maintain a healthy weight

Maintaining a healthy weight and exercising regularly also may play a role in cancer prevention. Being overweight or obese may increase your risk of cancers of the breast, colon, esophagus, kidney, stomach and uterus. Physical activity can help you avoid obesity by controlling your weight. Physical activity on its own may also lower your risk of cancers of the breast, colon, prostate and uterus.

Try to be physically active for 30 minutes or more on most days of the week. Once you achieve that goal, adding more exercise to your day may reduce your risk of certain cancers further.

Your exercise sessions can include such low-key activities as brisk walking, raking the yard or even ballroom dancing. Safe exercise programs are available for just about everyone. Your doctor or physical therapist can help design one for you.

Cancer prevention step 4: Protect yourself from the sun

Skin cancer is one of the most common kinds of cancer — and one of the most preventable. Although repeated exposure to X-rays or contact with certain chemicals can play a role, sun exposure is by far the most common cause of skin cancer.

Most skin cancer occurs on exposed parts of your body, including your face, hands, forearms and ears. Nearly all skin cancer is treatable if you detect it early, but it's better to prevent it in the first place. Try these tips:

Avoid peak radiation hours. The sun's ultraviolet (UV) radiation peaks between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Minimize or avoid being outside during these hours.

Stay in the shade. If you go outside, minimize your sun exposure by staying in the shade.

Cover exposed areas. Wear light-colored, loosefitting clothing that protects you from the sun's rays. Use tightly woven fabrics that cover your arms and legs, and wear a broad-brimmed hat that covers your head and ears.

Don't skimp on sunscreen. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen that has a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15.

Don't use indoor tanning beds or sunlamps. These also can damage your skin. There's no such thing as a healthy tan.

Cancer prevention step 5: Get immunized

Certain cancers are associated with viral infections that can be prevented with immunizations. Talk to your doctor about immunization against:

Hepatitis B. Hepatitis B can increase your risk of developing liver cancer. Vaccination is recommended for all babies in the United States. Certain high-risk adults also may need to be vaccinated.

Human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is a sexually transmitted virus that can lead to cervical cancer. The vaccine that protects against two cancer-causing types of HPV is recommended for girls ages 11 to 12. In addition, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that the HPV vaccine be given to girls and women ages 13 to 26 who haven't completed the full vaccine series.

Talk to your doctor about whether you would benefit from immunizations to reduce your risk of cancer.

Cancer prevention step 6: Avoid risky behaviors

Reduce your risk of certain cancers by avoiding risky behaviors that can lead to infections that may increase your risk of cancer. Viruses transmitted sexually or by sharing contaminated needles include:

HPV. HPV is most often associated with cervical cancer. But HPV may also increase the risk of cancers of the anus, penis, throat, vulva and vagina. The more sexual partners you have in your lifetime, the more likely you are to have HPV.

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). People with HIV or AIDS have an increased risk of anal cancer, cervical cancer, liver cancer, lymphoma and Kaposi's sarcoma. People with multiple sexual partners and intravenous (IV) drug users who share needles have an increased risk of HIV.

Hepatitis B and C. Chronic hepatitis B or hepatitis C infection can increase your risk of liver cancer. Both forms of hepatitis can be passed through sexual contact with an infected person or sharing needles with an infected drug user.

Reduce your risk of these cancers by avoiding risky behaviors. Abstain from sex or use condoms and limit the number of sexual partners you have. Never share needles. Seek help for your addiction if you use drugs.

Cancer prevention step 7: Get screened

Regular screening and self-examination for certain cancers may not prevent cancer, but it can increase your chances of discovering cancer early — when treatment is more likely to be successful. Screening should include your skin, mouth, colon and rectum. If you're a man, it should also include your prostate and testes. If you're a woman, include cervix and breast cancer screening on your list. Be aware of changes in your body — this may help you detect cancer early, increasing your chances of successful treatment. If you notice any changes, see your doctor.

Nutrition and Pregnancy : A Complete Guide from Preconception to Postdelivery

2010-07-09T19:53:00.000-07:00

Tags: Obstetrics and Gynecology
* Publisher: McGraw-Hill
* Number Of Pages: 288
* Publication Date: 1998-11-01
* ISBN-10 / ASIN: 0737300183
* ISBN-13 / EAN: 9780737300185
* Binding: Paperback

Product Description:
Eating wholesome foods as part of a well-balanced diet is one of the most precious gifts a pregnant mother can give to her unborn baby. By maintaining good nutrition before, during, and after pregnancy, a mother will help her child begin life with a healthy advantage. Nutrition and Pregnancy provides information on a pregnant woman's increased demand for calories, nutrients, and wholesome foods and how to ensure the delivery of a healthy, well-nourished baby.
Tags: Gynecology

Reflux esophagitis

2009-12-30T17:23:00.001-08:00

The reflux esophagitis is an inflammation of the lining of the esophagus (the tube from the mouth to the stomach). Chez la plupart des gens, cette inflammation est causée par les sucs digestifs de l'estomac qui remontent fréquemment (reflux acide) dans la partie inférieure de l'œsophage. For most people, this is caused by the digestive juices of the stomach back frequently (acid reflux) into the lower esophagus.

Symptômes Symptoms

Les personnes qui souffrent d'œsophagite par reflux peuvent ressentir une sensation de brûlure dans la partie inférieure de la poitrine immédiatement après l'ingestion de boissons chaudes, d'alcool, de jus de fruits faits de concentré ou d'aliments chauds à haute teneur en gras comme des œufs et du bacon. People who suffer from reflux esophagitis may feel a burning sensation in the lower chest immediately after swallowing hot beverages, alcohol, fruit juice from concentrate or hot food with high content fat such as eggs and bacon.

Un malaise semblable peut apparaître après un repas, souvent quand on se penche ou on s'allonge. A similar discomfort may occur after a meal, often when it looks or grows. De même, la position couchée, surtout la nuit, favorise la remontée des aliments ou des liquides dans la bouche (régurgitations). Similarly, lying down, especially at night, fosters the rise of food or liquids in the mouth (regurgitation). Si les symptômes sont sérieux, la personne se réveillera avec une toux, une respiration sifflante, ou l'impression de s'étouffer. If symptoms are serious, the person wakes up with coughing, wheezing, or feeling of choking.

Dans les cas graves, la paroi de l'œsophage peut présenter des ulcérations, ce qui entraîne de la douleur et un rétrécissement possible dû à des cicatrices. In severe cases, the lining of the esophagus may have ulcers, causing pain and possible narrowing due to scarring. Une personne atteinte d'œsophagite par reflux peut avoir de la difficulté à avaler d'abord des aliments solides, puis même des aliments liquides. A person suffering from reflux esophagitis can be difficult to swallow solid foods first, and even liquid foods.

Traitement Treatment

Les médicaments en vente libre (antiacides et antagonistes des récepteurs H 2 ) peuvent avoir un effet bénéfique chez certains patients qui ont des brûlures d'estomac épisodiques. The prescription drugs (antacids and histamine H 2) may be beneficial in some patients with episodic heartburn. On peut traiter les symptômes légers, mais fréquents ou incommodants, avec des antisécrétoires ou des inhibiteurs de la pompe à protons sur ordonnance qui réduisent ou même bloquent la production de l'acide dans l'estomac. You can treat mild symptoms, but frequent or bothersome, with antisecretory or inhibitors of proton pump prescription that reduce or even block the production of acid in the stomach.

Souvent, un traitement médicamenteux est seulement nécessaire pendant une courte période, mais il faut habituellement le renouveler. Often, medication is only needed for a short period, but it usually takes to renew it. Les agents procinétiques, qui améliorent le mouvement normal de l'œsophage et accroissent la vidange gastrique, peuvent être également prescrits et s'avérer utiles. Prokinetic agents that enhance the normal movement of the esophagus and increase gastric emptying, may also be prescribed and be useful.

Meningitis

2009-12-30T17:21:00.002-08:00

Meningitis is an inflammation of the membranes (called meninges) that surround the brain and spinal cord. La méningite peut être causée par bon nombre de bactéries et virus différents, ou par des maladies qui provoquent l'inflammation des tissus organiques en l'absence d'infection. Meningitis can be caused by many different bacteria and viruses, or diseases that cause inflammation of tissues in the absence of infection.

Symptômes Symptoms

Les symptômes de la méningite, parfois d'apparition soudaine, incluent souvent une forte fièvre, des céphalées graves et persistantes, une raideur dans le cou, des nausées et des vomissements. The symptoms of meningitis, sometimes with sudden onset, often include high fever, severe and persistent headache, stiff neck, nausea and vomiting. Des modifications du comportement, telles que confusion, somnolence et difficulté à se réveiller sont des symptômes extrêmement importants et peuvent traduire le besoin d'un traitement d'urgence. Behavioral changes such as confusion, sleepiness and difficulty waking up are extremely important symptoms and may reflect the need for emergency treatment.

Chez les nourrissons, les symptômes de la méningite peuvent inclure une irritabilité ou de la fatigue, une perte d'appétit et de la fièvre. In infants, symptoms of meningitis may include irritability or tiredness, loss of appetite and fever. Une éruption cutanée apparaissant sur une partie du corps de l'enfant est un autre signe très important de méningite. A rash appears on a body part of the child is another very important sign of meningitis.

Il est impératif de consulter votre médecin sans tarder si vous avez le moindre doute que votre enfant pourrait présenter une méningite. It is imperative to consult your doctor immediately if you have any doubt that your child may present with meningitis.

Traitement Treatment

Des médicaments antiviraux peuvent être prescrits pour traiter les méningites causées par des virus, alors que des antibiotiques sont prescrits dans les cas d'infections bactériennes. Antiviral medications can be prescribed to treat meningitis caused by viruses, while antibiotics are prescribed in cases of bacterial infections. On peut utiliser des anticonvulsivants pour prévenir ou traiter les crises de convulsion, et des corticostéroïdes pour réduire l'enflure du cerveau et l'inflammation. You can use anticonvulsants to prevent or treat seizures, and corticosteroids to reduce brain swelling and inflammation. Des sédatifs peuvent être requis en présence d'irritabilité ou d'agitation. Sedatives may be required in the presence of irritability or agitation. Les personnes atteintes d'une méningite bactérienne sont habituellement hospitalisées et traitées avec des antibiotiques administrés par voie intraveineuse. People with bacterial meningitis are usually hospitalized and treated with antibiotics administered intravenously.

Crohn's Disease

2009-12-30T17:21:00.001-08:00

Crohn's disease is a chronic inflammatory disease that primarily affects the small intestine and large intestine, but can also affect other parts of the digestive system.

Les personnes atteintes peuvent être affectées de manière très différente : certaines peuvent n'avoir que des symptômes légers même sans traitement, tandis que d'autres peuvent présenter des formes très graves de la maladie. People can be affected quite differently: some may have only mild symptoms even without treatment, while others may have very severe forms of the disease. Dans les cas légers, de petites érosions apparaissent dans la paroi intérieure de l'intestin. In mild cases, small erosions occur in the inner wall of the intestine.

Dans les cas plus sérieux, on peut observer des ulcères plus profonds et plus étendus, causant ainsi des plaies et une rigidité, et possiblement un rétrécissement de l'intestin ou une obstruction. In more serious cases, there may be ulcers deeper and wider, causing sores and stiffness and possibly narrowing of the bowel or obstruction. Les ulcères profonds peuvent perforer la paroi de l'intestin, ce qui peut mener à une infection. The deep ulcers may perforate the wall of the intestine, which can lead to infection.

Les symptômes les plus fréquents de la maladie de Crohn comprennent les douleurs abdominales, la diarrhée, les vomissements, la fièvre et la perte de poids. The most common symptoms of Crohn's disease include abdominal pain, diarrhea, vomiting, fever and weight loss.

Les médicaments les plus couramment utilisés dans le traitement de la maladie de Crohn sont les anti-inflammatoires, tels que les préparations de salicylate (liées à l'acide acétylsalicylique) et les corticostéroïdes. The drugs most commonly used in the treatment of Crohn's disease are anti-inflammatories such as salicylate preparations (related to aspirin) and corticosteroids. Dans les cas plus sérieux, on a recours aux immunosuppresseurs ou même à la chirurgie. In more serious cases, we have recourse to immunosuppressants or even surgery.

Heart Failure

2009-12-30T17:20:00.004-08:00

Heart failure occurs when the pumping of the heart is reduced below normal. Il en résulte un apport sanguin insuffisant aux autres organes, comme le cerveau, le foie et les reins. This results in insufficient blood supply to other organs such as brain, liver and kidneys.

Facteurs de risque Risk Factors

Un certain nombre de facteurs de risque peuvent entraîner une baisse du pompage pouvant menacer la vie, dont les maladies coronariennes (durcissement des artères) qui peuvent mener aux crises cardiaques, le diabète, les cardiopathies valvulaires, la tension artérielle élevée et l'affaiblissement du muscle cardiaque dû à une infection virale ou à des toxines. A number of risk factors may decrease the pumping could threaten life, including coronary heart disease (hardening of the arteries) which can lead to heart attacks, diabetes, valvular heart disease, high blood pressure and weakened heart muscle caused by a viral infection or toxins.

Symptômes Symptoms

Un certain nombre de symptômes sont associés à l'insuffisance cardiaque. A number of symptoms associated with heart failure. Peut-être que le symptôme le mieux connu est l'essoufflement qui peut survenir au repos ou à l'effort. Perhaps the best known symptom is shortness of breath may occur at rest or during exercise. Les autres symptômes comprennent la fatigue rapide, la rétention d'eau, la toux persistante et le grossissement du cœur. Other symptoms include fatigue, rapid, water retention, persistent cough and enlargement of the heart.

Traitement Treatment

Plusieurs types de médicaments se sont révélés utiles dans le traitement de l'insuffisance cardiaque. Several types of drugs have proved useful in the treatment of heart failure. Ces médicaments visent à améliorer la fonction de pompage du cœur, diminuer les signes et symptômes de l'insuffisance cardiaque ou réduire le stress sur le cœur. These drugs aim to improve the pumping of the heart, reduce the signs and symptoms of heart failure or reduce stress on the heart.

Les diurétiques, médicaments qui font uriner, aident à réduire la rétention d'eau. Diuretics, drugs that are urinating, helps reduce water retention.
Les inhibiteurs de l'ECA (enzyme de conversion de l'angiotensine) ralentissent ou préviennent la détérioration de l'activité de pompage. The ACE inhibitors enzyme (ACE) slow or prevent the deterioration of the pumping activity.
Les antagonistes des récepteurs de l'angiotensine II aident à faciliter le pompage chez les patients qui ne peuvent pas prendre des inhibiteurs de l'ECA. Antagonists of angiotensin II to help facilitate pumping in patients who can not take ACE inhibitors.
Les bêta-bloquants réduisent le stress sur le cœur. Beta-blockers reduce the stress on the heart.
La digoxine augmente la force des contractions cardiaques et améliore la circulation. Digoxin increases the strength of heart contractions and improves circulation.
Les dérivés nitrés peuvent aider à réduire l'essoufflement en dilatant les vaisseaux sanguins. Nitrates can help reduce breathlessness by dilating blood vessels.
La spironolactone réduit le stress sur le cœur. Spironolactone reduces stress on the heart.
La warfarine empêche la formation de caillots de sang chez les patients qui ont un rythme cardiaque irrégulier. Warfarin prevents the formation of blood clots in patients who have an irregular heartbeat.

Bacterial Infections

2009-12-30T17:20:00.003-08:00

Bacteria are microscopic organisms (microbes) that sometimes cause infections. Elles font partie intégrante de notre environnement quotidien. They are part and parcel of our everyday environment.

Bon nombre de bactéries sont normalement présentes dans notre organisme. Many bacteria are normally present in our body. Certaines sont même utiles; par exemple, elles décomposent les aliments dans le tube digestif afin de permettre à l'organisme de les absorber. Some are even useful, for example, they break down food in the digestive tract to allow the body to absorb. D'autres bactéries sont cependant nuisibles et causent des infections. Other bacteria, however, are harmful and cause infections.

Les infections bactériennes sont traitées par des médicaments qu'on appelle antibiotiques; la pénicilline en est un exemple. Bacterial infections are treated with medications called antibiotics penicillin is one example. Les antibiotiques n'ont aucun effet dans les cas d'infections virales, comme le rhume ou la grippe. Antibiotics have no effect in cases of viral infections such as colds or flu.

Vous devriez toujours tenir compte des directives de votre médecin et suivre votre traitement antibiotique jusqu'au bout, même si vous vous sentez mieux. You should always take into account the guidance of your doctor and follow your antibiotic treatment until the end, even if you feel better. En effet, le médicament agit de façon optimale lorsqu'il se trouve en quantité constante dans le sang; c'est pourquoi vous devez prendre le médicament pendant aussi longtemps que vous l'a prescrit votre médecin afin d'éliminer toutes les bactéries. Indeed, the drug works optimally when it is in constant amount in the blood, so you must take the medication for as long as you have been prescribed by your doctor to eliminate all bacteria.

Helicobacter pylori

2009-12-30T17:20:00.001-08:00

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a bacterium that causes inflammation (gastritis) chronic (long lasting) of the inner wall of the stomach.

Cette bactérie est également la principale cause d'ulcères dans le monde. This bacterium is also the main cause of ulcers worldwide. Un patient sur six présentant une infection par H. One in six patients with infection by H. pylori aura un ulcère au niveau du duodénum ou de l'estomac. pylori has an ulcer in the duodenum or stomach. Les personnes infectées demeurent habituellement porteuses de la bactérie à vie, à moins qu'elles ne reçoivent des médicaments pour éradiquer (tuer) la bactérie. Infected persons usually remain carriers of the bacteria for life unless they receive medication to eradicate (kill) the bacteria.

De nos jours, la bactérie H. Today, the bacterium H. pylori peut être éradiquée avec succès à l'aide d'une association d'antibiotiques et de médicaments qui réduisent l'acidité dans l'estomac, tels que les inhibiteurs de la pompe à protons. pylori can be successfully eradicated using a combination of antibiotics and drugs that reduce stomach acid, such as inhibitors of the proton pump.

Dyspepsia

2009-12-30T17:19:00.002-08:00

Dyspepsia (sometimes identified as digestive disorders) is a set of symptoms. Elle consiste notamment en des douleurs dans le haut de l'abdomen ou en des malaises qui semblent provenir du tube digestif haut. It can involve pain in the upper abdomen or discomfort that appear to come from the upper gastrointestinal tract. La dyspepsie comporte aussi parfois un ou plusieurs des symptômes suivants : brûlures d'estomac, régurgitation d'aliments ou d'acide, éructations (rots) excessives, ballonnement abdominal accru, nausées, sensation de digestion anormale ou lente, satiété précoce. Dyspepsia may also contain one or more of the following symptoms: heartburn, regurgitation of food or acid eructation (burps) excessive, increased abdominal bloating, nausea, feeling of abnormal or slow digestion, early satiety. Le terme «dyspepsie» est souvent employé pour décrire des symptômes digestifs dont la cause est obscure. The term "dyspepsia" is often used to describe gastrointestinal symptoms whose cause is obscure.

Certaines personnes arrivent à prévenir la dyspepsie en identifiant et en évitant les aliments qu'elles trouvent difficiles à digérer, en mangeant plus lentement et en évitant le stress autant que possible. Some people manage to prevent dyspepsia by identifying and avoiding foods that are difficult to digest, eating more slowly and avoiding stress as much as possible. D'autres doivent suivre un traitement avec des médicaments, comme les inhibiteurs de la pompe à protons ou les antagonistes des récepteurs H 2 , qui réduisent la production d'acide dans l'estomac. Others need treatment with drugs such as inhibitors of the proton pump or histamine H 2, which reduce production of stomach acid.