Everything is good

HYDROXYZINE

2011-09-11T10:12:00.002+06:00

Hydroxyzine is an antihistamine with anticholinergic (drying) and sedative properties that is used to treat allergic reactions. The body releases histamine during several types of allergic reactions and--to a lesser extent--during some viral infections, such as the common cold. When histamine binds to its receptors on cells, it causes the cells to release chemical messengers that lead to sneezing, itching, and increased mucus production. Antihistamines, like histamine, binds to the histamine receptors, but when they bind to the receptors they do not stimulate the cells to release chemical messengers. In addition, they prevent histamine from binding and stimulating the cells.

Before taking hydroxyzine
Need to know if have any of these conditions:
• any chronic illness
• diabetes
• difficulty passing urine
• glaucoma
• heart disease
• kidney disease
• liver disease
• lung disease
• an unusual or allergic reaction to hydroxyzine, cetirizine, other medicines,
foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding
Hydroxyzine side effects
Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Stop using hydroxyzine and call your doctor at once if you have a serious side effect such as:
• restless muscle movements in your eyes, tongue, jaw, or neck;
• tremor (uncontrolled shaking);
• confusion; or
• seizure (convulsions).
Less serious hydroxyzine side effects may include:
• dizziness, drowsiness;
• blurred vision, dry mouth; or
• headache.

FLUPENTIXOL

2011-09-10T13:05:00.002+06:00

The active ingredient flupentixol is a type of medicine called an antipsychotic.
USE

Flupentixol is used to treat mental health problem like schizophrenia, which affect the way you think, feel or behave. These problems are thought to be caused by over-activity of certain areas of the brain.

Flupentixol is also used to treat depression. It works in a similar way, by blocking receptors in your brain, but you will be given a lower dose of the tablets.

Before taking Flupentixol

Before taking flupentixol make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:
•If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
•If you suffer from a heart condition or blood vessel disease.
•If you have liver or kidney problems.
•If you have breathing problems.
•If you suffer from Parkinson's disease.
•If you suffer from diabetes.
•If you have a condition called phaeochromocytoma (a tumour on your adrenal gland).
•If you have epilepsy, myasthenia gravis (a muscle weakening disease), prostate problems or glaucoma.
•If you have ever had jaundice (yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes), porphyria (a rare blood disorder) or any other problems with your blood.
•If you are taking other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines.
•If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.

Pregnancy and breast feeding
Certain medicines should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. However, other medicines may be safely used in pregnancy or breastfeeding providing the benefits to the mother outweigh the risks to the unborn baby. Always inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, before using any medicine.
•The safety of this medicine for use during pregnancy has not been established. It should be avoided during pregnancy, particularly in the first and third trimesters, unless the expected benefit to the mother outweighs any possible risks to the developing baby. Seek medical advice from your doctor. If you do get pregnant while taking this medicine it is important to consult your doctor straight away for advice. It should not suddenly stop taking this medicine unless your doctor tells you to, as this could cause withdrawal symptoms.
•This medicine passes into breast milk and could have harmful effects on a nursing infant. The manufacturer recommends that mothers who need to take this medicine should not breastfeed and bottle feed instead.
Side effects

•Abnormal movements of the hands, legs, face, neck and tongue, eg tremor, twitching, rigidity (extrapyramidal effects).
•Anxiety, restlessness and agitation (akathisia).
•Increased salivation or dry mouth.
•Sleepiness.
•Rhythmical involuntary movement of the tongue, face, mouth and jaw, which may sometimes be accompanied by involuntary movements of the arms and legs (tardive dyskinesia - see warning section above).
•Increased heart rate (tachycardia).
•Irregular heart beats (arrhythmias).
•A drop in blood pressure (hypotension) that may cause dizziness.
•Interference with the body's temperature regulation (this is more common in elderly people and may cause heat stroke in very hot weather or hypothermia in very cold weather).
•Headache.
•Changes in appetite and weight.
•Problems with attention or speech.
•Feelings of being mentally dulled or slowed down.
•Difficulty sleeping (insomnia).
•Visual disturbances.
•Disturbances of the gut such as constipation, indigestion, nausea and vomiting.
•Difficulty passing urine, increased need to pass urine, or urinary incontinence.
•Excessive sweating.
•Skin reactions such as rashes, itching, increased sensitivity to sunlight.
•Sexual problems, such as erectile dysfunction.

CLOBAZAM

2011-09-10T00:46:00.001+06:00

Clobazam is a type of medicine called a benzodiazepine. Benzodiazepines are used for their sedative, anxiety-relieving and muscle-relaxing effects.
The brain and nerves are made up of many nerve cells that communicate with each other through electrical signals. These signals must be carefully regulated for the brain and nerves to function properly.
When abnormally rapid and repetitive electrical signals are released in the brain, it becomes over-stimulated and normal function is disturbed. This results in fits or seizures. Anxiety may also be related to the inappropriate stimulation of nerves in the brain.
Benzodiazepines work by acting on receptors in the brain called GABA receptors. This causes the release of a neurotransmitter called GABA (gamma amino butyric acid) in the brain.
Neurotransmitters are chemicals that are stored in nerve cells in the brain and nervous system. They are involved in transmitting messages between the nerve cells. GABA is a neurotransmitter that acts as a natural 'nerve-calming' agent. It helps keep the nerve activity in the brain in balance, and is involved in inducing sleepiness, reducing anxiety and relaxing muscles.
Clobazam acts on receptors in the brain (GABA receptors) to increase the release of GABA. This increases the calming effects of nerve cells by GABA. By calming nerve cells, clobazam prevents excessively rapid and repetitive firing of electrical signals. Thereby electrical nerve activity in the brain is stabilized, leading to prevention and treatment of fits and maintenance of normal brain function.
As clobazam prevents fitting, it is used in conjunction with another anti-epileptic medicine for the treatment of epilepsy.
Clobazam may also be used to relieve anxiety in serious or disabling anxiety related conditions. It is not recommended for the long-term treatment of anxiety due to the development of dependence (recommended maximum of 4 weeks).
What is it used for?
• Short-term (two to four weeks only) treatment of severe anxiety that is disabling or causing the individual to unacceptable distress.
• Epilepsy.

How is this drug given?
• Give with or without food. Give with food if it causes an upset stomach.
Use with caution in
• Elderly people.
• Decreased kidney function.
• Decreased liver function.
• Personality disorders.
• Phobias or obsessional states.
• Shaky or unsteady voluntary movements, e.g walking (cerebellar ataxia).
• Clobazam calms the brain.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Certain medicines should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. However, other medicines may be safely used in pregnancy or breastfeeding providing the benefits to the mother outweigh the risks to the unborn baby. Always inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, before using any medicine.
• This medicine may be harmful to a developing baby and it should be avoided during pregnancy unless considered essential by your doctor. This is particularly important during the first and third trimesters of pregnancy and before or during labour. Regular use during pregnancy should especially be avoided, as the baby could become dependent on the medicine and then suffer withdrawal symptoms after the birth. If this medicine is used in late pregnancy or during labour it may cause floppiness, low body temperature and breathing or feeding difficulties in the baby after birth. Ask your doctor for further information.
• This medicine should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Seek medical advice from your doctor.
• Significant amounts of this medicine may pass into breast milk. It should not be used by breastfeeding mothers as it may be harmful to the nursing infant. Seek medical advice from your doctor.
Side effects
Medicines and their possible side effects can affect individual people in different ways. The following are some of the side effects that are known to be associated with this medicine. Because a side effect is stated here, it does not mean that all people using this medicine will experience that or any side effect.
• Drowsiness.
• Dry mouth.
• Dizziness.
• Disturbances of the gut such as constipation, nausea.
• Decreased appetite
• Shaking, usually of the hands (tremor).
• Confusion.
• Shaky movements and unsteady walk (ataxia).
• Headache.
• Loss of memory (amnesia).
• Slurred speech.
• Skin rashes.
• Muscle weakness.
• Difficulty in passing urine (urinary retention).
• Urinary incontinence.
• Visual disturbances such as blurred vision, double vision.
• Rarely, unexpected effects such as increase in aggression, excitement, restlessness, irritability, rages, nightmares, hallucinations, psychotic reactions (see Warning section above).
• Changes in sex drive.
PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor your medical history, especially: kidney disease, liver disease, respiratory disease, depression, severe muscle weakness, certain types of glaucoma, history of chemical dependence, any allergies. Since this medication may cause drowsiness or dizziness, use caution operating machinery or engaging in activities requiring alertness such as driving. Limit intake of alcohol while taking this medication as it may increase the drowsiness/dizziness effects of this drug. The elderly may be more sensitive to the effects of this medication.
This drug may be habit-forming with long-term use.

Alprazolam

2011-05-12T13:28:00.000+06:00

Alprazolam is an anti-anxiety medication in the benzodiazepine family, the same family that includes diazepam, clonazepam, lorazepam, flurazepam and others.

Alprazolam is used for the treatment of anxiety disorders and panic attacks. Anxiety disorders are characterized by unrealistic worry and apprehension, causing symptoms of restlessness, aches, trembling, shortness of breath, smothering sensation, palpitations, sweating, cold clammy hands, lightheadedness, flushing, exaggerated startle responses, problems concentrating, and insomnia. Panic attacks occur either unexpectedly or in certain situations (for example, driving), and can require higher dosages of Alprazolam.

Alprazolam may be taken with or without food. The starting dose for treating anxiety is 0.25-0.5 mg 3 times daily using immediate release tablets. The dose may be increased every 3-4 days to a maximum dose of 4 mg daily. The starting dose for treating panic attacks is 0.5 mg 3 times daily. Doses can be increased every 3-4 days but by no more than 1 mg daily. The effective dose for preventing panic attacks may be as high as 6 mg daily.

Tablets: 0.25, 0.5, 1, and 2 mg. Tablets ER (extended release): 0.5, 1, 2, and 3 mg. Solution: 1 mg/m

Ketoconazole (Nizoral), itraconazole (Sporanox), nefazodone (Serzone), cimetidine (Tagamet), and fluvoxamine (Luvox) increase the blood concentration of alprazolam and therefore may increase the side effects of alprazolam.
Alprazolam interacts with alcohol and medications (for example, alcohol, barbiturates, and narcotics) by exaggerating their slowing of activity in the brain and sedation.
The most frequent side effects of alprazolam taken at lower doses are drowsiness or lightheadedness, which probably reflect the normal actions of the drug. Side effects of higher dosages (those used for panic attacks) include fatigue, memory problems, speech problems, constipation, and changes in appetite with resultant changes in weight.
Alprazolam can lead to addiction (dependency), especially at high dosages over prolonged periods of time. Abrupt discontinuation of the alprazolam after prolonged use can lead to symptoms of withdrawal such as insomnia, headaches, nausea, vomiting, lightheadedness, sweating, anxiety, and fatigue. Seizures can occur in more severe cases of withdrawal. Consequently, patients on alprazolam for extended periods of time should slowly taper the medication under a doctor's supervision rather than abruptly stopping the medication.

ACYCLOVIR (ORAL)

2010-06-09T21:30:00.001+06:00

This medication is used to treat herpes infections of the skin, mouth, mucous membranes, genital herpes, herpes zoster (shingles), and chickenpox in some individuals. This medication does not cure herpes, but relieves the pain and may make the infection clear faster.

Take this medication as directed. Try to take the medication at evenly spaced intervals throughout the day and night. This will ensure a constant blood level of the medication and is most effective.

This medication may cause stomach upset, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, dizziness or weakness. These effects should disappear in a few days as your body adjusts to the medication. An allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seeks immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other affects not listed above, contact doctor or pharmacist.

Avoid sexual activity while signs and symptoms of genital herpes are present to prevent infecting your partner. Inform your doctor if this medication does not appear to decrease the frequency or severity of recurrent infections.

Your blood group

2010-04-27T16:38:00.002+06:00

A person's A B O type depends upon the presence of absence of two genes --the A and B genes. These genes are encoded on chromosome 9. They determine part of the configuration of the red blood cell surface.

A person can be A, B, AB, or O. If a person has two A genes, their red blood cells are type A. If a person has two B genes, their red cells are type B. If the person has one A and one B gene, their red cells are type AB. If the person has neither the A nor B gene, they are type O.

The situation with antibodies in blood plasma is just the opposite. Someone with type A red cells has anti-B antibodies (antibodies directed against type B red cells) in their blood plasma. Someone with type B red cells has anti-A antibodies in plasma. Someone who is type O has both anti-A and anti-B antibodies in plasma. And someone who is type AB has neither anti-A nor anti-B antibodies in plasma.

It is most important to determine the A B O status of both donor and recipient in transplants and transfusions by typing and cross-matching. A B O incompatibility in such procedures can be a disaster.

The first recorded blood transfusion may have taken in 1492.

Fexofenadine

2010-04-18T17:51:00.000+06:00

Fexofenadine is an oral, "second generation" antihistamine that is used to treat the signs and symptoms of allergy that are due to histamine. It is similar to the other second generation antihistamines loratadine

Fexofenadine blocks one type of receptor for histamine (the H1 receptor) and thus prevents activation of H1 receptor-containing cells by histamine. Unlike the first generation antihistamines, fexofenadine and other second-generation antihistamines do not readily enter the brain from the blood, and, therefore, they cause less drowsiness.

Fexofenadine is used for the treatment of seasonal allergies and chronic urticaria (hives) in adults and children 6 years of age or older.

The most common side effects of fexofenadine are nausea, vomiting, weakness and sleepiness.
In controlled clinical studies there were no interactions with other drugs that significantly affected the safety or effectiveness of fexofenadine.

For seasonal allergies the recommended dose for adults and children 12 years or older is 60 mg twice daily or 180 mg once daily. Children 6-11 years of age should be given 30 mg twice daily. For chronic urticaria, adults and children 12 years or older should use 60 mg twice daily, and children 6-11 years of age should use 30 mg twice daily. Fexofenadine can be taken with or without food.

The common cold

2010-01-11T17:46:00.002+06:00

The common cold is arguably the most common illness in humans. It is also one of the most common causes of work and school absenteeism, with up to 22 million school days lost each year in the U.S. As the most frequently occurring illness in the world, it is also a leading cause of doctor visits.

What causes the common cold, and how is it spread?
Colds are caused by viral infections. Over 200 different viruses can cause cold symptoms of varying severity. Viruses that cause colds are spread from person to person through tiny droplets of mucus that enter the air from the nasal passages of infected persons and are inhaled by others. Colds can also be spread by touching surfaces that have been contaminated by contact with infected persons and then touching your mouth, nose, or eyes.
While it is impossible to completely prevent the spread of colds, there are steps you can take to reduce your and your family's chances of becoming infected with a virus that causes colds.
1. Wash your hands often.
This is probably the single best measure to prevent transmission of colds. Especially after shopping, going to the gym, or spending time in public places, hand washing is critical. Frequent hand washing can destroy viruses that you have acquired from touching surfaces used by other people. You can also carry a small tube of hand sanitizer or sanitizing hand wipes when visiting public places. Teach your children the importance of hand washing too.
2. Avoid touching your face.
Most importantly, avoid touching the nose, mouth, and eye areas if you are around someone with a cold or have been touching surfaces in a public area.
3. Keep household surfaces clean.
Door knobs, drawer pulls, keyboards, light switches, telephones, remote controls, countertops, and sinks can all harbor viruses for hours after their use by an infected person. Wipe these surfaces frequently with soap and water or a disinfectant solution.
4. Throw tissues away after use
Used tissues are sources of virus that can contaminate any surface where they are left.
5. Control stress & Maintain a healthy lifestyle
Studies have shown that people experiencing emotional stress have weakened immune systems and are more likely to catch a cold than their calmer counterparts.
While there isn't direct evidence to show that eating well or exercising can prevent colds, maintenance of a healthy lifestyle, with adequate sleep, good nutrition, and physical exercise can help ensure that your immune system is in good condition and ready to fight infection if it occurs.

Desloratadine

2009-09-12T13:31:00.000+07:00

Desloratadine is an antihistamine that reduces the natural chemical histamine in the body. Histamine can produce symptoms of sneezing, itching, watery eyes, and runny nose.
Desloratadine is used to treat the symptoms of allergies, such as sneezing, watery eyes, and runny nose. It is also used to treat skin hives and itching in people with chronic skin reactions.
Before taking desloratadine, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have liver or kidney disease.
Do not give this medication to a child younger than 2 years old without the advice of a doctor.
Desloratadine may contain phenylalanine. Talk to your doctor before using this form of desloratadine if you have phenylketonuria (PKU).
You should not take this medication if you are allergic to desloratadine or to loratadine (Claritin).
If you have any of these other conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely use this medication:
• kidney disease; or
• liver disease.
FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether desloratadine is harmful to an unborn baby. Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment. Desloratadine can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby. Do not give this medication to a child younger than 18 years old without the advice of a doctor.

Take this medication as directed on the label, or as your doctor has prescribed. Do not take the medication in larger amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label.
Desloratadine side effects
Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:
• fast, pounding, or uneven heartbeat;
• fever, flu symptoms;
• seizure (convulsions); or
• jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes).
Less serious side effects may include:
• dry mouth, sore throat, cough;
• muscle pain;
• drowsiness, tired feeling;
• nausea, diarrhea; or
• headache;
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Desloratadine Dosing Information
Usual Adult Dose for Allergic Rhinitis:
Initial dose: 5 mg orally once a day
Maintenance dose: 5 mg orally once a day
Usual Adult Dose for Urticaria:
Initial dose: 5 mg orally once a day
Maintenance dose: 5 mg orally once a day
Usual Geriatric Dose for Allergic Rhinitis:
Initial dose: 5 mg orally once a day.
Maintenance dose: 5 mg orally once a day.
Usual Geriatric Dose for Urticaria:
Initial dose: 5 mg orally once a day.
Maintenance dose: 5 mg orally once a day.
Usual Pediatric Dose for Allergic Rhinitis:
>=6m <12m: 1 mg orally once a day
>=1y <6y: 1.25 mg orally once a day
>=6y <11y: 2.5 mg orally once a day
>=12 years of age: 5 mg orally once a day
Usual Pediatric Dose for Urticaria:
>=6m <12m: 1 mg orally once a day
>=1y <6y: 1.25 mg orally once a day
>=6y <11y: 2.5 mg orally once a day
>=12 years of age: 5 mg orally once a day
What other drugs will affect desloratadine?
There may be other drugs that can affect desloratadine. Tell your doctor about all the prescription and over-the-counter medications you use. This includes vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start using a new medication without telling your doctor.

Loratadine

2009-08-30T10:34:00.002+07:00

Loratadine is a long-acting antihistamine that is used for the treatment of allergy. Histamine is a chemical that causes many signs and symptoms of allergy. Histamine is released from histamine-storing cells (mast cells) and attaches to other cells that have receptors for histamine on their surfaces. Histamine stimulates the cells to release chemicals that produce effects that we associate with allergy. Loratadine blocks one type of histamine receptor (the H1 receptor) and thus prevents activation of cells with H1 receptors by histamine. Unlike some antihistamines, loratadine does not enter the brain from the blood and, therefore, does not cause drowsiness when taken at recommended doses. The FDA approved loratadine in April 1993.

Loratadine is an antihistamine. It works by blocking a substance in the body called histamine. This helps to decrease allergy symptoms.

Before using Loratadine :
Some medical conditions may interact with Loratadine . Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have any medical conditions, especially if any of the following apply to you:
• if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding
• if you are taking any prescription or nonprescription medicine, herbal preparation, or dietary supplement
• if you have allergies to medicines, foods, or other substances
• if you have kidney or liver problems
Some MEDICINES MAY INTERACT with Loratadine . Tell your health care provider if you are taking any other medicines, especially any of the following:
• Amiodarone because the risk of severe irregular heartbeat may be increased
Ask your health care provider if Loratadine may interact with other medicines that you take. Check with your health care provider before you start, stop, or change the dose of any medicine.

SIDE EFFECTS: Headache, fatigue, dry mouth, thirst, dry nose or hoarseness may occur. These effects should lessen as your body adjusts to the medication. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: nervousness, rapid or pounding heartbeat, unusual weakness, stomach pain, dizziness, diarrhea, wheezing, increased physical activity. Loratadine does not usually cause drowsiness when used at recommended doses and under normal circumstances. However, be sure of the drug's effects before engaging in activities that require alertness such as driving or using machinery. A serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Important safety information:
• Taking Loratadine in high doses may cause drowsiness. Do NOT take more than the recommended dose without checking with your doctor.
• Loratadine may interfere with skin allergy tests. If you are scheduled for a skin test, talk to your doctor. You may need to stop taking Loratadine for a few days before the tests.
• Loratadine should not be used in CHILDREN younger than 6 years old without checking with the child's doctor; safety and effectiveness in these children have not been confirmed.
• PREGNANCY and BREAST-FEEDING: If you become pregnant, contact your doctor. You will need to discuss the benefits and risks of using Loratadine while you are pregnant. Loratadine is found in breast milk. If you are or will be breast-feeding while you use Loratadine , check with your doctor. Discuss any possible risks to your baby.

Cetirizine hydrochloride

2009-07-06T15:32:00.002+07:00

Cetirizine hydrochloride is an antihistamine. It is prescribed to treat the sneezing; itchy, runny nose; and itchy, red, watery eyes caused by seasonal allergies such as hay fever. Cetirizine hydrochloride also relieves the symptoms of year-round allergies due to dust, mold, and animal dander. This medication is also used in the treatment of chronic itchy skin and hives.

Take Cetirizine hydrochloride once a day, exactly as prescribed. This medication can be taken with or without food.
Cetirizine hydrochloride may make your mouth dry. Sucking hard candy, chewing a stick of gum, or melting bits of ice in your mouth can provide relief.

• If you miss a dose...
If you are taking Cetirizine hydrochloride on a regular schedule, take the forgotten dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

You should avoid drinking alcohol or taking sedatives, tranquilizers, sleeping pills, or muscle relaxants while using Cetirizine hydrochloride. They can lead to increased drowsiness and reduced mental alertness. Among the products to avoid are the following:

Antidepressants
Muscle relaxants
Pain-relieving narcotics
Sedatives such as phenobarbital
Sleeping pills
High doses of theophylline

Recommended dosage for Cetirizine hydrochloride

ADULTS AND CHILDREN 12 YEARS AND OLDER

The usual starting dose is 5 or 10 milligrams once a day, depending on the severity of your symptoms. If you have a kidney or liver condition, the doctor will probably prescribe 5 milligrams daily.

CHILDREN 6 TO 11 YEARS
The usual starting dose is 5 or 10 milligrams (1 or 2 teaspoonfuls of syrup) once a day. If your child has a kidney or liver condition, the doctor will probably prescribe the lower dose.

CHILDREN 2 TO 5 YEARS
The usual starting dose is 2.5 milligrams (one-half teaspoonful) once a day. Dosage may be increased to a maximum of 5 milligrams (1 teaspoonful) once daily or 2.5 milligrams (one-half teaspoonful) every 12 hours. If the child has a kidney or liver condition, Cetirizine hydrochloride should not be given.

CHILDREN 6 TO 23 MONTHS
The usual starting dose is 2.5 milligrams (one-half teaspoonful) once a day. In children 12 to 23 months old, the dose can be increased to a maximum of 5 milligrams a day, given as 2.5 milligrams (one-half teaspoonful) every 12 hours.Cetirizine hydrochloride should not be used if your child has kidney or liver problems.

Accupresure --Part 01. অ্যাকিউপ্রেশার চিকিৎসা : সফলতা ও বৈজ্ঞানিক ভিত্তি - ১

2009-05-23T10:59:00.003+06:00

অ্যাকিউপ্রেশার চিকিৎসা : সফলতা ও বৈজ্ঞানিক ভিত্তি

জিয়া খালেদ

অ্যাকিউপ্রেশার চিকিৎসা হচ্ছে ঔষধবিহীন, কোন প্রকার যন্ত্রপাতিবিহীন বিস্ময়কর এক প্রাকৃতিক চিকিৎসা পদ্ধতি। প্রায় পাঁচ হাজার বছর পূর্বে ভারতে মুনি হৃষিদের মাধ্যমে এর প্রসার ঘটেছিল। পরবর্তীতে আকুপাংচার নামে বিভিন্ন দেশে এর বিস্তার ঘটে। অ্যাকিউপ্রেশার হচ্ছে আকুপাংচার হতে উন্নত, সহজ, নিরাপদ, পার্শ্বপ্রতিক্রিয়ামুক্ত অথচ আকুপাংচারের মতই এক প্রাকৃতিক চিকিৎসা পদ্ধতি। অ্যাকিউপ্রেশার পদ্ধতিতে হাতের তালু এবং পায়ের তলা ও আশ-পাশের নির্দিষ্ট ৩৮টি বিন্দুতে চাপ দিয়ে যেকোন জটিল রোগের চিকিৎসা সম্ভব। অ্যাকিউপ্রেশার পদ্ধতিতে নিজেই নিজের চিকিৎসক, পরিবারের চিকিৎসক -- কোন যন্ত্রপাতি এবং ঔষধ ছাড়াই। অ্যাকিউপ্রেশার চিকিৎসা পদ্ধতি সফলতা এবং বৈজ্ঞানিক স্বীকৃতি দিন দিন ছড়িয়ে পড়ছে গোটা বিশ্বে।

গত ১৭ই এপ্রিল ’০৯ ঢাকা বিশ্ববিদ্যালয়ের নবাব নওয়াব আলী চৌধুরী সিনেট ভবনে বাংলাদেশে প্রথম ২ দিন ব্যাপী ফিজিওথেরাপী বিষয়ক বৈজ্ঞানিক সম্মেলনে প্রকারান্তরে অ্যাকিউপ্রেশার চিকিৎসার সফলতার স্বীকৃতি দিয়েছেন ফিজিওথেরাপীর চিকিৎসকরা। তারা বলেন ”অপারেশন এবং ঔষধ ছাড়াই ম্যানুয়েল থেরাপী দিয়ে মানুষের ঘাড়, কোমর এবং মেরুদন্ডের ব্যথা নিরাময় করা সম্ভব। দূর্ঘটনা, ষ্ট্রোক সহ নানা কারণে পঙ্গুত্ব বরণকারীদের সমস্যা সমাধানও সম্ভব এ থেরাপীতে।” ফিজিওথেরাপীর চিকিৎসকরা আরোও বলেন, ”হাতের কলাকৌশল ব্যবহার করে জয়েন্টগুলোতে নাড়াচাড়া করা হয় বলেই এ চিকিৎসা পদ্ধতির নামকরণ করা হয়েছে ম্যানুয়েল থেরাপী। এটা ফিজিওথেরাপীরই অংশ।” দু’দিনব্যাপী এ সম্মেলন উদ্বোধন করেন অষ্ট্রেলিয়ার মেলবোর্ন ইউনিভার্সিটির মেডিসিন বিভাগের অধ্যাপক জুলিয়ান ওয়েব। সম্মেলনে যুক্তরাজ্য, যুক্তরাষ্ট্র ও কানাডা সহ বিশ্বের বিভিন্ন দেশের বিশেষজ্ঞরা অংশ নেন।

আমার মনে হয় এখানে অ্যাকিউপ্রেশার চিকিৎসার সফলতার কথাই বলা হয়েছে। অ্যাকিউপ্রেশার চিকিৎসাও হাতের কলাকৌশল ব্যবহার করে করা হয়। ২০০৩ সাল থেকে ঢাকায় সাংবাদিক সাগর ছগীর অ্যাকিউপ্রেশার চিকিৎসা পদ্ধতি বাংলাদেশে নিয়ে আসার পর প্রথমেই নিজেই নিজের চিকিৎসা, পরিবারের চিকিৎসা এবং পরবর্তীতে প্রতিবেশীদের চিকিৎসা থেকে শুরু করে জাতীয়ভাবে পরিচিত বহু ব্যক্তিও শেষ চিকিৎসা হিসাবে অ্যাকিউপ্রেশারের মাধ্যমে বিভিন্ন জটিল রোগ থেকে মুক্তি পেয়েছেন। এদের সাক্ষাতকার ছবিসহ বিভিন্ন জাতীয় পত্রিকায় প্রকাশিত হয়েছে। পরবর্তীতে বাধ্য হয়ে জনাব সাগর সগীরকে ঢাকায় অ্যাকিউপ্রেশার ট্রেনিং সেন্টার খুলতে হয়। এ পর্যন্ত সারাদেশে বহু লোক ট্রেনিং নিয়ে ব্যক্তিগতভাবে, পারিবারিকভাবে বিভিন্ন জটিল রোগ থেকে মুক্তি লাভ করছেন। অনেকে ট্রেনিং গ্রহন করে অ্যাকিউপ্রেশার চিকিৎসা কেন্দ্র খুলে লক্ষ লক্ষ টাকা রোজগার করছেন।

সিলেটেও ”সিলেট অ্যাকিউপ্রেশার ট্রেনিং সেন্টার” নামে একটি শাখা শাহজালাল উপশহরে চালু করা হয়েছে। ফেঞ্চুগঞ্জ প্রেস কাবের ব্যবস্হাপনায় ঢাকাস্হ বঙ্গজ স্বচিকিৎসা পরিবারের সহযোগিতায় ১ম ব্যাচে ২২জন প্রশিক্ষণার্থী অংশ গ্রহন করেন, এবং প্রশিক্ষণ নেন। গত ১৩ই ফেব্রুয়ারী ’০৯ ১ম ব্যাচের প্রশিক্ষণ কোর্স উদ্বোধন করেন সিলেট প্রেস কাবের সভাপতি জনাব মুকতাবিস-উন-নূর। উক্ত প্রশিক্ষণ সফলভাবে সমাপ্ত হয়েছে। গত ৭ই মার্চ ’০৯ তারিখ সমাপণী অনুষ্ঠানে প্রধান অতিথি হিসাবে উপস্হিত ছিলেন ফেঞ্চুগঞ্জ প্রেস কাবের সাধারণ সম্পাদক রিয়াজ উদ্দিন ইসকা। ১ম ব্যাচের প্রশিক্ষণে অংশগ্রহন করেন মুমিনছড়া চা বাগানের মালিক মোসলেহ উদ্দিন খান, বাগানের সহকারী ম্যানেজার আব্দুল কাদির শাহিন, আল-আরাফাহ্ ইসলামী ব্যাংকের আম্বরখানা শাখার ম্যানেজার আবু তালেবও তাঁর সহধর্মিনী, মরহুম ডাঃ আব্দুল মুনিম সাহেবের ছেলে শাকিল আহমদ ও তাঁর স্ত্রী রিনা আহমদ, কলেজ শিক্ষক মতিলাল দেব, উচ্চ বিদ্যালয়ের শিক্ষীকা আয়েশা খানম, সরকারী প্রাথমিক বিদ্যালয়ের শিক্ষীকা নামিম আরা বেগম,সরকারী অবসরপ্রাপ্ত কর্মকর্তা সিরাজুল ইসলাম, বিশিষ্ট ব্যবসায়ী এ. কে. এম. ইকবাল আহমদ, হেলাল আহমদ, বেনু পাল সহ বিশিষ্ট ব্যাক্তিবর্গ। ২য় ব্যাচের প্রশিক্ষণ শীঘ্রই শুরু হতে যাচ্ছে।

১ম ব্যাচের প্রশিক্ষণ শেষে আমি প্রশিক্ষণ গ্রহনকারীদের সাথে একাধিকবার সভায়/ব্যক্তিগতভাবে মিলিত হয়ে এর চিকিৎসার সফলতা সর্ম্পকে জানতে চেয়েছি। সকলেই এক বাক্যে এর আর্শ্চয্যজনক সফলতা লাভ করেছেন বলে জানিয়েছেন এবং এই চিকিৎসা পদ্ধতির প্রচার ও প্রসার কামনা করেছেন। আল আরাফাহ্ ইসলামী ব্যাংকের ম্যানেজার জনাব আবু তালেব এ প্রসঙ্গে বলেন, ”অ্যাকিউপ্রেশার ট্রেনিং গ্রহনের পর এটা প্রয়োগ করে বিগত ২মাস আমাকে কোন ঔষধ কিনতে হয়নি। সত্যিই এটা ঔষধবিহীন স্বচিকিৎসা পদ্ধতি। আল্লাহ্ তার খাস রহমত স্বরূপ আমাদেরকে এ চিকিৎসা পদ্ধতি দান করেছেন।”

Accupresure --Part 02. অ্যাকিউপ্রেশার চিকিৎসা : সফলতা ও বৈজ্ঞানিক ভিত্তি - ২

2009-05-23T10:37:00.002+06:00

এখন আমার ব্যক্তিগত অভিজ্ঞতা খুব অল্প, তবুও বলতে হচ্ছে ঢাকা থেকে অ্যাকিউপ্রেশার ট্রেনিং নিয়ে দৈনিক সিলেটের ডাক পত্রিকায় আমার অ্যাকিউপ্রেশার বিষয়ক প্রথম লেখা ছাপা হওয়ার পর পাঠকদের অভূতপূর্ব সাড়া পাওয়ায় আমি পরীক্ষামূলকভাবে আমার পরিবারে চিকিৎসা দিতে শুরু করি। প্রচন্ড মাথা ব্যথা, ঘাড় ব্যথার চিকিৎসা পদ্ধতি শিখিয়ে দেই আমার ছোট বোন রোজীকে। সে অ্যাকিউপ্রেশার প্রয়োগ করে গত ২ মাস যাবত আল্লাহর মেহেবাণীতে সম্পূর্ণ সুস্হ্য।

ছেলে মেহেদী ৫ম শ্রেনীতে পড়ে। ঘন ঘন প্রস্রাব করতো। চিকিৎসা দেয়ার পর আল্লাহর রহমতে পুরাপুরি সুস্হ্য। এভাবে অনেককেই চিকিৎসা দিয়েছি। সুস্হ্য হইনি--একথা এখন পর্যন্ত কেউ বলেননি। বিশেষ করে এ্যাজমা/হাঁপানী দ্রুত সারে।

গত ১৫-২৩ এপ্রিল ৭২তম কাব-স্কাউটস লিডার বেসিক কোর্সে প্রশিক হিসেবে নিয়োগ পেয়েছিলাম সিলেটের আঞ্চলিক স্কাউট প্রশিক্ষণ কেন্দ্রে। সেখানে আমাদের ”বিগ বস” বাংলাদেশ স্কাউট্স, সিলেট অঞ্চলের ডি. আর. সি (প্রোগ্রাম) এবং অত্র কোর্সের কোর্স লিডার ডাঃ সিরাজুল ইসলাম শ্বাসকষ্টের কারনে ইনহেলার ব্যবহার করছেন দেখতে পেলাম। তিনি ডাক্তার কিন্তু অ্যাকিউপ্রেশার চিকিৎসা পদ্ধতির সাথে পরিচিত নন। এ ব্যাপারে তার সাথে আলাপ করে তাকে চিকিৎসা দিলাম। এক ঘন্টা পর তিনি সুস্হ্যতাবোধ করছেন বলে আমাকে জানালেন। পরবর্তীতে ৮ দিনের প্রশিক্ষণে তাকে আর ইনহেলার ব্যবহার করতে হয়নি। এভাবে সহকর্মী অন্যান্য প্রশিক্ষকদেরও বিভিন্ন রোগের চিকিৎসা দিলাম। সবাই তাৎক্ষনিক ফল পেয়েছেন বলে আমাকে জানিয়েছেন।

প্রশিক্ষক প্রধান শিক্ষক জনাব বোরহান উদ্দিন আহমদ গত ২৬.৪.০৯ তারিখ ফোনে আমাকে জানিয়েছেন শ্বাসকষ্ট থেকে তিনি সম্পূর্ণ মুক্ত। আল্লাহ্ পাকের অশেষ রহমত এই অ্যাকিউপ্রেশার চিকিৎসা। ঔষধ ছাড়া, যন্ত্রপাতি ছাড়া হাতের কলাকৌশলে নিজেই নিজের হাতের তালুতে, পায়ের তলায় এই পদ্ধতি ব্যবহার করে জটিল রোগ থেকে আরোগ্য লাভ। বিশ্বাস না হবারই কথা। বিশ্বাসীরা বিশ্বাস তো করবেই কারন আল্লাহ্ কি না পারেন? আল্লাহর সৃষ্টির মধ্যে সবচেয়ে সেরা জীব মানুষ। বুদ্ধিভিত্তিক জীব মানুষ ছাড়া বাকী সব জীবই জৈবিক চাহিদা নির্ভর। মানুষ ছাড়া কোন জীবেরই ঔষধ, যন্ত্রপাতি, ডাক্তার, অপারেশন ইত্যাদি প্রয়োজন হয়না। ভাবুন মানুষের এসবের প্রয়োজন হবে কেন? আবার অনেক জটিল রোগ কি ঔষধ ছাড়া ভাল হয়না? অবশ্যই হচ্ছে। কারো কারো ডাক্তার ঔষধ লাগে কেন? আমার মনে হয় লাগায় বলেই লাগে। ইংল্যান্ড আমেরিকা থেকে চিকিৎসা নিয়েও অনেকে ব্যর্থ হয়, ফিরে আসে। ডাক্তার ও ঔষধে ভাল হলে তাদের ব্যর্থ হয়ে আসতে হতোনা হয়তো। ডাক্তার, ঔষধ অবশ্যই প্রয়োজন আছে-তবে প্রথমেই নয়, প্রাকৃতিক নিয়মে ব্যর্থ হলে চাই ডাক্তার।

Accupresure --Part 03. অ্যাকিউপ্রেশার চিকিৎসা : সফলতা ও বৈজ্ঞানিক ভিত্তি - ৩

2009-05-22T21:04:00.001+06:00

ফেঞ্চুগঞ্জ সারখানা ৪৮ বছর ধরে চলছে। নির্মাণের পর জাপান থেকে ইঞ্জিনীয়ার এনে কয়েকবার এ কারখানা মেরামত করা হয়েছে। দেশের ইঞ্জিনীয়ার/টেকনিশয়ানরা তো প্রতি বছর/প্রতিদিন মেরামত করছেন। বার্ষিক মেরামত তো নির্ধারিতভাবে আছেই। তারপরও হঠাৎ বিকল, হঠাৎ বন্ধ চলছেই। উৎপাদন বন্ধ হয়ে যাবার ঘটনা ঘটছেই। কিন্তু মানব দেহের যন্ত্রাংশের সংখ্যা এই কারখানার চেয়ে কম নয়। সবগুলো যন্ত্রপাতির কাজও প্রায় একই রকম। এসব কোমল এবং শক্তিশালী শারিরীক যন্ত্রগুলো ১০০ বছর ধরে নিরবিচ্ছিন্ন ও অবিশ্বাস্য রকম পারস্পরিক সমন্বয়ের সাথে কাজ করছে। এ মানব শরীর স্বয়ংক্রিয়ভাবে নিজেই নিজের রোগ নিরাময় করতে সম। অ্যাকিউপ্রেশার এ রোগ নিরাময় বিষয়ে শরীরকে সহায়তা করে এবং সকল অঙ্গ প্রত্যঙ্গ ও এন্ডোক্রিন গ্ল্যান্ডগুলোকে (অন্তঃস্রাবী অনালগ্রন্হি) যথাযথ সক্রিয় রাখে, যার ফলে আমরা নিখুঁত স্বাস্হের অধিকারী হই। অ্যাকিউপ্রেশার চিকিৎসা বা অন্যান্য প্রাকৃতিক চিকিৎসা শিখে নেয়া খুবই সহজ। স্বল্প সময়ে শিখে নিয়ে ১০ বছরের শিশুও অ্যাকিউপ্রেশার চিকিৎসা করতে পারবে। অ্যাকিউপ্রেশার প্রাথমিক প্রশিক্ষণ খুব দীর্ঘ ও জটিল নয়। সপ্তাহে ২দিন দুই থেকে তিন ঘন্টা ক্লাস সর্বমোট ৩ সপ্তাহ। অর্থাৎ ২ থেকে ৩ ঘন্টার ৬টি ক্লাস। এ প্রশিক্ষণে ৩৮টা বিন্দুর সাথে পরিচয়, বিন্দুগুলোতে চাপ দেয়ার কৌশল, খাদ্যভ্যাস পরিবর্তনের প্রয়োজনীয়তা ইত্যাদি শেখানো হয় এবং প্রতিটি ক্লাসের লেকচার শীট এবং প্রয়োজনীয় সংখ্যক চিত্র সরবরাহ করা হয়।

আমার ১ম অ্যাকিউপ্রেশার বিষয়ক লেখা ছাপার পর আমার কাছে পাঠক মহলের অনুরোধ ছিল একটি সেমিনার করার। পর পর ২টা সেমিনার করেছি সিলেট জেলা পরিষদ মিলনায়তনে।। পরবর্তীতে অনুরোধ ট্রেনিং এর ব্যবস্হা করার। ট্রেনিং সেন্টার খুলে ১ম ব্যাচে ২২জন বিশিষ্ট ব্যক্তিকে ট্রেনিং দেয়া হয়েছে। ২০/৩০ জন ভর্তি হয়ে গেলে ২য় ব্যাচ আগামী মাসের ১ম সপ্তাহে একই স্হানে শুরু করা যাবে। এখন অনেকেই বিশেষভাবে অনুরোধ করছেন চিকিৎসা কেন্দ্র খোলার জন্য। এ প্রসঙ্গে আমার বক্তব্য হচ্ছে, আমার একার পক্ষে চিকিৎসা কেন্দ্র আপাততঃ খোলা সম্ভব হবেনা, স্হানেরও অভাব। লোকবল তৈরীর চেষ্টা চলছে। দক্ষ লোক তৈরী হলে অবশ্যই চিকিৎসা কেন্দ্র খোলা হবে। দক্ষতা অর্জন সময়ের ব্যাপার। তারপরও চিকিৎসা যে চলছেনা তা নয়। যারা আমার কাছে আসেন, যে রোগ নিয়ে, যতটুকু জানি তাৎক্ষনিকভাবে হাতে কলমে শিখিয়ে দিচ্ছি -- নিজেও চিকিৎসা দিচ্ছি। যখন কোন রোগী বলেন, ”ভাল হয়ে গেছি” তখন খুব ভাল লাগে, আল্লাহর শুকরিয়া আদায় করি। ডাক্তারও না, কবিরাজও না বিজ্ঞানের ছাত্রও ছিলামনা -তারপরও বিনা ঔষধে আমার চিকিৎসার উসিলায় রোগ ভাল হয়ে যায় – আল্লাহর শুকরিয়া আদায় করা ছাড়া কোন উপায় নেই। আলহামদুলিল্লাহ্ ।

লেখক : সাংবাদিক
পরিচালক : অ্যাকিউপ্রেশার ট্রেনিং সেন্টার
যোগাযোগ-০১৭১২৯৭৯২৬৪

Reflexology : Part-03

2009-02-16T09:35:00.001+06:00

Reflexology employs the principle that the reflex points on the feet, when hand pressure is applied, will reflexively stimulate energy to a related muscle or organ in the body and promote healing.

People with serious and long-term medical problems are urged to seek the advice of a physician. Diabetes patients in particular are urged to approach this therapy cautiously. Likewise pregnant women are cautioned emphatically to avoid reflexology during the early phases of pregnancy altogether, as accidentally induced labor and subsequent premature delivery can result from reflexology treatment.
A consultation with a reflexologist is recommended in order to determine the safety and appropriateness of reflexology therapy for a specific health problem or condition.

Side effects

Because reflexology is intended to normalize the body functions, the therapy does not cause a condition to worsen. Most patients find that pain diminishes over the course of the therapy. It has been noted, however, that some patients experience greater discomfort in the second session than in the first session, because a significant easing of pain and tension is generally associated with the initial therapy session. As a result, when pressure is reapplied to the tender points of the foot during the second session, the sensitivity has been heightened. This increase in sensitivity may cause minor additional discomfort for the patient.

Reflexology : Part-2

2009-02-10T15:20:00.001+06:00

Description

Origins

Reflexology is a healing art of ancient origin. Although its origins are not well documented, there are reliefs on the walls of a Sixth Dynasty Egyptian tomb (c. 2450 B.C.) that depict two seated men receiving massage on their hands and feet. From Egypt, the practice may have entered the Western world during the conquests of the Roman Empire. The concepts of reflexology have also been traced to pre-dynastic China (possibly as early as 3000 B.C.) and to ancient Indian medicine. The Inca civilization may have subscribed to the theories of reflexology and passed on the practice of this treatment to the Native Americans in the territories that eventually entered the United States.
In recent times, Sir Henry Head first investigated the concepts underlying reflexology in England in the 1890s. Therapists in Germany and Russia were researching similar notions at approximately the same time, although with a different focus. Less than two decades later, a physician named William H. Fitzgerald presented a similar concept that he called zone analgesia or zone therapy. Fitzgerald's zone analgesia was a method of relieving pain through the application of pressure to specific locations throughout the entire body. Fitzgerald divided the body into 10 vertical zones, five on each side, that extended from the head to the fingertips and toes, and from front toback. Every aspect of the human body appears in one of these 10 zones, and each zone has a reflex area on the hands and feet. Fitzgerald and his colleague, Dr. Edwin Bowers, demonstrated that by applying pressure on one area of the body, they could anesthetize or reduce pain in a corresponding part. In 1917, Fitzgerald and Bowers published Relieving Pain at Home, an explanation of zone therapy.
Later, in the 1930s, a physical therapist, Eunice D. Ingham, explored the direction of the therapy and made the startling discovery that pressure points on the human foot were situated in a mirror image of the corresponding organs of the body with which the respective pressure points were associated. Ingham documented her findings, which formed the basis of reflexology, in Stories the Feet Can Tell, published in 1938. Although Ingham's work in reflexology was inaccurately described as zone therapy by some, there are differences between the two therapies of pressure analgesia. Among the more marked differences, reflexology defines a precise correlation between pressure points and afflicted areas of the body. Furthermore, Ingham divided each foot and hand into 12 respective pressure zones, in contrast to the 10 vertical divisions that encompass the entire body in Fitzgerald's zone therapy.
In 1968 two siblings, Dwight Byers and Eusebia Messenger, established the National Institute of Reflexology. By the early 1970s the institute had grown and was renamed the International Institute of Reflexology.
In a typical reflexology treatment, the therapist and patient have a preliminary discussion prior to therapy, to enable the therapist to focus more accurately on the patient's specific complaints and to determine the appropriate pressure points for treatment.
A reflexology session involves pressure treatment that is most commonly administered in foot therapy sessions of approximately 40-45 minutes in duration. The foot therapy may be followed by a brief 15-minute hand therapy session. No artificial devices or special equipment are associated with this therapy. The human hand is the primary tool used in reflexology. The therapist applies controlled pressure with the thumb and forefinger, generally working toward the heel of the foot or the outer palm of the hand. Most reflexologists apply pressure with their thumbs bent; however, some also use simple implements, such as the eraser end of a pencil. Reflexology therapy is not massage, and it is not a substitute for medical treatment.
Reflexology is a complex system that identifies and addresses the mass of 7,000 nerve endings that are contained in the foot. Additional reflexology addresses the nerves that are located in the hand. This is a completely natural therapy that affords relief without the use of drugs. The Reflexology Association of America (RAA) formally discourages the use of oils or other preparations in performing this hands-on therapy.
Preparations
In order to realize maximum benefit from a reflexology session, the therapist as well as the patient should be situated so as to afford optimal comfort for both. Patients in general receive treatment in a reclining position, with the therapist positioned as necessary—to work on the bare feet, or alternately on the bare hands.
A reflexology patient removes both shoes and socks in order to receive treatment. No other preparation is involved. No prescription drugs, creams, oils, or lotions are used on the skin.
Precautions
Reflexology is extremely safe. It may even be self-administered in a limited form whenever desired. The qualified reflexologist offers a clear and open disclaimer that reflexology does not constitute medical treatment in any form, nor is reflexology given as a substitute for medical advice or treatment. The ultimate purpose of the therapy is to promote wellness; fundamentally it is a form of preventive therapy.

Reflexology : Part-1

2009-02-10T15:15:00.002+06:00

Definition
Reflexology is a therapeutic method of relieving pain by stimulating predefined pressure points on the feet and hands. This controlled pressure alleviates the source of the discomfort. In the absence of any particular malady or abnormality, reflexology may be as effective for promoting good health and for preventing illness as it may be for relieving symptoms of stress, injury, and illness.
Reflexologists work from maps of predefined pressure points that are located on the hands and feet. These pressure points are reputed to connect directly through the nervous system and affect the bodily organs and glands. The reflexologist manipulates the pressure points according to specific techniques of reflexology therapy. By means of this touching therapy, any part of the body that is the source of pain, illness, or potential debility can be strengthened through the application of pressure at the respective foot or hand location.
Purpose
Reflexology promotes healing by stimulating the nerves in the body and encouraging the flow of blood. In the process, reflexology not only quells the sensation of pain, but relieves the source of the pain as well.
Anecdotally, reflexologists claim success in the treatment of a variety of conditions and injuries. One condition is fibromyalgia. People with this disease are encouraged to undergo reflexology therapy to alleviate any of a number of chronic bowel syndromes associated with the condition. Frequent brief sessions of reflexology therapy are also recommended as an alternative to drug therapy for controlling the muscle pain associated with fibromyalgia and for relieving difficult breathing caused by tightness in the muscles of the patient's neck and throat.
Reflexology applied properly can alleviate allergy symptoms, as well as stress, back pain, and chronic fatigue. The techniques of reflexology can be performed conveniently on the hand in situations where a session on the feet is not practical, although the effectiveness of limited hand therapy is less pronounced than with the foot pressure therapy.

INFLUENZA AND INFLUENZA VACCINE

2009-01-19T15:40:00.001+06:00

Influenza each year causes tremendous amounts of school absence among
older children and serious illness among preschool children. Symptoms during influenza may include headache, stomach ache, fever, vomiting, and cough, and complete recovery from them may take weeks or months. Influenza may also lead to pneumonia,ear infection , and other complications, and it may make a child more susceptible to illness long after the influenza itself seems to have disappeared. Influenza is particularly troublesome for those who have serious allergies or other chronic diseases.

Recommend influenza vaccine for children with a past history of repeated
pneumonia, asthma, or frequent ear infections. Any child who has diabetes, congenital heart disease, or chronic lung disease should have influenza vaccine. Others living in the same household with these high risk children should also receive influenza vaccine.
Children who are generally more healthy may be given influenza vaccine to reduce the
risk of illness and school absence during the flu season. Influenza vaccine may be
expected to decrease the likelihood of getting influenza, or make it less severe with complications less likely.

Reactions to influenza vaccine are generally mild, but some swelling and
soreness at the site of injection and mild fever and muscular pains may sometimes
occur. Those who have developed hives, swelling of the tongue, or other severe
reactions after eating eggs should not be given influenza vaccine.

Children 6 months through 8 years of age, if they have not had previous
influenza vaccine, are best protected with two doses of influenza vaccine given a month or more apart. Others receive a single dose. Influenza vaccine is not recommended under 6 months of age. It may be given at the same time as other immunizations.

Influenza vaccine should be scheduled in September, October, or November,
and the second dose, if recommended, should be given before December. Influenza
vaccine needs to be given each year, since protection does not last from flu shots or illness the previous years. Now a new alternative nasal influenza vaccine is available, known as FluMist. FluMist is currently available for children age 5 and older and adults under age 50 who do not have underlying chronic disease. Children and adults with chronic respiratory disease must still receive the traditional injectable influenza vaccine.

In addition to prevention, Influenza can be treated with a highly effective antiviral drug known as Tamiflu (oseltamivir). The earlier influenza is diagnosed the more effective Tamiflu is at relieving symptoms. If you think your child may have the flu have your child see your doctor early so they might benefit from this medication. Waiting in this case will render the drug less effective and the child will progress through a full course of the disease undeterred.

Acupressure

2009-01-03T12:41:00.000+06:00

Acupressure is an ancient healing art that uses the fingers to press key points on the surface of the skin to stimulate the body's natural self-curative abilities. When these points are pressed, they release muscular tension and promote the circulation of blood and the body's life force to aid healing. Acupuncture and acupressure use the same points, but acupuncture employs needles, while acupressure uses the gentle but firm pressure of hands (and even feet). There is a massive amount of scientific data that demonstrates why and how acupuncture is effective. But acupressure, the older of the two traditions, was neglected after the Chinese developed more technological methods for stimulating points with needles and electricity. Acupressure, however, continues to be the most effective method for self-treatment of tension-related ailments by using the power and sensitivity of the human hand.

Foremost among the advantages of acupressure's healing touch is that it is safe to do on yourself and others - even if you've never done it before - so long as you follow the instructions and pay attention to the cautions. There are no side effects from drugs, because there are no drugs. And the only equipment needed are your own two hands. You can practice acupressure therapy any time, anywhere.
Acupressure can be effective in helping relieve headaches, eyestrain, sinus problems, neck pain, backaches, arthritis, muscle aches, and tension due to stress. Also shown hundreds of acupressure students, patients, and friends how to use acupressure to relieve ulcer pain, menstrual cramps, lower back aches, constipation, and indigestion. You can also use self-acupressure to relieve anxiety and to help you get to sleep at night.

There are also great advantages to using acupressure as a way to balance the body and maintain good health. The healing touch of acupressure reduces tension, increases circulation, and enables the body to relax deeply. By relieving stress, acupressure strengthens resistance to disease and promotes wellness.
In acupressure, local symptoms are considered an expression of the condition of the body as a whole. A tension headache, for instance, may be rooted in the shoulder and neck area. Thus acupressure focuses on relieving pain and discomfort as well as on responding to tension before it develops into a "dis-ease" that is, before the constrictions and imbalances can do further damage. By using a combination of self-help methods such as trigger point stimulation, deep breathing, range-of-motion exercises, and relaxation techniques, you can improve your condition as well as feel more alive, healthy, and in harmony with your life.

The Psychology of Pain - Headaches

2008-12-27T11:53:00.000+06:00

If you are one of the millions of people who suffer from chronic, painful headaches, you undoubtedly are well aware that headaches can generate feelings of frustration and despair and even cause depression. It's also known that anxiety and stress can trigger or aggravate certain types of chronic headaches, such as tension-type headaches.
Regardless of your headache type — migraine, tension, cluster, etc. — it's important for you to become a major player in your headache treatment. Fortunately, there are ways to help you manage headaches and the emotional upheaval that can accompany them. An integrated pain relief plan that includes medications, physical therapy and complementary therapies, such as biofeedback, massage and relaxation techniques, can provide not only relief from pain, but also empowerment. You, not your headaches, are in control of your life. This, in turn, can ease the sense of helplessness that can lead to despair and depression.
Following are some ways to recognize and manage some of the psychological issues pertaining to certain types of headaches:
Tension-Type Headache
It's widely believed that anxiety and stress can trigger tension-type headaches. For example, such headaches often are more pronounced in the afternoon and evening, when both stress and tension levels are higher. A combination of physical and psychological factors can provoke tension and stress. Say you're at work and have a project due by 5 p.m. You sit for hours in front of the computer screen, your muscles becoming tighter and your posture more rigid — a condition known as muscular bracing — as you concentrate on your work. By 4 p.m., you have a full-blown headache.
Learning how to interrupt muscular bracing can help you reduce or eliminate tension-type headache pain. One way to break the cycle is to practice relaxation techniques that focus on your facial and back muscles and to make sure you take frequent breaks from the computer. Set your watch alarm or computer timer to go off every 30 minutes and then get up, stretch and focus on relaxing tense muscles. On a daily basis, try practicing other stress-reducing techniques such as meditation, breathing exercises and self-hypnosis to help you take control over anxious and worrisome thoughts that can lead to stress and trigger tension-type headaches.
Migraine Headache
By their very nature, migraine headaches can cause major disruptions in your life — both physically and emotionally. They can occur anytime during the day or night, be aggravated by light, sound and smells and take days for the side effects to completely go away. No wonder, then, that many migraine headache sufferers feel depressed as well as disconnected from family, friends and co-workers. As with all types of headaches, migraines require an integrated approach to treatment that may include medications, physical therapy and relaxation techniques. In particular, self-hypnosis and EMG and thermal biofeedback may prove effective in reducing migraine headache symptoms. Along with abortive medications such as Imitrex that can halt migraine pain, finding ways to relax your body's autonomic or automatic nervous system is essential for long-term migraine headache control. Combining medication management with biofeedback and relaxation techniques has proven effective in the long-term control of headaches.
Cluster Headaches
The psychological dynamic of cluster headaches are much the same as that for migraines. Each of these extremely painful conditions can result in frustration, despair and depression. As with migraine headaches, an integrated approach to pain treatment that includes medications, relaxation techniques and physical therapy works best to manage cluster headache pain.
As a headache patient you can gain control over your life by learning as much as you can about the disorder and treatment options. Not only is this information personally empowering, it will enable you to inform others — including health-care providers and insurers — about the disorder. Approaching this condition from many angles — physically, psychologically and environmentally — is critical to effectively managing headaches.

Measuring Stress

2008-12-12T10:43:00.001+06:00

One way to measure the amount of stress in your life is to examine the demanding events which have occurred to you recently. On the following scale, you can determine your "stress score" by adding up the number of points corresponding to the events which you have experiences in the past 6 months or expect to experience in the coming 6 months.
1. Death of a close family member................ 100
2. Death of a close friend ........................73
3. Divorce between parents ........................65
4. Jail term ......................................63
5. Major personal injury ..........................63
6. Marriage .......................................58
7. Fired from job .................................50
8. Failed important course ........................47
9. Change in health of a family member ............45
10. Pregnancy .....................................44
11. Sex problems ..................................44
12. Serious argument with family member ...........40
13. Change in financial status ....................39
14. Change of major ...............................39
15. Trouble with parents ..........................39
16. New girl or boy friend ........................38
17. Increased workload at school ..................37
18. Outstanding personal achievement ..............36
19. First semester in college .....................35
20. Change in living conditions ...................31
21. Serious argument with instructor ..............30
22. Lower grades than expected ....................29
23. Change in sleeping habits .....................29
24. Change in social habits .......................29
25. Change in eating habits .......................28
26. Chronic ear trouble ...........................26
27. Change in number of family get-togethers........26
28. Too many missed classes .......................25
29. Change of college .............................24
30. Dropped more than one class ...................23
31. Minor traffic violations ......................20

Total = ___________

The higher your stress score, the higher your present stress level. If you score over 150, then you may need help managing the stress in your life.

How I Quit Smoking

2008-12-11T10:55:00.000+06:00

First of all let me say, you can quit, even though it may take several attempts! Look at it as a process and don't give up on yourself if you backslide. Awareness was a major factor for me. Because I grew up in a smoking household, it wasn't until my first attempt at quitting that I even realized how gross akes you smell! Although I started smoking again, I was much more conscious of other people's reactions to my foul habit. I became more considerate as well. In my early 30s I got serious about quitting due to health problems. My first long term success lasted two years, and I used a self-hypnosis tape. Again, increasing awareness was important. The tape made me realize the many cues I connected with my habit, such as finishing a meal, writing a letter, talking on the phone, etc. Although the tape did help me quit for a while, the hardest part was the extreme irritability and nastiness of the first few weeks. If you've ever quit smoking, you know what I'm talking about! It's as if you can't think of anything else for a while there. The bad news is that I did start smoking again. I made the choice at that point to not smoke in my home, which helped me smoke less and keep those cues disconnected, at least some of them. When I decided after a couple of years to quit again I went to an acupuncturist. What a miracle! Of course, I still had to exert my will power not to smoke, but the acupuncture completely erased the irritability and nastiness of those first weeks, so making that minute-by-minute choice became much easier. Acupuncture is based on the eastern belief that energy runs through the body in meridians or pathways associated with the various organs and systems. Acupuncturists insert fine needles into points along those meridians that affect the energy and thus the associated organ. The needles are so small that they seldom hurt unless the organ is in pretty bad shape. My acupuncturist used ear points; the ear has points for every meridian in the body. He needled points for my lungs, liver and one associated with addictions. The great thing about ear acupuncture is that he could tape small metal bb's to the points as well that continued to stimulate the organs. I kept these in place for about a week. I repeated this sequence a couple of times, and it really worked! I haven't smoked in 10+ years now, and I must say that acupuncture really made quitting much easier. If you live in or near a city with an acupuncture school, they often have clinics where you can get low-cost or free treatment. Check it out! Remember; don't get discouraged if you start again. It really is a process. The bottom line is to use what works for you. I found acupuncture to be a great adjunct to awareness and just plain old will power and would recommend it for anyone. Give it a shot! Julie Hartmans has eclectic interests and a beautiful boy who is the joy of her life. Her current straight gig is teaching. She loves to dance, sing, read, swim, go to movies, and learn about all things metaphysical. She’s been known to dabble in astrology and numerology, and finds alternative healing and the paranormal endlessly intriguing. Her writings appear in the Alternative Healing section of Fitness Heaven.

Myths about acne!

2008-12-05T18:04:00.000+06:00

Myth #1. Acne is caused by stress.
Stress doesn't cause acne, but it can sometimes make acne worse. Stress can cause your glands to produce more oil, which can lead to a breakout.

Myth #2. Acne is caused by diet.
Extensive research has not found a connection between diet and acne. Food - even French fries, chocolate and pizza - doesn't cause acne. Eating greasy foods doesn't make your glands put out more oil.

Myth #3. Birth control pills can cause acne.
Sometimes, birth control pills can make acne worse in the first few months of taking them. But some birth control pills are even recommended to improve acne. Acne may get worse after the pill is stopped.

Myth #4. Acne is caused by poor hygiene.
Acne isn't caused by dirt or surface oil. It's caused by a process happening inside the body.

Myth #5. Tanning will help clear up acne.
Tanning does not help clear up acne. In fact, some acne treatments make your skin more sensitive to UV light. And tanning increases your risk of skin cancer. Avoid sunlamps and tanning booths, and use sun protection when you're outdoors.

Myth #6. Acne just has to run its course.
The truth is, acne can be cleared up. If over-the-counter products don't work, see your doctor. There are good treatments that can help you beat the zits and avoid scars.

The truth about acne
No one knows exactly what causes acne. But it has something to do with hormones. Acne usually develops when the body's production of hormones called androgens kick into high gear during the teenage years.

Androgens stimulate the sebaceous glands, which produce an oily substance called sebum. Too much sebum can block the openings of the glands and form a plug.

* If the plug stays below the skin's surface and is light in color, it's a whitehead.
* If the plug enlarges and pops out with a darkened tip, it's a blackhead.
* If it's red, swollen and pus-filled, it's a pimple.
* If the plugs are large, red and painful, they're called cysts (if they have pus) or nodules (if they're solid). Cystic or nodular acne is a severe type and is more likely to cause scarring.

Young men produce more androgen than girls. So, they are more likely than young women to have more severe, longer-lasting forms of acne .

Treating acne
The treatment for teenage acne depends on how severe it is. For mild acne, wash your face twice a day with a mild soap, and pat dry. Apply an over-the-counter acne cream that contains benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid.

Many teens can manage their acne with over-the-counter treatments. But about four out of 10 teens get moderate to severe acne, which may need to be treated by a doctor.

For more severe acne, a doctor may prescribe antibiotics, birth control pills, corticosteroids or vitamin A derivatives (retinoids). One vitamin A derivative, Accutane (isotretinoin), is approved for treating severe acne when other treatments haven't helped. It's very effective, but it's used as a last resort because it has serious risks.

Good skin care is always important when you have acne.

* Wash your skin gently. Vigorous washing and scrubbing can irritate the skin and make acne worse.
* Do not squeeze or pop pimples. This could cause infection and scars.
* Use skin products labeled "noncomedogenic." This means they're less likely to clog your pores.
* Use acne treatments as directed, and be patient. It may take six to eight weeks to see results.

Kicking the Habit: How to Choose a Quit Date

2008-11-27T17:01:00.000+06:00

Congratulations! You've decided to quit smoking. Now you just need to decide when. Many smoking cessation programs suggest that the first step to quitting is choosing a quit date. But how do you make that choice? Does when you quit have an impact on how successful you'll be?

If you're ready to make the commitment, here are some things to think about when choosing your quit date.

Choose to quit within the next several weeks. This will give you time to prepare yourself, but not enough time to change your mind.

1. Give yourself time to heal if you've experienced a recent loss or traumatic event. The grieving process is hard work. It can drain your energy and affect your ability to concentrate. The stress after a trauma or loss will likely increase your urge to smoke, too.
2. If you are facing a stressful event, such as marriage, buying a home or graduating from college, wait a while. Stress will probably make you want to smoke more often. And your focus is going to be on your big event, not on quitting. You are more likely to absently reach for a cigarette when your mind is somewhere else. The fewer distractions you have, the more likely you are to succeed.
3. When making your decision, try to pick a date that holds special meaning for you. Is there a day that holds unique meaning in your life? Would you like to link the day you quit to a special event? Some people choose a random date, but others prefer to pick a birthday, anniversary or some other special day. Others opt for a more symbolic choice, such as the Great American Smokeout, Independence Day or New Year's Day.
4. If you smoke at work, consider quitting on a weekend. When you return to your job on Monday, you'll already be enjoying the benefits of being smoke-free for two days.

Stay focused

Write your quit date on your calendar where you can see it every day. Don't come up with excuses to wait. Stay committed to your plan.

Choosing a plan

If you haven't done so already, work with your doctor to choose the smoking cessation plan that is best for you. You may decide to go cold turkey or use nicotine gum, the patch or some other option. Whatever you choose, take some time to prepare yourself mentally for the challenge ahead. The more prepared you feel, the better your chances will be of kicking butts for good.

MAKING THE TEXT LARGER ON A PAGE

2008-11-27T13:32:00.000+06:00

I know many of us wish the text was larger on some web pages, to do this, hold the CTRL key down on your keyboard, and scroll the wheel in the middle of your mouse, down (or up). Watch the web page while you're doing this & you will see the text getting larger, scroll it up & it will make the text smaller. This really helps if your eyes "aren't like they used to be" like mine.