Health Resources

Disease of The Mitral Valve

noreply@blogger.com (Vyne) — Tue, 08 Jan 2008 10:42:00 +0000

Diseases of the heart valves are grouped according to which valve or valves are involved plus the amount of blood flow that is disrupted by the problem. The most common and serious valve problems happen in the mitral and aortic valves. Diseases of the tricuspid and pulmonary valves are fairly rare.

The mitral valve regulates the flow of blood from the upper-left chamber (the left atrium) to the lower-left chamber (the left ventricle).

Mitral Valve Prolapse

The mitral valve regulates the flow of blood from the upper-left chamber (the left atrium) to the lower-left chamber (the left ventricle). Mitral valve prolapse (MVP) means that one or both of the valve flaps (called cusps or leaflets) are enlarged, and the flaps' supporting muscles are too long. Instead of closing evenly, one or both of the flaps collapse or bulge into the left atrium. MVP is often called click-murmur syndrome because when the valve does not close properly, it makes a clicking sound and then a murmur.

What causes MVP? MVP is one of the most common forms of valve disease. It is also genetic running in families.

What are the symptoms? Most people with MVP do not have symptoms. When symptoms do happen, they may include
• Shortness of breath, especially when lying down.
• Chest pain.
• Extreme fatigue.
• Heart palpitations.
• Coughing.
• Trouble breathing after exercise.

Most of the time, MVP is not a serious condition. Some patients say they feel palpitations or sharp chest pain.

Mitral Regurgitation is also called mitral insufficiency or mitral incompetence. This happens when the mitral valve allows a backflow of blood into the heart's upper-left chamber (the left atrium). Mitral regurgitation can take years to reveal itself.

If it goes on long enough, it may cause a buildup of pressure in the lungs or cause the heart to enlarge. In time, this will lead to symptoms.

Blood Pressure Facts

noreply@blogger.com (Vyne) — Wed, 02 Jan 2008 07:56:00 +0000

High blood pressure is a major risk factor for coronary heart disease, stroke, heart failure, peripheral vascular disease and renal failure. High blood pressure is more likely to develop among people who are overweight or physically inactive, or have high dietary salt intakes. Hypertension is one of the most frequently managed problems in general practice worldwide.

The heart pumps blood around the body through the blood vessels. Blood pressure is the amount of force exerted on the artery walls by the pumping blood. High blood pressure (hypertension) means the blood is pumping with more force than normal through arteries. This added stress upon the arteries could possibly accelerate the distribution of arteries with fatty plaques (atherosclerosis).

Other risk factors for atherosclerosis include cigarette smoking and high blood cholesterol. Atherosclerosis contributes too many heart illnesses, such as heart attack and stroke. Hypertension is a common disorder of the circulatory system, affecting around one in seven people.

Hypertension usually produces no symptoms. This means most people don’t even realize they have it. Experts recommend that everyone should have their blood pressure checked regularly.

When the heart contracts the blood inside the left ventricle, is forced into the aorta and arteries. The blood then enters small vessels with muscular walls, called arterioles. The tone within the muscular walls of the arterioles determines how relaxed or constricted they are. If narrowed, they resist flow.

Reduced flow of blood is detected in the brain, the kidneys and elsewhere. Nerve reflexes are stimulated and hormones are then produced. The heart is induced to beat more forcefully so that the blood pressure is maintained at a higher level, to overcome the restricted flow through the arterioles. The achievement of good flow (now at high pressure) eases possible problems for function of the brain and kidneys. These adjustments happen normally. There are some people that the adjustments become fixed and high blood pressure persists. These people have developed hypertension.

Bradycardia the Hearts Slow Rate

noreply@blogger.com (Vyne) — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 08:00:00 +0000

Bradycardia is when the heart rate is less than that of sixty beats per minute. A normal healthy heartbeat is between sixty and one hundred beats per minute. Bradycardia is the opposite of Tachycardia – the condition where the heart beats way to fast.

In some people, such as athletes and people who are very active, Bradycardia rates can be as low as fifty beats per minute. This can be normal and as the person exercises, the heart rate will continue to become stronger and more efficient. This is because less heart contractions are necessary to supply their body’s needs.

In other cases, bradycardia can be a form of cardiac arrhythmia, a heart-rate abnormality.
Bradycardia can cause dizziness, weakness, lack of energy, or fainting spells.

If bradycardia is caused by a medical illness, there will be additional symptoms that are specific to that illness. For example, people whose bradycardia is due to severe hypothyroidism may also be able to have constipation, muscle cramps, weight gain, very dry skin, hair that is thin and dry, an abnormal sensitivity to cold temperatures and other symptoms related to low levels of thyroid hormones.
How long bradycardia lasts depends on its cause.

For example, normal bradycardia in a well-trained athlete will last as long as the athlete maintains his or her usual level of exercise. For instance is bradycardia occurs as a side effect of medication, it usually disappears as soon as the drug that triggered the bradycardia is finished. For example any Bradycardia caused by hypothyroidism will go away quickly after treatment with thyroid hormones. There are certain forms of bradycardia resulting from cardiac arrhythmias that can be cured with a permanent pacemaker.

When bradycardia occurs as a side effect of medication, the problem can be prevented by either switching the drug or reducing its dose. In premature infants, bradycardia is also very common and the infant will require constant medical attention.

Heart disease in Asia

noreply@blogger.com (Vyne) — Tue, 25 Dec 2007 07:11:00 +0000

Until recently, heart disease was uncommon in Asian populations. Results from a new study of more than half a million Asians indicate that a large epidemic of heart disease is poised to affect China and many other countries in the region.

The study, conducted by professional through China to Australasia, has provided important new evidence. The evidence points to rapidly increased smoking and other health factors that contribute to heart disease. These include diabetes, high cholesterol and high blood pressure, particularly in the more urbanized regions of Asia. The results have indicated that unless some drastic changes are made, Asia may be faced with a crippling epidemic of Heart Disease.

Results show that in the next twenty years Asia will be faced with a crippling epidemic of heart disease and stroke on a scale previously unknown.

Te heart is the center of the body’s cardiovascular system. Throughout the body's blood vessels, the heart pumps blood to all of the body's cells. The blood carries oxygen, which the cells need. Heart disease is a group of medical problems that occur when the heart and blood vessels aren't working the way they should.

"Many of the victims will be in the prime of their working lives, since heart disease strikes at a much younger age in Asia than in the West.

"The cost of heart disease in countries such as China will be vast. Not only will there be huge expenses associated with the treatment of heart attacks, but the loss of earnings for victims and their families will have devastating economic consequences.

Many people do not realize they have cardiovascular disease. Often it isn’t known until they have a chest pain, a heart attack, or stroke. These kinds of problems often need immediate attention and the person may need to go to the emergency department of a hospital for an assessment.

Abnormal Heart Rhythms (arrhythmias)

noreply@blogger.com (Vyne) — Sun, 23 Dec 2007 13:27:00 +0000

Abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias) are sequences of heartbeats that are irregular. They are too fast, too slow, or conducted via an abnormal electrical pathway through the heart. Heart rhythms differ from one person to the other. Health, age and fitness are often key factors.

The heart is a muscular organ with four chambers, designed to work efficiently, reliably, and continuously over a lifetime. The muscular walls of each chamber contract in a regulated sequence, pumping blood as required by the body while expending as little energy as possible during each heartbeat.

Contraction of the muscle fibers within the heart is controlled by electricity. This flows through the heart in a precise manner, along distinct pathways and at a controlled speed. The electrical current that begins each heartbeat, originates in the heart's pacemaker, located in the top of the upper right heart chamber (right atrium). The rate at which the pacemaker discharges the electrical current determines the heart rate. This rate is influenced by nerve impulses and levels of certain hormones within the bloodstream.

The heart rate is regulated automatically by the autonomic nervous system, which consists of the sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions. The sympathetic division increases the heart rate through a network of nerves called the sympathetic plexus. The parasympathetic division decreases the heart rate through a single nerve, the vagus nerve.

In an adult at rest, the heart rate is usually between sixty and one hundred beats per minute. However, lower rates may be normal in young adults, particularly those who are physically fit. A person's heart rate varies normally in response to exercise and such stimuli as pain and anger. Heart rhythm is considered abnormal only when the heart rate is inappropriately fast (known as tachycardia) or slow (known as bradycardia), or is irregular, or when electrical impulses travel along abnormal pathways.

Myocarditis

noreply@blogger.com (Vyne) — Thu, 20 Dec 2007 02:31:00 +0000

The myocardium is the muscular wall of the heart, or the heart muscle. It contracts to pump blood out of the heart, and then relaxes as the heart refills with returning blood. The myocardium's smooth outer membrane is called the epicardium. Its inner lining is called the endocardium.

Myocarditis is an inflammation of the myocardium. When the heart becomes inflamed, it
Is unable to pump as well because of damage to its cells and swelling (edema). The heart muscle may be damaged even more if the body's immune system sends antibodies to try to fight whatever started the inflammation. Sometimes, these antibodies attack the tissues of the heart instead. If too many heart muscle cells are damaged, the heart muscle becomes weakened. In some cases, this process happens very quickly and results in heart failure or even sudden death.

More often, the heart attempts to heal itself. The heart muscle heals by changing the damaged or dead heart muscle cells into scar tissue. Scar tissue is not like heart muscle tissue because it does not contract and it cannot help the heart to pump. If enough scar tissue forms in the heart, it can lead to congestive heart failure or dilated cardiomyopathy.
Myocarditis is a rare condition. The inflammation of the heart muscle may be caused by a viral, bacterial, or fungal infection. Rheumatic Fever, drug or chemical poisoning or connective tissue diseases, such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis.

With a mild case of myocarditis, there may be no symptoms at all. You may have a fever, an achy feeling in your chest, and severe fatigue, as if you have a bad cold or flu. Some people have an irregular heartbeat or trouble breathing. Usually, a mild case of myocarditis will go away without any lasting damage.

With any chest pain, please see your doctor.

EATING FOR A HEALTHY HEART

noreply@blogger.com (Vyne) — Wed, 19 Dec 2007 02:56:00 +0000

For many years, the traditional western diet has very high in meat and animal fat, lacking in vegetables, fruits and grains. This has made people all over the world extremely vulnerable to heart and blood vessel disease.

By making some changes, it is possible to make a huge difference to the heart and general health. Start out with the changes one at a time, this way they are more likely to last. Start gradually, and see how many of these changes can be incorporated into your diet daily diet.

Discover the joy of cooking a simple nutritious meal! There are many wonderful recipes in books, online and even some family recipes wait to be discovered.

Choose a selection of wholegrain breads instead of white for a change. Eat more cereals such as rice, pasta and other grains. Legumes such as dried peas and beans are excellent to have as a side dish or add to a hot casserole on a cold winter’s night.

Make lean meats a part of your diet as there are wonderful assortments of cuts to utilize in different dishes. Use only very small amounts of very lean meats, and eat poultry without skin.

Choose low-fat dairy products such as milk, yoghurt and cheese. Make high fat foods such as a chocolate bar or cake an occasional treat. Rather than have high fats every day, be imaginative and see what low fat recipes and alternatives are available.

Fish is another excellent option! Eat it fresh or canned twice a week. Use mono-unsaturated or polyunsaturated oils such as olive oil, canola, sunflower and safflower for cooking.

Use small amounts of margarine spreads or olive oil instead of butter. Grill, boil, steam, bake or microwave rather than fry.

Reduce your salt intake.

Drink plenty of water.

Discover the joy of cooking wholesome meals at home.

Cervical Cancer

noreply@blogger.com (Vyne) — Mon, 17 Dec 2007 04:37:00 +0000

The lower narrow portion of the woman’s uterus is called the cervix. This opening to the passageway is called the cervical canal. During a menstrual period the blood flows from the uterus through the canal and into the vagina. Producing mucus that helps sperm move from the vagina to the uterus, the cervix remains tightly closed. Knowing the exact function and location of the cervix will aid a lot as we discuss cervical cancer.

Cervical cancer is the formation of abnormal cells on the lining of the cervix. Normally as cells grow they divide, the old cells die, and new cells replace them. When the normal process by which cells divide goes wrong, masses of tissue known as tumors begin to grow. Benign tumors are not life threatening and normally can easily be removed permanently.

They usually stay in one location and do not normally spread to other parts of the body. However, some tumors are malignant; these are the ones that are a lot more serious as they have the possibility of spreading and growing at alarming rates if not caught early. They are life threatening and can be removed but sometimes grow again. When these malignant tumors occur, they are known as cancer.

Risk factors that can contribute to the possibility of developing cervical cancer are infections. The main infection that causes cervical cancer is the human papillomavirus.
These are common viruses that are extremely contagious. It is estimated that most adults have at one time in their lives been infected with HPV because of coming into sexual contact with another person with the virus. It can cause changes to the cervix that will eventually turn into cancer, warts, or other uncomfortable and unpleasant problems.

A weakened immune system will have the same affect n the cervix or women who have had many partners have a higher level of risk than those who have not. Sometimes normal aging is a factor, usually occurring in women over age 40.

Cancer that spreads from its place of origin to another part of the body the new tumor is identical to the original cell and therefore the cancer is the same no matter what part of the body it has spread to. For example: if a woman has cervical cancer that has spread to her breast we would not call this breast cancer but we would say that the cervical cancer cells are located in her breast. It would be treated as cervical cancer and not breast cancer.

If a woman has symptoms arising from cervical cancer then she waited much too long. Regular screenings for cervical cancer is imperative as the cells can be prevented from forming into cervical cancer way before symptoms begin. Today the number of cases in the U.S. has been falling thanks to screening and early detection.

Doctors recommend that regular PaP smear test are performed to find cervical cancer or abnormal cells that lead to cancer of the cervix. Early detection is the way to preventing this kind of cancer, it is treatable with a high rate of success, so get tested regularly to prevent this from becoming a big problem. It is hard to prevent diseases without living in fear, but as long as you are observant of signs, you will be able to reduce the risk of mortality.

Childhood Obesity And How To Combat It

noreply@blogger.com (Vyne) — Tue, 11 Dec 2007 16:19:00 +0000

This chronic condition has increased rapidly over the past years has finally gained national recognition. Many more children between the ages of two years old and five years old are already on there way to becoming the next generation of obese teens, and eventually obese adults and obese seniors. With obesity being one of the leading causes of morbidity, disability, discrimination, and employment problems, it has become one of the biggest public problems since tobacco use and exposure. Bad eating habits are not the only culprit, genetic diseases that can predispose children to become overweight cannot be forgotten. Diseases such as Bardet-Biedl syndrome and Prader-Willi syndrome are common in obese children, however still playing a larger role in the general overall population is bad eating and exercise habits.

It is the hope of many health educators, and medical professionals from psychologists to medical doctors that increased public awareness and preventive policies will eventually improve the situation. Professionals are treating this as a major public health concern that is threatening to damage our most precious resources, the children. Introduction of healthy play, healthy food choices, and recreation that promotes physical activity is on the top of the list for discussion and plans of battling this epidemic. Having caretakers take pro active measures to keep the child on the right track and setting good examples are key elements to helping these children to learn a healthier behavior and attitude towards their own health.

The annual National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has come to the conclusion that as many as one third of U.S. children are overweight or at high risk for childhood obesity. The health problems that will begin to manifest themselves from the heavy weight of such young children will start kids down a road the problems such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and increased risks of diabetes. These are diseases usually reserved to adults, not children. Combating this troubling condition must however, begin at home with the caregivers for these children. Improving overall diet, not dieting, and exercise is the key to resolving the problem. Protecting children’s health now and in the future will depend greatly on education of parents and caregivers to implement healthy daily living strategies.

Preventing an at-risk child from becoming overweight can start a process of healthy and active lifestyles to ensure longevity and energy throughout the child’s life. Little things such as: not getting into power struggles with the child over food, never use food as a behavior modification tool, and setting a good example are some starting places. This only perpetuates the same behavior and may cause psychological behaviors that are unwanted. Critical commenting, and taunting rarely if ever handles the situation with a positive outcome. Emphasizing what’s positive and benefits of changing behavior can make all of the difference in the world. Just fostering the child’s natural inclination to please you, have fun, and explore are perfect opportunities to introduce fitness routines, and reduce such incidents like eating out of boredom. If these things are done with every child in danger of becoming obese, then the numbers suffering will likely decrease.

Therefore, you should always keep in mind the health of yourself and your children. By keeping in shape yourself and displaying a good diet, you can impress upon them the importance of being a health-oriented individual. These habits will stay with them for all of their lives. You will also have quite a few benefits from eating healthy and slimming down. If you shed your extra weight, you will feel much better about yourself. If you want to find out more information about how you should change your diet habits, you should go to your local library for a book about diet and health. You can also talk to your doctor if you want some recommendations that are specific for your current health.

Keeping A Healthy Brain While You Age

noreply@blogger.com (Vyne) — Sun, 09 Dec 2007 08:52:00 +0000

An active mind is a healthy mind, so keeping your mind sharp is a good portion of aging well and living a better life as you grow older. If you continue to challenge and engage your brain with activities such as continued learning and healthy dieting you can maintain your healthy brain.

Some activities like completing daily crossword puzzles or learning a hobby, or maybe exploring a new language will add content and continued exercise of the brain. Expanding your horizons daily and engaging in activities that require you to think on your feet and assess information quickly and accurately will make a world of difference as you grow older. Sometimes it may take a little more effort than it used to require, but continuing to stretch your brain muscles will definitely pay off in good memory and cognitive skills.

If you are interested in maintaining brain health in the later years of life and continuing to keep your mind sharp, then listen up. Brain masses shrink a little as you get into your sixties, with some areas shrinking more than others like the frontal lobe which is the area of the brain that handles mental abilities, and the hippocampus where memories are formed.

Thinning of the brain in the area of the cortex, and decreases in white matter are some reasons why brain disorders occur in the elderly. Changes in these areas are what slow down the cognitive processing which handle decision making, problem solving, and attention. All of which have a tendency to fade as you grow older, unless…you continue to exercise these areas by forming new memories daily and allowing for a good intake of new information.

With this said, aging is not a decline of brain activity. In fact the brain grows stronger and sharper as long as you continue to use it. For example; if you were an avid reader in your younger years and you continue to be a voracious reader into your golden years the rate of speed that you read and the amount of information that you are able to process as you read will increase as in “practice makes perfect,” you are actually getting better with time. Most of our abilities normally get better with time, including wisdom and problem solving skills. Keep in mind that other illnesses and ailments may contribute to any decline in the normal activity in the brain.

Simple things, like more formal education, can contribute to intellectual stimulation of the brain and may ever strengthen the brain cell networks to help in preventing mental function damage. Physical activity has always been know to have positive effects on the brain and brain functioning. Getting into an aerobic regime is the best for continued brain health as oxygen is free flowing and throughout the body and is particularly beneficial to the brains proper functioning. Having a good sense of self and knowing that the things that you do in life make a difference and believing that you are contributing to the common good has shown to reduce cognitive decline in older adults.

So to slow down the effects of the degenerative parts of the brain it would be wise to learn to concentrate and make an honest effort to pay attention. Stay organized and don’t rush, so that you are able to focus on the tasks that you are attempting. The all time favorite is repetition. Also, try your best to stay as stress free as possible as tension causes some types of memory lapses. Those senior moments can turn into senior memories if you continue to exercise your brain. So do whatever it takes to preserve your mental agility, and keep happy even as you enter your older years. When you look at the attitudes of older people, you see either depressed people, or extremely happy and satisfied people. Try to leave yourself in the latter category.

Arrhythmias Abnormal Heartbeats

noreply@blogger.com (Vyne) — Sat, 08 Dec 2007 17:28:00 +0000

Some people who have abnormal heartbeats may not even be aware of them. Awareness of heartbeats (called palpitations) varies widely among people. Some people can feel normal heartbeats, and most people can feel heartbeats when they lie on their left side.
Arrhythmias have consequences that range from harmless to life threatening. The seriousness of an arrhythmia may not be closely linked with the severity of the symptoms it causes. Often, the nature and severity of the underlying heart disease are more important than the arrhythmia itself. Some life-threatening arrhythmias cause no symptoms. Otherwise inconsequential arrhythmias can cause severe symptoms.

When arrhythmias impair the person’s heart's ability to pump blood, they can produce weakness, a reduced capacity for exercise, light-headedness, dizziness, and fainting. Fainting occurs when the heart is pumping so inefficiently, it can no longer maintain enough blood pressure. If such an arrhythmia persists, death may be a direct result.

Arrhythmias may also aggravate the symptoms of underlying heart disease, including chest pain and shortness of breath. Arrhythmias that produce symptoms require prompt attention.
Often, a person's description of symptoms can help doctors make a preliminary diagnosis, determining the severity of the arrhythmia. The most important considerations are whether the palpitations are fast or slow, regular or irregular. If the palpitations are brief or prolonged? Whether or not the arrhythmia itself produces symptoms?

Doctors also need to know whether the palpitations occur. At rest or only during strenuous or unusual activity, whether they start and stop suddenly or gradually. However, certain diagnostic procedures are often needed to determine the exact nature of the arrhythmia and its cause

People with suspected life-threatening arrhythmias are usually hospitalized. Their heart rhythm is continuously recorded and displayed on a television-type monitor by the bedside or nursing station. Thus, any problems can be identified promptly.

ADHD

noreply@blogger.com (Vyne) — Fri, 07 Dec 2007 10:28:00 +0000

ADHD is an illness that starts in childhood. A child with ADHD has trouble sitting still, doesn’t finish things that they begin and usually acts without first thinking things through. This is a real illness that can change the way your child acts, feels, or thinks at times. There are many different treatments for ADHD, drugs being just one of them. In fact, drugs should always be a last resort that is almost never used (when in fact quite the opposite is true today).

You will notice that a child with ADHD may fidget, or wiggle a lot more than usual when asked to sit still or even without thinking. Some seem to be daydreaming, all of which are signs that the child may be ADHD. When these behaviors interfere with the child’s ability to concentrate in school or make public outings dangerous for the child or make making friends difficult then there is cause for alarm and the child should be tested for ADHD. Parents may have a difficult time figuring out what to do with the child or may not even have the slightest idea of what to do.

Parents may think that some of these behaviors are normal for any child and may be in denial about their child’s condition. The good news is that it is an illness that can be treated effectively and can make the child feel much better about them. How the child feels about themselves is very important because increasing the child’s self esteem will essential to treatment. The child may feel like a failure, when they definitely are not. A common childhood illness, ADHD can be controlled and the child may even grow out of it eventually, as he or she begins to mentally mature and the symptoms simply disappear.

The causes of the illness are not yet definitely known but it is known that it usually runs in families. Some doctors believe that there is not one single factor but combinations of factors that may contribute to the illness. So, if you are worried about your child’s behavior, you should take your child for a simple evaluation. Your child will not be immediately diagnosed with ADHD but will be checked for all possible answers to the problem. The possibility does exist that the child may have other problems that cause them to behave the way that they have. Other conditions can be mistaken for ADHD easily. It may even just be a bad diet or a lack of sleep that is causing poor brain functioning.

If it is found that the child does not have any other problems then it may be diagnosed that the child does in fact have an attention deficit disorder that needs treatment. Behavior therapy may be recommended. This involves meeting with doctors to work with your child on skills to help improve the problem. Working on building relationships, rules, limits, land choices. Medication may be prescribed as an accompanying aid to behavior treatments. The very best results are possible when these things are worked on together. So, it is extremely important that you take action, not be in denial, and to realize that it is not your fault that your child has this problem. Treatments are necessary and help from a qualified physician should be sought as soon as possible.

LOST MANHOOD

noreply@blogger.com (Vyne) — Thu, 06 Dec 2007 10:37:00 +0000

Is the term now generally employed to describe impotence, or physical inability to perform the sexual function. It is frequently due to conjugal excesses, but the principal cause is the baneful widespread practice of masturbation, or self-pollution. It manifests itself in what is known as Spermatorrhea, or involuntary emissions of the seminal fluid, and if allowed to continue unchecked, speedily depletes the vitality of the sufferer, and renders him a physical wreck. Do not be deceived by the lying advertisements of unprincipled charlatans, that any drug can help you. The treatment must be hygienic and thorough, and may necessitate a change in your whole mode of life.

TREATMENT:

Firstly, the colon must be kept clean, as the faecal accumulations there irritate the sensitive nerves. So it is advisable to use the "Cascade" every night for two weeks at least, then every second night.

Secondly, practice the breathing and bodily movements described under the head of Exercise, and take all the exercise you can in the open air, as these things are important factors in strengthening the nervous system and hastening a cure. Thirdly, special attention must be paid to diet. If you can practice strict vegetarianism for a time, so much the better, choosing those articles most easily digested.

Only plain roast or boiled beef should be eaten (if any meat be taken at all), shun all hot condiments, also tea, coffee, tobacco and alcohol-- especially the latter, for nothing can help you while you use these articles.

Fourthly, after flushing, take a cold bath every night, or, if this is impracticable, bathe the genital organs, and the spine (up to the base of the brain) in cold water, and rub down vigorously with
a crash towel. Fifthly, resolutely form cleanly habits of mind, as well as body; take up a course of good reading to occupy the mind, and divert it into healthy channels, and shun all reading of a sensational nature.

Sixthly, avoid thinking impure and lascivious thoughts, and do not allow your mind to dwell upon your condition, but cultivate self-control. The above treatment has cured hundreds of bad cases, and will cure you, if steadily persevered in, but a strict abstinence from sexual indulgence, and an absolute abandonment of the pernicious vice, is an indispensable condition.

Frequently quite aged men write us, complaining of their sexual disability--to all such, we say that the restoration of lost power after fifty years of age is in the highest degree improbable, and after the grand climacteric (63) is passed--it is practically impossible.

OBESITY

noreply@blogger.com (Vyne) — Wed, 05 Dec 2007 02:19:00 +0000

The condition of the body, to which nosologists have applied this term, is that of general engorgement, or, over-fullness, and is the result of excessive eating, or imperfect deputation, or both.

Over-eating and inactivity are the chief producing causes. It is the especial prerogative of children to be fat, but when too great an accumulation comes, with advancing years, it brings discomforts, disadvantages, and oftentimes fatal diseases, among which are Apoplexy, Fatty Liver, Diabetes, Bright's Disease and Fatty Heart.

The sanguine or entonic variety is distinguished by florid skin, full strong pulse, turgid veins, with firm and vigorous muscular fibres, and the serous or atonic, is denoted by a full, but frequent and feeble pulse, smooth and soft skin, plump but inexpressive figure, and general languor or debility of
the vital functions.

TREATMENT:

Use the "Cascade" regularly, and take as much exercise as is possible without fatigue. A brisk three mile walk daily will work wonders in reducing weight, especially if you perspire freely.

Drink a pint of hot water an hour before each meal and half an hour before retiring, to wash the sour ferments and bile from the stomach before eating and sleeping. Live principally on roast or broiled meat, fish, poultry or game, boiled rice, green vegetables, and brown bread.

When people are unable to take the necessary amount of exercise, the dieting process, known as the "Salisbury system," is very effective. This consists of the lean part of good beef, from which every particle of fat and sinew is removed, then chopped to a pulp, made into small cakes and broiled-- then eaten hot.

The reduction of adipose tissue demands a certain amount of self-sacrifice, but the above method, if faithfully followed, never fails to effect the purpose.

INEBRIETY

noreply@blogger.com (Vyne) — Tue, 04 Dec 2007 06:05:00 +0000

Is responsible for many of the ills of the present generation, in the form of transmitted constitutional weakness, not to mention the functional derangements and organic destruction, of which it is a
potent and direct cause.

There are two grave reasons why alcohol should not be taken into the system, or, if at all, in very minute quantities and at distant intervals. The first is the moral reason, because it undermines and
destroys the finer part of man. It has the peculiar effect upon the brain of stimulating the baser qualities and blunting the finer ones.

The second is the physical reason, see "The Diet Question." When alcoholism becomes a fixed habit, it must be treated as a disease, for it is one in reality. In many cases the large intestinal or tapeworm is at the root of the trouble.

Now, worms cannot exist in a perfectly clean body, with every function working properly. Few, if any, animals can resist the solvent power of the gastric juice if it is secreted in normal quantity, and in full health and vigor, consequently, to cleanse the body of all superabundant filth and restore it to a sound working condition, will prevent their growth. But if they are present and developed (as they sometimes are) to an enormous size, the vital forces are unable to dislodge them, unaided, and recourse must be bad to a "vermifuge" diet.

This may be found in two articles--the crusts of good, sweet wheat-meal bread and good, ripe uncooked apples. It is important that the food be hard, so that it be well masticated and
that it be eaten slowly, so that the stomach is not overloaded.

TREATMENT:

First get the alcohol out of the system by flushing the colon daily. This will help you to stop drinking (which is so much easier advised than accomplished), then proceed to sweat it out by a daily Turkish bath (see end of book) or a Turkish bath one day and a wet sheet pack the next.

Second, sip a cupful of hot water not less than half an hour before each meal and use the wheat bread crusts and apple diet mentioned before for one week certain, two weeks is better (if possible). Then use the "cascade" thoroughly, to expel the worm; and for a month at
least follow the diet laid down for dyspepsia, when the alcoholized blood in your veins will have been replaced with good, rich blood, and your cure practically effected.

HERNIA OR RUPTURE

noreply@blogger.com (Vyne) — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 16:31:00 +0000

Is the escape of some portion of the viscera through an abnormal opening and takes its particular name from the locality in which the protrusion occurs, although the inguinal is the most common form.

The dynamic force of foul gases engendered in the system is a prolific, though generally unsuspected cause; but the mechanical pressure exerted by an overloaded colon in the limited space of the abdominal cavity is responsible for seventy-five per cent, of all cases.

The treatment is obvious--use the "Cascade" faithfully, and, the cause being removed, reduction is easy, and if the colon be kept clean, a properly adjusted truss will soon completely cure it.

GONORRHEA

noreply@blogger.com (Vyne) — Wed, 28 Nov 2007 15:37:00 +0000

This is a contagious disease, and its victims usually become the prey of unprincipled charlatans, who drive the disease inward by suppressing the symptoms. It affects the male much more seriously than the female. It commences with a slight uneasy sensation at the mouth of the urethra, between the second and seventh day after exposure to infection.

The natural discharge of mucus is increased, and is more viscid, followed by acute inflammation. The discharge becomes thick and greenish and urination is painful. Swelling of the glands in the groin is common, called a bubo. Orchitis or swelling of the testicle is also a frequent accompaniment. Under the best of treatment it will require from four to six weeks to effect a cure, but if neglected it may mean months.

TREATMENT:

Use the "Cascade" every night for the first two weeks, then twice a week for at least two months, to get the poison out of the system, and keep the parts scrupulously clean by bathing them two or three times a day. Carefully avoid everything in the form of a stimulant, especially alcoholic drinks, also tobacco, and let the diet be largely vegetable.

Use the following injection twice every day after urinating. Colored fluid hydrastis, two drachms; fluid extract canadies pinus canadensis, two drachms; bromo chiorellum, half a drachm; water, six ounces. Shake well and inject twice a day until a marked improvement can be noticed, then once a day, and, finally, every other day.

EPILEPSY, OR FALLING SICKNESS

noreply@blogger.com (Vyne) — Wed, 28 Nov 2007 15:36:00 +0000

Is distinguished from apoplexy, or paralysis, by the convulsive action and foaming at the mouth. One prime cause of this most distressing complaint is the action of worms in the colon. In a number of cases treated by us, knots of worms were expelled, and the exciting cause being removed, complete recovery followed. The preventive treatment is simple.

Use the "Cascade" and out antiseptic tonic until the worms are entirely expelled. During a fit loosen the clothing at the throat and place something in the mouth, a cork, for instance, to prevent the
patient from biting his tongue. Some fine salt thrust into the mouth will shorten the duration of the fit.

Another prolific cause is masturbation, in which case nothing but the abandonment of the habit and a cleanly life, both physically and morally, will effect a cure.

PARALYSIS OR PALSY

noreply@blogger.com (Vyne) — Mon, 26 Nov 2007 10:05:00 +0000

These two terms signify one and the same disease; that is, a condition of the system in which the power of voluntary motion is lost. It is the outward manifestation of a deep-seated disease that can usually be traced to an obstructed colon and consequent disordered circulation.

The same causes promote apoplexy. A blood vessel is ruptured in the brain, causing a clot to form, which presses upon the nerves that convey the will of the mind to the muscles, thus stopping their
action. It is not, as is usually supposed, an affection of the muscles, but of the nerves that control the muscular movements.

Sometimes one entire side of the body becomes affected and completely deprived of voluntary motion. Congestion of the brain is a preliminary of paralysis, and congestion of the brain are invariably due to an enlarged transverse colon.

One form of paralysis affects only certain parts of the body, such. as the lower limbs, or the reproductive organs, and is caused by pressure upon some large nerve communicating with the paralyzed portion.

This is doubtless due to the pressure of an enlarged ascending or descending colon upon some of the lumbar plexus nerves, or their branches. This, however, refers to what may be termed local paralysis, or paralysis of certain parts.

Paralysis of an entire side of the body is due to pressure on the brain, and this is caused by defective circulation, induced by an unnaturally distended colon. While in this condition some severe physical exertion or mental strain increases the pressure beyond the power of resistance and a rupture is the result--when the patient falls, wherever he may happen to be.

TREATMENT:

Prevention of paralysis is very easy, for with a clean colon it is an impossibility, and the remedy is too plainly indicated to need pointing out. You have but to remove the cause--the accumulation in the colon.

Massage is a most valuable part of the treatment. To prevent the muscles from stiffening, and to retain the suppleness of the affected parts, frequent rubbings are necessary, and the mind should
be stimulated to resume its control over the refractory muscles.

During an attack it is necessary to pay particular attention to diet-- easily digested, nonconstipating food only. You may have to revert to a spoon diet for awhile--and, as the liability to a second attack is great during the period of recovery, special attention must be given to diet to guard against it.

When power begins to return to the affected parts, a system of graduated exercises should be arranged, gradually increasing in force with the return of strength and normal control. These exercises will gradually educate the mind and restore its harmonious working with the
body.

PILES OR HEMORRHOIDS

noreply@blogger.com (Vyne) — Sun, 25 Nov 2007 03:58:00 +0000

This is a disease of the rectum and muscles of the anus, and is the direct result of constipation. The accumulation of hardened faecal matter distends the sigmoid flexure, causing inflammation, until from its own weight it falls down, producing prolapse of the bowels.

Frequently ulceration follows and the bowel is pressed out, tumors forming on the protruding portion.

Bleeding piles are caused by congestion of the rectal blood vessels. The constant nerve irritation causes muscular contraction, consequently circulation is interfered with, producing a condition of
engorgement.

Owing to lack of nutrition the structures become brittle and quantities of the varicosed capillaries unite to form pile tumors.

The methods of treatment usually employed are, injecting astringents into the tumors to dry them up; to ligate the tumors, that they may die or drop off, or to amputate the portion of the rectum in which the tumors form (known as the radical operation), none of which prevent a return of the trouble. The only rational plan is to remove the cause.

TREATMENT:

First empty the colon, using the "Cascade," thus removing the cause, then the inflammation will subside and the protruding bowel go back into its place. Tumors will soon absorb if they are put back when they protrude.

Sitting in a tub of hot water will cause the bowel to go back immediately. Hot water is Nature's astringent and never fails. The following salve has been found of great value in facilitating
recovery:

Two heaped tablespoonfuls of vaseline or cosmoline, willow charcoal, one teaspoonful; canadies pinus canadensis, twenty-five drops; sulphate morphia, five grains. Mix well and apply up the rectum with the fingers as far as possible. But the most effective aid to a cure is to follow the use of the "Cascade," by inserting in the rectum a small piece of ice, about the size of the tip of the little finger (previously immersed in water to render it smooth), which will be found a most admirable rectal tonic, driving the blood away from the congested parts, and producing a bracing effect on the structures.

In bad cases, it may be used with good effect several times during the day, and will be found equally beneficial in cases of prolapse of the rectum. The ice is to be retained in the rectum.

CONSTIPATION

noreply@blogger.com (Vyne) — Sat, 24 Nov 2007 08:12:00 +0000

This condition of the system has been so frequently referred to already that further comment upon it may be deemed unnecessary. Its causes are varied, insufficient exercise in the open air, hastily
eaten and imperfectly masticated food, also many articles of food tend to induce the evil of habitual constipation.

Whatever you may do, avoid everything in the form of drugs, for they are injurious in the highest degree. The continual excitation of the excretory processes by the use of cathartics is a most pernicious practice and should be shunned.

A constant indulgence in the "purgative habit" often renders the coating of the stomach so sensitive that even the presence of food in that organ irritates it and is frequently hurried out half digested.

The "Cascade" should be used each alternate day, for at least two weeks, then, twice a week, until improvement is assured. Drink a tumblerful of hot water, not less than half an hour before breakfast
and eat freely of fruit at that meal.

Also partake liberally of good, green vegetables at other meals. Eating whole-wheat bread is of
decided assistance, and make it a rule to drink from two to three pints of water each day.

COMMON COLDS

noreply@blogger.com (Vyne) — Sat, 24 Nov 2007 04:33:00 +0000

Are very disagreeable things, and, though not dangerous in themselves, yet are frequently the cause of serious complications and the forerunners of consumption, pneumonia and catarrh. Colds are commonly due to sudden changes of temperature, and are caused by the sudden closing of the pores of the skin, thus preventing the escape of those waste matters of the body which Nature has designed should be expelled in that direction.

The blood is thus driven inward, causing congestion. If the system is in a sound, healthy condition, with respiration good and the colon clean, it should be next to impossible to take cold. If,
however, there is a weak spot in the body, be sure the cold will find it, when, if not promptly dealt with, serious results may ensue.

TREATMENT:

Constipation is the invariable primary cause of a cold, hence the first thing to do is to flush the colon. Use the "Cascade" daily for at least three days. Do not eat any supper the first night. The next thing to be done is to take the Turkish bath (see end of book).

It should be taken at night, after which drink a glass of hot lemonade and go to bed, covering the body thoroughly. No doubt you will perspire profusely, but that is what you need. In the morning take a good bath and rub down, following the directions given for bathing, drink a cup of hot water an hour before breakfast and let that meal be light, such as Graham bread, boiled eggs, oatmeal and oranges.

You are then ready to attend to your daily business, and if you take another flushing at night, the next morning your cold will be only a memory.

UTERINE DISPLACEMENT

noreply@blogger.com (Vyne) — Fri, 23 Nov 2007 01:36:00 +0000

This prevalent complaint among the women of America is due, in ninety per cent. of the cases, to constipation, and that is mainly attributable to tight lacing. In the majority of our countrywomen the
sigmoid flexure (see diagram beginning of work) is distended to nearly double its natural size, pressing upon the womb, which necessarily displaces it, but in addition the colon, through impaction, frequently becomes highly inflamed and communicates the inflammation to the womb,
making it heavy and relaxed.

The ascending and descending colon lie immediately behind the ovaries, and if (as is often the case) it becomes distended to double its size, it stretches the broad ligaments and ovarian connections, frequently breaking them away from their peritoneal attachments or carrying the
peritoneum downward with them.

The Fallopian tubes, which penetrate and are attached to the peritoneal sack, together with the uterine broad ligaments, are designed to hold the womb in place, but if the womb and ovaries are
crowded down into the pelvic cavity and the womb doubled upon itself, dysmenorrhea or painful menstruation, or amenorrhea, with convulsions, is the result. Perhaps there may even be a complete stoppage, so that Nature menstruates vicariously and casts it off through the lungs or
bowels.

TREATMENT:

Empty the colon and keep it clean by regular use of the "Cascade," and wear your clothing as loose as your husband's or brother's, and the womb will go back into its place, and all the bad symptoms disappear.

It may be, though, that the tendons and ligaments have become partially paralyzed through the uterus having been so long out of place.

After emptying the colon, if there is pain in the back, with a bearing down sensation, sit in half a tub of hot water for fifteen or twenty minutes once every other day. Throw yourself on your back with the
hips raised as high as possible, then rub up from the pelvic bone.

This will reduce the displacement of the sigmoid flexure, besides giving relief. Should the womb not go back into place, call in a physician to replace it.

Painful menstruation and leucorrhea, which are caused by displacement of the womb, inflammation and hypertrophy, or hardening of the womb, enlarged and sensitive ovaries, can all be speedily cured by flushing the colon.

BRONCHITIS

noreply@blogger.com (Vyne) — Thu, 22 Nov 2007 05:08:00 +0000

This is an acute inflammation of the bronchial tubes, or air passages, and the treatment is almost identical with that for pneumonia; only applying the hot compress to the throat or chest, according to which part exhibits the most soreness.

If the throat is very sore use the following gargle: Bichromate of potash (pulverized), one drachm;
tincture capsicum, half ounce; pure water, two tablespoonfuls. Shake until dissolved. Add one teaspoonful of this mixture to three-fourths of a tumbler of water and gargle the throat every hour
until relieved--then every two hours until well.

ASTHMA

A mast distressing complaint, and hitherto imperfectly understood. It has been attributed to innumerable causes, but our contention is that it is due to an engorged transverse colon, which, interfering with the free action of the diaphragm, withdraws that amount of impetus from
the lungs, so that they fail to respond to nerve stimulation.

Through inaction, the diaphragm becomes practically a fixed instead of a movable partition. This contention is borne out by the fact that in numerous cases where the colon was emptied, the trouble disappeared and no trouble was experienced so long as the colon was kept clean.

In all cases of asthma the last meal should be a light one, if taken at all; in fact, it would be well to follow the dietary rules for dyspepsia, and in addition omit the evening meal.

ANTEVERSION

noreply@blogger.com (Vyne) — Wed, 21 Nov 2007 06:34:00 +0000

Which affects nine out of every ten women, is the womb falling forward on the bladder (causing frequent desire to urinate) and downward, which, with the falling of the sigmoid flexure, produces obstruction of the bowels and great straining at stool.

RETROVERSION

Is a falling down, with the body of the womb thrown backward. Frequently it is doubled upon itself, when it becomes hardened and inflamed, and adhesion often takes place. Doctors frequently call this spinal disease, but it is the displaced organs pressing on the great sympathetic nerve, which produces partial paralysis of the lower limbs and loss of memory, sometimes causing insanity. In retroversion, after emptying the colon, assume the following position: Kneel on the bed, or sofa, with the body thrown forward until the chest also touches.

Retain this position as long as possible, and repeat it frequently during the day. Sleep with the foot of the bed raised eight inches.

These positions all facilitate the return of the womb to its normal position.

Eat nutritious, easily digested food, and avoid all stimulants.