Coping With The Symptoms and Stages of The Grieving Process

 

Death and the grieving process are a sad and unfortunate part of the human experience. Losing someone you love and who played an important role in your life produces a pain that cannot be easily described. No two people experience the grieving process exactly the same. There is no timeframe for grieving, and some individuals may feel like the pain they are experiencing will never go away. Since the grieving process is unique to every single person, there is no right or wrong way to grieve. There are some healthy coping skills that can help as you to deal with the pain and the sense of loss that accompanies the grieving process. These coping techniques can help you feel reinvigorated and give you the strength you need to continue on.

 

Understanding the Stages of Grief

Grieving is a natural response to loss. It is experienced when a person loses a loved in death, loses their health, a cherished dream, a friendship, or suffers a divorce or the breakup of a relationship. When the loss is significant, the feeling of grief will be stronger. Grief is broken into five stages. These stages are:

• Denial: Disbelief that a tragedy is affecting you.


• Anger: Attempting to understand why a situation is happening and assigning blame.


• Bargaining: During this stage, a person may make promises or resolutions in an attempt to negotiate with the impending tragedy.


• Depression: A person may feel too sad to do anything.


• Acceptance: Feeling at peace with what happened.

 

Dealing with Symptoms Associated with Grief

For some individuals, the grieving process is less of a series of stages and instead a roller coaster of emotions. There are ups and there are downs. Usually, the most intense emotions are felt in the days and weeks immediately following the loss. Some symptoms of grief include shock and disbelief. It can be difficult to accept what is happening, especially during the early stages of grieving. Sadness and guilt along with fear and anger are often experienced by grieving individuals. It is not uncommon for a person to have physical symptoms such as fatigue, weight loss, lower immunity, and nausea in response to grief.

 

Finding Support During Periods of Grief

For some, the natural reaction to experiencing grief is to close themselves off from the world and to try to deal with the sadness and feeling of loss on their own. However, finding support from friends, family members, support groups, religious faith, and grief counselors is essential in order to successfully cope with the pain and sadness grief brings.

Unfortunately, at one time or another every single one of us will experience circumstances that will cause us to grief. Understanding the grieving process, understanding the symptoms of grief, and knowing where to turn to for emotional support can make the painful grieving process a little bit easier.

 

Informational Credit to Cornerstone Hospice and Palliative Care

 

Categories: Coping, grieving, stages, Symptoms

5 Signs and Symptoms of Head Trauma

While most head traumas are mild in nature, each one should be treated seriously. Head traumas can happen from a number of accidents, and it’s important to know the signs and symptoms so that you can receive immediate help. These are five signs and symptoms of head trauma that have often been noticed by individuals with head injuries.

 

Disorientation and Confusion

When a head trauma is suffered, many individuals report feeling a sense of confusion and disorientation. You might suddenly forget why you’re doing something, and you might not be able to make connections between certain events or things. It may also become incredibly difficult to focus on anything.

 

Headache and Dizziness

Headaches and dizziness are some of the most common signs and symptoms of head trauma. You might feel nauseous at times, and vomiting may even occur. It’s not uncommon for individuals who’ve suffered head traumas to stay seated for long periods of time in order to avoid discomfort.

 

Blurry Vision

Head trauma has been known to cause blurry vision, or even a loss of vision in individuals. After the trauma occurs, be sure to examine both eyes for signs of alteration. For example, dilated pupils are a common sign of concussions. If you’ve experienced a change in vision whatsoever after head trauma has taken place, it’s likely that you are injured.

 

Inability to Remember Recent Events

You might only recall patches of memories over the recent days or weeks. You might even draw a blank when attempting remember events that happened hours after the trauma was suffered. If you can’t remember suffering a head trauma at all or you think it may have happened at the fault of someone else, it might be wise to contact a personal injury firm such as Yearwood & Company to discuss your options.

 

Inability to Retain New Information

Lastly, head trauma can cause loss of memory on a current basis. Individuals might not be able to recall something that they were just told, or they could read a page out of a book and not remember any of the information it contained. The inability to remember any new information is a very common symptom of a head injury or trauma.

 

If any of these symptoms are observed, it’s extremely important to seek medical attention right away. The sooner a head trauma is treated, the higher the odds will be that you won’t suffer long term effects from the injury.

 

Categories: head trauma, signs, Symptoms

Symptoms and Causes of Environmental Illness

 

The world is full of potential dangers that we are often unaware of. Sometimes, things that seem like errant health complaints can actually be the result of exposure to what are called environmental toxins. These include a variety of unpleasant substances that we come into contact with in the course of our daily lives. From tainted drinking water at one’s place of employment causing gastrointestinal issues, or a leaky furnace causing a homeowner headaches, environmental toxins are a real threat.

 

What Is Environmental Illness?

Environmental illness is a blanket term that refers to any number of different health complaints with roots in exposure to an environmental toxin. Environmental illness can range from mild to severe and exposure can occur in the home, on the job, or even regionally. While many environmental illnesses are more irritating than dangerous, there is potential of severe, long-term health risks associated with continued exposure to certain environmental toxins.

 

What Are the Symptoms?

The symptoms of this can be very widely varied. From things like headaches and rashes, to more serious issues like paralysis and respiratory problems, the potential symptoms from environmental illness are incredibly varied. Some of the most common causes of environmental illness, black mold and unsafe water, display symptoms similar to those of common illnesses. If you and those in your household suffer from chronic allergies, you should have your home inspected for mold. Chronic flu-like symptoms could indicate the presence of unclean drinking water, according to an expert from Brothers Plumbing Ltd. If you suspect your drinking water may be unsafe, have it tested immediately—contaminated water could lead to serious health complications.

 

Who Is At Risk?

Anyone can potentially be at risk for an environmental illness. Those whose jobs or homes leave them exposed to any number of well-known environmental contaminants will be at an increased risk for an environmental illness. Workers in mines, heavy industry, who are exposed to chemicals, and more, will be at a much higher risk of health problems that result from long-term exposure to environmental toxins.

 

Long-Term Implications

We all know of “black lung” and other types of diseases that notoriously effect those from certain industries and vocations, the number of different dangerous chemicals we are exposed to has dramatically increased in recent years, and the long-term effects of some of these chemicals, like asbestos, have only become well known after workers began to suffer from the related health problems.

 

Whether it be exposure on the job or in the home, long-term exposure to dangerous environmental toxins can cause a wide variety of potentially negative health effects. Being aware of the potential dangers, risk factors, and symptoms, can better help one protect themselves from potential dangers, or even identify the root cause of a lingering health complaint. Environmental illness is a general term for health complaints associated with exposure to certain environmental toxins, and taking heed of the information provided here is a way to stay in the best of health possible.

 

Categories: Causes, drinking water, environmental illness, environmental toxins, health complaints, health problems, Long term, potential dangers, Symptoms, term exposure, toxins nbsp

Tell-Tale Symptoms of Alcohol Dependence

 

Alcohol dependence, better known as alcoholism, is a serious—and sometimes debilitating—addiction to alcohol. With 17 million adults in the United States suffering from some sort of alcohol use disorder, it’s an ever-increasing problem. Fortunately, there are a few indicators of alcohol addiction which, when noticed, often prompt intervention and treatment. Recognizing a problem is the first step to fixing it, and with 88,000 alcohol-related deaths each year, it’s definitely a problem that needs to be solved.

 

Blackouts

The first sign of alcohol dependence is blackouts. It’s a common mistake to think blacking out and “passing out” are interchangeable, but that’s not the case (although you can faint from high amounts of alcohol consumption). Blackouts do not include losing consciousness like fainting does. Blackouts instead cause you to not remember what happened when you were drinking dependence

 

 

Unexplained Accidents or Illnesses

It’s possible to develop a new problem, such as stomach aches, or exacerbate an existing health condition with an alcohol addiction. Alcohol dependence also greatly increases the chances of having accidents—and of these accidents being far more severe than they would have been had alcohol not been involved.

 

Tolerance

With alcohol dependence comes a greater tolerance for alcohol, meaning that you need to drink more and more in order to get the same effect. Tolerance also means that you can drink more alcohol than the majority of people and not reach the same level of intoxication. Tolerance leads to excessive amounts of alcohol is being consumed, because you need to drink more to need more. According to Edmonton defense lawyer Rod Gregory, a high alcohol tolerance can lead to impaired driving, as an individual could be intoxicated and still seem sober enough to operate a vehicle to those who might be able to stop them.

 

Withdrawal

The more alcohol you drink, the more your body gets used to it. If you stop drinking alcohol, you could show signs of withdrawal. Drinking in order to avoid the symptoms of withdrawal is a huge red flag when it comes to alcoholism and alcohol dependence. Some signs of withdrawal include:

 

• anxiety


• trembling


• sweating


• nausea and vomiting


• insomnia


• depression


• irritability


• fatigue


• loss of appetite


• headache

 

Alcohol dependence is a serious disorder. When treated, the person has a huge chance of living a normal life. If you or someone you know is displaying these symptoms, seek help; it could save a life.

 

Categories: Alcohol, dependence, Symptoms

Itchy Eyes: What Your Symptoms are Really Telling You

 

 

Itchy eyes affect everyone sometime in their lives and can be a nuisance. What is more annoying than the actual itching, however, is not knowing the reason behind it. When your eyes are driving you up the walls, they may just be trying to tell you something about your health. Look closely at what your symptoms might be a bigger part of.

 

Allergies

One of the top causes for itchy eyes comes right back to allergies. When allergens get near the surface of your eye, your body releases histamines. By rubbing against the eyes further, more and more histamines are released, causing the reaction to continue on. It is discouraged to rub against your eyes exactly for this reason, and to avoid any distress to the surface.

According to Dr. Bishop & Associates, allergies range from seasonal hay fever that cause the standard red, or itchy eyes to an allergic reaction to certain contact lens solutions. If you do have questions about your contact solution, optometrists in Calgary recommend you take it to your doctor right away.

 
Blepharitis

Putting it simply, blepharitis is the inflammation of the eyelids. There are various causes of blepharitis including the malfunction of the oil glands in the eyelids, allergies, an infection, or certain systemic diseases. It usually can be controlled by a regularly cleaning routine, but certain cases require medication. It usually is considered to be a lifelong, chronic condition, but rarely causes any permanent vision damage.

 
Dry Eyes

When your eyes are not able to produce enough tears to fully moisten your eyes, or if your tears are lower quality, dry eyes can actually become a chronic problem. This can either be a lifelong condition, or something that happens with a specific scenario, like a fan blowing in your face. It also occurs with some people over fifty, who have had tear gland damage, have had LASIK surgery, or those with specific medical conditions. With dry eyes, you can experience a slight stinging and itching, as well as redness and fatigue.

 

If you are experiencing any itchiness or redness in your eyes, the best thing to do is seek out an optometrist. These professionals focus their time and attention on understand all that goes into eye health, so they will be able to pinpoint exactly what is going on with your eyes, and help you determine the best way to treat it. Eyes are incredibly sensitive and crucial to the way we live, so always look to a professional rather than experiment with your own remedies first.

 

Categories: itchy eyes, Symptoms, what

Plantar Fasciitis

 

 

Plantar Fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain, and yet much of the general population is unaware it even exists. This condition istriggered by irritation or inflammation of the band of tissue connecting your toes to your heels, the plantar fascia. Since this ligament stretches through the length of your feet, it can make every step painful. Plantar Fasciitis doesn’t happen overnight, as it often takes years of strain to even become noticeable. This podiatric problem can be made worse by running and jumping, as well as lower impact activities like walking and standing for long spans of time. Without treatment, you can experience chronic heel pain that can disrupt the way you walk and your knees, hips, and back.

 

 

Symptoms:

Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis include pain in the heel or bottom of the foot. More specifically, pain commonly occurs upon doing the following:

 

• Waking up, within the first few steps


• Standing for a long period of time


• Running or other repetitive, high-impact exercise


• Rising from a sitting position

 

 

Causes:

There are multiple factors that can be causing your plantar fasciitis. Extra weight caused from pregnancy or an unhealthy lifestyle can cause extra stress on your feet and result in heel pain. Age also plays a role in plantar fasciitis, as the most common age group of people affected is 40 to 60. Another cause of Plantar Fasciitis is a high level of physical activity, particularly while on your feet. Athletes who run on different terrains, high inclines, and who run without properly warming up can be at risk for heel pain.

 

 

Prevention:

While Plantar Fasciitis is becoming increasingly common, it is possible to prevent it.  Managing your weight and adopting a healthy lifestyle helps keep extra tension off your heels. Athletic persons are encouraged to diversify their routine In addition, you can ward off the accompanying pains by simply taking proper care of your feet. It is recommended that footwear with structural support be worn as much as possible, so don’t invest only in fortified sneakers; there are plenty of indoor slippers, high heels and sandals that include arch support that will relieve symptoms.

 

 

Treatment:

When you begin to treat your plantar fasciitis, the doctor might suggest that you take an over-the-counter pain killer. This may be enough to ease your pain if you are only experiencing mild symptoms. Your doctor may also recommend icing and stretching if the pain persists.You may also be advised to upgrade your footwear with orthotic insoles.

 

In more severe cases, your doctor may recommend you wear a boot cast for about 5-6 weeks or until your symptoms subside. Additionally, wearing a night splint can help speed up this process. As a last resort to treat your plantar fasciitis, more serious measures can be taken. Steroidal shots temporarily reduce the pain until you can have surgery to detach your plantar fascia from your heel. Most patients experience results from other treatment procedures, but if you continue to experience chronic heel pain, these more invasive treatments are available.

 

Conclusion:

Plantar fasciitis causes heel pain that ranges from mild discomfort to chronic pain. It can be caused by weight, age, or high physical activity. Symptoms include heel pain that is triggered by an array of factors such as standing for too long, high-impact exercise, or standing after a long period of sitting. Preventative measures can be taken to keep your feet healthy and free from pain. Plantar fasciitis can be easily treated, but patients will experience the best results from handling earlier rather than later. Consult your doctor if you suspect you may have this condition so a plan of action can be set to prevent the worsening of your condition.

 

Categories: Causes, plantar fasciitis, Symptoms

How to Spot the Signs and Symptoms of Common STIs

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can pose a serious threat to your sexual health, not to mention your overall wellbeing. But how do you know if an STI has affected your wellness? The Mayo Clinic warns, ‘You could have an STI and be asymptomatic — without any signs or symptoms. In fact, this happens with a lot of STIs. Even though you have no symptoms, you’re still at risk of passing the infection along to your sex partners. That’s why it’s important to use protection, such as a condom, during sex. And visit your doctor on a regular basis for STI screening, so you can identify a potential infection and get treated for it before passing it along to someone else.’ However, some STIs do appear with certain symptoms. So what do you watch out for?

 

1. Chlamydia: According to the Mayo Clinic, ‘Chlamydia is a bacterial infection of your genital tract. Chlamydia may be difficult for you to detect because early-stage infections often cause few or no signs and symptoms. When they do occur, they usually start one to three weeks after you’ve been exposed to chlamydia. Even when signs and symptoms do occur, they’re often mild and passing, making them easy to overlook.’ The signs and symptoms of chlamydia include:

• Painful urination


• Lower abdominal pain


• Vaginal discharge in women


• Discharge from the penis in men


• Pain during sexual intercourse in women


• Testicular pain in men

 

2. Gonorrhoea: ‘Gonorrhoea is a bacterial infection of your genital tract,’ the Mayo Clinic explains. ‘The first gonorrhoea symptoms generally appear within two to 10 days after exposure. However, some people may be infected for months before signs or symptoms occur.’ You may have developed gonorrhoea if you experience:

• Thick, cloudy or bloody discharge from the penis or vagina


• Pain or burning sensation when urinating


• Abnormal menstrual bleeding


• Painful, swollen testicles


• Painful bowel movements


• Anal itching

 

3. Trichomoniasis: The Mayo Clinic details, ‘Trichomoniasis is a common STI caused by a microscopic, one-celled parasite called Trichomonas vaginalis. This organism spreads during sexual intercourse with someone who already has the infection. The organism usually infects the urinary tract in men, but often causes no symptoms in men. Trichomoniasis typically infects the vagina in women. When trichomoniasis causes symptoms, they may range from mild irritation to severe inflammation.’ Signs and symptoms may include:

• Clear, white, greenish or yellowish vaginal discharge


• Discharge from the penis


• Strong vaginal odour


• Vaginal itching or irritation


• Itching or irritation inside the penis


• Pain during sexual intercourse


• Painful urination

 

4. HIV: ‘HIV is an infection with the human immunodeficiency virus,’ the Mayo Clinic notes. ‘HIV interferes with your body’s ability to effectively fight off viruses, bacteria and fungi that cause disease, and it can lead to AIDS, a chronic, life-threatening disease. When first infected with HIV, you may have no symptoms at all. Some people develop a flu-like illness, usually two to six weeks after being infected…These early signs and symptoms usually disappear within a week to a month and are often mistaken for those of another viral infection. During this period, you are very infectious.’ The early HIV signs and symptoms may include:

• Fever


• Headache


• Sore throat


• Swollen lymph glands


• Rash


• Fatigue

 

The Mayo Clinic points out, ‘More persistent or severe symptoms of HIV infection may not appear for 10 years or more after the initial infection. As the virus continues to multiply and destroy immune cells, you may develop mild infections or chronic signs and symptoms.’ These include:

• Swollen lymph nodes — often one of the first signs of HIV infection


• Diarrhoea


• Weight loss


• Fever


• Cough and shortness of breath

 

The signs and symptoms of later stage HIV infection include:

• Persistent, unexplained fatigue


• Soaking night sweats


• Shaking chills or fever higher than 100.4 F (38 C) for several weeks


• Swelling of lymph nodes for more than three months


• Chronic diarrhoea


• Persistent headaches


• Unusual, opportunistic infections

 

Categories: bacterial infection, genital tract, HIV, hiv infection, lymph nodes, mayo clinic, painful urination, sexual intercourse, STIs, swollen lymph, Symptoms, vaginal discharge

Bone Cancer: What Should You Be Aware Of?

Bone cancer is an uncommon form of the disease that begins in the bone itself. It can occur in any bone in the body, but usually affects the long bones which make up the arms and legs. There are several types of bone cancer, some of which primarily affect children and others which affect adults. The term bone cancer doesn’t actually include those which begin in other parts of the body and spread to the bone later on – it only relates to cancers which start in the bone. For the former, those cancers would take on the name of the area they began, such as breast cancer that has metastasized to the bone. It also doesn’t include blood cell cancers, such as leukemia, that begin in the bone marrow. The symptoms of bone cancer include fatigue, unintended weight loss, broken bones, bone pain, and swelling and tenderness in the affected area. If you have symptoms that are bothering you, you should speak to your GP as soon as possible. Researchers are still unsure what causes bone cancer, but they know that bone cancer begins as an error in the cells. This error informs the cell to grow and divide in an uncontrolled way which forms a tumour. There are thoughts that certain people are predisposed to develop this if it is a genetic problem in their family history.

There are several different types of bone cancer, which include osteosarcoma – this is the common form of cancer which develops in children and young adults. Chondrosarcoma begins in the cartilage cells and usually affects older adults. Ewing’s sarcoma is a less clear form of cancer, as researchers are unsure where it originates. This is also more common in children and young adults. Inherited genetic syndromes are thought to be one of the main causes of bone cancer, meaning that the genetic syndrome is passed down through families which increases the risk. Paget’s disease of the bone is a precancerous condition which increases the risk of bone cancer and is more common in adults.

You should be well prepared for your appointment if you are concerned about your risk of bone cancer – the more information you can provide your GP with, the better they can diagnose your condition. There will be a lot of ground to cover, so the more preparation you can do the better. Write down any personal information you can such as recent life changes or majorly stressful events that you’ve recently gone through. Your symptoms will be the biggest indicator, so write down a list of anything you’re experiencing, even if you think it might not be relevant – it could well be a symptom. You may want to take along a friend or family member for support, as there may be a lot of information to take in, so it might be useful to have someone to help you remember the details. You should also make a note of any medication that you’re currently taking as this could hinder any treatment or diagnosis. Bone cancer is less common than some other forms of cancer, but if it is caught early there can be a good rate of treatment success. The more aware you are of your body and what is normal for you, the better equipped you will be to spot the signs if something is wrong. If you’ve been experiencing the aforementioned symptoms for a few days without them dissipating, you should speak to your GP for advice.

Categories: adults, bone, Bone Cancer, cancer, include, Symptoms, young adults

Could Criticism Fears and Money Worries Damage Your Health?

They say you have nothing to fear but fear itself, and maybe that’s because fear does a lot of damage to your wellbeing. In fact, two fears in particular – the fear of poverty and the fear of criticism – can lead to chronic health concerns and, in order to reach the gateway to better wellness, you need to confront these fears head on.

 

The fear of poverty

You know you have a fear of poverty if you’re constantly worrying that you don’t have enough money, even if, in reality, you have the money that you really need. If you’re thinking about changing jobs or starting a new business, for example, you start to fret about what will happen when you run out of money. This fear prevents you from taking the first step to change. So, how do you defeat your fear of poverty?

 

The first thing is to get accurate information. Oftentimes your fears blow things out of proportion, so it can be helpful to talk to people who have achieved what you want to do. Another great way to conquer your poverty fears is to ask yourself a different kind of “what if” question. Instead of saying “what if I don’t have enough money?” ask yourself “what if I am paid for the work I do easily and well?” or “what if I like my work so much I never want to retire?” This changes your attitude towards work from one of survival to one of enjoyment, which helps to reduce the fear of poverty.

 

Aside from this, you have to admit that you’re not happy in your current situation. After all, happiness is more important than having more money than you know what to do with. Then, set yourself up for the next chapter of your life by putting away some savings and spending only on the things you need. Will you require education or training to advance? Look into your learning options. Finally, surround yourself with the right people. Rather than talking to negative people about your plans, associate with people who take risks in spite of their fears – you might find that some of that risk-taking courage rubs off on you.

 

The fear of criticism

In our culture today, we sadly measure success by status and money, instead of being true to yourself. Doctors’ offices are full of people who are stressed by trying to be perfect, and fear showing any chinks in their armour. The symptoms of the fear of criticism include:

 

• Procrastination


• Inability to accept a critique without defending yourself


• Having conflicting feelings about starting and completing projects


• Thinking of mistakes as unforgivable failures

 

You may have grown up in a highly critical family, and therefore your default setting is to blame yourself when you fall short of perfect, or even if you’ve done nothing wrong at all. It does not occur to you that critics could be wrong, or that the flaws they see in you belong to them. So, to defeat the fear of criticism you first have to have compassion for the human condition. We all make errors and accepting this makes it easier to come up with a solution, and even improve as a result. Also, make sure you retain your sense of humour. When you can laugh at your mistakes, even the harshest critics will be disarmed. In those moments when you get down on yourself, watch a comedy, go for some exercise or hang out with a friend who makes you laugh. This can help you remember that the mountain you are making of the situation is just a molehill.

Categories: Criticism, Fear of Criticism, fears, money, Money Worries, nbsp, Poverty, poverty nbsp, Symptoms

Hypothyroidism - Are You at Risk?

Hypothyroidism is the medical term for an underactive thyroid and describes a condition in which there is a lower level of the thyroid hormone in the body. This hormone is known as thyroxine and causes various symptoms, such as tiredness, constipation, weight gain, dry skin, lifeless hair and feeling cold. The treatment for this condition is usually quite easy, with a tablet provided for each day to replace the missing hormone. In most people, this is usually enough to treat the problem and the symptoms disappear.

The thyroid gland is found in the neck and produces the hormone which travels in the bloodstream around the body. It’s needed to help keep the body’s functions and metabolism working at the right pace, and many cells require thyroxine to keep working effectively. Hypothyroidism results from the thyroid gland being unable to produce enough thyroxine, so the functions in the body slow down. It may also be caused if there isn’t enough of the gland left to make thyroxine, such as after an injury or following a surgery. The less common symptoms include infertility, loss of sex drive, carpal tunnel syndrome and irregular menstrual periods in women. However, it’s important to remember that all of the symptoms can be caused by other conditions, so you should seek medical advice in order to confirm that you do have this condition.

If left untreated, hypothyroidism can increase your risk of developing heart disease, due to the fact that a low thyroxine level causes the blood lipids to rise, increasing your cholesterol. If you’re pregnant it can also increase the risk of complications, such as anaemia, premature labour, low birth weight, pre-eclampsia, serious bleeding after the birth, and even stillbirth. In severe cases, it can also lead to a hypothyroid coma, but this is a rare complication. This condition affects around 1 in 50 women and around 1 in 1000 men. It generally affects adults and becomes more common as you age. It can occur at any age though, and can affect anyone. The most common cause of hypothyroidism is an autoimmune disease known as autoimmune thyroiditis. This causes antibodies to attack the bacteria and other germs in the body, but if you have an autoimmune disease this can make antibodies against certain tissues in the body. Naturally, with autoimmune thyroiditis, this can cause antibodies to attach to the thyroid gland and affect its functioning. Surgery can also be a common cause, as this lowers the functionality of the gland itself. Other causes include side effects to medicines, a problem with your pituitary gland, and iodine deficiency.

The condition is diagnosed by a blood test, and is treated by taking a levothyroxine tablet each day. This works to replace the hormone loss in the body and generally works quite quickly to alleviate symptoms. Ideally, you should take this on an empty stomach as there are some nutrients which can interfere with the efficiency of the medication, such as calcium and iron.

The main facts you should be aware of is that this condition is fairly common and the symptoms develop over time. The treatment you’ll require if you have this problem is usually for life, and you’ll need to have a blood test once a year to ensure that your medication dosage is accurate. If you’re concerned about any of the symptoms you have and are worried that you may have hypothyroidism, you should seek advice from your GP. They will be able to carry out a blood test to determine if you do have the condition.

Categories: autoimmune disease, autoimmune thyroiditis, Blood Test, body, condition, gland, hypothyroidism, Symptoms, thyroid, thyroid gland, thyroxine

Different Ways to Help You Deal With Impotence

Impotence is every man’s greatest fear. It affects not only the sexual wellness and wellbeing of those affected, but also their emotional and mental health. Even the word itself seems to somehow imply failure or weakness. Those who are impotent feel that they have lost not only their sexual health but also their dignity, wholeness and masculinity.

 

Impotence, also known as erectile dysfunction can improve with treatment, however, and is not something that should just be accepted. There are many different causes of erectile dysfunction and there are many different solutions, both medical and non-medical, in the form of home remedies.

 

There are different degrees of erectile dysfunction too. Some men can achieve an erection but are unable to maintain it. Some men become erect but not fully erect. Others only have a problem with a new partner, or with a long-time partner. Then on the extreme end of the spectrum there are those who are unable to achieve an erection at all.

 

Behaviour modification is one way to tackle things, if the erectile dysfunction is caused by emotional issues. If it’s caused by a medical condition (and around 70 percent of cases of impotence are) then there are home remedies and therapies that can help you to get back into your sexual stride.

 

Medical conditions can contribute to erectile dysfunction, the most common of these being diabetes, alcoholism, kidney disease, multiple sclerosis, vascular disease, atherosclerosis and neurologic disease. Around half of all men with diabetes have problems with erectile dysfunction, and younger men tend to fall victim to injuries that cause their erectile dysfunction, such as gunshot wounds, car crashes and skiing accidents. Other causes can include hormonal imbalances.

 

Doctors treat erectile dysfunction with oral medications, vacuum devices, locally injected drugs, behaviour modification techniques and even surgically implanted devices.

Categories: behaviour modification, cures, Dysfunction, Erectile, erectile dysfunction, home remedies, Impotence, Medical, nbsp, Symptoms

Could You Be Suffering From Painful Endometriosis?

Surprisingly little is known about endometriosis, even though the condition affects the sexual wellness and wellbeing of around 10 to 15 percent of all reproductive-age women. This condition is non-cancerous but can be very debilitating and painful.

 

Around 5.5 million women in Canada and the US alone are diagnosed with the disease every year. It occurs when cells from the uterine lining (the endometrium) start to grow outside of the uterus, adhering to other internal structures such as the fallopian tubes, bowel, ovaries or bladder. The Endometrial tissue can also move outwith the pelvic cavity and adhere to more distant parts of the body.

 

Nobody is sure what causes the condition but it can vary hugely in severity. Some women experience pain that is so severe that they are unable to lead a normal life, whilst others have no symptoms at all or very mild pain. Other symptoms can include diarrhoea and painful bowel movements, painful intercourse and heavy menstrual bleeding.

 

The most common way to diagnose the problem is with a laparoscope, and this may also be used during the surgical treatment of the condition. The laparoscopy gives the surgeon a chance to look at abnormalities that may be occurring in the pelvic region by inserting a very small telescope through the tummy, usually through the navel. This is the best way of providing a diagnosis, although endometric tissue can still be present even if it is not seen with the laparoscope.

 

During pregnancy, hormonal changes can temporarily stop the condition in its tracks. The absence of menstruation means that the symptoms that are usually associated with the monthly cycle are often absent.

 

Endometriosis cannot be cured, but it can be treated with medicine (such as hormonal contraceptives) or through surgical intervention.

Categories: condition, endometriosis, nbsp, painful, Symptoms, womb

12% of Women Suffer Semen Allergy – Does That Mean No Sex?

If you ever needed an excuse to get out of going down on your partner, this may be it: a semen allergy. According to a new report from Dr. Michael Carroll, a lecturer in Reproductive Science at ManchesterMetropolitanUniversity, this is actually a real thing that affects the sexual health of approximately 12% of women. Carroll asserts that this is more likely to have an impact on your wellness if you’re between the ages of 20 and 30. But how do you know if you have a semen allergy?

 

Semen allergy presents with certain symptoms immediately or up to 60 minutes post exposure. While the symptoms of semen allergy can vary depending on who you are as an individual, a number of symptoms can impact your wellbeing, including:

 

• itching


• irritation


• welts and hives


• dizziness


• difficulty breathing


• vaginal swelling


• painful urination

 

Award-winning wellness writer Hope Gillette adds, ‘Some women can also experience eczema and in extreme cases… anaphylactic shock—a life-threatening condition—is possible.’ However, there can be a just as problematic emotional impact from semen allergy. In an interview with ABC’s Good Morning America, Katie and Nathan (names changed), a North Carolina couple, detailed their experience with the condition. ‘In a normal romantic relationship, you want to feel attractive to your partner and want to do things that make you feel sexy,’ Katie explained. I feel like we actually started to define ourselves — minimizing things to avoid sex. Funny, I started thinking I wouldn’t wear sexy underwear. … What seemed like medical problems had bigger effects.’

 

The problem with semen allergy is that it often goes undiagnosed. Gillette notes, ‘Though rare, allergy to sperm is no different in basic form than other allergies; the body’s immune system—for an unknown reason—reacts violently to an outside substance, flaring up defences and causing a range of symptoms. While it’s impossible to know why a woman has a semen allergy, awareness of the condition may help more women seek treatment. Most women, especially those who haven’t been in a long-term relationship, experience burning or pain after intercourse and immediately think they’ve contracted a sexually transmitted infection (STI) or they are dealing with a UTI. These women may seek STI or UTI testing, and when results come back negative they may forget about the incident, because by that time most minor symptoms have passed. Women with more severe symptoms and those who are in long-term relationship are most likely to seek medical treatment and therefore be diagnosed.’

 

Once you’ve confirmed with your doctor that you are allergic to semen, ColumbiaUniversity states that the best method of prevention is avoidance. ‘This is relatively easy if the couple is willing to use a condom during intercourse,’ Gillette comments. ‘If this is not possible for some reason (attempting to become pregnant, for example), a woman is advised to take an antihistamine about an hour before semen exposure. This can help in the most mild situations but may not prevent all symptoms from occurring. It is not advisable either to make an habit of this practice.’

 

However, pregnancy is still possible without semen-to-skin contact. Gillette advises, ‘Artificial insemination is an excellent option for women with a semen allergy. If that is not possible, in vitro fertilization is also an option, and a semen allergy does not affect a woman’s overall fertility.’ Carroll adds, ‘There are numerous cases published of successful pregnancies achieved naturally and through assisted reproductive technology in women with this condition. We were able to reassure our patients that HHS (hypersensitivity to human semen) does not cause infertility.’

Categories: allergy, Long term, nbsp, pregnancy, Research, Semen, semen allergy, Symptoms, term relationship, Women

Is Anxiety Normal and What Can You Do About It?

Anxiety over that looming interview or a stressful situation is normal, but when you suffer with anxiety for no reason and regularly it can be very debilitating. If you find that your anxiety interferes with your everyday life, you could well be suffering with an anxiety disorder. There are a number of different types of anxiety disorder, as well as a number of treatments and self-help strategies. The first step to combating your problem is to identify the type of anxiety disorder you have, then you can find the right kind of treatment for you. You don’t need to fear that having an anxiety disorder is something you’ll need to cope with for the rest of your life – there are ways to overcome them so that you can lead a normal happy life.

Anxiety is a natural response to fear or danger, which automatically occurs in the body when you’re stressed or worried. It isn’t always a bad thing but it can begin to overtake your life if you’re not aware of it – when this happens, a disorder can develop. If you’re constantly worried or tense; if you find that your anxiety interferes with your work, school or social life; if you’re plagued by irrational fears that you can’t stop worrying about; if you avoid everyday situations because of your anxiety or if you believe that things need to be done in a certain way to avoid bad things happening, you could be suffering with an anxiety disorder. Anxiety disorders vary from person to person, so it can be difficult to attribute symptoms to each person. Some people suffer attacks of anxiety suddenly and without warning, whilst others get panicky with certain situations and events. Some have constant feelings or worry or tension, whilst others worry at certain times of the day, such as on the way to work or when they’re driving. The most common feelings surrounding anxiety include feelings of apprehension, irritability, feelings of restlessness, trouble concentrating, watching for signs of danger all the time, feeling tense or anticipating the worst. There are also physical signs, such as muscle tension, pounding heart, sweating, fatigue, stomach upset or dizziness, headaches and tremors.

Panic or anxiety attacks usually peak within ten minutes and it’s very rare for them to last longer than thirty minutes. You will feel very frightened, as it feels as though you’re going to lose control completely, but anxiety attacks aren’t usually physically harmful or damaging. When an attack is over, you may worry that you’ll have another one straight away – especially if you’re in a place where you can’t easily escape or find help. There are six types of anxiety disorder, which each have their own profiles and list of attributing symptoms. These are generalised anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, panic disorders, phobias, post-traumatic stress disorders and social anxiety disorders. If you’re concerned that you’re suffering with anxiety, you should speak to your GP as soon as possible.

 

There are a number of ways to treat anxiety, from stress relief to therapy, and your GP will be able to help you find the right treatment for your specific disorder. In order to help yourself, you can also get plenty of rest, avoid smoking and alcohol as these increase anxiety rather than soothe it, get plenty of exercise as this has a calming effect on the mind and body, and try relaxation techniques which can help to calm you down – yoga and meditation, and deep breathing exercises can be useful.

Categories: anxiety, anxiety attacks, anxiety disorder, Anxiety Disorders, anxiety interferes, Disorder, disorders, feelings, life, Mental Health, Symptoms

Endometriosis: Causes, Symptoms and Treatments

Endometriosis is a complex condition in which cells that are normally found in the lining of your womb (endometrium) are found elsewhere, “trapped” in your pelvis, lower abdomen and sometimes other parts of the body. This leads to patches of tissue which are referred to as endometriosis. Not only can this affect your sexual health with severe pain during sex and infertility, it also comes with other upsetting symptoms, including backache and painful bowel movements. But why is your wellbeing affected by endometriosis, and what can you do to fight it?

 

The most common cause of endometriosis is retrograde menstruation, or a process by which the endometrial tissue from the lining of your uterus flows backwards through your fallopian tubes while you are menstruating. Because this tissue gets trapped, it cannot leave your body the way it usually does during your periods but it will still respond to your body’s monthly hormonal stimulation – regardless of where it is in your system. As a result, these endometriosis implants become inflamed, bleed and develop into scar tissue. If the endometriosis is attached to organs in your pelvic and abdominal cavities, this may lead to problems such as severe pain and infertility and other problems may result. Some wellness experts surmise that the condition may also be caused by a deficient immune system response, hormonal imbalances, genetics or environmental factors.

 

So, what can you expect to experience if you do develop endometriosis? Symptoms of the disease include:

 

1. No symptoms. It’s possible to have endometriosis without any of the associated symptoms.

 

2. Pain in your pelvic region. This is the most common symptom of the disease and can range from something very mild to a severe pain that makes it impossible for you to go about your normal life. This pain has been described as sharp or burning, and it could last all month long. Usually, this pain gets worse during menstruation, with deep penetration during sex, or with bowel movements, and can also worsen during exercise.

 

3. Abnormal menstrual bleeding. You may have bleeding between periods or during sex.

 

4. Severe menstrual cramps.

 

5. Backache.

As the disease has often been confused with other medical problems, endometriosis can be unsettling as a diagnosis as you may not be fully confident you’ve been diagnosed correctly. If your healthcare professional doesn’t perform a laparoscopy, sometimes he or she will prescribe hormonal treatments assuming endometriosis exists. Then, if your body responds and the pain decreases, your healthcare professional will assume that endometriosis was indeed the cause of your pain. Still, without laparoscopy and biopsy, there’s no way for endometriosis to be definitively diagnosed. This is why the American College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (ACOG) recommends a peritoneal (tissue) biopsy to confirm the presence of endometrial lesions.

 

Some women who develop endometriosis are worried about getting pregnant, as the disease has been associated with infertility. However, the truth is that nearly all women who have endometriosis are fertile, and there are many women who have the disease and go on to have children. Unless the disease blocks your Fallopian tubes, endometriosis is generally not thought to be an absolute barrier to contraception. However, if you have surgery to remove the endometrial tissue, this can be a simple laparoscopy or your surgeon may have to remove your ovaries and uterus, preventing you from becoming pregnant. Still, there are other treatment options for endometriosis, including hormonal contraceptives and other hormonal regimens, such as GnRH agonists (gonadotropin releasing hormone drugs). These drugs control the hormonal stimulation of your endometrial tissue.

Categories: bowel movements, develop endometriosis, endometrial tissue, endometriosis, Fallopian Tubes, healthcare professional, hormonal stimulation, Pain, severe pain, Symptoms, Treatments

The Big Screen: Do You Need to Get Tested for an STI?

STIs (sexually transmissible infections) are infections that affect your wellbeing through close body contact or the exchange of body fluids. One of the problems with STIs is that they often don’t come up with any obvious signs or symptoms, making them a major sexual health concern. Therefore, you need to know everything you can about how STIs can spread, how to avoid infection, the risks you face if you let an STI go untreated, and what to do if you think you may have one.

 

Let’s start with how STIs are caused. Much like any other infection or disease, STIs occur via the spread of organisms like bacteria, viruses or parasites. However, different STIs are caused by different organisms. If you contract chlamydia, gonorrhoea or syphilis, this will be caused by the spread of bacteria, while viruses are responsible for STIs like herpes, HIV (human immunodeficiency virus), HPV (human papillomavirus) and hepatitis B. The unfortunate truth is that STIs occur more often than you might think. In Australia, for example, the total number of STIs reported in 2009 came to over 70,000, including HIV, which can cause AIDS. That number is even more shocking when you think that this is just the number of cases that went reported and treated; many people who have had unprotected sex haven’t been tested for STIs. Another shocking statistic to consider is that three quarters of reported STIs occur in people aged between 15 and 29 years.

 

But why do STIs pose such a threat to your wellbeing? If left undetected and untreated, an STI can cause you to experience serious and painful health consequences, ranging from infertility to cancer. Chlamydia and gonorrhoea, for example, can cause inflammation and scarring in a woman’s fallopian tubes which, as a result, could mean you can’t have children. In men, the same complication can occur in the tubes leading from your testicles and, again, could cause you to become infertile, although this occurs less often in men. Then you have an STI like syphilis, which can cause you to develop blindness, brain damage and even heart disease.

 

The three infections we’ve just discussed do come with some scary health consequences, but the good news is that they are all easy to test for and to cure. Therefore, if there’s a chance you may have one of these infections, it’s absolutely vital that you get tested and diagnosed as early as possible so that you can get the treatment you need to prevent ongoing health problems and spreading the infection. As we’ve already covered, many people with an STI have no symptoms whatsoever, and they can only be diagnosed through testing. However, there are a few signs and symptoms you can watch out for, so ask yourself the following questions

 

1. Men and women:

• Do you get a burning sensation when you urinate?


• Have you experienced itchiness around the genital area?


• Have you felt any pain during sex?


• Do you have any flu-like symptoms, such as a sore throat, swollen glands, fever and body aches?


• Have you had any unexplained fatigue, night sweats or weight loss?

 

2. Just men:

• Have you had unusual discharge from your penis or anus?


• Can you feel a rash, sores or small lumps on or around your penis or anus?


• Has there been any pain and swelling in your testicles?

 

3. Just women:            

• Have you had unusual discharge from your vagina or anus?


• Can you feel a rash, sores or small lumps on or around your vagina or anus?


• Has there been any unusual bleeding from your vagina, such as after sex or between periods?

 

If you’ve answered yes to one or more of the above questions, or you’ve had unprotected sexual contact with someone, visit your GP immediately for an STI screening.

Categories: health, health consequences, nbsp, rash sores, screening, sexually transmitted infections, small lumps, STIs, stis occur, Symptoms, unusual discharge

Testing with No Test: How Will Your Doctor Diagnose PCOS?

As well as harming your sexual health, Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) can take its toll on your emotional wellbeing, as there’s no simple or easy test for it. With your doctor, you’ll thoroughly dissect your medical history, and put your wellness through physical examination and a couple of lab tests, before your GP can come to a diagnosis. The aim of PCOS testing is to determine whether your inventory of symptoms stem from PCOS or another disorder. But what are the symptoms of PCOS?

 

• Hirsutism (This means you have excess hair on your body and/or face. This will be particularly evident on your chin, upper lip, breasts, inner thighs and abdomen.)


• Irregular or infrequent periods.


• Obesity.


• Acne and/or oily skin (This will be particularly severe acne in teenagers or acne that persists into adulthood.)


• Infertility.


• Ovarian cysts.


• Balding or hair loss.


• Acanthosis nigricans (This is a symptom in which your skin darkens, usually on the neck. If it’s not due to PCOS, acanthosis nigricans is also a sign of insulin problems.)


• Skin tags. (This means you have small pieces of excess skin in your armpits or neck area.)

 

While PCOS means you could have any of these symptoms in varying combinations, there are two essential features of the disorder:

 

1. Hyperandrogenism: This condition, or symptoms indicating hyperandrogenism, means that you have excess levels of androgens in your blood. Androgens are hormones such as testosterone that that can cause you to develop acne and excess facial/body hair if found in excess quantities. If your case of hyperandrogenism is severe, you may experience “virilisation” which may mean that you bald more at the temples, your voice deepens, your muscles grow or your clitoris gets bigger. This latter symptom is known as clitoromegaly.

 

2. Period problems: For a PCOS diagnosis, there also has to be problems with your periods. This may mean you don’t ovulate, or your ovulation is irregular. At the same time, your menstruation is likewise absent or irregular. If you suffer from PCOS, you may have oligomenorrhea, which means you only have eight or fewer periods in a given year. Women with PCOS have also been known to experience amenorrhea, or the absence of periods for extended periods. Then you have some women with PCOS who have polymenorrhea, or periods that are too frequent.

 

The problem with PCOS is that it’s a hormonal disorder, and these are notoriously complex. Often, the symptoms suggest more than one potential cause, which is why the diagnostic process likely will include a thorough physical and history to check for hypothyroidism, Cushing’s syndrome and tumours. As we’ve already covered, there is no test for PCOS, but that doesn’t mean that there are no tests that your doctor can do. A healthcare professional may want to measure your blood levels of a range of hormones.

 

Your doctor may check for your blood levels of the thyroid hormone, as the symptoms of low thyroid function are often similar to those of PCOS. Prolactin is also often tested for when diagnosing PCOS. This hormone is responsible for stimulating your body’s production of milk, but high levels can lead to irregular or absent menses similar to those of PCOS. Your doctor may look for your levels of androgens, including dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate and testosterone. These hormones are often referred to as “male hormones,” and are frequently associated with PCOS. Excess levels of androgens cause “male-like” symptoms such as excess body or facial hair. Finally, you might have tests to find your body’s levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH), as a high ratio of LH to FSH — typically three-to-one — is characteristic of PCOS.

Categories: acanthosis nigricans, blood levels, excess, Excess Levels, levels, nbsp, pcos, Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS), Symptoms, Testing

What Are The Most Common Causes Of Testicular Pain?

Most men prefer to ignore pain in their bodies than go to a doctor, but that’s not always the healthiest route to take. When it comes to pain ‘down below’ you shouldn’t ignore it under any circumstances. Most men experience testicular pain just from thinking about it, but the real thing could be a side effect of a condition such as cysts or varicose veins. While avoiding the doctor’s office may be the nicer option, you shouldn’t disregard testicular pain. There are a number of reasons why you may be experiencing pain in this area, but none of them are good or normal. Here are some of the more common causes of pain ‘down there’.

Inguinal Hernia

Hernias are quite common among men but most men don’t actually know what they are. Hernias can occur in various parts of the body, but they usually occur when a portion of fatty tissue or intestine squeezes through it’s container, which is usually the abdominal wall. If you have testicular pain, you could have an inguinal hernia which occurs where the seam of your thigh meets the body. The hernia travels through the same route as your testicles took when the body was forming, which is why you get pain here when this occurs.

Testicular Cancer

There’s some good news here – testicular pain is very rarely a sign of testicular cancer. Only one in ten men with cancer in this area feel pain as a symptoms. Instead, it’s usually detected by you or your doctor feeling a lump. But, for ten per cent of men, pain in the testicles is a sign of a tumour in the area – it may not even be painful, but rather uncomfortable or heavy, or visibly larger and swollen. In addition to pain in the lower back, fluid collecting in the scrotum, and tenderness in the chest, these are signs that you need to have your symptoms checked out as soon as possible. If you notice a change in anything in or around your testicles, you should always see a doctor straight away. Early detection of any condition is always the best way to treat it quickly, especially with testicular cancer.

Testicular Torsion

There are some more serious causes of testicular pain that are considered emergencies, and failure to seek treatment quickly could result in losing a testicle. This is the case with testicular torsion. A strong force of torque isn’t useful when it’s inside your scrotum, but sometimes a spermatic cord gets twisted and shuts off the blood supply to your testicles. It’s very painful, as the name signifies, and you’d struggle to ignore the kind of pain this condition causes. You’ll need surgery quickly to resolve this issue, where the testicle will be re-set and stitched inside the scrotum to prevent future twisting. You’ll most likely have the same procedure in the other testicle to prevent it happening again.

 

Hematocele

A blow to the testicles is always accompanied by crippling pain, as all men will know. Usually the pain passes and you’re fine, but sometimes the shot you’ve taken to the testicles leads to other problems. The testicles are surrounded by a multi-layered sac, and a direct hit to this area can cause blood to collect between the layers – this is known as hematocele. It can be cured with bed rest and taking it easy, or with minor surgery, depending on the level of discomfort.

Categories: area, doctor, inguinal hernia, Pain, Symptoms, Testicles, testicular, Testicular Cancer, testicular pain, testicular torsion

Urinary Tract Infections: Your Questions Answered

Most people will contract a urinary tract infection at some point in their lives, but what can you do to spot the signs and prevent them? Here are some of the answers to the most common questions regards UTIs.

How do you get a urinary tract infection?

An infection in the urinary tract is most commonly caused by bacteria in the digestive tract which is spread to the urethra, which then travels up the urinary tract to the bladder and sometimes the kidneys. It can also be caused by bacteria and microorganisms which are transmitted through sexual intercourse.

Does having a urine infection mean you can’t get another one again?

This isn’t true; in fact, once you get one, you’re more susceptible to them later on. Nearly 20 per cent of women who get a urinary tract infection get another one later in life, and 30 per cent of those who have had two will get a third. Around 80 per cent of those who’ve had three will have a fourth, and four out of five women get another infections within 18 months of the last one.

How can you tell if you have an infection?

There are a number of symptoms to urinary tract infections, including frequent and urgent needs to urinate, but not making it to the toilet in time; a painful burning sensation when you urinate; cloudy or reddish-coloured urine; urine that has a strong smell, and soreness in the lower back or side. If you have a fever, nausea, vomiting or back pain accompanying your symptoms, you may well have a kidney infection. You should speak to your GP if you have symptoms as they can prescribe medication to clear the infection.

If the infection seems to have cleared, do I need to finish my medication?

Yes, you always need to finish the course of medication you’ve been prescribed. Sometimes the symptoms seem to have disappeared, but the bacteria will still be in your system so you need to finish the antibiotics to clear in. Even if the symptoms don’t appear straight away, you will be at an increased risk of another infection very quickly.

Are urinary tract infections harmful to pregnant women?

If the infection is caught and treated early, then it isn’t generally of any harm. However, pregnant women are more likely to find that the infection spreads to their kidneys which can cause kidney damage, high blood pressure and an increased risk of premature delivery. If you suspect you have an infection and you’re pregnant, you should speak to your GP as soon as possible.

Is drinking cranberry juice a good way to prevent an infection or is that an old wives’ tale?

Cranberry juice and vitamin C make your urine more acidic, which makes it more difficult for bacteria to thrive. Cranberry juice also have a unique factor which prevents bacteria from adhering to the bladder surface, so it can be useful in preventing the infection from growing.

Why do some people get regular infections?

Some women are more prone to infections than others because the cells in the vaginal areas make it easier for bacteria to invade. If you’re menopausal, you’re also at an increased risk because of the thinning tissues covering the urethra make this area less resistant to bacteria. Irritation from sex, tampons, douching or feminine deodorants can also give bacteria a chance to grow. Practicing good feminine hygiene can help limit the bacteria from spreading, along with drinking plenty of water and urinating when you need to rather than waiting.

Categories: Bacteria, cranberry juice, increased risk, infection, Pregnant Women, question, Symptoms, tract, Tract Infection, tract infections, urinary tract, urine infection

Ask The Expert: Taking Herbs for Your Menopause Symptoms

In the West, menopause seems to signal the end of your sexual health and wellness. However, in many traditional cultures, menopause is celebrated menopause as a rite of passage, a coming into wisdom. Similarly, such cultures have their own remedies for tackling the symptoms of menopause, but how do you know if they will work for your wellbeing? We asked Dr. Mary Hardy, head of the Integrative Medicine Group at Cedars Sinai Medical Group in Los Angeles, to explain how herbal therapies can ease the transition of menopause.

 

1. Why choose herbs? According to Dr. Hardy, ‘Many women choose herbs either because HRT is not recommended for them because of the increased risk of breast cancer, or because they just don’t feel comfortable using HRT.’

 

2. Which herbs are available for treating menopausal symptoms? ‘Eating soy can be very helpful for relief of menopausal symptoms.’ Dr. Hardy notes. ‘Among herbal remedies, black cohosh is an herb we learned about from the Native Americans and is now widely used in Europe. We don’t know exactly why, but it’s good at relieving some symptoms like hot flashes and mood swings. Study has started on red clover for its effects on hot flashes as well. This herb contains some of the same chemicals as soybeans, called isoflavones, often referred to as plant estrogens or phytoestrogens.’

 

3. Can you combine herbs with HRT? Dr. Hardy allows, ‘Combining herbs like black cohosh or red clover, or soy with conventional hormone replacement therapy is mostly okay. But HRTs are powerful drugs, so your physician needs to be involved in your decision.’

 

4. Is it safe to replace your HRT with herbs? This is ‘a question that every woman should ask her doctor,’ says Dr. Hardy. ‘As the answer depends on the individual’s indication for oestrogen. If you’ve been using HRT for symptom control, and not for significant medical issues that require oestrogen replacement, herbal treatments can be used safely. But if you are taking HRT for heart disease, severe osteoporosis, intractable hot flashing, or chronic vaginal infections, it may not be advisable. The more significant your medical issues, the more you need to involve your physician in this discussion.’

 

5. Can you take phytoestrogens, like soy, if you have breast cancer? Dr. Hardy admits, ‘It’s a very controversial issue right now, and you’ll find more than one opinion without definitive answers. If you want to take phytoestrogens, do so under doctor’s supervision. I also feel that eating soy foods is safer than taking high-dose soy extractions. Generally, most of the safety data comes from observing Japanese women and their diets, so we should try to approximate what they do.’ When it comes to taking black cohosh when you have breast cancer, Dr. Hardy is a bit more confident: ‘While the results are far from conclusive, researchers in a couple of in-vitro studies found black cohosh inhibited the growth of cancer cells. They also tested for interactions between black cohosh and Tamoxifen (an estrogen-blocking drug used in the treatment of breast cancer) and found the black cohosh did not weaken the Tamoxifen. There’s a far jump from a test tube to a person, but in low doses, we feel it’s safe.’

 

6. What about dong quai? Not all herbs are beneficial on their own, Dr. Hardy comments. ‘Customarily in Chinese medicine, dong quai is never used alone but rather as part of a formula,’ she explains. ‘And depending on the specific symptoms, may not be at all appropriate. Unless it’s part of a formula recommended by a certified practitioner of Chinese medicine, I’d say skip it.’

Categories: black cohosh, breast cancer, dong quai, dr hardy, eating soy, herbal remedies, hot flashes, medical issues, menopausal symptoms, Menopause, red clover, Symptoms