Stubborn Cough? Five Likely Causes that You Can Fix

 

If you’ve been dealing with a cough that seemingly refuses to give up, there’s probably a significant underlying reason. Instead of merely dealing with your cough by pacifying it with minty lozenges, find the root cause for your cough and help yourself feel better in a jiffy!

 

Smoking Cigarettes

If you’re a smoker, you may have never considered the fact that exposing your throat and lungs to tobacco smoke and toxins could be the underlying cause for your cough. What’s surprising is that a cough associated with smoking is more than likely to remain chronic rather than temporary. To get rid of a cough associated with smoking, begin searching out help for your tobacco use.

 

Household Mold

If your home has sustained any water damage, you might be surprised to find that your cough could be an irritation to a possible mold formation. Mold spores can develop from water damage, and this causes various types of sicknesses and irritations in the body. To clear up this type of cough, be sure to contact a water damage repair company such as Cleanrite-Buildrite Water Damage Repair. Remember that if a mold problem is left ignored, more serious health complications could arise. It’s best to tackle the problem as early as possible because of this.

 

Nasal Discharge

Nasal discharge is a common culprit behind a pesky cough. Nasal fluids discharge from the nose to the throat, causing irritation. This in turn can cause a persistent cough. Nasal discharge can be controlled by taking over the counter allergy medication or using allergy nose sprays.

 

Infection of the Lungs

Infections are always a possibility when it comes to narrowing down a cough’s cause. Common types of infections that can bring about a cough are bronchitis, pneumonia, tuberculosis, sinusitis, and more. Infections can typically be cleared up by visiting a physician who will diagnose the condition and, in turn, prescribe an antibiotic medication to cure it.

 

The Common Cold

Lastly, beware of the cough that comes paired with the common cold. The common cold is a condition that is highly unavoidable, but luckily, it typically only lasts from twenty-four hours to a few days. You can soothe your cough associated with the common cold by using lozenges designed to soothe the throat and suppress coughing, using throat sprays, drinking homemade solutions of salt and water. In most cases, however, a cough associated with the common cold must be waited out.

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Categories: common, cough, cough nasal, nasal discharge, nbsp, stubborn cough, Throat, Water

5 Common Dental Mistakes Teens Make

As teenagers become increasingly responsible for their health and well-being, they begin to handle daily hygiene functions like dental care more effectively. Still, many teens overlook important aspects of maintaining good oral health. Here are five of the most common dental mistakes that teens often make.

 

Eating the wrong foods

Teens are notorious for eating junk food at parties or on an individual binge. Cake, cookies, pie, cupcakes, candy, soda, and other sweets play a big role in their diets. Unfortunately, sugary foods cause tooth decay. Parents of teens should encourage them to eat healthy fruit and vegetable snacks instead of sugar.

 

Failure to floss

Getting a teenager to brush once or twice a day is considered by some parents to be a monumental success. Getting a teen to floss is next to impossible, at least for some. Kids that age often lack the patience or interest in flossing along with brushing. It’s up to Mom and Dad to remind them until regular habits are formed.

 

Missing dental checkups

Teenagers enjoy going to the dentist about as much as going to school. Here again, parents need to remind them to make and keep twice-yearly exam appointments. Some dentists, like Dr. Bruce Hartley, specialize in a family dental practice. Teens should have no anxiety about visiting the dentist, knowing that it will make their teeth last longer and look better.

 

Over-whitening their teeth

Some teens are so eager to look perfect that they overdo the whitening process on their teeth. The result can be an unevenly bleached appearance or sensitive teeth. They should be reminded to whiten their teeth only occasionally, using products recommended by the dentist.

 

Not wearing their dental appliances

A significant number of teens wear dental appliances at some point in their youth. However, getting them to wear follow-up retainers consistently can be a challenge. Many teens do wear them the required number of hours per day, but others do not, which can allow newly-aligned teeth to slip back into their former crooked position. Parents should be vigilant in getting teens to wear retainers on a regular basis.

 

Teenagers are childlike in many ways. They are still growing and learning how to be responsible. They may need help in taking proper care of their teeth, especially anything beyond daily brushing. With reminders and a good example set by parents, most teens will fall into place with their dental habits for beautiful, long-lasting teeth.

 

Categories: common, dental mistakes, teens

Five Common Allergens Hiding In Your Home

 

By Emma Sturgis

 

We now know more about allergens than ever before, and part of this knowledge includes that fact that there are many allergens hiding in the home. It is important that homeowners take the time to recognize allergens in their homes. This will allow them to deal with them to help keep their families as healthy as possible. Here are five common allergens that may be hiding in your home:

 

 

1. Dust Mites

Each and every person on the planet sheds enough skin daily to feed a million dust mites. The typical mattress contains millions of them. On average, a pillow that is just two years old will have 20 percent of its weight made up of dust mites. Around 10 percent of the population is allergic to the waste products that are emitted by dust mites.

 

 

2. Mold

Mold is one of the scariest allergens found in the home. Black mold spores can cause a wide range of health problems. It is often invisible, hiding in the walls of a house. An Edmonton furnace repair specialist from Romaniuk Heating & Air Conditioning Ltd advises homeowners to get their HVAC systems cleaned regularly, to keep mold from gaining a foothold in their houses.

 

 

3. Cockroaches

Even if you cannot see them, the chances are good that you have cockroaches in your house. This is especially true in cities. It has been estimated that more than three-quarters of the homes in a city contain cockroaches. Homeowners need to spray for roaches regularly as they are a strong allergen for many people and can severely worsen asthma.

 

 

4. Pet Dander

As much as you love your pet, it could be making you sick. Lots of people are allergic to pet dander, and many of them are unaware of it. Those who want to reduce pet dander should be sure that their pets are well-groomed.

 

 

5. Pollen

Most people think of pollen as an outdoor problem, but it has a knack for working its way inside. The best way to keep pollen out of your home is to keep your home closed off from the outside. Make sure to use an air purifier if you have your windows open during the warm weather.

 

Allergens are more than an irritation. They can lead to severe health problems if they are not taken seriously. You need to make sure that you take steps to keep your home air quality as high as possible by keeping your HVAC system clean as well as running air purifiers.

 

 

Categories: allergens, common, five, hiding, Home

Five Common Medical Issues Which Could Have Serious Complications

 

By Emma Sturgis

 

Modern medicine has reduced the risk of death or serious consequences from a vast number of medical conditions. It is important to remember, however, that there are still several conditions which can pose a serious threat to an individual’s health, with risks as serious as death if left untreated. The following five maladies are so common that treatment is considered routine, but patients should remember to seek medical assistance if they experience any of the following, as all can lead to some dangerous complications.

 

 

Appendicitis

Almost everyone knows someone who has had an appendectomy. Appendicitis is a common childhood malady, but can occur at any point in a person’s lifetime. Appendectomies are performed when the appendix becomes inflamed and riddled with bad bacteria. While surgery to remove an inflamed appendix is routine and can alleviate any worries associate with the condition, serious consequences can result if the problem is ignored. An inflamed appendix can burst, releasing dangerous bacteria into the abdominal cavity during a condition called peritonitis. If a person does not receive rapid treatment for peritonitis, he or she will become extremely ill, and the risk of fatal complications is high.

 

 

Gum Disease

Gum disease is another common medical condition involving serious complications beyond oral health. In recent years, doctors and researchers have begun to find links between gum disease and life-threatening conditions like heart disease. While the connection is still being debated, more and more medical researchers are speaking up, suggesting that gum health is as good an indicator of heart disease as cholesterol levels, though exactly how gum health factors into heart disease is still unknown.

 

 

Type-2 Diabetes

Adult Onset Diabetes is another medical condition which, though common, is deadlier than most people realize. The number of complications arising from Type-2 are too time-consuming to innumerate, but among the worst are heart disease and the risk of stroke. People with Type-2 are also prone to serious complications like peripheral artery disease, occasionally resulting in consequences as serious as amputation. According to a Calgary optometrist from Crowfoot Vision Centre, diabetes can also affect eye health, leading to problems like glaucoma, cataracts and diabetic retinopathy. These complications are serious, and each can result in blindness.

 

Thrombosis

Deep vein thrombosis is a serious but common condition as well. This condition is essentially a blood clot in a deep vein, and the consequences can be life-threatening if not addressed quickly and thoroughly. The clot can move and become lodged in critical areas, including the lung artery, heart, and even the brain. All are serious, life-threatening conditions that can leave you debilitated, if they leave you alive.

 

 

Hyperthyroidism

A fifth common ailment that can lead to serious complications is hyperthyroidism. Caused by an overproduction of the thyroid hormone TSH, hyperthyroidism results in an overactive metabolism. While this may initially have seemingly positive results like weight loss or extra energy, the condition will begin to fatigue and break down the body. Hyperthyroidism can cause, among other things, brittle bones, congestive heart failure, and atrial fibrillation. Like the other conditions on this list, hyperthyroidism complications are potentially life threatening.

 

With the abundance of medical programs and information available to patients this day and age, most people are well-informed about the conditions listed above. Patients should not allow themselves to feel a sense of security and safety in the familiarity, however, since every one of these medical conditions can indicate or lead to serious, life-threatening conditions.

 

Categories: common, complications, medical issues, serious

Facts You Need To Know About The Common Cold

As the colder months approach, so do the colds and flu viruses which render us bed-ridden for days. There are a number of factors which increase our risk of catching colds and viruses, such as cold weather, changes in immunity and our eating habits, and poor hygiene habits make us more susceptible to infections. It’s common knowledge that in order to fend off infections, we need to maintain a healthy lifestyle of plenty of exercise, drinking enough water each day, and getting the right balance of nutrients from a diet that’s rich in fruits and vegetables. But there are other things to consider. Here are the main factors you need to be aware of in order to stay healthy during cold and flu season.

Vitamin D deficiency

As the days become shorter, our exposure to direct sunlight also decreases. This lack of exposure to the sun can lead to a vitamin D deficiency which can weaken our immune system, leading us to become more susceptible to infections. Some food products are now fortified with this vital nutrient but there are also supplements available to help ensure you get your daily dose.

Cold air

The dry and cold air can dry out your nasal passages which can irritate the throat and lungs, leading to coughs and colds. You may even find that your struggle with your breathing during this season, as your nasal passages are often blocked. This is known as cold-induced asthma which can irritate the linings of your nose and throat which are there to protect the respiratory passages, which can trigger a cough.

Humid weather

In the summer, the hot weather leads to you sweating a lot more – this increases the chance of respiratory infections developing due to dust particles and sweat triggering a sore throat and a dry cough. Breathing is naturally affected because of congestion, particularly in crowded places.

Smog

Allergies due to breathing in smoggy air are common in the summer months, because smog contains a pollutant known as ozone which directly attacks your lung function. This causes inflammation of the protective lining of the lungs and can trigger asthma.  Coughing due to smog is often very painful as it causes uneasiness of the chest and throat.

Weather changes

Because of the way we naturally react to  weather changes, coughs triggered  during the summer months don’t go away easily. For example, during the winter we tend to keep warm, rest a lot and drink hot fluids to help encourage recovery. But in summer, we drink cold drinks and these increase the chance of a cold infection. It may even worsen your gastroesophageal reflux disease causing a cough.

Rainy season

It’s more common to catch a cold  during a rainy season, as the common cold during this season comes accompanied by headaches and sore throats which are due to damp weather. It’s during rainier months that we need to be more on our guard in terms of preventative measures and leading a healthier lifestyle, to try and  fight off any possible infections.

Climate changes

Because of erratic climate changes taking place all the time, people with a healthy immune system also catch respiratory infections. For example, with monsoons after heavy rainfall the weather can sometimes turn very hot. This can lead to a cough or cold due to infections, allergies and breathing problems, all made worse by the weather. changing so drastically.

Categories: allergies, colds, common, Infections, nasal passages, rainy season, respiratory infections, season, summer months, Throat, weather

Could Your Own Stomach Re-Infect You With An STD?

Doctors have found that it may be harder to get rid of a sexual disease than was ever previously thought. Recent findings from scientists represent a serious blow to the wellness and wellbeing of anyone who has previously suffered from a sexually transmitted disease.

 

The scientists behind this discovery have revealed that your own stomach could re-infect you with a sexually transmitted disease: tests revealed that chlamydia can linger on in the stomach even after a course of antibiotics.

 

Although antibiotics can often eliminate the disease chlamydia from the genital region, it struggles to remove it from the gut. The disease then lingers on in the gut, albeit benignly, and has the ability to re-infect the body at a later date.

 

Chlamydia is one of the most common sexually transmitted diseases throughout the world, and becoming reinfected is surprisingly common.

 

This means that if you are diagnosed with an STD, having had one previously which ‘cleared up’ it is not a clear-cut case where you can point an accusing finger at your partner. This new research means that people should think twice before pointing the finger of blame, particularly if they have had chlamydia in the past.

 

Researchers from the Arkansas Children’s Research Institute found that this reservoir in the gut of benign chlamydia is the most common source of reinfections. This is a breakthrough in the world of sexual health treatment, as, although reinfections are common, the source has previously been unknown.

 

Another source of reinfection could be continued intercourse with a partner who is carrying an active infection. This often occurs because chlamydia in men usually doesn’t have any symptoms.

 

This new study was carried out on mice, where it was shown that even those who had eradicated chlamydia from their genitals still carried the disease in their gut.

Categories: Chlamydia, common, Disease, gut, nbsp, previously, sexually transmitted, stomach, transmitted disease

Stubborn Cough? Five Likely Causes that You Can Fix

If you’ve been dealing with a cough that seemingly refuses to give up, there’s probably a significant underlying reason. Instead of merely dealing with your cough by pacifying it with minty lozenges, find the root cause for your cough and help yourself feel better in a jiffy!

 

Smoking Cigarettes

If you’re a smoker, you may have never considered the fact that exposing your throat and lungs to tobacco smoke and toxins could be the underlying cause for your cough. What’s surprising is that a cough associated with smoking is more than likely to remain chronic rather than temporary. To get rid of a cough associated with smoking, begin searching out help for your tobacco use.

 

Household Mold

If your home has sustained any water damage, you might be surprised to find that your cough could be an irritation to a possible mold formation. Mold spores can develop from water damage, and this causes various types of sicknesses and irritations in the body. To clear up this type of cough, be sure to contact a water damage repair company such as Cleanrite-Buildrite Water Damage Repair. Remember that if a mold problem is left ignored, more serious health complications could arise. It’s best to tackle the problem as early as possible because of this.

 

Nasal Discharge

Nasal discharge is a common culprit behind a pesky cough. Nasal fluids discharge from the nose to the throat, causing irritation. This in turn can cause a persistent cough. Nasal discharge can be controlled by taking over the counter allergy medication or using allergy nose sprays.

 

Infection of the Lungs

Infections are always a possibility when it comes to narrowing down a cough’s cause. Common types of infections that can bring about a cough are bronchitis, pneumonia, tuberculosis, sinusitis, and more. Infections can typically be cleared up by visiting a physician who will diagnose the condition and, in turn, prescribe an antibiotic medication to cure it.

 

The Common Cold

Lastly, beware of the cough that comes paired with the common cold. The common cold is a condition that is highly unavoidable, but luckily, it typically only lasts from twenty-four hours to a few days. You can soothe your cough associated with the common cold by using lozenges designed to soothe the throat and suppress coughing, using throat sprays, drinking homemade solutions of salt and water. In most cases, however, a cough associated with the common cold must be waited out.

Categories: common, cough, cough nasal, Flu, illness, nasal discharge, nbsp, Throat, Water

The 5 Most Common Causes of Lung Disease & How to Avoid Them

 

Lung disease, whatever form it takes, is an insidious condition. Diseases which affect the lungs take a long time to manifest, then take an equally long time to make a person very ill. With the exception of obvious causes like smoking, most people aren’t even aware they’re inhaling toxins into their lungs. The best way to protect yourself from lung disease is to be educated about the causes of lung disease and what you can do to avoid them:

 

1. Smoking

This is easy. The damage smoking causes to the lungs (among other organs) has been well-documented and discussed for ages. Fortunately for those who smoke, the damage can be almost completely undone after quitting. For smokers, ten years without tobacco usually reduces the risk of lung cancer to that of a non-smoker.

 

2. Black Mold and Other Airborne Pathogens

Black mold is a common household annoyance. If the infestation is light, a homeowner can remove the black mold themselves. If it’s heavy, a professional might need to be called in. In the worst cases, the house may become uninhabitable. This is what happened to many houses after Hurricane Sandy. Adam Robertson, a specialist from The Cleaner Image Dryer Vent Services, says that while most black mold and airborne pathogens can be removed with routine housecleaning, certain pathogens require special venting of the infested home’s vents.

 

3. Radon

Radon is a tasteless, odorless and colorless gas which is a byproduct of the breakdown of uranium. Radon can seep up from the ground into a crawlspace or basement and, from there, leak into the house. A homeowner who believes they have a radon problem should have the home tested. If the radon is above a certain level, it can be removed by a professional radon abatement service. But, if radon levels are fairly low, sometimes all it takes is giving the house a good airing out by opening doors and windows and turning on fans.

 

4. Asbestos

Exposure to asbestos can lead to a rare cancer of the lining of the lungs called mesothelioma. It can also lead to asbestosis, a slightly less serious lung disease. Asbestos was banned as a building material in the United States in the 1980s, but some older homes may still contain asbestos. It can be found in paint, insulation, roof shingles or flooring. It’s harmless as long as it’s undisturbed, but a homeowner who wants to do a renovation and suspects they may have asbestos in the home should call in an asbestos professional first.

 

5. The Flu

The flu, though often seen as only slightly worse than the common cold, has the potential to damage a person’s lungs permanently. Seniors, children, and those with compromised immune systems are most at risk of developing lung disease from the flu virus. Those in the at-risk groups should be sure to get a yearly flu shot to minimize their chances of catching the flu.

 

These five causes can wreak havoc on a person’s body, inflicting permanent damage and putting them at risk of lung disease. All of these causes, however, can be avoided or corrected through precautionary action and professional assistance.

Categories: airborne pathogens, asbestos, avoid, black mold, Causes, common, Disease, long time, lung, lung disease, nbsp, radon

Are You Aware Of The Signs Of Testicular Cancer?

Testicular cancer is a form of malignancy that grows within the man’s testicle. But what is really happening within the body, and how can you tell the signs? Testicular cancer is actually quite uncommon, despite many people being under the impression that they’re at risk. It’s responsible for just half of one per cent of all male cancer deaths. However, although it is rare, it is the most common cancer in men aged between 29 and 35, and men in this age bracket should check themselves regularly. It is also more common in white men than other ethnicities. There are two major forms of testicular cancer, which are seminoma (the most common) and nonseminoma germ cell tumours. Usually, testicular cancer only occurs in one testicle. The most common sign is a painless swelling in the testicle, which some men notice after an injury to the scrotum. However, the injury isn’t the cause of the cancer. The cause of testicular cancer is actually unknown, but men who have an undescended testicle are more at risk of developing the disease. Also, the male children of women who took hormones while they were pregnant could also have a greater risk.

Nothing can be done to prevent testicular cancer, but any lump in the testicle should be reported to your GP as soon as possible. In all cases, early diagnosis lowers the risk of the cancer spreading so you should always report any worries or health concerns to your doctor. Another way to lower the risk of cancer remaining undiagnosed is to check yourself regularly for lumps. Certain bodily chemicals, such as beta human chorionic gonadotropin or alpha fetoprotein, are produced by some testicular cancers, and these are known as tumour markers. A small amount of blood will be drawn during your check-up to check for these, and the only way to determine is cancer is present is to remove the testicle. If the cancer is not treated, it will become fatal. But if it is treated, there is a high chance of survival – over 70 per cent of men are long-term survivors. There is no risk to other people though – cancer can’t spread to other people and poses no health risk to people you spend time with.

 

There are a number of very effective treatments for testicular cancer, meaning that the cancer can be cured even if it’s spread to other parts of the body. In addition to the affected testicle, your treatment may include a number of medications and surgical treatments. Additional surgery could include lymphatic tissue in the stomach for testing, and if need be the lymph nodes will be removed as well. Radiation therapy is a common treatment for men with seminomas, particularly in the early stages. And in some cases, chemotherapy may be used alongside other treatments. There may be side effects, which your GP will discuss with you at your appointment. After your therapy, you will be monitored regularly for signs that the cancer has come back, but the frequency of this will reduce as time goes on.If you find a lump or are unsure about the correct way to test for lumps on your own, you should speak to your GP who can advise you. There are a number of services available for people will testicular, and other forms of, cancer to help you deal with your symptoms and manage your treatments – your GP can also offer you information about these.

Categories: cancer, common, risk, Symptoms, testicle, testicular, Testicular Cancer

Six Common Diseases You Might Not Know About

There are many different disease that people have to live with, some of which are quite common and well known, while others are little known and sometimes not well understood. These six diseases commonly occur in human populations around the world though many people may not have heard of them.

 

Marfan Syndrome

Marfan Syndrome is a disease that affects the connective tissue of the body that helps to support organs and skeleton. Those who have this disease are usually tall and slender, with very long arms, legs, fingers and toes. The disease can worsen as the person ages, with increased heart problems, eye problems and skeletal problems. No cure exists for this disease, but it is treated with blood pressure medications, eye implants to assist vision and surgery to correct heart problems.

 

Lymphedema

Lymphedema is a condition of the lymphatic system of the human body. It causes swelling of an arm or leg and is often associated with cancer treatment. It occurs when a lymph gland becomes blocked and cannot drain lymph fluid from the body. Treatment is done by massaging the area, wrapping the area, exercising the body part to help drain fluid and compressing the area with special bandages. Surgery is sometimes needed to relieve swelling and pressure.

 

Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is a condition that affects the muscles and connective tissue of the body, causing pain, tender points, fatigue and sleep problems that are characteristic of the disease. Current treatments include medications such as Cymbalta and Lyrica, antidepressants and pain relievers.

 

Polymyalgia

Polymyalgia, also called polymyalgia rheumatica, is a disorder that causes inflammation and stiffness in the muscles. The person may experience both pain and stiffness in arms, legs, shoulders, neck or hips. Polymyalgia can also cause weight loss, lethargy and depression. Information about polymyalgia is not widely available, which can make it difficult to diagnose. Corticosteroid medication, methotrexate, and anti tumor necrosis factor drugs can be helpful for this condition.

 

Raynaud’s Disease

Raynaud’s disease is a rare condition that affects the blood vessels of the fingers, toes, tips of the ears and tip of the nose. It can cause extreme coldness and numbness in these areas or even stinging pain from lack of proper circulation. Calcium channel blockers, alpha blockers and vasodilators can help relax blood vessels to assist blood circulation.

 

Cardiomyopathy

Cardiomyopathy is a disease that weakens the heart. It is a serious condition that can cause death. Treatment attempts to manage symptoms to prevent further damage to the heart muscle. Medications and surgery to install a pacemaker can be helpful for these patients.

 

Although these diseases are not well known, many people live with them everyday, some people don’t even know they have it. If you have pain, or a medical issue that is bothering you, the best thing you can do is see a doctor and get an examination. The key to minimizing pain and avoiding future complications is knowledge. When you know if you are affected by a disease, you can treat it properly.

Categories: arms legs, blood vessels, body, common, connective tissue, Disease, diseases, Heart Problems, marfan syndrome, nbsp, Pain, syndrome

Drink Spiking: Are You Aware of the Signs?

Drink spiking has been increasing common over the years, and occurs when a substance such as drugs or alcohol is added to your drink without you realising it. The result is that your behaviour and thought processes are impaired. If your drink is spiked, the way you feel will depend on the drug that’s been used – common effects are feeling drowsy, confused or the inability to speak or move. This may affect your ability to remember what has happened.  You should report anything you feel may have happened to you immediately to your GP and the police. There are ways to reduce the risk of having your drink spiked, such as never leaving your drink unattended and making sure that you don’t accept a drink from someone you don’t know. Don’t continue speaking to people who make you feel uncomfortable and let people you trust know where you are at all times. If you’ve just met someone, don’t give them too much information about yourself and don’t put yourself in any potential danger if you’ve already been drinking as your judgement will already be impaired. It isn’t just women who are targeted – the most common reasons for people’s drinks getting spiked include doing it for amusement, for malicious reasons, to carry out rape or sexual assault, and to carry out theft.

 

Depending on what drugs have been used the symptoms you have will change. The effect of any drug changes on your body shape and size, age, how much of the drink you consumed, and how much alcohol you’ve already had. The most common date rape drugs are alcohol, gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) and gamma-butyrolactone (GBL), tranquillisers such as rohypnol, and ketamine. These drugs are depressants, and they work by slowing down your nervous system so that your responses are dulled. They also affect your memory and instincts. When you take these substances without realising, you leave yourself vulnerable to danger. You may have difficulty concentrating, feel confused and disorientated, have a loss of balance, paranoia, lowered inhibitions, temporary loss of memory and body sensation, hallucinations and amnesia. All date rape drugs are especially dangerous when they’re combined with alcohol as they have a powerful anaesthetic effect, leading to unconsciousness and even fatalities.

Alcohol is a common date rape drugs, as it can be added to soft drinks without you knowing and double measures can be used instead of singles. If you’ve already been drinking then you’ll be less aware when such things occur, so it can be easier for attackers to take these measures. GHB usually comes in the form of an oily, colourless liquid or a powder, though this form is rarely used. It can be found as GBL in some household products, but it turns to GHB when it enters the body. Tranquilisers are also used, with the most common known as benzodiazepines. You may be more aware of these when they’re used by the name of valium, roofies, benzos and rohypnol. They make your body relaxed and free of tension, as well as being used to treat anxiety or insomnia. Lastly, ketamine is a powerful anaesthetic which comes in a liquid form. It causes hallucinations and can provide an outer body experience. There have been many cases of this being used as a drink spiking ingredient. If you think that you’ve been a victim of drink spiking, it’s imperative that you speak to the police  and seek medical advice as soon as possible.

Categories: body, common, common date, Date Rape, drink, drink spiking, drugs, powerful anaesthetic, rape drugs

IBS: Could It be Affecting Your Lifestyle?

The cause of Irritable Bowel Syndrome is not known, but many people suffer with this gut condition. The symptoms vary but tend to include bloating, abdominal pain, and even constipation or diarrhoea. These come and go though. You can’t be cured of IBS, but there are ways to ease your symptoms such as taking medication or from avoiding foods which make it worse. IBS is considered a functional disorder, which means that there is a problem with part of the body and the way it functions, but nothing wrong with the structure of the organ itself.

 

One in five people in the UK have IBS at some stage in their life, and it can affect anyone at any age. It’s common in young people and teens though, and it twice as common in women than men. Pain and discomfort are common and will probably vary in where the symptoms originates. This is because it usually goes away when you pass stools or wind. Most people with IBS state that their pains feel colicky or like spasms, and the severity can vary both between people and depending on the time itself. Bloating is also a common symptom of IBS, and you may find that you pass wind more than usual. Other people complain of nausea, headache, poor appetite, tiredness, muscle pains, heartburn and bladder symptoms.

 

There are no specific tests but you may be asked to come in for a Full blood count blood test to rule out anaemia, as this is connected with some other gut disorders, and a CRP test to show if there is any inflammation in the body. There are more complex tests such as an endoscopy which examines the bowel with a specially designed telescope, but this is rarely needed. It’s not clear what actually causes IBS, and researchers have little evidence to support any previous theories. The most common through is that it is connected to over-activity in the gut, which occurs when the contractions in the intestines become abnormal or overactive – this is when constipation or diarrhoea may develop.

 

Stress or emotional turmoil play a big part in the role of the gut, so people with IBS may find that their symptoms become worse when they’re stressed or anxious. Foods are also a trigger, so it may be beneficial to keep a food diary to keep track of any ingredients which lead to a worse bout of IBS. Another cause may be an infection which can trigger it – around one in six cases of IBS are the follow-up to a bout of gastroenteritis, although the condition isn’t caused by an infection. Understanding IBS and how it works can help you manage the condition more easily, and reduce symptoms in some cases. If your symptoms are mild, it may be possible to maintain them purely by making lifestyle changes. However, if they’re more serious then you may require medication.

 

For natural treatments, fibre is a good place to start. This nutrient is a vital part of a healthy diet anyway, but where bowels are concerned it takes on an even more important role. You can get roughage from fruit, vegetables and whole grains. A healthy diet on the whole can keep your body functioning on top form, so it’s advised that you ditch the junk food and sugar in place of a more nutritiously-beneficial diet. This means eating regular meals and taking your time to digest them, drinking plenty of water to hydrate the body and aid digestion, and restrict tea and coffee as caffeine can be a trigger for some people. Alcohol should be limited, as it can cause bloating which can make your symptoms worse, as can fizzy drinks.

Categories: bloating, common, healthy diet, ibs, people, Symptoms, worse

Leg Cramps: Are They Something to Worry About?

Legs cramps are common, and most people will experience them at some point in their lives. In most of these cases, the cause is unknown but some medicines and diseases can cause them. You can prevent them by doing regular calf stretching, and quinine tablets may be advised as a last resort if you have regular cramps. Leg cramps are pains which occur in the leg muscle when it spasms, and this usually occurs in the calf muscle.

Cramps usually only last a few minutes, but they can be quite painful. Some people find that they get them at night, as they usually develop when you’re resting. Although most people experience them at some point, some people get them often and they are more common in older people. One in three people over the age of 60, and around half of people over the age of 80, get regular leg cramps. About 4 in 10 people who have leg cramps get them around 3 per week, and in some rare cases people suffer with them every day. One theory that experts have is when a muscle is already in a shortened position, it is stimulated to contract and this may lead it to go into spasm. As you may be in a curled up position when you sleep, this could explain why cramps are more common at night. Other causes include certain medications, over exertion of the muscles, dehydration, pregnancy, an untreated underactive thyroid gland, excess alcohol consumption, peripheral arterial disease and some nerve conditions.

Stretching the muscle and massaging the affected area can help reduce cramps, and most cramp pains disappear on their own after a while. Painkillers aren’t useful as they don’t act fast enough to remove the pain before it heals itself. However, if you have tenderness or pain which lasts after the cramp has dissipated, painkillers may be beneficial. You don’t need to worry about preventing cramps if they only occur from time to time. However, if you have them regularly, there are some things you can do to limit the development of a cramp. You may want to tell your doctor if you’re taking any specific medications, as these may be increasing the risk of cramp – they may be able to advise an alternative drug. GPs often recommend stretching exercises to get rid of cramp, but there isn’t actually much research to prove that this works. It’s worth testing the theory and if it works for you, you may not need tablets to prevent the cramps.

Some people find that simply changing their position in bed can help too. Try using a pillow to prop your feet up when you’re in bed whilst sleeping on your back, or hang your feet over the edge of the bed when you’re sleeping on your stomach. You may find it helpful to keep the blankets loose at the foot of the bed to prevent your toes from pointing downwards when you’re sleeping.

 

Quinine may be offered as a last resort, but you shouldn’t take it if you’re pregnant or are likely to become pregnant. There are also some rare conditions which can lead to a reaction so speak to your GP about the risks before opting for this method of treatment. Other possible treatments include vitamin B complex, vitamin E, magnesium or verapamil. These aren’t usually advised though, as there is limited research to prove that they work for most people. Your GP will be able to talk you through the options you have depending on your medical history and symptoms.

Categories: common, cramp, cramps, leg cramp, leg cramps, Muscle, people, Symptoms, treatment

What Does Your Body Go Through When You Quit Smoking?

It is one of the most unhealthy things that you can possibly do to your body, and yet tens of thousands of people are still smoking on a regular basis. If they could understand a little more about what they are doing to their wellness and wellbeing, however, perhaps they would not be so quick to light up the next cigarette. Cigarettes have been proven to increase your chances of getting certain cancers, such as those of the throat, mouth and lung, and smoking can also increase your chances of having heart problems or breathing difficulties.

 

Unfortunately, nicotine in cigarettes is highly addictive, and so many people who do want to quit find themselves unable to do so. Those who do quit, find that they suffer from such unpleasant physical symptoms that they start smoking again, merely to make the unpleasant effects go away.

 

1. Digestive problems are common when people stop smoking. You may experience indigestion, nausea, heartburn and even diarrhea. These symptoms peak and then start to improve.


2. Respiratory problems can also occur, including coughing, excess phlegm, sinus congestion and a hoarseness in the voice.


3. Circulation problems are also common. You may find that you feel dizzy or faint and may experience tingling in your fingers or toes.


4. Sleep problems are also common when stopping smoking, and many people report insomnia or other sleep problems.

 

As the body starts to repair itself, these symptoms will pass in around three to four weeks, and after that time you will start to feel a lot better and to experience the health benefits of no longer smoking. After this, your blood pressure will improve along with your carbon monoxide levels and risk of having a heart attack.

Categories: cigarettes, common, nbsp, people, problems, quit, sleep problems, Smoking

Safe Sex: How to Avoid the Risks of Gonorrhoea

A common sexually transmitted disease, gonorrhoea is caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae. There are a number of different strains of this germ, but antibiotic-resistant ones have become far more common as the number of cases of this disease have risen in the 21st century. As such, the way in which it is treated has had to change – during the late 20th century, the disease rose and became more common as a result of freer and more casual attitudes towards sex. In 2010, the number of cases in UK rose to 18,600 – up by 5,700 for women and 12,900 for men. Of the men, around 30 percent of these were men who had sex with other men. Gonorrhoea generally affects people aged between 15 and 30 years old. This disease is more common in other parts of the world, so casual sex overseas could be a big risk. It’s contracted via sexual contact, such as vaginal or anal intercourse. You can also pass on the disease via oral sex, with some people developing a sore throat due to gonorrhoeal infections – sex workers and other people may have this bacterium in their throats without actually realising. Studies show that mothers who are infected with this germ can actually pass it on to their children during delivery – if they were untreated, infants would develop a severe inflammation in their eyes, which could even develop into blindness. However, it’s common for antibiotic eye drops to be given rapidly to such children to avoid this.

 

Only around half of the women and a handful of men will ever show symptoms of gonorrhoea. In men, the most common symptom is painful urination. They may also have a white, green or yellow discharge from the top of the penis. In people who practice anal sex, it may be a recurring disease. While anal gonorrhoea is usually symptom-free, some people do experience irritation, pain or discharge from the anus. Women don’t often experience symptoms, but in men painful urination and discharge may occur. In both sexes, a throat infection is common as a result of oral sex with someone who is infected with the disease. This might be connected with a fever, as well. You can avoid developing gonorrhoea by avoiding sex with multiple partners, practicing safe sex by using a condom throughout all sex, and if you’re under the influence of alcohol or drugs avoid having sex with anyone – this can lead to you making poor choices with regards to how safe you are. Oral sex can also lead to this problem so it’s important to use a condom here too. Gonorrhoea can be diagnosed by the bacterium found in the urethra, cervix, throat or rectum. When you’re being tested, you will be asked to give a urine sample so don’t urinate for a couple of hours before going to your appointment. You may also have to have a swab so that the doctor can test drops of moisture from these areas, but it is a quick and relatively painless procedure. If you do have gonorrhoea, you will be given the medicines to combat the infection. If it is left untreated, it can lead to an inflammation of the sexual organs or blockages in the fallopian tubes in women, and can lead to an inflammation of the epididymis in men – this is a tightly-coiled tube which is situated by the testicle. It can also cause chordee, which is a painful bending of the penis. A constant practice of safe sex procedures, as well as regular check-ups at your local GUM clinic will ensure that you avoid the risks of STDs or catch them early if you do develop them.

Categories: avoid, common, Disease, Gonorrhoea, oral sex, painful urination, people, safe sex, sexually transmitted infections

Anxiety is Not All in your Mind

If you think anxiety is all in your mind, you’re wrong. While it may start there, the physical symptoms of anxiety can run rampant through your body.

Anxiety is a psychological condition that can produce very real, physical symptoms, such as:

• Rapid heartbeat (likely the most common symptom)


• Shortness of breath


• Excessive perspiration


• Shaking and trembling in your limbs


• Dizziness


• Headache


• Nausea and vomiting (vomiting is associated with severe anxiety)

Anxiety is categorized as common or severe. You’ve probably experienced a case of nerves from time to time, with your heart racing or hands trembling. These are symptoms of common anxiety. It’s uncomfortable and unpleasant, but the symptoms won’t kill you. With severe anxiety, your nausea may lead to vomiting. And instead of an occasional bout of nerves, the anxiety can be persistent which, over time, can cause long-term stress on your body.

While some of us may need antacids and over-the-counter pain relievers to medically address anxiety, many of us can diminish these uncomfortable feelings with simple changes to our lifestyle.

Go to bed. Start by getting more zzz’s, as you may be more physically exhausted than you suspect. When we’re sleep deprived, we won’t handle the common stresses in life as well as we would after a good night’s sleep. Most people need at least seven to eight hours of sleep a night. If you’ve always believed you only need five or six hours, do yourself a favor and go to bed earlier and see if you don’t feel better. If this sounds difficult, cut the caffeine. If you can’t live without your coffee, try limiting it and only drink it prior to lunch. Caffeine is a stimulant, which is great if you want to wake up, but delayed consumption can be quite disruptive to your sleep patterns. Furthermore, too much caffeine can make you jittery, which is one of the symptoms you’re trying to reduce.

Get moving. Try getting some exercise on a daily basis. The new medical guidelines call for 150 minutes of cardio activity a week. Not only would 30 minutes of activity a day improve your heart function, but it would also release endorphins and exercise your muscles, both of which can reduce anxiety.

Have some fun. Make sure you take time for fun in your life. All work and no play isn’t a healthy balance for anyone. Be sure you are doing something you call fun every week – whether it’s working on a hobby, entertaining friends or catching up on your favorite TV show. Furthermore, consider trying out new relaxing practices, like yoga, meditation or simply soaking in a bubble bath!

Organize your environment. If yours is a cluttered environment, clean it up. An unorganized, cluttered home or office space can actually cause hassle – and it’s one of the easiest stressors to correct. When you walk through the front door to find a cluttered mess, it is common to feel:

• Guilt – because you know you should be more organized


• A feeling of being overwhelmed – thinking you can never get on top of this mess


• A sense of tiredness – your day isn’t over because you should be tackling the mess


• Embarrassment – because you don’t want people to know you live like this

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the prospect of tackling a mountain of clothes and junk, remind yourself that Rome wasn’t built in a day. Commit to cleaning 20 minutes a day, and that mess will be gone in no time. Furthermore, limit the chaos by making sure that everything has a place to be stored and is easy to find so you don’t have to frantically rip apart your living area to find a shoe or your keys as you rush out the door.

Avoid unrealistic expectations of yourself. We often jam our days full of errands and responsibilities and quiver with fear at the idea of failure. Unfortunately, there are many factors that are outside of our control, including our own, physical and emotional capabilities. With there being only so many hours in the day, it is crucial that you acknowledge and listen to when your body is informing you that you’ve hit your limits so you don’t overextend yourself. Furthermore, do not regard mistakes as devastating failures but, rather, as learning opportunities. Above all else, be kind to yourself!

If you find that these lifestyle changes are having no impact or the anxiety is becoming crippling, it is advisable to consult with a medical professional.

Categories: anxiety, common, Mental Health, mess, mind, physical symptoms, severe anxiety, Symptoms, time

Side effects of aspirin

Aspirin can cause side effects, although serious reactions are rare.

Common side effects include:

• irritation of the stomach or bowel


• indigestion


• nausea (feeling sick)

However, less than 10% of people taking aspirin experience these side effects. If you experience side effects, try sticking to basic food and taking your aspirin after a meal. See your doctor if you are worried or continue to experience them.

Less common side effects

Less common side effects of aspirin include:

• worsening of asthma caused by narrowing of airways


• vomiting


• inflammation (swelling) of the stomach


• bleeding in the stomach


• bruising

In rare cases, a possible side effect of taking low-dose aspirin is haemorrhagic stroke (bleeding in the brain).

See your doctor if you experience any of these side effects when taking aspirin.

Allergic reaction

In some cases aspirin can cause an allergic reaction, although this is more common in people who have asthma. Go to the nearest hospital’s accident and emergency department (A&E) if you experience:

• swelling of the lips, mouth or throat


• breathing problems


• a skin rash which appears quickly

Side effects of aspirin

Categories: allergic reaction, aspirin, common, Effects, Experience, stomach

Juvenile Arthritis a Common Disorder in the Under 16s

Arthritis is often thought of as an old person’s disease. But the joint condition can also strike young people. Known as juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA), the condition is the most common chronic rheumatologic disease in under 16s and, in fact, one of the most common chronic childhood diseases.

The disease itself is similar to the type that strikes in adulthood, an inflammation of the joints that can be crippling. Typically a patient will have pain in their joints and suffer from stiffness, particularly in the morning.

In Canada, where more than 61,5000 children have JIA, March is Childhood Arthritis Month with projects and programs aimed at helping those youngsters who have the condition. Many of the events organised for the month will involve social media, aiming to raise money for research into the causes of the disease and into new treatments.

What is known about JIA is that it is an autoimmune disorder where the body’s own immune system attacks the healthy tissues of the bone joints, causing inflammation. However, what causes the immune system to turn on itself is not yet known, although some theories suggest that it is genetic and then triggered by a virus.

Symptoms will typically include swelling and pain in the joints and stiffness, usually in the morning or after a sleep. The affected joints are usually in the hands, knees and feet, and children with JIA may suffer from a limp, fevers and skin rashes, and swelling in the lymph nodes in the neck. Other potential side effects are eye inflammation and problems with growth.

Like all autoimmune disorders, there are times when the sufferer has no symptoms and other occasions when their symptoms are particularly bad. Many children who have JIA eventually grow out of it and suffer no recurrence in adulthood.

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Juvenile Arthritis a Common Disorder in the Under 16s

Categories: common, Disorder, Juvenile arthritis