ALCOHOLISM

              ALCOHOLISM

INTRODUCTION:

Alcoholism is a chronic, often progressive disease. Left untreated, alcoholism can be fatal. Alcoholism starts with the individual taking an occasional drink. This gradually becomes a habit and leads to a state where the person cannot do without alcohol. Some people drink alcohol to enliven social gatherings under social pressure; for others, it is an escape from the responsibilities or stresses of life. Alcoholism and alcohol abuse cause major social, economic and public health problems. Various treatments are available, and self-help groups can provide ongoing support for people recovering from alcoholism. 

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS:

Some of the indications of alcoholism include:Drinking alone or in secret Being unable to limit the amount of alcohol Not remembering conversations or commitments,  Making a ritual of having drinks before, with or after dinner and becoming annoyed when this ritual is disturbed or questioned Losing interest in activities and hobbies that used to bring pleasure Feeling a need or compulsion to drink Irritability when your usual drinking time nears, especially if alcohol isn’t available Keeping alcohol in unlikely places at home, at work or in the car Having legal problems or problems with relationships, employment or finances. Experiencing physical withdrawal symptoms such as nausea, sweating and shaking if you don’t drink  

CAUSES:

Alcohol addiction – physical dependence on alcohol occurs gradually as drinking alcohol alters the balance of some chemicals in the brain inhibits impulsiveness and excites the nervous system.

Genetics – Certain genetic factors may cause a person to be vulnerable to alcoholism or other addictions.  

Emotional state – High levels of stress, anxiety or emotional pain can lead some people to drink alcohol. Certain stress hormones may be associated with alcoholism.

Psychological factors –. People having low-self esteem or depression and having friends or a close partner who drinks regularly may get used to drinking habit

Social and cultural factors – Some of the social factors like advertising and the media may induce people to drink. 

COMPLICATIONS:

Alcohol depresses the central nervous system. In sufficient amounts, alcohol impairs speech and muscle coordination. Too much alcohol can severely depress the vital centers of the brain. A heavy drinking binge may even cause a life-threatening coma.Over time, excessive alcohol use can cause fatigue and short-term memory loss, as well as weakness and paralysis of eye muscles. Other severe health effects may include:

Liver disorders – Drinking heavily can cause alcoholic hepatitis, an inflammation of the liver. Signs and symptoms may include loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain and tenderness, fever, yellowing of the skin (jaundice) and sometimes confusion.  

Gastrointestinal problems – Alcohol can result in inflammation of the lining of the stomach (gastritis). Heavy drinking can also damage the pancreas.  

Cardiovascular problems – Excessive drinking can lead to high blood pressure and damage the heart muscle which in turn increases the risk of heart failure or stroke.  

Diabetes complications – Alcohol prevents the release of glucose from the liver and can increase the risk of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). This is dangerous if you have diabetes and are already taking insulin to lower your blood sugar level.

Birth defects – Alcohol use during pregnancy may cause fetal alcohol syndrome. This condition results in birth defects, including a small head, heart defects, a shortening of the eyelids and various other abnormalities.

Bone loss – Alcohol may interfere with the production of new bone. This can lead to thinning bones and an increased risk of fractures.

Neurological complications – Excessive drinking can affect the nervous system, causing numbness of the hands and feet, disordered thinking and dementia.  

Increased risk of cancer– Chronic alcohol abuse has been linked to a higher risk of cancer of the esophagus, larynx, liver and colon. 

TREATMENT:

Treatment of the alcoholic can be divided into 3 stages. Initially, the person has to be medically stabilized. Next, he must undergo a detoxification process, followed by long-term abstinence and rehabilitation. An alcohol-sensitizing drug called disulfiram (Antabuse) may be a strong deterrent. 

DIET FOR ALCOHOLISM RECOVERY:

The most effective way to treat alcoholism is to build up the body’s nutritional integrity so as to prevent craving for stimulants like drinks. The best substitute drink for alcohol is a glass of fresh fruit juice. The patient should drink juices and eat candy or other snacks if he feels a craving for a stimulant.  After the initial fast of juices, the patient should take an optimum diet of vital nutrients consisting of wholegrain cereals, nuts, seeds and sprouts, fresh fruits, and vegetables. All refined foods such as sugar, white rice, macaroni products, strong condiments, white flour, and meat should be avoided. Smoking must be avoided as it increases the desire for alcohol. During the first ten days of the ‘juice fast’, a warm-water enema should be taken everyday to cleanse the bowels. Plenty of rest and outdoor physical exercises are also necessary.   

HOME REMEDIES:

Using Grapes

The most important home remedy for alcoholism is an exclusive diet is grapes. Since this fruit contains the purest form of alcohol, it is an ideal yet healthy substitute for alcohol. Alcoholics should take three meals a day of fresh grapes at five-hourly intervals. The success of this treatment depends on the determination of the alcoholic to stop drinking.

Using Apples

Apples are another effective remedy for alcoholism. A generous intake of apples helps remove intoxication and reduces the craving for wines and other intoxicating liquors.

Using Dates

Dates are considered beneficial in the treatment of alcoholism. The patient should drink half a glass of water in which four or five dates have been rubbed together. This remedy should be taken twice daily for a month. It will bring definite relief.

Using Bitter Gourd

The juice of the leaves of bitter gourd is an antidote for alcohol intoxication. It is also useful for a liver damaged due to alcoholism. Three teaspoons of this juice, mixed with a glass of butter milk, should be taken every morning for a month.

Using Celery

The juice of raw celery has also been found useful in alcoholism. It exercises a sobering effect on the patient and is an antidote to alcohol. Half a glass of celery juice mixed with an equal quantity of water should be taken once daily for a month. 

 HERBAL REMEDIES:

Evening Primrose- Evening primrose is often used as oil extracted from the seed of this herb. This is commonly called EPO.

Ginseng -American and Asian ginseng may help treat alcohol intoxication because each of these herbs speeds up the metabolism (break down) of alcohol.

Milk Thistle is used for the treatment of alcoholic liver disease. People with the mildest form of alcohol-related liver damage seem to improve the most. Milk thistle is less effective for those with severe liver disease such as cirrhosis.

St. John’s Wort is used as a remedy for those with depression and alcoholism share certain similarities in brain chemical activity. Additional herbs that an herbal specialist might consider to support you while undergoing treatment for alcoholism include:

Dandelion is used for liver-related problems and as a nutritional support because it is rich in vitamins and minerals. It tends to work well with milk thistle.

Skullcap is used for tension and anxiety and this herb may help ease the withdrawal process.

Arsenicum album is used for anxiety and compulsiveness, with nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea

Nux vomica is recommended for irritability and compulsiveness with constipation, nausea, and vomiting  

Lachesis is best for cravings for alcohol, headaches, and difficulty swallowing

Staphysagria is used for angry individuals who tend to suppress their emotions and may have been abused physically, sexually, or psychologically in the past.

   Also visit http://www.herbsandcures.com 

WRINKLES

                          WRINKLES

Introduction:                  

A wrinkle is a ridge or crease of a surface. Most wrinkles appear on the parts of the body where sun exposure is greatest. These especially include the face, neck, the backs of the hands, and the tops of the forearms. Wrinkles come in two categories: fine surface lines and deep furrows.  

Causes:          

 Skin ages all over the body, but much more so where there has been sun exposure. Changes brought on by sun damage include “dryness”, sagginess, skin growths like keratoses, and wrinkles. As a person ages the epidermal cells become thinner and less sticky. The thinner cells make the skin look noticeably thinner.          

Rapid weight loss can also cause wrinkles by reducing the volume of fat cells that cushion the face. This not only makes a person look gaunt, but can cause the skin to sag. Both UVA and UVB rays cause damage leading to wrinkles, lower immunity against infection, ageing skin disorders, and cancer.           

Other environmental factors, including cigarette smoke and pollution, particularly ozone, may hasten ageing by producing oxygen-free  radicals. Although people may have a genetic predisposition to severe wrinkling, it is known that sun exposure promotes and exacerbates wrinkling of the skin. Smoking may also negatively affect the skin. 

Factors Promoting Wrinkles: 

Factors that promote wrinkling include:SmokingLight skin type (people with blue eyes and easily burned skin are more prone to sun damage) Heredity (some families wrinkle more) Hairstyle (some styles provide cover and protection against sun damage) Dress (hats, long sleeves, etc.) Occupational and recreational habits (farming, sailing, golfing, using tanning booths, and so forth) Some of these factors are beyond our control. The main preventive measures we can take are to minimize sun exposure and not smoke. 

Diet:

Eat Healthily. A diet with plenty of whole grains, fresh fruits and vegetables, and the use of healthy oils (such as olive oil) may protect against oxidative stress in the skin. Consume chick peas and Soya beans regularly. Drink plenty of milk. Practice yoga and meditation regularly.Drink water. 

 Prevention: 

Avoid spending too much time in the direct sun, especially during the hours when the sun’s rays are harshest (between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM).

Ultraviolet (UV) rays cause many wrinkles. Don’t go to the tanning salon. The UV light from tanning booths is just as damaging as the sun’s – and sometimes worse. Smoking robs your skin of precious moisture and causes premature (early) wrinkles.

Moisturize dry skin, especially during months when the air is drier.

Don’t wash face too often with tap water. (Once a day is enough.) It strips the skin of oil and moisture. In addition, chlorinated water, particularly at high temperatures, poses special risks for wrinkles.

Wash the face with a mild soap that contains moisturizers.

Alkaline soaps, especially with deodorant, should be avoided.

 Pat the skin dry and immediately apply a water based moisturizer.

Avoid drinking alcohol within three hours of bedtime.  

Lie on the back when sleeping. This helps offset the effects of gravity.

Air conditioners and room heaters tend to dry the skin. Hence apply heavier moisturizer if you are working in these conditions.

Do not stretch or pull the delicate skin under eye or facial skin.

Do not go out in hot sun. Carry an umbrella, wear sun glasses and apply sun screen lotions before stepping out in hot sun.  

Treatment:

There are several medical (topical medicines and creams) and cosmetic techniques available for reducing wrinkles. They include both medical and surgical methods.

Medical treatments:

Vitamin A Acid -This ingredient, available by prescription, has the longest track record of success in treating aging skin and fine lines.

Alpha-hydroxy acids. These so-called “fruit acids” include glycolic and lactic acid are quite safe. Antioxidants include preparations that contain the vitamins A, C, and E, as well as beta-carotene. Such creams may provide a certain amount of sun protection as well as mild improvement of fine wrinkles.

Ordinary moisturizers – Creams that don’t contain any of the above substances can only make wrinkles look temporarily less prominent

Cosmetic procedures:

Glycolic acid peels –These superficial peels can make a very slight difference in the intensity of fine wrinkles.  

Deeper peels do a better job of smoothing fine lines

Microdermabrasion refers to “sanding the skin” with a machine containing silica or aluminum crystals; many estheticians offer this service, usually in “packages” of six or seven sessions.

Dermabrasion is a true surgical procedure, often performed under general anesthesia. The treating physician uses a rotating instrument to sand the skin down.

 Laser resurfacing – Using instruments such as the carbon dioxide and erbium lasers, physicians can achieve results similar to those of dermabrasion with greater reliability and precision.

Fractional resurfacing – Newer lasers work through a modification of traditional laser resurfacing. Treatments affect not the whole skin but instead only evenly spaced spots surrounded by undamaged skin. 

Non-ablative laser resurfacing- Newer lasers attempt to stimulate collagen synthesis under the skin without peeling or damaging the epidermis.

Heat and radiofrequency- Another variation of noninvasive facial rejuvenation is to heat tissue using radiofrequency devises and infrared light sources.

Plastic surgical procedures – Surgical facelifts, brow lifts, and similar operations can be very helpful for selected patients.

Botox- Injection of botulinum toxin, the muscle poison, can paralyze muscles that produce the “frown lines” on the forehead, fine lines around the eyes, and other wrinkles.

Fillers are injected into the skin to increase volume and flatten wrinkles and folds.  

Home remedies:

Apply egg yolk once in a week for 10 minutes. A mixture of honey, olive oil and cream give very good results. Apply nourishing mask once in a week.

Apply pure castor oil as it softens the skin.Prepare a natural sunscreen lotion with cucumber juice, rosewater and glycerin. Apply it on the face and remove after 15 minutes.Another easy way to reduce your wrinkles is to keep your skin well moisturized.

Simply create a special herbal facial mist. You would need a small bottle with pump sprayer for this. Fill the bottle with distilled water. You can add ten drops of your favorite essential oil. Good choices include lavender, neroli and rose.

Neem is a powerful blood purifier and it is used to maintain healthy skin. For dry skin, mix 2 tablespoons of honey with 2teaspoons of milk. Leave it for 10 minutes and rinse with warm water.Make a puree of 1 banana, 1 papaya, peach or avaconda.Apply and rinse with warm water after 20 minutes. Then apply a moisturizer.  

Herbal remedies: 

To make an aromatherapy mask, simply mix one teaspoon of facial-quality clay (use bentonite clays, if possible), one teaspoon of instant oatmeal or oat flour, two teaspoons of pure honey, half a teaspoon of powdered milk, one teaspoon avocado, two drops of frankincense essential oil, and two drops of lavender essential oil.  You can also use rose or neroli essential oils to substitute the lavender. Mix the ingredients well and apply the paste evenly to your clean face. Next, leave the aromatherapy mask on for ten minutes, but keep the mask away from your eyes. When you put the mask on, try to lay down with your feet slightly elevated. Cover your eyes and relax. After the ten minutes, rinse the aromatherapy mask with lukewarm water, then follows the initial rinse with a splash of cool water.Another easy way to reduce your wrinkles is to keep your skin well moisturized. Simply create a special herbal facial mist. You would need a small bottle with pump sprayer for this. Fill the bottle with distilled water. You can add ten drops of your favorite essential oil. Good choices include lavender, neroli and rose.   

Also visit http://www.herbsandcures.com    

WHOOPING COUGH

             WHOOPING COUGH

Introduction:                  

Whooping cough, also known as Peruses is an infection of the respiratory system. It’s characterized by severe coughing spells that end in a “whooping” sound when the person breathes in. Although whooping cough can occur at any age, it is most severe in immunized children and in infants under 1 year of age. But more cases have been reported in teens and adults, because their immunity has faded since their original vaccination. Pertussis is a serious bacterial infection of the lining of the breathing passages, particularly in the windpipe area. 

Signs and Symptoms:                           

Symptoms of the infection include prolonged, violent, coughing spasms that often cause thick mucus and severe inhaling difficulties. The first symptoms of whooping cough are similar to those of a common cold such as runny nose, sneezing, mild cough and low-grade fever. After about 1 to 2 weeks, the dry, irritating cough evolves into coughing spells. During a coughing spell, which can last for more than a minute, the child may turn red or purple. At the end of a spell, the child may make a characteristic whooping sound when breathing in or may vomit. Between spells, the child usually feels well. During these spasms, the tongue may protrude, the eyes may bulge, and the face may become discolored. Mucus may be produced, and vomiting may occur.  

Transmission:             

Pertussis is highly contagious. The bacteria spread from person to person through tiny drops of fluid from an infected person’s nose or mouth. These may become airborne when the person sneezes, coughs, or laughs. Other people then can become infected by inhaling the drops or getting the drops on their hands and then touching their mouths or noses. Infected people are most contagious during the earliest stages of the illness up to about 2 weeks after the cough begins. Antibiotics shorten the period of contagiousness to 5 days following the start of antibiotic treatment. 

Diagnosis:            

The diagnosis depends on the severity of the disease. Various tests are performed which include  

Culture tests– A history of symptoms and physical examination leads to a diagnosis, which may be confirmed by detecting the bacteria in cultures or smears of secretions from the nose and upper throat. The doctor takes a nose or throat swab or suction sample. The sample is then sent to a lab and cultured or otherwise tested for whooping cough bacteria.

Blood tests- A blood sample may be drawn and sent to a lab to check for a high white blood cell count. White blood cells help the body fight infections, such as whooping cough. A high white cell count typically indicates the presence of infection or inflammation. This is a general test and not specific for whooping cough, however.

A chest X-ray –The doctor may want to use an X-ray to check for the presence of fluid in your lungs, which can occur when pneumonia complicates whooping cough and other respiratory infections. 

Causes:             

Whooping cough is an upper respiratory infection caused by the Bordetella pertussis bacterium, which is transmitted through droplets of respiratory secretions that are coughed or sneezed into the air by someone who’s already infected. Once the bacteria enter inside the airways, the bacteria multiply and produce toxins that interfere with the respiratory tract’s ability to sweep away germs. Thick mucus develops deep inside the airways, causing uncontrollable coughing.          

The bacteria also cause inflammation that narrows breathing tubes in the lungs. This narrowing leaves the patient gasping for air, sucking in air with a high-pitched “whoop”. Emphysema, cerebral hemorrhage and encephalitis can occur. In infants younger than 6 months of age, whooping cough can even be life-threatening. 

Prevention:                                     

 The best way to prevent whooping cough is three-in-one combination, known as the DTaP vaccine during infancy. The vaccine consists of a series of five shots, typically administered in the arm and given to children at these ages:2 months 4 months 6 months 12 to 18 months 4 to 6 years It takes at least three shots of the pertussis vaccine to fully protect a child against whooping cough, but a total of five shots are recommended by age 6. Because immunity from the pertussis vaccine tends to wane by age 11, and because of the increase in cases of whooping cough in adolescents and teens between 11 and 18 years of age, doctors now recommend a booster shot for those in this age group — the tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis vaccine, or Tdap. 

Self-care:

The following steps are essential for dealing with coughing spells apply to anyone being treated for whooping cough at home:

Get plenty of rest. A cool, quiet and dark bedroom may help you relax and rest better.

Drink plenty of fluids. Water, juice and soups are good choices.

Eat smaller meals. To avoid vomiting after coughing, eat smaller, more frequent meals rather than large ones.

Avoid banana, dairy, wheat and meat products.Use a mist vaporizer to help soothe irritated lungs and to help loosen respiratory secretions.

Clean the air. Keep the home free of irritants that can trigger coughing spells, such as tobacco smoke and fumes from fireplaces.

Treatment:               

 Treatment is b ased on antibiotic therapy, which may also be prescribed to other members of an infected person’s household to prevent the spread of infection. The infected person should be isolated for five days after antibiotic therapy has been started, and exposure to infants should be strictly avoided. Respiratory complications can be severe in infants and may include suffocation (asphyxiation.) Even after treatment to destroy the bacteria, your body continues to repair the damage to the lining of your trachea. As a result, the cough often lingers after the initial illness. With time, coughing usually lessens but can persist for six weeks or longer. 

Homeopathic Treatment: 

Aconite – should be taken during the first 24 hours that symptoms appear. 

Drosera is used for dry, spasmodic cough with sharp chest pain and a tickling sensation in the throat.

Hepar sulphuricum can be used for later stages of pertussis with wheezing, little mucus production, and coughing that comes on when any part of the body gets cold.

Ipecacuanha is effective for spasmodic cough and gagging or vomiting;

 Phosphorus can be used for several different types of cough, most particularly a dry, harsh cough.

Spongia is effective for harsh, barking cough that produces no mucus and is associated with a tickling in the throat.

 Herbal treatment:                                    

 Coltsfoot has traditionally been used to treat coughs, whooping cough, asthma, excess mucous, bronchitis, and laryngitis. Use as a tea or a tincture.

Thyme (Thymus vulgaris), a very common culinary herb also has medicinal properties qualifying it as a wonderful cough remedy.

Horehound (Marrubium vulgare) and hyssop (Hyssopus officinalis) are used for treating coughs, colds, and bronchitis.

Wild cherry bark (Prunus serotina) continues to be a favorite ingredient in cough and cold remedies.

Red clover is an expectorant and anti-spasmodic especially good for children (over the age of 2) with whooping cough. A tea of the dried flower tops is the most convenient; a tincture may also be used. 

Home Remedies:                         

 There are a few home remedies given below for the treatment of whooping cough.

Garlic is an effective home remedy for whooping cough. Extract the juice from garlic and give it to the patient in the doses of 1 tsp, twice or thrice a day.

Ginger has proved beneficial in treating whooping cough. In 1 cup of Fenugreek decoction, add 1 tsp of fresh ginger juice and some honey for taste. You can prepare the Fenugreek decoction easily at home. In 250 ml water, boil 1 tsp of Fenugreek seeds till it reduces to half.  

Almond oil is of great value in the treatment of whooping cough. Take about 5 drops of almond oil and mix with 10 drops each of fresh white onion juice and ginger juice. This mixture has to be taken three times in a day for a fortnight.

Take 1 tsp of fresh radish juice and mix with an equal quantity of honey. Also add some rock salt in it. This home made syrup should be given to the patient three times in a day.   

Also visit http://www.herbsandcures.com   

WHITLOW

              WHITLOW 

Introduction:                     

 Whitlow is a purulent infection at the end of a finger or toe in the area surrounding the nail. A pus filled abscess or boil is seen on the tip of the finger next to the nail. Virus or bacteria primarily causes whitlow that enters the human body via cut. People who work in water are likely to suffer from this disease more. Briefly, whitlow can be stated as “Finger tip soft pad infection”. 

Symptoms:              

Some of the symptoms of Whitlow include, Fingertip infection, swollen fingertip, Painful fingertip, Fever, Tender elbow lymph nodes, swollen elbow lymph nodes, Tender armpit lymph nodes & swollen armpit lymph nodes.         

 In a fingertip abscess, most often initial symptoms are pain and burning. This usually is followed by erythema, edema, and the development of 1- to 3-mm grouped vesicles on an erythematous base over the next 7-10 days. These vesicles may ulcerate or rupture and usually contain clear fluid, although the fluid may appear cloudy or bloody. Lymphangitis and epitrochlear and axillary lymphadenopathy are not uncommon. After 10-14 days, symptoms usually improve significantly and lesions crust over and heal. Viral shedding is believed to resolve at this point. Complete resolution occurs over subsequent 5-7 days.   

Types:             

Whitlow or the nail disease paronychia is of two types. They are acute paronychia and chronic paronychia. Whitlow is often a tender bacterial or fungal infection where the nail and skin meet at the side or the base of a finger or toenail. The infection starts suddenly in acute paronychia and gradually in chronic paronychia.         

Prosector’s paronychia is a primary inoculation of tuberculosis of the skin and nails, named after its association with prosectors, who prepare specimens for dissection. Paronychia around the entire nail is sometimes referred to as runaround aronychia.When the infection comes on quickly it is usually caused by bacteria. Most often it is trauma to the cuticle that allows infection in. 

Causes:                   

Herpetic whitlow is an intense painful infection of the hand involving 1 or more fingers that typically affects the terminal phalanx. Herpes simplex virus 1 and herpes simplex virus 2 causes whitlow. Herpetic whitlow is initiated by viral inoculation of the host through exposure to infected body fluids via a break in the skin, most commonly a torn cuticle. The virus then invades the cells of the dermis and subcutaneous tissue, and clinical infection ensues within a matter of days.           

In children, HSV-1 is the most likely causative agent. Infection involving the finger usually is due to autoinoculation from primary oropharyngeal lesions as a result of finger-sucking or thumb-sucking behavior in patients with herpes labialis or herpetic gingivostomatitis. Similarly, in health care workers, infection with HSV-1 is more common and usually is secondary to unprotected exposure to infected oropharyngeal secretions of patients. This easily can be prevented by use of gloves and by scrupulous observation of universal fluid precautions. 

Diagnosis:               

 The diagnosis varies according to the severity of the disease. Diagnosis of herpetic whitlow usually is clinical, based on presentation of the affected digit with characteristic lesions and a typical history. Definitive diagnostic testing includes the Tzanck test, viral cultures, serum antibody titers, fluorescent antibody testing, or DNA hybridization. 

Treatment:        

Herpetic whitlow is a self-limited disease. Treatment most often is directed toward symptomatic relief. Acyclovir may be beneficial to shorten the duration of symptoms and viral shedding during the primary infection. Oral acyclovir may prevent recurrence. Antibiotic treatment can be used only in cases complicated by bacterial super infection. Tense vesicles may be unroofed to help ameliorate symptoms, and wedge resection of the fingernail may be used for the same purpose in cases involving the subungual space.Deep surgical incision is contraindicated, since this may lead to delayed resolution, bacterial super infection or systemic spread, and complications such as herpes encephalitis. 

Prevention:                 

  Biting or picking at the cuticle, damage through work and overenthusiastic manicuring are the usual culprits. Individuals who work with their hands in water, such as health care workers and food processors, are quite prone to this type of infection. Excess water weakens the seal and soaps or detergents will remove the protective skin oils, leaving the skin dry and more liable to split. To prevent from this painful disease, Health care workers should use gloves, practice strict hand washing. In general it is important to moisturize the skin well after having the hands in any water and not to go digging around the cuticle when manicuring the nails. 

Home Remedies:                       

 The remedies for whitlow which can be done at home are stated below. *Make a hole in a lemon fruit and thrust the infected finger inside it for 30 minutes in a day for fast relief.
* Apply a poultice out of rice flour and linseed and apply it on affected finger for quick relief.  

Homeopathic Remedies:                                          Hepar sulphur is the great homoeopathic remedy for suppurations where the pus is not decomposed. It suits especially lymphatic, phlegmatic individuals. Excessive sensitiveness of the parts is a leading indication. It is further indicated by these symptoms: chilly sensations, throbbing in the parts or sharp, sticking pains which are worse at night .If given low in threatening suppuration it will favor the formation of pus. The suppurative process will often be aborted by Hepar if given in the higher potencies. Such abscesses as felon or whitlow generally do well under Hepar. If there be a bruised pain present, sometimes Arnica may do well.   

Also visit http://www.herbsandcures.com  

UNDERWEIGHT

                      UNDERWEIGHT

 INTRODUCTION:

Whether it’s weight loss or weight gain, whether it’s five pounds or fifty, almost everyone in our society – irrespective of gender or age – has dealt with some form of weight issue. Often excess weight and weight loss issues revolve around slow metabolism and lack of energy. So, detoxification and system cleansing are frequently needed to boost both metabolic rates and energy levels. The term underweight refers to a human who is considered to be under a healthy weight. The definition is usually made with reference to the body mass index (BMI).  

SYMPTOMS:

The common symptoms are

·        Fatigue

·        Poor physical stamina

·        Low resistance to infection 

CAUSES:

There are hundreds of possible medical causes for excessive weight loss or a person being underweight. Some of the more prevalent include:

·        Malnutrition

·        Mental or physical disease

·        Poverty

·        Famine

·        Torture

·        Anorexia nervosa and bulimia

·        Cancer

·        Tuberculosis

·        Hyperthyroidism

 ·        Diabetes (especially type 1)

·        Anxiety and depressive disorders

·        Drug abuse

·        Diseases of digestive organs

·        Feebleness, especially in the untended elderly

·        Dental pain

·        Obsessive overtraining

·        HIV/AIDS

·        High metabolism

·        Hormone Disorders:

·        Decreased fat forming tendency of the body:

·        Infections

·        Malabsorption syndromes

·        Various Neoplasms of the body organs

·        Metabolic defect

·        Chronic Naturopathic Cachexia

·        Chronic Caloric deprivation syndrome

·        Deficiency of various neurotransmitters

·        Disorders of appetite centers

·        Increased Energy Loss

·        Obstructive gastrointestinal disease

·        Pernicious anemia

·        Inflammatory bowel disease 

DIAGNOSIS:

These tests include: Thyroid test, Cortisol, ACTH, Metabolic tests, CBC, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, Multiple chemical screen, Mammography, Serum protein electro-phoresis, Parathyroid hormone, human PTH-related peptide,
Angiotensin-converting enzyme, and 1, 25-dihydroxyvitamin D Colonoscopy, Upper endoscopy,  Short ACTH,  test 72-h stool for fat,
Vitamin B. 

HOME REMEDIES:

Musk Melon

Musk melons are taken three times during the day for forty days or more. In the beginning, only three kilograms of melons are taken daily for three days. Then the quantity is increased by one kilogram daily till it is sufficient to appease the hunger. Only the sweet and fresh fruits of the best variety are used in the treatment.

Mango-Milk Cure

Ripe and sweet mangoes should be taken thrice a day-morning, afternoon, and evening. Two medium sized mangoes should be taken first and then followed by a glass of milk. Mango is rich in sugar but deficient in protein. On the other hand, milk is rich in protein but deficient in sugar. The deficiency of one is made up by the other. Mango thus combines very well with milk and an exclusive mango-milk diet taken for at least one month, will lead to improvement in health and vigor and gain in weight.

Milk Cure

An exclusive milk diet for rapid gain of weight has been advocated by some nature cure practitioners. At the beginning of this mode of treatment, the patient should fast for three days on warm water and lime juice so as to cleanse the system. Thereafter, he should have a glass of milk every two hours from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. on the first day, a glass every hour and half the next day, and a glass every hour the third day. Then the quantity of milk should be gradually increased so as to take a glass every half an hour from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., if such a quantity can be tolerated fairly comfortably.

Figs

Three dried figs soaked in water should be taken twice daily.  

Raisins

Raisins are a good food for those who wish to gain weight. Thirty grams a day may be taken for this purpose.  

Nutrients

Although all vitamins and minerals are required for relaxation, the most important ones are vitamin D and B6, calcium, and magnesium. The richest sources of vitamin D are milk, cod-liver oil, and rays of the sun. Calcium is supplied by milk and yoghurt. Magnesium can be obtained from green leafy vegetables such as spinach, parsley, turnip, radish, and beet tops. These vegetables should, preferably, be taken in salad form or should be lightly cooked. 

 DIET:

Drink 6-8 glasses of distilled water a day.
Eat frequent but small meals.
Eat lots of raw fruits and vegetables (green leafy vegetables are great).
Do not drink coffee, alcohol, soda pop.
Do not eat processed foods; white sugar, white flower.
Avoid red meat and animal fats.
Reduce intake of dairy products.
Do not smoke and avoid second hand smoke.Avoid refined food. 

TREATMENT:

Treatment of underweight thinness & less body muscles includes

1)    Cure of primary cause of underweight

2)    Hormone therapy

3)    Fat & protein formation increasing drugs

4)    Anabolic steroid drugs

5)    Macronutrient Therapy

6)    Micronutrient Therapy 

7)    Essential Vitamin Therapy

8)    Growth Hormone therapy

9) IGF-1 therapy

10) Growth hormone stimulating Tablets

Some of the different medications used in the treatment of Underweight include:

·        Oxandrolone

·        Oxandrin

Exercises and Yoga

Regular exercises like walking, dancing, yoga, meditation, and massage are also important as they serve as relaxants, reduce stress, and induce good sleep. Yogasanas which are especially helpful are sarvangasana, halasana, and matsyasana.   

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TYPHOID

                         TYPHOID

Introduction:                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  Typhoid fever is an infection of the intestines which spreads to the blood and other parts of the body. It is caused by the bacteria, Salmonella typhi. When untreated, typhoid fever persists for three weeks to a month. Death occurs in between 10% and 30% of untreated cases.

 Symptoms: 

Symptoms may be mild or severe. People with typhoid fever typically have a sustained fever as high as 103° to 104° F (39° to 40° C). They may also feel weak, or have gastroenteritis, headache, diarrhea and anorexia (loss of appetite). In some cases, patients have a rash of flat, rose-colored spots. Typhoid fever has an insidious onset characterized by fever, headache, constipation, malaise, chills, and myalgia with few clinical features that reliably distinguish it from a variety of other infectious diseases. Diarrhea is uncommon, and vomiting is not usually severe. Confusion, delirium, intestinal perforation, and death may occur in severe cases. 

Causes:

Salmonella Typhi lives only in humans. Persons with typhoid fever carry the bacteria in their bloodstream and intestinal tract. In addition, a small number of persons, called carriers, recover from typhoid fever but continue to carry the bacteria. Both ill persons and carriers shed S. Typhi in their feces (stool).
Once S. Typhi bacteria are eaten or drunk, they multiply and spread into the bloodstream. The body reacts with fever and other signs and symptoms. 

Transmission:

Typhoid germs are passed in the stool (feces) and, to some extent, the urine of infected people. The germs are spread by eating or drinking water or foods contaminated by stool (feces) from an infected person. Flying insects feeding on feces may occasionally transfer the bacteria through poor hygiene habits and public sanitation conditions. A person may become an asymptomatic carrier of typhoid fever, suffering no symptoms, but capable of infecting others. 

Diagnosis:

Typhoid fever is diagnosed by isolating the bacteria from a patient’s stool or blood. Diagnosis is made by blood, bone marrow or stool cultures and with the Widal test (demonstration of salmonella antibodies against antigens O-somatic and H-flagellar). 

Prevention:

People traveling to countries where typhoid is endemic should exercise the following precautions: Avoid drinking tap water unless it has been boiled.  Only eat foods that have been thoroughly cooked. Fruits and vegetables can be eaten if you have peeled them yourself.  Avoid eating fruits and vegetables that have not been cooked or pealed such as salads.  Avoid undercooked or raw fish or shellfish.  Avoid eating foods or beverages from street vendors or food service establishments where the sanitary conditions appear poor.  

Diet:  

The people suffering from typhoid are advised to have the following diet.  Juices should be taken, especially orange juice. Light soups can be taken Eggs and non-veg foods should be avoided. High fiber diet should be avoided in starting days. Vegetable broths and raw garlic must be taken.Red clover tea and goldenseal tea are both good. Lot of rest should be taken. 

Treatment:

Typhoid fever can be fatal. Antibiotics, such as ampicillin, chloramphenicol, trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, and ciprofloxacin, have been commonly used to treat typhoid fever in Vaccines for typhoid fever are available and are advised for persons traveling in regions where the disease is common.Typhim Vi is an intramuscular killed-bacteria vaccination and Vivotif is an oral live bacteria vaccination, both of which protect against typhoid fever. 

Homeopathic treatment:

Baptisia    is an excellent remedy for typhoid yet it has a drowsy state.

Rhus toxicodendron   is another remedy thoroughly suitable for the typhoid state.

Bryonia   is one of the great typhoid fever remedies indicated in a majority of cases of the disease.

Arsenicum    is one of the remedies for typhoid fever when the case begins to looks “bad”; but it is hardly ever indicated in the beginning of the disease.

Carbo vegetabilis is another low down remedy; suitable when the patient lies pulse less and cold.

Lachesis    is a remedy indicated in the later stages of typhoid, where the patient is in a stuporous condition.

Muriatic acid   is used to treat ulceration of the mucous membrane.

Gelsemium   is a remedy often indicated in the first stage, and especially in comparatively mild cases.

Hyoscyamus    is quite likely to be required sooner or later in typhoid fever.

Arnica, Cinchona, Kali phosphoricum, Phosphoric acid is some other frequently used remedies. 

Home remedies:

 Large raisins – the germs of typhoid can be destroyed by burning raisins or large raisins and other dry fruits.  

Cloves: Give clove water to the patient suffering from typhoid. Boil five cloves in 2 liter of water, when the water is reduced to half the quantity, strain it. The patient should take it frequently every day for some time. Plain water should also be boiled and given to the patient when it cools down.

Salt: Heat a tsp. of salt and mix it in a glass of water. Drink this solution once every day for three days. If the patient feels thirsty, do not give him water for an hour. After that give him water only in little sips. Do not give too much water. It will cure the fever. Typhoid gets cured before time through this treatment.

Orange: It has a cooling effect and provides relief from restlessness caused by typhoid. The patient can take milk mixed with orange juice or can eat an orange after taking milk. Oranges can be eaten several times in a day. It is beneficial in typhoid.

Apple: Apple juice is beneficial in typhoid.

Banana: It is an ideal food for the patients of typhoid. It satisfies hunger and thirst.

Honey: During Enteric fever and pneumonia the digestive system is affected and it does not function properly. If hot water with some honey is given to the patient frequently, it has a soothing effect on the intestines and the patient does not become weak. The patient should not be given solid food. Honey gives energy to the patient and also provides treatment.    

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TUBERCULOSIS

               TUBERCULOSIS

Introduction:                  

Tuberculosis briefly known as TB is a deadly infectious disease caused by the mycobacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis or Mycobacterium bovis. Tuberculosis most commonly affects the lungs as (pulmonary TB) but can also affect the central nervous system, lymphatic system, circulatory system, genitourinary system, bones, joints, and even the skin.It is a highly contagious disease.It may be lifethreatening if left untreated.

Symptoms:                 

In many cases TB becomes an active disease, affecting the lungs is called pulmonary TB. Symptoms include a productive, prolonged cough of more than three weeks duration, chest pain, and coughing up blood. Systemic symptoms include fever, chills, night sweats, appetite loss, weight loss, paling, and those afflicted are often easily fatigued. If TB bacteria gain entry to the bloodstream from an area of damaged tissue they spread through the body and set up many foci of infection, all appearing as tiny white tubercles in the tissues. This severe form of TB disease is most common in infants and the elderly and is called miliary tuberculosis.

Classification:     

There are two major patterns of disease with TB:

Primary tuberculosis: seen as an initial infection, usually in children. The initial focus of infection is a small sub pleural granuloma accompanied by granulomatous hilar lymph node infection. Together, these make up the Ghon complex. In nearly all cases, these granulomas resolve and there is no further spread of the infection.  

Secondary tuberculosis: seen mostly in adults as a reactivation of previous infection (or reinfection), particularly when health status declines. The granulomatous inflammation is much more florid and widespread. Typically, the upper lung lobes are most affected, and cavitation can occur. When resistance to infection is particularly poor, a “miliary” pattern of spread can occur in which there are a myriad of small millet seed (1-3 mm) sized granulomas, either in lung or in other organs.When the infection spreads out of the lungs, extrapulmonary sites include the pleura, central nervous system in meningitis, lymphatic system in scrofula of the neck, genitourinary system in urogenital tuberculosis, and bones and joints in Pott’s disease of the spine. An especially serious form is disseminated, or miliary tuberculosis. Extrapulmonary forms are more common in immunosuppressed persons and in young children. Infectious pulmonary TB may co-exist with extrapulmonary TB, which is not contagious.

Causes:          

The cause of tuberculosis, Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB), is a slow-growing aerobic bacterium that divides every 16 to 20 hours; this is extremely slow compared to other bacteria.The M. tuberculosis complex includes 3 other mycobacteria which can cause tuberculosis: M. bovis, M. africanum and M. microti. The first two are very rare causes of disease in immunocompetent people, and M. microti is not usually pathogenic, although it is possible that the prevalence of M. microti infections has been underestimated. Other pathogenic mycobacteria are known, such as Mycobacterium leprae, Mycobacterium avium and M. kansasii. The last two are part of the group defined as Nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM). Nontuberculous mycobacteria are mycobacteria that are not part of the M. tuberculosis complex, and do not cause leprosy, but do cause pulmonary diseases resembling tuberculosis.

Transmission:                     

TB is a highly contagious disease and can be easily spread by aerosol droplets expelled by people with the active disease of the lungs when they cough, sneeze, speak, or spit. The probability of transmission from one person to another depends upon the quantity of the infectious droplets expelled by the patient, the effectiveness of ventilation, the duration of exposure, and the virulence of the Mycobacterium tuberculosis strain.The chain of transmission can therefore be broken by isolating patients with active disease and starting effective anti-tuberculous therapy.

Diagnosis:                 

Tuberculosis can be a difficult disease to diagnose, due mainly to the difficulty in culturing this slow-growing organism in the laboratory. A complete medical evaluation for TB must include a medical history, a chest X-ray, and a physical examination.

Tuberculosis radiology is used in the diagnosis of TB. It may also include a tuberculin skin test, a serological test, microbiological smears and cultures.

Treatment:                

Treatment for TB uses antibiotics to kill the bacteria. The two antibiotics most commonly used are rifampicin and isoniazid. However, these treatments are more difficult than the short courses of antibiotics used to cure most bacterial infections as long periods of treatment around 6 to 12 months are needed to entirely eliminate mycobacteria from the body. Latent TB treatment usually uses a single antibiotic, while active TB disease is best treated with combinations of several antibiotics, to reduce the risk of the bacteria developing antibiotic resistance. Keep your immune system healthy. Make sure you eat plenty of healthy foods, get adequate amounts of sleep and exercise regularly to keep your immune system in top form.  

Prevention:               

 To prevent the infants from this life threatening disease, BCG vaccine is given at the time of birth. The vaccine isn’t very effective in adults. For the adults suffering from this disease it is essential to finish the entire course of medication. When you stop treatment early or skip doses, TB bacteria have a chance to develop mutations that are resistant to the most potent TB drugs. The resulting drug-resistant strains are much more deadly and difficult to treat.     

 Stay home during the first few weeks of treatment for active TB. Ensure adequate ventilation. Open the windows whenever possible to let in fresh air. Cover the mouth. It takes two to three weeks of treatment before you’re no longer contagious. During that time, be sure to cover your mouth with a tissue any time you laugh, sneeze or cough. Put the dirty tissue in a bag, seal it and throw it away. Also, wearing a mask when you’re around other people during the first three weeks of treatment may help lessen the risk of transmission.

Diet:      

It is very important to pay attention to diet. Avoid eating Toxins.  Diet should contain: Foods That Heal, Vegetable juices, Fats that Heal, Unrefined Sea Salt. Also, try to understand food tolerance.

Herbal Treatment:                            

Two 450-milligram capsules of echinacea can be an effective remedy. Forsythia (Forsythia suspensa) can be used as an antibacterial antiseptic.. The plant has been used clinically against TB, often combined with honeysuckle. To fight a variety of infections, use forsythia twigs in a 1:2 ratio with honeysuckle in a tea or hot lemonade.

Honeysuckle flower extracts are strongly active against several bacteria, including those that cause TB.         

Licorice is also an effective treatment for tuberculosis. Eucalyptus globulus is another herb used to treat TB. Try a drop or two added to water or tea. Don’t use more than a drop or two: This is powerful stuff.

Onion is also an effective remedy for TB.

Raw garlic is an effective treatment for TB. Drink this with a cup of warm water after every meal. Keep this up for several months.                                 

Propolis is a natural treatment for all chest conditions including Pulmonary Tuberculosis.

Serrapeptase is an effective natural treatment for the lungs including Pulmonary Tuberculosis.

 Black Seed oil has an unprecedented strengthening effect upon the immune system.  The protective and healing powers of Black Seed, the seeds from the plant Nigella Sativa, are excellent.              

For adequate silica supplies in the diet, take a single tbsp. of the herbal horsetail juice every day or you can also take a vegetal silica aqueous extract powder, dosage can be about three to four capsules along with the daily meals thrice every day.

The herbal nettle juice taken in a raw form is a rich source for the mineral calcium. This herbal remedy can be taken in the diet, for example, use some new nettle shoots, finely chop them up and sprinkle them on soups and salads, you can also sauté them with some onions for variety and eat these along with the meals. The herb can be rendered more appetizing by mixing the nettle juice with some carrot juice.                

A herbal tea can be prepared using one portion each of herbs such as the mullein, the bugleweed, the knotgrass and the sage, about three parts each of herbs such as the chamomile and the horsetail can also be added to help relieve the coughing which is often persistent in TB patients. Prepare this tea by suing about three cups of boiling water to steep a tsp. of the herb mix and daily drink three to four cups of this tea.              Intestinal health is promoted by garlic, which is an excellent antibacterial agent-it can be used in the long term to provide relief from many of the symptoms of the disease. Use about three capsules thrice a day. The resistance of the body to infection can be increased by taking some natural antibiotics such as the horseradish, the watercress and the juice of the nasturtium herb. Dosage of these herbs can be a tbsp. of herbal juice daily; alternately you can add some pesticide-free watercress and nasturtiums to a freshly prepared garden salad-all these natural remedies are without side effects.

AyurvedicTreatment:

Ashwaganda has many significant benefits. It helps the mind and body adapt better to stress. The root finds its efficiency in treatment of tuberculosis. A decoction of the root is used with long pepper and honey. This decoction is also beneficial in the treatment of scrofula, that is, tuberculosis of lymph glands, especially in the neck.

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THUMB SUCKING

                   THUMB SUCKING

 Introduction:                

Thumb sucking is the act of putting the thumb into the mouth for a prolonged duration. It is considered to be soothing and therapeutic. Thumb sucking is generally associated with babies and young children. Children suck on objects to soothe themselves; sucking is one of the baby’s natural reflexes and completely typical for babies and young children.                 

 Thumb sucking can start as early as 2-3 months of growth in the womb or within months of being born. Most thumb-suckers stop gradually by the age of five years. Rarely does it continue into adulthood. 

Causes:

More than three-quarters of infants suck their thumbs or fingers through the first year of life. For these children, thumb sucking is an appropriate and useful behavior that allows them to soothe and entertain themselves. A child usually turns to his thumb when he is tired, upset or bored. It is not unusual for a thumb sucker to simultaneously engage in other self-comforting behaviors like pulling at a strand of hair, touching an ear, or holding onto a blanket or stuffed toy. Children who suck their thumbs are able to begin at an early age to meet their own need for sucking. These children fall asleep more easily, are able to put themselves back to sleep at night more easily, and sleep through the night much earlier than infants who do not suck their thumbs. 

Effects:

Thumb-sucking can cause problems for dental development. The more time a child sucks his thumb and the greater the sucking pressure, the more harm done to teeth and jaws. Day and night forceful thumb sucking makes front teeth move, and can even reshape the jaw bone. Upper front teeth flare out and tip upward while lower front teeth move inward. The reason that thumbs and fingers are effective tooth-movers and bone shapers is that the jaw bones of children under age eight are especially soft and malleable. Children have upper and lower jaws rich in blood supply and relatively low in mineral content, especially calcium. Unfortunately for children and parents, prolonged thumb or finger sucking easily deforms the bone surrounding upper and lower front teeth, producing a hole or gap when teeth are brought together known as an “open bite“. The child who sucks her thumb will have dental and speech problems. The top jaw begins to form a gap in the front where the thumb is always placed causing an open bite. Other problems include a cross bite, crooked teeth, malocclusions, lisps, or a tongue thrust. In addition, prolonged thumb sucking can cause minor physical problems, such as chapped lips or cracked skin, calluses, or fingernail infections.

 Prevention:

 If your child is still sucking their thumb after age five interventions is necessary. The timing of this intervention is important.

Praise children for not sucking, instead of scolding them when they do. If a child is sucking their thumb when feeling insecure or needing comfort, focus instead on correcting the cause of the anxiety and provide comfort to your child.

If a child is sucking on their thumb because of boredom, try getting a child’s attention with a fun activity. Involve older children in the selection of a means to cease thumb sucking.

The pediatric dentist can offer encouragement to a child and explain what could happen to their teeth if they do not stop sucking.

Only if these tips are ineffective, remind the child of their habit by bandaging the thumb or putting a sock/glove on the hand at night.

First of all, a parent must meet their infant and toddler’s emotional needs. Give your baby and toddler a structured day. Respond to their crying to soothe them. They are tired, hungry, cold, bored or wet. Find out what it is and meet their needs. 

Treatment:

Many parents are concerned that thumb-sucking at a late age is a sign of emotional immaturity or lack of self-confidence.Breaking a habit is much easier when the child is a willing participant.

It can also be helpful to place a bitter-tasting liquid on the nail (not directly on the finger), especially at night, as a reminder not to suck.

Mittens, gloves, or a finger-splint may also be worn at night. Talk to your pediatrician and your child’s dentist, who may recommend, especially in the case of an overbite, the insertion of a device in the child’s mouth known as a palatal bar that prevents sucking.

With all treatments, a child should be offered strong emotional support.

 Instead, you want to create an environment where she chooses to stop on her own. You can weaken the thumb-sucking habit by distracting her when you notice her thumb in her mouth.

Engage her in a way that she uses both hands.
Painting something that tastes yucky on the thumbs can make sucking them less satisfying.

Comments from other people, though, can be helpful. 

Tips to stop thumb sucking: 

Make the child conscious of the habit.The first step is to validate your child’s feelings when you begin to talk to them about their thumb sucking habit.

“Chart the progress. Place a sticker or gold star on the calendar each night a child goes without sucking his thumb. 

Plan a reward if the child goes five nights without sucking his thumb,

” Cover their hands. “All the tricks used to stop thumb-sucking–covering their thumbs with socks, nail polish, bandages or rubber bands–will work, but only after the child is made conscious of thumb-sucking,”  

 Herbal Remedies:

Valerian has a fairly wide range of uses in the home medicine cabinet.  Valerian can induce restful sleep it has shown some promise in helping reduce thumb sucking and nail biting in children. 

”Control-it!”  Nail Cream is odorless, invisible, and will not stain.
It has been formulated to prevent casual biting or sucking of the nails and Thumb Sucking. The unique blend of all natural ingredients that provides a bitter taste to the nails more importantly delivers vitamins and nutrients to the nails and cuticles, ensuring rapid healing of hangnails that are often a trigger to bite.   

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TENNIS ELBOW

                            TENNIS ELBOW

 INTRODUCTION:

Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) is a condition where the outer part of the elbow becomes painful and tender, usually as a result of a specific strain or overuse. Whilst it is called “tennis elbow“, it should be noted that it is by no means restricted to tennis players. Tennis elbow is an inflammation, soreness, or pain on the outside (lateral) side of the upper arm near the elbow. There may be a partial tear of the tendon fibers, which connect muscle to bone, at or near their point of origin on the outside of the elbow. 

SYMPTOMS:

Signs and symptoms of tennis elbow may include:

·        Pain on the outer part of elbow (lateral epicondyle).

 ·        Pain when you touch or bump the outside of your elbow.

·        Gripping and movements of the wrist hurt, especially wrist extension and lifting movements.

·        Tenderness to touch and elbow pain on simple actions such as lifting up a cup of coffee or throwing a baseball.

·        Pain usually subsides overnight.  

CAUSES:

This injury is due to repeated motions of the wrist or forearm. Any activity that involves repetitive twisting of the wrist (like using a screwdriver) can lead to this condition. Movements such as gripping, lifting and carrying tend to be troublesome. Also if you hyperextend your elbow doing any type of sports (wrestling, hockey, football, boxing, baseball, etc.) this may be tennis elbow.  

RISK FACTORS:

Tennis elbow is most common in adults ages 30 to 60 — but the condition can affect anyone who repetitively stresses the wrists. Tennis players, carpenters, gardeners, dentists and musicians may be at particular risk. 

DIAGNOSIS:

 Differential diagnosis for tennis elbow includes anconeus compartment syndrome, bursitis, cervical radiculopathy, radio-humeral joint dysfunction, hypothyroidism, lateral epicondyle avulsion, musculocutaneus nerve entrapment, non-union of radial neck fracture, osteoarthritis, posterior interosseous syndrome, posterolateral rotatory instability, radial nerve tension, radial tunnel syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, strained lateral collateral ligaments and snapping plicae syndrome. 

TREATMENT:

Treatment may include:

·        Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (such as ibuprofen, naproxen or aspirin)

·        Local injection of cortisone and a numbing medicine

·        Using a splint

·        Heat therapy

·        Physical therapy

·        Pulsed ultrasound

·        Cold compression therapy

·        Exercises and stretches

·        Physiotherapy

·        Manual therapy

·        Surgical intervention

·        Low Power or Low Intensity Laser Therapy

·        Acupuncture  

DIET:

Include these in your diet Celery is known to be a good remedy for rheumatism.  The fluids can be extracted from seeds and had with hot water before meals.  5-10 drops of fluid with hot water can be beneficial in treating the pain.Omega -3 fatty acids found mainly in fish also help treat arthritic conditions.  Intake of Omega- 3 supplements can help reduce the inflammation and pain. 

PREVENTION:

To prevent tennis elbow:

·        Lift objects with your palm facing your body.

·        Try strengthening exercises with hand weights.  With your elbow cocked and your palm down, repeatedly bend your wrist.  Stop if you feel any pain.

·        Stretch relevant muscles before beginning a possibly stressful activity by grasping the top part of your fingers and gently but firmly pulling them back toward your body.  Keep your arm fully extended and your palm facing outward. 

CAUTION:

To prevent a relapse:

·        Discontinue or modify the action that is causing the strain on your elbow joint.  If you must continue, be sure to warm up for 10 minutes or more before any activity involving your arm, and apply ice to it afterward.  Take more frequent breaks.

·        Try strapping a band around your forearm just below your elbow.  If the support seems to help you lift objects such as heavy books, and then continue with it.  Be aware that such bands can cut off circulation and impede healing, so they are best used once tennis elbow has disappeared. 

HOME REMEDIES:                 

 Suggested home remedies for tennis elbow include: Ice Packs: Ice packs applied over the elbow joint for 15-20 minutes every 2-3 hours can reduce pain and swelling around the elbow joint area.
Zostrix: Is a derivative of hot pepper. It can be wrapped around the elbow joint to reduce sensation of pain.
Heat Packs: Alternating ice packs with heat packs can comfort the elbow joint.
Potato Pack: Warm and baked potatoes can help reduce the pain.

HERBAL TREATMENT: T .L.C (Tendons Ligaments Cartilage) a well known remedy contains infused oils of: Calendula, chamomile comfrey root, St. John’s Wort, chickweed, arnica, angelica root, wintergreen, eucalyptus.  Essential oils of Camphor, wintergreen, black pepper, wheat germ oil, helichrysum italicum.  These ingredients are built into a base of sweet almond oil and beeswax. 

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SWIMMER’S EAR

                 SWIMMER’S    EAR

 INTRODUCTION:                    

Otitis externa, commonly known as swimmer’s ear is an infection of the ear canal, the tubular opening that carries sounds from the outside of the body to the eardrum. It can be caused by many different types of bacteria or fungi. 

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS: 

The most common symptoms of swimmer’s ear are mild to moderate pain that is aggravated by tugging on the auricle and an itchy ear.

Other symptoms may include any of the following:   

Sensation that the ear is blocked or full

Drainage

Fever 

Decreased hearing

Intense pain that may radiate to the neck, face, or side of the head

The outer ear may appear to be pushed forward or away from the skull

Swollen lymph nodes 

CAUSES:

Causes of swimmer’s ear may include:

Persistent moisture in your ear from swimming, bathing or living in a humid environment

Exposure to an infectious organism from swimming in polluted water

Skin breakage caused by scratching or rubbing your ear with a foreign object (such as a cotton swab or pencil), or attempting to clean earwax (cerumen) from your ear canal

Bacteria growth fostered by hair sprays or hair dyes in your ear.Sometimes, in a child with a middle ear infection, pus collected in the middle ear can drain into the ear canal through a hole in the eardrum and cause otitis externa to develop.  

SCREENING AND DIAGNOSIS:

To examine the inside of your ear, your doctor may use a lighted instrument (otoscope). The inside of your ear and your ear canal may appear red and swollen. Your ear canal may also appear scaly, with flaking skin. If you have drainage from your ear, your doctor may culture a sample to determine if the cause of the infection is bacteria or fungi.  

TREATMENT:

The goal of treating swimmer’s ear is to clear up the infection. Treatment may include:

Cleaning-Clearing your outer ear and ear canal of any drainage and flaky skin allows topical medications to work more effectively. Your doctor may perform this procedure with a suction device or a cotton-tipped probe. To prevent further irritation or injury, don’t clean inside your own ear unless your doctor instructs you to do so.  

Topical medications-Doctor prescribes eardrops containing antibiotics to fight infection and corticosteroids to reduce itching and inflammation. Use eardrops liberally (four to five drops at a time) to penetrate the end of your ear canal. If your ear canal is swollen, your doctor may insert a special wick into your ear to allow the drops to reach the end of your ear canal.

Oral medications– In some cases, doctors suggest using oral medications in addition to topical treatments. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as aspirin or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, others), may help ease severe ear pain. Ask your doctor which over-the-counter pain medication is best for you. Always take NSAIDS with food. 

Lifestyle modifications-

Don’t swim, fly or scuba dive during treatment for swimmer’s ear. For the most effective treatment results, water should be kept out of the ear.  

PREVENTION:   

Dry the ear thoroughly after exposure to moisture.

Avoid swimming in polluted water.

Use earplugs when swimming. Consider putting a few drops of a 1:1 mixture of alcohol and white vinegar in the ears after they get wet.

The alcohol and acetic acid prevent bacterial growth.Avoid putting foreign objects in your ear.

Never attempt to dig out excess or hardened earwax with items such as a cotton swab, paper clip or hairpin. Avoid substances that may irritate your ear, such as hair sprays and hair dyes or put cotton balls in your ears when applying these products.  

HOME REMEDIES:

The inflammation and pain of otitis externa may be eased with the following home remedies:

The infected ear canal may be washed with an over-the-counter topical antiseptic.

A homemade solution using equal parts white vinegar and isopropyl alcohol may be placed, a few drops at a time, into the ear every two to three hours. The vinegar-alcohol drops should be kept in the ear for at least 30 seconds. A warm heating pad or compress may be placed on the ear to relieve pain. Pain may also be eased by taking aspirin or another analgesic. To assist the healing process, the infected ear canal should be kept dry.

When showering, the patient should use earplugs or a shower cap.

Blowing Smoke in the ear helps sooth it. 

HERBAL REMEDIES: 

A cotton swab dipped in a witch hazel, goldenseal, and calendula tea and applied to the outer ear is useful in treating swimmer’s ear. Swimmer’s ear is associated typically with pus and moisture in the outer ear canal. Witch hazel helps dry up the secretions, while goldenseal and calendula fight infection.

Mullein (Verb scum Thapsus) oil is used to treat minor inflammations. To ease the discomfort of swimmer’s ear, 1-3 drops of a mullein preparation may be placed in the ear every three hours. 

Garlic (Allium sativum) has been shown to be effective in treating swimmer’s ear. As a natural antibiotic, garlic is a useful herb for inflammation of the outer ear. Equal parts of garlic juice and glycerin are added to carrier oil, such as olive or sweet almond. One to three drops of this mixture may be placed in the infected ear every three hours. 

Antiseptic Ear Rub ¼ teaspoon each tea tree essential oils 1 tablespoon olive oil Combine the oils and store the mixture in a clean glass bottle. Lay the child down comfortably on her side and rub the oil around the outside of her ear. Use this treatment a few times daily during an infection.  

Onion Ear Poultice ½ onion, chopped ¼ cup water Heat ingredients in a pan and bring to a simmer, then turn off heat. Wrap simmered onion in several layers of cheesecloth and apply this poultice over the ear, leaving it there for at least 5 minutes. The onion can be reheated and reapplied several times. Do this as many times as needed to ease the pain.

If your child’s ear begins to hurt after he has been swimming or bathing, there may be water trapped in the ear—and this condition can be just as painful as an ear infection. To evaporate the water and ease the inflammation and resulting pain, place a drop or two of an anti-inflammatory tincture, such as Saint-John’s-wort.

 Mix equal parts of rubbing alcohol and distilled white vinegar, and instill one to two drops in each ear after a swim. 

HOMEOPATHIC REMEDIES:

Specific homeopathic remedies for swimmer’s ear may include Aconite, Apis, Graphites, or Pulsatilla. A homeopathic practitioner should always be consulted for specific treatment recommendations. 

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