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Get reliable information on common diseases and conditions, their symptoms, causes, and treatments, to stay informed and proactive about your health

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High Triglycerides are a risk factor for developing heart diseases

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High Triglycerides are a risk factor for developing heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. More than half of people with high LDL and HDL levels die before age 75.

For people with a normal triglyceride level of 100 mg/dL or less, cholesterol-lowering drugs, which lower the cholesterol in the blood, can help reduce the risk of heart disease.

As a person approaches the 70-year mark, the effects of medications and age on their cholesterol levels can begin to increase the risk of heart disease.

A history of heart disease is a risk factor for developing high triglycerides. However, heart disease is not the only risk factor for this condition.

Family history of high triglycerides

It is possible to develop high triglycerides due to a genetic tendency.

Postwar change. Following WWII, Japan’s population was greatly reduced and focused on fighting in an overseas war, the Asiatic-Pacific Theater. Our ancestors were sent overseas to die in faraway lands in terrible conditions, rather than just sitting at home. With such a lengthy period of “purity” of the blood, levels of triglycerides went up and stayed up.

Substance abuse. Many substances that increase cholesterol levels are common and widespread in the United States. Because heart disease and cancer may be the consequence of excessive cholesterol levels, drug abuse may increase the risk of developing heart disease.

History of diabetes mellitus

Persons with diabetes mellitus type 2 (diabetes mellitus type 2) are more likely to develop high triglycerides than persons with diabetes mellitus type 1.

A diabetic’s body makes insulin, a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels. When insulin levels are too low, blood sugar levels can rise, and symptoms include blurred vision, fatigue, and weakness.

Diabetes mellitus type 1 causes high triglycerides and heart disease to develop more rapidly, because type 1 diabetes usually occurs in childhood or adolescence. It usually is diagnosed at an early age.

Diabetes mellitus type 2 can be linked to obesity, smoking, and a family history of diabetes mellitus. For these reasons, individuals who have a family history of diabetes mellitus type 2 should be tested for high triglycerides.

Other diseases

In addition to the usual risk factors, people who develop high triglycerides due to the following conditions should be monitored:

Overweight or obesity. If someone is overweight, then their body mass index (BMI) is a greater risk factor for the development of high triglycerides.

Obesity increases the amount of cholesterol in the blood, so a person who is overweight will have more cholesterol, and their triglyceride levels will rise. This can occur even if a person does not have other risk factors for high triglycerides.

If a person who is overweight does not exercise or lose weight, high triglyceride levels may occur, even though their BMI is normal. In this case, this is an increased risk factor for heart disease and strokes.

Also, a person who is obese will have high blood pressure, which may cause the heart to get bigger, leading to a larger heart attack.

Alcohol use. Studies have shown that those who have a high BMI and high alcohol consumption have a greater risk of developing high triglyceride levels.

People with depression and another condition called type 2 diabetes, have an increased risk of high triglyceride levels.

Risk factors and control

The causes of high triglyceride levels in a given person cannot be predicted, although family history is a risk factor.

Those who have a family history of high triglyceride levels should ask their doctor if they should be screened for triglycerides and if they are at risk for developing high triglycerides.

High triglyceride levels are often controlled through a medication called niacin. However, this medication is expensive and difficult to acquire.

Other treatment options include:

Medications

A number of medications are available for the treatment of high triglyceride levels. Examples include:

Niacin (BINU) . This medication is available as a generic, over-the-counter product, as well as a prescription product.

. This medication is available as a generic, over-the-counter product, as well as a prescription product. Amarin Plus (APPRO). This is a prescription product that helps people with type 2 diabetes achieve a normal lipid level. It also helps to maintain a normal serum cholesterol level.

Niacin and apo-niacin are each available as a tablet, which is a short-acting and long-acting form of the medication. When taken with food, the duration of action is immediate and lasts about one hour. Long-acting niacin is available in a combination tablet form known as Sambucet.

Diabetes medications

People who have type 2 diabetes are at increased risk for developing high triglyceride levels. This is because diabetes often causes high blood sugar levels. High blood sugar levels can cause more damage to the blood vessels, which can increase the risk of developing high triglycerides.

Medications that can help reduce blood sugar levels include:

Lantus

Takeda’s Lumizyme is another diabetes medication that can help to lower triglyceride levels. This drug is available in a pen form, called Fiasp. The drug is available to the U.S. public through the ADA’s Part D prescription drug plan. It is not currently available for Medicare.

Long-acting insulins

People who use long-acting insulin, such as insulin glargine, are at increased risk of developing high triglyceride levels. Insulin glargine is available through the ADA’s Part D prescription drug plan. In some countries, the drug is available to the public through the public healthcare system.

Corticosteroids

Individuals who have a medical condition called systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) are at higher risk for developing high triglyceride levels.

SLE is a chronic inflammatory disorder that can cause damage to the blood vessels. This condition can make the arteries more likely to become stiff and weak, which can contribute to high triglyceride levels.

Cholesterol-lowering statins

Some statins can lower blood cholesterol levels and may also reduce triglyceride levels. The best choice for a person depends on the extent of their cholesterol levels and their risk for heart disease.

However, the evidence that statins reduce triglyceride levels is limited. So, their use is mainly limited to people with a very high risk of cardiovascular disease, such as those with type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure.

Statins are expensive, so some people who have high triglyceride levels may choose to try other forms of medication before using statins.

A recent review found that statins may reduce triglyceride levels by 10–20 percent. However, there is not enough evidence to suggest that they increase triglyceride levels.

While statins may reduce triglyceride levels, they may not reduce the risk of a heart attack.

Prevention

To prevent the development of high triglyceride levels, a person should:

Lose Weight If Overweight Or Obese

Avoid Junk Food, Fast Foods, And Other High-Fat Foods

Reduce Or Avoid Smoking

Lose Any Excess Body Fat

Alcoholic Drinks Are Associated With High Triglyceride Levels. To Avoid These, A Person Should:

Limit The Quantity Of Alcoholic Drinks Consumed

Avoid Binge Drinking

Try to cut down on sweets and salty snacks. Try to reduce the amount of sugary snacks in the home.

Having regular health checkups and regular dental appointments can help to prevent many of the conditions associated with high triglyceride levels.

Risk factors

The following factors may increase a person’s risk of developing high triglyceride levels:

Medical conditions

Some medical conditions, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and hyperlipidemia, increase the risk of developing high triglyceride levels.

High triglyceride levels in people with diabetes may be the cause of eye problems and amputations.

Diagnosis

A doctor may carry out a physical examination, checking for:

a noticeable amount of fluid in the abdomen

problems with the gallbladder, which is located between the stomach and small intestine

a suspicious rash

What is the outlook?

Treatment of high triglyceride levels depends on the underlying cause.

However, a doctor will check to ensure the underlying cause of high triglyceride levels is treatable.

If the underlying cause cannot be treated, a person may need to take medications for the rest of their lives.

Trauma to the abdomen may increase triglyceride levels. However, if a person has a history of abdominal surgery, this is unlikely.

Outlook

High triglyceride levels do not necessarily indicate serious health problems. However, if high triglyceride levels become the result of certain health conditions, a person may be at an increased risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes.

A person should talk to their doctor if their triglyceride levels become excessive. They may be advised to monitor their levels and work with a healthcare provider to reduce them.

Low triglyceride levels can indicate a severe metabolic problem, such as diabetes or an infection.

A person with diabetes should speak to their doctor if their triglyceride levels do not fall after taking treatment for high blood sugar levels or after the doctor recommends dietary changes.

It is important for people to work closely with their healthcare team if they are experiencing a change in their triglyceride levels.

A doctor may recommend losing weight if a person is overweight or obese.

Tips to help prevent high triglyceride levels

Managing weight, quitting smoking, and reducing or avoiding alcohol may help to reduce the risk of high triglyceride levels.

Managing weight, quitting smoking, and reducing or avoiding alcohol may help to reduce the risk of high triglyceride levels. It is also essential to consume a healthful diet. A person should limit their intake of high-fat foods and drink less alcohol.

It is important to consult a doctor if a person has a family history of high triglyceride levels.

There are some simple steps that people can take to reduce their triglyceride levels:

Managing weight, quitting smoking, and avoiding alcohol may help a person to reduce their triglyceride levels. It is also essential to consume a healthful diet.

Summary

High triglyceride levels can occur when someone has high triglyceride levels in their blood. An excess of triglyceride can also occur when someone has a high-fat diet.

High triglyceride levels can indicate health problems, such as heart disease or diabetes. If a person experiences a sudden increase in triglyceride levels, they should speak to a doctor.

Recurrent bouts of high triglyceride levels may indicate more serious problems with the pancreas or the liver.

It is vital for people with high triglyceride levels to see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.

High triglyceride levels may indicate many different health problems. It is vital for a doctor to diagnose high triglyceride levels, so that a person can get the treatment they need.

It is possible to treat high triglyceride levels with medication, and it is also possible to prevent high triglyceride levels with a healthful diet and regular exercise.

Diseases & Conditions, Lifestyle, Trending

Irregular Heartbeats a major concern ?

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Are irregular Heartbeats a major concern?

Are irregular Heartbeats a major concern? : These are common, affecting approximately 1 in 100 Americans. When the heart beats out of sync, it’s known as arrhythmia. Each arrhythmia is unique, but when there’s a blockage in the heart’s electrical system, the signals cause the heart to beat out of sync.

The consequences can be dangerous because they can slow down a person’s heart rate and can cause the heart to beat irregularly or too fast. This can cause a person’s blood pressure to drop. This lack of blood pressure can cause the heart to beat out of sync and this can lead to life-threatening arrhythmias.

Arrhythmia in humans is a type of arrhythmia. The most common cause of arrhythmia is the heart’s lack of normal electrical activity, so the heart beats irregularly and quickly. It can also be due to an abnormal heart rhythm, which means that the heart isn’t beating regularly at all. There are many different types of arrhythmia, including primary and secondary. The secondary is a type of arrhythmia that develops from a preexisting heart problem, such as heart failure.

Primary heart arrhythmia refers to a temporary arrhythmia caused by a problem with the heart’s electrical activity, or its way of beating. A temporary arrhythmia may be as short as a few seconds, or it may last longer. People with arrhythmia of this type generally recover within a few minutes.

When the heart is not beating normally and at a normal rate, the heart’s blood circulation is disrupted, which reduces the amount of oxygen available to the body and the heart muscle. The body then sends extra blood to the area of the heart that is not beating normally to try to deliver more oxygen to the heart muscle.

When the body’s blood supply is constantly interrupted by an arrhythmia, this damages the heart muscle. Risk factors for an irregular heartbeat are a family history of arrhythmia, coronary artery disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, and smoking or tobacco use.

Women and young people are at the greatest risk for the sudden onset of an irregular heartbeat. In more severe cases, heart attack, fainting, or death can occur. If you are experiencing a non-fainting, non-convulsive episode of an abnormal heartbeat, make an appointment with your doctor to find out what’s wrong.

If your heart rate is irregular but it does not cause you to feel faint or to feel pain or other symptoms, your doctor will likely not be able to detect the problem with current methods.

General symptoms of Irregular Heartbeats

Arrhythmia of primary is not life-threatening, but it may cause discomfort or pain in the upper chest or neck. It may also result in chest pain, especially when inhaling or exhaling. Arrhythmia of primary usually causes no symptoms, and it may be mistaken for something else, such as anxiety.

How is it diagnosed?

The most common way to diagnose an arrhythmia of primary is to perform a simple EKG. During the EKG, a doctor may see the electrical activity of the heart. However, it is usually difficult to detect the cause of the arrhythmia of primary. To detect the cause of an arrhythmia of primary, a doctor may order additional tests. These tests may include an electrocardiogram (EKG) and blood tests.

Treatment

Some people with arrhythmia primarily feel symptoms like Irregular Heartbeats for a few minutes or may not feel them at all. A person with arrhythmia of primary usually recovers within a few minutes. A person with arrhythmia of primary usually recovers within a few minutes. People with arrhythmia of primary usually recover from an arrhythmia of primary within a few minutes.

Symptoms usually lessen, and they go away completely within a few hours. A person may need to have an ECG test to diagnose a temporary arrhythmia, such as a simple pacemaker. This test is usually not necessary for a temporary arrhythmia, but it may be necessary to diagnose an arrhythmia of primary.

Treatment options

A person who has temporary arrhythmia of primary may not have a permanent arrhythmia. People with temporary arrhythmia of primary will usually have a procedure called ablation. This is a procedure used to permanently treat arrhythmia of primary.

A doctor will use an electrical shock to temporarily block the faulty area of the heart, allowing the organ to resume a normal heartbeat. Arrhythmias primary or secondary is often treated by replacing the faulty portion of the heart with a pacemaker.

However, people with permanent heart problems will need to have surgery to replace their heart with a valve or pump that corrects the problem. For a temporary arrhythmia of primary, the doctor will typically ask the person to start taking antiarrhythmic medications for 2–4 weeks. If this does not work, a pacemaker may be necessary to permanently treat the arrhythmia of primarily.

A pacemaker-A pacemaker is an external device that is implanted under the skin and moves the heart according to a predetermined rhythm.

Lack of Oxygen

Lack of oxygen is what’s needed to repair the heart after an arrhythmia. After a heart attack, the amount of oxygen going into and out of the heart is reduced. With each heartbeat, some blood is diverted from the heart, and the heart has to pump harder to get the oxygen needed to remain healthy.

However, since the heart has to work harder to get the blood moving, some of it leaks back out of the heart, and back into the bloodstream. Without oxygen, the heart can’t function properly, which is why patients may feel lightheaded or dizzy or experience heart palpitations.

Anatomy of an Angina

The anatomy of Angina is the most common form of heart pain. The most common forms of angina are chest discomfort and tightening around the chest wall. Many of us feel some chest discomfort after exercise, especially if we’ve been inactive, or after a cough or heavy sneezing, but this chest discomfort is different from angina experienced by some patients.

Upper Frontal Lymph Node Displacement

Upper frontal lymph nodes are the ones behind each ear, below the brow, and above the top of each eye. If they become inflamed, it can cause chest pain. The cause is unclear, and there is no specific test that can diagnose it. However, the tumor is not cancerous. It’s a swollen lymph node. In the upper frontal lobe of the brain, the lymphatic vessels that drain fluid from the head into the chest are enlarged. The blood vessels in the lymph nodes get irritated when there is a build-up of fluid.

Aortic Stenosis

Aortic stenosis is a narrowing of the inner lining of the aorta, the largest artery in the body. As the aorta gets smaller, blood pressure increases in the head and chest. This blood pressure increase puts pressure on the chest, causing heart palpitations.

When to See a Doctor 

If you have any of these symptoms of Irregular Heartbeats, call your doctor right away. Urgent treatment is needed. In rare cases, sudden chest pain may be a symptom of a life-threatening condition, such as a heart attack. The cause of the pain can be many different things, but it can be avoided with a little awareness. If you have chest pain, you should call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room right away.

Lifestyle, Diseases & Conditions, Fitness, Trending

Muscle pain treatment using essential oil

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Muscle pain treatment using essential oil

Muscle pain treatment using essential oil : Joint pain is usually a result of overuse, but women can also be at higher risk for osteoarthritis due to wearing high heels. Conventional medical treatments such as pain relievers, anti-inflammatory medications, and physical therapy aren’t effective for many of these women, according to Dr. Sandra Newman, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon at Penn Orthopedic Specialists in Chesterbrook.

Women tend to seek conventional treatments first, such as pain relievers, anti-inflammatory medications, and physical therapy, but the root of the problem can often be less obvious. In fact, Newman says, 60% to 80% of women can get relief through a single supplement, essential oil, or massage.

“The Western medicine system is not set up to see this level of pain in women,” she says. “There’s often a misdiagnosis, and when you have the right diagnosis and treatment, it can all be solved with some herbs, essential oils, and techniques from massage and aromatherapy.”

Typically, women tend to come into the orthopedic office for sports-related injuries, such as stress fractures in the hip or knees, or to correct pain in the foot. Osteoarthritis can be misdiagnosed as a sports injury because women tend to be more active in sports than men.

Regardless of the diagnosis, women often shy away from conventional treatments because they can be expensive, require monthly visits to the doctor, and aren’t covered by insurance.

“This is when essential oils really come in handy,” Newman says. “If you want to start your treatment at home, you can purchase a massage oil at your local health food store. You can also take a fraction of the dosage you would with a massage oil, in oils that will be effective for you.”

Newman says she also recommends a supplement called Boteco. It’s designed for women with osteoarthritis. One to two tablespoons a day is all you need to be effective, and the supplement will last about three months, she says.

You can also apply a massage oil to sore muscles for Muscle pain treatment , as well as one or more essential oils, depending on the level of discomfort. For instance, if you feel tightness in the hips and legs, you can apply a massage oil with the properties to the affected areas. For pain relief, Newman recommends a few different essential oils, such as eucalyptus, lavender, and peppermint.

“All of these can help to decrease swelling in your body and inflammation in your joints,” she says. “Many people are under the misconception that they have to live a high-stress life to get arthritis. And that’s not necessarily the case.”

Bone density loss is another common cause of pain in the knees, hips, and back that many women don’t realize is a symptom of osteoarthritis. According to Newman, since women tend to be thinner than men, they lose more bone density in their hips and knees as they age, but they do have more bone density than men.

“It’s important to gain bone density and strength in your legs and bones,” she says. “We need that calcium for our health. However, in order to gain that, we need to be active.”

Newman recommends that women start exercising as soon as they are able to. She recommends low impact exercises like walking, swimming, or using a stationary bike to help women build bone density. She also recommends resistance training for strengthening muscles in the lower body, such as the legs, hips, and thighs.

Muscle pain can also be an indicator of osteoarthritis. Newman says that many women suffer from arthritis in their hips or knees, and they often start by having sore muscles at night. In some cases, they just think they have bad posture, but there are other factors at play.

“It’s important to see your doctor if you think you have muscle pain because it can indicate the possibility of osteoarthritis,” she says. “By taking the proper steps and getting regular exercise, you can get rid of that pain.”

Too much to take care of

Our busy lives and work-from-home schedules make us sometimes forget about the importance of our health.

Loren Letchworth, M.D., board certified in internal medicine and medical director at Valley Naturopathic and Wellness Center in Longmont, says that all of us can be guilty of putting other things before our own health.

“We put so much on the back burner and forget to take care of ourselves,” he says. “The main things we can do is to make it a priority to get enough sleep every night, and exercise regularly.”

Letchworth says that exercise is very important for a healthy lifestyle, especially for people who are on the go for muscle pain treatment

“If you don’t have time to exercise, I recommend a moderate workout that you can do daily. It can be anything from walking to the bus stop to riding a bicycle,” he says.

Letchworth also says that regular exercise is important in the prevention of osteoarthritis.

“When we exercise, we may feel stiffness and pain in our joints after we’ve been sedentary,” he says. “But we also see it happening if we don’t exercise regularly. So, exercise can actually be a prevention.”

But in order to achieve long-term health, it’s also important to slow down a little.

“We need to take better care of ourselves,” he says. “We are living longer, but we need to make sure we are alive, not just physically, but also mentally and emotionally.”

Active lifestyle is also very important in preventing osteoarthritis. Letchworth says he recommends for his patients to work out for 30 to 60 minutes every day to keep their joints healthy and their heart healthy.

Prevention is key

If you are suffering from any symptoms of osteoarthritis, you should schedule a visit with your doctor to figure out the best way to treat the condition.

“Our goal is to find out what’s causing the pain so we can treat it,” Letchworth says. “Osteoarthritis is very treatable, so I encourage my patients to come in.”

Dr. Letchworth says that many of his patients come in because they’ve read that exercise can be an effective treatment for osteoarthritis. But he says that he wants people to come in and talk about their symptoms first.

“You don’t just go see a doctor because you’ve read a study,” he says. “Your doctor will work with you to figure out the best way to treat your symptoms.”

Melissa Newman, M.D., a primary care physician at the local Family Practice of the Rockies in Longmont, also says that the best way to treat osteoarthritis is with exercise. She recommends that patients make it a daily habit to exercise.“If people don’t exercise and become inactive, then we can’t cure osteoarthritis,” she says.If your symptoms are low to moderate in severity, Newman says that low-impact exercise is a great option. In order to prevent osteoarthritis, she recommends that people do exercises that involve weight training and resistance training.“

The best way to prevent it is to do exercise that doesn’t put any pressure on the joint,” she says. “That can be anything from light swimming, biking, or walking, to jogging, swimming, or even weight training.”Newman also recommends that people check with their doctor before beginning an exercise program. She says that sometimes people are surprised that the exercises they are doing are actually causing damage.

“We don’t want patients to hurt themselves,” she says. “We want them to heal.”She adds that some of her patients come in and say they have been doing resistance training for months and that their pain is still the same.“I’m not surprised,” she says. “It’s a change, and if it doesn’t go away, then it’s something to be concerned about.”

Healing

There is no one treatment or medication that can treat osteoarthritis. But she says that diet can help decrease some of the inflammation and pain that a person is feeling. Newman says that she recommends the Mediterranean diet to her patients, and she encourages them to eat a lot of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, fish, beans and lentils, olive oil, nuts, and legumes.

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Vitamin C deficiency is a major concern

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Vitamin C deficiency is a major concern

It’s very important to address your vitamin c deficiency when you start feeling symptoms because it may not be temporary.This kind of vitamin deficiency is usually more of a problem in people who are overweight or have had a vitamin C deficiency in the past.

Vitamin C Deficiency Is A Major Concern

Fatigue, irritability and a runny nose are symptoms of the common cold. It’s very important to address your vitamin C deficiency when you start feeling symptoms because it may not be temporary.

Getting enough vitamin C is key to having a healthy immune system. This may require you to add vitamin C to your diet or take supplements.

Vitamin C Deficiency Is A Major Concern

Read on to find out the most effective supplement for boosting your vitamin C levels.

How much vitamin C do you need in your diet?

According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, people with the following conditions should make sure to get their vitamin C:

  • blindness
  • hearing loss
  • the vitamin C level in your blood is less than 25 micrograms per deciliter (mcg/dL)
  • sustained inactivity, for example from bed rest, or a lack of walking
  • you had very little exposure to sunlight for six months to one year

You should also not take more than 1,000 mg of vitamin C per day. The National Institute of Health (NIH) says there’s no evidence to suggest that taking more than 1,000 mg of vitamin C per day would provide additional benefit.

Vitamin C Deficiency Is A Major Concern

Can I take vitamin C supplements?

If you’re getting vitamin C supplements, a range of different ones are available. Your doctor can provide you with the most appropriate form of vitamin C for your condition.

If you’re taking the vitamin C supplements, you may need to increase your intake of vitamin D or calcium to compensate. However, do not take a vitamin C supplement if you’re taking any prescription medications, including antihistamines and antidepressants.

Supplements

Most adults need 25 mcg of vitamin C per day to maintain good health, but levels vary depending on age, sex, and whether you’re breastfeeding.The general recommendation is that adults consume vitamin C in the form of oranges, lemons, or other citrus fruits.

If you’re getting supplements, you may need to increase your intake of vitamin D or calcium to compensate. However, do not take a vitamin C supplement if you’re taking any prescription medications, including antihistamines and antidepressants.

How much vitamin C should you take?

A survey of more than 50,000 people in the U.S. found that the average intake of vitamin C from supplements was approximately 41 mcg per day.The average intake was calculated using the results from a questionnaire that asked participants how much they had taken in vitamin C supplements.

Only a small proportion of the population need to take more than this amount to get the recommended daily intake. Vitamin C levels will fall in those who are taking too much and increase in those who are not taking enough.

A group of people in Finland who were taking high doses of vitamin C supplements for health reasons was found to have levels of vitamin C that were around five times higher than those of people who weren’t taking the supplements.

However, taking high doses of vitamin C for long periods of time may lead to vitamin C toxicity, which can occur when levels are too high.Most of the participants were taking 1,000 mg or more of vitamin C per day. To reach the daily recommendations, you need to take around 1,000 mg of vitamin C per day.

How much vitamin C should you take? It can vary depending on a number of factors, including age, sex, ethnicity, and your personal health.For example, younger women need more vitamin C than older women and older men.

The average intake of vitamin C from supplements was approximately 41 mcg per day, with most people taking less than that amount. The average intake was calculated using the results from a questionnaire that asked participants how much they had taken in vitamin C supplements.

If you’re taking supplements, you may need to increase your intake of vitamin D or calcium to compensate. However, do not take a vitamin C supplement if you’re taking any prescription medications, including antihistamines and antidepressants.

Summary of benefits and risks

Vitamin C and vitamin E are both antioxidants that help reduce free-radicals in the body. They also play a role in DNA repair and cell growth. They’re not harmful in themselves, but excess intake has the potential to be harmful if the body doesn’t get enough vitamin C and vitamin E from foods.

That’s why it’s best to consume enough vitamin C from food to get the required amount. You can get your vitamin C from a range of fruits and vegetables, as well as fortified cereals, orange juice, and certain vitamin supplements.Vitamin C is important for many different body functions, but it’s not safe to consume more than 1,000 mg per day.

There’s currently no strong evidence to suggest that taking vitamin C supplements will prevent or treat cancer, heart disease, or other conditions.

Vitamin C’s role in DNA repair, cell growth, and immune function could still be beneficial for some people who are deficient in vitamin C.

Vitamin C can have negative interactions with some prescription medications. Talk to a doctor before you take vitamin C supplements.Vitamin C also increases the risk of kidney stones.Things to watch out for include taking too much vitamin C, causing kidney damage, or taking a combination of vitamin C with other vitamins or supplements.

More research is still needed to understand the complex relationship between vitamin C and the body.If you take vitamin C supplements, you should speak to a doctor before starting.

Many people think vitamin C is harmless, but taking high doses can be harmful, and this includes vitamin C supplements.Diet and lifestyle changes, as well as taking vitamin C from food and avoiding excessive vitamin C from supplements, are better ways to keep vitamin C levels in the body high.

In some cases, taking high doses of vitamin C from supplements may be harmful.Many people may be deficient in vitamin C and the more concentrated supplements may not give the correct amount of vitamin C. Talk to a doctor before taking high doses of vitamin C from supplements.

If you take vitamin C supplements, talk to a doctor before taking more than the daily recommended dose.Follow a healthy diet, take regular exercise, and limit alcohol intake to less than two drinks per day. Eat healthily to get all of the nutrients your body needs.

While it’s not completely safe to take more than the daily recommended dose, taking 1,000 mg or more of vitamin C per day is unlikely to be harmful.

Vitamin C and vitamin E are antioxidants that help reduce free-radicals in the body. They also play a role in DNA repair and cell growth. They’re not harmful in themselves, but excess intake has the potential to be harmful if the body doesn’t get enough vitamin C and vitamin E from foods.

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How to prevent a Vitamin D deficiency

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How to prevent a vitamin D deficiency:

Vitamin D is made in the skin when it is exposed to UV light. Too much UV radiation can actually damage skin cells and may also lead to skin cancer. But the vitamin is needed for normal bones and a healthy immune system, according to the NHS. Being able to absorb vitamin D from the sun can prevent a vitamin D deficiency, so the most important thing you can do is make sure you have a nice big breakfast in the mornings, adds the nutritionist. “Some people find they become deficient when they’re tired, and have less time to get their quota of sunlight,” he tells us.

What happens to your bones?

“Your bone density is determined in part by vitamin D. When you have lower levels, it’s like eating less broccoli. As well as adding a ton of health benefits, it also helps us stay young by helping our bodies generate the energy we need to stay alive,” Lee tells us.

We all need vitamin D to survive, but most of us don’t produce enough in our bodies, and that means most of us are deficient. “Eating a high-calcium diet will increase your vitamin D, while getting sunlight will be an even better source of it.”

We need vitamin D to make our bones strong and healthy

“The NHS recommends that you have 10 micrograms of vitamin D a day. This works out at 30 minutes in the sunshine and another 10 minutes in the evening. “The biggest problem for most people is the lack of sunshine. It’s always sunny, but if we spend most of our time indoors where it’s cloudy, we’re only having a small amount of vitamin D in our body. This can have serious effects on our bones.”

How to prevent a Vitamin D deficiency: Supplement

The NHS recommends that adults take a daily supplement containing at least 1,000 international units of vitamin D, which is the RDI.

Common first-time diabetes symptoms Mon, January 1, 2018 What are the most common first-time diabetes symptoms? Play slideshow Getty 1 of 11 Common first-time diabetes symptoms

There’s currently no cure for diabetes, and people with diabetes can develop a vitamin D deficiency

The recommended amount of vitamin D should be taken in the evening and before bedtime, the UK’s Chief Medical Officers have said. However, supplements containing 20mg of vitamin D may also be effective, although most products available on the high street contain 10mg. However, the number of vitamin D supplements on the market does not mean it’s an easy thing to take, or that it’s more effective. While some of the ingredients in these supplements may be effective for you, you can still get a vitamin D deficiency from taking just a normal vitamin tablet, especially if you are deficient.

Certain foods can help prevent a vitamin D deficiency

Nutrients that are also deficient in our diet that we can get from eating a healthy diet are calcium and vitamin B12, says the nutritionist. Vitamin B12 helps our bodies to make red blood cells and help our nervous and immune systems to function properly. Vitamin B12 can be found in meat, eggs, fortified breakfast cereals and fish, while vitamin D can be found in dairy products, eggs and oily fish such as mackerel, tuna, salmon and trout. “All these nutrients, like calcium, help your body to function. So if you’re deficient in one, you’re going to be deficient in the others. We need all of them for healthy skin, strong bones, and immune systems,” Lee explains.

Getting plenty of vitamin D can help people to ward off depression

Other foods that can help prevent a vitamin D deficiency include tomatoes, as they’re high in a vitamin called lycopene, which can boost immunity and reduce heart disease risk, says the nutritionist. Spinach also contains vitamin C, which reduces the risk of strokes and protects the heart. “There’s currently no cure for diabetes, and people with diabetes can develop a vitamin D deficiency. Getting enough vitamin D can help to ward off depression too.”

Studies have linked low vitamin D levels with depression and mood disorders

Mid-March is the time to be spending time in the sun

“I recommend that you get outside and be in the sunshine – as soon as the sun is up and as much as you can throughout the day. You should be out in the daylight as much as you can – I always recommend 10 minutes a day outside to give your skin the sun boost. “As much as you can avoid artificial sunlight as much as possible.” Studies have linked low vitamin D levels with depression and mood disorders, as well as asthma. So, how do you get your daily dose of vitamin D? For vitamin D supplements, Lee suggests looking for one that’s vitamin D3, as it’s the most active form.

We should be taking vitamin D supplements at least twice a week

Always check that the vitamin D3 supplement does not contain any additional ingredients. Some supplements that are available for purchase on the high street contain additional vitamin D4, as this has been shown to be equally active as D3, but it’s absorbed much more slowly. “Even if you use a D4 supplement, you can still take the D3 supplement, as you still need to keep vitamin D levels high enough to prevent a deficiency,” Lee adds. The Canadian Society of Endocrinology (CSE) recommends that you take daily doses of 400IU, although this amount may vary according to your age, how you live and where you live. “I advise that you take them at least twice a week, if you want to remain healthy.

Other nutrients that can help reduce the risk of depression include magnesium

Go outside and get some sunshine. If you spend a lot of time indoors, your skin may get very pale and dry and be more susceptible to getting dark spots if you aren’t getting enough UV rays.

Eat a healthy diet. People are often deficient in vitamin D because they are eating foods that lack the nutrient in the first place.Be careful of foods with vitamin D and calcium in them. Dairy products, fatty fish, spinach, orange juice and some juice drinks, canned tuna, meats, meat products and bread are very low in vitamin D. If you eat a balanced diet, you will get enough vitamin D. Most people are eating too much processed food or foods fortified with vitamin D. Read the labels.According to official estimates, Vitamin D deficiency affects around 10% of the Indian population.In most of the northern parts of India, and with growing urbanisation, the percentage of people who consume supplements has gone up in a big way.And due to this increasing demand for supplements, a lot of fake brands are going about marketing their own variety of vitamins and supplements, mainly to fulfill the demands of the Vitamin D consumers.All fake vitamin supplements and powders in the market are not as nutrient-dense as their natural counterparts.

It is important to take a few steps before taking any kind of supplements, be it a vitamin or a vitamin D supplement. You need to check if the supplement is genuine or not, by trying it out on yourself first before putting it in your body.Make sure you are not taking a supplement that you are not supposed toAs we know, supplements are recommended when we need to replenish our lost vitamins or in case we are deficient in it.

And it is very important to know if there are any dietary restrictions before taking any supplements. For example, women who are pregnant need to be extra cautious about taking vitamin D supplements. In case, it is found that they are not eating enough of the right kinds of foods, the supplements can be harmful.You should also be aware of your vitamin D levels before taking any supplements as they can vary widely from day to day.Stay away from diets that have a high intake of oily or fatty food.Severe vitamin D deficiency can result in a number of health complications, which can be fatal, leading to heart diseases and other illnesses.In many cases, it leads to bone deformities.The consumption of oily and fatty foods leads to an increased intake of vitamin D from the food. But this will lead to an unbalanced intake of vitamin D in your diet and may harm your overall health.In case you are suffering from a severe Vitamin D deficiency, see a physician

You can’t take care of yourself if you are unaware of your body’s vitamin D status. A severe Vitamin D deficiency can cause heart disease, kidney damage and even raise the risk of having an infection.And according to experts, many people don’t realise that they are deficient in the vitamin.You should also visit a physician at the earliest, who will tell you what can be done to improve your vitamin D levels.So, we are happy to let you know that being deficient in the vitamin can be corrected and you can easily prevent it at your own home, which we also know is really annoying to do.Do not use sun block. The sun’s ultraviolet rays can also damage your skin cells. Also, sunburns can damage the cells in your eyes.Minimize sun exposure between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Eat vitamin D-rich foods. Fish, eggs, liver and dairy products are good sources of the nutrient. If you are vegan, you can try adding foods high in vitamin D to your diet. You can also get vitamin D from the milk in some cereals, yogurts and frozen food.You can also take a supplement. Some adults need as much as 4,000 international units a day while others need up to 4,000 to 6,000 IUs a day.

Talk to your doctor before taking a supplement. You can get most vitamin D from the food you eat and supplements can not replace a healthy diet.Many people also get vitamin D through sun exposure. Your skin makes the nutrient when it is exposed to ultraviolet light, which comes from the sun or the sun blocks. Sun exposure in the winter time is not enough. You can also get your vitamin D by going to the beach, taking a walk outside and gardening.You should check with your doctor about supplements if you are concerned about your vitamin D levels.

Watch For These Dangers of Vitamin D Deficiency
  • Hypovitaminosis D. It can cause anemia, weakness, fatigue, poor vision, mental confusion, sleep disorders, bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract, tooth loss, kidney damage, and increased risk of death.
  • Vascular Dysfunction. High doses of vitamin D can also reduce the ability of blood to clot.
  • Kidney Problems. High doses of vitamin D can reduce the ability of blood to flow through the kidneys. High doses also can cause nausea, vomiting and loss of appetite. It is recommended that adults take no more than 4,000 to 6,000 IUs a day. Children and adolescents should take no more than 2,000 to 4,000 IUs a day.
  • Liver and Kidney Damage. As your body accumulates more of the vitamin, your liver and kidneys can be damaged. This can lead to liver failure, hypoalbuminemia and even cancer. It is important to tell your doctor about any symptoms you are experiencing, including any signs of liver or kidney damage.
  • Kidney Stones. Although it is rare, kidney stones can develop from excessive amounts of vitamin D. Kidney stones can be painful and sometimes cause discomfort or bloating.
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The hard effects of Multiple sclerosis

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The hard effects of Multiple sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis

It has been estimated that the incidence of multiple sclerosis in the United States is between 1 in 1,600 and 1 in 1,900 live births. This wide variation arises from various interpretations of the epidemiological data, some of which are related to differences in diagnostic criteria. It is the most common neurodegenerative disease in neurology; it causes Symptoms that appear during the developmental period after the eruption of the first functional brain lesions.

The Hard Effects Of Multiple Sclerosis

The sporadic nature of MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS has confused the medical literature, as Symptoms have varied over time and according to different categories of severity, symptomatology, and sensitivity. During the epidemiological research of MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS, doctors typically measure incidence by comparing data gathered from one region or group of cases with data from another.

The source of these data varies as well, with some researchers using data collected from autopsies to compare rates of multiple sclerosis, and other researchers collecting blood samples or blood tests from the general population. As a result, It has been defined in such a way that it appears to be more prevalent in certain regions, whereas others believe that It does not exist in these areas.

Symptoms

Major Symptoms of MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS include difficulties with vision, fatigue, an achy, numb sensation in one or more of the limbs, muscle weakness, and depression. Other Symptoms of MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS are similar to those of other neurodegenerative diseases. In some cases, there is a delay in onset, meaning that the Symptoms appear later than they are expected, or do not appear at all.

It is not known why some people develop Symptoms of MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS while others do not. This period of relatively mild Symptoms can last up to several years before a more severe lesion manifests itself.[ Most cases of MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS only last for a few years before progressing to a more severe stage. This is known as MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS syndrome.

Treatment

Therapies for MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS differ from those of other neurodegenerative diseases, as many of the treatments are directed toward symptoms rather than the causes of the disease. Some therapies can produce a slow, steady decline of Symptoms in the form of clinical disability or stability of Symptoms. These therapies include vitamin and nutritional supplements, such as vitamins B1, B2, B6, B9, B12, B6, folic acid, and folinic acid. These supplements can help to regulate the immune system and prevent the onset of multiple sclerosis.[9]

Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs

Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs, or DMARDs, are medications that help prevent or control MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS Symptoms in cases where other treatments have failed. These medications are used to prevent or treat multiple sclerosis, prevent the occurrence of relapses, and reduce the progression of disability.

Except some medications, which only work when other treatments fail, all of the medications are administered at the beginning of the disease to manage Symptoms, and these medications are most effective if used shortly before Symptoms begin.

Chlorambucil

Chlorambucil is an oral antibiotic that is used to treat It to prevent relapses. Chlorambucil is widely prescribed, as it has low toxicity. It is a prodrug that needs to be administered with an alkaline precursor, such as sodium metabisulfite. Because these treatments, known as MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS-specific immunosuppressants, rely on vitamin C, it is not recommended that people taking these medications consume very large quantities of vitamin C.

Chlorambucil works by reducing the effectiveness of other immune system processes, such as inflammatory factors. As such, it helps to protect against multiple sclerosis.

Interferons

Interferons are used to treat MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS and MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS-related autoimmune disorders. Interferons also work by blocking the production of interferon. Interferons have significantly greater efficacy in the treatment of multiple sclerosis than the use of DMARDs. Interferon therapy can be administered in several ways: with injections, interferon pills, or other methods. Interferon treatment can be used to reduce the severity of disease Symptoms, and reduce the progression of the disease.

Some MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS patients have noticed improvements in Symptoms within weeks of starting interferon treatment. The effectiveness of interferon treatment is closely related to the severity of the disease. As a result, the most effective treatment for MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS involves administering interferons at a low dose for short periods, before decreasing the dose to manage Symptoms. Interferons should not be used to treat MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS patients if they are at risk of organ damage or liver damage.

Interferon treatment has some risk of side effects, such as flu-like Symptoms. Interferons must be kept in a prescription bottle, or a temporary prescription label should be affixed to the bottle. Interferons must also be kept in refrigerators and freezers at a safe temperature. An increased risk of infection or potentially fatal clotting issues with interferons has been seen in clinical studies.

Oxaceplazimine

Oxaceplazimine is an intravenous medication that is used to treat MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS to prevent relapses. Oxaceplazimine is one of the few disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs that is not a prodrug. It is used to treat MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS when other treatments are not working.

It is used in smaller doses to manage Symptoms of multiple sclerosis and MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS-related complications of MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS. Due to side effects such as liver damage, people should not take oxaceplazimine as an oral medication.

Chloramphenicol

Chloramphenicol is an oral medication that is used to treat MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS when other treatments have failed. Chloramphenicol is one of the most effective medications for MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS control and prevention.

Like all drugs used to treat MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS, chloramphenicol must be used very cautiously. It is most effective when taken for longer periods, before additional MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS Symptoms develop.

Although chloramphenicol is typically used as a treatment to prevent relapses, it may also be used to treat MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS patients when other medications have failed. In addition, chloramphenicol is used to treat inflammatory lesions in multiple sclerosis.

Epilepsy

Epilepsy is a common complication of multiple sclerosis, with an estimated prevalence of about one percent. The use of epilepsy medications in MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS is restricted due to a high risk of side effects.

It is recommended that epileptics use medications to treat their epilepsy only when epilepsy Symptoms begin to affect their functioning, when the disease has progressed to a severe state, and when other medications are no longer effective. Epilepsy medication doses for MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS may be adjusted to minimize side effects, including muscle contractions.

Common epilepsy medications include anticonvulsants, antiserotonergic medications, and neurologic conditions. Rarely, anti-epileptic medications are used to treat MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS, except baclofen. Most epilepsy medications can be used to treat MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS, as long as the appropriate epilepsy protocols are followed.

Gefitinib

Gefitinib is a drug that is used to treat a type of aggressive cancer called Kaposi’s sarcoma that is associated with both MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS and HIV. Gefitinib is approved by the FDA for the treatment of Kaposi’s sarcoma, but it is also effective in treating MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS. Gefitinib works by inhibiting the activity of PD-1 receptors on the surface of T cells, which may help decrease the number of T cells that accumulate in MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS lesions and immune cells, thus reducing inflammation. Gefitinib must be taken with food, and should not be taken with alcohol.

Interferons and other disease-modifying drugs

The first disease-modifying drug, interferon beta, was introduced in the 1980s. Interferons are a type of drug that suppresses the immune system. The primary effect of interferons is to stimulate the immune system to fight invading viruses. Interferons also reduce inflammation by targeting substances that are involved in the inflammation process and indirectly cause the cells of the immune system to differentiate and produce specialized cells to eliminate the virus.

Interferon treatment is usually reserved for patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis, while progressive multiple sclerosis is not typically treated with interferon drugs. Interferons are the first line of treatment for MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS, but there are concerns about their long-term effectiveness. Interferons are often used when the disease is relapsing-remitting or MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS-related inflammatory lesions (such as MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS-related damages to white matter).

However, many people with MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS have Symptoms of multiple sclerosis that do not present with Symptoms of inflammation and appear to have diseases that are caused by inflammation. It is important to treat these symptoms with interferon drugs if they occur. The best way to prevent severe side effects of interferon treatment is to take interferons only if Symptoms appear.

Other disease-modifying drugs include lenalidomide, laropiprant, and prednisone.

Combination therapies

Combinations of drugs are commonly used in MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS therapy, including steroids, immunosuppressants, and disease-modifying drugs. In the treatment of MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS, chronic steroid use often begins when other treatment regimens fail. Prednisone, methotrexate, and prednisolone are the most commonly used immunosuppressants in the treatment of MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS, but other drugs are sometimes used in addition.

Steroid treatment is often used when another treatment is not sufficient. The risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancer, and other side effects are some of the reasons why steroid treatment is not a first-line treatment for MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS. Steroid use is recommended for only a short time in most patients, though, and then the patient should try other treatments before going back on steroids.

Chemotherapy

In the 1980s, chemotherapy drugs were developed specifically for the treatment of MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS. The treatment of MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS has changed significantly over the years, and doctors and patients are now more likely to use chemotherapy as a treatment option.

Chemo regimens typically include dexamethasone and autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, which are typically given in conjunction with other treatments. Though a cure for MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS is generally not achieved, many patients benefit from the initial chemotherapy treatment.

Larotrectinib

A new type of cancer treatment, larotrectinib, is being used to treat certain types of cancer, including MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS.

Neuroprotective drugs

Neuroprotective drugs, including those used in the treatment of multiple sclerosis, may affect the progress or worsen of the disease by reducing the amount of inflammation. There is a large amount of evidence that indicates that certain treatments can protect nerve cells from damage, which may reduce the Symptoms of MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS. A key factor in developing neuroprotective drugs is the ability to target areas of the central nervous system affected by the disease. S

one of the treatment strategies currently available for the treatment of MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS includes corticosteroids, calcitonin-receptor antagonists, and some for multiple sclerosis of immunotherapy. Corticosteroids and calcitonin receptor antagonists are both designed to reduce the levels of IL-12, a cytokine that is believed to have an important role in the development and progression of MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS.

The Hard Effects Of Multiple Sclerosis

Immunotherapy drugs are designed to induce the body’s immune system to fight disease. Several immunotherapy drugs have been approved for the treatment of MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS, including ipilimumab, nivolumab, and pembrolizumab. Though multiple other medications are currently being tested in MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS research and development, none have been approved yet for treatment.

Drugs for treating other autoimmune diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, and lupus, also have been found to reduce the rate of progression in MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS. There is some evidence that certain factors associated with MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS, such as exposure to viral infection, could also play a role in the development of other autoimmune diseases.

Treatment for relapses

Because an individual’s immune system is constantly fighting infection and injury, it has been shown that treating people with drugs that suppress the immune system could cause an increase in the number of relapses in those individuals.

This concept is known as the “zombie hypothesis.” Thus, making people relapse to a pre-illness state is an unfortunate side effect of drugs designed to treat MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS. Additionally, people who relapse more frequently are often less responsive to current treatments, further preventing a full recovery.

Isolation of the biomarker

The results from a study performed at the University of Pittsburgh indicate that the use of an enzyme called SNCA may identify an individual’s risk of MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS relapse better than the commonly used biomarkers, TDP-43, and nerve growth factor, which have shown poor predictive power.

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Signs & Symptoms of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

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Signs & Symptoms of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Signs & Symptoms of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, or fatigue syndrome, has long been regarded as a normal, physical malady. It was first described in patients with malaria in the late 1800s. And although medical advances have extended life expectancy, it seems chronic fatigue syndrome has managed to catch up.
The prevalence of fatigue syndrome has tripled in the past 25 years. It may seem this might be a well-documented syndrome. But what if fatigue was not simply a physiological issue at all? Could this be a syndrome with a neurological root? It may be time to revisit the pathologies of the disease and find new ways to identify and treat chronic fatigue syndrome.
The descriptions of chronic fatigue syndrome are confused and vague, which has resulted in disagreement over how to define the disease. Two leading clinical systems exist: the NHC and the ICD. The NHC and the ICD differ in the age and gender of a patient when it is deemed legitimate. Because the NHC is based on the clinic, it is likely older patients with symptoms of fatigue are more likely to be diagnosed with chronic fatigue syndrome.
Since fatigue is commonly tied to aging, the desire to diagnose this syndrome in more recent patients is likely a factor in the persistence of chronic fatigue syndrome.
Signs & Symptoms Of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Chronic fatigue syndrome, in the clinical sense, may also be a syndrome with a neurological origin. Because of its association with fatigue and other neuropsychological deficits, fatigue syndrome is well-known to have an abnormal metabolic response. Based on this, it is hypothesized that this syndrome is a disorder of fatigue syndrome syndrome syndrome.

Treatment 

Prognosis – There is no specific cure for this syndrome, but some treatments may help manage symptoms. Treatments that improve symptoms include:

  • Limiting or eliminating sleep disruption (focusing on the timing and quality of sleep)
  • Limiting or eliminating caffeine or alcohol consumption
  • Treating bacterial infections (as that can contribute to fatigue, cough, or fever)
  • Anti-inflammatory and antibacterial medications
  • Anti-psychotics, especially if antipsychotic use is frequent (to prevent post-exertional malaise)
  • Vitamins (e.g., B6)
  • Weight loss (also reducing body mass index and muscle deterioration)

Treatments for fibromyalgia can also help manage this syndrome.[14] Other conditions that have been associated with severe disability and mortality include: lyme disease, Lyme borreliosis, meningitis, chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy, neonatal-onset multiple sclerosis, fatal infantile mesencephaly with neuropsychiatric sequelae, multiple sclerosis, polymyositis, hereditary amyloidosis with progressive supranuclear palsy, lupus, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, Klein-Ossowo syndrome, Birt–Hogg-Dubé syndrome, lupus erythematosus, fibromyalgia, chronic lung disease, severe obesity, and cirrhosis.

Signs & Symptoms Of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Although fatigue is the primary clinical complaint, fatigue can result from a wide range of medical conditions. Symptoms that are related to illness include:

  • Ulcers (both ulcers in general and functional ileus, which is idiopathic [uniquely affects only one section of the intestine]
  • Constipation (e.g., due to obstruction, following bowel resection, or rarely due to opioid use)
  • Low blood sugar
  • Pathological pain
  • Unusual taste sensitivity or taste disturbance
  • Neurological abnormalities, such as depression (depressed mood), memory problems, incoherence, psychosis, abnormal eye movements, eye lid drift (torsion), hearing loss, trembling or tremor, stroke, brain injury, intracranial aneurysms or meningitis
  • Abnormal body posture
  • Body movement problems, such as problems with walking, tics, or bulimia
  • Neurocognitive abnormalities, such as loss of short-term memory
  • Cerebral vasculitis
  • Other diseases that can cause unexplained fatigue and other cognitive dysfunction include:
  • Diabetes insipidus
  • Fibromyalgia
  • Psychiatric disorders, such as obsessive-compulsive disorder
  • Autoimmune diseases, such as systemic lupus erythematosus
  • Intractable epilepsy
  • Endocrine disorders, such as Addison’s disease, gonorrhea, premature ovarian failure, insulinoma, Sjögren syndrome, porphyria cutanea tarda, neurocysticercosis, thyroid disease, celiac disease, pituitary apophysitis, and Hirschsprung’s disease.
  • Depression
  • Sleep disorders
  • Unexplained fatigue
  • Exertional malaise (E/M) fatigue is defined as an adverse reaction to a bout of physical activity in which one still feels exhausted or fatigued a few hours after the activity.

There are many Symptoms of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

  • Signs of confusion, such as difficulty thinking or speaking clearly.
  • Pain and a dull headache
  • Facial palsy, neck pain, or a tingling in arms or legs
  • Depressed mood
  • Sudden onset
  • Inability to retain new information
  • Paralysis, inability to move an arm or leg
  • Increase in urine output or fecal output
  • Fatigue that interferes with activities of daily living, or is a significant threat to health. This often happens before the onset of full-blown MS or ALS
  • Adverse effects on balance.
  • After acute E/M fatigue, a subset of people will have a minor rebound:
  • Recurrent and lasting tiredness.
  • Fatigue after periods of physical or mental stress or a prolonged sleep deficit.
  • Cognitive impairments.
  • Tiredness that continues over the course of many weeks, or even months, with no sign of improvement.
  • Decreased fitness, endurance, and strength.
  • Smoking cessation.
  • Rapid deterioration of vision and coordination.
  • A complex set of molecular mechanisms causes E/M fatigue, and the mechanism is variable among individuals and is affected by several genetic and environmental factors.[16] Several pathways are involved in this phenomenon, including an interplay between the brain and the nervous system, as well as exercise-induced endocrine stress, increased adrenocorticotropic hormone, physical exertion and other changes in brain function.

A popular misconception is that E/M fatigue is caused by a lack of oxygen to the brain. The majority of individuals diagnosed with E/M fatigue are not having episodes of hypoxia, which would be reported with a decreased hemoglobin and oxygen saturation in the blood, and often the underlying cause of their fatigue remains undiscovered.

Signs & Symptoms Of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Lifestyle
Lifestyle factors are thought to play a role in the causes and symptoms of fatigue. These include:

Physical activity – A lack of exercise or fatigue that cannot be attributed to illness does not necessarily mean that more exercise will improve the situation.

Exercise – The amount of physical activity required to bring about an improvement varies from person to person, and depends on their existing level of fitness, energy levels, and immune system functions. Individuals with E/M fatigue should exercise for at least 20 minutes several times a week, until they are able to meet the exercise recommendations for their age and height.

Lack of sleep – Many people with E/M fatigue struggle to get adequate sleep, with an average of 6.2 hours per night.[19] But these individuals may not need as much sleep as they think, as having less than seven hours of sleep per night is not considered sufficient to promote optimal health, so some people with E/M fatigue may require up to 9 hours per night

Caffeine – The recommended limit for women is 400 milligrams (mg) of caffeine per day, and 400 mg per day for men. In some individuals, caffeine may have adverse effects, and they may wish to limit their caffeine consumption. To avoid excessive caffeine consumption, it is advisable to reduce the amount of coffee or other caffeinated beverages consumed in one day

Time – Another lifestyle factor is that many people with E/M fatigue cannot achieve the recommended amount of exercise for their age and height. This is due to a combination of lack of energy and fatigue.

Sleep – People with E/M fatigue may not sleep as well as they should. They may be tired during the day, but not sleep well at night, which increases their alertness during the day and leads to increased fatigue at night. Increasing the amount of time taken to fall asleep can help to alleviate this problem.

Dehydration – The body needs water to maintain a healthy state, and can become dehydrated in response to exercise, stress, or poor quality sleep. Dehydration can cause sleepiness and fatigue. Dehydration is also a possible cause of E/M fatigue.

Medications – Many medications can increase fatigue. However, they do not cause fatigue in everyone. Studies have shown that almost all medications that cause fatigue should be tried under close medical supervision before they are started. Many chronic and acute medications can cause fatigue in some individuals.

Allergies – A very common allergen is cigarette smoke, which can cause bronchoconstriction and therefore lead to fatigue. It can also aggravate E/M fatigue.

Gender – People with E/M fatigue are more likely to experience fatigue than people without this condition. This can be due to biological factors such as hormonal changes during menopause and sleep disturbances associated with menopause. In addition, some research has suggested that testosterone levels play a role in this condition.
The factors that contribute to the diagnosis of the illness are based on evidence gathered with medical professionals and patients, and do not rely on patient self-diagnosis.

Genetic
The relationship between the genetics and the characteristics of the condition of E/M fatigue is currently unknown.

Signs & Symptoms Of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Neurological findings, however, can complicate the interpretation of neurology. Neurologic changes can occur independently of fatigue and fatigue-related syndromes. If fatigue syndrome is the syndrome, how can one distinguish neurological changes from those of other fatigue syndrome syndromes?
Both new and established chronic fatigue syndrome syndromes suffer from similar symptoms. Moreover, there is evidence to suggest a link between the fatigue syndrome syndrome syndrome and dementia. Patients with mild cognitive impairment are at higher risk of developing the chronic fatigue syndrome syndrome syndrome.
Unlike some other conditions with similar neurological abnormalities, dementia is not a separate syndrome. Rather, dementia is often associated with fatigue. This correlation has further confounded the medical research on chronic fatigue syndrome, giving rise to further confusion regarding the neuropathological basis of chronic fatigue syndrome.
Although chronic fatigue syndrome has not been recognized as a disease with a neurological cause, it may be a syndrome with a neurological symptom. That is, chronic fatigue syndrome may be caused by fatigue syndrome.
The good news is, researchers are able to identify patients who have neurological deficits. This highlights the urgent need for the medical community to continue to track these patients and determine if their symptoms are a result of chronic fatigue syndrome.
The role of fatigue as a major factor in the disease’s appearance cannot be ignored. Even though fatigue itself has become a symptom, its role in driving the disease remains unclear. Therefore, an investigation into fatigue-related dysfunctions is likely to be one of the main goals of future chronic fatigue syndrome research.
Whether fatigue, fatigue syndrome, or both, we are likely to uncover further links between the disease and a wide range of symptoms. And this may eventually lead us to a full-fledged understanding of chronic fatigue syndrome and a comprehensive treatment for this debilitating condition.
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How to reduce the chances of Bone cancer

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How to reduce the chances of Bone cancer

Cancer is any abnormal growth of the cells. Usually, this is caused by faulty genes. Several types of cancer are caused by genetic errors in the genes.

Cancer can develop in different organs of the human body, for example, the prostate in the male, breast in the female, liver in the male and skin in the female. In some cases, such as cancer of the bone, cancers develop because of mutations in the genes.

How To Reduce The Chances Of Bone Cancer
Symptoms

Often the first sign of cancer is a painless lump or swelling that develops in the bones. If you notice a lump, you should speak to your doctor. Sometimes, the lump may look like a fracture but is actually a separate tumour or cancer. Other times, a tumour may spread around the bones (metastasise), which can make the symptoms of bone cancer appear on other parts of the body.

While it is not known what causes bone cancer, some research shows that low vitamin D levels in the body may play a role. This is believed to be related to a vitamin D-dependent enzyme called methylmalonyl-CoA reductase.

Eating adequate vitamin D-rich foods such as cod liver oil, a dietary supplement, or vitamin D milk may help to prevent and reduce bone cancer risk.

However, evidence does not support the benefits of taking vitamin D supplements for reducing bone cancer risk. A vitamin D blood test may be the only reliable way to monitor a person’s vitamin D levels.It may be difficult to distinguish between bone cancer and other conditions such as osteoporosis, fractures, infection, or anaemia, when they occur at the same site

.If you think that you have an abnormal lesion on a bone, the cancer should be painless and larger than a quarter of an inch.nce, many cases of bone cancer are detected in people whose first sign of the disease is a painless lump in a bone, which can be an indicator of cancer that may spread.

How To Reduce The Chances Of Bone Cancer

If you notice an unexplained painless growth on a bone that appears to be located in the same area that is already known to be affected by bone cancer, this is an additional symptom to investigate.In some cases, bone cancer may spread from the original tumour to other bones and organs in the body.

For example, bone cancer in the femur, the upper thigh bone, may spread to the pelvis, or the spine.These bones are often the site of painless masses that are not otherwise suspicious. It is important that you are seen by a healthcare professional if you have a painful, hard mass or bump in one or more of these bones that does not resolve after a few weeks.

Other risk factors for bone cancer include:

  • smoking
  • lack of vitamin D
  • genetic conditions such as hereditary high-risk hypophosphatemia

Treatment

Treatment for bone cancer depends on the type and location of the cancer. Most bone cancers are treated with surgery, which involves removing the affected bone and cancer cells. This is a lengthy process, and people with bone cancer may require multiple rounds of chemotherapy or radiation.

People can benefit from pre-surgical treatment, such as targeted radiation therapy. In some cases, a person may need to have their entire femur and arm removed.

Alternative therapies

The American Cancer Society reports that there are no approved, prescription cancer treatments for bone cancer.

However, there is an emerging area of research that uses alternative therapies to treat bone cancer. Many of these alternative therapies work on the principle that cancers grow because of energy-consuming processes called mitochondrial dysfunction.

Several therapies for bone cancer are:

Acupuncture

How To Reduce The Chances Of Bone Cancer

Acupuncture is a common alternative therapy for pain relief, which may be an alternative treatment for bone cancer. Acupuncture is a common alternative therapy for pain relief, which may be an alternative treatment for bone cancer.

Acupuncture has been used for thousands of years to relieve pain and illness.

Several studies have shown that acupuncture may be a safe and effective treatment for cancer.

A 2018 review concluded that acupuncture was safe and provided a small benefit over other available therapies for people with newly diagnosed osteosarcoma and moderate-to-severe osteoporosis.

However, the review did not explore the benefits of acupuncture against common side effects, such as pain and bruising.

Biopsy

How To Reduce The Chances Of Bone Cancer

Bone cancer can be identified by a simple blood test. If a person suspects that their cancer is present, they may request a biopsy. A biopsy involves taking a small sample of the cancer tissue, usually through the surgical removal of a large bone fragment.

If a cancer is present in an area of bone that can be removed through surgery, a person should not undergo a biopsy. This is because the surgery may involve cutting into nearby blood vessels or nerves.

Vitamin D deficiency

People who do not have enough vitamin D may be at risk of developing cancer.

Vitamin D occurs naturally in a variety of foods, including:

  • cod liver oil
  • milk
  • eggs
  • chicken liver
  • egg yolks
  • sunlight
  • trucker’s latte

Breastfeeding

How To Reduce The Chances Of Bone Cancer

Breastfeeding may help a woman produce enough vitamin D during pregnancy and after childbirth. Breastfeeding is a natural way for a woman to help her body make vitamin D. Breastfeeding is also a good way for a woman to keep up her vitamin D levels if she is not getting enough during pregnancy or after giving birth.

Some benefits of breastfeeding include:

  • breastfeeding’s powerful immune-boosting effects
  • more regular nursing sessions
  • improved milk production
  • tighter postpartum elasticity
  • breastfeeding may help a woman produce enough vitamin D during pregnancy.

According to the NHS, 4 percent of U.K. women are deficient in vitamin D. This means that 1 in 20 women may not produce enough vitamin D during pregnancy, which increases their risk of developing bone cancer.

According to the American Cancer Society, breastfeeding may help a woman produce enough vitamin D during pregnancy. If a woman is breastfeeding and her vitamin D levels fall, the baby may continue to breastfeed to help increase their mother’s vitamin D levels.

Vitamin A

Vitamin A is necessary for healthy skin and eyes, and is also essential for bone and muscle development. A lack of vitamin A can lead to:

  • eye disease
  • thinning bones
  • red, yellow, or orange skin

In 2013, a report from the U.K. National Health Service stated that only 21 percent of the population in the U.K. had enough vitamin A in their diet.

People can get vitamin A from:

  • dark leafy vegetables
  • red meats
  • egg yolks
  • fortified orange juice
  • Milk
How To Reduce The Chances Of Bone Cancer

Milk contains vitamin D and calcium, as well as other nutrients. Many different milk products are fortified with vitamin D, such as:

One large egg can provide 18 to 35 micrograms (mcg) of vitamin D, the standard recommended intake.

According to the American Cancer Society, consuming more than 1 egg per day is not associated with a higher risk of developing bone cancer.

People can consume egg yolk, but be careful to avoid other additives, such as cholesterol. One large egg can provide 18 to 35 mcg of vitamin D, the standard recommended intake.

People should speak to a doctor before eating more than 18 to 35 mcg of vitamin D. According to Cancer Research U.K., this could increase the risk of stomach cancer.

Diseases & Conditions, Fitness, Trending

Foods to avoid with heart disease

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Foods to avoid with heart disease :

There are certain foods that you should definitely avoid when you’re having a heart attack.
These are foods that are high in fat, salt, cholesterol and trans fats, and should be avoided until you’ve had a chance to see your doctor and get the all-clear from your physician.

Fish – particularly oily fish, e.g. salmon, mackerel, herring, sardines
Many of the main dietary triggers for heart disease – high fat intake, high cholesterol, salt, and sugar – can also be a major risk factor for heart attacks. Eat foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as oily fish like salmon, mackerel, herring, sardines, and tuna, as well as oily fish eggs, such as herring, mackerel, and sardines. Limit your intake of canned fish, though, as they tend to have high levels of mercury.
Broccoli and cauliflower
The cruciferous vegetables are packed with phytochemicals that may be harmful to your heart. You should limit your intake of these cruciferous vegetables to twice a week. If you’re cooking broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage, steam rather than boil them, and add extra vinegar to your recipe.
Grains and rice
High intakes of refined grains and rice can be a major contributor to your high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes risk. Instead of white rice, have brown rice, quinoa, or buckwheat (einkorn) rice.
Incorporate plenty of fibre-rich vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, Brussels sprouts, and kale into your diet to help reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease.
Red wine
This goes without saying: it’s in the Bible – but while it’s nice to enjoy a drink in moderation, too much red wine is not good for your heart.
Women who drink red wine at least twice a week, or even more frequently, have twice the risk of developing heart disease as those who drink one glass or less.
Low-fat dairy
You’ve probably heard that eating a lot of fat is bad for your heart. But consuming too much fat is not the cause of heart disease, rather, it’s what you replace it with.
You want to replace saturated fat with monounsaturated fat. Monounsaturated fat is the same as polyunsaturated fat in your diet. It’s found in olive oil, avocados, sunflower seeds, nuts, and seeds.
Replacing saturated fats with monounsaturated fats can help lower your LDL cholesterol and improve your cardiovascular health.
Green tea
Some research has shown that green tea may help lower your risk of heart disease. But while it’s certainly possible, no definitive studies have been conducted to back up this claim. If you enjoy a cup of green tea in the morning, go for it, but don’t give it up completely just yet.

Except in rare cases, smoking is harmful to your heart. And, of course, not everyone who smokes has a heart attack, so the risk is highest in smokers. In many cases, smoking actually worsens your cardiovascular health.
Smoking causes heart disease, coronary heart disease, lung cancer, kidney disease and strokes.
If you want to reduce your risk of heart disease, quit smoking. Also, limit your alcohol intake – excessive alcohol consumption has been shown to increase your heart disease risk.

Clothes-munching and tight-fitting clothes
Excess belly fat can push your liver up to the abdominal area, which can cause your liver to become enlarged and put you at greater risk of developing fatty liver disease.
Your waist size can impact your risk of heart disease.
Seek the advice of a medical professional before altering your diet or the way you exercise in any way.

Eating too many saturated fats
If you want to be heart-healthy, you need to make sure you don’t eat too much saturated fat. The link between saturated fats and heart disease is well-known, and this is true for most of the fat that you eat – from animal products such as beef, lamb and pork, as well as cheese, butter, and full-fat dairy.
However, eating foods like nuts, seeds, and avocados can help you lose weight and feel more energized.
Avoid trans fats.
Eat more fruits and vegetables to get the most nutrients from your food.
Limit your intake of dairy products to three servings or less a week.
Paleo diet
Many people think that the Paleo diet is bad for the heart because it’s based on a diet that some have called the most restrictive, unhealthy diet of all time. However, the Paleo diet is not a diet at all, but a way of eating that can lead to healthy, long-lasting weight loss.
The Paleo diet uses protein and vegetables to replace the types of starches and foods that typically go into a person’s meal. Meat, fish, eggs and nuts are some examples of protein that the Paleo diet emphasizes. A person eating a Paleo diet may choose some dairy products as a comfort food.
You can follow the Paleo diet as long as you consume enough calories. Some popular Paleo diet foods include meat, fish, eggs, avocado, nuts, seeds, and vegetables.

Avoid grains, sugar, and legumes.
Know your cholesterol levels
The best way to prevent heart disease is to get your cholesterol levels checked regularly. When levels are high, it can mean a person has heart disease, so it’s important to know what yours are so you can get it checked out if needed.
It’s also important to be aware of your health risks for heart disease in other areas, like diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, and obesity.
Know the warning signs of a heart attack.
If you have any symptoms of a heart attack, call your doctor right away and make an appointment for them to take an initial evaluation.
When you do have a heart attack, it’s important to call 911 immediately. Notifying the emergency personnel of what’s happening will help save your life and reduce medical costs.

Dr. Kelly Arps, a professor and chair of pulmonary and critical care at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, said that while high-fat foods and sodas often go hand in hand with heart disease, the importance of these heart-healthy foods cannot be overlooked.

“It’s the sodium content that’s really the main culprit,” she told CBS News.

Glycemic index, which is based on the sugar level and shape of the carbohydrates in a food, also can be a problem, she said. “High-glycemic index carbs can spike blood sugar more than regular carbs, and this can contribute to your risk of diabetes.”

“Bad fats” such as hydrogenated oils, margarine, butter and lard should be eaten sparingly, as these oils increase cholesterol levels and overall risk of heart disease, according to the American Heart Association (AHA).

In general, “avoid eating things that have saturated fat,” said Arps.

Lard should be avoided if you’re at high risk for heart disease, as lard is more unhealthy than other saturated fats, according to the AHA. “Saturated fats don’t appear to raise the LDL (bad cholesterol) like other fats, so there’s less risk of heart disease for those individuals,” it says.

Saturated fat is found in animal products, including red meat, butter and other types of meat. You should limit consumption of these foods, according to the AHA, especially for those who have heart disease risk factors.

Sodium should also be avoided, as it can increase the risk of high blood pressure, Arps said. When cutting back on sodium, look for low-sodium varieties of meat, she said, as well as reduced-sodium versions of the pasta, bread and other grains you typically eat.

Foods with a high glycemic index, including grains, bread, and pasta, can lead to a blood sugar spike, and trigger insulin production, according to the AHA. Eating foods with high glycemic index can increase your blood sugar more than a regular meal, which can lead to inflammation and increases your risk of heart disease.

Fruits and vegetables, which have low glycemic index, have a “lower insulin response and less damage to your cells,” she said. They are also low in calories and a good source of fiber.

Research shows that people who eat a healthy diet tend to weigh less, exercise more, have lower levels of cholesterol and blood pressure, and lower risks of obesity and cardiovascular disease, according to the AHA.

More about the heart

The exact cause of heart disease is unknown, but factors like a poor diet, smoking, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, lack of physical activity, high blood sugar, and the use of certain medications are all thought to contribute to the risk of heart disease.

“Foods that are low in saturated fat and high glycemic index,” said Arps.

For these reasons, she recommended keeping blood sugar levels under control. One strategy to control high blood sugar is eating a low glycemic index diet,” she said.

It’s important to keep a food journal to check for trends over time, especially as you keep on making healthier lifestyle changes. “That way, if you start to feel like you’re going up and down, you know whether it’s because of changing your diet, or whether you’re not getting enough physical activity, or whether you’re not sleeping well. There are lots of reasons that one might feel like they’re on an up or down trajectory,” Arps said.

And don’t be intimidated by the number on the scale, she said. “If you can’t see it, that doesn’t mean you’re not losing weight.””

Most foods are in some way related to heart health, according to Arps. “You have to really look at the nutrition label. You have to look at all the different components, and then you have to assess whether the number on the label is going up, or down,” she said.

If you don’t see a change, “I’d definitely be a little bit more concerned,” she said. “But if you’re seeing an improvement, you can be really, really proud of yourself.”

Diseases & Conditions, Trending

How to relieve back and neck pain

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How to relieve back and neck pain : Back pain can be very painful, and so it’s important that you try some of the ideas listed below.

Make sure that you’re resting and exercising as needed. Try these painkillers before bed to help reduce the pain and swelling of muscles and joints.

Why is my back pain so bad?

Your posture is often to blame, especially if you spend your days sitting or working at a desk. Sitting in the same position for long periods can put a strain on your back, especially if you sit at a computer all day. Always try to stand up whenever you can, and stretch or walk around whenever you can.

No matter what kind of job you do, make sure you take regular breaks. Even if you’re a desk jockey, take at least 30-60 minutes out of every day for a walk or to stretch your legs.

Try and sit and stand with your feet wider than your hips to avoid leaning forward. Try to sit with your feet hip distance apart.

Don’t take painkillers that contain acetaminophen (aka paracetamol). This is because it can irritate your stomach lining, so try ibuprofen or aspirin instead.

To relieve inflammation, massage the back and stretch out your muscles. Massaging can increase blood flow, while stretching will increase flexibility and reduce pressure on the area. Try to always do these while on the toilet, as this makes them easier to do.

Find out about simple exercises you can do for a good back massage. You can do simple exercises for a back massage.

Frequently getting in and out of the bath or shower or lying down in one position can be very painful for your back, and it’s important that you gently use a walker or balance board to ease yourself in and out of the bath or shower.

Avoid bad posture. Keep your knees in close to your body, and lower your hips down as low as you can for the best hip alignment. If you’re lying down, make sure your head and shoulders are at a comfortable position to keep your back and neck from overexerting itself.

Seek out a chiropractor if the pain is not easing. You will usually need to visit your chiropractor for at least 6 months to a year for the best results.

Getting older

Getting older can also lead to back pain. So, it’s important to know the signs and symptoms of back pain and if you’re worried, speak to a doctor straight away. The NHS website has lots of useful information on this topic.

Painful or burning sensation

Walking pain

Hunched posture

Stiffness

Sensitivity to movement

Numbness

Backache can be difficult to treat, and often time is what is needed.

Back pain – 12 tips to beat back pain

Protect your spine

Drink lots of water

Do stretching exercises

Stretch after a meal

Use a walker or a balance board to get in and out of the bath

Try using massaging salts

Consider having a massage

Try a chiropractor

Tight underwear can put a strain on your spine. So, use looser-fitting underwear, especially if you’re sitting for long periods of time.

Most back pain is down to simple simple mistakes. So, it’s vital that you make sure you take extra care when lifting heavy items, especially if you do a lot of work with your back.

Know your limit

Spend less time hunched forward and more time back straight

Use the correct equipment

Take breaks if possible

Speak to a doctor

Avoid alcohol and drugs

Protect your back

Alcohol and drugs can only make back pain worse, so never take any if you have a backache. Try to avoid these as much as possible to reduce the pain.

Use pillows when sleeping to relieve back pain. You can use pillows to support your back, and if you’re feeling a lot of pain in the morning, try putting an ice pack on the lower part of your back and apply it with a hot water bottle.

Make sure that you’re getting enough rest at night to avoid sleeping on a sore back.

Try to sleep on your side if possible to prevent problems.

Talk to your GP

This section contains information on the types of pain that people should speak to their doctor about, and also gives the most common symptoms that they should seek medical attention for.

Know the symptoms of different types of back pain, and if you notice any symptoms, speak to a doctor. Here are some key symptoms to look out for.

Acute or sudden pain in one area

Pain or numbness in multiple areas

Numbness and weakness in your lower back

Nerve pain, especially in your buttocks or groin

Dizziness, vomiting, sweating, pain in your stomach

Fever, diarrhoea, and dizziness

Pain in the right side of your stomach

Shallow breathing, difficulty breathing and wheezing

Uncontrollable crying

Other

Guided massage: This is a painless treatment for back pain. It is a kind of massage therapy where a therapist gently, but consistently applies pressure. This helps to stretch your muscles and help the nerves and tissues in your back to relax. There are three types of pressure used in a GMS:

One of the first things a therapist will ask you is to indicate where you are having pain. Usually this is your sacrum (also known as your tail bone). A great sign that you are having back pain is if the pain is located on your right side.

The next thing that a therapist will ask you to do is to lie flat on your back, with your feet up. Make sure that your spine is flat and straight, and if it isn’t, you can make sure to fold your knees. If the pain is in your back, your legs should be parallel with the floor.

Massage therapists will then move down your spine and follow the spine with their hands. A good starting point for your massage therapy is in the lower back where the pain is.

Massage therapist then proceeds to move towards the upper back, following the spine all the way down to your shoulder blades.

Then the therapist will massage your shoulders and the muscles around your neck.

After you’ve finished the massage, the therapist will always ask you to stretch out your back. This is done to help your body release your tensions and relax.

If you wish to learn more about this treatment, speak to your GP. The cost for GMS varies, and it will depend on the type of treatment you are seeking.

Opt for Sauna bathing for back pain

Sauna baths or sauna rooms are good for pain relief as they heat the body up and speed up the recovery process, both for joints and muscles. However, these are good to try if you have severe pain, such as when you have a bad back or have been through an injury.

Avoid paracetamol

Painkillers are a common way to treat back pain and are usually available from your local pharmacy. They are important in treating acute pain, however, they can be harmful in the long run. They have to be used for a short time in most cases, because they can reduce the body’s ability to deal with future pain. This can result in more pain.

Therefore, taking painkillers such as paracetamol for long periods of time can cause withdrawal symptoms such as nausea, drowsiness, weight loss, and constipation.

Give acupuncture a try

If you are not comfortable with the idea of a sharp needle in your back, you can also try acupuncture. The first step in this therapy is to sit comfortably in a relaxing position. This will allow your body to relax and the needles to enter your body.

Once your needles are in place, you’ll be asked to lie down for about ten minutes. This is the point when the needles stimulate the acupuncture points, and this can help you to relax. You’ll also feel a mild sting at points on the needles, which is known as pricking, but this shouldn’t last too long.

Then the therapist will treat you by placing light hand pressure on points on your body. They’ll also use warm or cool fluids. Each individual treatment will last about 20-30 minutes.

Many patients report reduced pain and muscle soreness with this type of therapy. But, bear in mind that acupuncture isn’t a permanent solution. It’s a useful way to treat acute pain, and it should be used in the short-term for acute pain.