Health and Anne

2008-08-09T23:57:00.000-07:00

Dizziness: A Symptom, Not A Disease
Also known as vertigo, dizziness is described as having the sensation of spinning or whirling as a result of disturbance in one’s balance. It may be associated with lightheadedness, faintness, and unsteadiness. Subjective vertigo is the sensation of movement, while objective vertigo refers to one’s perception of movement in surrounding objects. The structures of the inner ear, vestibular nerve, brainstem, and cerebellum are the ones affected which causes dizziness. Read more about this article...

Understanding and Preventing a Migraine Attack
A recurrent headache that is disabling is migraine. It causes nausea and light sensitivity as well as sound sensitivity. There is also a type that is related to the hormonal changes brought about my menstruation. The common causes of migraine are caffeine, alcohol, medicines, lack of sleep, and environment. Read more about this article...

An Overview on Headache
Headache is that pain we feel--mild or sever--in one or more areas of the head, face, mouth, or neck. It can be chronic, recurrent, or occasional. Whenever we get a headache, it involves the nerve fiber network in the tissues, muscles, and blood vessels in our head and at the base of the skull. Read more about this article...

Treating A Stye The Safe Way
A stye, also known as a hordeolum, is basically something that looks like a pimple that appears on the eyelid. This is due to the infection of sebaceous glands in the eye. While this condition does not cause long-term damage, it does cause the sufferer a considerable amount of pain. If you have a stye right now, then pay special attention to it and learn how to treat it properly. Read more about this article...

Treatment Guide to Contact Dermatitis
Contact dermatitis is a skin condition that may look a simple rash, but is quite complex in terms of its causes. Usually, it is due to one's exposure to irritants and allergens that one's skin may react against. While treatment is simple enough, it does require one to know about the basic facts about contact dermatitis and how to prevent it. Read more about this article...

Living Well with Asthma
Approximately one in ten people have asthma. For most, the disease is mild, making them cough or short of breath once in a while. For others it is more severe, with sudden attacks that leave them gasping for breath. A good understanding of how it is the key to living a full life despite having asthma. Read more about this article...

2008-08-09T23:56:00.000-07:00

How About Ayurveda As A Herbal Treatment For Insomnia?
Insomnia might not be a deadly sickness but suffering from insomnia long-term could be serious enough to greatly decrease the quality of one's life. You could spend your nights just lying in bed hoping to fall asleep and find yourself in the mornings more tired than rested. Your concentration goes down when you're at work and you find that you're not able to do your best. Read more about this article...

Homeopathic Sleep Aids
When sleeping difficulties hit you hard, you will have to find a way to relieve yourself of it. When most would go for the conventional sleeping pills and other prescription drugs, some like it a bit more natural for a change. Such people see homeopathic sleep aids as the better alternative to a source of anxiety and irritation. These types of remedies bring benefits without the adverse side effects and are seen as not merely quick fixes, but as long-term cures. Read more about this article...

Sleep Apnea And The Power Of Tea
As with most cases of snoring, sleep apnea leaves sufferers unaware that they actually have it until someone actually tells them due to the fact that they're fast asleep whenever it happens. This condition can cause serious complications, including death as the worst case scenario. While there are the conventional methods for treatment, there are some alternative methods like relaxation techniques and tea. While most people wouldn't buy the idea immediately, there is no denying the relationship between sleep apnea and the power of tea. Read more about this article...

Alternative Therapies That Can Help With Sleep Apnea
As sleep disorders go, insomnia is probably the best known of all. Insomnia may have well earned its share of a bad reputation but there is another culprit out there, its less popular cousin sleep apnea. Sleep apnea is a medical condition wherein while asleep, you intermittently pause breathing. It may be diagnosed as the more common type - obstructive sleep apnea which means that the path of the airflow is being obstructed and thus not working properly. On the other hand, there is the more rare type of sleep apnea – central sleep apnea, this condition happens because there is a delay in the brain’s stimulation of breathing. Both types usually go unobserved and may only be noticed by a bedroom companion. Read more about this article...

Sleep Deprivation and Diabetes
Are you so busy with work that you regularly spend the whole of your nights awake trying to get that project finished on time? Well, you probably should think twice about trading these hours of sleep for work because you just might be giving away your health along with it. Sleep deprivation causes the body to lose its resistance to many diseases and prevents your body from recovering from the many stresses it faces. And according to a study, sleep deprivation and diabetes, which is a very deadly disease, go hand in hand. Read more about this article...

2008-08-09T23:55:00.000-07:00

Are Controller Medicines for Asthma Safe?
Asthma can be a debilitating condition for most people, especially those who lead an active life. This chronic respiratory ailment is not always easy to handle and requires a lifetime of treatment. A controller medicine is typically administered to the patient to help ease the inflammation present in the lung airways. However, a single dose of medicine won’t cure the condition. Asthma needs to be controlled, not merely through medication but also through lifestyle and the environment as well. Read more about this article...

Children Sleep Aids
When your child starts losing sleep because of something you can't really put your finger on, then remedies must be utilized to relieve them of their ailment. However, sleeping pills and other such medications aren't exactly made for children, so you will need alternatives that will work for them. Children sleep aids are all about natural methods that have been proven effective throughout time. Read more about this article...

Chamomile Tea as a Sleep Aid
Upon coming home from a hard day's work, you unwind and try to relax only to find out that you actually can't sleep. You do all you can, but to no avail as you toss and turn on your bed throughout the majority of the night. In this case, you may want to try chamomile tea as a sleep aid. Read more about this article...

Understanding and Preventing a Migraine Attack

2008-08-08T00:02:00.000-07:00

by Anne Rivera

A recurrent headache that is disabling is migraine. It causes nausea and light sensitivity as well as sound sensitivity. There is also a type that is related to the hormonal changes brought about my menstruation. The common causes of migraine are caffeine, alcohol, medicines, lack of sleep, and environment.

A migraine headache is one that is throbbing or pulsating, often felt on one side usually accompanied with nausea, vomiting, light-sound-smell sensitivity, sleep disturbance, and depression. Its attack is recurrent and usually as the person ages, the attacks become less severe.

Types

Specialists categorize this condition according to the symptoms. The one with aura, as the name suggests, is characterized by a neurological phenomenon that is felt 10 to 30 minutes prior the headache. The aura can be visual such as bright lights around objects, zigzag lines, wavy images, or hallucinations; or non-visual such as motor weakness, speech or language abnormalities, dizziness, vertigo, or numbness.

The most common type is the one without aura that is experienced on one or both sides of the head. This is usually accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and photophobia; and tiredness and mood changes often occur a day before.

There are less common types—abdominal (in children), basilar artery (in young people), carotidynia (in older people), headache-free (in those with history of with aura), ophthalmoplegic or ocular (involves the drooping of the eyes), and status migrainosus (a rare kind).

There is also a type that is related to hormonal changes and can be experienced by some women just prior to or during menstruation. Some experience it during pregnancy. And others develop it after menopause.

Incidence and Prevalence

In the United States, this condition afflicts about 30 million people and 75% of these sufferers are women. It usually occurs between the age of 10 and 40 and often diminishes by 50 years old. Some feel it several times a month, while others have it rarely.

Causes

Although they say that the cause of these migraines is unknown, studies have shown that there is correlation with family history, which suggests that the sufferers may have inherited the sensitivity to the triggers (or factors that have known to cause the attack). This sensitivity causes inflammation in the blood vessels and nerves around the brain and scalp, eventually causing pain.

Triggers

There are several factors that cause the reaction or onset of the headache. Among these are alcohol, environmental factors, exertion, caffeine, monosodium glutamate (preservative in Chinese food), nitrates (found in processed foods), glare, hormonal changes, hunger, lack of sleep, medications, perfume, and stress.

Treatment

The goals of migraine relief include symptomatic relief and preventing further episodes--that is, reducing the frequency and duration of the headaches. Using one medication or a combination of medications--beta-blockers, anti-seizure drugs, calcium channel blockers, etc.--is often given as prophylactic treatment.

Prevention

Lifestyle change is the main means to prevent an attack of migraine. Stress management techniques should be embraced alongside stress-reducing activities. Creating an environment that is calm and controlling other external factors may help to reduce the number of attacks.

Dizziness: A Symptom, Not A Disease

2008-08-05T23:58:00.000-07:00

by Anne Rivera

Also known as vertigo, dizziness is described as having the sensation of spinning or whirling as a result of disturbance in one’s balance. It may be associated with lightheadedness, faintness, and unsteadiness. Subjective vertigo is the sensation of movement, while objective vertigo refers to one’s perception of movement in surrounding objects. The structures of the inner ear, vestibular nerve, brainstem, and cerebellum are the ones affected which causes dizziness.

In the United States, 40% of people experience a dizzy spell at least once during their lifetime. Research has shown that the occurrence is slightly higher in women and it increases with age.

Symptoms and Causes

Some people have the feeling of being pulled down or sideways. And oftentimes, any change in position or movement of the head worsens the condition. Among the many accompanying symptoms of dizziness nausea, imbalance, lightheadedness, blurred vision, fatigue, sensitivity to lights and sounds, sweating are the more common.

Vertigo may indicate either a peripheral vestibular disorder or a central vestibular disorder. The former is usually associated with sudden onset of vertigo usually lasting a few seconds to a few minutes and are intermittent. The latter usually develops gradually.

Severe vertigo can hinder one’s day-to-day activities and as a result, it may eventually lead to irritability, poor self-esteem, depression, and potential injuries and falls--more so in people over the age of 65.

Dizziness causes have been linked to the following: inner ear infection, certain medications, environmental chemicals (lead, mercury, tin), certain antibiotics, and alcohol.

Diagnosis

Cardiovascular disease, stroke, hemorrhage, and tumor are some of the serious conditions that can be ruled out if a diagnosis of vertigo is made. During the check up, one should be able to have information on the triggers, other symptoms, the duration, and factors that improve or worsen the vertigo so that the physician will be able to get a clearer picture as to what you are experiencing.

What to expect are the following: physical examination; positional vertigo test to differentiate peripheral from central vestibular disorder; electronystagmography (ENG) that tests hearing, eye movement, and responses to positional and posture changes; blood tests that includes blood count, kidney and thyroid panels; imaging tests, either computed tomography (CT scan) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Treatment

Eliminating the underlying cause is the best treatment for vertigo. For instance, if you notice that a certain medication triggers it then try lowering the dosage or discontinuing it.

Vestibular rehabilitation treatment is achieved by performing exercises to improve balance and prevent falls. But this is dependent on certain factors such as the age of the patient, coordination and motor skills, overall health, and physical strength. Medication is another form of treatment such as the use of antibiotics to treat ear infections.

There are still studies being performed to determine the exact relation of the brain and the inner structures of the ear. The connection between dizziness, eye movements, and body position are under ongoing research so as to provide better methods of diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

An Overview on Headache

2008-08-01T23:55:00.000-07:00

by Anne Rivera

Headache is that pain we feel--mild or sever--in one or more areas of the head, face, mouth, or neck. It can be chronic, recurrent, or occasional. Whenever we get a headache, it involves the nerve fiber network in the tissues, muscles, and blood vessels in our head and at the base of the skull.

Over 45 million people in the United States are sufferers of chronic, recurring head pains; and 28 million of them experience migraine every year.

Types and Causes

The tension type is the most common one. It is classified under primary. Oftentimes they begin in middle age and are usually related to stress, anxiety, and depression that develop during this period. It can also be caused by muscular tension, vascular dilation, postural changes, coughing or sneezing, and fever. Certain conditions lead to this tension pain such as arthritis in the neck or spine, degenerative bone or disk disease in the neck or spine, and temporomanibular joint disorders.

Of all those who experience frequent head pains, 75% to 90% of them (more women than men) have the tension type and they are prevalent between the ages of 20 and 40.

The cluster type also under primary and is felt everyday and can last for weeks, sometimes even months. They are recurrent within the same season or in the next year. They may be caused by alcohol and certain drugs that dilate or constrict the blood vessels suggesting that changes in the walls of the blood vessels in the head may be the reason.

Migraine is another primary type of headache pain. It is a throbbing or pulsating, recurrent pain often felt on one side of the head that is associated with nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light, sound, or even smell.

Studies show that a low level of endorphin may cause recurrent head pain. Environmental factors also proved to be triggers such as heavy rain or snow, high temperature and humidity, and high winds.

The secondary type of head pain is related to underlying conditions brought about by head trauma, infection, tumor, diabetes, thyroid disease, and cerebrovascular disease. It can also be felt from any syndrome concerning the eyes, ears, neck, teeth, or sinuses. There have also been instances where head pain is felt as a side effect of medication.

Secondary head pain after a blow to the head that are severe and sudden causing debilitation should be consulted with a doctor immediately. More so if it disrupts normal activities or is experienced together with convulsion, disorientation, dizziness, unconsciousness, eye or ear pain, and fever.

Treatment and Prevention

To bring about headache relief, there are things to look into before assessing the treatment. These are the identifying which type of head pain, severity, and frequency. In most situations, a lifestyle change in terms of diet and sleep is sufficient in lowering the frequency and eventually making the pain disappear.

For the rest, either over-the-counter or prescription medicines are required to treat the headache or serve as prophylactic/preventive treatment.

Treating A Stye The Safe Way

2008-07-14T07:00:00.000-07:00

by Anne Rivera

A stye, also known as a hordeolum, is basically something that looks like a pimple that appears on the eyelid. This is due to the infection of sebaceous glands in the eye. While this condition does not cause long-term damage, it does cause the sufferer a considerable amount of pain. If you have a stye right now, then pay special attention to it and learn how to treat it properly.

Stye Causes

The infection is usually caused by Staphylococcus Aureus bacteria. This can happen to anyone of any age although it tends to be more prevalent amongst infants. Other causes can include stress, poor nutrition, and even the use of razor blades to shave hair near the eyes, which can spread staphylococcus. Also, it can be merely a secondary effect for other conditions, mainly blepharitis. This is not to be mistaken to be a blocked oil gland near the eye.

Stye Signs and Symptoms

Tenderness, pain, and redness are the first signs of a stye manifesting. Itching, swelling, watering of the eye, sensitivity to light, and discomfort while blinking will soon follow, and then a yellowish bump will become visible in most prominent cases. It can occur to any area on the eye.

Stye Remedies

Most styes would just drain itself in time, but it does take a bit of time. To hasten this healing process, a hot compress can be applied, as well pulling out the eyelash near the said stye. There is also a Polysporin topical ointment especially made for stye that can be applied at the affected area, but be careful to not have the cream get into the eye itself. As long as proper procedures are observed, styes can be treated successfully within a week. Sure, you can pop it since it is technically a pimple, but you might just bring more harm to yourself than good. Such procedures require professional expertise due to its proximity to the eye itself. Since it is an infection, touching it often is definitely not advised and should be avoided as much as possible. The discomfort can be tended to with a warm cloth.

Medical professionals would sometimes advice lancing a persistent or an especially irritating stye with a needle to drain it right away, although this is something of a last resort. The expansion of a stye can also be eliminated with erythromycin opthalmic ointment like Neosporin. Amoxicillin may be prescribed as well for a week to combat the infection

If that stye pops, then you must clean the wound to keep it from getting infected again. An antibacterial solution should be used for a stye that is already "ripe". Do not try to pop it yourself as it may cause even more pain and irritation.

During treatment of the stye, do not wear contact lenses as it may induce irritation and additional infection. Also, do not put eye make-up on or other such products as it may also trigger irritation. Keep the affected portion as clean as possible and keep applying a warm compress to reduce swelling.

Treatment Guide to Contact Dermatitis

2008-07-14T06:48:00.000-07:00

by Anne Rivera

Contact dermatitis is a skin condition that may look a simple rash, but is quite complex in terms of its causes. Usually, it is due to one's exposure to irritants and allergens that one's skin may react against. While treatment is simple enough, it does require one to know about the basic facts about contact dermatitis and how to prevent it.

Contact Dermatitis Causes

The condition is basically a localized rash on the skin that is caused by contact with a foreign substance. This only causes superficial irritation and does not go down deeper than the outer dermis and the epidermis, where inflammation is visible. Contact dermatitis will linger for days and will only go away after that certain period of time. That is only so if it is no longer coming in contact with that foreign substance that caused the irritation. This results in burning and itchy rashes that can be quite annoying over time. Chronic cases can occur when even not coming in contact with the irritant can make it disappear.

Types of Contact Dermatitis

There are five main types of contact dermatitis that people must be aware of.
Chemical irritant contact dermatitis are those caused by chemical substances that tend to be irritating to the skin, which include solvents like alcohol, xylene, turpentine, acetone, esters, ketones and so on, as well as kerosene, ethylene oxide and so on.

Physical irritant contact dermatitis is usually from certain physical actions like constant rubbing or scratching of a certain area, as well as friction from such things like paper, fiberglass, certain types of clothing, and so on. It can also be somehow caused by low humidity and certain plants.

Allergic contact dermatitis is due to an allergic reaction from certain substances deemed as allergens to a person. Common allergens linked with contact dermatitis include nickel, gold, Balsam of Peru, Thimerosal, Neomycin, Formaldehyde, certain fragrance mixes, and so on.
Photocontact dermatitis is from contact with allergens or irritants that are usually activated when exposed to sunlight. This type of contact dermatitis is also sometimes called photoaggrivated.

Symptoms of Contact Dermatitis

Red rashes, formation of blisters or wheals, and itchy burning skin are the most common signs of contact dermatitis. Usually, the immediate area and some surrounding patches of skin that have come in contact with the irritant are the only parts affected. Scratching, rubbing, and prolonged exposure to sunlight and chlorinated water can worsen the condition, so stay vigilant.

Contact Dermatitis Treatment

When it comes to treatment, early intervention is best. If you are aware of recent contact with an irritant, wash the area with soap and water to remove the substance. If ever it has already set in, a wash or dip in a weak acid solution can ease the itching. If blistering occurs, cold moist compresses administered for half an hour thrice a day can help. Calamine lotion, colloidal oatmeal, and oral antihistamines can help reduce itching as well. Of course, amidst all of these treatments, the best thing to do with contact dermatitis is to not scratch the area and aggravate the condition.

Contact Dermatitis Prevention

The principle of preventing contact dermatitis is simple, which is to identify the agent that triggers the irritation and avoid it as much as possible. Patch tests, also known as allergy testing, are helpful in finding out the culprit and knowing more about it. With sufficient information, you will know what it is, its names, where it is found, and how you can avoid it.

Living Well with Asthma

2008-06-25T20:15:00.000-07:00

by Anne Rivera

Approximately one in ten people have asthma. For most, the disease is mild, making them cough or short of breath once in a while. For others it is more severe, with sudden attacks that leave them gasping for breath. A good understanding of how it is the key to living a full life despite having asthma.

Learning more about your friend for life

Asthma is a permanent condition; its causes are both genetic and environmental. The possibility of developing the disease is greatest for children of asthmatics, but a small percentage are people with zero family history. There is no such thing as an asthma remedy, because there is no cure. The best way to handle asthma is to accept it as part of your life and institute an effective course of asthma treatment.

People with this disease experience symptoms because of an overzealous immune system. When you inhale a dangerous substance, the body reacts by producing mucus to trap the irritant. You cough to try to remove it, and your air passages close down to prevent more from getting in.

How to keep your friend from bothering you all the time

An overactive immune system will cause excessive airway narrowing, producing the wheezing and difficulty of breathing associated with attacks. If you think this is like an allergy, then you are absolutely correct. Both conditions are similar in root cause, and they often coexist, the resulting symptoms are just different.

Asthma treatment regimens therefore focus on preventing the onset of attacks. You cannot be completely cured of asthma, though some people have milder symptoms than others. Some people believe they have outgrown their childhood asthma, but this is not necessarily true. For some, the original diagnosis was wrong, but others may just be waiting for the right trigger.

A one-two punch for better living

In order to prevent attacks, two things are important. The first is to avoid conditions that trigger an attack. The second is an appropriate course of asthma control medicine. When both are optimally applied, you can lower the possibility of an asthma attack to nearly zero.

Finding out what triggers attacks requires presence of mind. When you, or your loved one starts feeling some symptoms, stop and take note of where you are. Common triggers of asthma include changes of temperature, dust, pollen, animal dander and chemicals. See if you can identify these around you. Additionally, certain foods potentiate asthma attacks in certain people. Attacks become more likely for some after eating peanuts or eggs or seafood. Know your triggers and learn to avoid them.

The right drugs to keep you happy

When an attack occurs, there is medication available to reverse the symptoms. These should always be available close at hand to prevent the symptoms from escalating. Asthma control medicine, on the other hand, is a daily regimen designed to prevent attacks from happening. This is especially important in people whose triggers are so common as to be impossible to avoid. Your primary care physician may be able to prescribe a suitable course of asthma therapy. In some cases, however, you may need to consult a specialist.

In addition to avoidance and treatment, a good overall health program has been shown to decrease the frequency of symptoms and help recovery. Asthma sufferers, like everyone else, need to exercise and eat well, and most especially stop smoking. Though asthma is something you can never get rid of, you can keep it from affecting you. So don’t wait, start living well with your asthma now.

How About Ayurveda As A Herbal Treatment For Insomnia?

2008-06-14T22:26:00.000-07:00

by Anne Rivera

Insomnia might not be a deadly sickness but suffering from insomnia long-term could be serious enough to greatly decrease the quality of one's life. You could spend your nights just lying in bed hoping to fall asleep and find yourself in the mornings more tired than rested. Your concentration goes down when you're at work and you find that you're not able to do your best. You can hardly enjoy the time you're spending with your family and friends as you would either be thinking about the struggle to come that night, or you find yourself unable to focus on what your loved ones are saying. That's why it is important to find a treatment for insomnia as soon as you've suffered from it several nights and you realize it's not going away. A strategy that has worked well for many people is to rely on Ayurveda as a herbal treatment for insomnia.

Why should we believe in Ayurveda?

There are indeed pills that doctors often prescribe that to help you get to sleep, but the question is, why rely on strange chemicals and pills when a very reliable natural method already exists? Ayurveda has existed already in India for five thousand years. Throughout that length of time, you could be sure that treatments for many sicknesses have already been perfected. The system for Ayurveda wouldn't last as long as it has if it was a system that didn't produce results, right?

How exactly does using Ayurveda as a herbal treatment for insomnia work? It has to do with how the method of Ayurveda sees the human body and nature itself. Everything in nature is made up of 5 elements. These are: Akash or Space, Prithvi or Earth, Agni or Fire, Vaayu or Air, and Jal or Water. These elements compose our bodies and the mixture of these elements determines the doshas, which regulate our bodies' functions. Because of imbalance in these doshas and toxins in our bodies, we develop such things as sicknesses. Therefore, it's up to the proper balancing of these doshas and the removal of the toxins that the sicknesses we have are alleviated.

The herbs used in these herbal treatments for insomnia include Ashwagandha, which is good for the mind, and Brahmi, more commonly known as Bacopa Monera, which is now also used in memory enhancing drugs. Because of the efficacy of the herbs used, pharmaceutical companies in the pills that they produce also use these same herbs. That's a testament to how much knowledge these Ayurveda specialists have, and how modern science actually adheres to these age-old beliefs.

Though Ayurveda as a herbal treatment for insomnia already works well, the efficacy of the treatments is further improved through the use of prescribed massages and breathing methods that the Ayurveda practitioners have developed. The massage makes use of an Ayurveda specialist's knowledge of the doshas to improve the balance of the human body. Truly, with the wide range of Ayurveda methods proven to be effective against insomnia, and with the increasing availability of these treatments even in Western society, it would really be worth it for someone suffering from insomnia or whatever afflictions to at least give these more natural methods a try.

Homeopathic Sleep Aids

2008-06-14T22:25:00.000-07:00

by Anne Rivera

When sleeping difficulties hit you hard, you will have to find a way to relieve yourself of it. When most would go for the conventional sleeping pills and other prescription drugs, some like it a bit more natural for a change. Such people see homeopathic sleep aids as the better alternative to a source of anxiety and irritation. These types of remedies bring benefits without the adverse side effects and are seen as not merely quick fixes, but as long-term cures.

Formal medical science doubts their effectiveness, but a lot of people say otherwise. These remedies have been around for most of human history and their benefits have been documented. These homeopathic sleep aids come in many forms and are not always taken orally. Some are in form of either topical application or just a medical technique. Numerous claims have been made to prove effectiveness of each treatment theory, but so far, a handful stand out. Here are some of them:

Hydrotherapy

This treatment aims to induce relaxation for the patient. A soak in a warm Epsom salt bath in 20 to 30 minutes can soothe muscles and nerves, subsequently promoting sleep. Soak nightly as needed. Acupuncture A traditional Chinese technique, acupuncture has surged in popularity in the recent decades. With the use of needles, an expert can stick them into pressure points to release endorphins, which can relieve pain, remove muscular tension, and soothe the patient. Regular sessions can help with sleeping problems.

Acupressure

If needles are too much to handle, then acupressure is an alternative that can be utilized. By pressing on the appropriate pressure points, endorphins can also be released, as well as massage the body. This relaxes the muscles and releases tension for the patient, helping him/her sleep better.

Herbal Remedies

A common option as a sleep aid, herbal remedies are sought after by multitudes of sleep-deprived people who are looking for a cure. Some good examples are chamomile, valerian root, hops, Californian poppy, rosebud, and many more. Some can be infused and brewed into tea, while others can be taken directly. Dosages are upon the patient’s discretion and moderation is advised.

Yoga

The ancient Hindu practice of yoga has taken the world by storm, helping millions to develop healthy habits and prolonging their life spans. Basically a set of stretches and breathing techniques to help soothe muscles and calm the mind, yoga can also help with sleep deprivation.

Meditation

One of the most well-known relaxation techniques in the world, meditation is seen as a practice that does best in calming one's mind. By meditating for at least half an hour everyday, one can ease tension and get rid of anxiety, which helps in promoting sleep, as well as improving concentration. It does take some getting used to, but it is absolutely worth it.

With these options amongst many others, one can put all reservations about homeopathic sleep aids to rest and take away the disadvantages of being sleep-deprived. These are best done together instead of just individually as their effects can collectively improve your chances in getting some sleep. As long as proper procedures are followed, then you will be sleeping in no time.

Sleep Apnea And The Power Of Tea

2008-06-14T22:21:00.000-07:00

by Anne Rivera

As with most cases of snoring, sleep apnea leaves sufferers unaware that they actually have it until someone actually tells them due to the fact that they're fast asleep whenever it happens. This condition can cause serious complications, including death as the worst case scenario. While there are the conventional methods for treatment, there are some alternative methods like relaxation techniques and tea. While most people wouldn't buy the idea immediately, there is no denying the relationship between sleep apnea and the power of tea.

Of course tea isn't really the ultimate panacea for sleep apnea and snoring since most teas contain caffeine, which isn't the best thing to ingest before bedtime. But there are certain tea varieties that help with relaxation and stress relief, thus promoting sleepiness. If you have less trouble with falling asleep, you can get more sleep, even if sleep apnea is present.

There are tea varieties out there that can serve as natural sleep aids. They aren't exactly the holy nectar from the gods, but given a few weeks to work their magic and your patience and diligence will be rewarded. Just make sure to visit your doctor as well to make sure. Here are some examples that show you the link between sleep apnea and the power of tea:

Chamomile Tea
This plant's sleep-promoting properties have become legendary in recent years. Many have endorsed the consumption of this brew due to the fact that it is actually quite effective in doing its job. It can be drunk directly before bedtime. Sugar can be replaced with all-natural honey for better taste and added health benefits. However, some people do have allergies to chamomile, so beware.

Valerian Tea
Another coveted ingredient, valerian root is mostly familiar for insomnia patients who look for homeopathic ways to cure their condition. Due to this, it can be consumed for sleep apnea as well. It may not taste like strawberries and candy-coated goodness, but it definitely is effective in calming one's nerves.

Hops Tea
Most people know hops as the bittering agent used in making beer. While its properties in bringing flavor to alcoholic beverages are legendary, it is a less-known fact that hops can also be used to make tea. This type of tea is good for relaxation. With an ounce of hops added to a pint of boiling water, the resulting brew can be consumed three times a day to bring in peaceful slumber.

Catnip Tea
While it makes most cats act weird, catnip is actually good for a good night's sleep. With a teaspoon of dried catnip to a cup of boiling water, you can drink your worries away right before bedtime.

Sleepytime Tea
If you are looking for a product that is guaranteed to soothe your tension and bring you to slumber, then Celestial Seasonings' Sleepytime Tea is just for you. With a mixture of chamomile, spearmint, and many other ingredients, it is a drink suited for people of all ages who need help in getting some sleep.

With these options, you can finally get a night of sleep without being bothered. This is something that you can try out for sleep apnea and the power of tea.

Alternative Therapies That Can Help With Sleep Apnea

2008-06-14T22:14:00.000-07:00

by Anne Rivera

As sleep disorders go, insomnia is probably the best known of all. Insomnia may have well earned its share of a bad reputation but there is another culprit out there, its less popular cousin sleep apnea. Sleep apnea is a medical condition wherein while asleep, you intermittently pause breathing. It may be diagnosed as the more common type - obstructive sleep apnea which means that the path of the airflow is being obstructed and thus not working properly. On the other hand, there is the more rare type of sleep apnea – central sleep apnea, this condition happens because there is a delay in the brain’s stimulation of breathing. Both types usually go unobserved and may only be noticed by a bedroom companion. There are conventional methods of treating like the use of drugs and surgery. However, medication is not highly advisable since some drugs have various negative side effects. There are alternative therapies that can help with sleep apnea that may complement your medication (if you choose to take it) or may stand alone as your sole form of treatment.

Not-So Unconventional Cures

There are certain changes in behavioral practices that you can do to help cure your sleep apnea. Since a significant percentage of sleep apnea’s victims are classified as obese, a healthy balance of eating right and losing weight is necessary. Those extra pounds may be constricting your airway and losing a seemingly insignificant 10 pounds can mean less snoring or sleepiness for you. A form of exercise that is really good for treating sleep apnea would be yoga. Yoga is ideal for weight loss, hitting two birds at once since it also includes proper breathing techniques into the routines. Losing weight also means that you should start watching what you eat so go for food low in fat and stay away from those sweets. The same goes for alcohol, nicotine, and other drugs. These have a negative impact on your body’s level of oxygen and therefore should be avoided like the plague. As far as sleeping habits go, do try to sleep on your sides as lying on your back may cause your tongue to block your airway and obstruct your breathing. As much as possible, do use those pillows on your bed, they’re not just for decoration. These alternative therapies that can help with sleep apnea may actually seem more like common sense practices than alternative ones but there are those who abide by it. The next section draws attention to some more interesting suggestions.

More Options You Can Choose From

There are more alternative therapies that can help with sleep apnea, some you might want to try out, and others you may not believe in. Before you reject these, continue reading on, you might just get swayed. First on the menu is an amino acid that helps increase the body’s serotonin levels. 5-HTP (5-Hydroxytryptophan) will help your body produce the right amount of serotonin it needs so that your breathing is not disturbed through the night. It is a natural supplement that is taken orally and may be bought without prescription. Another option you can choose is to go for flower therapy. The essence of vervain reportedly helps calm people and relaxes in a way that would eventually lead them to sleep better. Other herbal remedies of a more radical nature includes homeopathy which calls for a homeopath to prescribe a treatment coinciding with the patient’s personality. Homeopathic treatments include lachesis – usually prescribed to talkative patients who seemingly are afraid of sleeping, opium – best for those who give in to sleep during the day, and sambucus – for those who have asthma and feel suffocated at night. Acupuncture is also cited by some as a possible way to treat sleep apnea.

A Dosage of Concern

Although these suggestions may seem more appealing on account that they are for the most part, non-invasive and usually less expensive, you should still consult suspicions of sleep apnea with your physicians. The alternative therapies that can help with sleep apnea do work to a certain extent but its effectiveness does not come as readily as that of conventional medication. On the other hand, intake of doctor prescribed drugs is usually not without risks. So do yourself a favor and have a feel for what type of treatment works best for you while at the same time keeping an open mind. There are certain small changes you may affect in your life that can help you ease the symptoms of sleep apnea and hopefully cure it in the long run.

Sleep Deprivation and Diabetes

2008-06-14T05:41:00.000-07:00

by Anne Rivera

Are you so busy with work that you regularly spend the whole of your nights awake trying to get that project finished on time? Well, you probably should think twice about trading these hours of sleep for work because you just might be giving away your health along with it. Sleep deprivation causes the body to lose its resistance to many diseases and prevents your body from recovering from the many stresses it faces. And according to a study, sleep deprivation and diabetes, which is a very deadly disease, go hand in hand.

A research was conducted to see how sleep deprivation and diabetes might be related. The scientists tested for the effects of sleep deprivation to the body's ability to deal with the glucose or sugar that it takes in. The results have shown that a lack of sleep causes a person's body to be more tolerant to insulin. Insulin is the substance that the body produces to bring down its blood sugar levels and thus, with a higher tolerance to insulin, blood sugar would be much higher than normal, thus, the body has to release more insulin to regulate the blood sugar. However the body does not compensate for this need for added insulin so the extra sugar is not processed by the body well. This sugar is then turned into excess fat by the body.

The bad effects of having the levels of blood sugar caused by sleep deprivation would be comparable to your body being twenty or thirty pounds overweight. Think about it; you might be in your ideal weight and you might exercise often but due to a regular lack of sleep, you're just as healthy as someone with thirty pounds more fat than you. And all that can easily be avoided by giving yourself just enough time to rest every night.

Abnormal levels of high blood sugar can cause a person to develop type two diabetes, a leading cause of death in many countries. Diabetes leads to a lot of other sicknesses like heart disease, mental problems and complications in many of the other organs of the body. Another common symptom of diabetes is blurriness of vision. In time, if the diabetes progresses, extreme retinal damage could be the result and this leads to blindness.

Scientists have also found out that it is not just the amount of sleep deprived that can lead to diabetes. Deprivation in the quality of one's sleep also has the effect of making the body more tolerant to insulin. In experiments, they introduced some sounds into the test subjects' sleeping environment while these subjects were in the middle of sleep. They found out that these subjects ended up not processing their blood sugar as well as they usually could.

The result of these studies is clear: sleep deprivation and diabetes are very much related to each other. That is why it pays to properly prioritize the rest you are supposed to be getting every night. With such a simple things as making your sleep environment as comfortable as possible and scheduling your work so as not to interfere with sleep, you could be defending yourself from a very dangerous disease.

Are Controller Medicines for Asthma Safe?

2008-06-08T02:34:00.000-07:00

by Anne Rivera (also published in Ezine)

Asthma can be a debilitating condition for most people, especially those who lead an active life. This chronic respiratory ailment is not always easy to handle and requires a lifetime of treatment. A controller medicine is typically administered to the patient to help ease the inflammation present in the lung airways. However, a single dose of medicine won’t cure the condition. Asthma needs to be controlled, not merely through medication but also through lifestyle and the environment as well.

Symptoms, Signs, and Trigger Factors

One of the most common signs and symptoms of this respiratory ailment is excessive coughing and wheezing. This is caused by the fact that the lung air passages are swollen and that there is an excessive build-up of mucus in the lungs. When you have this impairment you will discover that you feel more lethargic than usual especially in between bouts of attacks.

Asthma attacks normally vary in intensity and frequency, and can be triggered by fatigue, allergens, pollution, and even emotional stress. Irritants like perfume, detergent, dust, and pollen all contribute to the onset of an episode. Chest pain and dizziness also accompany an asthmatic attack, and even unconsciousness in the most severe of cases. Regular maintenance of a controller medicine will help prevent such dire occurrences.

If you are afflicted with asthma, life can be challenging. It is important that you never leave home without your medications, especially the quick-relief types. This ailment can disrupt your professional and social life. Being assailed by irrepressible coughs in the middle of a corporate meeting or when you’re hosting an important meeting with a valued client is very uncomfortable and embarrassing.

An asthmatic affliction can also be induced by excessive heat and sweating. This makes working out or enjoying sports activities a great challenge. If you are someone who loves the outdoors, having this respiratory ailment will require a good extent of self-discipline. You must be wary therefore of exerting too much physical effort. Moreover, lack of sufficient rest and fatigue can also lead to unexpected attacks. People with asthma must realize that with their present condition, excesses are definitely not encouraged.

Successful Asthma Control

Asthma can be relieved by a quick relief medicine or a controller medicine. The difference between the two is that while quick relief medications provide instantaneous but short-lived relief, controller medications are used to control the ailment over a longer period of time. Therefore, it is important for this type of medication to be taken on a regular basis. Some of the examples of controller medicines are inhaled corticosteroids, Nedocromil, and Serevent.

This chronic lung condition may not be cured totally, however with the help of modern medicine, it can be controlled effectively. You may be advised by you physician to take medications everyday to prevent unwarranted attacks from disrupting your daily activities. Controller medicine is safe to use even on a daily basis. It does not contain addictive substances which may lead a patient to get hooked after prolonged use.

Understanding Your Asthma

If you want to control your asthma, you have to understand its causes, symptoms, risk factors, and the right medication. Taking a controller medicine for your condition will be relatively useless if you don’t take an active participation in controlling its symptoms. Make sure that you keep away from the trigger factors as much as you can. It is essential that you maintain a clean and dust-free environment. Avoid the inhalation of harsh perfumes and chemicals. Take the right medications with you whenever you leave home.

If you want long term reprieve from this respiratory ailment, consult your doctor about the right controller medicine for you. Air pollutants can trigger attacks anytime and anywhere. With the right attitude and self-discipline, there is no reason why you cannot stay in control. Asthma can be debilitating, but it does not have to keep you from getting the best out of life.

Children Sleep Aids

2008-06-07T06:46:00.000-07:00

by AnneRivera (also published in Ezine)

When your child starts losing sleep because of something you can't really put your finger on, then remedies must be utilized to relieve them of their ailment. However, sleeping pills and other such medications aren't exactly made for children, so you will need alternatives that will work for them. Children sleep aids are all about natural methods that have been proven effective throughout time.

Children sleep aids aren't rocket science and shouldn't be treated as such. They are simply ways to raise your children in the best way you can by letting them get adequate amounts of sleep during their developing years. Here are the most effective methods known so far:

Bedtime Routine

The most important factor to sleep for a child is a bedtime routine. This is something that must never be neglected for the effects of doing otherwise can be observed immediately. A child's body is not prepared to take the abuse of sleep deprivation, so it is important that a set bedtime is ingrained into him/her. This will help prevent any bouts of sleeping difficulties in the future.

Milk

Certain things may have to be done like having the child drink a warm glass of milk for him/her to sleep better. Making the child comfortable before sleep is crucial, and warm milk has been proven to soothe a kid's nerves, making him/her relax and fall asleep faster.

Nightlight

Some children can't sleep if there isn't any light on as it disorients them and gets them too scared to even think about sleep. With that, a good nightlight is a good investment for your child. While most models will do, some expensive ones have music players included to lull your child to sleep.

Thumb Sucking

This behavior is mostly acceptable as it comforts the child while sleeping. However, it can lead to dental problems as the child grows up, so it may not be as good in the long run. Thumb sucking is usually a way for infants and toddlers to soothe him/herself, so as long as the behavior is moderated, then it shouldn't be too much of a problem.

No Medicine

A child's body is not developed enough to receive the chemical torture of taking medicine, so avoid sleeping medications. It is absolutely not good and can potentially harm the child. Also make sure that the kid has no access to such medications so there won't be any accidents.

Comfort

As parents, it is your job to make sure that your child is as comfortable as possible before going to sleep. If he/she feels tense or scared, you can hug and cuddle to ease the stress. With love and compassion that only a parent can give, you are making sure that your child can sleep tight.

These are a few children sleep aids available at your disposal. By using what is available, parents can rest easy after tucking their kids to bed. Sleep is something that is absolutely crucial to a child's growth, so it must never be neglected and requires specific attention.

Chamomile Tea as a Sleep Aid

2008-06-07T05:27:00.000-07:00

by Anne Rivera (also published in Ezine)

Upon coming home from a hard day's work, you unwind and try to relax only to find out that you actually can't sleep. You do all you can, but to no avail as you toss and turn on your bed throughout the majority of the night. In this case, you may want to try chamomile tea as a sleep aid.

Chamomile is an annual plant belonging to the sunflower family Asteraceae. It grows mostly in Europe and temperate Asia and has been introduced to temperate regions in America and Australia. Its seeds require open soil to grow and survive, it is usually found near roads and landfills, posing as a weed. Its other names include Wild Chamomile, Hungarian Chamomile, and Scented Mayweed. The stem is erect and smooth and grows up to fifteen to sixty centimeters. Its long and narrow leaves are either bipinnate or tripinnate.

The word chamomile comes from the Greek word chamomelon - "earth-apple", from chamai - "on the ground", and from melon - "apple". This is because of the plant's scent, which is akin to that of apples. Its flowers bloom in early to mid summer.

However, its long-reputed effectiveness in promoting sleep has been debated in the scientific community. Despite the dissent, chamomile is definitely among the top five choices of remedies for sleep difficulties. Its effects are anecdotally popular and there have been nearly no reports of adverse side effects. While it may have medicinal properties, it can also be reputed to placebo effect. As it is taken as a tea, it may have promoted relaxation and ease of tension more because of its preparation.

If you do give chamomile tea a try, then it is best to prepare it as a tea that is to be taken at half an hour to an hour before bedtime. This, along with other preparations, will bring you eventually to sleep. Measures like taking away distractions and stimulators such as the television and other people, as well as doing whatever is possible to relax can help maximize the effect of chamomile tea as a sleep aid.

Chamomile tea has been shown to work as a depressant that can soothe one's nerves and bring in relaxation, which can lead to sleep. As most people in the work force are fueled by caffeine and stress, chamomile can alleviate the gradual deconstruction of one's digestive system due to caffeine, which usually leads to stomach upsets at nighttime when in a reclining position.

Chamomile's possible side effects relates to it being a relative of ragweed, which means that it can cause allergies in individuals with ragweed allergies. It is also a coumarin and should be avoided by those who are currently taking blood thinners. Also, in extremely rare cases, very large doses can lead to nausea and vomiting. However, moderation can keep these things from happening.

It can be said that chamomile tea as a sleep aid may not be the total cure, but it is an invaluable option for curing insomnia and relieving stress. As long as it is taken in moderation, then it can work its magic.