When a man experiences inflammation of either one or both of his testicles, he is likely experiencing orchitis. Often, this is a problem associated with the same virus that is known to cause mumps. It is a common problem among males who have contracted the mumps, targeting a full third of them after puberty.

It is possible for other triggers to be responsible for causing orchitis, and it is possible for them to be bacterial, such as the presence of sexually transmitted diseases, or STDs. Some sexually transmitted diseases that may be to blame for orchitis include chlamydia or gonorrhea. More often than not, bacterial orchitis is the end result of the inflammation of the epididymis, which is the coiled tube, which is located behind the testicles and stores and transmits sperm. This is known as epididymitis, and when the orchitis is due to this, it is known as epididymo-orchitis.

Symptoms

The most common signs and symptoms of orchitis are swelling and pain. The symptoms for this condition usually are sudden to develop. Some of the symptoms might include:

• Testicular swelling, either on one or both sides
• Tenderness in either one or both testicles this may last for weeks
• Mild to severe pain
• Nausea
• Fever
• Discharge from the penis
• Blood in the ejaculate
• Not having been immunized against the mumps
• Being over the age of 45

Additional Symptoms Include

• Having had several urinary tract infections
• Having been born with a congenital abnormality within the urinary tract and
• Having had surgery that involved the urinary tract or the genitals, due to the risk of infection.

Things to Avoid:

• Several sexual partners
• Sexual encounters without a condom
• Sexual encounters with an infected partner or

Prepping for a Doctor’s Visit

• Write down every symptom that is being experienced, even if there does not appear to be any direct correlation between them and the orchitis.
• Write down any childhood illnesses and all vaccinations.
• Write down whether there have been any recent life changes or certain major stresses in life.
• List all medications, even supplements and vitamins, that are being taken.
• Take a family member to help soak in the information so that no piece of information is left missed or forgotten.

Questions to Ask Yourself

• What is likely the source of the pain?
• What are some other likely causes for this condition?
• What kind of tests will need to be performed?
• Is the orchitis likely to turn chronic?
• What is the best way to handle this?
• How can this be managed with other present conditions?
• Should a specialist be seen?
• Does the prescribed medicine have a generic alternative?
• Do not hesitate to ask any question that may arise throughout the duration of the appointment, such as clarifying certain points.

Questions a Doctor Might Ask

• When did the orchitis begin?
• How severe is the pain?
• What seems to improve the orchitis?
• What seems to worsen the orchitis?
• Any previous sexually transmitted diseases?
• Have the mumps ever been contracted or has there been a mumps vaccine? When?
• Is a condom always worn?

Sometimes, the terms “groin pain” and “testicle pain” are incorrectly interchanged with one another. However, the groin is located at the fold of skin between the abdomen and the thigh, and these are clearly not the testicles. Groin pain causes are different than that which are responsible for testicle pain.

When to See a Doctor

If there is any swelling or pain in the scrotum, especially if the development of the pain is very sudden, see the doctor for an appointment immediately.

There are several conditions that are known to cause pain in the testicles, and some of them do require immediate medical treatment. One example condition would be testicular torsion, in which the spermatic cord has been twisted, and this can cause a pain that feels similar to the one that is caused by orchitis. There are some tests that the doctor can conduct in order to figure out which specific condition is causing the pain in the testicles.

Causes

Orchitis may either be bacterial or viral.

Bacterial Orchitis

More often than not, when bacterial orchitis occurs, it occurs as a result of epididymitis, which is when the coiled tube connecting the testicle to the vas deferens becomes inflamed. The vas deferens is the part that is responsible for carrying the sperm from the testicles. When inflammation the inflammation present in the epididymis spreads all the way to the testicle, the condition that results from the occurrence is called epididymo-orchitis.

More often than not, a case of epididymitis is due to a man having an infection in his bladder or urethra, which ends up spreading out to the epididymis. The most common cause of this kind of infection is due to a sexually transmitted disease, or STD, and the specific disease is usually chlamydia or gonorrhea. There are other possible causes, include those that are in relation to having been born with some abnormalities of the urinary tract, or having had medical instruments or a catheter inserted into the penis.

Viral Orchitis

More often than not, viral orchitis is due to having had the mumps. One out of every three men who have ever had the mumps after puberty end up developing orchitis while they are still infected with the mumps, and this usually occurs within a week after it begins.

Risk Factors

There are several different factors that are thought to contribute to the development of non-sexually transmitted orchitis, such as:

When engaging in high risk sexual behavior, a man may get STDs that also increases the risk of developing sexually transmitted orchitis. Such behaviors include having:

Preparing for an Appointment with the Doctor

Most men will first start by visiting the general practitioner or a family doctor. However, sometimes, when calling up to make an appointment, he may find himself being referred immediately to another doctor whose specialties lie within urinary issues, or a urologist.

In order to get all of the information that is necessary from a doctor, it is helpful to be fully prepared for the appointment.

What Can Be Done

When calling to make the appointment, make sure to ask about whether or not there are any pre-appointment restrictions or if there is anything that might need to be done in advance, such as restricting parts of a diet.

Write down important questions to ask.

Time with the doctor is limited, and preparing questions ahead of time makes the process go quicker. In case time runs out, it is recommended to list the questions from most important to those that are not as important. With orchitis, some of the questions that might want to be asked include:

What to Expect from the Doctor

The doctor will probably have a list of questions to ask as well, so it is recommended to be prepared to answer them so that more time can be reserved for other parts of the appointment. Some questions that the doctor may ask may include:

Tests and Diagnosis

The doctor will probably perform a physical examination to see whether or not there are any swollen lymph nodes in the groin or if the affected testicle is swollen. Both of these parts might be tender when touched. It is also possible that the doctor may wish to perform a rectal examination in order to check whether or not the prostate is enlarged or tender or to perform urine and blood tests to check for infection.

There may be other tests to determine if there is a sexually transmitted disease present and in order to tell whether testicular torsion has occurred, because this requires prompt and immediate treatment. Tests may include:

STD screening, which requires that the discharge from the urethra is obtained. To this, the doctor may need to insert a narrow swab into the head of the penis so that a sample may be obtained. The sample will be looked at beneath a microscope or it might be cultured to check for chlamydia or gonorrhea.

Urinalysis. Either collected at home during the morning or at the office, a sample of urine will be taken and sent off to a lab to see if any abnormalities exist in the concentration, appearance or content.

Ultrasound imaging. This makes use of high frequency sound waves that are able to create exact images of the structures found inside the body, and this is done in order to rule out the possibility of testicular torsion.

Treatments and Drugs

The necessary treatment for orchitis is dependent on what its cause is.

Treating Viral Orchitis

The actual treatment involved in handling viral orchitis, which is the kind that is related to the mumps, is to handle symptom relief. The doctor may prescribe pain medication or naproxen, as well as bed rest, which would require elevating the scrotum and also applying cold packs.

Treating Bacterial Orchitis

Aside from the steps required in order to relieve discomfort from the condition, treating epididymo-orchitis and bacterial orchitis will require antibiotics. The sexual partner will also require treatment if the cause is due to a sexually transmitted disease.

The antibiotics that are usually used in order to treat this kind of orchitis include doxycycline (Vibramycin, Doryx), azithromycin (Zithromax), ceftriaxone (Rocephin), trimethoprim and sulfamethoxazole combined (Bactrim, Septra), as well as ciprofloxacin (Cipro). Make sure the doctor knows what kind of medications are already being taken, in addition to any allergies. This information along with what kind of sexually transmitted disease is present and whether or not it is causing the orchitis will allow the doctor to find the best treatment option.

Ensure the infection is gone by taking the whole round of antibiotics as recommended, even if the symptoms should disappear before then.

Lifestyle, Home Remedies and Prevention

To relieve some discomfort try to lay in bed in a way that elevates the scrotum. If necessary, apply cold packs to the scrotum as well. Engage in safer sex, such as having a single sexual partner and using a condom this is very helpful towards protecting against sexually transmitted diseases.

Skin Blemishes

Acne is a common skin problem that develops as a result of a hormonal imbalance. Most individuals develop acne during adolescence. Adolescents most often experience acne during puberty when their bodies begin to change into adults. However, other age groups are also affected. Individuals may also suffer from baby acne and adult acne, as well.

People with oily skin are more apt to develop acne because the pores become clogged with oil, hair or dead skin. When the skin excretes excess oil known as sebum, it may cause a bacterial infection. Sebum is an oily, waxy type substance that is excreted from the sebaceous glands of the skin. Sebum is also responsible for promoting soft, moist and pliable skin. This infection prompts the skin to become inflamed and the acne forms from the inflammation.

Blemish Characteristics

In normal skin, dead cells shed periodically to make room for new cells to form. Some people shed cells rapidly and evenly, other individuals do not. If this process does not happen naturally, some individuals may need an exfoliant to accelerate the process. The process of removing dead cells is often referred to as sloughing.

When the cells do not shed evenly, the dead cells stick together and form a plug. The plug may trap the oil in the skin and keep bacteria lodged in the hair follicle.

The trapped oil will form a lump and sometimes fill with pus. Pus appears when the body’s defense system sends white blood cells to attack the bacteria lodged in the hair follicle. The pimple formation process occurs over the course of 2 to 3 weeks.

Acne problems may afflict all body parts, such as neck, back, shoulders, chest, arms, or most commonly, the face. If the problem is unmanageable with home remedies, many people need to seek the assistance of a dermatologist. The dermatologist may prescribe topical gels or oral medication.

Alternative Names

Acne has many common and medical names associated with the condition. Several of the terms used to describe acne are listed below:

• Acne Vulgaris
• Pimples
• Zits
• Blemishes
• Whiteheads
• Blackheads

Despite what acne is called, it can become an embarrassing problem. Most individuals who have only a few pimples desire to be free of them immediately. The common condition is called “mild acne,” when there are a few pimples present on the body. “Severe acne” describes a major outbreak of 100 pimples or more and could affect any part of the body. When the pimples are red, painful, solid, or larger, they are referred to as zits.

Symptoms

Acne symptoms vary depending upon the condition. There are several types of acne that will be discussed. Each type is listed below:

Acne Vulgaris

This is the most common type of acne. This is the general term used to refer to acne. This term describes acne that is of different shapes, colors, and sizes. This type of acne may be large and deep set. Acne vulgaris may also be painful and inflamed. Scars or cysts may form on the face if not cared for properly. The hair follicle may become clogged and form acne vulgaris. When the pore is clogged, white pus will form inside the raised bump on the skin.

Papules

The papule is red and inflamed. There is no clear head associated with this particular type of acne. The acne is usually small, pink, and tender to the touch. Experts advise papule sufferers not to squeeze them as it exacerbates the problem.

Pustules or Pimples

Pustules usually possess a white or yellow pus filled head with a red circular base. The area is inflamed. Squeezing this type of pimple is often prescribed. Pimples are very similar to whiteheads.

Cysts

Cysts are pus-filled acne that look similar to a nodule in appearance. The cyst may be very painful. However, squeezing the cyst may cause an even greater infection. Experts advise patients not to aggravate a cyst.

Nodules

Nodules are large acne spots that are often painful. Most of the inflammation occurs under the skin. The nodule is hard to the touch. Dermatologists advise patients not to squeeze the nodule.

Whiteheads

Whiteheads occur when a pore becomes blocked by sebum, bacteria, dead skin or hair. When a whitehead forms, the pore is completely blocked with one of the aforementioned. The raised portion will appear white on the surface. Whiteheads typically disappear faster than blackheads.

Blackheads

Blackheads develop when the pore is partially blocked. The blockage may be a result of bacteria, sebum, or dead skin cells. The skin’s pigment or melanin is what causes the blackhead to become black in color. The black color is a result of oxidized keratin.

Causes

• Acne begins to form when oil, dead skin, or hair clogs the skin’s pores. If an infection forms, redness and pus will develop.
• Imbalanced hormones are a primary cause of acne or pimples. Adolescents entering puberty have a hormonal imbalance. The imbalance increases the likelihood that acne will develop.
• Chocolate or greasy foods in moderation will not promote acne. However, an imbalanced diet will exacerbate the situation. Excessive fried food, junk food and saturated food may promote acne if consumed in excess.
• Food with a high glycemic index, such as carbohydrates may promote acne development. Chocolate has a low glycemic index and may not contribute to the formation of acne.
• Individuals with low levels of Vitamin A are more prone to acne than those with high levels of Vitamin A.
• Acne is suspected to be genetic. If a parent has severe acne, the offspring will most likely develop acne as well.
• Females may develop acne before, after, and during their menstrual cycle due to hormonal imbalance.
• Non-comedogenic cosmetics are recommended to reduce the chances of acne break outs. Some cosmetics will clog pores and cause acne.
• Some abrasive exfoliants may cause pimples to form.
• Oily skinned individuals who use oily moisturizers may be exacerbating their skin condition.
• Stress causes imbalances that may trigger a hormonal imbalance. This may cause the skin to break out and develop more pimples.
• Lack of proper hygiene may cause acne to develop.
• Touching the face with dirty hands may cause acne to develop.

Risk Factors

People with acne often suffer from embarrassment due to their condition. The condition may limit one’s social life and cause severe anxiety. The psychological aspect of the disease is often debilitating to those who suffer from it. The condition is not life threatening. However, if acne spreads to undesirable places on the body, such as the face, neck or torso, the individual will be less likely to engage in social gatherings.

Prevention Tips

Because acne is an embarrassing condition, the condition should be treated promptly to avoid social withdrawal that often accompanies the disease. In order to prevent acne, dermatologists recommend nutritional balance and proper skin care. Listed below are tips that will help to prevent acne:

• Moisturize on a daily basis, but only if skin is rough after washing.
• Use an astringent to remove excess oil.
• Water-based products are recommended. These products are preferred to oil-based and petroleum products.
• If your skin is oily apply a honey mask once per week to remove excess oils. Honey is also a disinfectant and will heal minor blemishes. It will also destroy bacteria present on the skin.
• Wash the face twice per day with a sulfer-based soap. Smoothly remove the dead skin. Do not scrub.
• Long hair may contribute to acne. Some experts will advise individuals to cut their hair short. The hair contains oil and the dust particles from the hair may get on the face and exacerbate the condition.
• Wash the hair frequently to avoid breakouts.
• Skin needs nutrition also. Take a multi-vitamin daily.
• Chromium supplements heal the skin quickly. Take chromium daily.
• Vitamin A reduces sebum production. This vitamin will also protect the skin and prevent acne.
• Drink 8 glasses of water each daily. Water clears the body of toxins and hydrates the skin.
• Remove makeup before going to bed. Those who desire to wear makeup should use mineral-based or water-based makeup.
• Some experts advise not to wear cold creams or lotions to bed. However, this is only advisable if the person has oily skin.

Test and Diagnosis Considerations

Dermatologists will diagnose acne through a visual evaluation, typically. The physician will examine the patient for the amount of inflammation present, the location of the acne, and the severity of the acne.

Most dermatologists classify the acne according to the following grades:

• Grade I

  Grade I acne is a mild form of acne which will usually consist of blackheads, whiteheads or milia. Minor pimples may also be considered as Grade I acne. There is very little inflammation associated with this type of acne. Most Grade I acne can be treated with over-the-counter medication.

• Grade II

  Grade II acne is a moderate form of acne. This level of breakout will consist of a greater number of blackheads and whiteheads. Papules and pustules are present more frequently with this type of acne. While Grade II acne is treatable with over-the-counter medications, it is advisable to seek the help of a physician if the situation has not improved in 6 to 8 weeks.

• Grade III

  Grade III acne describes moderate to severe acne. More inflammation and redness are present in Grade III acne. Additionally, the number of papules and pustules will be greater in number. Nodules may also be present with this type of acne. When diagnosed with this type of acne, a dermatologist will recommend a treatment or regimen to alleviate the problem.

• Grade IV

  Grade IV describes the most severe form of acne. This type of acne may also be referred to as cystic acne. The skin will be consumed by pustules, nodules, blackheads, whiteheads and cysts. The inflammation is the most pronounced in this form of acne development. Most often the acne appears not only in the face, but other parts of the body as well. This severe form of acne must be treated by a dermatologist for favorable results.

Some conditions may look remarkably similar to acne, but will be diagnosed as a different condition. Patients should be aware of these conditions. The treatments will differ dramatically. Some of these conditions are listed below:

Rosacea

The nose and cheek area are red and full of papules and pustules.

Folliculitis

Inflamed hair follicles cause bumps or pustules.

Keratosis Pilaris

Small bumps develop on the upper arms, thighs and buttocks of people who have this condition. The bumps often resemble “goose bumps” and make the skin rough to the touch.

Milaria rubra

Milaria rubra are small red bumps that may develop on the surface of the skin. The condition develops from excessive heat exposure. The condition may be commonly referred to as “heat rash.”

Treatment Options

Herbal and Home Remedies

Since ancient times, people have used home remedies that help achieve a glowing complexion. Home remedies are inexpensive and easy to prepare.

Several of the most effective home remedies are listed below:

• To cleanse pores and release toxins, try a masque made from baking soda and water
• Use eggs whites for dry skin
• Use honey for oily skin
• Drink plenty of water
• Adopt a healthy diet full of nutrients
• Lemon reduces blemishes and also lightens them. Rub a lemon peel onto the skin along with sugar. Wash it off in 10 minutes.
• Gram flour, turmeric powder, lemon juice and curd may also be a good facial masque. Apply on a regular basis for the best results.
• Mix grated potatoes with lemon juice and honey. Apply the mixture to the face. Allow it to remain on the face for around 20 minutes. Potatoes will act as a bleaching agent on the skin. Rinse with a mild soap and water.
• Apply a clay-based or sandlewood-powder based face pack to the skin. Wash the face with medicated soap and lukewarm water.
• Neem leaves possess antibiotic agents that may cure acne. To promote blemish free skin, boil the leaves in water and strain the leaves. Splash the Neem water onto the face as many times as possible.
• Heat
• Tea Tree Oil
• Hydrogen Peroxide
• Detoxification with a lemon, cayenne pepper and honey mixture
• Zinc administered orally

Pharmaceuticals

Dermatologists will recommend treatments for acne patients. The physicians will typically prescribe gels. When using gels, dermatologists will recommend that the patient avoid the sun. The gels have been known to cause irritation or burning sensation on the skin.

Acne creams are available over-the-counter for mild acne. Dermatologists recommend a product with either benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. Follow the directions on the label for the best results. Benzoyl peroxide works by killing the bacteria known as “Propionibacteria.” This product is sold in strengths ranging from 2.5 percent to 10 percent.

Products containing benzoyl peroxide are as follows:

• Proactiv
• Benzaderm Gel
• MD Formulations Benzoyl Peroxide 10
• Glytone 10 percent Benzoyl Peroxide Acne Treatment Gel

Sulfer and Resorcinol are helpful in reducing the buildup of dead skin cells and excess oil. Historically, sulfur has been used for a half century to prevent acne breakouts. Each product is available over-the-counter in strengths of 2 percent, 5 percent and up to 8 percent.

Products that contain resorcinol and sulfur are as follows:

• Rezamid Lotion
• Glytone Flesh Tinted Acne Treatment Lotion
• Clearasil Medicated Blemish Cream
• Clearasil Medicated Blemish Stick

Salicylic acid is a natural exfoliant that aids in the sloughing process. The agent allows skin to shed more evenly and naturally. Pores are less likely to become blocked and breakouts are less likely to occur when using this product. Salicylic acid is also effective on whiteheads and blackheads. The product may be found in strengths ranging from 0.5 percent to 2 percent. Salicylic acid is available in cleansing pads, cleansers and lotions.

Some products containing this effective agent are listed below:

• Dermalogica Medicated Clearing Gel
• Oxy Products
• Stridex
• Noxema Products

Alcohol and Acetone

Alcohol and acetone are products used for oily skin types. The products work by removing excess oils from the skin. Alcohol is an antimicrobial agent that reduces bacteria that causes acne.

Both of these products are found in toners, astringents and cleansers.

• Glytone Acne Treatment Toner
• Tyrosum Liquid Acne Skin Cleanser

The products are often found in kits or as a part of a regimen. The most effective regimens include a cleanser, a toner or astringent, a moisturizer and a cleansing mask or exfoliant. Each person is challenged with finding the appropriate regimen for their skin. All skin types are different, and each person must be evaluated prior to selecting an appropriate regimen.

Some of the manufacturers of regimen kits include:

• Mary Kay
• Proactiv
• Acne Free
• L’Oreal’s Acne Response

Prescription Acne Treatments

• Differin
• Aczone
• Erythromycin
• Clindamycin
• Tetracycline
• Cortisone
• Other Oral Medications to balance hormones

Some oral medications include:

• Erythromycin
• Tetracycline Antibiotics
• Oxytetracycline
• Doxycycline
• Lysmecycline
• Trimethoprim

Surgery

Patients who suffer from cystic acne may seek relief from surgical lancing. Surgical lancing includes the process of draining the acne with a needle. Laser surgery treatments, similar to hair removal, may also reduce acne.

Potential Side Effects

• Stay out of the sun when using prescribed gels as they may cause irritation to the skin.
• Do not use more than one acne treatment at a time. Discontinue the use of one product and continue the next for maximum results.

Bed Sores

Bed sores are breaks to the skin’s integrity, caused by insufficient blood circulation to affected tissues secondary to sustained pressure. Individuals at risk for developing bed sores are those whose primary diagnosis renders them immobile, the wheelchair bound, for example, or patients confined to a bed. Bed sores occur most often over bony areas like the shoulder blades, tailbone, the hips, the ankles, the heels, or the elbows.

When an individual remain in one position for too long, restricted blood flow can lead to decreased oxygenation to the skin over these body parts. The result? The affected tissues begin to die.

Bed sores are one of mankind’s oldest afflictions. They’ve been found in excavated Egyptian mummies and were first described in the scientific literature in the 18th century. Today between 3% and 10% of all hospitalized patients develop decubitus ulcers.

In nursing homes that figure hovers between 17% and 28%.

It’s been estimated that the treatment of bed sores cost the American healthcare industry over one billion dollars a year.

That is a remarkable figure when you consider the fact that most medical experts agree they can be prevented altogether by changing position every two to four hours

Alternative Names

The term “bed sore” is something of a misnomer since outbreaks are not confined to the bedridden.

More properly the wounds are referred to as “decubitus ulcers” (from the Latin decumbere meaning “to lie down.”)

Occasionally they are also called “pressure ulcers” or “pressure sores.”

Symptoms of Bed Sores

Any person who remains in a single position for a length of time is at risk for developing skin breakdown. The National Pressure Ulcer Advisory Panel, a research and advocacy group, classifies pressure sores into four stages using the depth of the lesion as its criteria. (Note that not all pressure sores follow this progression.)

• Stage I

  The affected area appears reddened and blanches to the touch. (In people with darker skin, the area will seem bluish or ashen.) The affected area may hurt or itch. The skin patch may feel warm and seem hard or spongy. When the pressure source is relieved, these symptoms generally disappear within 24 hours.

• Stage II

  A lesion has appeared on the affected area that resembles a blister or an abrasion. It’s not deep – generally it involves the destruction of only the most superficial layer of skin although occasionally it reaches into the underlying dermis. Surrounding tissues may show some discoloration.

• Stage III

  The lesion develops a crater-like appearance as the damage extends into the subcutaneous fatty tissues.

• Stage IV

  The lesion extends even more deeply, often affecting the fascia, the muscles, the tendons and sometimes even the bones. Wound drainage and foul odors may indicate the presence of secondary bacterial infections.

• Unstageable

  Some decubitus ulcers are so severe they cannot initially be staged: eschar (dead tissue) or other wound detritus obscures the mouth of the lesion, making it impossible to estimate its depth.

Diagnosis in the early stages is not always a simple matter. Caregivers need to familiarize themselves with the first signs of skin breakdown because as a decubitus ulcer penetrates into the deeper skin layers, the chances of complete healing decrease.

Causes of Bed Sores

Bed sores have a single, simple cause: uninterrupted pressure (in excess of the capillary refill reflex) to the affected area. In some cases, irreversible damage may begin to occur after as little as two hours of unrelieved pressure.

Pressure sores do not occur in most people. Ever sat still so long in one position that when you finally moved you ached? The same process is involved in the formation of decubitus ulcers. Eventually you did shift position; and for most people, even when they’re asleep, a complicated set of neuronal feedback mechanisms alert their bodies when it’s time to make a postural adjustment.

But people who are comatose, paralyzed, sedated, restrained or otherwise unable to move volitionally cannot move on their own. This is the population at risk for developing bed sores. For someone who cannot move, something as simple as a wrinkle in a bed sheet can begin the process of skin breakdown.

Pressure Sores

Pressure sores can also develop or be exacerbated as a result of friction when a body is rubbed or dragged across a surface, or when traction is applied to the skin.

Why do pressure sores occur? When pressure interrupts the skin’s capillary blood flow, it also interrupts the supply of oxygen brought to the skin by the blood in those capillaries. Without oxygen tissues begin to die, a process medical scientists call ischemia. The damaged tissues reddens as part of the inflammatory response when, in an effort to increase the blood supply, white blood cells release enzymes that dilate the capillaries. Vasodilatation causes the capillaries to leak, which leads to a build up of plasma fluids around the affected area responsible for the spongy or hard texture of the site.

Secondary bacterial infection is common with bed sores. Not only does infection compromise the healing of shallow sores, but should it spread into the bloodstream it can become life threatening. The actor Christopher Reeve died of sepsis secondary to a bed sore. Secondary bacterial infection can be diagnosed by the presence of pus and an unpleasant odor arising from the lesion site.

Bacterial infections can evince themselves as an acute and painful condition of adjacent connective tissues called cellulitis (which untreated can lead life-threatening complications like meningitis) or infections of the bone (osteomyelitis) and joints (infectious arthritis.)

Risk Factors For Developing Bed Sores

Anybody who is immobilized – even for a brief interval of time – is at risk for developing pressure sores. A number of factors increase susceptibility:

Age

Two thirds of all decubitus ulcers occur in individuals who are over 70 years of age because the elderly tend to have thinner skin than younger individuals and are also more likely to suffer from malnutrition. The speed of healing in general decreases as people age.

Spinal Cord Injuries

Not only are spinal cord injuries immobilizing, they also interfere with the perception of pain and other kinds of discomfort. Since blood flow is decreased to the areas of the body beneath the break, healing occurs much more slowly. The annual incidence of bed sores among this population is estimated at between 5% and 8%, and some studies estimate their likelihood of developing a decubitus ulcer over the course of a lifetime to be as high as 85%.

Weight Loss and Malnutrition

Fat and muscle cushion bony prominences but people who are sick in bed or hospitalized for other reasons tend to lose fat and their muscles atrophy. Inadequate nutrition is a serious problem among the elderly in the United States, and the link between bed sores and malnutrition has been well documented. Dehydration also contributes to skin fragility.

Incontinence

Moisture generally contributes to skin breakdown, and the metabolic wastes in urine can be particularly damaging to fragile skin. Fecal incontinence greatly increases the risk of secondary bacterial infection.

Smoking

The nicotine in tobacco impairs circulation leading to decreased levels of oxygen in the blood and far longer healing times for any type of injury.

Other Medical Conditions

Diabetes, chronic vascular diseases and other conditions that impair circulation increase the likelihood of skin breakdown. Muscle spasms and contractures put individuals suffering from spinal paralysis at risk for developing pressure sores from friction and shearing forces.

Nursing Homes

It’s been estimated that between 17% and 28% of all nursing home residents suffer from decubitus ulcers. There are many reasons for this: the population of these facilities tend to be either medically fragile or elderly. A study by Howard and Taylor found that the incidence of pressure sores in one nursing home in the southeastern United States varied by race and gender. If this is evidence of bias in caregiver decisions, that would be a disturbing trend indeed.

Hospitalization

Slightly fewer than half a million hospitalized patients develop decubitus ulcers in a single year. One study of found that over 36% of 658 patients operated on for hip fractures went on to develop pressure sores within 32 days of their admission to a hospital. Decubitus ulcers are a leading factor in iatrogenic deaths among hospitalized populations, secondary only to adverse drug reactions.

The Braden Scale for Predicting Pressure Ulcer Risk – developed as part of a National Institute of Health proposal – is a tool designed to quantify the process of identifying vulnerable individuals. Using six weighted risk factors, the Braden Scale has proven to be a more reliable predictor of pressure ulcers than subjective assessment.

Bed Sore Prevention Tips

Bed sores are a classic example of the old adage that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure: in the vast majority of cases, bed sores can be prevented by the simple expedients of frequent position shifts and a thorough, routine, daily inspection of the skin to identify potential trouble spots.

If incontinence is a factor, skin barriers like the new, polymer-based protective films should be used in addition to absorbent padding to protect the skin. Improved hydration will make skin less friable, while better nutrition (particularly through foods rich in protein, zinc and Vitamin C) will lead to increase the body’s ability to heal itself should breakdown occur.

Bedridden Individuals

If you are bedridden or immobilized, you will have to rely on the assistance of caregivers; the optimal interval for repositioning is once every two hours and in no event should you go longer than four hours without a postural readjustment.

Special care must be taken with bedridden patients so that pressure is not put on the hips, tailbone, ankles, shoulder blades or elbows. Individuals lying in bed on their side will optimally be positioned at a 30 degree angle (through use of a pillow under the small of the back) so that no weight is directly on the hip bones. Individuals lying on their backs in bed will use foam pads or pillows under their calves to lift their feet from the bed’s surface.

Bony prominences must be prevented from touching one another through the use of strategically placed pillows and foam padding. Raising the head of the bed more than 30 degrees increases the likelihood that you will slip out of a safe position and should therefore be avoided.

If you are bedridden for any length of time, consider a specialized, pressure-relieving mattress. Little known fact: the very first waterbed was invented in 1832 by the distinguished Scottish physician Dr. Neil Arnott as a means of preventing bed sores in invalids. This early model was pretty primitive, consisting of a bath covered with rubberized canvas on top of which bedding was placed. More sophisticated waterbeds are now a first line of defense against bedsores along with air, foam and gel mattresses.

Wheelchair Bound

Pressure-relief wheelchairs are designed to tilt in order to redistribute weight which makes sitting for long periods of time safer and more comfortable. If you do not have a pressure-relief chair and you can move independently, medical experts recommend realigning your weight every fifteen minutes or so. So-called “wheelchair pushups” – using your upper arms to lift your body off the seat – are a great way to relieve pressure if you have enough upper body strength.

If you cannot move independently, your caregiver will assist you in repositioning your body every fifteen minutes or so.

Just as bedridden individuals need pillows and cushions to redistribute their weight, so do the wheelchair bound. No body part susceptible to skin breakdown should ever be positioned directly up against a hard surface.

Routine Daily Skin Inspections

Checking the skin regularly for early signs of skin breakdown is a critical part of bed sore prevention. Stage I decubitus ulcers will often resolve completely within 24 hours after the pressure source is removed. The deeper the lesion however, the longer the healing time and even some Stage II pressure sores never completely heal.

In wheelchair bound individuals, skin breakdown is most likely to begin on the buttocks and tailbone, lower back, legs, heels and feet. Bedridden individuals need to look out for their your hips, spine and lower back, shoulder blades, elbows and heels. These areas of the body may be difficult to visualize even if you have some mobility and can use a mirror, so caregiver assistance is highly recommended here.

If inspection identifies a Stage I pressure sore, pressure to that area must immediately be removed. A protective dressing should be applied to the area after it’s gently washed with soap and water. On no account should a Stage I pressure sore ever be massaged in an attempt to increase circulation as this may lead to a reperfusion injury.

If inspection identifies a pressure sore that’s Stage II or higher, immediate medical attention is indicated.

Bed Sore Clinical Diagnosis and Tests

Bed sores are easily diagnosed by sight. Nurses and physicians use the lesion’s size and depth to develop a treatment plan. Even in cases where the pressure sore is not severe however, blood tests are often ordered at the time of diagnosis to provide insight into an individual’s overall health and nutritional status.

In Stage III and Stage IV pressure sores, further diagnostic tests may be indicated particularly in cases where infection has invaded the tissues. When a lesion does not respond to treatment, a physician may order a tissue biopsy to check for the presence of less common bacteria, fungi or even cancer cells.

Treatment Options for Bed Sores

Most Stage I and Stage II decubitus ulcers will heal on their own over time without surgical intervention. An effective treatment plan will include pressure reduction through frequent repositioning and the use of padding and support surfaces as well as proper cleansing of the affected area and a nutritional consultation. Stage I pressure sores rarely require wound dressings. The treatment of choice for Stage II pressure sores is wound dressings that contain topical antiseptics and antimicrobials. Oral antibiotics are used cautiously if at all due to the potential for producing antibiotic-resistant bacterial strains.

Stage III & Stage IV

Stage III and Stage IV decubitus ulcers may require more aggressive treatment. If infection exists, it must be tackled before surgical intervention is attempted. The presence of infection is often an indication of dead or necrotic tissue around the lesion site, and this must also be removed to decrease the chance of further infection.

Surgical debridement using a scalpel to remove dead tissue is quick but painful. Nonsurgical debridement techniques include autolytic debridement, a technique that uses high-pressure water sprays, and enzymatic debridement, where topical enzymes are applied to the affected areas. Another form of hydrotherapy involves the use of whirlpool baths to keep skin clean and wash away dead tissues.

Surgical Intervention

The goal of surgical intervention is wound closure which may be accomplished through skin grafts, tissue flaps or some other means. Before a surgical intervention takes place, the lesion must be aggressively debrided. Wound closure makes hygiene protocols easier to implement, reduces the possibility of further infection, and raises the affected individual’s own morale. The procedure generally involves the use of tissue – either muscle or skin – harvested from other areas of the individual’s own body to reduce the chance of rejection.

The prognosis for early-stage pressure sores is good if the lesion is identified early enough although healing typically requires weeks. But even when a decubitus ulcer responds to treatment, the reoccurrence rate may be as high as 90% if underlying care issues such as immobility and nutrition are not aggressively addressed.

References

• Christopher Reeve
• Merck.Com

Back Pain

Back pain, sometimes referred to as dorsalgia, is one of the most common ailments amongst people all over the world. The vast majority of the population will experience back pain and one point or another in their lifetimes.

Approximately 90% of all adults will suffer from back pain in their lifetime, and nearly 50% of the working adult population claims to deal with back pain on an annual basis. Low back pain, sometimes referred to as lumbago, ranks amongst the top five reasons for doctor visits annually in the United States and is one of the most common reasons for absenteeism in the work place.

The spine is a column made of 33 different bones which runs the length of the body from the skull to the pelvis. The bones comprising the spine, known as vertebrae, are surrounded by a casing of nerve tissue called the spinal cord.

A layer of cartilage exists between each vertebra and acts as a cushion to help protect the bones. Each of these components, in addition to the muscles, tendons, and ligaments in the back, are susceptible to injuries, strains, and accidents; all of which can lead to mild back pain ranging from mild to severe.

Symptoms of Back Pain

The severity, type, and location of back pain will vary depending upon the root cause of the pain.

Different ailments and conditions can result in similar symptoms.

• Low back pain may progress over time or may happen suddenly. Acute back pain is generally very intense, but rarely lasts more than a few weeks depending on the cause of the discomfort. Chronic back pain is the term used for any back pain that lasts longer than three or four months. At times, lower back pain may also radiate down into one or both legs.
• Pain from injuries, sprains, and strains to the muscles and ligaments of the back are generally localized to the injured area of the back and do not pass along to other areas of the body. Often times, the pain from one of these ailments can be amplified by bending the back.
• A herniated disc can apply pressure to the sciatic nerve, amongst others, causing a number of problems, such as: pain or tingling in the hip or leg, pain that increases when sneezing or coughing, pain that increase when sitting or standing for extended periods of time, pain that radiates down one leg, and sharp pains in one leg accompanied by numbness of the same leg.

Risk Factors of Back Pain

There are a number of risk factors that can lead to back pain. Some of these can be controlled or prevented, but some are a matter of genetics and cannot be controlled effectively.

Some of the most common risk factors include:

• Physically strenuous work, exercise, and activities
• Stress
• Depression
• Family history of back pain
• Obesity
• Smoking
• Old age
• Pregnancy
• Congenital spinal problems
• Poor posture
• Long term use of certain medications, such as corticosteroids
• Lack of exercise

Prenention Tips for Back Pain

There are no sure fire ways to guarantee the prevention of back pain because there are so many different factors that can lead to the problem.

There are, however, some preventative steps that can be taken to help reduce your risk of certain types of back problems.

• Regular exercise can help to strengthen the muscles in your back and your core and can provide additional protection to help prevent injury.
• Be sure to lift properly. The correct steps to lifting heavy items are to bend at the knees, keep your back and head straight, and lift by extending your legs. Bending at the hip and lifting with the back muscles can lead to serious injury.
• Quit smoking. Smoking tightens the arteries and interferes with blood circulation. This leads to a decrease in the amount of oxygen carried by red blood cells which can lead to an increased risk of bone loss and degeneration as well as slow healing for damaged areas of the back.
• Eat a diet rich with protein, calcium, vitamin D, and phosphorous. These nutrients can help to prevent or slow osteoporosis, thus reducing the risk for serious fractures and breaks.
• Try to manage the level of stress in your life the best you can, both at home and at work. In addition to a myriad of other health problems caused by stress, people tend to tense up and tighten their back muscles when they are tense, thus leading to soreness and cramping.
• Maintain a healthy weight through proper diet and exercise. Obesity places additional stress on the back which can often lead to back pain.
• Make an effort to sleep in a position that keeps your spine properly aligned. If you sleep on your back, use a towel or pillow under your knees to relieve your pressure points. If you sleep on your side, place a pillow or a towel between your knees.

Diagnosis and Testing for Back Pain

Some of the methods used to test and diagnose back pain are very similar to those used to test and diagnose a wide array of medical problems. As long as the problem is not crippling, a doctor will generally test a patient’s range of motion and conduct a visual inspection of the area in pain. Blood and urine tests may also be administered to check for infection.

A series of questions aimed at identifying the source, severity, and cause of the problem will often be asked. Some of the more common questions that may be asked are:

• When did the pain start
• Where is the pain located? Is it concentrated in one area, or is it radiating down into the hips and legs?
• Was there an injury, accident, or incident which can explain the onset of the back pain?
• Is there anything that makes the pain seem either worse or better?

A few common, preliminary diagnostic tests include:

• Testing the patient with the straight leg and bent leg tests. When straightening the leg, a pain shooting down the straightened leg is often indicative of a pinched root nerve. When crossing legs, pain going down the non-crossed leg often indicates a herniated disc
• Reflex tests can help identify nerve pressure if certain reflexes are absent
• Weakness in the lower extremities can help identify other nerve pressure and/or damage. The doctor may be able to isolate the location of the problem based on the patient’s discomfort when walking on their toes or in their difficulty raising their big toe.

Testing for the cause of back pain can include a wide array of differing tests to try and identify the root cause of the problem.

• X-rays are one of the most commonly thought of tests when it comes to identifying issues that exist inside the body. X-rays, however, are not very commonly used in the identification of back pain unless the patient has experienced significant trauma, has prolonged steroid use, or suffers from osteoporosis.
• Nerve tests are accomplished by placing small needles into the muscles in the back. The electric activity transferred through the needles is monitored to try and determine if there is nerve root damage or muscle disease. This test is generally reserved for extreme, chronic pain that has been evident for at least several months.
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Computed Tomographic Scanning (CT scan) are often considered for patients that are likely candidates for surgery as a result of their root back problems. MRI technology is useful for imaging soft tissue, such as herniated discs and tumors, and CT scans are better used for imaging of bone. CT scanning is less expensive and also less sensitive to patient movement, making it much easier for the patient to deal with, both physically and financially.

Causes of Back Pain

Back pain can occur in people for a number of different reasons.

A few of the more common reasons are listed below:

• Spondylosis occurs when there is a stress fracture within the spine. Vertebrae are often moved from their natural position when this happens which is called spondylolisthesis.
• Osteoporosis is a condition which causes a person’s bones to weaken, making them more susceptible to breaks and fractures. Someone suffering from osteoporosis is much more likely to suffer a spinal injury than an otherwise healthy person.
• Spinal stenosis is caused by a narrowing of the area surround the spinal cord or the spinal nerves. Nerves transmit information from the body to the brain and the brain back to the body.
• Lumbar strains and lower back sprains are the most common cause of back pain in adults. A strain occurs when muscle fibers are abnormally stretched and/or torn.
• Herniated discs occur when the cartilage between vertebras slips out from its normal location and protrudes from one side of the spine more than the other. This disc is soft and pliable in young age, but as with most parts of the human body, can become rigid and less elastic with age. When this happens, the disc can rupture, causing the disc to be herniated.
• Discogenic back pain is caused by the gradual wearing out, or degeneration, of the lumbar discs. This is a natural byproduct of the aging process and sometimes does not produce any symptoms at all. One of the positives of discogenic back pain is that patients generally report diminishment of the pain as time passes, even with minimal treatment.
• Lumbar spine arthritis is most commonly seen in older patients, but it can affect all age groups. Arthritis is an affliction of the joints that surround the vertebrae. Vertebrae are connected with the spinal disc in the front of the spinal cord and with two different facet joints behind the spinal cord.

Treatment Options for Back Pain

The options for treatment for back pain can change dramatically based upon the root cause of the problem, the patient’s wishes, and the medical professional that recommends the treatment. Options for treatment can include home and herbal remedies, pharmaceutical remedies, and in extreme cases, surgical remedies.

Home and Herbal Remedies

Home remedies for back pain are extensive and seemingly everyone has an option to offer. One of the basics shared amongst many groups is regular exercise which strengthens the back and allows for a better supply of nutrients to the back. Proper lifting and moving, getting enough rest, sleeping on a quality mattress with proper support, and avoiding sitting for prolonged periods of time are all preventative measures as well as natural remedies for addressing a problem once it has already begun.

Herbal remedies are a popular option for treating back pain as well. The juice of one lemon, mixed with common table salt, taken twice daily as part of a daily routine has proven to be effective for some. Others have stated that the application of garlic oil directly to the source of the problem has helped to relieve back pain. Consumption of garlic on a daily basis, two to three cloves at a time, has also proven to be an effective remedy for some. Chamomile has long been thought to have a soothing effect on smooth muscle tissue and can be taken as a tea, as an extract mixed with water or some other liquid, or in capsule form.

Pharmaceutical Remedies

Prescription drugs are a popular choice used to address back pain. Most often, pain killing, muscle relaxing, and anti-inflammatory pharmaceuticals are prescribed to treat and relieve back pain. Pain killers are available in both over the counter varieties as well as prescription drugs. Aleve, Tylenol, and Advil are amongst the most popular choices for OTC medication. Felxeril, OxyContin, and Percocet are some of the most popular prescription medications used for back pain relief, and should only be used as directed by a qualified physician.

Surgical Remedies for Back Pain

In the most extreme cases, surgery may be the last available option for a patient to consider when trying to manage their back pain. It is not an option that is taken lightly as the complications and possibility for worsening a patient’s condition are very realistic.

A discectomy is performed to remove a herniated disc from the spinal canal. The area of the disc that is removed is the section which is creating pressure on the spinal nerves, causing severe pain for the patient. A small incision in the back allows the surgeon to remove the herniated section of the disc, and once inside, the decision to remove additional sections of discs may take place to prevent future herniations from taking place.

Spinal fusion is an option that may be recommended for those that have abnormal curvature of the spine, injury to the spinal vertebrae, or weak spines as a result of infection or tumors. The procedure consists of fusing two or more vertebrae together to prevent motion from occurring between the individual bones.

In severe cases, a cordotomy may be performed during which bundles of nerve fibers are intentionally severed to prevent the transmission of pain signals to the brain.

Nausea and vomiting are two of the most common symptoms, very often complained about by a number of different people, and this is because these two symptoms can be caused by a whole wealth of different conditions. More often than not, when a person experiences nausea and vomiting, it is because they are experiencing viral gastroenteritis, which is a condition that is often mistakenly referred to as a “stomach flu,” or they are experiencing morning sickness during the earlier weeks of pregnancy.

There are many different medications that are known to cause a bout of nausea and vomiting, and it is even possible for general anesthesia used for surgery to cause it. Very rarely do just nausea and vomiting by themselves signal any kind of life-threatening or even serious problems.

Causes of Nausea and Vomiting

It is possible for both nausea and vomiting to happen to a person either individually or in conjunction with one another.

A few of the more common causes include:

• Chemotherapy
• Gastroparesis
• General anesthesia
• Migraine
• Motion sickness
• Overdose on toxic substances, alcohol or illicit substances
• Rotavirus
• Vertigo and
• Viral gastroenteritis (stomach flu).

Some of the other potential causes, though less common, of nausea and vomiting include:

• Addison’s disease
• Alcoholic hepatitis
• Anaphylaxis
• Anorexia nervosa
• Appendicitis
• Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo, or BPPV
• Brain arteriovenous malformation
• Brain hemorrhage
• Brain infarction
• Brain tumor
• Bulimia nervosa
• Congenital adrenal hyperplasia
• Crohn’s disease
• Cyclic vomiting syndrome
• Depression, major (major depression)
• Diabetic ketoacidosis
• Dizziness
• Ear infection in the middle ear
• Food poisoning
• Frontal lobe seizures
• Gallstones
• Generalized anxiety disorder
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD
• Head injury
• Heart attack
• Heart failure
• Hirschsprung’s disease
• Hydrocephalus
• Hyperparathyroidism
• Hyperthyroidism, or an overactive thyroid
• Hypoparathyroidism
• Intestinal ischemia
• Intestinal obstruction
• Intracranial hematoma
• Intussusception
• Irritable bowel syndrome
• Kidney failure that is chronic
• Liver cancer
• Liver failure
• Meniere’s disease
• Meningitis
• Milk allergy
• Nonulcer stomach pain
• Pancreatic cancer
• Pancreatitis
• Peptic ulcer
• Porphyria
• Pseudotumor cerebri
• Pyloric stenosis
• Radiation therapy
• Retroperitoneal fibrosis
• Social phobia, or social anxiety disorder
• Stomach obstruction
• Strep throat
• Temporal lobe seizure and
• Traumatic brain injury.

When to See a Doctor

It is vital to immediately seek emergency medical assistance or to call 911 should the nausea and vomiting also be accompanied by any of the following warning signs

• Blurred vision
• Chest pain
• Cold, pale, clammy skin
• Confusion
• Fainting
• Fecal odor or fecal material within the vomit
• High fever with a stiff neck or
• Severe cramping or abdominal pain.

Have someone make the drive to the emergency room should any of the following situations become true

• The nausea and vomiting are being accompanied by some kind of pain or some kind of severe headache, especially if it is a new kind of headache that has never been had before.
• Eating or drinking is not possible for about twelve hours or the child is unable to keep down liquids for about eight hours.
• The symptoms or signs of dehydration are occurring, such as infrequent urination, dry mouth, excessive thirst, dizziness, dark colored urine, weakness or lightheadedness upon standing up.
• The vomit resembles coffee grounds, has blood in it or is green.

Call the doctor and make an appoint if any of these circumstances should arise

• The vomiting has recurred for longer than two days in adults, over 24 hours for children under the age of two or over 12 hours for young infants.
• The instances of nausea and vomiting have recurred for longer than a month.
• Unexplained weight loss is experienced and accompanies the bouts of nausea and vomiting.
• Preparing for the Appointment with the Doctor
• When first making an appointment with the doctor, he or she may be the family doctor or be a general practitioner. However, in some instances, when a person calls the office in order to set up an appointment, the person may immediately be referred to an ENT specialist, who is a doctor specializing in disorders that occur within the ear, nose and throat.
• Because the amount of time spent in appointments have a tendency to be shortened and brief, and because there is usually a wealth of ground that must be covered, it is recommended to be fully prepared for the appointment. This section serves as a small guide to offer tips in order to better allow a person to be fully prepared for the appointment with the doctor and offer ideas with regards to what they should expect from the doctor.

What Can Be Done

Be aware of any restrictions before the appointment. Whenever calling the doctor to make the appointment, it is important to ask if there is anything that may need to be done in advance before coming in.

Take a notepad and write down all of the experienced symptoms, even if they appear to be unrelated to the reason for which the call is being made in the first place.

Write down a brief, recent life history involving all key information about personal life, which should include recent life changes or any major stresses.
Because the side effects of many different medications may be the cause of the nausea and vomiting, it is important to make a list of the different medications that are being taken, including any supplements or vitamins.

If possible, try to recruit a friend or a family member to tag along. Because there is a wealth of information that might be provided in a single appointment, it might be difficult for one person to take it all in. When another person joins for the appointment, they may be able to help remember or recall things that the patient forgot or did not catch.

Write down some questions that will be asked to the doctor. Preparing a list of questions, because the time that is to be spent with the doctor is so limited, will make the process go quicker and reserves the rest of the time for more beneficial activities other than thinking of missed questions. When writing down the questions, list them from the more important once to those that are not quite as important, in case time happens to run out. For nausea and vomiting,

Some basic questions that may be asked to the doctor might include:

• What is the most likely cause for the nausea and vomiting?
• Are there any other likely causes for the nausea and vomiting?
• What kind of tests are necessary?
• Is the nausea and vomiting likely to be temporary or chronic?
• What is the recommended course of action?
• What are some of the alternatives to the primary approach that is being suggested?
• These are some other health conditions that are present. How can these conditions and the nausea and vomiting be managed together?
• Are there any restrictions that might need to be followed for the nausea and vomiting?
• Should a specialist be seen? How much will a visit cost and will this kind of insurance cover seeing this specialist?
• Is there any generic alternative to the medication that is currently being prescribed?
• Do any Web sites come recommended regarding the nausea and vomiting? Are there any printed materials, such as brochures, that can be taken home for further reading?
• Do not shy away from taking the time to ask any other questions that come to mind in the event that information is passed that goes by not understood, in addition to the questions that have already been prepared to ask the doctor.

What to Expect From the Doctor

The doctor will probably also have a list of questions to ask, so be prepared to answer them so that more time can be reserved to go over points that may require more time before the information is understood.

The doctor may wish to ask some of the following

• When did the nausea or vomiting begin to happen?
• Has the nausea or vomiting been a continuous experience or occasional?
• How severe is the nausea and vomiting?
• If anything, what appears to improve the symptoms?
• If anything, what seems to worsen the symptoms?
• Any allergies or a cold?
• Treatment Options for Nausea and Vomiting

There is no actual cure for nausea and vomiting, though it is possible to soothe the symptoms and try to ease the nausea so that vomiting does not occur.

These self-care measures can be done in an attempt to feel better and to subside the nausea:

• Try to take it easy. When a person undergoes too much activity and does not get enough rest at night, it can make nausea much worse.
• Always stay hydrated. Vomiting can lead to dehydration rapidly, and drinking large sips can trigger nausea as well. To remedy this, take small sips of clear, cold, sour or carbonated drinks, such as lemonade, ginger ale or water. Another helpful drink may be mint tea.
• Try to avoid coming into contact with strong odors and other similar triggers. Cooking and food smells, smoke, perfume, heat, humidity, stuffy rooms, driving and flickering lights are all among the possible triggers for nausea and vomiting.
• Eat bland foods. In the same way that strong odors can trigger nausea and vomiting, too complex a taste can do the same. Start off by taking in foods that can easily be digested, such as crackers, gelatin and test. When these can be kept down with ease, try to graduate to rice, cereal, fruit, salty foods or foods high in carbohydrates or high in protein. Try not to eat foods at are fattening or spicy. Try not to eat solid foods until six hours have passed since the last instance of vomiting.
• Over the counter medications that treat motion sickness may be helpful, as well. For those who are planning to go on a trip, there are some over the counter motion sickness drugs, including Bonine and Dramamine, that can be helpful for calming the queasy stomach on a trip. When going on a longer journey, such as on a cruise, the doctor should be contacted for requesting information on prescription patches for motion sickness.
• If the nausea and vomiting is due to pregnancy, try to nibble on a few crackers, preferably unsalted, prior to getting out of bed in the morning.

What is Conjunctivitis?

Conjunctivitis is the inflammation of the transparent layer of the eye that lines the eyelid, known as the conjunctiva. This inflammation causes the blood vessels in the conjunctiva to become irritated and give off a pink or red color in the whites of the eyes. Conjunctivitis can be referred to as Madras eye, but is most commonly known as pinkeye. Both humans and animals can experience pinkeye.

What are the Symptoms of Conjunctivitis?

Many symptoms can accompany conjunctivitis.

• Red or pink coloring in the whites of the eye is the most obvious symptom
• Watery eyes is also a common symptom
• The feeling that there is something in the eye, or a gritty irritation is also common
• Itchiness, burning, and sensitivity to light may also be symptoms of conjunctivitis
• Green, yellow, or white discharge from the eye is typical, and they eyes may be sealed shut after sleeping due to the mucous-like discharge
• Blurred vision may also be present

What Causes Conjunctivitis?

Viruses, bacteria, allergies, or foreign objects or chemicals in the eye can all attribute to pinkeye symptoms.

Viral conjunctivitis often results from viruses similar to those that cause colds. Other cold symptoms may be present such as a sore throat or runny nose, and the eyes often will have watery discharges or those filled with a mucous-like substance. This type of conjunctivitis is very contagious, and usually runs its course within a week.

Bacterial conjunctivitis is also often associated with the common cold, but is caused by bacteria. Often a thick yellow or greenish colored mucous will be present in the affected eye. This material may cause the eyelids to stick together after sleeping as well.

Those with bacterial conjunctivitis may have a gritty feeling in their eye, or feel the need to try and remove foreign materials from the eye, although there may not actually be anything to remove. This type of conjunctivitis is also extremely contagious, and is more common in children.

Allergic Conjunctivitis

Allergic conjunctivitis often affects both eyes and is triggered by allergens, often during seasonal changes with pollen and other substances present in the air.

Hay fever, asthma and eczema are also common causes of allergy related pinkeye. In response to the allergens the body releases histamines, which can cause a red or pink color to the whites of the eye. Allergic conjunctivitis is not contagious.

Conjunctivitis caused by foreign chemicals or objects is also not contagious, and can be caused by a number of things. Any type of foreign object entering the eye can irritate it, causing it to become pink or red and even produce a discharge. Chemicals such as bleach that may splash in the eyes can also cause conjunctivitis. This is the shortest-lived conjunctivitis, and usually only lasts for a day at most.

What are the Risk Factors of Conjunctivitis?

Those that have eyes easily irritated by certain allergens can expect conjunctivitis when exposed to those elements, unless measures are being taken to prevent it. Likewise, whether or not a foreign object or chemical will affect a person depends upon the situation and person. However, for viral and bacterial conjunctivitis, merely being exposed to someone with this type of pinkeye can trigger the symptoms. It has also been found that those that wear contacts may have an increased risk of contracting conjunctivitis.

What are some Prevention Tips for Conjunctivitis?

Good hygiene is perhaps the best way to prevent the spread of conjunctivitis. Washing your hands frequently and not putting your fingers in your eyes are good tips to follow. You should never share eye cosmetics or personal care items with another person, and contacts, glasses, washcloths, and towels should never be shared from person to person.

Taking proper care of your contacts is also a good idea. For allergic conjunctivitis, avoiding allergens that trigger pinkeye is a good idea if possible. If you or someone in your family contracts conjunctivitis, it is important to take measures to prevent the spread of it throughout the family.

Discarding eye makeup and not wearing makeup are good ideas. Changing pillowcases and washing sheets and blankets in hot water will also be helpful.

Choosing to wear glasses instead of contact lenses may also help. You should use a cotton ball or tissue to wipe away discharge from the eye, which should be immediately thrown away and not used again. If eye drops are used to control the conjunctivitis, they should not be shared, nor should you use the same eye drops from an infected eye into an non-infected eye.

Staying home from school or work may also be necessary to prevent the spread of conjunctivitis.

What are the Test and Diagnosis Considerations for Conjunctivitis?

If you suspect that you or someone you know has conjunctivitis, a medical professional can easily diagnose it. Generally, taking a look at the eyes in a brief exam can tell a doctor if a person has pinkeye. The doctor may take a sample of the discharge from the eye that can be sent to a laboratory to diagnose exactly what type of conjunctivitis a person is suffering from.

A young child with reoccurring episodes of pinkeye may be referred to an eye specialist to try and determine what the cause may be.

What Treatment Options are Available for Conjunctivitis?

Different treatment options are available for the different types of conjunctivitis. Both home remedies and pharmaceutical treatments are available depending upon the situation. If you are unsure of what to do, it is important to contact your doctor first.

The most common home remedies for conjunctivitis include putting either warm or cool clean washcloths over your eyes. For conjunctivitis caused by allergies, cool compresses are recommended, but for bacterial or viral conjunctivitis, warm washcloths may feel better. While this method will not cure the conjunctivitis, it will provide relief. Bacterial and viral conjunctivitis usually resolve without any treatment at all, although it may be unpleasant to endure.

Marigold Plant

Another home remedy is to put the leaves of a marigold plant into cold water and to use it as eyewash. This is said to provide quick relief to the eyes. Placing cool, wet chamomile tea bags over your eyes has also been recommended as a way to decrease the redness in the eyes. Washing the eyes with chamomile flower tea has also been suggested as a way to provide relief.

Spinach and Carrot Juice

Spinach and carrot juice mixtures are also recommended during the duration of conjunctivitis. Drinking the juice of Indian gooseberry and mixing it with honey has also been suggested as a home remedy as well. Eating foods rich in Vitamin A and B2 may also be helpful in the treatment of conjunctivitis. Even using a cotton ball and placing baby shampoo over the closed eyes has been determined to provide relief for those suffering from conjunctivitis.

Each of these home remedies can be inexpensive, easy ways to provide comfort for those suffering from pinkeye, with relatively no risks to the eye when using them. However, if the home remedies and solutions do not seem to provide relief, pharmaceutical options may be necessary.

Traditional Medicine

For those suffering from allergy related conjunctivitis, seeking the help of a doctor is probably the best option. Although cool compresses and maybe even artificial tears may provide some comfort, for those with severe cases, antihistamines or other anti-inflammatory medications may need to be prescribed. Eye drops may be necessary, which can include steroids or decongestants.

Over the counter eye drops usually cost between $5-10, but they may not work as well as eye drops prescribed by your doctor. However, often these prescription eye drops can cost around $50 or $60 for a thirty-day prescription.

There is really nothing that can be done to treat viral conjunctivitis, except to let it run its course. While over the counter eye drops and warm compresses may provide some relief, time is the ultimate healer. Usually within a week viral conjunctivitis will go away on its own, although its not uncommon for it to last up to two weeks. Maintaining good hygiene is of utmost importance for those suffering from viral conjunctivitis.

Bacterial Conjunctivits

Bacterial conjunctivitis can go away on its own as well, however if the symptoms are not improving within three days, antibiotics, eye drops or ointment may be needed to cure the conjunctivitis. Ointments may be easier to administer to young infants or children, however they may blur vision for a brief time following being used. Whether it is a pill form or eye drop or ointment, prices will vary.

Generic versions are available for most options, which will decrease prices and make the treatment more affordable. Insurance should cover these treatments as well, which will help keep prices lower in most cases.

If you have contacted pinkeye from some sort of chemical or irritant, the first thing to do would be to try and wash out your eye. If water doesn’t seem to be helping the situation, or it was a harsh chemical that came in contact with your eye, a doctor will be necessary to help the situation. A saline solution rinse may be needed in order to clean the eye. This is a fairly inexpensive method.

Irrigation with Ringer’s lactate, which is saline, potassium, and calcium formula, may also be needed in the case of chemical irritants. Since permanent damage could be done to your eyes depending upon what has irritated it, seeing a doctor is advised. If nothing more, the doctor will be able to determine if you have damage or need additional assessments.

Getting Rid of Conjunctivitis

If you think you have conjunctivitis, the first thing to do is consider how you may have contracted it. Did you come in contact with something that could have irritated it? Are you allergic to something in the air? Were you around someone that had pinkeye? Do you have a cold? After answering those questions it can help you determine what type of conjunctivitis you may have. Unless a chemical has come in contact with your eye, most doctors would suggest letting the conjunctivitis run its course for a few days.

If the symptoms are too severe or you feel the need to contact a doctor, by all means do so. However, depending upon the type of conjunctivitis, there may be nothing that the doctor can do. Trying home remedies may provide relief without having to pay for a doctor visit. It is important to use good hygiene and even stay home for a day or two if you think you may be contagious. While it’s not a pleasant thing to get, conjunctivitis is not fatal, although if your eye has come in contact with some sort of chemical, there could be lasting damage. Although it can be pesky and annoying, conjunctivitis is a simple problem to fix with often minimal effort.

What is Liver Cirrhosis?

Let’s start of by discussing what the liver is and what it does. The liver is a large organ that is part of the digestive system in the body. Some of its functions are making many important substances that help to digest food and clot blood, controlling the amounts of sugar, protein, and fat in the bloodstream, storing vitamins and minerals, filtering poisons from the blood, and breaking down alcohol and many kinds of drugs.

Liver cirrhosis, or cirrhosis of the liver, is something that occurs after years of chronic liver disease. Cirrhosis is a replacement of liver tissue by fibrosis and regenerative nodules. Fibrosis is the formation or development of excess fibrous connective tissue, known as scar tissue. Regenerative nodules are lumps that form after damaged tissue is regenerated.

It is obvious when looking at the functions of the liver that the body cannot survive without it. The scaring and regenerative nodules can also cause high blood pressure in veins that take blood from the intestines through the liver. This high blood pressure can lead to severe bleeding in the digestive tract, among other problems.

What are some symptoms of liver cirrhosis?

Some people with liver cirrhosis may not show any signs. Other patients may have nonspecific signs that don’t point to the liver as the cause. People with common symptoms may experience:

• Yellowing of the skin, known as jaundice. This is due to an accumulation of bilirubin in the blood.
• Tiredness and weakness
• Nosebleeds and easy bruising
• Weight loss
• Belly pain or discomfort
• Loss of appetite
• Itching
• Confusion
• Fluid buildup in the legs and the belly
• Bleeding in the stomach or in the esophagus

What are some causes of liver cirrhosis?

Alcohol is the most well known cause of liver cirrhosis and is very common, especially in the Western world. High levels of alcohol consumption on a regular basis for ten years or more will damage liver cells. Five or more drinks a day for a man and three or more drinks a day for a women is considered to be a high level.

Chronic viral hepatitis can cause cirrhosis. Cirrhosis can develop in 10-20% of people with long-term viral hepatitis, usually types B or C. It usually takes 20 years or longer for a patient that has chronic hepatitis for to develop cirrhosis, but the time may be shortened if the person is also a heavy drinker.

Fat build up in the liver is another culprit. This condition is known as non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Fat builds up in the liver and eventually causes scar tissue. This is commonly seen in people with diabetes, protein malnutrition, obesity, coronary artery disease, and people who have been treated with corticosteroid medications.

Immune Problems

Immune problems such as autoimmune diseases can also cause cirrhosis of the liver. The immune system will sometimes attack the liver and cause inflammation that leads to cirrhosis.

Autoimmune hepatitis is one of these diseases. It is commonly found in women. This disease causes inflammation and destruction of liver cells, which leads to cirrhosis. Primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) is another liver disease caused by an abnormality in the immune system. This is also found mostly in women. With this disease, bile ducts become inflamed and destroyed. This blocks the normal flow of bile into the intestines. Destruction then spreads to liver cells. When liver cells are destroyed, scar tissue forms, leading to cirrhosis.

Blocked Bile Ducts

Blocked bile ducts are another factor that can lead to liver cirrhosis. Ducts that carry bile out of the liver can become inflamed and blocked. This may be caused by a problem with the immune system, but the exact cause is unknown.

Genetics

Inherited diseases can also lead to cirrhosis. Wilson’s disease, cystic fibrosis or hemochromatosis can all cause cirrhosis. Alpha1 antitrypsin deficiency is another inherited disease that can cause liver damage because protein collects in the liver when it shouldn’t.
Infants can be born with problems that will lead to cirrhosis.

Some babies can be born without bile ducts. This is known as biliary atresia and will eventually lead to cirrhosis. Other infants have been born without vital enzymes that are needed to control sugars. This leads to a buildup of sugar in the liver and eventually to cirrhosis.

Less common causes of cirrhosis are drug reactions, prolonged exposure to toxins, and chronic heart failure. Infection of the liver by a parasite can also lead to cirrhosis and is the leading cause of the disease in parts of the world, particularly Northern Africa.

What puts me at risk for cirrhosis of the liver?

Alcohol is a huge risk factor for liver cirrhosis. Between 75 and 80 percent of all cirrhosis cases could have been prevented if the person had limited their alcohol consumption. As few as 2-4 drinks per day can lead to liver damage.

Certain medical conditions can put people at risk for liver cirrhosis. These conditions are hepatitis B, C, or D, nonalcoholic steatohepatitis, secondary biliary cirrhosis, hepatic congestion, certain inherited disorders and autoimmune hepatitis.

Age is another factor. The older a person gets, the more likely they are to develop cirrhosis. This is because the liver has been working longer and harder than a liver of a younger person.

Chronic exposure to environmental toxins such as arsenic has been known to cause liver cirrhosis. Other factors are:

• Severe excesses of vitamin A
• Repeated episodes of heart failure with liver congestion
• The parasitic infection schistosomiasis
• Severe adverse reactions to certain prescription drugs

How can I prevent liver cirrhosis?

If a person has certain liver conditions, there is no way to guarantee the prevention of cirrhosis. There are a few things that can be done to make cirrhosis less likely. Here a few things that can be done whether you have been diagnosed with a liver disease or not.

• See a doctor regularly. Many causes for cirrhosis are treatable with early intervention
• Follow a healthy lifestyle
• Limit alcohol consumption. If you drink every day, don’t drink more than one glass. If you have been diagnosed with a liver disease, do not drink at all.
• Receive a hepatitis B vaccine.
• Avoid high-risk sexual behavior to minimize the risk of contracting hepatitis C. Hepatitis C is spread through unprotected sex and multiple partners as well as nasal cocaine and sharing infected needles when using drugs.
• Be careful when using chemicals. If you handle chemicals such as cleaning products and pesticides on a regular basis wear protective clothing and a face mask.
• Try to keep your weight in the normal range. Being overweight can make liver diseases worse.

It is much easier to prevent a liver disease than to heal one. Take care of your body and watch what you put into it and your chances of getting a liver disease and ultimately cirrhosis are lessened.

How is liver cirrhosis diagnosed?

If you see a doctor and they suspect you may have a liver disease, the doctor may order blood or imaging tests to figure out what is causing the liver disease and what stage it is in. If your doctor suspects cirrhosis, he or she may do a liver biopsy. A liver biopsy consists of the doctor using a needle to take a sample of the liver tissue for testing.

How is liver cirrhosis treated?

There is no treatment that can cure cirrhosis. Sometimes, however, further damage can be prevented or delayed with treatment. If cirrhosis is severe enough, a liver transplant may be needed in order to keep the patient alive. Transplants are expensive and hard to do, so to be a candidate for a transplant you must be living a healthy life and you must have ceased all alcohol consumption, among other things.

Treating liver cirrhosis naturally

If cirrhosis is caused by alcohol, cutting off alcohol consumption is the best treatment. Anyone with liver cirrhosis or damage should be very careful about the kinds of medicines and substance they put into their body as well, because the liver is the organ that filters toxins out, and if cirrhosis is occurring, filtering harsh toxins may make the liver worse.

Treating liver cirrhosis with herbal remedies

Celery seed is a common herb used to treat cirrhosis. It has been proven to protect the liver from toxins and help prevent further scarring and damage. The seed has side effects however. It may cause bleeding and muscle contractions in the uterus, so pregnant women should not use it. It can also cause the skin to become very sensitive to UV rays. If taken in large quantities, it can be toxic to the kidneys. It is available fresh for about $12 for a 16 ounce bag or as a supplement for about $6 a bottle.

Dandelion Tea

Dandelion tea is another way to naturally help a liver with cirrhosis. It is a natural diuretic and drinking it two times a day can help with the excess fluid build-up that is caused by cirrhosis. It also heightens bile flow. The tea can cause some mild side effects such as gastric discomfort, and allergic reactions. Because it heightens bile flow, if cirrhosis is caused by blocked bile ducts, it should not be taken. It is available at health food stores or online for anywhere from $4 to $40 dollars depending on what quality of tea is desired.

Green Tea

Green tea is another natural supplement that can be taken to help with liver cirrhosis. It should be taken as many as five times a day to help prevent the spread of cirrhosis and replenish vitamins that the liver needs. It is rich in vitamin K, which is important for the liver, especially in early stages of liver disease. The tea contains caffeine, catechines and tannic acids which have all been liked to pregnancy risks and drinking tea in large amounts may cause neural tube birth defects in babies.

The tea has about half the amount of caffeine as a cup of coffee, but to drinkers that are sensitive to caffeine, it can cause restlessness, irritability, sleeping problems, heart palpitations, upset stomach, and a loss of appetite. Tea can also cause the body to not absorb iron efficiently which can lead to anemia. Green tea is available commercially at pretty low prices and may be a good thing to take on a regular basis if the benefits outweigh the risks.

Milk Thistle

Milk thistle extract has also been known to prevent and treat liver conditions. It helps protect the liver from further damage from viruses, toxins, certain drugs, and alcohol. Side effects of milk thistle extract include upset stomach, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, headaches, and skin rashes. It is available for various prices, most under $50.

Turmeric

Turmeric is another thing that can be used to help the disease. It is a spice that adds a peppery flavor to foods. It protects the liver by aiding in elimination of harmful substances. There are no known side effects to turmeric. It is available in capsule form for around $10 or in powder form for around $4.

What are medicinal treatments for liver cirrhosis?

Medicines that are prescribed to a person with liver cirrhosis work to prevent further damage. No treatment can cure of repair scarring that has already happened. Corticosteroids and ursodiol are two drugs commonly prescribed to people suffering from liver cirrhosis.

Corticosteroids have been shown to reduce inflammation and can be helpful to patients whose cirrhosis was not caused by alcohol. Common side effects of corticosteroids are mood changes, weight gain, edema, and sleep loss. It is available generically at a pretty fair price.

Ursodiol can be used to treat those with biliary cirrhosis. The drug can replace lost biliary acids. While side effects are rare, they include things like abdominal pain, back pain, bronchitis, constipation, coughing, diarrhea, gas, headaches, indigestion, joint and muscle pain, nausea, sinus inflammation or infection, sore throat, upper respiratory tract infection, viral infection, or vomiting. Ursodiol can be bought at fairly low prices and may be a good therapy for those with liver cirrhosis.

Tonsillitis

Tonsillitis is an infection of the tonsils that is typically due to contraction of a virus or some other type of bacteria. The tonsils are two particularly small glands, one on each side of the throat. The glands can be seen at the back of the mouth in between two membranes that run towards the palate. Tonsillitis can be temporary or long-lasting, in which case the assistance of a physician, and possibly a surgeon, is recommended.

Alternative Names Given to Tonsillitis

A few of the common alternative names for tonsillitis include:

• Pharyngitis–an inflammation of the pharynx.
• Laryngitis–an inflammation of the larynx.
• Both of these inflammatory diseases can cause and be caused by tonsillitis.

Symptoms That Suggest the Presence of Tonsillitis

Because tonsillitis is the swelling of glands in the patient’s throat, it is commonly accompanied by other symptoms that affect the throat and mouth. The most common symptom of tonsillitis is a sore, scratchy throat. The sore throat may develop gradually or suddenly and can be mild or severe.

Other symptoms associate with tonsillitis include:

• A fever that can rise above 100 degrees fahrenheit.
• Heavy nasal congestion including a runny nose.
• Swollen lymph nodes.
• The tonsils become red and swollen. Patches of pus are also present and can even cover the entire tonsil.
• Swallowing can become difficult and painful.
• Bleeding that comes from the tonsil area.
• Intense earaches.
• Bad smelling breath.

If the tonsillitis is virus caused, these symptoms may be accompanied by other cold symptoms such as sneezing and coughing. If a viral infection is the cause of the tonsil inflammation the symptoms will generally go away within two weeks. It is still important for the patient to receive medical care as tonsillitis can cause other problems such as strep throat.

Children may have a difficult time speaking or even breathing if the tonsillitis is severe.

If symptoms do not subside and the tonsillitis is not viral in nature, then other symptoms may also be present that are not directly related to the bacteria-caused tonsillitis. Tonsillitis can also cause severe headaches, stress, depression, trouble sleeping, and other problems.

Common Causes of Tonsillitis

The most common cause of tonsillitis is prolonged strep throat. Strep throat causes severe irritation of the throat and tonsil area and infection can result if the irritation becomes too severe. Certain types of viruses can also cause acute tonsillitis, which generally subsides within a few weeks.

Chronic, or prolonged tonsillitis can often be the result of severe allergies, extensive viral infections, and bacterial infections. A person who experiences frequent sore throats may have signs of chronic tonsillitis.

Bacterial Causes

The most common bacterial cause of tonsillitis is due to a bacteria that is known as Group A Beta-Hemolytic Streptococcus. Heavy smoking can also lead to tonsillitis because it weakens the ability of the throat to fight off viruses and bacteria.

Tonsillitis is also known to be contagious and can be spread by close contacted with someone who is infected with tonsillitis. Certain disease-causing agents known as pathogens can be passed through the air and can infect a healthy person. These pathogens generally get on the skin of the victim and enters the throat through mucous membranes such as the mouth, nose, and eyes.

Most tonsillitis symptoms usually appear within a 7 day period following exposure.

Risk Factors for Tonsillitis

Tonsillitis is most prevalent in school-aged children. Not all cases of tonsillitis occur in children as some adults have been known to have been diagnosed with tonsillitis. Aside from young children being at a higher risk of tonsillitis, those who have had a lot of contact with someone who has been infected with tonsillitis are also at risk.

Tonsillitis bacteria spread in a similar form to the way that cold and flu bacteria spreads. For this reason, it is important to avoid contact with those who have been affected by tonsillitis.

Other known risk factors for tonsillitis include:

• People who use alcohol excessively
• People who have had their spleen removed (splenectomy)
• Sickle cell anemia patients
• A person who has recently had sinusitis (swelling of the sinuses)
• Smokers
• People who have any condition that is known to weaken the immune system such as diabetes
• Patients who have recently undergone chemotherapy treatment

People who are known to have weak immune systems are less able to fight off bacteria and viruses that cause strep throat. For this reason people who have recently undergone some sort of intense therapy such as radiation therapy, surgery, or some other operation may be at a greater risk of contracting tonsillitis.

Prevention Tips to Avoid Tonsillitis

The best protection against tonsillitis is to keep children and others at higher risk away from someone who is infected. Tonsillitis viruses and bacteria are mostly transferred from person to person through physical contact.

Practicing good hygiene habits will also aid in preventing tonsillitis. These habits include regular hand washing and teeth brushing. It is also good practice to avoid too much rubbing of the eyes, mouth, and nose, because these are the most common areas in which bacteria can enter the mucous membranes.

Tests and Diagnosis Considerations for Tonsillitis

The most common form of diagnosis that physicians use to determine if a patient has tonsillitis is a regular physical check-up and an examination of the throat.

An accurate patient medical history is also important in order to allow the physician to determine if tonsillitis is a recurring health disorder. If tonsillitis is recurring it may affect treatment options.

Treatment Options

Herbal and Home Remedies for Tonsillitis

One of the most effective home remedies for tonsillitis is the use of lime juice. One common remedy is to mix the juice of a fresh lime or lemon mixed into a glass of water, a few teaspoons of honey, and a pinch of salt. The mixture should be sipped slowly. The acid in the lime or lemon juice is used to kill off some of the infected cells that cause tonsillitis.

Milk & Vegetables

Milk has been proven effective in relieving the pain associated with tonsillitis. A mixture of milk and pepper powder can be taken on three to four successive nights. This drink is known to reduce the pain and swelling of the tonsils.Dairy products such as milk, ice cream, yogurt, and cheese should be avoided as often as possible, unless recommended by the herbal and home remedies or a physician.

Vegetable juice such as carrot, beet, and cucumber juice can be taken in order to provide the immune system with the vitamins and minerals needed to combat viral infections.

Some cultures use an herb known as the Fenugreek Seed to cure tonsillitis. A few tablespoons of fenugreek seeds are simmered for roughly 30 minutes in one liter of water and then cooled in the fridge.

More Treatment Options

The patient should gargle the entire concoction within 24 hours for best results. Banafsha flowers is another herb that can be taken in order to relieve tonsillitis pain. 10 to 15 grams of Banafsha is boiled in 50 milliliters of milk. After the mixture has been boiled it should be filtered in order to remove the remaining flower leaves. The milk should then be taken while it is still hot.

Both Banafsha flowers and Fenugreek seeds can be purchased at most herbal pharmacies for a few dollars.

Pharmaceutical Treatments for Tonsillitis

Most physicians will recommend throat lozenges and specific types of pain relieving medications to patients who are suffering from tonsillitis. If the tonsillitis has been caused by a bacteria, the doctor will most often recommend one of several antibiotics. Penicillin is the most commonly prescribed antibiotic, assuming the patient has no allergic reaction to the medication. Erythomycin and Clarithromycin are other antibiotics commonly prescribed for patients who shown signs of allergic reactions to Penicillin.

Because the pain caused by tonsillitis can be very intense, a topical anesthetic is often recommended. Medicines such as liquids and lozenges containing lignocaine, benzydamine, and flubiprofen are generally recommended to patients and do not require a prescription. The purpose of these lidocaine solutions is to simply relieve the patient’s pain. Ibuprofen and aspirin are also used for pain relief.

Surgical Treatments for Tonsillitis

Surgical removal of the tonsils may be required if the tonsillitis becomes extremely severe. This is typically not recommended for adults, but is common during childhood. The most common operation performed is a tonsillectomy, which is the removal of the tonsils by using a scalpel. In some cases the surgeon will opt to use a special type of laser to remove the tonsils.

This generally allows for a quicker recovery and less of a chance of experiencing post-operative bleeding. Surgery is recommended for patients who experience more than seven serious throat infections during a 12 month period.

Tonsillectomy

Tonsillectomy is typically performed on an outpatient basis, which means the patient will usually be allowed to go home on the same day of the surgery, barring any unforeseen complications. The surgery is relatively safe and has an extremely low mortality rate. The most common complication that arises due to a tonsillectomy is bleeding in the throat which can cause an airway obstruction.

During the past few years, physicians have become more hesitant in suggesting surgery as an alternative, unless they believe it is the only way to solve the problem. This is due to the advancements that have been made in prescription and herbal remedies along with the risks that are always associated with surgery, such as a bad reaction to anesthesia.

Tonsillectomies have been practiced for over 3000 years and began with “Hindu medicine” practices and is the most common surgical procedure to cure tonsillitis. There are other procedures, however.

Electrocautery

Electrocautery is a procedure in which the tissue surrounding the tonsils is burned away. There are several risks associated with electrocautery that include severe burns surrounding the tonsillar tissue and postoperative bleeding.

Radio-frequency ablation is a practice that can be performed outside of a surgical center in a physician’s office. The method behind this operation is the use of radio-frequency energy to destroy the infected tissues surrounding the tonsils. Radio-frequency ablation is often performed in mild cases of tonsillitis and is not recommended for serious infections.

Tissue Welding

Tissue welding is a new technology that uses small amounts of thermal energy to heal the tonsillar tissue. Many surgeons deem this operation a “painless tonsillectomy” that requires very little if no pain killers. A small amount of local anesthetic may be provided for small children who do not deal with pain. The thermal energy applied to the tissues is generally not much more hot than regular body temperature.

Even with all of these new tonsillitis operations available to patients, the tonsillectomy is the most common. The advantage of a tonsillectomy is that it makes it nearly impossible for the patient to have the infections occur again. The biggest reason that some people opt for alternative operations is that tonsillectomies can be more expensive due to the anesthetic and hospital bills that are associated with the operation.

Depression

Depression is a mental health disorder that affects over 17 million Americans every year.

Depression is more than just a feeling of sadness or loss; it is a clinical illness that requires treatment for suffering individuals to overcome its symptoms.

Depression can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, or educational background.

Because its symptoms can be misinterpreted, depression often goes unrecognized and untreated, leaving many people to suffer alone.

Other Names for Depression

The historical name for depression was melancholia, referring to the melancholy mood that sufferers exhibited.

During the time of Hippocrates, a person with melancholia was said to have “black blood,” in that they were prone to dark moods and mental instability.

Today, the understanding of depression as a mood disorder has evolved with the education of the public and the knowledge of it as a clinical illness.

Many people refer to the illness as simply “depression,” a term that has been used to describe anything from a sad time period to becoming severely compromised.

True depression that requires treatment is referred to as “clinical depression,” and is diagnosed by a healthcare provider when a patient is exhibiting symptoms.

A condition that is similar to clinical depression is a state called dysthymia. A person with dysthymia will exhibit symptoms that are similar to depression but are not as severe. Dysthymia appears as a mild depressive state that is ongoing over a period of at least two years. Because its symptoms are milder than clinical depression, dysthymia can be difficult to diagnose, resulting in a chronic struggle.

Symptoms of Depression

Depression is associated with many symptoms, several of which involve feelings of negativity. Because of this, depression can become misunderstood as simply a bad mood for the suffering person. Many people dealing with depression are told to “snap out of it,” as if they will recover by following trite advice.

A person with depression may exhibit some or all of the following symptoms

• Ongoing feelings of sadness or despair
• Feelings of hopelessness
• Changes in weight, including weight loss or weight gain
• Changes in sleep patterns, exhibited by insomnia or sleeping too much
• Thoughts of suicide or feelings of wanting to harm oneself
• Loss of interest in usual activities
• Difficulties with concentrating or making decisions
• Fatigue

A person struggling with depression may live daily with feelings of sadness or guilt that is difficult to explain to others. They may feel as if no one understands their situation, and they may not understand why they are feeling sad themselves. The sadness and guilt may be accompanied by anxiety, such as irrational fears that something devastating may happen to a loved one. The person may also feel lonely, even when surrounded by friends or family, as their personal feelings of sadness can be isolating.

Feeling Hopeless

The depressed person may feel hopeless about the future, as if there is nothing to look forward to. Events that may typically be exciting or fun become difficult to enjoy or require more energy than the suffering person wants to give, leading to feelings of despair. The person struggling with depression has trouble anticipating future events or feeling excitement.

Depression can be exhibited by weight loss or weight gain. A suffering person may manage his or her feelings of sadness in various ways, such as withholding food, which leads to weight loss. Not letting him or herself eat can give a depressed person a feeling of control, even if it is only in one area of his or her life.

Depression can also cause a loss of appetite, where there is no desire to eat. Alternatively, some people turn to food for comfort, and eating provides a small amount of consolation in the midst of illness. Weight gain comes from overeating due to boredom or simply as a comfort measure.

Sleep Habits

The depressed person may exhibit changes in sleep habits, resulting in loss of sleep or sleeping too much. Insomnia is a state of being awake during a time when a person wants to be sleeping. Depression can keep a person up at night when the rest of the household is in bed, leading to further feelings of isolation and irritability over lack of sleep.

On the opposite end of the spectrum is the depressed person that sleeps too much, or has trouble waking up and getting out of bed. This can cause a disruption of the typical schedule of daily activities, such as keeping a job or caring for others.

A particularly dangerous symptom of depression can be thoughts of suicide or feelings of wanting to harm oneself. The depressed person may have suicidal ideation for various reasons. He or she may feel burdensome to loved ones and would like to ease that burden. He or she may imagine their funeral as a means of envisioning others caring for their memory.

Harming Yourself

Thoughts of harming oneself can include any activities that may cause self-harm, whether or not the person actually follows through. The depressed person may fantasize about situations where they are harmed in some way.

Depression may be exhibited as a loss of interest in typical activities that once would have brought pleasure. There may be a lack of interest in hobbies or pastimes, and a depressed person may find no pleasure in sexual activity. Free time often results in boredom or sleeping instead of spending time enjoying leisure pursuits.

The depressed person may suffer from some anxiety and making a decision can be difficult in that he or she cannot determine what the final outcome may be. There may be feelings of confusion for making any choices and he or she may refrain from making decisions, even those that may be considered minor to others. There may be a feeling of constant distraction, causing difficulties in conversation or concentrating on any particular activity.

Fatigue

Symptoms of fatigue and feeling extremely tired are further signs of depression. Managing negative feelings, eating less, and insomnia can all contribute to fatigue. Additionally, the depressed person may complain of a lack of energy, leading to further problems with motivation or interest in daily activities.

Causes of Depression

Depression can occur from a variety of situations, depending on the circumstances of the person that is diagnosed. Various factors within a person’s life can affect how they manage their feelings and if a particular situation is extremely difficult, depression may follow.

The causes of depression may stem from one or a combination of the following

• Relationships
• Illness or medical complications
• Major life changes
• Grief or loss situations
• A hormone imbalance

Relationships with spouses, parents, and friends can be uplifting, but when they are strained by change or misunderstanding, negative feelings can occur. If the relationship difficulty is ongoing, affected people may begin to feel depressed due to the increase in energy needed to manage the situation or the damaging feelings that may be involved.

Depression may follow a time of illness or use of some medications. An illness that results in a person losing time at their job or the ability to spend time with others may lead to depression due to isolation. Additionally, complicated illnesses may lead to financial difficulties, a situation that can cause anxiety; or a chronic illness can lead to feelings of hopelessness, in that the suffering person may feel they will never be fully healed.

Major Changes

Major life changes, both positive and negative, can lead to depression. Many people experience a letdown after anticipating a particular event, which leads to depression over the current circumstances.

For example, a mother that adopts a new baby after waiting for over a year to bring the child home may feel depressed after the transition due to overwhelming feelings of new responsibility. Life changes such as birth, marriage, job changes, divorce, or relocating all can cause depression due to the large amount of adjustment that is required for the situation.

Loss of a loved one can cause feelings of depression within a person, particularly if the loss was someone close. Facing life without the person, whether through death or estrangement, can feel overwhelming for the depressed person who may feel lonely and isolated. He or she may wonder how to face life alone, leading to feelings of grief and hopelessness.

Chemical Imbalances

Some people suffer from depression due to an imbalance in the chemical composition of the brain. The brain contains several types of neurotransmitters, which provide a connection between brain activity and the body.

During depression, there is a difference in these neurotransmitters. When there is an imbalance of these chemicals in the brain, a depressed person does not have the energy or the ability to function as well as they would in a balanced state.

It is unclear whether certain people are prone to this chemical imbalance genetically, whether the imbalance occurs as a result of a stressful event, or both. The chemical imbalance is a cause of depression, but may occur in isolation of a specific event.

Risk Factors for Depression

Depression can happen to anyone, but there are some risk factors that will increase the likelihood of it affecting a particular person. Depression can be related to the causes of the illness. Persons with large amounts of stress in their lives can become depressed if the stress is not managed appropriately.

Experiencing multiple changes in a short period of time can cause depression, as well as grieving the loss of a loved one. People that undergo treatment for a medical condition are also at greater risk for depression. A person that has suffered a traumatic event, even if it has taken place in their past, may live for many years before succumbing to depression.

Research has shown that there is a genetic component related to depression. Immediate family members that have suffered with depression are more likely to have a relative that also suffers. A family history of depression does not always pre-dispose a person to the illness, and some people suffer from depression where there has been no family history.

Prevention

Depression can be successfully managed and its symptoms minimized with education and self care. While it may not be possible to completely prevent depression, persons suffering can recognize the symptoms associated with the illness and take steps to manage their disease.

Considering potential risk factors for depression is the first step of preventing it from becoming an overwhelming illness.

Managing stress levels and taking control of health by eating properly, drinking plenty of water, and maintaining an exercise routine may help prevent some of the severity of depression.

Some people have been helped by taking a daily multivitamin to maintain a balance of electrolytes of the body in order to feel their best. Recognizing symptoms at the earliest occurrence and being willing to seek help when needed is the best method of prevention.

Diagnosis

Depression is diagnosed by a healthcare provider or a mental health practitioner. Diagnosis should be done by a professional with experience in the area of mood disorders and who understands the symptoms of depression. A doctor may spend time with a patient and take a full history to determine if there have been major changes or stressful events in the person’s recent past.

They may ask about the mental health of family members to determine if there may be a genetic connection. They should also review the symptoms that the patient with depression is experiencing, and provide help when necessary. For example, if a doctor is talking with a depressed patient about feelings of hopelessness, they should discuss any suicidal ideas.

Diagnosis of depression leads to treatment, but only if the patient is willing to seek counsel from a physician.

Treatment Options for Depression

Clinical depression is a treatable disease and there are various options available for treatment for the depressed person.

Depending on the severity of symptoms, many people are helped by counseling with a licensed therapist where they can discuss their feelings and devise a plan for managing their symptoms.

If a person is struggling with depression due to a traumatic event or major life change, talking through feelings associated with the event can provide a release and restore some positive feelings of hope for the depressed person.

Some people choose to use alternative therapies as a means of home remedies to treat their depression. A common herbal supplement that is used to treat mild depression is St. John’s Wort, taken in tablet form or steeped in tea.

St. John’s Wart

St. John’s Wort has frequently been used by depression sufferers, although it is undetermined exactly how the herbal remedy works to improve symptoms. It can be bought over the counter at health food stores or in many grocery stores.

Patients taking St. John’s Wort as an herbal remedy for depression should notify their doctor before taking any other medications, as St. John’s Wort may interfere with the effectiveness of certain medications such as antidepressants, birth control, and some medications used to treat heart conditions.

Patients that have taken St. John’s Wort have complained of nausea, dizziness, and diarrhea and some people have not found adequate relief with the treatment.

For the person suffering from depression who would like to treat symptoms at home, St. John’s Wort can be an effective alternative to reduce symptoms and manage the illness.

Antidepressants

Depression may also be treated with the use of antidepressants, which must be prescribed by a medical doctor. After discussing the patient’s history and symptoms of depression, a doctor may prescribe antidepressants in order to reduce or relieve symptoms, as well as restore functioning in the person’s life.

Antidepressants may be taken in combination with counseling or therapy. Antidepressants work to restore the chemical imbalance in the brain that takes place during depression. This can help relieve some of the symptoms of negative and sad feelings as well as allow the patient to resume some of their previous activities.

Antidepressants take time to work and most people begin to feel relief from symptoms starting at two weeks, although it may take longer. This is due to the time it takes for the medication to build up to a therapeutic level in the body. Because of this, most antidepressants require a slow decrease in dosage before discontinuing in order to avoid withdrawal symptoms.

Treating Depressions

There are various types of antidepressants available for prescription to treat depression. Common side effects include nausea, dizziness, tremors, sweating, and headaches. A prescription for antidepressants does not need to be a lifelong habit. Many people are able to manage their depression through antidepressants for a certain period of time before discontinuing them.

Antidepressants may be used to manage the acute effects of depression following a significant event until the person is able to handle their feelings on their own.

Depression is a common mood disorder that affects many people in the United States, but is largely unrecognized as being a potentially severe illness. For the person who recognizes his or her symptoms of depression and reaches out, help is available so they will not have to suffer alone.