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Defective vision is defined as the inability to see things clearly due to physical problems with the eye. There are many reasons one may suffer from this malady, including genetic predisposition, physical injury, or even mental issues.

Over 150,000 people in the U.S. alone suffer from some form of bad vision, although many cases go undiagnosed or untreated. Easy to determine through a visit to an Optometrist or Ophthalmologist, vision problems are one of the leading sources of income for pharmaceutical companies through the sale of contacts, glasses, eye drops, and other similar products.

There are relatively few home remedies for defective vision once it has occurred in an individual, but fortunately, there are many things you can do now to prevent defective vision from developing. Take precautions now to help salvage your remaining vision and help keep your eyes as healthy as possible.

Alternative Names

Defective vision is known by many other terms, including “bad vision”, “bad eyes”, “blindness”, or “partial blindness.” Many people with bad vision refer to themselves as being “blind as a bat.” Defective vision is also classified by the type of eye disease or problem it stems from. These categories include:

Presbyopia: Defined as a difficulty focusing on objects that are close. Often affects people over the age of 40.

Cataracts: Common in elderly patients, usually defined by halos at night, cloudiness over the eye, poor night vision, blind spots, and poor peripheral vision.

Macular Degeneration: Common in those over 60, this includes general poor vision, wavy lines when reading, and appearance of faded colors.

Retinal Detachment: Causes by the retina detaching from the cornea, this is a serious eye disease defined by tiny particles floating across the eye, flashes of light or sensations of shade. This is a highly dangerous disorder and should be treated by a doctor immediately.

Optic Neuritis: Caused by inflammation of the optic nerve, which can come from infection or as a side effect of multiple sclerosis.

Nearsightedness: One of the most common forms of defective vision, this includes the inability to see things far away. Many people who use glasses or contacts suffer from nearsightedness.

Farsightedness: Similar to nearsightedness, this category includes people who have difficulty seeing things that are near to their eyes.

Astigmatism: Caused by an unusual curvature of the cornea, this eye disease supplants itself through blurry and unclear vision and is particularly difficult to correct with corrective eye products and lenses.

Symptoms

There are many symptoms of defective vision, some more serious than others. While most of these symptoms can apply to any or all of the typical eye diseases listed above, some of the symptoms only manifest themselves in cases of serious eye disorders and should mean an immediate visit to the doctor or emergency room.

Symptoms of eye defects include blurred vision, trouble reading small print, wavy vision, or temporary or permanent blind spots. Some people suffer from halos, which occur when things in the line of vision appear to have halos of light surrounding them. Other people suffer from sudden flashes of light or sensations of a window shade being pulled over their eyes.

Floaters are a symptom that makes patients think that there are tiny particles floating near their eyes. Eye pain is one of the more worrisome symptoms of eye defects and should be treated seriously. Eye pain that is severe could be a sign of detached retinas, corneal disease, or even a serious eye infection that could lead blindness.

Other symptoms of eye defects include watery eyes, itchy eyes, a heaviness of the eyelids, or a mild headache that is felt in the back of the eye cavity.

Causes

Different eye diseases and defects are caused by different things. The most common cause of any vision or eye defect known is genetics. Doctors have found sufficient links between heredity and poor vision, and it appears that people are more likely to have bad vision if their parents or other family members do as well.

Other causes of classic poor vision include sitting too close to a television or computer screen for extended periods of time, continually reading in a dim or inconsistent light, or lack of blinking that leads to eye dryness. Mental strain and stress can also lead to eye defects.

Eye infections can be a serious but preventable cause of eye defects, and should be avoided by taking careful care to wash and clean eyes thoroughly after contact with bacteria. Other than situations in which your eye touches something foreign, washing should be avoided as tears and eyelids provide a natural source of protection from the elements.

Another of the main causes of eye problems is age. Aging takes a toll on all different parts of the body, and the eyes are no exception. Over 85% of American adults will experience some sort of defective vision at some point in their lives, many of them not until after age 60. As we age, our corneas and retinas become weaker and more prone to disease, and the other functions of the eyes also become harder for our bodies to carry out. Unfortunately, the older you are, the more likely it is that you will experience some sort of decrease in visual capability over time.

Risk Factors

There are some risk factors that can be pinpointed as pre-cursors to eye defects. The primary risk factor is a genetic or family history of poor vision, as this is one of the most sure-fire ways to predict future eye problems.

Unfortunately, this risk factor has no cure or prevention method. Other risk factors include sensitivity to light or a predisposition to eye infections, as both of these issues indicate a lowered immunity of the eye. Anyone who finds themselves using a computer for multiple hours a day, focusing in dim light often, or reading excessive amount also may be at risk to develop eye defects.

Prevention Tips

Many of the reasons people develop eye issues cannot be helped or prevented as they are products of genetic history or physical imperfections that accumulate over time. There are, however, ways you can invest in the continued health of your eyes, which makes it far less likely that you will develop defective vision later in life.

Some of the things you can do now to better protect your eyes for the future include ingesting some sort of Vitamin C every day, as well as Keratin, both of which are known to have positive effects on eyesight and eye health. Carrots and other fruit and vegetables contain high amounts of vitamins and nutrients that are important for visual health.

Another way you can protect your eyes is to always wear sunglasses and protective headwear, such as hats, when outside in the sun. The suns UVA and UVB rays are as harmful to eye health as they are to skin health, and should be avoided if possible. Eyeballs and the delicate parts of the inner eye are susceptible to burns from the sun just like other parts of your body.

Testing and Diagnosing

If you suspect you have some sort of defective vision, you should visit an Ophthalmologist or Optometrist for a complete eye evaluation. They will be able to tell not only if you have a vision defect, but if so, what type of treatment options are available to you.

One of the most common ways doctors test for poor vision is through a standard eye test. This usually consists of the patient reading a series of progressively smaller numbers or letters off of an eye chart.

Eye doctors also have special chairs designed to test the effectiveness of different degrees of lenses on your vision. These tests usually only take a few minutes and are often covered by health insurance. Most people find that it is a good idea for them to have their eyes checked by a doctor once a year.

Treatment Options

Herbal and At Home Remedies

There are no proven home remedies for defective vision. As previously discussed, there are many things one can do ahead of time to stave off or prevent future eye problems, but outside of visiting a doctor, there are few options for finding vision correction options.

If you believe you have acquired defective vision of some sort and wish to treat it at home first, try closing your eyes for long period throughout the day, or wearing an eye patch over one eye at a time. If dryness seems to be causing you distress, try to blink more frequently throughout the day to keep your eyes better moistened.

Pharmaceutical Remedies

Many people find the solutions they are looking for at the neighborhood pharmacy. While generally not as effective as those methods prescribed by an actual eye doctor, here are some of the options available for eye health at the drug store:

• Eye Drops – Oftentimes wetting or anti-histamine drops can solve a variety of eye issues that lead to decreased vision. Most pharmacies sell saline drops, a hygienic combination of water and sodium, that are meant to wet the eye. Try these drops if your symptoms seem to be more physical than internal.
• Over the Counter Glasses – Most pharmacies sell low-level prescription glasses that are meant to help with reading and various degrees of nearsightedness or farsightedness. These glasses are usually inexpensive and serve as a temporary correction for the symptoms and frustrations of mildly bad vision.
• Contacts – Once only sold in the hard variety, contacts are now available in soft, daily, and disposable form. Contacts are small prescription lenses that sit directly on top of the eye and correct defective vision. Some people find contacts uncomfortable while some people would have a hard time functioning daily without them. Contacts can only be prescribed by a doctor and require a great deal of care and hygienic maintenance.
• Glasses – If contacts are not an option, try glasses prescribed by a doctor. Glasses consist of prescription lenses, held together by plastic or metal, that rest on the bride of the nose and are supported by legs that sit over the ears. Many people find glasses uncomfortable or unfashionable, but they are one of the oldest and most trusted remedies for defective vision and can accommodate most types of poor vision. Even astigmatism, which is often untreatable through contacts, can be corrected by glasses.

Surgical Remedies

More popular in the last two decades, eye surgeries are becoming the wave of the future in eye health solutions. These surgeries are highly specialized and dangerous if not performed correctly, so make sure to visit a certified and experienced surgeon for all your eye surgery needs.

LASIK surgery is the most common vision corrective surgery on the market and works through the cutting of the cornea by a laser. The eye cells then re-grow a new layer which is not defective and this solves the vision problem. Other options besides LASIK include PK and Epi-LASIK, both forms of surgery designed to deal with issues such as thin corneas or dethatched retinas. Surgery is a recovery-intensive and expensive option, and should only be considered after much research and talks with a doctor.

Chest congestion is a common term used to describe a tightness or heavy feeling in the chest. Congestion by definition is the lack of movement. In this case, the movement would be air/oxygen into the lungs. Chest congestion is often seen as a symptom of a number of different ailments from the common cold to more serious conditions like heart failure.

Many people will have a difficult time breathing if they have chest congestion. This could be for a number of different reasons, but generally it is due to liquid built up in or around the lungs. That liquid could also be a number of different things.

Symptoms of Chest Congestion

Chest congestion is often painful. Some people may experience a constant dull ache that is made worse when one takes a deep breath. The pain can be severe at times, especially during coughing fits. Typically, the center of the chest is where the pain is focused. Some may experience back pain as well. If one lung is affected, that side may be more painful than the other.

A type of wheezing sound is also commonly heard when a person has chest congestion. Wheezing can be described as a whistling type of noise. This happens when the airway is restricted in some way. The wheezing may only be heard when a person inhales. This is usually a sign of asthma.

Wheezing while exhaling is more common. Doctors can help narrow down illnesses by determining when the wheezing occurs.

However, a true wheezing sound is different than the sounds made by a congested person. A doctor will be able to distinguish between the two. Congestion may also sound like a rattling noise. This may be heard while inhaling or exhaling.

Difficulty Breathing

Difficulty breathing is a common symptom with a congested chest. Some feel like a weight is being pressed down on their chest. Others describe it as a belt tightening around their chest when they are attempting to breathe. Although the person is getting enough oxygen, they may feel they are not because of the inability to take a refreshing deep breath. If the body is not getting enough oxygen, lips and fingertips may look bluish. A person struggling to get adequate oxygen may also feel tired.

Coughing is another irritating part of chest congestion. There are two types of coughs associated with chest congestion. A wet or productive cough is when a person coughs, phlegm is brought up. A dry cough or unproductive cough does not produce phlegm.

Depending on the cause of the congestion, a person may experience a fever. Fever indicates infection. The fever may bring on the chills as well.

Causes of Chest Congestion

There are several things that can cause a person to have congestion. In some cases, chest congestion indicates a serious, life-threatening situation and will require emergency medical treatment. Other times, chest congestion is a fleeting condition that causes mild discomfort.

Common colds, a flu virus, or sinus infection are just some of the illnesses that are often accompanied by chest congestion. Usually in these cases, the congestion is more of a discomfort. The congestion may be caused by the body generating an excessive amount of mucous as a defense mechanism against the virus. Sinus infections often cause a nasal drip that left untreated can cause chest congestion. Chest congestion related to these illnesses will usually disappear within a week. If a person has a weakened immune system, the congestion may lead to a secondary infection like bronchitis or pneumonia.

Bronchitis & Pneumonia

Bronchitis and pneumonia are usually noticed when a person experiences a great deal of chest congestion that is very painful. The lungs become infected, which will lead the body to produce mucous. The mucous is often unable to make its way out of the air passageways leading to congestion within the respiratory system.

Other Causes

Heart failure also causes chest congestion. This is due to the heart slowing down, and not moving blood through the body as needed. Fluid begins to pool around the lungs, effectively congesting the airways. One key symptom to look for when chest congestion is noticed, is the swelling of the lower extremities. If a person has a history of heart disease, they should seek medical care immediately if they notice any chest congestion.

Asthma is a condition triggered by an allergen or in some cases, physical activity. Asthma’s main symptom is chest congestion. An asthmatic will struggle to breathe regularly due to a restriction in the airways. This restriction leads to a person feeling as if their chest is being constricted.

Breathing in toxic gases or chemicals may also cause chest congestion. This is due to the body trying to fight off the chemicals entering the airways. Usually, the congestion will pass once a person can breathe fresh air. In some cases, the congestion may last for several hours or days after the chemicals have been inhaled.

Known Risk Factors

Smoking can lead to lung disease or heart disease. Both conditions have symptoms that include chest congestion. Second hand smoke can be just as dangerous and should be avoided if possible. People that have been diagnosed with asthma are at a higher risk of experiencing chest congestion. Those that work around noxious gases or toxic fumes are susceptible to inhaling dangerous fumes that may trigger a bout of chest congestion.

Those that have weakened immune systems are at risk of contracting a virus that can lead to congestion. Elderly or those with congenital heart disease need to pay particular attention to signs of chest congestion. This could be a serious problem.

Preventing Chest Congestion

Chest congestion can be avoided in some cases. When a person comes down with a cold or flu, it is helpful to maintain a healthy diet rich in raw fruits and vegetables. This will keep the immune system in top fighting form and hopefully combat the virus before it can take hold in the respiratory system. A person also needs to intake a lot of fluids to help reduce the amount of mucous buildup.

When a person does develop a minor cough, do not take a cough suppressant. Congestion occurs when there is too much mucous in the airways. When a cough is suppressed, the body is unable to expel the mucous, leading to congestion. An expectorant is a better choice. This encourages a productive cough.

Avoiding allergens that trigger asthma attacks is very important in the prevention of chest congestion. It is also helpful if a person avoids any toxic chemicals that may trigger the body to produce a great deal of mucous.

Exercise can also help reduce or prevent chest congestion. Walking every day can help manage a healthy body weight which may play a role in chest congestion related to heart failure. Exercise also strengthens the breathing muscles and increases the immune system functions. Exercise should only be done with a doctor’s approval.

How Is a Person Diagnosed with Chest Congestion?

Doctors do not typically give a patient a chest congestion diagnosis per se. Chest congestion is usually a symptom of some other illness. A doctor will most likely use a stethoscope to listen to a person’s lungs and heart. This will allow them to determine if there is indeed fluid buildup around the lungs or heart.

A pulse ox reading is also taken to determine how much oxygen a person is actually getting while breathing. A normal level is between 95 and 100. It is not unheard of for a person to be in the low 90s. A small machine is attached to the tip of a finger to measure a person’s oxygen level intake.

In most cases, a doctor will order a set of chest x-rays. This will help determine if there is liquid in or around the chest cavity. The doctor will also be looking for inflammation in those areas.

If an infection is found to be the problem, a doctor may order more tests to determine what caused the infection. If the chest congestion is believed to be caused by an allergy, the doctor may run some tests to try and narrow down what allergen caused the reaction.

Treatment Options

Once a diagnosis has been reached, the next step is treating the chest congestion. The treatment will depend on the cause. In many cases, chest congestion can be treated separately from the actual cause. This type of treatment will generally provide immediate relief, while the source of the chest congestion is treated with pharmaceuticals or allowed to run its course.

Home Remedies

If the culprit in a case of chest congestion is a simple cold or flu virus, the congestion can usually be treated at home. One very popular remedy is the steam treatment. This treatment method involves the congested person sitting in a bathroom with the doors and windows shut and a hot shower running. The person does not need to be in the shower to get relief. The steam helps break up the mucous in the chest and will induce a wet, productive cough. This same steam method can be done by boiling a pot of water and carefully leaning over to inhale the steam.

Many folk remedies are still used today as well. Although many people may not enjoy the taste of onions, they are an excellent choice for relieving chest congestion. Two tablespoons of onions boiled in a cup of water makes an effective tea.

Adding some garlic to the mixture doubles the effectiveness of the powerful concoction.

Aromatherapy & Natural Remedies

There are a number of aromatherapy treatments that can provide instant relief as well. Aromatherapy uses essential oils either in a burner or as a massage oil. A powerful oil that opens up the airways is Eucalyptus. Lavender and Peppermint essential oils are also very helpful in breaking up chest congestion. The refreshing smells are invigorating and will help a person feel better in no time. Essential oils are very powerful and should never be applied directly to a person’s skin. Most oils are sold in small one or two ounce bottles. The prices range from five to twenty dollars a bottle.

Yet another option, is the use of homeopathic medicines. These can be purchased online or in a health food store. Typically, they start under ten dollars with the most expensive around twenty dollars. Some homeopathic medicines that are great for clearing chest congestion include garlic, comfrey root and cayenne pepper.

Garlic has natural infection fighting properties and can help get rid of any mild infection that may be starting in the lungs. One of the best things about homeopathic medicines is they are all natural and people rarely have any allergic reactions to them. However, every person responds differently to each type of medicine and many times trial and error is the only way to discover a cure for each person.

Pharmaceutical Options

Over-the-counter medicines like cough syrups and cough drops may also help relieve the congestion. As mentioned before, it is important to use an expectorant and not a suppressant. Many of the cough medicines contain alcohol and may cause drowsiness. Cough drops typically contain menthol. Menthol helps open up airways, making it easier to breathe. Chest rubs also provide some immediate relief. Cough syrups are relatively inexpensive, starting around five dollars per bottle. It is possible to become addicted to these medicines.

A doctor may prescribe an antibiotic if an infection is suspected. Typically, amoxicillin is the drug of choice but may be too weak for some. Many people have built up a tolerance to this particular drug and a stubborn infection will not respond well to it at all. Prescription medicines can be expensive, as much as one hundred dollars a prescription.

A combination of an antibiotic and a cough syrup may be prescribed in an effort to provide quick relief. Some people may experience an allergic reaction to an antibiotic. Allergic reactions may present as a rash, headache or vomiting. The doctor should be notified immediately when one of these side effects appears.

Severe Infections

Severe infections, may require hospitalization. If the chest congestion is bad enough to reduce a person’s oxygen level, the person may need to be given oxygen. Those that suffer from chronic chest congestion may need to carry oxygen with them at all times. This is an expensive situation, but necessary for some.

Asthma attacks are often treated with the use of an inhaler. The inhaler provides immediate relief by opening up the airways. Inhalers vary in price range depending on the type of medicine. Standard rescue inhalers start around thirty dollars each. Many asthmatics can use an inhaler at the first sign of congestion and ward off a full blown asthma attack. Few people suffer from an irritated throat after using an inhaler. Improper cleaning of the inhaler between uses can also lead to a bacteria infection in the mouth known as Thrush.

Corns are hardened areas of skin that are the result of constant rubbing and pressure placed on specific areas of the body, most commonly the feet. These areas can become painful and bothersome for some people.

Symptoms

Corns and calluses are skin that becomes thick and hardened. These areas of skin may also appear flaky and dry at times. These hardened, thick skin areas are most often found on a person’s hands, feet and other areas of the body that may suffer from being consistently rubbed or pressed.

Causes

Typically corns and calluses are caused when a person subjects certain areas of their skin to pressure or friction from consistent use. Corns are usually skin that thickens on the top or side of a toe. A common cause for this happening is shoes that do not fit the person’s foot properly. Calluses are areas of thickened skin that develop on the hands or the soles of a person’s feet. This typically occurs from performing physical labor tasks.

The thickening of the skin occurs as a protective reaction to help prevent the development of blisters that can be painful and troublesome. People who have bunions on their feet most times will develop a callus over the bunion due to the bunion sticking out and rubbing against the shoe.

Risk Factors

Whenever a person consistently subjects parts of their body to repetitive rubbing or pressure, the possibility of developing corns or calluses is present. There are certain things that do put people at a higher risk factor for developing a corn or calluses. This includes:

• Age – As a person ages, their feet tend to become wider and flatter. The soles of their feet also tend to lose fat on the padding of their soles. This the feet to fit improperly in the shoe and allows for rubbing to occur. These problems also lead to improper pressure being put on areas of the feet that will cause skin to harden and thicken up.
• Cosmetic Foot Surgery – When a person has cosmetic surgery performed on their feet for situations such as to be able to fit into dress shoes easier, or to reduce the size of a person’s foot, this can lead to foot problems. Since the foot is designed to support a person on various pressure areas of the foot, reducing the size of a foot can throw the body’s sense of balance points off. This will lead to the foot having added pressure points in areas that it is not use to leading to the development of calluses and corns.
• Gender – Studies that have been conducted show that women are at a higher risk of developing corns on their feet. This is normally due to the types of shoes women tend to wear. This is also a result of women wearing a variety of different types of shoes for dress, exercise and causal wear without allowing their feet to adjust to just one or two different pairs of shoes.
• Occupational Risk Factors – The type of job and the environment in which a person works has a lot to do with their risk of developing corns. A person that is on their feet a lot or who perform a great deal of physical labor are at a greater risk of developing corns and calluses than someone who sit’s at a desk for the majority of their work shift. One example of this is a farmer who spends their time tending to their crops. Almost one hundred percent of their job requires physical labor. They develop corns and calluses to help prevent painful blisters from occurring.
• Pregnancy – Pregnant women are at a higher risk of developing corns and calluses because of the additional pressure placed on their feet that is not normal. The feet have specific points that it is used to receiving the majority of the pressure through regular wear and this is thrown off during a pregnancy.
• Sports and Activities – Since the majority of sports and extracurricular activities, such as dancing, require a person to spend a great deal of time on their feet while being active. These activities increase the likelihood of your feet and other parts of the body to experience extensive pressure and rubbing, causing corns and calluses to develop.
• Weigh Gain and Obesity – People who have gained weight or who suffer from obesity are at an increased risk of developing corns and calluses because of the extra pressure that they are putting their feet under to support the extra weight.

Prevention Tips

Corns can be very painful. There are cures to help remove corns that have developed. However, there is no guarantee that corns will not return or develop in another area. The best thing to do is prevent them from occurring in the first place. Here are some tips and techniques to help reduce the chances of developing corns.

Wear socks that are clean and dry. Providing continued moisture to your skin can erode the skin’s natural toughness. This is when corns will develop. Socks lock in moisture to the foot without allowing them to breathe. Wear socks continuously also contributes to foot odor and conditions such as athlete’s feet.

Shoes should not be worn indoors. Unless you are wearing a special corrective foot wear for a orthopedic problem, you should try to go bare foot around your home as much as possible. This gives your feet a break from the constant pressure and rubbing that occurs when wearing shoes.

Shoes With a Natural Curve

Shoes that come to a point, are thin or straight in design or that have a flat foot appearance, are more likely to cause rubbing and unnatural pressure points to your feet when wearing them. This can lead to the development of corns.
Do not wear shoes that are tight in the toes. Shoes that have a tight fit in toe area will definitely rub against the inside of the toe the entire time they are worn. This will result in a corn developing on the toes. Opt for wider toe shoes that allow for comfort and are natural fitting.

Check inside seams of shoes. If shoes have inside seams, make sure that they will not rub against the toe while wearing. Shoes that do not have protruding seams are less likely to contribute to developing corns. The more padding the better. When purchasing shoes, look for styles that have extra padding to help create a buffer for your feet and toes. When your foot settles into this buffer, it will maintain its natural position and result in less rubbing and pressure. You will also want to pay special attention to the ball of the foot and the back of the heel area. This is a common place for corns to develop.

Podiatrist Recommendations

Talk to a podiatrist about inserts. If you are unable to find shoes that fit your feet properly, talk to a podiatrist about getting inserts for your shoes. There are special pads, shoe inserts and wedges that can be specially made to your foot’s natural design to help eliminate the chances of developing corns as well as other painful foot conditions.

Surgery may be necessary. If you are unable to deal with the pain of an existing corn or you have a severe deformity of the foot, you may need to speak with a podiatrist about surgical treatments that are available that can help you deal with painful corns. This should always be a last resort when dealing with corns.

Test and Diagnosis Considerations

When diagnosing a corn, doctors and medical professionals will perform a visual inspection of the area and provide you with treatment options. They may inform you of some medicines or supplies available to treat corns. Doctors may even discuss surgical options that you have to remove the corn.

Treatment Options

There are many treatment options available to help patients deal with corns. There are medicines and over the counter medical supplies, surgical options that can be performed by a surgeon and countless natural remedies and cures available to try. Here are some of the options that a person has to help deal with painful corns.

Medicines and Over The Counter Medical Supplies

Special pads that are designed to place over the corn can be purchased over the counter. These pads can help to prevent future rubbing and pressure to the corn. Some varieties of pads available are medicated, meaning that they have an acid medication designed into the pad itself to help dissolve the hard tissue of the corn. This does help, but the medicine itself can harm good skin as well as the corn if it is not positioned correctly on the corn.

Shoe padding and shoe inserts are available. These products are meant to act as a bunting for your foot, allowing it to cradle around your foot and mold it into place to prevent rubbing and pressure points.

Over the counter acid medications are available. This usually comes in a liquid or gel form and is meant to be applied to the corn to soften the toughened skin. This should not be used by people who have problems that do not allow them good feeling in their feet areas. This is also not a recommended option for a person with pre-existing health problems like diabetes.

There are specially designed tools available to help shave away the tough skin of a corn. These tools are not recommended for people who have a decreased ability to fight off infections or who do not heal well, such as diabetics.

Pumice Stones

Pumice stones are a great over the counter option when trying to eliminate a corn. Soak your feet for approximately 20 minutes. Rub the pumice stone over the corn until you have removed as much dead and dried skin as possible. Continue this method for as many days as needed without making the area around the corn raw. Diabetics should not use pumice stones because of the chances of breaking the skin and causing infection.

Surgical Options

Surgeons can cut off the corn or callused area to help eliminate the pain. If the corn is caused by a toe that is not straight, surgeons can straighten the crooked bone to help reduce the likelihood that it will return. If the corn is the result of a toe that is too long or too short and causes rubbing, surgeons can help to shorten the bone or lengthen the toe using cosmetic surgery on the feet.

Doctors can burn the corn off using a medical acid treatment, similar to the treatment used for the removal of warts.

Natural Cures and Remedies

Fill a basin or tub that can be used to soak your feet in, with as hot of water as you can stand without getting scalded. Pour in about half a cup of Epsom salt into the water filled basin or tub. Soak your feet for 20 to 30 minutes twice a day. Continue this treatment for approximately one week. During the time of treatment, avoid wearing socks and shoes as much as possible.

Dip a cotton swab into castor oil and apply to the corn. Using medical adhesive tape, tape the cotton swab to the corn and allow it set over night. Continue this process for one week and you should begin to notice a big difference in your corn.

Some patients claim that if you tie a slice of lemon over the corn and leave it there over night you will get results.
Grind three or four licorice sticks and mix with half a teaspoon of sesame oil or mustard oil until a paste like substance forms. Apply this paste to the corn and leave on overnight. This will gradually soften the skin and reduce the size of the corn.

Grind chalk into a powder and mix with a small amount of water to form a paste. Apply the paste to the hardened corn and leave on overnight. This will soften the corn and shrink the size of it.

Also called pertussis, whooping cough is a severe infection that occurs in the respiratory system from the Bordetella pertussis bacterium, also called B. pertussis. The condition received its name from the main characteristic of the infection which causes a quite severe spell of coughing that is concluded with loud whooping sounds as the person inhales. There was a time when the vaccine was not yet available, in which whooping cough claimed 5,000 to 10,000 people each year in the US. The development of the vaccine provided a treatment that was effective enough to severely decrease the death rate to less than 30, which has began to rise again in the most at risk patients.

Whooping Cough Becoming More Common

It is quite common and occurring more frequently in the most recent years. There are several cases that could occur with the symptoms lasting for about six weeks. There could be prolonged symptoms or short-term, but treatment must be sought out during the first onset of the infection in order for the main antibiotic used to be effective in treatment. If there is not prompt diagnosis or attention paid, the infection could run its entire course only causing minor coughing spells that over-the-counter medications are good for treating.

Whooping cough arrives with several symptoms, progressing with the infection, with various groups at a higher risk than others for getting the infection. Thos with a compromised or developing immune system are typically at a greater chance of developing the condition, in which case there is a slight chance of fatality if the immune system is considerably low.

There is a highly effective preventative measure involving the DTaP vaccine that will protect against infection. As this infection is highly contagious, the necessary safeguards should be in place, especially in school age children that are currently attending school or daycare.

There are also various complications associated with whooping cough which include:

• Pneumonia
• Convulsions
• Mental impairment
• Brain damage
• Apnea
• Death

Whooping cough also presents other severe complications such as a permanent seizure disorder that will afflict the infected causing an epileptic like condition. Nose bleeds and ear infections can also be quite common with bleeding in the brain also possible. There is a lack of oxygen that occurs during a spell or from a complication which is the cause of any brain damage or mental retardation.

With children being so susceptible to the infection, it is important to contact a doctor if there are any symptoms that resemble pertussis. Emergency should be contacted if there are symptoms of:

• Bluish tint to the skin
• Apnea, or periods of stopping breathing
• Seizures
• High fever
• Vomiting
• Dehydration

These symptoms could be an indication that there is a serious complication that requires immediate attention.
Infants are the most susceptible and most in danger in the event of the pertussis infection, therefore will require much more care and monitoring than adolescents and adults.

Many times, whooping cough can carry out its course and leave no effects other than the coughing which can be relieved through the use of cough suppressants and various home remedies that provide a better and more suitable environment for treatment of whooping cough.

Symptoms

Once there has been exposure to the bacteria, it will take about a week for the initial symptoms to present. These symptoms are very similar to a simple cold that will continue to progress. Typically, 10-12 days after the initial symptoms arrive there will be severe coughing spells that will end in a whooping noise when seen in children. The sound is the result of attempting to inhale and is rare in adults and children under six months.

When coughing spells begin, they may be followed by severe persistent vomiting and even possibly unconsciousness.

When vomiting accompanies coughing, this is a big indicator that there is pertussis present. Infants can have choking spells as a common symptom of the condition. There are other symptoms as well including cold and flu like symptoms such as a runny nose, a fever up to 102 degree Fahrenheit, and even diarrhea. These accompany the initial symptoms and can lead to a wrong diagnosis of the flu or a minor cold.

Many times in adults, the condition remains as a dry and persistent cough that could cause:

• Thick phlegm
• Vomiting
• Reddish or bluish face from lack of oxygen
• Extreme fatigue

Adults and adolescents don’t typically experience the characteristic whoop and will likely just experience progressive coughing spells. In some cases, apnea or pneumonia could develop, especially in the case of a compromised immune system due to other diseases or infections.

Causes

The bacterium Bordetella pertussis, also known as Bordetella parapertussis or B. pertussis, is a highly contagious bacterium that causes the upper respiratory infection, pertussis, or whooping cough. This is a very serious disease that has been seen in infants to cause permanent disabilities, including brain damage, and can even be fatal.

The disease is interpersonal, spreading from person to person as the infected cough into the air and the uninfected inhale the bacteria. The bacteria travel through the air in tiny droplets, seeking a new host to infect. The infection generally lasts up to six weeks, but could be more or less depending on the patient.

Once the bacteria have entered the airways, it will begin to multiply, producing toxins that inhibit the respiratory tract’s ability to rid the germs that try to invade. Thick mucus begins to accumulate within the airways, causing the coughing spells and whooping sound as children try to inhale. As the airways are narrow, the whooping is the effect of a gasp of air seeking travel through a tube in the lungs that has been severely narrowed. In some cases, this gasping goes on to cause choking or even unconsciousness.

Risk Factors

Since infants’ immune systems are still in development, they are not able to fight off infections as well as adolescents and adults. Typically, those six months and younger are the most at risk as the resistance to the disease doesn’t generally build enough strength until at least three doses of the vaccination have been administered.

As whooping cough cases have been on the increase, it is now thought that the vaccination effects will begin to wear off through time, leaving teenagers and adults more susceptible in the case of an outbreak of pertussis, which seems to be occurring often and regularly.

Aged adults are also susceptible as their immune systems are not as strong as they used to be and in many times are compromised due to other health conditions. This increases the risk during an outbreak. Any individual who has not received the vaccination is also at great risk of contracting the infection.

Prevention Tips

The most common and effective, as well as the main and most necessary prevention against whooping cough are the pertussis vaccine, which is administered in the DTaP imunization given to children. The immunization consists of diphtheria, tetanus, and acellular pertussis vaccines that are given in five doses routinely in most children before the age of six. It is now recommended that for added protection after the vaccine has begun to wear off, children 11-18 receive the new Tdap vaccine. The recommended age is between 11 and 12, and the Tdap replaces the traditional Td booster.

With whooping cough being so contagious, it is best to avoid public areas during an outbreak if the vaccine hasn’t been administered. It has been shown that up to 80% of family members that haven’t been immunized will develop the infection when in the same house as an infected person.

If exposure to an exposed family member or other individual occurs, it is imperitive to seek a booster dose for children that haven’t received all five doses, and antibiotics in adults to avoid spread of the disease.

The vaccine does have side effects that include fever, irritability, and soreness around the injection site. There can be more severe side effects in more serious and rare cases including:

• Persistent crying spells that last over three hours
• High fever
• Seizures, shock, or coma

Test and Diagnosis Considerations

Diagnosis typically begins with evaluation of the symptoms; however this can sometimes be difficult when the symptoms aren’t as obvious. There are some cases in infants when the symptoms can be from pneumonia, leading to more testing needed beyond symptoms checking. It is more often easier to diagnose in children from evaluation of the symptoms due to the whooping sound that accompanies the cough.

There is usually a sample taken of the mucus secreted from the nasal passage, which is sent to the lab and tested for the B. pertussis bacteria. This is a time-consuming test, which causes many treatments to already be started before results are shown.

There are blood tests used to diagnose the disease by showing an elevated white blood cell count indicating an infection is present. There are some patients that will show a complete blood count with high numbers of lymphocytes present. There may also be a throat culture taken in order to test at the lab for the bacteria.

In some cases a chest X-ray is used for the physician to look for any type of inflammation or fluid present in the lungs. This is a sign of pneumonia which could complicate the pertussis and create a higher fatality risk. This is a worst case scenario for children as they are often unable to fight off both conditions at once.

Treatment Options

The actual treatment taken to rid whooping cough is determinant upon the patient including information such as:

• Health and medical history
• Severity of the condition
• Tolerance for medications, procedures, and various therapies
• Expectations of the course of the infection
• Patient preference

The most acute infections when caught in the later stages may only require minimal treatment, which typically consists of cough and respiratory relief.

The actual treatment of whooping cough greatly depends on the patient. Infants are more likely to receive hospital care for treatment as the disease is much more dangerous in that age. Intravenous fluids are also often used in children that aren’t able to keep fluids or foods down.

There will be a quarantine of the infected patient to prevent further spreading, with treatment for adolescents and adults being more appropriate within the home. There are several remedies used to treat, as well as medications in order to kill the bacteria and restore the respiratory tract.

Herbal and Home Remedies

There are many herbal and home remedies that provide relief of the symptoms and aid in the healing process. The most important tips given to alleviate the coughing spells and ease the treatment process for in-home treatment include:

• Make sure to get plenty of rest.
• Drink many fluids, including water, juice, and soup.
• Eat small and frequent meals.
• Vaporize the area.
• Maintain clean air within the home: no smoking.

Garlic is often used as a very effective remedy for whooping cough. Syrup of garlic taken in five drop to one teaspoon doses two to three times per day can have a great effect in treating the infection. If there are more frequent and violent coughing spells and the condition is worse, the dose frequency can be increased. Almond oil is another effective treatment that can provide great relief of the symptoms. Honey, onion, and at least 10 to 12 glasses of water can wash the system of the toxins and replenish the respiratory tract. There are several other herbal and home remedies that can greatly benefit patients suffering from whooping cough.

Medical Treatment

It is encouraged to seek treatment for pertussis early to simplify the treatment process. Early treatment can be highly effective with antibiotics like erythromycin, which can alleviate the symptoms much quicker. Although most patients are diagnosed too late for effective treatment with antibiotics, they will still be given to prevent spreading of the disease.

Any infant 18 months or younger should be receiving constant supervision to monitor breathing. During continuous coughing and choking spells, infants have a tendency to stop breathing which could cause mental dysfunction or death. The more severe cases should be receiving 24/7 hospital care until the infection has been fully treated. Many times, there will be an oxygen tent used that provides high humidity and promotes the unblocking of mucus, allowing easier breathing.

Over the Counter Medicine

Once antibiotics are no longer useful as an effective treatment, a minor infection will commonly be treated with cough relief using over-the-counter cough medicine. The infection will be monitored either from home until it has dissipated and there are no more symptoms.

Erythromycin is typically the main drug used for treatment of whooping cough. If the patient seeks treatment before the coughing spells have begun, Erythromycin is effective at preventing the progression to the paroxysmal stage, which is when the coughing begins. If the coughing spells begin, it is necessary to treat the symptoms, but no medications can target the bacteria.

Surgery

Surgery is not a typical treatment for pertussis as it is an infection and cannot be treated with any form of surgery. However, there are cases when whooping cough creates a larger underlying condition that may require some sort of surgery. This could include the development of a hernia or other intestinal or organ issues. The severe coughing spells can create a force within the body that can damage some organs and specific areas.

Whooping cough is a quite common disease associated with the B. pertussis bacterium that is spread very easily. There are many patients each year treated for whooping cough and many times the infection remains minimal. There are some cases, however such as in infants where more serious attention must be given to the disease as their immune systems are not properly developed or as strong as others. Proper treatment of pertussis can vary depending on the age of the infection, age of the patient, and the severity.

Special Treatment Options

While most cases can be solved with rest and nourishment, there are some cases that can provide such restraint on the respiratory system that death can occur. There are always other conditions that can affect the patient and cause more severe and life-threatening issues, such as pneumonia. In the case of pneumonia, proper treatment should be sought out and there should be isolation of the infected person to ensure that spreading of the infection does not occur.

Children may be required to remain in the hospital for the duration of the infection to ensure that there are no further and more permanent complications associated with the disease.

Avoidance

To avoid getting the B. pertussis infection, it is necessary to avoid unsanitary contact with those who may be infected, as well as ensure that all children immunizations are administered to ensure protection. Children can be much more susceptible to the more serious risks and complications associated with the disease, which causes more urgency to ensure that all immunizations and boosters are received per schedule.

Acne General overview

Blemishes, also known as acne, zits and pimples, are a skin condition that form as a result of excess oil and skin cells that have become clogged inside your pores. Blemishes can occur almost anywhere on the body, but are most commonly observed on the face, neck, back, shoulders and chest. However, you may notice acne on the upper arms, buttocks and areas of the body where you sweat.

Blemishes look like raised bumps on the surface of the skin that can vary in size and may have a white, red or even black appearance. These blemishes can become infected, causing pain, inflammation and even scarring once the acne has healed.

Severe Acne

Acne is often dictated by genes and the hormonal changes that come with the surging hormones and increase oil production of puberty, pregnancy and even adulthood. Many people think that eating greasy foods causes acne, but this is a common misconception. Most teens will develop at least mild acne, though some may never have a problem with it, and others may develop a severe case.

Severe acne can have a negative affect on your quality of life and self-esteem, and can even contribute to anxiety and depression. Some people, particularly teens, may become shy or embarrassed and may start to avoid social situations or having their photo taken.

Adults who develop acne later in life are usually unprepared and may find the appearance of blemishes stressful and humiliating. However, with the technology and medications available today, there are ways to treat and prevent virtually any type of acne.

Types

Whiteheads

Whiteheads form as the result of excess oil and dead skin cells which clog the pores. The pores are closed off by these materials and the surface of the pore appears white. This is the form of acne that most people are tempted to ‘pop’ or squeeze, but this should be avoided.

Blackheads

Blackheads are the result of pores that have become clogged with sebum and dead skin cells. In the case of blackheads, the pore surface remains open, allowing you to see into the pore which appears black.

Cysts

Excess oil can become a breeding ground for bacteria, and as the bacteria multiply inside the pore, the pore can become inflamed and appear red, swollen and become very painful and even warm to the touch. This type of severe inflammation can form cysts, which is the most severe kind of acne. Cysts often leave permanent scarring once healed.

Common irritants or behaviors that can cause or worsen acne include:

• Wearing restrictive clothing or equipment that can rub against the skin and cause irritation. Straps or other tight-fitting items that are often associated with sporting equipment, as well as bra straps and even turtleneck shirts can irritate acne. If you are on the phone a lot, or perform any activity where something is pressed against your skin or face (such as playing a violin), this can also lead to acne.
• Over-washing, using harsh skin care products, or not following directions for each specific product property can irritate acne.
• Stress. Stress can cause an inflammation response in the body as well as an increase in androgens, or male hormones, in both men and women. Both inflammation and higher levels of androgens can increase the production of oil and may increase the occurrence and severity of acne.
• Touching your face. Your hands and fingers contain oils that can irritate and contribute to the formation of acne.
• Sweat. Be sure to remove clothing after any physical activity that induces sweating, and if possible, shower to remove sweat from the skin.
• Hair also contains oils and if you have a style where the hair touches the face a lot (like bangs), you may experience an increase in acne in those areas.
• Medications. Some medications that can cause acne include corticosteroids, hormones, Dilantin (an anti-seizure medication), lithium and some birth control pills. Most medication related acne will disappear once you stop taking the drug.
• You have a job that involves handling harsh chemicals and oils.

At-Home Treatment

If your acne is mild or has not yet reached a point where you feel a trip to the doctor is necessary, there are a variety of effective products on the market for you to try. You should also follow a regular cleansing routine to keep bacteria and oil at bay.

Skin Care Tips:

• Wash the affected skin up to two times per day, and be sure to rinse well. Use warm or room temperature water as opposed to hot to avoid irritation.
• Use only water-based cleansers and avoid any products that contain oils or perfumes.
• To avoid infection, increased acne and scarring, resist the temptation to squeeze your pimples.

Use Over-the-Counter Products with these key ingredients:

• To unplug pores use Benzoyl Peroxide.
• To dry up blemishes use Alpha-Hydroxy Acid or Salicylic Acid. These ingredients also cause the top layer of skin to peel.
• To kill bacteria, use products containing Tea Tree Oil.
• You may find strips that were designed to unclog pores very effective. These strips are typically applied to wet skin on the face (usually the nose, chin and cheeks) and when dried, you pull them off. The sticky side of the strips pull blackheads and dirt as well as leftover make-up out of your pores.
• You can also find several over-the-counter kits that contain a series of products that are meant to be used as a treatment package. Some kits include heat activated products while others provide a gentle at-home alternative to microdermabrasion.
• There is a large market for products that are only available through the internet or telephone orders that you may have noticed on television. Skin care lines designed to combat and prevent acne such as Proactiv, ANSR Acne Care, Murad Acne Complex and Curactin all claim to be the most effect acne fighting skin care lines available and have been found to be effective. As a consumer, you need to research the ingredients, side effects and consumer reviews associated with each product, and consider the costs involved (typically around $20 for the basic starter package) before ordering.

Effectiveness

While this list of products as a whole are often effective for the treatment of acne, they may not work for everyone. The success of these products depends on your individual skin and may take some trial and error to find the product, or combination of products that treat and prevent your acne. It is very important to only use products as directed.

Cost

Over-the-Counter products found at your local retailer typically cost anywhere from $5.00 for a basic cleanser, and up to $50.00 for a kit that contains a series of products.

Tests and Diagnosis

When acne becomes a burden and you are unable to find any over-the-counter products that alleviate the problem, you may choose to schedule an appointment with your doctor. During your visit, she will perform a physical exam and will ask a series of questions pertaining to your medical history, including any medications you are taking. Women may be asked about their menstrual cycle to determine if fluctuating hormones are contributing to the problem.

Typically, your doctor will not need to do any special tests unless she feels that the acne is an indicator of high testosterone levels (in women).

Clinical Treatment Options – Acne

Your doctor may use one or a combination of any of these medications to help banish your mild to severe acne.

• Benzoyl Peroxide to unclog pores.
• Salicylic Acid to dry out the acne.
• Azelaic Acid, which unclog pores and promotes healing.
• Isotretinoin, which is a potent oral retinoid used to treat cystic acne and acne that is not responding to other medications. Side effects for this man-made drug can be serious and include severe headaches, chest pain, and severe birth defects. Women who are pregnant, nursing, or plan on becoming pregnant should not take this medication.
• Tretinoin, which is a topical retinoid.
• Oral or topical antibiotics like sulfacetamide or erythromycin.
• Women may be prescribed low-dose birth control pills such as Ortho Tri-Cyclen or Yaz. These medications are typically prescribed for women with mild acne, or acne related to their menstrual cycles.
• Medications known as androgen blocks which decrease the amount of oil production, such as spironolactone.

Note: Common side effects associated with these medications include yeast infections in women, and diarrhea.

Cost

These prescription medications can cost anywhere from $15.00 to $140 per tube or bottle. Be sure to check with your insurance provide for any potential coverage.

If you are experiencing severe acne, your treatment may also include one of the following procedures:

• Interlesional Corticosteroid Injection, which is injected directly into cysts that have become inflamed. The corticosteroid decreases inflammation and encourages healing.
• Drainage and Surgical Excision, typically used on large cysts. Your dermatologist will drain the cyst under sterile conditions. Never attempt this type of procedure at home as it can cause infection and scarring.

Clinical Treatment Options – Scarring

Your doctor may be able to lessen the appearance of acne scarring using one or more of the following procedures:

• Chemabrasion, dermabrasion and microdermabrasion, are all procedures remove surface scars through either a buffing type process or a chemical peel.
• Laser resurfacing which removes the top layer of skin.
• Gelatin implants or collagen injections which can improve the appearance of scars.

Note: These treatments often require aftercare instructions to reduce pain and swelling, like applying cold compresses and avoiding sunlight, so be sure to ask your doctor about these instructions and follow them as directed.

Most acne treatments, whether it is for the acne itself or scarring, take time to show noticeable improvement. You may wait 6 to 8 weeks before seeing changes and acne may in fact get worse before it begins to decrease.

Cost

Clinical treatments can be quite expensive, especially those used to treat scarring. While costs vary greatly between procedures and individual doctors, procedures are typically priced from $100 to $3000 per treatment. Be sure to check with your insurance provider for potential coverage.

General care for acne prone skin:

• – Avoid picking at or ‘popping’ blemishes. If done incorrectly or by using hands or instruments that have not been sterilized, popping blemishes can not only spread bacteria but may also increase blemishes and cause scarring.
• – Avoid skin products that contain oil or pore clogging ingredients.
• – Avoid products that contain harsh chemicals or perfumes as these may also irritate the skin.
• – Many hair products contain oils which could trigger acne. When showering, use any shampoos, conditioners or other hair treatments before washing any affected or acne-prone areas with a wash that contains ingredients like benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid.

Schizophrenia, also known as Paranoid Schizophrenia, Disorganized Schizophrenia and Catatonic Schizophrenia, is a brain disorder that causes those affected to interpret reality in an abnormal fashion. It is the most chronic and disabling of all mental disorders, and while this disorder can often be managed, there is no cure. It hinders the ability of those suffering from it to care for themselves, becoming gradually worse over their lifetime.

The term Schizophrenia, while meaning “split mind”, is often confused with split or multiple personality disorders. In reality, the term “split mind” refers to the way Schizophrenia distorts a person’s ability to express emotion, think, behave in social settings and their perception of the world around them. Those suffering from Schizophrenia cannot tell the difference between what is real and what is imagined. Without treatment, they are stuck in a frightening and confusing world.

The severity of schizophrenia varies from person to person. There are several subtypes of this mental disorder, with the main ones being Paranoid, Disorganized and Catatonic Schizophrenia. Paranoid Schizophrenics believe that either certain people or all people are attempting to harm them, whether for punishment or revenge.

Variations of the Disease

They are usually fairly in control of their emotions, speech and actions, yet go out of their way to avoid being found or harmed by imaginary villains. Disorganized Schizophrenics often have trouble performing normal activities such as showering, dressing or preparing a meal. They are highly confused, incoherent and childish.

They may come across as emotionless and respond inappropriately to everyday situations. A Catatonic Schizophrenic is generally unable to move or speak. A few assume odd postures and stay in these positions, and may repeat everything said to them. They are at an increased risk of malnutrition or inflicting injury upon themselves.

Symptoms

The first signs of schizophrenia are sudden and severe changes in ability to perform tasks and in a patient’s personality. Symptoms typically begin in the teens or 20s in men, and in the 20s or 30s in women. It is highly uncommon for a child to be diagnosed with schizophrenia, and even rarer for those over 40 years old to develop symptoms. Signs and symptoms of this disorder or usually divided into four categories: positive, negative, cognitive and affective.

Positive symptoms include anything that distorts a person’s ability to function normally. Delusions, which cause a person to misinterpret an experience, are one of the most common symptoms. Hallucinations cause someone to see or hear things that do not exist. The most common hallucination is hearing voices, though hallucinations can affect any number of the five senses, even smell and touch. Thought disorders and disorganized behavior cause someone to mix words together and excessively lose their train of thought, as well as experience unpredictable anger or silliness.

Negative Symptoms

Negative symptoms are often harder to detect, and includes losing the ability to function at a “normal” level (normal being the way a schizophrenic functioned before the onset of symptoms). Negative symptoms can be a withdrawal from society, loss of interest in usual activities, apparent lack in emotion, and an inability to make or stick to plans, neglect of hygiene and loss of motivation.

Cognitive Symptoms

Cognitive symptoms affect a person’s way of thinking. These symptoms are usually the most apparent to others and the most disabling for the person suffering from them, because they affect one’s ability to go about their daily life. It is thought that those with schizophrenia are born with these symptoms, but they usually do not have a major impact until the disorder itself actually starts. Cognitive symptoms include a lapse or absence of memory, difficulty or inability to pay attention and issues making sense of spoken, written or implied information.

Affective Symptoms

Affective symptoms cause the person to come across as odd, resulting in others avoiding or ignoring them. This leads to isolation, which contributes to a schizophrenic’s severe mood swings and/or depression. It is also common that those suffering from schizophrenia often entertain or act upon suicidal thoughts. Due to the nature of schizophrenia causing one to lose grasp of reality, it is often up to family or friends to find help for a loved one suffering because they are unable to see the problem them self.

Causes

While the exact cause of schizophrenia is currently unknown, it is known that it is primarily biological. Current research indicates that a variety of factors contribute to the development of this disorder, most notably genetics and the chemistry of the brain itself. Schizophrenia often runs in families, meaning the possibility of someone developing this disorder increases if one or both of the parents suffer from schizophrenia.

It is also believed that people with schizophrenia have a chemical imbalance in the brain, most often an extreme sensitivity to or overproduction of dopamine and/or glutamate. These chemicals are neurotransmitters that help nerve cells send messages, or “talk”, to one another. An imbalance of dopamine or glutamate interferes with the way a person reacts to certain smells, sounds and sights, and often leads to hallucinations and delusions, two of the primary symptoms of schizophrenia.

Neuroimaging

The newest research in schizophrenia has found, through neuroimaging, that the actual structure and function of the brain in many schizophrenics is abnormal. Abnormalities can also be found in the entire central nervous system, even the spine. However, this abnormality can also occur in people without the disease, though these findings do support the theory that schizophrenia is a brain disease.

Environmental factors can also play a role, more often than not being the cause of the onset of the disorder rather than the disorder itself. Viral infections, traumatic social experiences and continuous and large amounts of stress can trigger schizophrenia in those already predisposed to the disorder. However, schizophrenia can also become apparent when the body is undergoing hormonal or physical changes, typically puberty (which can last well into the twenties). Interestingly enough, the onset of schizophrenia is not typical in older adults, even women experiencing menopause.

Current Research

Current research is focused on finding one organic or neurobiological cause of schizophrenia, though as of now nothing has been found. Therefore, there is a debate among scientists and doctors as to whether schizophrenia is one disorder or a host of discrete syndromes not yet named. Because schizophrenics can present with one, a few or all of the current recognized symptoms, this theory of more than one disorder is not out of the realm of possibility.

Risk Factors

Among mental disorders, schizophrenia is relatively common. Almost 2.2 million Americans over the age of 18 will develop schizophrenia, and it is diagnosed worldwide in all races and cultures. It is most often developed during or closely after the onset of puberty, though children as young as five have been diagnosed.

Researchers have also identified certain risk factors that either increases the risk of developing schizophrenia or triggering it, including older paternal age, use of psychoactive drugs during young adulthood, stressful life circumstances, a family history of schizophrenia and exposure to toxins, malnutrition and viruses in the womb during the first and second trimesters.

Prevention

Because the exact cause of schizophrenia is unknown and varies from person to person, prevention of this disease is limited. The most effective prevention of schizophrenia is education, and includes public campaigns to provide information on early symptoms and signs. The earlier treatment is begun, the less likely it is to produce permanent damage to the individual.

People who are at a high risk for developing schizophrenia, such as those with a family history of the disease, often begin treatment before any signs of schizophrenia occur. This is highly controversial, as there is a very good chance that even those at increased risk of schizophrenia will never develop it, and the drugs used to treat and manage the disease come with a laundry list of possible debilitating side effects. However, many argue that the effects of late treatment of schizophrenia are more damaging than treating for a disease that may or may not present.

For those already suffering from schizophrenia, continued and thorough treatment is highly recommended. Any lapse in therapy can cause damage to the mental, emotional and physical life of the patient. Schizophrenics should be closely monitored for any lapse in treatment or sudden psychotic episodes even while on treatment.

Tests and Diagnosis

According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders published by the American Psychiatric Association, three criteria must be met in order for a person to be diagnosed with schizophrenia. Before diagnosis is even begun, all other mental disorders must be ruled out, as well as the use of illegal substances or alcohol. Then the patient must present with at least two of the common symptoms of schizophrenia such as disorganized speech or behavior, catatonic behavior, hallucinations, delusions or the presence of any one of the negative symptoms associated with schizophrenia.

The patient must also experience significant to severe impairment in their ability to perform daily tasks or attend school or work. However, if any one of the symptoms is severe enough (an example would be a patient constantly hearing the same or a number of voices for the majority of the day), diagnosis can be made based on the one severe symptom. Lastly, all of these symptoms must be ongoing for at least six months before an official diagnosis is made.

In order to determine if the requirements for a schizophrenic diagnosis are met, doctors perform a number of laboratory and psychological tests. Blood tests are used to rule out other disorders with similar symptoms as well as screen for alcohol or drug use, as abuse of such could produce schizophrenic-like symptoms. MRI and CT scans are also used to look for any possible brain or central nervous system abnormalities. Lastly, a mental health provider will assess the patient, and base their diagnosis on the patient’s appearance as well as their responses to questions regarding their delusions or hallucinations, moods, thoughts of suicide and potential for violence.

Due to the nature of schizophrenia, diagnosis is often largely based on reports from friends, family and onlookers. Because schizophrenia alters the way a person views themselves and the world around them, the reports of family and friends is often the deciding factor in the diagnosis of schizophrenia.

Treatment

Schizophrenia requires treatment from the onset of the disease until the end of the life of the patient, even if symptoms subside or disappear entirely. Treatment is restricted primarily to medication and psychosocial therapy. During psychotic episodes, hospitalization may be required to ensure the safety and health of the patient.

Treatment is typically administered by a trained psychiatrist, with support from psychologists, social works and psychiatric nurses. In severe cases, a manager may be appointed to coordinate the care of the patient, and the patient may require continued in-hospital treatment, especially in the case of those suffering from catatonic schizophrenia.

Medications

Prescription medications, most typically antipsychotic medications, are the main treatment for schizophrenia. Without medication, no amount of therapy or other natural treatments will be completely effective. However, due to the possible severe side effects of these medications, patients are often reluctant to take them.

Antipsychotic Medications

Antipsychotic medications control symptoms that are caused by an imbalance in the chemical neurotransmitters of the brain. The willingness of the patient to submit to treatment can affect the choice in medication, and may require additional medication such as Lorazepam to calm them enough to submit to treatment.

Atypical antipsychotics are newer medications, and are preferred by doctors for treatment of schizophrenia due to the lower risk of side effects. These medications include Aripiprazole, Ziprasidone, Risperidone, Clozapine, Quetiapine, Olanzapine and Paliperidone. The main side effects of these medications are weight gain, high blood cholesterol and diabetes.

Conventional antipsychotics frequently cause irreversible neurological disorders, such as tardive dyskinesia, a movement disorder. They are typically used only when atypical antipsychotics fail to work, and include medications such as Chlorpromazine (also known as Thorazine), Haloperidol, Perphenazine and Fluphenazine.

Considering the fact that treatment of schizophrenia is a lifelong process, these antipsychotics are also considered for use when cost is a factor, as they are often cheaper than atypical antipsychotics.

Medication Timeframe

It can take nearly a month after starting any medication to notice a significant improvement in a schizophrenic patient. The goal of medication is to use the lowest dosage possible, and doctors often try a number of different types of medications, dosages and combinations of the two to control symptoms. Often, antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications are also utilized to treat suicidal thoughts and the stress and fear of patients caused by their hallucinations, delusions and paranoia.

Psychosocial Treatments

Once medications take effect, psychosocial treatments are extremely important to help the patient return to and maintain a normal-functioning lifestyle. These can include social skills training to improve communication skills, family therapy to aid caregivers in supporting their loved ones, vocational rehabilitation to allow those suffering from schizophrenia to acquire and maintain a job, as well as individual therapy to help the patient deal with their illness as well as monitor medications and identify early signs of relapse.

Other Treatments

Electroconclusive therapy is used only when all other medications have failed. It is only recommended for catatonic schizophrenics, and involves using electric shock to induced seizures while the patient is under anesthesia. Typically, there are six to twelve electroconclusive therapy treatments. While highly controversial, this treatment has been proven relatively safe and effective.

The Soteria method of treatment involves patients living in a communal home with little to no medical staffing. Antipsychotic drugs are taken only by choice, and patients participate in excessive social therapies and classes. Recent studies indicate that those suffering from less debilitating cases of schizophrenia do just as well with the Soteria method as they would with the usual treatment of medication and therapy. The Soteria method is used primarily in Germany, Sweden, Switzerland and Hungary and is considered the more gentle and kinder way to treat the disorder.

Prognosis

The earlier treatment is begun for schizophrenia, the better the outcome. Researchers believe that the first two years of treatment, and continued treatment thereafter, has the most effect on a positive outcome for patients. The goal of treatment is to allow a person suffering from schizophrenia to function properly in society and maintain an independent lifestyle.

Studies indicate that at least 62% of those treated for schizophrenia meet this goal within five years of beginning treatment. Females, those who are older at the onset of symptoms and those in good physical health before symptoms occur are more likely to receive a good prognosis and reach some semblance of remission status, which is not yet clinically defined.

The stigma placed on those suffering from schizophrenia has diminished over the years, though it is still one of the main obstacles in a schizophrenic seeking out treatment. Increased public awareness of this disease, as well as continued research, can increase the rate of a good prognosis for those diagnosed with schizophrenia.

What are Spring Ailments?

The most common spring ailments for millions of people are the so-called “spring allergies” more commonly known as “hay fever” or “allergic rhinitis”– a respiratory infection caused by spring pollen that is released into the air as trees and plants start to bloom. The most common symptoms include a a runny nose, sneezing, coughing, and itchy or watery eyes. Some people experience wheezing, and, in more severe cases, full-blown bronchial asthma attacks; children are especially prone to those.

The biological mechanism behind spring allergies is simple: allergies like pollen enter one’s airways, which causes blood cells to process them as antigens, and to produce antibodies. When the antigens and the antibodies come in contact with each other, so-called chemical and hormonal “mediators” are released. One such mediator is called histamine, and it is primarily responsible for the hay fever symptoms.

Non-Medical Options

Non-medical prevention and lifestyle modifications can help minimize the effects of hay fever. It is possible to keep track of the pollen count, which is the measurement of the number of grains of pollen per cubic meter of air as Regional pollen count forecasts are available through several different websites, and sometimes announced on local news.

On the days with a high pollen count, it may help to cover one’s mouth and nose with a medical mask while outside, to avoid inhaling the pollen in the air. It is wise to keep the windows closed, and to frequently wipe down windowsills with a wet cloth. In general, pollen count tends to be lower immediately after a rain, as clears the air of pollen.

It is also helpful to wash one’s face after being outside, to remove the pollen from the skin. However, prevention can only help so much. Fortunately, there is a range of treatments available for hay fever. Over-the-counter pharmaceutical offerings, medical interventions, and traditional and home remedies are outlined below.

Pharmaceutical Remedies for Hay Fever

The common medications for hay fever are usually referred to as antihistamines, because they work by preventing the histamine produced in the body in reaction to the allergens from inducing the unpleasant symptoms. Antihistamines usually help with sneezing, a runny nose, and itching eyes.

Antihistamines

Antihistamines usually come in two types: the ones that may cause drowsiness, such as Piriton or Phenegran, or the ones that do not cause drowsiness, such as Benadryl, Clarity, and Allegra-D. Of course, individual reactions to medications may vary, and some people may feel run down and tired even while taking the medications that are labeled as non-drowsy; others have little to none side effects from any antihistamines.

The most common side effects besides drowsiness include headache, constipation, blurred vision, dry mouth, and dizziness. People who suffer from glaucoma, enlarged prostate, and kidney or liver problems should consult their doctors before taking antihistamines, as their side effects can worsen these conditions.

Many antihistamines are available over the counter, but some require a prescriptionuch as Fexofenadine (sometimes sold as Allegra, Tilfur, Telfast, and Fastofen). Some of these pills have to be taken several times a day; others work on an extended release schedule, providing relief for 24 hours after ingestion. The over-the-counter antihistamines vary in prices; generic alternatives to brand names are usually available, so this course of hay fever management does not have to be too costly. Prices on prescription antihistamines depend on one’s insurance plan or participation in pharmaceutical discount programs.

Nasal Sprays

In addition to the pills described above, antihistamines come in the form of nasal sprays, such as the prescription-only Rhinolast. Such sprays are used for fast relief and prevention of nasal symptoms, but does not affect other common hay fever symptoms like itchy or watering eyes. Also available with a prescription are the nasal corticosteroids, such as Beconase and Flonase.

These nasal steroids relieve inflammation in the sinuses, and work well on all nasal symptoms, including sinus blockage. For best effects these sprays have to be used regularly, and in a preventive fashion. Ideally, their administration starts several weeks before the start of the spring allergies season. For young children, whose parents may be reluctant to give them steroids, another alternative is nasal sprays made with Sodium Cromoglicate, such as Rynacrom.

Over-the-counter nasal decongestant sprays, such as Otrivine and Afrin are also sometimes used by hay fever sufferers, but they should not be used for more than a few days in a row, as they can use “rebound congestion” with long-term use.

Eye Drops

For allergy sufferers whose eye problems are not sufficiently relieved by general antihistamine pills, antihistamine eye drops can help. Otrivine Antistin is available over the counter, and Relestat, Zaditen, Opatanol, and other similar eye drops are available with a prescription. They provide fast relief from itchy, red eyes.

People who develop bronchial asthma associated with spring allergies may need to use inhalers like Albuterol (Salbutamol). Albuterol and other similar medications are bronchiodilaters that relieve bronchial spasms as they occur.

Immunotherapy for Hay Fever

Immunotherapy is an effective way to alleviate hay fever, and may be a good option to explore for people who do not find adequate relief with other treatment options. Immunotherapy consists of being given doses of an allergen to which one is allergic over a period of time—in case of hay fever, the allergen is pollen.

Traditionally immunotherapy is done through a course of injections that are designed to gradually desensitize one’s body to the trigger pollens. This therapy is long-term—it may last for several years. The injections are given weekly at first, then administered once every two weeks, and over time continue to be spaced further and further apart, building up to a cycle of one injection every six weeks, with a gradual increase of the allergen introduced into the body.

Over time the body adjusts to the allergen, and stops treating it as a threat to the immune system. This leads to the alleviation of histamine production, and the elimination of hay fever symptoms.

Side Effects

Side effects include local reactions at injection sites on some of the patients (including redness, hives, and itching), and, rarely, systemic reactions that may include sneezing, hives, asthma, or even anaphylactic shock. As immunotherapy is a medical procedure done in a clinical setting, its costs may vary depending on one’s health insurance and doctor-set rates.

Recently a new form of immunotherapy for hay fever has emerged: Grazax is a grass pollen vaccine in tablet form, that has been shown to significantly improve hay fever symptoms and reduce the need for medication in allergy sufferers. It is already commercially available in Europe, but is not yet on the market in the United States, where it is still undergoing clinical trials. No serious side effects have been observed with Grazax, although some people using it experienced itching in their mouths.

Traditional, Naturopathic, and Home Remedies

There is a lot of folk and home remedies for relieving the symptoms of spring allergies. Some of the most common ones include fenugreek tea, butterbar, and a diet heavy in carotenoids (found in orange and green vegetables, like collard greens, pumpkin, carrots, and apricots), omega-3 fatty acids (available in fish oil and flaxseed oil), and quercetin (a natural antihistamine found in red grapes, red onions, and black tea).

A home version of immunotherapy for hay fever involves eating local honey. Because it contains the same pollens as the ones that trigger one’s allergic reaction, eating or drinking honey regularly can help desensitize one’s organism to these pollens.

Holistic Approach

Because hay fever symptoms are produced by responses of the immune system to allergens are in and of themselves harmless, naturopathic doctors, who practice a holistic approach treat hay fever primarily as an immune system disorder, as well as weak adrenal and digestive functions.

Natural treatments are designed to support and strengthen these functions in order to treat the roots of the hay fever problem. In terms of symptom relief, common herbal treatments include stinging nettles, gingko, and milk thistle.

Standard homeopathic remedies prescribed for hay fever symptoms include Allium cepa, Eophrasia, Natrum muriaticum, Nux vomica, and Wyethia. These naturopathic courses of treatment are usually augmented with a restricted diet, from which dairy and wheat products, and other allergy-triggering and mucous-producing foods are eliminated.

As with all herbal and natural supplements it is important to be aware of the potential interactions between naturopathic medicines and other medicines one may be taking, and to make sure they are appropriate for people with underlying health problems, and pregnant and nursing women.

Chiropractic Treatment

Chiropractic medicine views hay fever as a problem stemming from subluxations—misalignments of spinal vertebrae which can be caused by physical, emotional, or environmental stresses, and which can affect all body systems. Chiropractors offer alternative treatment designed to balance body chemistry and heal the immune system, thus healing hay fever by addressing the underlying causes.

Traditional Chinese Approach

Traditional Chinese Medicine is another holistic field of diagnostic and treatment. According to its practitioners, the causes of illness can be traced to a external “pernicious influences” (wind, cold, heat, dryness, dampness, summer heat) and internal emotions (anger, joy, sadness, fear, shock, and pensiveness).

In a healthy bodies these energies and elements are balanced, but in a sick body one or more elements are out of balance. Hay Fever is considered to be primarily a “wind” illness. For Chinese medicine practitioners there are two main goals in hay fever treatment: strengthening the immune system to reduce its hypersensitivity to environmental agents like pollen, and clearing wind to address the symptoms.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture is a Chinese Medicine technique that is commonly used as an alternative treatment for hay fever and associated bronchial asthma.

Acupuncture involves penetrating the skin with thin needles in specific places on the body for pain relief or immune system support. From the Chinese Medicine perspective acupuncture balances the flow of energy (known as qi) within the body to ensure good health; from the perspective of Western medicine acupuncture works by stimulating the central nervous system in therapeutic ways.

Hay fever sufferers may need acupuncture for varying lengths of time, but 6-8 sessions is a common course of treatment. Acupuncture may be alternated or replaced with moxibustion, which involves a small cone of moxa (mugwort) being placed directly on top of or held over the acupuncture points and burned.

Additional Natural Treatment Options

Ayurvedic medicine, traditionally practiced in India, has its own prescriptions for fighting hay fever. According to Ayurvedic practitioners, hay fever sufferers should eat light, easily digestible foods, minimize the amount of processed foods consumed, drink herbal teas containing cinnamon, ginger, turmeric, cumin seeds cleanse sinuses of mucous, dirt, and pollen with traditional neti pots, and practice a form of breathing called Pranayama, known to many as “yoga breathing.”

Finally, a natural way to treat bronchial asthma associated with hay fever in Russia is the so-called Buteyko Breathing Method, that is becoming gradually better known in the West as well. The Buteyko Breathing Method focuses on breath control, and shallow, nasal breathing, designed to slow down breathing and reduce the volume of oxygen intake. Reduced breathing has been demonstrated to alleviate asthma attacks when they occur by retraining the body to comfortably manage the breathlessness that results from a bronchial spasm.

The home remedies described in this article are usually cheap and easy to administer. Naturopathic courses of treatment with certified practitioners may be expensive; some health insurances cover alternative medicine, while others do not. Pranayama and Buteyko breathing methods can be practiced at home, alone or in a group, at no cost; that is also the case for dietary modifications suggested by holistic practitioners.

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.