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.

Chlamydia

The CDC estimates that more than two million people between the ages of 14 and 39 are infected with Chlamydia, also referred to as Chlamydia Trachomatis. Many people do not seek treatment because they do not realize they have fallen victim to this silent infection. There is also a certain level of under-reporting because of the social stigma that is attached to this disease. The CDC currently estimates that more than three million Americans become infected with Chlamydia every year.

Concerns for Women

Chlamydia will cause damage to a woman’s reproductive organs. Chlamydia has the ability to cause serious, even irreversible damage before the woman even realizes there is a problem.

Chlamydia can cause pelvic inflammatory disease in 40% of women who are not treated. This disease can permanently damage reproductive organs and the surrounding tissues.

Pelvic pain, infertility and ectopic pregnancies can all result from Chlamydia.

Women who have Chlamydia are five times more likely to become infected with HIV if they are exposed to it than women who do not have Chlamydia.

Concerns for Pregnant Women

Pregnant women with Chlamydia are at a higher risk for premature delivery. The babies are at risk for getting the infection in their eyes and respiratory tracts. Babies who contract this infection also commonly develop infant pneumonia and conjunctivitis, or pink eye.

Concerns for Men

Men who are infected with the disease do not typically suffer any complications. The infection can spread to the epididymis. This is the tube that carries sperm. In this event the result can be pain, fever and sterility. However, this is a rare event.

Another rare result of this infection is the development of Reiter’s Syndrome. This can cause arthritis along with skin lesions and the inflammation of the eye and urethra.

Symptoms

Part of what makes Chlamydia so dangerous is the incredible lack of symptoms. This disease can progress unchecked because roughly 75% of women and 50% of men will not experience any symptoms.

For those people who do show symptoms, they are typically seen between one and three weeks after the initial exposure.

Possible symptoms are listed here.

In Women

• Vaginal discharge
• Burning sensation when urinating
• Lower abdominal or back pain
• Fever and/ or nausea
• Painful intercourse
• Breakthrough bleeding between periods
• Eye infections

In Men

• Penile discharge
• Burning and itching around the penile opening
• Testicular pain
• Eye infections

If the infection is in the rectum, symptoms can also include rectal pain, discharge or bleeding. Chlamydia can also infect the throat area of people engaging in oral sex.

Causes

Chlamydia is caused by bacteria known as Chlamydia Trachomatis. This bacterium is transmitted through all sex acts, including oral sex and anal sex.

Risk factors

• Having sex with multiple partners is the number one risk factor. The more people a person is engaging in sex with, the more likely it is they are infected with Chlamydia.
• Teenage girls and young woman have a cervix that is not fully mature, and is therefore more prone to infection. This makes them at a higher risk of becoming infected with Chlamydia if they are sexually active.
• Men who have sex with other men are also at a high risk for becoming infected.

Prevention tips

• The most effective and fool-proof prevention for Chlamydia is to not engage in any form of sex. This includes anal, oral and vaginal sexual activities.
• If you are sexually active, keep any sexual relations limited to long-term, monogamous relationships.
• If you are faithful to your partner, but he or she is having sex with other people, you can become infected with all forms of sexually transmitted diseases.
• Condoms do more than prevent pregnancy. They will reduce the risk of becoming infected with Chlamydia; however, they are not 100% effective at preventing the spread of it.
• Remember that most other forms of birth control; such as the pills, shots and implants; are only designed to prevent pregnancy.
• Good communication is important. Make sure to tell your partner that you will insist on the use of a condom. If he or she balks or refuses, do not have sex with them. The condom will protect both partners from Chlamydia and most other STD’s.



• Your partner has a right to know if you have Chlamydia or another other STD.
• Be honest with your doctor. If you are having unprotected sex, tell your doctor.
• If you have an STD, don’t let embarrassment stop you from telling your doctor. And if you suspect that you might have Chlamydia, ask for a test.

Test and diagnosis considerations

Women and girls under the age of 25 who are sexually active should be screened annually for Chlamydia. Older women with a new partner or multiple partners should also be screened. Pregnant women should always be screened, due to the potential risk to the baby.

Testing is done through lab work. The urine can be tested, or the doctor may want to take a specimen from the penis or cervix.

Treatment options

• Antibiotics
• Single dose azithromycin
• This antibiotic is available in generic, as a tablet or in a suspension. To prevent upset stomach it should be taken with food, although it will be just as effective on an empty stomach. It will typically be taken once a day for five days.
• Aluminum or magnesium based antacids should not be taken when on this antibiotic. The antacids can bind to the azithromycin and prevent its absorption. There are not enough studies on this medication to know how safe it is for pregnant and nursing women.
• Side effects include diarrhea, nausea and abdominal pain, as well as vomiting. Less common side effects include allergic reactions, nervousness and abnormal liver tests.
• The cost will typically be about $30 for 15 pills. However, it is covered under most insurance plans and there is a generic option available for a greater cost savings. This antibiotic is known to be highly effective at curing Chlamydia.
• Doxycycline taken twice daily for a week
• The antibiotic doxycycline is available in a delayed-release tablet that is taken orally.
• This antibiotic is extremely effective at curing Chlamydia and is relatively inexpensive. The one week supply that is required for treatment can typically be obtained for less than $20.
• Long-term or repeated use of Doxycycline has been found to cause secondary infections. Any signs of a second infection should be immediately reported to your doctor.
• Most people do not have any side effects from the use of this medication. However, side effects can include loss of appetite, sensitivity to light, nausea and vomiting.

Serious side effects include:

• Severe allergic reactions; including hives, itching, difficulty breathing, chest tightness, swelling of the lips, face, mouth or tongue, and unusual hoarseness.
• Bloody stools
• Chest pain
• Dark urine or decreased urination
• Fever, chills, sore throat
• Severe diarrhea
• Unusual sunburn
• Headache that is persistent or unusually severe
• Stomach pains or cramps
• Throat irritation, trouble swallowing
• Unusual bruising and/or breathing
• Joint pain
• Exhaustion
• Vaginal irritation or discharge
• Vision changes and yellowing of skin or eyes.
• Diarrhea that is accompanied with stomach pains, cramps or bloody stools, you doctor should be contacted immediately. People taking this medication may be prone to sunburns.
• The sun, tanning booths and sunlamps should be avoided during this time. Doxycycline can impair the effective of hormonal based birth control such as the pill.
• Lab tests can be affected by this antibiotic; if you are having lab tests done be sure to inform your doctor and the lab workers that you are taking it.
• Children under age 8 should not take this medication as the teeth may become permanently discolored. Pregnant and nursing mothers should not take this medication.

Home Remedies

Each of these home remedies is effective due to the ability of the ingredients to boost your immune system. During these treatments, you should absolutely abstain from engaging in any sexual activity.

• Olive Tree Extract

  This can be taken orally, or rubbed on the location that is infected. The olive tree extract has oleuropein, which will help kill off the bacteria and reduce inflammation. It will also boost your immune system. It can be found as a liquid concentrate, powder, capsule or dried leaf tea. This extract has been shown to lower blood pressure and blood glucose.

• Raw Garlic

  Consuming a few cloves of raw garlic before or during every meal will help you get rid of Chlamydia. The chemicals that are found in the garlic have medicinal properties that will help kill the bacteria and clear up the infection.

  This treatment can cause problems with blood clotting for diabetics, so consult with your doctor ahead of time. You may also find that the garlic consumption gives you bad breath, or a bad body odor. Consuming too much garlic can result in nausea, vomiting or diarrhea.

• Curd

  Curd has bacteria that will help your body fight off infectious microbes and boost your own immune system. Eating homemade, unsweetened curds can help you treat the Chlamydia naturally. Yogurt can be used instead of curds.

• Sage Leaves

  Chop up 50 mgs of sage leaves and boil them in 250 ml of water. The mixture can be stores so that you can drink a little three times a week to cure Chlamydia. Sage leaves are found to be very safe, with no noticeable side effects.

• Precautions for Infected People

  If you have been diagnosed with Chlamydia, it is important that you notify all your sexual partners so that they can be tested. It is also imperative that you refrain from all forms until you complete the antibiotic round. To prevent re-infection, be sure that your current sexual partner is tested and treated. You should also be re-tested in three to four month to be sure the infection is completely gone.

Keep in mind that Chlamydia can be passed through all forms of sexual activity, including oral sex. Condoms can be used to prevent transmitting the disease, and should be used at all times unless you are in long-term, monogamous relationship.

Myths Surrounding Chlamydia

The Myth

If you don’t have any, you don’t have any diseases.

The Truth

Chlamydia can be asymptomatic, meaning that you can have it, and spread it, without showing any symptoms.

The Myth

Chlamydia is incurable

The Truth

Chlamydia responds very well to antibiotics and can be completely cured.

The Myth

Chlamydia is mainly spread through kissing, not oral sex.

The Truth

Chlamydia is transmitted through any form of sexual activity, especially anal, oral and vaginal sex.

The Myth

Don’t be alarmed if it burns when you pee, it could be nothing.

The Truth

Anytime you feel burning when urinating, it could be a sign of something serious. Stop having sex immediately, and contact your doctor.

The Myth

You’ll know just by looking at someone if they have an STD.

The Truth

People with STD’s do not look any different than anyone else. Never assume that someone is free of diseases just because they are very “clean”.

The Myth

Use two condoms for ultimate protection from STD’s.

The Truth

Using two condoms actually increases friction and the likelihood of them both failing.

The Myth

If I do have an STD, I’ll know it right away.

The Truth

Most STD’s have no symptoms, and can easily be passed along from one person to another because no one realizes they are infected.

Vertigo

When a person suddenly feels unsteady or suddenly feels like their surrounding are moving and they are standing still, they are likely experiencing vertigo. It may cause a feeling of being spun around on a merry go round or the head may feel like it is spinning all on its own. One of the more common disorders that is known to cause vertigo is called benign paroxysmal positional vertigo, or BPPV.

Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo is often classified by short, brief episodes of dizziness ranging in severity, from mild to intense, and it is associated with the specific changes that are made to the position of the head.

Early Symptoms

More often than not, it will occur when a head has moved in a certain direction, when a person lies down after being upright, when they turn over in bed or when they sit up in the morning. Moving the head either to look up or to look down are also likely to cause the symptoms and signs of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo. Sometimes a person may not feel within balance when they are walking or standing.

Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo, though a rather bothersome condition, is very rarely a serious one except when the severity increases the likelihood of falling.

During a visit to the doctor, a person can easily obtain effective treatment for their benign paroxysmal positional vertigo.

Symptoms of Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo

Some of the symptoms and signs of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo might include:

• Dizziness;
• A sense that the person or their surrounds are moving or spinning (vertigo);
• Lightheadedness;
• Unsteadiness;
• The loss of balance;
• Blurred vision that is associated with the feeling of vertigo;
• Nausea; and
• Vomiting.

The symptoms and signs of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo are likely to come and go, and the symptoms generally do not last any longer than a minute. Some episodes of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo, as well as its other forms, may disappear for awhile before then recurring later on.

The activities and plans that bring on the symptoms and signs of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo are likely to vary between each affected person, but it is almost always caused by changing the position of the head.

Nystagmus, which is the abnormality in rhythmic eye movement, is likely to accompany the symptoms present in benign paroxysmal positional vertigo. Though this is a rare occurrence, it is still possible for a person to have benign paroxysmal positional vertigo in both of the ears, which is bilateral BPPV.

Causes of Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo

Deep inside the ear lays a little organ that goes by the name of the vestibular labyrinth. This is made up of structures made of loops, or the semicircular canals, that contain both fluid and sensors that are fine and hair-like, which serve to detect the rotation that occurs with the head.

Other structures, particularly the otolith organs, that are found within the ear also monitor how the head is moved and the position of the head. The organs contain crystals that allow a person to be sensitive to movement. There are many reasons why these crystals become dislodged.

When this happens, it may move into one or more of the semicircular canals, and this is very likely to happen when a person lays down. Because the crystals do not belong in the semicircular canals, they become ultra-sensitive to the way the head changes position, especially those that they would otherwise not notice or respond to. The end result is dizziness.

Who it Effects

Most cases of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo happen in people who are over the age of 60 years. However, it is also possible to develop it after receiving either a minor or a severe blow to the head. Other causes are possible, such as taking damage to the inner ear or, much more rarely, taking damage when in the process of ear surgery or during a prolonged positioning while on the back, or supine.

Sometimes, doctors are capable of figuring out what is causing benign paroxysmal positional vertigo. This may require that an ENT specialist, who deals with ears, noses and throats, or a neurologist, who deals with the brain and the nervous system, provide a consultation. However, it is almost equally common for a doctor to determine that no specific cause can be blamed.

Risk Factors For Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo

No definitive factors seem to exist that effectively increase a person’s risk of developing benign paroxysmal positional vertigo, with the exception of natural aging. However, a person may be susceptible to developing benign paroxysmal positional vertigo if they received a prior head injury or suffered any other kind of disorder with regards to the balance organs that are present in the ear.

When to Seek Medical Advice

Anybody who is experiencing vertigo or dizziness that cannot be explained and periodically recurs for over two weeks should see their doctor. Though it is not very common for dizziness to signal some kind of serious illness,

• a new, severe or different headache;
• a fever of 101 degrees Fahrenheit, or 38 degrees Celsius, or higher;
• loss of vision or double vision;
• hearing loss;
• trouble speaking;
• weakness in the arms or legs;
• loss of consciousness;
• difficulty walking or falling;
• tingling or numbness; or slow or rapid heart rate or chest pain.

When combined with one of the above symptoms and signs, dizziness or vertigo may be signaling a much more serious problem, such as heart disease, stroke, Parkinson’s disease, brain tumor or multiple sclerosis.

Tests and Diagnosis

When the doctor is undergoing examination, he or she may wish to conduct a series of different tests in order to figure out what is causing the dizziness. During a physical examination, the doctor will most likely look for:

The ability to control movements of the eye;

• symptoms and signs of any dizziness that occur by moving the head or eye and then its decrease within one minute;
• nystagmus, which is the involuntary movement of the eyeballs from side to side; and
• dizziness with certain eye movements which occur when a person lays down onto their back and with their head turned to the side

If it is difficult to tell what is causing the symptoms and signs, there may be further tests ordered, including:

Electronystagmography (ENG) or videonystagmography (VNG).

This test is completed to check for any unnatural movement of the eyes. The ENG would be completed with electrodes and the VNG would be completed with tiny cameras, and both would be capable of determining whether the dizziness is being caused by inner ear disease.

They do so by measuring and monitoring the involuntary eye movements of a person while the head is positioned in various different ways or the balance organs are stimulated using air or water. There exist other tests that are capable of determining a person’s ability to keep upright under both easy and under difficult conditions.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

As the name implies, this test makes use of radio waves and a magnetic field in order to create images that are cross sectional of both the head and body of a person. These images can be used by a doctor in order to identify and properly diagnose a whole wealth of different conditions.

The MRI may be recommended in order to rule out the chance of acoustic neuroma, which is a noncancerous brain tumor of the nerve that is responsible for carrying out both sound information and balance information to the brain from the inner ear – or any other similar lesions that may be causing the vertigo.

Complications of Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo

Despite the fact that benign paroxysmal positional vertigo is a generally uncomfortable condition, it does not often cause people to develop complications. However, should the condition be severe and persistent, it may cause a person to frequently vomit, and this will put them at the risk of becoming greatly dehydrated.

Treatments and Drugs

In an effort to relieves the symptoms of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo, the doctor, audiologist or physical therapist may wish to offer treatment by way of the canalith repositioning procedure, which is a series of therapeutic movements.

This is performed in the doctor’s office, and it generally consists of slow, simple maneuvers in order to reposition the head. The primary goal is to gently move the particles that have fallen into the fluid filled semicircular canals located within the inner ear and move them into an open area that is tiny, vestibule, which is where the otolinth organs (utricle) are stored.

Were the particles to re-enter the utricle, it would no longer cause any troubles and it would be reabsorbed much more easily. Every position must be held for about 30 seconds once any abnormal eye movements or any symptoms cease. Most people find the treatment to be effective after the first or second time.

Post-Procedure

After the completion of the procedure, the person is to avoid lying completely flat or from letting the treated ear fall below shoulder level. For the night of the treatment, a person should ensure that they elevate their head using several pillows at the time of sleeping.

This will allow an appropriate amount of time for the particles that are still floating around within the labyrinth to fully settle into the vestibule, allowing it to be reabsorbed in the inner ear by the fluids. This procedure may require repeat performances for a few days afterwards. For this reason, chances are good that a person will be taught how this procedure is to be performed so that they may do it on their own prior to making an appointment for a checkup.

Surgical Alternative

Sometimes, though this instance is very rare, the canalith repositioning procedure may prove to not be very effective, the doctor may instead recommend that a person undergo a certain surgical procedure, which would include taking a bone plug and blocking off a section within the inner ear that is causing the dizziness to occur.

The plug will disallow the semicircular canal, found within the inner ear canal, to respond to head movements or particle movements. Roughly 90 percent of people achieve success undergoing the surgery for canal plugging. Under five percent of people who take on this procedure end up experiencing some level of long term hearing loss.

Lifestyle and Home Remedies

For those who are suffering dizziness due to benign paroxysmal positional vertigo should take these tips to heart:

• Know that dizziness may cause a person to lose their balance, which can lead to both falling in addition to serious injury.
• When feeling dizzy, immediately sit down.
• If making a movement that usually causes illness, try to move slowly.
• If getting up at night, try to use good lighting.
• Those who are at risk of falling and seriously injuring themselves should consider walking with a cane for stability.
• Try to work closely with a doctor in order to effectively manage the symptoms
• Coping and Support For Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo

It can be a challenge to live with benign paroxysmal positional vertigo, affecting the way a person interacts with both friends and family, affecting productivity at work and overall affecting the quality of their life. However, there exist many a support group for those dealing with the same condition, who can offer encouragement and understanding.

Support groups may not be for everybody, but they can be a great source of information. Members of a group are often in the know with regards to unique coping skills and are always willing to share their own personal experiences with their condition. A doctor may be able to recommend a local group for benign paroxysmal positional vertigo within the area.

Bronchitis

Bronchitis is a disease that is characterized by a severe inflammation of the main air passages that stem from the lungs. There are two different types of bronchitis, one being acute (short-lived) and the other lasting a long time and often reoccurring or chronic.

Alternative Names for Bronchitis

Other names for bronchitis include Acute Bronchitis, Chronic Bronchitis, and Industrial Bronchitis. These are all distinct forms of bronchitis and are treated differently and caused by different circumstances.

Symptoms of Bronchitis

Acute bronchitis usually subsides within 7 to 10 days.

Acute bronchitis usually consists of a lingering cough and is accompanied by the following symptoms

• Shortness of breath, especially following physical activities
• Wheezing
• Difficulty breathing normally
• Clear, white, or yellowish mucus that is released during coughs
• Extreme discomfort in the internal chest region

Chronic bronchitis is very similar to acute bronchitis in that the symptoms are almost identical. The biggest difference between chronic bronchitis and acute bronchitis is that chronic bronchitis tends to linger for long periods of time or have a recurring affect.

Industrial bronchitis also exhibits the same types of symptoms but is characterized by its cause. Industrial bronchitis can be the result from prolonged exposure to chemicals, fumes, dusts, gas, and other dangerous substances.

High fevers may also accompany the bronchitis virus and can reach up to 101 to 102 degrees Fahrenheit. While a high fever may be present, it is not always a sign of bronchitis. Fevers can cause the body to feel tired throughout the day. Another common symptom of acute bronchitis is a feeling of tightness, pain, or burning throughout the chest region. This pain may become worse when the patient coughs or takes a deep breath.

Resulting Conditions

It can be difficult to tell the difference between the symptoms that are associated with acute bronchitis and other diseases such as pneumonia and asthma.

While bronchitis may not be considered a serious illness, pneumonia and asthma can be deadly. For this reason, it is important to see a physician who can properly diagnose these symptoms as being either acute bronchitis or some other illness. If you or a family member is experiencing more than one of these systems it is important to receive proper medical care.

Causes of Bronchitis

The leading cause of chronic bronchitis is smoking. Extensive smoking exposes the body to dangerous chemicals found in cigarettes and other forms of tobacco. These chemicals and substances cause a severe irritation in the bronchial tubes which can lead to chronic bronchitis. Second-hand smoke is also a factor in determining whether or not you are at risk of chronic bronchitis.

Most forms of acute bronchitis is caused by an infection of the epithelium of the bronchi due to exposure to a virus. A common form of the bronchitis virus that affects infants is known as Respiratory Syncytial Viruses, or RSV.
Bronchitis is contagious and parents are advised to keep their children indoors and home from school until the virus is destroyed. This act will protect other children from being exposed to the highly contagious bronchitis virus.

Bacteria and chemicals are also known causes of bronchitis. Bronchitis most often occurs during flu and cold season due to the environment which allows bronchitis viruses to survive.

Risk Factors of Bronchitis

Because smoking is one of the leading causes of bronchitis, people who smoke or chew tobacco are at the greatest risk.

People who have a history of asthmatic and other respiratory problems are also at a higher risk of bronchitis.

Elderly people, infants, and small children tend to be at a much higher risk for acute bronchitis than young adults and teenagers.

This trend is due to the weaker immune systems of people within the more susceptible age groups.

Chronic bronchitis is not typically found in young children, but is most common in adults over the age of 45.

Women have been shown to be at a much higher risk for chronic bronchitis than men.

Women account for over two times as many chronic bronchitis cases than men.

Existing lung diseases greatly increase the risk of a person to catch the bronchitis virus. These lung diseases can include conditions such as asthma and trouble breathing.

Factory employees who work closely with dangerous chemicals, asbestos, carbon dioxide, dusts and other harmful substances are also at an increased risk of attracting the industrial bronchitis virus. Industrial bronchitis is also more prevalent in large cities where air pollution, allergies, and infections are more common.

Prevention Tips Against Bronchitis

Environment and lifestyle tend to be the greatest causes of bronchitis. For this reason, there are many preventative measures that can be taken to protect ourselves against the viral disease.

The following are a few suggestions to prevent bronchitis

• Avoid the spread of the virus by avoiding people with colds. It is common knowledge that the less you are exposed to a virus or disease, the greater the chance you will have of avoiding the disease altogether.
• Get vaccinated. By receiving an annual flu vaccine you will be able to protect yourself from getting influenza, or the flu. Many cases of bronchitis stem from cases of the flue, so by reducing your chances of getting the flu you are also reducing the risk of bronchitis.
• Avoid smoking. This preventative measure includes avoiding secondhand smoke. Tobacco is one of the greatest causes of bronchitis and other diseases. Not only will you be protecting yourself from getting the virus, but you will also be protecting your children and family members.
• Regularly wash your hands. One of the best ways to prevent catching a viral infection is to have good hygiene. Good hygiene includes a frequent washing of the hands and the use of an effective hand sanitizer. Even when practicing this good hygiene it is important to avoid excessive rubbing of the nose and eyes.
• Wear a mask during flu season. When a large flu epidemic breaks out, it is important to have access to simple face masks that will prevent the spread of disease.
• Take vitamins regularly. By taking a daily vitamin and ensuring proper nutrition, the body’s immune system will be able to more effectively combat any external predators to the respiratory system. Proper health is the best protection against all vitamins.
• Perform regular exercise. Similar to taking daily vitamins, the habit of regular exercise will protect your body from unwanted diseases, viruses, and illness. It is important to set up a regular plan of exercise in order to protect your respiratory system from the attack of a bronchitis virus.

Tests and Diagnosis Considerations for Bronchitis

Most family and general practitioners will have the machines necessary in order to determine if you are infected with the bronchitis virus. If they are unable to determine the cause of the symptoms, he or she may refer you to a pulmonologist for further diagnosis.

There are a few tests that a physician will perform in order to determine if you have bronchitis. Most doctors will assume that if there is not a cough associated with the sickness that bronchitis is not the issue. However, they may deem it necessary to perform the tests even without the accompaniment of a cough.

The first test most physicians will perform is to listen for wheezing and other sounds within your lungs that are not normal. This is done using a standard stethoscope, similar to those used to hear a heart beat.

An x-ray is also important in order to rule out cases such as pneumonia. Physicians will take a sample of mucus from the throat in order to detect the presence of unwanted bacteria or the flu virus. You may also undergo certain blood tests and possibly a pulmonary function test in order to rule out other diseases such as lung cancer or pneumonia. If your physician determines that you may be afflicted with some other disease, he or she may refer you to a specialist in order to receive further diagnosis and treatment.

Treatment Options for Bronchitis

Herbal and Home Remedies

There are several methods of treating bronchitis at home, but if the symptoms do not subside within a few days it should be recommended to visit with a physician. One of the most common ways to recover from bronchitis is to drink lots of hot fluids, such as herbal teas, to wash away and clean out the infected mucus. Many vegetables such as peppers and onions have anti-pyretic and expectorant properties which are effective in combating fevers and other symptoms of bronchitis.

Herbal supplements such as Echinacea and astragalus are commonly known to be antivirals, meaning they can fight existing viruses within the body and also protect against unwanted viruses. Other herbs such as pau d’arco, reishi, and maitake mushrooms are also taken in addition to other herbs to combat acute and chronic bronchitis.
Vitamins are among the most important supplements in warding off the bronchitis virus. Vitamin C is an especially effective antiviral. Antioxidants, Vitamin A, and flavonoids are also vital to the bodies antiviral immune system.

Because most of these herbs and vitamins are natural, there are no significant risks associated with them.

Pharmaceutical Treatments

Antibiotics are typically used to kill or stop the growth of a dangerous type of bacteria. They are only taken if the patient has no other significant health problems. For acute bronchitis, most scientists recommend that antibiotics are not take.

Acute bronchitis patients are typically told to get plenty of rest and drink lots of fluids. This process will typically kill the virus or flush it out of the body’s system. However, if the bronchitis becomes chronic or is causes by industrial activities such as gas or chemicals, antibiotics can be prescribed in order to prevent other disease, such as lung disease, from becoming present.

Although prescription drugs have not been proven to significantly help in the fight against bronchitis, your doctor may prescribe a type of medicine called a bronchodilator. The purpose of this treatment is to dilate the patients airways and allow the lungs to transport air more easily.

A bronchodilator is not taken as a pill or liquid drug, but is rather inhaled through a machine. The inhaler is similar to those used by people with sever asthma.
If chronic bronchitis does not subside within a few months, your physician may require that you take steroids. Though steroids prevent some slight health hazards, they will allow your body’s immune system to get the nourishment it needs and hopefully kill off the bronchitis virus.

Surgical Treatments

There is no known surgical operation that successfully treats bronchitis. However, if you happen to be preparing for some other type of surgery and experience symptoms of bronchitis it is important to alert your surgeon. Bronchitis patients have been known to react poorly to surgical anesthetics.

Finding out your child has lice is embarrassing, but it shouldn’t be. There are many myths about head lice, and knowing the truth can not only help you deal with the embarrassing feelings, but also help you clean your home of them as quickly as possible.

Getting rid of lice can take time, but with diligence and consistency, your home and children will soon be lice free.

What is Head Lice?

Head lice are tiny, wingless insects that make their homes on a human scalp. Their medical name is Pediculosis humanus capitis.

They are only as large as a sesame seed, and survive by sucking blood like tick and fleas.

Their eggs are the size of a poppy seed, blend easily with hair, and are next to impossible to remove because they are held on with a waterproof substance that can not be washed away.

As the lice eggs hatch, they leave behind nits.

These can appear as dandruff, sand or flakes of hairspray but are very difficult to remove. Children who have been sent home from school due to head lice are often not allowed back to school until the nits are completely gone, as well as the eggs and lice.

The life cycle for lice lasts roughly forty to fifty days. During the third stage, the adult stage, they are able to lay between 4 and 10 eggs every day. Lice typically spend 28 days of their lives as egg-laying adults. This clearly shows why it’s so important to remove all nits and eggs that seen, as well as killing all adult lice.

What are the Myths?

One myth is that you only get lice if you have poor personal hygiene. The fact is that lice prefer clean hair.

Lice also have the reputation of being able to hop, or jump from one person to another. The truth is that they can only crawl. Transmission requires head-to-head contact. Sharing personal items such as hats and brushes can also result in the movement of lice from one victim to another.

Symptoms

The primary symptom of lice is itching. If your child is scratching his or her head a great deal, or complaining that they can’t stop itching, you might want to check for lice. This is especially important if the scratching is focused behind their ears or the nape of the neck. Anytime there is a lice outbreak at the school you should do regular checks for lice.

Other symptoms include small, red bumps that appear on the scalp, neck and even shoulders. The bumps may even crust over and seep fluid. You may also notice small white specks that are attached to the ends of the hair. These are their eggs or nits, and will not come off easily.

Causes

Lice take advantage of direct contact to move from host to host. They can crawl from one person to another when they are in direct contact with each other. They can also crawl into hats, scarves and headbands. When another person puts that item on they are more than happy to move onto the next head.

They can also be transferred by sharing clothing, bedding and even stuffed animals.

Being in close, overcrowded environments can increase the risk of getting head lice. The close proximity of other hosts makes it all too easy for them to relocate. They also are commonly found in schools.

Risk factors

Secondary skin infections can occur as a result of the constant scratching. Try to keep your children from scratching excessively. Antihistamines can help control the itching, if necessary.

Unlike most other blood-sucking parasites, lice do not carry any diseases. Infections do not typically lead to any serious medical problems.

Babies younger than six months old, the elderly and people weighing less than 110 pounds can be at risk from the shampoo treatments, especially if the treatments have to be used several times over a few weeks.

The shampoos used have hash chemicals and should not be used with any person who has a pre-existing illness, including those with asthma and people who are taking other medications. Pregnant and nursing mothers should not use the shampoos on themselves or apply them to others.

If you have used a medicated, insecticide shampoo and continue to find live lice then you should assume that the lice are resistant to the shampoo. Do not continue using the shampoo, but consult with your doctor, or try one of the smothering methods described below.

Prevention tips

Stress to your children that they should never share hair brushes, combs, hats or scarves with their friends. When they are visiting someone’s home, have them take their own pillows, towels and clothes as those should not be shared, either.

Talk to your child’s school or daycare about their head lice policy. Ideally, infected children should not be allowed back in the facility until they are completely free of lice, eggs or nits.

Coats and hats should be placed on one individual hook, rather than tossed in a pile with other coats, hats and scarves.

Anything that is in regular contact with your child’s head should be washed or vacuumed on a regular basis. This includes pillows, car seats, and couches.

Check your child for lice regularly. Focus on the nape of the neck and behind the ears, but keep in mind that they can live anywhere in the hair.

Checking for Lice

It’s important to know how to check for lice. They move quickly, and are very small which makes them hard to see. Be sure that the location you choose offers very bright, natural lighting. Wear disposable gloves to prevent becoming infected yourself. You should also move around your child’s scalp during the examination as this can make it easier to detect the eggs. A magnifying glass can be very useful during this process.

Part the hair and examine the scalp closely. Pay particular attention to the nape of the neck and the area directly behind the ears. Eggs and nits will appear as small specks, the size of a poppy seed; that are white or yellow-brown in color. They will be firmly attached to the hair. If you are in the sunlight during this exam, you may see adults running to get away from the light. If the speck brushes away easily, it is not lice.

Areas of red, tender skin could indicate a secondary infection due to itching. You should consider consulting with your doctor if this should happen.

Treatment Options

Shampoo Them Out

The most common treatment for head lice are the products RID or NIX. RID offers the 1-2-3 Lice Elimination System which will give you step-by-step directions for clearing your child and your home of lice. The product is highly effective at removing lice eggs, killing lice and treating the home.

It has been used for decades by countless families. It can be found in the shampoo aisle or first aid section of most drug stores and discount stores. The components of the set can be purchased separately, with the shampoo costing about $14. The entire set will typically cost about $20.

The set includes the lice killing shampoo, a comb-out gel to help you clean nits from the hair and a spray to help keep the home clear of adult lice and their eggs. The spray is very effective for use on mattresses, furniture and other areas that can not be washed.

Permethrin (Nix) as a Key Ingredient

While these are the most common lice-killing shampoo, any lotion or shampoo that has 1% permethrin (Nix) should effectively kill the lice. If you find that these shampoos are not working, you can also talk to your doctor about a higher strength prescription. To use any of these shampoos, begin by rinsing and drying your hair.

Apply the medicated shampoo or lotion to the hair and wait ten minutes. Rinse the shampoo out of the hair and then remove all nits and eggs from the hair. The child should be checked for lice again in one week, and the treatment repeated if needed.

Side effects for these shampoos include irritated or tender skin, difficulty breathing and tightness in the chest. The shampoos should not be used near the eyes, and the time limit should be closely adhered to. Medical attention should be sought if the symptoms do not ease after the shampoo is thoroughly rinsed from the hair.

Smother Them to Death

Ulesfia (Benzyl Alcohol Lotion 5%) can be used to treat for head lice. It is used like shampoo, but is a non-pesticide prescription that has been found to be effective. It costs about $30 for an 8 ounce bottle and will suffocate the lice. This treatment is not as effective as the pesticide shampoos mentioned above, and will require more than one treatment.

Another treatment involves coating the hair with petroleum jelly, wrapping it in a shower cap and waiting overnight. This will kill more than half of the lice, and aid in removing the eggs and nits. The egg-laying ability of the remaining lice will be greatly reduced, although this would also require several treatments.

Head Lice to Dead Lice

This is an education DVD that sells for about $40.

It teaches a five-step “battle plan” that can be used to effectively eliminate current infestations and prevent them from coming back.

Entomologists at the Harvard School of Public Health have proven that olive oil can be used to kill adult head lice.

It smothers them to death, is non-toxic and easy to use. The program will clearly show how to use olive oil to smother lice, and it will teach a manageable method for cleaning the house to prevent re-infestation. It also shows effective combing techniques that will remove lice and nits, and teaches how to manually remove any stubborn nits that will not come out with just the comb.

Tips and Tricks

Removing the nits can prove challenging. Here are some tips for getting the nits out of the hair.

• Rub olive oil in the hair, and then use a nit comb to clean the hair.
• Use a metal comb, run it through beeswax before beginning the removal process.
• Fine tooth metal combs, found in pet stores, will be more effective than plastic combs. These are typically no more than $10 to purchase.
• The LiceMeister comb is a patented comb that is proven effective at easily removing lice, nits and eggs. It also runs about $10 at drug stores, and can even be sterilized through boiling.
• Use tweezers to remove all nits.
• Continue combing for nits every day for the next 7 to 10 days.
• If you continue finding new eggs, assume the lice were not killed. If you have already used a shampoo, switch to a smother method.
• The house should also be treated to both prevent the spread and prevent re-infestation.
• All residents of the house should be checked for lice, and anyone who has them should be treated immediately.
• All clothes and bedding should be washed in hot water.
• Furniture, rugs and car upholstery can be cleaned by vacuuming. Any area that the child might rest his or her head on should be washed, dried in the dryer, or vacuumed.
• Place bedding and stuffed animals in a dryer for thirty minutes to kill any adult lice.

Finding out that your child has lice is never fun. It creates embarrassment, stress and frustration. When infections linger on the stress level and frustration begin to increase. Following these tips can help you to eliminate the lice quickly. Continuing to vacuum and wash bedding and other items can help you prevent a re-infestation.

Finally, educate your children constantly on the importance of not sharing anything that touches their head to prevent another outbreak. Before you know it, you will be enjoying a lice-free home once again.

Resources

EmedicineHealth’s Lice Overview

MedicineNet.Com

Center for Disease Control

Stress

Stress is a condition that causes psychological strain and discomfort.

If severe enough, stress can also cause serious physiological problems.

The word stress comes from the Latin “stringere” which means “to draw tight”.

Stress can be as simple as worrying about an upcoming exam or as complex as being in a dangerous combat zone, 100,000 miles away from home.

Mild stress is normal and is not anything to worry about.

In fact, short bouts of stress can actually help boost a person’s immune system.

However, severe and/or chronic stress is very serious and can lead to major and sometimes life threatening health problems.

Symptoms

Some of the most common symptoms of stress are headache, fatigue, inability to concentrate, and disruption of the normal sleep cycle. Stress can also cause changes in metabolism, lowering of the immune system’s defenses, acne breakouts, and other skin problems. Another symptom is impaired sexual functions such as loss of interest or, in men, erectile dysfunctions. Also, many women will experience disruption in their menstrual cycles.

Some of the more serious symptoms of stress include nausea, dizziness, elevated blood pressure and heart rates, chest pains, and an increased dependency on alcohol and drugs. Long term stress can also lead to depression, anxiety disorders, and even thoughts of suicide.

Causes

Stress can be caused by normal, everyday difficulties such as troubles at work or school, family problems, or financial difficulties. It can also be caused by major events, either good or bad, such weddings, funerals, travel, or new babies.

Chronic stress is caused by more serious, long-term difficulties. For example, many active duty soldiers in combat zones suffer from chronic stress. Other causes include abusive relationships and serious illness.

Risk Factors

Those who are affected by the common hubbub of life will often have difficulty sleeping and can be more susceptible to colds and viruses because stress can affect the immune system.

College students are particularly affected by stress because of social and academic pressures. Unfortunately, the way most college students cope with stress is by increasing their intake of alcohol and drugs. These practices can result in permanent mental impairment and can be life threatening.

Stress can be detrimental to those with cardiovascular problems. Stress can not only increase heart rates, but can also trigger heart attacks and strokes. Another serious problem that can develop because of chronic stress is potentially life threatening stomach ulcers.

Simple, everyday stress is usually not serious. However, if these simple problems are allowed to accumulate, they can eventually turn into serious health problems. Stress needs to be removed, or at least alleviated, the moment any physical symptoms begin to show.

Prevention Tips

It is very important to get at least seven to nine hours of sleep every night. Taking regular breaks at work and school, and setting aside certain times for recreation can also be helpful. Also, take time to smell the roses. Enjoying some of life’s simple pleasures can help put many things in perspective.

Avoid potentially stressful jobs, relationships, and commitments. Seeing a qualified counselor can also help prevent or solve personal and family problems. When working on a large project, such as a wedding, be sure to get plenty of help and to share the workload.

Unfortunately, it can be almost impossible to remove all stressful situations. It may not be possible to leave a difficult job and there is no way to remove all soldiers and civilians from combat zones. Taking up a hobby, running a structured schedule, and having a friend to talk to can all help alleviate stressful situations.

Diagnosis Considerations

Acute Stress Disorder

Acute Stress Disorder is the result of a person’s witnessing a traumatic event such as a rape or a murder. The person can suffer from dissociative amnesia and will often “relive” the event when brought in contact with certain stimuli. Acute Stress Disorder can also result from a harrowing childhood.

A person suffering from this disorder will live a life completely surrounded by stress. The person will suffer from insomnia, have difficulty concentrating, and will be extremely irritable. Thankfully, the disorder does not often last for more than four weeks.

Acute Stress Disorder is very serious but, thankfully, quite rare. A person suffering from this disorder should immediately seek medical help.

Posttraumatic Stress Disorder

Posttraumatic Stress Disorder can develop after a person experiences a traumatic event, such as narrowly escaping death or serious injury. The person will often suffer from nightmares and other forms of flashbacks and he or she will often develop other sleeping problems and will be very angry and/or irritable. The symptoms of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder will often impair the person’s ability to function socially. The stressful

symptoms must persist for at least one month in order for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder to be diagnosed.

The people most commonly affected by this disorder are post-war veterans.

Chronic Stress Disorder

Chronic Stress Disorder is caused by stressful events that occur over a long period of time or by common, everyday difficulties that have come to a head. Symptoms of this disorder include intestinal troubles, depression, and thoughts of suicide. If left untreated, Chronic Stress Disorder can develop into a panic disorder.

The best way to treat Chronic Stress Disorder is for the person to reorganize his or her life. Removing some of the clutter and allowing more time for relaxation will help alleviate most symptoms.

Treatment Options

Alternative Medicine and Herbal Remedies

Although most natural remedies can be handled personally and, in many cases, right at home, caution should be used.

Always make medical decisions with the help of a qualified professional.

Also, it should be remembered that natural remedies are not “magic cures”.

They will never work overnight and will often require long term use and a lot of patience.

However, the results are almost always worth the long wait.

Many natural remedies have been used for centuries and often do not have any serious or lasting side effects.

Kava Root

Kava, sometime called kava-kava, is an ancient plant from the western Pacific islands, particularly from Tonga (in fact, Tongans still regularly use kava to this day). The plant has a calming effect that can help alleviate the symptoms of stress and anxiety. Centuries have proven the plant’s effectiveness and it has very few possible side effects. The only caution that should be used is that only the root of the plant should be consumed: the leaves can cause some liver problems.

Kava root is most often made into tea, but it is also available as tinctures and in capsule form.

Chamomile

Chamomile not only helps relieve stress but can also induce sleep. Chamomile does not have any side effects unless the person is allergic to the herb. Chamomile teabags can be purchased at nearly every grocery store and can be very useful right before bed or when stress makes a break necessary.

Lavender

Lavender is one of the most common herbs used in aromatherapy. The herb has a sweet, calming scent that has been proven to help relieve tension and alleviate stress. The fresh or dried plant can be kept around the person’s house; the use of lavender scented bath products and candles can also help. However, lavender is a powerful allergen and, therefore, may be a problem for people with allergies and/or hay fever.

Valerian

Valerian can help alleviate intestinal problems and insomnia, and can be used as a tranquilizer. However, valerian should not be taken without the guidance of a medical professional. Overdose can cause increased anxiety, difficulty breathing, or hallucinations.

However, the potential side effects should not scare people away from this herb. Valerian will only have adverse effects if taken improperly. Valerian is one of the most effective ways of treating stress disorders if used with proper direction.

Valerian is available in both capsule and tincture form.

St. John’s Wort

St. John’s wort is not only a relaxant but also an anti-depressant. In fact, the herb has often proved more effective in treating depression than many chemical drugs. St. John’s wort can be very useful in treating some of the more serious symptoms of stress as well as treating Chronic and Posttraumatic Stress Disorders.

St. John’s wort has very few side effects. However, if used over a long period of time, both the eyes and the skin of the person can become extremely sensitive to light. St. John’s wort also does not react well when mixed with alcohol or chemical medications.

Although the bulk herb is available and can be made into teabags and capsules, St. John’s wort is most often given in tincture form.

GABA Complex

GABA, short for gamma-aminobutyric acid, is one of the brain’s chief neurotransmitters. GABA’s job is to block the brain’s excitatory messages, thereby lowering stress levels. A natural, dietary supplement called GABA Complex can help increase the brain’s GABA levels. Caution should be used, however, because too much GABA can cause adverse effects such as increased irritability and impaired cognition.

Massage Therapy

Massage therapy can be a useful way of coping with everyday stress. Messages are very relaxing and have almost no side effects or risks although some very minor mussel or vein injuries can occur. Messages usually cost approximately $60 an hour.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture has been proven effective in treating both Acute and Chronic Stress Disorders. If done properly acupuncture is perfectly safe and has no side effects. Acupuncture sessions usually cost from $50 to $95.

Meditation

Meditation, whether used for religious purposes or as a relaxation technique, is an easy and cost effective way to relieve stress. Everyone should take a few moments everyday to clear his or her mind and let go of cares and worries. In fact, the Chinese, who use a form of meditation called Tai chi, practically have meditation built into their daily schedule.

Pharmaceuticals

Pharmaceuticals should never be taken unless a person is suffering from severe stress or a disorder. It is all too easy to want a chemical prescription simply because life is a bit difficult. Although most pharmaceuticals have been proven effective, they may have serious side effects that can last a lifetime. Pharmaceuticals should only be taken under the guidance of a medical doctor and should always be considered a last resort.

Benzodiazepines

Benzodiazepines can help regulate sleep cycles as well as relieve stress. Two of the most common benzodiazepines are Valium and Xanax. Although both of these drugs have been proven effective, they can have some unpleasant side effects: some of the side effects of Valium include impaired coordination and stomach problems; some of Xanax’s side effects include jaundice and thoughts of suicide.

Also, it should be noted that the number one job of benzodiazepines is to increase the brain’s GABA levels. It is advisable to at least consider the aforesaid GABA Complex instead of potentially dangerous chemical drugs. However, a decision should not be made without the help of a medical professional.

Resources

nlm.nih.gov

everydayhealth.com

webmd.com

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is a common skin infection found in a group of related fungal skin infections known as tinea. The medical terms associated with athlete’s foot include tinea pedia, plantaris, dermatophytosis Palmaris, and interdigitalis. These infections are caused by a number of mold-like fungi, known as dermatophytes, which reside in dead tissues on the hair, skin and nails.

Only those who have experienced athlete’s foot first hand know how uncomfortable the infection can be. Athlete’s foot typically occurs on the soles of the feet but can spread to areas between the toes and the toenails. The condition can also be spread by contact such as touching your foot then touching other areas of the body including your hands, palms, underarms or groin.

Symptoms

Symptoms of athlete’s foot can vary depending on the individual, stage and severity of the infection, and how the body reacts.

Some individuals experience an allergic reaction to the fungus that causes athlete’s foot.

This is called an ‘id reaction’ and can result in vesicles or blisters on areas of the body like the arms, hands and chest.

Treatment of the id reaction is usually cured with treatment of athlete’s foot.

While other symptoms may be present in individuals experiencing athlete’s foot, here you will find a list of the most common symptoms associated with the infection.

Symptoms Include

• Peeling and cracking of the skin around and between the toes
• Intense itching on the soles of the feet and surrounding area
• Redness or inflammation that worsens as the infection progresses
• Blisters on the soles of the feet as well as along the sides of the feet
• Scaling and flaking on the soles of the feet and in between the toes
• Burning or stinging sensation in the area of the infection
• Crusting or oozing of the soles of the feet that may spread to the toes
• Thick, discolored and crumbled skin if the fungus spreads to the nails
• Any of the above symptoms can also occur on other body parts if spread

Causes

Athlete’s foot is caused by dermatophytes, tiny parasites that live on certain areas of the body including the skin. Dermatophytes can be divided into three separate groups according to which host they prefer.

• Zoophile – Fungi that prefers an animal host
• Geophile – Fungi that prefers a soil host
• Anthropophile – Fungi that prefers a human host

In the majority of cases, athlete’s foot is caused by the anthropophile fungi as it favors a human host. The three most common species of anthropophile fungi include Epidermophyton, Microsporum, and Trichophyton. These three species account for more than 90 percent of all fungal infections that occur on the skin.

Athlete’s foot is not limited to only athletes or those who are in good physical shape. The infection can occur on any person that remains damp or moist on their foot or feet for a certain period of time. Those who wear tight fitting clothing or those who don’t dry their feet properly on a consistent basis are more at risk for athlete’s foot.

Every person is acceptable to athlete’s foot as we all have one or more of the fungi in our bodies. Most of these fungi are harmless and simply feed on dead skin cells. Athlete’s foot is more common in young individuals and adults. The condition is also highly contagious and can be spread on our own bodies or to others. This can occur through skin-to-skin contact or indirectly through objects such as shoes, floors, towels, clothing, etc.

Risk Factors

Certain individuals are more at risk for developing athlete’s foot depending on certain lifestyle conditions and choices. Clothing options such as closed toe shoes (especially plastic lined shoes) and thick socks that cause sweating of the feet for a long period of time can lead to the infection.

Those who sweat profusely while working, exercising or participating in other daily activities are also at risk.

Although you may not experience any of the above factors, you may still be at risk if you work, study or play in a public area. Direct contact with an infected person or with materials that are infected with the parasites such as socks, shoes, public showers or gyms can cause the spread of athlete’s foot to an area on your own body. The risk is greater when the environment is warmer as this is grounds for the fungus to grow and invade the skin.

Risk Factors Include:

• Not keeping your feet dry, clean and maintained
• Excessive perspiration
• Humid, warm or hot weather or environment
• Disorders or conditions of the immune system
• Prior infections of athlete’s foot
• Wearing tight, close toed shoes or poorly ventilated shoes
• Walking barefoot at home or in public areas

Prevention Tips

Treatment of athlete’s foot begins with preventing the infection from occurring in the first place. For those who are prone to athlete’s foot, prevention is a much bigger issue that can be maintained through a variety of effective tips and techniques.

Since athlete’s foot can easily be spread from person to person, it’s important to keep your family and community safe by not sharing or leaving infected items where others could potentially come in contact with the materials.

Keep places where your feet touch such as floors, showers, bathtubs, and beds clean and maintained. When in public areas such as swimming pools or gyms, keep a pair of flip flops handy to prevent walking on the floor and picking up or spreading the infection. Disinfectant spray should be used in kitchens and bathrooms in the home. Clothing, towels, bed sheets and blankets should be washed on a regular basis in hot water to help kill the growing fungus. Be sure not to leave moist or damp dirty laundry lingering in the washer or hamper for any period of time to avoid the spread of parasites. Avoid sharing these types of materials among family members and consider doing separate loads of wash.

Special soaps can be used on a regular basis to prevent fungal infections such as athlete’s foot. These fungal soaps contain active ingredients, such as tea tree oil, that help fight off and prevent the infection. They also contain Aloe Vera and are free of chlorine and sediments, leaving your skin moisturized and smooth.

Consider sanitizing the inside of your shoes with a germicidal shoe tree. This will help keep your shoes free of fungal parasites. Keep your feet dry by applying an antiperspirant made especially for feet perspiration. Replace the inserts of your shoes on a regular basis and replace any old exercise shoes or sneakers. After participating in any type of physical activity, use a soap that contains anti-fungal agents and antibacterial qualities. Try to wear open toed shoes or sandals whenever possible to allow your feet time to breathe and receive fresh air.

Test and Diagnosis Considerations

Typically, the diagnosis of athlete’s feet is made by a general doctor or podiatrist (foot doctor) by a visual exam of the foot or feet. Skin scrapings may be needed to test for the specific type of fungi the patient is experiencing to determine the best route of treatment. Microscopic examinations may also be needed to rule out more serious problems such as a bacterial infection.

Various tests may be recommended, such as a fungal culture or an examination of the patients’ foot under ultraviolet light. Your doctor may also do a potassium hydroxide (KOH) test to diagnosis athlete’s foot. This is done by carefully scraping scaly skin from the soles of the feet and placing them onto a microscope slide. KOH is then added to the slide and it’s placed beneath a microscope to look for signs of fungus. In many cases, a doctor will be able to diagnosis athlete’s foot simply by sight.

Common Symptoms

It’s important to rule out other causes of common symptoms associated with athlete’s foot. Peeling or redness of the feet may be caused by environmental factors such as tight shoes, excessive perspiration due to warm weather or wearing shoes without socks. Adhesive cements and certain dyes found in some types of shoes can also cause irritation to the feet.

Other similarities to the symptoms of athlete’s foot can be due to nail polishes, lotions or powders that the patient applied their selves that caused irritation. Conditions such as scabies, eczema and psoriasis may be other possibilities for your symptoms. It’s best to talk to a doctor to rule these out.

If all attempts for diagnosis of athlete’s foot come back inconclusive, a biopsy of the infected skin can be taken for examination. Your doctor may recommend you to a special physician, such as a dermatologist (skin doctor), podiatrist (foot doctor) or a foot health practitioner to future examine your condition. Once a proper diagnoses is made, your doctor can recommend effective treatment methods for you to consider and may write you’re a prescription for a topical or oral medication to help treat the infection.

Treatment Options

There are many over the counter, natural and home remedies available for the treatment of athlete’s foot. While some of these treatments are highly effective in curing the infection, others simply treat the symptoms causing reoccurring episodes. Not everyone responds to all treatments so it’s best to talk to your doctor to see which may be the best fit for you. This could depend on your allergies, medical history, current conditions and various other factors.

Herbal & Home Remedies: Herbal treatments are popular as they are usually effective in treating the condition and have little or no side effects. Common herbal and home remedy treatments for athlete’s foot include tea tree oil, Listerine (mouth wash) and hydrogen peroxide. To sooth and treat your sore feet, soak them in a solution of two teaspoons of salt per one pint of warm water. These home remedy provides an unappealing environment for fungus and makes over the counter treatments more effective. A solution of 25 percent aluminum chloride and water provides similar results.

Fungus Between Your  Toes

For fungus between your toes, a mixture of baking soda and water can be used to form a paste. Rub the paste onto the site of the infection, allow drying time then rinse with warm water. While in the shower, use a foot brush to rub away dead skin cells, leaving smooth new infection free skin. Remember to continue applying a foot cream or powder, wearing dry socks and choosing shoes that fit well and allow your feet to breathe.

Alternative treatments may also be used to treat athlete’s foot. The following oils and extracts have been found effective in relieving symptoms of athlete’s foot and with regular use, treating the infection: Topical oils (example-tea tree oil), onion extract, garlic extract, boric acid and Epson salts. Rubbing one or more of the following products on your feet twice a day or in a mixture of warm water can lead to foot relief.

Herbal & Home Remedies Include

• Keep feet as dry as possible, especially between the toes
• Wear cotton socks and change them once or twice per day
• Avoid tight closed toed shoes as these cause heat build-up
• Never go in public areas barefoot, especially moist or warm areas
• Apply foot creams and powders regularly to keep feet healthy
• Always wash your socks in hot water to kill all potential bacteria
• Avoid yeast products such as baked goods and breads
• Vinegar and alcohol should not be consumed by chronic sufferers
• Apply grapefruit seed extract to your feet to fight off fungus

Pharmaceutical Remedies

Over the counter and prescription athlete foot creams, powders and liquids are available. These usually contain active ingredients such as clotrimazole, miconazole and tolnaftate. If used on a regular basis, these types of treatments usually work well but may take longer to see results. Athlete foot powders work by keeping the feet dry throughout strenuous activity and perspiration.

Along with these self-care tips, keeping your feet dry and clean, washing your feet frequently with warm soap and water and wearing dry, clean socks can help keep the infection under control. If the over-the-counter remedies fail to work after two to four weeks of use, you may want to consider visiting your doctor for a stronger medication. Your doctor may prescribe a topical or oral medication such as terbinafine or ketoconazole to treat the fungus. Antibiotics may also be needed for bacterial infections.

Side effects from oral athlete’s foot medications may include rashes, gastrointestinal upset and abnormal liver function. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a warning against oral Lamisil and Sporanox in May of 2001 due to links between the medication and rare cases of liver failure and even death. They also have a history of weakening the heart contractions so they should be avoided by those with heart problems.

Eczema is a broad term a for wide variety of skin conditions, but its true synonym is atopic dermatitis meaning that it is found on the top layers of inflamed skin. It can often be confused for, or misdiagnosed as, psoriasis and urticaria because they all share similar symptoms.

Symptoms of Eczema

Symptoms for eczema include redness due to irritation, swelling (also called edema), ashy texture of the skin as a result of dryness, crusting, flaking, and other symptoms that include itching, blistering, oozing, and bleeding.

As the skin itches, people suffering from atopic dermatitis will be prone to scratching or rubbing, but as this is done, the symptoms flare up further, causing more pain and discomfort.

Eczema is very common in infants, but can affect people of all ages. Lighter skinned people will find that their skin will redden as the symptoms become more severe and darker skinned people will find that their skin color will change as well. Those with dry skin due to eczema will find that in the summer months they will not tan evenly.

Dry areas will stay as they were prior to receiving sunlight, which will often be most prevalent in joints where the skin touches itself, such as behind the elbows or knees. Other areas prone to be affected by eczema are around the chest, eyes, and ears.

Causes of Eczema

There is no definitive answer as to what causes eczema, but several correlations have been drawn in families where allergies and asthma are present. Physiologically, the body’s immune system may be overacting to one of many triggers causing the skin to become irritated more easily.

Some patients find that it is merely a matter of skin sensitivity. They may find their skin flaring up as a result of touching materials that it is sensitive to, such as wool. Others may find reactions in certain products like soaps and detergents leading them to have to purchase more expensive, skin-friendly brands that include Dreft and SA8.

Weather-Related Causes

Hot and cold weather and water can also cause breakouts and irritation. Following a very hot shower a person with eczema will find that not only is the skin more sensitive, but that the coarseness of a towel further irritates the area, resulting in more cracking and bleeding.

To solve this problem for those who find themselves especially troubled by the winter weather the best course of action is to engage in tepid (not too hot, but not cold either) showers, and to dry themselves afterward by blotting the towel on the skin rather than wiping or rubbing it as so many are used to.

Confusion with Other Skin Conditions

One thing many should never confuse eczema with is contagious skin conditions, such as ring worm. While eczema can look unattractive and even a little scary, it is not contagious.

While it is not known what causes eczema exactly, Dr. Ross Zeltzer notes in his article for Baptist Health Systems about which specific factors increase one’s risk of suffering from it. As mentioned earlier, one may simply contract atopic dermatitis as a result of a mother or father having it. It is unknown as to why, but parents who suffer from allergic disorders like hay fever, asthma, and eczema have children who offer suffer from it as well.

You Environment

Another factor deals with the environment one lives in. While some people are more comfortable in a dry environment others thrive in a tropical one. Many such cases were found of Royal Marines who deployed to the Middle East in 2005. Those who had suffered from eczema the previous year carried no symptoms while deployed overseas. However, when they returned home the symptoms returned with them.

Other environmental irritants can include soaps, detergents, and clothing that is harsh on the skin as well as particles from materials. Those who work in wood shops may find that sawdust is unkind to them just as those who work in metal shops can find the same of steel, aluminum, and various alloys. People who work around harsh chemicals may find that the fumes cause their skin to feel irritated even if they are more common chemicals like chlorine or those added to lotions and perfumes.

Medical Conditions, Food Reactions, & Age

Medical conditions add to one’s risk factors for being affected as well. People who are allergic to pollen or animals may find the reaction come by way of their skin. Dust mites, mold, and certain kinds of food can cause irritation as well.

Food reactions that cause skin breakouts are not always eczema, though. People who are allergic to shellfish may find that their skin will break out in hives. If not treated properly, the swelling can close up their throat and kill them. While eczema is very serious if untreated, it will not be fatal.

And a last factor includes one’s age. Most people who suffer from eczema begin doing so before they are toddlers with the vast majority of the rest developing it before they are five years old. This being said, a person may still find themselves with dry, flaky, crusting skin behind their elbows and knees, and even on the tops of their heads and the backs of their necks when they are middle aged or retired.

Preventing & Relieving Eczema Symptoms

Preventing eczema first comes with knowing what causes it. Having already covered this area, the next steps are to figure out what steps people can take as a means of not having to deal with it between behavioral and pharmaceutical therapy.

For those who prefer a quick fix one actually can be found. For eczema, it is in topical medicines that are usually steroid creams, such as Cortisone.

For those who only have to cover a small area this method of treatment will work well. But for those who have chronic flare-ups engulfing large areas, or the majority of their skin, Cortisone creams carry risk factors as well.

Side Effects

Potential side-effects of using steroid medications include Glaucoma, which is why it should never be applied to the face, especially near the eyes, hypopigmentation, which is when the skin whitens, and another possible side effect is the skin increasing in its severity of atopic dermatitis.

Cortisone creams can work quite effectively, but in some cases they will make matters worse. Along with never using it on one’s face, it should not be applied to the groin, and a doctor should be consulted if it does not work within three weeks.

For those who do not want to treat their dermatitis with a pharmaceutical method, the next alternative is to engage in behaviors that are in support of the skin.

Other Prevention Techniques

The first means of behavioral prevention is to avoid things that cause eczema. Mild hand soaps like Oil of Olay, Cetaphil, and Dove are highly recommended because they are gentle. After washing, hands should be dried completely. As strange as it may sound to some, water can actually be a causal factor in drying out the skin.

The same goes for showering. These same brands come in body washes as well, but they will not be of much help for those who insist on taking very hot showers. The heat, when extreme, will be counter-productive in the process of creating any kind of relief. Redness and inflammation will intensify the affected areas. Showers can last up to twenty minutes. Afterward, be sure to pat the skin dry rather than rubbing. This cannot be emphasized enough because so much unnecessary and easily avoidable skin damage can be done in the moments after a shower or bath is taken.

After showering, it is time to apply a moisturizer. For those who have something prescribed by a medical professional, use that and to the specific instructions of the provider. Otherwise, a moisturizer with no added perfumes is best. Again, brands known for being gentle are preferred. Some say that it is best to apply moisturizer while the skin is wet after a shower and others disagree. For this, it is really up to what works best for the person applying it. But applying moisturizer is a key to finding relief over eczema.

Using Moisturizers

Moisturizers should be applied several times a day. For those who have irritated skin that is not eczema, moisturizer can actually be part of the problem, but for those with it, it is vital. Applying moisturizer several times a day works in two ways. It creates a thin barrier between the skin and the outside environment that is damaging it, much like lip balm does. Then, the moisturizing barrier will allow the body to soothe itself with its own means before it evaporates from the skin, which will then result in the need to reapply.

For those who work in a wet environment, such as dishwashers and fishermen, it is best to where gloves while working. However, it is also important to note that excessive sweat causes eczema as well, so for those who wear waterproof hand protection, another method necessary to prevention may be to wear a thin pair of cotton gloves to soak up the sweat that builds up beneath.

Avoid Scratching and Touching Affected Areas

Adding to this, environments that are extreme can cause a person to scratch or rub certain areas repeatedly.

As extra sensitive areas like the eyes are repeatedly rubbed the result can be a kind of chronic itch in need of being addressed almost constantly.

Just as one must engage in self-control over larger parts of his or her environment, so must he or she take control over the need to create relief in this manner.

Not only will it create a more severe edema, flaking, or bleeding, but it may also cause infection as dirt can collect on the hands and under the fingernails that will then be transferred into the the breaking surface of the epidermis.

Clothing Considerations

Clothing should be monitored carefully. Cotton and clothes made of a cotton blend are often more gentle than those made of wool or synthetic materials. This is especially true of those who sweat a lot.

Athletes have been getting in on this trend by taking advantage of new workout technology that wicks away sweat rather than collects it. While sweat is an efficient means of helping the body cool, it is also a productive way to create chaffing. For those without eczema, this can be irritating if not painful. For those who do have it, the pain can become quite severe.

The last area where prevention can be managed is in stress. While there will always be stress in a person’s life, there are techniques that can cause a person to settle it to a lessening degree. Between breathing exercises, physical exertion, talk therapy, and laughing, people who suffer from atopic dermatitis can find relief by forgetting about it temporarily.

Of course, one would not want to forget about it for too long. After the symptoms of eczema have gone away it is very important to be proactive in one’s self treatment. Regular moisturizing should not stop if it can be helped because managing eczema when it is not flaring up is much easier than when it is, making it true that prevention sometimes can be the best cure.

Diagnosing Eczema

For those who are unsure as to whether or not they have eczema, it can be difficult since conditions like psoriasis appear to be similar in nature. Sometimes a dermatologist can tell simply by observing common areas of sensitivity like the creases in one’s skin, the chest, and the face. If these areas are red, swollen, itchy, ashy, flaking, or cracked, it may be concluded that it is eczema.

To complement this, a detailed history of one’s record should be made. Those who have a personal or family history of eczema, or the common allergies that correlate with it, strengthen the case for a proper diagnosis.

Preparing for a Doctor’s Visit

Patients should do their best to provide the most accurate answers in relation to when the skin irritation first appeared. This will help skin specialists in the healing and prevention process. If it is believed to be allergen-related, a skin patch test may be ordered. This test consists of applying a small area of tape with the suspected irritant on it to be applied to the skin for a day or two.

At the same time, a piece of tape without the irritant is also applied. If the area with the irritant is red and inflamed then the culprit has been found, but only if the skin with no applied irritant is not. This part of the test is very important because it could very well be that the skin was irritated simply from having tape on it for an extended period of time.

In rare cases, one of two other tests may be ordered. A skin lesion biopsy can be taken where a small area is excised for testing, or a Radioallergosorbent Test (RAST) will be performed, which involves taking a sample of blood and mixing it with potential irritants separately. While both tests are very effective, they are often unnecessary with proper behavioral care through moisturizing and sometimes applying prescribed medicated creams.

Additional Resources

Guide to Eczema

Eczema Symptom Overview

Eczema Treatment Overview

Remedies for Hyperhidrosis

Not many of Americans have been there. A handshake upon walking into a job interview that you are dreading because you know your palms will be sweaty.

Or you find the perfect dress to wear on your night out on the town, but you know you can’t purchase it because it will show sweat stains. Maybe you’ve been walking a long distance to your car on a hot day only to have your flip-flop slide off because your feet are soaking wet.

As a child you constantly found your homework ripping from the moisture. You don’t talk to your friends and family about it because you find it embarrassing, or even gross.

Instead you furiously wipe your hands before going into that interview; you wear black quite often because it is the one color that won’t show sweat; and you find yourself wearing boots in the summer because you know that others won’t be able to see that your feet are dripping with sweat.

Only approximately 2% to 3% of the world’s population is affected by this condition, and out of those few people only 40% attempt to remedy the situation and seek treatment. What the other 60% fail to realize is that they are not alone, and a medical condition is nothing to be embarrassed about.

Living with hyperhidrosis, more commonly known as excessive sweating, may not be easy, but it is possible. While the sweating is often uncontrollable when not treated, following a proper treatment plan can and will help you in the prevention of embarrassing sweat moments.

Types of Hyperhidrosis

The most common form of hyperhidrosis is Palmar hyperhidrosis, commonly referred to as sweaty palms. It is also one of the most noticeable as having sweaty palms can create difficulties in living ones day-to-day life. Social situations can become awkward, and even functioning in ones job can be affected by this condition.

Imagine someone who spends all day at a computer and is responsible for excessive typing. Having to constantly stop working and try their hands to keep from affecting the keyboard not only slows down their work, but also draws attention to their situation.

The majority of patients suffering from Palmar hyperhidrosis will most likely also suffer from Plantar hyperhidrosis, or excessive foot sweating. While Plantar hyperhidrosis is not as noticeable as Palmar, it can also create difficulties in a patient’s life. Your shoes can become ruined after being soaked with sweat on a daily basis. Wearing shoes that others don’t have to even think twice about like sandals or flip-flops is a distant dream.

Absorbing Moisture

Wearing heels can be difficult unless knee-highs or pantyhose are worn to absorb some of the moisture to keep the shoes from sliding around while walking. Unlike Palmar hyperhidrosis, Plantar can also cause an embarrassing odor that would be noticeable to anyone around when shoes are removed, even if the person is wearing socks.

Axillary hyperhidrosis, known as armpit sweating, is the third type of hyperhidrosis that can affect an individual. While everyone has armpit sweating in some fashion, approximately 1% of the population actually has excessive, dripping, constant under arm sweating.

While 99% of the population can control their under arm sweating with over the counter deodorants and antiperspirants, those who suffer from Axillary hyperhidrosis are immune to the ingredients in these remedies. Like Plantar hyperhidrosis, most of those who suffer from Axillary hyperhidrosis also suffer from Palmar hyperhidrosis.

Facial Sweating

An additional type of hyperhidrosis is Facial Sweating and Blushing. It mostly exists as an added symptom of either Palmar, Plantar or Axillary hyperhidrosis and rarely exists on its own.

This can also be one of the more noticeable and embarrassing symptoms of hyperhidrosis, because while you can hide your hands or your feet, amd plan your clothing around under arm sweating you can’t hide your face from those around you. An added embarrassment is when a female is wearing makeup.

You cannot control the sweating, and what once was a perfect look is turned into a sweaty mess complete with running foundation, with nothing that can be immediately done to stop it from occurring.

Erythrophobia

While it is not necessarily the same as sweating, facial blushing, also known as Erythrophobia is also considered a part of hyperhidrosis. While most people experience some form of blushing at one time or another, Erythrophobia can pop up in the most unexpected time and places.

It will change the skin tone of your face, and when the condition is aggravated, the blushing can spread to the neck and chest areas. The most common occurrence is in social situations, especially those that are most important to the person involved.

Symptoms

The most common and noticeable symptom of hyperhidrosis is a simple one: excessive sweating. The majority of those who suffer from hyperhidrosis begin to notice the symptoms during late childhood and their early teen years. While one may not necessarily feel themselves sweating in their feet or under arms, stained clothing and foot odor can also be considered a symptom of the condition.

If one consistently has smeared ink when submitting handwritten papers, they could possibly be suffering from hyperhidrosis. Or if you are sweating through clothing in the dead of winter, it is most likely caused by hyperhidrosis.

Causes

One of the most commonly asked questions of hyperhidrosis patients is “what causes this?” followed by “is there anything I could have done to prevent it?” The answer, in a nutshell, is no. Sweating is essential to the body in order to help it stay cool. However, hyperhidrosis can sometimes be a result of a more prominent medical condition and is then referred to as secondary hyperhidrosis. This sweating can either take place all over the body, or remain concentrated in one specific area.

Some examples of conditions that can cause secondary hyperhidrosis are anxiety conditions, cancer, heart disease, lung disease, menopause, a stroke, hyperthyroidism and many other serious conditions.

But for the most part, the root cause of hyperhidrosis remains a mystery to doctors even today. The most commonly known cause is simply referred to as overactive sweat glands. Excessive sweating can be triggered by nerves, embarrassment, anger or fear; however to those who suffer from hyperhidrosis, the excessive sweating happens even without such triggers.

Odd Sweating Outbreaks

Even an evening watching one’s favorite television show can lead to an outbreak of sweating, leading to both physical and emotional discomfort. History and research have disproved the theory that anxiety, embarrassment or fear caused hyperhidrosis, as studies proved that those with the condition experienced excessive sweating even in periods of calm.

Sweating Theories

The most commonly agreed upon cause of hyperhidrosis is simply genetics. Those whose parents experienced some excessive sweating in their teenage years can also expect to experience it themselves.

Another belief is that teens going through puberty can experience an onset of excessive sweating as a result of a physiological reaction to their introduction to adulthood. In the same sense, women who are experiencing menopause can also find themselves suffering from hyperhidrosis, as their body reacts to the changes it is going through, much like those teens going through puberty. Reactions to certain foods and obesity have also been known to trigger an onset of excessive sweating.

Risks

While hyperhidrosis is not necessarily a serious or deadly disease, it is not without its risks. Most outsiders see the condition as more of a nuisance than something serious, however when an onset occurs, things could actually turn dangerous. Many people suffering from Palmar hyperhidrosis have difficulty driving when their condition is triggered, as their hands may slip from the steering wheel.

Those suffering from hyperhidrosis can also suffer from fungal nail infections, bacterial infections, athlete’s foot or jock itch, as the excessive sweating also releases excessive toxins and bacteria onto their bodies, which gets trapped between the skin and their clothing, with no room to breathe.

Testing and Diagnosis

The first step in diagnosing hyperhidrosis is to schedule a visit with your doctor.

While the majority of general care physicians will recommend scheduling a visit with a dermatologist, as they will have the most advanced knowledge and treatment options, a primary care physician, however, can rule out any additional serious conditions that could cause one to suffer from secondary hyperhidrosis.

After scheduling your initial appointment, keep track of when an onset occurs. The doctors will need to know this in order to proceed with the proper method of treatment.

Once you have discussed your symptoms with the doctor, most will have you undergo the paper test. During the paper test, a certain type of paper specifically designed for the purpose is placed at the location of your excessive sweating.

As you continue to sweat, the paper absorbs and is weighed to determine exactly how much sweat you produced and if you are indeed producing enough sweat to be considered a hyperhidrosis patient.

If you are looking for an at home diagnosis before you make a doctor’s appointment, you can try the iodine-starch test. One would need to apply iodine to the area they feel is producing the excessive sweat. Once the iodine has dried, starch is then applied on top of the iodine. If the area turns blue, then it is likely you are suffering from hyperhidrosis.

Methods of Prevention

While it is impossible to entirely prevent hyperhidrosis from affecting you, there are some things that you can do to lessen the impact the symptoms will have on your day-to-day life. Many feel that the excessiveness of the sweating can be caused by the food you eat.

Foods that contain caffeine, as well as smoking cigarettes containing nicotine, can act as stimulants and increase the amount of perspiration from your body. In addition, foods such as garlic, onion and fish are believed to have an affect your body odor, which can increase the awareness others may have of your condition.

Also, if you are suffering from Axillary hyperhidrosis, it is recommended that you share under arm hair regularly, as the thickness of the hair can provide a breeding ground for odor creating bacteria.

Treatments

When you begin treatment for hyperhidrosis, the first thing the doctor will have you do is try an extra strength antiperspirant such as Drysol. In most cases, Drysol is available via prescription, and cost will vary depending on your insurance carrier’s policy.

It is a lotion in the form of aluminum hydrochloride, and unfortunately seems to cause more sweating than relief to most patients, as lotion usually accelerates the condition.

If the Drysol does not work, doctors usually have one of two options for the next step, depending on the patient. The first would be Oral Anti Hyperhidrosis Medications, mostly likely a medication that is used to treat other conditions that doctors have found to be successful in treating hyperhidrosis.

Neurotransmitters

The medications work by sending a specific neurotransmitter to interfere with certain receptors that play a role in the production of sweat. These medications usually include Robinul, Ditropan and Propantheline, and while they prove successful for some patients, others either do not have success or discontinue them due to side effects such as blurry vision and dry mouth. Like Drysol, these medications are available via prescription and costs will vary depending on the patient’s insurance carrier.

Botox

The other option is to have Botox injections at the sites of hyperhidrosis. In fact, most insurance companies are now demanding that patients try Botox injections before they will agree to pay for the next step of treatment. Botox is a temporary fix, and if it does work for you, multiple injections will be required as the effects begin to wear off.

To be continuously effective, Botox must be administered every six to twelve months. Treatments can be quite painful, and expensive because although insurance will cover partial costs, the frequency in which it is required can become costly.

ETS

If none of the options have worked for you, the final option is a new and permanent solution: Endoscopic Thoracic Sympathectomy (ETS). While this is a relatively new and unknown type of procedure, it appears to be the only option for a permanent treatment for hyperhidrosis.

ETS, while safe and effective, is still a surgery, performed under general anesthesia. Incisions are made under both armpits and the nerves relating to overactive sweating are clamped, thus decreasing the likelihood the patient will continue to have severe problems. However, only approximately 50% of patients have shown improvement, while the rest have gone through the procedure only to have the same problems as they did before.

Living with hyperhidrosis is not an easy task, and it is a condition that you will most likely never win the full battle with and go on to live your life without it. But with the proper treatment, preventative measures, you can make life more bearable while technology advances to create possibly more permanent solutions in the future.

Resources

nlm.nih.gov

cdc.gov

EverydayHealth.Com