May 19, 2012

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Results of a Sleep Study: Identifying Disorders and Their Causes

November 3, 2011 By Leave a Comment

It isn’t uncommon for sleeping problems to remain hidden because the symptoms become a part of the person’s daily life. Chronic fatigue and tiredness are not necessarily normal, and if you’re experiencing these things repeatedly it might be time to talk to a specialist. If they suggest a polysomnography (sleep study) you may be able to uncover hidden sleeping disorders that are causing unknown problems.  Different types of  insomnia manifest  in all kinds of symptoms including reducing the quality of sleep. Losing the quality of one’s sleep is very hard to observe and can go unnoticed for years.

Measuring the Brain

The most powerful tool during a sleep study is an EEG reading. Measuring the levels of brain activity as they fluctuate up and down through the night leads to a complete picture of a patient’s sleep pattern. Knowing the amount of time spent in each stage of sleep and how often transitions are made can lead to the diagnosis of a sleep disorder.  Many disorders are based on the interruption of a certain stage of sleep and can be easily identified using these methods.

Readings from the brain will help doctors pinpoint the transitions between NREM and REM sleep. Rapid eye movement sleep is an especially restorative stage of a sleep pattern. It makes up a very small percentage of our total sleep and can cause problems if it is interrupted too often.

The behavior of the body during periods REM sleep is very different and easily notable. Breathing and heart rate become much more uneven and there are high amounts of activity in certain regions of the brain. It is during this stage that most people will experience their most vivid dreams. REM sleep is considered extremely important for it’s part in the body’s total restoration, so it can be a very big problem if a person isn’t getting enough REM sleep. A sleep study can reveal problematic disruptions that might be making it impossible for someone to get enough REM sleep.

Helpful measurements of the brain activity can lead to effective and immediate diagnosis of sleeping disorders. The information gathered from the brain can help pinpoint the type and cause of sleeping problem. One disorder that is very hard to identify is central sleep apnea. What causes central sleep apnea is not a blockage, but rather a neurological problem with the signals that tell the body to breathe. Careful examination of the results of a sleep study are one of the best ways to identify this kind of disorder.

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Definition, Origin, and Uses of Mobile Health Systems

October 31, 2011 By Leave a Comment

Technology has now stretched far wide in the spectrum of modern progression. The invention and perpetual elaboration of machineries, appliances, and transport systems have unquestionably trimmed the hours of the busy person, and have educated and broadened the knowledge of the illiterate. Communication for one has never been better through faster exchange of messages, clearer correspondence, and easier access to people all over the globe which result to a greater precision in information dissemination. This advancement has been greatly used to advantage by the phenomenon of what has been termed as “mobile health” or “mhealth”, defined as the practice of medicine and rendering of health services with the aid of mobile phones.

Professor Robert Istepanian succinctly defines it as the “use of emerging mobile communications and network technologies for healthcare”. Mobile health has been a big boom in the healthcare industry and although simple as it may seem, it has raised a lot of confusion and many have expanded its definition. Mobile health can be further expounded as the provision of care through wireless communication. This may encompass the creation, storage and retrieval of health care records; collection of data, inscription and transmission of medical prescriptions; monitoring of patient conditions; elucidation with other health care practitioners; real time patient communication, instruction, review and assessment of lab tests and monitoring of patient outcomes attained through the broad scope of wireless communication such as Bluetooth, infra-red, GPRS and wireless fidelity.

With this explosive rise in the use of mobile technologies apparent as a great part of people’s lives, UN foundation and Vodaphone Foundation Company has made a partnership as they see the opportunity of mobile technology for healthcare to create a better world. Mobile Health, although still in its early stages, has shown a promising potential in transforming health care delivery. These two foundations commits to addressing the pressing issues concerning health care delivery as outlined by their three core commitments:

(1) to support the use of rapid response mobile telecommunications to aid disaster relief;

(2) to develop health data systems that improve access to health data thereby helping to combat disease; and

(3) to promote research and innovative initiatives using technology as an agent and tool for international development.

They continue to work on the improvement of innovative technologies that will increase benefits especially in the area of patient monitoring, tracking, and treatment support.

As mentioned, mobile health may still be in its early phases but already, it has contributed significantly in health care delivery. Information dissemination via text message to people in remote areas, where there is an impelling need for health awareness, has been proved not only to be economical and efficient, but most importantly, effective in delivering information about transmissible diseases. This may be a specific benefit for hard to reach areas where there are absence of health centers that could provide valuable details. An example of application playing this role is Frontline SMS, a software that allows sending and receiving messages to large groups of people when installed in mobile phones. There is an incredible expanded access to communications so provision of health care is delivered at a time when it is needed most. Communication is the focus of this application giving rise to improved diagnoses and tracking of patients, recording of drug adherence, and evaluation on the outcome. Furthermore the lack of workforce against a growing population located at suburbs and outskirts, which used to pose a problem, can now be addressed.

Utilization of the modern advancements to enhance the quality of the health care delivery is an ingenious scheme that could change the face of the health industry today. It is commendable that we are able to put into good use the technologies we have today for the improvement of our own well-being.

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Vitamins for Our Brain will Keep us Sharp

September 7, 2011 By Leave a Comment

There are times that we tend to overlook some things due to our busy schedules. We are always caught up in the deadlines and demands of our work that we sometimes forget what is important. Taking good care of our brain is just one of the many things that we should never miss on. This is a very essential organ that we need to keep healthy and well for a long period of time. Not only because it is sensitive, but also because it plays a crucial role in the proper functioning of our bodies and other organs. One good way to prevent our brain from deteriorating is by taking memory vitamins. Studies have shown that doing such a thing will keep this organ nourished and healthy.

Believe it or not, a well-nourished brain can remain active even if the body starts to weaken. This is the reason why we should always take good care of it. Here are some of the vitamins for brain that we shouldn’t miss out on. Vitamin B6 is one of the most essential B vitamin as it helps maintain the proper function of several body parts. Scientific studies have proven the relationship between vitamin B and cognitive performance, as can be seen here http://ddr.nal.usda.gov/bitstream/10113/77/1/IND21235154.pdf. Those studies have shown that it contributes to our memory retention and concentration. Folic acid also belongs to the B vitamin family. It speeds up the production of red blood cells which are good for our brain.

Choline is important as it helps in the formation of acetylcholine. Acetylcholine is a neurotransmitter that protects our brain from suffering from memory loss and other serious illnesses. Gingko Biloba is one of the most widely used vitamins for the brain. It aids in the improvement of our blood circulation and promotes the well-being of the said organ. Hawthorn may sound a bit peculiar to us, but it has been proven to effectively flush out toxins and wastes that may harm our brain. It fortifies both our tissues and blood vessels to withstand any harmful substance that may affect our mental health. These are just some of the essential nutrients that will help us keep our brain going for a longer period of time. For more information, we can ask our doctors on how we can incorporate everything in our daily lives.

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Contraindications Of Inversion Therapy

July 11, 2011 By Leave a Comment

Inversion therapy is a method which involves hanging upside down to naturally diminish the negative effects of gravity, conveniently decompress the spine, and safely increase the space between the vertebrae. Its existence has brought miraculous benefits to people suffering from back pain and other illnesses associated with spinal compressions. With the use of inversion tables, a machine specially designed for the purpose of inversion, it has reduced the rate of people resorting to back surgery by 70.5%. More importantly, for a very long time, it has been providing people with a large number of physical, medical, and therapeutic benefits.

However, inversion therapy is not for everyone because there are some medical conditions where it is not safe to invert. This is the main reason why people are advised to consult their physician first before using any inversion equipment to enjoy and experience the wonderful benefits of inversion therapy. Let us take a look at some of the contraindications of inversion therapy.

  • Glaucoma – If you are suffering from glaucoma, increased eye pressure from inversion can kill cells in the optic nerves and cause blindness.
  • Conjunctivitis also known as Pink eye – Characterized by inflammation of the transparent membrane which covers the front surface of the eyeball and inner surface of the eyelids often caused by bacterial or viral infection. If you are diagnosed with this condition, consult your eye doctor before considering inversion therapy.
  • Weak bones, injuries and fractures, recent surgeries – Inversion may worsen your condition so consult your doctor or therapist first.
  • Heart problems and circulatory disorders – inversion is prohibited to people with heart diseases and other circulatory problems.
  • Using anti – coagulants – If you are using aspirin or blood – thinning drugs, you are at risk of having circulatory disorders so you may be advised not to invert.
  • High blood pressure or hypertension – For people with blood pressure which exceeds 140/90, inversion might not be safe at all.
  • Extreme obesity – If you weigh more than 300 pounds, inversion equipments will not be able to accommodate your weight.
  • Pregnancy – It will be too risky for pregnant women to invert.
  • Middle ear infection – Inversion will bring discomfort and disorientation to any person suffering from this condition.
  • Others: Hiatal hernia/ventral hernia, retinal detachment, spinal injury, stroke, and transient ischemic attack or mini – stroke.
  • If you have any of these health conditions, consult your doctor first before considering inversion therapy to lessen potential risk and dangers of inversion to unfit individuals. For additional references, go to, www.inversiontableguide.com.
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Natural Osteoarthritis Pain Relief with Ginger Root Extract

May 29, 2011 By Leave a Comment

New research shows that an age-old root valued in Chinese cooking for hundreds of years is also a helpful all-natural pain reliever.

These results are based on a study, by Dr. R. Altman an associate at the Osteoarthritis Research Society and a scientist at UCLA Medical Center, carried out to assess how safe and helpful a standardized ginger extract was for volunteers that suffer with osteoarthritis in the knees.

Almost 250 volunteers took part in this study for more than 6 weeks, each person had moderate or severe arthritic pain. The volunteers were separated into groups, where one group received ginger extract and the other a placebo.

The final results determined that the volunteers issued the ginger extract experienced less pain when standing compared to the volunteers given a placebo. Total pain was also reduced in those volunteers who took the ginger extract.

The result of the study determined that the standardized extract of ginger had a substantial effect on pain in osteoarthritic volunteers.

Another study undertaken by Dr. Itamar Grotto in Israel, publicized in the Journal of Osteoarthritis Cartilage, observed comparable results for volunteers taking ginger extract.

The results appeared to demonstrate that study the volunteers didn’t receive immediate pain reduction, but after half a year, volunteers experienced significant pain reduction in comparison to the placebo group. Inflammation was also observed to have diminished. Whenever volunteers using the extract were changed to a placebo, they saw that the swelling came back.

Ginger has been utilized for 1000′s of year in Chinese medicine, in addition to flavoring food. Ginger has powerful anti-inflammatory qualities, and is also rich in antioxidants. It’s also purported to provide a warming effect for joints, improving natural blood flow.

Because ginger is used so frequently in meals, it’s safe for anyone to try who has osteoarthritis or similar diseases for reducing pain and swelling. 1-2 grams each day of pure ginger extract is advised if you’re planning on using a supplement. Juice extracted from ginger root will also be helpful. Try juicing it in a masticating juice extractor like the Green Star or Hurom juicers, designed particularly for difficult to juice vegetables and roots.

Sources:
Arthritis Rheum. 2001 Nov;44(11):2531-8.
“Effects of a ginger extract on knee pain in patients with osteoarthritis.”
Altman RD, Marcussen KC.

Osteoarthritis Cartilage. 2003 Nov;11(11):783-9.
“The effects of Zintona EC (a ginger extract) on symptomatic gonarthritis.”
Wigler I, Grotto I, Caspi D, Yaron M.

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7 Food Preservatives That You Must Avoid

May 22, 2011 By Leave a Comment

Bread, margarine, juice, wine, aren’t these food items you eat often? Did you know that these basic food items could bring about countless problems to human health including cancer, weak immune systems, and even mobility concerns requiring wheelchair accessories for daily activities? Yes and it is all because of the use of harmful preservatives. These days, preservatives (which are actually meant to preserve food) are found in high concentration in not only fancy convenient food items, but in all regular foods that we consume day and night.

Read through the following and understand some of the most common preservatives and their harmful outcomes:

Benzoates: It causes allergies and can damage brain cells. It is commonly found in sodas, fruit juices, flour, beer, margarine, some shampoos and even dog food.

Bromates: These may lead to diarrhea. It is also believed to null the nutrients present in food and is found in almost all types of breads. Lately, it was discovered in a popular bottled water too which resulted in the recall of the product. (As you read this you’re checking the bottled water in your drink holder aren’t you? Good.)

BHA and BHT (Butylated Hydroxyanisole and Butylated Hydroxytoluene): It is suspected to be a carcinogen that generates cancerous cell. Commonly, it is found in canned meats, beer and snack items.

Mono- and Di-glycerides: It leads to birth defects as well as some cancers. Most snack items such as cookies, candies, pies, cakes, peanut butter, vegetables with sauce, margarines and dry roasted nuts all contain this chemical.

Nitrates and Nitrites: It is used for preserving meat and is believed to cause Cancer.

Propyl gallate: It initiates birth defects and damage to liver. It is present in everything including chewing gum, pickles, sauce, vegetables and most meat products.

Sulfites: It brings about allergies, headaches, heart palpitations and cancer too. It is found hidden in corn syrup, cornstarch, wine vinegar, wine, and dried fruits.

Hence, try and avoid frozen, dried, hydrated, canned and boxed foods and beverages and consume only fresh foods such as fruit, vegetables, meat, seafood etc. in their place. Additionally, while picking any food product that contains an expiry date irrespective of whether it is frozen, dried, hydrated, canned, boxed or even fresh, check the label in detail and make certain it does not include any dangerous preservatives even in minute level. Take care and be watchful, life is precious, isn’t it?

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A Possible New Cure For Baldness and HIV

May 8, 2011 By Leave a Comment

Researchers from the University of California in Los Angeles, also known as UCLA, came to us with great news in the last months. Finally, after decades over decades of trying to fight with the HIV AIDS disease, they seem to have found a cure, which brings much hope to humanity and mankind. From the same university, UCLA, also comes another great study which claims to find a cure for baldness, which also gives hope to many of the bald people all over the world. Let’s examine the two possible cures and see what the whole hype is about.

In the first research, the scientists tried to study an anti stress hormone in lab mice, and upon their return, a few months later, they were surprised to find out that not only that the old mice completely regrew their hair, but younger mice as well were prevented from the disease at first place, and did not develop any hair loss later on, contrary to what the scientists have expected. This study gives a lot of hope to many people worldwide, and the group of researchers have already registered a patent for their new discovery, for the intention of providing bald people with a remedy, a few years from now. Only time will tell, though.

The second research comes from the University of California in Los Angeles as well. After trying to study a leukemia treatment in patient Timothy Brown, the scientists managed to also cure him out of HIV. Right now, Timothy is the only person ever to have fully recovered from the HIV AIDS virus, and things look promising for sure. The researchers were absolutely shocked to find out that their stem cell transplant (bone marrow), that they gave him, also eventually led to a new cure for HIV discovery, which is a huge breakthrough.

Only time will tell if these two new discoveries are worth the hype they are generating, and I personally believe that in two to three years, we should be able to see how it went from there, and the world is all hope for these treatments to work, especially the HIV one, since it is such a lethal and fatal disease.

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Signs, Symptoms And Treatment Of Common Candida Infections

May 6, 2011 By Leave a Comment

Candida infections are caused by the Candida albicans yeast species. Other Candida species may be involved, but this is the most common. It is found naturally in our mouth, gastrointestinal tract and vagina and is normally kept in check by the native bacteria that reside on our body as well as by our natural immune response. However if this natural balance mechanism is lost – for example through antibiotics or biochemical changes – result rapid yeast growth and a Candida infection can result.

The four main types of Candida most commonly seen include:

  1. Oral thrush, where the moist surfaces of the inside of the mouth and tongue are affected. The main sign is a whitish patch developing often with a red, inflamed base.
  2. Skin candida infections can occur in parts of the body that receive little air-flow and remain damp for long periods. The diaper area in babies for example, or skin folds and creases can be affected.
  3. Vaginal yeast infections are one of the most common types of Candida infection seen in women. It is thought that three quarters of all women are likely to have at least one case of infection. The key symptom is an intense, often unbearable itching, biting or burning sensation.
  4. Male yeast infections are less common, particularly in uncircumcised men. A red, irritated rash develops on the penis and it can be painful to pass urine.

The main approaches to treatment are outlined below:

  • Oral thrush is generally treated using topical antifungal medication. Your doctor may also prescribe a liquid version of an antifungal drugs that can be used to rinse out the mouth. For very severe cases, oral antifungal drugs may be necessary.
  • Skin candida infections can usually be effectively treated using antifungal powders, creams and gels. It’s important to keep the affected areas clean and dry at all times.
  • Vaginal yeast infections are typically treated using topical antifungal creams that are applied directly to the vulva and inserted into the vagina using pre-filled suppositories or ‘ovules’. Male yeast infections also respond well to this kind of topical therapy. You’ll find reference to drugs such as Monistat and Gyne Lotrimin as recommended approaches to get rid of yeast infections in both men and women.
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One Source Vitamins: Complete, Convenient, And Easier To Remember

May 4, 2011 By Leave a Comment

It is well-known that most individuals do not get enough of the necessary daily nutrients through their diet alone. Pollution and processed foods, smoking, and drinking alcohol can deplete the body of nutrients as well, creating an even greater deficit and associated health problems. Many people take supplements to make up for the deficiencies, but with all of the conflicting information circulating about supplements one may find it confusing to choose the right kind. Taking individual capsules and pills can be expensive and, quite frankly, a pain. This is why multi-vitamins such as One Source vitamins are popular.

Most people are busy and prone to forgetting to take pills every day, especially if it is not a prescription. Using a Once Source vitamin formulated for one’s needs is much easier to remember. Since everyone’s nutritional needs are not the same, there are formulas for men, women, teens, children, and seniors. Those who play sports or exercise regularly will want to use a formula that is specific to active individuals. These supplements provide additional minerals that are used during rigorous activity and amino acids to help prevent injuries to muscles and connective tissues. Pregnant women need extra nutrients for the developing fetus, such as folic acid and iron. One Source prenatal vitamins contain all of the required elements that an expectant mom needs in a convenient daily dose. Many individuals, especially pregnant women, avoid supplements due to stomach complaints.  A single multi-vitamin is a better choice in this instance, and those who have difficulties tolerating them can take the supplement at night or with food to prevent nausea. That is difficult to do with a handful of separate pills.

Regardless of age, gender, activity level, or special needs, one can find the supplement he or she needs  by exploring the large selection of One Source vitamins. A balanced diet is always the best way to fulfill one’s nutritional needs, but the reality is that most people will not or cannot  adhere to this rule. One can help fill in the gaps created by an inadequate diet, advanced age, environment, bad habits and strenuous activities by using an appropriate daily supplement.

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