Welcome to our Community

Posted by dankogan:  2007-09-25 00:12:10

Please join us to define Staten Island best doctors

Hello

Posted by tot: 2007-09-26 11:24:24

Hello everyone,
This community is for issues any one faces concerning his/her healthcare in the area of Jacksonville, FL

Our Community Blog

Posted by tulez: 2007-10-01 13:08:21

Welcome to our blog.

Cancer cells are softer than healthy cells

Posted by aka1234: 2007-12-04 21:18:22

Cancer cells are much softer than healthy cells, scientists concluded in a finding that could help doctors diagnose tumors and figure out which might be the deadliest.

The researchers used a nanotechnology device called an Atomic Force Microscope that allowed them to give a little poke to healthy cells and cancerous cells that had spread from the original site of tumors.

Cancer cells taken from people with pancreatic, breast and lung tumors were more than 70 percent softer than benign cells, the scientists wrote in the journal Nature Nanotechnology.

Antipsychotic Drugs Abused as Chemical Restraints for Elderly

Posted by RachelSawyer: 2007-12-12 10:08:41

<a href="http://blogs.wsj.com/health/2007/12/04/antipsychotic-drugs-abused-as-chemical -restraints-for-elderly /">From The WSJ Health Blog:</a>
<blockquote>Almost a third of patients in nursing homes are receiving powerful antipsychotic drugs, the feds say. And patients can be given the medicines, whether they are psychotic or not. The drugs are often used to calm demented patients, some with Alzheimer’s disease, and to help maintain order in nursing homes, which are often understaffed and reluctant to use physical restraints. But the FDA hasn’t approved the drugs for these uses, compounding the ethical questions.</blockquote>

An explanation of how stress causes obesity

Posted by RachelSawyer: 2007-12-13 07:34:56

http://www.thedoctorweighsin.com/journal/2007/12/13/at-last-an-explanation-how-stress-caus es-obesity .html

An explanation of how stress causes obesity

Posted by RachelSawyer: 2007-12-13 07:34:56

http://www.thedoctorweighsin.com/journal/2007/12/13/at-last-an-explanation-how-stress-caus es-obesity .html

What is Fever

Posted by dankogan: 2008-01-18 23:25:03

http://kidshealth.com/parent/general/body/fever.html

What to east when you have a flu

Posted by dankogan: 2008-01-18 23:33:12

http://www.ext.colostate.edu/pubs/columnnn/nn020211.html

The new Atkins Plan versus The Old Atkins Plan

Posted by summerbanks: 2008-01-20 17:04:55

Weight loss plans are as diverse as the people who try them. Atkins, a long time low carb advocate, offered people a plan aimed at reducing (almost eliminating) carbohydrates in order to turn off the carbohydrate energy burn and turn on the fat energy burn. The plan seemed to work wonders and was followed almost religiously by many until Dr. Atkins died suddenly. His death, though unrelated to the weight loss plan, was instantly covered by every facet of the media. The Atkins weight loss plan faded away, until now.

The New Atkins plan is trying to breathe new life into Dr. Atkins dream of weight loss for all. But, there are some changes to this new plan that were not a part of the older Atkins weight loss regime.

Under the old plan, Dr. Atkins focused on weight loss through diet, with little or no attention paid to exercise. The New Atkins weight loss plan focusing more on combining a low carb diet with daily exercise.

Another difference is in the people The New Atkins Plan is trying to attract. The old weight loss plan was open for anyone trying to lose as little as 15 pounds. Under The New Atkins Plan, the focus has shifted to a life long way of life that is not for those who want to shed just a few pounds and move on.

Premature Birth and Baby Weight

Posted by summerbanks: 2008-01-20 17:16:57

After giving birth to three premature babies, I was shocked to find out that the status of premature has nothing to do with the weight of the baby. When my daughter was born, she weighed 11 pounds, but she was classified as a preemie. Why?

Well, premature babies are judged by their gestational age. No matter the size of the baby, the number of weeks into the pregnancy is what moves babies from being called a "preemie" to being called "full term".

Babies born between the gestational weeks of 38 and 42 are considered full term babies. A baby born before the 38th week is considered premature.

When a baby is born premature, their weights are usually under that of a full term baby, but that does not have to be the case. In my situation, my daughter was 36 weeks and 11 pounds. The little girl next to her was 38 weeks and 4 pounds. Weight has nothing to do with determining whether a baby is premature or full term.

Exercise and the Overweight

Posted by summerbanks: 2008-01-20 18:23:27

When deciding to start a weight loss program, the first warning given is to obtain permission from a doctor before starting a new weight loss plan or exercise program. This warning is truly important, but it is not the only information you will need when starting an exercise plan being overweight.

Overweight people beginning an exercise plan need to take into consideration the amount of physical exertion needed to obtain an elevated heart rate. Treadmills, elliptical machines and stair climbers all assume the user to be of "normal" weight when calculating the calories burned. The higher your weight, the more quickly the heart rate will rise. So, check your heart rate often when starting an exercise program as an overweight person.

Weight Loss Plans and Real Life

Posted by summerbanks: 2008-01-20 18:34:18

With the start of a new year, New Years resolutions are off to a fiery start. If you are planning on trying to lose a little weight this year and you want to stick with this resolution, try adding a weight loss plan aimed at real life to your daily activities.

The only true way to lose weight is to eat less and move more. This nearly cliche phrase has been repeated over and over again by everyone from doctors to weight loss experts and gurus. But, how do you eat less and move more when it seems everything you have tried to lose weight has ended in failure?

Weight loss is all about change. Try making one change at a time to your life. This week, add a 15 minute walk after dinner each night. Next week, try cutting out all white flour products and adding whole grains into your diet. These little changes will add up week after week and you will find the weight dropping off slowly and consistently.

Pregnancy, Alcohol and Tobacco

Posted by summerbanks: 2008-01-20 18:41:12

When a woman finds out she is carrying a child, the world quickly changes from being all about "Me" to being about "Us". Instantly every food you eat, the baby is eating as well. This also pertain to consuming alcohol and tobacco products while pregnant. An unborn child developing under the influence of alcohol and/or tobacco can feel some very real effects from these products.

Alcohol and tobacco consumption during pregnancy has been linked to premature birth and lower gestational weights. The longer a pregnant woman continues to consumer these products, the higher the chance of the unborn child being affected.

Whenever possible, when a woman finds out she is pregnant it is important to cease any use of alcohol and tobacco products until after the baby is born.

Bed Rest and Pregnancy

Posted by summerbanks: 2008-01-20 18:49:07

Your doctor has given you the order to stay on complete bed rest until the birth of your baby. You assure the doctor you will abide by this order and walk out of the office, only to realize you have little or no idea what bed rest really means.

When a doctor orders a pregnant woman to remain on complete bed rest, the words are truly literal. Bed rest refers to staying in bed as many hours as possible during the day. The only true reason to leave the bed during a pregnancy bed rest is for bathroom breaks and showers.

Unfortunately, bed rest is not as fun and exciting as it may sound. Bed rest is meant to relieve press from the cervical closure.

Multiple Pregnancy and Older Children

Posted by Momof3: 2008-01-20 19:03:10

I was recently told that my fourth pregnancy is a multiple pregnancy. Upon hearing the news, I was both scared and elated. Multiples run in my family, but my current children are older. When I researched the topic, I found that multiple births brought home to older children requires a entirely different set of life changes.

Older children tend to be set in their way of life more than younger children. When multiples are introduced into the home, life changes and they are no longer the center of attention. Meal times change, the ability to visit movie theaters and restaurants goes from being a common thing to being an event.

It is important to remember when giving birth to multiples with older children at home, to maintain a separation between the life of the babies and the life of the older children. One parent should continue to spend private time, away from the babies, with the older children. Allow them to be a part of your new life without losing their own.

Regaining Weight After Weight Loss

Posted by summerbanks: 2008-01-20 20:41:16

One of the most common concerns after weight loss is the regaining of weight. Once you have completed a weight loss regime and achieved your ideal weight, it is sometimes hard to continue living that constricted lifestyle. A few tips may help you along the way.

Keep Treats in the Plan

Totally removing sweet treats can lead to a binge over time. In order to remain at your healthy weight after weight loss, keep those sweet treats in your life on a daily basis. Just remember to keep portions small.

Keep Moving

Exercise is the key to maintaining after weight loss. Keeping the same intensity of exercise after losing weight may seem like a daunting task. Instead, try to continue working out three to four days a week at a less intense level. But, KEEP WORKING OUT!

Weight loss is a journey and as with all journeys there will be hills and valleys. Keep your head up and follow these simple tips to keep off the weight.

Labor Room Must Haves

Posted by summerbanks: 2008-01-21 01:45:20

When the time comes to pack that bag for those final moments of pregnancy, it is important to have all the right supplies ready for the trip. There are many things that you are going to want to pack, but only a few that you will really use.

Music

Music is calming, relaxing and helps the mind to escape the pain of labor. A CD player or MP3 player are perfect choices for your labor bag. Before that fateful time arrives, collect some of your favorite songs and have them ready for the trials and tribulations of labor.

A Beauty Kit

While you certainly will not want a complete makeover completed before you begin pushing, it is always nice to have a hairbrush, deodorant, lotion and facial cleansing cloths available for the time you are in labor. A little freshening up can go a long way, especially if labor lasts longer than a few short hours.

The inevitable end to pregnancy is labor and having the proper supplies ready for your hospital stay may just make those long, hard and wonderful hours seem less overwhelming.

What is Dilation?

Posted by summerbanks: 2008-01-21 01:48:29

As your pregnancy moves closer to the final weeks, your doctor may begin to talk about dilation. This seemingly simple term, will mean a great deal once labor begins and the time comes to say hello to the new family addition.

Dilation is the opening of the cervix during labor. As the body readies for those final pushes, the cervix will need to open large enough to allow baby to pass from the uterus into the birthing or vaginal canal. This dilation or opening of the cervix is measured in centimeters, with one centimeter being the beginning stages and ten centimeters meaning you are ready to push.

Diet or Die it

Posted by summerbanks: 2008-01-21 01:51:42

Weight loss gurus all agree that going on a diet is not the right answer for sustained weight loss. A diet or die it, is nothing more than a quick fix for a long standing problem. The word diet contains the word die for a reason.

If losing weight is your ultimate goal, life changes are the only real way to achieve that goal. Weight gain happened over a period of time, and weight loss will also happen over a period of time. A diet is nothing more than a fancy word for let us use unnatural methods to quickly lose weight only to regain it later on.

Going on a diet is not the right way to lose weight, changing how you view and consume food is the right way to lose weight.

Natural versus Induced Labor

Posted by summerbanks: 2008-01-21 01:56:28

For some pregnant women, the time for labor passes without a single warning pain. As women approach the 40th week of pregnancy without any signs of natural labor, the doctor may begin to talk about inducing labor. What is the difference between natural and induced labor?

Natural labor, is labor begun by the body without the help of any external sources. The female body was created to create, hold and birth a baby without the help of drugs. But, for some women, the art of natural labor just does not happen. For these women, induction is the only choice.

Most often used after the 40th week of pregnancy, induced labor is a planned process. The pregnant woman will be admitted to the hospital and given either intravenous drugs to stimulate the bodies labor reaction or have a cervix thinning cream applied to the cervix.

Natural labor is the bodies way of saying baby is ready to meet the new parents. Induced labor is available for women who do not enter into labor on their own.

Social Stigmas and Weight Loss

Posted by summerbanks: 2008-01-21 02:01:04

If you are thinking about starting a weight loss program, you must first think about the reasons why you want to lose weight. In a country centered on popularizing thin, women often feel the need to lose weight to simply fit into society. Weight loss goals need to be set with only you in mind. If you are trying to lose weight for all the wrong reasons, weight gain or the possibility of eating disorders could follow.

The social stigma surrounding overweight people is one of a lazy, overeating crowd. People believe simply by looking at an overweight person that they are overweight due to some fault or inability to control themselves. This stigma often forces people into rash weight loss decisions with the hopes of fitting in with the rest of society.

If weight loss is your ultimate goal, make sure this life change is being made for you and not because of the stigmas surrounding overweight people.

Alternative Birth Choices

Posted by summerbanks: 2008-01-21 02:05:44

Alternative birth choices are on the rise. No longer are men waiting outside of a birthing room, pacing back and forth until the doctor arrives to give them the news of a babies birth. Today, women and men alike are celebrating births outside of the hospital, together.

While there are many types of alternative birth choices, the most popular today are midwife home births and water births.

Midwife home births are births that take place either in the home of the parents or at a home like setting with the midwife available for the birthing mother.

Many home births are often planned around water births. Many moms to be, are charmed by the idea of a water birth until the throws of labor begin. The pain and uncomfortable nature of birth, often lead them out of the water and into a more comfortable setting.

The Top 5 Weight Loss Plan That Do Not Work

Posted by summerbanks: 2008-01-21 11:44:04

When searching for the best weight loss plan, I stumbled across some of the old, faithful ones. These trend based weight loss plans never had a chance of working, yet they remain popular to this day.

The Cabbage Soup Diet - All you eat is cabbage soup.

The Negative Calorie Diet - Based on the idea that some foods use more energy (or calories) to burn than they have.

The Hollywood Diet - Consists of drinking "miracle juice" for 48 hours.

The Beverly Hills Diet Plan - Less than 800 calories per day of primarily fruit or vegetables.

The Apple Cider Vinegar Diet - Consume 1 to 3 teaspoons of apple cider tonic before meals.

These diets are based upon ideas NOT founded in science. Some of these weight loss plans can be harmful to the body and therefore should not be followed.

Losing Weight After Childbirth

Posted by summerbanks: 2008-01-21 13:43:16

Nearly every woman wants to lose that extra baby weight as soon as they leave the hospital, but that is not the healthy choice to make. The weight gain is not simply for the health of the baby, it is for the health of mom, as well.

When women gain weight during pregnancy, the body is readying itself for the weeks after childbirth when baby is the number one priority. New mothers get very little sleep and are rarely able to eat balanced and nutritious meals. The extra weight on the body, helps to give mom that energy she will need during those first few weeks after child birth.

Generally, weight loss plans should not begin until after the doctor says it is alright to cut calories. Cutting calories too soon after child birth can harbor the healing process.

So, after baby is born, allow yourself at least 6 weeks before trying to fit back into those skinny jeans.

Psychological Stresses of Weight Loss

Posted by summerbanks: 2008-01-21 13:46:53

For overweight people, weight loss plans are the route to changing their outer body to match their inner souls. When a person feels as though they are trapped behind too many layers of self, self esteem, confidence and true personality can be hampered.

The psychological stresses of weight loss are those that occur only weeks after beginning a weight loss program or when a plateau is hit. It is these second thoughts that are the downfall of most weight loss plans.

In order to maintain a healthy weight loss plan, make sure to understand before beginning that weight loss does not occur everyday. Weight loss will not be instant and the changes from a larger size to a smaller size will take time.

Weight Loss Quick Fixes

Posted by summerbanks: 2008-01-21 13:50:13

There are no quick fixes when it comes to weight loss. Just this morning I watched a television infomercial for a dietary supplement that claimed, Lose Weight Without Changing How You Eat, GUARANTEED.

I was amazed that such claims could be projected to hundreds of thousands of people. At least a small percentage, of which, will now pay a huge amount of money for a dietary supplement that truly will not live up to these claims.

There are no quick fixes when it comes to weight loss. Weight loss is a change that must be made in food planning, exercise practices and overall life. No bottle will help you to lose weight by simply taking a pill.

Attacking the Gym Head On

Posted by summerbanks: 2008-01-21 17:30:38

For overweight people, the gym can be on of the most depressing places on earth. Imagine an entire building full of people who work out for a living. Funny thought, yes? Well, even though it may seem that gyms are made only for people who are in shape and thin, this is not the case.

Even though my home has a complete gym in the garage, I feel the need to work out away from the stresses of the kids and my other life chores. The gym is that perfect spot. But, being an overweight person, that was not easy for me at first.

I walked into the gym knowing that I would be the biggest person on the floor. I swore the machines would break under my weight and everyone would laugh at me. None of that happened.

The gym is not a place to be afraid of, weight loss requires exercise and the gym is open for people of all shapes and sizes. Go to the gym for you, and conquer those skinny people fears.

Easy Ways to Increase Dietary Fiber for Weight Loss

Posted by summerbanks: 2008-01-21 17:34:35

Fiber has been touted for many years and the best dietary supplement for the body. You can purchase fiber over the counter in pill, powder and liquid varieties. But, this fiber, while healthy is not as good for the body as the naturally occurring fibers found in food.

Some great natural foods that contain high levels of fiber are:

Pears, pistachios, prunes, berries, artichokes, lentil beans, and soy beans are all fantastic places to find that fiber needed to achieve the healthiest weight loss.

Plan Your Meals for Weight Loss Success

Posted by summerbanks: 2008-01-21 17:38:26

You have been running around all day, had no time to prepare dinner and are now standing in front of the Chinese food restaurant hating the fact that you will be eating fast food again. Weight loss plan are anchored on food and meal planning. Plan ahead to lose the pounds.

When you plan meals ahead of time, you are ready for any and all situations that may occur. This does not mean that a spontaneous stop at the local fast food joint is out of the question once in a while. But, when once in a while leads to two or three times a week, the scale will show the effects.

Meal planning can involve freezing pre-made, ready to heat meals, or even cooking an entire meal the night before a bid day and leaving it in the fridge overnight.

No matter how you plan your meal, be sure to have things in order so your weight loss will not suffer the consequences of too many drive thrus.

The importance of a Food Journal

Posted by summerbanks: 2008-01-21 17:41:29 (Modified: 2008-01-21 18:47:35)

You have been on a diet plan for weeks now and you just do not understand why you are not loosing the weight you want to lose. A food journal is the key. One of the best tools for weight loss, food journals are there to tell us just how well (or not so well) we are at sticking with a weight loss plan.

Everything you eat from a small piece of sugar free candy to the Big Mac you stopped off for before returning home from work. Recording these foods everyday is the best way to keep track of what you are really eating. you may find it surprising, after a few days, to see just what you are putting in your mouth.

Lose More Weight With Short Term Goals

Posted by summerbanks: 2008-01-21 17:46:45

When I was younger, I tried my best to complete every task before in one large step. I never broke large projects into smaller pieces in order to attain small goals. This just was not the way my mind worked. With age, I became wiser and lost a little of that youthful verve. Today, larger goals are best broken into smaller chunks.

Everyone beginning on a weight loss journey, wants to be able to say, I lost 150 pounds. Unfortunately, you will not be able to say that for more than a year (in most cases). When weight loss slows and time (and the scale) seem to be standing still, it is the smaller, short term goals that will help you through and keep you on the weight loss track.

Short terms goals should be broken into the smallest bits possible. If you have 150 pounds to lose and you want to lose that weight over 15 months. A short term goal may be 10 pounds a month. Losing 10 pounds is a bit easier to hang on to than the thought of losing the entire 150 pounds.

Weight Loss or Diet Pills and the FDA

Posted by summerbanks: 2008-01-21 17:50:35

We have all seen the commercials for the weight loss pills that assure us we will lose a huge amount of weight in as little as 8 weeks. These weight loss pills use tiny women and muscular men to lead us to believe that we too can look like these people. These weight loss pills will not achieve the extraordinary claims for nearly anyone. And, the weight loss pills you see on television are not approved by the FDA.

The only weight loss pill offered over the counter that is approved by the Food and Drug Administration is the drug Alli. All other weight loss pills are supplements, vitamins and caffeine all bundled together and shipped out with a fancy label promising a smaller waist.

Be careful when using over the counter weight loss supplements, anything could be in there.

Mediation and stress management

Posted by joe: 2008-01-21 18:13:27

For hundreds of years far East religions and their allied mores have commended the benefits of meditation.

Now the western medical practice has revived all this hidden wisdom, carefully modernized it into simple methods and methodically placed it as a tool in stress management.

They say that several of these 20-30 minute meditative sessions per day has a long-term benefit on ones health in particular on stress and stress management. This sort of practice tends to eliminate a major portion of the associated drug use of stress sufferers.

Chinese Green Tea and Weight Loss

Posted by summerbanks: 2008-01-21 18:19:03

For thousands of year now, Chinese green tea has been thought of as the cure all drink. Green tea is offered today as a dietary supplement and in a steeping bag. While drinking green tea has been thought to increase weight loss naturally, there are other ways to use green tea in a daily diet plan.

Green tea is a great addition to marinades, salad dressings and even to prepared sauces. Adding a little strong brewed green tea to a barbeque sauce used for dipping those broiled chicken tenders offers health, weight loss and great taste.

Adding green tea to your diet does not mean you have to drink cup after cup of hot tea. Get creative with your green tea and you might just see the scale moving lower and lower in the process.

Herbal Weight Loss Aids

Posted by summerbanks: 2008-01-21 18:19:25

Herbs have been used a medicinal aids for many generations. There are herbs for pain, healing and weight loss. The herbs associated with weight loss include:

Cayenne - Is thought to stimualte digestion and increase metabolism.

Seaweed and Kelp - Is thought to increase metabolism.

Nettle - May be a thermogenic or fat burning herb.

Ginseng - Known to increase energy, though to increase metabolism.

Hoodia - Is thought to decrease hunger.

Each of these herbs claims to help weight loss in some way, shape or form. Before adding any of these herbs to your diet, make sure to consult your physician.

The Lemon Detox Diet

Posted by summerbanks: 2008-01-21 18:19:42

The stars are out in full swing over this latest diet trend. But what does the Lemon Detox Diet claim to do and how does it work?

Diet Claims: The Lemon Detox Diet is a detoxification program that centers on ridding the body of the toxins that have built up over a period of time.

Diet Specifics: There is not much to the diet, you are required to purchase Madal Bal Syrup (a combination of palm and maple extracts) and fast for up to 15 days.

Fasting diets have been on the fore front of the weight loss debate. Prolonged fasting tends to deplete the body, leaving the faster less healthy than before the fast. Much of the weight lost during fasting is regained when the normal diet is restarted.

Work Breaks and stress

Posted by joe: 2008-01-21 18:28:20

It appears that no longer will management and supervisors criticize workers for taking slightly longer breaks. We know that persistent or unremitting stress is extremely harmful; consequently, it is essential to take breaks and decompress.

When you take your lunch break, make sure you do not talk about work. Take a walk around the block instead of your usual coffee break. Use your weekends to relax, and never schedule too many events first thing on Monday mornings.

Learn what your stress signals are. Ensure that you take regular vacations or even long weekends. Any sort of time off can prove to be beneficial towards combating stress.

Crib Safety and baby

Posted by summerbanks: 2008-01-21 18:36:45

With a new baby comes new rules of the house. Crib safety is of the utmost importance for a new baby.

Cribs need to be new and modern. Older cribs may not meet all safety considerations and changes made to designs.

Crib mattresses need to fit tightly within the crib. No space should remain between the edge of the crib mattress and the bars of the crib.

The crib mattress height should be set to the far bottom for newborns. The higher settings are only safe for older babies.

The space between the bars of the crib should measure no larger than 2 3/8 inches.

Crib sheets should be very tight on the mattress. It should be difficult to fit the sheet onto the mattress when changing the bed.

Keep your new baby safe and follow these helpful crib safety rules.

Sept. 11 Stress Increases Risk Of Heart Problems

Posted by joe: 2008-01-21 19:38:00

For the first time, acute stress responses to the attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon have been linked to a 53 percent increased incidence in cardiovascular ailments over three years following 9/11.

These findings persist even after considering health status before 9/11, degree of exposure to the attacks, and risk factors such as cholesterol problems, diabetes, smoking, and body weight.

The results were especially strong among individuals reporting ongoing worry about terrorism after 9/11; these individuals were three to four times more likely to report a doctor-diagnosed heart problem two to three years after the attacks.

Trauma Earlier In Life May Affect Response To Stress Years Later

Posted by joe: 2008-01-21 19:44:02

Researchers have known for years that psychological trauma that usually results in post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or depression can readily change how a person responds to stress.

Cornell researchers report that rapes, sudden deaths of loved ones, life-threatening accidents and other such traumas may result in long-term changes even if the survivor do not develop a clinical disorder.

These findings suggest that there may be persistent differences in the stress response in some trauma-exposed people, even if they do not exhibit PTSD or depression or both, and even if their trauma was years in the past.

Stress Increases Cocaine Addiction

Posted by joe: 2008-01-21 19:50:18

According to the Trimbos Institute, anyone who sniffs cocaine once develops a 15 to 20% likelihood of becoming addicted to this hard drug. Why does the recreational user only try it once whereas another person becomes physically and mentally dependent on the drug?

Behavioral Pharmacologist Inge de Jong, attached to the LUMC (Leiden University Medical Center) and the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, sought an explanation in the effect of stress hormones.

Experience has shown that stress can lead to addiction. Take the example of a smoker: he will light a cigarette immediately when he gets nervous. We still do not understand the physical mechanisms by which stress contributes to the development of an addiction.

Certainly, for such a highly addictive substance as cocaine, which has adverse effects on health, on the ability to function in society and on criminal behavior, it is especially important to gain a better understanding of how these mechanisms work.

This may enable us to cure people of their addiction or even better to intervene preventively

Natural Versus Medicated Birth

Posted by summerbanks: 2008-01-22 12:28:33

As the time for labor fast approaches, the doctors and nurses will ask you whether or not you wish to have pain medication for the labor. Before you decide, you should know your options.

Natural labor describes having a baby with no pain medication. These labors are believed by many to be more healthful for both baby and mother (though this is not a scientific conclusion). Many mothers who choose natural birth, also choose to have a birthing coach or Dooma by their sides to help focus their energies on pushing and recovery during birth.

Medicated labor refers to the use of pain medications when giving birth. The pain medications offered are in the for of an epidural and a spinal. An epidural offers a constant stream of pain medication while a spinal is a one dose method.

No matter your choice, it is important to have the facts about pain relief and labor.

Losing Weight Like A Celebrity

Posted by summerbanks: 2008-01-22 12:29:27

With pictures all over the television and streaming the Internet, it is difficult not to see the dramatic weight loss results of the stars. Flashing almost as if backed by neons signs, print magazines remind us of just how easy it is to lose weight when you are famous. But, what they don't tell you, is the time and money that weight loss cost.

Celebrities has millions of dollars and personal trainers at their disposal. they are able to spend 6 hours a day working out if that is what they want to do. No expense spared, celebrities find success with weight loss much more easy to attain that the normal everyday weight loser.

Real people have real job and real lives. There are not 3 a day workouts and thousands of situps to tone those wash board abs. We have children, homes, lives and children to tend to. Real weight loss programs for real people take time and effort. Never judge yourself by the success of someone who lives in a life where money is no object.

Weight Loss, Diet Supplements and Surgery

Posted by summerbanks: 2008-01-22 12:29:50

Many people when beginning a weight loss program, turn to dietary supplements to help with food cravings and plundering energy levels. While these supplements may help in those areas, they may actual hurt you in emergency situations.

There are many dietary supplements that contradict with prescription medications and general anesthesia. If you are currently taking an over the counter supplement of any kind, make sure to tell your doctor and dentist exactly the supplements you are taking before taking any anesthesia.

Pregnancy and Incontinence

Posted by summerbanks: 2008-01-22 12:48:50

Babies place large amounts of weight on the bladder as they grow. For the first few months, the fetus weighs so little that mom does not notice the changes to space in her abdominal cavity.

As the time moves closer to the end of the pregnancy and the fetus begins to take up more and more room, the intestines, stomach and bladder all move to give baby more room. As the baby grows and expands into the abdominal cavity, mom may feel less hungry and have problems holding urine. This problem may be even worse after sneezes, coughs or laughs.

Moms can rest assured that incontinence during pregnancy is one of the most commonly reported problems. There simply is no room left for the bladder to hold the same amount of urine as it held before the pregnancy. After birth, the bladder should return to normal function and there will be no more accidents for mom.

What is the Plug?

Posted by summerbanks: 2008-01-22 12:49:27

Often doctors will refer to the plug during your office visit. But, what is the plug and what does it have to do with your pregnancy?

The term plug refers to a bound mucoud stopper that literally plugs the cervix closed. This plug is the first visibly physical sign of pregnancy. The mucous closes the cervix in order to protect the baby from any outside substances that may enter the uterus through the cervix.

As the pregnancy enters the final stages, the plug may fall out in preparation of child birth. Many women know little or nothing about the plug for the simple fact that it often falls out as a woman is sitting on the potty.

Once the mucous plug falls away from the cervix, the final days of the pregnancy are inevitable and baby will be born soon!

Signs of Real Labor

Posted by summerbanks: 2008-01-22 12:49:46

Real labor often springs on a pregnant woman with a fright. They could be shopping, sleeping, eating or even laughing with a friend on the phone when any of these signs of real labor strike.

Real labor can be identified by...

...rupturing of the membranes (water breaking).

...bloody show or loss of cervical plug.

...contractions that make you feel like bearing down for a bowel movement.

...contractions that get closer together over time.

...contractions that get stronger with walking.

If you are pregnant and you are experiencing any of these signs of real labor, the time has come to visit the hospital. Baby may just be on the way.

Signs of False Labor

Posted by summerbanks: 2008-01-22 12:50:09

As the end of a pregnancy nears, Braxton Hicks contractions may begin to be felt. These contractions are generally referred to as false labor. Every woman should immediately see a doctor at the first twinge of labor pains and never try to diagnose themselves with false labor. The difference between false labor and real labor can only be determined by the doctor.

The signs of false labor include contractions that are:

...non productive and do not move into the final stages of labor.

...not effective at dialating the cervix.

...easily softened by movement or position change.

...eased after drinking water or eating a meal.


False labor can be caused by many different outside forces, with the number one cause being dehydration. Adequate fluid intake during pregnancy is imperative to the health of both mom and baby.

What is Healthy Weight Gain During Pregnancy?

Posted by summerbanks: 2008-01-22 20:31:45

While pregnant with a baby, you will inevitably gain weight. The weight gain is distributed between the mothers body and the babies body. Generally speaking the majority of the weight gained during pregnancy accounts for the weight of the fetus, maternal blood stores and maternal fat and nutrient stores.

For a woman who is of normal weight before pregnancy, healthy weight gain will be anywhere from 25 to 37 pounds.

For a woman who is underweight before pregnancy, healthy weight gain will be anywhere from 28 to 40 pounds.

For a woman who is overweight before pregnancy, healthy weight gain will be anywhere from 15 to 25 pounds.

These numbers are certainly not set in stone and each woman who is pregnant will gain different amounts of weight.

Treatment of Preterm Labor

Posted by summerbanks: 2008-01-22 20:35:14

For women who experience labor before the fetus is ready to enter the world safely, there are treatments to help stop the progression of labor.

The treatments of preterm labor include bed rest, oral medications and intravenous medications.

Bed rest is the complete removal of all activity for the pregnant woman. If you are pregnant and have been ordered to assume bed rest, you will be advised to remain in bed for the duration of the pregnancy.

Oral medications for preterm labor focus on stopping any contractions the mother may be experiencing.

When all else fails, a pregnant woman experiencing preterm labor will be admitted to the hospital and begin a treatment of intravenous medication to stop labor from progressing.

Over The Counter Medications and Pregnancy

Posted by summerbanks: 2008-01-22 20:37:47

Unfortunately, women who are pregnant will still be susceptible to the normal stresses of every day life. These stresses may cause colds, headaches and even infections that require prescription antibiotics. Before taking any medications or undergoing any tests, a pregnant woman should first speak with the obstetrician.

Many obstetricians will offer a list of over the counter medications that are safe and effect for pregnant women to take throughout the pregnancy. This list should be followed closely. Taking even over the counter medications that are not on the list can be dangerous to both mother and unborn child.

Natural Sources of Folic Acid

Posted by summerbanks: 2008-01-22 20:43:49

Folic acid is the most important nutrient for a woman to consume during the first few weeks of pregnancy. While the prenatal vitamins prescribed by the doctor will have plentiful levels of folic acid, it can be beneficial to a woman trying to become pregnant to increase her natural levels of folic acid before conceiving.

Natural sources of folic acid include, breakfast cereals that are fortified, beef liver, asparagus, spinach, great northern beans and black eyed peas to name a few.

Eating folic acid before pregnancy is healthy for both mom and baby!

Bleeding and Pregnancy

Posted by summerbanks: 2008-01-22 20:47:29

One of the scariest things in the world for a woman who is pregnant is to find that she is bleeding during the pregnancy. While it is not uncommon to bleed during the first few weeks of the pregnancy, it is important to follow a few very important tips if you find any blood in your panties during pregnancy.

* Always use a pad or a pantiliner. The doctor will be able to judge how much you are bleeding by examining these later.

* Never use a tampon when pregnant.

* Always call the doctor for an emergency appointment at the first signs of vaginal blood.

* Remain calm.

Bleeding during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy is a clear sign that something may be wrong. If you see vaginal blood during these months, immediately go to the hospital.

How To Determine If You Need a Personal Trainer

Posted by RichB: 2008-01-24 23:07:56

Before beginning a personal fitness regime, it is important to determine whether or not a personal trainer would work for you. The key to hiring a personal trainer is deciding whether or not you want, need and can afford a personal fitness trainer.

Personal trainers are perfect for beginning exercisers who may not have enough knowledge of the human body and the right way to work the bodies muscles. Fitness regimes need to be balanced and work an alternating cycle of upper body and lower body. A personal fitness trainer will help to train not only the body but teach you about the muscles of the body.

The only negative to hiring a personal trainer is the cost. Personal fitness trainers can cost anywhere from $20.00 per hour to more than $150.00 per hour

Common Causes of Hair Loss

Posted by RichB: 2008-01-24 23:08:45

Hair loss, or alopecia, is most often thought to be a male specific problem. But, contrary to this perception, hair loss can and does occur in both men and women. The most common cause of hair loss, is the simple shortening of the hair growth cycle.

All hair grows in cycles. The cycle of new hair growth is called the anagen cycle. When hair loss begins, around the age of 25 years for both men and women, this cycle has begun to slow. As a result of the slowing hair growth cycle, hair grow for shorter and shorter amounts of time and eventually falls out all together.

Causes of Erectile Dysfunction

Posted by swilson: 2008-01-24 23:18:57

Erectile dysfunction, or ED, can be caused by one of two problems. These problems will either be physical or psychological in nature.

An erection is dependent upon a significant amount of blood entering the penis and being retained there long enough to achieve sexual penetration. If this process is halted or slowed in any way, the ED may be physical in nature.

The other form of erectile dysfunction is related to psychological or mental factors. Ill feelings or feelings of awkwardness in an intimate situation can lead to psychological erectile dysfunction.

What is an Orphan Disease?

Posted by 1inamil: 2008-01-24 23:37:50

An orphan disease can be defined as a rare disease that presents itself in an office setting very few times a year. Most doctors, even in the busiest of offices, may go for several years before seeing or treating an orphan disease. In order for a disease to be designated as orphan, or rare, less than 200,000 people will have to be diagnosed, according to the National Institutes of Health.

Orphan, or rare, diseases will fall into one of two categories: chronic or life-threatening.

Most Common Cause of Lower Back Pain

Posted by RMiller: 2008-01-24 23:43:58

With the huge influx of sit down jobs in American and abroad, it is no wonder that more and more people are suffering from lower back pain. The upper body weighs more, on average, than the lower body, leaving the lower back to carry the brunt of the body weight when seated for hours. But, sit down jobs are not the most common cause for lower back pain.

Nearly every muscle in the body has an opposite muscle. The shin muscles are opposite the calf muscles, and the bicep is opposite the tricep. The back muscles also have an opposite in the abdominal muscles. These abdominal muscles are the most common cause of lower back pain.

Groups of opposite muscles need to be equally strong in order to survive the give and take relationship of muscle groups. The lower back muscles need the abdominal muscles to provide a supportive strength in order to balance the body. When these abdominal muscles do not pull their weight and are too weak to hold the body firmly, the lower back muscles take up the extra slack. This extra work on the lower back muscles causes some of the more common lower back pain.

The Three Main Types of Diabetes

Posted by BeaG: 2008-01-24 23:52:44

There are three recognized subtypes of diabetes. These include:

Type 1 Diabetes

Type 1 Diabetes is characterized by the destruction of pancreatic cells leading to a total deficiency of insulin.

Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 Diabetes is characterized by the resistance of target tissues to the insulin that is released by the body.

Gestational Diabetes

Gestational diabetes only occurs during pregnancy and is similar in definition to Type 2 Diabetes.

Depression Leaves Many Feeling Alone

Posted by summerbanks: 2008-01-24 23:57:35

Depression, unlike any other disease, leaves the sufferer feeling both mentally and physically alone in the world. Often, depression surrounds a person, in thought, convincing them that life is simply not worth the effort. Food does not taste good any longer. Jokes are no longer funny and the simple tasks of life, suddenly seem overwhelming.

For those who suffer from depression, these feelings of aloneness tend to force them into a tangible state of separation. Being too sad to interact with others and then becoming more sad due to the lack of interaction, depression is a cyclic disease that can tumble out of control in mere seconds.

Depression Leaves Many Feeling Alone

Posted by summerbanks: 2008-01-24 23:57:35

Depression, unlike any other disease, leaves the sufferer feeling both mentally and physically alone in the world. Often, depression surrounds a person, in thought, convincing them that life is simply not worth the effort. Food does not taste good any longer. Jokes are no longer funny and the simple tasks of life, suddenly seem overwhelming.

For those who suffer from depression, these feelings of aloneness tend to force them into a tangible state of separation. Being too sad to interact with others and then becoming more sad due to the lack of interaction, depression is a cyclic disease that can tumble out of control in mere seconds.

Menopause Does Not Always Wait Until 50.

Posted by summerbanks: 2008-01-25 00:02:23

For some women, menopause is not an event they will have to wait for. With an increase in cases of endometriosis, cysts, and fibroids, hysterectomies are being performed at an all time high, and younger women are on the table.

The total removal of all female organs is the only cure for some female diseases and conditions. When not other treatment will take away the chronic pain, hysterectomies are performed. Many of the patients receiving these hysterectomies are in their early forties. There are even cases of hysterectomies being performed on women, much younger than that.

Age is not longer a valid number when it comes to menopause. With the rise in hysterectomies, fewer women will be transitioning into menopause twenty years from now.

Menopause Does Not Always Wait Until 50.

Posted by summerbanks: 2008-01-25 00:02:23

For some women, menopause is not an event they will have to wait for. With an increase in cases of endometriosis, cysts, and fibroids, hysterectomies are being performed at an all time high, and younger women are on the table.

The total removal of all female organs is the only cure for some female diseases and conditions. When not other treatment will take away the chronic pain, hysterectomies are performed. Many of the patients receiving these hysterectomies are in their early forties. There are even cases of hysterectomies being performed on women, much younger than that.

Age is not longer a valid number when it comes to menopause. With the rise in hysterectomies, fewer women will be transitioning into menopause twenty years from now.

Common Causes for Everyday Headaches

Posted by Trixie: 2008-01-25 00:06:52

Headaches are the most common every day ache and pain reported to physicians. These little annoying creatures, often have very simple causes.

The most common causes for the everyday headache are tension, migraine, eye strain, dehydration, nasal infections, estrogen level changes (in women) and low blood sugar.

While headaches are commonly reported and are most often thought to be benign in nature, it is always important to report any recurring or severe headaches to your physician.

Common Causes for Everyday Headaches

Posted by Trixie: 2008-01-25 00:06:52

Headaches are the most common every day ache and pain reported to physicians. These little annoying creatures, often have very simple causes.

The most common causes for the everyday headache are tension, migraine, eye strain, dehydration, nasal infections, estrogen level changes (in women) and low blood sugar.

While headaches are commonly reported and are most often thought to be benign in nature, it is always important to report any recurring or severe headaches to your physician.

How Many People Really Suffer From Allergies?

Posted by jlittle: 2008-01-25 00:13:18

Every time the spring season rolls around, every sneeze is attributed to an allergy. Everyone we know is allergic to something, with dust and pollen being the two most common allergies voiced by sneezers. But, how many people really suffer from allergies.

According to information gathered by the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, more than 30 percent of all adults and 45 percent of all children suffer from some sort of allergy. This number is thought to be on the low side when the people who treat their allergies with over the counter medication or through homeopathic methods are added into the total.

How Many People Really Suffer From Allergies?

Posted by jlittle: 2008-01-25 00:13:18

Every time the spring season rolls around, every sneeze is attributed to an allergy. Everyone we know is allergic to something, with dust and pollen being the two most common allergies voiced by sneezers. But, how many people really suffer from allergies.

According to information gathered by the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, more than 30 percent of all adults and 45 percent of all children suffer from some sort of allergy. This number is thought to be on the low side when the people who treat their allergies with over the counter medication or through homeopathic methods are added into the total.

Diagnosis of Depression

Posted by annar: 2008-01-25 21:08:22

Mental disorders can be tricky to diagnose and treat. For instance, depression is a condition that may be over- diagnosed in the US because it is easily confused with other mental disorders, such as Bipolar Disorder, and because anti-depressants are popular and widely prescribed medications by specialists as well as internists.

Is There A Link Between Allergies and IBS?

Posted by jlittle: 2008-01-25 23:21:33

A recently study is claiming that there may be a link between adults who suffer from allergies and Irritable Bowel Syndrome.

The study claims adults who suffer from allergies or allergic symptoms may have a higher incidence of IBS per capita.

While the specifics of the link have yet to be determined, specific allergy problems are believed to have differing levels of IBS rates. For instance, patients who suffer from allergic rhinitis may have a likelihood of IBS that is nearly 3 times higher than patients who do not have this allergy. On the other hand, allergic eczema patients may have a likelihood of IBS closer to 4 times the normal rate.

For more information on the link between IBS and allergies, the study was printed in this month's Annals of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology journal.

Is There A Link Between Allergies and IBS?

Posted by jlittle: 2008-01-25 23:21:33

A recently study is claiming that there may be a link between adults who suffer from allergies and Irritable Bowel Syndrome.

The study claims adults who suffer from allergies or allergic symptoms may have a higher incidence of IBS per capita.

While the specifics of the link have yet to be determined, specific allergy problems are believed to have differing levels of IBS rates. For instance, patients who suffer from allergic rhinitis may have a likelihood of IBS that is nearly 3 times higher than patients who do not have this allergy. On the other hand, allergic eczema patients may have a likelihood of IBS closer to 4 times the normal rate.

For more information on the link between IBS and allergies, the study was printed in this month's Annals of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology journal.

Migraines Sufferers Have Bigger Brains

Posted by Trixie: 2008-01-25 23:27:23

It seems that the effects or causes of migraines may be directly linked to a bigger brain. Studies have reported instances of a larger cortex area of the brain in patients who suffer from migraines.

Unfortunately, the link between the enlarged cortex and the migraine has not been clarified. Researchers and doctors have little or no idea whether the enlarged cortex area is due to the migraines or the migraines are due to the enlarged cortex area.

Migraine Sufferers Have Bigger Brains

Posted by Trixie: 2008-01-25 23:27:23 (Modified: 2008-01-26 00:33:52)

It seems that the effects or causes of migraines may be directly linked to a bigger brain. Studies have reported instances of a larger cortex area of the brain in patients who suffer from migraines.

Unfortunately, the link between the enlarged cortex and the migraine has not been clarified. Researchers and doctors have little or no idea whether the enlarged cortex area is due to the migraines or the migraines are due to the enlarged cortex area.

Natural Versus Surgical Menopause

Posted by summerbanks: 2008-01-25 23:34:28

For women, menopause is expected, even dreaded. While natural menopause allows the body to relate to the progressive lessening of hormones, surgical menopause is instant and unyielding.

As the age of 50 approaches, many women expect the beginning symptoms of menopause to appear. These women are not surprised by the hot flashes, drying skin and mood swings. Such is not the case with surgical menopause patients.

Surgical menopause is instant and to the point. After a hysterectomy, menopause will begin within hours. Most often a HRT or hormone replacement therapy, will be started immediately after surgery to lessen the effects of instant menopause on the patient.

Surgical menopause allows no time for the female body to become accustomed to living without female hormones, the hormones are literally there one minute and gone the next.

Natural Versus Surgical Menopause

Posted by summerbanks: 2008-01-25 23:34:28

For women, menopause is expected, even dreaded. While natural menopause allows the body to relate to the progressive lessening of hormones, surgical menopause is instant and unyielding.

As the age of 50 approaches, many women expect the beginning symptoms of menopause to appear. These women are not surprised by the hot flashes, drying skin and mood swings. Such is not the case with surgical menopause patients.

Surgical menopause is instant and to the point. After a hysterectomy, menopause will begin within hours. Most often a HRT or hormone replacement therapy, will be started immediately after surgery to lessen the effects of instant menopause on the patient.

Surgical menopause allows no time for the female body to become accustomed to living without female hormones, the hormones are literally there one minute and gone the next.

Treating Bipolar Disorder DIfferent From Treating Depression

Posted by summerbanks: 2008-01-25 23:46:54

One of the most common symptoms of bipolar disorder is depression. But, a patient with bipolar disorder can be more difficult to treat for depression than a patient with a more common cause of depression.

In straight forward depression cases, an anti-depression is normally prescribed by a doctor. For the patient with bipolar disorder, the effects of an anti-depressant is often more pronounced than the desired effect. That is to say, a bipolar that takes an anti-depressant may appear less depressed when treatment first begins, but eventually may move into a manic episode if a leveling or more calming medication is not taken with the anti-depressant.

Treating Bipolar Disorder DIfferent From Treating Depression

Posted by summerbanks: 2008-01-25 23:46:54

One of the most common symptoms of bipolar disorder is depression. But, a patient with bipolar disorder can be more difficult to treat for depression than a patient with a more common cause of depression.

In straight forward depression cases, an anti-depression is normally prescribed by a doctor. For the patient with bipolar disorder, the effects of an anti-depressant is often more pronounced than the desired effect. That is to say, a bipolar that takes an anti-depressant may appear less depressed when treatment first begins, but eventually may move into a manic episode if a leveling or more calming medication is not taken with the anti-depressant.

Can Sugar Free Foods Affect Blood Glucose Levels?

Posted by BeaG: 2008-01-25 23:57:25

Every person who suffers from diabetes has been in a situation where there was a food or a snack that contained too many carbohydrates or sugars to be added into their diet. With the advent of sugar free foods and sugar alcohols, has this problem been solved?

The answer is no! Sugar free foods that contain sugar alcohols may have a significant effect on blood sugar levels. These sugar alcohols are created as a bi-product of natural sugars. The carbohydrate levels of sugar free foods created with sugar alcohols is nearly the same as the sugared versions of the same food. The only difference is the slowing metabolizing nature of sugar alcohols.

For those suffering from diabetes, remember, the only free foods are foods with less than 20 calories and 5 grams of carbohydrates.

Education and Lower Back Pain Relief

Posted by RMiller: 2008-01-26 00:42:17

It seems that with a little extra education, those who suffer from acute lower back pain can find relief. According to a study by Cochrane Researchers, extensive educational experiences covering the hows and whys of acute lower back pain incorporated with training sessions on adjusting behaviors and methods to ease acute lower back pain, have shown fantastic promise.

The training or educational sessions were administered on top of the normal care the patients were receiving. Findings lean toward additional education sessions of 2 and a half hours or more.

Clinical Trials and Acute Myelocytic Leukemia

Posted by 1inamil: 2008-01-26 00:53:14

Acute myelocytic leukemia or AML is the most commonly occurring acute form of leukemia affecting adults. This rare disorder accounts for less than 2% of the populations deaths from cancer, but as the population ages these numbers are expected to rise. AML is a leukemia that increases in occurrence with age. Therefore, as our population gets older and older, more and more deaths will come from AML.

In an effort to combat these deaths, clinical trials in association with AML have risen consistently. There are currently more than 700 clinical trials in process, the hopes of finding help for those suffering from AML is bright.

Treating Erectile Dysfiunction Naturally

Posted by swilson: 2008-01-26 01:04:23

Erectile dysfunction is a common complaint in patients over the age of 65. While there are prescription medications available to treat the symptoms of erectile dysfunction, some men stay away from these treatments for fear of side effects.

Suffering from erectile dysfunction does not have to control your life. There are natural ways to treat this very common trouble.

Natural treatments for erectile dysfunction include, L-arginine, propionyl-L-carnitine, acetyl-L-carnitine, ginkgo, and zinc.

Each of these substances can be taken either as separate supplements or in conjunction with a multi-vitamin. As with any herbal treatment, a doctor should be consulted before adding supplements to a daily vitamin and mineral regime.

Getting Over the Gym Fear!

Posted by RichB: 2008-01-26 01:10:53

One of the most common reasons people give, once they begin being honest, for not going to the gym is fear. People are innately afraid of being around other people who work out. For some unknown reason, maybe because of the movie and television depiction of the gym, people believe all gym floors look like the stage at a Mr. Olympia competition. The truth is far less interesting.

The gym is a place to work out. The people who go to the gym on a regular basis (the ones you are afraid of) are the ones who will be so wrapped up in their own workouts that they never really notice you at all.

Taking time out of your busy schedule for a stop at the gym is not only important for your body but also for your state of mind. People who work out on a regular basis experience far less stress than those who do not.

Why Do Hair Transplants Work?

Posted by RichB: 2008-01-26 01:26:23

Hair transplants, over the years, have become more and more popular with both men and women who suffer from hair loss. But, why do these treatments work and why does the hair continue to grow after a transplant?

In a lay man's terms, the hair on the top of the head is affected by hormones that reduce over time. With the reduction in these hormones comes a reduction in the growth cycle of the hair follicles. The hair on the sides and back of the head are not susceptible to these hormones.

A hair transplant procedure uses the hair follicles that are not affected by hormones and thus continue growing long after the hair transplant is completed.

Caffeine and Headaches

Posted by Trixie: 2008-01-26 18:31:19

With the popularity of coffee and coffee shops, it is no wonder that nearly everyone is addicted to caffeine. Unfortunately, the more addicted we become to caffeine as a society, the more apt we are to experience caffeine withdrawal headaches.

Caffeine withdrawal is very similar to the withdrawal the body goes through after smoking or drug cessation. The bodies addiction to caffeine can wreak havoc on the head in terms of pain.

Caffeine withdrawal headaches do not have to be directly linked to quitting all caffeine consumption, merely not drinking enough in one day may cause a caffeine withdrawal headache.

Caffeine and Headaches

Posted by Trixie: 2008-01-26 18:31:19

With the popularity of coffee and coffee shops, it is no wonder that nearly everyone is addicted to caffeine. Unfortunately, the more addicted we become to caffeine as a society, the more apt we are to experience caffeine withdrawal headaches.

Caffeine withdrawal is very similar to the withdrawal the body goes through after smoking or drug cessation. The bodies addiction to caffeine can wreak havoc on the head in terms of pain.

Caffeine withdrawal headaches do not have to be directly linked to quitting all caffeine consumption, merely not drinking enough in one day may cause a caffeine withdrawal headache.

Prescription Erectile Dysfunction Medications and Blood Pressure

Posted by swilson: 2008-01-26 18:39:10

For men who suffer from erectile dysfunction, the time to begin monitoring your blood pressure is now. many brand names of prescription erectile dysfunction medications can cause unsafe drops in blood pressure.

Before beginning a prescription or even trial pack of an erectile dysfunction medication, make sure you have a doctors approval and a home blood pressure kit on hand. You can never be too safe.

Sudden drops in blood pressure can cause dizziness, light headedness and fainting.

Stretching for Relief of Lower Back Pain

Posted by RMiller: 2008-01-26 18:47:57

Lower back pain can change a wonderful day into a painful night. When forced to sit at my desk for hours during the day, I make sure to take small breaks every two hours just to stretch. The stretching stops the muscles in my lower back from becoming too tight and causing pain later in the evening.

At the office, I simply sit on the floor and stretch slowing, reaching my fingertips toward my toes. Once I have reached a point where I will not be able to stretch any further, I hold that spot for 10 seconds. I repeat the stretch another two times and then go on with my day.

After two hours more hours at the office, I try to change the muscles group used in the stretch. From a twisting stretch to a standing toe touch, each stretch is a little different than the last!

Leave Those White Foods Behind if You Are Diabetic

Posted by BeaG: 2008-01-26 18:52:36

Notoriously, white foods are made from white flour. White flour is nothing more than concentrated carbohydrates. When choosing foods that will promote the stabilization of blood glucose levels, try adding more brown foods to your diet.

The browner the bread, pasta and rice, the more chance the food will continue whole grains. Whole grains offer slow processed carbohydrates that help to stop the blood glucose spike associated with white carbohydrates.

Think grains, think slower metabolism and control those blood glucose levels.

Seasonal Affective Disorder and Depression

Posted by summerbanks: 2008-01-26 19:13:09

Seasonal Affective Disorder is a bought of depression that is linked to the winter seasons in most cases.

For depression sufferers, Seasonal Affective Disorder, is like a double blow. When the winter months hit, those who suffer from depression need to make sure to pay special attention to the effects the winter months are having on their mood.

Aside from medical attention, keeping a close support system is important in the treatment and prevention of Seasonal Affective Disorder in patients who already suffer from depression.

Seasonal Affective Disorder and Depression

Posted by summerbanks: 2008-01-26 19:13:09

Seasonal Affective Disorder is a bought of depression that is linked to the winter seasons in most cases.

For depression sufferers, Seasonal Affective Disorder, is like a double blow. When the winter months hit, those who suffer from depression need to make sure to pay special attention to the effects the winter months are having on their mood.

Aside from medical attention, keeping a close support system is important in the treatment and prevention of Seasonal Affective Disorder in patients who already suffer from depression.

What is Black Cohosh?

Posted by summerbanks: 2008-01-26 19:20:57

Black cohosh is a herb that is often sold as a dietary supplement to ease the symptoms of menopause.

A member of the buttercup family, black cohosh has been studied for its effects on hot flashes for many years.

The reasons why black cohosh is so effective on hot flashes is not known, but women who have gone through menopause often find black cohosh treatments to work just as well as many prescription hormone replacement therapies for preventing hot flashes.

Before taking black cohosh, your doctor should discuss the treatment and the possible drug interactions with you.

What is Black Cohosh?

Posted by summerbanks: 2008-01-26 19:20:57

Black cohosh is a herb that is often sold as a dietary supplement to ease the symptoms of menopause.

A member of the buttercup family, black cohosh has been studied for its effects on hot flashes for many years.

The reasons why black cohosh is so effective on hot flashes is not known, but women who have gone through menopause often find black cohosh treatments to work just as well as many prescription hormone replacement therapies for preventing hot flashes.

Before taking black cohosh, your doctor should discuss the treatment and the possible drug interactions with you.

At Home Nebulizer Treatments for Asthma

Posted by jlittle: 2008-01-26 19:28:43

My son was diagnosed with exercise related asthma. He grew at an alarming rate and thus his lungs did not develop as quickly as his body. Every time he would run and play, he would have a sort of asthma attack.

Finally, after a few months, he was prescribed an at home nebulizer for asthma treatments and our life has changed dramatically. having the ability to treat our son's asthma at home with the same breathing treatments given at the hospital offers us a chance to stay out of the emergency room.

At home nebulizer machines can be expensive but are covered under most insurance plans, so check with your insurance company and take charge of asthma at home.

At Home Nebulizer Treatments for Asthma

Posted by jlittle: 2008-01-26 19:28:43

My son was diagnosed with exercise related asthma. He grew at an alarming rate and thus his lungs did not develop as quickly as his body. Every time he would run and play, he would have a sort of asthma attack.

Finally, after a few months, he was prescribed an at home nebulizer for asthma treatments and our life has changed dramatically. having the ability to treat our son's asthma at home with the same breathing treatments given at the hospital offers us a chance to stay out of the emergency room.

At home nebulizer machines can be expensive but are covered under most insurance plans, so check with your insurance company and take charge of asthma at home.

Callisthenics: An Overall Body Workout

Posted by RichB: 2008-01-26 19:35:35

One of the greatest overall body workouts has to be callisthenics. Callisthenics can be defined as systematic rhythmic bodily exercises performed usually without apparatus or machine. These exercise involve jumping jacks, jogging in place, lunges and just about any and every exercise that can raise the heart rate without any outside help.

Callisthenics is used in both military settings and sport settings. The benefits of self propelled exercise is the cost, zero. No money needed for machines, gyms, tapes or special gear of any kind. All that is needed is you and your body!

Hair Replacement Options

Posted by RichB: 2008-01-26 19:39:48

For some reason, hair loss seems to carry with it the stigma of a lack of beauty. Both men and women who suffer from profound hair loss, instantly find themselves in the hunt for the best and most effective hair replacement therapies.

The most common hair replacement therapy is offered in the shampoo form. Shampoos designed for men and women are available over the counter and claim to help regrow hair. Unfortunately, in many cases these therapies just do not work.

Another therapy option is hair replacement. Hair replacement methods take hair follicles from hair that is not effected by loss and implants these follicles into the scalp where the most hair has been lost. This method of treatment can take time, but is the most effective.

When searching for a hair loss treatment, make sure to weigh all of your options before making that final choice. Some hair loss replacement therapies are not permanent, while others are.

Could You Have Rare Disease?

Posted by 1inamil: 2008-01-26 19:48:23

For most of us, when we come down with a cold or a bundled group of symptoms, we immediately reach for some over the counter medication.

As life moves on, most of our problems or sicknesses can be bundled under one of the many more affluent disease categories. Cancers, heart disease, weight control or diabetes, are just a common few of the platforms used for diagnosis.

Rare diseases are those that only affect a very small number of people in the population. Thus, that group of symptoms could be just another rare disease that has yet to be diagnosed.

BMI Calculator

Posted by dankogan: 2008-01-27 20:15:02

Here is the BMI calculator I found.
My BMI is 23.4 which is normal.



http://health.msn.com/weight-loss/bmi-calculator.aspx?height=66&weight=145&remember=true&unit=standard&sex=male&waist=30

Another article on BMI

Posted by dankogan: 2008-01-27 20:16:05

BMI, Body Fat & Health Risks :

http://health.msn.com/weight-loss/lose-10-pounds/articlepage.aspx?cp-documentid=100173489&GT1=10815

Finding a Specialist That Cares

Posted by 1inamil: 2008-01-27 23:16:49

When you or someone you know has been diagnosed with a rare disease, it is important to find a specialist that is not only qualified to treat the disorder, but caring and understanding about the condition, as well.

When a specialist cares about a patient, the level of care is ultimately more rewarding. The patient feels as though the specialist truly cares about their condition and is thus more apt to follow the guidelines of the specialist.

Careful care is the best link between the patient, doctor relationship.

Hair Loss and Women

Posted by RichB: 2008-01-27 23:19:41

Hair loss is a common condition for both men and women. While the treatment of hair loss is most often geared toward the male population, females suffer from the same societal problems and views as males who have significant hair loss. For women, hair loss is a bit different than with men.

Women tend to lose hair all over the top of the head when afflicted with hair loss. This loss can begin as early as 15 or 16 years of age. Men, on the other hand, tend to lose hair along only the very top front and top back of the head.

Alternatives to Traditional Workouts

Posted by RichB: 2008-01-27 23:22:56

When a traditional workout just won't do, it is time to break out of the normal and change up those workouts. Fitness levels can be increased through both traditional and not so traditional workouts, the point is to raise the heart rate and work the muscles of the body.

Instead of running on the treadmill, driving to the gym or popping in that fitness DVD, try taking your workout to the streets and become a kid again. Riding a bicycle, playing tag, throwing a football or softball can all be great choices for fitness workouts. Working out needs to be both fun and heart rising!

Anti-Depressants and Sexual Side Effects

Posted by summerbanks: 2008-01-27 23:26:10

For patients who suffer from depression, anti-depressants are often prescribed by a doctor. While these anti-depressants are good at helping the patient deal with the symptoms of depression, there can be some side effects that are very unwelcome. One of the most dreaded of anti-depressant side effects relates to sexual desire.

The sexual side effects of anti-depressants are highly studied through research. The most common sexual side effect associated with anti-depressants is a lack of desire. If you, or someone you know, is taking an anti-depressant and experiencing sexual side effects, make sure to speak with your doctor indepthly about this side effect.

Anti-Depressants and Sexual Side Effects

Posted by summerbanks: 2008-01-27 23:26:10

For patients who suffer from depression, anti-depressants are often prescribed by a doctor. While these anti-depressants are good at helping the patient deal with the symptoms of depression, there can be some side effects that are very unwelcome. One of the most dreaded of anti-depressant side effects relates to sexual desire.

The sexual side effects of anti-depressants are highly studied through research. The most common sexual side effect associated with anti-depressants is a lack of desire. If you, or someone you know, is taking an anti-depressant and experiencing sexual side effects, make sure to speak with your doctor indepthly about this side effect.

Menopause and Skin Health

Posted by summerbanks: 2008-01-27 23:28:57

For women who have passed into the depths of menopause, skin health is a very real concern. After menopause skin tends to lose a natural level of moisture. In order to combat this moisture loss, using a great skin lotion on a daily basis can keep moisture in and the effects of menopause on your skin health, out.

Menopause may also effect a skins tautness and the hair growth on the skin. Hormone replacement therapy can help to reverse the effects of menopause on skin.

Menopause and Skin Health

Posted by summerbanks: 2008-01-27 23:28:57

For women who have passed into the depths of menopause, skin health is a very real concern. After menopause skin tends to lose a natural level of moisture. In order to combat this moisture loss, using a great skin lotion on a daily basis can keep moisture in and the effects of menopause on your skin health, out.

Menopause may also effect a skins tautness and the hair growth on the skin. Hormone replacement therapy can help to reverse the effects of menopause on skin.

How To Recognize a Tension Headache

Posted by Trixie: 2008-01-27 23:34:07

Tension headaches are one of the most common forms of headaches. While there has been no scientific link between physical abnormalities and tension headaches, they are a very real pain suffered by many.

The most common symptoms of tension headaches include dull, generalized pain that occurs all over the scalp and muscle tightness in the head and neck area. If you are suffering from this type of headache for more than 2 weeks, be sure to consult a physician.

How To Recognize a Tension Headache

Posted by Trixie: 2008-01-27 23:34:07

Tension headaches are one of the most common forms of headaches. While there has been no scientific link between physical abnormalities and tension headaches, they are a very real pain suffered by many.

The most common symptoms of tension headaches include dull, generalized pain that occurs all over the scalp and muscle tightness in the head and neck area. If you are suffering from this type of headache for more than 2 weeks, be sure to consult a physician.

ED Does Not Have to Stop Sex

Posted by swilson: 2008-01-27 23:35:07

The most painful part of erectile dysfunction is the inability to have sex in a normal fashion. Erectile dysfunction is common and treatments are available to help ease the stress associated with the most common symptoms of erectile dysfunction.

Treatments for erectile dysfunction may not offer immediately relief and thus patience is essential and practical. Erectile dysfunction support groups and focused forums can help to ease the stress of the inability to perform normal sexual functions.

Bend With the Knees for Back Pain Ease

Posted by RMiller: 2008-01-27 23:39:05

The pain of lower back pain is often made worse by improper lifting techniques at work and at home. When lifting any heavy or awkward objects, it is important to bend at the knees and not at the waist.

Bending at the