Medical Science

DEGENERATIVE JOINT DISEASE AND OTHER INFLAMMATORY CONDITIONS THAT AFFECT MOBILITY

Degenerative Joint Disease and Other Inflammatory Conditions That Affect Mobility

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Medical Science

When most people think of disease, diabetes, hypertension, or respiratory conditions come to mind as the top disabling conditions. The degenerative joint disease also deserves a spot in this group too and if you are wondering how to treat degenerative joint disease, there are several options to consider, including lifestyle modifications, medication, and potentially surgery to help manage the condition and improve mobility.

Do your knees hurt any time you try to move or walk? Do your fingers burn with every motion? Is the pain you feel in your limbs or your back debilitating to the point you feel like you can’t do anything?

1 in 5 elderly adults experiences problems with mobility, especially veterans. Older adults not only have to deal with weak joints due to the aging process, but they also have to deal with inflammatory conditions of one or more joints that later develop.

There are a number of conditions that affect mobility. If you would like to know what these conditions are and if you have them, keep reading.

Degenerative Joint Disease

Dealing with degenerative joint disease can be difficult, and it is more common than most people think. The older you get, the more likely you are to develop the condition. Degenerative joint disease is also referred to as osteoarthritis (OA), one of the more usual types of arthritis.

How It Affects Mobility

Osteoarthritis is a condition that causes joint issues and pain. Although OA can develop on any joint, most adults with degenerative joint disease notice problems with their knees, hands, hips, fingers, neck, or spine.

The condition occurs due to wear and tear of the joints over time. This wear and tear destroys cartilage and thins it out. Without cartilage, the joints no longer have lubrication or shock impact. Adults experience joint pain because the bone is now rubbing against the bone.

Joint stiffness associated with osteoarthritis often happens when adults stand up from a sitting position or work their way out of bed. Osteoarthritis is different from rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Dealing with osteoarthritis can be challenging, but there are many treatment options available, including medication, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes, to help manage the condition and reduce pain and discomfort.

Although they both result in joint pain, RA causes pain due to chronic inflammation, not mechanical wear. RA attacks the lining of the joints. This can start at any time in life. OA is more likely to happen as we age.

Other Conditions That Affect Mobility

Arthritis isn’t the only thing that can affect mobility. There are also other conditions that a person can contract and experience joint stiffness, with or without inflammation.

Gout

Gout is also another type of arthritis. People with gout often complain about extreme joint pain that starts in one joint. It is often the big toe most of the time.

This condition is a result of an accumulation of uric acid depositing itself into the joint. Joint pain, swelling, and redness can become a real problem.

Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism is an underactive thyroid. The main symptoms are weight gain, slow heart rate, and constipation. However, it can result in fatigue and cause joint stiffness as well. With hypothyroidism, almost every system in the body acts sluggish and “slows down.”

Fibromyalgia and Polymyalgia

Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain condition that affects the muscles. It is widespread and issues with fatigue and joint stiffness are common.

Polymyalgia is an inflammatory joint condition that tends to affect people over 50. They also have problems with joint pain in the wrists, hips, fingers, and shoulders.

Bursitis

Bursitis happens when the bursae (mini fluid-filled pockets in the joint) burst. The little sacs, which are meant to provide cushion to the joints, become inflamed. This creates pain and mobility issues for adults.

Lupus

Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease that often affects the fingers, knees, and wrists. The symptoms often come and go and the level of intensity ranges from mild to severe.

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

This is a type of condition that happens when there is a miscommunication of the nerves in the foot. The tibial nerve is needed for the leg to be able to respond to movement and be able to need sensation. The syndrome damages this ability, which can affect the overall movement of the leg.

Bone Cancer

Bone cancer can also cause joint stiffness, although it is rare. However, those that do experience it, notice joint pain primarily on the long points (arms and legs).

Treating osteoarthritis Pain and Increasing Mobility

Pain and inflammation often work hand in hand for those with joint degenerative disease and other conditions that affect the joint. When you have any of these conditions, you learn to find ways of managing osteoarthritis and living with them and easing the symptoms. While you may not completely reverse the symptoms, you can ease their intensity and frequency of them.

You do not have to deal with chronic pain forever when you have joint pain. Incorporating things like exercise, massage, acupuncture, physiotherapy, and physical therapy will work to your benefit.

Trying any one of these methods or a combination of them allows you to increase mobility while decreasing the sensation of pain. Along with taking medication, it may work best for some people. You should also speak with a doctor to find a physical program that works for you.

Treating Degenerative Joint Disease with Medication at Home

When you have chronic pain, it will usually come and go. Alternative therapy is a great way to address pain, but you may also want to use medication when and where it is appropriate and safe.

Most people with joint pain due to degenerative joint disease or other conditions will receive opioids to help control symptoms of pain and help increase mobility and flexibility.

You only want to use medication or get a refill when you have a prescription. It’s important to follow the frequency and guidelines your doctor suggests in order to prevent drug dependence.

If you need extra assistance making an order online for the medication you need, you can contact us.

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The Ultimate Type 2 Diabetes Management Plan!

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Medical Science

Finding out you have type 2 diabetes can come as a shock. You’re going to need to make some major adjustments to your daily routine. But with the right type 2 diabetes management plan, you don’t have to let it run your life.

Developing a care plan after being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes will help manage your diabetes and take back control over your life. Continue reading to find out how you can live happily with a Type 2 Diabetes management plan.

Managing it With a Type 2 Diabetes Diet

If you’re going to maintain your blood sugar levels, you’re going to need a plan. You can make your daily routine a lot easier by planning your meals ahead of time.

Stock up on healthy and nutritious meals that can be made quickly. Start by buying whole foods such as fruits and vegetables. For protein, you should stick to organic, lean meats such as chicken, turkey, and fish.

You can also find plant-based protein sources such as spinach, quinoa, and legumes. When you are choosing plant-based proteins be sure to limit the number of carbohydrates you eat. On average, you should get 45-60% of your daily calories from carbs as someone with diabetes. Some suggest even less than that.

Getting into a comfortable routine and planning ahead will help you stick to a type 2 diabetes diet plan and avoid dangerous spikes in your blood sugar levels. You should also get in the habit of checking food labels and looking up the nutritional facts about the foods you eat.

Consult with a nutritionist to help you get on track to eating a well-rounded diet.

Watch Your Carbs While Managing Type 2 Diabetes

Since carbohydrates turn to sugar in your body, it’s no wonder that watching your carbs is a big part of how to manage diabetes. Having type 1 or 2 diabetes means your body has a difficult time processing and using blood sugar.

Your body needs carbs to function but not all carbs are created equally. Eating complex carbs and fiber is much better for you because they take longer to break down during digestion. Meaning, you won’t experience a giant spike in your blood sugar.

There are three main types of carbohydrates: starches, sugars, and fiber. Starches are complex carbs such as potatoes, beans, and grains like brown rice or quinoa. Sugars are both naturally occurring in fruits or added in sweets like chocolate or yogurt.

Fiber is commonly found in vegetables such as green beans and broccoli. It is also found in eggs, meat or fish. Complex carbs such as starches, and fiber that are naturally occurring are a safer bet. Since your body slowly breaks them down.

Added sugars should be avoided (or eliminated) as much as possible since it causes your insulin levels to spike more quicker. Tracking your carbs every day will help you to avoid having too much sugar. You can find tracking apps for your phone that makes tracking food more convenient.

Exercise and Type 2 Diabetes

Another way for managing diabetes type 2 is through regular fitness and exercise. Having a healthy diet can make a big difference but there’s no substitute for being active.

Getting exercise is not only going to help you get in shape and stay healthier it also makes you feel better. Find a regime that you enjoy and that works with your schedule. It can be as simple as taking a walk around your neighborhood or spending 30 minutes at the gym.

Everyone’s fitness level is different, so you should consult with your doctor or trainer for a workout plan that is safe for you. Have fun with your exercise and don’t be afraid to mix it up so you don’t get bored. You can listen to music or find a workout buddy to help you stay motivated.

Type 2 Diabetes Medication

Another key component to maintaining an effective diabetes management plan is taking your type 2 diabetes medication. Your doctor may test your blood sugar two to four times a year using the A1C test. From there, you will discuss your personal goals and determine the proper medication, meal plan, and exercise level based on your age and other categories.

You may be required to test your blood sugar level regularly as part of your treatment plan. If you’re taking insulin medications, this might mean multiple tests throughout the day.

Your doctor may combine different medications and insulin therapy depending on your personal circumstances and other medications you are on. You can keep up with your medications by refilling prescriptions online.

Which Medication Is Right For You?

Some common medications are metformin which is used to lower glucose production in your liver. It is usually the first medication prescribed to treat type 2 diabetes.

Sulfonylureas and Meglitinides are medications prescribed to help your pancreas produce more insulin. Some examples are glyburide, glipizide, and glimepiride. Other medications such as DPP-4 inhibitors help to reduce blood sugar levels without causing weight gain. They do have other side effects such as joint pain and risk of pancreatitis.

Injectable medications, such as GLP-1 receptor agonists, slows your digestion to help reduce blood sugar levels. These can also help with weight loss. Although they could cause nausea and increase your risk of pancreatitis.

SGLT2 inhibitors prevent your kidneys from reabsorbing sugar by excreting it instead. This drug class can help to reduce your risk of heart attack and stroke. So it is prescribed to people who are a high risk of these conditions.

Type 2 Diabetes and Insulin Therapy

Managing diabetes type 2 through insulin therapy has grown in popularity for type 2 diabetes patients because of its effectiveness. The insulin is administered through injections because normal digestion is not effective. Your doctor may have you take different types of insulin throughout the day because they each work differently.

You may start by taking one long-acting shot at night. Typically insulin glargine (Lantus) or insulin detemir (Levemir) is prescribed. Be sure to talk to your doctor about the effects of the medications and insulin you are taking to find the one that works best for you.

How to Manage Type 2 Diabetes That Works?

To create a type 2 diabetes management plan that is effective you must commit to a plan that incorporates a healthy diet, exercise, and medication(s). Combined, these three aspects will give you the best chance at maintaining your blood sugar level goals.

Looking for more ways to stay healthy and avoid an insulin spike? Check out these informative articles here.

GERD: Indicators your chronic heartburn might be something more

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Medical Science

Do you feel an annoying sensation in your tummy that feels like the acid in your stomach is bubbling toward your throat? You may have chronic heartburn. While it’s normal to experience heartburn from eating greasy foods, many times it could be something more severe. You may have GERD. GERD symptoms can include heartburn, acid reflux, and difficulty swallowing. The acronym stands for a medical condition called gastroesophageal reflux disease.

This medical condition occurs when the acid in your stomach rises to your mouth, lungs, and esophagus. The truth is, the condition isn’t rare.

According to research studies, around 18 to 27% of people in North America suffer from the condition. In this post, you’ll discover warning signs and indicators of GERD. Let’s take a look at acid reflux symptoms.

Indicators of GERD

One of the first indicators of Acid reflux symptoms or also known as GERD is when you have a bitter taste in your mouth. GERD moves the food and bile from your tummy into your throat, causing a bitter taste in your mouth.

At the same time, you may also experience a burning in your esophagus that is highly unpleasant and painful.

Your throat feels hot and sore, and you also produce more saliva than usual. People report GERD and feel as if their throat is on fire. If this happens to you, don’t shrug it off as a one or two-time occurrence.

Consistent Heartburn

When you feel a burning in your chest, you might think you have heartburn from eating acidic and greasy foods. Many people who experience heartburn think if they take an antacid, the heartburn will go away on its own. But sometimes it doesn’t. Heartburn symptoms often include a burning sensation in the chest and a sour or bitter taste in the mouth.

When the burning in your chest is continual, you may have something more serious. It’s normal to feel regurgitation and heartburn in your chest once in a while. But when it happens frequently you may have contracted GERD.

Difficulty Swallowing

Do you feel like your food gets stuck in your throat? When you have acid reflux disease, that’s exactly how it feels. This condition is called dysphagia.

The condition can make it difficult to swallow. It can also make you feel like you don’t want to eat.

The condition seems to flare up when eating these foods:

Spicy foods
Chocolate
Acidic foods
Soft cheeses
Caffeine

If you have trouble swallowing when eating these foods, eliminate them from your diet. What may also help is eating fewer smaller meals more frequently during the day. And try some healthy foods that may help keep GERD symptoms, also known as Indigestion symptoms to a minimum.

Serious Issues That Could Happen If GERD Is Left Untreated

If left untreated, GERD can lead to more serious health conditions. One condition is called esophagitis. Esophagitis happens when acid damages the lining inside the esophagus.

Other conditions that may occur from acid reflux disease include a hiatal hernia. Hiatal hernias form when the stomach slides into the chest from your diaphragm.

GERD can also turn into esophageal ulcers, esophageal strictures, or at worst a pre-cancerous condition called Barrett’s esophagus. It’s also known as esophageal cancer.

You Feel a Heart Attack Coming on

Another sign of chronic heartburn and GERD is when you feel like you’re experiencing a heart attack. Since the chest is next to the heart, you might mistake the symptoms of GERD for the cardiac symptoms associated with a heart attack.

Other than burning, you can also feel pain with GERD. That’s another reason people think they’re having a heart attack when they experience GERD.

If you’re not sure what is causing your chest pain, it’s best to see a physician to find out for sure. If you have acid reflux disease, your doctor can prescribe medications to help.

Don’t assume you have acid reflux disease and head to the neighborhood pharmacy for an over-the-counter medication. Visit your doctor to learn if you have GERD or a serious cardiac condition.

Persistent Cough Common GERD Symptoms

When the acid in your stomach travels up your food pipe, some of the acids can seep into your lungs. This creates respiratory problems. They can be minor and give you a hoarse cough, cause congestion in your chest, or a persistent cough.

Other times respiratory issues can cause pneumonia, wheezing, laryngitis, or asthma. While these can be due to Gastroesophageal reflux disease, your respiratory problems may be a result of another condition.

See a physician to find out the cause. It could be acid reflux disease or another condition such as smoking or a pulmonary issue unrelated to GERD.

Respiratory Problems

Do you feel shortness of breath? Difficulty breathing is one of the many symptoms of acid reflux.

Some of the respiratory problems associated with GERD include aspiration or bronchospasm. These conditions can become life-threatening and should not be ignored.

When to Contact Your Physician

If you’re experiencing any GERD Symptoms such as shortness of breath, a persistent cough, difficulty swallowing, or chest pain, contact your physician immediately. Your doctor will do some tests.

If you have GERD, they may prescribe what’s known as a proton pump inhibitor for treatment. Medications may include but are not limited to:

Omeprazole
Esomeprazole
lansoprazole

The above are the most common medicines to treat GERD. But there are other medical options as well. Your physician may refer you to a gastroenterologist for further testing.

Home Remedies

You can take steps at home to relieve your acid reflux. Some of the things that can help include elevating your head at bedtime and improving your digestion.

Eat three to four hours before bedtime to give your food time to digest properly while you’re still you’re awake
Elevate your head when you get ready for bed by propping your pillows up high (don’t lie flat)
Sleep on your left side to avoid irritation of acid reflux due to the shape of the stomach

Following these tips will help relieve your acid reflux. And sleep more soundly through the night.

Chronic Heartburn Reviewed

Now you know the Gastroesophageal reflux disease symptoms that happen in the body during chronic heartburn. If you’re experiencing the symptoms, you may have GERD.

This condition can be managed with medication, proper diet, and sleep adjustments. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, visit your doctor.

Have a prescription from your doctor and looking for affordable medications? Contact our pharmacy to learn how you can save on a wide variety of prescriptions.

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DEGENERATIVE JOINT DISEASE AND OTHER INFLAMMATORY CONDITIONS THAT AFFECT MOBILITY

5 Tips to Help Prevent Asthma Attacks

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Medical Science

Know What Is Asthma and How to Prevent Asthma Attacks?

Asthma is a condition that affects nearly 30 million Americans. Kids and adults are equally likely to have it. Most children with asthma may get cured as they get older, but for some, the condition remains until adulthood. The scariest thing about asthma is that if you do not know the symptoms and know how to address them, the lung condition can kill you. You can prevent asthma attacks and take better control of your life or your child’s life. Take a look at these tips to help you.

1. Identify Triggers and Stay Away from Them

Asthma attack symptoms are not the same for everyone, but there are common triggers. Asthma trigger avoidance can be implemented if you know what factors increase your risk of getting an asthma attack and stay away from them. Common triggers include:

Smoke
Perfume
Air pollution
Cold air
Getting sick
Pollen
Stress
Exercise

Most people can learn what triggers they need on their own. Other times, there are triggers you know you have but do not know what the source is.

In times like this, it’s helpful to create an asthma diary to track everything, you do and the locations you visit. Keep a log for several weeks.

Find ways to keep your home and workplace free from allergens. It would help if you also were mindful of the locations, you visit and travel to.

There are emotional and physical factors that can cause asthma. Attacks can happen while working out or occur during periods of stress, depression, or shock.

2. Asthma Management Plan: Boost Your Immunity

Anyone can benefit from a healthy immune system, especially those who have asthma. You can boost your immune system by taking vitamin C, drinking plenty of water, and eating foods rich in antioxidants and vitamins to equip your body with the nutrition it needs.

Having a strong immune system can prevent you from getting sick often, which can cause attacks. It would help if you also washed your hands often to lower the chances of getting respiratory infections.

If you have several allergies, you may want to consider getting allergy shots to keep asthma under better control. Getting all your vaccinations can also prove to be useful.

Other than getting flu shots to protect you against the flu virus, it will help to get a pneumonia shot (Pneumovax). This is a shot you should get every 5-10 years. Other vaccinations include the zoster vaccine, which shields you from shingles, and Tdap, which protects you against whooping cough, tetanus, and diphtheria.

3. Follow Your Doctor’s Asthma Prevention Strategies Action Plan.

Your doctor understands your condition, and you are well enough to create a personalized action plan to manage your asthma. They will give you your medications and advise you on how to use the peak flow meter.

This meter is sufficient for measuring how well air travels throughout your lungs. It can also let you know in advance when your airways are narrow ahead of time before symptoms show. This alone can save you from an attack before it happens.

Peak flows let you know how fast you can expel air from your lungs and provide readings to measure your results. You must understand the zones to see if your breathing is optimal or if you are in danger.

There are also spirometry tests the doctor may add to the plan to see how much hair your lungs can contain and how much air you can release following a deep breath. This is known as forced expiratory volume (FEV), and the recording is often expressed as a percentage.

4. Take Your Medications

Asthma attacks account for about 25% of all emergency visits in the US. Many of these attacks could have been prevented in situations when asthma medications were not taken.

One of the key asthma attack prevention tips is to take your medications as prescribed by your doctor, to help address the symptoms and stop them before they can surface. The main form of controlling asthma attacks is with the use of long-term medications like:

Cromolyn
Theophylline
Oral corticosteroids
Inhaled corticosteroids
Leukotriene modifiers
Inhaled long-acting anticholinergics/beta-agonists

There are also medications available the doctor will prescribe to provide fast relief in the event you are having an attack. They will provide inhaled short-acting anticholinergics and beta-agonists instead.

Some doctors will recommend the use of biological drugs that treat asthma by working with your immune system. This drug works by blocking immune responses responsible for causing the airways to get inflamed and contract. Biologic drugs like omalizumab (Xolair) are monoclonal antibodies used in cases of severe symptoms.

5. Follow Precautions as a Vulnerable Population Group

Following asthma attack prevention tips in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic, it is crucial now more than ever to get as much fresh air as possible. More people are staying indoors, and closed spaces pose two primary risks for people with asthma.

When you are in closed spaces, you are more likely to expose yourself to allergens and infectious diseases. It is important to remember the chances of exposing yourself to allergens and viruses from others when you remain in areas void of ventilation.

Those with asthma are more sensitive to risks and complications related to infectious diseases, so you should be sure to follow the guidelines the CDC advises for vulnerable populations.

How to Prevent Asthma Attacks Before They Happen?

Asthma is a significant problem in the US. The saving factor about the chronic condition is that it’s controllable. You can reduce or prevent asthma attacks when you follow these tips.

Knowing what your triggers are, boosting your immunity, listening to your doctor, and exposing yourself to fresh air as much as possible are essential. Never skip taking your medications either. Most doctors prescribe anti-asthmatics, like Asmanex, to their patients.

When you live with asthma for a long time, you must refill the medication often. You can skip the trip to the drugstore by starting an order online to have the life-saving medication you need to be delivered to you.

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GERD: INDICATORS YOUR CHRONIC HEARTBURN MIGHT BE SOMETHING MORE

Never Suffer From Magnesium Deficiency Again

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Medical Science

never suffer from magnesium deficiency again

Magnesium deficiency can actually be pretty serious despite what people may believe. Low magnesium is often referred to as the “silent epidemic” in the medical community. And the thing is that many of the symptoms associated with a magnesium deficiency can be difficult to spot. For this reason, it goes unnoticed and the problems become worse.

Magnesium deficiency symptoms and Signs

So, what are the symptoms and signs of magnesium deficiency? They are as followed:

• Neurological Based: Seizures, anxiety, lethargy, vomiting, and even loss of appetite. • Metabolic Based: Hyperglycemia, potassium deficiency, and sometimes increases intracellular calcium. • Muscular Based: Tics, weakness, muscle spasms, muscle cramps, and even impaired muscle coordination.

In children, severe magnesium deficiency can result in stunted growth. As you can see, the symptoms and signs of magnesium can be quite serious. Some conditions associated with this Magnesium deficiency disease include ADHD, depression, chronic fatigue syndrome, epilepsy, migraine, osteoporosis, chest pain, cluster headaches, and even hypertension.

Getting Diagnosed and What You Can Do About It

How do you get diagnosed officially with a magnesium deficiency? The most common way to do it is through a blood test. If there are low magnesium levels in the blood, then you’ll know that it has become a problem. Low magnesium levels can lead to a range of health problems, including muscle spasms, fatigue, and irregular heartbeat.

Magnesium deficiency treatment often involves magnesium therapy, once you become diagnosed. This will include taking magnesium supplements as soon as you can for up to a month (sometimes more and sometimes less depending on the severity of your condition). In most cases, this is a problem that can easily be solved once you start the recovery regimen.

Always Be Aware Of the “Silent Epidemic”

It’s estimated that about 75% of the population doesn’t get enough magnesium in their diet. That’s a considerable amount. And the difficult part is that the symptoms are so general that it can be difficult to pinpoint the exact cause without getting a blood test. However, not you know that magnesium deficiency is such a huge problem in the United States, now you can go about getting diagnosed and starting your recovery regimen. In some cases, you may need to be on this regimen indefinitely. This depends on whether or not you get enough magnesium in your diet, and also depends on your physiology.

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7 STRATEGIES FOR LIVING WITH TYPE 2 DIABETES

GERD: INDICATORS YOUR CHRONIC HEARTBURN MIGHT BE SOMETHING MORE

7 STRATEGIES FOR LIVING WITH TYPE 2 DIABETES

Throw Away Your Favourite Artificial Sweetener (It May Be Killing You)

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Medical Science

Could there be a link between breast cancer and artificial sweeteners? For years, manufacturers and the FDA reassured the public that they were completely safe. Are they? Today, let’s look at the relationship between breast cancer and artificial sweeteners, including how they work to cause cancer.

There are different types of artificial sweeteners out there like:

Saccharin
Sucralose
Acesulfame potassium

For the sake of discussion, we are going to focus on the most popular sugar substitute type i.e. aspartame.

What is Aspartame?

Aspartame is a “first generation” sugar substitute. It’s 200 times sweeter than regular sugar, so it’s a favorite ingredient in many food and beverage products. You may know it as NutraSweet, Spoonful, and Equal.

At first, the FDA didn’t approve of this as a sugar substitute. Through dirty political and regulatory tactics, G.D. Searle & Company finally got the go signal to sell it as an artificial sweetener in dry goods in 1981.

Since artificial sweeteners are FDA-approved, they must be 100% safe, right?

Aspartame Approval – FDA’s Fatal Mistake

For decades, health advocates have been asking the FDA to re-evaluate their decision about artificial sweeteners because of a possible breast cancer link.

Well, health groups aren’t really happy and want the FDA to re-evaluate their decision because artificial sweeteners may play a role in the incidence of breast cancer. For instance, there are higher incidences of breast and prostate cancers in North America and Europe compared to Asia and Africa, which have lower consumption of NutraSweet another brand name for non-nutritive sweeteners.

Inside the body, aspartame is broken down into methanol (10 percent), aspartic acid (40 percent), and phenylalanine (50 percent). Experts say these compounds are highly safe because fresh fruits and veggies have them.

Here’s where it gets ugly.

Once taken, the body converts aspartame into methanol within minutes. The next step is converting methanol into formaldehyde, a compound linked to cancer in humans. In his study, Dr. Monte reaffirmed this fact and added that it’s not only the liver that metabolizes this compound.

Aside from the liver, one of the few richest sources of Alcohol Dehydrogenase Enzyme (ADH) in the body is human breasts, specifically the mammary endothelial cells. Most cases of human breast cancers normally start in the mammary epithelial cells.

Artificial Sweeteners Do More Harm Than Good

Not everyone who uses artificial sweeteners is bound to get sick. True, but…

We can’t simply ignore population studies and clinical trials that suggest that artificial sweeteners, like aspartame, may contain certain ingredients that could put a person at risk for different types of illnesses, like diabetes and cancer. The result of one animal study even suggests that exposure to aspartame in the womb could cause blood and breast cancers.

So, what are your thoughts on the issue of breast cancer linked to using artificial sweeteners?

Natural sweeteners, such as honey, maple syrup, and agave nectar, are alternatives to artificial sweeteners that are derived from natural sources. These sweeteners can be used in place of sugar in recipes and are often promoted as healthier options due to their lower glycemic index and potential health benefits.

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GOOD HEALTH CAN BE AS SIMPLE AS YOUR RELATIONSHIPS

What is Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease?

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Medical Science

what is chronic obstructive pulmonary disease?

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, or COPD

It is a progressive lung disease that makes it hard to breathe. COPD occurs when the passages to the lungs are obstructed, lose their elasticity or become thick and inflamed.

Obstructive pulmonary disease – Causes

Cigarette smoking is the leading cause of COPD, and most people with COPD either smoke or used to smoke. Other causes include long-term exposure to pollutants, chemical fumes, and dust.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary emphysema -Types

The term “COPD” refers to two basic types. Emphysema occurs when the walls of the air sacs in the lungs are damaged. The sacs become floppy, and the exchange of gases in the lungs is reduced.

People who have chronic bronchitis find that their airways are constantly irritated and inflamed. This causes the lining of the airway to thicken, and leads to the production of excess mucus, making it difficult to breathe.

Most people who have COPD have both Emphysema and Chronic Bronchitis, so the term “COPD” is used universally.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease Symptoms

The symptoms of COPD come on gradually and eventually become so severe that they limit daily activities. Some of the more common symptoms include:

Shortness of breath
Wet cough, with excess mucus
Frequent lung infections that are difficult to treat
Wheezing
Fatigue
Unintended weight loss

“Pathophysiology of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease – Treatments”

Although there is no cure for COPD and doctors have not yet figured out how to reverse the damage, the symptoms can be managed. Lifestyle changes coupled with treatment allow most people to live a productive life. Treatment options include:

Bronchodilators—Short-acting Beta 2 agonists: These are fast-acting inhalers that open up the air passages and make breathing easier. They are designed for “instant relief” but the effects are short-lived. Side effects include a headache, muscle cramps, shakiness, rapid heartbeat, insomnia, and irritability.

Bronchodilators—Long-acting Beta 2 agonists: These inhalers work the same way as short-acting agonists, but the effects are more long reaching. Rather than being an “emergency” medicine, these are maintenance medications designed to control the symptoms of COPD. The side effects are the same as the short-acting inhalers.

Bronchodilators—Anticholinergics: These are also inhalers, but are designed for long-term usage at all stages of COPD.

Oral medications
Oxygen therapy

COPD cannot be cured or reversed, but it can be prevented. If you are a smoker, stopping now will help to decrease your chances of getting COPD, and if you already have it, stopping smoking will help to lessen your symptoms and increase the chances of successful treatment.

Endometrial Cancer: Risks, Symptoms and Treatment

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Medical Science

endometrial cancer risks symptoms and treatment

What increases the Endometrial Cancer Risk Factors?

These are some factors that may increase the risk of endometrial cancer:

Early menstruation (starting before age 12)
Early menopause (before age 50)
Endometrial polyps
Estrogen replacement therapy
Irregular periods
Never being pregnant
Obesity
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
Tamoxifen use (a drug for breast cancer treatment)

Endometrial Cancer Prognosis

Aside from these factors, some health conditions also increase the risk of developing cancer, and these conditions include breast cancer, colon cancer, diabetes, gallbladder disease, and high blood pressure.

Endometrial Cancer Diagnosis

This condition is usually detected at very early stages because it produces abnormal vaginal bleeding. This symptom urges women to see their doctors. When the condition is diagnosed early on, surgery can be performed to remove the uterus, which successfully cures the condition. Other signs and symptoms of endometrial cancer include:

Abnormal blood-tinged discharge from the vagina
Bleeding in between periods
Pain during intercourse
Pain in the pelvis
Vaginal bleeding after menopause

Seeing a doctor and seeking endometrial cancer treatments

It’s important to see a doctor right away whenever you experience any of these symptoms. While they may be signs for a completely different condition, it’s still essential to get checked right away to ensure that the condition is ruled out.

Treatment for Endometrial Cancer Follow These Recommended Courses of Action:

Surgery

Surgery is done to remove the uterus, and oftentimes, the fallopian tubes and ovaries, too. This is usually done in the early stages of cancer when the problem is still contained inside the uterus.

Radiation

This treatment makes use of powerful energy beams to kill cancer cells. In some cases, radiation may also be done prior to surgery, as it shrinks tumors and makes them easier to remove.

Hormone therapy

It involves the intake of medication, which in turn affects the hormone levels in the body. This is usually done for those with advanced endometrial cancer, especially that which has already spread outside the uterus.

Chemotherapy

One of the most common cancer treatments, chemotherapy uses chemicals to kill cancer cells and is also recommended for women with advanced levels of endometrial cancer.

Endometrial Cancer Staging

If indeed you are diagnosed with endometrial cancer, you will need to undergo treatment, which will depend on the characteristics of the disease – like what stage it is, your overall health, and of course, your preferences in terms of treating it.

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ARE YOU STRUGGLING TO BREATHE WHEN YOU SLEEP?

THE SUPER POMEGRANATE!

Are You Struggling To Breathe When You Sleep?

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Medical Science

are you struggling to breathe when you sleep?

What is sleep apnea?

Sleep Apnea is when an individual thinks that they are resting but in actuality, there is a complication that is interrupting their sleep continuously throughout their bedtime hours. This in return leaves them waking feeling really unrested and as if they need to go right back to sleep.

There are 3 different types of sleep apnea that an individual can suffer from. Those include obstructive, central, and complex. Each of these types of sleep apnea varies in degree of severity and the symptoms that are felt. Most important though is what causes these types of sleep apnea and how can they be prevented.

Three Types of Sleep Apnea and Their Causes

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is the most common. This type of sleep apnea occurs when the tissue towards the back of your throat relaxes during your sleep. This in return blocks the airways and causes you to loudly snore. This set of events is an obstructive sleep apnea episode.

Central Sleep Apnea is much less common than obstructive and it involves the central nervous system. When your brain fails to signal the muscles that control your breathing during sleep, central sleep apnea occurs. Commonly, people who suffer from Central sleep apnea do not snore like those that suffer from obstructive sleep apnea.

Complex Sleep apnea is a combination of central and obstructive sleep apnea. Individuals who experience complex sleep apnea are at much higher risk of complications than those who experience just obstructive or just central sleep apnea.

Sleep Apnea Symptoms and Complications

When sleep apnea occurs your body will arouse itself to wake and reinforce oxygen through your airways. Likely, you will only feel brief shortness of breath which you would be able to recuperate from within a matter of 1-2 breaths later if you are even awoken from the experience. These slight disruptions can occur from just a few times a night to a few thousand times a night. In these situations, the phases of sleep that are needed to provide your body with rest are not obtained.

Sleep apnea machine – Treatments and Prevention

Some common factors have been associated with sleep apnea, when addressed they are proven to reduce the risk of sleep apnea in individuals. Those factors include:

Weight Loss – Sleep apnea and weight loss are often connected, as treating sleep apnea can lead to improved metabolism and appetite regulation, leading to weight loss.
hypertension – Sleep apnea and hypertension are often linked, as untreated sleep apnea can increase the risk of high blood pressure and other cardiovascular problems.
Avoiding the use of sleeping pills or alcohol
Changing your sleeping position periodically to improve breathing
Stop smoking. When you smoke it causes swelling naturally in the airways increasing the chances and severity of sleep apnea.

Sleep Apnea Treatment

In sleep apnea diagnosis in most cases, the patient has been prescribed a CPAP treatment. Continuous Positive Airway Pressure treatments allow the patient to wear a mask while sleeping over the nose and mouth that in return delivers continuous pressure through the airways thus preventing sleep apnea disturbances from occurring.

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