Water Retention and Weight Gain

Water Retention and Weight Gain

It is very common for even healthy adults to experience weight fluctuations due to water retention, which account for many day-to-day fluctuations on the scale. While most people can retain up to five pounds of “hidden” water weight within the natural fluid that surrounds cells, known as extra-cellular fluid, those who are overweight or suffer from obesity people may retain up to eight to ten pounds.

Water Retention and Menopause

As women enter menopause, nearly 90% will gain weight from a shift in hormones. While most women expect to experience hot flashes, many are surprised by weight changes. However, some of this weight is just appearance-based due to water retention and bloating from decreased progesterone levels. While this isn’t fat-related weight gain, many women will notice a change in the way their clothes fit and experience the feeling of being heavier.

However, even the weight unrelated to water retention is not necessarily unhealthy per se, as it helps prepare the body against osteoporosis and other illnesses. Try to focus on health and maintaining an active lifestyle, and water retention and bloating will generally resolve itself within a few months.

Water Retention and Hypertension

High blood pressure and water retention go hand in hand, as hypertension can result from too much fluid in normal blood vessels or from normal fluid in narrow blood vessels. Blood pressure measures the force of blood against the walls of your blood vessels, and if it remains high over time is called hypertension. It is therefore very important to manage fluid levels, which can affect blood pressure.

Water Retention and Diuretics

Many people are interested in using diuretics to treat water retention. Whether natural or synthetic, diuretics increase the amount of urine excreted, and are usually used prescribed for patients with blood pressure, congestive heart failure, and liver disease. Diuretics also have the potential for creating a vicious cycle of water retention, known as rebound edema, as they alter salt- and water-retaining hormones. When the diuretics are stopped, hormone levels are out of balance.

In addition, prolonged use of diuretics can lead to dehydration, which can cause kidney damage and an imbalance in normal levels of electrolytes (e.g., sodium and potassium), which are vital to heart, kidney and liver function. When electrolytes are out of balance, heart failure and sudden death.

Many people also turn to diuretics for weight loss, which only leads to temporary results and potentially other health problems. Since water retention has many causes, it is important not to begin taking water retention medication without proper medical supervision.

Diagnosing Water Retention

The diagnosis of water retention is determined by a physical examination, the symptoms presented as well as medical history. Various tests such as blood tests, urine tests, liver and kidney function tests, chest x-ray or an electrocardiogram (ECG) may also be performed to determine the cause.

If water retention is a symptom of a serious underlying disorder, the disorder must be treated first.

* Feeling of puffiness, especially the feet, ankles and legs
* Appearance of shiny, stretched skin
* Dimples/indentations upon pressing the skin
* Swollen, stiff and painful joints
* Headaches
* A bloated or enlarged abdomen
* Breathing difficulties
* Decreased flexibility of the joints (ankles, wrists and fingers)
* Sudden or rapid weight gain

Shortness of breath, chest pain, redness or heat in the swollen edematous area(s) are rare but serious symptoms that should receive immediate medical care.

What Causes Water Retention?

Causes of body water retention depend on a wide range of factors including a high salt intake, as a reaction to hot weather, gravity, nutritional deficiencies, burns as well as sunburn and as a side effect of certain drugs. Pregnancy, oral contraceptives such as the pill, the menstrual cycle and menopause are also known causes of body water retention.
Weight Gain

One of the main causes of weight-related water retention can be attributed to sodium intake, particularly from processed foods. In addition, since sodium is present in all foods, a higher intake of food in general also contributes to weight gain from fat stores and subsequent water retention.

People dieting may experience frustrations in weight fluctuations related to water retention. Many people turn to diuretics or water pills, which create a false sense of weight loss. Reducing calories too quickly also forces the body to use up stores of carbohydrates and breakdown protein in the muscles, which also leads to water weight stored in those cells- sometimes with up to 75% of weight loss related to water weight. However, after calorie ingestion is resumed to a normal level, the water weight is restored as well.

Menopause

Fluctuating hormone levels, hormonal imbalances, and a loss of progesterone can attribute to water retention in menopausal women. Unless the weight gain is excessive, it should not be a cause of concern and can be self-managed.

Hypertension

While it is not entirely known why high blood pressure occurs, a strong genetic component has been indicated. Other risk factors for high blood pressure include smoking, alcoholism, and high salt intake, being overweight, lack of exercise, and high levels of stress. Conditions known to cause secondary hypertension include Cushing’s syndrome, diabetic nephropathy, kidney disease, hyperthyroidism, obesity, and many more.

Since many of the above conditions are linked to water retention such as salt intake and obesity, it is important to receive a proper diagnosis and take measures to control blood pressure and fluid levels in the body.

This condition may also be symptomatic of other serious diseases such as heart failure, liver disease, arthritis, allergic reactions, thyroid disease such as hypothyroidism, chronic lung diseases, malignant lymphoedema or kidney disease

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Help for Water Retention

Treatment involves rectifying the underlying causes of body water retention. A low dose of diuretic (water pill) may be prescribed to reduce swelling. In more severe cases of water retention, where the blood vessels are blocked or damaged, surgery may be required.
Natural Remedies for Water Retention

Natural and holistic treatments provide gentle water retention remedies. Those seeking a natural remedy for water retention may use herbs such as Uva ursi, Horse chestnut and Buchu for their excellent diuretic properties. Taraxacum officinale (Dandelion) and Olea europea help to balance blood pressure, assist liver and gall bladder functioning and improve circulation.

Water retention remedies that use herbal and homeopathic remedies are safe and effective and not as harsh as prescription diuretics.

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Bipolar Disorder: Help to find the Inner Calm

What is Bipolar Disorder?

It is normal to experience ups-and-downs, good days and bad days and the occasional I should never have gotten out of bed day, but as a general rule it is important to retain an inner calm or a middle ground to which we always return.

However, individuals with Bipolar disorder experience extreme fluctuations of mood. They tend to lose their inner balance, finding themselves at the far ends of the emotional spectrum.

They may even find themselves alternating between periods of exuberant elation or mania, when anything seems possible, and periods of deep despairing depression that leaves them in bed for weeks and unable to function in their day-to-day lives.

Symptoms of Bipolar disorder (sometimes referred to as manic depression) differ greatly between individuals. Some may enter a state of hypomania which is a milder form of mania, while others may have full blown manic episodes.

These episodes often involve elaborate ideas, an elevated state of happiness and wild plans. For example, a person having a manic episode may max out three credit cards and start tearing down walls with the idea of building themselves a mansion.

At the time, these irrational ideas seem absolutely possible and will lead to great success and fortune. People with Bipolar disorder (manic phase) may have a contagious optimism where life is limitless and so is their energy.

Some individuals with Bipolar disorder may experience mixed states where the symptoms take the form of great restlessness, agitation and even rage. But what goes up must come down and, as a result, these manic states are often followed by periods of deep depression as the individual comes down from their high.

When making an appointment with a health care practitioner, it is advisable to arrange for a close friend or family member to accompany you to the appointment. They will be able to help you provide a clearer picture of your symptoms and how they are affecting your daily life, as well as the lives of people closest to you.

A medical check may be necessary to ensure that the symptoms are not caused by thyroid problems or the affects of certain drugs in your system. If Bipolar disorder is confirmed, remember to ask your doctor about ALL possible treatment options, their long-term effectiveness and any potential side effects.

Bipolar Disorder affects men and woman equally with the average age of onset being between 18 and 22 (although some cases do begin in childhood). Ranging from a severely debilitating medical condition, to a mildly disruptive ailment, the prognosis of Bipolar depends on the severity of the symptoms.
However, with the appropriate treatment, the prognosis is often good. While there is no quick-fix cure, many treatment options are available to help manage the disorder, and it may be possible to lead a normal life free of the disruptions of manic and depressive episodes.

Symptoms of Bipolar DisorderBipolar Disorder symptoms include alternating patterns of emotional lows (depression) and emotional highs (mania). Bipolar Disorder symptoms vary between individuals, as do the patterns of mood swings and cycles.
While one person may be in an elated mood for half the day, and become depressed within an hour (rapid cycling), others may experience manic episodes for days or weeks on end, before slipping into a deeply depressed state for months (slow cycling).
It is also common for some individuals experiencing Bipolar Disorder symptoms to have long periods of normal emotion and only the occasional depressive and manic episode.
Manic symptoms may include:
Increased energy, activity and restlessness Decreased need for sleep Feeling a sense of euphoria or being in an excessively good mood Talking fast and jumping between ideas so that conversation may be difficult to follow Agitation, irritability or rage Easily distracted and lack of concentration Feelings of grandeur or unrealistic beliefs about one’s own abilities Substance abuse Irrational, spontaneous behavior and recklessness Poor judgment Failure to recognize that there is a problem Exaggerated optimism and heightened self-esteem Increased sex drive Excessive spending Depression symptoms may include:
Depressed mood Loss of pleasure or interest in previously enjoyed activities Change in appetite or unintentional weight loss or gain Sleep disturbances; difficulty falling or staying asleep (insomnia) or sleeping too much (hypersomnia)Difficulty thinking and concentrating Difficulty making decisions Fatigue or loss of energy Feeling physically slow, agitated, or restless to the degree that others begin to notice Physical complaints such as headaches and stomach aches Low self-esteem, feeling worthless or excessively guilty Low libido or diminished interest in sex Suicidal thoughts or intent, or continuous thoughts of death and self-harm Close

What Causes Bipolar Disorder?

The cause of Bipolar disorder is not yet fully understood. The neurotransmitters that regulate mood, such as serotonin, seem to be out of balance and brain functioning differs in individuals with the disorder. Studies have shown that this phenomenon runs in families, which suggests a strong genetic component.

More than two-thirds of individuals with Bipolar disorder have at least one relative who have suffered either from the same condition or major depression. Other theories suggest that manic states could be triggered by drug abuse, sleep deprivation and stressful life events.

One of the biggest difficulties with Bipolar disorder is that those suffering from the disorder are often unaware of the severity and disruption caused by their alternating mood states. In the throws of a manic episode, the individual is usually convinced that there is absolutely nothing abnormal about his or her behavior, and may even assert that they have never felt better.

For this reason, it is often family, friends or health care practitioners who notice that there is a serious problem and suggest professional help. Left untreated, the effects of Bipolar disorder can be very disruptive and even fatal.

People in manic states have often taken huge irrational risks that could have serious consequences such as bankruptcy, car accidents, losing a job or unintentionally harming themselves or others.

Depressive states are equally dangerous and suicide rates are extremely high in this disorder. If you notice these symptoms in yourself or others, it is advisable to seek or encourage professional help.

Prescription medication is often the first line of Bipolar Disorder treatment once it is diagnosed. The most commonly prescribed drugs are:
Lithium (Lithobid)Anti-seizure medications such as valproic acid (Depakene) or topiramate (Topamax)Mood regulators such as lamotrigine (Lamictal)Anti-psychotics such as rispiridone (Risperdal) or olanzapine (Zyprexa)Anti-depressants such as fluroxetine (Prozac) or quetiapine (Seroquel). However, there is some controversy regarding whether antidepressants should be prescribed for Bipolar Disorder as they have the potential to trigger manic episodes.All of these medications have various side-effects, some of which can be quite serious. For example, some anti-psychotic drugs increase the risk of high blood pressure, diabetes, and obesity. Ensure that you research all the options and are aware of all the side-effects and precautions of taking any prescribed medication before making a decision. Remember not to discontinue any prescription medication for Bipolar Disorder without first consulting your doctor.

Another extremely useful Bipolar Disorder treatment is Psychotherapy. This form of therapy can be extremely useful in helping you manage your Bipolar Disorder. Your psychologist may help you uncover the triggers of your bipolar episodes such as high stress or too little sleep, or may assist you in changing certain behaviors during manic or depressive states.
Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT)
Some doctors may recomend ECT as a part of Bipolar Disorder treatment This controversial treatment has been used with an 80% success rate in temporarily relieving the symptoms of bipolar and major depression. The procedure involves the administering of a muscle relaxant and short-acting anesthetic followed by a small shock of electricity sent to the brain which causes a generalized seizure that lasts for about 40 seconds. ECT is often considered useful for those individuals that fail to respond to drug treatments or are unable to use the medication prescribed, such as pregnant woman, those that suffer adverse drug side-effects, or individuals that need immediate relief from symptoms. While the response rate to ECT is usually very fast, most studies show that it only has a short-term effect and should only be used for immediate relief from a severe bipolar episode. As with other treatment options, it is important to research all the precautions and possible side-effects of ECT. Memory loss has been implicated as a serious side-effect and has made ECT a controversial issue.
Natural Herbal and Homeopathic Remedies

Should you wish to pursue a more natural approach to treatment there are various options that should be explored. Because Bipolar Disorder generally requires conventional drug treatment, caution should be exercised when combining the two as there are certain natural remedies for bipolar disorder which may be incompatible with the psychiatric drugs.
Natural remedies for bipolar disorder should feature calming herbs which are generally safe to use along with psychiatric drugs for Bipolar Disorder include Passiflora incarnata and Lavender. Biochemic Tissue Salts such as Natrium sulphate, Kalium phosphate and Natrium phosphate can also be used as natural remedies for bipolar disorder since they have a calming and restorative effect on the nervous system and help to balance mood and prevent mood swings. Homeopathic remedies such as Tarentula and Hyoscyamus can also be very helpful and may safely be used together with psychiatric medication without adverse effect. Consult a doctor, homeopath or naturopath for advice, especially when other chronic medications are also in use.

Other Conditions Related to Bipolar Disorder Bipolar Disorder is related to other disorders or problems such as:



Anxiety disorders Substance abuse Depression High suicide rates Close

Stick to your treatment plan! It is a common mistake for people suffering from Bipolar to stop their treatment when they begin to feel better. This often results in relapse.Avoid the use of alcohol and illicit or stimulant drugs. These sometimes trigger manic or depressive episodes. If you have a substance abuse problem, get immediate treatment - until that is dealt with, you will be less likely to stick to your treatment plan.Pay attention to your warning signs and patterns of mood changes. Keep a diary so that you begin to notice the patterns and triggers of your episodes. Involve family members and friends in watching out for these warning signs. If the signs suggest a pending episode, contact your doctor.Always consult a doctor before discontinuing or taking any new medications.Consider a support group or counseling with a licensed counselor. This may help you manage your disorder and deal with stress or other problems such as relationship difficulties.Get enough sleep! While most people can skip a few hours of sleep here and there with little consequence, loss of sleep has been shown to be a major trigger of bipolar episodes.Have an emergency plan! Ensure that you have details about your condition, important contact numbers such as doctor, employer, spouse and the names of any prescription medication you may be taking on you at all times. It may be important to appoint a back-up person that can handle all the necessary responsibilities such as fetching kids from school or feeding the pets in case of emergency.Have financial limits in place. Because spending-sprees are a common occurrence during manic states, you should set up precautionary measures. Do not keep a checkbook, and have strict limits put on any credit or debit cards. Have the bank notify a spouse or close family member if an excessive amount has been drawn or spent on any card.Get immediate help if you have any suicidal thoughts!People with Bipolar Disorder often have excellent social skills, creative personalities, great reserves of energy and many other strengths. Speak to family members or your therapist to explore ways in which you can constructively use these qualities in a realistic and positive way without going overboard. Close

Coping Tips for Family and Friends Try not to tip toe around your loved one wondering how you can help. Rather sit down and talk during a calm moment to discuss constructive ways of helping without being too intrusive or over-bearing. Discuss in-case-of-emergency situations and get permission to notify relevant people should one arise.Take note of early warning signs and mood patterns so that you can learn to predict future episodes and help curb them.Learn all you can about Bipolar Disorder. The more you understand the illness, the more prepared you’ll be to help and cope.Make a record of things that help and things that don’t.Plan ahead so that you know what to do in case of an emergency. Discuss limiting financial access or suggest that someone else be appointed ‘decision-maker’ over important matters during a manic or depressive episode. Agree beforehand on certain limits and boundaries to be set in place.Try not to blame your loved one for the illness. Be patient with the recovery process and offer unconditional love and support. While this does not make uncalled-for behavior acceptable, try not to take it personally.Set your limits. You need to take care of yourself and understand that sometimes your needs take priority. Do not become a slave to your loved one’s disorder.If someone close to you suffers from Bipolar Disorder and this places great stress on you, seek supportive counseling for yourself and work out ways to take time out, relax and manage your stress effectively. It will not help your loved one if you wear yourself out to the point of collapse!

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Viral Infections

What is a Viral Infection?

A virus is a tiny organism that causes an infection in the body. Viruses are made up of the genetic material known as DNA or RNA, which the virus uses to replicate. In order for a virus to survive, it must invade and attach itself to a living cell. It will then multiply and produce more virus particles.

By attaching itself to a host cell, the virus may either kill or alter the cell’s functions. When the cell dies, new types of viruses are released, and they infect other cells. This is how viruses cause disease. Generally, viruses will only infect one type of cell. For example, the cold virus will only infect cells of the upper respiratory tract.

Viruses can be transmitted in numerous ways, such as through contact with an infected person, swallowing, inhalation, or unsafe sex. Factors such as poor hygiene and eating habits can increase your risk of contracting a viral infection.

The external barriers, such as the skin and mucous membranes, are the first line of defense. The body’s immune defenses are triggered when the virus enters the body, and white blood cells (lymphocytes and monocytes) begin to attack and destroy the virus.

This type of general protection is referred to as innate or natural immunity.
Types of Viral Infections

Viruses can affect any part of the body or body system, and can cause infections such as the common cold, flu, gastroenteritis, chicken pox or herpes. The most common type of viral infections involves the respiratory tract.

The common cold is a frequently occurring viral infection and usually includes symptoms such as sneezing, stuffy nose, sore throat and coughing. Although colds are a minor infection of the nose and throat, a cold can last from two days to two weeks. Colds are highly contagious and are spread by fluids from sneezing or coughing, which contain the infection.

Influenza, also known as the “flu”, is a respiratory infection caused by viruses. The flu differs in several ways from the common cold. Symptoms of the flu include body chills, fever, headache, muscle ache and sore throat. Unlike many other viral respiratory infections, the flu can cause severe illness and life-threatening complications in many people. The flu is contracted in the same airborne manner as the common cold. For both cold and flu, the viruses are easily transmitted in highly populated areas.

The gastrointestinal system is also commonly affected by viruses with symptoms such as diarrhea and/or vomiting. Stomach viruses can be spread through contaminated food or water and can cause viral gastroenteritis, meaning inflammation of the stomach and intestines (small and large). Improper hand washing following a bowel movement or handling a diaper can spread the disease from person to person. Symptoms of gastroenteritis can include nausea with or without vomiting, diarrhea, low-grade fever and abdominal pain. Many people call gastroenteritis the “stomach flu”, although this virus is not a strain of Influenza at all.

The skin can also be infected by a viral infection such as the common wart or chicken pox. Chickenpox is an infectious disease; with most cases occurring in children under age 15, but older children and adults can also get it. It spreads very easily by human contact. Symptoms include itchy rash, fever and headache. The rash is blister-like and usually appears on the face, scalp or torso. The disease is usually mild and lasts 5 to 10 days, although adults and older children tend to get sicker from it. Chickenpox in a virus that stays in the body forever and in most cases a person who has had the virus will likely never contract it again.

Viruses such as herpes are caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). This infection can infect the mouth, genitals and anus. Oral herpes causes sores around the mouth and face, while genital herpes affects the genitals, buttocks and anus. Genital herpes is known as a sexually transmitted disease (STD) and it is transmitted through sexual contact through the mouth and genitals. This virus can be spread even when sores aren’t present. Like chickenpox, this virus will remain in the body forever; however, a person with herpes may continue to deal with reoccurrences or “outbreaks” for life.

The diagnosis of a viral infection is usually based on the physical symptoms and the history of the illness. A condition such as influenza, which is caused by a virus, is generally easy to diagnose because most people are familiar with the symptoms. Other types of viral infections may be harder to diagnose and various tests may have to be performed.
Blood tests to check for antibodies to viruses, or for the antigens themselves
* Cultures for samples of blood, bodily fluid, or other material taken from the infected area
* Spinal tap to examine the cerebrospinal fluid
* Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) techniques may be used to make many copies of the viral genetic material, enabling doctors to rapidly and accurately identify the virus
* Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can detect increased swelling in the temporal lobes

Viral infections come with a variety of symptoms ranging from mild to severe. Symptoms may vary depending on what part of the body is affected, type of viruses, age, and overall health of the affected person.

These symptoms can include:

* Fever
* Muscle aches
* Coughing
* Sneezing
* Runny nose
* Headache
* Chills
* Diarrhea
* Vomiting
* Rash
* Weakness

More severe symptoms include:

* Personality changes
* Neck stiffness
* Dehydration
* Seizures
* Paralysis of the limbs
* Confusion
* Back pain
* Loss of sensation
* Impaired bladder and bowel function
* Sleepiness that can progress into a coma or death

Viral Infection vs.



Bacterial Infection

Both viral and bacterial infections cause sickness; however, there is a difference between them. A viral infection is any type of infection that is caused by a virus, which is even smaller than bacteria and is encapsulated by a protective coating, so it is more difficult to kill than bacteria. Viral infections involve a dormant virus getting into a living cell and re-writing the cell's genetic codes with its own. Viruses are not living organisms and need a “living” host in order to reproduce-otherwise it cannot survive. Commonly, viral infections involve the nose, throat and upper airways. Viral infections cause illnesses as minor as the common cold and as severe as AIDS.

To contract a bacterial infection, pathogenic bacterium must gain access into the body through contaminated water, cuts, or contact with an infected person or contaminated objects. One of the major differences between viral and bacterial infections is that a bacterial infection can be transmitted through inanimate objects such as door knobs and countertops, whereas viral cannot. Another difference is that bacteria is a living microorganism and reproduces by dividing itself, while a virus will die if it does not have a host. Common bacterial infections occur due to the invasion of pathogenic bacteria through the respiratory or digestive tract. Some bacterial infections are contagious like strep throat, while others are not.
What Causes Viral Infections?

Human cells are vulnerable to viruses, and when the body is exposed to viral particles, the immune system will try to destroy these particles and eliminate them from the system.

A lowered immune system allows the virus to more easily attach itself to available cells, often bringing about general symptoms such as fever, chills, and muscle aches. This also makes it easier for the virus to replicate, and thus advances symptoms until the immune system can fight the virus off.

Children often contract viral infections, as children spend time around other children who have colds, and this makes it more likely that the cold will be passed on to them. A child’s immune system is not as strong as adults, and their body is still learning how to fight viruses for the first time. Some infections can become quite serious while some just bring about a feeling of unwell. Often babies and children develop fevers, headaches, runny nose, cough, sore throat and fatigue. These symptoms are caused by the battle between the virus and the body's immune system.

* It is important to allow babies and children to rest when they have a fever.
* For younger children who cannot blow their nose, use a rubber suction bulb to suck drainage from both sides of the nose.
* Loosen dried nasal drainage with warm water.
* Children older than four years of age may be able to suck on throat lozenges for sore throats.
* Children should drink extra water, fruit juices, or soups- avoid giving milk to infants for congestion reasons.
* Use hot steam to loosen mucus in child’s chest and nasal passages.

NOTE: See your doctor if high temperature persists for more than 5 days.
Help for Viral Infections

The best way of treating human viruses will depend on the strength of the individual’s immune system, their overall health status, age, the severity of the condition, and the type of viruses involved.

Minor illnesses caused by viral infections usually only require symptomatic treatment, while more severe conditions may require advanced medical treatment and sometimes even life-long treatment. A combination of treatment options such as conventional medicine, complementary therapy, and natural medicine can help to fight the infection, control the symptoms, and strengthen the immune response.

It is important to remember that treating human viruses cannot be accomplished through antibiotics, and the unnecessary use of antibiotics can weaken the immune system, thus increasing the likelihood of contracting another infection.
Conventional Medicine for Viral Infections

* Over-the-counter painkillers and anti-inflammatories such as paracetamol or ibuprofen can reduce symptoms and fever, but can also have side effects, especially with long-term or excessive usage.
* Antiviral medication and immune substances such as interferons and immunoglobulins are sometimes prescribed for more serious infections. They can be administered orally, intravenously, intramuscularly, topically, or by inhalation. Because viruses live within the body’s own cells, antiviral medications often have severe side effects. In order to kill off the virus, they have to damage the body’s cells.
* Antiretroviral therapy suppresses the replication of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), even if there are no symptoms. The aim of treatment is to lower the concentration of virus (viral load).

NATURAL HERBAL AND HOMEOPATHIC REMEDIES FOR VIRAL INFECTION

Natural and holistic remedies used instead of or in conjunction with conventional medicine and other complementary therapies can be extremely effective in relieving the symptoms of viral infections and treating human viruses. These types of remedies can successfully address the underlying cause of the condition as well as help to maintain the overall physical and emotional health of the individual.

Herbal and homeopathic remedies are gentle and safe to use without the harmful side effects of many prescription medications. Hypoxis rooperi, Agothosma betulina, Mentha piperita, Solidago virgaurea, Viscum album, Crataegus oxycanthoide, Schizandra sinesis, Astralagus membranaceus, and Olea europea are all examples of natural remedies that can help to promote immune system functioning and support the body’s ability to fight against harmful pathogens. Consult a physician, homeopath, or herbalist about a remedy that suits you.

Complementary Therapy

* Acupuncture
* Herbal and homeopathic remedies
* Aruyvedic medications
* Nutritional therapy
* Meditation, psychotherapy, and counseling may be of benefit when there are long-term consequences and psychological implications.

After Effects of Viral Infection

Viral infections can last as long as two weeks, and after infection, it is important to get the immune system back on track. Eat foods rich in vitamins like oranges, carrots, kiwis, raisins, green beans and strawberries. Continue to drink plenty of fluids, and go easy on sweets, as they make the body acidic and pathogens thrive in this environment.

Start an exercise regimen, like walking, biking with the family or swimming. Take it easy on the body at first and allow breaks. Walking 20 minutes a day, without over-exertion, can help keep the body healthy and get back into optimum shape after a viral infection. The body is resilient and will continue to thrive in the right circumstances. Taking care of the immune system after a virus will not only allow for prime health but will help keep new viruses at bay.

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Losing Weight

Are you having a hard time maintaining a Healthy Weight?

The body requires long-term harmony and support and in order to lose weight successfully, there are a few weight loss tips and simple steps that need to be incorporated into your lifestyle:

A healthy, balanced diet
Regular exercise
A positive and healthy mental approach to food
Understanding and acknowledging the underlying causes of unhealthy eating habits
By incorporating healthy eating habits and exercise into your life, you will improve not only your weight, but also your overall physical and mental health. Being overweight can cause numerous health problems such as diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, arthritis and respiratory disease to name but a few.

How Do I Know if I am Overweight?
Most commonly a ratio or measurement known as the body mass index (BMI) is used as a guide to determine your body weight in relation to your height, and will establish whether you fall into the underweight, healthy, overweight or obese category.

A normal BMI range for men and women is between 18.5 and 24.9, while overweight is defined as a BMI of 25 to 29.9, and obesity is defined as a BMI equal to or more than 30.

Body mass index is determined by dividing your weight in kilograms by your height in meters squared and multiplying by 100. It can also be calculated by dividing your weight in pounds by your height in inches squared and multiplying by 705.

There is nothing more frustrating (or unhealthy) than yo-yo dieting: losing a few pounds here and there, only to gain them again—and sometimes even more! Millions of people battle with their weight daily and resort to various fad diets, diet pills, and weight loss programs in the hope of a quick solution.

Unfortunately, a quick ‘solution’ is not the answer to keeping those pounds off in the long term. The best weight loss tips advocate healthy food and exercise and discourage fad or crash diets that produce initial water loss and short term loss of weight that very often upsets the delicate balance of your body’s metabolism.

More often than not, people resort to appetite suppressants to lose weight or harsh stimulants with added caffeine or other stimulants to boost their metabolism. While these types of weight loss supplements may suppress the urge to eat or increase the amount of fat burned, they are extremely detrimental to your health and can affect all body systems, especially the heart.

These weight loss supplements often promise dramatic weight loss and the perfect body with minimal effort. Unfortunately, unnatural weight loss supplements have some serious side effects including fatigue, agitation, shivers, dry mouth, diarrhea, depression, insomnia, altered metabolism and even anorexia.

Losing Weight the Natural Way
Losing weight is a slow, gradual process and requires a combination of healthy eating, balanced nutrition and exercise. Try not to place unrealistic expectations on yourself and be prepared for setbacks. If you falter, do not be too hard on yourself and commit to starting afresh the next day.

There are also many natural weight loss supplements available that are effective in helping you to achieve your goal weight and support a healthy metabolism naturally. Herbal and homeopathic remedies are gentle on the body’s system, helping to create the conditions necessary for weight stabilization and balance.

These natural weight loss supplements also promote overall physical, mental and emotional health. Herbs such as Fucus vesiculosis, Gallium aperine, Taraxacum officinalis, Glycorrhiza glabra, and Erythrea centaurium can help to boost the metabolism, improve liver and digestive functioning and keep the weight off. Another helpful herb is Garcinia cambogia that has been used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine as a natural appetite suppressant.

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Recall of Kids' Tylenol, Motrin, Zyrtec, Benadryl

Healthy herbal holistic herbs and homeopathic remedies are truly natures way to help insure that children or their parents never have to worry about artificial help.

Please review these items and see if you feel better giving your child one of these products versus the products described in the news article below.

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Get more info on Congesto-K Kiddie Rub - chest massage oil for children with nose and chest congestion. This natural combination of pure therapeutic essential oils will help to keep your child's chest and nose clear and open, to maintain relaxed, easy breathing.


Get more info on KiddieCool - The herbal ingredients in KiddieCool assist the body’s natural cooling mechanisms, while soothing irritability and restlessness. KiddieCool acts as a supportive tonic to optimize your child's natural regulatory processes and also ease irritability, and promote restful sleep.

Recall of Kids' Tylenol, Motrin, Zyrtec, Benadryl

43 Liquid Child/Infant Products Recalled by Johnson and Johnson's McNeil Division

By Daniel J. DeNoon
WebMD Health News

Reviewed by Michael W. Smith, MD

May 2, 2010 -- Manufacturing defects have led to the recall of 43 child and infant liquid formulations of Tylenol, Motrin, Zyrtec, and Benadryl by McNeil, a division of Johnson & Johnson.

No injuries or deaths have yet been reported. The voluntary recall follows an April 19 FDA inspection of a McNeil plant in Fort Washington, Pa. that uncovered "manufacturing deficiencies," the Washington Post reports.

The company says the chances of injury from one of the recalled products are "remote." Yet consumers are warned not to use the recalled products.

"Some of the products included in the recall may contain a higher concentration of active ingredient than is specified; others may contain inactive ingredients that may not meet internal testing requirements; and others may contain tiny particles," a company news release states.

If children who have taken the recalled products have unusual symptoms, parents are urged to contact a health care professional.

Parents should not give children adult formulation of the medications. Alternative brands of the products, including generic medications, are available. Parents who have questions about alternative treatments should consult their child's pediatrician.

Recalled products may be returned for a refund or exchanged for a fresh product once manufacturing issues have been resolved.

McNeil did not say how many units were being recalled, but the number likely is huge. Recalled products were distributed in the U.S., Canada, Dominican Republic, Dubai (UAE), Fiji, Guam, Guatemala, Jamaica, Puerto Rico, Panama, Trinidad & Tobago, and Kuwait.

List of Recalled Products

Here's a complete list of the products:

PRODUCTS	NDC Number
TYLENOL INFANTS' DROPS
CONCENTRATED TYLENOL INFANTS' DROPS 1 OZ. GRAPE FLAVOR	50580-144-01
CONCENTRATED TYLENOL INFANTS' DROPS 0.5 OZ. GRAPE FLAVOR*	50580-144-15
CONCENTRATED TYLENOL INFANTS' DROPS 1 OZ. CHERRY DYE FREE	50580-167-01
CONCENTRATED TYLENOL INFANTS' DROPS 0.5 OZ. CHERRY FLAVOR	50580-143-15
CONCENTRATED TYLENOL INFANTS' DROPS 1 OZ. CHERRY FLAVOR	50580-143-30
CONCENTRATED TYLENOL INFANTS' DROPS 0.5 OZ. GRAPE - HOSPITAL	50580-144-18
CONCENTRATED TYLENOL INFANTS' DROPS 0.25 OZ. GRAPE - SAMPLE	50580-144-40
CHILDREN'S TYLENOL SUSPENSIONS
CHILDREN'S TYLENOL SUSPENSION 2 OZ. CHERRY BLAST FLAVOR	50580-123-02
CHILDREN'S TYLENOL SUSPENSION 4 OZ. CHERRY BLAST FLAVOR	50580-123-04
CHILDREN'S TYLENOL DYE-FREE SUSPENSION 4 OZ. CHERRY FLAVOR	50580-166-04
CHILDREN'S TYLENOL SUSPENSION 4 OZ. GRAPE SPLASH	50580-296-04
CHILDREN'S TYLENOL SUSPENSION 4 OZ. BUBBLEGUM FLAVOR	50580-407-04
CHILDREN'S TYLENOL SUSPENSION 4 OZ. VERY BERRY STRAWBERRY FLAVOR	50580-493-04
CHILDREN'S TYLENOL SUSPENSION 1 OZ. CHERRY BLAST FLAVOR - SAMPLE	50580-123-01
CHILDREN'S TYLENOL SUSPENSION 4 OZ. CHERRY BLAST FLAVOR - HOSPITAL	50580-123-03
CHILDREN'S TYLENOL PLUS SUSPENSIONS
CHILDREN'S TYLENOL PLUS SUSPENSION 4 OZ. COUGH & SORE THROAT CHERRY FLAVOR	50580-247-04
CHILDREN'S TYLENOL PLUS SUSPENSION 4 OZ. COUGH & RUNNY NOSE CHERRY FLAVOR	50580-249-04
CHILDREN'S TYLENOL PLUS DYE-FREE SUSPENSION 4 OZ. COLD & STUFFY NOSE GRAPE FLAVOR	50580-253-04
CHILDREN'S TYLENOL PLUS DYE-FREE SUSPENSION 4 OZ. COLD & COUGH GRAPE FLAVOR	50580-254-04
CHILDREN'S TYLENOL PLUS DYE-FREE SUSPENSION 4 OZ. MULTI-SYMPTOM COLD GRAPE FLAVOR	50580-255-04
CHILDREN'S TYLENOL PLUS SUSPENSION 4 OZ. FLU BUBBLEGUM FLAVOR	50580-386-04
CHILDREN'S TYLENOL PLUS SUSPENSION 4 OZ. COLD GRAPE FLAVOR	50580-387-04
CHILDREN'S TYLENOL PLUS SUSPENSION 4 OZ. COLD & ALLERGY BUBBLEGUM FLAVOR	50580-390-04
CHILDREN'S TYLENOL PLUS SUSPENSION 4 OZ. MULTI-SYMPTOM COLD GRAPE FLAVOR	50580-391-04
MOTRIN INFANTS' DROPS
CONCENTRATED MOTRIN INFANTS' DROPS 1 OZ. BERRY DYE FREE	50580-198-01
CONCENTRATED MOTRIN INFANTS' DROPS 0.5 OZ. BERRY DYE FREE	50580-198-15
CONCENTRATED MOTRIN INFANTS' DROPS 0.5 OZ. BERRY FLAVOR*	50580-100-15
CHILDREN'S MOTRIN SUSPENSIONS
CHILDREN'S MOTRIN SUSPENSION 4 OZ. BERRY DYE FREE	50580-184-04
CHILDREN'S MOTRIN SUSPENSION 2 OZ. BERRY FLAVOR	50580-601-02
CHILDREN'S MOTRIN SUSPENSION 4 OZ. BERRY FLAVOR	50580-601-04
CHILDREN'S MOTRIN SUSPENSION 4 OZ. TROPICAL PUNCH FLAVOR	50580-215-04
CHILDREN'S MOTRIN SUSPENSION 4 OZ. GRAPE FLAVOR	50580-603-04
CHILDREN'S MOTRIN SUSPENSION 4 OZ. BUBBLEGUM FLAVOR	50580-604-04
CHILDREN'S MOTRIN SUSPENSION 1 OZ. GRAPE SAMPLE	50580-603-01
CHILDREN'S MOTRIN SUSPENSION 1 OZ. BUBBLEGUM SAMPLE	50580-604-01
CHILDREN'S MOTRIN SUSPENSION 1 OZ. BERRY SAMPLE	50580-601-01
CHILDREN'S MOTRIN SUSPENSION 4 OZ. BERRY HOSPITAL	50580-601-50
CHILDREN'S MOTRIN SUSPENSION 4 OZ. COLD BERRY FLAVOR	50580-902-04
CHILDREN'S ZYRTEC LIQUIDS IN BOTTLES
CHILDREN'S ZYRTEC 4 OZ. BUBBLEGUM SYRUP	50580-721-04
CHILDREN'S ZYRTEC DYE FREE 4 OZ. GRAPE SYRUP	50580-730-04
CHILDREN'S ZYRTEC SUGAR-FREE DYE-FREE 0.5 OZ. GRAPE	50580-730-15
CHILDREN'S ZYRTEC SUGAR-FREE DYE-FREE 0.5 OZ. BUBBLEGUM	50580-721-15
CHILDREN'S ZYRTEC SUGAR-FREE DYE-FREE 2 X 4 OZ. BUBBLEGUM LIQUID	50580-721-08
CHILDREN'S BENADRYL ALLERGY LIQUIDS IN BOTTLES
*CONCENTRATED TYLENOL INFANTS' DROPS 0.5 OZ. GRAPE FLAVOR is also included in JOHNSON'S Baby Relief Kit. *CONCENTRATED MOTRIN INFANTS' DROPS 0.5 OZ. BERRY FLAVOR is also included in JOHNSON'S Baby Relief Kit.

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Vitamin B link to Diabetic Kidney Malfunction

Nephrotic syndrome is a kidney disease characterized by a massive leak of protein (albumin) into the urine (proteinuria), a low blood level of albumin due to the large amounts lost in the urine, an increased level of cholesterol in the blood and retention of fluid in the body (edema) causing swelling.

Natural herbal remedies are often used in combination with synthetic drugs to treat kidney problems. Not only are these herbs gentle to use on the body but they provide the same benefits without harsh side effects.

Herbs such as Agathosma betulina (Buchu) possess diuretic properties and acts as urinary antiseptic while Berberis vulgaris (Barberry) improves immune functioning and is excellent for kidney stones, gallbladder problems and an enlarged spleen. Other herbal ingredients that are extremely beneficial for kidney health include Polygonum multiflorum, Schizandra chinensis and Trigonella foenum-graecum.

Please visit:http://www.HEALTHYHERBALWELLBEING.com/index.html

Bottles of vitamin supplements are displayed at a store in San Francisco, California. Patients with diabetic …

Tue Apr 27, 9:27 pm ET

WASHINGTON – Patients with diabetic nephropathy, kidney disease caused by diabetes and treated with high doses of vitamin B, suffered rapid deterioration of the kidneys, a recent study has found.

Diabetics in addition to kidney function loss also were affected by higher rates of heart attack and stroke than those who took a placebo, according to the clinical research in the April 28 edition of the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA).

Diabetic nephropathy affects the network of tiny blood vessels in the glomerulus, a structure in the kidney made of capillary blood vessels, which is needed to filter blood.

Despite a range of treatments to curb the progression of the disease, about 40 percent of the 21 million Americans who have diabetes develop diabetic nephropathy so a new approach to treatment is needed, the authors of the study said.

Observational studies have shown a link between high concentrations of plasma total homocysteine and the risk of developing diabetic nephropathy, retinopathy, and vascular diseases, including myocardial infarction and stroke.

B-vitamin therapy meanwhile -- using folic acid, vitamin B6, and vitamin B12 -- has been shown to lower the plasma concentration of homocysteine.

Andrew House of the University of Western Ontario and J. David Spence of the Robarts Research Institute in London, Ontario ran a study to see if B-vitamin therapy would slow progression of diabetic nephropathy and prevent vascular events in 238 patients with type 1 or 2 diabetes.

The placebo-controlled trial was conducted at five university medical centers in Canada between May 2001 and July 2007.

Patients received single tablet of B vitamins with folic acid (2.5 mg/d), vitamin B6 (25 mg/d), and vitamin B12 (1 mg/d), or matching placebo.

After they were followed for an average of 31.9 months, researchers found patients treated with vitamin B had a faster rate of reduction of kidney filtering hence kidney function compared to those on a placebo course.

Patients with the diabetic nephropathy additionally had a higher rate of heart attack and stroke than patients who received placebo.

"In addition to the personal burden, the societal burden of diabetic nephropathy is enormous, exceeding US 10 billion dollars in annual medical expenditures," the authors stressed.

Coping With Everyday Stress

Often both men and women are juggling multiple roles and responsibilities and trying not to drop-the-ball. All of life’s demands – work and deadlines, bills and inflation, kids and marriage - all require constant attention. Usually things stay in balance but sometimes life throws an unexpected curve ball and suddenly the balance is lost.

Stress can affect anyone, and in small doses it is not necessarily a bad thing. Average amounts of stress can keep you alert and ensure that tasks are completed and deadline met. Essentially stress is life’s little push that often helps us to cope.

Alternatively, stress can sometimes become too much. When a person is pushed too far and can no longer keep up with the demands of life, it is clear that stress is a problem. This abundance of stress can affect both our psychological and physical well being.

Stress is a very normal part of life and in most cases it can be dealt with without the assistance of a healthcare practitioner. However, there is a difference between managing your stress and not managing your stress.

When physical symptoms of stress levels rise and become too much to cope with, or it feels like you have reached the point of burnout it may be time to seek professional help. If excessive stress starts to affect your psychological or physically health it is also important to seek help.

Since stress is extremely common, diagnosing the condition centers around whether the amount of stress experienced is affecting your ability to perform daily functions and activities as required.

Stress is caused by multiple factors that are unique and personal to each individual. Sometimes stress can be caused by external events such as family problems or work pressures.

By pin-pointing the root cause of our stress, it becomes easier to guard against it. While it is impossible to plan for everything and prevent all future stress, it is possible to minimize stress and learn to cope with it in a more productive way.

The ways in which physical symptoms of stress are managed can also make the world of difference on how it impacts on both physical health and functioning.

There are a number of ways to help cope with physical symptoms of stress in our daily lives.

The first step in eliminating stress is to identify the root causes and determine what changes can be made. This is easier said than done! Sometimes a little bit assistance is needed of help to figure out what those root causes are.

Natural Herbal and Homeopathic Remedies

Get More Information on PureCalm for Anxiety & Panic Attacks.

There are many natural herbal and homeopathic remedies that may be of assistance in providing all natural stress relief if you feel your stress levels are too high. A holistic approach encourages all natural stress relief by exploring physical and psychological effects of your stress and aims to treat the individual as a whole.

Some herbal remedies recommended for all natural stress relief are Hypericum perforatum (St John’s Wort), Passiflora incarnata, Scuttelaria laterifolia (Scullcap) and Valerian. Theses herbal remedies all serve to relieve the anxiety and tension related to stress.

Please visit:

http://www.HEALTHYHERBALWELLBEING.com/index.html