Health Care Clinic Blog

Diarrhea, the frequent passage of very loose or watery bowel movements, is a symptom of an underlying disorder,which may have been caused by stress, dietary indiscretion, traveler’s diarrhea,flu, food poisoning, or anyone of numerous conditions. Although most episodes are minor and temporary, a proolonged bout can lead to dehydration and an upset in body chemistry that should be life threatening, especially in children and the elderly. You should call a doctor if diarrhea lasts for more than one day in a child under the age of two or two days in an older child or an adult. Consult him even sooner if the diarrhea worsens or is accompanied by other symptoms such as severe abdominal pain, vomiting, fever, or the appearance of blood, mucus, or worms in the stool. Persistent or intermittent mild diarrhea also warrants medical investigation.

Diagnostic Studies And Procedures

The nature of the diarrhea is an important factor in the process of diagnosis. For example, diarrhea that alternates with constipation and periods of normal bowel function may be caused either by irritable bowel syndrome or stress. Blood in the stool can point to the possibility of an infection, cancer, polyps, or an inflamed colon. After a physical examination, certain tests may be called for, including a stool analysis, X-rays, and colonoscopy, an examination of the entire colon with a special fiberoptic instrument.

Medical Treatments

The choice of antidiarrheal medication depends upon the underlying cause. Most diarrhea resolves itself in a day or two of self treatment with nonpre scription drugs Diarrhea accompanied by intestinal cramps and spasms may be treated with phenobarbital, pare goric, opium, or other prescription substances to reduce intestinal motility. Antibiotics will be prescribed if a bacterial infection is present. Other drugs called anthelmintics are given if there are intestinal wormsEven mild diarrhea in a baby or young child poses a danger of dehydration, especially if there is also vomiting, which makes it more difficult to replace fluids and body salts. In severe cases, hospitalization may be necessary to administer intravenous replacement of water and salts. Giving a special rehydration formula such as Pedialyte, which is available at pharmacies, usually can prevent dehydration and the need for intravenous therapy.

Vision, touch, hearing, the vestibular system in the inner ear, and multiple areas of the brain all contribute to helping maintain balance and orientation in space. Damage to any of these senses or areas can cause dizziness. When dizziness occurs, it’s important to identify the sensation clearly. For example, with true vertigo, an illusion of motion, you feel as if you are spinning or that the room is spinning around you; it often provokes nausea and vomiting. Vertigo is most likely to arise from the vestibular portion of the inner ear, the nerve connecting the inner ear to the brain, or the brain itself. It may result from motion sickness, an inner ear infection, allergic rhinitis, high doses of certain drugs, Meniere’s disease , a blow to the head, tumors, or, less commonly, multiple sclerosis. Disequilibrium, often referred to as dizziness of the feet, is an unsteady feeling, as though you might fall. If you wear reading glasses, you may have experienced a comparable sensation after removing them quickly. The problem often stems from a neurologic abnormality, such as a degenerative nerve disorder, but use of alcohol or certain medications may also be factors. The sensation of lightheadedness is difficult to describe precisely; most people say simply that they feel dizzy. Lightheadedness often derives from anxiety or another psychological cause. It may happen in conjunction with hyperventilation, or overbreathing; this occurs when a person breathes too rapidly or deeply, taking in more than the usual amount of oxygen and there ­ by upsetting the body’s balance of oxygen and carbon dioxide.

Diagnostic Studies And Procedures

The extent of a diagnostic evaluation depends upon the suspected cause of the dizziness. Tests range from an ear examination, if the vestibular system of the inner ear is involved, to CT scans or MRI and other procedures, if a brain disorder is suspected.

Medical Treatments

Therapy for dizziness depends upon the underlying cause. Nonprescription drugs such as dimenhydrinate and meclizine or prescription drugs such as scopolamine , which is administered through a skin patch usually worn behind the ear, may prevent dizziness from motion sickness. Antibiotics generally take care of dizziness when it is caused by an inner ear infection. A change in medication or dosage usually alleviates any dizziness from medication; aspirin, tranquilizers, anti malarial drugs, certain antibiotics and anticonvulsants, and antihypertensive drugs are common offenders. (Ringing in the ears frequently precedes such an episode of dizziness.) In the case of Meniere’s disease, prescription diuretics may reduce fluids in the labyrinth section of the ear. During an attack, prescription antinausea drugs may be helpful. Surgery can sometimes cure dizziness caused by a tumor along the nerve leading from the inner ear to the brain.

How much dangerous it could be for you when you are under a number of medications and suddenly you fall sick & not in position to communicate with the doctor who doesn’t know your medical history. How your doctors will treat you optimally?

At that point, Digital Personal Health Record could be proven extremely beneficial for you. It enables the doctors to access the patient’s medical history including the past medical history, allergies, diagnosis and prescriptions. The doctors can start treating these patients right away without relying on patient & their capability to come in contact or waiting for an email from the family doctor.

Today, in the fragmented health care service, there is no complete record sharing amongst different health care centers, particularly when you’re traveling through long trips. These are the state of affairs when you must carry a digital health record with yourself. Paper based records are a simple alternative; however they have lots of disadvantages. These digital records make it easier to share the files amongst doctors & let them give more effectual service to the patients.

One more benefit of Digital PHR is that it requires less space to save the files in the computer system then it does to have plugging up lots of folders accumulated with this information. By reducing the utilization of the paper, these files will be stored in a safe place & save space along with money in the process.

Socks are an afterthought in many people’s wardrobes. Color is often the main consideration. But once you become a walker, good socks become a necessity. Here’s what to look for.

Foot fit. Too tight, and socks are constricting. Too loose, and they bunch up, causing irritation and blisters. In general, your socks should be one to two sizes larger than your shoes.

Leg fit. Crew socks extend to mid calf. Anklets come up over the ankles. Foot socks cover just the feet and barely protrude from your shoes. One style is as good as another. Wear what you find most comfortable.

Fabric. Cotton and wool are fine for people whose feet don’t perspire much. But Orlon, polypropylene, and other synthetic materials do a better job of sicking away moisture. They keep sweaty feet dry and comfortable, which helps prevent blisters and odor. Blended-fiber socks are also available.

Extras. Some walking socks have extra padding on the soles, or slightly flared toes, or extra stitching across the toes and heels for added strength. Examine the wear patterns on your “regular” socks, then choose walking socks with reinforcement in all the right places.

Men’s Health Forum is a kind of organization which is established in England & Wales. Its main aim is to give an authoritative and independent voice for male nutrition and health & to explore the issues influencing the well-being as well as health of men and boys.

The Men’s health forum was set up in 1993. It was established by the Royal College of Nursing although turned out to be totally self governing of the RCN at time when it was recognized as a registered charity in 2000. Now it is a self governing body with an active association working with a broad range of people and organizations to improve health services which fulfill men’s needs as well as facilitate men to change their risk taking behaviors. The President of the organization is Dr Ian Banks, the CEO of the company is Peter Baker & the trustee is Professor Alan White from the Centre for Men’s Health at Leeds Metropolitan University.

It lobbies policy-makers, carries out research, runs projects, makes health related recipes, organizes Men’s Health Week & maintains two internet sites including the high quality health related information website.

Dry mouth describes any condition in which reduced secretion of the salivary glands results in inadequate saliva, and the saliva that is produced is thicker than normal. Depending on the severity of the problem, a person may have not only dryness in the mouth, but also increased thirst, dry lips, or, in the worst cases, difficulty chewing and swallowing. Taste and smell may be impaired. Because mouth dryness permits more rapid bacterial growth, tooth decay and gum disease are more likely to occur. Commonly, dry mouth is a consequence of smoking or a side effect of certain drugs, especially decongestants, antihistamines, antidepressants, atropine, and some heart and ulcer medications. Cancer chemotherapy and radiation therapy to the mouth and throat also cause dry mouth. To some degree, all older people experience this condition, because saliva production naturally declines with age.

Diagnostic Studies And Procedures

A doctor or dentist can often diagnose a salivary gland disorder simply by feeling the glands and noting the reduced moisture in the mouth. However, if the cause is not readily apparent, the physician may order blood tests to check for autoantibodies (antibodies that attack the body) and X-rays to check for structural abnormalities.

Medical Treatments

If an autoimmune disorder, such as lupus or Sjogren’s syndrome, is responsible for the dry mouth, treatment is direcled to controlling the underlying disease and alleviating the dryness. In severe cases, immunosuppressive drugs are given to halt the immune system attack on healthy tissue. If salivary glands suddenly become enlarged and painful, a painkiller with anti inflammatory action, such as ibuprofen or aspirin, may be advised. Anyone with dry mouth should see a dentist every three months for cleaning and periodontal treatmenLs to help prevent a potentially dramatic increase in dental cavities and gum disease. The dentist may recommend special preventive fluoride treatments that can be performed at home.

Finally, now a person can buy a fat burner which is quiet safe for health without showing any prescription. This diet pill is available in market on every medical store and it is famous with name Jack3d. Basically jack3d is made to burn the fat of the body which is quiet useless and it is also one of the best diet suppressants. The jack3d results are breathtaking and one can reduce weight in a matter of few weeks only.

Ever since this product has been launched in the market it is selling like hot cakes and it has become everyone’s favorite in a very short duration of time. It offers great results if the person taking these pills carries out some workout in gym or anywhere. With little workout the results are awesome and the person feels really healthy as little workout opens the body and offers strength to it as the dirt and other toxins present in our body get removed through sweat which we get during workout.

The main function of the enzymes present in these pills is to remove all the toxins present in the body. You feel light after consuming these pills and also you feel full of life. The only thing which you have to take care of is to consume all the pills before the expiry date. But before buying these miracle pills one should see the reviews of jack3d on internet by typing jack3d reviews on any search engine.

Diagnostic Studies And Procedures

Diagnosis is based on symptoms and a medical history. If a doctor suspects clinical depression, she will probably refer the patient to a psychiatrist or clinical psychologist for testing.

Medical Treatments

Depression responds to medical treatment better than many other mental disorders. Approaches fall into three categories medication, psychological therapy, and electro convulsive therapy.

Psychotherapies

These “talking” treatments focus on helping patients resolve emotional problems by gaining insight into their own psychological makeup. Traditional psychotherapy looks for a childhood source of the problem, while other approaches address current conflicts and interpersonal problems. Behavioral and cognitive forms of psychotherapy teach patients new ways to view the world. Depressed people tend to expect failure and often make false assumptions about the behavior and motives of others. Cognitive therapists strive to help these patients correct their negative beliefs. Interpersonal therapy is based on the concept that depression occurs when personal relationships are disturbed, and that these relationships perpetuate symptoms, which worsen the interper sonal problems; the end result is a dysfunctional cycle. By focusing on issues, interpersonal therapists help patients understand their illness and feelings, and find ways to improve relationships.

Electroconvulsive Therapy

Although this method, often referred to as ECT or shock treatment, is not used as often as in the past, it is still highly effective in treating suicidal patients. The patient is given a general anesthetic, eliminating pain and memory of the procedure. Electrodes are placed on one or both sides of the scalp and a mild electric shock is administered to the brain, resulting in a minor seizure. There is temporary loss of memory for events of the past 6 to 12 months.

Alternative Therapies

Major or recurrent depression requires medical treatment. Alternative therapies are useful adjuncts that may be adequate for overcoming the milder forms.

Ayurveda.

This ancient method of healing from India promotes emotional and physical well being with a regimen of diet, exercise, and herbal remedies designed to correct individual imbalances.

Creative Therapies

Art, music, dance, and other forms of artistic expression are especially beneficial during recovery from depression, because they help a patient to build self steem.

Light Therapy

People who repeatedly suffer depression only during the winter have seasonal affective disorder, or SAD, associated with insufficient exposure to daylight. Typical treatment involves sitting under special lights for several hours a day .

Naturopathy and Nutrition Therapy

Diet plays a major role in brain function, but there is considerable disagreement over nutritional treatment of any mental disorder. Many nutrition therapists advise a sugar free, low fat diet that is high in complex carbohydrates and protein. Some also recommend supplements of B complex vitamins.

Self Treatment

Exercise can work as well as antide pressant drugs for mild depression or dysthemia. Aerobic exercise is especially effective, because it stimulates a release of endorphins, the body’s own pain relieving and mood lifting chemicals. It’s best to stick to normal routines, particularly if you are experiencing reactive depression. Daily chores anchor you in reality; they may also prevent deeper depression. Never overlook the power of laughter. A funny movie or an amusing book can often improve your mood.

Other Causes of Depression

Chronic fatigue syndrome has many of the hallmarks of depression. Among the elderly, symptoms of depression are often confused with dementia. An underactive thyroid can cause symptoms similar to those of depression, as can many serious illnesses; for example, depression is common following a heart attack. Medications, such as those used to lower blood pressure, frequently cause transient depression.

Painful intercourse, known medically as dyspareunia, is discomfort or pain that accompanies sexual intercourse. Depending on the cause, the pain may be mild or acute; in some cases, it makes sexual intercourse impossible. For most women, the first experience with sex is uncomfortable, usually due to the tearing of the hymen, perhaps coupled with insufficient vaginallubrication. After a period of adjustment, according to Dr. Helen Singer Kaplan, director of the Human Sexuality Program at New York Hospital Cornell University Medical Center, it is abnormal for intercourse to hurt. Dr. Kaplan has found that in about half of her patients who experience painful intercourse, the cause is physical; for the rest, emotional factors or both physical and psychological problems are responsible. Physical causes of persistent pain during intercourse include genital herpes, vaginitis, pelvic inflammatory disease, endometriosis, a displaced or tipped uterus, thinning of the vaginal tissues following menopause or during breast-feeding, and an allergic response to contraceptives. The problem can also be the result of a poorly sewn episiotomy or scarring from a childbirth injury. Among the causative emotional factors are anger, fear of pregnancy, and guilt. Childhood sexual abuse or a punitive upbringing in regard to sexual matters may be involved. Also, women who have been raped sometimes develop dyspareunia. When troubled feelings have been deeply repressed, they may lead to vaginismus; these are involuntary contractions or spasms of the vaginal muscles that make penetration impossible.

Doctors generally define a miscarriage as the natural termination of a pregnancy during the first 20 weeks of gestation. (Delivery between the 21st and 38th weeks is considered a premature birth, even if the fetus does not survive.) At least 20 percent of all pregnancies end in a miscarriage between the sixth and tenth weeks. Recent studies indicate, however, that the figure may be as high as SO percent, but that many go unnoticed because women don’t always realize they are pregnant. Typically, a miscarriage begins with aginal bleeding or a brownish discharge, which may be accompanied by cramps and lower back pain. If the woman is unaware of being pregnant, she may simply assume that she is having a heavy menstrual period. The majority of miscarriages are caused by a problem in fetal development, most often chromosomal abnormalities or structural malformations. For example, fertilization toward the end of the 24 hour period after ovulation can cause these abnormalities. Some researchers believe late fertilization is the major cause of miscarriage. Other possible causes include maternal hormone imbalances, such as those caused by thyroid disease or diabetes a. structural defect in the uterus or ervix; poor attachment of the placenta to the uterine wall; rubella or other infectious illnesses, including sexually transmitted diseases; complications from kidney disease; the presence of an IUD in the uterus; or severe emotional shock. Lifestyle factors that increase the risk of miscarriage include smoking, use of alcohol, poor nutrition, and exposure to radiation, hazardous chemicals, or lead. For many miscarriages, however, a cause cannot be found.