**How To Recognize Alcoholism **Alcoholism Facts - Facts Of Alcoholism You Should Know **Alcoholism Signs And Symptoms You Should Know **Alcoholism as a Disease, Not a Weakness **Alcoholism - A Major Disease?
How To Recognize Alcoholism Alcoholism facts can help one better understand the extent of alcoholism and alcoholism warning signs. One of the alcoholism facts is that alcoholism is a type of drug addiction that can be both physical and psychological.
Facts of alcoholism include the reality that alcohol acts as a depressant on the central nervous system, resulting in a decrease of activity, tension and inhibitions. Alcohol affects other body systems as well. Gastrointestinal tract irritation can occur with erosion of the esophagus and stomach linings, causing nausea, vomiting and perhaps bleeding.
Additional alcoholism facts are that liver disease may develop and eventually become cirrhosis of the liver. The muscles of the heart may be negatively affected. Other facts of alcoholism can be related to sexual dysfunction. In men, problems with erections can occur with alcoholism. And alcoholic women can cease having their menstrual periods prematurely.
Here are more alcoholism facts:
• Alcohol and caffeine are the two most widely abused substances in the world. The facts of alcoholism are that alcohol is the more serious addiction due to alcohol-related accidents and incidents.
• The incidence of alcohol consumption and related problems is increasing. Researchers have found that about 15% of the population in the United States are problem drinkers, and about 5-10% of male drinkers and 3-5% of female drinkers can be diagnosed as alcohol dependent. This means as many as 14 million persons are affected by alcoholism in the USA alone. These facts of alcoholism numbers do not include family, friends and others additionally affected by the actions of alcoholics.
• Alcoholism can be divided into two categories - abuse and dependence. Alcohol dependence is the most severe alcohol disorder and is characterized by tolerance and withdrawal. Tolerance is the need for increased amounts of alcohol to become intoxicated. Withdrawal symptoms occur when alcohol intake is reduced or discontinued. Alcohol abusers are drinkers that may drink heavily at various times and have problems such as drinking and driving, violent episodes, or missing work or school.
• Alcohol use is mainly influenced by attitudes developed during the childhood and teen years. In addition, parent's attitudes and behaviors toward drinking, influence from peers and family relationships can impact how one views and treats the consumption of alcohol.
• About 20% of teens are considered 'problem drinkers' in the U.S. What this means is that they get drunk, they may have accidents, or they have problems with the law, family members, friends, school or work due to alcohol consumption and related facts of alcoholism.
• Alcohol effects appear within 10 minutes of drinking and are the maximum in approximately 40-60 minutes. Alcohol will stay in the bloodstream until the liver metabolizes the alcohol. If a person consumes alcohol at a rate faster than the liver is able to break it down, the blood alcohol content rises.
• Each state defines alcohol intoxication which is measured by blood alcohol concentration. A breathalyzer field test is commonly used to measure blood alcohol content for drivers. And another of the alcoholism facts is that most states have a legal limit of between 0.08 and 0.10. Different levels lead to increasingly serious effects. A blood alcohol level of 0.05 reduces inhibitions, 0.10 results in slurred speech and a blood alcohol level of 0.50 can result in coma.
The above information can be considered basic facts of alcoholism. If you or someone you know may have a drinking problem and wish to learn more alcoholism facts and perhaps seek help, there are resources available in various ways. It is never too late to begin recovery from alcohol addiction. Help is available, and the sooner one begins the recovery process, the better.
How To Recognize Alcoholism Alcoholism is a devastating disease that effects millions of people every year. Recognizing alcoholism in yourself or someone else can be difficult. Alcoholism is defined as a disease that allows a persons use of alcohol to interfere with their life and the basic functioning of their daily tasks, needs and responsibilities.
The clinical way of looking at alcohol is by examining the amount of alcohol a person consumes. A women who drinks more than seven drink per week or more than three drinks a day and a man who drinks more than 14 drinks per week or four drinks in a day would be considered an alcoholic. A drink is defined as 12 ounces of beer, 5 ounces of wine or 1.5 ounces of 80 proof liquor.
Warning signs of alcoholism may vary form person to person. Usually though these warning signs will be obvious. The following list outlines some of these signs.
- misses a lot of work or school - losses interest in family, friends or activities - depression - drinking to cope with any problem - insomnia - being intoxicated often - moody - drinking related health problems
These are some of the noticeable warning signs. More serious behaviors can also serve as a wake-up call. Risky behavior like drinking and driving should be taken seriously.
Alcohol when taken in moderation is a nice way to relax or enjoy a social engagement, where when alcohol becomes a problem it can effect everyone who is close to the alcoholic. Some things that can tell a person they may be having a problem with alcohol are:
- worry over not having alcohol or money to buy it - hiding alcohol so others do not know you have it - often wishing to be drunk or get drunk faster - unable to stop drinking once started - hearing others comment on your drinking
Alcoholism should always be taken seriously. If you or someone you know has a drinking problem professional help is available in every community. Recognizing the problem is the first step to finding a solution.
Alcoholism Signs And Symptoms You Should Know Alcoholism signs and symptoms are clues that alcohol may be a problem. If left untreated, alcoholism signs and symptoms and alcoholism can affect the quality of life of the person as well as those around them. Alcoholism is a disease where alcohol consumption (beer, wine, or hard liquor) is at a level that interferes with the person's physical and mental health, and negatively impacts family, social or work responsibilities.
Alcoholism symptoms can be recognized relatively early in the disease's progression, but if not dealt with, alcoholism can be fatal. Here are alcoholism signs and symptoms that indicate alcohol may be a problem:
• Becoming Angry When Confronted About Drinking • Daily or Frequent Alcohol Consumption Needed to Function • Drinking Alone • Finding Excuses to Drink • Food Intake Neglect • Hiding Alcohol Related Behavior • Inability to Stop or Reduce Alcohol Consumption • Memory Loss, Blackouts • Morning Shakes • Nausea, Vomiting • Physical Appearance Neglect • Violent Episodes Occur When Drinking
When considering alcoholism signs and symptoms, alcoholism can be broadly divided into two categories - alcohol abuse and alcohol dependence. Alcohol abusers may drink heavily at various times, but they have not yet become alcohol dependent. Alcoholism signs and symptoms for alcohol abusers can be problems that happen while being intoxicated such as drinking and driving, violent episodes, or missing appointments, work or school.
Alcohol dependence can develop over the years and follows a generally predictable pattern. A tolerance of alcohol develops first, which means a person needs to consume greater quantities of alcohol before the same effects are noticed. Over time, the person may lose control over their drinking and may not be able to stop even if they want to. And if alcohol consumption is reduced or stopped, withdrawal symptoms can be experienced which can range from annoying to life-threatening.
If the alcoholic continues drinking, he or she may become obsessed with drinking to the exclusion of almost everything else. Many of the above alcoholism signs and symptoms may be noticed. The most severe kind of drinking is called 'binge drinking', periods of time with continuous heavy alcohol consumption.
If alcoholism continues to progress, the mental and physical health of the alcoholic can seriously deteriorate. Many of the body's organs can become damaged which lowers resistance to disease and infections. Relationships at home or socially may become damaged, and there can be financial and legal problems due to the alcoholic's inability to stop drinking.
If the alcoholic continues to drink, alcohol can ultimately cause their death one way or another. Accidents and related injuries, suicide, drownings and falling asleep in bed while smoking and intoxicated and burning to death are examples of the consequences of alcoholism. Health-wise, damage to the body's organs and systems due to long-term excessive drinking means the person will likely suffer from a number of diseases and conditions such as heart disease, cirrhosis of the liver, malnutrition and cancer.
Are there different stages of alcoholism? Yes, most definitely. If the alcoholism signs and symptoms indicate that alcohol consumption is becoming or is already a problem, there are resources available to help with alcoholism and the serious consequences of this disease.
Alcoholism as a Disease, Not a Weakness Alcoholism is a disease in which drinkers have lost the ability to control their drinking, leading to physical and mental harm and loss of ability to behave in a socially acceptable manner. Alcoholism is a chronic, progressive, pathological condition that affects the nervous and digestive system, caused by the inability to stop drinking despite adverse consequences such as loss of job, family, and health. The disease is potentially fatal, however the most disturbing and debilitating part of alcoholism is the loss of self-respect, the possible job loss, and the toll it takes on the alcoholics family. There is also indication that there may be a genetic component with alcoholism.
The National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence defines alcoholism as characterized by “impaired control over dinking…and distortions in thinking, most notably denial.” This means that for many alcoholics, they are unable to make a decision to stop drinking without the help of others.
Symptoms of the disease include but are not limited to sneaking drinks, lying about the amount consumed, irritability when alcohol is not available, mood swings, loss of appetite, a puffiness of the face, job loss and a high number of traffic tickets.
Family members need to develop an awareness of the disease and talk with the alcoholic. Most alcoholics are in denial and talking to the person about their disease can be very difficult. Choose a time when the person is sober. In addition, talking to the person after an alcoholic problem as occurred, such as a family argument, or a drunken driving ticket, for example, may be a good time to talk. Unfortunately waiting for a problem to occur from alcoholic behaviors can have serious consequences.
Family members coping with an alcoholic or addict can cause a great deal of stress in the family life. Therefore, there are support groups for Al-Alteen for children and teenagers. Al-Anon is for the spouse or loved one that has to cope with an alcoholic. These groups teach family members on how to cope with the alcoholic and process their emotions.
There are studies that want you to believe that alcoholism is not a disease. They are wrong. Alcoholism is a disease and while there is no cure, it is treatable. If it were not a disease, insurance companies would not pay for treatment.
Alcoholism - A Major Disease? Alcoholism can be given a lot of definitions and all of them stress the fact that there is a terrible disease that involves addiction to spirits. Apart from the physical dependence on alcohol, there are other psychological, genetic and social factors that may play a role in the development of alcoholism. Many social, economic and public health problems are determined by this very serious disease.
When alcoholism is concerned, symptoms include craving for alcohol, incapacity to have control over the use of alcohol, a greater tolerance to its effects, and withdrawal symptoms during the periods of abstinence. One should as well know that many alcoholics deny having a problem. In many cases intervention is necessary in order to persuade them to start treatment. Treatment in cases of alcoholism usually includes detoxification, counseling and psychotherapy, as well as treatment of associated medical problems, and different programmes for recovery and support.
Alcoholism involves physical and psychological addiction to the alcohol, and it often gets to a chronic, progressive form. There are situations in which it can become fatal, when alcohol consumption begins to interfere with your health, your social life or your occupational functioning. Alcoholics often continue to consume alcohol in huge quantities despite the multiple negative consequences of the disease. Nowadays, alcoholism is the most serious form of alcohol abuse. Alcoholism can be also defined in terms like "having a problem with drinking". If one has a problem with drinking, that can result in health or social problems (drunk driving, for instance), but that doesn’t make one yet dependent on alcohol and it doesn’t mean one has fully lost control over using spirits - as in the case of alcoholism.
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Acne sufferers today can choose from an array of products and regimens designed for acne skin care, both in prescription and over-the-counter preparations. Whether you are a teenager with typical hormone-driven breakouts, or are battling acne as an adult, you should be able to find a skin care treatment that gives you relief after medication.
Acne skin care products target the problem of acne with several different strategies—some work by reducing the production of the oil glands, others by killing the P. acnes bacteria that cause the acne eruption, and others reduce the build-up of dead skin cells that leads to clogged pores. Several popular skin care products perform more than one of these functions to control acne blemish.
The oldest commercial acne skin care treatment meducation, and still one of the most widely available, is Benzoyl Peroxide. Sold in gels, creams, and washes, Benzoyl Peroxide fights acne by killing the P. acnes bacterium on the surface of the skin. It also has a drying and peeling effect, which may help reduce the severity of acne bye taking acne natural treatment options and you may be saying bye bye to blemish.
Users report that Benzoyl Peroxide can take four to six weeks of constant use to achieve full effect, but that it is a powerful tool in acne skin care when used faithfully. It can be found in commercial acne skin care products for acne cures, such as Oxy 5 and Clearasil, but is also available in prescription strength.
Antibiotics are another common treatment used in acne skin care. Like Benzoyl Peroxide, they target the P. acnes bacterium, and can be found in gels and creams, but are usually administered as an oral medication. Common antibiotics used for acne treatment are Erythromycin, Clindamycin, and Tetracycline. Another aspect of antibiotic use in acne skin care is their anti-inflammatory effect, which reduces the redness and swelling of acne eruptions that have already occurred.
Additionally, Sodium Sulfacetamide and Azelaic Acid are prescribed to fight P. acnes bacteria, although neither are antibiotics.
Azelaic Acid, Salicylic Acid, Resorcinol, sulphur, and Adapalene are products that approach acne skin care with the intent to reduce clogged pores by peeling or sloughing off dead skins cells. Salicylic Acid is found in over-the-counter acne care products, such as Stridex, as are Resorcinol and sulphur.
While most acne skin care treatments in this group target the surface of the skin, Adapalene, a prescription-only medication, reduces the build-up of dead skin cells inside the pore itself. Also a prescription-only skin care product, Azelaic Acid has the added benefit of killing P. acnes bacteria. To reduce oil production, there are two common acne skin care treatments: oral contraceptives, and Isotretinoin (Accutane). Of the two, Accutane, a vitamin A derivative, has the most severe side-effects, which include a high risk of birth defects, and is used for severe cases when other acne skin care regimens have failed.
Oral contraceptives work as an acne treatment because they are anti-androgens—they reduce levels of male hormones, specifically testosterone. Increased oil production in women has been linked to elevated levels of testosterone. Not all birth control pills work in the same manner, and the progestins used in some actually act like androgens, so be sure to inform your doctor if you wish your oral contraceptive to serve the dual purpose of acne skin care.
Every acne skin care product available today has side effects, some of them quite severe. Always consult your doctor or dermatologist, and read carefully all labels and warnings before beginning an acne skin care regimen.
Understand The Types, Causes and Treatments Of Acne
You should be able to find several indispensable facts about acne in the following paragraphs. If there's at least one fact you didn't know before, imagine the difference it might make.
The very first thing you must understand when trying to cure your acne is the type of acne that you actually have. This is significant because it gives insight into what may have actually caused the acne outbreak in the first place. And of course, once you know exactly what it is that triggers the acne, you have an advantage to either preventing it from happening again, or effectively treating it as it occurs.
There are many forms of acne, which would explain why it is so difficult to treat. I have listed several causes of acne and many of those may surprise you, but I also hope that they will help you discover what causes your acne. For instance, a great many people would likely be surprised to learn that acne is not caused by stress, as they may think, but more likely can be attributed to their fancy new perfume or cologne.
Adult acne can be caused by a hormonal imbalances, pollution, medications, or stress to name a few. Studies have shown a direct correlation between hormonal imbalances and outbreaks of acne in women ranging in age from 30 to 40 years.
Acne Cosmetic is just what it sounds like. It is the outbreak of acne due to the aggravation of the skin and pores caused by the active ingredients contained in the cosmetics that you wear.
Acne Conglobata can cause serious scarring on the face and back and it is usually attributed to hereditary factors. Unfortunately, there's not a lot that can be done here.
Acne Detergens is the result of the use of soaps and cleaners that cause an irritating effect on the skin. Acne Excoriee is actually brought about by the constant picking of the pimples on the face and body. This, perhaps more than all the other symptoms, can and should be avoided.
If you find yourself confused by what you've read to this point, don't despair. Everything should be crystal clear by the time you finish.
Acne Fulminans is a very serious form of acne that can accompany a fever and body aches. This acne is predominantly found amongst males and it includes the abrupt onset of acne, severe scarring, fever, loss of appetite and a high white blood cell count. Acne Keloidalis is common among people of African descent. It usually flares up in and around the neck area.
Acne Mallorca is brought on by exposure to sunlight. Acne mechanica is caused by materials and fabrics such as clothing and purse straps that chafe against bare skin.
Acne Medicametosa is a side effect of certain medications which include oral contraceptives and over the counter drugs that contain potassium iodide, chlorine and bromide.
Acne Neonatorum is acne that affects infants. It is transferred by way of hormones from the mother to the child.
Acne Pomade is commonly caused by the use of oils found in hair care products. The oil migrates from the hair to the forehead, where it can clog pores and cause acne.
The bottom line is that there are many forms of acne. By taking simple precautions and knowing what causes irritation in your specific case can greatly improve your control of the condition. One great tip is to avoid touching your face with your fingers. The majority of people have no idea how dirty their fingers really are and in many cases the occurrence of outbreaks can be avoided.
Now you can understand why there's a growing interest in acne. When people start looking for more information about acne, you'll be in a position to meet their needs.
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* Arthritis Information * What is Rheumatoid Arthritis? * Rheumatoid Arthritis and Specialty Sleep * Vitamin K, An Arthritis Preventative Home Remedy * Are You Stricken With Chronic Inflammatory Arthritis? * How hemp seed oil can help your arthritis * Natural Remedy For Arthritis
Arthritis Information "Arthritis" is a generic term used today but what does it mean. "Arthr" means joint or articulation. "It is" means inflammation or swelling. Since there are more than 15 different types of arthritis when a person says, "I have arthritis" it begs the question: what kind?
Degenerative Joint Disease
The most common type is degenerative joint disease (DJD) or called osteoarthritis (OA)(. The irony about the most common arthritis is it not considered an inflammatory condition. This condition is a "degenerative" arthritis meaning cartilage and bone is eroding or degenerating.
Another irony is this condition is treated with NSAID's (anti-inflammatory medicine). When considering this condition is not caused by inflammation the NSAID's are helping relieve pain in other ways. Most likely the degeneration in the joint is rubbing or causing irritation on soft tissue around the joint leading to swelling.
The best way to slow DJD is keep the joints moving and active through exercise, stretching and muscle strengthening.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is well known condition that is an inflammatory disease. It is thought RA is an autoimmune disease that can become severe. This condition affects the hands, and other joints, leading to painful joints bone erosions. Redness and swelling and in both hands are classic signs and symptoms of RA.
Blood tests and x-rays help confirm this condition. Since this is an inflammatory condition a diet low in pro-inflammatory foods is recommended. Other medications for inflammation and the condition itself are used to treat RA.
Gout
Gout is an arthritis that is considered a metabolic disorder. Too much monosodium urate crystals are being deposited into joints. A classic joint affected is the big toe, called podagra, but the wrist and hands can also be affected. These crystals are from certain meats and if too much of these meats are consumed then potentially gout could result.
However, the exact cause of this condition is not known. Swelling, redness and pain are big signs and symptoms of this arthritis and potential bone erosion can result. Medications and usually a diet low in certain meats and decreased alcohol consumption is recommended.
Others
There are many other types of arthritis including a debilitating condition called diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis (DISH) that affects mainly males. This condition leads to a spinal fusion of vertebral segments.
Psoriatic arthritis is a condition that maybe associated with psoriasis, or a skin condition. Pseudogout is a condition that can be confused with gout (thus the name) but has other type of crystal deposition in the joint.
Conclusion
It is recommended to know what type of arthritis the sufferer has because each kind maybe treated differently. So the next time you primary health care provider indicates you have "arthritis" clarify which type so you become more informed on potential treatment and management strategies.
What is Rheumatoid Arthritis? Rheumatoid arthritis is the destructive disease that targets primarily joints. However, it also affects many other organs and systems, including brain, heart, kidneys, spleen, blood vessels, lungs, and muscles.
Rheumatoid arthritis affects around 1 in 100 people. In developed countries rheumatoid arthritis is the most common autoimmune disease. Though rheumatoid arthritis may start at any age, it is more common after sixty. One in twenty women over the age of 65 years suffers the disease. Economically it is very expensive disease. Besides high direct medical cost, there is much greater indirect medical price tag. Rheumatoid arthritis cause many complications, requires drastic therapies and orthopedic surgery. Doctors estimate that rheumatoid arthritis makes a one in-three patient permanently disabled. Half of the patients stop work in first decade of diagnosis.
Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic disease. It leads to the loss of mobility due to joint destruction and pain. The joints suffer in a polyarticular manner. That means that many joints affected at the same time. Usually in the beginning joint problems are asymmetrical, later symmetrical ones. The pain improves when you use affected joints. Also there is the morning stiffness of all joints for an hour or more. In osteoarthritis pain worsens in opposite way - over the day after use.
Erosion and destruction of the joint surfaces eventually leads to deformity. The fingers are typically deviated towards the little finger and make unnatural shapes: boutonniere deformity, swan neck deformity, Z-Thumb, "squared hand�. Besides joints problems patients suffer anemia, gastrointestinal bleeding from drugs, splenomegaly (big spleen) and leucopenia (Felty's syndrome), the salivary and lacrimal (tear) glands inflammation (Sjogren's syndrome). Dermatological marks of rheumatoid arthritis include subcutaneous (under skin) nodules mostly on elbows. Lungs may get fibrosis and pulmonary effusions. Blood vessel disorders lead to nail fold infarcts, neuropathies and nephropathies. Amyloidosis affects kidneys, heart and muscles. Heart also suffers form pericarditis and valve destruction. Dry eyes, sclera inflammation and softening may be found. Fissure and leaking of eye humor could happen. Neurological system is affected by neuritis and atlanto-axial subluxation. Eventually it may lead to compression of the spinal cord, paralysis and quadriplegia.
To diagnose rheumatoid arthritis American College of Rheumatologists developed the criteria.
* Morning stiffness more than an hour.
* Arthritis and soft-tissue swelling of more than 3 joints
* Arthritis of hand
* Symmetric arthritis
* Specific subcutaneous nodules
* High rheumatoid factor
* Radiological changes showing joint erosion
At least four criteria are needed to establish the diagnosis.
Immunological and other studies help to confirm the diagnosis: rheumatoid factor, anti-citrullinated protein antibodies, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, C-reactive protein, blood count, renal function tests, liver enzymes, antinuclear antibody. HLA marker DR4 is an important risk factor.
Rheumatoid Arthritis and Specialty Sleep Among the many chronic joint diseases is rheumatoid arthritis, which manifests itself in painful inflammation of the joint lining. It can lead to long term damage, loss of joint function and permanent disability.
Rheumatoid arthritis is characterized by three distinct phases, Stage I includes the swelling of the joint lining which causes pain and swelling around the effected joint, Stage II is characterized by the thickening of the joint lining and in Stage III the thickened lining can actually cause the bone and cartilage to deteriorate leading to disability and obviously misshapen and misaligned joints.
The causes of rheumatoid arthritis are still unknown and there is no cure. Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic disease but on that can be managed with early diagnosis and treatment. Early diagnosis is usually the key to maintaining a sufferer's quality of life as treatment can prevent Stage III rheumatoid arthritis and thereby prevent permanent joint damage and disability.
Part of early treatment is maintaining a healthy lifestyle, which in turn means getting plenty of healthy sleep that lets your joints and muscles completely relax. Some sufferers of rheumatoid arthritis automatically go out and seek the firmest mattress they can find because they have been lauded for skeletal support.
This can be counter-productive however because firm mattresses end up putting more pressure on specific joints of the body and this can actually exacerbate rheumatoid arthritis. Side sleepers, with arthritis in the hips or knees are especially susceptible to this issue.
While many arthritis sufferers have found relief with newer pillows and specialty mattress pads, they really should think about going further to improve their rest and health. For complete rest and physical relaxation, the body must be consistently supported. With pressure distributed properly over the entire body, there is no single area taking the brunt.
One of the only specialty sleep products available that can afford this kind of even pressure distribution is memory foam. Visco elastic memory foam was developed by Nasa to help astronauts in space and although it was never used in that application, it has been widely used in hospitals to help patients that must rest in bed for long periods of time.
Memory foam mattresses can be an excellent idea for anyone who suffers pressure or inflammatory joint conditions. The material is firmly supportive and yet can contour to any individual's body. If you suffer from rheumatoid arthritis in your shoulder, hips or knees, memory foam will not aggravate these joints, rather it will allow them to sink in and be supported while your overall spinal alignment is achieved. In many instances, memory foam mattress toppers of a substantial enough thickness can improve your sleep situation as well.
When looking to buy a memory foam product, you must remember that the density of the memory foam is the most important feature. You'll want 5lb density memory foam and above in your memory foam topper or memory foam mattress to ensure maximum support and longevity of the mattress. If you have a pressure related condition like arthritis, you may also want to spend the extra money and get the thicker topper, a 3 inch rather than 1.5 inch or a 12 inch mattress as opposed to an 8 inch.
The brand name of your memory foam bed is not as important as the density of the foam and the warranty you can get from the manufacturer! Because rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic condition, investing in the right specialty sleep product that will help you get the restorative rest you need, will be critical to both your physical and emotional well being.
When your body is able to rest in sleep and your mind is able to let go for several hours, you will that much more prepared to face another day. If you suffer from a debilitating disease like rheumatoid arthritis, don't let your sleep suffer.
Vitamin K, An Arthritis Preventative Home Remedy Most all of us will have to deal with arthritis joint pain - joint inflammation and deterioration of cartilage - at some time. Arthritis occurs in the knees, elbow, fingers, and any where there is a bone joint. Where it occurs in your body will be determined by genetics, diet, and repetitive use of the joint.
As with most illness or body conditions there is always a home remedy that can help reduce, eliminate or even cure the condition. There are many natural cures for arthritis and many home remedies.
Here is one natural substance that reduces the severity of arthritis and provides a more natural balance and function of bone and chemicals at the bone joint - vitamin k.
Vitamin k also gives blood the ability to form blood clots, which prevent us from bleeding to death whenever we cut ourselves.
There has been recent activity in testing vitamin k for the prevention of arthritis and for reducing the severity of bone degeneration. In her studies, Tuhina Neogi, of Boston University School of Medicine found that low levels of vitamin k in individual activated bone and cartilage deterioration. And, those found with low vitamin k also had more severe arthritis.
So what does all of this mean? When you are deficient in vitamin k you are more susceptible to bone and cartilage degeneration and abnormities. As you age and start to have arthritis and you are deficient in vitamin k your arthritis will be more severe.
Here's how to get more vitamin k in your diet. You can take vitamin k supplement in doses of 5 to 15 mg daily. Look for plant based vitamin k1 and k2 since these have no toxicity associated with them. Avoid using K3 which is the synthetic form, which can cause liver toxicity.
For those of you that are using blood thinning medication, coumadin, it best not to use vitamin k supplements. In some cases doctors also recommend not eating those foods that are high in vitamin k.
But if you not taking blood thinning medication and have no major cardiovascular conditions then supplementing with vitamin k should not be a problem.
Here are some foods that you should be eating daily to get natural organic vitamin k:
Dark green leafy vegetables of all kinds, chestnut leaves, spinach leaves, kale, cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, endive, olive oil, avocados, meat, egg yolk, cheese, yogurt.
Start eating more dark green vegetables and add a small amount of vitamin k to your daily diet. This will help you offset the degradation of you bone joints and reduce the severity of arthritis as you use your joints more and more.
Are You Stricken With Chronic Inflammatory Arthritis? Arthritis generally comes in two forms osteoarthritis and inflammatory-arthritis. For this article we will discuss inflammatory-arthritis and natural herbal alternatives for reducing swelling and pain. The popular option for controlling arthritis pain is taking prescribed non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs; these drugs have been linked to cardiovascular, kidney and liver disease. If that doesn't sound appealing, natural alternatives are available for inflammatory arthritis. Herbs like boswellia, ginger, skullcap, turmeric, acacia, hops, holy basil, feverfew, and white willow bark. Fortunately supplement manufacturers have learned about the anti-inflammatory properties of these herbs and do make them in various combinations to help relieve swelling and pain.
The first one on the list is boswellia, has a long history of use as a mild anti-inflammatory herb for joint pain and stiffness, and noted by herbalists of its effectiveness.
The primary compound in boswellia known for its anti-inflammatory affect is boswellic acid, when purchasing boswellia always look for products standardized to boswellic acid. Ginger root has been known for its anti-inflammatory affects as well, ginger inhibits the production of the immune-system components called cytokines which cause inflammation in the body.
Ginger is also known as a COX-1 and COX-2 inhibitor in suppressing prostaglandin synthesis which would reduce inflammation in the body. Ginger also stimulates circulation helping the body bring vital blood and nutrients to the inflamed areas of the body. Skullcap is used in traditional Chinese medicine as an anti-inflammatory herb.
Turmeric also known as Curcumin has been used in Asia, India, china, central and south America as an anti-inflammatory herb for many years. The curcuminoids in turmeric has been clinically proven to reduce inflammation. Turmeric is also a potent antioxidant good for fighting free radical damage which tend to cause inflammation in the body. Acacia and hops are both traditionally used for inflammation and pain.
Feverfew since the first century has been used for the treatment of headaches, fever, menstrual discomfort, arthritis, and other aches and pains. According to a clinical trial study in England, feverfew when taken for three to four months can reduce the severity and frequency of migraines and other sorts of pain.
Feverfew acts in a manner like the class of pain relievers known as COX-2 inhibitors, feverfew also reduces the absorption of thymidine by white blood cells, this will reduce the rate at which leukotrienes is produced which is a inflammatory chemical in the body.
Finally, white willow bark has been used like aspirin as a pain killer with out the aspirin side effects. White willow has been used for fever, colds, minor infections, acute and chronic rheumatic disorders, mild headaches, and pain caused by inflammation.
According to a clinical study done on white willow bark in England, researchers at the center for Complementary Health Studies at the University of Exeter gave eighty two participants with chronic arthritic pain either Reumalex, herbal supplement with white willow, or placebo. After two months the white willow herb proved to be superior to the placebo pill.
This is by far a complete list of herbs good for reducing inflammation in the body but it is a good start to help you on your way to recovering from inflammatory arthritis. As always, the statements in this article are not intended to diagnose, treat and cure or prevent disease please consult your health care physician before discontinuing medication or introducing herbs into your diet if you are currently on medication of any kind.
How hemp seed oil can help your arthritis There is a huge problem that exists today with the enormous number of people suffering from arthritis in its many forms. It is said that well over half the population of this country who are over 60 suffer from either osteo or rheumatoid arthritis.
What both forms of the disease actually are I will not go into here, as it is a long and complex subject. But, arthritis is a form of inflammation which mainstream medicine appears unable to address.
Both are caused by what I call "bone and cartilage gravel", the bits of bone and cartilage which are left in the joints after the body has started to degenerate, rubbing in the joints each time it moves. This "gravel" rubs on the nerve ends, causing pain, whilst at the same time creating more damage as the "gravel" continues to rub away more of the bone and cartilage. In other words, a vicious circle that modern medicine cannot resolve.
But there are ways in the alternative remedy field that may, and I know of many cases that have, been able to break this circle.
I recommend that a daily Hemp Oil Capsule, or the liquid neat, which is quite tasty, and can be taken off a spoon, should be considered long term. Hemp Oil comes from hemp seed: THE MOST NUTRITIONALLY COMPLETE FOOD SOURCE IN THE WORLD.
Taking a quality Hemp Oil is just the same for your body as putting oil in your car's engine. It lubricates the system. Hemp is unique with an almost perfectly balanced profile of Omega 3, 6 & 9 to match the body's requirements.
Uniquely among common seed oil, it also contains GLA (Gamma-Linolenic Acid) and even more uniquely, raises circulating GLA.
GLA (Gamma-Linolenic Acid) research around the world has shown that hemp oil (as can all essential fatty acids) boosts the body's natural ability to heal and also boosts our immune systems. The Essential Fatty Acids in hemp are renowned for their ability to improve cell growth and organ function, vitality and mental state.
Extensive studies have shown that many common illnesses (such as Eczema, Arthritis and many other problems) are related to deficiencies or imbalances of specific fatty acids, and in particular, Omega 3, 6 & 9. Seeds of the plant cannabis sativa, hemp seed (not the drug plant!) contain all the essential amino acids and essential fatty acids necessary to maintain healthy human life. No other single plant source has the essential amino acids in such an easily digestible form, nor has the essential fatty acids in as perfect a ratio to meet human nutritional needs.
Its distinctive nutty flavour makes it ideal for use in salad dressings, dips etc., as an accompaniment to all vegetables, or taken straight, as a nutritional supplement.
Hemp Oil is suitable for Vegetarians and Vegans.
Natural Remedy For Arthritis Pain relief is the main area of concern for the sufferers of arthritis. These people have often tried traditional medications without success, they are often not eligible for surgery and as a result, they will see relieve through natural remedies for arthritis.
Because of the increasing cost of the prescription medications, most of the arthritis sufferers are seeking natural remedies for arthritis. Many natural remedies of arthritis and supplements are helpful in reduction of cartilage deterioration and even rebuild a patient's lost cartilage. Supplements However it is advisable to consult a healthcare advisor before starting any natural remedy for arthritis as supplements can cause adverse reactions and may not be right for your situation.
You should remember one thing that the FDA does not regulate dietary supplements. This is because, plants, fats, proteins and animal organs and tissues as well as herbs, minerals and vitamins doesn't need approval from FDA.
So some supplements may be beneficial to arthritic patients and some may not. Note also that producers of supplements may very well promote that their supplements work great, but they do not have to use standardized ingredients or recipes, disclose side effects that have been reported, nor prove that the products are indeed effective. Chondroitin, Fish Oil and Glucosamine
The most popular dietary supplements for arthritis sufferers are chondroitin, fish oil and glucosamine. Chondroitin is helpful in drawing fluid into the cartilage, improving the ability of shock-absorbing and weight control, as more weight leads to more joint pressure. Fish oils are helpful in controlling the inflammation in the body.
According to a recent study, glucosamine is a cartilage-building substance, which is effective in long-term relief of osteoarthritis pain. In some people, glucosamine appears to even slow the deterioration of joints over time and strengthen the joint cartilage.
It is still unclear whether glucosamine is helpful in curing arthritis or not. In some occasions, glucosamine can be used in conjunction with MSM, a substance that appears to slow down the deterioration but is not yet proven and approved.
Natural Remedy For arthritis In Brief:
* Vitamin E - This antioxidant is used primarily for osteoarthritis. * Vitamin B is also an effective pain reliever. It works best on the knee and can help stop degeneration that is caused by free-radical molecules, not only in the joints but in other areas of the body as well * Ginger - Ginger is an antioxidant that acts as an inflammatory with no major side effects. * Glucosamine sulfate - This builds cartilage with very few side effects. * MSM - This organic sulfur is used in the reduction of inflammation. * Nettle leaf - Nettles can reduce a patient's need for NSAIDS (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) by up to 70 percent. * Chondroitin - Helps draw fluid into cartilage, improving shock-absorbing ability. * Magnets - Although magnets that are worn as jewelry or placed on bed linens have been reported by some to be effective pain relievers, results are still preliminary; doctors claim that these magnets are not strong enough.
These are merely a few instances of what an arthritis sufferer can use when he wants to go for natural remedy for arthritis. However, due to the lack of scientific study and testing on many of these alternate arthritis treatments, there is no proof of their effectiveness.
Unfortunately, there is no cure available for arthritis. But you can delay the effects of arthritis by maintaining a healthy weight. Exercise regularly and eat a healthy and avoid repetitious movements that cause you pain.
Actually osteoarthritis is not curable, but nutritional supplements, exercise, weight loss, and the application of heat or cold to affected joints can improve the function and flexibility of your joints, and perhaps even slow the progress of the disease.
There's no doubt that the topic of Arthritis remedies can be fascinating. If you still have unanswered questions about arthritis cure, you may find what you're looking for in our website.
posted on 10:37 AM
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