Once a stroke has occurred, there is no treatment that can completely reverse the damage caused by it. Therefore the best treatment is prevention. Primary prevention means preventing the first stoke from occurring.
Primary Prevention
1. Control high blood pressure
2. Stop smoking
3. Control diabetes mellitus and high blood cholesterol
4. Treat abnormal heart rhythms, e.g. atrial fibrillation
5. See a doctor when a TIA has occurred
6. Lead a healthy lifestyle, including exercising regularly and avoiding obesity
Secondary prevention
Secondary prevention means preventing another stroke after the patient has already suffered one or more strokes. This includes all the above measures under primary prevention as well as taking prescribed medications to prevent another stroke.
Friday, July 18, 2008
Monday, May 19, 2008
What Causes Stroke?
A stroke happens when:
1. A blood clot forms in an artery in the brain that is already narrowed by cholesterol deposits.
2. An artery in the brain is blocked by a blood clot, piece of fat or air bubble traveling in the blood from another part of the body.
3. An artery in the brain bursts and bleeds. This may be due to high blood pressure, head injury or a weak artery wall from birth.
4. An artery in the brain is compressed by a tightening of the artery wall or a tumors.
It may be possible to prevent a stroke and its complications if you a see a doctor as soon as you notice any of these warning signs:
1. temporary weakness or numbness occurring suddenly in one arm or leg on one side of the face
2. temporary difficulty in speaking or slurring of speech
3. sudden poor vision or ‘blackout’ in one eye
4. unexplained headaches or a change in the usual headache pattern
5. temporary dizziness or fainting.
You should see a doctor as soon as you suspect a stroke.
1. A blood clot forms in an artery in the brain that is already narrowed by cholesterol deposits.
2. An artery in the brain is blocked by a blood clot, piece of fat or air bubble traveling in the blood from another part of the body.
3. An artery in the brain bursts and bleeds. This may be due to high blood pressure, head injury or a weak artery wall from birth.
4. An artery in the brain is compressed by a tightening of the artery wall or a tumors.
It may be possible to prevent a stroke and its complications if you a see a doctor as soon as you notice any of these warning signs:
1. temporary weakness or numbness occurring suddenly in one arm or leg on one side of the face
2. temporary difficulty in speaking or slurring of speech
3. sudden poor vision or ‘blackout’ in one eye
4. unexplained headaches or a change in the usual headache pattern
5. temporary dizziness or fainting.
You should see a doctor as soon as you suspect a stroke.
Sunday, May 4, 2008
What Happens When A Stroke Occurs
A stroke occurs when the blood supply to a part of the brain is cut off and the brain cells in that part cannot function. The affected person may have:
1. Weakness or paralysis, usually on one side of the body, often with loss of feeling in the affected areas.
2. Difficulty in speaking or understanding
3. Difficulty in swallowing
4. Loss of concentration and memory
5. Loss of control of passing urine or passing motion
6. Behavior changes such as laughing or crying at the wrong time, feeling depressed or showing bad temper.
If the blood supply is cut off only for a very short time in a small part of the brain, the effects will be mild and temporary. If it is cut off for a long period, the effects will be more severe and longer lasting. In a few cases, a stroke can result in death.
1. Weakness or paralysis, usually on one side of the body, often with loss of feeling in the affected areas.
2. Difficulty in speaking or understanding
3. Difficulty in swallowing
4. Loss of concentration and memory
5. Loss of control of passing urine or passing motion
6. Behavior changes such as laughing or crying at the wrong time, feeling depressed or showing bad temper.
If the blood supply is cut off only for a very short time in a small part of the brain, the effects will be mild and temporary. If it is cut off for a long period, the effects will be more severe and longer lasting. In a few cases, a stroke can result in death.
Friday, April 25, 2008
Health Tips On What To Do When Suffering A Hearth Attack
When emergency actions can you take if you are suffering a hearth attack and you are alone? Without immediate medical assistance, most people have very little time to react. If you find yourself in this situation and you have access to a telephone, immediately dial 911 and then try intentionally coughing deeply and vigorously. Before each cough, take a deep breath, and continue coughing about every two seconds until emergency help arrives. Deep breaths send oxygen to the lungs, and the sharp movements of the rib cage from coughing squeeze the heart muscle to help keep blood circulating. Even if the pain subsides and your heartbeat returns to what seems normal, you still must follow up with a medical professional to determine what treatment and lifestyle changes you require to maintain or improve your health.
Friday, April 11, 2008
Too Much or Not Enough
Health problems like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, hardening of the arteries, heart attack and stroke are frequently caused or aggravated by:
Too much salt, not enough potassium
Too much phosphorous, not enough calcium and magnesium
Too much sugar and refined starches, not enough fruits, vegetables, and nuts
Too much sedentary activity, too little exercise
Too much coffee, tea, soda and alcohol, not enough pure water
Too much animal fat in the diet, not enough essential vegetable and dish oils
Too much nicotine and carbon monoxide, not enough fresh air
Too much stress, hustle-bustle and hassle, not enough deep relaxation
Too much anger, bitterness and resentment, not enough forgiveness and tolerance
Too much loneliness, isolation, not enough affection and appreciation
Too much selfishness, not enough sharing and giving
Too much emphasis on pleasure, not enough emphasis on happiness
Too much anxiety, fear and worry, not enough trust and faith
Too much salt, not enough potassium
Too much phosphorous, not enough calcium and magnesium
Too much sugar and refined starches, not enough fruits, vegetables, and nuts
Too much sedentary activity, too little exercise
Too much coffee, tea, soda and alcohol, not enough pure water
Too much animal fat in the diet, not enough essential vegetable and dish oils
Too much nicotine and carbon monoxide, not enough fresh air
Too much stress, hustle-bustle and hassle, not enough deep relaxation
Too much anger, bitterness and resentment, not enough forgiveness and tolerance
Too much loneliness, isolation, not enough affection and appreciation
Too much selfishness, not enough sharing and giving
Too much emphasis on pleasure, not enough emphasis on happiness
Too much anxiety, fear and worry, not enough trust and faith
Labels:
Cholesterol,
Heart Disease,
High Blood Pressure,
Stroke
Friday, April 4, 2008
Health Tips On Alkaline Food To Prevent Heart Disease (Part 2)
Alkaline-Forming Fruits and Fruit Juices
Apples, apricots, bananas (ripe), cherries, currants, dates, figs, grapes, grapefruit, guava, honeydew, kiwi, kumquats, lemons, limes, mangos, oranges, papaya, peaches, pears, pineapple, raisins, strawberries and watermelon.
Alkaline-Forming Vegetables and Vegetables Juices
Artichokes, asparagus, bamboo shoots, beets, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, carrots, celery, cauliflower, corn, cucumbers, endive, green beans, lettuce, mushrooms, mustard greens, onions, peas, peppers, potatoes, pumpkin, seaweed, soybeans products, spinach squash, water chestnuts, watercress, yams etc.
Alkaline-Forming Nuts
Almonds and chestnuts.
Alkaline-Forming Oils
Almond, canola, castor, coconut, corn, sesame, soy and sunflower.
Alkaline-Forming Sugars and Sweeteners
Dried sugar-cane juice, honey and molasses
Alkaline-Forming Herbal Teas
Alfalfa, clover, comfrey, ginsengs, mint, raspberry, sage, spearmint and strawberry.
Alkaline-Forming Seasonings
Anise, bay leaves, basil, caraway seed, celery seed, chives, cinnamon, cloves, curry power, dill, fennel seed, garlic ginger, nutmeg, rosemary, sage, sea salt and vanilla extract.
Try to take these alkaline food daily and keep your body in good health and free from heart disease.
Apples, apricots, bananas (ripe), cherries, currants, dates, figs, grapes, grapefruit, guava, honeydew, kiwi, kumquats, lemons, limes, mangos, oranges, papaya, peaches, pears, pineapple, raisins, strawberries and watermelon.
Alkaline-Forming Vegetables and Vegetables Juices
Artichokes, asparagus, bamboo shoots, beets, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, carrots, celery, cauliflower, corn, cucumbers, endive, green beans, lettuce, mushrooms, mustard greens, onions, peas, peppers, potatoes, pumpkin, seaweed, soybeans products, spinach squash, water chestnuts, watercress, yams etc.
Alkaline-Forming Nuts
Almonds and chestnuts.
Alkaline-Forming Oils
Almond, canola, castor, coconut, corn, sesame, soy and sunflower.
Alkaline-Forming Sugars and Sweeteners
Dried sugar-cane juice, honey and molasses
Alkaline-Forming Herbal Teas
Alfalfa, clover, comfrey, ginsengs, mint, raspberry, sage, spearmint and strawberry.
Alkaline-Forming Seasonings
Anise, bay leaves, basil, caraway seed, celery seed, chives, cinnamon, cloves, curry power, dill, fennel seed, garlic ginger, nutmeg, rosemary, sage, sea salt and vanilla extract.
Try to take these alkaline food daily and keep your body in good health and free from heart disease.
Friday, March 28, 2008
Health Tips On Alkaline Food To Prevent Heart Disease (Part 1)
Keep your body’s chemistry alkaline. Alkaline-producing foods, which include most fruits and vegetables, leave a digested ash where most of the elements that are beneficial – calcium, magnesium, potassium, and sodium - are positively charged ions. The residual ash of acid-producing goods, such as diary products, grains (including wheat), meats and sweets, contains a greater number of negatively charged ions, including chlorine, iodine and phosphorous. Infectious viruses live better in a acidic environment than in alkaline environment. People who keep their bodies in a predominantly alkaline state also have a reduced risk of developing degenerative and inflammatory conditions such as arthritis, cancer and heart disease.
A simple but highly effective way to help keep your body chemistry alkaline is to squeeze the juice of one-half of a ripe lemon in a glass of water upon rising in the morning. Sip the drink slowly while going through your morning routine. Throughout the day, for lunch, midday snacks and dinner, keep your body chemistry balanced by eating and drinking alkaline-forming foods and juices. Doing so will help prevent colds, flu, and other infectious diseases, as well as degenerative and inflammatory conditions.
A simple but highly effective way to help keep your body chemistry alkaline is to squeeze the juice of one-half of a ripe lemon in a glass of water upon rising in the morning. Sip the drink slowly while going through your morning routine. Throughout the day, for lunch, midday snacks and dinner, keep your body chemistry balanced by eating and drinking alkaline-forming foods and juices. Doing so will help prevent colds, flu, and other infectious diseases, as well as degenerative and inflammatory conditions.
Saturday, March 22, 2008
Health Tips On Food To Prevent Heart Disease
The factors in heart attack are numerous and include smoking and tobacco use, alcohol consumption, chronic dehydration, poor diet, diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels, lack of exercise, and stress.
Beginning with food, a major step toward helping to prevent heart attacks, hardening of the arteries and a wide variety of other blood-vessel diseases is to cut out animal fats and foods fried in animal fats from your diet. On the other hand, lean red meats, especially if not overcooked, can actually be beneficial in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases, as they contain many essential nutrients that are not as widely available in other foods. It’s better to bake, broil, or steam your foods and always avoid overcooking. Another essential element to keep your body in good health is to keep your body chemistry alkaline which I will be posting some health tips in the next post.
Beginning with food, a major step toward helping to prevent heart attacks, hardening of the arteries and a wide variety of other blood-vessel diseases is to cut out animal fats and foods fried in animal fats from your diet. On the other hand, lean red meats, especially if not overcooked, can actually be beneficial in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases, as they contain many essential nutrients that are not as widely available in other foods. It’s better to bake, broil, or steam your foods and always avoid overcooking. Another essential element to keep your body in good health is to keep your body chemistry alkaline which I will be posting some health tips in the next post.
Thursday, March 20, 2008
Health Tips Related To Heart Disease
High Cholesterol will lead to cardiovascular disease, affecting the heart and blood vessels, is the number-one killer in America today. By far, the major cause of hearth attack and stroke is inflammation and hardening of the arteries, which results in a buildup of hard, fatty plaque deposits on the inner lining of blood vessels that supply nutrients and oxygen to the heart and the brain. There are many different factors that contribute to the blockage, breakdown, hardening, and inflammation of these critically important blood vessels. In the next few posts, will provide some important information to help to avoid becoming a casualty of the most fatal health disorder known to humans.
Thursday, March 13, 2008
Treatment Options for High Cholesterol
If you have been diagnosed with high cholesterol, there are many treatment options for you. At first, your health care practitioner may want to try lowering your cholesterol through modifying your life style. This would include exercising, eating healthier, smoking cessation, and weight loss. This may or may not work for you. If you are a diabetic or have some form of heart disease, your physician may want to take a more aggressive approach to lowering your cholesterol. If your cholesterol levels are still high after improving your lifestyle, cholesterol medication may be right for you. There are many prescription drugs on the market that are very effective at lowering your cholesterol levels. Depending on what your lipid profile looks like, you may take either one drug or a combination of drugs.
1. Statins
Also referred to as HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors, these are probably the most commonly prescribed drugs on the market. They work by inhibiting a protein called HMG-CoA reductase, which is an important molecule in making cholesterol. This class of drugs include: pravastatin (Pravachol ®), atorvastatin (Lipitor®), lovastatin (Mevacor®), rosuvastatin (Crestor®), simvastatin (Zocor®), and fluvastatin (Lescol®). These drugs are used to help every part of your lipid profile: they increase HDL (good cholesterol) up to 15 percent, decrease LDL (bad cholesterol) by 18 to 65 percent, and decrease triglycerides by 7 to 30 percent.
2. Bile Acid Resins
Also referred to as bile acid sequestrants, these drugs mainly come in a powdered form or pill form. These drugs work by binding bile acid in your intestines. The liver makes bile acids out of cholesterol. Bile acid resins bind bile acids in the gut and cause them to be excreted, therefore forcing the liver to “waste” more cholesterol by manufacturing replacement bile acids. The medications included in this class are cholestyramine (Questran®), colestipol (Colestid®), and colesevelam (WelChol®). Bile acid resins lower LDL between 15 to 30 percent, but only have a modest effect on HDL and do not affect triglyceride levels.
3. Fibrates
This class of prescription drugs is also referred to as fibric acid derivatives and includes gemfibrozil (Lopid®) and fenofibrate (Tricor®). They function by activating a receptor on cells called PPAR (peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors), which is responsible for regulating the cell’s use of carbohydrates and fats (like cholesterol). Therefore, by activating PPAR receptors, fibrates decrease cholesterol levels. Fibrates are particularly useful in lowering triglyceride levels (by up to 50 percent). Additionally, they can raise HDL levels between 10 to 20 percent. These drugs can also lower LDL levels (by between 5 to 20 percent), but they are not as effective in lowering LDL as they are at lowering triglycerides.
4. Absorption Inhibitors
Ezetimibe (Zetia®) is the only prescription drug currently in this class. This drug prevents cholesterol from being absorbed from the small intestine and entering the blood, thus lowering your cholesterol levels. Ezetimibe slightly lowers LDL and triglycerides and slightly raises HDL. Therefore, this drug may be taken with another drug (like a statin) to greatly lower cholesterol levels.
5. Niacin
This drug is available over-the-counter and as a prescription. On the pharmacy shelf, you may see it listed as vitamin B3 or nicotinic acid. As a prescription, it is marketed under Niaspan®. Niacin works by decreasing the amount of cholesterol made by the liver. It greatly raises HDL levels (up to 35 percent), lowers LDL levels and significantly lowers triglyceride levels (up to 50 percent).
1. Statins
Also referred to as HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors, these are probably the most commonly prescribed drugs on the market. They work by inhibiting a protein called HMG-CoA reductase, which is an important molecule in making cholesterol. This class of drugs include: pravastatin (Pravachol ®), atorvastatin (Lipitor®), lovastatin (Mevacor®), rosuvastatin (Crestor®), simvastatin (Zocor®), and fluvastatin (Lescol®). These drugs are used to help every part of your lipid profile: they increase HDL (good cholesterol) up to 15 percent, decrease LDL (bad cholesterol) by 18 to 65 percent, and decrease triglycerides by 7 to 30 percent.
2. Bile Acid Resins
Also referred to as bile acid sequestrants, these drugs mainly come in a powdered form or pill form. These drugs work by binding bile acid in your intestines. The liver makes bile acids out of cholesterol. Bile acid resins bind bile acids in the gut and cause them to be excreted, therefore forcing the liver to “waste” more cholesterol by manufacturing replacement bile acids. The medications included in this class are cholestyramine (Questran®), colestipol (Colestid®), and colesevelam (WelChol®). Bile acid resins lower LDL between 15 to 30 percent, but only have a modest effect on HDL and do not affect triglyceride levels.
3. Fibrates
This class of prescription drugs is also referred to as fibric acid derivatives and includes gemfibrozil (Lopid®) and fenofibrate (Tricor®). They function by activating a receptor on cells called PPAR (peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors), which is responsible for regulating the cell’s use of carbohydrates and fats (like cholesterol). Therefore, by activating PPAR receptors, fibrates decrease cholesterol levels. Fibrates are particularly useful in lowering triglyceride levels (by up to 50 percent). Additionally, they can raise HDL levels between 10 to 20 percent. These drugs can also lower LDL levels (by between 5 to 20 percent), but they are not as effective in lowering LDL as they are at lowering triglycerides.
4. Absorption Inhibitors
Ezetimibe (Zetia®) is the only prescription drug currently in this class. This drug prevents cholesterol from being absorbed from the small intestine and entering the blood, thus lowering your cholesterol levels. Ezetimibe slightly lowers LDL and triglycerides and slightly raises HDL. Therefore, this drug may be taken with another drug (like a statin) to greatly lower cholesterol levels.
5. Niacin
This drug is available over-the-counter and as a prescription. On the pharmacy shelf, you may see it listed as vitamin B3 or nicotinic acid. As a prescription, it is marketed under Niaspan®. Niacin works by decreasing the amount of cholesterol made by the liver. It greatly raises HDL levels (up to 35 percent), lowers LDL levels and significantly lowers triglyceride levels (up to 50 percent).
Friday, March 7, 2008
Beware The Dangers Of Low Cholesterol That Lead To Health Problems
High cholesterol can be a warning to heart trouble but low cholesterol can be a warning sign to disease.
People with low cholesterol are more likely to die from cancer and respiratory and digestive diseases – not diseases related to clogged arteries. One study found that people with low cholesterol also had low levels of antioxidants. Researchers believe low levels of antioxidants can put your body at greater risk of free radicals, which can damage cells and lead to disease.
Another research found that when elderly people have low cholesterol and low levels of albumin, a blood protein, their risk of dying goes up substantially.
Low cholesterol levels may also contribute to poor mental health. Women with very low levels of cholesterol were more likely to suffer from depression and anxiety. More than a third of the women with low cholesterol scored high on tests designed to measure degrees of depression. Only about one-fifth of the women in the study with higher levels of cholesterol scored high on the depression scale. So from today onwards, keep your health in good conditions by keeping the cholesterol level in desire range.
People with low cholesterol are more likely to die from cancer and respiratory and digestive diseases – not diseases related to clogged arteries. One study found that people with low cholesterol also had low levels of antioxidants. Researchers believe low levels of antioxidants can put your body at greater risk of free radicals, which can damage cells and lead to disease.
Another research found that when elderly people have low cholesterol and low levels of albumin, a blood protein, their risk of dying goes up substantially.
Low cholesterol levels may also contribute to poor mental health. Women with very low levels of cholesterol were more likely to suffer from depression and anxiety. More than a third of the women with low cholesterol scored high on tests designed to measure degrees of depression. Only about one-fifth of the women in the study with higher levels of cholesterol scored high on the depression scale. So from today onwards, keep your health in good conditions by keeping the cholesterol level in desire range.
Saturday, March 1, 2008
Healthy foods that cut cholesterol
Okay. Let’s change another health topic. The next health tips that I’m going to share with you is to reduce cholesterol level.
A good way to start is by maintaining a healthy weight and eating less saturated fat. Below are some of the food that you can consider.
Health tips 1: Take orange juice
A glass of orange juice at each meal can increase your good HDL. A recent study found that people who drank three glasses of orange juice a day raised there HDL levels by 21% and lowered the ratio of bad LDL to good HDL by 16 percent. Orange juice increased folate levels, too. Folate, also called folic acid, is known to fight homocysteine, a heart disease risk factor.
Health tips 2: Take Garlic
Studies found that garlic prevents the build up of fat and cholesterol in your arteries, reduces triglycerides, and increases HDL cholesterol. In one of those studies, eating a fresh clove of garlic every day for 16 weeks reduced cholesterol by an amazing 20 percent.
Health tips 3: Take Fiber
Finer helps lower LDL and may even raise HDL. Fiber also fills you up, leaving less room for meat and dairy product. Bran, oats, barley, wild rice, hominy, and flaxseed are good sources of fiber. Legumes, like split peas, black-eyed peas, lentils, kidney beans, and soybeans are another inexpensive way to ad fiber to your meal. Fruits and vegetables are loaded with fiber too.
Health tips 4: Take Yogurt
Some bacteria can be good to you. Yogurt fermented by certain kinds of bacterial may reduce your cholesterol levels. Experts have debated yogurt’s ability to lower cholesterol for years. Researchers analyzed the results of several studies and came to the conclusion that several fermented dairy products were effective in lowering cholesterol, including yogurt and milk products that contain bifidus or acidophilus. Other cholesterol-lowering foods include fermented vegetables and kefir, a fermented dairy product.
A good way to start is by maintaining a healthy weight and eating less saturated fat. Below are some of the food that you can consider.
Health tips 1: Take orange juice
A glass of orange juice at each meal can increase your good HDL. A recent study found that people who drank three glasses of orange juice a day raised there HDL levels by 21% and lowered the ratio of bad LDL to good HDL by 16 percent. Orange juice increased folate levels, too. Folate, also called folic acid, is known to fight homocysteine, a heart disease risk factor.
Health tips 2: Take Garlic
Studies found that garlic prevents the build up of fat and cholesterol in your arteries, reduces triglycerides, and increases HDL cholesterol. In one of those studies, eating a fresh clove of garlic every day for 16 weeks reduced cholesterol by an amazing 20 percent.
Health tips 3: Take Fiber
Finer helps lower LDL and may even raise HDL. Fiber also fills you up, leaving less room for meat and dairy product. Bran, oats, barley, wild rice, hominy, and flaxseed are good sources of fiber. Legumes, like split peas, black-eyed peas, lentils, kidney beans, and soybeans are another inexpensive way to ad fiber to your meal. Fruits and vegetables are loaded with fiber too.
Health tips 4: Take Yogurt
Some bacteria can be good to you. Yogurt fermented by certain kinds of bacterial may reduce your cholesterol levels. Experts have debated yogurt’s ability to lower cholesterol for years. Researchers analyzed the results of several studies and came to the conclusion that several fermented dairy products were effective in lowering cholesterol, including yogurt and milk products that contain bifidus or acidophilus. Other cholesterol-lowering foods include fermented vegetables and kefir, a fermented dairy product.
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
Apply Acupressure Techniques To Reduce Tension Headaches
If you feel as if a vise is slowly squeezing your temples; if the muscles around your head, face, and neck are tense; if your whole head feels sore and pressurized, you’ve got a tension headache.
The ancient Chinese art of acupressure treats many complaints caused by tension. The theory is you can press on specific points of your body to release energy blocks and relieve pain.
The following acupressure points are especially helpful at soothing tension headaches.
1. Find the two small hollows on wither side of your neck, just below the base of your skull. Firmly press your thumbs here- up toward your skull. Close your eyes, tilt your head back, and breathe slowly and deeply. Hold this for one to two minutes.
2. With your right thumb, press into the center hollow in the back of your neck, just below the base of your skull. With your left thumb and index finger, press on wither side of the bridge of your nose. For about two minutes, close your eyes, tilt your head back, and breathe deeply.
3. Use the thumb of one hand to press the area between the thumb and index finger of of your other hand. Make sure you apply pressure toward the base of your index finger. Hold this for about a minute, then switch hands.
The ancient Chinese art of acupressure treats many complaints caused by tension. The theory is you can press on specific points of your body to release energy blocks and relieve pain.
The following acupressure points are especially helpful at soothing tension headaches.
1. Find the two small hollows on wither side of your neck, just below the base of your skull. Firmly press your thumbs here- up toward your skull. Close your eyes, tilt your head back, and breathe slowly and deeply. Hold this for one to two minutes.
2. With your right thumb, press into the center hollow in the back of your neck, just below the base of your skull. With your left thumb and index finger, press on wither side of the bridge of your nose. For about two minutes, close your eyes, tilt your head back, and breathe deeply.
3. Use the thumb of one hand to press the area between the thumb and index finger of of your other hand. Make sure you apply pressure toward the base of your index finger. Hold this for about a minute, then switch hands.
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
Fast Fixes For Sinus Headaches
Sinus headache can affect your health as it causes unbearable pain and pressure around your eyes and in your cheeks. If you need relief, try the following health tips.
Use a vaporizer.
The warm, moist air will help your sinuses drain.
Water
Drink 8 to 10 glasses of water a day to thin the mucus and clear your nasal passages.
Use Pillow
Put extra pillows under your head when you sleep so mucus won’t drain back into your sinuses. If sinus pressure is worse on one side, sleep on the other side.
Take a hot shower
The steam will help clear your nasal passages and relieve the pain and pressure.
Eat spicy food
Eating hot, spicy foods or herbs, such as hot chilies, horseradish or garlic will help open your nasal passages.
Nasal wash
A nasal wash using warm salt water and a rubber syringe can be a huge help in treating and preventing sinusitis.
Nasal Spray
Nasal spray can give you relief, but don’t use it longer than three days. Instead ask your doctor to prescribe a corticosteroid spray to reduce inflammation in your nose.
Pinpoint and eliminate the root cause
Your sinus headache could be caused by hay fever or some other allergen in your environment. Keep track of when and where your headaches strike.
Lastly, if the discharge from your stuffy nose turns greenish-yellow, it’s time to see your doctor. You could have a sinus infection.
Use a vaporizer.
The warm, moist air will help your sinuses drain.
Water
Drink 8 to 10 glasses of water a day to thin the mucus and clear your nasal passages.
Use Pillow
Put extra pillows under your head when you sleep so mucus won’t drain back into your sinuses. If sinus pressure is worse on one side, sleep on the other side.
Take a hot shower
The steam will help clear your nasal passages and relieve the pain and pressure.
Eat spicy food
Eating hot, spicy foods or herbs, such as hot chilies, horseradish or garlic will help open your nasal passages.
Nasal wash
A nasal wash using warm salt water and a rubber syringe can be a huge help in treating and preventing sinusitis.
Nasal Spray
Nasal spray can give you relief, but don’t use it longer than three days. Instead ask your doctor to prescribe a corticosteroid spray to reduce inflammation in your nose.
Pinpoint and eliminate the root cause
Your sinus headache could be caused by hay fever or some other allergen in your environment. Keep track of when and where your headaches strike.
Lastly, if the discharge from your stuffy nose turns greenish-yellow, it’s time to see your doctor. You could have a sinus infection.
Monday, February 25, 2008
7 Ways To Manage Migraines Naturally
Migraines can be so painful that your only option is to close the curtains and stay in bed.
Here are some things you can try to head off a migraine disaster naturally. Get rid of migraines today and lead a healthy lifestyle.
Ginger
This fragrant herb may be the root of relief for some migraine suffers. Herbalists generally recommend 2 to 4 grams of ginger a day, but for migraines, you might need more. You can buy ginger roots from supermarket or buy supplement s as gelatin capsules. You can also make ginger tea by simmering several slices of fresh ginger root in a cup of water for about 15 minutes.
Caffeine
A combination of acetaminophen, aspirin, and caffeine has proven helpful for people suffering severe migraines pain. The benefits of this type of medication can last up to six hours.
Magnesium
About half of the people suffering from migraines don’t have enough magnesium in their bodies. It’s been proven that supplementing with magnesium can help reduce the number and intensity of headaches. However, note that too much magnesium can interfere with your calcium absorption. Experts recommend no more than 500mg per day from supplements. It is a natural, inexpensive treatment without serious side effects. Good food source include brown rice, popcorn, oatmeal, cornmeal, potatoes, shrimp, clams, broccoli, skim milk and green peas.
Riboflavin
One study showed daily doses of 400mg of riboflavin, also known as vitamin B2, eases migraine pain as effectively as vitamin B2, eases migraine pain as effectively as aspirin. Some food that contains natural riboflavin are milk, eggs, meat, fish and green vegetables,
Fish oil
Omega3 fish oil can reduce the number and intensity of migraines. Please note that the oil in supplements is more concentrated than in natural sources. You don’t want to get too much omega3. Some food that contains natural omega3 are tuna, cod, salmon, oat germ, soy bean products and walnuts.
Heat or ice
Just like any other kind of pain, you can treat migraine pain with either heat or ice. Specially shaped gel packs and pads allow you to get relief just where you need it. These products are readily available and inexpensive.
Masssage
Massage is another method that help you to relax and improve blood circulation. Lab tests also showed much higher levels of serotonin after massages. This hormone constricts blood vessels and regulates mood and sleep.
Here are some things you can try to head off a migraine disaster naturally. Get rid of migraines today and lead a healthy lifestyle.
Ginger
This fragrant herb may be the root of relief for some migraine suffers. Herbalists generally recommend 2 to 4 grams of ginger a day, but for migraines, you might need more. You can buy ginger roots from supermarket or buy supplement s as gelatin capsules. You can also make ginger tea by simmering several slices of fresh ginger root in a cup of water for about 15 minutes.
Caffeine
A combination of acetaminophen, aspirin, and caffeine has proven helpful for people suffering severe migraines pain. The benefits of this type of medication can last up to six hours.
Magnesium
About half of the people suffering from migraines don’t have enough magnesium in their bodies. It’s been proven that supplementing with magnesium can help reduce the number and intensity of headaches. However, note that too much magnesium can interfere with your calcium absorption. Experts recommend no more than 500mg per day from supplements. It is a natural, inexpensive treatment without serious side effects. Good food source include brown rice, popcorn, oatmeal, cornmeal, potatoes, shrimp, clams, broccoli, skim milk and green peas.
Riboflavin
One study showed daily doses of 400mg of riboflavin, also known as vitamin B2, eases migraine pain as effectively as vitamin B2, eases migraine pain as effectively as aspirin. Some food that contains natural riboflavin are milk, eggs, meat, fish and green vegetables,
Fish oil
Omega3 fish oil can reduce the number and intensity of migraines. Please note that the oil in supplements is more concentrated than in natural sources. You don’t want to get too much omega3. Some food that contains natural omega3 are tuna, cod, salmon, oat germ, soy bean products and walnuts.
Heat or ice
Just like any other kind of pain, you can treat migraine pain with either heat or ice. Specially shaped gel packs and pads allow you to get relief just where you need it. These products are readily available and inexpensive.
Masssage
Massage is another method that help you to relax and improve blood circulation. Lab tests also showed much higher levels of serotonin after massages. This hormone constricts blood vessels and regulates mood and sleep.
Sunday, February 24, 2008
10 Essential Health Tips that you can practice daily
1. Move More
Make it a daily challenge to find ways to move your body. Climb stairs if given a choice between that and escalators or elevators. Walk your dog; chase your kids; toss balls with friends, mow the lawn. Anything that moves your limbs is not only a fitness tool, it's a stress buster. Think 'move' in small increments of time. It doesn't have to be an hour in the gym or a 45-minute aerobic dance class or tai chi or kickboxing. But that's great when you're up to it. Meanwhile, move more. Thought for the day: Cha, Cha, Cha…. Then do it!
2. Feast on fiber
It's easy to give in to cravings when your stomach is growling, so eat foods that are full of fiber, protein, and water. Researchers have found boiled potatoes to be especially satisfying. Beans and lentils, because of their high-fiber content and your boby's tendency to absorb them slowly, also make you feel full longer.
3. Cut Fat
Avoid the obvious such as fried foods, burgers and other fatty meats (i.e. pork, bacon, ham, salami, ribs and sausage). Dairy products such as cheese, cottage cheese, milk and cream should be eaten in low fat versions. Nuts and sandwich meats, mayonnaise, margarine, butter and sauces should be eaten in limited amounts. Most are available in lower fat versions such as substitute butter, fat free cheeses and mayonnaise. Thought for the day: Lean, mean, fat-burning machine…. Then be one!
4. Munch on mini-meals
Eating 5 to 6 small meals a day, instead of 3 big ones daily, helps stabilize your blood sugar levels. This will keep you from getting so hungry you end up stuffing yourself at the next meal. If you’re watching your weight, divide your daily calories among the 5 to 6 meals. You simply need to spread them out better.
5. Quit Smoking
The jury is definitely in on this verdict. Ever since 1960 when the Surgeon General announced that smoking was harmful to your health, Americans have been reducing their use of tobacco products that kill. Just recently, we've seen a surge in smoking in adolescents and teens. Could it be the Hollywood influence? It seems the stars in every movie of late smoke cigarettes. Beware. Warn your children of the false romance or 'tough guy' stance of Hollywood smokers. Thought for the day: Give up just one cigarette…. the next one.
6. Reduce Stress
Easier said than done, stress busters come in many forms. Some techniques recommended by experts are to think positive thoughts. Spend 30 minutes a day doing something you like. (i.e.,Soak in a hot tub; walk on the beach or in a park; read a good book; visit a friend; play with your dog; listen to soothing music; watch a funny movie. Get a massage, a facial or a haircut. Meditate. Count to ten before losing your temper or getting aggravated. Avoid difficult people when possible. Thought for the day: When seeing red, think pink clouds….then float on them.
7. Protect Yourself from Pollution
If you can't live in a smog-free environment, at least avoid smoke-filled rooms, high traffic areas, breathing in highway fumes and exercising near busy thoroughfares. Exercise outside when the smog rating is low. Exercise indoors in air conditioning when air quality is good. Plant lots of shrubbery in your yard. It's a good pollution and dirt from the street deterrent. Thought for the day: 'Smoke gets in your eyes'…and your mouth, and your nose and your lungs as do pollutants….hum the tune daily.
8. Avoid Excessive Drinking
You may think that a beer or a glass of wine before bed will relax you and help you fall asleep. It may –but it usually results in wakefulness later on in the night. If you really want to sleep tight, don’t drink alcohol in the evening.
9. Cool your temper
When you get really angry, can you feel your blood pressure shooting skyward? Of course you can. Studies show that if you learn to control anger, you can help control your blood pressure and stay healthier.
10. Keep a Positive Mental Outlook
There's a definitive connection between living well and healthfully and having a cheerful outlook on life. Thought for the day: You can't be unhappy when you're smiling or singing.
Make it a daily challenge to find ways to move your body. Climb stairs if given a choice between that and escalators or elevators. Walk your dog; chase your kids; toss balls with friends, mow the lawn. Anything that moves your limbs is not only a fitness tool, it's a stress buster. Think 'move' in small increments of time. It doesn't have to be an hour in the gym or a 45-minute aerobic dance class or tai chi or kickboxing. But that's great when you're up to it. Meanwhile, move more. Thought for the day: Cha, Cha, Cha…. Then do it!
2. Feast on fiber
It's easy to give in to cravings when your stomach is growling, so eat foods that are full of fiber, protein, and water. Researchers have found boiled potatoes to be especially satisfying. Beans and lentils, because of their high-fiber content and your boby's tendency to absorb them slowly, also make you feel full longer.
3. Cut Fat
Avoid the obvious such as fried foods, burgers and other fatty meats (i.e. pork, bacon, ham, salami, ribs and sausage). Dairy products such as cheese, cottage cheese, milk and cream should be eaten in low fat versions. Nuts and sandwich meats, mayonnaise, margarine, butter and sauces should be eaten in limited amounts. Most are available in lower fat versions such as substitute butter, fat free cheeses and mayonnaise. Thought for the day: Lean, mean, fat-burning machine…. Then be one!
4. Munch on mini-meals
Eating 5 to 6 small meals a day, instead of 3 big ones daily, helps stabilize your blood sugar levels. This will keep you from getting so hungry you end up stuffing yourself at the next meal. If you’re watching your weight, divide your daily calories among the 5 to 6 meals. You simply need to spread them out better.
5. Quit Smoking
The jury is definitely in on this verdict. Ever since 1960 when the Surgeon General announced that smoking was harmful to your health, Americans have been reducing their use of tobacco products that kill. Just recently, we've seen a surge in smoking in adolescents and teens. Could it be the Hollywood influence? It seems the stars in every movie of late smoke cigarettes. Beware. Warn your children of the false romance or 'tough guy' stance of Hollywood smokers. Thought for the day: Give up just one cigarette…. the next one.
6. Reduce Stress
Easier said than done, stress busters come in many forms. Some techniques recommended by experts are to think positive thoughts. Spend 30 minutes a day doing something you like. (i.e.,Soak in a hot tub; walk on the beach or in a park; read a good book; visit a friend; play with your dog; listen to soothing music; watch a funny movie. Get a massage, a facial or a haircut. Meditate. Count to ten before losing your temper or getting aggravated. Avoid difficult people when possible. Thought for the day: When seeing red, think pink clouds….then float on them.
7. Protect Yourself from Pollution
If you can't live in a smog-free environment, at least avoid smoke-filled rooms, high traffic areas, breathing in highway fumes and exercising near busy thoroughfares. Exercise outside when the smog rating is low. Exercise indoors in air conditioning when air quality is good. Plant lots of shrubbery in your yard. It's a good pollution and dirt from the street deterrent. Thought for the day: 'Smoke gets in your eyes'…and your mouth, and your nose and your lungs as do pollutants….hum the tune daily.
8. Avoid Excessive Drinking
You may think that a beer or a glass of wine before bed will relax you and help you fall asleep. It may –but it usually results in wakefulness later on in the night. If you really want to sleep tight, don’t drink alcohol in the evening.
9. Cool your temper
When you get really angry, can you feel your blood pressure shooting skyward? Of course you can. Studies show that if you learn to control anger, you can help control your blood pressure and stay healthier.
10. Keep a Positive Mental Outlook
There's a definitive connection between living well and healthfully and having a cheerful outlook on life. Thought for the day: You can't be unhappy when you're smiling or singing.
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