What is Inversion Therapy and How Can it Help with Back Pain?

Inversion therapy is often indicated as a method of relief for those suffering from back pain. This type of therapy may be used on its own or combined with more traditional forms of medicine to help provide patients with relief from back pain. Inversion therapy takes gravitational pressure off of the disks and nerve roots found within your spinal column. This type of therapy also claims to increase the space between your vertebrae. Inversion therapy is an example of spinal stretching — or spinal traction — which has been used in attempts to relieve the pain of back pain suffers.

Inversion therapy places a patient in an upside down position. This helps to relieve pressure on the spinal column and nerves. By reducing pressure, the goal of inversion therapy is to significantly reduce back pain.

Benefits of Inversion Therapy:

• Proponents of inversion therapy for back pain indicate that traction can help to restore proper alignment to the spine. A misaligned back and hips can be a force of pain and inflammation throughout the entire back. Encouraging proper posture can help alleviate back pain in suffers.
• Inversion therapy can help back pain suffers regain flexibility in their backs. Stretching can be performed on an inversion table that is often too painful for back pain suffers to perform in an upright position. Stretches can help to strengthen the muscles of the back as well as the pelvis and hips. Proper alignment of the lumbo-pelvic-hip complex is important in alleviating back pain.
• Inversion therapy can also help increase the flow of blood to the back. By stimulating circulation, there is an increased amount of oxygen flowing to your back muscles. Increased oxygen flow can help reduce pain and inflammation in your muscles and encourage proper functioning of your back muscles.
• Inversion therapy can also help to relieve stress. The full body stretching that occurs with the use of inversion therapy can help to take your mind off of back pain and may even allow you to sleep better.
• Height loss is a normal part of the aging process. Inversion therapy can help to prevent height loss as the result of cumulative effects of gravity on your body throughout your lifetime.
• Inversion therapy can also help reduce pain and realign your spine following a workout. If your back pain is only occasional, inversion therapy may be able to help undo the effects of an intense workout. High-impact activities — like running — can cause spinal compression. One-sided activities — like golf — can cause your spine to be pulled out of alignment. Minor misalignment of the spine can often correct themselves through inversion therapy.

Inversion therapy usually begins by inverting a patient at 25 to 30 degree angles. This allows a patient to become comfortable with the idea of essentially being turned upside down. Once a patient is comfortable with this degree, a patient is then progressed to a 60 degree angle. Many patients are comfortable at this mark and experience pain relief. It is often not necessary to extend beyond a 60 degree angle to a 90 degree angle. However, an inversion table can extend to 90 degrees. Patients may opt to go the full 90 degrees. Little inversion is necessary to reap the benefits of inversion therapy for back pain. Patients who receive inversion therapy at an angle of just 25 degrees for a few minutes daily are able to ease muscle tensions, train core muscles, alleviate pressure on the spine and improve the flow of lymphatic fluid throughout the body.

Multiple studies have been completed on the use of inversion therapy for back pain. In a 1978 study, back pain suffers who engage in inversion therapy were able to reduce their pain by almost 35 percent immediately.

Another study indicates that inversion therapy has been beneficial in improving the quality of life of back pain suffers. Over 80 percent of back pain suffers were able to return to work as well as normal everyday activities following just eight inversion table treatments. Another study also indicates that 70 percent of participants were able to cancel scheduled back surgeries as the result of inversion table treatments.

Back pain suffers are not the only individuals who have seen relief from pain as the result of inversion therapy. Numerous studies have found inversion therapy beneficial in the treatment of the following conditions and ailments:

• Fibromyalgia
• Neck pain
• Pinched nerves
• Scoliosis
• Spinal stenosis
• Herniated discs
• Arthritis
• Vertebral compression fractures
• Headaches
• Sacroiliac joint dysfunction
• Migraines

Inversion therapy may be offered at chiropractic clinics as well as at alternative medicine clinics and wellness centers. Inversion tables can also be purchased online for use in the privacy of your own home. Prior to investing in an inversion table, it is a good idea to try inversion therapy out. Contact local chiropractic or alternative medicine clinics in your area for pricing and availability of inversion therapy.

It is important to remember that inversion therapy is not for everyone. Always consult your physician prior to beginning inversion therapy for back pain or any other health ailment. Inversion therapy slows your heartbeat and increases your blood pressure when you remain in an inverted period for more than a coupe of minutes. Inversion therapy also increases the pressure in your eyes. As a result, those with high blood pressure, glaucoma and heart disease should not engage in inversion therapy. Those suffering from osteoporosis, middle ear infections, pink eye, retinal detachment, circulatory disorders and those with recent joint replacements — especially joint replacement of the hip and knee — should consult their physician prior to beginning inversion therapy. Women who are pregnant, those who have recently fractured bones, recent stroke suffers, those who are clinically obese and individuals with severe spinal cord damage should exercise extreme caution and always consult a physician prior to beginning inversion therapy for back pain.

When trying inversion therapy, you should always have help around. It may be difficult to get on and off of the inversion therapy table, especially with a back injury. Never engage in the use of an inversion therapy table while alone.

References

“The National Academy of Sports Medicine: Essentials of Personal Fitness Training”; Scott Lucett; 2008
MayoClinic.com: Does Inversion Therapy Relieve Back Pain?
Energy Center: Benefits of Inversion Therapy

Actually, you’ve been  misinformed. Treating and often even curing this malady can be as simple as an occasional dietary change, available at the local grocery store.

This ailment is pretty common these days. The conflict is in how to cure it, or what to do to relieve the situation. According to most people, this is a disease known as acid-reflux, or Gastric Esophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), a natural part of the aging process for all of us, which must be treated and medicated with a variety of over-the-counter and even prescription drugs.

If you watch TV or turn on the radio—or even pick up a magazine now and then—you’ve likely seen or heard way too many advertisements for Prilosec OTC, Zantac, Tagamet or a broad variety of other OTC remedies for heartburn and other gastric distress. Meanwhile, if you’ve presented your symptoms to a conventional physician, the reaction has often been a prescription for Omeprazole, Nexium, Prevacid, Protonix or some other Pharma-created concoction, containing a proton pump inhibiting (ppi) agent.

Masking Symptoms, Not Curing Disease

Each of these medications attempts to mask the symptoms of GERD or acid-reflux, in part by blocking actions within the digestive system that otherwise occur normally (including the production of stomach-acid, without which normal digestion is nearly impossible). The proton pump is an enzyme, located within the tissues of the stomach, that’s responsible for producing stomach acid. When too much acid is produced, the stomach, esophagus, and even the upper portion of the intestines can become irritated. PPIs work by binding to the gastric acid pump and slightly altering its chemical makeup, hindering the pump from releasing large amounts of acid.

However, these normal functions, if blocked for too long, can cause far more serious digestive disorders. (The doctors even tell you when they prescribe one of these ppi pills that you should stop taking them after two weeks at most.)

What’s worse, after you’ve completed the prescribed regimen of one of these masking agents, and stop taking it as you’re supposed to, you might find yourself right back where you started, with that burning sensation back in your stomach. None of these pills has ever been shown to cure the disease, only to hide its effects for a while. (This could be why Prilosec OTC has become a regular part of some people’s daily pill-popping routines.) Meanwhile, like any other medication, these remedies have been shown to have a long list of side-effects, including:

• anxiety
• diarrhea
• skin rash or itching
• stomach pain
• nausea
• vomiting
• constipation
• rectal bleeding
• depression

Long-term PPI effects

In addition, long-term effects (due largely to the suppression of stomach-acid production) can include extra production of the hormone “gastrin,” which signals the stomach to increase acid production. According to several sources, this has been linked to the growth of esophageal, pancreatic, and gastric cancer cells. Even worse, this weakening of stomach acid limits its normal abilities to kill most bacteria and fungi as soon as they enter the gut. Low stomach acid levels have also been linked to candida overgrowth and bacterial infections, often leading to gastritis, ulcers, stomach cancer or even heart failure.

So it would seem common sense that over-reliance on these ppi pills is not the way to combat acid reflux for any length of time.

But what about a cure for this condition? Does such a thing even exist? According to many naturopathic healers, the answer is a resounding YES! And (as is often the case in these matters) it’s not an issue of medication, but of diet and common sense. (According to one source, merely eating a fresh apple each day (or when heartburn symptoms show up) can hold your gastric-distress symptoms at bay. This would seem to give a new ending to the old “apple a day” nostrum.)

Probiotics, the real answer?

The real answer seems to be increasing the amount of probiotics in your body’s digestive system. Probiotics is the generic term given to over 400 types of good bacteria that exist in our gastrointestinal tracts. Given a good balance of these probiotics your immune system can fight illness and disease, and your intestinal tract remains balanced. They are also essential in controling acid reflux and heartburn, as well as preventing the over-colonization of disease causing micro-organisms such as salmonella and E. coli.

There are also a variety of ‘natural healing” websites out there, all offering one or more “miracle cures” for acid reflux and GERD. Some of these promise that, “for only $19.95, with a full money-back guarantee,” they’ll reveal the secrets to naturally healing your wounded digestive system, and restore you to full recovery from the evils of heartburn and reflux.

However, a few changes in your diet may be the only thing standing in the way of your own healing in this regard. Probiotics are available in such foods as yogurt (the kind with active bacteria cultures), milk, miso, some juices and soy drinks, or sauerkraut (homemade kind is best). Meanwhile, as a dietary supplement, flax oil has often been found to be a good source. Each of these food sources helps us to maintain sufficient gut flora. If you’d like to increase the effects, simply adding digestive enzymes to your intake can help.

Adding more probiotics to your diet, may also have positive effects on treating diarrhea, vaginal yeast and urinary tract infections, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).  It may also help to stop the recurrence of bladder cancer, and even prevent or reduce colds and flu. Some studies have even shown reductions in missed work, and improvements of overall health, simply by adding the probiotic Lactobacillus reuteri to the person’s diet.

Meanwhile, the webmd.com web site cautions that, “The FDA does not regulate probiotics as it does prescription medications, because probiotics are in the same category as food and supplements. With growing evidence for their effectiveness, however, the FDA is reviewing their status and may regulate them more closely in the future.”

They further recommend that, “For now, the best advice is to choose products from well-known companies, especially those that have been tested in research studies. Reliable products should indicate the name of the precise probiotic organisms they contain, as well as how many organisms a single dose provides. Many products also provide information on the scientific studies they use for their recommendations.”

Of course, if you choose to heal yourself with a good diet and other truly “natural” methods, will it really matter what companies you buy your products from?

By Steve Trinward

Can’t keep your eyes open? Unexplained fatigue could be a sign that you have gluten intolerance.

Gluten intolerance, which is also referred to as Celiac disease, is an autoimmune disorder that damages the small intestines and results in an inability to properly absorb nutrients. As the name suggests, people with gluten intolerance are unable to tolerate gluten, which is a protein that is found in wheat, rye and barley. Gluten intolerance used to be a relatively rare disorder, unfortunately, it has become much more common and you may suffer from it without even knowing it. Gluten intolerance is hard to diagnose, because there is no typical set of symptoms. It is especially hard to diagnose in teenagers and adults because oftentimes the symptoms that they experience are seemingly unrelated to the digestive system.  It is somewhat easier to diagnose in infants and young children because they tend to experience more obvious digestive symptoms, states the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse (NDDIC).

Infants with gluten intolerance usually thrive until gluten is introduced. When you introduce gluten to your infant’s diet you should therefore monitor closely for signs of gluten intolerance.

The following signs may indicate gluten intolerance in infants:

•  a refusal of feedings
•  failure to gain weight
• increasing crankiness
• bloating
• loose stools or constipation or a mixture of the two
• skin rash

The following digestive symptoms may suggest gluten intolerance in children:  

• bloating
• abdominal pain
• constipation
• chronic diarrhea
• vomiting
• weight loss
• pale, foul-smelling, or fatty stools
• poor appetite
• poor growth
• anemia
• compromised immune system
• irritability
• nausea
• bone and joint pain
• learning difficulties
• discipline difficulties

Although some teenagers and adults with gluten intolerance do not experience any digestive symptoms, others may experience the following:

• intermittent diarrhea
• constipation
• abdominal pain
• bloating
• stomach upset
• foul smelling stool

Some teenagers and adults have no gastrointestinal symptoms at all and may instead experience any combination of the following:

• difficulty staying mentally alert
• memory impairment
• anemia
• weakness and/or fatigue
• anxiety
• weight loss
• arthritis or joint pain
• tingling numbness in the hands and/or feet
• missed menstrual periods
• recurrent canker sores
• skin rash that is itchy, called dermatitis herpetiformis
• mood changes
• miscarriage or infertility
• irritability
• depression
• osteopenic bone disease

If you suspect gluten intolerance in either yourself or your child it is important that you see a healthcare practitioner for a proper diagnosis because if left untreated, serious complications such as liver disease and osteoporosis can develop. Also, there appears to be a genetic link to gluten intolerance, so you may want to see your doctor if anyone in your family has this condition and you are experiencing any ongoing signs or symptoms. Finally, Mayo Clinic recommends seeking immediate medical attention for your child if he or she is pale and irritable, with a potbelly and foul-smelling, bulky stools.

References:

Identify and Eliminate Food Sensitivities

Many people who suffer from immune system disorders such as Crohn’s have unidentified food sensitivities. Consuming foods that you are sensitive too increases inflammation your the body and overtime it exhausts your immune system, both of which can worsen Crohn’s symptoms. The problem with food sensitivities is that the symptoms are not consistent; the same food that causes a severe reaction one day may cause a barely noticeable reaction the next. Also, reactions to foods that you are sensitive to may take up to 24 hours to manifest, and this makes identifying food sensitivities quite difficult. The most effective way to identify food sensitivities is to follow an elimination diet.

The allergy elimination diet involves eliminating the following most commonly problematic foods for Crohn’s sufferers: dairy, wheat, gluten, soy, eggs, red meat, corn and carrageenan containing foods. After avoiding these foods for three weeks, you reintroduce one food item per day. Closely monitor your symptoms and if they return or worsen, it means that you are sensitive to that food. Reintroduce another food item the next day, and continue the process until all foods have been tested. Keep track of all of the offending foods and remove them from your diet. Although this may be tough, eliminating all foods that you are sensitive to is important because it will give your intestines a chance to heal and it may be enough to maintain a complete remission of Crohn’s symptoms.

Additional Foods and Drinks to Eliminate

Eat spicy foods sparingly because they can cause a flare-up of Crohn's symptoms

Certain foods increase inflammation and irritate your digestive tract, regardless of whether or not you are sensitive to them, and they should also be eliminated from your diet. These foods include: spicy food, popcorn, nuts, cocoa and pepper. In addition, you should eliminate all highly processed and refined foods, candy and foods with sugar added to them. Tran’s fats, which are found in fried and greasy foods such as French fries and chips, should also be avoided. Drinks that should be eliminated include: alcohol; coffee, black tea and other caffeinated beverages; and all carbonated drinks.

Foods to Limit

Fat

According to CNN Health, if you have Crohn’s disease you are probably unable to properly digest or absorb fat. Instead, fat may pass directly through your intestines and eating fatty foods can exacerbate Crohn’s symptoms such as diarrhea. As such, you should not only eliminate Trans fats but also limit your intake of other fats such as the saturated fats that are found in animal products and the omega-6 fats that are found in most vegetable oils. Fatty foods that are considered especially problematic for Crohn’s sufferers include margarine, butter and creamy sauces.

Meat

In addition to avoiding the above foods, you should limit your consumption of meat because not only does meat contain saturated fat, it also contains a substance called arachidonic acid which promotes inflammation in the body. When you do consume meat, skinless chicken and turkey are recommended because they contain less arachidonic acid and less saturated fat then other meat products. A small serving of red meat, with the fat trimmed off is also okay, so long as you don’t consume it too often, or during a symptomatic flare-up.

Dairy

Regardless of whether or not you are sensitive to dairy, Phyllis Balch, author of “Prescription for Nutritional Healing” recommends severely limiting your intake of all dairy products. Dairy products are mucus forming, which is problematic because extra mucus in the intestines can block the absorption of essential nutrients which Crohn’s sufferers require a higher than normal amount of. Dairy also contains histamine which is an inflammatory substance that many Crohn’s sufferers are intolerant to. If you are going to consume dairy it is recommended that you choose skim products, because non-skim dairy products are high in saturated fat.

Raw Food

Although raw foods are very healthy for the general population, they are not well tolerated by many Crohn’s sufferers. If you have Crohn’s disease, raw food can irritate the delicate surface of your already inflamed intestines. Instead of consuming fruits and vegetables raw, consider steaming them first. Also, when you are experiencing a flare-up of Crohn’s symptoms you should avoid the intake of raw food altogether.

Gassy Food

Cabbage, Brussels sprouts, broccoli, beans and citrus fruit can all cause gas and bloating. Monitor your symptoms when you eat these foods, and reduce or eliminate them if they cause problems for you.

Consume a Whole-foods Based Diet

If you have Crohn’s disease you should eat an unprocessed, whole foods diet, in order to support your immune system and reduce inflammation. Healthy foods to emphasize include: steamed fruits and vegetables; sea vegetables such as kale and seaweed; extra virgin olive oil; and well-cooked oatmeal, brown rice, whole-wheat pasta and couscous.

The Importance of Protein

A high protein intake is important for Crohn’s sufferers because most have an inability to properly absorb it and it is essential for the healing of the intestines. In fact, research suggests that Crohn’s sufferers require on average 30 percent more protein then healthy individuals. Consuming a high protein diet may seem tough since most animal meats can exacerbate Crohn’s symptoms, however foods such as seeds, almonds, legumes and seafood are all high in protein and can help you meet your protein requirements. Alternatively, you can talk to your healthcare practitioner about augmenting your diet with a protein supplement.

Especially Beneficial Foods

Cold water fish such as salmon, trout, tuna, mackerel and sardines are also recommended. These fish are not only high in protein, they are also high in omega-3 fatty acids, which help to reduce inflammation in the body and repair the digestive tract. Unfortunately, most commercially available fish products are contaminated with heavy metals, as such, you should limit your intake to 2-3 servings per week. Pineapples are also helpful because they contain the enzyme bromelain which helps to break down protein and assist in digestion. In addition, alfalfa and leafy greens are beneficial because they are a potent source of vitamin K which is vital to colon health and many Crohn’s sufferers are deficient in it. Finally, garlic helps to boost the immune system and aids in intestinal healing.

What About Fiber?

Fiber, found in whole grains, legumes, fruits and vegetables, is an essential part of a healthy diet. When you are not experiencing a flare-up of symptoms, you should consume a high fiber diet, in order to promote regular elimination and reduce circulating toxins. You may need to experiment with fiber however, because some fibers can worsen symptoms such as diarrhea, pain and gas. Also, when you are experiencing an acute flare-up you should minimize your fiber intake because it is scratchy and it will further irritate your symptoms.

If All Else Fails Keep a Food Journal

Proper nutrition is essential to good health and it will help your body and intestines to heal. Since Crohn’s disease often results in a poor appetite, chronic diarrhea and an inability to absorb nutrient, many Crohn’s sufferers are malnourished. Keeping a food journal for a month will help you pinpoint any additional food triggers that weren’t identified in the allergy elimination diet. It will also help your doctor determine if you are getting a balanced diet with enough calories, protein, fat and water in order to maintain optimal energy and health. To start your food journal, you should write down the foods that you eat every day along with the serving size and any symptoms you experience after eating it.

Additional Tips

Avoid eating large meals, because it puts too much stress on your digestive system. Instead, you should eat 3 small meals and 2-3 small snacks a day. Drinking plenty of fluids is also important, and you should aim for at least 8 cups of water a day. Green tea has also been found to be helpful, due to its high flavonoid content. Finally, due to the fact that Crohn’s disease can cause a poor appetite and an ability to properly absorb nutrients, CNN Health recommends taking a multivitamin and mineral supplement in order to prevent additional health complications caused by malnutrition.

References:

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0001295/

Canadian School of Natural Nutrition: Pathology and Nutrition; 2008

Canadian School of Natural Nutrition: Pathology and Nutrition; 2008

“Prescription for Nutritional Healing”; Phyllis Balch; 2003

http://www.webmd.com/ibd-crohns-disease/crohns-disease/creating-a-crohns-disease-diet-plan?page=2

http://www.cnn.com/HEALTH/library/crohns-disease/DS00104.html

How an Angiogram Works

An angiogram is done by inserting a dye through the catheter to the heart. This allows the blood vessels to be visible in the x-ray image that is produced. Without the dye, the x-ray would not clearly show the vessels. Once the dye is inserted, the x-ray machine takes a series of images very quickly, which are called angiograms. Often, an angiogram is performed during other heart or vessel related procedures.

An angiogram is done for a variety of reasons. These reasons include any symptoms of a coronary artery disease, chest pain, jaw pain, neck pain, or arm pain, or a heart defect, among other reasons. In some cases, if you already have existing heart problems, an angiogram may be done at the same time that an unrelated surgery is done as well.

Your Angiogram

Click here to view the embedded video.

If your angiogram is done by appointment, as opposed to an emergency angiogram, you will most likely be instructed to arrive at the hospital or lab where the test is being performed by a specific time in the morning on the day of the test. Before the test is performed you will need to talk to the people who are doing the test about your health and any medications you are taking. You should be instructed not to eat or drink anything after midnight the evening before the test is to take place. Your doctor should instruct you as to whether or not you should take your usual medications on the day of the test, or the day before the test.

After going over your health history and medications, the medical team should take your vital signs and record them. This includes your heart rate and blood pressure, but may also include your temperature. You will then be instructed to use the restroom to empty your bladder, and you will change into a hospital gown, removing all jewelry, hair ornaments, dentures, contact lenses or glasses.

The technician should help you to lie down on an x-ray table at this point, and an intravenous line will be inserted into your arm. You may be strapped to the table for safety purposes. In some cases, a sedative will be given through the IV to calm you for the procedure, but you will remain awake. The technician will instruct you as to when you should take a deep breath and hold it, when you should exhale, when you should cough, or whether or not you need to move your arms into certain positions. While this is going on, the machinery will be moving around and above you, with cameras taking x-ray images from various angles.

You will also have electrodes attached to you so that your vital signs can be monitored. The technician may shave the area where the catheter will be inserted. In some cases, the catheter is inserted through the arm, and in other cases, it is inserted through the groin area. The chosen area will then be washed and disinfected, and you should be given a local injection to numb the area. Once the area is numb, a small incision is made, and a very small plastic tube is inserted, and through this small tube, the catheter is threaded through your body until it reaches the heart or the arteries that the doctor wishes to view. Since the area of insertion is numbed, you shouldn’t feel anything at all – and if you do feel anything, you should alert the technician immediately. When the dye is inserted, however, you will most likely feel a warming sensation.

Depending on what the doctor sees during this procedure, other procedures may be done at the same time, such as placing a stent or a balloon in the arteries. If no other procedures are done, the entire process takes about an hour once it is started.

Risks Associated with an Angiogram

While an angiogram is a useful, diagnostic test, it isn’t without potential risks. You could have a heart attack during or after the procedure. Stroke is also a possibility. Kidney damage is also possible. These three risks, however, are quite rare, and these are the most serious risks involved.

Other risks include injury to the arteries that are catheterized, irregular heart rhythms, allergic reaction to the dye, uncontrolled bleeding, infection, radiation exposure, and blood clots. Your doctor and other medical professionals should monitor you closely during and immediately after the angiogram procedure for these potential problems, so that immediate action can be taken to stop any problems that may occur.

Source: http://www.mayoclinic.com/, http://www.saskatoonhealthregion.ca/

Antiepileptic Drugs and the FDA

Antiepileptic drugs do wonderful things for those who have epilepsy, but they are not without risks, according to the Food and Drug Administration. In fact, there are eleven different drugs that are commonly prescribed to those who have epilepsy that increase the risk of suicide and suicidal thoughts. These eleven drugs are Carbamazepine, Felbamate, Gabapentin, Lamotrigine, Levetiracetam, Oxcarbazepine, Pregabalin, Tiagabine, Topiramate, Valproate, and Zonisamide, and they include the generic brands of these drugs as well.

The problem has become such that the FDA now requires the makers of these drugs to distribute medication guide with these drugs. This guide is meant for patients, and when you have your prescription filled at the pharmacy, the pharmacist should include the guide with the medication. This requirement comes after an analysis done by the FDA, where it was discovered that there was a risk of suicide, at the rate of 0.43% for those who were taking any one these eleven drugs. It was also discovered that this increased risk could begin as early as one week after the patient has started the medication.

Opinions Vary Concerning Antiepileptic Drugs

Not everyone agrees with the FDAs analysis of commonly prescribed antiepileptic drugs. For example, Dr. F. Besag, of Biopsychiatry, states in his report that a drug called Vigabatrin is associated with depression and psychosis, and agrees that Topiramate may also cause psychosis and depression. He states that Lamotrigine doesn’t seem to be associated with these problems, and that Gabapentin has little effect on behavior.

Dr. Besag also states in his report that there is no evidence that Tiagabine causes any psychosis or depression, but that Oxcarbazepine, Bevetiracetam, and Felbamate can increase instances of mood disorders, including psychosis and depression.

Which Information Should You Rely On?

Because of confusing information from various sources that are all considered to be experts in the field of these medications, it is hard to know which information you should rely on when the opinions do not agree. The best source of information is your doctor. Talk to your doctor extensively about the medication that he is prescribing for you. Ask about clinical studies that have been done on the medication, and if your doctor does not have any clear answers for you, use the internet to find the information yourself.

Also make sure that a family member is aware of the medication that you are taking, so that they can report any changes in mood that you may not realize yourself. If there is a change in your mood while taking the medication, it is essential that your doctor be notified of this immediately, so that he can change the dosage of that medication, or put you on a different medication.

Aside from this, once you have decided to take an antiepileptic drug, it is very important that you follow the dosage instructions carefully. Your pharmacist may also counsel you on the use of the drug when you pick it up from the pharmacy. Your doctor should also monitor you closely, and he should inform your family member or caregiver about the risks associated with the medication, and the family member should also know the classic signs of depression.

Do not stop taking your medication without the advice of your doctor. Suddenly stopping the use of antiepileptic drugs can lead to problems far worse than depression or suicidal thoughts. Aside from watching for the signs of depression, the patient should also be monitored for other changes in mood, including anxiety, aggression, mania, hostility, insomnia, and agitation. Any other odd or unusual behavior should also be reported to your doctor after starting antiepileptic medications.

It is also important to know that certain drugs mixed together can have ill effects. Your doctor should not prescribe medications to treat other health issues or symptoms that will not coincide well with your antiepileptic medication, but just to be on the safe side, if other medications are prescribed for you or a loved on, you should do your own research concerning that drug, as well as the results of the two drugs mixed together. With the use of the internet, it is possible for all of us to have as much information at our fingertips as our doctors have – if not more. Doctor’s see lots of patients each day. They are busy, and they are rushed. Because of this, it is essential to become your own healthcare advocate. Your life may depend on it.

Source: http://www.drugs.com/, http://www.biopsychiatry.com/

What Happens During Cataract Surgery?

Cataract surgery only takes about an hour to complete. Most people are not put to sleep for this procedure. Instead, they are given a sedative, and the area is numbed with an injection. There are two different types of surgery that can be performed for cataracts, but during both procedures, the cloudy lens is removed, and most often, replaced with an artificial lens.

The first type of surgery is called Phacoemulsification, and this surgery is performed with the use of an ultrasound probe. The probe actually breaks up the lens, making it easier to remove. This only requires a small incision made in the front of the eye, so that the probe can be inserted. The probe emits ultrasound waves. The second type of surgery is called Extracapsular Cataract Extraction. A larger incision is made for this procedure, and surgical tools are used to remove the lens.

In either case, once the cataract has been removed, the artificial lens is put into place. This artifical lens is called an Intraocular Lens, or IOL. It is typically made of plastic, but could also be constructed of silicone or acrylic. Believe it or not, this artificial lens can be designed specifically for you. It can block ultraviolent rays, and it can also work just as your eye glasses do – including biofocal glasses. You will not feel the IOL after your surgery. You won’t even think about it being there, because it actually becomes a part of your eye.

Immediately after surgery, you may still not see well, but your vision will improve over the next few days. You will usually be instructed to see your doctor again within a day or two. Your eye may itch and feel uncomfortable for up to 72 hours, but you must not rub the eye or press on it. You may be instructed to wear an eye patch, and eye drops may be prescribed to you as well to control any potential infection. It takes about eight weeks to completely heal from cataract surgery.

Preparing for Cataract Surgery

Click here to view the embedded video.

Before and after cataract surgery is recommended, you will have to undergo several tests. These tests are painless, and most often use ultrasound devices. These tests are important so that the right artificial lens is made for you. Your doctor may instruct you to stop taking some of your medications prior to surgery – particularly medications that may increase the risk of uncontrolled bleeding during your surgery.

You will most likely need to use a prescription eye drop for a couple of days prior to surgery. The purpose of this eye drop is to help prevent infection that could occur after the surgery. You will be instructed to not eat or drink for a certain number of hours before the surgery. Your doctor should discuss with you what will happen immediately before, during, and after the procedure as well. You will, of course, need someone to drive you home after the procedure, and you may need to arrange for someone to stay with you at home after the procedure as well.

What are the Risks of Cataract Surgery?

While cataract surgery can seem like an absolute miracle to those who have had their vision clouded by cataracts, the surgery does carry some risk. The biggest risk is infection. Other risks that you should be aware of are inflammation or swelling, bleeding, glaucoma, or retinal detachment. You are also at risk for a secondary cataract. People who have other health problems are at the greatest risk of complications.

If you have another eye condition or disease, such as glaucoma, it is essential that you seek treatment for that other condition before having cataract surgery done. Otherwise, the cataract surgery cannot be expected to be successful.

After your cataract surgery, it is essential that you follow your doctor’s instructions for care. It is also important that you notify your doctor immediately if you have a loss of vision, if you have pain that cannot be alleviated with over-the-counter pain medications, if the eye becomes increasingly red, if you are seeing spots or light flashes, if you become nauseous, vomit, or find that you are coughing a great deal.

Source: http://www.allaboutvision.com/, http://www.nei.nih.gov/, http://www.mayoclinic.com/

The Main Risks with Cochlear Implants

As with any type of surgery, there are risks with Cochlear Implants. You are at risk for all of the usual surgery related ailments, including infection, which is of course the greatest concern for all surgeries. But with cochlear implants, there are other things that you may need to be aware of.

First, once you have the device implanted, you will lose any hearing that you may have had previous to the procedure. There is no turning back once the device is implanted – you will not be able to hear at all without it. With total hearing loss there is also the possibility that damage will be done to the inner and middle ear. Some people may experience Tinnitus, which is ringing in the ear.

According to the Food and Drug Administration, there is also a higher risk for meningitis among those who have had cochlear implants. For children, the risk is thirty times greater than average. There is also the possibility of damage to muscles that are used for facial expressions. Some people experience disfiguring paralysis of the facial muscles.

Everyday Life and Cochlear Implants

Click here to view the embedded video.

There are also some negative situations that you may experience in everyday life once you have a cochlear implant. If you get an ear infection, your hearing may be greatly reduced for as long as the infection lasts. You must also follow directions concerning water very carefully, since the cochlear implant is an electronic device. Pressure is of great concern, so scuba diving is completely out of the question, and you need to discuss flying with your doctor, as it may not be suitable for you.

Additionally, you must avoid strong magnetic fields, since this will have an adverse affect on the functionality of the device. Static electricity can also be a concern, since it may affect the devices memory – just as it could fry a hard drive in a computer. Static electricity comes from a variety of sources – such as sliding down a plastic slide in a playground.

Because the cochlear implant is an electronic device, it must be electrically charged with an AC power supply or with batteries. This can be an inconvenience for many people.

The Limited Function of Cochlear Implants and Other Concerns

Many people have great expectations for Cochlear Implants before the procedure is done, only to be disappointed with the results in the end. A cochlear implant most likely will not restore your hearing to normal levels. It is vital that you talk with your audiologist prior to having the implant so that you know what to expect, in terms of how well you will be able to hear after the implant.

The cost of this procedure is also an area of great concern for many people, even if they have health insurance that will cover a portion of the costs. The average cost of the cochlear implant, and the surgery to install it, runs anywhere from $45,000 to $70,000.

Furthermore, Cochlear Implants won’t work for everyone. There are many factors that determine the success or failure of Cochlear Implants. Age plays an important role. The younger the person is at the time that the implant is done, the greater the success will be. The age at which the person lost their hearing, or started to lose their hearing also plays a huge role. The length of time that the person has been unable to hear also matters.

There is also a great deal of debate in the deaf community concerning Cochlear Implants. Because the device does not totally restore hearing, there is a great deal of concern with the fact that people who are hard of hearing or deaf who have this implant do not continue to sign, or continue to seek education that helps them learn how to sign. Deaf people who have the Cochlear Implant are still considered to be deaf. Additionally, if a person is born deaf, or becomes deaf at a very young age, and then later has a Cochlear Implant, that person must essentially learn a new language in order to speak with their voice, and to have the ability to understand what other people are saying, in terms of what they mean, as opposed to actually hearing the words. For older people, this can be quite a challenge, and it can bring about self esteem issues as well.

Source: http://www.myhearingaids.net/, http://www.signgenius.com/, http://www.nad.org/, http://www.fda.gov

The Most Common Cause of Gingivitis

The most common cause of gingivitis is poor dental hygiene. Improving our dental hygiene would be the first step in preventing and treating gingivitis.

Gingivitis is caused by plaque. If you are not removing all of the plaque in your mouth each day, you will get gingivitis. Unfortunately, brushing, flossing, and rinsing are not enough to keep plaque at bay. Along with these regular habits, you also need to go into the dental office for regular cleanings and checkups.

Plaque forms when you eat starches and sugars. These foods interact with the bacteria that are always present in the mouth – regardless of how clean your mouth is, and then plaque develops. If the plaque is not removed within two or three days, it hardens, and turns to tarter buildup. This typically happens just below the gum line, and at this point, nothing is going to remove that plaque and tarter buildup except a professional cleaning.

Other Causes of Gingivitis

It is important to know all of the causes of gingivitis if you hope to prevent it. Aside from poor oral hygiene, there are several other causes, some of which can be avoided, and others of which cannot be avoided. The use of tobacco is a cause of gingivitis. The more tobacco you use, and the longer you use it, the greater your chance of developing gingivitis becomes.

Some illnesses and conditions can also lead to gingivitis. Diabetes is one illness that can cause this gum disease. Hormonal changes, such as those experienced during pregnancy and menopause can also contribute to gingivitis. Using certain medications, such as birth control which affects the hormonal balance can also be blamed. Other illnesses that increase the risk of gingivitis include HIV/AIDS and Leukemia. You are also at greater risk for gingivitis due to age.

Other situations that can lead to gingivitis include having a dry mouth, contracting some viral infections or fungal infections, abuse of drugs, poor nutrition, and dental appliances that do not fit well. Again, some situations can be avoided, while others cannot, but you should definitely avoid those situations that you have control over, such as tobacco use and drug use in an effort to prevent gingivitis and a host of other illnesses.

Treating Your Gingivitis

Despite whole hearted attempts to prevent gingivitis, it may still occur. When it does occur, it is vital that you seek dental treatment for the condition. If treatment is sought soon enough, gingivitis can be reversed, preventing the loss of teeth, more serious oral diseases, and more serious health problems.

You should start by getting instruction from your dentist or dental hygienist about proper care for your teeth at home, and you need to follow those instructions carefully. You will also need a professional cleaning. Following this, your dentist should perform a checkup, and repair any problems with your teeth or dental appliances. No medication is typically prescribed for gingivitis. Instead, with good oral hygiene practices and regular dental cleanings, gingivitis will clear up on its own.

Your dentist may, however, prescribe or recommend specific types of toothpaste and dental rinses that remove bacteria better than the products available over-the-counter.

There is no magic pill or formula for preventing gingivitis. You simply have to do a great job of brushing your teeth at the very least twice each day. Ideally, however, you should brush immediately after you eat – each time that you eat. This includes after eating snacks, as opposed to meals. You need to floss your teeth once a day and this should be done before you brush your teeth. The ideal way to get away with brushing twice a day and flossing once is to brush your teeth very well in the morning, floss before bedtime, and then brush your teeth immediately after you floss.

Most adults only need a cleaning once each year. However if you have had gingivitis, or a health condition puts you at a higher risk for gingivitis, you probably need a professional cleaning twice each year – every six months. When the teeth or cleaned, you should have a dental checkup at the same time, and allow the dentist to repair any problems as soon as possible. If you are doing everything right, but you still get gingivitis, you may need to seek treatment from your family doctor to see if there is an underlying, undiagnosed health issue that is causing the gingivitis.

Source: http://www.mayoclinic.com/, http://haveaheartfoundation.net/

What is Infant Botulism?

The National Center for Biotechnology Information, in Bethesda, Maryland, describes infant botulism as ‘a potentially life threatening disease in which the bacteria Clostridium Botulinum grows within the baby’s gastrointestinal tract.’ Clostridium Botulinum is an organism that forms spores. These spores are then found in soil, in honey, and in corn syrup.

One of the biggest risks for acquiring infant botulism is to swallow honey if the child is between the ages of six weeks and six months old. A child is also at risk if he or she comes into close contact with contaminated soil, and if he or she only has one bowel movement each day for longer than two months.

Many breastfeeding mothers worry about ingesting honey themselves, and then passing the spores on to the child through breast milk. According to the Infant Botulism Treatment and Prevention Program, which is a division of Communicable Disease Control through the California Department of Public Health, the botulism spores cannot be passed to the child through breast milk, and it is perfectly safe for the mother to consume honey and breast feed her child.

The Symptoms of Infant Botulism

The symptoms of infant botulism are fairly straightforward and easy to identify. The child will most likely be constipated, and the gag reflex will be stopped. The child’s breathing will definitely change, and it usually slows, but it can stop altogether. The eyelids will be saggy or closed, and the infant will appear to be limp.

Infant botulism causes paralysis that starts at the top of the body and works its way down. The baby will be constantly tired, and the cry will be very weak. Your doctor will perform an examination and note any decrease in muscle tone. The gag reflex will also be tested. A stool sample will most likely be taken, and an EMG, or Electromyography will most likely be performed to distinguish between a muscle problem or a neurological problem.

Treatment and Prevention for Infant Botulism

Most infants with infant botulism respond well to Botulism Immune Globulin. This treatment is delivered in the hospital, but the treatment seems to make the hospital stay much shorter, and the illness less severe. During treatment, hospitalization is required because medical professionals need to ensure that the child is receiving proper nutrition, that the child is not experiencing breathing problems, and that the airway stays completely clear.

Antibiotics typically are not used for infant botulism because this type of medication does not help the situation. In some instances, human derived bolulinum antitoxin may be used with some success.

The biggest fear in infant botulism is the development of breathing difficulties that can easily occur. It is not uncommon for a child to need help using mechanical ventilation. Essentially, your child would have to be put on life support if this happens, but with fast and efficient treatment, the child should be able to breath on his one once the botulism is under control.

In terms of prevention of infant botulism, you should of course avoid feeding your child honey or corn syrup. However, there is no evidence to date that packaged or manufactured foods that contain honey or corn syrup pose any danger of infant botulism for your child. You should also keep your infant away from soil for the first six months of life as an added precaution against infant botulism. Only 5% of the infant botulism cases reported each year come from exposure to honey. The other 95% of the cases are due to exposure to contaminated soil.

Infant Botulism is the third form of human botulism that was identified. It was identified and recognized as an illness in 1976, and since that time, no infant has ever had the illness more than once, and only approximately 2500 cases of infant botulism have been reported world wide. This information shows us that infant botulism is not a common illness. Because it is not common, a doctor could easily overlook the symptoms and the diagnosis could be wrong. If you suspect infant botulism, make sure that you tell your child’s pediatrician this, and that testing for infant botulism is done immediately.

The other two types of botulism, according to Infections of the Gastrointestinal Tract, which was edited by M.J Blaser, P.D. Smith, J.I Ravdin, H.B. Greenberg, and R.L. Guerrant, and published by Raven Press, are Food borne Botulism, which was discovered in 1895, and wound botulism, which was discovered in 1951. Botulism is botulism, but how it is contracted matters a great deal when it comes to prevention and treatment.

Source: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/, http://kidshealth.org/, http://www.infantbotulism.org/