Healthy Tips For Better Life

27Jan/120

Oak Pollen Allergy Relief



Oak pollen allergies frequently bring symptoms of coughing, chest congestion, sneezing, wheezing, itchy eyes, sinus congestion, sore throat, and headache. Annually, beginning in March and lasting as late as May, central Texas is coated with sticky, yellow-green pollen from the live oak trees, and hundreds of people suffer respiratory allergy symptoms as a result. However, there are basic strategies you can implement to make oak pollen allergy season a much happier time of year.

Oak Pollen Allergy Relief Step 1: avoidance.

When possible, avoid extended outdoor activities. Pollen is transported by the wind from the trees to whatever it encounters, and that includes allergy sufferers. If being outdoors is unavoidable, wear a dust mask. This is especially important if you are completing gardening, yard work or outside maintenance that stirs up debris.

With warmer spring temperatures, it may be tempting to leave the windows open. But doing so will allow oak pollen to blow into your house and accumulate. This quickly becomes evident by the accumulation of oak pollen on your windowsills. Keep the windows shut as much as possible, especially in the bedroom. To further help lower indoor pollen accumulation, change your HVAC filters periodically. It may also be useful to purchase a free-standing air purifier and run it while sleeping.

Oak Pollen Allergy Relief Step 2: clean contacted surfaces.

Some exposure to oak pollen is inevitable. When you come indoors, take time to rinse your eyes, face and wash your hands. Also, rinse your nose out several times a day. This can be done with either a simple nasal saline solution, available at most drug stores or, alternatively, make your own saline using sea salt, water, and use a neti pot for application, available at most natural food stores. Removing of the majority of the pollen in your nasal passages can provide considerable allergy relief.

Oak Pollen Allergy Relief Step 3: Strive for sustained, allergy elimination.

The most common pharmaceutical allergy treatment options are decongestants, antihistamines and corticosteroids. All of these carry significant side effects. Additionally, while they may provide immediate symptom relief, they do not typically provide a long-term allergy elimination solution.

Safe, convenient non-pharmacutical treatments for respiratory allergies are available. One of these treatments is herbal therapy based on traditional Chinese herbal medicine. In addition to immediate symptom relief, a good formula will help prevent secondary infection, and with continued use, provide allergy elimination. Unlike other herbal therapies, traditional Chinese herbal therapies contain multiple herbs that work in conjunction with each other. Therefore, they often provide greater relief than single herbs.

Whatever herbs you use to provide oak pollen allergy relief, it is important to include herbs that provide symptom relief, immune modulation and secondary infection prevention. For immune modulation, which will help with lasting allergy elimination, astragalus root is extremely beneficial. All herbal remedies should come from trusted sources, made by companies that employ stringent manufacturing guidelines.

It is essential to remember that if you suffer severe asthma-like symptoms, marked by wheezing and difficulty getting enough air, emergency treatment may be necessary. If wheezing causes severe tightness in the chest, light-headedness, or a feeling of fainting, do not hesitate to dial 911. The majority of asthma related deaths in the United States are preventable. By reducing oak pollen exposure, both outdoors and indoors in combination with carefully constructed herbal therapy, the spring can be a happier, healthier time for allergy sufferers.

26Jan/12Off

Reproductive Health Bill – Solution For Growing Population?



Reproductive Health Bill is national in scoop, comprehensive; right based adequate funding of population program. However, this bill had not been signed since the time of President Corazon Aquino and up to the present term of President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo it was not approved. People from all walks of life have their own opinion about the bill, some are against it but there are those who supported it. Some says that the Catholic Church is behind the rejection of the bill. I thought that the Reproductive Health Bill could help many people especially those who lived in depressed areas who have many children. A woman who hasn't learned about family planning often gives birth, so the fatality encountered by the mother and baby is very high. A poor household consisting of nine or more persons would cause difficulty in managing their income. In addition, the present economic crises we are experiencing worsen their situation in life.

Using contraceptives are more effective compared to rhythmic method. For example, using calendar is not applicable at all time because if the woman has an irregular menstruation, it might affect the menstruation cycle. Using contraceptive like's pills; I.U.D. and condoms are safe tools to avoid unwanted pregnancy. The contraceptive injection is a good tool in avoiding unwanted pregnancy and it also prevent the risk of having cervical cancer.

The church is against the Reproductive Health Bill because they said that it contradicts the teachings of God. I thought that was only applicable before when there were only few people living on Earth, but now it's not appropriate to follow that teaching. When I saw poverty around me, I felt sad especially when I saw children at a very young age working, instead of going to school. Some children are forced, to work to augment their family daily income.

Furthermore, I am with the side of the people who agree in the Reproductive Health Bill, because I think that it can help many people especially the poor and those who are ignorant about the proper family planning method usage. Seminars can be held frequently in rural community and far places. Sufficient fund can help in buying contraceptives to be given to those who are in need. Population control can be monitored closely due to sufficient fund. Promotion of breast feeding among mothers can also be encouraged. Abortion can be minimize and lessen from the knowledge gained about Reproductive Health Bill.

25Jan/12Off

Is There a Vaccine For Cancer?



Cancer these days are so common that there is a 50 to 75 per cent chance that someone in you family could be diagnosed with it. Cancer takes many forms and to date, there is no known cure that can completely eliminate this disease.

The Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a virus that causes different types of cancers. The HPV 16 and HPV 18 cause cervical and vulval cancer. A recent study by a leading Cancer Research scientific team found a vaccine to combat against certain forms of the Human Papilomavirus.

The vaccine, known as TA-HPV was modified from a smallpox vaccine. Scientists tested the vaccine in 18 women with Vulval Intraepithelial Neoplasia (VIN), a form of vulval cancer. This form of vulval cancer is very hard to treat as the precancerous lesions appear on the lining of the vulva.

Following the vaccination, 13 out of the 18 women were found to develop a specific immune reaction towards HPV. Also, in 8 out of the 18 women, the cancerous lesions shrunk by 50 percent. The patients also experienced symptom relief. These results were encouraging as more than half women in the study gained clinical benefits.

The best part of this vaccine is that it is relatively free of side effects. However, scientists who came up with this vaccine also believe that this vaccine will be most useful if used as a part of a combination of treatments. This vaccine is also more than a glimmer of hope for women whose bodies have already started generating some kind of immune response against the disease.

It is also possible that repeated vaccination may be more effective in combating the disease. This is because, when a patient is given a number of shots of vaccine during a course of treatment, it helps to build up an immune response against cancer.

Treatment vaccines such as the TA- HPV vaccine will play an important role in controlling cancers. Studies such as this raise awareness about how vaccines direct the immune system against cancer. Vaccines such as this are vaccines of hope that may give many a second chance to lead a normal, cancer-free life.

24Jan/12Off

Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer – The 10 Early Warning Signs Women Should Know



Most women diagnosed with existing medical condition would be alarmed to know that they are having ovarian cancer. This instance may happen because indications are imprecise and that's why it has been called "The Silent Killer". Many are experiencing bowel syndrome, stress and depression but misdiagnosed. Early warning signs are worsen with digestive disorders and occur after eating certain meals. Do not let it happen. There is something you can do about to have a very good prognosis in the earliest stage.

Here are some clinical researches about the most common symptoms:

Feeling of fullness and pressure on abdomen Urinary urgency or frequent urination Pelvic pain or discomfort digestive disorders and changes in bowel movement unexplained loss of appetite and nausea Fatigue or feeling tired most of the time Shortness of breath affecting breathing passage. Lower backache Changes in menstrual flow and abnormal vaginal bleeding Unusual pain during sexual intercourse

These early warning signs could be symptoms of other health concerns which are not very serious. However, it is important to see a doctor if there is any suspicions like the pressure in abdomen for more than three weeks already. Early detection is better opportunity to treat any gynecologic cancers. Routine annual check-ups should be taken in consideration. Following tests will be performed such as bimanual rectovaginal exam ( inserting one finger into vagina to feel any lumps), transvaginal ultrasound (using sound waves that reflects image of the body) and CA-125 test. CA-125 is a protein found in the body and often produced levels of tumour cells.

The saddest part is that even there are comprehensive resources available nowadays, the fact remains that majority of women are diagnosed very late leading to higher percentage of death rates. Recent studies show that half percentage of women took three months of enduring the pain before they have consulted to doctors and 11% took longer than one year. Denial swallowed people to accept the fact that a simple indication of their health condition can lead to a deadly signs of cancer.

Health Daily News reported that relying on these signs alone is not reliable at discovering the disease earlier. According to Mary Rossing, one of the members of the Epidemiology program at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, the indications are limited. In a study of 100 women whose feeling the same symptoms, just one has initial stage of ovarian cancer. On the other hand, American Cancer Society said that nine out of ten women who have been detected in early stage live after the first 5 years of the diagnosis and only 20% of the general populations are discovered at early part.

It is an ongoing challenge for researches to detect and specify exactly the causes of this ailment. To address the issue, in 2007, American Cancer Society, the Gynecologic Cancer Foundation and the Society of Gynecologic Oncologists released a statement that doctors should pay more attention on simple ovarian cancer signs and conduct more accurate screening techniques.

24Jan/12Off

The Prostate Gland and Herbal Remedies to Support Its Health



The prostate gland is an exocrine organ of the male reproductive system--the corresponding organ for females being the Skene's gland. The prostate gland's primary function involves the storage and secretion of seminal fluid. The organ likewise plays a supportive role in urination.

For the prostate gland to function properly, the male hormones androgen and testosterone need to be secreted to sustain its growth and development. A relatively vulnerable part of the body, the prostate is also susceptible to various types of diseases such as prostatitis, benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and also prostate cancer. Find below an overview of prostatitis, BPH and prostate cancer; the mainstream treatments for said conditions and the corresponding herbal remedy that may be administered as alternative treatment.

What is Prostatis, BPH and Prostate Cancer?

Prostatitis refers to the inflammation of the prostate gland while benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) pertains to the abnormal enlargement of the prostate gland, leading also to defective urination. Meanwhile, it is for a fact that prostate cancer is a typical degenerative condition that is brought about by a complex mix of risk factors, including the mutation of prostate cells.

Treatment for Prostatitis

Antibiotics are typically prescribed for acute prostatitis, which is triggered by bacterial infections. On the other hand, physico-therapies are administered as treatment for other types of prostatitis. An alternative treatment to an inflammed prostate gland is Pilobium Parviflorum (commonly known as the Willow Herb). The herb specifically conveys antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that help fight the cause of prostate infection while easing the related symptoms of pain and discomforts during urination.

Non-Surgical Treatment for BPH

In the case of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), invasive procedures will have to be performed while in severe cases of BPH, surgery may be the only solution to resolve the condition. As an alternative solution, herbalists would likely recommend the administration of Epilobium Parviflorum extracts along with Sabal Serrulata (Saw Palmetto) constituents. The lipophilic compounds derived from these herbals is deemed effective in the regulation of male hormones. Moreover, the fatty acids occurring in its extracts help inhibit the hormones that stimulate the etiology of BPH. Overall, the herbal remedy is regarded as an effective tonic for the male reproductive system.

Alternative Treatment for Prostate Cancers

Prostate cancer is one of the leading cause of death in older men. Alternative methods have also utilized herbal remedies to serve as treatment for prostate cancer. The extracts of Hypoxis Rooperi (also known as African Potato) are composed of sterols and sterolins that have been scientifically confirmed to treat the corresponding tumors of the cancer. Just like the above mentioned herbs, the African Potato can also be used to treat prostatitis and BPH. The herb is an all-around immune system stimulant that may be administered for any other type of disorder. Moreover, the herbal remedy exudes antioxidant properties that promote body rejuvenation and health.

What is Prostate Dr.?

For a safe and effective treatment to prostate disorders, there is Prostate Dr, a standardized herbal supplement formulated from the therapeutic compounds of the discussed herbs and combined in one convenient medicinal base. Through its natural formula, the herbal supplement holistically supports male reproductive health and the functions of the urinary tract and immune system, all for optimal wellness even in old age.

23Jan/12Off

Cures For Ovarian Cysts That Work



Since most of the ovarian cysts are benign, least life-threatening and tend go away on their own, people are wary about taking them seriously. Also, in majority of cases, 'ovarian cysts' are nothing but functional cysts which develop at menstrual cycle's end and get cleared up by themselves after the release of eggs in fallopian tubes. However, when ovarian cysts obstruct the supply of blood to the ovaries or are cancerous in nature, immediate medical attention in the form of surgery is the only option left before the patient. Surgical intervention is also required in removing certain types of cystadonema cysts that grow into large abdominal tumour, often weighing as much as 300 lbs or more. Chocolate cysts or endometrial cysts that are filled up with stale blood and are likely to rupture at any moment also require invasive surgery for protection and relief. But the burning question that remains unanswered concerns the effectiveness of surgery in curing the disease condition that is responsible for the cysts to occur or grow in size. It has been observed in most cases that cysts reappear even after their removal through surgical means.

Since prescription drugs also have very little or no effect on cysts, people often resort to alternative methods of treatment that include herbs, homeopathy, antioxidant supplements, etc as well as messy concoctions prepared from animal and plant extracts that are supposed to cure occurrence of ovarian cysts. Some even give up consuming red meat in the hope that this will eventually rid them of the evils of ovarian cysts. But alas, No conclusive evidence has yet been made available that such alternate medication can do any good in eliminating the cysts or halt the occurrence of cysts in the ovary.

Oral contraceptives as alternative therapy

However, women having family history of members reporting ovarian cysts are sometimes given oral contraceptives or 'birth control pills' as preventive measures in regard to ovarian cysts. Since these "pills" are nothing but condensed form of female hormones, estrogen and progesterone that exercise control over the female's monthly cycle by preventing the ovaries from releasing the embryonic 'egg', the formation of ovarian cysts becomes remote. But then, the side effects of prolonged use of the "pill" can be perilous for many.

Cystectomy as alternative surgical method

Finding no other safe and effective means of getting rid of ovarian cysts, some prefer Cystectomy which was so long earmarked for treating bladder or gall bladder cancer. In fact, Cystectomy has been traditionally employed for removal of cyst-affected vital organs of the body but is now directed to removal of cysts from the ovary. This procedure is currently gaining popularity amongst many since it spares the ovary while removing the cysts. However, in the case of carcinoma of the ovary there is no other alternative but to remove the organ fully.

Holistic approach is the only way

Although most of the above methods are capable of eliminating the symptoms of discomfort, pain as well as other distressing physical conditions with short-term relief and a long-term rebounding effect, they can never cure the disease condition that prompts cysts to form in the ovary. As long as one consumes "pills" the cysts remain suppressed and the moment it is withdrawn, reappears again.

Experience, however, has taught humankind that a holistic approach towards controlling the ovarian cysts is the only cure left in its hands to deal with the stubborn ovarian cysts since it launches its attack at the base of the disease condition, going through all the stages till it is eliminated from the system for good. To cut a long story short, holistic approach includes regulation of the monthly periods, growth of healthy tissues within the reproductive system, intensification of fertility, diminishing the chances of miscarriage (which is vital in controlling ovarian cysts), removal of excess fat in the lower abdomen and elimination of chances for hysterectomy or ovarian surgery. All these is however, achieved through controlled diet, consumption of essential minerals, reduction in alcohol consumption and a healthy lifestyle.

Holistic approach has been planned, considering the fact that most of the chronic problems of female health, including polycystic ovary syndrome, and also ovarian cysts, are caused by a number of factors, and some of them are even environmental. Many of these factors are biochemical, nutritional, behavioural and also psychological. Knowing what the internal chemistry is and how it works is helpful because you can then make changes to get relief. Such alterations can even remote PCOS and ovarian cysts completely - that is if you go for holistic remedies.

Since holistic remedies treat the body as a whole and attempts to identify and treat all the contributing factors, ovarian cysts can be best resolved with this approach.