Baby Poop: What New Parents Need To Know

Newborn babies don't do much. They cry and sleep. They gaze around some. They eat and spit-up. They pee and poop. Really, that's about it. So it's easy to see why new parents focus on their infant's bowel habits. Of course, relatives are also responsible. Everyone has an Aunt Betty (or maybe it's your Mother-in-law) whose goal in life it is to voice concern about everything. "He poops too much. She doesn't go enough. It's too hard. It's too soft. Why's he always grunting like that?" Often new parents aren't concerned until someone convinces them of a so-called problem.

The trouble with baby poop is the wide-degree of variation. Some infants stool shortly after every feeding, while others go once a week. There's also a wide-range of thickness--from thin liquid to clay patties. And then there's color: yellows, greens, browns, reds, and blacks. Let's take a quick look at each of these factors and discuss what's normal and what's not.

Stool frequency depends on how much stool your baby makes and how quickly the intestine moves it down the pike. The amount of stool is dependent upon two variables--how well your baby's intestine absorbs food and how many bacteria live in the gut. Since a baby's ability to absorb food changes over time, the amount of residue left over also changes. Typically there is more residue to stool out in the first few weeks of life. Then, as your baby's intestine matures, absorption improves and the amount of residue decreases. Thus, babies who used to poop several times a day may slow production down to once every couple days.

On the other hand, bacteria may have the opposite result. As a baby matures, more and more bacteria populate the gut. They are important to the digestion process and are one of the reason baby stool changes in character over the first few months of life. But as their numbers increase, the body eliminates more and more of them in the stool. Stool bulk increases as the number of bacteria increases, and increased stool bulk leads to more frequent bowel movements.

Another factor affecting stool frequency is transit time. Some guts work faster than others. So what's normal? Well, some newborns will have a stool every time they eat, while others will go every few days. If your infant's stools are more than three or four days apart, it may still be alright, but you should give your child's doctor a call and let him know.

Stool consistency is another important consideration. If your baby's stools are always slimy like mucus or thin like water or thick like clay, talk to your doctor. The ideal consistency of newborn stool is like mustard, but some variation on this may be okay.

Also pay attention to color. Bright red usually means blood. Bring this to your doctor's attention right away. Possible causes include milk allergy, a crack in the skin around the anus, or (rarely) a more serious internal problem of the intestinal tract. Black tar-like stool is normal during the first few days of life. But if it remains this way long or becomes this way again, talk to your doctor. It could be a sign of bleeding in the gut.

Other colors depend on diet and the make-up of intestinal bacteria. Normal colors can range from pale yellow to dark green and light tan to dark brown.

Putting this all together, normal baby poop should be the consistency of mustard. It may be yellow, green, tan, or brown and it may come several times a day or once every several days. Reasons to call your doctor include black tar-like stool, presence of blood, watery diarrhea, constant mucus, and thick or formed stool. Also let your doctor know if your baby routinely goes several days without passing stool.

A word about fussiness is in order. Many parents assume a fussy baby who has a bowel movement every few days is constipated. This may not be the case. Keep in mind that upset babies, whether they are upset from hunger or the pain of an ear infection or heart burn, will stiffen their bellies, draw up their legs, and pass gas as they bear down. You should not assume this behavior is from constipation, even if their bowels move irregularly. Instead, make an appointment with your child's doctor for a thorough examination.

Okay, let's say your infant is constipated. She has thick formed stool that is difficult to pass and she goes infrequently. Your doctor agrees your infant is constipated. What will he have you do? Here are some options:

RECTAL STIMULATION: Put a glob of lubricant on a rectal thermometer or Q-Tip. Insert the tip a quarter to half inch into the rectum, give a little twist, and pull back out. Often, this will stimulate a bowel movement within a minute or two.

GLYCERIN SUPPOSITORIES: These are available at most pharmacies. Use half a suppository to start, inserting it into the rectum. This works by increasing the water content in the stool through a process known as osmosis (think back to high school science class).

JUICE: Processed apple or prune juice from a grocery store (not fresh from a fruit stand) will also increase the water content of stool through osmosis. This works because undigested sugars make it all the way down to the large intestine and draw water into the bowel. Baby juice probably won't work because it's so dilute. Start with an ounce or two of full-strength processed juice. If it works, you may need to continue giving an ounce or two of juice once or twice a day to keep your baby regular.

ORAL MEDICATION: There are several of oral medications that work the same way as juice. Milk of Magnesia is available over the counter, while Lactulose and Miralax require a prescription. Oral medications are rarely necessary for young infants.

It's important to consult your doctor before trying any of these methods. There are diseases, some of them serious, that mimic constipation--so don't treat it without your doctor's help.

Finally, a word is in order concerning some things you shouldn't use to treat constipation. Kayro syrup and honey have the remote possibility of transmitting botulism to infants, so don't use these products in children less than a year old. Likewise, unprocessed juice may contain harmful bacteria, such as E. Coli. Also, enemas are not recommended for infants--save those for the older kids and use them only under the guidance of your child's doctor.

Baby poop is funny because it can be so different from one child to the next. And for some crazy reason, well-meaning relatives always seem to gravitate toward a newborn's bowel habits. But don't let Aunt Betty (or your Mother-in-law) get to you. Armed with the knowledge of what's normal and what's not, if she keeps pushing, feel free to teach her a thing or two.

Copyright 2006 Mike Patrick Jr, MD

Haiti - Solar Sun Ovens Are Desperately Needed

The death toll in Haiti could reach 200,000 from the 7.0 earthquake on Jan 12th, according to the latest CBS news report. Many of those who survived the destructive force of the quake are now dealing with serious injuries, infected wounds and a lack of food and water. As of this writing, 12 days have lapsed and many have still not received food or clean, healthy drinking water. There are still dead bodies trapped and decomposing beneath the collapsed buildings, creating further danger of air-borne diseases. Experts say that the dead bodies do not pose nearly the risk of spreading disease as do the survivors.

The majority of the organisms responsible for disease do not live long in dead flesh. HIV and hepatitis are widespread in Haiti and both diseases can be contracted by handling dead bodies carrying these organisms, without the proper protective clothing and mask.

Contaminated water supplies, untreated infected wounds and mosquitoes could further exacerbate an already life-threatening situation. Clean water and antibiotics are scarce and badly needed to treat the many serious crush wounds, puncture wounds, compound fractures, cuts and scrapes. There is increasing imminent danger of infection from the filthy conditions found most everywhere in the cities and surrounding areas. Scores of survivors with such injuries could surely succumb to complications caused by infections such as gangrene, septicemia, and blood poisoning.

A lack of clean water for drinking and bathing can lead to a myriad of diseases related to E. coli bacteria found in human fecal material.

Dr. Bonnie Henry, an infectious disease expert at the B.C. Centers for Disease Control in Vancouver, said "...E. coli can be among the most deadly diseases. Carried in feces, the bacteria can end up contaminating both water and food. There are many different types of E. coli, so it causes everything from just an explosive, watery diarrhea to a very severe infection with bloody diarrhea and kidney failure." Dr. Henry said.

Typhoid, caused by a strain of salmonella, is another possibility related to the serious unsanitary conditions and tight quarters of hundreds of people.

Another serious problem is malnutrition from an inadequate supply of food to many people. Most of the food made available to the survivors is uncooked and eaten cold, due to the lack of any type of cooking appliance such as a propane or gas stove. In addition, there are very few areas that have electricity available for cooking or boiling drinking water.

There is an American company that is helping to solve this dilemma with solar ovens. Paul Munsen, owner and CEO of Global Sun Ovens, has already provided over 1,400 Sun Ovens to Haiti, allowing people to cook their meals with the energy of the sun. In addition, he has shipped twelve large "Villager" Sun Ovens that will each cook 1,200 meals per day. Mr. Munsen has been providing ovens to Haiti for over 14 years and has set up a factory in Haiti so the Haitian people can manufacture their own solar Sun Ovens.

Besides cooking food, the solar Sun Ovens will pasteurize water, kill all bacteria and harmful organisms. The Sun Ovens can also sterilize medical instruments. Global Sun Ovens is working with Friends of Haiti Organization (FOHO) to get the ovens into the hands of those who need them the most.

They are asking for donations for this cause. FOHO is a 501c nonprofit organization and 100% of the donations for Sun Ovens go towards purchasing them at cost and shipping them to Haiti.

Donations of any amount will be greatly appreciated. Checks should be made payable to: Friends of Haiti Organization, P. O. Box 222, Holland, OH 43528

(Please note the donation is for the Sun Oven project.)

Please give what you can. You will be saving lives.

Vital First Aid Skills

When bugging out you will find no doctors or emergency rooms in which to rush yourself or a family member to when a medical problem develops. In an emergency you will need to deal with the circumstances yourself and in that case you should know what measures to take in order to minimize the effects of a medical emergency.

Most of the time adults in a bug out party are more alarmed about their children's health then they are about themselves. Children often attract certain medical conditions comparable to a magnet attracting bits of metal. This commentary will summarize a few of those emergency first aid skills that you should be familiar with when taking children with you.

When a child requires help they need it immediately. Nothing is worse then a child weeping out in pain and the parent not being able to alleviate the problem in the least. The first order of business here is to take a good quality first aid course. Learn CPR principles as they relate to children or small infants.

While undertaking your first aid course pay noteworthy attention to the sections that address bloody noses. Children often panic when confronted with a bloody nose whether there is pain associated with it or not. It is the prospect of blood which actually sets them off. Similarly, as you would for adults you should be acquainted before hand with how to dress any sort of wound. Don't just place a Band-Aids on the spot in question but progress on to the more advanced dressings and know when and how to use them. Make sure you have the proper bandages and dressing stored in your first aid kit at all times.

Choking resulting from food or any other cause must be dealt with immediately. There is no room for delays in this sort of emergency. Learn how to dislodge any items that become stuck in a child's throat. Better to be safe then sorry in situations as these. Have you instructor show you the proper way to perform the Heimlich maneuver. This is an excellent technique for dislodging a caught chunk of steak or getting a large piece of candy from a little ones throat.

Chances of your child getting a burn are greater when you are bugging out then when you are safely in the confines of your home. There are countless things that can contribute to this situation ranging from open campfires to candles being used to provide evening light. Know what to do in the event your child is unfortunate enough to encounter these calamities.

Another dread when bugging out is diarrhea. Learn various means by which to stop this problem as quickly as you can. Children who experience diarrhea often become dehydrated and that could lead to more serious consequences. There are both natural and medicinal ways in which one could get this situation under control. Keep extra medications in your first aid kit just in case.

Lastly I want to mention nausea. While traveling in your car the best way to combat the "sick feeling" is to simply pull to the side of the road and allow the passenger to bend over as far as possible. As a last resort the child will vomit their stomach contents and feel better at which time your trip can continue on as planned.

There you have it in a nutshell, but I sincerely recommend that you take that first aid and CPR course as it may save a loved ones life.

Copyright @2010 Joseph Parish

www.survival-training.info

Common Symptoms of Migraine Headaches - Watch Out For These 6 Things!

People around the world experience various symptoms of migraine headaches. Here are some of the most common ones that come on when you are experiencing a headache, as well as some symptoms that warn you a migraine is about to attack.

6 Symptoms of Migraine Headaches...

Pain - Perhaps one of the most common symptoms of migraine headaches is an intense, throbbing pain in the temple or forehead, around the eyes or at the back of the head.

Visual Disturbances - Many people have reported visual disturbances like the appearance of zigzag lines or a large dark spot or hole in their vision.

Stomach Disorder - Often times, symptoms of migraine include nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. These, of course, could be attributable to other types of illness, but long-term migraine sufferers can attest to experiencing them with almost every migraine attack.

Sensitivity to Light or Sound - This is also one of the most common symptoms, which is why keeping your eyes closed in a dark, quiet room can be very effective at getting rid of the migraine.

Facial Pallor - Many times, people's faces become very pale when they are experiencing a migraine headache. White as a ghost, and deathly pale can best describe this symptom.

Cold Hands and Feet - Several people have reported having cold hands and feet during a migraine attack. The temperature of the hands and feet usually returns to normal after the headache subsides.

Warning Symptoms!

The following warning symptoms are generally experienced by 40-60% of migraine sufferers right before the headache comes on:

1. Sleepiness


2. Irritability


3. Dizziness or vertigo


4. Loss of coordination


5. Fatigue


6. Depression or euphoria


7. Craving for sweet or salty food


8. Poor concentration


9. Sweating


10. Increased urination

These symptoms & warning signs should help you to determine if you are actually experiencing a migraine headache. If you are experiencing one, seek treatment as quickly as you can to reduce pain.

Can Parvovirus Affect Labrador Retriever?

Whether your Labrador Retriever is out in the field working or just right beside you enjoying the dog show, chances of contracting parvovirus exist. Parvovirus is a contagious virus affecting dogs, more frequently puppies. Canine Parvovirus or CPV is a highly infectious disease and is spread from dog to dog with physical contact and contact with infected feces. The virus is not capable of reproducing on its own because of the fact that they contain only DNA or RNA. They invade the cell, reproduce inside it and kills the cells causing dogs and puppies not to be able to absorb nutrients or liquids.

CPV has two forms: intestinal and cardiac. The less common is the cardiac form in which the virus attacks the heart muscle and the dog dies suddenly because of heart failure. Some infected dogs will show no symptoms. But some infected dogs show symptoms such as lethargy, vomiting, high fever, diarrhea, depression and lack of appetite. In severe cases, stool can be very watery, foul smelling, yellow in color and usually bloody. Abdominal pain is also present as well as pain when eating. The possibility of dehydration exist because of severe dehydration and vomiting and the fact that he is not able to replace the nutrients and fluids lost.

To diagnose the presence of parvovirus, positive diagnostic test is done. Canine parvovirus disease requires aggressive or intense treatment. There is no specific cure for this disease. Your vet can only treat the symptoms to keep the pet alive. Measures should be taken to prevent diarrhea, loss of proteins and to replace fluids lost through vomiting and diarrhea. These measures include giving of fluids, regulating electrolyte levels, controlling body temperature and giving blood transfusions when needed. Antibiotic therapy may be needed to control secondary bacterial infections.

To ensure that you're beloved Labrador Retriever will not suffer this kind of health problem, you should adhere to the required or recommended vaccination. Vaccine against parvovirus is usually administered to puppies six to eight weeks of age and should only be allowed to mingle with other dogs two weeks after their last vaccination. There is no use vaccinating new born puppies since they are still protected by maternal antibodies. However, these antibodies wear off before the puppy's system became mature enough to fight parvovirus.

CPV cannot be treated at home so consult your vet immediately if you see signs of the existence of this disease.

Dog Worms - Has Your Dog Been Infected?

When you finish reading this article, you will have learned which worms are most likely to infest your dog and how to deal with them. Be sure to read this article clear though to the end or you will miss some of this very valuable information.

Dogs eat just about anything

Here's the thing about dogs. First, they forage for food - just like many animals. Second, they'll eat just about anything, including feces.

Because of these two traits, dogs are very prone to developing worms - worms which can make them sick and even kill them. This includes heartworms, hookworms, roundworms, whipworms, and tapeworms.

So how can you tell if your dog is suffering from any of these worms?

Here are the worms that are most likely to infest your dog and their symptoms.

Hookworms

Hookworms are usually found in dog feces. If your dog has a habit of eating feces, watch for this illness. The symptoms of hookworms include loose stool or blood in the stool, bloating, gas, and an unusual appetite. Also, the dog's coat may become duller.

Roundworms

Roundworms are caused when the dog ingests the egg of the roundworm. Also puppies can become infected through their mother. Signs to look for that your dog has roundworms include vomiting, diarrhea, bloating, gas, and an unusual appetite.

Heartworms

Heartworms most often come from mosquitoes. This usually occurs during the warmer months when dogs are exposed to these pests. Heartworms are very dangerous and, if left untreated, can actually kill your dog. Symptoms to watch out for include lethargy, coughing, loss of appetite, and difficulty breathing. You might also notice that your dog is becoming more tired than usual after exercise. This condition needs to be treated immediately by a vet.

Tapeworms

Tapeworms occur when dogs eat fleas. While this may not be a pleasant exercise, you should regularly check the dog's rectum to see if there are any white, rice-like parasites in the area. If you, the dog is almost sure to have tapeworms. Symptoms of these worms include an inability to digest food, weight loss, and stomach pain.

Whipworm

Whipworm occurs when dogs eat worm-infested feces or when they step in feces and then lick their paws. A dog with whipworm will often have a bloody stool, an unusual appetite, and will become bloated, experience cramps, and have a dull coat.

Other conditions that can affect your dog's health include Coccidia which are parasites caused by ingesting feces. Symptoms of this disease include loose stool, vomiting, loss of weight, and bloating.

Another parasite which can affect pups is called Giardia. These parasites are found mostly in areas where there is a lot of water. The ingestion of Giardia can cause loose stool, loss of weight, and bloating.

The key is early detection

Early detection is the key to treating these illnesses. If your dog displays any of the symptoms listed in this article, be sure to get it to your vet for a checkup. Also, make sure your dog receives regular check-ups as this gives your vet the opportunity to check for worms and other conditions by taking stool samples.

It is always better to err on the side of caution and carefully watch your dog's behavior and habits. If they change in any way, make an appointment with your vet to get the problem diagnosed and treatment started immediately.

Type 1 Diabetes-Sick Day Management Support During the Stomach Flu

First let me start by saying that over the years I have learned that Type 1 Diabetes is an unpredictable disease that I knew nothing about 5 years ago. That was before my 3 year old son was diagnosed. Since then I have had numerous experiences with doctors with different opinions on how to treat my child. I guess that is why a doctor is always "practicing medicine".

My point is there comes a time when parents of Type 1 Diabetics can learn from each others experiences especially when it comes to preparing for the day when your diabetic child catches the stomach flu or other illnesses that cause high blood sugars and ketones. As everyone knows the stomach flu in normal children causes a severe onset of vomiting and diarrhea that can last several days and comes on with no notice. Since my son was diagnosed over four years ago my family and I have learned (at least 4 times) how to properly manage the stomach flu without the need for hospitalization. Just like any other emergencies you must be prepared by making sure you have all the right items on hand in case your hit with those famous words "my tummy hurts". This usually occurs at night when you are half asleep so having the following items on hand is important.

Keto sticks,Extra Insulin,Extra Syringes or insulin pump supplies, Pedialyte,Sugar and non-sugar decaf soda (only use if needed as it will cause dehydration), Glucagon, Alarm Clock, Hard candy (only if your child is old enough to eat without choking)

Now I will explain a little on why you need all that junk for the stomach flu. First things first. When the stomach flu hits vomiting occurs regularly depleting the body of a large amount of fluids. This must be replaced to avoid dehydration. In a child with Type 1 diabetes you have to be prepared to battle ketones that are brought on by the illness. Ketones are caused by high blood sugar and the absence of insulin in the body. In order to get rid of the ketones you must keep giving your child insulin even though their blood sugar will most likely be low. Don't get frustrated if you child is having a hard time keeping down liquids. If they are able to take a few sips of sugared soda or pedialyte every 20 minutes or so and keep it down for short periods this is enough to keep them hydrated and maintain a fairly good blood sugar. In my experience you will have to set an alarm every 20 minutes or so through the night to keep this up. Be sure to check blood sugars often. If the low blood sugars continue have your child suck on a piece of hard sugared candy to help maintain their blood sugar. This should only be done if you child is old enough to eat hard candy. All this will make you tired but it should keep your child out of the hospital and keep you sane.

Remember a cure is just around the corner.

Facts About Agrimony Herb

Agrimony Herb has a long history behind it. It was always used as a domestic medicinal herb by many of those who live in the country. This herb is part of the rose family, and it is in bloom from June to September. This herb has beautiful leaves which add to its beauty.

This plant grows close to the ground. There are also flowers that grow closely together on its little branches. What's more, this herbal plant has a sweet smell that is of apricots which makes it enjoyable to many.

During the Middle Ages, this herb was used by the Anglo-Saxon peoples for the healing of wounds and sores. They also used this herb as part of their ritual rites. It was believed that if a man put the herb beneath his head, he'd be induced into deep sleep.

Some writers also have said that it is quite useful for curing jaundice. The way it works is, the crown of a root is placed into boiling water. A half a pint six times a day is the prescribed dose.

In North America, it was used to treat fever by the Canadians and the Native Americans. They had great success when using the herb for that purpose. Additionally, it has been used to treat diseases of the blood and skin. The leaves and roots are sweetened with honey or sugar so as to be tolerated and administered two to three times a day. Doses are the size of a full wineglass.

Today, the herb is used to treat diarrhea, relaxed bowels, sore throats, and passive blood loss. For these treatments, a handful of the leaves or stems is dumped into a pint of boiling water. This solution can be gargled for the easing of a sore throat, and a teacup full, taken cold, three to four times a day, to get rid of diarrhea or help with the passive blood loss. And, though this herb is not yet fully appreciated by today's modern medicine, it is appreciated by many for its many virtues.

Celiac Crisis: A Serious Complication of Gluten Intolerance

Gluten Intolerance (Celiac disease) per se is not that difficult to deal with as some would often say. Just comply with the gluten-free diet and that's it! You can live a normal life doing normal stuffs without you experiencing the symptoms. However, celiac crisis happens when there is poor compliance to the diet regimen intended for gluten intolerance.

Celiac crisis is a very rare complication associated with gluten intolerance. It is generally characterized by severe diarrhea and vomiting which causes severe dehydration. Certain metabolic and electrolyte disturbances are also associated with gluten intolerance such as hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, and hypoproteinemia,

Celiac crisis can be life threatening to both children and adults. Mortality wise, children are most at risk because their system is not yet well developed to cope up unlike adults.

Symptoms would include dry mouth, lethargy, few or no tears when crying, muscle weakness, headache, dizziness, sunken eyes, shriveled and dry skin, sunken fontanels in babies, low blood pressure, increased heart rate, fever, delirium and unconsciousness.

Persons with the disease suffer from malabsorption from the very start. This causes their system to weaken causing harm to the entire body system. Celiac disease imposes great risk when it goes hand in hand with severe dehydration. Want to know what is the management for severe dehydration related to gluten intolerance? Here are some great hints to manage celiac crisis.

Increase your oral fluid intake. This will help replenish the fluids and electrolytes lost from the body. People with gluten intolerance must also have high intakes of fruits and vegetables. Not only is this one great source of gluten-free diet but it also has high water content. In cases where children are dehydrated, intravenous fluids are started plus fluids are given by mouth. Consuming clear fluids is also necessary such as clear broths, frozen water or ice pops and sports drinks such as Gatorade. Drinks with caffeine must be avoided such as coffee, tea and sodas. Some medications are also given such as anti-emetics, anti-diarrhea and anti-fever. These medications provide relief from vomiting and diarrhea.

Swine Flu: Causes, Symptoms and Prevention

Swine flu is a highly infectious disease of the respiratory system which is common among pigs, thereby giving it the name " flu". The problem for us is that the flu does not remain confined to pigs alone and can be transmitted to humans. To add to our woes,flu is highly contagious due to which it can become pandemic in no time at all.

Causes of swine flu

Flu in humans is caused by the spread of H1N1 virus.

People who stay in close contact with pigs wither due to professional requirements (working at animal farms, pig breeding farms, etc.) or by choice (have pigs as pets or touch and/or stroke them at petting fairs and zoos) can get infected by the flu virus.

The strains of H1N1 virus can enter the body either by inhaling them directly or indirectly (touching surfaces and objects contaminated by the touch of a person carrying the H1N1 virus or droplet infection caused by inhaling the strains of the virus when an infected person sneezes or coughs).

Symptoms of swine flu

The symptoms of swine flu can take 3-5 days to appear completely, after inhaling the strains of H1N1 virus. The symptoms also show a marked variation in children and adults.

Swine flu symptoms in children

繚 Sore throat

繚 Uneasiness while drawing in breath

繚 Color of skin changing to grayish blue

繚 Lack of thirst

繚 Nausea which might or might not be accompanied by vomiting

繚 Diarrhea

繚 Fainting or not getting up from sleep

繚 Body ache, and general flu like symptoms

繚 A fever which subsides initially but then reoccurs with severe respiratory problems

Swine flu symptoms in adults

Symptoms of flu in adults are less pronounced as compared to children though that should not be taken to mean that they can be taken lightly.

繚 Sore throat

繚 Breathlessness and difficulty in breathing

繚 Uneasiness and pain in the chest and abdomen

繚 Nausea and vomiting

繚 Diarrhea

繚 Body ache

繚 Flu like symptoms and fever recurring after subsiding once with a very bad throat and complications of the respiratory tract.

How to prevent swine flu?

Since flu is a highly infectious disease, it is necessary to take prevent swine flu to keep the deadly virus at bay.Here is a list of some simple do's and don'ts which will help you prevent swine flu and keep yourself and others in the family safe:

Step # I: Segregate the person carrying the swine flu virus

繚 Allot the person carrying the virus a separate area in the home which should, preferably, be well lit, well ventilated and have an attached wash room. As far as possible, try to keep the door to this room closed.

繚 Ask the infected person to stay indoors and avoid venturing outside the home for fear of passing off the infection to others. Going out should be avoided till it is absolutely necessary to do so (like visiting the doctor).

繚 Ask the infected person to wear a surgical mask when he is in the common area of the house to avoid droplet infection.

Step #II: Protecting others in the family from swine flu

繚 Discourage visitors and ask them to inquire about the infected person's well-being over a phone call if they must do so.

繚 Take special care to keep any pregnant women from coming in contact with a person carrying the swine flu virus because they are at a higher risk of getting infected.

繚 Anyone who visits the room of the infected person must wash his hands with soap immediately even if he has not touched the patient because he might have touched objects which have been touched by the latter.

Step #III: Preventive measures for the caregiver

繚 Try avoiding coming close to the infected person's face.

繚 If a child in the family has been infected, hold him in a matter so that his chin rests on the shoulder to avoid face to face contact with him.

繚 Wash the hands thoroughly very time after visiting the infected person's room or handling his laundry, clothing, etc.

繚 Take preventive medicines if required after consulting your doctor to prevent infection.

Step #IV: Handling infected person's laundry, etc.

The caretaker has to exercise due caution while handling infected person's laundry and other waste to prevent infection from spreading.

繚 Do not hold the patient's clothes, laundry, etc. close to the chest and wash your hands after touching any of his items.

繚 Wash the patient's clothes, utensils, towels, bed linen, etc. separately, preferably using warm water.

繚 Clean all items that might have been contaminated by his touch like the taps in his wash room, the remote control to his television, the door knobs and handles, etc. at least once a day with an alcohol based disinfectant.

Following these simple instructions can help you prevent infection from spreading.

Four Travel Buddies You Want to Avoid

You might think you already know this guy or girl.? You know the stereotypes.? We have the stinker, snorer, snoozie-nooner, party guy, captain go-go-go, no-doe, and the travel guru to name a few. ? Great, but I'm not talking about any of them.

I'm talking about a different kind of travel buddy that you will want to avoid at all cost.? I'm talking about something so opportunistic that it gives a whole new meaning to the word "mooch".? These guys aren't your buddy at all.? These guys are true parasites.

1.) Giardia Lamblia - Topping our list as one of the most common is this guy.? He might have you go-go-go but it's always to the same place, the toilet.

Somewhere along the trail you came into contact with infected feces, ut-oh.? Most likely it was in the form of contaminated food or water.? The Route of infection, fecal-oral - eww!

If your traveling in developing countries where poor sanitary conditions, water quality control and overcrowding are prevalent then you are at increased risk.

Also at risk are campers and backpackers.? This is particularly true in mountainous regions where streams can be infected with human or animal waste and carry Giardia cysts (resting stage).? Always treat your water.

Once you ingest the cysts the acid in your stomach activates the cysts and releases trophozoites (active form of parasite in your body).? From this point it's all fun and games for the parasite as it attaches to your small intestine and starts to reproduce.? As you pass feces it now contains more cysts waiting to reinfect another.

In the meantime you are blessed with sudden explosive foul smelling diarrhea, excessive gas, bloating, abdominal pain, nausea, tiredness and loss of appetite.? When you think about the parasites method of infection your symptoms are great for its survival and desired goal to find more human hosts.

Preventive Measures for Travelers -? Practice good hygiene, follow food and water precautions (appropriate water filtering), avoid accidental water intake during swimming.

Fun History -? Giardia is often referred to as "Beaver Fever" due to the?high occurrence of campers getting the disease from drinking contaminated water inhabited by beavers.

2.)? Leishmaniasis, Cutaneous - This next one is going to have you feeling like the stinker.? Why?? Because once people catch site of your ugly lesions they are gonna avoid you like the plague.

This travel buddy can be picked up in southern Europe as well parts of the tropics and subtropics.? According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), over 90% of the world's cases of CL occur in eight countries: Afghanistan, Algeria, Iran, Iraq, Saudi Arabia, and Syria (Old World); and Brazil and Peru (New World).? Over 75% U.S. civilian cases are acquired in Latin America, including popular tourist destinations such as Costa Rica.

Travelers at increased risk for CL include adventure travelers, bird watchers, ecotourists, missionaries, Peace Corps volunteers, soldiers and anyone doing research outdoors particularly at night.

The vector-borne culprit is an infected female phlebotomine sand fly.? Risk for infection is highest from dusk to dawn as they are night feeders.? Although less active in the day, they may bite unsuspecting hikers that brush against tree trunks or other resting places.

The event of infection can go completely unnoticed.? Sand flies make no buzzing noise, are about 1/3 the size of mosquitoes and don't have a wicked mean bite.? It's what comes after that will remind you of your friendly new travel buddy.

Preventive Measures for Travelers -? Reduce contact with sand flies.? Avoid outdoor activities especially during the hours from dusk till dawn.? Wear protective clothing and barriers.? Use a repellent with DEET.

Fun History- That was the good kind.? Visceral leishmaniasis, also known as kala-azar or black fever is the most severe form of leishmaniasis.? If left untreated it will certainly cause death.? Here's the bad news,??the?World Health Oganization?reports that?in southern?Sudan, "the number of?cases from September 2009 until now is more than six times higher than in 2007-08." and "more than 6,000 people have been infected?and over 300 have died in the last year."

3.)? Malaria - genus: Plasmodium - The good old standby.? If you travel abroad, come home and fall ill everyone will be quick to say "you probably have Malaria".? So do you?

According to the CDC there are about 1,500 cases of Malaria in the U.S each year, mostly from returned travelers.? Sub-Saharan Africa travelers are at the greatest risk for both getting malaria and dying from the infection.? However, any country where malaria is present results in a risk for travelers.

A great tool for you to use is the CDC Malaria Map Application.? Users can search a interactive map and get information about malaria endemicity in any particular region.? What's great is it recommended medications for malaria prevention for that particular area.

Mosquitoes are the culprit carrying the parasite that causes Malaria.? Mosquitoes are also the thing you want to avoid to avoid picking up this new travel buddy.? Can you imagine that, heading out camping realizing there was a real legitimate risk of contracting Malaria.? People in the States often joke, "Probably got Malaria" after being bit a bunch but we don't really think we have it.

But what if the circumstances are right?? You were in a high risk area, you got bit by mosquitoes.? Did you know you could come down with symptoms up to a year later.? Anyone that has traveled abroad should seek immediate medical attention up to a year after any possible exposure if symptoms present.? Malaria is always a serious illness and sometimes deadly.? Symptoms of Malaria include fever and a flu like illness.

Preventative Measures for Travelers - ? Avoid contact with mosquito bites through the usual means including protective clothing, repellents, insecticide treated bed nets, etc.? If you know you are traveling into a high risk area you should consider bringing malaria prevention medicines.? Consult the Malaria information by country table list to see the CDC-recommended options.

Bringing your own medicine will give you some peace of mind and in the event you are diagnosed with Malaria abroad.? This will ensure you have immediate access to an appropriate high quality anti-malarial treatment plan.? Not doing so could leave you in a bad situation.? In some countries where Malaria is present it is not unheard of to receive counterfeit or sub-standard drug treatment.

Fun History - The word "malaria" comes from the Italian mala aria, and means "bad air." It was believed that malaria was actually?caused by breathing in bad air-namely, foul vapors emanating from swamps, latrines, and so on. The stagnant water provided a breeding ground for mosquitoes which was actually the?responsible culprit capable of spreading the parasite.

4.)??Ascaris lumbricoides- This is the largest nematode (roundworm) that can parasitize the human intestine and it's also the most common.? This thing can actually grow 5 to 35 inches long and produce more than 200,000 eggs per day inside the body.

Infection occurs worldwide?but is most common in tropical and subtropical areas.??Developing countries?where sanitation and hygiene are poor result in higher risk.

Ascaris Infection occurs when a person accidentaly ingest ascaris eggs found in soil.? Common routes of infection include contaminated food or touching your mouth with your hands after?coming into contact?with?the eggs.

Once in the small intestine the eggs hatch into immature worms.? The larvae?migrate to the?lungs and then to the throat where they are swallowed. When they reach the intestines?they develop into adult worms.? The adult female is responsible for laying eggs which will eventually pass into ones feces.

Symptoms can be mild (adominal discomfort) to none.? Slow weight gain or growth is often associated with Ascaris infection.? If your thinking this sounds like a great way to lose way think again.? Heavy worm infections have been known to cause a intestinal blockage.

Preventative Measures for Travelers- Telling you to avoid contact with soil that may contain human feces sounds redicoulous but make sure you do this.? If possible don't deficate outdoors.? Always dispose of diapers properly.? Wash hands with soap and water before handling food and avoid any food that may be contaminated with soil.? Wash, peel or cook your food throughly before consumption.

Fun History-??Has anyone heard of the??new weight loss craze in Hong Kong?? Apparently,?certain Chinese-language websites have been promoting the use of products that contain Ascaris worm eggs with the promise of fast weight loss.? Did you see what I said at the start of this article, these things can grow up to 35 inches long.? Don't do It!

Aside from the obvious?gross factor these?worms can cause serious complications including death.? No more needs to be said.

BONUS BUG) Bed Bugs (Cimex lectularius) - These guys are the real travel gurus.? If they talked you would likely get a earful of how they traveled harder, further and just plain better then you ever did.

You would likely hear stories of how they hopped one backpack in a crowded metro car to another and then got a free stay in a 4 star hotel after two nights bumming in some?filthy flat.? The next day they decided to travel again with?some complete stranger they picked up in bed and ended up on a 7 day cruise.? Not ready to go home yet they hopped bags at luggage in the airport and were on their way to Tahiti.? Wow, What a life.

For more on Bed Bugs please visit our full post on Bed Bugs and Traveling.

Bonus Fun About Parasites- Did you know most parasites need a host, often more than one different kind to complete thier life cycle.? Check out this cool video on how the clever parasite gets it done.

Understanding and Treating Diarrhea

Diarrhea is a condition wherein the stools are loose and watery. There isn't any consistency in the stool when a person is suffering from diarrhea. Actually, diarrhea is considered as a body's defense mechanism in an attempt to eliminate unwanted substances or toxins in the body.

A person with diarrhea may experience moderate to severe stomach pain, fever, nausea and vomiting, and frequent thirst. The most dreaded complication of diarrhea would be dehydration, which is why the goal of treatment for diarrhea would be to prevent dehydration.

Although there are some prescription drugs that can help in treating diarrhea, it is still unacceptable to completely rely on these drugs because there can be a lot of side effects or adverse effects which can cause problems rather than cure to your problem.

Actually, it is not good to stop diarrhea because it is the body's natural way of expelling the toxins or unwanted substances in the body. Natural treatments for diarrhea would be to relieve the symptoms and to prevent dehydration, but not to completely cease diarrhea itself. This is because if diarrhea is ceased, the toxins will be contained in the body which can cause more severe complications.

The main reason why diarrhea happens is because you may have ingested foods that contain bacteria or fungi. The body attempts to eliminate these bacteria and fungi; thus, causing diarrhea. If you have diarrhea, you are going to pass out watery stools for more than 4 times a day accompanied by stomach cramps and body weakness. Sometimes, it can also be accompanied with fever and vomiting while the dehydration worsens.

Generally speaking, dehydration is a severe condition, especially for the old people and very young people. Dehydration can impair the body's normal function and can lead to severe complications. A person with dehydration excretes fluid and electrolytes more than he/she should and this loss should be replaced. Replacement of lost fluids and electrolytes is the main treatment for diarrhea in order to prevent dehydration.

Diarrhea is just one of those conditions that can impair a person's health. To live a longer life, it would be necessary to take good care of yourself. One way to be healthy is to stay physically active. If you want to know more about working out, seek help from personal trainers Sydney to get more information about the best exercises and workouts that are suitable for you.

New Diet Drug, Alli-May Have Explosive Results

On February 7, 2007, GlaxoSmithKline PLC received FDA approval to begin selling an over-the-counter diet drug called Alli. This drug is a new version of orlistat - similar to the prescription drug, Xenical, that is already on the market.

Alli will be a 60-milligram capsule which is about half the strength of the prescription version. It is expected to be available sometime this summer at a cost of about $1 - $2 a day.

It will be the only FDA-approved weight-loss product available over the counter.

**How It Works**

Alli is only for people 18 years of age and older. By itself, the drug is not expected to be that effective. It should be used in conjunction with a reduced-calorie, low-fat diet and an exercise program.

One capsule should be taken before every meal that contains fat. Alli works by blocking the absorption of some of that dietary fat in the gastrointestinal tract.

Six-month clinical trials of the drug showed that obese people lost approximately one more pound a month. Not a week, a month. In my opinion, that's a minor benefit.

** The Potentially Disgusting Side Effects**

Gastrointestinal side effects are believed to be common with orlistat. These may include fecal urgency or incontinence, explosive diarrhea, anal leakage, increased number of bowel movements, abdominal cramping and oily discharge.

Depending on how severe these gastrointestinal side effects may be (if you experience them at all), you may need to wear adult diapers or you could end up with soiled undies.

The smell would probably be unpleasant as well, especially if Alli shares Xenical's potential side effect of gas with fecal discharge.

For an extra pound a month, I wouldn't want to suffer those gastrointestinal side effects. It sounds messy, stinky, and potentially humiliating if you can't control your bowel movements in public.

If you start experiencing these side effects, you'd better not be too far from a bathroom.

**If That's Not Bad Enough For You, There's More**

Along with dietary fat, Alli may decrease the absorption of some fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E and K) and beta-carotene. We need these nutrients to keep us healthy.

For example, Vitamin E may help your heart or prevent blood clots. Vitamin K may help your blood to clot normally.

You may need to take a daily multivitamin to counteract these effects. But you should see your doctor for specific medical advice.

There are other potential side effects as well.

For example, I believe that diabetics, people on immunosuppressant or blood-thinning drugs, or patients with thyroid disease are not supposed to take orlistat.

But again, you should check with your doctor to be sure that this drug is safe for you.

**Is It Worth It?**

Is losing an extra pound a month really worth the risk of these potential side effects? Couldn't the same results be achieved through diet and exercise alone?

And how do people feel who experience these side effects? Apart from inconvenience and possible humiliation, wouldn't you feel sick from the gastro effects? I thought the point of weight loss was to feel better.

Or is this just a way of preying on the desperation of obese people? And making a lot of money in the process?

Important Disclaimer: This information is presented for educational purposes only. This isn't medical advice and it's not a substitute for any advice or treatment from your physician. You should always see your doctor before taking any new medication or starting any new weight loss regimen.

Copyright (c) 2007 Debbie Fontana

Cat and Kitten Diseases

There are many cat and kitten diseases, far too numerous for me to go into at this time, plus the fact I am not too knowledgeable in that area. For now I am going to touch upon some of the more common illnesses your cats may face and ones I am more familiar with.

Pneumonitis: is a cat disease that takes on the symptoms of a human's common cold. It is caused by a virus giving the kitty a runny nose and eyes, along with sneezing and drooling.

It is not a fatal disease, but one that is very uncomfortable for the cat and its caregiver. It is not fatal and can last up to 6 weeks or more. Your vet will prescribe an antihistamine and some antibiotics along with some eye ointment. There is a vaccine for it, however it only lasts for six months and is generally only given if there is a large outbreak in the area where you are.

Urinary Infections: Cats like their human caregivers can suffer from urinary infections, cystitis and even kidney stones. All of which can be very painful.

The symptoms of a urinary infection follow along the same lines as it does for us. Straining to go to the bathroom and nothing happens, blood in the urine when able to urinate.

If your cat starts vomiting and its tummy is bloated and sensitive to your touch that is a sign of a urinary blockage and you need to call your vet immediately.

To be serious for a moment, anytime you notice any sign that your cat is having a problem going to the bathroom call your vet at once.

Swollen or Infected Anal Glands: If you see your cat sliding along your tile floor it can be a sign of one or two things. It might be a symptom of tapeworms or it could be swollen or infected anal glands. These glands are located on either side of the anus on the inside. If the glands are swollen, they need to be emptied.

My suggestion is take your kitty to your vet to have this done. If you are brave, not faint of heart and can stand the smell you can do it, however, I really don't suggest it.

Constipation: This seems to be another problem cats and humans share. A poor diet, little or no exercise, and hairballs can cause constipation in your cat.

If you notice that your cat has not had a bowel movement for a few days, is not eating like it normally does and its tummy is bloated it may be constipated. A quick call to the vet can remedy that.

Your vet may suggest an over the counter remedy you can try or you may have to bring kitty in to see him/her.

It is not a matter of life or death, just a matter of getting kitty more comfortable and getting rid of stuff inside it.

Diarrhea: Diarrhea is the opposite of constipation, it can also be caused by a poor diet, parasites, a change in routine that has upset the cat or some intestinal virus.

Loose stools or a soft bowel movement is not really a sign of diarrhea (even though we humans often consider it that, when it happens to us.) Diarrhea in a cat is really a watery stool or one that is watery and bloody. If blood should appear do not hesitate to take your kitty to the vet, it could be a serious problem.

Feeding your cat some cooked rice mixed with a little of its food or some cottage cheese can sometime control a watery stool.

Think of what you have been feeding your cat. Have you changed its diet to something new? Have you given the cat a special treat? Any of these may be the cause of the problem. If it persists for more than two days call your vet.

Vomiting: My Boots will vomit if he eats too much dry food at one time. Invariably he will do this at night and will find a spot to vomit where I will unknowingly step in it barefoot when I get up at night.

As a general rule cats do not need an excuse to vomit and most of the time it is not anything to worry about. You just clean up the mess. Hairballs seem to be the biggest cause, which is why brushing your cat is a worthwhile endeavor. Feeding your cat once a week a "hairball prevention treat" is a good idea.

However, if you cat vomits consistently it could be worms, poisoning, or an internal problem and your vet should check the cat over. If you suspect poison, rush your cat to the vet at once.

Ear Mites: Ear mites are pesky little crawly things that can get into your cat's ears and cause all kinds of problems. If nothing else they will drive your poor cat crazy as they itch and will cause kitty to dig at its ears.

There are products you can buy at the pet store to use in your cat's ears (that do not always work), but I recommend that before you attempt to play doctor, you call your vet and take kitty in to be certain that is what the problem is.

Feline Diabetes: Feline diabetes seems to be a common ailment among some cats. Insulin is a hormone produced in the pancreas that controls the flow of glucose from the bloodstream into the cells of the body.

Should the insulin be deficient, the cat's body starts to break down the fat and protein that has been stored, in order for it to be used as an alternative energy source.

Symptoms to be on the alert for are: large appetite, eating more, but losing weight, excessive thirst, and frequent urination.

Diabetes is usually found in older obese cats, males are more prone to it than females. If diabetes is not treated it will definitely shorten your cat's life. Your vet will determine the type of treatment, the changes necessary in the cat's diet and the procedure to follow to help your cat lose weight.

Roundworms and hookworms: A mother cat can transmit these critters to a kitten even if the mother has been wormed. Roundworms are long skinny (spaghetti like) worms that can be seen if your kitten vomits or you can see them in the kitten's feces.

Older cats can get them from infected soil. A trip to the vet is necessary to treat these. As these worms can be transmitted to humans.

Make certain you keep the children's sandbox covered, so neighborhood cats will not use it for potty calls. As an added precaution always have the children wash their hands when they come in from playing in the dirt.

Tapeworms: Tapeworms look like little grains of rice and cannot be detected by a fecal examination. They can be noticed on your cat's hair by its tail or even on a carpet.

Tapeworms are not harmful to children or adults and your vet will prescribe a worm medicine for your cat. There are medicines you can buy over the counter, however I am told they do not do a good job and cats do not like the taste. You need to have a medicine your cat will like, cause feeding a cat anything that is distasteful is not fun.

Ringworm: Ringworm is a nasty contagious skin infection that is caused by a fungus. It can be airborne or found in the soil.

It can be transmitted to humans and is a pain to get rid of. If you suspect that your cat has come into contact with the fungus, you will notice it first around your cat's face, ears, and paws. It is circular in appearance and needs to be treated at once by your vet.

It can spread like wildfire and you need to be careful in handling your pet. Definitely keep the children away from the cat.

Hairballs: Hairballs are a part of life when you have a cat. Cats groom themselves and as a result manage to swallow some of their hair.

If your cat has a hairball that it is trying to get rid of, you will certainly know it by the sounds it will make. My Boots would retch, gag and finally vomit, until I realized the problem, I truly thought he was about to die. My solution has been to feed him "Whiskas Temptations" for hairballs. He loves the treat and so far I have not had to go through all those horrible sounds again.

There are other hairball treatments on the market that work well too, like "Petromalt" or "Laxatone."

Longhaired cats really need to be brushed daily to help prevent this problem. If your cat vomits more than once a week, you more than likely need to talk to your vet, as it may not be a hairball problem.

I have tried in these few pages to touch upon a few of the more common cat diseases and cat problems. It is very important that you stay in contact with your vet or other cat health care provider in order to discuss any problems you may have with your cat.

Cats as a general rule are rather healthy. It is very important that you start your kitten off on the right foot with all the necessary shots and that you follow the advice of your vet on general cat care. Feeding a high quality cat food, whether it is a dry food or a wet food is very important in keeping your cat healthy. As the old saying goes "an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure" and that holds true when raising a kitten into a cat.

Baby Teething Problems? - Learn How to Cope With It

One of the most contradictory milestones in a baby's life is teething. First time parents face it with both trepidation and joy.

Though teething could be tough on both the baby and the parent, below are some of the tips that would help you tame your child's teething blues:-

If your baby doesn't wish to eat, stop panicking. Sore gums often make sucking on a bottle or nipple a painful process. Additionally, excessive drooling related to teething appears to affect appetite too. Many first time parents believe that babies love cold food during their teething phase - a bottle of chilled baby food or cold juice helps lessen the teething pain. Administering drops of Tylenol before every feeding helps decrease the pain to such an extent that it would allow the baby to nurse.

Baby Teethers of various types and sizes are available in the market. Meanwhile, using washcloth for teething babies has proven to be highly successful. You could even try some crushed ice in washcloths and then allow the baby to teethe on it. Another good option is frozen bananas or bagels.

Try rubbing your baby's sore gums as often as you can. This would act like a massage. Few pediatricians believe that this is the ideal process for baby gum analgesics as rubbing gums often provides actual relief.

Is teething associated with diarrhea and fever? Many experts are in disagreement over this. However, many other pediatricians are of the belief that saliva produced during drools cause the stools to loosen and the gums to get inflamed leading to low fever. Some others believe that teething does not lead to these symptoms at all, though teething stress may result in other illnesses.

In case your teething child has high fever, call your pediatrician and seek immediate medical attention.

Food Lectins in Health and Disease: An Introduction

In recent years it appears there is a rising epidemic of people suffering from chronic digestive and autoimmune conditions. Food intolerance or sensitivities may lie at the root of the problem. Most people, including doctors, have little clue how foods they eat may be contributing to their chronic illness, fatigue and digestive symptoms.

There are, however, a lot of clues in the medical literature and the lay public's experience about how foods are causing and/or contributing to the current epidemic of chronic illness and autoimmune disease. There are several diets being used by many people with varying success to improve their health despite a general lack of iron clad scientific proof for their effectiveness. One of the clues to the cause and relief of food induced illness may lie in proteins known as lectins that are present in all foods.

Animal and plant sources of food both contain complex proteins known as lectins. These proteins typically have the ability to attach to sugars or carbohydrates on the surface of human cells. Some of these proteins can cause clumping of human red blood cells, a process that is called agglutination. The process of agglutination occurs when someone receives the wrong blood type during a blood transfusion. In fact, red blood cell agglutination specific to each person or groups of people is the basis for testing for blood types. There is some data that blood types may influence how people respond to certain foods though a blood type specific diet appears to have been disproven. The attachment or binding of certain food lectins can initiate a variety of cell specific effects. These reactions may mimic hormones or cause changes in cells. This is termed molecular mimicry.

Most plants contain lectins, some of which are toxic, inflammatory, or both. Many of these plant and dairy lectin are resistant to cooking and digestive enzymes. Grain lectins, for example, are quite resistant to human digestion but well suited for ruminants like cattle who have multi-chambered stomachs. Therefore, lectins are present in our food and are often resistant to our digestion and some have been scientifically shown to have significant GI toxicity in humans. Others have been shown to be beneficial and maybe even cancer protecting. Either way plant and animal proteins are foreign proteins to the body and are dealt with by digestion and our immune system in a positive or negative manner.

The human digestive system was created to handle a variety of plant and animal proteins through the process of digestion and elimination. Some plant and animal proteins or lectins are severely toxic to humans and cannot be eaten without causing death like those in Castor beans and some mushrooms. Other foods must be prepared before they are safe to be eaten. Preparations may include pealing, prolonged soaking and cooking like kidney beans. Other foods may be poorly tolerated because of a genetic predisposition or underlying pre-existing food allergy or intolerance. Others are tolerated to some degree or quantity but not in large amounts or on a frequent basis. People who are intolerant to the milk sugar lactose, because of inherited or acquired deficiency in lactase enzyme, may tolerate small amounts but may have severe bloating, gas, abdominal pain and cramps with explosive diarrhea when a large amount of lactose containing foods are eaten. Foods can become intolerable to some people after their immune system changes or gut is injured from another cause.

Of the food lectins, grain/cereal lectins; dairy lectins; and legume lectins (especially peanut lectin and soybean lectin) are the most common ones associated with reports of aggravation of inflammatory and digestive diseases in the body and improvement of those diseases and/or symptoms when avoided. Recent research by Loren Cordain PhD., has suggested that these lectins may effectively serve as a "Trojan horse" allowing intact or nearly intact foreign proteins to invade our natural gut defenses and enter behind the lines to cause damage well beyond the gut, commonly in joints, brain, and skin of affected individuals. Once damage occurs to the gut and the defense system is breached the result is what some refer to as a "leaky gut". Moreover, many people who develop a "leaky gut" not only have gut symptoms such as bloating, gas, diarrhea, and abdominal pain but also other symptoms beyond the gut, or extra-intestinal symptoms. Commonly affected areas are the brain or peripheral nerves, skin, joints, and various body glands. With continued exposure of the gut by these toxic food lectins a persistent stimulation of the body's defense mechanism in a dysfunctional manner, occurs, i.e. autoimmune disease.

Wrong types or levels of good and bad bacteria in the gut, or intestinal dysbiosis, may contribute to this process of abnormal stimulation of the immune system. Research supports the strong possibility that such stimulation may be accentuated by interaction of the bacteria with food lectins. It is believed by some that this may further worsen gut injury and autoimmune disease. This latter concept is gaining acceptance and recognition by doctors in one form as the hygiene theory. It is speculated that our gut bacteria have become altered by increased hygiene and over use of antibiotics and that this phenomenon may be playing a significant role in the rising incidence of autoimmune diseases such as diabetes, arthritis, and chronic intestinal diseases like Crohn's disease and irritable bowel syndrome.

Lectins as a cause however are largely being ignored in the U.S. though the field of lectinology and lectins role in disease is more accepted internationally. Avoidance of certain food lectins may be helpful in achieving health and healing of chronic gut injury. Healing of a "leaky gut" and avoidance of ongoing abnormal stimulation of the immune system by toxic food lectins and bacteria in the gut is the basis for ongoing research and probable success of several popular diets such as the paleo diet, carbohydrate specific diet and gluten-free/casein-free diet. More research is needed in this exciting but often neglected area. The Food Doc, LLC features a website http://www.thefooddoc.com that will provide physician authored information on food intolerance, sensitivity and allergy such as lectin, gluten, casein, and lactose intolerance with dietary guidance that will feature in the near future an online symptom assessment and diet-diary.

Copyright 2006, The Food Doc, LLC. All rights reserved. http://www.thefooddoc.com

Reasons for Blood in Your Dog's Urine or Stool

The reasons for blood in your dog's urine or stool may not be a serious health concern. Is your dog outside quite a bit and does he or she have access to twigs, sharp objects of plastic or even garden tools that may have splintered causing injury to the lining of the intestinal track. This type of bleeding would likely last only a day or two. Did your dog eat an animal or have a wound somewhere else on his body that they may have licked, thus ingesting blood? Even rawhide treats can swell inside your dog's stomach causing intestinal distress as it passed through the digestive system. Be aware rawhide cannot be digested at all.

Blood color also can give you an indication. Have you noticed if the blood was a bright red or was it dark red, almost black? Bright red blood is generally from the colon or rectum. Blood that becomes darker has been digested (higher in the intestinal track, or stomach) thus causing it to become discolored. Many times it is hard to tell if the blood is in the urine or feces, so collect a sample of both the feces and urine and take it to your veterinarian for testing.

Some reasons for blood in your dog's urine or stool can include a minor problem like an allergy or a more serious health concern like cancer or dog bladder stones. The following list shows the broad range of causes of blood in the urine or stool.

--Straining because of constipation

--Food allergies which can lead to inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) also called Colitis or Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

--Parasites

--Polyps which are not cancerous

--Parvovirus

--Bladder cancer and other diseases

--dog bladder stones

--Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)

Many times blood in your dog's urine can be blamed on dog bladder stones or a UTI infection. Your veterinarian can run the correct tests to determine the cause of the blood, the treatment and how to prevent future problems. You can also take the steps necessary to prevent further dog bladder stones by using the correct diet that is prescribed along with supplements.

Supplements that help to maintain or improve your pets' immune system can help fight off infections and delay future disease. If your dog does not have a strong immune system, and are prone to dog bladder stones and infections, they will be unable to avoid continued urinary problems; or for that matter other health issues like cancer.

Teen Eating Disorder And Anxiety Depression Causes

Body image confusion running amuck? A seemingly "perfectionist" orientation to the smallest details? When does this apparent detail-and-goal orientation by your child "cross the danger line" into obsessive compulsive behavior and accompanying teen eating disorder?

Eating disorders, and their deeper complex of potential causes, constitute the greatest mortality risk of our present crop of diagnosed and labeled psychiatric illnesses. An eating disorder in teen family members is utterly serious, and potentially life-threatening unless parents can orchestrate an intervention combining counseling therapy and some mix of anxiety medicine or anxiety herb remedies.

What Parents Need To Watch For - Early Sign Of Teen Anorexia. Anxiety depression symptoms evolve subtly, and combined with children's natural penchant for "secretiveness", are virtually impossible to initially detect.

* Physical Signs. However, what you look for in your child are physical signs such as below-average weight for her age group and body size.

* Eating Habits. Your son or daughter may have a history of battling you over meals and food types. However, when their growing perfectionist and thin-body obsession is applied to foods, you'll hardly know what to do. Suddenly, all sorts of foods are "banned" by your child as she focuses narrowly on new-found foods that are "better for me". Parents, go at you own peril because you're at the outset of a rapidly expanding food phobia, and an underlying swirl of mental confusion, anxiety, fear, low self esteem and more.

* Speaking Patterns - Black And White Reality Markers. A hallmark mental sign of teen eating disorder is the growing demarcation applied to many ideas, where your child is cut-and-dried in her judgments. Increasingly strong convictions and a deterministic attitude allow her to judge everything in good-versus-bad terms. She'll also obsess about having "the wrong body shape"..." I'm getting fat" even while she's below weight.

* Medical Risk Issues And Symptoms Of Teen Anorexia. Look for an increase in headaches, reduction or absence of regular monthly menstruation, cold insensitivity, bowel irregularity and constipation, dizziness and overall fatigue. She's wasting away, and can't stop herself.

Teen Anorexia - Cause Of Teen Depression. Self esteem and body image reflect leading edge aspects of the mind-body duality that can easily bump off the rails in the teen years leading to many forms of anxiety depression behavior. No surprise that young kids would be vulnerable to feelings of inadequacy, doubts, plus succumb to pressure from peers as to how they should look and act and whether they're attractive enough. Throw in the cascade of puberty hormones, perceived pressure to perform at school, uncertainty about future goals and adult life and you have an explosive mix.

Intervention Strategies For Parents To Know About. You need to act smart, and carefully in order to put a brake on a dangerous teen eating disorder. In most eating disorder cases including teen anorexia family dynamics and "family history" point to the need for 3rd party outside professional guidance, along with some form of chemistry intervention.

* Natural Anxiety Herb Remedies - Negligible Side Effects. Mood-altering synapse-disrupting chemicals are strong stuff and should be administered to teens with a light hand, on a fully qualified basis. For hundreds of years, and even supported by modern clinical research, herbs such as St. John's Wort have been shown to be as effective in triggering positive mood shift as well known brand drugs such as Valium...however without any side effects. Other anxiety herb remedies include rhodiola, ginseng and south pacific kava.

Other supporting nutrients that trigger the brain's secretion of serotonin and its mellowing "feel good" properties include zinc, selenium and members of the B vitamin complex including B6 and B12, along with Vitamins D and C.

* Anxiety Disorder Medications. Millions of Americans ingest stimulants, amphetamines, mild tranquilizers, so-called anti depressants, even anti convulsants in order to address the potentially underlying causes of teen eating disorder and the associated phobias, obsessive compulsive behavior, and fears and anxiety. Parents beware that many of these same palliatives pose risks to your teen: addiction, withdrawal difficulties, confusion, rebound anxiety panic attacks, physical discomfort including muscle cramping, blurred vision, diarrhea, and more.

Best Remedies For Sinus Congestion

In order to get the best remedies for sinus congestion you need to know what type of medicine is relevant to your problem. You see sinusitis can be caused by many things - bacteria, viruses, allergies etc. Basically you can have two types of treatment - traditional based on antibiotics and natural, home remedies. Traditional methods which rely on antibiotics and decongestants work very well there is no question about that, however using antibiotics and decongestants over longer periods of time can cause many quite serious side effects. For example I get instant headache from nearly all types of decongestants and diarrhea from antibiotics. Another quite problematic side effect of these kind of medications is the fact that they can also contribute to congestion, further complicating the problem.

For those who are allergic, or have a hard time using over the counter medicines, natural remedies are there to take care of the sinusitis. Drinking eight to ten glasses of water (water not sodas, beer or juice) per day helps to drain the congestion more easily and helps the immune system to better function as well. Water can be boiled and the steam can be inhaled to open the sinuses. One of the best remedies for sinus congestion is adding a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar to hot water and inhaling the steam also helps to relieve people of sinus congestion effectively. A few drops of peppermint oil can also be added and inhaled for the purpose of nearly instant relief (but make sure not to use too much as it can damage your mucus membrane). Ginger juice is also helpful as it has powerful anti bacterial properties, best one is bough fresh and grind in a juicer, drink immediately or use the grinded paste and apply to your forehead for headache relief. Green tea can also help to a large extent and you should drink at least three and four cups of green tea everyday (however do not expect miracles just from green tea).

Colonoscopy Examination For Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

Irritable bowel syndrome is a functional disorder of the bowel. Usually it is characterized by abdominal pain, abdominal cramps, diarrhea, constipation and changes in bowel habits.

Diagnosing IBS is not that simple. No specific laboratory exam can be used to detect it. So what doctors usually do is that the run a series of medical examinations to rule out other gastrointestinal diseases and one of these medical examinations is colonoscopy.

Colonoscopy is a type of endoscopic examination that targets the large intestine and some parts of the small bowel. It allows a doctor to see the inner lining of the large bowel. A fiber optic camera or CCD camera fitted on a flexible tube called a colonoscope is inserted into the anus.

Colonoscopy is not only for visualization of the inner lining of the large bowel. The doctor performing the procedure may also be able to do a biopsy or if there is a presence of lesions, he can also remove them. Colonoscopy may also be used to remove polyps that are not larger than 1 millimeter in size.

There is some confusion regarding colonoscopy and sigmoidoscopy and people usually make the mistake of interchanging the two. While they both do more or less have the same function, they are actually different.

Colonoscopy is indicated for patients who are experiencing gastrointestinal hemorrhage, suspicion of malignancy or in the case of irritable bowel syndrome, sudden changes in bowel habits.

Sometimes, colonoscopy is also indicated to geriatric patients who have an unexplainable sudden drop of hematocrit even if there is no presence of blood in the stool.

How to Recognize the Telltale Signs and Symptoms of IBS

Have you been experiencing abdominal cramps quite frequently? Well that could no longer be a case of occasional indigestion. That could already by a sign of irritable bowel syndrome. But being a syndrome as it is called, it means that it not only involves mere cramping of the abdomen, but it may consist of a group of symptoms which include any or all of the following: gas, bloating, irregular bowel movement, abdominal discomfort, constipation, diarrhea, or alternating diarrhea and constipation.

Common symptoms of IBS with constipation
When a person is constipated bowel movements are difficult to complete, Your stool could appear as small hard pellets which look more like what goats or rabbits would produce. Sometimes you feel like you have a distended stomach and you feel a sense that you haven't emptied your bowel completely. Here's the thing. If you suffer from constipation at least 3 days in a month, for more than three months, then it may be rational for your health care provider to diagnose your problem as irritable bowel syndrome.

People with IBS who suffer from constipation may be able to manage the symptoms through some dietary changes. And identifying the trigger foods could be crucial. Generally you need to stay away from carbonated beverages, alcohol, and coffee as well as refined foods like cookies, white rice, and chips. None of these will provide much relief in the bathroom. Instead, you want to look at eating more foods high in fiber. These include delicious apples, berrries and other fruits. Or carrots, green beans and other vegetables. Plus cereals, grains, nuts, peas, dried beans, and seeds. Drinking prune juice has also been found to help loosen the bowel. And most especially, make sure you're drinking at least 8 glasses of water everyday.

People with IBS who are experiencing constipation may also be treated by taking laxatives. But this would be something to look to as a last resort.

Common symptoms of IBS with diarrhea
We all know what diarrhea is. Who at some point of their life, hasn't experienced having diarrhea like with the flu? And you know the feeling that you feel when you need to go to the bathroom urgently. Just imagine how draining that would be for someone with IBS who has to experience that several days a week, week after week.

But then again, with proper IBS diet, the symptom of diarrhea can too be somehow relieved. Trigger foods that you mostly have to avoid are greasy, fatty or fried foods, carbonated drinks, coffee, alcohol, artificial sweeteners, and dairy products like ice cream, cheese, and milk.

You may be better off eating frequent smaller meals than fewer larger ones.

Along with eating smaller meals more frequently you may want to get more soluble fiber such as barley, lima beans, rye, and wheat into your diet.

Water should also be a major part of your diet as well.

Finally anti-diarrhea medications may also be given for relief of diarrhea.

Other IBS Symptoms
It is also possible that an IBS sufferers may experience alternating episodes of diarrhea and constipation. Another symptom of irritable bowel syndrome is abdominal pain or discomfort that happens for at least 12 weeks (doesn't necessarily have to be consecutive) in the last 12 months. Additionally, the abdominal pain and discomfort must at least have two of the following features:

*when it is relieved by having a bowel movement.
*that when it starts, there is also a change in the frequency of bowel movement
*that when it starts, there is also a change in the appearance of the stool

Other symptoms of IBS that must also be present include feeling of urgency to have a bowel movement, presence of mucus in the stool, difficulty to pass stool, bloating or swelling of the abdomen, and gas or flatulence.

Signs that are not characteristics of IBS
Good as it is to know the signs of IBS, if you experience things like weight loss, bleeding, fever, and persistent severe pain, these are not symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome. Instead, they could be indicative of other gastro intestinal problems like inflammatory bowel disease or in rare cases some form of cancer.

Your IBS symptoms are often worsened by diet and stress. Therefore, it is important that people suffering from IBS must make a conscious effort in changing their diet and managing stress. However, if you haven't been diagnosed with IBS yet you are experiencing these symptoms, immediately consult your doctor so you can be diagnosed properly. With their help you can minimize these unpleasant symptoms and lead a more or less normal life.

Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is cancer that forms in the cells of the breasts. Breast cancer can occur in both men and women, but it's far more common in women. Signs and symptoms of breast cancer may include:

• A breast lump or thickening that feels different from the surrounding tissue

• Bloody discharge from the nipple

• Change in the size or shape of a breast

• Changes to the skin over the breast, such as dimpling

• Inverted nipple

• Peeling or flaking of the nipple skin

• Redness or pitting of the skin over your breast, like the skin of an orange

Anorexia is the loss of appetite and is one of the common side-effects of chemotherapy and radiation therapy.

According to Dr. Gerald Miletello, cancer patients must maintain their nutrition in order to maintain their health and strength which enables them to fight the cancer. Cancer patients taste and cravings may change from day to day and hour to hour. They may develop sore mouth and tongue or may have trouble swallowing. These side-effects only last 3-8 days following chemotherapy. Diarrhea and/or constipation may occur at any time during their treatments. Neutropenia, low white blood cell count, follows most chemotherapy treatments at some time. Neutropenia normally lasts for 3-7 days.

Day of Chemotherapy and Following Treatment Tips:

• Eat smaller portions more frequently; drink fluids between meals instead of with food.

• Eat by the clock at regular scheduled times; appetite signal may not be in tack.

• Eat between meals with high-protein supplements, milkshakes, puddings, or nutritional energy drinks.

• Add things to enhance smell, appearance, and texture of food.

• Sucking on a think slice of dill pickle, prior to meals, will sometimes stimulate taste buds.

• Exercise approximately 30 minutes before meals to try to stimulate appetite.

• Use plastic utensils if there is a bitter or metallic taste.

Cure Infant Thrush

Causes of Infant Thrush

In layman's terms, Oral Thrush in Infants is caused when the immune system and the healthy bacteria in a baby's mouth fail to control the amount of yeast in a baby's body. Overgrowth of yeast occurs in the mouth of the baby which is then commonly referred to as Thrush.  Infant Thrush may also be transferred from mother to child during birth should the mother suffer from vaginal thrush. In this day age that we find ourselves in, antibiotics are easily prescribed by doctors but it is also a contributing factor in the growth of Candida Albicans the biological name for the yeast overgrowth.

Symptoms of Infant Thrush

Thrush in itself is looking like cottage cheese on the inside of a baby's mouth but cannot be wiped away. The corners of the baby's mouth may be cracked and if it is scratched off it might start to bleed or look inflammatory. Your Child might be reluctant to feed or it will try to feed but then stop only to repeat the process again. This is simply because the mouth of your baby is sore. Now picture this scenario, your baby are only 8 weeks old, there are regular diaper changes and feedings that takes place. Add to this scenario the possibility of your child having Thrush and it suddenly seems not such a good prospect anymore.

Conventional Medicine 

Well, what can be so difficult? Let's go to the doctor and get medicine to attend to this problem once and for all, it cannot be that difficult? Right? Maybe not! If Thrush is not treated in the proper way and manner it will most probably always return. The approach to cure Thrush must be in a holistic manner. Mother and child needs to be treated in order to achieve proper results otherwise Thrush will just return at a later stage. Now, the possible side effects of conventional medicine do not sound very nice.

Nystatin - Diarrhea, bloating, nausea.

Diflucan - Nausea, stomach pain, low fever, loss of appetite.

Collidial Silver - Kidney damage, stomach distress, headaches, fatigue.

Tea Tree Oil - Ingestion, depression and can cause ulcers of the mouth and throat.

Above mentioned products are but just a few that is available and only a few of the side effects are listed. Do you really want to add to the discomfort of your baby in administering this medicine if those are the possible side effects?

Discover Decaffeinated Green Tea

Have you read about this recently? Green tea has amazing health benefits. Green tea and the health benefits from drinking it are popping up everywhere and it seems like daily there are more and more reasons why you need to bring this tea into your diet.

I decided it was time for me to look into all these reports and see if what they were saying on the television and newspapers were true. If what they were saying was true then it should be something that needs to be added to our family's diet.

I went in with an open mind and willing to listen to what all the people were saying about the health benefits of this tea. It did not take me long to see that there are many reasons to bring this into our diet.

What I found out is that green tea has been drunk for thousands of years. It is from a tea plant and that you can make black and oolong teas as well as the green version. The difference is in the processing of the tea leaves.

It is mainly drank in Asia and used in traditional medicine as a diuretic, astringent, or stimulant. There are other traditional uses for the tea relating to body temperature, blood sugar, digestion, and mental processes.

The only negative thing I found is that green tea does contain caffeine which can cause insomnia, anxiety, irritability, upset stomach, nausea, and diarrhea in some people.

I did find out that there is decaffeinated green tea in an extract or pill form. It can be taken alone or has been added to supplements. This is great for people who have issues with caffeine or have problems remembering to drink the recommended daily dosage.

I wanted to try out the pill form and learned that as a consumer I need to look for a labeled product that has 98% polyphenols and 80% catechins. These are the standards that they say you know you are getting good or high quality extract.

I went out and found a great company with a great product and have no complaints about what I have been using. It is reassuring to know that I am doing something good for my family by helping us live a better life and healthier lifestyle.

Put this to the test right away, follow my link and order a supplement today knowing that you are doing the right thing for your family. I know I have been using supplements for a long time and like the peace of mind that they bring.

Colitis Explained: Part I What is Colitis?

Colitis is the term for inflammation of the colon or large bowel or intestine. The rectum is the very last part of the colon. When it is inflamed the term proctitis is used. Understanding the causes and treatment of colitis requires a basic understanding of the colon and inflammation.

The beginning of the colon is called the cecum. It begins in the lower right portion of the abdomen where the last part of the small intestine (ileum) empties into the large intestine. This part of the colon is also where the appendix attaches. The segments of the colon in order from the beginning of the colon or cecum going distally are ascending, transverse, descending, sigmoid colon and rectum. One of the major jobs of the colon is to recycle water for the body. When the entire colon is present and healthy the stools have only enough water in them to remain soft and easy to pass, but not so watery or loose that leakage occurs and dehydration ensues. When a large part of the colon is removed or when the colon is significantly injured the stools are very watery and frequent.

Inflammation is the body? response to infection or suspected attack or irritation. Inflammation of a body area is labeled by adding the suffix ??itis??to the body part, hence tonsillitis when tonsils are inflamed and appendicitis when the appendix is inflamed. Recognized since ancient times, inflammation has been classically described by the presence of signs and symptoms of redness (rubor), pain (dolar), heat (calor), swelling (tumor) and impairment of the function of the involved organ or tissue. If you have arthritis, joint inflammation; the joint is red, swollen, painful, warm and is stiff, preventing normal function.

In colitis the colon is usually quite red and swollen appearing when seen by colonoscopy (scope exam of the colon). Abdominal pain and impaired function occurs resulting in diarrhea because the damaged colon loses some of its ability to absorb water. If enough damage occurs to the lining sloughing of the surface cells occurs with passage of bloody stools, mucus, and even the appearance of tissue.

Inflammation has cell and fluid components. The cell component includes various white blood cells. The type of white blood cells found in the lining of the intestine determines the cause and effect on the intestine. Fluids include chemicals secreted to fight infection or presumed infection that can cause damage to the colon lining.

Colitis can be acute (self-limited) like E. coli infection or chronic like in ulcerative colitis. Causes of colitis include infections, ischemia (poor blood flow), food allergies, food protein intolerances, lack of normal bacterial flora or stool (after antibiotics, diversion after a colostomy), radiation injury, chemotherapy induced low white blood cell counts (neutropenic), or idiopathic (unknown cause).

Chronic colitis is one of several types of inflammatory bowel disorders or IBD for short and should not be confused with IBS the term for irritable bowel syndrome. Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) does not involve any colon inflammation though it was referred to in the past as mucus colitis because of common symptom of excess mucus in stools or spastic colitis because of the common complaint of painful spasms of the colon that commonly occur in IBS. Biopsies of colon tissue in irritable bowel syndrome are normal and do not show signs of inflammation therefore it is not considered an inflammatory bowel disorder.

The food allergy expert-the food doc Dr. Scot Lewey reviews in more detail the various types of colitis, their causes and treatment in part II of this series. In the future href=?ttp://www.thefooddoc.com??target=?blank??www.thefooddoc.com will offer online help for colitis, Crohn's disease, food allergies, food intolerance, Celiac disease and gluten sensitivity.

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Identifying Common Allergy Symptoms

Do you have allergies? Whether you have seasonal allergies or you are allergic to certain situations, such as being exposed to animal dander, coping with allergy symptoms can be quite difficult. Not only are allergy symptoms uncomfortable, they can slow you down during the day and interrupt with your sleep cycle. Therefore, it is important to know how to recognize allergy symptoms and to know what to do in order to alleviate the symptoms you experience.

Recognizing Allergy Symptoms

Since there are so many different types of allergens and because everyone's body reacts differently to these allergens, allergy symptoms can differ from person to person. Nonetheless, there are several different signs and symptoms that are commonly associated with allergies and may signal that you have allergies.

Some of the most common allergy symptoms include:

o Abdominal pain
o Congestion
o Cramps
o Diarrhea
o Difficulty swallowing
o Dizziness
o Itchy and watery eyes
o Itchy skin
o Mental confusion
o Problems breathing
o Rash
o Vomiting

Whether or not you experience these symptoms will depend upon the type of allergy and how you make contact with the allergen. Physical contact with an allergen, for example, is more likely to cause rashes and itching, while inhaling the allergen is more likely to cause breathing problems.

Coping with Allergy Symptoms

Depending upon the type of allergy you have, you may be able to prevent allergy symptoms by taking certain types of allergy medicine. If you have seasonal allergies, for example, you might want to discuss the issue with your doctor and begin taking a prescription allergy medicine that will help prevent allergy symptoms from developing. If you are allergic to animals, on the other hand, you may want to talk to your doctor about prescribing an allergy medicine that you can take before being exposed to the known allergen.

Of course, you can't always prevent an allergic reaction. Sometimes, you may find yourself unexpectedly exposed to allergens. In this case, you will need to treat the allergy symptoms after they develop. It is important to keep in mind that you can only treat the symptoms when they occur rather than "curing" the allergy. Therefore, you should search for medication that will help alleviate the symptoms you are experiencing. If you have a rash, for example, you will need to use a topical ointment to treat the rash. If you are experiencing diarrhea and vomiting, on the other hand, make certain to stay hydrated and to seek medical attention if you cannot get the symptoms under control.

How to Prevent Flu and Cope With Flu If You Get It

Introduction

Flu is a very common disease worldwide, and millions of people get the flu each year. It is a modern plague of humanity. Flu, for which the medical term is influenza, is an infection of the respiratory tract, including the nose, throat, bronchial tubes and lungs. The flu occurs most frequently in the period late fall to early spring, usually in limited outbreaks. You can take steps to reduce the chance of getting the flu through the preventative measures in this article. If you should catch the flu, it is important to be prepared to cope with it.

Where does flu come from? How do we catch it?

Flu spreads from person-to-person when someone with the flu virus talks, coughs, or sneezes and spreads droplets containing the virus, or when a person contacts objects that are contaminated with the flu virus. When you touch a surface, such as a virus- contaminated faucet handle, door handle, or phone, and then touch your mouth, nose, or eyes, you can transfer the virus to your body. It is clear then that the flu spreads easily, and that is the reason it often strikes many members of a community all at once.

The flu is caused by the influenza virus of a strain that affects both mammals and birds. The virus mutates frequently, thus, there are many different strains of the virus, and new ones must be dealt with almost every year. That is why the flu vaccine must be changed every year, and the reason people continue to get the flu year-after-year. The virus is persistent, and transmission because of lack of proper hygienic practice is a very real threat.

Who is most susceptible to the flu?

The most susceptible people for getting the flu are young children, because they have not been exposed to the viruses before, and those with weak immune systems such as the elderly and those with chronic diseases. One of the serious life-threatening consequences of flu is that those with very weak immune systems can develop pneumonia, which can cause death.

What are the symptoms of the flu? How long does it last?

The most common symptoms of the flu are fever, sore throat, and cough. Additional effects of the disease are chills, muscle pain, severe headache,and physical exhaustion. Some people may also have vomiting and diarrhea. People may be infected with the flu, and have respiratory symptoms without a fever. These symptoms may last from 2-7 days. A person who has the flu will most likely not be able to do usual daily activities. Complete recovery from flu will take one to two weeks.

How can you reduce your chance of getting the flu or spreading it?

You can undertake a proactive effort to greatly reduce your change of getting the flu, and if you do get it, the effort should help reduce its debilitating effect. Here are the main things you can do.

1. Maintain a healthy body and immune system by-

• Get plenty of sleep and rest--- 7-8 hours are recommended.


• Get your physical exercise, especially aerobic exercise, which will build immunity and help reduce stress.


• Take action to manage stress in your life. Changing your attitude toward yourself and your situations will often help. Prayer, meditation, and contemplative physical activities (for example, Yoga) along with exercise can help.


• Eat a healthy diet, including plenty of vegetable and fruits.


• A typical, healthy adult needs eight 8-ounce (2 quarts) glasses of fluids each day, so drink enough water and other fluids.


• Supplement the diet with as recommended by your doctor, but many persons include a multi-vitamin and mineral complex and other vitamins such as vitamins C, D, and E.

2. Get your flu shot.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends a yearly flu vaccine as the first and most important step in protecting against flu viruses. While there are many strains of the flu virus, the usual flu vaccine protects against three selected strains expected to be most common for the upcoming season.

3. Use preventive hygiene to stop the spread of the virus.

When you cough or sneeze, cover your nose and mouth with a tissue. Properly dispose of the tissue after you use it. Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after touching possibly contaminated surfaces. An alternative is an alcohol-based hand rub, which is now provided in many public places. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth, and avoid close contact with persons exhibiting flu-like symptoms. In your home and workplace make sure that frequently touched objects and surfaces, such as doorknobs, keyboards, and phones, are frequently cleaned to remove any contamination. Also, make sure your workplace or your children's school has an adequate supply of tissues, soap, paper towels, alcohol-based hand rubs, and disposable wipes, as appropriate.

What to do if you get the flu?

• Stay in bed, and get plenty of rest and sleep.


• Drink plenty of fluids, including sports drinks to replace electrolytes.


• Use over-the-counter medications to relieve symptoms, considering especially Tylenol or aspirin for aches and fever, cough syrup, and decongestants.


• Stay at home, minimizing exposure to others until 24 hours after your fever is gone without the use of fever-reducing medication.

Take flu antiviral drugs if your doctor prescribes them.

If you get the flu, prescription antiviral medications can be used to treat your illness. Antiviral drugs can make illness milder, shorten the period of illness, and may prevent serious flu complications. These drugs are not like antibiotics in that, while they reduce the effects of flu, they cannot cure the disease. To be effective, the antiviral drugs must be used early in the onset of the flu, within the first 2 days of symptoms. Persons that are prime candidates for the use of antiviral drugs are pregnant women, young children, people 65 and older, and people with lowered immune systems or with certain diseases, all of whom have increased risk from the consequences of flu.

Conclusion

We are all susceptible to getting the flu. With careful planning and following recommendations, you can reduce your chance of getting the flu and reduce the effects, even if you do get it. Follow the recommendations as summarized in this article, and you should be a least a step ahead of the flu. And, you may also help reduce the magnitude or effects of any flu outbreaks.