Psoriatic Arthritis Along With Pustular Arthritis & Steps For a Cure

Psoriatic arthritis, a chronic disease, is characterized by inflammation or swelling of skin (psoriasis) and joints (arthritis). It features patchy, red areas of human skin with inflammation and scaling. Psoriasis frequently affects the tips of our elbows and knees, the scalp, around the genital areas and the navel. Approximately 30% of patients who get psoriasis also develop an inflammation of joints. And patients having inflammatory arthritis and psoriasis are mostly diagnosed for having psoriatic arthritis.

The beginning of psoriatic arthritis is generally found in the fourth and fifth decade of human life. Gents and ladies are equally affected. The skin disease and the arthritis often appear separate. In fact, the psoriasis precedes the joint disease in about 80% of patients. But sometimes the arthritis also precedes the psoriasis in 15% of patients. In some people, the diagnosis of this arthritis may become difficult if the joint disease precedes psoriasis by long years. In fact, some patients have arthritis for more than 20 years before psoriasis actually appears! But also, patients have psoriasis for more than 20 years prior to arthritis development, leading to the diagnosis of psoriatic arthritis. This type of arthritis is nothing but a systemic rheumatic disease that can cause inflammation in body tissues other than the skin, such as in eyes, lungs, heart, and kidneys. It shares several other arthritic conditions, like ankylosing spondylitis, reactive arthritis (formerly known as Reiter's syndrome), and also arthritis associated along with Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. All these conditions may cause inflammation or swelling in the spine and other joints also, and the eyes, mouth, skin, and various other organs. According to their similarities and tendency to give rise to inflammation of spine, these conditions are conjointly called as "spondyloarthropathies."

Genetic problems, disorder in immune system as well as atmospheric changes are the most important causes of this disease. In patients with the above cited disease who have arthritis of spine, a gene named HLA-B27 is frequently found. Blood testing is now available to test this. Several others are also found to be more common in patients with this arthritis. Some changes in immune system may be important sometimes in its development. For example, the decline in the number of helper T cells in AIDS patients plays a role in the development and progression of the disease psoriasis in patients. Now-a-days the importance of these infectious agents and also other environmental factors in the cause of this arthritis is investigated by researchers.

Pustular psoriasis is also one of the several types of psoriasis which causes parts of our skin to redden, expand and covered by pus-filled blisters called as pustules. There are also several subtypes of this psoriasis. It may stay confined to small areas of patients' body; some times, just on the palms of our hands, the soles of our feet, or the fingers and toes are harmed and this is called the focal form of this disease. But It also can cover larger areas of the body as well. The generalized form which is also called as von Zumbusch psoriasis is more serious, and this form can also be fatal. For its cure we have to follow the same steps as in normal psoriasis like, reducing stress, smoking, drinking and dealing a healthy life. Its treatment also follows the three processes that are, topical, light therapy and systemic.

Do I Need Ulcerative Colitis Surgery? - Your Guide to Relieving Ulcerative Colitis Pain

For anybody that has dealt with the effects of ulcerative colitis, they know that it can one of the most painful and difficult medical situations to deal with.

Despite the fact that the discomfort may feel like it comes from the intestine, it's actually a breakdown in how the immune system is working. Small organisms that actually help the body with digestion are attacked by an over-vigilant autoimmune system--thereby causing pain.

At some point, if you've experienced the painful symptoms of this condition, you've probably considered surgery--and wondered if it could help you.

Here are some tips to both learn more about this procedure and decide whether it's the right thing for you.

Tip No. 1: Don't Just Get One Opinion

Many people who believe they suffer from ulcerative colitis may actually be suffering from Crohn's disease. Though both have similar symptoms--and both affect generally the same area of the body--they do have some major differences.

The biggest difference is that colitis affects a specific area of the small intestine, while Crohn's afflicts the entire intestinal tract. Because colitis affects such a specific area it makes it a great candidate for surgery.

Because they can both be difficult to diagnose be sure to get numerous medical opinions to certify that ulcerative colitis surgery will benefit you.

Tip No. 2: Exhaust All Options

It's true that ulcerative colitis surgery can provide immediate benefit to sufferers of the disease. Still there are serious consequence from such a procedure, namely the fact that you will probably not have a normal bowel movement again.

Considering this, it's a good idea to try every non-surgical remedy available to you. This includes:

Anti-inflammatories: These include medications like ibuprofen can reduce painful swelling.

Immunosuppresives: Can interrupt the internal damage the body is doing to itself.

Diet: Some people have found dramatic relief by changing their diet.

Tip No. 3: What Kind of Surgery Do You Need?

If nothing seems to have worked then surgery may be the next logical step to bring back a pain-free life.

Generally the procedure comes in 2 forms: small and large intestine.

With the small intestine, diet will have to change but prognosis is usually good for reducing pain permanently.

With the large intestine, it's more of a dramatic event to the body and may require more recovery. But it will be worth it for the relief of pain you'll feel.

Be sure to counsel your doctor that you want to keep as much intestine as possible. This will help you lead a normal, pain-free life. Which is the goal, isn't it?

Worst Candida Symptoms - Major Complaints That Are Getting Better

What are your worst candida symptoms? My major complaints, or what led me to discover candida as a problem, were IBS (constipation and gas that wouldn't leave) and yeast infections. Through proper diet and supplements, I am now able to control it. However, that was some years ago, and while I have fallen off the wagon several times, I have moved on from "self-prescribing," to a naturopath/MD, to finally now a doctor of functional medicine.

I realize IBS was just a tip of the iceberg and these many other symptoms/conditions I have are in someway related to an imbalance of intestinal flora: lupus, fibromyalgia, headaches (used to be sinus infections 3+ times a year, but now that has been corrected and I got 1 simple one last year due to 2 weeks of raining/flooding), elevated levels of antibodies for EBV and HSV1, hypothyroidism, leg spasms, bruising, insomnia, a dark toenail fungus, and I'm sure there are more.

I had major shortness of breath, too. I am anemic and have been on iron picoliate for over a month, and that might be the cause for it. The shortness of breath has improved tremendously with also the anti-candida diet.

My friend's major symptoms are depression, IBS turned into ulcerative colitis, sleep problems, Fibromyalgia, hypothyroid, eczema, dry skin, headaches, sinus infections, bronchitis, allergies, weight gain, and tired always. Along with all of the doctors he saw, he used to think these were all unrelated, but he knows now it is candida. Then, he went to a Chinese doctor for acupuncture, muscle stimulation, strict diet, and supplements. Gradually, he is starting to feel better the last month.

Colorectal Cancer (Colon Cancer) - Ayurvedic Herbal Treatment

Cancers arising in the colon and rectum are called colon cancer or colorectal cancer, and are usually believed to have developed from polyps. Colon cancer is very common in the Western world but is rare in Asia and Africa. Diets high in fat are believed to predispose humans to colorectal cancer whereas diets high in vegetable and high fiber foods help reduce the risk. Ulcerative colitis highly increases the risk for colon cancer. Genetic factors are also an important risk factor in this disease. Symptoms include fatigue, weakness, anemia, breathlessness, change in bowel habits, narrow stools, diarrhea or constipation, red or dark blood in stool, weight loss, abdominal pain, cramps and bloating. Surgery, chemotherapy and radiation therapy are the standard line of treatment for this condition.

The Ayurvedic treatment of colorectal cancer is aimed at treating the main cancer, preventing or reducing its spread to other parts of the body and improving overall survival. Medicines used in this condition are: Arogya-Vardhini, Kanchnaar-Guggulu, Yograj-Guggulu, Triphala-Guggulu, Panch-Tikta-Ghrut-Guggulu, Punarnavadi-Guggulu, Mahamanjishthadi-Qadha, Panchamrut-Parpati and Saarivasav. Medicines which act on the 'Ratka' and 'Mansa' dhatus (tissues) are useful in this condition. These include medicines like Patol (Tricosanthe dioica), Kutki (Picrorrhiza kurroa), Saariva (Hemidesmus indicus), Patha (Cissampelos pareira), Musta (Cyperus rotundus), Triphala (Three fruits), Nimba (Azadirachta indica) and Kutaj (Holarrhina antidysentrica). Manjishtha (Rubia cordifolia), Triphala (Three fruits), Punarnava (Boerhaavia diffusa) and Dashmool (Ten roots) are also very useful in this condition.

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), Yashtimadhuk (Glycerrhiza glabra), Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum), Bhrungraj (Eclipta alba), Suvarna-Malini-Vasant, Suvarna-Parpati, Abhrak Bhasma and Heerak Bhasma are used to improve the immune status of the body.

Treatment needs to be taken for prolonged period to get good results. In combination with modern therapy, Ayurvedic treatment can reduce the tumor size, prevent or reduce the side effects of radiation and chemotherapy, improve the immune status of the body and prolong survival. All patients need to be under the regular care and supervision of an Oncology team.

Symptoms and Treatment of Colitis in Dogs

Chances are every dog owner has had to deal with some bouts of canine diarrhea. At times, though, the condition can seem to last longer than a day or two, which may be a sign of something more significant. Just like humans, dogs can develop an irritable bowel condition known as colitis.

In the simplest terms, colitis is an inflammation of the colon, which causes persistent (and sometimes painful) diarrhea. For some dogs, this may be an actual irritable bowel syndrome that may require medication. For other dogs, simple changes to the diet can relieve the symptoms.

There are many causes of colitis, both acute (which may resolve in 1-3 weeks) and chronic (which could be there for life). Whipworms, bacteria, fungi, and diet are all perpetrators. Allergies can also play a role, so it's good to have your dog tested.

For most dogs, antibiotics and a change in diet can help. The most common diet remedy is to feed your dog a hamburger and rice diet - 2 parts rice to 1 part hamburger. Vets call this a "bland diet." It soothes your dog's stomach and keeps it away from some of the grains and fillers that are in store-bought dog food, which can sometimes cause digestive issues with your pooch.

It's important to note, though, that the diet remedy will not help to prevent your dog from having continued trouble with colitis.

When my dog had her first problems with colitis, the vet had me put her on antibiotics for a week and a bland diet for two weeks. This did work, but within a month, she was having more diarrhea. If you find yourself in a similar position, consider putting your dog on probiotics.

One of the problems dogs face is that diarrhea from colitis will also flush the good bacteria from your dog's digestive tract. Giving your dog probiotics will restore that good bacteria to your dog's system, giving it the ability to fight off any future inflammations.

As always, you should consult with a vet before doing anything, but I have found that Purina's Fortiflora works exceptionally well. It's simply a packet of powder each morning. Since my dog has been on the probiotics, she has not had any trouble with colitis or diarrhea. In fact, she seems to enjoy the powder, as it's not unusual for her to lick the food pieces with the powder first.

Anything you can do to help your dog's digestive system is certainly much appreciated by your canine companion. My dog is healthier and happier now.

Crohn's Disease and Colitis - Clearing Up the Confusion

Crohn's Disease and Colitis are chronic conditions. At present, there is no cure, but sufferers can manage (and even eliminate) their symptoms. Yet there is much confusion out there about these diseases. It helps if everyone knows the facts.

Clearing Up the Confusion

Understanding your Condition

It is vital that patients understand their condition. Often Crohn's Disease and Colitis patients do not want to talk about their condition - even with their doctors. Both diseases come with uncomfortable symptoms such as diarrhea and stomach pain.

Sometimes sufferers would sooner sweep the symptoms under the rug than bring up a discussion about them. Yet patients need to be as informed as possible about their condition. Indeed, they should keep up to date about the latest developments in this area of medicine.

Get the Facts

Do not believe everything you hear about Crohn's Disease and Colitis - unless it comes from a trusted source. Your medical professional trained in dealing Crohn's Disease and Colitis is your best source of information. Not only do they have the professional knowledge but they knows about a patient's health relative to Crohn's Disease and Colitis.

Everyone is not affected in the same way by these conditions. Symptoms can vary from person to person. Treatment regimes can also be customized to meet a patient's condition.

Controlling your Symptoms

Many people are confused about Crohn's Disease and Colitis. They think that there is no help for these conditions. Although there is no cure healing is possible, the symptoms can be controlled or healed and the patient can be in control.

When they know that they can manage or heal their symptoms, sufferers feel empowered and ready to face any challenge. Pay no attention to anyone who claims that you cannot do anything to help your disease. Check with your medical professional about ways to cope with these conditions or possibly heal them.

Some patients claim that a water fast, followed by a regular raw food diet, helped them to manage (and eliminate) their symptoms. Of course, nobody should take part in a water fast or make an extreme change to their diet without consulting their medical professionals. Yet researchers are studying the benefits of vitamin A for sufferers with Crohn's Disease and Colitis. The research has not reached completion.

Many patients say though that they do not feel well on the Western diet. It makes sense that the Western diet would not be good for people with both conditions. Keep in mind that the North American diet is heavy in processed foods, fats, and sugars.

Minding your Symptoms

When people spread the myth that Crohn's Disease and Colitis are at a minimum not manageable, they are spreading a false (and dangerous) story. The worst possible scenario for patients occurs if they feel hopeless about their conditions. If they do not seek treatment for the disease, the symptoms will just worsen over time.

The longer symptoms go untreated, the more damage can be afflicted on one's body. Untreated symptoms can lead to varied negative effects from blockages to organ damage. It is time to clear up the confusion. Get the facts about Crohn's Disease and Colitis.

Crohn's Disease - Symptoms and Treatment

Crohn's disease is a chronic inflammatory disease of the digestive tract. The disease is also called granulomatous enteritis, colitis, regional enteritis, regional ileitis, ileitis, or terminal ileitis and it causes ulcerations of the small and large intestine. The disease can affect the digestive system anywhere from the mouth to the anus, but distinctively affects the terminal ileum as well as demarcated areas of large bowel. The disease is named after the American physician, Burrill Bernard Crohn (1884-1983), who described the disease in 1932.

Crohn's Disease Symptoms

Crohn's disease symptoms may include:

• Chronic diarrhea & disrupted digestion: It becomes difficult for the patients in the acute phase of the disease to eat and/or digest food.
  


• Painful and debilitating inflammation
  


• Fistulas of the colon
  


• Hemorrhoids
  


• Lipid absorption problems
  


• Anemia: Persistent rectal bleeding may lead to anemia.
  


• Bruising of the shins.
  


• Fever, pain and psychological damage in many cases
  


• Crohn's disease in children may cause delayed development and stunted growth.

Crohn's Disease Treatment

Crohn's disease treatment may include medication, surgery, dietary advice and Helminthic therapy (current research).

Medication Treatment

Acute treatment: steroids are used in the initial stages. Long-term steroid therapy is discouraged because of their side effects. Corticosteroids like prednisone are traditionally used medications. The side effects of steroids may include insulin resistance and frank diabetes, hypertension (high blood pressure), glaucoma, osteoporosis, severe psychological issues etc.

Chronic treatment (Steroid-sparing): The treatment may include Salicylates - 5-ASA derivates - 5-aminosalicylic acid compounds such as sulfasalazine (Azulfidine®, Salazopyrin®), mesalamine (Pentasa®, Asacol®), olsalazine, and balsalazide. Immunomodulating drugs such as azathioprine, 6-mercaptopurine and methotrexate are given mainly in moderate-to-severe cases. Infliximab (brand name Remicade®) is given in patients with therapy-resistant or fistulating Crohn's. Adalimumab (brand name Humira®) has been used in patients who show allergic reaction to infliximab. The drugs like thalidomide are under study trials.

Surgery

In the case of widespread intractable Crohn's colitis, the colon and rectum (protocolectomy) are removed by the surgery ileostomy. Surgery is generally avoided, as this does not cure the disease. Crohns disease can recur at the site of the anastomosis or ileostomy.

Dietary Advice

Crohn's patients should avoid the following foods and liquids:

• Dairy foods
  


• High fiber foods should be avoided during flare-ups.
  


• Hot spicy foods
  


• Alcohol & caffeine
  


• Foods containing saturated fats, found in meat and dairy products. However some fats such as in fish oil may actually be helpful.
  


• Products containing corn or gluten, those made from wheat, oats, barley, or triticale
  


• Foods, such as soy, eggs, peanuts and tomatoes
  


• Gas-producing foods such as cabbage family vegetables (broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower and brussels sprouts), dried peas and lentils, onions and chives, peppers and carbonated drinks
  


• Foods that may irritate the intestine (particularly the cabbage family vegetables)
  


• Simple sugars
  


• Dried fruits or high-sugar fruits, such as grapes, watermelon, or pineapple
  


• Sorbitol (an artificial sweetener)

Beneficial Foods:

• Fluids to keep the body hydrated and prevent constipation
  


• Fruits may be protective
  


• A high protein diet with lean meats

Advice:

• Eat small frequent meals
  


• Prebiotics such as psyllium may help in the healing process.
  


• Probiotics may also be helpful in aiding recovery of the intestines.

Helminthic Therapy

Recent studies have come up with a promising Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis treatment. Helminthic therapy is a new treatment that has shown impressive results in clinical trials. It argues that the absence of intestinal worms (due primarily to higher hygiene standards) from the human intestinal tract may cause the immune system that is not evolutionary adapted to this condition, to over-react causing inflammation and other negative effects, and that reintroducing helminths through ingesting eggs of a certain species (which is not dangerous to humans) can help down regulate and normalize immune responses.

Helminthic therapy like the fecal bacterio therapy induces a characteristic TH2 white cell response in the diseased areas which seems to be the key in achieving and maintaining remission, and may prove to be of key significance in further research.

Colitis Explained

There are a diverse range of diseases that affect various areas of the digestive tract. Many of these conditions, grouped in the category of irritable bowel disease (IBD), are indistinguishable from other similar diseases like Crohn's Disease and Irritable Bowl Syndrome, thus, diagnosis is often a complicated and you must adopt a trial-and-error approach.

Colitis is a disease that results in the inflammation of the lining of the large intestine, or colon. Researchers have estimated that as many as two million people in the United States may suffer from colitis, many of them undiagnosed. The majority of cases manifest rather early in life - before the age of thirty - although it is not uncommon for people of any age to develop the disease. Research on colitis has revealed that prevalence is not affected by gender.

The disease can either be acute or chronic and results in ulcers being formed in the upper membrane layers of the colon. Colitis, like other forms of IBD, wreaks havoc on the digestive tract. When the colon becomes inflamed many of the cells die and this tissue death spurs the production of ulcers. Ulcers may bleed and generate pus leading to severe abdominal cramping, diarrhea, painful abdominal sensations, reduced appetite, infections, fatigue, weight loss, and fever.

As is the case with other forms of IBD, the causes of colitis are shrouded in mystery. There are a number of competing theories as to the cause, but none have been proven as of yet. Since colitis is believed to be spurred through inflammation, many scientists point to infection as the leading cause. There is also some evidence that genetics and family connection plays a part. There is also research into colitis as potentially being related to an autoimmune response by the body. It appears that colitis may be triggered by the body attacking itself. Various bacterial, viral, and protozoan infections have also been bandied about as possible triggers of colitis. According to research, smokers are twice as likely to develop colitis then are non-smokers.

If left untreated, colitis can lead to severe medical problems. As stated previously, the diagnosis of colitis can be tricky since many forms of IBD may appear similar upon cursory examination. It can take some time to achieve an accurate diagnosis. Fortunately, even though the causes of colitis are not fully understood, there are treatments available for the disease. Treatment often varies due to the severity of the flare up. Colitis, like other forms of IBD, is usually treated via prescription drugs. In advanced cases, surgery to remove the colon may be required, and as of this time is the only cure.

It is important to remember that colitis is a disease that will affect each person differently. There is no standard procedure that can be followed for every case. Furthermore, the psychological ramifications from the disease cannot be ignored. Many people experience depression due to the impact of physical symptoms on quality of life. If you are suffering from colitis it is important to schedule regular medical visits to monitor the disease.

Ensure You Know About Steroids For Colitis Symptoms

When being treated for colitis symptoms it is the norm to be prescribed steroids. These are powerful drugs used for the reduction of inflammation that is present in the large colon during the period of a flare up plus they also have the effect of suppressing the body's immune system. Whilst they are an effective treatment, the patient requires being aware of their effects on the body.

The use of steroids will be prescribed where the patient is suffering from moderate-to-severe colitis symptoms. It is important to realise and accept that there are no benefits to be had by the continual use of them as a form of maintaining periods of remission and thus the sufferer of colitis must be weaned off their use as soon as practically possible. They are either applied by way of an enema which has the benefit of ensuring the steroid, in this instance such as foam, gets to work on the inflammation immediately and has less influence on the rest of the body, or taken by mouth in the form of tablets several times per day.

To start with, the prescribed amount will be high so that the steroids strength can be built up rapidly in order to start the process of reducing the ulceration found on the colon walls and tempering the inflammation. Once this can be achieved, the symptoms will then start to subside. Once this has been achieved, the prescribed dosage will then be gradually reduced until the symptoms, such as bloodied stools and diarrhea have appeared to stop. Once this point is reached, the sufferer should not presume that all is well again and the use of the steroids can be ceased. The course of the medication requires to be finished and this can take up to two months after the symptoms have calmed down in order to be safely weaned off the medication and to ensure that the inflammation has been effectively reduced.

It is common knowledge that with the use of steroids, there is a risk of encountering side effects. This risk has to be balanced against the effective role that they play in bringing a colitis attack under control and achieving good health again. The short term side effects that will undoubtedly happen include gaining of weight, nausea, sleep loss, mood swings including perhaps coming over as irrational. Some longer term effects which do happen when suffering from a colitis attack include "mooning" of the face, appearance of acne, sweating, and distinctive change in personality. There are also conditions such as increased blood pressure and osteoporosis that should be looked out for if the prescribed medication is used for long periods then repeated as such over a period of years.

It is without doubt that the use of steroids for the effective reduction of colitis symptoms does bring benefits to the sufferer yet there does require being an awareness of the consequences of taking such medication. What drawbacks that can happen are, though, a small price to pay in order to bring welcome relief when faced with all that a colitis attack can throw at those that have been diagnosed with the disease.

Candida and Ulcerative Colitis - A True Experience

This article will discuss about Candida and Ulcerative Colitis. I got an email from someone who wanted to share his condition. He said that he's suffered from candida and ulcerative colitis, although he thinks candida may be the cause of his UC. He is 24 years old and from the United Kingdom. He's suffered from UC without remission for 7 years and was considering surgery until he discovered that he had candida. He also discovered that it is the cause of many of his other symptoms including brain fog, sinus problems, indigestion, skin problems, anxiety and fatigue.

He started on an anti-fungal program and was 4 months into the program when his Colitis flared badly, and he had to go back onto steroids. His diet also suffered at that time and things haven't been right ever since. He believes he was doing one thing wrong when he flared; he wasn't colon cleansing so the toxins were building up rapidly especially when he was taking stronger anti-fungals (oreganos and lamisil).

He's having great difficulty coming off steroids. He's started an anti-fungal/diet programme again, but every time he took anti-fungals the yeast stormed back the next day, and he felt very tired during the morning. He thinks it's because his adrenals were having a hard time coping with the die-off. He was wondering if he might need to increase his dose of prednisolone from currently 1 mg to 2.5 mg so that he can get things moving with the anti-fungals and his adrenals could cope with the die-off. And it was the biggest mistake and regret when he went back onto steroids. At that time, he didn't understand what was happening and had no one who knew about his condition.

Crohn's Disease? There's Crohn's Help Now

Crohn's disease typically impacts the very last section of the small intestine, but can also affect other locations in the gastrointestinal tract. Ulcerative Colitis affects just the large intestine ( colon ). Crohn's disease is a bit more common in women versus men. It is usually a persistent disorder, often called -inflammatory bowel disease. The condition will cause ulcers within the intestinal area and could be anywhere between the mouth area and rectum.

Symptoms Signs or symptoms of Crohn's disease include things like fever, low energy, abdominal and cramping pains, rectal bleeding, recurrent looseness of the bowels and lack of appetite which ultimately cause weight-loss and poor nutrition. As this is a persistent issue, which means it is continual, scar tissue formation can accumulate within the intestinal tract and even result in obstruction and may also bring about holes in the affected area, referred to as fistulas.

Cause of Crohn's Disease The factors that cause Crohn's disease aren't entirely understood. Nevertheless, the top features of the illness would suggest an autoimmune dysfunction. Although additional studies are necessary, the top present-day way of thinking is that the microorganisms within the intestinal tract get inadequate access into the intestinal wall, which activates an immune response against bordering tissue. What may cause Crohn's disease is often a fiercely argued and controversial subject. Many notions are plentiful about the sources of Crohn's disease. Some say it's a condition brought on by the body's very own defense mechanisms, while some feel it's a genetic issue. Others however, believe that dietary practices and inadequate nourishment, in fact, bring about the disease. Although, many more point to bacteria and fungi as the trigger.

Inflammation Crohn's disease brings about inflammation deep within the lining of the intestinal tract. Some studies have shown that present and past tobacco users have higher risk of developing Crohn's disease than non-smokers do. Among the individuals with the disease, tobacco is linked to a increased rate of relapse, repeat surgical procedures, and immuno-suppressive therapy. Why cigarette smoking raises the potential risk of Crohn's disease is not known. However, many theorists are convinced that cigarettes may decrease the intestine's defenses, reduce the circulation of blood to the intestines, or bring about the body's defense mechanism alterations that lead to inflammation.

Treatment Treatment may well include things like drug therapies, natural health supplements, surgical procedures, or a mixture of these options. The desired objectives of treatment approaches are to manage the inflammation and correct nutritional deficiencies. Treatment may help manage the condition by minimizing how frequently an individual experiences a recurrence, but it is said there no cure. Side effects of conventional medication for Crohn's It is crucial that an individual is aware that pharmaceutical medications have possible side effects.

Immune Modifiers The immune system modifiers work by suppressing the body's defense mechanism to minimize inflammation. Typical unwanted side effects include things like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, higher possibility of an infection, diminished white blood cell count, and liver deterioration. Anti-inflammatory prescription drug, including drugs like Infliximab, also have side effects. Infliximab suppresses the body's defense mechanism to allow it to control inflammation. By doing this, affected individuals encounter weakened immune systems which makes them susceptible to microbial infections and bacterial contamination including TB.

Alternative Treatment Method Unless of course, you've been hiding inside a cave over the past few years, you most likely are aware of the growth in the alternative health industry. With diminishing confidence in modern-day medicine, consumers are stepping into a virtual time machine and looking to solutions of earlier times for remedies of the future. Dealing with Crohn's disorders obviously is no exception.

Managing The Symptoms Side effects and additional complications that occur with Crohn's disease are the major objectives of most physicians and health care professionals. Precisely the same results however, can be obtained through the use of less hazardous, far more gentle compounds in the human body, as opposed to the generally approved prescription drugs. There are numerous herbal plants and herbal solutions which, rather effectively, respond to minimizing, and in many cases, eradication Crohn's disease symptoms and unwanted side effects.

What is the Difference Between IBD and Inflammatory Bowel Syndrome?

There are distinctive differences between IBD and Inflammatory bowel syndrome. These differences also influence the course of treatment suggested by the doctors. In IBD, inflammation and ulcers are caused in the upper and lower intestines accompanied by extreme pain in the abdominal region. IBS is known by different names, like mucous colitis, spastic colitis, spastic colon, nervous diarrhea, and nervous stomach. IBD, on the other hand, can be characteristically segregated into 2 diseases, viz., Ulcerative Colitis (UC), and Crohn's Disease (CD).

IBS is related with some kind of disturbance in the bowel functioning. This gastrointestinal disorder is not really a disease; rather it reflects a collection of symptoms. The IBS symptoms would normally involve irregular bowel formation and functioning causing constipation, diarrhea, chromic abdominal pain / discomfort, etc. Individuals affected with IBS might have other functional irregularities like Fibromyalgia, chronic pelvic pains, chronic fatigue symptoms, etc. Though IBS is also referred to as mucous colitis or spastic colitis by several people, those are not very accurate. When inflammation occurs in the large intestine (colon) it is referred to as colitis. But inflammation does not occur in IBS.

When examination of the colon is conducted, no diseases are indicated in IBS but definite signs are shown in Ulcerative colitis. The inflammations caused in IBD are very dangerous whereas the conditions in IBS are much less severe. Permanent damage to the upper and lower intestines does not happen in IBS. Neither is there any kind of intestinal bleeding. People affected with IBD or IBD-related gastrointestinal ailments are also prone to colon cancers. IBS treatment is much less intensive than that of IBD. In IBD, people might need surgeries or powerful medicines to reduce the pain.

Immunosuppressive medicines or steroids are often prescribed for IBD patients but those are not encompassed in the IBS treatment regime. But this does not imply that patients suffering from IBS do not face any problems in their day to day lives. The ability to work in an unhindered manner is often lost in case of IBS patients. They need to visit the washroom often, and soiling of pants becomes a common incident. IBS can create a serious dent in a person's composure and confidence. Travelling to places where no toilets are present might be worrying for the people suffering from IBS. The social life and the self-image of IBS-afflicted people take a beating.

Recently it has been revealed that IBS treatment (indirect and direct medical expenses), accounts for more than twenty billion dollars yearly in USA. Many individuals consider IBS and IBD to be the same. This is because of certain similarities existent between these two. In order to manage the conditions properly accurate diagnosis needs to be done. As the root cause has yet to be determined, IBS treatment is mainly directed towards the symptoms. Educating people about IBS is very crucial and by applying basic IBS diet treatment, lot of benefits can be got. Stress-management techniques like deep breathing and yoga are also helpful for IBS-affected people.

The Use Of Herbs For Crohn's Disease

The use of herbs for Crohn's disease has not been scientifically approved but is accepted as an alternative treatment for the disorder. Crohn's disease is a condition which causes inflammation in the digestive tract. It usually affects the intestines but can appear in any part of the gastrointestinal tract. The cause of this disease is not known for certain but it may be caused by an abnormal immune system. Your body may treat certain types of food as foreign objects and try to fight them.

How Crohn's Disease Can Affect Your Body

Crohn's disease can affect your body in many ways. It causes inflammation in your digestive tract, most often in the intestines. This inflammation is usually accompanied by pain. There can be bleeding, diarrhea and loss of appetite. These symptoms can be treated using medication or nutritional supplements. A proper diet should be followed to control the recurrence of the disease.

Herbs Used For Treating Crohn's Disease

Apart from taking drugs and supplements like fish oil, you can turn to herbs for Crohn's treatment. Herbs have been used in traditional Chinese medicine since the 13th century. They are also widely used in India as remedies for many maladies. Herbs have never been scientifically proven to be effective cures but are used more as traditional medicine.

There are many herbs with properties which can help reduce the discomforts associated with Crohn's disease. Some of the herbs and their effects are given below.

Ginger is an herb which can help by warming the digestive tract and making digestion of food easier. It is important because patients of Crohn's normally lose the ability to digest food properly. If you roast ginger it aids in stopping diarrhea as well. Licorice root is another useful herb as it has anti-viral and anti-inflammatory properties. It has a sweet taste and is sometimes used as an additive to reduce the bitterness of many other herbs like goldenseal and dandelion.

Ume plums and Catechu resin have properties that help to heal sores in the inner lining of the digestive tract. In patients of Crohn's disease, many foods may cause allergies and Ume plums have anti-allergic properties which help control reactions to such food.

There are some herbs which act as detoxifiers and have strong anti-bacterial properties. These herbs are very useful when there is fever, diarrhea and a lot of mucus. You can use them for a short span of time when these symptoms increase suddenly. Some such herbs are Pulsatilla root and Coptis root.

There are three herbs which strengthen the digestive organs. These are Codonopsis root, Atractylodis root and Astragalus root. These can be used as tonics in cases of chronic diarrhea. Astragalus is also a great booster for the immune system which is essential for patients of Crohn's disease. Angelica root and White Peony root are blood tonics and are helpful in the event of bleeding ulcers which could lead to anemia.

Though herbal treatment is not scientifically proven to be effective, it is still used in many countries as traditional medicine. Most of them have healing properties which are very useful in treating several medical conditions. Using herbs for Crohn's disease has been quite effective as treatment.

How to Treat Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Anyone who has been diagnosed with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) will understand how painful a condition it can be. Not only is it painful, it can also be embarrassing for many people in social situations which can also put limits on their lifestyle.

The condition called Irritable Bowel Syndrome is quite a common condition. The actual causes of IBS have not been fully determined. The symptoms of the condition can be different between one person and another. However, there are a number of common symptoms that include a tender and painful stomach, constipation and in some cases diarrhoea. Sufferers can also complain of a full up or bloated feeling in the stomach.

Recent research has highlighted that certain enzymes and live friendly bacteria can assist in relieving the symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome. One of these friendly bacteria is probiotics which can be found in a variety of natural diary produce such as yoghurt's. Studies have shown that these probiotic friendly bacteria are believed to help the body's digestion system by making it more effective at absorbing the nutrients that we need from the food we eat.

There are many different types of probiotics available however, studies have shown that there are two particular probiotics that can help to relieve the symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome. They are better known as lactobacillus and Bifid bacteria.

If you suffer from IBS consult your doctor first to see if this is recommended. Look for products that have a high percentage of these 2 friendly bacteria strains in them. There are two popular brands that use these two particular strains one is Yakult which is a refreshing drink and another brand is Actimel.

As well as probiotic drinks there are other ways to help relieve the symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome. For example, make sure you drink plenty of liquids throughout the day especially fresh filtered water as this will help to keep your body hydrated. Drinking liquids helps with lubricating the bowels to improve constipation. If you suffer from regular bouts of diarrhoea it is important to drink water to replace the fluids the body uses to discharge the diarrhoea.

There a number of natural treatments you can use to help relieve the symptoms of IBS. For example, aloe vera juice is believed to have soothing qualities that can help your digestive system to digest the food you eat more effectively. Another way to reduce the symptoms is to stay more relaxed because it has been found that if you are stressed out it tends to worsen the conditions of IBS.

Discover the Best Natural Cure For Ulcerative Colitis

If you are among the millions of people searching for a natural cure for ulcerative colitis then you are in luck. There are ways that you can help to manage the symptoms of this very insidious condition. Ulcerative colitis is a condition that involves inflammation of the large intestine. It normally affects people between the age of 15 and 40 and is attributed to heredity or to an autoimmune disorder. The symptoms of ulcerative colitis, which can include abdominal pain, diarrhea, and cramping can make taking care of your day-to-day activities very difficult. In the most serious cases, the symptoms may even make functioning impossible since it can manifest itself in joint pain and anemia.

There are many medications that your doctor can prescribe that will help you with the symptoms of the disease. These are medicines, such as corticosteroids, that are designed to treat the inflammation. Unfortunately, these medicines just don't work for everyone or you may not want to take another prescription medicine. That is why so many people are searching for a natural cure for ulcerative colitis. There are many natural remedies available. Among the most effective of these are herbal treatments which have proven to help control the symptoms of ulcerative colitis.

A readily available natural cure for ulcerative colitis that has proven to be very effective in many cases is the juice of the aloe vera plant. Aloe vera juice is available in quantity and can easily be incorporated into your daily diet. In addition to aloe, other herbal products are used as a natural cure for ulcerative colitis. These include chamomile, turmeric, and boswellia. All can be incorporated into your daily routine and greatly help to alleviate symptoms and can be found at most health food stores and online.

Nutritional supplements can also greatly reduce the need for traditional medicines. Folic acid, fish oil, and soluble fiber have been shown to not only help people with the disease but are helpful in improving health overall. When combined with herbal remedies and dietary changes you can develop a comprehensive program that is a true natural cure for ulcerative colitis.

The symptoms of ulcerative colitis can also show up in other serious diseases so it goes without saying that you should consult your doctor before making big changes to your treatment plan. Many doctors are well informed on homeopathic methods of treating the disease and give you good advice on your natural cure for ulcerative colitis. They can also ensure that you are diagnosed correctly. Once you are certain that your condition is indeed ulcerative colitis, you can begin to make the necessary improvements to your diet and begin to incorporate your natural cure into your daily routine and before you know it you'll be back to your old self.

What Are The Risks For Crohn's Disease Sufferers?

Crohn's disease is an inflammation in the digestive tract. This can involve your mouth, esophagus, stomach, small intestine, bowel, large intestine and anus. Your digestive tract is the body's lifeline. It helps to breakdown your food, absorb the nutrients in your body and also eliminate the waste. With the presence of this disease, these functions are largely affected. The disease is largely seen in the age group of 15 years-30 years. It is however even found in younger children as pediatric Crohn's disease.

The symptoms found are...

• Diarrhea
  


• Abdominal pain
  


• Nausea
  


• Vomiting
  


• Constipation (in some cases)
  


• Anemia
  


• Fevers
  


• Chills
  


• Malabsorption
  


• Weight loss
  

Environmental factors have been implicated in Crohn's disease. It is seen more in temperate areas of developed countries like North America and Australia. Genetic factors are also found to play a role in the incidence of this disease. About 10% to 15% of patients have a family history of Crohn's disease. Another 5%-7% suffer from ulcerative colitis. There is a high prevalence of this disease seen among siblings.

Risk Factors

Crohn's disease affects both men and women. The risk factors are as follows...

Age- It can strike at any age. The condition is likely to develop when you are young. The highly affected age group is between the ages of 20-30.
Ethnicity- Whites have the highest risk of the disease. It can even affect Jews and Europeans.

Family History- You are at a higher risk if you have a close relative such as parent or a sibling with the disease. Your risk is higher (about 30%) if your sibling is suffering from this condition.

Area where you live- It is more common in urban and industrialized areas. This can be because people in such areas are likely to consume diet rich in fats or take more refined foods. People in Northern climates are also prone to this disease condition.

Smoking- You are more likely to develop Crohn's disease if you smoke. If you continue to smoke even after diagnosis, your treatment can be less effective and your illness can worsen.

Complications

The following is a list of possible complications that can result from Crohn's disease...

• Perforation of the colon
  


• Abscess in the colon, abdomen
  


• Narrowing of the colon causing obstruction
  


• Toxic swollen colon
  


• Fistulas- can lead to recurrent infections of the urinary genital tracts
  


• Infection of the blood (sepsis)
  


• Osteoporosis
  


• Gallstones
  


• Joint pain and arthritis
  


• Colon cancer
  


• Nutritional problems like weight loss and reduced muscle mass
  


• Eye inflammations or infections
  


• Mouth ulcers, gum inflammation and dental cavities
  


• Anemia
  


• Liver damage
  


• Depression and anxiety
  


• Blood clots
  


• Skin rashes and ulcers
  

Crohn's disease sufferers have high levels of fluid loss due to diarrhea. This chronic dehydration can affect their kidney functions. So it is important for these patients to given attention to their fluid intake especially during warmer times of the year. They need to carefully evaluate their diet and select foods which help in reducing the symptoms and promote an environment for healing the GI tract.

Crohn's disease is a chronic condition that can recur at different times during your lifetime. You need to ensure you give proper management and treatment to help you deal with the disease condition. You need to try and improve your quality of life by accepting the situation and learn to cope with the condition in a better manner.

How To Heal Irritable Bowel Syndrome Naturally

Irritable bowel syndrome or IBS is a disorder of the colon and is triggered by factors like consuming the wrong type of foods, stress, smoking, alcohol etc. IBS is not a disease but a disorder wherein the bowels do not function properly. It is not a severe disease like cancer or brain tumor. However, it causes severe discomfort and may disrupt the daily life of those suffering from it. About 15 to 20% of the American population suffers from this common disorder. IBS is also known as mucous colitis, spastic colon, nervous stomach or irritable colon. Medication, therapy and counseling are the usual methods to cure the symptoms of IBS. However, medication is not the only way to control the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome; it can be healed using natural methods too.

Irritable bowel syndrome is classified as a functional disorder, affecting the physiological function of the body. Hence, it cannot be diagnosed in the usual manner by x-rays or blood tests. The symptoms are not clear and the patient may experience either diarrhea or constipation, both contradictory to each other. The causative factors are also not defined and it may affect people with a sensitive gastrointestinal tract. Treatment may involve medication, a change in diet and use of natural means. Some of the natural methods of healing for irritable bowel syndrome are given below.

Colonic Massage:
Colonic massage can be performed while sitting on the toilet or by lying down and bending the knees. Using the fist of the right hand, gently massage the colon by making a circular, digging motion with the knuckles. Start with the lower right side area of the abdomen and work upwards under the right side of the ribcage. Repeat the same process with the left side and also massage the pubic bone or groin area. The main aim of this exercise is to bring on a bowel movement. This exercise relieves colic in newborns, though minimal pressure must be used in their case.

Mind and body healing:
The symptoms of IBS may cause mental and emotional stress to those suffering from this disorder. In order to control irritable bowel syndrome, it is important for the patients to find a release for the mental stress and seek out therapy that uses emotional release. Somato (or body) emotional release is based on the belief that trauma or pain is stored in the body tissues apart from the mind and soul of the patients. In order to heal effectively, these pains should be eliminated from the body. There are various therapies dealing with somato-emotional release and these include craniosacral reiki and acupuncture apart from other energy healing exercises.

Fiber rich food:
Health experts generally advise on the benefits of consuming fiber rich food to maintain a healthy body. However, persons suffering from IBS reap greater benefits by including fiber in their diet. This should be done slowly to avoid any further complications. By observing what kind of foods agree or don't agree with your digestive system, you can avoid the incidence of irritable bowel syndrome. It is advisable to keep away from foods that trigger an attack of IBS.

The Medical Benefits of HGH

Human growth hormone, or HGH for brevity, has been unduly associated with steroids for many years. Many people cling to the opinion that since both substances help improve cell growth that they are, for all intends and purposes, similar to each other - in terms of benefits, and yes, in terms of negatives as well. This is a grave misconception, an unfair assumption that has festered into a misguided myth.

The reality is that HGH is totally different from steroids. Indeed, HGH, can help stimulate cell growth. But more often than not, HGH is used to repair cell damage or cell growth deficiencies. HGH is a compound based on a single chain polypeptide hormone produced by the pituitary gland. HGH is something that the body normally produces, though some people produce more quantities of such a hormone than others.

Currently, HGH is being used for the following medical purposes:

- In cosmetic medicine as a means of reversing - or at least slowing down - the effects of aging.
- As an aid to weight loss with HGH enhancing fat-burning cells.
- As an aid to expedite the healing of wounds, infections and burns on the subject's skin.
- As a remedy to Ulcerative Colitis.
- As a cure to Crohn's disease.
- As a supplement for people who are short for their stature.
- As a treatment for patients suffering from multiple sclerosis.

These are the more acknowledged uses of human growth hormones. That HGH is being utilized as a bodybuilding enhancement is merely one of the non-medical usages for the hormone that is rarely observed, but because media has become fixated with the ill effects of steroids, HGH has also been targeted because people who use steroids usually use HGH as well.

The only side effect of using HGH is theoretical at best. Many people are of the belief that HGH can increase the risks of developing diabetes. Theoretical or not, people shouldn't take any risks. HGH in large dosages is only prescribed for people over the age of 25 and/or are suffering from conditions that desperately require the intervention of this 191-amino acid.

Should you or should you not use HGH?

Try to analyze your need, first and foremost. Thereafter, try to exhaust all other remedies recommended for your condition. If there will still be a need for a curative or therapeutic aid, consult a medical professional and ask if HGH can be taken to help your disposition.

What is Colitis?

Colitis happens when there is an occurrence of inflammation of the colon of a person. There are several Colitis causes which include poor blood supply, infections and in cases where the body undergoes autoimmunity. What are the colitis symptoms? What is colitis treatment?

The colon is responsible for pushing undigested food to the anus for final elimination in the process of bowel movement. As the undigested food travels in this long muscular tube, it gathers up mucus and bacteria along the way. The bloodstream reabsorbs water permitting the liquid mixture to solidify to form the feces.

Colitis causes mainly include various infections and illnesses. Infections that bring about inflammation of the colon often come from food poisoning. Lack of blood supply in the body can also cause Colitis. There are a number of reasons why the colon can lose blood and in turn can contribute to having diarrhea, anemia, dehydration or shock.

If one is experiencing bloody bowel movements and abdominal pain, this can be because of an inflammatory bowel disease. Before consulting what is colitis treatment for your case, one will first need to study the causes, and with it the careful application of various diets including the ulcerative colitis diet.

Symptoms:

The symptoms will depend on the type of colon inflammation that the patient has but the common factor among them is experiencing diarrhea and abdominal pain.

- There may or may not be blood in the feces.

- Patients will experience frequent urges to defecate.

- Abdominal can be great at the beginning and gradually declines; regular pain.

- Chills and fever can be observed with some types of Colitis.

The Diagnosis:

- While many patients may attest diarrhea as the general symptom, some are able to resolve the dilemma in just hours while there are a number of patients who suffer from it for years.

- Dehydration can greatly add to the occurrence of a colon inflammation.

- Colitis is often associated with diarrhea because of its symptom being prominent in every type of colon inflammation.

The Exams and Tests:

- Blood testing is done to discover the patient's stability and observe possible factors that can lead to Colitis.

- A Colonoscopy is performed by a gastroenterologist by inserting a long flexible camera in the anus to permit visibility of the colon walls.

- Computerized tomography is performed to see the image of the colon and the abdomen.

What is Colitis Treatment?

- The inflammatory bowel diseases can be controlled by taking a good combination of medicines.

- Abdominal pain and diarrhea from Colitis can be relieved by a clear liquid diet, rest and an ulcerative colitis diet.

- Infectious Colitis is often countered with antibiotics but there are other viral infections that do not require them instead rest can be enough to eliminate the virus over time.

Even though there are several Colitis symptoms, a prominent one is having a diarrhea whether bloody or not, and frequent abdominal pain. Although there are ways to treat colon inflammation, it is always advisable to rather prevent it by eating healthy and staying away from too much sugar, fat and oily foods which can cause Colitis in the near future.

Ulcerative Colitis - Healing a Leaky Gut

Did you know that your digestive tract is the size of a small football pitch?

If you've got colitis then this football pitch sized bodily organ has become damaged at one or various points along its enormous area. When the cells of the digestive tract become damaged it makes the digestive tract more permeable - hence the term Leaky Gut. When your gut is leaky like this it can let through the digestive wall some incompletely digested food particles.

Some research has been done into the link between IBD and Intestinal Permeability and one study found that Crohns patients had a six fold increase in intestinal permeability.

A leaky gut can lead to food sensitivities as any food particles leaking out of the digestive tract may cause an immune response in the body, leading to inflammation. Elemental diets where patients are fed a diet of pure nutrients have been shown to bring about a reduction in intestinal permeability. Researchers have also found that low-allergenic diets where grains and dairy are avoided can produce welcome relief from Ulcerative Colitis.

How to fix a leaky gut?

There are several steps we can take to heal a leaky gut -

· Initially identify any foods you may be allergic to or have intolerance to. Try a York Test which is a pin prick blood test that you can do at home. A small blood sample is sent away to a lab where they test it to look for any anti bodies to specific foods. It will tell you if you have any food intolerances.

· Next you need to get some probiotics in there, to correct any in balance between the good and bad bacteria, and correct any Dysbiosis in the gut. You need more good than bad! A good Probiotic is Primal Defense or VSL-3. Probiotics have been shown in several medical studies to be very helpful in the treatment of colitis.

· Get some l-glutamine powder, glutamine is an amino acid which is very useful for healing the digestive tract. Glutamine is the preferred 'fuel' for the cells lining the mucosa of the small intestine called enterocytes. These cells have the ability to take up glutamine directly rather than waiting for it to be supplied through the blood stream. Glutamine is also required for the production of both intestinal mucus and Secretary Immunoglobulin Type A (SIgA).

As a result of these functions, a good supply of glutamine will help repair a leaky gut. Glutamine also has the benefit of helping to prevent bacteria from getting from the gut to the bloodstream. You can buy l-Glutamine powder, or try juicing Cabbage as this is a good source of Glutamine.

Understanding The Hartmann's Procedure

Hartmann's procedure is an operation that involves the removal of part of the large intestines. This procedure is normally used as an emergency measure on patients who do not support extensive surgical operations or where anastomosis is not possible.

What are the indications for a Hartmann Procedure?
Though this procedure was initially developed to address the problem of distal colonic adenocarcionoma, related indications have progressed with time. Some of the common indications addressed through this surgical operation currently include:

~Complicated Diverticulitis
This is one of the most common indications for a Hartmann procedure. It normally occurs at sites of vascular penetration between antimesenteric taeniae and mesenteric taenia. Depending on the magnitude, diverticulitis complications can be categorized into 4 categories namely: parabolic absess, disntant absess, purulent perintonitis and fecal peritonitis. Hartmann procedure is mostly preferred for the treatment of the last two stages.

~Rectosigmoid Cancer
This is the next common indication for a Hartmann procedure. In emergency cases, the predominant Rectosigmoid Cancer symptoms may include perforation and bleeding. On the other hand, in elective cases, palliation is the common symptom. Other rectosigmid cancer related indicators include: Volvulusm ischemia; lymphoma, metastatic cancer; crohn disease; ulcerative colitis; pneumatosis cystoides and retroperitoneal bleeding.

Apart from these two dominant categories, a Hartmann procedure may also be carried out whenever a colon resection is necessary. This is normally done in patients who are malnourished.

What does the operation involve?
A cut is usually made in the tummy. This creates an allowance through which the surgeon removes the affected area of the bowel before making a colostomy. Basically speaking, colostomy is an allowance made at the end of the colon to allow for the passage of fecal waste. In some cases, it is possible to have this allowance reversed in a process called reversal Hartmann's procedure. The wound made after the cut is usually closed with stitches or clips. Any visible clips or stitches are normally removed within 12 days.

What the risk is of involved in this procedure?
Well, Hartmann's procedure is a major operation. As with any other surgical operation, the operation has a fair share of risks involved. Some of the common risks include:

*Nerve damage: This procedure is normally done very close to the anal sphincter (muscles of the back passage). In the process, some muscles may become bruised thus causing damage of the nerves. Occasionally, this can lead to incontinence of feces or wind. In extreme cases, this surgical operation may interfere with the bladder and sexual function although the risks are often temporary.

*Paralysis of the Bowel: Sometimes, this operation may lead to the obstruction of the small bowel (ileus). If this happens, the bowel may need to be rested before an operation is carried out to unblock it.

*Other Risks after the operation
Hartmann's procedure may lead to chest complications, patients are normally advised to avoid smoking and practice deep breathing exercises after this procedure. Apart from chest infections, other complications may include thrombosis, wound infection and blood clot in the lungs.

Benefits of Hartmann's procedure
Through this operation, doctors are able to remove the affected part of the bowel. This provides a good solution to most bowel problems such as colon cancer and divercullitis.

Alternative Procedures
As we learnt in the introductory part of this write-up, this operation is normally performed during emergencies. If incase the problem is still containable, a hollow tube (commonly known as a stent) is usually inserted in the bowel. Once in place, stents help keep the passage open. However, these only relieve the symptoms for a short while.

What to do before the operation
While preparing for the Hartmann's procedure, it is important you prepare yourself physically. Try to eat a balanced diet, perform gentle exercises and get plenty of fresh air. At this point you're strongly advised to stop smoking.

Just to sum it up, it is our sincere hope that you've found this article useful. If in case of related symptoms, do not hesitate to consult a qualified medical doctor for treatment and specialized advice.

My Experience Using A Natural Remedy For Crohn's Disease

I have suffered from Crohn's disease since I was eleven years old. At first the doctors did not know what was wrong with me and put my illness down to growing pains. They eventually diagnosed me with crohn's disease when I was fourteen. I had to endure several months of painful examinations and had two years off school as I was so ill. I was put on steroids and had to have operations to remove part of my intestine. I have tried lots of different prescription drugs over the years but they all had horrible side effects and made me feel so ill. It wasn't until I reached the age of 28 that I started to look for alternative medicines. One natural remedy for Crohn's disease is aromatherapy, which some people believe helps rejuvenate the body and promote healing. Many people believe that there is a strong link between the mind and body and that, by repairing the mind, they are able to repair the body as well. Using calming scents, users of aromatherapy soothe away mental and physical stress, allowing the body a chance to recuperate from the daily stresses that weaken the immune system. Maintaining a healthy immune system is a great natural remedy for Crohn's disease.

Controlling crohn's disease the natural way:

Herbalism is used to treat a multitude of problems by using the whole plant, rather than extracting a key ingredient. While modern medicine and herbalism work best together, they are often in opposition because each side believes their way is best. This natural remedy for Crohn's disease claims to treat the cause of the illness, as opposed to eradicating the symptoms. The theory is that all the medicine a person needs can be found already in nature and, that if they are used properly, the body will repair itself. A combination of herbs and other plants are used as a natural remedy for Crohn's disease in a multitude of ways. The herbs soothe the nervous system which, in turn, calms gastrointestinal distress. One of the best herbal remedies I have used is a product called Aloe MP Plus which is the best crohn's disease medication I have tried and is the ultimate crohn's disease natural remedy. I would not be without it. It has changed my life. The other product I use is called Esdifan which controls any diarrhea and allows me to eat foods which I would not normally be allowed to eat. They are both ways in controlling crohn's disease the natural way, with no side effects, which actually work.

Ulcerative Colitis and Insurance Cover

Ulcerative colitis is considered a serious ailment. Unlike irritable bowel syndrome, it can take a lot of time money and effort to get it treated and not having a health insurance policy can make things difficult.

Ulcerative colitis is considered a serious ailment. Unlike irritable bowel syndrome, it can take a lot of time money and effort to get it treated and depending on the level of severity, treatment could end up being a costly affair. It is a condition very similar to Crohn's disease and is from a group of similar ailments collectively called Irritable Bowel Diseases (IBD). It causes ulceration of the bowels and blood in stool. It is a serious medical condition that might even require hospitalization. And given the ever-increasing cost of healthcare, ulcerative colitis will end up hurting a lot more than just your bowels! So if you have health insurance, now is a good time to use it. Less than one in thousand persons suffer from ulcerative colitis in the United States. If that sounds like a small number, we are talking a quarter million people here!

So how much insurance coverage do you need for ulcerative colitis? Well, that's hard to say, I don't want to throw a number here because it depends on several factors like severity, mode of treatment adopted, where the treatment is administered - small government clinic or up-market private hospital - and most importantly, the reaction of individuals to the treatment and costs can vary over a wide range. I can tell you nothing more informative than "a few dozen dollars to a thousand." Case-to-case differences exist and even within an individual, the symptoms of the disease are intermittent. Sometimes they are barely noticeable and sometimes they are severe. In some cases, the symptoms lessen gradually and eventually disappear on their own, but in some cases it requires medical intervention.

Treatments include chemotherapy, surgery and alternative treatments. So if the mode of treatment adopted is chemotherapy - do you benefit from you health insurance policy? Depends. Most of the health insurance policies I know do not cover the costs of drugs. I know mine doesn't. It covers only hospitalization and surgery charges but I have to buy my own drugs. But then again, it could depend on the way the terms and conditions are phrased and defined. If drugs are an inevitable part of the treatment, you might get reimbursed. I know for sure that most policies pay nothing in case of a relatively minor ailment like irritable bowel syndrome which has no more weight than a headache but crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis can sometimes even lead to surgery.

Microscopic Colitis

Microscopic colitis is a disease that causes an inflammation of the colon, resulting in chronic diarrhea and occasional abdominal pain. It was given the name "microscopic colitis" because the inflammation can only be viewed through a microscope.

What causes microscopic colitis?

Research shows that microscopic colitis is a result of the immune system attacking bacteria living in the colon. Scientists are still unsure, however, about what instigates the attack to these bacteria. It is suggested that consumption of certain antibiotics or certain types of foods may trigger the attack. It is likewise believed that the body's immune system attacks non-foreign elements in the intestine after erroneously identifying them as foreign elements. Why this anomaly happens is uncertain.

Tests have also suggested that a certain gene present in the body may be the cause of the attack, but due to the lack of consistency in the results, there is no conclusion that can be drawn from the test.

Studies have also suggested that estrogen could be the cause of microscopic colitis. Research has yielded convincing findings that there are more women affected by this disease than men, and that these women are usually affected much later their in life when the supply of estrogen in the body is much higher.

Although it is not the actual cause of microscopic colitis, the body's reaction to glutinous food products could be the trigger for the inflammation of the colon. Gluten is the protein found in wheat, barley, rye and oats.

Treatment and prevention

The first step of treatment for microscopic colitis is the modification of the diet. The patient is usually asked to stick to gluten-free foods.

A new medical process is being developed to rid the body of immunogenic strains of bacteria that cause microscopic colitis. The process involves replacing these bacteria with good bacteria called lactobacilli.

Mastocytic Enterocolitis - A Patient Guide to Mastocytic Inflammatory Bowel Disease (MIBD)

WHAT IS MASTOCYTIC ENTEROCOLITIS?

Mastocytic enterocolitis (entero=small intestine, colitis- colon + -itis= inflammation) is a newly discovered disorder defined by the presence of increased mast cells in the intestine. Mast cells are a type of immune cell. They are involved in allergy reactions, infection fighting and nerve regulation in the body. They have numerous granules that contain a variety of chemicals that mediate body reactions i.e. chemical mediators. Histamine is one of the main chemical mediators in mast cells that are released when mast cells are triggered. Mast cells present in the superficial intestinal lining or mucosa in small numbers except when there are parasites, food allergies, increased stress or the presence of other chronic inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis. When mast cells release histamine and other chemicals, this irritates or inflames the bowel making it more permeable or leaky. This can set up a vicious cycle of pain and further gut injury.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS?

The most common symptoms are diarrhea, bloating and abdominal pain. However, constipation may occur due to gut paralysis. Nausea, vomiting and various non-GI symptoms such as flushing, headaches, and fatigue may also commonly occur. When histamine is released, it can cause leaky gut, increased contractions of the gut or decreased contractions, increased secretions and increased pain.

HOW IS IT DIAGNOSED?

When you have an endoscopic procedure, the doctor takes samples of tissue, called biopsies, from the lining of your intestines. The tissue is then sent to a pathologist who looks at it under the microscope. Mast cells may be hard to see on biopsies without a special stain for tryptase, an enzyme present in mast cells. Mastocytic enterocolitis is diagnosed when excess mast cells are present in the small bowel or the colon.

HOW IS IT TREATED?

There are medications that can reduce or block the release of the chemicals by the mast cells. The most common are antihistamines, both type I and type antihistamines. Type I antihistamines are typically used for allergies symptoms such as Zyrtec, Allegra, Claritin etc. The type II antihistamines are also acid blockers such as Zantac, Tagamet and Pepcid. The most specific therapy for mastocytic enterocolitis is a medication that stabilizes mast cells known as cromolyn sodium (Gastrocrom). This drug prevents the release of chemicals including histamine from mast cells. It is typically prescribed four times a day for about 4-6 weeks. Along with medication, you should have allergy testing done for the most common allergies, work on reducing or coping better with stress and consider taking a probiotic supplement.

Copyright 2008 Dr. Scot M. Lewey, "Dr Celiac, the Food Doc" http://www.thefooddoc.com All RIghts Reserved

This may be reprinted for non-commercial patient use provided the contact information above is included.

Colitis - Causes And Symptoms

Colitis is a condition of the human body that is marked by an inflammation of the colon. It can be caused by a variety of infections as well as a lack of blood supply and autoimmune reactions. The colon, which is also commonly called the large bowel or the large intestine collects and stores the residual waste after digestion. It is also the passage that channels this waste matter towards the rectum for excretory purposes. During the passage of the liquid waste matter through the colon it is mixed with mucus and bacterium, while the water part of the waste is reabsorbed and channeled into the blood stream solidifying the feces.

The colon is made of layers of tissues with the outside wall layered with smooth muscle tissue that is instrumental in generating a movement to push the undigested food towards the rectum. The inner mucosa layer secrets mucus and bacterium for the formation of the feces and also helps in the electrolyte absorption of water through the layer to solidify the waste matter. During a colitis condition it is the inner mucosa layer that gets inflamed. Similar to all other organs in the human body the colon has a supply of arteries and a nexus of veins on its outside wall to supply oxygen and exhaust carbon dioxide and lactic acid.

Infections: Colitis can be caused by infection to the colon through bacteria and virus that reach the organ mostly through food. The condition is commonly called 'food poisoning' and some of the regular causes include Campylobacter, Escherchia Coli, Shigella, and Salmonella. Another similar condition, pseudomembranous colitis happens due to the bacteria Clostridium Difficile (C. difficile). This condition occurs in patients, who have been taking antibiotic medication because of an infection already present. This condition is often accompanied by fever and non-bloody diarrhea.

Ischemic Colitis: This condition is caused when the arteries in the colon narrow due to an atherosclerosis cutting up the blood supply to the organ and causing often-severe inflammation. This condition can occur because of a low blood pressure, anemia, dehydration, or shock. In other circumstances-like volvulus, when the bowel starts twisting, and incarcerated hernia, when the colon is obstructed by the abdominal wall-also the colon can suffer from a lack of blood supply, considerable pain, passage of blood through the bowers, and fever to the body.

Inflammatory Bowel Diseases: There are two types of inflammatory bowel diseases that can cause colitis. The first being ulcerative colitis and autoimmune illness where the surrounding body parts start an immunological attack on the organ. The second is technically called Crohn's Disease and can be interspersed and spread along the digestive tract from the esophagus to the rectum.

Microscopic Colitis: Collagenous colitis and lymphocytic colitis are the two conditions in this type of colitis. These conditions happen because of layers of the colon getting enlarged due to collagen or lymphocytes.

Chemical Colitis: If chemicals find an external passage into the colon it can get inflamed causing this condition. It is extremely common as fallout of enema.

A mild case of the disease can be treated at home with bland and watery diet, while if the condition persists or if the patient gets blood in the stool, or fever accompanied by diarrhoea immediate medical care may become necessary.

Side Effects of the Medication for The Treatment of Asthma and Crohn's Disease

Budesonide Side Effects

Budesonide is a steroid, which is a class of organic compounds that includes cholesterol and testosterone. It is specifically a glucocorticoid steroid because it is manufactured by the adrenal gland and it regulates the breakdown glucose within the body. Drug manufacturers sell budesonide under a variety of trade names, depending on the specific preparation. Physicians use budesonide to treat several conditions, although this powerful drug also has significant side effects, like other glucocorticoids.

Treatments

The treatment of asthma, allergies and other types of non-infectious rhinitis are the most common applications for budesonide. It is also used to treat Crohn's disease, a form of inflammatory bowel disease that may affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract. Budesonide is most effective against Crohn's disease that affects the right colon and ileum. Additional uses of budesonide include the treatment of nasal polyps. Budesonide is currently being tested in clinical trials for its effect on ulcerative colitis.

Preparations

Budesonide has different preparations, depending on its purpose. Inhalant preparations are used for nasal problems, while oral capsules and enemas are made for gastrointestinal disorders. The pharmaceutical firm AstraZeneca makes a nasal inhalant under the trade name Rhinocort and an oral inhalant under the trade name Pulmicort. Symbicort is a combination of budesonide and formoterol that AstraZeneca markets under the trade name Symbicort.

Prometheus Laboratories makes an oral capsule and enema preparation of budesonide under the trade name Entocort. It also makes an oral capsule of budesonide under the trade name Entocort EC. The primary difference between these two preparations is that Entocort is a modified-release formula while Entocort EC is a sustained-release formula.

Mild Side Effects

Oral preparations of budesonide may cause muscle cramps and an upset stomach. The most common side effects of inhalant preparations include the following:

• Change in mucus color


• Bad taste


• Dry mouth


• Hoarseness


• Coughing


• Nasal bleeding


• Lightheadedness


• Rash


• Sore throat


• Nasal irritation

Severe Side Effects

Budesonide may cause severe side effects, which require immediate medical attention:

• Breathing difficulty


• Facial swelling


• Acne


• White patches in the mouth, nose or throat


• Irregular menstruation

Children who use budesonide may also exhibit behavioral changes such as aggression in rare cases.

Comparison

Budesonide side effects generally compare favorably with those of other corticosteroids. It has a lower rate of systemic side effects that affect the whole body and does not have the strong association with bone density loss that prednisolone does. Unlike budesonide, other corticosteroids reduce the synthesis of hormones in the adrenal cortex, hypothalamus and pituitary gland. This property means that patients do not have to taper off budesonide as they do with other corticosteroids.

Diarrhea

Facts

• Diarrhea is the passing of watery or loose stools.
  
  


• It is the body's way of eliminating toxic wastes.
  
  


• Diarrhea is also an indication that the digestive system is unable to absorb nutrients, salt and water from food which are subsequently lost from the body through the watery bowels.
  
  


• Acute diarrhea accompanied by fever and blood or mucus in the stool may indicate bacterial or parasital infection.
  
  


• Most diarrhea lasts up to 3 or 4 days, even if left untreated. Consult a physician if diarrhea persists for more than 4 days.
  
  


• Diarrhea depletes the body of electrolytes, which are important minerals such as sodium, potassium, magnesium, chloride and calcium. A lack of these minerals can cause fatigue, tiredness and dehydration.
  
  


• Breast fed babies are less vulnerable to diarrhea.
  
  


• A body-detoxifying program can bring about a cleansing effect that could result in watery loose stools. This is the action of the removal of fecal matter from the intestinal walls and it should not last more than 2 days.
  
  


• Excess protein in an athlete can lead to dehydration, loss of appetite and diarrhea. Protein in excess requires more energy to digest and metabolize it.
  
  Reference : "Protein Supplements and Body Building Programs" Cathy K, et al. Journal of the American Medical Association (1978) 240:481
  

Causes

• People with lactose intolerance (the inability to digest lactose) who have consumed dairy products will allow the lactose to ferment in the large intestine where it can cause bloating, flatus, diarrhea and pain.
  
  


• Consuming large quantities of artificial sweeteners such as hexitols, mannitol and sorbitol can cause diarrhea.
  
  


• Food poisoning leading up to diarrhea is caused by bacteria such as salmonella, E.coli and campylobacter.
  
  


• Diarrhea is often a symptom of many health conditions such as diverticulosis, irritable bowel syndrome, hyperthyroidism, celiac disease (gluten sensitivity,) vitamin overdose, caffeine overdose and alcohol overdose.
  
  


• Emotional stress and anxiety can have an unpleasant effect on the digestive system and can spark off diarrhea. Once the stress or anxiety is gone, diarrhea stops.
  
  


• Some women experience diarrhea immediately before or during menstruation.
  
  


• Antibiotics can upset the healthy balance between the good and bad bacteria in the intestine, resulting in diarrhea. Such antibiotics include doxycycline, digoxin, ampicillin, clindamycin, tetracycline and dirithromycin.
  
  


• Diarrhea can be a side-effect from drugs like immunosuppressants and those used for lowering cholesterol; for treating rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, cancer, osteoporosis, urinary tract infections, HIV and manic phase of bipolar disorder.
  

Brainerd diarrhea

• Brainerd diarrhea is a condition characterized by 10 to 20 diarrheic episodes per day of explosive, watery non-bloody stools and often, fecal incontinence, lasting for 4 weeks or more. Other symptoms include gas, mild abdominal cramping and fatigue. It is named after a town called Brainerd in Minnesota, USA where the first outbreak took place in 1983. Neither bacterial, viral nor parasitic pathogens were found to be the cause of this strange disease. A chemical toxin was thought to be involved.
  

The relief plan

• DRINK PLENTY OF FLUIDS
  
  Replace lost fluids by taking lots of water, juices, broth and decaffeinated teas. Avoid either very cold or very hot fluids.
  
  


• AVOID THESE FOODS
  
  Avoid milk, dairy products, raw vegetables, acidic fruits, bran, whole-grain cereals, sugary foods, spices, fried food, fatty food, caffeine and alcohol. All of which are tough on the digestive system.
  
  


• ACTIVATED CHARCOAL
  
  Works by absorbing and binding harmful or irritating substances found in the stomach and intestines, thereby preventing them from getting absorbed into the body system. Charcoal digested makes the stool black, naturally. Powder form is said to be better than tablets. Mix 2 to 3 tablespoons of charcoal powder with water and drink with a straw. Must not be taken at the same time with the syrup of ipecac, a common remedy for poisoning used to induce vomiting.
  
  


• NONI
  
  A natural tropical fruit found to contain over 150 nutraceuticals which include 20 amino acids, 9 of which are essential because they are not produced in the body, vitamin A, all the B vitamins, vitamin C, vitamin E, beta carotene, ursolic acid, linoleic acid, proxeronine (bromelain), scopoletin, pectin, phytosterols, calcium, magnesium and zinc.
  

  As an adaptogen, noni qualifies to be the Yin/Yang regulator, helping to enhance resistance to stress and disease, normalize metabolic functions and improve the body's ability to adapt to differing external or internal disturbances.

  
  

  Noni has also been blessed with anthraquinone compounds such as alizarin, acubin and L-asperuloside that fight against bacterial strains like E.coli, salmonella, shigella, staphylococcus aureus and baciillis subtilis.
  

  
  

  Author of 76 Ways to Use Noni Fruit Juice suggests the tummy treatment as an alternative to get noni's healing compounds into infants and children. This simple treatment uses a cotton ball soaked with warm noni to cover the bellybutton.
  
  
  More about noni : http://www.tipsofallsorts.com/noni.html.
  
  Reference : "Morinda citrifolia (Noni): A literature review and recent advances in Noni research" Wang Mian-Ying, et al. Acta Pharmacologica Sinica (Dec, 2002) 23(12):1127-1141
  
  

  
  


• CAROB POWDER
  
  Take 1 tablespoon (mix with apple sauce and honey) on an empty stomach with acidophilus. Carob soothes irritated intestines.
  
  


• ACIDOPHILUS
  
  Diarrhea caused by antibiotics can be handled by acidophilus (friendly intestinal bacteria) which will help restore a healthy flora in the digestive tract.
  
  


• BERBERINE
  
  An alkaloid compound present in the roots and bark of many medicinal plants such as goldenseal root (Hydrastis canadensis), bayberry (Berberis vulgaris), goldthread (Coptis chinensis) and Oregon grape (Mahonia aquifolium). It is responsible for the yellow color in the roots. Bererine has anti-microbial action against bacteria (e.g. E. coli and cholera), protozoa (e.g. giardia, amoebas and chlamydia), yeasts, certain viruses and worms. It also has anti-inflammatory and astringent effects, especially on mucous membranes. Berberine may reduce healthy bacteria in the gut, which can be corrected with the supplementation of acidophilus once diarrhea has stopped.
  
  


• RASPBERRY LEAF (Rubus idaeus)
  
  Used for diarrhea, motion sickness and menstrual cramps.
  Recommended dosage : 2 capsules twice or 3 times daily with food; as a tea, up to six cups a day for acute problems.
  
  


• BLACKBERRY (Rubus macropetalus)
  
  Blackberry juice is used to treat diarrhea, acid indigestion, colitis and gallstones. The tannin content in blackberry has an astringent effect, tightening the mucous membrane tissue along the intestinal tract which discourages the formation of watery stools. Drink 1 cup tea up to 6 times a day. Avoid blackberry remedies when suffering from Crohn's disease or any chronic gastrointestinal disorders.
  
  


• KAOPECTATE
  
  A suspension formula made from an absorbent clay. It works by absorbing and binding to substances irritating or harmful to the gut. The concentrated tablets are free of additives.
  

Complete article link : http://www.tipsofallsorts.com/diarrhea.html

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The Benefits of Green Lipped Mussel Extract

A unique combination of fatty acids are found in green-lipped mussels that cannot be found anywhere else, including glycosaminoglycan which is said to aid in the repair of damaged joint tissues and prevent inflammation. This rich blend of natural proteins, minerals and mucopolysaccharides are necessary for maintaining cartilage, increasing the mobility of the joints, and preventing pain and damage to the body from inflammation. Several chemical mediators of inflammation are actually produced in the human body itself, with higher levels being detected in people who suffer from rheumatoid arthritis compared to those who don't experience any rheumatic symptoms at all. Therefore, controlling the production of these mediators through treatment with green-lipped mussel extract can help improve the conditions of those who suffer from arthritis, asthma, psoriasis, and inflammatory bowel disease (including ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease) which all include elements of inflammation.

Green-lipped mussel extract is essentially an anti-inflammatory supplement that helps provide the temporary relief of arthritis pain and reduce the inflammation of joints which is commonly associated with arthritis. In addition, green-lipped mussel extract also contains essential Omega 3 fatty acids as well as Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulphate that are important building blocks of joint cartilage and aid in the repair of the structure of your joints. There are many uses for green-lipped mussel extract such as for the treatment of Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulphate. Commercial extracts are generally formulated with vitamin E for its antioxidant properties and other Omega 3 polyunsaturated fatty acids. Not only is it able to suppress the symptoms of inflammation such pain and joint discomfort, green-lipped mussels also promote faster healing and is tolerated more by the body compared with other anti-inflammatory pain medications.

Supplements containing the freeze-dried tissue of the green-liped mussel are sold all over the world to relieve arthritic symptoms to aid in the regeneration of injured and arthritic joints. Although inflammation is normal under certain conditions, excessive pain and joint damage can result from too much inflammation.

Studies were conducted on rats that had inflammation induced through collagen and were then subsequently treated with green-lipped mussel extract. Rats showed reduced symptoms after taking the supplement showing reduced polyarthritis. The mussel even acted as an immunomodulating agent which affected both the humoral and cellular immunity.

There are no known major side effects to the extract although there are minor effects such as stomach upset, gas, skin rash, fluid retention and nausea due to the high protein content. Allergic reactions can include itching or hives, swelling of the face or hands, swelling or tingling in the mouth or throat, chest tightness, breathing difficulties or rash. It is recommended to take green-lipped mussel during a meal and not before it. It can also be taken with milk. If one notices any tenderness in the joints it is usually a result of the joints being "fed" and can last anywhere from 3 to 10 days. Continued use is recommended although pregnant or nursing women should consult a physician before taking any form of supplement.

Eczema Skin Symptoms Resulting From Repressed Anger

I was told by my naturopathic doctor that eczema skin symptoms can also be a sign of repressed anger from within. I initially refused to believe it but the more I research into eczema and natural healing, the more I realised that there could be some truth in it.

What is repressed anger? Repressed anger simply means that you deny your thoughts and emotions and keep them all inside. You then become unresponsive and numb to several things that may affect you. If you keep all your negative thoughts to yourself, then it is possible that you develop eczema skin symptoms as your body seeks to find an outlet.

Every emotion is a potent force that suffuses your entire body, including your skin. What you feel emotionally can be easily observed by others on your skin level. The effect on your skin can be easily seen by others and can be electrically recorded. For instance, your skin blushes when you feel love or embarrassment, breaks out in cold sweat when you are afraid, and flushes with shame or anger.

When your eczema skin symptoms are observed as red and inflamed rashes, you may well be having an underlying fire fuelled by suppressed anger. If your emotions are spent or if you feel stuck, then these feelings are likely to result in dryness or even cracking of the skin. In contrast, excessive emotions are tied to oily skin. Should you be having conflicting emotions, overwhelming feelings of grief and anguish, self-hatred, or inappropriate passions, then you may find yourself breaking out in the form of rashes or blemishes.

Repressed anger not just manifests in eczema skin symptoms but can also have a negative impact on the rest of your body. These include migraines and ulcers, and in the long term, to strokes or tumours. Prolonged fears and repressed angers increase tensions and stresses. As you well know, stress can aggravate and worsen your bodily reactions such as eczema, shingles, psoriasis, or arthritis.

Naturopathic doctors say that the first body system that reacts to repressed anger is the gastro-intestinal or digestive system. You can experience difficulties in swallowing, nausea, vomitting, diarrhea, constipation, or gastric ulcer. Bear in mind the repressed anger is the most common cause of ulcerative colitis.

An interesting study of 128 patients in a hospital outpatient department was conducted to determine the relationship between repressed anger and the twelve symptoms or diseases. Among the 27 patients who suffered eczema, it was found out that eczema flared up whenever the individual could not quite handle the intense frustration of being prevented from doing something or simply interfered with.

Hence, if you have eczema skin symptoms, then you may wish to approach healing from looking at your emotional well-being. Are you having repressed anger? If so, you will need to look for ways in dealing with your anger, rather than suppress it. Seeking open communication with your loved ones help. Alternatively, find outlets that can help you discharge the unspent emotions that smoulder but remain alive in you. Channels, such as religion or taking up meaningful work, that help you gain some perspective about your life can also assist in diffusing the anger that you feel.

Boswellia - An Anti-Inflammatory Herb

Boswellia (standardized to contain 55% Boswellic Acid) (Boswellia serrata) (leaf): Boswellia, also known as boswellin or "Indian frankincense," comes from the tree Boswellia serrata, that grows in the dry hills of India. For centuries, traditional Indian healers have taken advantage of the anti-inflammatory properties of the tree bark's gummy resin, called salai guggal. Modern preparations made from a purified extract of this resin and packaged in pill or cream form are used to reduce inflammation associated with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Unlike conventional NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) such as ibuprofen - the accepted treatments for joint inflammation - boswellia doesn't seem to cause stomach irritation. It also may be effective for back pain and certain chronic intestinal disorders.

Health Benefits: Research has identified specific active anti-inflammatory ingredients in this herb, which are commonly referred to as boswellic acids. In animal studies, these acids have been shown to reduce inflammation significantly in several ways. Boswellic acids deter inflammatory white cells from infiltrating damaged tissue. They improve blood flow to the joints. They also block chemical reactions that set the stage for inflammation to occur in chronic intestinal disorders such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. Boswellia may help to ease symptoms of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Boswellia can be taken internally as well as applied topically to affected joints to relieve inflammation associated with these joint disorders. This may lessen morning stiffness and increase joint mobility.

In a study of 175 patients with rheumatic disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis, 122 participants experienced reduced stiffness and inflammation two to four weeks after starting on a boswellia regimen. Boswellia's anti-inflammatory properties can help to reduce aching and stiffness, especially when associated with low back pain. Although research indicates that boswellia is best taken orally for this purpose, creams appear to be soothing as well. Boswellia also appears to reduce the inflammation associated with ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease, both painful intestinal disorders. It seems to accomplish this without the risk of further gut irritation associated with many conventional pain relievers. In a 1997 study of ulcerative colitis sufferers, 82% of those who took boswellia extract (350 mg three times daily) experienced a complete remission of their disease.