Water Retention

What is water retention? This is a fairly common condition and can cause puffiness, weight gain, bloating, painful and swollen knees as well as breast tenderness. Ankles as well as swollen legs are common, particularly in women who are older or women who are pregnant. Water retention also can raise the blood pressure and in pregnancy this blood pressure rise can put both baby and mother at peril.

It is often hard to know if an individual is retaining water. The body is able to hold lots of hidden excess water that only makes an individual look overweight.

There are two main types of water retention. Type 1 is when there is excessive water in the tissues as well as the blood. Type 2 occurs when excessive water is in the tissues and most often too little in the blood. Type 1 retention is able to be treated with diuretic medications or herbal therapy but Type 2 only gets worse by these types of treatment and is best treated by change in diet.

Water retention is also referred to as bloating as well as commonly edema and has many causes from ordinary to serious. There is a general rule that an individual should obtain medical attention for edema or water retention when it continues for more than a week or if there is extreme discomfort and women who are pregnant need to seek attention promptly especially if experiencing excessive swelling in the ankles and legs.

Symptoms

Symptoms and signs of edema or water retention include:

• Puffiness from swelling of tissues directly under the skin
• Shiny or stretched skin
• Skin retaining a dimple after pressed for a few seconds
• Abdominal increase in size

Causes

There are numerous problems and conditions that lead to retention of water that range from hormonal problems, diseases and other disorders of the body. Below is a list of some causes of the retention of water, swelling or edema:

• Chronic diseases of the kidney, failure of the kidney as well as glomerular disease – These are all problems that cause the kidneys to fail normal functioning. When this happens, the kidneys cannot excrete salt as well as water out of the body efficiently. The body will retain water and salt instead of expelling it so the fluid will then accumulate in the tissues of the body. This retention of fluid will then lead to overall swelling as well as ankle, abdominal, leg and feet swelling.
• Arthritis – This often is responsible for swelling and pain in the joints that are affected. It may affect almost any joint in the body from spine, heel, hip, knee, shoulders to the toes. This swelling is normally localized in only the areas that are affected by the arthritis.
• Lung Disease– Chronic lung disease is a fairly general term to describe tenacious lung problems that damage the lungs functioning. Chronic lung diseases that are severe may cause retention of water in the lungs called pulmonary edema, ascites called abdominal retention of water, face, neck, feet and ankle swelling. Lung diseases that are chronic that commonly cause retention of water include:
  • Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease referred to as COPD.
  • Injury caused by smoke inhalation.
  • Acute respiratory distress syndrome referred to as ARDS.
  • Cancer of the lung.
  • Mesothelioma.
• Congestive heart failure, disease of the heart valve and cardiomyopathy disease- these problems of the heart are another cause of retention of water. Congestive heart failure happens when the heart does not pump enough blood volume into circulation. When this does happen, the blood flow to the heart often backs up and leaks into the veins and lungs. Additionally, the kidneys retain water and salt due to the decreased blood flow volume. This causes the retention of fluid in the tissues of the body. Additionally both heart valve and cardiomyopathy disease are types of heart problems that might lead to heart failure.
• Cirrhosis of the liver – this condition occurs when the liver is scarred or damaged permanently. The scars obstruct the flow of blood from the digestive organ to the liver creating a backup and the fluid will then leak out to the tissues of the body. This leakage leads to retention of fluid in the abdomen. Cirrhosis as well causes low synthesis of protein albumin by the liver which further causes abdominal as well as leg retention of fluid.
• Sodium intake is excessive – this leads to elevated blood pressure and retention of water particularly in individuals who are more prone to sodium. Retention of water normally occurs in lower extremities for instance swelling of the feet and ankles.
• Gravity – sitting or standing for a lengthy period of time also causes retention of the fluid or edema in the legs
• Menopause – there are some middle aged women who may have retention of water symptoms during as well as after their menopausal stage, particularly when they are taking estrogen replacement therapy
• Metastasis of prostate cancer – this causes swelling, pain as well as abdominal fluid retention
• Pregnancy – Retention of water while pregnant happens when the growing uterus puts pressure on the vena cava causing fluid retention in the lower extremities. Fluctuation of hormones as well as increasing volume of blood flow also causes retention of water during pregnancy.
• Preeclampsia – condition caused by hypertension rising and a substantial amount of protein in urine while pregnant.
• Thyroid diseases
• Side effects of some drugs
• Venous insufficiency – which is problems of the flowing of blood from leg veins due to damage of the valves or veins itself.
• Lyme disease – which is a bacterial infection acquired from deer tick bites.
  Ascites in gastric cancer that is advanced

Treatment

For edema or retention of water that is mild, it normally goes away on its own, especially when the individual aids things along by raising the limbs affected to a position that is higher than the heart.

Edema or retention of fluid which is more severe is normally treated with medications that aid the body in expelling excessive fluid as urine. Probably the most common used diuretic is furosemide, under the name of Lasix. Management in the long term normally emphasizes identifying the underlying cause for the retention or edema and treating that cause.

Remedies

Cut down on salt

Most individuals consume too much salt and do not even realize it. Food rich in taste, processed food as well as fast food are all full of too much salt and adding table salt to the meal just makes the problem worse. Start making low sodium food choices and do not add extra salt.

Body hydration

The body tries to remove salt thru urine and to do this, the body needs water. So, drink more water and the salt will be removed from the body.

Avoid dehydration

Some chemicals dehydrate the body interfering with the kidneys functioning to rid the body of salt. The two common substances that dehydrate are caffeine and alcohol so it is important to avoid wine, beer, mixed drinks as well as coffee.

Consume items that naturally reduce fluid retention

Some of these substances include green tea, cranberry juice as well as lemon juice. Consume reasonable quantities of these fluids together with other steps to rid the body of salt.

Increase fiber

Fiber is an aid in flushing out toxins from the body including salt. Eat high fiber oatmeal, cereal as well as multi-grain bread. Vegetables and fresh fruits are high in fiber.

Take vitamins

Low levels of some vitamins and minerals can contribute to edema. So, eat a proper diet and use a multi-vitamin if there are not enough nutrients in the diet.

Exercise

Exercising gets all the water in the body moving around and then the kidneys are able to process it faster. Salt is also secreted from the body thru perspiration as well as encourages an individual to drink more water.

Get plenty of sleep

The hormone known as melatonin is linked with the body’s capacity to adjust fluids. Melatonin is created by the body when it is dark and is associated with sleep patterns. Generally, the more a person sleeps the more the body produces melatonin.

What is Nausea after Eating?

Nausea is not a disease or condition. It is often a symptom of an underlying condition. It is a feeling of uneasiness in the stomach and often followed by vomiting. Children and adults may experience nausea and it is also common to pregnant women usually during the first trimester of pregnancy.

Causes of nausea after eating

The most common cause for nausea is the food that an individual eats. It could be that the food ingredient did not agree with the system of an individual such as an allergic reaction. It could also be due to spoiled food that has been eaten. There are a number of reasons for an individual to be nauseated after eating.

1. Food ingredients – it is sometimes an allergic reaction to a certain food ingredient or content that makes an individual feel nauseated after eating. Monosodium glutamate is one example of food content which can induce nausea or even food that is high on preservative contents.
2. Food poisoning – ingesting a contaminated food will make an individual feel sick as the body is reacting on the food taken which possibly filled with bacteria.
3. Indigestion – indigestion happens when there is a hindrance in the process of food digestion in the stomach and this may cause nausea.
4. Peptic ulcer – may lead to nausea if the stomach lining with ulcer is aggravated.
5. Medication – nausea may be included in the side effects of the medicine that an individual is taking.
6. Pregnancy – nausea normally occurs to pregnant women especially during the first trimester or early pregnancy.
7. Medical therapy – this includes chemotherapy and radiation therapy an individual is undergoing.
8. Emotional stress – emotional stress can make one nauseated right after eating.
9. Sensitivity to smell or odor – there are individuals who react with what they can smell whether it is from food or not that make them nauseated.
10. Overeating – it is normal for an individual to be nauseated when they have overeaten as they tend to feel uncomfortable.
11. Excessive alcohol consumption – too much alcohol can make one nauseated as they are normally dehydrated due to too much alcohol content of what an individual has taken.
12. Psychological illness – this may include bulimia where a patient feel nauseated and have the urge to vomit right after eating.

Nausea After Eating Symptoms

Nausea does not have symptoms as nausea itself is a symptom. Most underlying condition if not all have nausea as a symptom. However, if nausea is persisting for more than 2 days it is high time that one seek a medical advice as this could be harmful and if a woman is experiencing nausea for more than a week and suspects pregnancy then medical consultation is needed.

Nausea After Eating Diagnosis

Nausea cannot be diagnosed instead; it is part of the medical history taken when an individual is to be diagnosed of a certain medical condition. Medical professionals will look at what is causing nausea as it is secondary to the primary cause. Nausea is sometimes associated with gall bladder disease and diabetes. Nausea is also noted in diagnosing pregnancy. However, episodes of nausea should be recorded such as:

• Frequency of nausea
• Accompanying symptoms such as abdominal pain
• Severity of nausea
• Description of regular diet
• Food eaten prior to episode of nausea
• Vomiting preceding nausea
• Medications taking
• Medical therapy undergoing
• Persistence of nausea
• Previous trauma such as head trauma

Nausea After Eating Treatment

Treatment of nausea is usually aimed toward the primary cause which is almost often an underlying condition an individual is suffering from. However, nausea can be prevented and remedied and these include:

• Avoid emotional stress to reach critical level as hyperactivity can only worsen nausea
• Eat small frequent meals a day instead of thrice a day.
• Increase fluid intake and if possible, drink tea, lemonade and iced cold drink to remedy upset stomach.
• Avoid too much consumption of alcohol or if cannot be prevented, drink a lot of water to replace fluid loss due to alcohol consumption
• Avoid food that is high on preservative and monosodium glutamate content.
• Take a rest right after eating.
• Avoid food heavy on grease such as fried food.
• Watch what food is to be eaten.
• Take enough sleep a day.
• Maintain or start on a healthy lifestyle.

What is Clogged Ear?

Clogged ear is congestion in the middle ear that is irritating and sometimes may be painful. Ear wax build up is the normal cause of ears to clog. Other factors contributing for the ears to clog are jaw tension, infection, allergies, sinus pressure and invasion of foreign objects such as small beads that were accidentally put inside the ears. Home remedies can be done for clogged ears which may be caused by ear wax build up except for other factors that may need a help or assistance from a health care provider. It is important to identify first the cause of ear congestion before trying to remove it; otherwise the clog may just go deeper and may result to further damage in the ears. Normally, people of all age can suffer from clogging ears.

Ear is part of the auditory system and organ that detects sounds. The ear contributes greatly to the balance and body position. It is a flap of tissue also called pinna. Middle ear is part of the ear that is air-filled cavity situated behind the ear drum or the tympanic membrane. The middle ear is where clogging of ears happen. The usual or common cause for ears to clog is the buildup of ear wax or compacted ear wax.

Ear wax is also called cerumen that is provided in the ear canal. It is a mixture of viscous secretion from sebaceous glands and less-viscous secretion from modified apocrine sweat glands. Ear wax or cerumen is determined into two types which is the wet type which is the dominant and the dry type which is recessive. The ear wax functions to provide lubrication of the ear canal and prevents infection. However, having excessive ear wax is not good but having no ear wax is no good either.

It is vital to identify the cause of clogged ears prior to removal. If the clog is due to wax build up, it can be removed from the confines of home through removal kits that are readily available. It is best to see and consult a health professional if the cause of clog is fluid buildup and other factor such as allergies and infections.

Picture showing ear anatomy and foreign object

How to Unclog Ears?

If clogging is due to wax build up it is better to flush the clogged ear and this can be done at home. Using cotton buds can only worsen the clogging and flushing is the best way to unclog it.
Steps in flushing ears:

Gather and prepare the things needed:

• Bulb syringe
• Small clean towel
• Cup
• Hydrogen peroxide
• Clean warm water

1. Pour a small amount of hydrogen peroxide in the cup. Hydrogen peroxide is a weak acid and is safe to use in a wide variety of purposes.
2. Fill the bulb syringe with enough amount of hydrogen peroxide.
3. Squirt the hydrogen peroxide into the ear with the head tilted.
4. Softly tug the outer ear to facilitate passage of solution into the ear canal.
5. Lie on side position for 10-15 minutes to give the solution some time to penetrate and loosen the ear wax and also to prevent the solution from spilling out of the ear. As the wax are loosening the hydrogen peroxide will pop and sizzle signaling breakdown of wax. A cold sensation will be felt as the blockage is broken apart and the solution reaches the recess of the ear canal.
6. Get up after 10-15 minutes to with head continually in a tilted position and drain the solution while holding a small clean towel to keep the neck and clothes from getting wet.
7. Tilt the head on opposite direction toward the sink to drain the ear.
8. Fill the bulb syringe with clean warm water to wash out the loosened wax. Squirt the water into the ear to flush bits of ear wax that has been loosened. An immediate relief will be felt after draining the ear.
9. Dry the ear and repeat the procedure on the other ear.

An ear clogged brought by an allergy or infection can only be relieved with a help of a doctor. Antihistamine and nasal decongestant are normally prescribed for ear clogs caused by allergies. However, if the cause of clog is due to an underlying medical condition, further tests and treatment will be advised.

Clogged ears due to increase otic pressure such as plane flights, mountain climbing and deep sea diving can be removed by:

• Yawning
• Gum chewing
• Swallowing

A clogged ear can be a hinder to one’s daily activity or activities as this cause discomfort. Some of the sensation or feeling an individual with clogged ears can experience are listed below:

Feeling of Clogged Ear

1. Itchiness are often felt
2. Underwater feeling
3. Impaired balance or dizziness
4. Reduced hearing or inability to hear properly
5. Amplified sound can be heard internally
6. Ringing sensation in the ear

There are however, home remedies that can be done to clear clogged ears and some of them are listed below:

Clogged Ear Home Remedies

There are many home remedies that can help relive clogged ears and the solutions to use are widely available in the market. Effective maneuvers or exercises can also be done.

1. A mixed solution in equal parts of cider vinegar and alcohol to flush the ear.
2. Use mineral oil putting a few drops.
3. Olive oil warmed in the pan can also be drop in the ears to soften wax buildup.
4. Clogged ears due to pressure buildup can be helped through yawning, swallowing and chewing of gums.
5. Steam from hot water will unclog the ear and balances the pressure inside the ear cavity.

Swollen Feet During Pregnancy

Why do feet swell during pregnancy? What the individual is really experiencing is edema – that is when fluid that is excessive collects in the tissue. It is normal for women who are pregnant to have some amount of swelling due to the retaining of more water, as well as changes in blood chemistry causing fluid to shift into the tissues.

Edema is more often a problem for the duration of the 3rd trimester, especially at the end of the day. It also may be worse during the summer months.

Picture : Swollen Feet During Pregnancy

Causes for Swollen Feet During Pregnancy

There are a number of reasons that all contribute to ankle and foot swelling while pregnant. First, the body creates and retains more fluid while pregnant. Also, the growing uterus compresses some veins, weakening the returning blood to the heart. Hormonal changes also play a role.

The reason for the fluids in the body to increase while pregnant is in order to nurture both the mother as well as the baby. As the body tissues collect and retain fluids, the woman will normally experience this increase in swelling – especially in the feet and ankles. This is very common and normally goes away soon after delivery.

Although mild ankle and feet swelling is considered normal, any extreme swelling while pregnant should raise a red flag as something to perhaps be concerned about. The woman should contact her physician if she has:

• Swelling in only one leg
• Sudden or severe swelling

Sudden or severe swelling can be a signal of a condition that is very serious and is known as preeclampsia. Other symptoms and signs of preeclampsia includes headaches that are severe, blurry vision as well as weight gain that is rapid.

Swelling on only one leg – particularly if accompanied by tenderness or pain in the thigh or calf – could be an indication of a blood clot or other underlying problem. Both conditions deserve rapid evaluation as well as treatment.

Any injury to the ankle or foot can also cause swelling. The more common injury is an ankle that is sprained that occurs when an misstep or injury causes ligaments that hold the ankle properly in place, become stretched further than their normal capacity. When swelling and pain is serious or does not improve with home treatment, the woman should see her physician.

Treatment for Swollen Feet During Pregnancy

The following are some ways to treat swollen ankles or legs that may help. They include:

• Stay off the feet, avoid standing for long time periods and do not cross the legs. Whenever possible, sit with the feet up and at internals rotate the feet at the ankles. It is even better if the woman can lie down with legs elevated.
• Sleep on a side. If possible, sleep on the left side. This takes compression off of the main vein that carries blood from the lower portion of the body back to the heart. It will also be beneficial if at the same time, the legs can be slightly elevated.
• Wear stockings that offer compression. Your physician can recommend what type of stockings and tights to wear and even in some cases, where to find them.
• Consume lots of fluids. It has been recommended that ten cups or 2.3 liters of fluids need to be consumed each day while pregnant.
• Have a daily routine that includes some physical activity. This can mean taking walks, riding a stationary bike or swimming laps in a swimming pool.
• Stand in a pool. There is very little research on the use of the pressure of water on ankle and foot swelling but standing in a pool appears to help by compressing the tissues in the legs and can possibly offer temporary comfort from swelling while pregnant.
• Keep cool both mentally and physically. It is often soothing to apply cold water compresses to areas that are swollen and it is a great help to try not to worry about much. The house doesn’t need cleaning every day and some nights hubby can fix dinner for you.
• Additionally, there has been some research that shows foot massages regularly can be a great help. Another method of making the feet feel good is to submerge feet in warm, salt water and then apply some cooling gel to the feet.
• Another method to treat your feet gently is by having footwear that fits proper and that provide room for swelling in the feet. Shoes should be comfortable and have laces, Velcro or arch supports. Arrange a consultation with a podiatrist about orthotic devices to treat any conditions such as over-pronation, plantar fasciitis, bunions as well as edema.

What is Carbon monoxide Poisoning?

Carbon monoxide is gas that can be toxic when inhaled in great amounts by humans and animals. This gas is colorless, odorless and does not have taste and is found higher than air. Accordingly, this gas is produced normally by animals but in small quantities. As this is colorless and odorless, it has been found lethal when undetected and when inhaled in great amounts. As mentioned, this is a product of animals or from combustion. In the industrial setting, this gas product is produced by some motor vehicles, old equipments, and other appliances. Other sources include heaters, stoves and generators.

Carbon monoxide poisoning can be lethal when not treated immediately. This is also noted as a common type of fatal poisoning and also has been used as a tool for committing suicide, according to some reports. Others even die of carbon monoxide accidentally when people accidentally fall asleep in their locked cars with the engine on. But nowadays, this has been controlled for newer cars are made with controlled combustion controls. Theory behind haunted houses is linked to the possible inhalation of carbon monoxide of a visitor, stimulating the affected to have hallucinations or delirium.

Levels of carbon monoxide in a patient’s body can be assessed by the use of Breath CO that can monitor and display the carbon monoxide concentration in the blood. This can be done by exhaling through the Breath CO. But this is not entirely a suitable diagnostic tool for carbon monoxide poisoning because of the possibility of the patient to be unconscious at the time of arrival in the emergency room. Another diagnostic tool is called CO-oximeter that can determine the carboxyhemoglobin levels of the body. This is a more convenient tool, for it uses of a finger to attain the assessment (just like the pulse oximeter).

Carbon monoxide poisoning Symptoms & Signs

Since carbon monoxide is a toxic gas, its presenting symptoms rely on the amount of concentration or toxicity level which a person has inhaled.

Less concentrated carbon monoxide that was inhaled would produce:

• Headache and dizziness

Higher dose of carbon monoxide shall produce these symptoms:

• Headache accompanied by loss of judgment.
• Nausea and convulsions may be possible too.

Toxic doses of carbon monoxide can result to:

• Unconsciousness
• Death in less than two hours
• This may be due to respiratory arrest
• Convulsions and tachycardia are manifested

Also signs and symptoms may be categorized according to acute and chronic poisoning:

Acute poisoning

This can result to affectation of the central nervous system and the cardiac system. Initially, the client may manifest headache, body malaise, and fatigue. It shall indicate that cardiac system is affected when there is tachycardia, hypotension, and arrhythmia. In addition, the central nervous system is affected when the patient complains of hallucinations, dizziness, confusion and possibly death.

Chronic poisoning

Even though a person has been exposed to low-level carbon monoxide, the fact that it has been persistent, this can cause for permanent neurological damage. Memory loss can also be a result from chronic poisoning.

Effects of carbon monoxide poisoning

The general effect of carbon monoxide poisoning is dangerous to one’s health. This is due to the inability of a person to identify if he or she has inhaled the toxic gas, because it’s colorless and has no odor. The effect of carbon monoxide poisoning is directed to the nervous and cardiac systems. The patient would initially experience headache accompanied by dizziness then comes along weakness, heart affection and confusion.

This can provide a fatal effect on affected pregnant women and the life that has not been born. Carbon monoxide poisoning is said to cause fetal tissue hypoxia, depleted oxygenation for the fetus. Also, carbon monoxide can pass through the placenta and affect directly the unborn child. Fetal morbidity is high while it can also provide increased mortality to the fetus.

Carbon monoxide Poisoning Treatment

The aim of treatment for carbon monoxide poisoning is to remove the patient from the source of carbon monoxide. Reduce the carbon monoxide poisoning if it’s possible. As soon the patient is removed from the source, going to the emergency department for care is a must.

As the person is submitted in the hospital, the following care is provided for them:

• Provide oxygen. High dose oxygen is provided via face mask in order to provide good amount of oxygenation.
• If resuscitation is necessary, then it should be done. Advanced cardiac life support is also a standard treatment for carbon monoxide poisoning, especially when cardiac problems are being manifested.
• Levels of carbon monoxide in the system will be regularly checked in order to asses for the developing state of the client and to assess for the effectiveness of the treatment provided.
• As there is a possibility that the patient has acquired a severe amount of poisoning, he or she may be placed in a hyperbaric pressure chamber in order to provide the suitable amount of oxygen.
• When a patient is having a seizure as a result of the poisoning, they should be taken care with great amount of care. They should be placed in a side lying position to avoid aspiration. Do not attempt to place anything in the mouth of the client when seizure is on progress. Provide antiepileptic agents such as diazepam or dantrolene.

Carbon monoxide poisoning Prevention

This can be prevented when you install in your home or office a carbon monoxide alarm. This can be very helpful in detecting for amounts of carbon monoxide that may be possibly leaking from the system. This is quite helpful in offices and in homes especially when most of smoke detectors do not have carbon monoxide detectors.

One can also prevent by checking one’s home for possible hazards and that of the possible sources of carbon monoxide. Check or let it be checked by professionals. These appliances or equipments would include heating system, ovens, ranges, ventilation system, and engines that are in enclosed areas.

Low testosterone symptoms in men

Low testosterone levels in men have great effect in their manhood. Those who have low levels of testosterone shall manifest the following:

• Increased irritability
• Weight gain
• Erectile dysfunctions
• Poor sexual performance or loss of libido or stamina
• Depression
• Sleep disturbances or difficulties
• Memory loss
• Weight gain due to increased body fat, muscle mass has depleted
• Gynecomastia – increased size of the mammary glands
• Easy fatigability
• Diabetes
• Sleep deprivation
• Memory loss

Low testosterone Symptoms in women

Women are also affected with low testosterone levels. Most people think that testosterone is an exclusive male hormone, which is a wrong notion. Testosterone is still essential in one’s body and for the process of aging. Once these signs, quite similar with low testosterone levels in men, are noted in women, low testosterone levels are expected:

• Decreased motivation
• Loss of libido or sexual dysfunction
• Easy fatigability
• Increased weight and body fat

Causes for Low testosterone

The primary cause of low testosterone level is old age. Because of aging, the normal functioning of the body may not be fully attained. Glandular dysfunction may develop thus resulting to low levels of the important elements and hormones in the body. Low testosterone level can also be caused by some genetic disorders that involve underproductions of the vital hormone.

Men cannot avoid the effects of aging such as the coming of andropause – the “menopause of men”. Usually, men reach andropause at the later decade of their life. As this process takes place, men are expected to lose their testosterone levels. Aging men end up obese, may develop osteoporosis, and dysfunctional sexual performance. And this is due to hormonal changes or decline.

There are also other major causes for low testosterone levels:

• Obesity
• Injury to the gonads
• Underlying disease such as infections or inflammatory diseases
• Chemotherapy or radiotherapy

According to studies, low testosterone levels are linked to hypogonadism- a condition that causes for a decline in the production of the discussed hormone. The condition is categorized into three types:

Primary hypogonadism – This condition involves affectation of the organ responsible for the production of testosterone. This is also considered as inherited condition. The gonad may have a defect for to cause low testosterone level. This may be due to a condition called Klinefelter syndrome and Turner syndrome. As a person who has suffered from mumps when they were young may the possibility of developing testicular problems.

Secondary hypogonadism – This is due to the pituitary gland and hypothalamus’ inability to properly stimulate release of the testosterone hormone. Hypothalamic defects include Kallmann syndrome and hypopituitarism.

Low testosterone Effects

The effects of low testosterone are the following:

• Loss of muscle tone
• Loss of libido
• Sexual dysfunction such as erectile dysfunction
• Depression or mood changes
• Weight gain due to increased fat
• Loss of energy
• Decreased sense of work
• Decreased bone density

Complications include inability or failure for the secondary sexual characteristics to be developed. This is only possible to young men or children that have acquired the disease process. As this happens, this can lead to the affectation of the esteem of the child.

Low testosterone Diagnosis (test)

Diagnosis of low testosterone level would usually start from a simple physical examination that would lead to the prompting of blood examination. A blood test is aimed to identify for testosterone levels. When a person is also suspected to be suffering from hypogonadism, he or she may be suffering from low testosterone levels. The tests are called Total testosterone and Free testosterone tests.

In order to test for the levels of testosterone, measurement should be done early in the morning. This is because of the fact that testosterone levels are highest in the morning. A person shall be diagnosed with low testosterone level when the normal level of testosterone has dropped by 13% in a day. Normally, the total testosterone level would range from 300 to 1000 ng/dL.

When the collected levels are just right below the minimum level, a repeat of the test is done but will include sex hormone-binding globulin, as it has been reported to be helpful in the verification of the test result. Those young men, who experience the symptoms of low testosterone but have testosterone levels within the normal levels, are still subjected to treatment. This is due to the fact that young men should have over the normal testosterone levels.

Low testosterone Treatment

Treatment for low testosterone level would vary according to gender. In men, testosterone supplement are provided to clients. Replacement therapy is also possible for the treatment. Here are the forms of testosterone replacement therapy:

• Intramuscular injection
• Patch testosterone
• Gel
• pellets

Taking of supplemental agents can assist in the boost of testosterone levels. This would include Zinc supplement can provide good body process. Another known alternative treatment includes Clomifene that would act to stimulate the natural secretion or increase of hormone levels. It is also important that one should seek medical help when the condition is expected so as to treat the presenting symptoms.

It is also advisable that an infant is sent for screening of testosterone level in order to provide replacement at an early time to avoid the complications when growing up. It is also the responsibility of the parents of the child to observe for the male child presenting or developing secondary characteristics. In young adults or middle-aged adults, when sexual dysfunction is noted seeking the doctor’s opinion is essential, and this also goes for the women who experiences loss of sexual desire.

Prevention of Low testosterone

This cannot be prevented once it involves the inability of the hypothalamus-pituitary-gonad to work properly. It involves a disease process that may be inherited that it cannot be prevented. Old age is also a predisposing factor that cannot be avoided.

But keeping oneself healthy can avoid the progression of low testosterone levels due to precipitating factors. We can avoid obesity that is a possible cause for hypogonadism by following a strict diet regimen.

What is an Abscess Tooth ?

What is an abscessed tooth or dental abscess? This is an infection of the face, mouth, jaw or throat that starts as an infection or cavity of the tooth. Although such infections may be due to dental health that is poor and may result from lack of appropriate as well as opportune dental care, they also can develop in individuals with certain underlying medical problems such as autoimmune disorders – such as Sjogren’s syndrome and similar disorders, or conditions that cause weakening of the immune system such as diabetes, post-radiation or chemotherapy cancer care. Abscesses also can be triggered by minor oral cavity trauma.

A tooth that is abscessed is infected either between the tooth and the gum or at the root of the tooth and is extremely painful. It is mostly caused by tooth decay that is severe. Other origins of abscesses include tooth trauma, such as being chipped or broken as well as gum diseases such as gingivitis.

These problems cause openings in the enamel of the tooth, allowing bacteria to infect the pulp or center of the tooth. This infection can also spread from the tooth root to the bones that support the tooth.

Abscess Tooth Symptoms

When a toothache is continuous and severe and causes gnawing or throbbing pain or shooting or sharp pain, it is possibly a tooth that is abscessed. Other signs or symptoms can include:

• Pain while chewing
• Fever
• Tooth is sensitive to cold or hot
• Taste of bitterness in the mouth
• Breath smell that is foul
• Neck glands that are swollen
• General uneasiness, ill feeling or discomfort
• Swelling and redness of the gums
• Area of the lower jaw is swollen
• Draining, open sore on the side of the gum

When the tooth root dies due to an infection, the hurting of the tooth might stop. But, this does not indicate the healing of the infection; rather the infection stays active as well as continues spreading while all the time destroying tissue. It is for this reason that if an individual has any of the above listed symptoms, it is vital to visit a dentist even if the pain is gone.

Abscessed Tooth Pictures

Picture 1: Abscessed Tooth (diagram)

Image source : toothandteeth.com

Picture 2: Abscessed Tooth photo

Image source : dental-health-index.com

Picture 3:  Tooth Abscess

Image source : medicalpicturesinfo.com

Picture 4: Abscessed Tooth Drilling  (Treatment)

Image source : dentalinsurancecare.com

Abscess Tooth Causes

If an individual cultivates a tooth that is abscessed, a tiny pocket or hole will normally form next to the tooth. This area will normally be full of pus and if it doesn’t drain away naturally, then the abscess will develop. The cause that is most common for a tooth to become abscessed is either cavities or gum disease.

The medical term for disease of the gum is periodontal disease and develops because of a buildup of bacteria in the plaque surrounding the teeth and gums. Any disease of the gum is an infection of the tissues and bones that support the teeth. These conditions can be mild, and only have some bleeding when teeth and gums are brushed. But if not treated, it can develop into conditions that are much more serious often resulting in the loss of teeth. Cavities can develop an abscess if holes appear in the teeth. Serious cavity holes will need to be filled by a dentist so as to stop any further decay and stop any further tooth destruction.

Having a problem with dry mouth can also add to abscesses. Dry mouth is a factor that contributes to cavities that lead to abscesses. Chewing gum as well as drinking liquid regularly usually solves any problems with dry mouths. If not, a physician is able to prescribe a drug to help with the dry mouth problem.

Abscess Tooth Treatment

The goal of any treatment of an abscessed tooth is to first stop any pain, then stop and eliminate the infection. After that the goal is to preserve the tooth if possible and to make certain that further complications do not reoccur.

The dentist will first probe the tooth with a dental instrument. If there is an abscessed tooth, the individual will have pain when the dentist taps on the tooth with a dental probe. The dentist will also ask some questions such as does pain increase when bitten down on or when the mouth is closed tightly. The dentist will also suspect an abscessed tooth if the gums are red and swollen.

The dentist will then take an X-ray picture of the area to look for any erosion of the bone surrounding the abscess.

Next to help eliminate the infection; the abscess will need to be drained by some method. Drainage can be accomplished through the tooth by performing what is known as a root canal. This surgery may also be advised to eliminate any diseased tissue of the root after the infection is cleared up. A crown can then be placed over the tooth.

When a dental or tooth abscess is at an advanced stage, the pain is usually unbearable and the patient might not be able to sleep, or find any relief due to any pressure on the tooth creating horrific pain. This is when it is time to think about the tooth being removed allowing for drainage through the socket.

A third method to drain an abscess can be to make a small incision into the gum tissue where it is swollen.

Antibiotics will be prescribed to aid in eliminating the infection. To relieve any discomfort or pain, the dentist will usually advised using warm water with salt to rinse as well as over-the-counter pain medications such as ibuprofen (Motrin or Advil) or a pain prescription might be prescribed.

The pain and inflammation of an abscess can also be relieved with a low-level laser, which makes the patient more comfortable to receive any injections in a more painless method.

Abscess Tooth Home Remedies

Often the dentist might not be able to see the patient immediately for an abscess, so until then there are home remedies to help with the toothache especially if over the counter pain medications are not helping.

First, an individual can try putting ¼ teaspoon of “potassium carbonate” in approximately 4 ounces of water and use the mixture to rinse the mouth. Using it 3 or 4 times often will reduce any pain in a couple of hours. This is an alkaline solution which normally eliminates any bacteria. Many people that have done this in the past have stated that this remedy to rid pain is a life saver.

Others swear by taking clove powder and stuffing in into the cavity as the clove will also help with the pain. Or you can mix oil of clove and peroxide to help with the abscess.

Another home remedy for tooth abscess especially when the tooth aches or the gums are swelling – immediately drink two or three glasses of water and continued drinking water every 20 to 30 minutes. The pain will begin to subside soon. This process works since the body absorbs the water through the colon and will usually cause the pain to completely subside.

Of course the best method for teeth abscesses is to just prevent them all together by maintaining proper dental hygiene. Oral hygiene that is bad is what leads to cavities and when these cavities are left untreated this is when abscesses form. It is important to understand oral hygiene and to brush and floss regularly. Do not postpone regular visits to the dentist. And it is probably also a good idea to purchase some dental insurance which is really not very expensive but is a God send when there is an abscess or other dental problem.

What is popping of ears?

Popping of ears occur when the Eustachian tube opens to equalize the air pressure on both ears. Eustachian tube is connected to the middle ear where the pressure is contained. This popping also occurs every time we swallow due to a small air bubble that has entered the middle ear from the back of the nose. Ear popping happens when there is a pressure change in the middle ear. Change in altitude such as plane ride, mountain climbing or even deep sea diving will make ears to pop. Air pressure inside the ear has to whenever there is a change in the air pressure outside.

Air pressure equilibrium is important in the middle ear. This will enable proper function of the middle ear where sound processing happens. When there is too much air pressure in the middle ear, the eardrum could burst or when there is too little pressure, the eardrum could collapse or will not vibrate. Unequal air pressure will hinder proper functions of the ears.

How to Pop Your Ears after a Flight

Balancing air pressure on the ground is gradual and very small for the Eustachian tube to equalize air pressure in the ears. Air pressure change is tasking for the ears especially when on descending motion such as that of a plane descending its flight.

Ear blockage is most common on airplane ride. This is mainly due to change in air pressure where high altitude is the culprit. Ascending motion of plane is easier for the ears to adjust as the pressure outside is dropping. However, when the plane is descending, the ears will have a hard time to adjust as the air pressure is rising. Balancing air pressure is usually hard for the ears.

After the flight, an uncomfortable sensation may be felt and this is due to clogged ears brought by sudden change in air pressure during plane descent. There are however, maneuvers that air travelers can do to help the Eustachian tube open subsequently equalizing the air pressure within the ears.

Ways to Pop Ears:

Swallowing and Chewing

Our ears pop every time we swallow because of the small air bubble that has gone inside the middle ear. Chewing gum will help the Eustachian tube to open and will allow passage of small air bubble causing ear to pop. This is also the same with swallowing motion.

Yawning

Yawning will help the Eustachian tube to open and close allowing the air to come in and come out of the ears and this will give a popping ear.

Pinching the Nostrils

This is done to push the air back into the middle ears. This maneuver is done by pinching the nostrils close taking a deep breath through the mouth while holding it close the push the air up into the back of the nose or middle ear, but not too forceful, until the ear pops.

How to Pop Ears when Sick

Ears pop when the air is passing through the Eustachian tube. Pain in the ear, popping or both can occur when the Eustachian tube is congested often when an individual gets sick. It is hard for the air to come in and come out of the ears when the Eustachian tube is blocked. When the ear is plugged, hearing ability gets impaired and this may be uncomfortable often hinders daily activities. Congestion on the other hand is not permanent and drains on its own. It can drain faster if aided with treatment.

Ways to Pop Ears when Sick:

• Take over the counter medicine to help unclog ears. Such medicines include decongestant which aid faster in mucus drainage.
• Steam can help loosen mucus clogging ears.
• Hot shower or steam bath promotes mucus drainage.
• Humidifier will help nose and ear congestion.
• Drinking with the use of a straw will aid decongesting blocked nose and ears.
• Chewing and swallowing will allow the Eustachian tube to open and will pop ears.
• Blowing of nose will quickly pop the ears as blowing will break and loose trapped mucus in the nose.
• Increase fluid intake to thin mucus build up thereby clearing air passage to and from the middle ear.
• Nasal spray and decongestant will prevent congestion by preventing inflammation of air passage through the Eustachian tube.

What is Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis?

What is Hashimoto’s thyroiditis? This is a condition affecting the thyroid which is a gland, small, and located at the base of the neck. This gland is part of the endocrine system which creates hormones that direct most of the activities of the body. This gland is butterfly-shaped and releases 2 hormones, thyroxine or T4 and triiodothyronine or T3.

This condition is also known as “chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis” and develops when the immunity system attacks the thyroid gland resulting in inflammation and in some cases causes a thyroid gland to be underactive or hypothyroidism. This condition of Hashimoto’s disease is the most common reason for the development of hypothyroidism in the United States. It usually affects women in middle age but can also develop in women and men of any age as well as children. Medical researchers have found Hashimoto’s disease to often run in families.

Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis Symptoms

In the beginning of this condition, Hashimoto’s disease doesn’t have any symptoms or signs that are unique. The condition normally develops slowly over numerous years and creates chronic damage to the thyroid gland leading to the thyroid hormone levels in the blood continuing to drop. At a point the symptoms and signs become those of hypothyroidism.

Hypothyroidism has symptoms and signs that widely vary, dependent on the how severe the hormone drop is. In the beginning the symptoms will not be noticeable, such as little energy as well as chronic fatigue but most individuals just believe that these are only part of growing older. But, the disease will continue to progress until the individual develops symptoms and signs that are more noticeable.

A unique problem with this disease is that there can be time periods when the thyroid might start working again even to the point of causing short-term hyperthyroidism, then reverting back to hypothyroidism. These periods of back and forth between hyper and hypothyroidism are quite distinctive of this disease. As an example, cycling between periods of anxiety, diarrhea, insomnia, weight loss might be followed by periods of depression, constipation, fatigue, weight gain.

Symptoms and signs of hypothyroidism can include:

• Low energy
• Chronic fatigue
• Sensitivity to cold
• Constipation
• Dry, pale skin
• Puffy face
• Voice that is hoarse
• Cholesterol level that is elevated
• Weight gain that is unexplained (occurs rarely and usually is only 10 to 20 pounds, the majority which is fluid)
• Shoulder muscle aches and stiffness
• Hip muscle aches and tenderness
• Weakness in lower extremities muscles
• Menorrhagia – prolonged or excessive bleeding during menstrual period
• Depression
• Forgetfulness
• Hair loss
• Problems concentrating
• Late in the disease small or shrunken thyroid gland

Left untreated, symptoms and signs will grow more severe and the thyroid gland itself might grow to be very large which is called a goiter. If the goiter becomes too large the individual might feel discomfort in the throat or neck region. The area might feel swollen or sore. Often the neck or throat can cause the individual to have problems swallowing or breathing due to blockage of the esophagus or windpipe.

Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis Causes

Hashimoto’s disease is actually an autoimmune condition where the immune system produces antibodies that damage the thyroid gland. Medical researchers do not know what causes the immunity system to attack and damage the gland but some researchers believe it could be triggered by a bacterium or virus, while other medical professionals believe a genetic flaw is the reason. Others believe that it is a combination of issues, such as heredity, sex as well as age.

Continued research is being done in the form of clinical trials to aid in the improvement of diagnosis, prevention and treatment for those individuals with this disease. Some studies are being done to look at control of this disease and how to improve the individual’s quality of life. Other trials are being done to look at how this disease affects other systems of the body, the relationship to other conditions as well as studying advancements in diagnostic and monitoring aids.

Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis Treatment

The treatment for this disease at first might only include observation especially if there is no evidence of deficiency of hormones and the gland is working normally. If an individual does need medication it will probably be needed for the rest of the individual’s life.

Medication for this disease involves synthetic hormones used as replacement therapy for the hormone deficiency. This means daily doses of the synthetic hormone levothyroxine under the names of Levoxyl, Levothroid, and Synthroid. Synthetic levothyroxine is the same as thyroxine which is the natural version of this hormone made by the gland. This is an oral medication taken daily and restores hormones to adequate levels reversing all the symptoms of hypothyroidism.

After beginning drug treatment the individual will notice less fatigue and the medication will also lower gradually any cholesterol levels that were elevated. It might also reverse any gaining of weight. Treatment is usually lifelong but since the dosage might need changed, the individual will have to have TSH levels checked every six to twelve months.

To initially determine the correct dosage, the physician will generally check levels of TSH after a couple of weeks of therapy. Amounts of the hormone that are excessive can speed up loss of bone and might make osteoporosis worse or add to the individual’s risk of osteoporosis. Overtreatment with synthetic thyroid can also cause disorders of heart rhythm called arrhythmias. For these reasons, if an individual has coronary artery disease or hypothyroidism that is severe, the physician will begin treatment with a small amount and increase the dosage gradually. This method of progressive hormone replacement will allow the heart to better adjust to the increase in metabolism.

Levothyroxine has little or no side effect when the correct dose is used and is a medication that is very inexpensive. It is also important not to miss doses or discontinue taking this medication just because symptoms are gone – if you do, symptoms and signs will return.

Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis Diet

Some supplements, medications and some foods might affect the body’s ability to absorb levothyroxine. An individual should speak to their physician if they consume large amounts of products with soy or have a diet that is high in fiber or if any of the below are being used:

• Iron supplements or multivitamins containing iron
• Calcium supplements
• Cholestyramine called Questran which is a drug for lower blood cholesterol levels
• Sodium polystyrene sulfonate under the name of Kayexalate that is used to stop high blood potassium levels
• Aluminum hydroxide that is in some antacids
• Sucralfate that is an ulcer drug

What is Sinus Infection?

Sinus infection is involved in high proportion of upper respiratory tract infection. It is often due to invasion from a pathogenic microorganism such as virus, bacteria and fungi. It may also be caused by allergies and structural abnormalities. The infection often leads to inflammation of the paranasal sinus which is then referred to as sinusitis. Although some cases may be viral and bacterial, it is regarded as non infectious. Infection of the sinus may cause intermittent blockage of the ostium that may subsequently lead to nasal air way obstruction.

Sinus is a hollow cavity and is air filled that is connected to the nasal airway through a narrow hole called ostium. Humans have four pairs of sinuses which are all open to the nasal airway via the ostium. These four pairs are frontal sinus, maxillary sinus, ethmoid sinus and sphenoid sinus and these are all termed as paranasal sinuses. The sinuses are responsible for decreasing the weight of the skull, buffer against facial trauma, voice resonance and humidify and warm the air in its surroundings.

Causes of Sinus Infection

There are a lot of causes that may bring sinus infection and predispose one from sinusitis. Various causes are dependent on how an individual is predisposed such as environmental, abnormalities and even accidental situation leading to facial trauma that may hamper the nasal airway and paranasal sinuses.

• Common colds
• Allergies
• Tissue irritant which may include over the counter nasal spray and cigarette smoke
• Decrease in water content of paranasal sinuses
• Medications that can dry the mucus lining such as antihistamines
• Insufficient humidity in air
• Complication from an existing health condition such as AIDS or immunodepressed individual
• Multiple traumas brought by disasters such as tornadoes and tsunamis where fungi may be inhaled from disturbed soil and water.
• Bacterial infection which have five types of bacteria that may invade the paranasal sinuses and these are:

1. Haemophilus influenza
2. Streptococcus pneumonia
3. Moraxella catarrhalis
4. Streptococcus pyogenes

Do I need antibiotics for sinus infection?

Antibiotic treatment is prescribed if the origin of sinus infection is by bacterial invasion. Bacterial infection will manifest through symptoms such as facial pain and nasal discharge that appears like pus where the manifestations last for more than a week. This condition cannot be even alleviated or treated with nasal medicines bought over the counter.

What kind of Antibiotics Used for Sinus Infection

Prescription of antibiotic treatment for sinus infection depends on the severity and type of bacterial infection. Patient’s condition and medical history is also noted prior to antibiotic treatment. Bacterial resistance should also be noted. However, there are two types of antibiotic used for sinus infection.

• Penicillin – are group of antibiotics derived from Penicillum fungi that is beta-Lactam and effective in treating bacterial infection from susceptible Gram-positive microorganism. Penicillin do not kill bacteria but prevent it from multiplying through forming walls that surrounds them
• Cephalosporin – a class of beta-Lactam antibiotics derived from Acremonium and is indicated for prophylaxis and treatment of bacterial infection. It has the same action with penicillin only it is less susceptible to penicillinases. It is a synthetic antibiotic usually prescribed for patients who have allergic reaction to penicillin.

List of Antibiotics for Sinus Infection Treatment

Penicillin Type

Generic Name: Amoxicillin

Brand Name: Amoxil, Dispermox, Trimox

A less moderate spectrum belonging to penicillin group commonly prescribed for its absorption property and is also commonly prescribed to children.

Generic Name: Amoxicillin and Clavulanic Acid

Brand Name: Augmentin, Augmentin XR

Amoxicillin is a penicillin type combined with clavulanic acid which enhances the effectiveness of amoxicillin to treat bacteria that is resistant to amoxicillin alone.

Cephalosporin Family

Generic Name: Cefaclor

Brand Name: Raniclor

Antibiotic of cephalosporin family that is semi-synthetic and the action mode is the same as penicillin antibiotic but is prescribed to patient with allergy to penicillin.

Generic Name: Clarithromycin

Brand Name: Biaxin

Chemically related to erythromycin and is a semi-synthetic macrolide antibiotic

Generic Name: Azithromycin

Brand Name: Zithromax, Zmax

A macrolide antibiotic chemicall y related to both erythromycin and clarithromycin and act by preventing bacterial proliferation through interfering with bacterial ability of making proteins.

Side Effects of Antibiotics for Sinus Infection

Almost all of the antibiotics intended for the treatment of sinus infection have similar side effects except for macrolide antibiotics where side effects are well tolerated. However, below is a list of side effects from antibiotic treatment.

• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Dizziness
• Confusion
• Abdominal Pain
• Heartburn
• Rashes
• Itchiness
• Hypoglycemia