Nutrition and Diet for hypertension control

Crunch the veggies and dump the meat . Throughout all
researches done in the 1980s and 1990s. It was found out that vegetarians are
healthier and have lower blood pressures than those who are meat lovers. Eating
a lot of veggies can lower blood pressure and can contribute to the prevention
of other diseases and health disorders such as heart disease, diabetes,
osteoporosis, and several cancers.

Cut on that salt. Salt or sodium
chloride tends to make our body retain more fluid. More fluid doesn’t
necessarily mean you have more blood. Having excess body fluids circulating in
our body in one way or another may contribute to an increase of high blood
pressure.

Based on a study conducted by the National High Blood Pressure
Education Program, an average American needs only about 2,000
milligrams of salt per day. But Americans consumes more than the limit
of about twice the amount.

To actively reduce your salt intake and also your high blood pressure, read
the labels of the food you take. Steer away from processed foods, canned soups,
frozen diners, snack foods and fast foods. Better for you to start developing
your taste buds to adjust to blander taste.

Consume more potassium. Potassium is a mineral that helps to
control your blood pressure level. If suspected develop high blood pressure
consume foods that are high in potassium and low on sodium. You may try to eat
more bananas, potatoes, apples and carrots.

The “C” factor. Vitamin C rich foods can
help lower high blood pressure. Make sure that what you are eating is rich in
vitamin C. This includes broccoli, bell pepper, cabbage, cauliflower, spinach,
strawberries, and citrus fruits.

Calcium can also help in controlling your high blood
pressure. Calcium has somewhat a complicated effect on our nervous system,
hormones, and blood vessels. Having a good level of calcium in our body is found
to shield us from developing high blood pressure. Eat a lot of calcium rich diet
– green leafy vegetables, tofu, salmon, sardines, shrimp and feast on those
nonfat, low fat dairy products.

Another important mineral that has an effect in lowering high blood pressure
is magnesium. Magnesium plays a vital role in the muscle tone
of our blood vessels. This has a relaxing effect to the blood vessels, which
helps to reduce the blood pressure.

The Omega 3 Factor. Omega 3 is known to cut cholesterol
levels in our blood. This helps in lowering the blood pressure and generally
improves blood circulation. Foods that are rich in Omega-3 are fresh water
salmon, mackerel or herring.

Another compound called 3-n-buty phthallide can lower blood
pressure dramatically. A small amount of 3-n-butyl phthallide has been found in
laboratory animals can lower blood pressure to as much as 12%. This also lowers
the cholesterol level as well. 3-n-butyl phthallide can be found in celery. To
improve your blood pressure, crunch about 4 celery stalks per day.

Avoid those sweets. Several studies have suggested that table sugar or
sucrose raises high blood pressure considerably. If you have high blood
pressure, definitely sugar is not for you. To satisfy that
sweet tooth of yours, try sinking your teeth to a healthier sweet fruits which
by the way contains a different kind of sugar called fructose.

vitamin and mineral Supplements for
hypertension

As has been mentioned above, maintaining a good level of minerals in our body
may actually lower our blood pressure. So when you drop by at your local health
or drug store, look on the labels of those vitamins and mineral
supplement and look for those that contain potassium,
magnesium, calcium and vitamin C. Be though careful when taking in
potassium, too much potassium may do have some side effects, if you are not sure
about the safe level you can take in consult your doctor. On the way out, don’t
forget to drop by at the fish oil section. Grab one that contains
Omega-3 fatty acids. When taking vitamins and minerals
supplements, be sure to read and follow the instructions given in the
labels.

EXERCISE for hypertension OR HIGH BLOOD
PRESSURE

Exercises can help lower high blood pressure by making us
trim and slim. Studies have shown that people who adapted to regular exercises
after having high blood pressure have a dramatic improvement in lowering their
high blood pressures.

Exercise also helps in reducing stress,
which oftentimes contributes to high blood pressure. By engaging in a regular
physical activity of exercise, such as walking, you actually stimulate the
release of our body’s natural tranquilizers, called endorphins. That’s why
exercise feels calming. If you are already in high blood pressure medications,
exercise can reduce your dosage intake. It is recommended that you do at least a
daily half-hour endurance-building exercise. Or a more physical 1-hour session
three times a week.

HBP

WHAT IS High Blood Pressure or
Hypertension ?

About one in every four Americans has high blood pressure or hypertension.
You can have high blood pressure (hypertension) for years without a single
symptom. But silence isn't golden. Uncontrolled high blood pressure increases
your risk of serious health problems, including heart attack and stroke.

Blood pressure is determined by the amount of blood your heart pumps and the
amount of resistance to blood flow in your arteries. The more blood your heart
pumps and the narrower your arteries, the higher your blood pressure.

To understand how blood pressure works, imagine that your blood vessels are
interlocking garden hoses. The water flowing through the hose is your blood and
a water pump as your heart. As you turn on the pump you may notice that the
garden hose would eventually harden as the pressure inside increases.

High blood pressure or hypertension typically develops without signs or
symptoms. And it affects nearly everyone eventually. If you don't have high
blood pressure nor hypertension by age 55, you have a 90 percent chance of
developing it at some point in your life, according to the National Heart, Lung,
and Blood Institute. Fortunately, high blood pressure (hypertention) can be
easily detected. And once you know you have high blood pressure, you can work
with your doctor to control it.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF high blood pressure

Signs of high blood pressure or symptoms of hypertension are not usually
noticeable. To most people with high blood pressure, there are no significant
signs or symptoms, even if blood pressure readings reach dangerously high
levels.

Though to a few people at an early-stage high blood pressure may have
dull headaches, dizzy spells or a few more
nosebleeds than normal, these signs and symptoms of high blood
pressure typically don't occur until high blood pressure has reached an advanced
— possibly life-threatening stage.

CAUSE OF high blood pressure or hypertension

The American Heart Association says there's no single
identifiable cause for 90 to 95% of high blood pressure cases. This type of high
blood pressure, called essential hypertension or
primary hypertension, tends to develop gradually over many
years.

The other 5 percent to 10 percent of high blood pressure cases are caused by
an underlying condition. This type of high blood pressure, called
secondary hypertension, tends to appear suddenly and cause
higher blood pressure than does primary hypertension. Various conditions can
lead to secondary hypertension, including kidney abnormalities, tumors
of the adrenal gland or certain congenital heart defects.

Secondary high blood pressure can also be caused by certain medications —
including birth control pills, cold remedies, decongestants,
over-the-counter pain relievers and some prescription drugs. In a 2005
study, women who took an average of 500 milligrams or more of
acetaminophen (Tylenol, others) daily over several years were
more likely to develop high blood pressure than were women who didn't take any
acetaminophen. It's not known if the same holds true for men.

Various illicit drugs, including cocaine and
amphetamines, also can cause high blood pressure.

DIAGNOSIS AND TESTS FOR hypertension

High blood pressure or more generally blood pressure is measured with an
inflatable arm cuff and a pressure-measuring gauge. The blood pressure reading,
given in millimeters of mercury (mm Hg), has two numbers. The
first, or upper, number measures the pressure in your arteries when your heart
beats (systolic pressure). The second, or lower, number
measures the pressure in your arteries between beats (diastolic
pressure).

The latest blood pressure guidelines, issued in 2003 by the National
Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, divide blood pressure measurements
into four general categories:

• Normal blood pressure. Your blood pressure is normal if
  it's below 120/80 mm Hg. However, some data indicate that
  115/75 mm Hg should be the best standard. Once blood pressure rises above 115/75
  mm Hg, the risk of cardiovascular disease begins to increase.
  
• Prehypertension. Prehypertension is a systolic pressure
  ranging from 120 to 139 or a diastolic pressure ranging from
  80 to 89. Prehypertension tends to get worse over time. Within
  four years of being diagnosed with prehypertension, nearly one in three adults
  ages 35 to 64 and nearly one in two adults age 65 or older
  progress to definite high blood pressure.
  
• Stage 1 hypertension. Stage 1 hypertension is a systolic
  pressure ranging from 140 to 159 or a diastolic pressure
  ranging from 90 to 99.
  
• Stage 2 hypertension. The most severe hypertension, stage 2
  hypertension is a systolic pressure of 160 or higher or a
  diastolic pressure of 100 or higher.

At the age of 50, the systolic reading is even more significant.
Isolated systolic hypertension (ISH) — when diastolic pressure
is normal but systolic pressure is high — is the most common type of high blood
pressure among people older than 50.

A single high blood pressure reading usually isn't enough for a diagnosis.
Because blood pressure normally varies throughout the day — and sometimes
specifically during visits to the doctor — diagnosis is based on more than one
reading taken on more than one occasion. Your doctor may ask you to record your
blood pressure at home and at work to provide additional information.

If you
have any type of high blood pressure, your doctor may recommend routine tests,
such as a urine test (urinalysis), blood tests
and an electrocardiogram (ECG) — a test that measures your
heart's electrical activity. More extensive testing isn't usually needed.

Cause of Acne

Cause of Acne

Skin Pore Blockage: as cause of acne.

One cause of acne is the blockage of skin oil secretions (sebum) that
normally pass out of the skin through the hair follicles and then through the
skin pores together with dead skin cells.

The clogged skin pore is one of the primary cause of acne, this is when the
pore of the skin is clogged with dried sebum, dead skin cells and bacteria.

There are two types of blockage that is the cause of acne;

1. Black Head (open comedone)- this is a cause of acne as
   black head develops as the dried sebum, dead skin cells and bacteria
   partially blocks the pore of the skin.
   
   
2. White Head (closed comedone)- this is a cause of acne as
   white heads develop when the dried sebum, dead skin cells and bacteria
   completely blocks the pore of the skin.

In both instances, the blockage of the skin pore promotes the growth of
bacteria propionibacterium acne which is normally present in the hair follicles
and a cause of acne. When this happens the bacterial growth breaks down the
sebum creating a substance irritating the skin. The resulting irritation
inflames the skin resulting to skin eruptions called acne pimples. When
irritation worsens, an abscess will form causing skin rupture, resulting to more
inflammation.

Cosmetic use can also be the cause of acne. Cosmetics blocks the skin pores
preventing the flow of oils and dead skin cells from the skin. This becomes the
cause of acne.

Hormones as cause of acne

Increase in hormone levels is also considered as a cause of acne. Hormone
imbalance aggravate the development of acne. That is why most teenagers suffer
more from acne. But as the hormone level stabilizes by mid 20's acne usually
disappears. Other conditions that involves hormonal changes such as menstrual
periods and during pregnancies may also be the cause of acne. The taking of oral
contraceptives and menopausal hormone replacement therapy may also be a cause of
acne.

Drugs can also be a cause of acne

Certain drugs such as corticosteroids and anabolic steroids can also be a
cause of acne pimples. These drugs stimulate the sebaceous glands secreting more
oil or sebum. When these oil or sebum are blocked this may be the cause of acne.

Others cause of acne

Other cause of acne maybe exposure to sunlight, stress and other skin
irritants that continuously comes in contact with the skin.

What is Acne

What is Acne

Acne is a common skin disorder normally
found on the face and the upper torso. This is a cause of embarrassment to most
people but it is seldom serious. Acne is caused by an interaction between
hormones, skin oils, and bacteria that results in the inflammation of the hair
follicles.

Majority of the cases responds pretty well with personal care.
With combination of personal hygiene, over-the-counter
acne treatments and alternative remedies, you may have
a clearer and fairer skin

Acne is in the form of pimples, cysts and
sometimes abscesses. Cysts and abscesses are pus-filled pockets
of skin where the hair follicles grow. Hair follicles are connected to the
sebaceous gland that are located in the middle layer of the skin or the dermis,
these glands secretes an oily substance called sebum that the body uses to keep
the skin from drying.

Symptoms of Acne


There are 2 major categorization of symptoms of
acne

Mild acnes. This is one of the symptoms of acne and are
mostly superficial, these symptoms of acne are characterized with the
development of few noninflammed blackheads or a moderate number of small mildly
irritated pimples. Symptoms of acne includes blackheads which
appear as tiny black dots at the center of the small swelling of normal colored
skin. Other symptoms of acne are called pimples. Pimples on the
other hand have white centers surrounded with moderately reddened skin. Pimples
are moderately uncomfortable and irritating. Mild acnes rarely leaves scars on
the skin.

Severe acne. Symptoms of acne that is
categorized as severe acne include several large, red, painful pus-filled lumps
(nodules) that develops on the skin. These symptoms of acne are usually deep and
cystic. At times these lumps join together under the skin forming a giant lump
where it ruptures and oozes abscesses. Severe acnes usually leaves scar in the
skin depending on the depth of the acne. Scars maybe tiny deep holes (ice pick
scars), wide pits of varying depths or large irregular identations. Scars
resulting from severe acnes lasts a lifetime. To some people this is
cosmetically disturbing and a source of psychologic stress.

treatment of fibroids

treatment of fibroids

Doctors agree that
there is no single best approach to fibroid treatment. There are many treatment
options that exist. The best action to take after discovering fibroids is simply
to be aware they are there. Since fibroids are non-cancerous and if fibroids are
small and are not causing any symptoms, they do not need to be treated.

Being aware means a regular trip to the gynecologist for pelvic examination.
This should be done every six months to a year to make sure that the fibroids
are not growing rapidly.

The following alternative approach does not guarantee a cure for fibroids. To
some it may work and to others may not. There are no concrete scientific bases
that may support the suggested therapies. It is still best that you discuss your
medical condition to a certified gynecologist.

causes of fibroids

causes of fibroids

To what is the real cause of fibroids is still unknown. Although some women
are more likely to get fibroids, including black women, women who have never
been pregnant and women who have a mother or sister with fibroids.

The female hormones estrogen and progesterone seem to make fibroids grow. The
female body makes the highest levels of these hormones during menstrual
years.

Upon reaching the menopausal period, the body tends to produce less of
estrogen and progesterone and usually, fibroids shrink and stop causing
symptoms.

signs and symptoms of fibroids ?

signs and symptoms of fibroids

Fibroids do not present noticeable symptoms. Some women never realize that
they have fibroids because they have no symptoms. In other women, uterine
fibroids are discovered either during a routine gynecologic exam or during
prenatal care.

When symptoms of fibroids occur, they can include:

• Pelvic pain or pressure
  
• Heavy menstrual bleeding
  
• Abdominal swelling
  
• Low back pain during intercourse or during menstrual periods
  
• Fatigue or low energy from heavy periods and excessive bleeding
  
• Infertility, if the fibroids are blocking the fallopian tubes
  
• Constipation
  
• Repeated miscarriages Bleeding or spotting between menstrual periods
  
• Unusually frequent urination

what is Fibroids ?

what is Fibroids

Fibroid is also known as a uterine leiomyomata or “myoma,”. Fibroid is a lump or growth in the uterus that is not cancerous. Fibroids can be as small as a pea to as large as a basketball. They are usually round and pinkish in color, and they can grow anywhere inside or on the uterus. While some women have only one fibroid, they typically are present in groups of two or more.

About 30% of women older than 30 years have fibroids, and they usually appear between the ages of 35 and 45.

Uterine fibroids are the most common female pelvic tumor, affecting up to 30% of women. These non-cancerous tumors arise from smooth muscle cells within the uterus and can result in symptoms such as pelvic pain, pelvic pressure, urinary frequency, abdominal fullness, infertility and heavy menstrual bleeding.
Fibroids can be microscopic or weigh several pounds. While it is unclear what causes them to form, we do know fibroids depend on estrogen to grow and are more common in African-American women.

Treatment options vary upon the severity of symptoms, a patient's age and medical history, as well as her desire to maintain fertility. Simple treatment options include monitoring with ultrasound, oral contraceptive pills or hormone injections to control fibroid growth. A myomectomy, or surgical removal of fibroids, can be performed hysteroscopically, larparoscopically or abdominally.
In addition, uterine artery embolization (UAE), performed by an interventional radiologist, is designed to restrict the fibroid's blood supply. The benefit of UAE is avoidance of surgery, but long-term results are unknown, as is the affect on future pregnancies.

fibroids

fibroids

fibroids articles:

What is Fibroid Fibroid is a lump or growth
in the uterus that is not cancerous...

Signs and Symptoms of Fibroid Fibroids do
not present noticeable symptoms. But some symptoms include...

Causes of Fibroids Although some women are
more likely to get fibroids, including black women, women who have never been
pregnant...

Treatment of Fibroid There are many
treatment options that exist. The best action to take after discovering fibroids
is simply to be aware they are there...

What is Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS)?

What is Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS)?

A person with CFS feels completely worn-out and overtired. This extreme
tiredness makes it hard to do the daily tasks that most of us do without
thinking — like dressing, bathing, or eating. Sleep or rest does not make the
tiredness go away. It can be made worse by moving, exercising, or even
thinking.

CFS can happen over time or come on suddenly. People who get CFS over time
get more and more tired over weeks or months. People who get CFS suddenly feel
fine one day and then feel extremely tired the next. A person with CFS may have
muscle pain, trouble focusing, or insomnia (not being able to sleep). The
extreme tiredness may come and go. In some cases the extreme tiredness never
goes away. The extreme tiredness must go on for at least 6 months before a
diagnosis of CFS can be made.

What causes CFS?

No one knows for sure what causes CFS. Many people with CFS say it started
after an infection, such as a cold or stomach bug. It also can follow a bout of
infectious mononucleosis (mono), the “kissing disease” that drains your
energy. Some people with CFS say it started after a time of great stress, such
as the loss of a loved one or major surgery.

It can be hard to figure out if a person has CFS because extreme tiredness is
a common symptom of many illnesses. Also, some medical treatments, such as
chemotherapy, can cause extreme tiredness.

What are the signs of CFS?

The signs of CFS can come and go or they can stay with a person. At first,
you may feel like you have the flu. As well as extreme tiredness and weakness,
CFS symptoms include:

• forgetting things or having a hard time focusing
  
• feeling tired even after sleeping
  
• muscle pain or aches
  
• pain or aches in joints without swelling or redness
  
• feeling discomfort or "out-of-sorts" for more than 24 hours after being
  active
  
• headaches of a new type, pattern, or strength
  
• tender lymph nodes in the neck or under the arm
  
• sore throat

Many people with CFS report other symptoms too, ranging from a constant cough
to feelings of depression. If you think you may have CFS, talk to your
doctor.

How common is CFS? Who gets it?

Experts think as many as half a million Americans have a CFS-like condition.
The exact number of people with CFS is not known. CFS can affect people of all
ages, racial/ethnic backgrounds, and economic statuses.

More women than men are diagnosed with CFS. But, it is not known for sure
that this illness affects more women than men. It may be that women talk to
their doctors more often about things like tiredness and pain.

How would my doctor know if I have CFS?

It can be hard for your doctor to diagnose CFS because there is no lab test
for it. And many signs of CFS are also signs of other illnesses or medical
treatments.

If you think you may have CFS, see your doctor. Your doctor will:

• ask you about your physical and mental health
  
• do a physical exam
  
• order urine and blood tests, which will tell your doctor if something other
  than CFS might be causing your symptoms
  
• order more tests, if your urine and blood tests do not show a cause for your
  symptoms
  
• classify you as having CFS if:

1. you have been extremely tired for 6 months or more and tests do not show a
   cause for your symptoms
   
   AND
   
2. you have 4 or more of the symptoms listed in the section “What are the
   signs of CFS?” in this FAQ

This process can take a long time (even years), so try to be patient with
your doctor. While these tests are being done, talk to your doctor about ways to
help ease your symptoms.

How is CFS treated?

Right now, there is no cure for CFS. But there are things you can do to feel
better. Talk to your doctor about ways to ease your symptoms and deal with your
tiredness. You might also try these:

Lifestyle changes:

• Try to stop or do less of the things that seem to trigger your
  tiredness. For a week or two, write down what you do each day and note when
  you feel really tired. Then, look over this list to find out which activities
  tend to tire you out. An occupational therapist can help you by looking at your
  daily habits and suggesting changes to help you save energy. Your doctor can
  help you find an occupational therapist near where you live.
  
• Regular exercise can lessen body aches and joint and muscle pain and
  increase your energy level. Be sure to talk to your doctor before starting an
  exercise plan. Your doctor can help you create a plan that is right for you.
  Don't exercise too much. Too much exercise can cause more tiredness.

Medications:

• Over-the-counter pain relievers such as Advil, Motrin, or Aleve can
  help with body aches, headaches, and muscle and joint pain.
  
• Nondrowsy antihistamines can help with allergy symptoms, such as
  runny nose and itchy eyes.
  
• Antidepressants can help improve sleep and ease pain.

Some people say their CFS symptoms get better with complementary or
alternative treatments, such as massage, acupuncture, chiropractic care, yoga,
stretching, or self-hypnosis. Keep in mind that many alternative treatments,
dietary supplements, and herbal remedies claim to cure CFS, but they might do
more harm than good. Talk to your doctor before seeing someone else for
treatment or before trying alternative therapies.

Also, keep in mind that your doctor may need to learn more about CFS to
better help you. If you feel your doctor doesn’t know a lot about CFS or has
doubts about it being a “real” illness, see another doctor for a second opinion.
Contact a local university medical school or research center for help finding a
doctor who treats people with CFS.

What can I do to cope with CFS?

It’s normal to feel cranky, sad, angry, or upset when you have an illness
like CFS. Here are some things you can do that may help you to feel better:

• See the "For more information..." section at the end of this FAQ for a list
  of organizations that can help you cope with CFS.
  
• Talk therapy can help you learn how to deal with your feelings.
  
• Join a CFS support group. Sometimes it helps to talk with people who
  are going through the same thing. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
  (CDC) developed guidelines
  to help you find a good CFS support group. Also see the "For more
  information..." section at the end of this FAQ for a list of organizations that
  can help you find CFS support groups.

Autoimmune Diseases:

Autoimmune Diseases: Overview

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[Printer-friendly
version -- PDF file, 210 Kb]

What are autoimmune diseases?
Who is at risk
for getting autoimmune diseases?
What are the most common
symptoms of autoimmune diseases?
Are chronic fatigue
syndrome and fibromyalgia autoimmune diseases?
What are
flare ups?
Are there medicines to treat autoimmune
diseases?
How can I manage my life now that I have an
autoimmune disease?
What are some things I can do to feel
better?
What kinds of doctors will I need to treat my
autoimmune disease?

See also:

• Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
  
• Graves’ Disease
  
• Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis
  
• Lupus
  
• Stress and Your Health

What are autoimmune diseases?

Our bodies have an immune system that protects us from disease and infection.
But if you have an autoimmune disease, your immune system attacks itself by
mistake, and you can get sick. Autoimmune diseases can affect connective tissue
in your body (the tissue which binds together body tissues and organs).
Autoimmune disease can affect many parts of your body, like your nerves,
muscles, endocrine system (system that directs your body’s hormones and other
chemicals), and digestive system.

Who is at risk for getting autoimmune diseases?

Most autoimmune diseases occur in women, and most often during their
childbearing years. Some of these diseases also affect African American,
American Indian, and Latina women more than white women. These diseases tend to
run in families, so your genes, along with the way your immune system responds
to certain triggers or things in the environment, affect your chances of getting
one of these diseases. If you think you may have an autoimmune disease, ask your
family members if they have had symptoms like yours. The good news is that if
you have an autoimmune disease, there ARE things you can do to feel better!

What are the most common symptoms of autoimmune diseases?

There are more than 80 types of autoimmune diseases. Learning the symptoms of
some of the more common autoimmune diseases can help you recognize the signs if
you get one. But some autoimmune diseases share similar symptoms. This makes it
hard for doctors to find out if you really have one of these diseases, and which
one it might be. This can make your trip to doctors long and stressful. But if
you are having symptoms that bother you, you need to persist to make sure you
get relief. Below are descriptions of some common autoimmune diseases.

Disease	Symptoms	Tests to help find out if you have it
Hashimoto’s thyroiditis (underactive thyroid)	tiredness depression sensitivity to cold weight gain muscle weakness and cramps dry hair tough skin constipation sometimes there are no symptoms	blood test for thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH)
Graves’ disease (overactive thyroid)	insomnia (not able to sleep) irritability weight loss without dieting heat sensitivity sweating fine brittle hair weakness in your muscles light menstrual periods bulging eyes shaky hands sometimes there are no symptoms	blood test for thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH)
Lupus	swelling and damage to the joints, skin, kidneys, heart, lungs, blood vessels, and brain “butterfly” rash across the nose and cheeks rashes on other parts of the body painful and swollen joints sensitivity to the sun	exam of your bodylab tests (antinuclear antibody [ANA] test, blood tests, and urine tests)
Multiple sclerosis (MS)	weakness and trouble with coordination, balance, speaking, and walking paralysis tremors numbness and tingling feeling in arms, legs, hands, and feet	exam of your body exam of your brain, spinal cord, and nerves (neurological exam) x-ray tests (magnetic resonance imaging [MRI] and magnetic resonance spectroscopy [MRS]) other tests on the brain and spinal cord fluid to look for things linked to these diseases
Rheumatoid arthritis	inflammation begins in the tissue lining your joints and then spreads to the whole joint (hand joints are the most common site, but it can affect most joints in the body) muscle pain deformed joints weakness fatigue loss of appetite weight loss becoming confined to bed in severe cases	blood tests may show that you have anemia (when your body does not have enough red blood cells) and an antibody called rheumatoid factor (RF). (Some people with RF never get this disease, and others with the disease never have RF.)

Are chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia autoimmune
diseases?

Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) and fibromyalgia (FM) are not autoimmune
diseases, but they often have symptoms—like being tired all the time and
pain—that may seem like other autoimmune diseases.

• CFS can cause you to be very tired, have trouble concentrating, feel weak,
  and have muscle pain. Symptoms of CFS come and go. The cause of CFS is not
  known.
  
• FM is a disorder with symptoms of widespread muscle pain, fatigue (feeling
  tired and having low energy), and multiple tender points. Tender points are
  located in the neck, spine, shoulders, hips, and knees and are painful when
  pressure is applied to them. FM mainly occurs in women of childbearing age, but
  children, the elderly, and men are sometimes diagnosed with FM. The cause is not
  known.

What are flare ups?

Symptoms of autoimmune diseases can come and go, ranging in how bad they are,
or all go away for a while (called remission). Flare-ups, or the sudden and
severe onset of symptoms, can also happen. It’s best to work closely and often
with your doctor and other members of your health care team to manage your
illness. If you have a flare-up, it is best to first call your doctor. Don’t try
a “cure” you heard about from a friend or relative.

Are there medicines to treat autoimmune diseases?

You can take medicines to help your symptoms, which your doctor(s) will talk
with you about. The type of medicine you take depends on which disease you have
and what your symptoms are. Some people can take over-the-counter drugs, like
aspirin and ibuprofen for pain. Others with more severe symptoms may have to
take certain kinds of prescription drugs that can help with pain, swelling,
depression, anxiety, sleep problems, fatigue, or rashes. You also might be able
to take medicine to help slow the progress of your disease. New treatments for
autoimmune diseases are being studied all the time.

How can I manage my life now that I have an autoimmune
disease?

Although there is no cure for autoimmune diseases, you can treat your
symptoms and learn to manage your disease, so you can enjoy life! Women with
autoimmune diseases lead full, active lives. Your life goals should not have to
change. It is important, though, to see a doctor who specializes in these types
of diseases.

What are some things I can do to feel better?

If you are living with an autoimmune disease, there are things you can do
each day to feel better:

• Eat a healthy diet. Keep your immune system as healthy as
  can be! The list of nutrients that you need for a healthy immune system is long.
  But don’t try to overload on vitamins because that could be worse for your
  health. Try to get all you need from food, rather than from vitamin pills. Eat
  balanced meals with foods from all of the food groups. Include yummy fruits and
  vegetables and whole grains. Also eat calcium-rich foods, such as fat-free or
  low-fat milk and yogurt. Avoid fatty foods.
  
• Get regular exercise (but be careful not to overdo it).
  Thirty minutes most days of the week is best, but talk with your doctor about
  what types of exercise you can do. A gradual and gentle exercise program often
  works well for people with long-lasting muscle and joint pain. Some types of
  yoga or tai chi exercises may be helpful.
  
• Get enough rest. Rest allows your body tissues and joints
  the time they need to repair. Sleeping is a great way you can help both your
  body and mind. If you don’t get enough sleep, your stress level and your
  symptoms could get worse. You also can’t fight off sickness as well when you
  sleep poorly. With enough sleep, you can tackle your problems better and lower
  your risk for illness. Try to get at least seven hours of sleep every night.
  
• Reduce stress and try “self” pain management. You also
  might be able to lessen your pain or muscle spasms and deal with other aspects
  of living with your disease if you try meditation or self-hypnosis. You can
  learn to do these through self-help books, tapes, or with the help of an
  instructor. You also can use imagery (use the power of your thoughts to
  “destroy” your pain) or distract your focus on your pain by doing a hobby or
  something else you enjoy.

You have some power to lessen your pain! Try using imagery for 15 minutes, two or three times each day. Put on your favorite calming music. Lie back on your favorite chair or sofa. Or if you are at work, sit back and relax in your chair. Close your eyes. Imagine your pain or discomfort. Imagine something that confronts this pain and watch it “destroy” the pain.

What kinds of doctors will I need to treat my autoimmune
disease?

Juggling your health care needs among different doctors and other types of
health care providers can be hard. But visiting other types of health care
workers, along with your main doctor, may be helpful in managing some symptoms
of your autoimmune disease. If you are visiting many types of health care
workers, make sure you have a supportive main doctor to help you. Often, your
family doctor may help you coordinate care. Here are some other kinds of health
care workers that may be useful.

• Nephrologist. A doctor who will look at how well your
  kidneys are working. Kidneys are organs that clean the blood and produce urine.
  
• Rheumatologist. A doctor who specializes in arthritis and
  other diseases.
  
• Endocrinologist. A doctor who specializes in diseases that
  affect your glands (organs in your body that make hormones). Glands help control
  the body’s reproduction, energy levels, weight, food and waste production, and
  growth and development.
  
• Physical therapist. A health care worker who can help you
  with stiffness, weakness, restricted body movement, and with finding out the
  proper level of exercise for your body.
  
• Occupational therapist. A health care worker who can help
  you find devices or make changes in your home or workplace to make life easier
  for you. They also can teach you ways to do all you have to despite your pain
  and other health problems.
  
• Speech therapist. A health care worker who can be helpful
  for people with MS who have speech problems.
  
• Vocational therapist. A health care worker who offers job
  training for people who cannot do their current jobs because of their illness or
  other health problems. You can find this type of person through both public and
  private agencies.
  
• Counselor for emotional support. A health care worker who
  is specially trained to help you to find ways to cope with your illness. You can
  work through your feelings of anger, fear, denial, and frustration.
  
• Support groups. Some women find that talking with others
  who have the same health problem is helpful in finding new ways to cope with it.
  
  
• Chiropractor. A type of doctor who might be helpful in
  relieving some of your symptoms, such as muscle spasms and backaches. But you
  should only see this type of doctor along with your regular autoimmune disease
  doctor, not in place of him or her.

Women & Infectious Diseases Women's infectious disease burden is varied and vast, with many negative impacts throughout the life span. The Office of Minority and Women's Health supports research, education, training, and advocacy to reduce the infectious disease burden among women. The Office works to focus attention on the particular ways infectious diseases impact women, and on the appropriate gender-specific responses for prevention and education. Of particular concern is the impact of infectious diseases on conception, pregnancy, birth, and both maternal and infant mortality. Areas of women's health research and prevention supported by NCID and the Office of Minority and Women's Health include, among others, sexually transmitted diseases, HIV, toxoplasmosis, Group B strep, viral hepatitis, and HPV-associated diseases. For information on these and other infectious diseases that affect women, see the Infectious Diseases Information Index at http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/diseases/index.htm.

Healthy Life

Tips for a Healthy Life for Women

Eat Healthy

"An apple a day keeps the doctor away." There's more truth to this saying than
we once thought. What you eat and drink and what you don’t eat and drink can
definitely make a difference to your health. Eating five or more servings of
fruits and vegetables a day and less saturated fat can help improve your health
and may reduce the risk of cancer and other chronic diseases. Have a balanced
diet, and watch how much you eat.

Keep a Healthy Weight

Obesity is at an all time high in the United States, and the epidemic may be
getting worse. Those who are overweight or obese have increased risks for
diseases and conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease,
and stroke. Eat better, get regular exercise, and see your health care provider
about any health concerns to make sure you are on the right track to staying
healthy.

Be Active

More than 50 percent of American men and women do not get enough physical
activity to provide health benefits. For adults, thirty minutes of moderate
physical activity on most, preferably all, days of the week is recommended. It
doesn’t take a lot of time or money, but it does take commitment. Start slowly,
work up to a satisfactory level, and don’t overdo it. You can develop one
routine, or you can do something different every day. Find fun ways to stay in
shape and feel good, such as dancing, gardening, cutting the grass, swimming,
walking, or jogging.

Be Smoke-Free

Health concerns associated with smoking include cancer, lung disease, early
menopause, infertility, and pregnancy complications. Smoking triples the risk of
dying from heart disease among those who are middle-aged. Second-hand smoke -
smoke that you inhale when others smoke - also affects your health. If you
smoke, quit today! Helplines, counseling, medications, and other forms of
support are available to help you quit.

Get Check-Ups

Sometimes they’re once a year. Other times they’re more or less often. Based on
your age, health history, lifestyle, and other important issues, you and your
health care provider can determine how often you need to be examined and
screened for certain diseases and conditions. These include high blood pressure,
high cholesterol, diabetes, sexually transmitted diseases, and cancers of the
skin, cervix, breast, and colon. When problems are found early, your chances for
treatment and cure are better. Routine exams and screenings can help save lives.

Get
Vaccinated

They’re not just for kids. Adults need them too. Some vaccinations are for
everyone. Others are recommended if you work in certain jobs, have certain
lifestyles, travel to certain places, or have certain health conditions. Protect
yourself from illness and disease by keeping up with your vaccinations.

Manage Stress

Perhaps now more than ever before, job stress poses a threat to the health of
workers and, in turn, to the health of organizations. Balancing obligations to
your employer and your family can be challenging. What’s your stress level
today? Protect your mental and physical health by engaging in activities that
help you manage your stress at work and at home.

Know Yourself and
Your Risks

Your parents and ancestors help determine some of who you are. Your habits, work
and home environments, and lifestyle also help to define your health and your
risks. You may be at an increased risk for certain diseases or conditions
because of what you do, where you work, and how you play. Being healthy means
doing some homework, knowing yourself, and knowing what’s best for you...
because you are one of a kind.

Be Safe - Protect Yourself

What comes to mind when you think about safety and protecting yourself? Is it
fastening seat belts, applying sunscreen, wearing helmets, or having smoke
detectors? It’s all of these and more. It’s everything from washing your hands
to watching your relationships. Did you know that women at work die most
frequently from homicides, motor vehicle incidents, falls, and machine-related
injuries? Take steps to protect yourself and others wherever you are.

Be Good to Yourself

Health is not merely the absence of disease; it’s a lifestyle. Whether it’s
getting enough sleep, relaxing after a stressful day, or enjoying a hobby, it’s
important to take time to be good to yourself. Take steps to balance work, home,
and play. Pay attention to your health, and make healthy living a part of your
life.

Facial Skin Care

There are various types of treatments for the face that you can see offered
in salons and spas. From the rejuvenating facial, purifying facial, European, oxygen facial,
balancing, alpha-beta peels, and deep cleansing to the more invasive treatments
like laser dermabrasion and
such. It may be confusing to decide which one you need since these treatments
have different effects on the skin.

To figure out what you need, consult a skin care expert on what treatment is
to be done. Your dermatologist will
be asking you several questions pertaining to the condition of your facial skin
as well do some physical checkup. If an expert is not available, some salons ask
you to fill out a questionnaire regarding your skin condition and what you want
to do about it. The questionnaire will be their guide as to what procedure and
treatment they will recommend.

Most of the facial treatments are based on just a few specific processes and
principles, which will always lead to a better skin condition and appearance,
when used properly. Those functions are:
Facials generally moisturize and
hydrate the skin by using steam, masks, humectants and hydrating creams.
To
cleanse, facials employ the extraction of blackheads, pimples and
whiteheads using a
facial clay mask.
For deeper cleansing, extractions are done using a needle
and lens. The skin of the face is first relaxed and softened in preparation for
extraction. Skin care technicians are learned in doing these procedures
hygienically and accurately so there is no danger of complications.
Peeling
methods use the help of enzymes, chemicals like glycolic acid, lactic acid and
salicylic acid, scrubs and sometimes electric brushes.
Microdermabrasion
is a machine is used for procedures that removes dead skin cells using mineral
crystals and a vacuum type wand.
Facial masks can also firm the skin, which
is usually used for aging skin.
Sometimes, vitamins and antioxidants are
added on to the mask mixture to be used for the skin's nourishment.
Skin
lighteners such as licorice or hydroquinone are also placed in the mixture to
give the face a lighter look.
To complete the whole facial spa
treatment, a facial massage may be incorporated into the procedure, with
hand and shoulder massages as bonus.

Salon and spa facials can include everything except medical treatments, botox, heavy phenol peels,
and collagen
injections. Those are done only in medical offices, and with the supervision of
a doctor.

Skin Cancer

Skin cancer is very serious. It can kill you. Skin cancer is a extremely
serious condition affecting over millions of Americans every year. It is a fatal
disease that can render you weak. Its incidence is multiplying every year, and
yet, it is found to be preventable. With over a million new cases diagnosed
annually in the United States, about eighty percent will be basal cell
carcinoma. Squamous cell carcinoma constitutes the sixteen percent and four
percent of the cases are melanoma. Skin cancer frequently appears on the areas
of the body often exposed to the sun's rays.

Types of Skin Cancer

Basal Cell Carcinoma

Basal Cell Carcinoma Photo:
Is commonly seen in people with fair skin, light hair, and
green, blue, or grey eyes although it may also affect dark skinned people. It is
a slow growing type of cancer that is usually confined to one area of the body.
It is also detected easily, thus increasing its chances of getting cured by 95
percent.

The five symptoms of basal cell carcinoma:
An open sore that bleeds,
oozes, or crusts and remains open for more than three weeks.
A reddish patch
on chest, arms, shoulders, or legs. May itch or hurt, or may not.
A shiny
bump or nodule that's translucent. Can be any color, from white. pink, or red to
tan, black, or brown. May be confused with a mole.
A pink growth with a
slightly elevated rolled border. Has a crusty center indentation. Tiny blood
vessels may develop on the surface.
A scarlike area with poorly defined
borders. Color is white, yellow or waxy.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma


Squamous Cell Carcinoma Photo:
Is frequently seen on areas that are always exposed to the
sun's radiation although it may also be seen on any part of the body. They are
often found on the skin but in some cases, it spreads to nearby tissues and
organ systems, rendering it fatal. It commonly occurs on injured skin, like
burns, scars, sores that have not yet healed for several weeks, or areas exposed
to chemicals and radiation from x-rays. Sometimes, carcinomas appear just for no
reason. Squamous cell carcinomas may also be genetically inherited.

People with fair skin are predisposed to develop this type of carcinoma
although about two thirds of dark skinned individuals with skin cancer are of
the squamous cell type.

The symptoms of squamous cell carcinomas:
A wartlike growth that crusts
and may bleed.
A red, scaly patch with irregular borders that bleeds of
crusts.
An open sore that bleeds and crusts for weeks and doesn't heal.
An
elevated growth with a central depression that may bleed and could grow
rapidly.

Squamous cell carcinoma has a better than 95 percent cure rate if detected
and treated early.

Melanoma


Melanoma Photo:
The
most serious form of skin cancer is melanoma which is easier to cure when
detected in its early stage but fatal when the cancer spreads. The number of
Caucasians affected with melanoma has tripled in the last twenty years. For
women aged 25 to 29, melanoma is responsible for almost eighty percent of skin
cancer fatalities.

Melanoma originates in the melanocytes, where the body's pigmentation
is produced. Most melanomas are dark in color, either black or brown, but they
can also be devoid of pigmentation, and become skin-colored, pink, red, or
purple.

In situ melanoma cells responsible for the production of melanin, the
body's pigment. Most melanomas are either black or brown but may sometimes be
pink, red or purple. In situ melanoma are localized melanomas while invasive
melanomas are those which have spread to other parts of the body, making it
harder to treat.

Melanomas are usually brown, black, or multicolored patches, or nodules with
an irregular outline. They may crust or bleed and often form on top of existing
moles.

If a mole changes or you have any odd growths on your body, go immediately to
the dermatologist
or family doctor. Don't hesitate and don't delay.

Beauty Tips

Very few women look great with little effort. Even Supermodels have to drink
plenty of water and get their sleep. The following are the top beauty tips every
woman wanting to look her best should heed. Drink at least two liters (eight
glasses) of water a day. Water helps keep your skin hydrated. It also helps keep
your body in good working order including your metabolism and digestive system,
and helps to flush toxins from your body. Drinking water is good for internal as
well as external beauty.

Get enough sleep. Even models will tell you that while they might be able to
get away with not eating their vegetables and drinking too much coffee, if they
don't get enough sleep, then they pay for it with their looks. Inadequate sleep
has been shown to be a risk factor in weight gain, hypertension, and type-2
diabetes. And if that's not enough, your skin will suffer, too. Our bodies use
sleeping time to restore dead skin; if you don't get enough of it, your skin
will look pale and gray, and you'll probably get black circles under your eyes.
It's not called beauty sleep for nothing!

Don't spend too long in the sun. This is a lot easier said than done. With
all the sun's positive connotations, it's difficult to acknowledge that it can
be harmful. When spending any significant length of time in the sun, always wear
a sunscreen with a
minimum SPF (sun protection factor) of 30. And always moisturize your
skin after you've been in the sun. Remember that a suntan is a sign that
your skin has been damaged. And premature aging has never been a good look!

Don't smoke! Where do we start...? Dull, tired skin; premature
wrinkles; yellow teeth; nicotine-stained fingers; and foul smelling breath
are just a few of the effects of smoking. Quitting smoking is the number one
beauty boost any woman can give herself.

Eat a healthy and varied diet. Eating a healthy diet isn't just important
where your weight's concerned; your skin, eyes, teeth, nails, and hair can all
benefit from foods rich in nutrients. You don't need to spend a fortune on
products that claim they will make your hair shine; foods rich in omega-3 fats
can do it! Dark green vegetables, flax seed oil, and fish such as tuna and
mackerel can all help to give you a head of shiny hair (as well as being good
for anyone on a weight-loss diet given the relatively low calories these foods
contain).

Get regular exercise. Not only will regular exercise help your body look
good, but it will improve blood circulation which in turn will deliver more
oxygen and nutrition to your skin cells. Exercise doesn't have to take place in
a gym, either -- a brisk 20-minute walk every day is enough to get the blood
pumping and deliver results.

Watch your alcohol intake. While alcohol doesn't have to be avoided
completely, it's wise to remember that too much of it can leave skin dehydrated,
looking dull and puffy. It can also leave toxic by-products in the body
resulting in premature aging (not to mention the calories it carries -- one
glass of red wine has around 100 calories). The odd glass now and again is
probably the best beauty tip where alcohol's concerned.

It's a wise woman who remembers that beauty begins from within. Start from
the right place and you can look gorgeous with the minimum of effort and
fuss.

Organic Skin Care

You do all of the right things: you limit your fat intake, take your
vitamins, exercise daily, drink plenty of water, eat plenty of organic fruits
and vegetables, and stay out of the sun. But what about the products you slather
on your skin in your quest for moist, wrinkle-free skin? Are you using as much
care in selecting skin care
products as you do the rest of your life. If you are trying to live a
green or vegan lifestyle, organic skin care is an eco-friendly choice that's
good for the earth, the animals, and your skin!

Earth-friendly natural skin care products are better for the environment
because they are made with organic ingredients without pesticides (think herbal
and plant-based products), synthetic preservatives, mineral oil, artificial
colors and fragrances, or other harmful substances. In addition, companies
dedicated to promoting an organic line are generally dedicated to operating
"green" businesses. You'll find that the organic skin care industry has embraced
green packaging, soy inks, and other eco-friendly business practices.

For those concerned about living a vegan lifestyle, choosing skin care
products that do not use animal byproducts or engage in animal testing is
important. While not all organic skin care products will pass the vegan test,
you'll find plenty of organic choices that do. Read labels carefully to ensure
that your organic choices meet your vegan lifestyle. Many organic skin care
product lines are 100% vegetarian and vegan-friendly.

Organic skin care products leave a smaller footprint on the earth and leave
animals alone but what can they do for you and your skin? By eliminating the
synthetic preservatives, fragrances, colors, chemicals, acids, solvents, and
other harsh ingredients and using only natural ingredients such as distilled
water, safflower oil, seaweed extract, herbal infusions, avocado, and aloe vera,
organic products naturally care for your skin using Earth's bounty.

People have been using natural ingredients since ancient times to care for
their skin. From the healing and soothing properties of the aloe vera plant to
the antiseptic properties of natural astringents such as rosemary and the
moisturizing goodness of essential oils, your skin will love it when you make
the switch from over-processed, harsh skin care products to pure and natural
organics.

The organic movement is growing. Not only can you go to the local supermarket
and buy organic bananas and tomatoes, you can now find a variety of natural,
organic skin care products ranging from moisturizers, facial toners, masks, eye
creams, toners, cleansers, body creams, and topical medicinal products.

Your skin offers the world a snapshot of your overall health. Does your skin
look clean and healthy? Or dry and worn out? Many beauty products claim to be
the ultimate in science and suggest that they can stop the aging process.
There's no such thing as a 'Fountain of Youth" but you can give your skin the
care it needs by choosing natural ingredients and shunning the harsh chemical
concoctions.

Skin Care Lines

It will require the services of a skin care expert to be able to know which
type of products will be best used on your skin. Because of the vast number of
products out in the market, it is going to be a very hard decision to make. You
can research about it through product inserts, magazine reviews, and even from
friends who have tried it, but it will really require your cooperation as to
what is good for your skin. Starting with the products your mother uses can help
you get started in choosing what is good for you. You most probably have
inherited some of her skin traits so this may be a good place to start. You may
want to ask the aesthetician if that particular product has already evolved into
a different product since they usually revise their product lines every couple
of years.

A way to discover what product is best for you is to test it on your skin. Do
not test it immediately on your face but on some inconspicuous part like the
inside of your arm so if ever there is an allergic reaction, then at least your
face will not be affected. If you get to find a product that doesn't have
immediate adverse effects on your skin, they try it out at least for a couple of
weeks to see if it really works well on your skin.

While selecting different skin care
products, ask first the sales person if they take returns on their products.
If they decline, then it is not worth testing their product. Some companies even
offer samples that you may use for a certain period of time. At least you don't
have the hassle of coming back to return the product.

When you get to decide on which line of products you are going to use, make
sure that you get most of your products from the same line so as to get uniform
results since their concentrations are made in such a way that when mixed
together, they give out the best results as compared to using different brands
of product which may have a different formulation, and not blend with others.
The cleanser, toner and moisturizer work in sync to normalize the pH of the skin
and hydration. As to other products such as exfoliants, gels, creams for the eye
and hand, these can be from other brands as it won't affect the skin as much as
the previous products mentioned.

At some point in your life, you may want to change your skin care products
especially as one grows older their skin demands more nutrients and care. Some
lines cater to needs of different age groups so as to not lose your loyalty as a
consumer. It will still be up to you if you would like to change or retain what
you are presently using.

Also be sure to use the same products every day. Don't use one product line
one day, and another the next. In a sense, this confuses your skin and it won't
want to behave.

Here are some reasons you may have to change skin care lines:

You have a skin condition that requires special treatments.
You're no
longer satisfied with your current brand and want to try something new.
You
want to use cosmeceuticals you've read about.
You're making more money and
want to use more expensive products.
You want to save money and know you can
still get great skin results for less money.
Your skin has matured and you
need more nourishing skin care products.
You want to use the skin care system
recommended by a skin care technician or friend.
For no good reason at all.
You just want to change.

Oftentimes, you may just want to change skin care products just for no reason
at all but to change. Always remember to practice caution and better judgment in
choosing what is best for you.

Day Spas How to Choose

Inhale deep, hold, and exhale. Feel the tension in your neck lessen slightly?
Good, now multiply that relief by thousands and you have the worth of a perfect
day spa experience. Our world is plugged in, turned on, and blaring stress at us
non stop. So, how do you find a day spa to act as a private oasis? Just a bit of
legwork and you too can choose a day spa offering gifts of relaxation, health,
and peace of mind.

Drink at least two liters (eight glasses) of water a day. Water
helps keep your skin hydrated. It also helps keep your body in good working
order including your metabolism and digestive system, and helps to flush toxins
from your body. Drinking water is good for internal as well as external
beauty.

Choose a day spa with top marks in the following three areas: fair pricing,
considerate staff, and refined products and facilities.

Start by finding a spa with prices in your budget. You are less likely to
find a day spa's services fulfilling if you don't also feel you are getting a
fair price from the start. Expect more expense for highly technical and
specialized services, but shopping around may also uncover a great deal. Don't
forget to include tax and gratuity into the charge if not already included. Many
day spas are independently owned-- an open door to establishing a closer
business relationship. Day spa owners and spa therapists are always on the
lookout for repeat and consistent clients. It never hurts to inquire about
discounts for multiple bookings or service packages.

After calling a handful of day spas and finding one within your means, now
weigh the team serving you. One phone call can give mounds of information to
determine if the spa is worth the next step, a preliminary visit. Choose a day
spa that wants your business. Snobbery, difficulty in booking an appointment,
and unwillingness to answer questions are all warning signs to go some where
else! Incredible customer treatment comes from a need to keep clients. Don't
discredit any first impressions from the booking phone call. Also, be sure to
ask about the credentials of the specialist working with you. Lack of experience
may not necessarily equal an impending bad experience; absences of training and
appropriate education are though!

Once you have an appointment, be sure to discuss an opportunity to view the
facility and review products used. Quality day spas will stick within one
specific product line or brand to prevent adverse reactions by crossing
products. This is especially important if you have sensitive skin or allergies
to herbal ingredients. A short tour shouldn't take more than ten minutes, and
will afford you the opportunity to walk through the process. Take note of how
the atmosphere feels and the cleanliness of the common areas. Check the walls
and literature for any claims of affiliation or licensing by day spa trade
associations. Follow up with those organizations to learn what that affiliation
means for your day spa visit, or if there have been any client complaints about
a particular location.

On the day of your appointment be sure to arrive twenty to thirty minutes
before your scheduled appointment to complete questionnaires. A vast majority of
spa services have multiple personal preference components. Intake staff will use
this information to set up any aroma therapies or specialized products needed
for your day spa service. Plus, waiting at a day spa is not dreary like a
dentist or doctor office! Serenity rooms or conservatories are important ways to
begin removing stress and unwanted worries before meeting with other spa
staff.

Spa treatments are not a luxury to just waste money. A day spa performs
services to help reduce stress, improve skin and muscle conditions, and enhance
mental well-being. Men and women need to reinvest in themselves, especially as
the forty hour work week is consistently stretched to mean fifty. Our bodies are
the most expensive job equipment owned. Similar to vehicles receiving periodic
maintenance to keep the engine running, our bodies also need upkeep to stay in
top producing condition. Choose the day spa focused on providing for the
customer, you! Finally, feel secure in rewarding your hard work and enjoy the
"ahhhh" to follow.

Seborrheic Dermatitis - Seborrhea

Seborrheic dermatitis (Seborrhea) is a common skin condition that can affect
people of any age. Recognized as a scaly, red, itchy rash that is commonly found
on the scalp, eyebrows, eyelids, sides of the nose, behind the ears and on the
chest, it is an uncomfortable and often embarrassing condition. Seborrheic
dermatitis affects millions of people in the United States alone - fortunately,
it is more embarrassing than it is a health risk, and this disturbing skin
condition is easily treated. While there is no cure for seborrheic dermatitis,
one can learn more about it and lessen the effects, discomfort and
embarrassment.

Seborrheic Dermatitis Photo:

What Causes Seborrheic Dermatitis?
Seborrheic Dermatitis occurs
when the sebaceous glands (the body's natural oil glands) begin to produce too
much oil, also known as sebum. While for some people, this just results in oily
skin, people who suffer from seborrheic dermatitis have the problem with the
oily skin, but a pityrosporum yeast begins to grow in the sebum, and this can be
further complicated by the presence of bacteria. When you mix the abundance of
sebum with the unnatural yeast growth, your body creates the ideal surface for
seborrheic dermatitis to set in.

Seborrhea is caused by yeast that's present in the hair follicle. You can
control the growth of seborrhea, but it can recur from time to time. Consult a
dermatologist if you have more than mild symptoms.

While seborrheic dermatitis is commonly seen on the scalp, chest and facial
areas, it can also be found in the ear canals, under the arms, or even in the
groin area. In truth, seborrheic dermatitis can strike just about anywhere, can
affect people of all ages and ethnicities, and can be further complicated by a
person's mood, their environment, and their personal hygiene.

Who is at Risk?
This embarrassing condition is commonly seen
amongst people of 3 different ages: Found in infants, seborrheic dermatitis
often affects the scalp and, for this reason, is commonly called "cradle cap."
This usually happens simply because the body is getting used to working properly
and it takes it some time to adjust and know how much oil to produce.
Fortunately, most children grow out of their cradle cap by the time they're 3
years old.

Many middle-aged people begin to develop seborrheic dermatitis and, finally,
this condition is commonly found amongst the elderly, particularly those who are
in hospitals or nursing homes. In addition to the age factor, seborrheic
dermatitis affects people who are suffering from extreme fatigue or stress,
those who are obese, and the risk of developing this condition can also increase
for those who have relatives with the condition.

Weather conditions, such as those found in the cold northern climates, can
further irritate seborrheic dermatitis, and this condition is commonly
associated with people who have also suffered head injuries, heart attacks,
stroke, or have autoimmune disorders. Seborrheic dermatitis is commonly found in
people who suffer from AIDS, as well as those who have Parkinson's Disease.

How is it Diagnosed?
For most people, seborrheic dermatitis merely
requires a visit to the doctor. In most cases, there is no need for blood or
urine tests, though your doctor may decide to do a scraping or skin biopsy, just
to rule out the presence of another disease, but this is mainly done if the
patient's condition seems to resist treatment. While many commonly confuse
seborrheic dermatitis with other conditions, such as dandruff or psoriasis, most
doctors are able to make a quick diagnosis without much ado.

What Treatments are Available?
While there is no cure for
seborrheic dermatitis, there are methods of treating the symptoms and lessening
the discomfort. For infants, simply using a mild shampoo will help, as well as
applying a thin layer of mild corticosteroid cream or lotion to the affected
areas. Anti-fungal topical ointments may also provide relief.

Adults who suffer from seborrheic dermatitis may require a special, medicated
shampoo or a stronger corticosteroid medication to control their conditions. In
more severe cases, the doctor may prescribe a cream, gel, or foam to use on the
skin, or they may give you a prescription for a special shampoo that's not
available over the counter. In many cases, seborrheic dermatitis is lessened
when people go outside, especially during the summer, and engage in a little fun
in the sun.

If you suspect you may have seborrheic dermatitis, the best thing that you
can do is get in to your doctor and have it diagnosed. While this condition is
not contagious, there's no reason to suffer the discomfort and embarrassment
that seborrheic dermatitis may cause. Follow your doctor's advice and you're
sure to be feeling better in no time.

Ingrown Hairs

Ingrown hair is a hair that has not broken through the surface of the skin.
The ingrown hair continues to grow under the skin. When this happens, bacteria,
pus, and dead skin cells get trapped along with the hair. Ingrown hairs are
common anywhere there is curly hair. The area under your chin, pubic area, upper
neck or cheeks can be subject to an uncomfortable cluster of papules and
sometimes pustules, which can make shaving very difficult. This condition is
known as pseudofolliculitis barbae (PFB); more commonly called ingrown hairs or
razor bumps. This reasons for this are the follicles are tightly curved and
sometimes grow right back into the skin.

First and foremost, refrain from picking at ingrown hairs. You may create
bigger problems, such as infection and scarring. Instead, apply salicylic acid
(BHA) to the ingrown hair with a Q-tip. An effective product for ingrown hairs
is Tend Skin, which is available at most drug stores. At any time, you can use a
plastic net or natural loofah to gently exfoliate the ingrown hair area. You can
also dry brush the area daily before your bath or shower. Benzoyl peroxide is
the most commonly used over the counter acne medication, and is also the most
effective method for treating ingrown hair. A cream or water based product may
be gentler if your skin is very sensitive; however, alcohol based products may
be more potent if you're able to tolerate them.

Virtually all hair removal methods can cause ingrown hairs, with the possible
exception of depilatories. Depilatories are lotions that contain strong
chemicals. These chemicals dissolve hair growth above the surface of your
skin.

Ingrown Hair Treatment

If you have ingrown hair, you need to establish proper shaving techniques.
Allowing you hair to grow long enough so they won't grow back into the skin can
be helpful. Here are some tips to help prevent ingrown hairs while shaving:

Soften your hairs before shaving. After a warm shower or bath is the best
time to shave. Steaming helps to soften your hair. Washing helps to remove all
the oil and helps the skin to stand more erect, making them easier to cut.

Use creams or gels to moisten your hairs and to help lubricate the razor
blades on your skin.

Shave with the grain. Using downward strokes. You will have less pull on the
hairs if you shave in the same direction the hair lies. This will also minimize
irritation as well as help in preventing ingrown hair.

Try to not to go over the same area twice. Repeated shaving of the same area
may result in the hair being cut to short.

Don't stretch the skin while shaving. This leads to a closer shave and
increases the chances of ingrown hairs.

Try not to shave daily unless you have to.

Don't use aftershave or cologne on the shaved areas. Instead, after shaving,
rinse thoroughly with warm water and apply a mild lotion such as Cetaphil
Lotion.

Rinse your razor as often as possible while shaving. Change the blades at
least once a week.