Saturday, July 12, 2008

HRT, Breast Cancer, And Bioidentical Hormones


The symptoms of menopause are akin to labor pains in that they feel like they will go on forever, yet they herald the birth of new life. In fact, whilst perimenopause lasts a lot longer - from 5 to 10, or up to 13 years, it is not an indicator of how 'life will be'. Menopause is a time of growth and adaptation, and our bodies are an intimate part of the journey. The symptoms associated with menopause intimately reflect the flux of the body's hormonal systems.

Menopause can be extremely disruptive, however. Whether it's sleeplessness, menopause related depression, hot flushes, vaginal dryness, or emotional swings, the good news is that these symptoms can be alleviated. A good menopause treatment will help many seemingly diverse symptoms, as they are all related to the root hormonal flux in the body.

HRT is one choice, popular with doctors, and one that many women have found extremely useful. But what is often not understood, is that there are different types of hormone replacement therapy, even amongst those prescribed by doctors.

Premarin is one of the best well know, and oldest, types of hormone treatment. Premarin is made from the urine of pregnant horses, and is an estrogen only hormonal pill. It was advocated as being beneficial for, amongst other things:

* thickening vaginal tissue


* helping depression


* stopping hot flushes


* preventing heart disease, osteoporosis, and alzheimers

However, research has also found a link between estrogen-only supplementation and breast cancer. The cells in the breasts and the uterus are responsive to estrogen. So to add estrogen in, without the checks and balances intrinsic to our normal hormonal system, can stimulate the growth of this tissue.

What many believed was a mitigating factor in premarin's favor was the belief that it helped prevent heart disease. This presumption was based on the fact that premarin lowered LDL cholesterol. High levels of LDL cholesterol had earlier been identified as a risk in developing heart disease. However, this belief has been found to be unsupported in several large clinical trials. In one involving women who had heart disease, those taking premarin (in combination with a synthetic form of progesterone which was given with premarin to prevent endometrial cancer), these women actually significantly increased their risk of having another heart attack in the first year of use. This risk leveled off after that, but it didn't provide any heart protective effects. In a study with healthy women, hormone replacement with premarin, with or without a synthetic progesterone supplement, did not decrease the risk of heart attacks or heart disease.

Another drawback to premarin and other hormone replacement therapies is the way they are often prescribed, in a kind of 'one size fits all' way, irrespective of a woman's size or medical history.

But the news is not all bad with HRT therapies. When premarin was developed, there was not the ability amongst scientists to produce other types of estrogen. Because the estrogen in horses is not natural in women, side effects like bloating, headaches, and sore breasts are common. And because the breakdown products of estrogen from horses are so strong, actually more active in the body than the original horse estrogen, they have a pronounced effect on estrogen sensitive tissues, such as the breast. And given that numerous studies have shown that these metabolic by-products can produce changes in the DNA of cells that are carcinogenic to living tissue, it is no surprise that the incidence of breast cancer increases when women take premarin.

But there are alternatives. Bioidentical hormones are developed from soy beans or yams, and their chemical structure is designed to reflect that which is found in women's bodies. Further, bioidentical hormones are not usually given in a standardized, 'one size fits all' dose, but tailored to a woman's presenting history. They are generally given at low doses, and because chemically they behave more like regular estrogen, they are not associated with the side effects of premarin, although they have not been used in the large scale studies that premarin has.

References: Dr Christiane Northrup, The Wisdom Of Menopause

You can buy Premarin here

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Eversore Garlaxiel's weblog

Caffeine Caused Anxiety Attacks


Since the dawning of the "Information Age" in the early 1980's the pace of change has accelerated in our society. To keep pace with the explosion of new information and this rapid rate of change, many people have adopted a new coping strategy of increasing their consumption of caffeine. Caffeine is a drug. It is a stimulant which increases many of same physiological responses as the survival response known as the "Flight-Fight" response. It is this reaction by the body to the stimulation from caffeine that can trigger an anxiety-type physical reaction. Many people are unsuspecting and naпve regarding the full extent of this response to which often includes a common, and even, celebrated "rush" of energy. Knowing about this response can keep you from being a victim to caffeine related anxiety attacks.

As a stimulant, the effect of caffeine can be different from one person to the next. The amount of caffeine consumed, and then the amount actually absorbed by the body, can contribute to the range of reactions. It is not uncommon for caffeine to cause an increase in brain wave activity that can arouse a tired mind. This is the most desired response for many sleep deprived people. This can backfire on many people who may have a daylong response to their morning coffee (or other caffeine source) because many people can not sleep well at bedtime as a response to this early caffeine consumption. This "vicious cycle" will then cause poor quality sleep/rest which requires more caffeine to get "up" for the next day's activities.

The stimulation caused by caffeine can also increase heart rate and for some people increase their blood pressure as it simulates the release of excitatory hormones like adrenaline (epinephrine.) This rapid heart rate, when severe, can scare people, triggering the hormonal release which can cause a greater anxiety reaction. The frightening response to the physical associations of an anxiety attack can cause fear and can even drive people to the emergency rooms with the concern that the patient believes that they going to die from a heart attack. We have enough anxiety in our society without pushing ourselves over the edge with the stimulation of caffeine.

Caffeine can cause an increase in skeletal muscle tension as it triggers the classic flight response. This muscle tension can be distracting (loss of focus), cause fatigue, and in many cases increase the likelihood of increased muscle spasms and so, muscle contraction pain. In this way, caffeine can contribute to muscle tension headaches from the tightness of muscles in the jaw, neck, and shoulders. For people suffering from chronic muscular tension pain, this can contribute to their tension and pain. It will often cause an increased anxiety driven response to their pain which can intensify their chronic pain complaints. This is especially true for lower back pain and neck/shoulder pain, as well as the peripheral pains in the arms and legs that can be associated with back pain.

For those of you who use caffeine regularly, you should also know that there are plenty of cases of physical and psychological addiction to this drug. Many people feel withdrawal symptoms that are not comfortable when they try to discontinue their caffeine habit. If you want to discontinue, the best way to do this would be gradually over time. Substituting Ѕ de-caf into your morning coffee and minimizing other caffeine laden products will be helpful. Be patient and drink extra water!

In its defense, caffeine can be helpful for some types of headaches such as migraine headaches which can be reduced by caffeine or associated cafergot. (Cafergot is a brand name of the combination of ergotamine and caffeine.) With its stimulating effects on the digestive system, caffeine may also work as a laxative to minimize problems with constipation. Historically, European coffee "salons" were places where intellectuals could meet and have lively discussions while drinking brewed coffee which was more healthful than the untreated available water which was often contaminated with deadly diseases of the Middle Ages. The other alternative beverage for most Middle Age Europeans was to drink beer or alcoholic drinks which did not encourage good discussion, thinking, or productivity.

Since the 1980's, our society has seen an explosion of coffee houses and Expresso stands. You can not get through any American city with being confronted by easily accessible purveyors of liquid coffee refreshments. Both young and old are caught in this "glamorous" habit with expanding zeal. A gift of choice is the insidious gift certificate for the expensive coffee houses. This has gotten to be big business.

Besides coffee or expresso drinks, caffeine is found in many products. Black teas, green tea, soft drinks, chocolate candy, and as an additive in many other products are but a few of these additional sources for caffeine. There are even a few products with commercial names like: Jolt, Red Bull, and RockStar that cater to the young caffeine crazed generation that seem to require higher concentrations of caffeine. I do not want to deprive people from indulging in these products, but people must be aware of what the effects of these products can do to their body's and to people who interact with caffeine saturated folks. Many cases of "road rage" may be traced to the negative effects of over-caffeinated, stressed drivers.

Let's have some common sense. Moderation is a great rule to follow, especially if you are one the people who are most sensitive to the effects of caffeine. Coffee businesses are not bad or the enemy, we just need to learn how use them in most appropriate ways.

If you are looking for wellness coaching, please investigate the Professional Stress Management Coaching Program

You can buy Cafergot here

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Ayven's weblog

Thursday, July 10, 2008

Male Enhancement Drugs


Reports have shown that the male enhancement drugs are rapidly gaining popularity among men with erectile dysfunction. These drugs are very helpful to men suffering from diminished sex drive, early ejaculation, weak or short-term erections, lack of pleasurable sensation, and lack of overall confidence about their sexual selves. In other words, male enhancement drugs are used to curb male impotency problems and boost sexual performance in men.

There are several different types of drugs that are available in the market. Each of them has a diverse way of improving your sex life. Among many male enhancement prescriptions, Viagra, Zenegra, Cialis, and Levitra have become silent household names. Recent studies show Zenegra and Viagra are very popular among men of all ages, particularly college students. Men consuming these drugs have reported an improved sex drive and increased stamina.

All male enhancement drugs have certain side effects, but these are mild ones and mostly depend on the dosage consumed. Most common side effects are headache, flushing, upset stomach, nasal stuffiness, diarrhea, and dizziness. In extremely rare instances, consumption of a few variety cause penis erection lasting for many hours. It is wise that men who seek the aid of male enhancement drugs consult a physician.

Male impotency drugs are steadily dropping in cost, because of the entry of more generic forms of male enhancement drugs, which offer the same advantages of their brand-name counterparts. The generic drugs are a safe and affordable way for men to curb erection problems. Many people think the term ‘generic’ refers to a poorer quality product. But in the world of pharmaceuticals, the word is used to refer to the drugs which contain the same active ingredients of the original one. Besides, the generic forms are identical in dosage, potency, and method of administration.

These days, many men consume enhancement drugs because they do not feel confidence in their sexual performance. Definitely, a virility man never depends on the use of male sexual enhancement drugs and other sexual aids. The one thing that has improved as a result of male enhancing drugs is the confidence level.

You can buy Male Enhancement Pills here

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Praestat's weblog

Trying to Quit Smoking With the Patch or Gum


If you're trying to quit smoking, there are ways to quit smoking with proven success rates that make the mission for a smoke-free life a lot easier to undertake. A few decades ago, the only quit smoking program that existed was going through the withdrawal cold turkey -- with little support.

Today, awareness of smoking-related health concerns and a general turnaround of society's acceptance of smoking has opened the doors to more possibilities and methods to quit smoking. Cold turkey doesn't cut it anymore.

Many people are turning to methods that seem simple and easy. The nicotine patch is one option that most people are using, and some opt for nicotine gum or lozenges. These programs are very different and individuals choosing one or the other have varying results. Here is a closer look at both methods of quitting smoking to see if one suits you.

The nicotine patch is one of the most popular ways to quit smoking. Often called the -stop smoking patch,- a nicotine patch involves sticking a series of self-adhesive patches containing nicotine to the upper body during the initial period of breaking away from cigarettes.

The patches release a dose of nicotine through the skin so that you can break psychological addictions with fewer physical cravings, slowly weaning yourself off nicotine at the same time by switching to lower dosage patches.

If you're trying to quit smoking, this can be a great option that has a high rate of success. Nicotine and stop smoking patch programs are cheap, costing the same or less than your cigarette habit, and are easily accessible to everyone, over-the-counter at pharmacies.

However, some people have sensitivity to the patch's strength and get rashes, while others suffer from periods of insomnia or vivid dreams. The effects are short-term, though, and don't last once the person has weaned off the patch.

Nicotine gum is another stop smoking support product that some people use to help with cravings when they're trying to quit smoking. Nicotine gum is a simple chewing gum containing a dose of nicotine. When a craving hits, the person can chew a piece of nicotine-releasing gum. Nicotine lozenges are also available.

While helpful, nicotine gum or lozenges often aren't effective on their own and rarely help heavy smokers who have bigger needs. The supply of nicotine isn't continual or constant, as with the patch.

Long-term use can result in addiction to the gum, rather than smoking cigarettes, and there really isn't any psychological program in place for the individual. At need, the person chews gum.

Caution: If a person uses a nicotine -stop smoking- patch, the individual cannot use nicotine gum or lozenges. The result of both products used together is a nicotine overdose that can make a person quite sick.

If you really want to quit, you can find several ways to stop smoking. When trying to quit smoking, there is a variety of methods that range from laser treatment to a simple piece of gum.

For the latest information about ways to stop smoking, consult with a health professional or check reputable websites for more information.

You can buy Stop Smoking Patch here

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Hammerfel's weblog

Hemorrhoids Causing Pain And Bleeding? Treat Hemorrhoids And Piles ...


Almost everyone suffers from hemorrhoids at one point or the other. For most people

this happens between ages 20 and 50. Hemorrhoids are the most common cause of

bleeding and are not generally dangerous - however a diagnosis from your doctor is

essential. Anal bleeding and pain should be evaluated as they could be symptoms of

more serious conditions.

Hemorrhoids are basically varicose veins of the rectum. These veins are located in

the lowest area of the rectum and anus and when they swell, the vein walls become

thin and irritated by bowel movements. When these swollen veins itch, hurt and bleed,

they are known are hemorrhoids or piles.

Hemorrhoids can be internal or external. Internal hemorrhoids are too far inside to

be seen or felt and their presence can usually only be detected by the bleeding.

However internal hemorrhoids can sometimes enlarge and bulge outside the anal

sphincter. Such prolapsed hemorrhoids may be seen as moist pink pads of skin that are

pinker than the surrounding area. These hemorrhoids can hurt but they usually go back

into the rectum on their own or can be gently pushed back into place.

External hemorrhoids form within the anus and are generally painful. If an external

hemorrhoid prolapses to the outside usually during a bowel movement, it can be seen

and felt. Sometimes blood clots can form within a prolapsed external hemorrhoid

causing it to turn blue and bleed. This condition is called thrombosis.

Natural remedies for Hemorrhoids:

1. Incorporate a high fiber diet consisting of vegetables, fruits, nuts and whole

grains.

2. Reduce sodium intake as excessive salt causes fluid retention and consequently

swelling in veins

3. Drink plenty of water.

4. If your work involves sitting for long periods of time, try to get up once every

hour and move around for 5 minutes. A doughnut-shaped cushion will make sitting more

comfortable.

5. Resist the temptation to scratch. Try using a cold pack and herbal anti-itch

cream.

6. Don't sit on the toilet for more than 5 minutes at a time and wipe gently. Dampen

toilet paper or use cotton balls or alcohol free baby wipes.

7. Try yoga exercises. You can also lie on a slant board with your head down for 15

minutes every day. Yoga encourages blood flow away from hemorrhoids.

You can buy here

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Boogs's weblog

Getting Rid of Vaginal Odor So You Can Enjoy Intimacy Again


As women we tend to share almost every detail of our lives with our close friends. We seem to be comfortable talking about our martial woes, the struggles we have with our weight and even issues that may pop up with our children. There is one area of our lives that we are often hesitant to confide in anyone about. Intimacy and vaginal odor is an embarrassing topic that we aren't likely to talk about with anyone. If you are a woman who is working at getting rid of vaginal odor so you can enjoy intimate time with the man in your life you may wonder what the best approach to accomplish that is. There are a few things you can try that may help you regain your freshness and self confidence.

If you know beforehand that you are going to be indulging in lovemaking you'll want to ensure that you are as clean as you can be. One of the most important things to remember about getting rid of vaginal odor is that you need to wash yourself regularly with a gentle soap. Clean the entire area carefully and try and do it as close to the time you anticipate making love as you can. If you are having dinner out first, shower before that and rest assured that just being clean will help diminish the strength of the odor.

Many women have found some solace in using feminine deodorant products. Typically these are sold in a spray form and are effective at getting rid of vaginal odor short term. After cleansing yourself you can use one of these sprays. It's important to ensure that you don't have a negative reaction to it though. It's a good idea to try it out on a day when you aren't planning on being intimate with anyone. This way if you do develop any irritation or rash it will have time to calm down and heal before you are intimate.

Panty liners are truly great inventions and are something of a must for women who are focused on getting rid of vaginal odor. The liners are designed to help absorb any excess moisture which can really help with diminishing the odor. If you have a very strong odor, try and change the liner frequently to help control the smell. Bear in mind that some of the scent will remain on your body so consider that before making love.

A very common concern for women who do have strong vaginal odor is the increased intensity of the smell after intercourse. If you are worried about this is may be worthwhile to make a quick trip to the washroom as soon as possible after love making. This will enable you to clean the area which should help to deter the stronger scent.

You can buy here

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HafhandBludson's weblog

Wednesday, July 9, 2008

Complementary and Alternative Treatments for Urinary Incontinence


Treatment for incontinence depends on what is causing the condition. For example, if a prostate gland problem is the cause, treatment for that condition can cure incontinence. In severe cases, an artificial sphincter, which allows you to control its open and closed settings, can be surgically implanted. Collagen injection therapy-where in collagen is injected into the external bladder to add bulk to the urethra is effective in some cases for women with sphincter deficiency and for men who experience urinary stress incontinence after prostate surgery. Medication also may be prescribed to treat incontinence; commonly prescribed drugs are anticholinergic agents (Pro Banthene), alpha-adrenergic agonist drugs, tricyclic antidepressant drugs, and antispasmodics (Bentyl, Ditropan, and Urispas). Postmeonpausal women with stress incontinence may benefit from estrogen either orally or by applying a cream to the vagina.

Complementary and Alternative Treatments

Ayurvedic Medicine

Ayurveda views incontinence as a vata disorder that's caused by a weak bladder sphincter. Your Ayurvedic practitioner may recommend taking an Indian herbal blend containing ashwagandha and also may suggest eliminating or reducing your intake of alcohol and coffee and other caffeine-containing foods, which intensify the urge to urinate as well.

If symptoms persist, see your doctor for evaluation and assistance.

Bodywork and Somatic Practices

Oriental bodywork, reflexology, massage, Therapeutic Touch, Reiki, polarity therapy, and CranioSacral Therapy are helpful first options.

Traditional Chinese Medicine

Acupuncture Chinese medical experts believe that incontinence is caused by a lack of energy in the kidney and spleen and their related meridians. To combat this imbalance, they work on the points that correspond to these areas and to the bladder.

Acupressure Points that may be focused on during an acupressure session to treat incontinence are Conception Vessel 2, Spleen 6, and related auricular points.

Chinese Herbal Therapy Herbs may be given to help tone the kidney and spleen and to strengthen bladder functions.

Yoga and Meditation

Exercise is always beneficial for strengthening muscles, including those of the bladder and surrounding areas. Try these easy yoga exercises several times daily to combat incontinence: Ashwini Mudra and Stomach Lock. Consult a trained practitioner for proper technique. Avoid these poses if you're pregnant.

You can buy Urispas here

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mook's weblog