What If Making Love Helped You Make Miracles?

by GINA PARRIS

Have you ever been so stressed you wished for a miracle…?

Paul was on the couch bitterly straining over his computer for the countless night in a row.

I know how much he hates coming home from workjust to do “other people’s work,” night after night, from his laptop. The irritation flowed like smoke from his nostrils.  His entire energy said, “Leave me alone!”

He wasn’t the only one under stress in the house. Some days the anxiety coursed through any one of us to the point of nausea. Did I mention this can lead to fighting?

Finally he shut the computer, grabbed his cup of tea and headed down the hall. I called out to him from the living room.

“Hey, I think I’m learning something. You are clearly in need of miracle sex.”

Hormones and lovemaking during pregnancy

It's perfectly safe to enjoy lovemaking during your pregnancy, unless there are medical reasons why you should abstain for a while. Every pregnant woman has the potential to enjoy sex - and some enjoy it more than they've ever done before.

© Jupiter

How much you want and enjoy sex can vary during pregnancy, not only from one woman to another, but also in the same woman at different times throughout the 40 weeks. Most women feel less interested in lovemaking during the first trimester (especially if suffering from tiredness and nausea). Desire generally increases in the second trimester and declines again in the third.

The Sexual Side Effects of Chemotherapy

How Treatment May Affect Your Sex Life...and What You Can Do About It

By Lisa Fayed, About.com Guide

Updated November 08, 2010

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by our Medical Review Board

When people hear of chemotherapy side effects, they automatically think of things like hair loss and nausea -- not sex. Unfortunately, chemotherapy can affect your sex life during treatment, both directly and indirectly.

You may think that sex will be the last thing on your mind while going through treatment, but it shouldn't be. Intimacy can often bring higher levels of self esteem and make you feel closer to your partner during the rough times of treatment. Treatment often brings feelings of being unattractive because of hair loss and changes in weight (either gain or loss). Many psychologists agree that maintaining a normal sex life has many advantages while going through cancer treatment.

Is Sex Allowed While Going Through Chemotherapy?

Discussing with your doctor whether sex is safe is essential before resuming or maintaining a sexual relationship with your partner. For most people undergoing chemotherapy treatment, sex is medically permissible, even encouraged by their doctors. However, in some cases, sex can do more harm than good.

People undergoing chemotherapy are at risk of developing neutropenia, a side effect of treatment that results in a low white blood cell count. These white blood cells are vital for fighting off infections in the body. When the count is low, your body has less resistance to infection, which can lead to prolonged illness and possible hospital stays. Sex, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex, are all pathways for infection to enter the body.
Sexual Side Effects that Can Occur During Treatment

Loss of Libido

Not feeling "in the mood" can be expected from both men and women who are going through treatment. Chemotherapy often leaves you exhausted by its side effects, and with little time or desire for sex. The related affects on self esteem also play a role.

• Dealing with Difference in Sex Drives
• Increasing Sexual Intimacy Through Touch
• How to Have Sex Without Intercourse

Erectile Dysfunction

Erectile dysfunction, or impotence, is a condition in which a man is unable to achieve or keep an erection. Some chemotherapy drugs may directly cause impotence in men, but it can also be a result of the emotional stress caused by treatment. The good news is that this is usually temporary and goes away after treatment.

• What is Erectile Dysfunction?
• Drugs that May Cause Impotence
• Natural Treatments for Erectile Dysfunction

Vaginal Dryness

For women, some types of chemotherapy can cause vaginal dryness, a condition where no vaginal lubrication is created (even when a woman is aroused). This can lead to painful, irritating sex. Using a water based lubricant, such as K-Y jelly, can make sex more comfortable. Be sure to consult with your doctor before using any type of over-the-counter medications.

• Water Based Lubricants: Which are Best?
• Treatments for Vaginal Dryness
• Medications that Cause Vaginal Dryness

Vaginal Infections

Vaginal infections are common in women who are undergoing chemotherapy, especially if they are taking antibiotics or steroids. The infections affect the lining of the vagina, causing pain, burning and irritation during sex. Symptoms can include vaginal itchiness, burning, and a white vaginal discharge.

• What are Vaginal Yeast Infections?
• Symptoms of Vaginal Yeast Infections
• 12 Ways to Prevent Vaginal Infections

Genital Warts or Herpes Simplex Virus Outbreaks or Flare-ups

If you have suffered from genital warts or herpes flare-ups in the past, you may notice they are more frequent during chemotherapy. Chemotherapy compromises your immune system, making it more vulnerable to the effects of viral infections such as HPV and HSV. Some people who have never experienced an outbreak or symptoms may do so for the first time during chemotherapy because of this.

• What is Herpes?
• What is HPV and What are the Symptoms?

What You Can Do About Sexual Side Effects of Chemotherapy
The good news is that most sexual side effects of chemotherapy go way after treatment. If you are experiencing sexual side effects, talk to your doctor. Trust me, you will not be the first or last to experience sexual problems during treatment. Staying intimate during treatment is important, and doctors realize this, so don't be shy about expressing your concerns.

Communication with your partner is essential. It may be difficult for some men to admit a side effect such as erectile dysfunction, but letting your partner know can only help the relationship.

Sources:
Effects of Cancer Treatment on Male Sexuality. Treatment Topics and Resources. American Cancer Society. Accessed September 15, 2008.
http://www.cancer.org/docroot/MIT/content/MIT_7_2x_Cancer_Treatments_Effects_On_Male_Sexuality.asp?sitearea=MIT
Frequently Asked Questions. Treatment Topics and Resources. American Cancer Society. Accessed September 18, 2008.

gotquestions  http://www.cancer.org/docroot/MIT/content/MIT_7_2X_Frequently_Asked_Questions.asp

Chemotherapy Side Effects

What Side Effects Might I Have With Chemotherapy?

By Lynne Eldridge MD, About.com Guide

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by the Medical Review Board

What are common chemotherapy side effects? Chemotherapy medications work by interfering with cell division. Cancer cells are continuously dividing and are therefore most susceptible to these medications, but some normal cells that divide frequently (such as those lining the stomach and mouth, hair follicles, and bone marrow) are also affected.

Everyone experiences chemotherapy differently depending on the medications used and other factors, such as age, sex, and general health. You may have several of the below symptoms, or you may not experience any symptoms at all.

Be sure to let your cancer team know about any symptoms you are experiencing during chemotherapy, so they can work with you to make the journey as comfortable as possible. Management of chemotherapy side effects has come a long way over the last few decades, and many of these can be controlled with medications and other therapies.

Bone Marrow Suppression

Red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets are continuously produced in the bone marrow and often affected by chemotherapy. Your oncologist will monitor these cells with blood counts during your therapy.

• Coping With Anemia (Low Red Blood Cell Count)
• Coping With Neutropenia (Low White Blood Cell Count)
• Coping With Thrombocytopenia (Low Platelet Count)

Digestive Symptoms

Nausea is one of the most dreaded side effects of chemotherapy, but ways of managing this symptom have come a long way in recent years. Your doctor may prescribe anti-nausea medications at the time of your treatment in an effort to prevent nausea from occuring altogether. Diarrhea can be a dangerous symptom, often prompting a change in the dose of chemotherapy or discontinuing treatment. Dehydration is also a concern if diarrhea is present. Loss of appetite may occur as a side effect of chemo, but may also be due to the cancer itself.

• Coping With Nausea and Vomiting
• Coping With Loss of Appetite

Hair Loss

Hair loss is usually more of a nuisance than a symptom, but it can be distressing nonetheless. According to research, hair loss is one the most feared side effects of chemotherapy. Some medications are more likely to cause hair loss than others, and hair loss can range from a little thinning to total baldness. It helps to be aware (and frequently comes as a surprise) that all hair can be affected, and it is not uncommon to lose eyebrow hair, facial hair, and even pubic hair. Hair loss usually begins a week or so after the start of chemotherapy and begins to grow back 6 to 8 weeks after completing therapy. Talking about options such as wigs and other head coverings before you loss your hair can ease some of the anxiety at this time.

• More About Chemotherapy Induced Hair Loss

Fatigue

Of all the chemotherapy side effects, fatigue is one of the most distressing. Unlike ordinary tiredness, chemotherapy-related fatigue is frequently described as tiredness that does not resolve with rest, “whole body” tiredness or a feeling in which even the most mundane activities require effort. Fatigue may begin shortly into treatment and can persist for up to a year following completion. The first step toward coping with cancer-related fatigue is to understand that it is normal and common.

• What is Cancer Fatigue?
• Tips for Coping With Fatigue During Chemotherapy

Oral Symptoms

Both mouth sores and taste changes can make eating difficult for some people during chemotherapy. Mouth sores often develop a week or so after beginning chemotherapy and resolve soon after treatment is finished.

• Coping With Mouth Sores
• Coping With Taste Changes

Peripheral Neuropathy

Some chemotherapy medications can cause symptoms of numbness, tingling or burning in the hands and feet. With lung cancer, this is most commonly seen with Platinol (cisplatin),Navelbine (vinorelbine), Taxotere (docetaxel) , and Taxol (paclitaxel). These symptoms may occur early on in treatment and go away, or they may occur weeks to months after treatment, and in some cases may be permanent. Clinical trials are in progress to find ways of preventing peripheral neuropathy related to chemotherapy.

• Coping with Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy

Sources:

National Cancer Institute. Chemotherapy and You: Support for People with Cancer. 06/29/07.http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/chemotherapy-and-you

National Cancer Institute. NCI Bulletin. Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy. 02/23/10.http://www.cancer.gov/ncicancerbulletin/022310/page6

gotquestions  http://lungcancer.about.com/od/treatmentoflungcancer/a/chemosideeffect.htm

6 Chemotherapy Side Effects Patients Don't Expect

The Chemotherapy Side Effects Most People Don't Know About

By Lisa Fayed, About.com Guide

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by our Medical Review Board 

Before undergoing chemotherapy, most people come to expect certain side effects like fatigue, nausea and hair loss. We hear about these side effects so often in pharmaceutical commercials, television shows, and from our loved ones with cancer, that we automatically associate chemotherapy with them. However, the list of possible side effects is long and isn't just exclusive to hair loss or stomach upset. Chemotherapy is a systemic treatment, meaning it affects the whole body with a myriad of possible side effects, some of which aren't easy to talk about during water cooler banter.

When people start experiencing side effects like low libido or yeast infections, it can come as a total surprise. These are the side effects that not many people really talk about. Your doctor most likely gave you an encyclopedia-sized book of information about possible side effects, but because you may not have heard about them beforehand or known someone who experienced them, it's easy to overlook the possibility that you may experience these side effects.

Common Unexpected Chemotherapy Side Effects

1. Low LibidoTo the dismay of many, low libido, or the loss of sexual desire, can be a common chemotherapy side effect. Not all chemotherapy drugs cause a decrease in libido, however, and other types of cancer treatment and related side effects are also a culprit.

A change in libido can also be a psychological side effect of treatment -- hair loss, weight loss or gain, and general lack of self-esteem can cause people to lose their sex drive during treatment.

• More Sexual Side Effects of Chemotherapy

2. Chronic Vaginal Yeast InfectionsWhile vaginal yeast infections do not pose a health risk for women, they can be irritating. 

Chemotherapy drugs, along with steroids or antibiotics that may be prescribed during treatment, can cause women to develop vaginal yeast infections. Under normal circumstances,yeast infections are easy to treat, but the effects of chemotherapy make it difficult for the body to fight off infections.

During treatment, it is important for women to take steps to prevent yeast infections and treat them properly. Most women find relief with over-the-counter medication, but some women may require prescription medication. Learn more about yeast infections during chemotherapy.

3. Chemo BrainCognitive deficit, referred to as "chemo brain" among patients and survivors, is a side effect of treatment that affects cognitive functioning, such as memory and concentration. Affected patients and cancer survivors have reported difficulty concentrating, shortened attention spans, and changes in memory. Research concerning cognitive decline related to chemotherapy is ongoing, but we know little about why it may occur and who is most at risk.

• What Chemotherapy Patients Need to Know About Chemo Brain

4. Nail DamageFingernails and toenails can also be affected by chemotherapy. Nails may become dry, brittle, discolored, or develop lines or ridges. In more severe cases, the nails may even fall off. Not all chemotherapy drugs cause nail damage, but those belonging to the taxane group are most affected by it.

A 2005 study in France found that those who wore special frozen gloves during chemotherapy sessions were less likely to suffer from nail damage than those who did not. Some patients place frozen vegetables or ice packs over their hands and feet to prevent nail damage and also reduce the severity of hand-foot syndrome, another side effect of chemotherapy. Read more about nail damage during chemotherapy.

5. Taste ChangesTaste changes are generally not a common side effect of chemotherapy, but can be with certain chemotherapy drugs. Carboplatin, cisplatin, doxorubisin, gemcitabine, and paclitaxel are known to cause taste changes. These changes can be a loss of taste or experiencing metallic, bitter, or sweet taste sensations. This side effect can make eating and drinking difficult, leading to the development of food aversions, which can cause weight loss. There are no medications to prevent or treat taste changes, but there are things you can do to help food and drinks taste better.

• Coping with Taste Changes During Chemotherapy

6. Acid RefluxAcid reflux is a common condition, even in people who don't have cancer. It can be a common side effect of chemotherapy and a major source of discomfort. For most people, OTC medications alleviate the problem, but for those who suffer from moderate to severe acid reflux, prescription medication may be needed. Acid reflux usually starts within a few days of beginning treatment and can continue after treatment ends. 

Read more about acid reflux during chemotherapy.

Sources:

Florian, Scotté, Jean-Marc Tourani, Eugeniu Banu, Michel Peyromaure, Eric Levy, Sandrine Marsan, Emmanuelle Magherini, Elisabeth Fabre-Guillevin, Jean-Marie Andrieu, Stéphane Oudard. "Multicenter Study of a Frozen Glove to Prevent Docetaxel-Induced Onycholysis and Cutaneous Toxicity of the Hand." Journal of Clinical Oncology 2301 July 2005 4424-9.

Gressett et al. Management of hand-foot syndrome induced by capecitabine. J Oncol Pharm Pract.2006; 12: 131-141
Minisini, A. M. , A. Tosti, A. F. Sobrero, M. Mansutti, B. M. Piraccini, C. Sacco and F. Puglisi. "Taxane-induced nail changes: incidence, clinical presentation and outcome." Annals of Oncology Vol 14, No 23 July 2003 3333-337....

http://cancer.about.com/od/chemotherapysideeffects/a/Chemotherapy-Side-Effects.htm?nl=1

The Advantages of Taking Ginger Root

By Jinnene Foster, eHow Contributor

Ginger Root

The roots of ginger plants, known as rhizomes, originate in Southeast Asia, and are innate to counties like India and China. Ginger root's benefits are vast, and according to Nutritional-supplements-health-guide.com, has been implemented into Asian cooking and medical methods for centuries. Ancient Chinese herbalists discovered ginger root as a curing aid to food poisoning, menstrual cramping and nausea, but the numerous benefits of taking ginger root continue to gain steam

Aids in Digestion

Ginger root stimulates the circulation of bile, which eases discomforts associated with nausea and indigestion. Ginger root has also proven beneficial in soothing pains pertaining to menstrual cramping. Ginger root aids in the breaking down of proteins, a process that can be hard on the body, resulting in abdominal pain. 

Improved Circulation and Arthritis Relief

Ginger root contains anti-inflammatory qualities, which can relieve pain resulting from poor circulation and arthritis. Particular benefits of ginger root result from using the root in oil form, and applying it to affected areas as a topical, as with massage.

Promotes Hearty Cardiovascular Function

According to Herbal-supplements-guide.com, ginger root is believed to decrease LDL (unhealthy) cholesterol levels in the blood, which leads to lower risks of heart disease. Taking ginger root also reduces adhesive properties in blood platelets, thus ensuring greater overall blood circulation. 

Enhances Immune System

Ginger root is believed to contain properties for boosting the body's immune system, and can aid in treating symptoms associated with common viruses like cold and flu. 

Improved Respiratory Health

Ginger root ably acts as a natural decongestant or antihistamine, which naturally relieves congestion of the mucous membranes. As a result, ginger root promotes overall respiratory conditions and general allergies often associated to conditions like asthma.
Death of Cells in Ovarian Cancer Cases

According to Whfoods.com, conducted research from medical professionals at University of Michigan showed ginger root to possess antioxidant properties, and to be linked with anti-tumor effects on human cells. Studied cases indicated that ginger extract led to cell deaths in ovarian cancer patients. 

Aids in Side Effects of Pregnancy

Ginger root has been found beneficial when taken as a natural alternative to anti-vomiting medication prescribed to pregnant women. Ginger root is safe, and is taken in small doses, making it a more appealing choice over synthetic anti-vomiting medications that could lead to birth defects when taken incorrectly, or in higher doses.

http://www.ehow.com/list_6017408_advantages-taking-ginger-root.html

Surprising Healing Benefits of Spices

By Brynn Mannino, Woman’s Day

Chances are you sprinkle cinnamon into your morning oatmeal or add a dash of oregano to pizza without giving the spices much thought. But did you know your favorite flavors can actually do your body good? According to Christina Suarez, master herbalist and owner of TheGoodHerbCo.com, while spices are only effective when eaten at least daily, each has its own specific health benefits. Read on to find out which additives can burn fat, ease a sore throat or help you get to sleep, and how you can incorporate them into your daily diet.

Cardamom

Fruit of the Elettaria cardamomum plant in the ginger family.

Health Powers: Eases belching, flatulence and indigestion; treats respiratory conditions like coughing, asthma and loss of voice; aids in the elimination of toxins through your skin.

Daily Dose: Stir a few freshly ground pinches of cardamom pods into a shot of OJ or your morning fruit salad, or mix it with white or brown rice before you boil it.

Cayenne

Fruit of the Capsicum annuum plant in the Solanaceae family, along with chile pepper.

Health Powers: Eliminates gas from the stomach and intestines; soothes sore throat, cold and flu symptoms; increases metabolism for weight control.

Daily Dose: Stir into a cup of hot chocolate or any sweet juice drink for a contrasting flavor kick.Cayenne

Fruit of the Capsicum annuum plant in the Solanaceae family, along with chile pepper.

Photo by Shutterstock.

Cinnamon
Bark of a small evergreen tree.

Health Powers: Tames nausea and stomach ulcers; functions as a mild anti-inflammatory; increases insulin sensitivity to help focus fat burn.

Daily Dose: Stir into coffee/tea, yogurt, oatmeal or any boxed cereal.

Photo by Shutterstock.

Cloves

Flower bud found at the base of an evergreen tree.

Health Powers: Soothes digestive tract muscles and is a potent antihistamine.

Daily Dose: Mix into your nightly ice cream treat or sneak into mustard spread.

Photo by Shutterstock.

Nutmeg

Fruit of Myristica fragrans,an evergreen tree.

Health Powers: Improves digestion; eases the symptoms of menstruation; induces calm and sleep.

Daily Dose: Grate a small amount into applesauce or plain yogurt. (Note: It’s safe to grate the entire nut, which you can usually buy whole at the supermarket, but you never want to consume more than one nutmeg per day because too much of this potent spice can cause stomach pain, double vision and other uncomfortable reactions.)

Photo by Shutterstock.

Celery Seed

Seed of the Apium graveolens plant in the parsley family.

Health Powers: Flushes the liver of toxins; lowers blood pressure; combats water retention.

Daily Dose: Think salads—tuna, potato and egg all work—which can be tossed onto a bed of lettuce, eaten alone or spread onto bread.

Photo by iStockphoto.

Coriander

Also known as cilantro; the leaves and seeds of the Coriandrum plant in the aromatic Apiaceae family.

Health Powers: Acts as a diuretic; eases seasonal allergies.

Daily Dose: Cook into couscous and quinoa, which you can store and eat with leftovers.

Photo by Shutterstock.

Fennel

Seed of the Foeniculum plant in the aromatic Apiaceae family.

Health Powers: Calms bowel distress; supports milk production in nursing mothers; combats water retention.

Daily Dose: Add to canned minestrones and vegetable soups.

Photo by iStockphoto

Oregano

Leaf of the Origanum plant in the mint family.

Health Powers: Loosens mucus; helps treat respiratory illnesses; and calms indigestion.

Daily Dose: Use in any tomato-based foods, like marinara sauces, pizza and soups.

Photo by Shutterstock.

Thyme

Leaf of the Thymus plant in the mint family.

Health Powers: Relaxes the muscle tissue of the gastrointestinal tract; stimulates immune system.

Daily Dose: Toss into any meat-based dishes.

Photo by Shutterstock.

Turmeric

Root of the Circuma plant in the ginger family.

Health Powers: Reduces inflammation (joints, airways); detoxifies the liver.

Daily Dose: Mix in with oil-and-vinegar-based salad dressings.

Photo by Shutterstock.

http://health.yahoo.net/articles/nutrition/surprising-healing-benefits-spices

Coffee culture carries caffeine risk

By Bae Ji-sook in Seoul/The Korea Herald | Asia News Network 


Seoul (The Korea Herald/ANN) - Koreans are definitely caffeinated: They love coffee, cola and chocolate as well as foods that contain a large amount of the stimulant.

Though it has been less than two decades since global coffee shopfranchises were introduced to the country, industry insiders said about 37 million cups of coffee are sold every day, which means that 24 million economically active people drink more than one cup of coffee a day.

"I love coffee. I started with easy 'coffee mix,' powdered coffee extract with powdered cream and sugar. But now I am addicted to brewed coffee, which smells and tastes better. I drink about 4-5 cups a day," said Kim Seo-yeon, a 32-year-old office worker. "Right after I wake up in the morning, after I have my lunch, during an afternoon break and while I watch TV at night, I always sip coffee."

In addition to the frequent consumption of cola and chocolate, caffeinated energy drinks are gaining popularity among teenagers, who struggle to stay up at night to study.

However, experts warn that excessive caffeine intake could be harmful, especially since they are disguised with flavors, making easy to consume too much.

Caffeine is known for its short-term relief of fatigue or drowsiness since it stimulates the brain and nervous system. It is also known to speed up the dissolution of fat, which may lead to weight loss.

Usually, caffeine leaves the body through the urine system hours after it has been consumed, so there is not much to worry about in regards to intake. But if excessively consumed, it could lead to a fast heart rate, anxiety, depression, difficulty in sleeping, nausea, restlessness, tremors, frequent urinating or vomiting. It even has some reported withdrawal symptoms of drowsiness, headaches, irritability, nausea and vomiting.

"About 400 milligrams of caffeine is tolerable for adults, 300mg for pregnant women, or 2.5 milligrams per kilogram of weight," said Dr. Seo Jeong-wan of Ewha Womans University Medical Center. "It is equivalent to three-four cups of brewed coffee. But it could easily be filled by drinking 250 milliliters of cola, one canned coffee and 1 gram of chocolate, too. Therefore, people should watch what they are eating."

Seo said teenagers should be extra alert about caffeine intake since they are in a critical stage of bone formation.

"If you drink caffeinated drinks instead of dairy, the facilitation of urination will take away the essential calcium and curb the growth of bone. If you are an adult, osteoporosis could be forecasted, too," he added.

He advised teenagers to not rely on caffeine to overcome drowsiness.

"It could lead to insomnia if you take it for too long. Open the window, do stretching and eat food that are abundant in vitamin C such as citrons and other fresh fruits," he said.

http://ph.news.yahoo.com/coffee-culture-carries-caffeine-risk-042003085.html

Sudden Cardiac Death: Are You at Risk?

Source: Article first appeared in "Know Your Man Inside Out" by SingHealth / Her World

Did you know?

Heart attacks are not confined to the old. Even young men can get a heart attack leading to sudden death.  80 per cent of all sudden cardiac death are related to coronary heart disease which, in most cases, can be prevented.

What causes young men to die suddenly?The most common cause is sudden cardiac death (SCD), of which 80 per cent is related to coronary artery disease (CAD) (see box below), with or without a heart attack.

Unfortunately, over half of sudden cardiac death victims have no prior symptoms. Some patients have chest pain, breathlessness or sweating. When these occur in a patient at risk of heart problems, treatment should always be sought immediately.

An SCD attack is not the same as a heart attack. SCD is caused by an abnormal heart rhythm due to an abnormal ‘electrical circuitry’ of the heart. A heart attack is caused by blockage of the arteries supplying blood to the heart. The subsequent damage to the heart muscle may or may not lead to an SCD attack. It is estimated that 1,000 Singaporeans die from SCD every year, about half of whom are below 60 years old.

Learn to recognise these symptoms

• Central or left-sided chest pain often associated with sweating, nausea or breathlessness. The pain is described as something weighing heavily on the chest and is usually brought about by physical or emotional stress. It usually goes away within minutes when the stressful activity is stopped.

• Shortness of breath. Because the heart muscles are damaged by the shortage of blood supply or from a heart attack, it can’t pump blood efficiently to meet the body’s needs.

• Discomfort on exertion, jaw tightness on exertion or after meals. These symptoms immediately subside on resting.

In anyone at high risk for heart disease (eg diabetics, high cholesterol, hypertension, strong family history of heart disease), any chest symptom, even atypical, should be investigated. Diagnosis is made with an electrocardiogram and blood tests.

Treatment may involve hospitalisation and ways to restore blood flow in the coronary artery (by angioplasty or thrombolysis).

If you are around...

1. Call the ambulance immediately. Early treatment increases survival rate.

2. Perform chest compression CPR. This will also improve the chances of survival.

Cardiac Artery Disease (CAD) CAD is a common type of heart disease where fatty deposits accumulate in the coronary artery and impede the blood flow. Reduced blood flow to the heart can cause chest pain (angina). A sudden, complete blockage can lead to a heart attack. Many people who have this form of heart disease are not aware they have it. CAD develops slowly and silently over decades. It can go virtually unnoticed until it produces a heart attack. You can prevent or slow down CAD by taking steps to improve your heart health. Drugs and surgical techniques can open up narrowed coronary arteries, but the best long-term solution is to make the right lifestyle choices.

Are You in the High-Risk Group?Age: Age increases a person’s susceptibility to heart disease. Gender: Men are three to five times more likely to have coronary heart disease than women. However, the risk for women increases after menopause. Five to 10 years after menopause, women have the same risk for coronary heart disease as men. Ethnicity: Compared with Chinese, South Asians (Indians, Sri Lankans, Pakistanis, etc) are three times more likely to suffer from coronary heart disease. Malays have double the risk compared with Chinese. Obesity: People who have excess body fat – especially located around the waist – are more prone to heart disease and stroke even if they have no other risk factors. Excess weight increases the strain on the heart. It also raises blood pressure, blood cholesterol and triglyceride levels, and lowers HDL, ("good" cholesterol levels). It is also associated with the development of diabetes mellitus. Family history: You can be at higher risk of heart disease if your immediate family members (parents, children, brothers and sisters) have a history of premature heart disease. Certain risk factors tend to run in some families. If there is a history of heart disease in your family, you should try very hard to control your other risk factors. "In general, adults should know their family history of heart disease or sudden death. They should know their cholesterol level and know if they have diabetes mellitus and abnormal blood sugar levels. If you have any high-risk factor, get your doctor’s advice on how to improve those risk factors, change your lifestyle and dietary habits, and embark on a safe exercise programme."  Dr Teo Wee Siong, Senior Consultant Cardiologist, National Heart Centre http://www.healthxchange.com.sg/healthyliving/SpecialFocus/Pages/Sudden-Cardiac-Death-Are-You-at-Risk.aspx?

Ibuprofen "lowers altitude sickness"

 



WASHINGTON: The anti-inflammatory drug ibuprofen can reduce acute altitude sickness suffered by a quarter of the millions of Americans who travel to the mountains to ski or hike, according to a clinical study published Tuesday.

Grant Lipman, the Stanford University researcher who led the study, described altitude sickness as being like "a really nasty hangover."

The symptoms include headache, fatigue, dizziness, nausea, vomiting and poor appetite.

In the worst cases, altitude sickness can cause cerebral edema, an often fatal brain swelling.

Ibuprofen, an active ingredient in over-the-counter painkillers like Advil, reduced altitude sickness symptoms by 26 per cent in a study of 58 men and 28 women, Lipman and his research team reported.

The study was published in the online version of the Annals of Emergency Medicine.

The study participants travelled to an area of the White Mountains northeast of Bishop, California, where they spent the night at 4,100 feet.

At 8 am, they were given either 600 milligrams of ibuprofen or a placebo before heading up a mountain to a staging area at 11,700 feet. There, they were given a second dose at 2 pm.

They then hiked to 12,570 feet, where they received a third dose at 8 pm before spending the night on the mountain.

Of the 44 participants who received ibuprofen, 19, or 43 per cent, suffered symptoms of altitude sickness, whereas 29 of the 42 participants who received placebos had symptoms, according to the study.

In other words, ibuprofen reduced the incidence of the illness by 26 per cent, the report said.

Among study participants who suffered altitude sickness, symptoms were less severe in the persons who took ibuprofen, the researchers reported.

At high altitudes, decreased atmospheric pressure reduces oxygen molecules in the air, making it harder for people to breathe.

Some researchers believe altitude sickness occurs because a lack of oxygen to the brain causes it to swell with fluids. Ibuprofen appears to reduce the swelling, according to the Stanford researchers.

Other altitude sickness drugs are available, such as acetazolamide and dexamethasone, but they can have more undesirable side effects than ibuprofen, according to the researchers.

Ibuprofen's milder side effects can include the possibility of gastrointestinal and kidney problems in people who are dehydrated, the researchers said.
- AFP/wk
http://www.channelnewsasia.com/stories/health/view/1190265/1/.html

Complications Of Gastric Bypass Surgery

What are some of the complications of gastric bypass surgery?

There can be many complications when undergoing gastric bypass surgery. Some are minor and some can be life altering. All of the following should be considered before making a decision:

• Nutritional deficiencies
• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Dumping Syndrome
• Anorexia
• Hypoglycemia
• Permanent alteration of dietary and bowel habits
• Food intolerances: red meat, milk, or sugar
• Nauseous from overeating or eating too quickly
• Death
• Psychological changes, including possible effects from a new smaller body image affecting interaction with family and friends
• Avoid pregnancy until weight becomes stable because the rapid weight loss can harm a developing baby

The surgery can and will change the way your body processes food, and some people find that post-operation they eat in a completely different way. All of these changes can be permanent or temporary.

The surgery can and will change the way you perceive yourself. Women can struggle with anorexia after surgery because they are not mentally prepared for the way their body goes through these changes. Be educated. Get all the information you can before making this decision.

The surgery can and will change the way others perceive you. Be prepared for a lot of questions and a lot of weird looks. People will not always understand. Be educated so that you might educate them.

Believe it or not, gastric bypass surgery ends a lot of marriages. Doctor’s believe that it is because the women or men have such an altered view of their own body that they can not bear to be with someone who was with them when they were obese. It is yet another reason to prepare yourself mentally for the resulting changes. Spend time discussing this option with your spouse beforehand and keep communications open before and after surgery. Work on keeping your marriage together. 
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