<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8ype2CiAkEuXlGE54_vsf4F4fnqRtc6Vutk5s6NclyTnlDMHSRoXBzoKyoDyfWKVxd9_ss5Mf60i62_ytYyebDqnneD-ygT6UnqxUZK9k_dxyduY4M1y5y8UJUKpe2HYIy4w-cMEdGUQ/s1600/period.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="395" data-original-width="756" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8ype2CiAkEuXlGE54_vsf4F4fnqRtc6Vutk5s6NclyTnlDMHSRoXBzoKyoDyfWKVxd9_ss5Mf60i62_ytYyebDqnneD-ygT6UnqxUZK9k_dxyduY4M1y5y8UJUKpe2HYIy4w-cMEdGUQ/s1600/period.jpg" /></a></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> </div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /> “It all lies in the poop”, rightly said. If there was a statement with equal significance, it would read “it all lies in the period”. For women. Period. </div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /> In the light of the proud Oscar moment where “Period. End of sentence” produced by Guneet Monga stresses on awareness & health of women resting on sanitation and hygiene, this article will highlight the significance & importance of the menstrual cycle itself. <br /> <br /> The period is important. Period. It is important that it visits every single woman during her reproductive years every single month. Period. Without fail. Period. <br /> <br /> It is distressing (to say in the least) to note the number of young urban women suffering from hormonal imbalances resulting in irregular periods, amenorrhea, PCOD and excessive bleeding. What is even more alarming is the age range they hail from, from as young as 13 to the majority between the ages of 18-32 years. What should have been a norm is becoming a relief statement for those who have escaped the tentacles of the period malfunction. <br /> <br /> The problems are several but finger tip countable, thankfully: <br /> -Stress <br /> -Smoking <br /> -Lack of sleep <br /> -Junking on processed food <br /> -Use of contraceptive pills <br /> -Deficiency of nutrients <br /> <br /> Sleep is of penultimate importance. Urbanization has seen the new age women and little women migrate the 2am clock from the bedroom to the living room with the blue light (from mobiles & tabs) and wide open eyes for company. Regulation of sleep is important for a healthy period. If one is truly serious about repairing her period, her stress and supposed stress buster (smoking) must be shown the no entry board. Going cold turkey on smoking is the best way to give it up. De-addict yourself while you can. <br /> <br /> A healthy period must make an appearance every 21-38 days. Must go through every step of a healthy menstrual cycle from the rise in estrogen levels to maturation of follicles to the formation of the egg and finally the birth of the corpus luteum, a temporary endocrine gland (when progesterone rises). This perfect as a pea cycle stabilizes a woman’s hormones, her mood, endorses her spirit and keeps her feeling as good on the insides as she feels outside. </div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /> A healthy period regulates the optimal rise and fall of the neurotransmitters serotonin, dopamine and GABA taking primary care of a woman’s mental wellness, which is in jeopardy when the situation catapults. </div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /> The perfect pea is no longer visible and like a pack of cards, every aspect of the menstrual cycle takes a beating. And to make matters worse, it’s almost always a catch 22. Stress messes with the period and the messed up cycle drives the stress to new unseen heights. One takes the pill to regularize the period and then the pill increases the risk of not seeing a period without the pill. Mood swings, acne, heavy bleeding, anxiety and depression are unbecoming accompaniments. <br /> <br /> This cycle needs to be reversed, broken, realigned and cycled in the right direction. How? <br /> Pay attention to supplementation & lifestyle, ensuring that you take decisions regarding your health under the guidance of a medical practitioner. Magnesium, B6, Vit D, B12, Iron, Zinc, Vit E and C – These nutrients are closely associated with the health of your period. <br /> <br /> -Professionally guided use of herbs like Ashwagandha and Chasteberry can help to regulate periods. <br /> <br /> -Exercise to destress. Destress as if it were your job. Prioritize your to-dos and practice the art of regulating stress <br /> Stop fuming, stop smoking. Smoking tends to reduce the follicular stage thus increasing the risk of anovulation (no egg formation) and a shorter period, states a study by the American journal of Clinical nutrition. Smoking may also be responsible for potential increase in cramps during periods. <br /> <br /> -Sleep 7-8 hours every night. This keeps the cortisol hormone in balance thus offering better regulation of the thyroid and female sex hormones estrogen and progesterone. Which in turn helps regularize periods. <br /> <br /> -Increase the consumption of good fats like virgin coconut oil, almonds, walnuts, ghee, coconut milk, flaxseeds and MCT oils. The steroid hormone duo, estrogen and progesterone need fats for it’s make-up. The increase in fats can also reduce insulin spikes better regulating the blood sugar levels which is conducive to a healthy period. <br /> <br /> -Sulphur rich foods like broccoli, cauliflower and cabbage can reduce estrogen dominance and regulate levels of progesterone. <br /> <br /> -And last of all but not in the least, make fermented foods like yoghurt, beet kvass, pickled vegetables and the like a part of your dining table culture. A good gut boosted by fermented foods has a momentous effect on mental wellness thus reducing stress and balancing hormones. <br /> <br /> There’s more to be said but this is a start and enough of a start. Pay attention ladies, the world is yours if you will let yourselves have it! Period Health is pivotal to Women’s health and just must not be ignored.  </div> </div>

“It all lies in the poop”, rightly said. If there was a statement with equal significance, it would read “it all lies in the period”... Read More »

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvaZenJqG8fuK3KYdpvjqajKreYZm3ULY04NX7YKygFpr0wAT8NoDWPaNfTShiMZugVneTNMERedvtvsAi_fNUz_tOai-YdvpylrhN4uuhv8nwJYs0mx8a2FR-kEhZNGX0_vGwe-xkafI/s1600/pregnancy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="395" data-original-width="756" height="334" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvaZenJqG8fuK3KYdpvjqajKreYZm3ULY04NX7YKygFpr0wAT8NoDWPaNfTShiMZugVneTNMERedvtvsAi_fNUz_tOai-YdvpylrhN4uuhv8nwJYs0mx8a2FR-kEhZNGX0_vGwe-xkafI/s640/pregnancy.jpg" width="640" /></a></div> <h3 style="text-align: justify;"> Definition</h3> <div style="text-align: justify;"> The period from conception to birth. After the egg is fertilized by a sperm and then implanted in the lining of the uterus, it develops into the placenta and embryo, and later into a fetus. Pregnancy usually lasts 40 weeks, beginning from the first day of the woman's last menstrual period, and is divided into three trimesters, each lasting three months.</div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> Description</div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> Pregnancy is a state in which a woman carries a fertilized egg inside her body. Due to technological advances, pregnancy is increasingly occurring among older women in the United States.</div> <h3 style="text-align: justify;"> First month</h3> <div style="text-align: justify;"> At the end of the first month, the embryo is about a third of an inch long, and its head and trunk-plus the beginnings of arms and legs-have started to develop. The embryo receives nutrients and eliminates waste through the umbilical cord and placenta. By the end of the first month, the liver and digestive system begin to develop, and the heart starts to beat.</div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <h3 style="text-align: justify;"> Second month</h3> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> In this month, the heart starts to pump and the nervous system (including the brain and spinal cord) begins to develop. The 1 in (2.5 cm) long fetus has a complete cartilage skeleton, which is replaced by bone cells by month's end. Arms, legs and all of the major organs begin to appear. Facial features begin to form.</div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <h3 style="text-align: justify;"> Third month</h3> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> By now, the fetus has grown to 4 in (10 cm) and weighs a little more than an ounce (28 g). Now the major blood vessels and the roof of the mouth are almost completed, as the face starts to take on a more recognizably human appearance. Fingers and toes appear. All the major organs are now beginning to form; the kidneys are now functional and the four chambers of the heart are complete.</div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <h3 style="text-align: justify;"> Fourth month</h3> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> The fetus begins to kick and swallow, although most women still can't feel the baby move at this point. Now 4 oz (112 g), the fetus can hear and urinate, and has established sleep-wake cycles. All organs are now fully formed, although they will continue to grow for the next five months. The fetus has skin, eyebrows, and hair.</div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <h3 style="text-align: justify;"> Fifth month</h3> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> Now weighing up to a 1 lb (454 g) and measuring 8-12 in (20-30 cm), the fetus experiences rapid growth as its internal organs continue to grow. At this point, the mother may feel her baby move, and she can hear the heartbeat with a stethoscope.</div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <h3 style="text-align: justify;"> Sixth month</h3> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> Even though its lungs are not fully developed, a fetus born during this month can survive with intensive care. Weighing 1-1.5 lbs (454-681 g), the fetus is red, wrinkly, and covered with fine hair all over its body. The fetus will grow very fast during this month as its organs continue to develop.</div> <h3 style="text-align: justify;"> Seventh month</h3> <div style="text-align: justify;"> There is a better chance that a fetus born during this month will survive. The fetus continues to grow rapidly, and may weigh as much as 3 lb (1.3 kg) by now. Now the fetus can suck its thumb and look around its watery womb with open eyes.</div> <h3 style="text-align: justify;"> Eighth month</h3> <div style="text-align: justify;"> Growth continues but slows down as the baby begins to take up most of the room inside the uterus. Now weighing 4-5 lbs (1.8-2.3 kg) and measuring 16-18 in (40-45 cm) long, the fetus may at this time prepare for delivery next month by moving into the head-down position. </div> <h3 style="text-align: justify;"> Ninth month</h3> <div style="text-align: justify;"> Adding 0.5 lb (227 g) a week as the due date approaches, the fetus drops lower into the mother's abdomen and prepares for the onset of labor, which may begin any time between the 37th and 42nd week of gestation. Most healthy babies will weigh 6-9 lb (2.7-4 kg) at birth, and will be about 20 in. long.</div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <h3 style="text-align: justify;"> Causes and symptoms</h3> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> The first sign of pregnancy is usually a missed menstrual period, although some women bleed in the beginning. A woman's breasts swell and may become tender as the mammary glands prepare for eventual breastfeeding. Nipples begin to enlarge and the veins over the surface of the breasts become more noticeable.</div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> Nausea and vomiting are very common symptoms and are usually worse in the morning and during the first trimester of pregnancy. They are usually caused by hormonal changes, in particular, increased levels of progesterone. Women may feel worse when their stomach is empty, so it is a good idea to eat several small meals throughout the day, and to keep things like crackers on hand to eat even before getting out of bed in the morning.</div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> Many women also feel extremely tired during the early weeks. Frequent urination is common, and there</div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> may be a creamy white discharge from the vagina. Some women crave certain foods, and an extreme sensitivity to smell may worsen the nausea. Weight begins to increase.</div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> In the second trimester (13-28 weeks) a woman begins to look noticeably pregnant and the enlarged uterus is easy to feel. The nipples get bigger and darker, skin may darken, and some women may feel flushed and warm. Appetite may increase. By the 22nd week, most women have felt the baby move. During the second trimester, nausea and vomiting often fade away, and the pregnant woman often feels much better and more energetic. Heart rate increases as does the volume of blood in the body.</div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> By the third trimester (29-40 weeks), many women begin to experience a range of common symptoms. Stretch marks may develop on abdomen, breasts, and thighs, and a dark line may appear from the navel to pubic hair. A thin fluid may be expressed from the nipples. Many women feel hot, sweat easily and often find it hard to get comfortable. Kicks from an active baby may cause sharp pains, and lower backaches are common. More rest is needed as the woman copes with the added stress of extra weight. Braxton Hicks contractions may get stronger.</div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> At about the 36th week in a first pregnancy (later in repeat pregnancies), the baby's head drops down low into the pelvis. This may relieve pressure on the upper abdomen and the lungs, allowing a woman to breathe more easily. However, the new position places more pressure on the bladder.</div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> A healthy gain for most women is between 25 and 35 pounds. Women who are overweight should gain less; and women who are underweight should gain more. On average, pregnant women need an additional 300 calories a day. Generally, women will gain three to five pounds in the first three months, adding one to two pounds a week until the baby is born. An average, healthy full-term baby at birth weighs 7.5 lb (3.4 kg), and the placenta and fluid together weigh another 3.5 lb. The remaining weight that a woman gains during pregnancy is mostly due to water retention and fat stores. Her breasts, for instance, gain about 2 lb. in weight, and she gains another 4 lb due to the increased blood volume of pregnancy.</div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> In addition to the typical, common symptoms of pregnancy, some women experience other problems that may be annoying, but which usually disappear after delivery. Constipation may develop as a result of food passing more slowly through the intestine. Hemorrhoids and heartburn are fairly common during late pregnancy. Gums may become more sensitive and bleed more easily; eyes may dry out, making contact lenses feel painful. Pica (a craving to eat substances other than food) may occur. Swollen ankles and varicose veins may be a problem in the second half of pregnancy, and chloasma may appear on the face.</div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> Chloasma, also known as the "mask of pregnancy" or melasma, is caused by hormonal changes that result in blotches of pale brown skin appearing on the forehead, cheeks, and nose. These blotches may merge into one dark mask. It usually fades gradually after pregnancy, but it may become permanent or recur with subsequent pregnancies. Some women also find that the line running from the top to the bottom of their abdomen darkens. This is called the linea nigra.</div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> While the above symptoms are all considered to be normal, there are some symptoms that could be a sign of a more dangerous underlying problem. A pregnant woman with any of the following signs should contact her doctor immediately:</div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <ul style="text-align: left;"> <li>    abdominal pain</li> <li>    rupture of the amniotic sac or leaking of fluid from the vagina</li> <li>    bleeding from the vagina</li> <li>    no fetal movement for 24 hours (after the fifth month)</li> <li>    continuous headaches</li> <li>    marked, sudden swelling of eyelids, hands, or face during the last three months</li> <li>    dim or blurry vision during last three months</li> <li>    persistent vomiting</li> </ul> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <h3 style="text-align: justify;"> Diagnosis</h3> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> Many women first discover they are pregnant after a positive home pregnancy test. Pregnancy urine tests check for the presence of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), which is produced by a placenta. The newest home tests can detect pregnancy on the day of the missed menstrual period.</div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> Home pregnancy tests are more than 97% accurate if the result is positive, and about 80% accurate if the result is negative. If the result is negative and there is no menstrual period within another week, the pregnancy test should be repeated. While home pregnancy tests are very accurate, they are less accurate than a pregnancy test conducted at a lab. For this reason, women may want to consider having a second pregnancy test conducted at their doctor's office to be sure of the accuracy of the result.</div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> Blood tests to determine pregnancy are usually used only when a very early diagnosis of pregnancy is needed. This more expensive test, which also looks for hCG, can produce a result within nine to 12 days after conception.</div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> Once pregnancy has been confirmed, there are a range of screening tests that can be done to screen for birth defects, which affect about 3% of unborn children. Two tests are recommended for all pregnant women: alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) and the triple marker test.</div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> Other tests are recommended for women at higher risk for having a child with a birth defect. This would include women over age 35, who had another child or a close relative with a birth defect, or who have been exposed to certain drugs or high levels of radiation. Women with any of these risk factors may want to consider amniocentesis, chorionic villus sampling (CVS) or ultrasound.</div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> Other prenatal tests</div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> There are a range of other prenatal tests that are routinely performed, including:</div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <ul style="text-align: left;"> <li>    PAP test</li> <li>    gestational diabetes screening test at 24-28 weeks</li> <li>    tests for sexually transmitted diseases</li> <li>    urinalysis</li> <li>    blood tests for anemia or blood type</li> <li>    screening for immunity to various diseases, such as German measles</li> </ul> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <h3 style="text-align: justify;"> Treatment</h3> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> Prenatal care is vitally important for the health of the unborn baby. A pregnant woman should be sure to eat a balanced, nutritious diet of frequent, small meals. Women should begin taking 400 mcg of folic acid several months before becoming pregnant, as folic acid has been shown to reduce the risk of spinal cord defects, such as spina bifida.</div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> No medication (not even a nonprescription drug) should be taken except under medical supervision, since it could pass from the mother through the placenta to the developing baby. Some drugs, called teratogens, have been proven harmful to a fetus, but no drug should be considered completely safe (especially during early pregnancy). Drugs taken during the first three months of a pregnancy may interfere with the normal formation of the baby's organs, leading to birth defects. Drugs taken later on in pregnancy may slow the baby's growth rate, or they may damage specific fetal tissue (such as the developing teeth), or cause preterm birth.</div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> To have the best chance of having a healthy baby, a pregnant woman should avoid:</div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <ul style="text-align: left;"> <li>    smoking</li> <li>    alcohol</li> <li>    street drugs</li> <li>    large amounts of caffeine</li> <li>    artificial sweeteners</li> </ul> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <h3 style="text-align: justify;"> Nutrition</h3> <div style="text-align: justify;"> Women should begin following a healthy diet even before they become pregnant. This means cutting back on high-calorie, high-fat, high-sugar snacks, and increasing the amount of fruits, vegetables and whole grains in her diet. Once she becomes pregnant, she should make sure to get at least six to 11 servings of breads and other whole grains, three to five servings of vegetables, two to four servings of fruits, four to six servings of milk and milk products, three to four servings of meat and protein foods, and six to eight glasses of water. She should limit caffeine to no more than one soft drink or cup of coffee per day.</div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> Prognosis</div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> Pregnancy is a natural condition that usually causes little discomfort provided the woman takes care of herself and gets adequate prenatal care. Childbirth education classes for the woman and her partner help prepare the couple for labor and delivery.</div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> Key terms</div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <b>Alpha-fetoprotein </b>— A substance produced by a fetus' liver that can be found in the amniotic fluid and in the mother's blood. Abnormally high levels of this substance suggests there may be defects in the fetal neural tube, a structure that will include the brain and spinal cord when completely developed. Abnormally low levels suggest the possibility of Down' syndrome.</div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <b>Braxton Hicks' contractions </b>— Short, fairly painless uterine contractions during pregnancy that may be mistaken for labor pains. They allow the uterus to grow and help circulate blood through the uterine blood vessels.</div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <b>Chloasma</b> — A skin discoloration common during pregnancy, also known as the "mask of pregnancy" or melasma, in which blotches of pale brown skin appear on the face. It is usually caused by hormonal changes. The blotches may appear in the forehead, cheeks, and nose, and may merge into one dark mask. It usually fades gradually after pregnancy, but it may become permanent or recur with subsequent pregnancies. Some women may also find that the line running from the top to the bottom of their abdomen darkens. This is called the linea nigra.</div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <b>Embryo</b> — An unborn child during the first eight weeks of development following conception (fertilization with sperm). For the rest of pregnancy, the embryo is known as a fetus.</div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <b>Fetus</b> — An unborn child from the end of the eights week after fertilization until birth.</div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <b>Human chorionic gonadotropin </b>(hCG) — A hormone produced by the placenta during pregnancy.</div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <b>Placenta</b> — The organ that develops in the uterus during pregnancy that links the blood supplies of the mother and baby.</div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <b>Rhythm method </b>— The oldest method of contraception with a very high failure rate, in which partners periodically refrain from having sex during ovulation. Ovulation is predicted on the basis of a woman's previous menstrual cycle.</div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <b>Spina bifida</b> — A congenital defect in which part of the vertebrae fail to develop completely, leaving a portion of the spinal cord exposed.</div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> Prevention</div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> There are many ways to avoid pregnancy. A woman has a choice of many methods of contraception which will prevent pregnancy, including (in order of least to most effective):</div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <ul style="text-align: left;"> <li>    spermicide alone</li> <li>    natural (rhythm) method</li> <li>    diaphragm or cap alone</li> <li>    condom alone</li> <li>    diaphragm with spermicide</li> <li>    condom with spermicide</li> <li>    intrauterine device (IUD)</li> <li>    contraceptive pill</li> <li>    sterilization (either a man or woman)</li> <li>    avoiding intercours</li> </ul> </div>

Definition The period from conception to birth. After the egg is fertilized by a sperm and then implanted in the lining of the uterus,... Read More »

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div class="content" style="text-align: justify;"> <div class="moz-reader-content line-height4 reader-show-element" style="text-align: justify;"> <div class="page" id="readability-page-1"> <div> <h2> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyU-ADM2olfqV4IoEh90bqEP6WF7sqkbEU3xivSlvmm9hyphenhyphenUhO9II7vz_vdWrJKuK806EOV6zGgy-AjmfwiEPppSx5KqA9NkDsbwy-fpu-97Qy9dINYwH5hMnA2wXehr0Evd82rcnIFRdM/s1600/Heart+disease+-+Symptoms+and+causes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="395" data-original-width="756" height="334" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyU-ADM2olfqV4IoEh90bqEP6WF7sqkbEU3xivSlvmm9hyphenhyphenUhO9II7vz_vdWrJKuK806EOV6zGgy-AjmfwiEPppSx5KqA9NkDsbwy-fpu-97Qy9dINYwH5hMnA2wXehr0Evd82rcnIFRdM/s640/Heart+disease+-+Symptoms+and+causes.jpg" width="640" /></a></div> Overview</h2> Heart disease describes a range of conditions that affect your heart. Diseases under the heart disease umbrella include blood vessel diseases, such as coronary artery disease; heart rhythm problems (arrhythmias); and heart defects you're born with (congenital heart defects), among others.<br /> <br /> The term "heart disease" is often used interchangeably with the term "cardiovascular disease." Cardiovascular disease generally refers to conditions that involve narrowed or blocked blood vessels that can lead to a heart attack, chest pain (angina) or stroke. Other heart conditions, such as those that affect your heart's muscle, valves or rhythm, also are considered forms of heart disease.<br /> <br /> Many forms of heart disease can be prevented or treated with healthy lifestyle choices.<br /> <h2> Symptoms</h2> Heart disease symptoms depend on what type of heart disease you have.<br /> <h3> Symptoms of heart disease in your blood vessels (atherosclerotic disease)</h3> Cardiovascular disease symptoms may be different for men and women. For instance, men are more likely to have chest pain; women are more likely to have other symptoms along with chest discomfort, such as shortness of breath, nausea and extreme fatigue.<br /> Symptoms can include:<br /> <ul> <li>Chest pain, chest tightness, chest pressure and chest discomfort (angina)</li> <li>Shortness of breath</li> <li>Pain, numbness, weakness or coldness in your legs or arms if the blood vessels in those parts of your body are narrowed</li> <li>Pain in the neck, jaw, throat, upper abdomen or back</li> </ul> You might not be diagnosed with cardiovascular disease until you have a heart attack, angina, stroke or heart failure. It's important to watch for cardiovascular symptoms and discuss concerns with your doctor. Cardiovascular disease can sometimes be found early with regular evaluations.<br /> <h3> Heart disease symptoms caused by abnormal heartbeats (heart arrhythmias)</h3> A heart arrhythmia is an abnormal heartbeat. Your heart may beat too quickly, too slowly or irregularly. Heart arrhythmia symptoms can include:<br /> <ul> <li>Fluttering in your chest</li> <li>Racing heartbeat (tachycardia)</li> <li>Slow heartbeat (bradycardia)</li> <li>Chest pain or discomfort</li> <li>Shortness of breath</li> <li>Lightheadedness</li> <li>Dizziness</li> <li>Fainting (syncope) or near fainting</li> </ul> <h3> Heart disease symptoms caused by heart defects</h3> Serious congenital heart defects — defects you're born with — usually become evident soon after birth. Heart defect symptoms in children could include:<br /> <ul> <li>Pale gray or blue skin color (cyanosis)</li> <li>Swelling in the legs, abdomen or areas around the eyes</li> <li>In an infant, shortness of breath during feedings, leading to poor weight gain</li> </ul> Less serious congenital heart defects are often not diagnosed until later in childhood or during adulthood. Signs and symptoms of congenital heart defects that usually aren't immediately life-threatening include:<br /> <ul> <li>Easily getting short of breath during exercise or activity</li> <li>Easily tiring during exercise or activity</li> <li>Swelling in the hands, ankles or feet</li> </ul> <h3> Heart disease symptoms caused by weak heart muscle (dilated cardiomyopathy)</h3> In early stages of cardiomyopathy, you may have no symptoms. As the condition worsens, symptoms may include:<br /> <ul> <li>Breathlessness with exertion or at rest</li> <li>Swelling of the legs, ankles and feet</li> <li>Fatigue</li> <li>Irregular heartbeats that feel rapid, pounding or fluttering</li> <li>Dizziness, lightheadedness and fainting</li> </ul> <h3> Heart disease symptoms caused by heart infections</h3> Endocarditis is an infection that affects the inner membrane that separates the chambers and valves of the heart (endocardium). Heart infection symptoms can include:<br /> <ul> <li>Fever</li> <li>Shortness of breath</li> <li>Weakness or fatigue</li> <li>Swelling in your legs or abdomen</li> <li>Changes in your heart rhythm</li> <li>Dry or persistent cough</li> <li>Skin rashes or unusual spots</li> </ul> <h3> Heart disease symptoms caused by valvular heart disease</h3> The heart has four valves — the aortic, mitral, pulmonary and tricuspid valves — that open and close to direct blood flow through your heart. Valves may be damaged by a variety of conditions leading to narrowing (stenosis), leaking (regurgitation or insufficiency) or improper closing (prolapse).<br /> Depending on which valve isn't working properly, valvular heart disease symptoms generally include:<br /> <ul> <li>Fatigue</li> <li>Shortness of breath</li> <li>Irregular heartbeat</li> <li>Swollen feet or ankles</li> <li>Chest pain</li> <li>Fainting (syncope)</li> </ul> <h3> When to see a doctor</h3> Seek emergency medical care if you have these heart disease symptoms:<br /> <ul> <li>Chest pain</li> <li>Shortness of breath</li> <li>Fainting</li> </ul> Heart disease is easier to treat when detected early, so talk to your doctor about your concerns regarding your heart health. If you're concerned about developing heart disease, talk to your doctor about steps you can take to reduce your heart disease risk. This is especially important if you have a family history of heart disease.<br /> If you think you may have heart disease, based on new signs or symptoms you're having, make an appointment to see your doctor.<br /> <h2> Causes</h2> <h3> How the heart works</h3> Your heart is a pump. It's a muscular organ about the size of your fist, situated slightly left of center in your chest. Your heart is divided into the right and the left side. The division prevents oxygen-rich blood from mixing with oxygen-poor blood. Oxygen-poor blood returns to the heart after circulating through your body.<br /> <ul> <li>The right side of the heart, comprising the right atrium and ventricle, collects and pumps blood to the lungs through the pulmonary arteries.</li> <li>The lungs refresh the blood with a new supply of oxygen. The lungs also breathe out carbon dioxide, a waste product.</li> <li>Oxygen-rich blood then enters the left side of the heart, comprising the left atrium and ventricle.</li> <li>The left side of the heart pumps blood through the aorta to supply tissues throughout the body with oxygen and nutrients.</li> </ul> <h3> Heart valves</h3> Four valves within your heart keep your blood moving the right way by opening only one way and only when they need to. To function properly, the valve must be formed properly, must open all the way and must close tightly so there's no leakage. The four valves are:<br /> <ul> <li>Tricuspid</li> <li>Mitral</li> <li>Pulmonary</li> <li>Aortic</li> </ul> <h3> Heartbeats<a href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/heart-disease/multimedia/blueprints-to-your-heart-infographic/ifg-20405630" id="et-internalPromo-9AD2CE9D"></a></h3> A beating heart contracts and relaxes in a continuous cycle.<br /> <ul> <li>During contraction (systole), your ventricles contract, forcing blood into the vessels to your lungs and body.</li> <li>During relaxation (diastole), the ventricles are filled with blood coming from the upper chambers (left and right atria).</li> </ul> <h3> Electrical system</h3> Your heart's electrical wiring keeps it beating, which controls the continuous exchange of oxygen-rich blood with oxygen-poor blood. This exchange keeps you alive.<br /> <ul> <li>Electrical impulses begin high in the right atrium and travel through specialized pathways to the ventricles, delivering the signal for the heart to pump.</li> <li>The conduction system keeps your heart beating in a coordinated and normal rhythm, which keeps blood circulating.</li> </ul> <h3> Various heart disease causes</h3> The causes of heart disease vary by type of heart disease.<br /> <h3> Causes of cardiovascular disease</h3> While cardiovascular disease can refer to different heart or blood vessel problems, the term is often used to mean damage to your heart or blood vessels by atherosclerosis (ath-ur-o-skluh-ROE-sis), a buildup of fatty plaques in your arteries. Plaque buildup thickens and stiffens artery walls, which can inhibit blood flow through your arteries to your organs and tissues.<br /> <br /> Atherosclerosis is also the most common cause of cardiovascular disease. It can be caused by correctable problems, such as an unhealthy diet, lack of exercise, being overweight and smoking.<br /> <h3> Causes of heart arrhythmia</h3> Common causes of abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias) or conditions that can lead to arrhythmias include:<br /> <ul> <li>Heart defects you're born with (congenital heart defects)</li> <li>Coronary artery disease</li> <li>High blood pressure</li> <li>Diabetes</li> <li>Smoking</li> <li>Excessive use of alcohol or caffeine</li> <li>Drug abuse</li> <li>Stress</li> <li>Some over-the-counter medications, prescription medications, dietary supplements and herbal remedies</li> <li>Valvular heart disease</li> </ul> In a healthy person with a normal, healthy heart, it's unlikely for a fatal arrhythmia to develop without some outside trigger, such as an electrical shock or the use of illegal drugs. That's primarily because a healthy person's heart is free from any abnormal conditions that cause an arrhythmia, such as an area of scarred tissue.<br /> <br /> However, in a heart that's diseased or deformed, the heart's electrical impulses may not properly start or travel through the heart, making arrhythmias more likely to develop.<br /> <h3> Causes of congenital heart defects</h3> Congenital heart defects usually develop while a baby is in the womb. Heart defects can develop as the heart develops, about a month after conception, changing the flow of blood in the heart. Some medical conditions, medications and genes may play a role in causing heart defects.<br /> <br /> Heart defects can also develop in adults. As you age, your heart's structure can change, causing a heart defect.<br /> <h3> Causes of cardiomyopathy</h3> The cause of cardiomyopathy, a thickening or enlarging of the heart muscle, may depend on the type:<br /> <ul> <li><b>Dilated cardiomyopathy.</b> The cause of this most common type of cardiomyopathy often is unknown. It may be caused by reduced blood flow to the heart (ischemic heart disease) resulting from damage after a heart attack, infections, toxins and certain drugs. It may also be inherited from a parent. It usually enlarges (dilates) the left ventricle.</li> <li><b>Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.</b> This type, in which the heart muscle becomes abnormally thick, usually is inherited. It can also develop over time because of high blood pressure or aging.</li> <li><b>Restrictive cardiomyopathy.</b> This least common type of cardiomyopathy, which causes the heart muscle to become rigid and less elastic, can occur for no known reason. Or it may be caused by diseases, such as connective tissue disorders, excessive iron buildup in your body (hemochromatosis), the buildup of abnormal proteins (amyloidosis) or by some cancer treatments.</li> </ul> <h3> Causes of heart infection</h3> A heart infection, such as endocarditis, is caused when an irritant, such as a bacterium, virus or chemical, reaches your heart muscle. The most common causes of heart infection include:<br /> <ul> <li>Bacteria</li> <li>Viruses</li> <li>Parasites</li> </ul> <h3> Causes of valvular heart disease</h3> There are many causes of diseases of your heart valves. You may be born with valvular disease, or the valves may be damaged by conditions such as:<br /> <ul> <li>Rheumatic fever</li> <li>Infections (infectious endocarditis)</li> <li>Connective tissue disorders</li> </ul> <h2> Risk factors</h2> Risk factors for developing heart disease include:<br /> <ul> <li><b>Age.</b> Aging increases your risk of damaged and narrowed arteries and weakened or thickened heart muscle.</li> <li><b>Sex.</b> Men are generally at greater risk of heart disease. However, women's risk increases after menopause.</li> <li><b>Family history.</b> A family history of heart disease increases your risk of coronary artery disease, especially if a parent developed it at an early age (before age 55 for a male relative, such as your brother or father, and 65 for a female relative, such as your mother or sister).</li> <li><b>Smoking.</b> Nicotine constricts your blood vessels, and carbon monoxide can damage their inner lining, making them more susceptible to atherosclerosis. Heart attacks are more common in smokers than in nonsmokers.</li> <li><b>Certain chemotherapy drugs and radiation therapy for cancer.</b> Some chemotherapy drugs and radiation therapies may increase the risk of cardiovascular disease.</li> <li><b>Poor diet.</b> A diet that's high in fat, salt, sugar and cholesterol can contribute to the development of heart disease.</li> <li><b>High blood pressure.</b> Uncontrolled high blood pressure can result in hardening and thickening of your arteries, narrowing the vessels through which blood flows.</li> <li><b>High blood cholesterol levels.</b> High levels of cholesterol in your blood can increase the risk of formation of plaques and atherosclerosis.</li> <li><b>Diabetes.</b> Diabetes increases your risk of heart disease. Both conditions share similar risk factors, such as obesity and high blood pressure. </li> <li><b>Obesity.</b> Excess weight typically worsens other risk factors.</li> <li><b>Physical inactivity.</b> Lack of exercise also is associated with many forms of heart disease and some of its other risk factors, as well.</li> <li><b>Stress.</b> Unrelieved stress may damage your arteries and worsen other risk factors for heart disease.</li> <li><b>Poor hygiene.</b> Not regularly washing your hands and not establishing other habits that can help prevent viral or bacterial infections can put you at risk of heart infections, especially if you already have an underlying heart condition. Poor dental health also may contribute to heart disease.</li> </ul> <h2> Complications</h2> Complications of heart disease include:<br /> <ul> <li><b>Heart failure.</b> One of the most common complications of heart disease, heart failure occurs when your heart can't pump enough blood to meet your body's needs. Heart failure can result from many forms of heart disease, including heart defects, cardiovascular disease, valvular heart disease, heart infections or cardiomyopathy.</li> <li><b>Heart attack.</b> A blood clot blocking the blood flow through a blood vessel that feeds the heart causes a heart attack, possibly damaging or destroying a part of the heart muscle. Atherosclerosis can cause a heart attack.</li> <li><b>Stroke.</b> The risk factors that lead to cardiovascular disease also can lead to an ischemic stroke, which happens when the arteries to your brain are narrowed or blocked so that too little blood reaches your brain. A stroke is a medical emergency — brain tissue begins to die within just a few minutes of a stroke.</li> <li><b>Aneurysm.</b> A serious complication that can occur anywhere in your body, an aneurysm is a bulge in the wall of your artery. If an aneurysm bursts, you may face life-threatening internal bleeding.</li> <li><b>Peripheral artery disease.</b> Atherosclerosis also can lead to peripheral artery disease. When you develop peripheral artery disease, your extremities — usually your legs — don't receive enough blood flow. This causes symptoms, most notably leg pain when walking (claudication).</li> <li><b>Sudden cardiac arrest.</b> Sudden cardiac arrest is the sudden, unexpected loss of heart function, breathing and consciousness, often caused by an arrhythmia. Sudden cardiac arrest is a medical emergency. If not treated immediately, it is fatal, resulting in sudden cardiac death.</li> </ul> <h2> Prevention</h2> Certain types of heart disease, such as heart defects, can't be prevented. However, you can help prevent many other types of heart disease by making the same lifestyle changes that can improve your heart disease, such as:<br /> <ul> <li>Quit smoking</li> <li>Control other health conditions, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes</li> <li>Exercise at least 30 minutes a day on most days of the week</li> <li>Eat a diet that's low in salt and saturated fat</li> <li>Maintain a healthy weight</li> <li>Reduce and manage stress</li> <li>Practice good hygiene</li> </ul> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div>

Overview Heart disease describes a range of conditions that affect your heart. Diseases under the heart disease umbrella include ... Read More »

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div class="content" style="text-align: justify;"> <div class="moz-reader-content line-height4 reader-show-element"> <div class="page" id="readability-page-1"> <div id="long-form-container"> <br /> <section id="long-form-body"><div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6epTBAB2rvDEc9vwAsY0_XxSMe291sH-6hP6zri7mfE9_F8j_rGKRN4zw_zdZL_344YE8K0Jc7T2VHQoXrZ4upK45758mTFKKENDIpniYBol3HxNmsRvd7wx2hssevP9hRD7LT98j11I/s1600/Eczema.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="395" data-original-width="756" height="334" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6epTBAB2rvDEc9vwAsY0_XxSMe291sH-6hP6zri7mfE9_F8j_rGKRN4zw_zdZL_344YE8K0Jc7T2VHQoXrZ4upK45758mTFKKENDIpniYBol3HxNmsRvd7wx2hssevP9hRD7LT98j11I/s640/Eczema.jpg" width="640" /></a></div> <div>  </div> <div> You might have first noticed an itchy, red patch on your baby’s cheeks, chin, or chest that she or he scratched until it became even more irritated. Sound familiar? Or maybe you experienced something similar on your own neck, inner elbows, or behind your knees.<div class="wp-caption" id="attachment_16893"> <div class="wp-caption-text"> <h3> Eczema can appear anywhere on the body</h3> </div> </div> That’s probably when you made an appointment with your doctor, who looked at it, talked to you about your symptoms, asked you questions about your family history and the types of products you use on your skin and in your home. Then your doctor told you it was eczema.<br /> So what exactly is eczema? Who can get it and why? And what should you do, now that you or your child has been diagnosed?<br /> Learning more about what kind of eczema you have and what may have triggered it, is the best starting point to treating and managing it, so that your eczema doesn’t get in the way of your everyday life.<br /> The good news is you’ve come to the right place. We’re here to help guide you — with all of the tools and support you’ll need — every step of the way.<br /> <div data-post-id="20481" id=""> <div> <div> <span id="title">You're not alone</span><br /> Over 30 million Americans have eczema</div> <div> <ul> <li>Understand the differences between eczema and atopic dermatitis</li> <li>Learn about the most common eczema causes and triggers – like allergens and stress</li> <li>Get tips on how to control your eczema with daily bathing and moisturizing</li> <li>Learn more about what makes one moisturizer more effective than another</li> </ul> </div> <div> <div> <h3> Sign up to get all the facts about living with eczema</h3> And you'll also get the NEA "Eczema Basics" booklets for adults and children</div> </div> </div> </div> <h2> Types of eczema</h2> Eczema is the name for a group of conditions that cause the skin to become red, itchy and inflamed. There are several types of eczema: atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, dyshidrotic eczema, nummular eczema, seborrheic dermatitis and stasis dermatitis.<br /> Eczema is very common. And in many cases, it’s also manageable. In fact, over 30 million Americans have some form of eczema.<br /> <div class="wp-caption" id="attachment_16900"> <br /> <div class="wp-caption-text"> Eczema flares often show up on the backs of the kneesLiving with eczema can be an ongoing challenge. The word “eczema” is derived from a Greek word meaning “to boil over,” which is a good description for the red, inflamed, itchy patches that occur during flare-ups. Eczema can range from mild, moderate, to severe.</div> </div> <br /> It’s most common for babies and children to develop eczema on their face (especially the cheeks and chin), but it can appear anywhere on the body and symptoms may be different from one child to the next. More often than not, eczema goes away as a child grows older, though some children will continue to experience eczema into adulthood.<br /> <br /> Adults can develop eczema, too, even if they never had it as a child.<br /> <h2> Is eczema contagious?</h2> <b>Eczema is not contagious.</b> You can’t “catch it” from someone else. While the exact cause of eczema is unknown, researchers do know that people who develop eczema do so because of a combination of genes and environmental triggers. When an irritant or an allergen “switches on” the immune system, skin cells don’t behave as they should causing an eczema flare-up.<br /> <h2> What are the treatments for eczema?</h2> There is no cure for eczema but there are treatments. Depending on age and eczema severity, these treatments include over-the-counter (OTC) remedies, prescription topical medications, phototherapy, immunosuppressants, and biologic drugs. Many people with eczema also find success with specific natural and alternative treatments.<br /> <br />For most types of eczema, managing flares comes down to these basics:<br /> <ul> <li>Know your triggers so that you can avoid exposure</li> <li>Implement a daily bathing and moisturizing routine</li> <li>Use OTC and prescription medication consistently and as prescribed</li> </ul> <h2> What are the symptoms of eczema?</h2> The most important thing to remember is that eczema and its symptoms are different for everyone. Your eczema may not look the same on you as it does on another adult, or on your child. It may even appear in different areas of the body at different times.<br /> <div class="wp-caption" id="attachment_17856"> <br /> Eczema is usually itchy. For many people, the itch is usually only mild, or moderate. But in some cases it can become much worse and you might develop extremely inflamed skin. Sometimes the itch gets so bad that people scratch it until it bleeds, which can make your eczema worse. This is called the “itch-scratch cycle.”</div> What to look for:<br /> <ul> <li>Dry, sensitive skin</li> <li>Red, inflamed skin</li> <li>Very bad itching</li> <li>Dark colored patches of skin</li> <li>Rough, leathery or scaly patches of skin</li> <li>Oozing or crusting</li> <li>Areas of swelling</li> </ul> You might have all of these symptoms of eczema or only just a few. You might have some flare ups or your symptoms could go away entirely. But the only way to know if you have eczema for sure, is to visit your doctor so he or she can look at your skin and ask you about your symptoms.<br /> <div class="wp-caption" id="attachment_16891"> <br /> <div class="wp-caption-text"> Atopic dermatitis on the ankles and feet of an adult male.</div> </div> <h2> What is the difference between eczema and atopic dermatitis?</h2> Eczema is a general term for dermatitis, which simply means inflammation of the skin. All types of eczema cause itching and redness and some will blister, weep or peel.<br /> <br /> There are several types of eczema. Atopic dermatitis considered a severe and chronic (long-lasting) form.<br /> <br /> The term “eczema” is often used interchangeably with “atopic dermatitis.” However, each type of eczema, including atopic dermatitis, has somewhat different triggers, symptoms and treatments. That’s why it’s important to know which type or types (since a person can have more than one type at the same time) you have, so that you are best able to manage it.</div> </div> </section></div> </div> </div> </div> </div>

  You might have first noticed an itchy, red patch on your baby’s cheeks, chin, or chest that she or he scratched until it bec... Read More »

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjRYXwlKPPc0LRgnqPRuR3TE9GV_2dCqjXfLpnWXr2Pd2bsUfyqglywjQFkupRihjYMAUiBVq1L0P3dS-xBhXXOfyn-qZGqZHo4D_cbJav3HG9_M9MWfJeJN0J2tdMme0GE26EGIFknco/s1600/What+Is+Depression.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="395" data-original-width="756" height="334" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjRYXwlKPPc0LRgnqPRuR3TE9GV_2dCqjXfLpnWXr2Pd2bsUfyqglywjQFkupRihjYMAUiBVq1L0P3dS-xBhXXOfyn-qZGqZHo4D_cbJav3HG9_M9MWfJeJN0J2tdMme0GE26EGIFknco/s640/What+Is+Depression.jpg" width="640" /></a></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> Depression (major depressive disorder) is a common and serious medical illness that negatively affects how you feel, the way you think and how you act. Fortunately, it is also treatable. Depression causes feelings of sadness and/or a loss of interest in activities once enjoyed. It can lead to a variety of emotional and physical problems and can decrease a person’s ability to function at work and at home.</div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> Depression symptoms can vary from mild to severe and can include:</div> <ul style="text-align: justify;"> <li>Feeling sad or having a depressed mood</li> <li>Loss of interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed</li> <li>Changes in appetite — weight loss or gain unrelated to dieting</li> <li>Trouble sleeping or sleeping too much</li> <li>Loss of energy or increased fatigue</li> <li>Increase in purposeless physical activity (e.g., hand-wringing or pacing) or slowed movements and speech (actions observable by others)</li> <li>Feeling worthless or guilty</li> <li>Difficulty thinking, concentrating or making decisions</li> <li>Thoughts of death or suicide</li> </ul> <div style="text-align: justify;"> Symptoms must last at least two weeks for a diagnosis of depression.</div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> Also, medical conditions (e.g., thyroid problems, a brain tumor or vitamin deficiency) can mimic symptoms of depression so it is important to rule out general medical causes.</div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> Depression affects an estimated one in 15 adults (6.7%) in any given year. And one in six people (16.6%) will experience depression at some time in their life. Depression can strike at any time, but on average, first appears during the late teens to mid-20s. Women are more likely than men to experience depression. Some studies show that one-third of women will experience a major depressive episode in their lifetime.</div> <h3 style="text-align: justify;"> <strong>Depression Is Different From Sadness or Grief/Bereavement</strong></h3> <div style="text-align: justify;"> The death of a loved one, loss of a job or the ending of a relationship are difficult experiences for a person to endure. It is normal for feelings of sadness or grief to develop in response to such situations. Those experiencing loss often might describe themselves as being “depressed.”</div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> But being sad is not the same as having depression. The grieving process is natural and unique to each individual and shares some of the same features of depression. Both grief and depression may involve intense sadness and withdrawal from usual activities. They are also different in important ways:</div> <ul style="text-align: justify;"> <li>In grief, painful feelings come in waves, often intermixed with positive memories of the deceased. In major depression, mood and/or interest (pleasure) are decreased for most of two weeks.</li> <li>In grief, self-esteem is usually maintained. In major depression, feelings of worthlessness and self-loathing are common.</li> <li>For some people, the death of a loved one can bring on major depression. Losing a job or being a victim of a physical assault or a major disaster can lead to depression for some people. When grief and depression co-exist, the grief is more severe and lasts longer than grief without depression. Despite some overlap between grief and depression, they are different. Distinguishing between them can help people get the help, support or treatment they need.</li> </ul> <h3 style="text-align: justify;"> <strong>Risk Factors for Depression</strong></h3> <div style="text-align: justify;"> Depression can affect anyone—even a person who appears to live in relatively ideal circumstances.</div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <em>Several factors can play a role in depression:</em></div> <ul style="text-align: justify;"> <li><strong>Biochemistry:</strong> Differences in certain chemicals in the brain may contribute to symptoms of depression.</li> <li><strong>Genetics:</strong> Depression can run in families. For example, if one identical twin has depression, the other has a 70 percent chance of having the illness sometime in life.</li> <li><strong>Personality:</strong> People with low self-esteem, who are easily overwhelmed by stress, or who are generally pessimistic appear to be more likely to experience depression.</li> <li><strong>Environmental factors:</strong> Continuous exposure to violence, neglect, abuse or poverty may make some people more vulnerable to depression.</li> </ul> <h3 style="text-align: justify;"> <strong>How Is Depression Treated?</strong></h3> <div style="text-align: justify;"> Depression is among the most treatable of mental disorders. Between 80 percent and 90 percent of people with depression eventually respond well to treatment. Almost all patients gain some relief from their symptoms.</div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> Before a diagnosis or treatment, a health professional should conduct a thorough diagnostic evaluation, including an interview and possibly a physical examination. In some cases, a blood test might be done to make sure the depression is not due to a medical condition like a thyroid problem. The evaluation is to identify specific symptoms, medical and family history, cultural factors and environmental factors to arrive at a diagnosis and plan a course of action.</div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <strong>Medication:</strong> Brain chemistry may contribute to an individual’s depression and may factor into their treatment. For this reason, antidepressants might be prescribed to help modify one’s brain chemistry. These medications are not sedatives, “uppers” or tranquilizers. They are not habit-forming. Generally antidepressant medications have no stimulating effect on people not experiencing depression.</div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> Antidepressants may produce some improvement within the first week or two of use. Full benefits may not be seen for two to three months. If a patient feels little or no improvement after several weeks, his or her psychiatrist can alter the dose of the medication or add or substitute another antidepressant. In some situations other psychotropic medications may be helpful. It is important to let your doctor know if a medication does not work or if you experience side effects.</div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> Psychiatrists usually recommend that patients continue to take medication for six or more months after symptoms have improved. Longer-term maintenance treatment may be suggested to decrease the risk of future episodes for certain people at high risk.</div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <strong>Psychotherapy:</strong> Psychotherapy, or “talk therapy,” is sometimes used alone for treatment of mild depression; for moderate to severe depression, psychotherapy is often used in along with antidepressant medications. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) has been found to be effective in treating depression. CBT is a form of therapy focused on the present and problem solving. CBT helps a person to recognize distorted thinking and then change behaviors and thinking.</div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> Psychotherapy may involve only the individual, but it can include others. For example, family or couples therapy can help address issues within these close relationships. Group therapy involves people with similar illnesses.</div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> Depending on the severity of the depression, treatment can take a few weeks or much longer. In many cases, significant improvement can be made in 10 to 15 sessions.</div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <strong>Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT)</strong> is a medical treatment most commonly used for patients with severe major depression or bipolar disorder who have not responded to other treatments. It involves a brief electrical stimulation of the brain while the patient is under anesthesia. A patient typically receives ECT two to three times a week for a total of six to 12 treatments. ECT has been used since the 1940s, and many years of research have led to major improvements. It is usually managed by a team of trained medical professionals including a psychiatrist, an anesthesiologist and a nurse or physician assistant.</div> <h3 style="text-align: justify;"> <strong>Self-help and Coping</strong></h3> <div style="text-align: justify;"> There are a number of things people can do to help reduce the symptoms of depression. For many people, regular exercise helps create positive feeling and improve mood. Getting enough quality sleep on a regular basis, eating a healthy diet and avoiding alcohol (a depressant) can also help reduce symptoms of depression.</div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> Depression is a real illness and help is available. With proper diagnosis and treatment, the vast majority of people with depression will overcome it. If you are experiencing symptoms of depression, a first step is to see your family physician or psychiatrist. Talk about your concerns and request a thorough evaluation. This is a start to addressing mental health needs.</div> </div>

Depression (major depressive disorder) is a common and serious medical illness that negatively affects how you feel, the way you thin... Read More »

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <section class="row fw-row" data-header-style="" data-rowname="Overview" id="overview"> <div class="spb-row-container spb-row-full-width-contained col-sm-12 text-standard" data-bottom-style="none" data-top-style="none" data-v-center="false" style="text-align: justify;"> <div class="spb_content_element clearfix"> <section class="container"><div class="row"> <div class="spb_content_element col-sm-12 spb_text_column"> <div class="spb-asset-content"> <h3 class="first last"> <strong>What is cholesterol?</strong></h3> </div> </div> </div> </section> <section class="container"><div class="row"> <div class="spb_content_element col-sm-12 spb_text_column"> <div class="spb-asset-content"> <div class="first before-h4"> Cholesterol is a waxy substance your body uses to protect nerves, make cell tissues, and produce certain hormones. Your liver makes all the cholesterol your body needs. Your body also gets cholesterol directly from the food you eat (such as eggs, meats, and dairy products). Too much cholesterol can have negative impacts on your health.</div> <h4 class="after-p before-p"> <strong>What is the difference between “good” cholesterol and “bad” cholesterol?</strong></h4> <div class="after-h4 before-p"> Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) is often called “bad” cholesterol. It delivers cholesterol to the body. High-density lipoprotein (HDL) is often called “good” cholesterol. It removes cholesterol from the bloodstream.</div> <div class="after-p before-p"> This explains why too much LDL cholesterol is bad for the body, and why a high level of HDL cholesterol is good. For example, if your total cholesterol level is high because of a high LDL level, you may be at higher risk of heart disease or stroke. But, if your total cholesterol level is high only because of a high HDL level, you’re probably not at higher risk.</div> <div class="after-p before-p"> Triglycerides are another type of fat in your blood. When you eat more calories than your body can use, it turns the extra calories into triglycerides.</div> <div class="after-p before-h4"> Changing your lifestyle (diet and exercise) can improve your cholesterol levels, lower LDL and triglycerides, and raise HDL.</div> <h4 class="after-p before-p"> <strong>What should my cholesterol levels be?</strong></h4> <div class="after-h4 before-ul"> Your ideal cholesterol level will depend on your risk for heart disease.</div> <ul class="after-p last"> <li class="first before-li"><strong>Total cholesterol level</strong> – less than 200 is best, but depends on your HDL and LDL levels</li> <li class="after-li before-li"><strong>LDL cholesterol levels</strong> – less than 130 is best, but this depends on your risk for heart disease</li> <li class="after-li before-li"><strong>HDL cholesterol levels</strong> – 60 or higher reduces your risk for heart disease</li> <li class="after-li last"><strong>Triglycerides</strong> – less than 150 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dl) is best</li> </ul> </div> </div> </div> </section> </div> </div> </section><div style="text-align: justify;"> <section class="row fw-row" data-header-style="" data-rowname="Symptoms" id="symptoms"> <div class="spb-row-container spb-row-full-width-contained col-sm-12 text-standard" data-bottom-style="none" data-top-style="none" data-v-center="false"> <div class="spb_content_element clearfix"> <section class="container"><div class="row"> <div class="spb_content_element col-sm-12 spb_text_column"> <div class="spb-asset-content"> <h3 class="first last"> <strong>Symptoms of high cholesterol</strong></h3> </div> </div> </div> </section> <section class="container"><div class="row"> <div class="spb_content_element col-sm-12 spb_text_column"> <div class="spb-asset-content"> <div class="first before-p"> Often, there are no symptoms that specifically relate to high cholesterol. So you could have high cholesterol and not know it.</div> <div class="after-p before-p"> If you have high cholesterol, your body may store the extra cholesterol in your arteries. Your arteries are blood vessels that carry blood from your heart to the rest of your body. Buildup of cholesterol in your arteries is known as plaque. Over time, plaque can become hard and make your arteries narrow. Large deposits of plaque can completely block an artery. Cholesterol plaques can also split open, leading to formation of a blood clot that blocks the flow of blood.</div> <div class="after-p before-p"> If an artery that supplies blood to the muscles in your heart becomes blocked, you could have a heart attack. If an artery that supplies blood to your brain becomes blocked, you could have a stroke.</div> <div class="after-p last"> Many people don’t discover that they have high cholesterol until they suffer one of these life-threatening events.</div> </div> </div> </div> </section> </div> </div> </section><section class="row fw-row" data-header-style=""> <div class="spb-row-container spb-row-full-width-contained col-sm-12 text-standard" data-bottom-style="none" data-top-style="none" data-v-center="false"> <div class="spb_content_element clearfix"> <section class="container"><div class="row"> <div class="spb_content_element col-sm-12 spb_text_column"> <div class="spb-asset-content"> <h3 class="first last"> <strong>What causes high cholesterol</strong><strong>?</strong></h3> </div> </div> </div> </section> <section class="container"><div class="row"> <div class="spb_content_element col-sm-12 spb_text_column"> <div class="spb-asset-content"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg1aGNsWRpeQ_U7ZwcZevYaStqhQp94FSJ4YxAkSUIiYNNz9d0P_1bWfpstIky7jDduBH68ypAkAWfqbJh4hIKtKH63BsuQ5tGYQmLhZgX0ynsahek0M-FaK6WY0DnBqtSZhIYtLl7Oms/s1600/cholestrol.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="395" data-original-width="756" height="334" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg1aGNsWRpeQ_U7ZwcZevYaStqhQp94FSJ4YxAkSUIiYNNz9d0P_1bWfpstIky7jDduBH68ypAkAWfqbJh4hIKtKH63BsuQ5tGYQmLhZgX0ynsahek0M-FaK6WY0DnBqtSZhIYtLl7Oms/s640/cholestrol.jpg" width="640" /></a></div> <div class="first before-p"> <br /></div> <div class="first before-p"> Your liver produces cholesterol, but you also get cholesterol from food. Eating too many foods that are high in fat can increase your cholesterol level.</div> <div class="after-p before-p"> <br /></div> <div class="after-p before-p"> Being overweight and inactive also will lead to high cholesterol. If you are overweight, you most likely have a higher level of triglycerides. If you never exercise and aren’t active in general, it can lower your HDL (good cholesterol).</div> <div class="after-p before-p"> <br /></div> <div class="after-p before-p"> You family history also affects your cholesterol level. Research has shown that high cholesterol tends to run in families. If you have an immediate family member who has it, you could have it, too.</div> <div class="after-p last"> Smoking also promotes high cholesterol because it lowers your HDL (good cholesterol).</div> </div> </div> </div> </section> </div> </div> </section><section class="row fw-row" data-header-style="" data-rowname="Diagnosis" id="diagnosis"> <div class="spb-row-container spb-row-full-width-contained col-sm-12 text-standard" data-bottom-style="none" data-top-style="none" data-v-center="false"> <div class="spb_content_element clearfix"> <section class="container"><div class="row"> <div class="spb_content_element col-sm-12 spb_text_column"> <div class="spb-asset-content"> <h3 class="first last"> <strong>How is high cholesterol diagnosed?</strong></h3> </div> </div> </div> </section> <section class="container"><div class="row"> <div class="spb_content_element col-sm-12 spb_text_column"> <div class="spb-asset-content"> <div class="first before-p"> You can’t tell if you have high cholesterol without having it checked. A simple blood test will reveal your cholesterol level.</div> <div class="after-p before-p"> Men 35 years of age and older and women 45 years of age and older should have their cholesterol checked. Men and women 20 years of age and older who have risk factors for heart disease should also have their cholesterol checked. Teens may need to be checked if they are taking certain medicines or have a strong family history of high cholesterol. Ask your doctor how often you should have your cholesterol checked.</div> <div class="after-p before-ul"> Risk factors for heart disease include:</div> <ul class="after-p last"> <li class="first before-li">Cigarette smoking.</li> <li class="after-li before-li">High blood pressure.</li> <li class="after-li before-li">Older age.</li> <li class="after-li before-li">Have an immediate family member (parent or sibling) who has had heart disease.</li> <li class="after-li before-li">Being overweight or obese.</li> <li class="after-li last">Inactivity.</li> </ul> </div> </div> </div> </section> </div> </div> </section><section class="row fw-row" data-header-style="" data-rowname="Prevention" id="prevention"> <div class="spb-row-container spb-row-full-width-contained col-sm-12 text-standard" data-bottom-style="none" data-top-style="none" data-v-center="false"> <div class="spb_content_element clearfix"> <section class="container"><div class="row"> <div class="spb_content_element col-sm-12 spb_text_column"> <div class="spb-asset-content"> <h3 class="first last"> <strong>Can high cholesterol be prevented or avoided?</strong></h3> </div> </div> </div> </section> <section class="container"><div class="row"> <div class="spb_content_element col-sm-12 spb_text_column"> <div class="spb-asset-content"> <div class="first before-p"> Making healthy food choices and exercising are two important ways to reduce your risk of developing high cholesterol.</div> <div class="after-p before-p"> Try eating fewer foods with saturated fats (such as red meat and most dairy products). Opt for healthier fats, like those found in lean meats, avocados, nuts, and low-fat dairy items. Steer clear of foods that contain trans fat (such as fried and packaged foods). Look for foods that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids. These foods include salmon, herring, walnuts, and almonds.</div> <div class="after-p last"> Your exercise routine can be something simple. Anything that prevents you from being inactive will work. Go for a walk. Take a yoga class. Ride your bike to work. You could even try signing up for a team sport. Aim to get 30 minutes of activity every day. Doing so will help raise your HDL “good cholesterol.”</div> </div> </div> </div> </section> </div> </div> </section><section class="row fw-row" data-header-style="" data-rowname="Treatment" id="treatment"> <div class="spb-row-container spb-row-full-width-contained col-sm-12 text-standard" data-bottom-style="none" data-top-style="none" data-v-center="false"> <div class="spb_content_element clearfix"> <section class="container"><div class="row"> <div class="spb_content_element col-sm-12 spb_text_column"> <div class="spb-asset-content"> <h3 class="first last"> <strong>High cholesterol treatment</strong></h3> </div> </div> </div> </section> <section class="container"><div class="row"> <div class="spb_content_element col-sm-12 spb_text_column"> <div class="spb-asset-content"> <div class="first before-h4"> If you have high cholesterol, you may need to make some lifestyle changes. If you smoke, quit. Exercise regularly. If you’re overweight, losing just five to 10 pounds can help improve your cholesterol levels and your risk for heart disease. Make sure to eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and fish.</div> <h4 class="after-p before-p"> <strong>What about medicine to lower cholesterol?</strong></h4> <div class="after-h4 before-h4"> Depending on your risk factors, your doctor may suggest medicine along with lifestyle changes.</div> </div> </div> </div> </section> </div> </div> </section><section class="row fw-row" data-header-style="" data-rowname="Everyday Life" id="everyday-life"> <div class="spb-row-container spb-row-full-width-contained col-sm-12 text-standard" data-bottom-style="none" data-top-style="none" data-v-center="false"> <div class="spb_content_element clearfix"> <section class="container"><div class="row"> <div class="spb_content_element col-sm-12 spb_text_column"> <div class="spb-asset-content"> <h3 class="first last"> <strong>Living with high cholesterol</strong></h3> </div> </div> </div> </section> <section class="container"><div class="row"> <div class="spb_content_element col-sm-12 spb_text_column"> <div class="spb-asset-content"> <div class="first last"> If you have high cholesterol, you are twice as likely to develop heart disease. That is why it is important to have your cholesterol levels checked, especially if you have a family history of heart disease. Working to decrease your LDL “bad cholesterol” through good diet, exercise, and medication can make a positive impact on your overall health.</div> </div> </div> </div> </section> </div> </div> </section><section class="row fw-row" data-header-style="" data-rowname="Questions" id="questions"> <div class="spb-row-container spb-row-full-width-contained col-sm-12 text-standard" data-bottom-style="none" data-top-style="none" data-v-center="false"> <div class="spb_content_element clearfix"> <section class="container"><div class="row"> <div class="spb_content_element col-sm-12 spb_text_column"> <div class="spb-asset-content"> <h3 class="first last"> Questions to ask your doctor</h3> </div> </div> </div> </section> <section class="container"><div class="row"> <div class="spb_content_element col-sm-12 spb_text_column"> <div class="spb-asset-content"> <ul class="first last"> <li class="first before-li">Am I at risk for heart disease?</li> <li class="after-li before-li">How often should I get my cholesterol tested?</li> <li class="after-li before-li">What are my cholesterol levels? What do they mean?</li> <li class="after-li before-li">What lifestyle changes do I need to make to help improve my cholesterol levels and heart health?</li> <li class="after-li before-li">Is there a chance that I’ll need cholesterol-lowering medicine?</li> <li class="after-li last">What are the risks and benefits of taking this medicine?</li> </ul> </div> </div> </div> </section> </div> </div> </section></div> </div> </div>

What is cholesterol? Cholesterol is a waxy substance your body uses to protect nerves, make cell tissues, and produce cer... Read More »

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <h2 class="css-13i30ag" style="text-align: right;"> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE3egZnHm4swPebq2z7gFfIko_-MGtZlemf1aygzCVk5zCy-3l22hXV8tmBr4DnVYiBoECIe_pb8MIs9s5zG0XM78TBOEDiCzUWgeiqAZuapPJBTV6AZGCpb7PNJcuRS74sNKIOOe1W1A/s1600/Everything+You+Need+to+Know+About+Anxiety.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="395" data-original-width="756" height="334" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE3egZnHm4swPebq2z7gFfIko_-MGtZlemf1aygzCVk5zCy-3l22hXV8tmBr4DnVYiBoECIe_pb8MIs9s5zG0XM78TBOEDiCzUWgeiqAZuapPJBTV6AZGCpb7PNJcuRS74sNKIOOe1W1A/s640/Everything+You+Need+to+Know+About+Anxiety.jpg" width="640" /></a></div> <br /> Overview</div> </h2> <div style="text-align: justify;"> Anxiety is your body’s natural response to stress. It’s a feeling of fear or apprehension about what’s to come. The first day of school, going to a job interview, or giving a speech may cause most people to feel fearful and nervous. </div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> But if your feelings of anxiety are extreme, last for longer than six months, and are interfering with your life, you may have an anxiety disorder.</div> <div class="css-0" style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: 0;"></span><br /> <h2 class="css-0"> <div> What are anxiety disorders?</div> </h2> It’s normal to feel anxious about moving to a new place, starting a new job, or taking a test. This type of anxiety is unpleasant, but it may motivate you to work harder and to do a better job. Ordinary anxiety is a feeling that comes and goes, but does not interfere with your everyday life.<br /> <br /> In the case of an anxiety disorder, the feeling of fear may be with you all the time. It is intense and sometimes debilitating. <br /> <br /> This type of anxiety may cause you to stop doing things you enjoy. In extreme cases, it may prevent you from entering an elevator, crossing the street, or even leaving your home. If left untreated, the anxiety will keep getting worse.<br /> <br /> Anxiety disorders are the most common form of emotional disorder and can affect anyone at any age. According to the American Psychiatric Association, women are more likely than men to be diagnosed with an anxiety disorder. </div> <div class="css-0" style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: 0;"></span><br /> <h2 class="css-0"> <div> What are the types of anxiety disorders?</div> </h2> Anxiety is a key part of several different disorders. These include:<br /> <ul> <li>panic disorder: experiencing recurring panic attacks at unexpected times. A person with panic disorder may live in fear of the next panic attack.</li> <li>phobia: excessive fear of a specific object, situation, or activity</li> <li>social anxiety disorder: extreme fear of being judged by others in social situations</li> <li>obsessive-compulsive disorder: recurring irrational thoughts that lead you to perform specific, repeated behaviors</li> <li>separation anxiety disorder: fear of being away from home or loved ones</li> <li>illness anxiety disorder: anxiety about your health (formerly called hypochondria)</li> <li>post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD): anxiety following a traumatic event</li> </ul> <div class="css-jidkhl e2muz2j0"> <span style="font-size: 0px;"></span><br /> <aside class="css-0"><div class="css-0"> <div class="css-6ox1xg"> <div> <span id="_5ac2690fe0-160-1-container"></span></div> </div> </div> </aside><span style="font-size: 0px;"></span></div> </div> <div class="css-0" style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: 0;"></span><br /> <h2 class="css-0"> <div> What are the symptoms of anxiety?</div> </h2> Anxiety feels different depending on the person experiencing it. Feelings can range from butterflies in your stomach to a racing heart. You might feel out of control, like there’s a disconnect between your mind and body. <br /> <br /> Other ways people experience anxiety include nightmares, panic attacks, and painful thoughts or memories that you can’t control. You may have a general feeling of fear and worry, or you may fear a specific place or event. <br /> <br /> Symptoms of general anxiety include: <br /> <ul> <li>increased heart rate</li> <li>rapid breathing</li> <li>restlessness</li> <li>trouble concentrating</li> <li>difficulty falling asleep</li> </ul> Your anxiety symptoms might be totally different from someone else’s. That’s why it’s important to know all the ways anxiety can present itself.</div> <div class="css-0" style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: 0;"></span><br /> <h2 class="css-0"> <div> What is an anxiety attack?</div> </h2> An anxiety attack is a feeling of overwhelming apprehension, worry, distress, or fear. For many people, an anxiety attack builds slowly. It may worsen as a stressful event approaches. <br /> <br /> Anxiety attacks can vary greatly, and symptoms may differ among individuals. That’s because the many symptoms of anxiety don’t happen to everyone, and they can change over time.<br /> Common symptoms of an anxiety attack include:<br /> <ul> <li>feeling faint or dizzy</li> <li>shortness of breath</li> <li>dry mouth</li> <li>sweating</li> <li>chills or hot flashes</li> <li>apprehension and worry</li> <li>restlessness</li> <li>distress</li> <li>fear</li> <li>numbness or tingling</li> </ul> A panic attack and an anxiety attack share some common symptoms, but they’re not the same.</div> <div class="css-0" style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: 0;"></span><br /> <h2 class="css-0"> <div> What causes anxiety?</div> </h2> Researchers are not sure of the exact cause of anxiety. But, it’s likely a combination of factors play a role. These include genetic and environmental factors, as well as brain chemistry. <br /> <br /> In addition, researchers believe that the areas of the brain responsible for controlling fear may be impacted.<br /> <br /> Current research of anxiety is taking a deeper look at the parts of the brain that are involved with anxiety.<br /> <div class="css-1tdk91s e2muz2j0"> <span style="font-size: 0px;"></span><br /> <aside class="css-0"></aside><span style="font-size: 0px;"></span></div> </div> <div class="css-0" style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: 0;"></span><br /> <h2 class="css-0"> <div> Are there tests that diagnose anxiety?</div> </h2> A single test can’t diagnose anxiety. Instead, an anxiety diagnosis requires a lengthy process of physical examinations, mental health evaluations, and psychological questionnaires.<br /> <br /> Some doctors may conduct a physical exam, including blood or urine tests to rule out underlying medical conditions that could contribute to symptoms you’re experiencing. <br /> <br /> Several anxiety tests and scales are also used to help your doctor assess the level of anxiety you’re experiencing.</div> <div class="css-0" style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: 0;"></span><br /> <h2 class="css-0"> <div> What are treatments for anxiety?</div> </h2> Once you’ve been diagnosed with anxiety, you can to explore treatment options with your doctor. For some people, medical treatment isn’t necessary. Lifestyle changes may be enough to cope with the symptoms. <br /> <br /> In moderate or severe cases, however, treatment can help you overcome the symptoms and lead a more manageable day-to-day life.<br /> <br /> Treatment for anxiety falls into two categories: psychotherapy and medication. Meeting with a therapist or psychologist can help you learn tools to use and strategies to cope with anxiety when it occurs.<br /> <br /> Medications typically used to treat anxiety include antidepressants and sedatives. They work to balance brain chemistry, prevent episodes of anxiety, and ward off the most severe symptoms of the disorder.</div> <div class="css-0" style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: 0;"></span><br /> <h2 class="css-0"> <div> What natural remedies are used for anxiety?</div> </h2> Lifestyle changes can be an effective way to relive some of the stress and anxiety you may cope with every day. Most of the natural “remedies” consist of caring for your body, participating in healthy activities, and eliminating unhealthy ones. <br /> <br /> These include:<br /> <ul> <li>getting enough sleep</li> <li>meditating</li> <li>staying active and exercising</li> <li>eating a healthy diet</li> <li>staying active and working out</li> <li>avoiding alcohol</li> <li>avoiding caffeine</li> <li>quitting smoking cigarettes</li> </ul> If these lifestyle changes seem like a positive way to help you eliminate some anxiety, read about how each one works—plus, get more great ideas for treating anxiety.</div> <div class="css-0" style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: 0;"></span><br /> <h2 class="css-0"> <div> Anxiety and depression</div> </h2> If you have an anxiety disorder, you may also be depressed. While anxiety and depression can occur separately, it’s not unusual for these to mental health disorders to happen together.<br /> <br /> Anxiety can be a symptom of clinical or major depression. Likewise, worsening symptoms of depression can be triggered by an anxiety disorder. <br /> <br /> Symptoms of both conditions can be managed with many of the same treatments: psychotherapy (counseling), medications, and lifestyle changes.</div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-size: 0;"></span></div> <h2 class="css-0" style="text-align: justify;"> <div> How to help children with anxiety</div> </h2> <div style="text-align: justify;"> Anxiety in children is natural and common. In fact, one in eight children will experience anxiety. As children grow up and learn from their parents, friends, and caretakers, they typically develop the skills to calm themselves and cope with feelings of anxiety.</div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> But, anxiety in children can also become chronic and persistent, developing into an anxiety disorder. Uncontrolled anxiety may begin to interfere with daily activities, and children may avoid interacting with their peers or family members. </div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> Symptoms of an anxiety disorder might include:</div> <ul style="text-align: justify;"> <li>jitteriness</li> <li>irritability</li> <li>sleeplessness</li> <li>feelings of fear</li> <li>shame</li> <li>feelings of isolation</li> </ul> <div style="text-align: justify;"> Anxiety treatment for children includes cognitive behavioral therapy (talk therapy) and medications.</div> </div>

Overview Anxiety is your body’s natural response to stress. It’s a feeling of fear or apprehension about what’s to come. The fi... Read More »