Goodbye to painful prostate

Goodbye to painful prostate


Treating prostatic-related lower urinary tract symptoms is no longer a pipe dream
by Joseph Masilamany

THE agony of a prostatic condition such as the pain of an enlarged prostate or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), which is also known to cause hesitant urination or urination that comes in drips, is only understood by sufferers of BPH.

(from left) Roehrborn and Rohan say there’s hope for sufferers of BPH.

Its symptoms vary from obstruction of the urethra to the gradual loss of bladder function, which results in incomplete emptying of the bladder.

The most common of these involve changes or problems with urination, such as a hesitant, interrupted, weak stream; urgency and leaking or dribbling; and more frequent urination, especially at night.

The hope for a more permanent and stable regulation of these urinary tract symptoms is no longer a pipe dream. A leading research-based pharmaceutical and healthcare company announced findings from a large study recently which offers new hope to men afflicted with BPH.

The study revealed that a combined treatment – with a 5-alpha-reductase inhibitor (5-ARI), which shrinks enlarged prostates, and another common oral medication (alpha-blocker), which relieves symptoms only – offers a significant improvement than treatment with just either one of these drugs.

The study has also established that combination management eases symptoms including acute urinary retention (AUR) to a large and positive extent.

The analyses from the study (CombAT) were presented to the local media recently by Dr Claus G. Roehrborn, professor and chairman of the Department of Urology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Centre.

Roehrborn said in the post-study period, it was discovered that 5-ARI showed a pattern of "decreasing" enlarged prostate symptom over a 24-month period.

"The study included 4,800 men with moderate to severe BPH symptoms. All study participants received placebo for four weeks and then were randomised to receive a 5-ARI and alpha-blocker combination as well as single therapy with either one of the two drugs.

"The results suggested that physicians should consider combining both these medications in the early treatment stages of BPH to achieve improved symptom relief for men with enlarged prostate.

"This study also provides important new data to guide medical therapy for men with symptomatic BPH. The discomfort and anxiety suffered by men living with BPH should not be underestimated.

"The daily distress of coping with frequent and urgent urination, getting up throughout the night, as well as the underlying fear of potential future complications and possible need for surgery significantly undermine a patient’s quality of life," Roehrborn added.

He went on to explained that the study has shown we can now make a difference to the lives of men with moderate to severe BPH by bringing together the key benefits of each medicine so that they can experience rapid, effective and long-lasting improvement of urinary symptoms.

Roehrborn also said the findings are on-going and researchers will issue a final report at the end of four years regarding the efficacy of the combination-therapy in reducing symptoms, disease progression, the discomfort of AUR and even the possibility of eliminating prostate surgery (prostatectomy).

According to Selayang Hospital’s head of Urology Department Dr Rohan Malek, the incidence of BPH in the country is of concern especially when recent population studies in neighbouring countries have revealed that BPH cases are significantly on the rise.

He also said that despite the apparently low incidence of BPH complications in general, the absolute number of patients who present irksome symptoms of BPH especially in government hospitals is worrying.

SOURCE: THE SUN ONLINE

YOURHEALTH

YourHealth: Soothing the soles

By : Rajen M. 

It is believed that nerve endings of all major organs are at the soles of the feet. These nerve endings can be stimulated by massage.

REFLEXOLOGY is sometimes called "zone therapy". It is an ancient practice of massaging, squeezing or pushing on the sole of the feet. Sometimes it involves the hands and even the ears.

The goal is to encourage a beneficial effect on other parts of the body and even to improve general health.

How it actually works is still very much debated. One theory is that nerve endings of all major organs are at the soles of the feet. These nerve endings can be stimulated by massaging the end points on the soles.

Reflexologists contend that the body contains an energy field, invisible life force, or Qi. When this is blocked, healing is prevented. Massaging the soles actually enhances the life force. 

Other proposed effects of reflexology include the release of endorphins (natural pain killers found in the body), the promotion of lymphatic flow in the body, or the dissolving of uric acid crystals. That is why you are asked to drink lots of water after each session. 
The origins of reflexology date back to ancient Egypt as evidenced by inscriptions found in a physician's tomb at Saqqara. 

We cannot determine the exact relationship between the ancient art as practised by the early Egyptians and reflexology as we know it today. Different forms of working the feet to effect health have been used in the ancient world.

There seems to be an active phase of its development in China and Japan that parallels the development of acupuncture. Similar techniques are advocated as "mamar therapy" as a part of Ayurveda. 

In the West, the concept of reflexology began to emerge in the 19th century, based on research into the nervous system and reflex.

The precursor of modern reflexology was introduced to the United States in 1913 by William H. Fitzgerald, M.D. (1872-1942), an ear, nose and throat specialist, and Dr Edwin Bowers. 

Fitzgerald claimed that applying pressure had an anesthetic effect on other areas of the body.

Reflexology was further developed in the 1930s and 1940s by Eunice D. Ingham (1899-1974), a nurse and physiotherapist. 

Ingham claimed that the feet and hands were especially sensitive, and mapped the entire body into "reflexes" on the feet. It was at this time that "zone therapy" was renamed reflexology. 

Modern reflexologists in the United States and Britain often learn Ingham's method first, although there are more recent developed methods.

The basis of the science is that the body is reflected on the feet or hands. Left foot or hand reflects the left side of the body and the right foot or hand the right side. 

The spine reflex area runs down the insides of the foot and hand with reflex areas for the arm and shoulder reflected toward the outside of the foot or hand.

The toes and fingers reflect head and neck reflex areas as well as those of the internal parts of the body they enclose. 

The ball of the foot mirrors the chest and upper back in addition to the heart and lungs. 

The waistline of the body is represented at the base of the long bones of the feet and hands. Portions of the body above the waistline is mirrored above this line toward the toes or fingers and those below the waistline toward the heels of the foot or hand. 

In general terms the benefits of reflexology have to do with the reduction of stress. Because the feet and hands help set the tension level for the rest of the body they are an easy way to interrupt the stress signal and reset homeostasis, the body's equilibrium.

Reflexology is a complement to standard medical care and should not be construed as medical advice.

There are no ill effects of this technique except for the pain and soreness that you might feel after the session. 

SOURCE:  NST ONLINE

Ban on China dairy products

Monday September 22, 2008 MYT 8:53:03 PM

Ban on China dairy products to include confectionary

PETALING JAYA: The Government has widened its ban on dairy products imported from China to include confectionary that contain milk, chocolate, chocolate milk, white chocolate and other foods that contain milk.

The decision was based on the latest information received from Singapore’s Agri-Food and Veterinary Authority (AVA) which found melamine in the “White Rabbit Creamy Candy”, the Health Ministry said in a statement on Monday.

The ministry’s food quality and safety department director Noraini Mohd Othman said the widened ban would therefore include the “White Rabbit Creamy Candy” and flour-based confections like biscuits.

“The ministry will also seize such products in the local market,” she said.

Noraini said Malaysia already had an existing ban on any milk or milk powder from China, adding that although the country had imported dairy products from China, the milk was sourced from Australia and New Zealand.

“As a preventive measure, the ministry also imposed a Level 6 or automatic rejection on all imported baby milk powder, milk and dairy products via the Food Safety Information System.”

Noraini advised consumers to be aware of the types of items that have been banned and to dispose of any existing items that they may already have.

“Retailers are also advised to report to their nearest state health departments or offices if such products are in their premises,” she said, adding that importers and agents have to stop distributing such products and immediately contact her department.

Noraini said the ministry would also take samples from food all over the country to analyse it for the presence of melamine, adding that if it was detected, those involved in the distribution chain could be fined up to RM100,000 or jailed a maximum 10 years or both.

Consumers can contact the ministry at 03-8883-3503 for more information.

SOURCE:   http://thestar.com.my

Food, Disease, and You

by Sandy Powers

The scenario for fighting diseases and building healthier immune systems with certain foods exists in all cultures. This is not to say we cast aside the marvelous strides in medicines that have been made over the last fifty years, but your best first defense against disease is nutrition. Healthy nutrition is quite simply back to basics. Wise food choices help fight those beginning cancer cells and prevent that build up of cholesterol in the arteries while making you feel a whole lot healthier. To begin that path to health, start with Vitamin C.

Vitamin C

Scurvy was the first disease recognized as being caused by a dietary deficiency. Scurvy, caused by a Vitamin C deficiency, with symptoms of bleeding gums, bruising, weakness, aches and pains that often lead to death, was common among sailors during the 15th and 16th centuries. It was not unusual on long sea voyages for a ship to loose half of its crew to scurvy. In 1747, scurvy-ridden sailors were being treated with lemons and limes through the efforts of the Scottish naval surgeon James Lind. By 1795, the British Navy added lime juice to the rations of sailors, which was successful in preventing scurvy. Born was the nickname "Limeys" for British sailors.

While today scurvy is not a familiar disease because of the efforts of fortified food, Vitamin C deficiency is still rather common. In the United States, one third of all adults receive less Vitamin C in their diets than is recommended by the National Academy of Sciences. One out of every six adults get less than one half of the recommended amount. Frequent colds and infections, bleeding gums, poor healing, and lung related problems are all symptoms of Vitamin C deficiency.

Vitamin C is the most important antioxidant of all the antioxidants because it defends the interior part of our cells against free radicals that provoke diseases like cancer and heart while fighting stress in our bodies. The human body cannot manufacture Vitamin C, nor can it store it. Vitamin C should be taken through food sources daily, not through a multiple vitamin supplement. Oranges, bell peppers, broccoli, and parsley are excellent sources of Vitamin C.

Vitamin D

Vitamin D deficiency that is associated with weak bones now has been associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, according to a study recently published in the Journal of the American Heart Association. "The higher risk associated with Vitamin D deficiency was particularly evident among individuals with high blood pressure," researchers concluded. The study continued, "Low levels of Vitamin D are highly prevalent in the United States.....Twenty to 30 percent of the population...has moderate to severe Vitamin D deficiency." The research further provided evidence that people who tested low in Vitamin D are 45 percent more likely to have high triglycerides.

Since few foods are rich in Vitamin D, we must depend upon sunlight as our best source. Sunlight creates Vitamin D on the skin where it is absorbed into the body. The overuse of sunscreens is the main reason for Vitamin D deficiency. To get your needed dose of Vitamin D, go out daily into sunlight for about 15 minutes without sunscreen. Don't cover your arms. Your skin will convert the sunlight into Vitamin D where it will be stored in your liver for use. The daily 15 minutes in the sun without sunscreen will not increase your risk of skin cancer.

Cholesterol

Who isn't trying to lower the numbers? According to the Mayo Clinic, there are 4 great foods to help you do just that.

1. Fiber---The fiber in oatmeal, apples, pears, and kidney beans are excellent choices for lowing cholesterol. 2. Walnuts---When 20 percent of your calories come from walnuts, your "bad" cholesterol can be reduced by as much as 12 percent. Eat a handful of walnuts everyday. 3. Omega-3---Helps the heart by reducing blood pressure and the risk of blood clots. If you already had a heart attack, a good level of omega-3 in your body significantly reduces the risk of sudden death. Eat two servings of fish weekly. Good sources of omega-3 are lake trout, salmon, herring, sardines, and anchovies. Be alert for mercury contamination. Try to buy fish from the wild. 4. Olive Oil---Not canola oil, not flaxseed oil but Extra-Virgin Olive Oil. Buy Extra-Virgin Olive Oil's first cold press to receive more heart healthy antioxidants. Olive Oil is the only cooking oil that can be used as is: freshly pressed from the olive. Studies corroborate Olive Oil's protection against heart disease by its ability to control "bad" cholesterol while raising "good" cholesterol. Two tablespoons of Olive Oil are recommended daily. Use Olive Oil to sauté vegetables or mix with vinegar for a salad dressing.

Back to basics. Back to nutrition. Back to health. You're on you way.

SOURCE: http://www.goarticles.com

Easy Ways To A Healthy Heart

by Robert Orr

Easy Ways To A Healthy Heart

Smoking if you do give it up if you don`t then don`t start. If you want to have a healthy heart then no amount of smoking is safe. So called low tar or mild cigarettes also are dangerous, as is breathing in other peoples smoke.

Cigarette smoke contains thousands of different chemicals. Many of these can damage your heart and blood vessels, making you more likely to have hardening or narrowing of the arteries. Narrowing of the arteries can ultimately lead to a heart attack. Also nicotine in cigarette smoke puts stress on your heart forcing it to work harder by constricting blood vessels and pushing up your heart rate and raising your blood pressure.

Carbon monoxide in cigarette smoke is very toxic and replaces some of the oxygen in your blood. This pushes up your blood pressure by forcing your heart to work harder to supply enough oxygen. Even occasional smoking while at a bar or restaurant with friends is dangerous and increases the risk of heart disease.

Women who smoke and take the pill are at greater risk of having a heart attack or stroke than are those who don't. Worse, this risk increases with age, especially for those over 35.Also worth noting pregnant women who smoke are taking serious risks with the health of their unborn child. The good news, though, is that when you quit smoking, your risk of heart disease drops significantly within just one year.

And no matter how long or how much you smoked, you'll feeling better and be recovering as soon as you quit There are many groups and programmes to help you quit smoking you could ask your doctor for details of health service programmes. Regular exercise and reasonably energetic physical activity can reduce your risk of heart disease by almost a quarter. And when you combine physical activity with a healthy lifestyle, such as looking after your weight,and keeping to a healthy and balanced diet.

Regular physical activity helps prevent heart disease by increasing blood flow to your heart and strengthening your heart and lungs so that your heart pumps more blood with less effort. Physical activity also helps you maintain your weight and can reduce your chances of developing other conditions, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes. It also reduces stress, which may also be a factor in heart disease.

So make the effort a thirty minute brisk walk every day can have very beneficial effect on your heart and blood pressure,remember even small changes can reap big benefits. A healthy balanced diet is essential in maintaining a healthy heart, fruits vegetables and wholegrains are amongst the elements that should be consumed regularly.

Omega-3 fatty acids, a type of polyunsaturated fat, may lower your risk of heart attack, and lower blood pressure. Some fish are a good natural source of omega-3s. Omega-3s are present in smaller amounts in flaxseed oil, walnut oil, soybean oil , and they can also be taken in supplements. Keeping a healthy lifestyle also means drinking alcohol only in moderation no more than two drinks a day for men, one a day for women.

At that moderate level, alcohol can have a protective effect on your heart. Above that, it becomes a health hazard. Remember before making any major lifestyle or dietary changes make an appointment and discuss your changes with your doctor.

SOURCE: http://www.goarticles.com/

WHAT IS YOUR BMI?

BMI Index - What Is Your BMI ?


Autor: sayush


Your BMI will be a number that is calculated based on your height, weight and sex. The aim of this calculation is to take all of these important factors into account before giving you an assessment.


While BMI is one good measure of determining your ideal weight, you will have to see a professional medical advisor if you are concerned for more thorough evaluation. The good news is that it is possible to measure your body mass index in the comfort of your home since all you need to know is your weight and height and the relevant calculation.


It does not require expensive or sophisticated equipment or a visit to a gym or clinic.


How to calculate BMI


To calculate your own BMI you use a different calculation depending on whether you are going to be using your height in meters or inches and your weight in pounds or kilograms. For this example, let's assume that your weight will be weight in kilograms divided by your height in metres squared.

So, if your weight is 65 kilos and your height 1.5 metres, then you divide your weight, 65, by 1.25 (which is 1.5 squared). For using pounds and inches you take your weight in pounds and divide by your height squared and then multiply the answer by 703. Both of these methods of calculating BMI will give you exactly the same result.

If you are mathematically challenged as I am, there are several calculators available online that will crunch the numbers for you.


How to interpret your Body Mass Index value

Once you get the final number, you have to see where you fit in the range of values on a chart. The chart values will indicate that a certain figure is under weight, in the normal range, in the overweight range or the worst case scenario - in the obese range.


Body Mass Index is commonly used as an indicator of obesity. However, it is far from perfect and there are important factors that should also be taken into account. These factors are sex, race, age and body type. Different BMI values are healthy depending on your age, race, sex and body type. Therefore, you should take these into account also. If you are looking for one quick measure (besides your weight), then the BMI index will give you just that.
Source: Free Articles

EFFECTIVE HERBAL WEIGHT LOSS METHODS

Effective Herbal Weight Loss Methods

Autor: Lesley Lyon

Herbal products are prepared from the leaves, stems, roots, bark, buds and flowers of plants. They are taken in their natural form or refined into tablets. When compared with other weight loss products, herbal products are more effective and less in calories. Herbal products are rich in taste. Herbal products help in losing weight in a very short span of time without any risk and there are no restrictions in diet.


Some of herbal medicines manufactured for weight loss are:


Ephedra: This is a stimulant, which suppresses the appetite. Small amounts can be taken but it is not recommended for diabetic or heart patients.


PPA (PHENYL PROPANOL AMINE HYDROCHLORIDE): Researchers say that it improves weight loss when taken with a low calorie diet. FDA has approved it with a warning on their labels.


Herbal teas: The ingredients, which promote weight loss, are locus plant, ginseng, buchu leaves and papaya. Herbal teas are growing in popularity.


Amino acids (CARNITINE): This enhances the burning of fat. Since it has calories, it increases the calorie intake also.


Fucus vesiculosis: This is a sea vegetable having iodine, potassium, iron, magnesium and calcium. Since it contains iodine, it helps in thyroid hormone production to maintain metabolism in our body.


Gallium Aperine: This is a diuretic and lymphatic cleanser. It is used to clear the body of toxins.


Garcinia Cambogia is a natural appetite suppressant and boosts metabolism.


Taraxacum Officinalis has a rich source of vitamins like A, D, C and B and minerals, iron, magnesium, Zinc and manganese.


Glycolrrhiza Glabra is a tonic stimulant for the digestive system.


Erythrea Centauriumis is an excellent purifier of blood and a general tonic


Pauline Cupani boosts energy levels


Curcuma Longa was used three thousand years ago as a treatment for obesity


Zingiber Officinalis stimulates energy production and improves digestion

Herbals are most popular dietary supplements. Weight loss can be achieved through correct diet plan, regular exercise and brisk walk. Herbal products not only help in weight loss but are also good in taste. Herbal life products are les expensive compared to other weight loss pills. Herbal weight loss program is easy to follow and can fit into any schedule. Exercise is not a must to lose weight with the herbal weight loss program.

Source: Free Articles