Things to Know About Laser Skin Treatment

The word 'laser' is derived from the words Light Amplifi­cation by Stimulated Emission of Radiation - which means that a laser consists of a powerful beam of light. Several types of laser are used in medical practice with great success in numerous different areas: in the treatment of detached retinas, bleeding veins, some types of cancer and many serious skin problems.

There is evidence to show that they are effective in the treatment of port wine stains, in the removal of tattoos, in the treatment of warts, and in the treatment of some cancerous skin conditions.

There has been talk about lasers being used to treat wrinkles, but as far as I know there is no evidence to show that laser therapy is of any permanent use in the treatment of wrinkles. There can be some short-term relief - due to localized swelling hiding t
he wrinkles - but that's about all.

Things have come a long way since 1960 when an expert described the newly developed laser as an invention in search of an application.

Unfortunately, the production, sale and use of lasers has not been controlled. Today, there are many unqualified individuals buying and using them in private clinics where they are advertised as being suitable for an astonishing range of disorders. Lasers can be extremely dangerous and should never be used by unqualified practitioners. If you need laser therapy, your own family doctor will refer you to a specialist who knows exactly what he is doing. In my view the future of lasers in the treatment of skin disease has been put in peril by the careless, unscientific and irresponsible attempts by some users to cash in on a piece of modern technology. And please don't believe anyone who talks about an entirely 'safe' laser. If a laser is going to do an efficient job then it is potentially dangerous. To talk about an entirely safe laser is like talking about an entirely safe gun.
http://www.healtharticles.lk/articles/628/1/Things-to-know-about-Laser-Skin-Treatment/Page1.html

Things to Know About Laser Skin Treatment

The word 'laser' is derived from the words Light Amplifi­cation by Stimulated Emission of Radiation - which means that a laser consists of a powerful beam of light. Several types of laser are used in medical practice with great success in numerous different areas: in the treatment of detached retinas, bleeding veins, some types of cancer and many serious skin problems.

There is evidence to show that they are effective in the treatment of port wine stains, in the removal of tattoos, in the treatment of warts, and in the treatment of some cancerous skin conditions.

There has been talk about lasers being used to treat wrinkles, but as far as I know there is no evidence to show that laser therapy is of any permanent use in the treatment of wrinkles. There can be some short-term relief - due to localized swelling hiding t
he wrinkles - but that's about all.

Things have come a long way since 1960 when an expert described the newly developed laser as an invention in search of an application.

Unfortunately, the production, sale and use of lasers has not been controlled. Today, there are many unqualified individuals buying and using them in private clinics where they are advertised as being suitable for an astonishing range of disorders. Lasers can be extremely dangerous and should never be used by unqualified practitioners. If you need laser therapy, your own family doctor will refer you to a specialist who knows exactly what he is doing. In my view the future of lasers in the treatment of skin disease has been put in peril by the careless, unscientific and irresponsible attempts by some users to cash in on a piece of modern technology. And please don't believe anyone who talks about an entirely 'safe' laser. If a laser is going to do an efficient job then it is potentially dangerous. To talk about an entirely safe laser is like talking about an entirely safe gun.
http://www.healtharticles.lk/articles/628/1/Things-to-know-about-Laser-Skin-Treatment/Page1.html

The Importance of Heart Attack Statistics

As many people experience many form of stressor from daily living, the incidence of heart attack increases. Usually, stress is normal and even healthy for people so they can be challenged and live normally. Unfortunately, once stress surpass the levels that a human being can deal with, certain health conditions like cardiovascular diseases can develop too. Heart attack statistics from many countries illustrates the fact that heart attack is one of the leading cause of death worldwide.

One of the most credible source of information for heart attack statistics is World Health Organization. According to their 2002 report, 49 % of heart attack was mainly triggered by high blood pressure. Hypertension is caused by unhealthy diet choices like fatty food which results to obesity. Those who have elevated blood pressure mostly lack physical activity. Once blood pressure shoots up, chest pain and shortness of breath would be felt that can lead to heart attack. Most of the time, emotional stress caused by too much anxiety can contribute to hypertension. Thus, heart attack statistics tells us indirectly to keep our blood pressure at normal levels by having a healthy lifestyle.

On top of that, other metabolic disorders like diabetes are commonly associated with heart problems. In the heart attack statistics reported by Australia’s health in 2004, 3.3% of adults who suffer from diabetes and sought medical services had a heart attack. Diabetes.org states that 2 out of 3 people afflicted with diabetes often die from heart attack or stroke. Thus, heart attack statistics are important since they not only provide us the incidence of heart problems but also state other ailments related to it.

Another very important information about heart attack statistics is that it points out the relationship of bad habits like smoking and likelihood of heart disease. The World Federation Fact Sheet 2002 states that Myocardial Infarction, or typically known as heart attack is more likely to cause death 4 times higher to most heavy smokers. For this reason, doctors usually advise their patients who have heart conditions to stop smoking as soon as possible since their arteries are already damaged.

Heart attack statistics aren't only figures but helpful data that educates us which can even prolong our lives.

http://self-health-tips.blogspot.com

The Importance of Heart Attack Statistics

As many people experience many form of stressor from daily living, the incidence of heart attack increases. Usually, stress is normal and even healthy for people so they can be challenged and live normally. Unfortunately, once stress surpass the levels that a human being can deal with, certain health conditions like cardiovascular diseases can develop too. Heart attack statistics from many countries illustrates the fact that heart attack is one of the leading cause of death worldwide.

One of the most credible source of information for heart attack statistics is World Health Organization. According to their 2002 report, 49 % of heart attack was mainly triggered by high blood pressure. Hypertension is caused by unhealthy diet choices like fatty food which results to obesity. Those who have elevated blood pressure mostly lack physical activity. Once blood pressure shoots up, chest pain and shortness of breath would be felt that can lead to heart attack. Most of the time, emotional stress caused by too much anxiety can contribute to hypertension. Thus, heart attack statistics tells us indirectly to keep our blood pressure at normal levels by having a healthy lifestyle.

On top of that, other metabolic disorders like diabetes are commonly associated with heart problems. In the heart attack statistics reported by Australia’s health in 2004, 3.3% of adults who suffer from diabetes and sought medical services had a heart attack. Diabetes.org states that 2 out of 3 people afflicted with diabetes often die from heart attack or stroke. Thus, heart attack statistics are important since they not only provide us the incidence of heart problems but also state other ailments related to it.

Another very important information about heart attack statistics is that it points out the relationship of bad habits like smoking and likelihood of heart disease. The World Federation Fact Sheet 2002 states that Myocardial Infarction, or typically known as heart attack is more likely to cause death 4 times higher to most heavy smokers. For this reason, doctors usually advise their patients who have heart conditions to stop smoking as soon as possible since their arteries are already damaged.

Heart attack statistics aren't only figures but helpful data that educates us which can even prolong our lives.

http://self-health-tips.blogspot.com

Mothers Who Lose Weight Before Further Pregnancy ‘Reduce Risks’

Institute also warns against trying to lose weight too quickly after pregnancy. Photograph: Katie Collins/PA

Women are to be told they should aim to lose all their baby weight before getting pregnant again or face an increased risk of complications, under official health guidance published today.

The advice on dealing with problems of excess weight and obesity before, during and after pregnancy warns mothers-to-be it is a myth they should “eat for two” or drink full-fat milk, with such actions likely to make them put on unnecessary weight they might struggle to shift.

A woman’s energy needs only increase in the last three months of pregnancy, the National Institute for Clinical Excellence (Nice) says, and then only by around 200 calories a day – less than an average chocolate bar.

Research shows that retaining even one or two pounds after giving birth can make problems more likely in a subsequent pregnancy, experts said, with women who have several children facing a “slippery slope” if they continue to gain weight each time.

But Nice also warns against trying to lose weight too quickly, and says media stories about celebrity claims of “unrealistic and rapid weight loss” after pregnancy were unhelpful. “This may create additional pressure on women to lose weight inappropriately at an already stressful time,” its guidance says. Pregnant women should also be told that moderate physical activity, like cycling to work, will not harm them or their unborn children.

The document, which outlines the importance of achieving a healthy weight and body mass index (BMI) before getting pregnant, is published amid growing evidence of the risks female obesity poses for mother and baby. These include miscarriages, pre-eclampsia, diabetes, and maternal death. Babies born to obese women face a higher risk of death, stillbirth, congenital abnormality, shoulder dystocia – where a baby’s shoulder becomes stuck during birth – and an increased likelihood of childhood obesity.

Statistics suggest 15%-20% of women getting pregnant are overweight or obese, with the number in the obese category estimated to have doubled over the last 20 years. Lucilla Poston, director of maternal and foetal research at King’s College London, said health professionals were dealing with “an epidemic of obesity” among pregnant women that put them at increased risk of “almost every complication in the book”.

She added that implementing the guidance would lead to large cost savings in the medium- to long-term.

http://www.imanka.com/mothers-who-lose-weight-before-further-pregnancy-reduce-risks.html

Mothers Who Lose Weight Before Further Pregnancy ‘Reduce Risks’

Institute also warns against trying to lose weight too quickly after pregnancy. Photograph: Katie Collins/PA

Women are to be told they should aim to lose all their baby weight before getting pregnant again or face an increased risk of complications, under official health guidance published today.

The advice on dealing with problems of excess weight and obesity before, during and after pregnancy warns mothers-to-be it is a myth they should “eat for two” or drink full-fat milk, with such actions likely to make them put on unnecessary weight they might struggle to shift.

A woman’s energy needs only increase in the last three months of pregnancy, the National Institute for Clinical Excellence (Nice) says, and then only by around 200 calories a day – less than an average chocolate bar.

Research shows that retaining even one or two pounds after giving birth can make problems more likely in a subsequent pregnancy, experts said, with women who have several children facing a “slippery slope” if they continue to gain weight each time.

But Nice also warns against trying to lose weight too quickly, and says media stories about celebrity claims of “unrealistic and rapid weight loss” after pregnancy were unhelpful. “This may create additional pressure on women to lose weight inappropriately at an already stressful time,” its guidance says. Pregnant women should also be told that moderate physical activity, like cycling to work, will not harm them or their unborn children.

The document, which outlines the importance of achieving a healthy weight and body mass index (BMI) before getting pregnant, is published amid growing evidence of the risks female obesity poses for mother and baby. These include miscarriages, pre-eclampsia, diabetes, and maternal death. Babies born to obese women face a higher risk of death, stillbirth, congenital abnormality, shoulder dystocia – where a baby’s shoulder becomes stuck during birth – and an increased likelihood of childhood obesity.

Statistics suggest 15%-20% of women getting pregnant are overweight or obese, with the number in the obese category estimated to have doubled over the last 20 years. Lucilla Poston, director of maternal and foetal research at King’s College London, said health professionals were dealing with “an epidemic of obesity” among pregnant women that put them at increased risk of “almost every complication in the book”.

She added that implementing the guidance would lead to large cost savings in the medium- to long-term.

http://www.imanka.com/mothers-who-lose-weight-before-further-pregnancy-reduce-risks.html

Oral Sex: What's the Real Risk ?

The chances of HIV being transmitted from an HIV+ person to an HIV-negative person depends on the type of contact. HIV is most easily transmitted through unprotected (no condoms) anal sex, unprotected vaginal sex, and sharing injection drug equipment.

Oral sex has been shown to be less risky than these activities, but it is not risk-free. It is also possible to get other sexually-transmitted diseases (STDs), such as syphilis, herpes, and gonorrhea through oral sex.

Studies on the Risks of Oral Sex

Even though oral sex is a lower-risk activity, people have reportedly become infected with HIV in this way. A number of studies have tried to determine the exact level of risk of oral sex, but it can be difficult to get accurate information from study participants. Since oral sex is not the only sexual activity for most people, it is also difficult to single out oral sex as the definite way HIV was transmitted. Because of these issues, different studies have reported different levels of risk ranging from less than 1% to about 8%.

The take home message of these studies is that oral sex carries a small but real risk.

Tips for Safer Oral Sex

Oral sex is more risky if you or your partner have an untreated STD, bad oral hygiene (bleeding gums, ulcers, gum disease), or take ejaculate (cum) in the mouth. There are things you can do to reduce the risk associated with oral sex:

• Don't have oral sex if you or your partner have mouth sores (such as oral herpes lesions).
• Look at your partner's genitals for lesions (cuts or scrapes).
  • If you find something, don't believe your partner if he or she tells you it was caused by the heat, the weather, or clothes. You should avoid any contact with the area until a health care worker has examined it.
• Don't floss, brush your teeth, or do anything that would create abrasions or cuts in your mouth before performing oral sex. Use mouthwash or a breath mint instead.
• Avoid swallowing pre-cum, semen, or vaginal fluids.
• Use latex condoms for oral sex on a man (try the unlubricated, flavored ones).
  • If you perform oral sex without a condom, finish up with your hand, or spit semen out and rinse with a mouthwash rather than swallowing.
• Use a dental dam or cut-open condom for oral sex on a woman or for rimming (licking the anus).
  • Dental dams are squares made from latex. Put some water-based lube on one side of the dental dam or a condom that has been cut open. Then stretch the dam or condom over the vagina or anus with the lubed side facing down. This gives you a thin barrier between your mouth and the vagina or anus. (Some people use plastic food wrap as a barrier. While plastic wrap has been shown to prevent the transmission of herpes infections, there is no proof that it will prevent the transmission of HIV.)
• Avoid vaginal oral sex during menstruation to prevent contact with blood.
• Take care of your mouth. The likelihood of oral HIV transmission increases if you have bleeding gums, ulcers, cuts, sores, or infections in the mouth.
• Find alternatives
  • Try massage or mutual masturbation.
  • Use a vibrator (use a condom when sharing).
• Avoid vigorous, prolonged oral sex ("deep-throating").
• Avoid mouth or throat trauma caused by a large number of partners in a short period of time.

Taking Care of Yourself

Any type of sexual activity with an infected person carries a risk of HIV transmission. While the risk of becoming infected through unprotected oral sex is lower than that of unprotected anal or vaginal sex, bad oral hygiene and taking cum in your mouth makes oral sex more risky.

Source : http://www.thebody.com/content/art58210.html#tips

If you or your partner is HIV+, you should decide what steps to take to make all types of sex as safe as possible. If you would like to discuss these issues, see a sex educator or health care provider at your local AIDS service organization or treatment center.

Oral Sex: What's the Real Risk ?

The chances of HIV being transmitted from an HIV+ person to an HIV-negative person depends on the type of contact. HIV is most easily transmitted through unprotected (no condoms) anal sex, unprotected vaginal sex, and sharing injection drug equipment.

Oral sex has been shown to be less risky than these activities, but it is not risk-free. It is also possible to get other sexually-transmitted diseases (STDs), such as syphilis, herpes, and gonorrhea through oral sex.

Studies on the Risks of Oral Sex

Even though oral sex is a lower-risk activity, people have reportedly become infected with HIV in this way. A number of studies have tried to determine the exact level of risk of oral sex, but it can be difficult to get accurate information from study participants. Since oral sex is not the only sexual activity for most people, it is also difficult to single out oral sex as the definite way HIV was transmitted. Because of these issues, different studies have reported different levels of risk ranging from less than 1% to about 8%.

The take home message of these studies is that oral sex carries a small but real risk.

Tips for Safer Oral Sex

Oral sex is more risky if you or your partner have an untreated STD, bad oral hygiene (bleeding gums, ulcers, gum disease), or take ejaculate (cum) in the mouth. There are things you can do to reduce the risk associated with oral sex:

• Don't have oral sex if you or your partner have mouth sores (such as oral herpes lesions).
• Look at your partner's genitals for lesions (cuts or scrapes).
  • If you find something, don't believe your partner if he or she tells you it was caused by the heat, the weather, or clothes. You should avoid any contact with the area until a health care worker has examined it.
• Don't floss, brush your teeth, or do anything that would create abrasions or cuts in your mouth before performing oral sex. Use mouthwash or a breath mint instead.
• Avoid swallowing pre-cum, semen, or vaginal fluids.
• Use latex condoms for oral sex on a man (try the unlubricated, flavored ones).
  • If you perform oral sex without a condom, finish up with your hand, or spit semen out and rinse with a mouthwash rather than swallowing.
• Use a dental dam or cut-open condom for oral sex on a woman or for rimming (licking the anus).
  • Dental dams are squares made from latex. Put some water-based lube on one side of the dental dam or a condom that has been cut open. Then stretch the dam or condom over the vagina or anus with the lubed side facing down. This gives you a thin barrier between your mouth and the vagina or anus. (Some people use plastic food wrap as a barrier. While plastic wrap has been shown to prevent the transmission of herpes infections, there is no proof that it will prevent the transmission of HIV.)
• Avoid vaginal oral sex during menstruation to prevent contact with blood.
• Take care of your mouth. The likelihood of oral HIV transmission increases if you have bleeding gums, ulcers, cuts, sores, or infections in the mouth.
• Find alternatives
  • Try massage or mutual masturbation.
  • Use a vibrator (use a condom when sharing).
• Avoid vigorous, prolonged oral sex ("deep-throating").
• Avoid mouth or throat trauma caused by a large number of partners in a short period of time.

Taking Care of Yourself

Any type of sexual activity with an infected person carries a risk of HIV transmission. While the risk of becoming infected through unprotected oral sex is lower than that of unprotected anal or vaginal sex, bad oral hygiene and taking cum in your mouth makes oral sex more risky.

Source : http://www.thebody.com/content/art58210.html#tips

If you or your partner is HIV+, you should decide what steps to take to make all types of sex as safe as possible. If you would like to discuss these issues, see a sex educator or health care provider at your local AIDS service organization or treatment center.

7 Foods That Make the Body Being Immune

According to health experts with a natural holistic approach, keeping the immune system can actually begin to nurture and maintain a healthy digestive system.

With good conditions of the digestive system, absorption of nutrients from each food is digested more easily. Healthy Digestion can also neutralize toxins as well as against bacteria and viruses that harm the body.

In order for the digestive system remains okay, there are many ways to do but eat regularly with balanced nutrition. One of them is eating the kinds of foods that boost immunity. Here are seven types of food that makes your body is naturally able to resist disease.

1. Garlic : Raw activation, allicin, to serve as antiviral and antibacterial. This substance can clean the liver so that in turn will clean the blood and stimulates production of white blood cells.
   


2. Ginger : This plant contains a number of important substances that can warm the body, making the body sweat, overcoming fever, and neutralize toxins. Ginger is also triggering the release of mucus and effective way to relieve the respiratory tract and lungs. Ginger is also used to cure stomach ache because of its function as a cleanser.
   


3. Honey : This fluid is a natural antibiotic and as an antiseptic. Honey also contains immune boosters and a variety of vitamins and minerals such as B-complex, vitamin C, D, E, and propolis. Honey also can overcome the problems of the throat, allergies, asthma and other respiratory problems because of its ability to overcome irritation.
   


4. Cayenne or Cayenne Pepper : Food that this one has vitamin C, A, B, calcium, and high potassium. In addition, cayenne can also stimulate blood circulation and is known to treat several gastrointestinal diseases.
   


5. Acidophilus and bifidus: Known as the good bacteria, microbes play a role down the growth of bad bacteria in the intestines, improve immune function and stimulates production of vitamin K. Two types of bacteria can be found in yogurt or kefir.


6. Green vegetables: dark green vegetables like kale, swiss chard, and spinach contain vitamin B12, folic acid, potassium, vitamins A, C and K, all of which are known to boost immunity.
   
   


7. Acid and alkaline: Mixture of acid or alkaline balance claimed to improve digestion and help healing.
   For example, you can create a drink lemon juice mixed with warm water.

Source: detikhealth

7 Foods That Make the Body Being Immune

According to health experts with a natural holistic approach, keeping the immune system can actually begin to nurture and maintain a healthy digestive system.

With good conditions of the digestive system, absorption of nutrients from each food is digested more easily. Healthy Digestion can also neutralize toxins as well as against bacteria and viruses that harm the body.

In order for the digestive system remains okay, there are many ways to do but eat regularly with balanced nutrition. One of them is eating the kinds of foods that boost immunity. Here are seven types of food that makes your body is naturally able to resist disease.

1. Garlic : Raw activation, allicin, to serve as antiviral and antibacterial. This substance can clean the liver so that in turn will clean the blood and stimulates production of white blood cells.
   


2. Ginger : This plant contains a number of important substances that can warm the body, making the body sweat, overcoming fever, and neutralize toxins. Ginger is also triggering the release of mucus and effective way to relieve the respiratory tract and lungs. Ginger is also used to cure stomach ache because of its function as a cleanser.
   


3. Honey : This fluid is a natural antibiotic and as an antiseptic. Honey also contains immune boosters and a variety of vitamins and minerals such as B-complex, vitamin C, D, E, and propolis. Honey also can overcome the problems of the throat, allergies, asthma and other respiratory problems because of its ability to overcome irritation.
   


4. Cayenne or Cayenne Pepper : Food that this one has vitamin C, A, B, calcium, and high potassium. In addition, cayenne can also stimulate blood circulation and is known to treat several gastrointestinal diseases.
   


5. Acidophilus and bifidus: Known as the good bacteria, microbes play a role down the growth of bad bacteria in the intestines, improve immune function and stimulates production of vitamin K. Two types of bacteria can be found in yogurt or kefir.


6. Green vegetables: dark green vegetables like kale, swiss chard, and spinach contain vitamin B12, folic acid, potassium, vitamins A, C and K, all of which are known to boost immunity.
   
   


7. Acid and alkaline: Mixture of acid or alkaline balance claimed to improve digestion and help healing.
   For example, you can create a drink lemon juice mixed with warm water.

Source: detikhealth

Helpful Bacteria Maintain Skin's Healthy Balance

Helpful Bacteria Maintain Skin's Healthy Balance. On the skin's surface, bacteria are abundant, diverse and constant, but inflammation is undesirable. Research at the University of California, San Diego School of Medicine now shows that the normal bacteria living on the skin surface trigger a pathway that prevents excessive inflammation after injury.

"These germs are actually good for us," said Richard L. Gallo, MD, PhD, professor of medicine and pediatrics, chief of UCSD's Division of Dermatology and the Dermatology section of the Veterans Affairs San Diego Healthcare System.

The study, to be published in the advance on-line edition of Nature Medicine on November 22, was done in mice and in human cell cultures, primarily performed by post-doctoral fellow Yu Ping Lai .

"The exciting implications of Dr. Lai's work is that it provides a molecular basis to understand the 'hygiene hypothesis' and has uncovered elements of the wound repair response that were previously unknown. This may help us devise new therapeutic approaches for inflammatory skin diseases," said Gallo.

The so-called "hygiene hypothesis," first introduced in the late 1980s, suggests that a lack of early childhood exposure to infectious agents and microorganisms increases an individuals susceptibility to disease by changing how the immune system reacts to such "bacterial invaders." The hypothesis was first developed to explain why allergies like hay fever and eczema were less common in children from large families, who were presumably exposed to more infectious agents than others. It is also used to explain the higher incidence of allergic diseases in industrialized countries.

The skin's normal microflora – the microscopic and usually harmless bacteria that live on the skin – includes certain staphylococcal bacterial species that will induce an inflammatory response when they are introduced below the skin's surface, but do not initiate inflammation when present on the epidermis, or outer layer of skin.

In this study, Lai, Gallo and colleagues reveal a previously unknown mechanism by which a product of staphylococci inhibits skin inflammation. Such inhibition is mediated by a molecule called staphylococcal lipoteichoic acid (LTA) which acts on keratinocytes – the primary cell types found on the epidermis.

The researchers also found that Toll-like receptor 3 (TLR3) activation is required for normal inflammation after skin injury.

"Keratinocytes require TLR3 to mount a normal inflammatory response to injury, and this response is kept from becoming too aggressive by staphylococcal LTA," said Gallo. "To our knowledge, these findings show for the first time that the skin epithelium requires TLR3 for normal inflammation after wounding and that the microflora helps to modulate this response." ( nsf.gov)

Helpful Bacteria Maintain Skin's Healthy Balance

Helpful Bacteria Maintain Skin's Healthy Balance. On the skin's surface, bacteria are abundant, diverse and constant, but inflammation is undesirable. Research at the University of California, San Diego School of Medicine now shows that the normal bacteria living on the skin surface trigger a pathway that prevents excessive inflammation after injury.

"These germs are actually good for us," said Richard L. Gallo, MD, PhD, professor of medicine and pediatrics, chief of UCSD's Division of Dermatology and the Dermatology section of the Veterans Affairs San Diego Healthcare System.

The study, to be published in the advance on-line edition of Nature Medicine on November 22, was done in mice and in human cell cultures, primarily performed by post-doctoral fellow Yu Ping Lai .

"The exciting implications of Dr. Lai's work is that it provides a molecular basis to understand the 'hygiene hypothesis' and has uncovered elements of the wound repair response that were previously unknown. This may help us devise new therapeutic approaches for inflammatory skin diseases," said Gallo.

The so-called "hygiene hypothesis," first introduced in the late 1980s, suggests that a lack of early childhood exposure to infectious agents and microorganisms increases an individuals susceptibility to disease by changing how the immune system reacts to such "bacterial invaders." The hypothesis was first developed to explain why allergies like hay fever and eczema were less common in children from large families, who were presumably exposed to more infectious agents than others. It is also used to explain the higher incidence of allergic diseases in industrialized countries.

The skin's normal microflora – the microscopic and usually harmless bacteria that live on the skin – includes certain staphylococcal bacterial species that will induce an inflammatory response when they are introduced below the skin's surface, but do not initiate inflammation when present on the epidermis, or outer layer of skin.

In this study, Lai, Gallo and colleagues reveal a previously unknown mechanism by which a product of staphylococci inhibits skin inflammation. Such inhibition is mediated by a molecule called staphylococcal lipoteichoic acid (LTA) which acts on keratinocytes – the primary cell types found on the epidermis.

The researchers also found that Toll-like receptor 3 (TLR3) activation is required for normal inflammation after skin injury.

"Keratinocytes require TLR3 to mount a normal inflammatory response to injury, and this response is kept from becoming too aggressive by staphylococcal LTA," said Gallo. "To our knowledge, these findings show for the first time that the skin epithelium requires TLR3 for normal inflammation after wounding and that the microflora helps to modulate this response." ( nsf.gov)

Naturally Born Babies Have More Bacterial Protection Than Those Born by Caesarean

Naturally born babies have more bacterial protection than those born by caesarean. Children born by caesarean section more likely to suffer from allergies such as asthma because they pick up less 'natural immunity' from their mother, a study suggests.

Researchers believe this is because, unlike babies born naturally, they do not acquire beneficial bacteria as they pass down the birth canal.

The findings come at a time when caesarean rates are increasing, accounting for more than one in four births in the UK.

This is mainly for medical reasons because of older mothers and obesity but also because some mothers choose to have a caesarean.

Earlier research found that babies delivered by caesarean section are at more than twice the risk of developing food allergies than children born naturally.

They are also significantly more likely to suffer diarrhoea and may be at increased danger of asthma later in life.

The latest study, led by the University of Puerto Rico and University of Colorado, showed that babies delivered naturally had bacterial communities resembling their mother's birth canal, while caesarean section newborns had common skin bacterial communities.

Researchers believe many of the different microbial communities residing on humans – each of which is personally unique – may help protect individuals from various diseases.

The Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences study included nine women from 21 to 33 years old and 10 newborns.

The babies were sampled within 24 hours of birth by swabbing their mouths and skin and by taking samples from their upper throats and intestines.

The research team then used a powerful gene sequencing technique to simultaneously analyse all of the bacteria.

The new study has allowed the researchers "to capture the first moments in time" of infant bacterial communities, said Elizabeth Costello, the co-author.

"The challenge now is to fill in the rest of the story by tracking microbial communities in infants to toddlers to children and adults over weeks, months and years to see how they evolve and change," she said. ( telegraph.co.uk)

Naturally Born Babies Have More Bacterial Protection Than Those Born by Caesarean

Naturally born babies have more bacterial protection than those born by caesarean. Children born by caesarean section more likely to suffer from allergies such as asthma because they pick up less 'natural immunity' from their mother, a study suggests.

Researchers believe this is because, unlike babies born naturally, they do not acquire beneficial bacteria as they pass down the birth canal.

The findings come at a time when caesarean rates are increasing, accounting for more than one in four births in the UK.

This is mainly for medical reasons because of older mothers and obesity but also because some mothers choose to have a caesarean.

Earlier research found that babies delivered by caesarean section are at more than twice the risk of developing food allergies than children born naturally.

They are also significantly more likely to suffer diarrhoea and may be at increased danger of asthma later in life.

The latest study, led by the University of Puerto Rico and University of Colorado, showed that babies delivered naturally had bacterial communities resembling their mother's birth canal, while caesarean section newborns had common skin bacterial communities.

Researchers believe many of the different microbial communities residing on humans – each of which is personally unique – may help protect individuals from various diseases.

The Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences study included nine women from 21 to 33 years old and 10 newborns.

The babies were sampled within 24 hours of birth by swabbing their mouths and skin and by taking samples from their upper throats and intestines.

The research team then used a powerful gene sequencing technique to simultaneously analyse all of the bacteria.

The new study has allowed the researchers "to capture the first moments in time" of infant bacterial communities, said Elizabeth Costello, the co-author.

"The challenge now is to fill in the rest of the story by tracking microbial communities in infants to toddlers to children and adults over weeks, months and years to see how they evolve and change," she said. ( telegraph.co.uk)

How to Lower High Blood Pressure

How to Lower High Blood Pressure

1. Blood Pressure Monitor
   If you have hypertension, you should buy a tool to monitor blood pressure, so that when blood pressure rises and can be directly harmful taken or medical treatment as early as possible.


2. Starting an exercise program to lose weight
   Any decrease in weight 1 / 2 pounds, can lower blood pressure 2 mmHg, so very good
   for patients with severe hypertension, type of exercise is the safest way foot, jogging, up and down stairs, aerobic dance, swimming and cycling.


3. Drink Drugs
   Take medication regularly, because if you stop taking the drug, blood pressure can rose higher than initially.


4. Avoid salty foods
   salt is one food that can increase blood pressure, because it eat less salty. Source of salt that is less recognized is frozen food, canned vegetables, and even ulcer drugs / antacids.


5. Avoid alcohol consumption
   Alcohol has a role in increasing blood pressure.


6. Stop smoking
   Smoking is the ultimate taboo for people with hypertension, because nicotine contained in cigarettes can cause increased blood pressure also increased risk for stroke.


7. Eat a banana
   Banana is a fruit that contains a lot of potassium, potassium can reduce the pressure blood, other than potassium banana is also contained in the raisins, milk, yogurt, and juice oranges.


8. Polyunsaturated oil
   Switch to unsaturated oils can reduce blood pressure to 10 mmHg.


9. Learn to relax
   Sometimes the mind can trigger a rise in blood pressure, because it must learn to think casual, but still serious in every problem we are facing.

How to Lower High Blood Pressure

How to Lower High Blood Pressure

1. Blood Pressure Monitor
   If you have hypertension, you should buy a tool to monitor blood pressure, so that when blood pressure rises and can be directly harmful taken or medical treatment as early as possible.


2. Starting an exercise program to lose weight
   Any decrease in weight 1 / 2 pounds, can lower blood pressure 2 mmHg, so very good
   for patients with severe hypertension, type of exercise is the safest way foot, jogging, up and down stairs, aerobic dance, swimming and cycling.


3. Drink Drugs
   Take medication regularly, because if you stop taking the drug, blood pressure can rose higher than initially.


4. Avoid salty foods
   salt is one food that can increase blood pressure, because it eat less salty. Source of salt that is less recognized is frozen food, canned vegetables, and even ulcer drugs / antacids.


5. Avoid alcohol consumption
   Alcohol has a role in increasing blood pressure.


6. Stop smoking
   Smoking is the ultimate taboo for people with hypertension, because nicotine contained in cigarettes can cause increased blood pressure also increased risk for stroke.


7. Eat a banana
   Banana is a fruit that contains a lot of potassium, potassium can reduce the pressure blood, other than potassium banana is also contained in the raisins, milk, yogurt, and juice oranges.


8. Polyunsaturated oil
   Switch to unsaturated oils can reduce blood pressure to 10 mmHg.


9. Learn to relax
   Sometimes the mind can trigger a rise in blood pressure, because it must learn to think casual, but still serious in every problem we are facing.

Guidelines for Communicating With Doctors

When going to a doctor's appointment, just showing up is not enough. There are things you can do to support yourself in getting maximum value from the visit.

Many people see doctors as experts who are going to fix them and therefore give over all sense of personal responsibility, waiting to be told what to do. The optimum visit is a dialogue between two experts -- don't forget that you are the expert at living in your body!

Here are guidelines for creating more productive visits with doctors.

1. Be Clear About Your Reasons For Seeing The Doctor When Making The Appointment:

They need to know the severity and urgency of your complaint to determine when to schedule the appointment and how much time to allow. What you might dismiss as minor may be a red flag of a potentially serious problem. Conversely, something causing you serious discomfort may require time to heal rather than medical intervention and therefore not be seen as urgent by the doctor.

2. Come Prepared And On Time:

It's a great idea to maintain a notebook or computer file where you keep track of your medical history. Then, when you come to the doctor, bring an up-to-date copy of your medical history and a list of your medications (both prescription and over-the-counter) and any natural remedies, treatments or other therapies you are using. If you are seeing other doctors/health practitioners about your symptoms/diagnosis, be sure to bring relevant materials from them as well as your own notes. Consider typing up a list of your questions and concerns for the doctor to help insure that all your needs are addressed. Be sure to leave space on your list to take notes during the appointment including keeping track of follow-up actions.

Many doctors chronically run late for their appointments. Arrive on time anyway in the event that they are running on schedule. If the doctor is late, consider the fact that it is probably because someone else is getting the help they need. Bring your own reading material and carry it with you throughout your appointment. If you work yourself up into a tizzy over the delay, you are likely to be less effective getting your own needs met during your appointment.

3. Be Specific And Factual About Your Concerns/Symptoms:

Prioritize your concerns and share them with your doctor at the beginning of your appointment. Ask to address what concerns you most first. If reporting a new problem, describe the frequency, duration, location and severity of your symptoms as well as what makes it better or worse, any treatments you have tried so far and with what response. Also mention any relevant family history.

4. Get Right To The Point:

Don't beat around the bush. Stay focused on the issue at hand. Try not to ramble or go off topic or to get too emotional if you can help it. If you have a friendly rapport with your doctor, handle your business first and then you can chit chat later if time permits.

5. Be Assertive And Ask For What You Want And Need:

Sometimes doctors forget their manners, aren't listening to you or answering your questions to your satisfaction. Let them know how they are failing to meet your needs. You are paying for their time and deserve their undivided attention. If the doctor seems distracted or is rushing you, express your concern in a positive way. For example, you might say, "I know you are busy, but I really need you to help me understand what is going on with my body." Getting mad usually doesn't help -- but giving honest and clear feedback usually does.

6. Ask For Further Explanation If You Disagree Or Don't Understand:

Your job is to give the doctor information and feedback. So, do that. Let them know if you don't follow what they are saying or have a different point of view that you want them to consider. Remember this is a dialogue between two experts.

7. If You Want Your Doctor's Opinion About A New Drug Or Procedure You Heard About, Ask How It Applies To You:

You may not like or agree with your doctor's point of view but should certainly take it into account in any decisions you make. You can always ask for more of an explanation or consult other doctors, but at some point you need to make an informed decision.

8. Summarize And Be Sure You Understand The Follow-up Prescribed:

Columbia University women's health expert Marianne Legato, MD, suggests you leave the appointment with an understanding of why the doctor thinks you have the symptoms or condition you are experiencing; what lab tests he or she is ordering and why, the doctor's plan for contacting you about the results and a plan for easing your symptoms. Don't leave with unanswered questions or confusion. Make sure that you have captured everything in your notes.

Remember, doctors are experts we consult about our health, but ultimately we are left to make our own decisions about what advice, prescriptions and protocols we follow and which we don't. Take good care of yourself. ( huffingtonpost.com )

Guidelines for Communicating With Doctors

When going to a doctor's appointment, just showing up is not enough. There are things you can do to support yourself in getting maximum value from the visit.

Many people see doctors as experts who are going to fix them and therefore give over all sense of personal responsibility, waiting to be told what to do. The optimum visit is a dialogue between two experts -- don't forget that you are the expert at living in your body!

Here are guidelines for creating more productive visits with doctors.

1. Be Clear About Your Reasons For Seeing The Doctor When Making The Appointment:

They need to know the severity and urgency of your complaint to determine when to schedule the appointment and how much time to allow. What you might dismiss as minor may be a red flag of a potentially serious problem. Conversely, something causing you serious discomfort may require time to heal rather than medical intervention and therefore not be seen as urgent by the doctor.

2. Come Prepared And On Time:

It's a great idea to maintain a notebook or computer file where you keep track of your medical history. Then, when you come to the doctor, bring an up-to-date copy of your medical history and a list of your medications (both prescription and over-the-counter) and any natural remedies, treatments or other therapies you are using. If you are seeing other doctors/health practitioners about your symptoms/diagnosis, be sure to bring relevant materials from them as well as your own notes. Consider typing up a list of your questions and concerns for the doctor to help insure that all your needs are addressed. Be sure to leave space on your list to take notes during the appointment including keeping track of follow-up actions.

Many doctors chronically run late for their appointments. Arrive on time anyway in the event that they are running on schedule. If the doctor is late, consider the fact that it is probably because someone else is getting the help they need. Bring your own reading material and carry it with you throughout your appointment. If you work yourself up into a tizzy over the delay, you are likely to be less effective getting your own needs met during your appointment.

3. Be Specific And Factual About Your Concerns/Symptoms:

Prioritize your concerns and share them with your doctor at the beginning of your appointment. Ask to address what concerns you most first. If reporting a new problem, describe the frequency, duration, location and severity of your symptoms as well as what makes it better or worse, any treatments you have tried so far and with what response. Also mention any relevant family history.

4. Get Right To The Point:

Don't beat around the bush. Stay focused on the issue at hand. Try not to ramble or go off topic or to get too emotional if you can help it. If you have a friendly rapport with your doctor, handle your business first and then you can chit chat later if time permits.

5. Be Assertive And Ask For What You Want And Need:

Sometimes doctors forget their manners, aren't listening to you or answering your questions to your satisfaction. Let them know how they are failing to meet your needs. You are paying for their time and deserve their undivided attention. If the doctor seems distracted or is rushing you, express your concern in a positive way. For example, you might say, "I know you are busy, but I really need you to help me understand what is going on with my body." Getting mad usually doesn't help -- but giving honest and clear feedback usually does.

6. Ask For Further Explanation If You Disagree Or Don't Understand:

Your job is to give the doctor information and feedback. So, do that. Let them know if you don't follow what they are saying or have a different point of view that you want them to consider. Remember this is a dialogue between two experts.

7. If You Want Your Doctor's Opinion About A New Drug Or Procedure You Heard About, Ask How It Applies To You:

You may not like or agree with your doctor's point of view but should certainly take it into account in any decisions you make. You can always ask for more of an explanation or consult other doctors, but at some point you need to make an informed decision.

8. Summarize And Be Sure You Understand The Follow-up Prescribed:

Columbia University women's health expert Marianne Legato, MD, suggests you leave the appointment with an understanding of why the doctor thinks you have the symptoms or condition you are experiencing; what lab tests he or she is ordering and why, the doctor's plan for contacting you about the results and a plan for easing your symptoms. Don't leave with unanswered questions or confusion. Make sure that you have captured everything in your notes.

Remember, doctors are experts we consult about our health, but ultimately we are left to make our own decisions about what advice, prescriptions and protocols we follow and which we don't. Take good care of yourself. ( huffingtonpost.com )

A Heart Attack Shouldn't Kill Your Sex Life

A Heart Attack Shouldn't Kill Your Sex Life

A Heart Attack Shouldn't Kill Your Sex Life. Surviving a heart attack can kill your sex life. But it doesn't have to, and a new study shows doctors play a key role in whether it does.

Patients were less likely to resume having sex if their doctors did not talk about when it was safe, the study found.

Many heart attack survivors fear that a tryst could land them back in the hospital - or even in the graveyard. But the chance of that is extremely small, doctors say.

"People perceive it might kill them. And it's not just the person with the heart attack, but also their partner," said Dr. Stacy Tessler Lindau, a gynecologist and sexuality researcher at the University of Chicago.

"If you can walk up two flights of stairs or do moderate exercise, then it's OK to have sex," she said.

Lindau led the study, the largest ever on this topic, and was to present results Friday at an American Heart Association conference in Washington.

It involved 1,184 male and 576 female heart attack survivors taking part in a bigger nationwide study, funded by the federal government. The average age was 60.

Less than half the men and only about a third of the women said advice about resuming sex was part of the instructions they got when leaving the hospital. Even fewer had that talk with their doctors over the next year.

One year after their heart attacks, more than two-thirds of the men and 40 percent of the women reported some sexual activity. They were 30 percent to 40 percent more likely to be having sex if they had talked with a doctor about it.

Men were more likely to be sexually active and married before the heart attack, and to maintain their sex life after it.

Some people actually reported more sex after their heart attacks, but this was the exception rather than the rule, Lindau said.

A heart attack should not keep people from enjoying sex, said Dr. Edward Havranek, a cardiologist at Denver Health Medical Center and leader of the Heart Association conference.

"The risk of having a heart attack during sex is really, really low," he said. "The amount of actual physical exertion people have during sex is actually lower than one might think. It's not as demanding as shoveling snow."

Doctors say it is safe to resume sex as soon as the patient feels better and can handle moderate exercise. Chest pain during sex means you should stop and consult a doctor, Lindau said.

Depression and mood swings are common after a heart attack and can dampen interest in sex, but this usually goes away within three months, says advice from the Heart Association.

It has these tips for resuming sex:

• Prepare by improving your physical condition and personal hygiene.
• Choose a time when you're rested, relaxed and free from daily stress.
• Wait one to three hours after eating a full meal.
• Pick a familiar, peaceful setting that's free from interruptions.

( Associated Press)

A Heart Attack Shouldn't Kill Your Sex Life

A Heart Attack Shouldn't Kill Your Sex Life

A Heart Attack Shouldn't Kill Your Sex Life. Surviving a heart attack can kill your sex life. But it doesn't have to, and a new study shows doctors play a key role in whether it does.

Patients were less likely to resume having sex if their doctors did not talk about when it was safe, the study found.

Many heart attack survivors fear that a tryst could land them back in the hospital - or even in the graveyard. But the chance of that is extremely small, doctors say.

"People perceive it might kill them. And it's not just the person with the heart attack, but also their partner," said Dr. Stacy Tessler Lindau, a gynecologist and sexuality researcher at the University of Chicago.

"If you can walk up two flights of stairs or do moderate exercise, then it's OK to have sex," she said.

Lindau led the study, the largest ever on this topic, and was to present results Friday at an American Heart Association conference in Washington.

It involved 1,184 male and 576 female heart attack survivors taking part in a bigger nationwide study, funded by the federal government. The average age was 60.

Less than half the men and only about a third of the women said advice about resuming sex was part of the instructions they got when leaving the hospital. Even fewer had that talk with their doctors over the next year.

One year after their heart attacks, more than two-thirds of the men and 40 percent of the women reported some sexual activity. They were 30 percent to 40 percent more likely to be having sex if they had talked with a doctor about it.

Men were more likely to be sexually active and married before the heart attack, and to maintain their sex life after it.

Some people actually reported more sex after their heart attacks, but this was the exception rather than the rule, Lindau said.

A heart attack should not keep people from enjoying sex, said Dr. Edward Havranek, a cardiologist at Denver Health Medical Center and leader of the Heart Association conference.

"The risk of having a heart attack during sex is really, really low," he said. "The amount of actual physical exertion people have during sex is actually lower than one might think. It's not as demanding as shoveling snow."

Doctors say it is safe to resume sex as soon as the patient feels better and can handle moderate exercise. Chest pain during sex means you should stop and consult a doctor, Lindau said.

Depression and mood swings are common after a heart attack and can dampen interest in sex, but this usually goes away within three months, says advice from the Heart Association.

It has these tips for resuming sex:

• Prepare by improving your physical condition and personal hygiene.
• Choose a time when you're rested, relaxed and free from daily stress.
• Wait one to three hours after eating a full meal.
• Pick a familiar, peaceful setting that's free from interruptions.

( Associated Press)