Wednesday, November 26, 2003
Basic Hair Care Tips
Hair are a reflection of your health & personality. If taken care off they can add to your beauty.
Your hair and scalp needs proper care now and always. A sign of neglect over a period of time will show up in form of dry brittle hair, split-ends, hair fall, dandruff etc. From the moment you wake up to the time you go to sleep and even as you sleep, there are many factors that can lead to hair breakage. Follow these tips every time you think about having beautiful shining hair.
Diet: A well-balanced diet, rich in silica, calcium and iron, will help reduce or prevent hair loss. Green, leafy vegetables, especially sea vegetables, are good mineral sources. Raw oats provide silica. Eat plenty of iron-rich foods, like liver (Avoid if you are pregnant) and other organ meat, whole grain cereals, dark green leafy vegetables, eggs, dates, and raisins. The hair is comprised mostly of protein, therefore to encourage hair growth, adhere to a diet rich in protein. A recommended diet for this purpose includes calves liver, brewer's yeast, wheat germ, and two tablespoons of granulated lecithin. Along with protein, these foods are also high in B vitamins, an important nutrient for hair. Silica is found in the outer coverings of potatoes, green and red peppers and cucumbers. Bean sprouts are also high in silica. Eat whole foods including sprouts. Vitamin C improves the absorption of iron. Include a good serving of fruits and vegetables in your diet. Vitamin E is important for healthy hair growth. Eat avocados, nuts, seeds, and olive oil on a regular basis. If hair loss is due to thyroid dysfunction, eat more foods rich in vitamin A and iodine. Eat vegetables such as carrots or spinach in unrefined, cold-pressed seed oils such as flax, walnut or pumpkin seed and sea salt. Take turnips, cabbage, mustard, soy beans, peanuts, pine nuts and millet if there is a deficiency of iodine.
Washing Routine: Your hair-type will determine your cleansing routine, some of you may need to shampoo daily, others every other day, others even once a week. The water you use to wash your hair should neither be too hot, or too cold. Use your fingertips, and never your nails, to gently scrub your scalp. Be sure to rinse your hair thoroughly in order to get all of the soap out and then maximize the shine.
Combing: To begin with combing, first separate hair into small sections. Untangle your hair with a wide-tooth comb, carefully work from the ends in a downward direction only. Use only a wooden or tortoise shell comb – never rubber. Do not pull or yank hair. Brush hair only when dry. Hair is weakest when it is wet and brushing can easily damage it. Even when hair is dry always comb before brushing.
Drying: Air-dry whenever possible. Try to minimize the use of blow dryer as the strong heat tends to damage the hair, also the moisture lost makes them look rough and lifeless. Give your hair a break from that blow dryer, those curling irons and so many perms. When you are kind to your hair, it rewards you by looking and feeling better. Choose a hairstyle that will let your hair fall naturally.
If possible, wash your hair leaning over a basin or the bath, so that blood circulation is increased around your scalp and hair roots. Continue this by gently massaging your head with your fingertips while shampooing, begin at the nape of the neck and use the pads of your fingertips, keep your nails well clear and don't use your entire hand. Gently rotate your scalp (not your hair) with circular movements, traveling towards the crown of your head. Do this in a slow gentle fashion for a couple of minutes. Next exert a little more pressure as you move towards your hairline. At the same time use the thumbs to move over your ears towards the temples. Take your time and relax and enjoy your shampooing ritual, you will feel the benefit after you have finished. After shampooing rinse your hair well, then pat your hair dry with a towel as opposed to rubbing it with the towel.
Hair are a reflection of your health & personality. If taken care off they can add to your beauty.
Your hair and scalp needs proper care now and always. A sign of neglect over a period of time will show up in form of dry brittle hair, split-ends, hair fall, dandruff etc. From the moment you wake up to the time you go to sleep and even as you sleep, there are many factors that can lead to hair breakage. Follow these tips every time you think about having beautiful shining hair.
Diet: A well-balanced diet, rich in silica, calcium and iron, will help reduce or prevent hair loss. Green, leafy vegetables, especially sea vegetables, are good mineral sources. Raw oats provide silica. Eat plenty of iron-rich foods, like liver (Avoid if you are pregnant) and other organ meat, whole grain cereals, dark green leafy vegetables, eggs, dates, and raisins. The hair is comprised mostly of protein, therefore to encourage hair growth, adhere to a diet rich in protein. A recommended diet for this purpose includes calves liver, brewer's yeast, wheat germ, and two tablespoons of granulated lecithin. Along with protein, these foods are also high in B vitamins, an important nutrient for hair. Silica is found in the outer coverings of potatoes, green and red peppers and cucumbers. Bean sprouts are also high in silica. Eat whole foods including sprouts. Vitamin C improves the absorption of iron. Include a good serving of fruits and vegetables in your diet. Vitamin E is important for healthy hair growth. Eat avocados, nuts, seeds, and olive oil on a regular basis. If hair loss is due to thyroid dysfunction, eat more foods rich in vitamin A and iodine. Eat vegetables such as carrots or spinach in unrefined, cold-pressed seed oils such as flax, walnut or pumpkin seed and sea salt. Take turnips, cabbage, mustard, soy beans, peanuts, pine nuts and millet if there is a deficiency of iodine.
Washing Routine: Your hair-type will determine your cleansing routine, some of you may need to shampoo daily, others every other day, others even once a week. The water you use to wash your hair should neither be too hot, or too cold. Use your fingertips, and never your nails, to gently scrub your scalp. Be sure to rinse your hair thoroughly in order to get all of the soap out and then maximize the shine.
Combing: To begin with combing, first separate hair into small sections. Untangle your hair with a wide-tooth comb, carefully work from the ends in a downward direction only. Use only a wooden or tortoise shell comb – never rubber. Do not pull or yank hair. Brush hair only when dry. Hair is weakest when it is wet and brushing can easily damage it. Even when hair is dry always comb before brushing.
Drying: Air-dry whenever possible. Try to minimize the use of blow dryer as the strong heat tends to damage the hair, also the moisture lost makes them look rough and lifeless. Give your hair a break from that blow dryer, those curling irons and so many perms. When you are kind to your hair, it rewards you by looking and feeling better. Choose a hairstyle that will let your hair fall naturally.
If possible, wash your hair leaning over a basin or the bath, so that blood circulation is increased around your scalp and hair roots. Continue this by gently massaging your head with your fingertips while shampooing, begin at the nape of the neck and use the pads of your fingertips, keep your nails well clear and don't use your entire hand. Gently rotate your scalp (not your hair) with circular movements, traveling towards the crown of your head. Do this in a slow gentle fashion for a couple of minutes. Next exert a little more pressure as you move towards your hairline. At the same time use the thumbs to move over your ears towards the temples. Take your time and relax and enjoy your shampooing ritual, you will feel the benefit after you have finished. After shampooing rinse your hair well, then pat your hair dry with a towel as opposed to rubbing it with the towel.
Monday, November 24, 2003
Top 10 to Conceive Naturally With Herb Aid
Infertility is a term that is generally applied when a couple fail to conceive following unprotected sex over a period of a year to eighteen months. Many infertility treatments, focus on the actual mechanics of fertilisation, when often the overall condition of the body is the key to successful conception. Herbs have been used for hundreds of years to treat every ailment that exists. After all, plants were the only medicine available to our ancestors and the human race has survived, so they must have been doing something right!
There are many root causes that can inhibit the processes necessary for fertilisation, such as stress, illness, a hormonal imbalance and poor diet. These are just some of the factors that can affect the organs that all play an important part in the process of reproduction.
There are certain herbs which can eliminate the need for all those uncomfortable, invasive tests that are so often part of the infertility diagnosis process. Herbs help to strengthen and nourish the organs and systems responsible for the intricate process of successful conception, in addition to promoting a general feeling of well-being, which is crucial before, during and after pregnancy.
At this stage It is important to mention, however, that once conception has taken place, there are some herbs that should never be taken during pregnancy.
Below is a list of some of the popular herbal remedies that can be used to treat male and female infertility.
For Women:
1. Agnus Castus:
Agnus Castus is the fruit of a Mediterranean shrub, Vitex agnus-castus, which is also known as the chaste tree. Chaste tree fruit contains iridoid glycosides, flavonoids, and terpenoids. This acts as a hormone regulator and will help if you have irregular periods or if you are not ovulating due to a hormonal imbalance. Agnus Castus is also useful if you are prone to miscarriage before the twelfth week of pregnancy and can also help with PMS and menopausal symptoms.
A ¼ of a level teaspoon of the dried, crushed berries can be sprinkled on food, the best time being first thing in the morning. Alternatively, one cup of the 1decoction can be taken daily.
Caution: Agnus Castus should not be taken in conjunction with Progesterone supplements.
2. False Unicorn Root:
Although this has been used for centuries as a fertility aid, False Unicorn Root is an endangered species, so should only be used if absolutely necessary. It helps to regulate the ovaries and strengthen the lining of the womb.
Caution: False Unicorn Root should never be used during pregnancy.
3. Red Clover:
Red Clover is a very common plant with bright pink blossoms and is renowned for its fertility-enhancing properties. The leaves and blossoms are rich in B vitamins, calcium and protein and also helps to detoxify the blood. Up to four cups of the decoction (made from dried, not fresh, blossoms) can be drunk a day, but you may need to take this for some time to reap the full benefits.
Caution: Red Clover contains blood-thinning properties, so should not therefore be used following surgery or in patients with blood-clotting disorders.
4. Wild yam extract:
Wild yam is a winding vine with a starchy yellow rhizome similar to a potato. It grows in Mexico, Canada and the United States. Wild yams contain a sapogenin called diosgenin. Diosgenin is a precursor to the hormone progesterone. Yams do not. actually contain progesterone, but they do contain "plant estrogen" which does produce estrogenic effects which have been shown to be valuable in relieving female problems.
In pregnant women, it is prompt in relieving the nausea associated with morning sickness and can help prevent miscarriage. Yam has long been used to nourish, balance and support the female glandular system.
Caution should be used when using wild yam as a contraceptive because it may not be effective in preventing pregnancy.
5. Dong Quai/Angelica polymorpha sinensis:
Dong Quai is an aromatic chinese herbal remedy made from the root of angelica sinensis, which is growing at high altitudes in China, Korea and Japan. The root has a strong smell and a sweet taste. Dong Quai is known as a tonic herb for women and is used by women in the treatment of female disorders such as premenstrual syndrome, menstrual cramps and to help them with menopause. Especially in combination with other herbs, dong quai is very effective for menopausal and menstrual difficulties. It is also commonly described as the supreme "woman’s herb", and as the "queen of Chinese herbs".
Caution: Dong quai is considered to be of very low toxicity, but it may cause some fair-skinned persons to become more sensitive to sunlight. It should also not be taken in large quantities by pregnant women.
6. Licorice Root:
Licorice Root comes from a tall shrub with bluish flowers of the pea family and is found all across Asia and Europe. The root is used medicinally and is one of the most important herbs in traditional Chinese medicine. Licorice Root helps boost immunity, reduce inflammation, protect the liver and ease menopause problems. Many women's herbal formulas include licorice for its estrogenic properties as an aid to normalize and regulate hormone levels during menopause
Caution: Excessive use of Licorice extract may raise blood pressure, cause water retention, headache and potassium loss.
7. Hops Flower:
Hops flowers (Humulus lupulus) are native to Europe and western Asia, and they are commonly known as a principal ingredient in beer.
Not recommended for use by persons suffering from depression.
8. Black Cohosh:
The herb black cohosh, or Actaea racemosa (formerly named Cimicifuga racemosa), is native to North America. The roots and rhizomes of this herb are widely used in the treatment of menopausal symptoms and menstrual dysfunction. Researchers studying Black Cohosh have isolated chemical derivatives mimicking the effects of estrogen, supporting the use of the herb in the treatment of female conditions.
Caution: Consuming large amounts are known to cause nausea, dizziness and vomiting. Expectant mothers should only use Black Cohosh under the supervision of a health professional, since Black Cohosh has a reputation of stimulating the uterus to speed childbirth, and large doses could lead to premature birth.
For Men:
9. Saw Palmetto Berries:
These are the berries from a small, palm-like plant that is found in the US and the West Indies. Saw Palmetto has the effect of stimulating the sex hormones and can also be used to treat prostate enlargement. A decoction can be made from ½ teaspoon of berries to one cup of water. One to two cups should be drunk daily.
10. Damiana Leaf:
Damiana is a small, aromatic shrub grown in South America. The leaves act as a stimulant for the reproductive system, as well as acting as an aphrodisiac and an aid for impotence. Traditional, it has been used as an aphrodisiac, which may be due to an alkaloid that acts like the male hormone testosterone--an increase which is associated with a heightened level of sex drive in both sexes.
Caution: Excessively large doses of Damiana may result in over-stimulation.
In addition to herbs, evidence suggests that Zinc, Vitamin E and Vitamin B6 can help to increase fertility. Zinc deficiency has been linked to low sperm count and a loss of libido in men and reduced fertility in women.
There are many herbs that can be used to treat various aspects of infertility and these can be discussed with a specialist. As with any method of self-help, it always wise to consult an expert before attempting to administer a cure yourself, but with careful management natural cures are definitely the preferable and safest option.
Decoction: A standard decoction can be made using 40g (1½ oz) herb to 750ml (1½ pints) water. Method: Place the herb in a saucepan with the water. Put on a lid and bring to the boil and then simmer gently for 10-15 minutes. Strain the liquid and pour into a clean container. This decoction should keep in a refrigerator for around two to three days.
Warning: Herbs should never be taken in conjunction with any other type of fertility drugs and some herbal remedies may actually reduce fertility, such as St John's Wort, Ginkgo and Echinacea. For a list of herbs to avoid during pregnancy, click here for more information....
For an easy-to-follow fertility guide that charts the herbal remedies that can be taken during each stage of the menstrual cycle, click here for more information....http://www.womenfitness.net/10tips.htm
Infertility is a term that is generally applied when a couple fail to conceive following unprotected sex over a period of a year to eighteen months. Many infertility treatments, focus on the actual mechanics of fertilisation, when often the overall condition of the body is the key to successful conception. Herbs have been used for hundreds of years to treat every ailment that exists. After all, plants were the only medicine available to our ancestors and the human race has survived, so they must have been doing something right!
There are many root causes that can inhibit the processes necessary for fertilisation, such as stress, illness, a hormonal imbalance and poor diet. These are just some of the factors that can affect the organs that all play an important part in the process of reproduction.
There are certain herbs which can eliminate the need for all those uncomfortable, invasive tests that are so often part of the infertility diagnosis process. Herbs help to strengthen and nourish the organs and systems responsible for the intricate process of successful conception, in addition to promoting a general feeling of well-being, which is crucial before, during and after pregnancy.
At this stage It is important to mention, however, that once conception has taken place, there are some herbs that should never be taken during pregnancy.
Below is a list of some of the popular herbal remedies that can be used to treat male and female infertility.
For Women:
1. Agnus Castus:
Agnus Castus is the fruit of a Mediterranean shrub, Vitex agnus-castus, which is also known as the chaste tree. Chaste tree fruit contains iridoid glycosides, flavonoids, and terpenoids. This acts as a hormone regulator and will help if you have irregular periods or if you are not ovulating due to a hormonal imbalance. Agnus Castus is also useful if you are prone to miscarriage before the twelfth week of pregnancy and can also help with PMS and menopausal symptoms.
A ¼ of a level teaspoon of the dried, crushed berries can be sprinkled on food, the best time being first thing in the morning. Alternatively, one cup of the 1decoction can be taken daily.
Caution: Agnus Castus should not be taken in conjunction with Progesterone supplements.
2. False Unicorn Root:
Although this has been used for centuries as a fertility aid, False Unicorn Root is an endangered species, so should only be used if absolutely necessary. It helps to regulate the ovaries and strengthen the lining of the womb.
Caution: False Unicorn Root should never be used during pregnancy.
3. Red Clover:
Red Clover is a very common plant with bright pink blossoms and is renowned for its fertility-enhancing properties. The leaves and blossoms are rich in B vitamins, calcium and protein and also helps to detoxify the blood. Up to four cups of the decoction (made from dried, not fresh, blossoms) can be drunk a day, but you may need to take this for some time to reap the full benefits.
Caution: Red Clover contains blood-thinning properties, so should not therefore be used following surgery or in patients with blood-clotting disorders.
4. Wild yam extract:
Wild yam is a winding vine with a starchy yellow rhizome similar to a potato. It grows in Mexico, Canada and the United States. Wild yams contain a sapogenin called diosgenin. Diosgenin is a precursor to the hormone progesterone. Yams do not. actually contain progesterone, but they do contain "plant estrogen" which does produce estrogenic effects which have been shown to be valuable in relieving female problems.
In pregnant women, it is prompt in relieving the nausea associated with morning sickness and can help prevent miscarriage. Yam has long been used to nourish, balance and support the female glandular system.
Caution should be used when using wild yam as a contraceptive because it may not be effective in preventing pregnancy.
5. Dong Quai/Angelica polymorpha sinensis:
Dong Quai is an aromatic chinese herbal remedy made from the root of angelica sinensis, which is growing at high altitudes in China, Korea and Japan. The root has a strong smell and a sweet taste. Dong Quai is known as a tonic herb for women and is used by women in the treatment of female disorders such as premenstrual syndrome, menstrual cramps and to help them with menopause. Especially in combination with other herbs, dong quai is very effective for menopausal and menstrual difficulties. It is also commonly described as the supreme "woman’s herb", and as the "queen of Chinese herbs".
Caution: Dong quai is considered to be of very low toxicity, but it may cause some fair-skinned persons to become more sensitive to sunlight. It should also not be taken in large quantities by pregnant women.
6. Licorice Root:
Licorice Root comes from a tall shrub with bluish flowers of the pea family and is found all across Asia and Europe. The root is used medicinally and is one of the most important herbs in traditional Chinese medicine. Licorice Root helps boost immunity, reduce inflammation, protect the liver and ease menopause problems. Many women's herbal formulas include licorice for its estrogenic properties as an aid to normalize and regulate hormone levels during menopause
Caution: Excessive use of Licorice extract may raise blood pressure, cause water retention, headache and potassium loss.
7. Hops Flower:
Hops flowers (Humulus lupulus) are native to Europe and western Asia, and they are commonly known as a principal ingredient in beer.
Not recommended for use by persons suffering from depression.
8. Black Cohosh:
The herb black cohosh, or Actaea racemosa (formerly named Cimicifuga racemosa), is native to North America. The roots and rhizomes of this herb are widely used in the treatment of menopausal symptoms and menstrual dysfunction. Researchers studying Black Cohosh have isolated chemical derivatives mimicking the effects of estrogen, supporting the use of the herb in the treatment of female conditions.
Caution: Consuming large amounts are known to cause nausea, dizziness and vomiting. Expectant mothers should only use Black Cohosh under the supervision of a health professional, since Black Cohosh has a reputation of stimulating the uterus to speed childbirth, and large doses could lead to premature birth.
For Men:
9. Saw Palmetto Berries:
These are the berries from a small, palm-like plant that is found in the US and the West Indies. Saw Palmetto has the effect of stimulating the sex hormones and can also be used to treat prostate enlargement. A decoction can be made from ½ teaspoon of berries to one cup of water. One to two cups should be drunk daily.
10. Damiana Leaf:
Damiana is a small, aromatic shrub grown in South America. The leaves act as a stimulant for the reproductive system, as well as acting as an aphrodisiac and an aid for impotence. Traditional, it has been used as an aphrodisiac, which may be due to an alkaloid that acts like the male hormone testosterone--an increase which is associated with a heightened level of sex drive in both sexes.
Caution: Excessively large doses of Damiana may result in over-stimulation.
In addition to herbs, evidence suggests that Zinc, Vitamin E and Vitamin B6 can help to increase fertility. Zinc deficiency has been linked to low sperm count and a loss of libido in men and reduced fertility in women.
There are many herbs that can be used to treat various aspects of infertility and these can be discussed with a specialist. As with any method of self-help, it always wise to consult an expert before attempting to administer a cure yourself, but with careful management natural cures are definitely the preferable and safest option.
Decoction: A standard decoction can be made using 40g (1½ oz) herb to 750ml (1½ pints) water. Method: Place the herb in a saucepan with the water. Put on a lid and bring to the boil and then simmer gently for 10-15 minutes. Strain the liquid and pour into a clean container. This decoction should keep in a refrigerator for around two to three days.
Warning: Herbs should never be taken in conjunction with any other type of fertility drugs and some herbal remedies may actually reduce fertility, such as St John's Wort, Ginkgo and Echinacea. For a list of herbs to avoid during pregnancy, click here for more information....
For an easy-to-follow fertility guide that charts the herbal remedies that can be taken during each stage of the menstrual cycle, click here for more information....http://www.womenfitness.net/10tips.htm
Sunday, November 23, 2003
UNDERSTANDING DRUGS
All drugs even the familiar ones such as aspirin may have potentially harmful as well as beneficial effects. Whether you are prescribed drug treatment or you choose remedies for yourself, you will gain most benefit from drugs if you understand how they are likely to act and how to use them safely and effectively.
Today there is a vast range of drugs available for many purpose. Some drugs can be bought over the computer at pharmacies or other require a doctor's prescription and a few drugs are available only in hospitals. In order to make the best use of drugs treatments and avoid any possible adverse effects you must follow the instructions given by your doctor or pharmacist or those supplied by the manufacture.
HOW DRUGS AFFECT YOU
How drugs act on your body and their possible effects
A drug may have several types of effect on your body as well as the intended action .
These includes :
Side effects
Tolerance
Dependence
Interaction may also occur, in which drugs that are taken together enhance or reduce each other's actions. Many drugs can have a powerful psychological benefit called the placebo effect. A number of drugs have unwanted effect which can be unpleasant or harmful and your doctor's will plan drug treatment to avoid or minimize these effects. A drug's effect can vary from individual to another. Drugs tend to have particularly strong effect on certain people such as children and the elderly.
SIDE EFFECTS OF DRUGS
Almost all systemic drugs (drugs that affect the whole body) can cause side effects, undesired reactions resulting from a normal dose. Side effect occur because drugs act on cells throughout the body not just in the area to be treated. For example beta -blockers drugs may be used in the treatment of hypertension. However they may disrupt sleeping patterns as a side effect of their intended action.
Some side effects such as the dry mouth caused by some antihistamines are predictable because they result from the known chemical effects of a drug. However drug may also produce unpredictable reactions such as drugs allergy. Any type of drugs including penicillin can cause allergy reactions that can range in severity from a mild rash to serve breathing problems.
Most side effects are not serious, and they often disappear gradually as your body becomes used to a drug. However for some drugs used to treat serious disorders the side effects are server and potentially fatal. For instance, certain cytotoxic drugs used to treat cancer, are toxic to the heart and can cause it to fail. A medical decisions to use a drug depends on whether the overall benefit out-weights the risk of harmful effects.
DRUGS TOLERANCE AND DEPENDENCE
If you take certain drugs for a long time your body adapts to them in a process known as tolerance. With some drugs, tolerance may be useful, allowing the body to overcome side effects while still responding to the beneficial effect on the drugs. For example many people taking antidepressants, find that side effects such as a dry mouth disappear while the benefits remain. However tolerance many make some drugs less effective so that a higher does is needed to obtain the same results. The higher dose may increase side effects.
Dependence is a need for a drug. The need can be psychological leading you to think you cannot functions normally without a certain drug. It can also be physical. For example long term use of laxatives can make your body depend on them for bowel movements.
If you become dependent on certain drugs such as benzodiazepines (anti-anxiety) your body may developed tolerance to them. If you stop taking them, you may suffer unpleasant effect known as withdrawal symptoms, which are sometimes dangerous. It is also possible to become dependent on drugs that are not medicines such as alcohol or nicotine.
How Thrombolytic Drugs Work
Thrombolytic drugs are used to dissolve unwanted blood clots, known as thrombi. A blood clot consists of blood cells and platelets that are held together by a mesh of fibrin strands. Thrombolytics dissolve the fibrin strands, thereby breaking up the blood clot.
Before Drug
A clot, made up of red and white blood cells and platelets bound together by strands of fibrin, has formed in a blood vessel, restricting blood flow.
After Drug
The thrombolytic drug dissolves the fibrin strand that bind the blood clot together. The clot is broken down and normal blood flow resumes.
PEOPLE AT SPECIAL RISK
The effects of a drugs may differ from one person to another. This variation occurs
because people's bodies, absorb and excrete drugs at different rates. In addition, the same dose of a drug may reach different concentrations in the blood depending on factors such as body size and kidney function. Groups at higher risk of adverse effects include fetus, babies (particularly breast fed babies, whose mothers are taking drugs) children, people who have liver or kidney disease and elderly people.
Older people are at increased risk of side effects. This risk may be due to the decline in the functions of organs such as the liver and kidneys as the body ages, which cause toxins to accumulate faster in the body. Older people may need to take several drugs together to treat a number of disorders and therefore may also be at increased risk of drugs interactions.
It is important that you understand what drugs you are taking and how they are likely to affect you. Drugs must be stored safely and should be disposed of when they have expired or are no longer useful.
USING DRUGS SAFELY
Before taking any medication, make sure that you understand when and how to take it. Read the instructions carefully and discuss anything that you do not understand with your doctor or pharmacist. Find out, whether the drugs is likely to affect everyday tasks, such as, driving, whether you should take the drugs with food, or on an empty stomach and what you should do if you miss or exceed a dose.
TAKING LONG TERM MEDICATION
If you need drug treatment that continues for a long time, such as medications to treat high blood pressure or diabetes mellitus, you may be given a prescription that can be renewed so that you do not have to see your doctor each time. However you will still need to see the doctor regularly so that he or she can monitor your condition and your response to treatment. Never stop taking your medications suddenly without consulting your doctor first. For some drugs it is necessary to reduce the dose gradually, so that your conditions dose not suddenly become worse. Gradual reduction of the dose of a drug also helps to prevent your from developing withdrawal symptoms.
If you are taking long term medications always talk to your pharmacist before using any additional drugs. If you need hospital treatment tell the hospital staff which drug, you are taking including OTC drugs or complementary remedies. Do not take your own medications, while you are in hospital unless the staff specially say that it is all right for you to do so. Some drugs such as anticoagulants can cause severe problems during surgery or emergency treatment, or if they are taken with other drugs. If you are on long term medication, with particularly drugs such as corticosteroids, you should obtain a card bracelet or pendant that gives details of your medications. You should always carry this information with you so that it will be available to any medical staff who may need to treat you in an emergency.
Check out more at http://www.womenfitness.net/articles.htm
All drugs even the familiar ones such as aspirin may have potentially harmful as well as beneficial effects. Whether you are prescribed drug treatment or you choose remedies for yourself, you will gain most benefit from drugs if you understand how they are likely to act and how to use them safely and effectively.
Today there is a vast range of drugs available for many purpose. Some drugs can be bought over the computer at pharmacies or other require a doctor's prescription and a few drugs are available only in hospitals. In order to make the best use of drugs treatments and avoid any possible adverse effects you must follow the instructions given by your doctor or pharmacist or those supplied by the manufacture.
HOW DRUGS AFFECT YOU
How drugs act on your body and their possible effects
A drug may have several types of effect on your body as well as the intended action .
These includes :
Side effects
Tolerance
Dependence
Interaction may also occur, in which drugs that are taken together enhance or reduce each other's actions. Many drugs can have a powerful psychological benefit called the placebo effect. A number of drugs have unwanted effect which can be unpleasant or harmful and your doctor's will plan drug treatment to avoid or minimize these effects. A drug's effect can vary from individual to another. Drugs tend to have particularly strong effect on certain people such as children and the elderly.
SIDE EFFECTS OF DRUGS
Almost all systemic drugs (drugs that affect the whole body) can cause side effects, undesired reactions resulting from a normal dose. Side effect occur because drugs act on cells throughout the body not just in the area to be treated. For example beta -blockers drugs may be used in the treatment of hypertension. However they may disrupt sleeping patterns as a side effect of their intended action.
Some side effects such as the dry mouth caused by some antihistamines are predictable because they result from the known chemical effects of a drug. However drug may also produce unpredictable reactions such as drugs allergy. Any type of drugs including penicillin can cause allergy reactions that can range in severity from a mild rash to serve breathing problems.
Most side effects are not serious, and they often disappear gradually as your body becomes used to a drug. However for some drugs used to treat serious disorders the side effects are server and potentially fatal. For instance, certain cytotoxic drugs used to treat cancer, are toxic to the heart and can cause it to fail. A medical decisions to use a drug depends on whether the overall benefit out-weights the risk of harmful effects.
DRUGS TOLERANCE AND DEPENDENCE
If you take certain drugs for a long time your body adapts to them in a process known as tolerance. With some drugs, tolerance may be useful, allowing the body to overcome side effects while still responding to the beneficial effect on the drugs. For example many people taking antidepressants, find that side effects such as a dry mouth disappear while the benefits remain. However tolerance many make some drugs less effective so that a higher does is needed to obtain the same results. The higher dose may increase side effects.
Dependence is a need for a drug. The need can be psychological leading you to think you cannot functions normally without a certain drug. It can also be physical. For example long term use of laxatives can make your body depend on them for bowel movements.
If you become dependent on certain drugs such as benzodiazepines (anti-anxiety) your body may developed tolerance to them. If you stop taking them, you may suffer unpleasant effect known as withdrawal symptoms, which are sometimes dangerous. It is also possible to become dependent on drugs that are not medicines such as alcohol or nicotine.
How Thrombolytic Drugs Work
Thrombolytic drugs are used to dissolve unwanted blood clots, known as thrombi. A blood clot consists of blood cells and platelets that are held together by a mesh of fibrin strands. Thrombolytics dissolve the fibrin strands, thereby breaking up the blood clot.
Before Drug
A clot, made up of red and white blood cells and platelets bound together by strands of fibrin, has formed in a blood vessel, restricting blood flow.
After Drug
The thrombolytic drug dissolves the fibrin strand that bind the blood clot together. The clot is broken down and normal blood flow resumes.
PEOPLE AT SPECIAL RISK
The effects of a drugs may differ from one person to another. This variation occurs
because people's bodies, absorb and excrete drugs at different rates. In addition, the same dose of a drug may reach different concentrations in the blood depending on factors such as body size and kidney function. Groups at higher risk of adverse effects include fetus, babies (particularly breast fed babies, whose mothers are taking drugs) children, people who have liver or kidney disease and elderly people.
Older people are at increased risk of side effects. This risk may be due to the decline in the functions of organs such as the liver and kidneys as the body ages, which cause toxins to accumulate faster in the body. Older people may need to take several drugs together to treat a number of disorders and therefore may also be at increased risk of drugs interactions.
It is important that you understand what drugs you are taking and how they are likely to affect you. Drugs must be stored safely and should be disposed of when they have expired or are no longer useful.
USING DRUGS SAFELY
Before taking any medication, make sure that you understand when and how to take it. Read the instructions carefully and discuss anything that you do not understand with your doctor or pharmacist. Find out, whether the drugs is likely to affect everyday tasks, such as, driving, whether you should take the drugs with food, or on an empty stomach and what you should do if you miss or exceed a dose.
TAKING LONG TERM MEDICATION
If you need drug treatment that continues for a long time, such as medications to treat high blood pressure or diabetes mellitus, you may be given a prescription that can be renewed so that you do not have to see your doctor each time. However you will still need to see the doctor regularly so that he or she can monitor your condition and your response to treatment. Never stop taking your medications suddenly without consulting your doctor first. For some drugs it is necessary to reduce the dose gradually, so that your conditions dose not suddenly become worse. Gradual reduction of the dose of a drug also helps to prevent your from developing withdrawal symptoms.
If you are taking long term medications always talk to your pharmacist before using any additional drugs. If you need hospital treatment tell the hospital staff which drug, you are taking including OTC drugs or complementary remedies. Do not take your own medications, while you are in hospital unless the staff specially say that it is all right for you to do so. Some drugs such as anticoagulants can cause severe problems during surgery or emergency treatment, or if they are taken with other drugs. If you are on long term medication, with particularly drugs such as corticosteroids, you should obtain a card bracelet or pendant that gives details of your medications. You should always carry this information with you so that it will be available to any medical staff who may need to treat you in an emergency.
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Saturday, November 08, 2003
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