Graviola - Soursop - Rainforest Healing Power in One Bottle

Many people know already that the Amazon rainforest has many plants that can save lives. Totally there are more then 30,000 plants and only 10,000 of them have been analyzed for their active agents until today. Within those 10,000 there are many of them that have ingredients that are known as powerful to beat cancer and other so called incurable disease. I would like to open a door to more information about those powerful plants and fruits to bring consciousness to the world that there is a solution for any kind of disease. All Ingredients of this Amazon Power Juice have been analyzed by the scientific world and are proven for their active agents and qualities and they know the powers of those plants and of what they are able to cure. Nevertheless the real reports nearly never get out to the public because none of any natural grown plant or fruit can be patented for their healing qualities and the world of pharmaceutic products only are interested to transform the active agents into a remedy that can be patented.

Nature has all we need to get well and taking care of ourselves we do not need to get sick to a state where diseases are eating up our body from inside out. As many active agents of the Amazon Plants cannot be transformed into a medicine they can be used in their natural state as healing plants. The juice I wish to present you has just the active agents and healing qualities of every of the above mentioned ingredients and is very powerful:

Composition of 6 plants with anti-tumor components:
Graviola - Aloe - Andiroba - Copaiba - Eucalyptus - Avenca

- The Juice has qualities helping against Dyspepsia, Maldigestion, Gastric Mucosa and Stomatitis

- It contains dietary fibers to helping the process of a perfect digestion

- The Juice contains Aloe Oil that helps regulating the production of gastric acid

- It has properties protecting the esophagus against inflammation, as well as chronic cough provoked by irritation of the esophagus

- The properties of active essence oils, acids, Lupeol, Fenol and Magnesium, bringing an anesthetic effect

- The juice has qualities that protect the stomach wall against irritations produced by ulcers and gastritis, calms attacks of the stomach by acids and heartburn.

- It contains Metionin and Treonin, essential Amino-Acids that detoxify the liver protect the liver from self destruction and avoids the formation from fat in the liver's cell structure. There is one principle that helps the cell regeneration of the liver - a great chance for those who were alcoholics with a liver damage. It clears the liver and the kidneys from all kind of toxins and alcoholic liver diseases and Cirrhosis.

- It has components that help against heartburn, mal digestion, colonic diverticulitis, colitis, avoids the growth of tumors at the connection between the stomach and the intestine, protects against inflammation of the esophagus, nausea and sickness.

Composition of the Juice - Ingredients

Graviola: (special report available) - Helps effetely against tumors of any kind. Graviola has been studied during 20 years in more then 20 laboratories of USA to confirm the healing possibilities at 12 different kind of cancer such as breast cancer, prostate cancer, ovary cancer, uterus cancer, lung cancer, leukemia, and others. Dr. Helmut Keller discovered a substance in Graviola called ACETOGENIN that is 10.000 times more powerful as ANDRIOMICINE, the drug that is used for Chemo Therapy all over the world.

- After that discovery the laboratories tired to produce a medication against cancer from this powerful substance, but they failed as Graviola does not allow any sophistic process without losing its principals.
- That is the reason why Graviola only can used in natural form to beat cancer with the wonderful attitude to avoid any kind of side effects like nausea, sickness, diarrhea, less of appetite, loss of hair or any kind of weakness provoked by Chemo Therapy

Aloe:
- The juice contains also components of Aloe Vera; one of the ingredient of the plant that is called Acemannam, which has anti-tumor properties.
- Acemannam is a Mucopolysaccharides effective for several kinds of tumors augmenting the numbers of Macrophages, Lymphocytes and Monocytes in our organism. That way they accelerate a cleaning process avoiding that a tumor grows into a metastasis. Aloe has properties that are able to augment the intern oxygen flow transporting the oxygen right to the cells that are affected by cancer cells - those properties are able to separate the cancer cells and regenerates the body cells.

Avenca:
-Avenca has qualities that fight prostate cancer

Copaiba - Andiroba and Eucalyptus

- All three components have characteristics that are working for the complete respiratory system including mouth, nose and throat. They have qualities to beat tumors in all parts of the lung and the respiratory organs.
One of their factors is warming up the pulmonary alveoli so the black and hard nicotine jumps up from their wall and will be secreted in form of yellowish dirty catarrh - the only factor of lung cleaner known until today and a great hope for smokers.

The Juice has components that act on Blood Circulation
- They open the capillaries facilitating the blood stream and the administration of oxygen in the cellular structure. There are qualities that are prophylactic against varices, coronary vessel problems, cardiac Infarction, Stroke, Angina Pectoris, Cramps, etc
- Its properties allow an easy blood back stream to the heart and calms pains in the legs.

- Further components are cleaning the blood fro all kind of poisons, viruses and impurities.

- One of the substances have been detected that is able to eliminate the "hospital killer virus". - This has been found out by coincidence as a person with cancer cached this deadly virus and after taking the juice for a while this virus was not found anymore in his blood. That was a major discovery and studies are still going on to elaborate scientific proof.

- The product has a component that reacts on all kind of inflammation eating up all kind of impurities in the entire body system.
- It also helps at toothache and infections inside the mouth. Take one zip and let it flow to the place within the mouth or use a peace of cotton to bring the juicy material to the infected tooth.

This Juice is NO REMEDY, but just a natural concentrated fruit juice made as nutritional supplement with the divine side effects to eliminate lots of different body imbalances and diseases. It is a Master Peace of Gods Guidance to help suffering men, women and children.

Many years ago I wanted badly to travel to the Amazon because I knew inside that there is the solution for many incurable diseases. Working with the cause of disease miracles happen all the times, but I wanted to help the physical body of my clients faster to recover as aid and other half of the work bringing spirit and matter together to create a power field of healing. I did not need to go - the Amazon has been brought into my home - God had heard my prayers. As I held the product in my hands for the first time I felt some kind of energy light explosion in my entire body (I am a Healer and Energy Sensitive Light Worker) and my inner voice transmitted the words of God: "That is what you were longing for" and of course I am very happy to have had the honor to know the producers and their mission... and I made it part of my mission too....

This product has been created with the intent to help the physical body to restore all sick cells by the active healing principles that we can find in natural products. It is high concentrated and it beats what traditional chemo is not able to.

MOTHER NATURE HAS THE ANSWERS OF OUR PRAYERS
Nature has all the healing powers we need to restore our body

Doses: 2 times per day as body cleaner and detoxification, in case of Tumors 3 x per day until the double doses at metastases and advanced cancer

More info on your personal situation and to get the product please write and indicate the article source: "mdfwhealing10@gmail.com"

Graviola Special Report is to find on my website - profile
With blessings Regina E.H.Ariel

The Aloe Vera Colon Cleanse - 4 Ways It Can Benefit Your Health

Aloe vera is a wonderful herb that has been used across the globe for many centuries. Many of the ancient medical sciences such as Ayurveda, Chinese, Unani and Greek describe it's great benefits in treating various ailments. One of this plant's prime benefits is to effectively cleanse the colon. Let's take a look at the aloe vera colon cleanse and how it can be of benefit to your health.

IT RIDS YOUR BODY OF TOXIC SUBSTANCES
Aloe helps remove toxins from your body because of these 3 important components: saponin, lignin and proteolytic enzymes. Saponin is a water-based detergent and emulsifier and works as a cleanser in the gastro intestinal tract. Lignin is a deep penetrating agent and can penetrate up to the 7th layer of the cell. Proteolytic enzymes, or proteases are enzymes that digest rotten wastes inside your bowel.

IT HELPS WITH WEIGHT LOSS
When your intestines and colon are healthy and functioning properly, your body runs more effectively and is able to burn more fat and shed excess weight. When combined with a reduced intake of food, the aloe vera colon cleanse increases metabolism and has helped numerous people encounter near immediate results with their weight loss.

IT HEALS IRRITABLE BOWEL SYNDROME
Irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS is a gastrointestinal disorder that affects approximately 60 million Americans. The symptoms can include abdominal spasms, flatulence, bloating, constipation, diarrhea and mucus in the stools. It's a mystery, for the most part, why some people suffer from this malady, but it has been found that aloe vera can be beneficial in alleviating the symptoms of IBS. Cleansing the colon with aloe gel can reduce cramps and soothe the intestinal tract, resulting in proper digestion, mineral absorption and regular bowel movements.

IT BOOSTS YOUR OVERALL HEALTH
Your colon is often referred to the gutter system of the body, and for good reason. Your body needs a cleaning every now and then to help it rid of potential harmful toxins, similar to a car needing an oil change to keep it running efficiently. A healthy intestinal tract will boost your energy levels and increase immune function, thus, encouraging better general health.

Colon cancer is now the second leading cause of death among North Americans and as such, a good working digestive system is very crucial. This is more reason to use an aloe vera colon cleanse. With all it's benefits, it's certainly something that should be considered.

Ginger Root - An Herb With Medicinal Properties Used As An Alternative To Traditional Medicine

Ginger root is an herb that has been used in a variety of ways as a healing agent for over 2000 years. It is thought to have medicinal properties that can be helpful to those suffering from a myriad of ailments, including arthritis, nausea, motion sickness, headaches, and perhaps even types of heart disease. In the United States the use of herbs as medicine is still considered as alternative, but in places such as China, the Caribbean, India, parts of Africa and Europe ginger is widely accepted as a healing herb.

The history of ginger is quite fascinating. The Sanskrit name for ginger is srngaveram, which translates to "horn root". This is believed to be because of the appearance of the ginger root, which does bear a resemblance to an animal's horn. At some point in history ginger disappeared, but it is thought that Marco Polo brought it back with him after his extensive travels and it then became a delicacy in Europe. Most of the supply of ginger comes from Jamaica, India, Africa, and China. Ginger grows in the wild in Jamaica and other islands of the Caribbean because the tropical climate offers the best growing conditions. Ginger in the wild produces flowers when the herb is at its most ripe stage. Queen Elizabeth I loved the taste of ginger and encouraged her cooks to experiment with it. The gingerbread man is said to have been the direct outcome of this experimentation.

Ginger has been used most commonly to treat gastrointestinal maladies such as nausea, abdominal bloating, diarrhea, uncontrollable vomiting, heartburn, intestinal gas resulting in excess flatulence, and colitis. Many believe that ginger can help with these ailments because it contains properties thought to strengthen the muscle tone in the intestinal tract.

Herbalists use ginger extract to decrease inflammation, which is a leading cause of many ailments including osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, bronchitis, dermatitis, and ulcerative colitis. Studies are not at all conclusive, but many people prefer to use a natural remedy instead of taking ibuprofen or other traditional medication.

Use of ginger to treat motion sickness appears to be at least somewhat effective but more studies need to be conducted and analyzed. As far as heart disease is concerned, it is unclear whether or not ginger can be used successfully to lower cholesterol. It is simply to early to make an intelligent comment on this type of medicinal use of the herb.

Ginger appears as a knotted root with an underground stem known as a rhizome. It consists of volatile oils (somewhere between 1 and 4%), as well as pungent compounds known as gingerol and shogaol. It is these compounds that are thought to be responsible for the healing properties of ginger for nausea and vomiting.

You can find ginger in the produce department as a fresh or dried root. Ginger is also available as a powdered extract, in capsule form, or as an oil. You can use ginger to prepare a tea or use it as a cooking spice to prepare breads, cookies, or as an ingredient in vegetable dishes.

It is always wise to do your own research and talk to your physician before supplanting ginger, or any other spice or herb, with prescribed medications. Many health food stores have herbalists on staff that can also answer any additional questions you may have. As with all things in your life, moderation is the best choice. But when choosing spices that may also be medicinal, try using ginger as a healthy, natural alternative.

Eczema Skin Symptoms Resulting From Repressed Anger

I was told by my naturopathic doctor that eczema skin symptoms can also be a sign of repressed anger from within. I initially refused to believe it but the more I research into eczema and natural healing, the more I realised that there could be some truth in it.

What is repressed anger? Repressed anger simply means that you deny your thoughts and emotions and keep them all inside. You then become unresponsive and numb to several things that may affect you. If you keep all your negative thoughts to yourself, then it is possible that you develop eczema skin symptoms as your body seeks to find an outlet.

Every emotion is a potent force that suffuses your entire body, including your skin. What you feel emotionally can be easily observed by others on your skin level. The effect on your skin can be easily seen by others and can be electrically recorded. For instance, your skin blushes when you feel love or embarrassment, breaks out in cold sweat when you are afraid, and flushes with shame or anger.

When your eczema skin symptoms are observed as red and inflamed rashes, you may well be having an underlying fire fuelled by suppressed anger. If your emotions are spent or if you feel stuck, then these feelings are likely to result in dryness or even cracking of the skin. In contrast, excessive emotions are tied to oily skin. Should you be having conflicting emotions, overwhelming feelings of grief and anguish, self-hatred, or inappropriate passions, then you may find yourself breaking out in the form of rashes or blemishes.

Repressed anger not just manifests in eczema skin symptoms but can also have a negative impact on the rest of your body. These include migraines and ulcers, and in the long term, to strokes or tumours. Prolonged fears and repressed angers increase tensions and stresses. As you well know, stress can aggravate and worsen your bodily reactions such as eczema, shingles, psoriasis, or arthritis.

Naturopathic doctors say that the first body system that reacts to repressed anger is the gastro-intestinal or digestive system. You can experience difficulties in swallowing, nausea, vomitting, diarrhea, constipation, or gastric ulcer. Bear in mind the repressed anger is the most common cause of ulcerative colitis.

An interesting study of 128 patients in a hospital outpatient department was conducted to determine the relationship between repressed anger and the twelve symptoms or diseases. Among the 27 patients who suffered eczema, it was found out that eczema flared up whenever the individual could not quite handle the intense frustration of being prevented from doing something or simply interfered with.

Hence, if you have eczema skin symptoms, then you may wish to approach healing from looking at your emotional well-being. Are you having repressed anger? If so, you will need to look for ways in dealing with your anger, rather than suppress it. Seeking open communication with your loved ones help. Alternatively, find outlets that can help you discharge the unspent emotions that smoulder but remain alive in you. Channels, such as religion or taking up meaningful work, that help you gain some perspective about your life can also assist in diffusing the anger that you feel.

Ulcerative Colitis - Symptoms

Ulcerative colitis and crohn's disease both of which are disorders that come under the category of irritable bowel syndrome have certain common symptoms. The three most frequent symptoms are persistent diarrhea, abdominal pain and fever.

Ulcerative colitis is a disorder that is caused due to inflammation of the inner lining of the colon. It is one of the two disorders that fall under the irritable bowel syndrome with the other being crohn's disease.

The symptoms of this condition are similar to crohn's disease and hence, it is difficult to diagnose which disorder of the irritable bowel syndrome a patient suffers from unless detailed medical screening is done. Here is a list of symptoms, some of which are common to both these disorders. These symptoms are also likely to vary depending on the severity of the inflammation or the extent to which the colon is inflamed.

Recurrent diarrhea - Quite often patients refer to loose stools three or four times a day as irritable bowel syndrome. However, it is essential to diagnose the condition to receive proper treatment. Anyone suffering from recurrent diarrhea three or four times a day for several days on end should consult a physician and undergo the prescribed tests for diagnosis of ulcerative colitis.

Abdominal pain - Patients suffering from ulcerative colitis often suffer from cramping in the left side of their abdomen. This is one point of difference from crohn's disease where the pain is usually experienced in the right abdominal region. Persistent abdominal pain in left side warrants medical evaluation to diagnose or at least rule out the disorder.

Fever/fatigue - Since this disorder is caused by an inflammation in the body, a common symptom is fever that could either be mild or very high, but persistent. In some cases, patients suffering from ulcerative colitis could also experience constant fatigue, which is caused by the inflammation and aggravated by diarrhea.

These are the three most common symptoms of the irritable bowel syndrome. Additionally, there could be symptoms such as rectal bleeding, loss of appetite, and urgent need to pass stool after every meal. It is important to address the symptoms early as medication can help control the disorder. Common technique used for diagnosis of ulcerative colitis includes colonoscopy based on which a biopsy of the tissue is carried out. Certain other tests could also be prescribed. Once the physician is able to identify which disorder of the irritable bowel syndrome the patient suffers from and rules out crohn's disease, he can prescribe medication to control the inflammation.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome Treatment And Symptoms

Irritable Bowel Syndrome, commonly referred to as IBS, is a disorder that afflicts the intestinal tract. It creates abdominal discomfort or abdominal pain. This condition results in frequently irregular bowel movement patterns, which may occur as constipation, diarrhea or both successively.

A patient may often report a sudden urge to go to the bathroom. Sometimes, if IBS is so severe, a person will not be able to function at social events or at work. Even traveling a short distance can be a problem.

This disorder is sometimes known as nervous indigestion. An individual with IBS can say they have irritable or spastic colon. Emotional stress associated with IBS can complicate and exacerbate its effects.

Symptoms and Causes of IBS

The occurrence of irritable bowel syndrome has not really been clearly explained. There is a hypothesis that suggest it occurs as a result of stretching or muscle movement of the intestine but no single cause seems to explain this illness. This condition is prevalent among adolescents and post-adolescents, especially females. IBS occurs sometimes after an infection of the intestine, but its connection with the infection is not really clear.

There are a lot of symptoms that characterize the manifestation of IBS but not all of these symptoms occur in each patient. They are mostly manifested in the abdomen. Patients often have abdominal pain besides to the bloating or fullness sensation or gassing. Diarrhea or constipation or both is also seen in most patients.

The symptoms associated with this condition are upsetting. The lack of control aggravates the concern and stress caused by the intestinal discomfort. It is not uncommon that people with irritable bowel syndrome suffer from depression due to embarrassment caused by its symptoms which are difficult to hide in public like uncontrollable bowel movements, gas, and sharp abdominal pain that occur at the same time.

Diagnosis and Treatment

For those who believe that these symptoms accurately describe their condition, they should consult a doctor as soon as possible. Irritable bowel syndrome may sometimes be diagnosed without any test. In some cases, it may encourage a doctor to do further tests to evaluate if there is another explanation like lactase deficiency or ulcerative colitis. If the patient is an elderly, a colon screening and endoscopy may be recommended.

Irritable bowel syndrome isn't curable. Treatment will only ease the symptoms. Often the doctor will just suggest lifestyle adjustments such as diet change. Exercise and improved sleep pattern are also suggested. Doctors may prescribe drugs to stimulate the intestines in cases of constipation or diarrhea medications if a patient has diarrhea.

With adequate medical support, a patient can sometimes get back the quality of life he or she experienced before the symptoms become apparent. A patient can successfully alleviate the worst symptoms as long as he or she willingly follows the physician's advice.

Treatment Of Ulcerative Colitis Symptoms Using Medications

Medications for ulcerarive colitis do not cure ulcerative colitis itself. But they can help provide some relief for the pain and discomfort caused by symptoms. One of the other things medications can do for you is help you attain remission - and hold it.

The following medications for ulcerative colitis are used most often by doctors.

Sulfasalazine - Sulfasalazine combines two other drugs, sulfapyridine and 5-aminosalicyclic acid, which is often simply called 5-ASA. The role of sulfapyridine is to transport 5-aminosalicyclic acid to the intestines. But sulfapyridine has a variety of possible effects like headaches, nausea, vomiting, heartburn and diarrhea.

Aminosalicylates - There's also 5-ASA in this medication but no sulfapyridine. Therefore, it has no side effects and can be taken by those who can't take aminosalyicylates.. Aminosalicylates are made from salicylic acid, and there's evidence they have antioxidant properties. Your doctor can suggest several different methods for administering aminosalicylates: by mouth, by suppository, of with an enema. This group of medications is usually first treatment for individuals with colitis. They can also provide some relief when the patient suffers a relapse.

Corticosteroids - These medications include prednisone, methylprednisone, and hydrocortisone. Their primary benefit is that they reduce inflammation. Cortisteroids generally work best with patients who have moderate to severe cases. Delivery methods include enema, suppository, or a pill taken orally. They can also be administered intravenously.. Your doctor will recommend a delivery method based on where the inflammation is located in your colon. Certicosteroids are better when used in the short term. But they have been known to cause side effects in the long term, including weight gain, risk of infection. mood swings, hypertension, facial hair, diabetes, bone mass loss, and acne.

Immunomodulators - These have an effect on the immune system that reduces swelling and inflammation. Corticosteroids are usually recommended when corticosteroids and 5-ASA's haven't worked, or when the patient has become dependent of corticosteroids. They're popular with many patients because they are taken by mouth. However, they take a long time to work compared to other drugs, possibly as long as six months before the patient gets the full benefit.

Cyclosporine A - Patients who are suffering from active, severe cases are often treated with this drug. It may also be administered to those who have not had success with intravenous methods. Cyclosporine is often combined with 6-MP or azathioprine. While treatment with these medications is progressing, the patient may also need other drugs to help relax, get relief from pain,andr combat diarrhea or infection.

Once again, doctors know of no long-lasting cure for ulcerative colitis. However, medications for ulcerative colitis can help prevent flare ups and keep down inflammation. Plus, they can reduce or delay the need for surgery.

Your doctor will evaluate a number of factors in deciding on the appropriate ulcerative colitis medication for you. Among these factors are

* how much discomfort your symptoms are causing
* complications that could arise
* any side effects you may have to face
* other ulcerative colitis medications that have worked - or not worked - previously

Although many similarities exist from one case to another, ulcerative colitis affects different individuals in different ways. So it's possible your physician may have to try a number of therapies before finding one that will be best for you.

Top Common Causes of Lower Right Abdominal Pain

Pain in the lower right abdomen may not always be a cause of alarm but it is still important to know the reason for this. You might not need to be rushed to the emergency room but at least you know exactly what is going on inside your body.

Here are some of the more common reasons that trigger pain in the lower right abdomen:

• Constipation-This is very common for a lot of people. The difficulty of your digestive tract to push triggers pain in the lower abdominal area. This is because of the extra work that the muscles are doing which also puts pressure on the abdominal part.

• Appendicitis-This is a problem for people who are within 11 to 40. For appendicitis, the abdominal pain is also accompanied by vomiting, fever and loss of appetite.

• Hernia-This can also cause pain because of the protruding soft tissue that hits the abdominal wall. For this type of medical problem, the pain is also felt in the groin and upper thigh area.

• Testicular Torsion-For men who are suffering from coiled testicle, abdominal pain can be felt. This also comes with vomiting, nausea and pain in the testicles. The pain can come in surges but in worse cases, it would not go away. Hence, it is necessary to consult a doctor right away.

• Ectopic Pregnancy-This is a problem for women wherein the fertilized egg is situated in another area and not in the uterus. The pain in lower right abdomen gets even more intense if the fertilized egg resides in the fallopian tube.

• Cancer-Different types of cancer can also lead to pain in the lower abdomen. The reason why this type of aching should not be ignored is because it may also be symptom of bowel cancer, colon caner or ovarian cancer.

• Endometriosis-This health problem is triggered when the womb tissues grows beyond the womb. For cases like this, there is also slight swelling which can be felt when the painful area is being pressed lightly. The pain could get even worse during the menstrual period.

• Pelvic Inflammatory Disease-Women's womb may sometimes be positioned the wrong way. Pain is present in the lower right abdominal part when the womb is tilted to this side. For this disorder, pain, vaginal discharge and fever may also be experienced.

• Ulcerative Colitis-This is a disease that damages the large bowel. The pain in lower right abdomen is just one of the symptoms because this usually causes weight loss and bloody stool too.

• Salpingitis-Women who have multiple sexual partners are prone to this illness. This is an infection in the tube which makes intercourse painful and causes excessive vaginal discharge.

These are some of the more common reasons for abdominal pain on the right side. Self-diagnosis is not the best way to go since some of the symptoms may be too similar. If you want to really take good care of your body, asking for doctor's advice should be prioritized.

Bleeding Bowels - What it Could Mean

Bleeding of the bowels is a sign that something could be wrong and can occur as a result of a number of different conditions. Most of these conditions can be easily treated and cured but of course the greatest concern of rectal bleeding is cancer.

One cause of rectal bleeding is Hemorrhoids, which are otherwise commonly known as piles. They are dilated blood vessels that can rupture and bleed which can occur on the outside of the anus and are felt as little bumps which can be very painful. They can also occur on the inside of the anal canal where they are usually painless. Hemorrhoids can be treated and cured.

A fissure is a tear in the lining tissue of the anus which can be caused by diarrhea or more commonly constipation. The hard stool stretches the lining causing it to tear slightly, which exposes the nerve endings and blood vessels causing pain. Most patients experience pain on passing a stool. A fissure can be treated with medication or sometimes surgical intervention.

A fistula is an abnormal passage between the rectum and the skin around the anus which can bleed and discharge. Again fistulas can be treated with medication or surgical intervention.

Colitis is where the colon, rectum or both become inflamed or ulcerated and bleed. The patient usually experiences abdominal cramps, urgency to defecate and pain on defecation. When only the rectum is inflamed this is known as proctitis.

Colonic polyps are small growths of tissue on the inside lining of the large intestine. They often cause no symptoms but can result in bleeding, pain and passing of mucus with bowel motions. There are two main types of polyps in the bowel one of which is of no long term significance. However, the other more common polyps are benign tumours called adenomas which if left have the potential to grow and develop into a malignant cancer. One in ten adenomas turn into cancer. Polyps can be identified and removed during a colonoscopy. The tissue sample is then sent to pathology.

Gas, Constipation, Belching and Other Digestive Problems

From your mouth to your colon, your digestive tract is loaded with bacteria and so is a common site for a variety of infections or inflammations. Other digestive problems, such as constipation and irritable bowel syndrome, are usually caused by a faulty diet. Specific food intolerances can be corrected by avoiding certain foods; lactose (in milk) and gluten (in wheat, barley and rye) cause problems for many people.

All of these digestive problems can cause inflammation, and they may keep you from getting the nutrients you need or from making good food choices. Some digestive problems are difficult to treat, while others are easy; none should be ignored. The brief summaries below highlight some of the more common digestive problems; more information is available at my web site (see the link at at the bottom of this article. Check with your doctor.

BURNING AND BELCHING: Stress does not cause stomach ulcers; they are caused by common bacteria. Anyone with belching or burning in the stomach or esophagus should be tested and most should be given the one-week course of antibiotics that treats the bacteria called Helicobacter pylori and their relatives.

GAS: Whenever you change your diet, particularly if you add foods that contain fiber, you are likely to have an increase in intestinal gas. When carbohydrates (fiber and resistant starches are not broken down and absorbed in the intestines, they pass to the colon where bacteria ferment the carbohydrates to release gas. This is perfectly healthful and the problem will probably diminish as you build up a colony of friendly bacteria in your colon. Add new foods gradually; if the problem persists, check with your doctor.

CONSTIPATION: Gas is usually not painful unless you are also constipated, with pockets of gas stretching your colon where it is trapped by hard stool. The contents of your intestines are liquid until they reach your colon, where water is absorbed and stool is formed. If you don't drink enough fluid or eat enough fiber, the stool rapidly turns into hard stones. Try avoiding all foods made with flour, eating lots of fruit, vegetables and whole grains, and drinking plenty of water. If this does not correct the problem, check with your doctor. Constant use of laxatives can deprive you of essential nutrients.

GLUTEN INTOLERANCE: In some people gas, diarrhea, cramping and failure to absorb nutrients are caused by gluten, which is found in wheat, barley and rye. You can try avoiding these foods to see if your symptoms are relieved, or your doctor can do blood tests for celiac sprue. You should also be checked for nutritional deficiencies such as lack of B12 and iron.

LACTOSE INTOLERANCE: Half of the world's population develops gas and cramping after drinking milk because they lack the intestinal enzyme that is necessary to break down the double sugar in milk called lactose. If lactose is not absorbed in the upper intestinal tract, bacteria ferment it in the colon to release gas. If you are lactose intolerant, you can avoid dairy products or buy the lactose-free milk that is widely available.

IRRITABLE BOWEL SYNDROME, CROHN'S DISEASE, ULCERATIVE COLITIS: The term Irritable Bowel Syndrome may be used to describe alternating diarrhea and constipation that can be cured by following the dietary changes for constipation (above). However, if you have digestive problems that are chronic and disabling, you need a complete workup to find the cause; check with your doctor who will probably refer you to a gastroenterologist.

Discover What Chronic Colitis is and How Safely and Naturally Relieve the Painful Symptoms

Chronic Colitis Facts

The symptoms that you might have colitis are abdominal pain, blood in the stool, a constant urge to defecate, diarrhea, fever, and chills. Colitis is an inflammatory bowel disease that affects the inner parts of the large intestine and the rectum. Colitis starts at the lower intestine. When colitis is still mild, there is no abdominal cramping or any indication of blood in the stool. Colitis can develop into chronic colitis. Chronic colitis can be fatal.

The worst case of colitis is Ulcerative colitis. At this stage, sores will develop in the large intestine. As colitis gets worse, it spreads upwards. Colitis is manageable and needs to be treated in the earlier stages.

Treatment for Colitis

One of the treatment options for chronic colitis is surgery. Various anti-bacterial and antibiotic medicines are usually prescribed by a doctor. These kinds of medication and other similar types of medication have to be taken faithfully to control and prevent the symptoms of colitis.
Internal Baths

A mild case of colitis can be treated by drinking fluids for a day, getting bed rest and taking Paracetamol to ease the pain. During the 17th century, colonics where subjected to internal baths or what is commonly known as enemas. This colon irrigation was done to flush out the digestive system for detoxification purposes.

Aloe Vera Liquid for Colitis

During the olden times, remedies given to colonics composed of a mixture of different types of herbs. The mixture of herbs would depend on the health condition of the patient. Ingesting these herbal remedies was done to flush out the colon.

Natural Food Diet

Using a natural food diet composed of plant-based food can give a person's body additional nutrients. Plant-based food is easy to digest and can help detoxify the body. These attributes of plant food is especially needed by a person who is suffering from colitis.

Drinking Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera is known for its healing properties. Aside from the vitamins and minerals that it contains that can give a person better health, there is another quality that makes Aloe Vera one of the best plant food for people with colitis. Aloe Vera has amazing anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial healing properties. Research studies have shown that there was visible improvement to a percentage of those who took ingested Aloe Vera. Aloe Vera when processed properly is safe to consume and has been approved by the FDA as a dietary supplement.

Ulcerative Colitis - Causes, Symptoms and Treatment Methods

Ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease, irritable bowel syndrome are all the similar diseases with very minor variations. They all affect the bowel system. The symptoms are very similar to each other.
What are the underlying causes of irritable bowel syndrome?

Strictly speaking, the cause is unknown. Not that this disease has been neglected by the research fraternity, but the results are inconclusive, leading to several presumptions. One obvious presumption is that this is a type of allergic reaction to food; another is that that this is hereditary; while still another is that when the immune system of the bowels is weakened, it causes irritation of the bowels. But all said and done, none of these causes are actually identified to be the culprit.

What are the symptoms?
Some symptoms of Ulcerative colitis are diarrhea, loss of appetite, blood in stool, pain and cramps in the abdomen, fever, mucus in the stool, ulcers in the large intestine. An experienced physician can diagnose the disease using the results of colonoscopy which involves a biopsy of a swab of tissue from the colon. Monitoring depletion levels of important electrolytes like sodium and potassium by blood tests can also lead towards a diagnosis.

What is the best treatment for Ulcerative Colitis?
Conventional systems use two types of drugs. An occasional flare-up is usually taken care of by certain medicines. The symptoms subside until the next spurt which could be several weeks later. The other type of treatment is for more chronic cases where the drugs need to be taken regularly and at all times.

Of all the drugs used in this treatment, corticosteroids are prescribed for short term and the doses are tapered off. They are stopped for some time before being restarted. The reason being that, corticosteroids are known to weaken the bones if taken regularly for a long time; upset the body's delicate hormonal balance; and cause diabetes, glaucoma and even mood swings.

Some doctors resort to surgery as a last measure. But, this is an inconclusive step, since irritable bowel syndrome can still prop up in other healthy areas.

Treating irritable bowel syndrome with natural Aloe Vera shows encouraging results. Aloe Vera has an anti-inflammatory action on the inner linings of the intestines. Being a natural product, Aloe Vera is quite safe. There are no negative side effects other than regenerating dead cells in other parts of the body, including the intestines. Aloe Vera heals and if taken regularly, restores your digestion and absorption. With Aloe Vera you can continue your doctor's prescriptions for Ulcerative Colitis. Using Aloe Vera finally eliminates the unhealthy side effects of using drugs.

Clinical research is still going on in finding the cause and effective treatment for ulcerative colitis using allopathic drugs.

What About Supplements to Fight Colitis Symptoms?

There is a tendency for people diagnosed with colitis to seek out information and advice about supplements in additional to conventional prescriptive medication as a method to reduce the impact of colitis symptoms. Yet it is entirely wrong to assume that by taking supplements they can somehow automatically replace what your doctor has prescribed for your condition.

What is required is an understanding between the difference between medication that your doctor has prescribed for you to tackle colitis and supplements that can be bought over the counter. These are not classed as prescriptive drugs and they can contain such elements as vitamins and minerals. Their use is not as a substitute for prescribed medication but as an addition to. They are available to be used as a personal choice of the individual to perhaps complement other healthy initiatives.

With regard to utilising methods to reduce colitis symptoms, sufferers often look for supplements that will have the effect of reducing the inflammation in the large colon and increasing the presence of good bacteria. At the present time, medical research is studying whether there is a link between colitis and the role of bacteria in the gut. This has had the effect of raising awareness of the role of probiotics, whereby the patient is attempting to increase the amount of good bacteria found within the large colon.

It is too early to say with any certainty that using such a supplement will specifically reduce the effect colitis has on the large colon but it will provide the body with nourishment it so often needs. It has been found that people with a colon unaffected by colitis do receive a boost to their overall health and bowel function by taking probiotics.

It is important that a discussion is held with your doctor if anything other than prescribed medication is taken. Enquire if taking a particular supplement is safe for those diagnosed with colitis. What must be avoided is for innocently taking supplements that will either conflict with your regular medication to make it less effective or for a supplement to actually create a reaction which in fact exacerbates the symptoms.

It is also important to understand that by taking say, probiotics, there will still be a need for anti inflammatory medication. Think about it, they are not labeled supplements for nothing. It is important not to ignore the fact that they are not substitues for the anti inflammatory and steriod drugs that have been prescribed to you in order to bring and keep colitis under control. For sufferers, it is vital that they know how and when supplements can be used in coordination with other preventative measures by accessing the knowledge and experience of others in order to reduce the impact colitis has on their daily life.

Signs of a Stomach Ulcer

Signs of a stomach ulcer can include nausea, loss of appetite, abdominal pain just beneath the ribcage, indigestion, vomiting, symptoms of anemia, weight loss, and blood present in vomit or bowel movements.

If you experience these symptoms for any length of time, it is important to seek medical attention. These are not symptoms to be ignored.

Stomach ulcers occur when there is a break in the tissue lining of the stomach. These ulcers normally occur in the stomach or the first part of the small intestine that leads out of the stomach, called the duodenum.

Commonly stomach ulcers are related to extreme stress, smoking and diet. Any of which are factors over which we have control, making it possible to heal a ulcer; if you work to eliminate some of the contributing factors that can lead to the development.

If you begin noticing the signs of a stomach ulcer, these signs should not be ignored. In fact, an appointment with your doctor should be your course of action if these symptoms persist.

In order for your doctor to make a specific diagnosis, several tests may be ordered to help determine the exact cause of your stomach pain.

One of the first tests your physician may order is the barium swallow or upper GI series of X-rays. This test allows your doctor to identify and locate any ulcers and determine its type and severity.

The barium swallow test requires you to drink a "barium milkshake." This thick "shake" contains a liquid that will light up on an x-ray. The barium will light up on the x-ray making it easier for your physician to see exactly what is going on and causing your pain.

You are normally asked to eat only bland, easily digestible foods for two or three days before the test. After drinking the chalky liquid, you will be asked to lie down on a tilting examining table, which as it tilts, evenly distributes the barium around your upper digestive tract and allows the x-ray to capture images at different angles.

Treatment options for stomach ulcers can consist of over the counter medications, prescription medications, modifying your diet, perhaps a lifestyle change that includes the addition of exercise and reduction of stress, and as a last result, surgery.

In summary, any signs of stomach ulcers should not be ignored as the delay in diagnosis and treatment could lead to further complications. It is important to understand, however, that in many cases you have control over the factors that contribute to stomach ulcers.

Difference Between Wheat and Gluten Intolerance

Do you have wheat or gluten intolerance? Wheat is a staple and nutritious diet consumed by many people around the world. Is it possible to have wheat intolerance?

Many people do not realise that the underlying cause for some of their ailments like bloating, abdominal cramp, eczema could be due to wheat intolerance. Wheat intolerance occurs when the person does not have the digestive enzymes to digest wheat thus making the person feel unwell. The symptoms of wheat intolerance are often similar with other ailments and are often overlooked. Symptoms such as aching joints, bloating, flatulence, fluid retention, eczema and joint pains can be relieved with medical help and by eliminating wheat from our diet. Many people find it difficult to eliminate wheat as it is found in many food products.

Wheat are made into bread, noodles, pasta and pies which is a staple diet for many, it is also found in sauces, thickening agent, tin soups, sausage and more. Though wheat is one of the main problems for people who suffer from gluten intolerance, wheat intolerance is not necessarily linked to gluten intolerance. People suffering from gluten intolerance are sensitive to the gluten, a protein found commonly in wheat, barley, rye and oats. A person with gluten intolerance could develop a inflammatory condition called Coeliac (Celiac) disease.

Coeliac disease is an autoimmune disorder caused by a reaction to gliadin, one of the main proteins in gluten Coeliac disease is a lifelong inflammatory condition. It can affect a person at any age. You will be more susceptible to coeliac disease if it runs in the family. People with suffer from Type 1 Diabetes, thyroid problems and ulcerative colitis have an increased chance of developing coeliac disease. Diarrhoea, weight loss, fatigue are some of the common symptom of gluten intolerant. Poor absorption of iron, folic acid and vitamin B12 could give rise to anaemia. Consult your doctor if you have some of the symptoms or if you are worried about coeliac disease. Coeliac disease can be diagnosed through blood test which is test to check for anaemia and test to detect antibodies which are often found in coeliac disease.

Wheat and gluten intolerance can be controlled with a proper wheat/gluten free diet. There is many other type of food available to substitute the sensitive food. With a desire to feel better and careful planning, you can have a normal lifestyle.

Colitis In A Nutshell

Colitis is an inflammation of the lining of the large intestine. This condition is a form of chronic inflammatory disorder of the colon referred to as chronic nonspecific ulcerative colitis. Another, less common type of inflammatory bowel condition is called Crohn's disease of the colon. In both, small ulcers form throughout the lining of the colon, but they tend to be deeper in Crohn's disease. The incidence of ulcerative colitis is not high; about 250,000 Americans suffer from it. Colitis occurs across all ages from children to older adults but is most common in people aged 15 to 40.

The major symptom of colitis is frequent bloody diarrhea, which may be accompanied by stomach pain or cramps, fever, fatigue, and loss of weight. Complications may be local, such as perforation of the wall of the colon, or systemic, such as anemia, vitamin deficiencies, arthritis, or skin lesions.

The causes of colitis are unknown. Possibilities are genetic, bacterial, or viral, allergic reactions, immune mechanisms, or most likely, some combination of these factors. Many people with colitis are depressed and have feelings of hopelessness and despair. They may exhibit underlying hostility with unexpressed chronic resentment. It is not clear whether these emotions contribute to the development of colitis or whether they may be a response to being ill.

Mild attacks of colitis can be treated on an outpatient basis; acute attacks are usually treated in the hospital, where the inflammation can be controlled and nutritional losses can be replaced. In addition to bed rest, treatment often includes only clear liquids for food and intravenous feedings to replace lost fluids. This also allows the bowel to rest. In order to correct anemia, blood transfusions are required for those who have extensive bleeding.

Corticosteroids are sometimes administered to reduce inflammation, pain, and fever. Steroid medication is gradually reduced over a two- to six-month period, although some people need to take it indefinitely. Sulfasalazine is given concurrently with the steroid medication. Surgery is required for perforation, severe bleeding, or failure to improve after two to three weeks of intensive medical treatment. Psychotherapy is sometimes prescribed to provide emotional support and to treat depression if it is present.

Colitis is a highly variable condition. About three-fourths of the people who develop colitis have recurrences, with 10 to 15 years elapsing before the next attack. Others have chronic and unremitting symptoms over long periods of time. Most have periods of good health interspersed with intermittent symptoms. If the condition is properly treated, the prognosis is favorable.

Managing Irritable Bowel Syndrome With Herbs That Help

Managing IBS with herbs that help

April is Irritable Bowel Syndrome month. It is estimated that as many as 1 in 4 people in the UK suffer with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS).

What is Irritable Bowel Syndrome?

If you suffer from irritable bowel, you're not alone. IBS is a common condition that affects an estimated 1.4 million people in the UK. Twice as many women than men are thought to experience IBS.

People with IBS report symptoms such as diarrhoea, constipation, heartburn, bloating and stomach cramps.

What are the symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome?

IBS symptoms may come and go, or they may be constant, the condition affects each person differently.

Common symptoms of IBS include:

- changes to bowel habits such as diarrhoea, constipation or a combination of the two

- stomach cramps or pain that eases when the bowels are emptied

- bloating or hardness of the stomach

- a feeling that the bowels haven't emptied sufficiently

- symptoms that get worse after eating

- mucus in stools

- flatulence

- nausea

According to the Rome III Diagnostic Criteria, IBS is usually diagnosed after you have experienced symptoms, on a regular basis, for 6 months and when tests prove that there is no other cause for your symptoms.

The condition is usually diagnosed after all other possible causes have been eliminated. This is known as diagnosis by exclusion. It is important that other conditions are ruled out as conditions such as Ulcerative Colitis, Diverticulitis, Crohn's Disease, Coeliac Disease and Colon Cancer can present with similar symptoms; particularly in the early stages.

*** It is vital that you see your doctor if you experience any of the following symptoms:

- bleeding from the back passage

- blood in stools

- a lump or swelling in the back passage or stomach

- unexplained weight loss

- unexplained fever

- unexplained changes in bowel habit

- persistent or severe vomiting

Herbs That May Help With Irritable Bowel Syndrome

One way Western herbal medicine describes herbs is by the actions they have on the body. Current research confirms many of these herbal actions. For example, Meadowsweet, has been used traditionally as an anti-inflammatory and anti-pyretic (something that brings a temperature down). Research has confirmed the presence of salicylates, which are similar in action to non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs).

Adaptogens:Adoptogens increase resistance to the negative effects of stress - known to exacerbate IBS symptoms - by supporting the function of the endocrine and adrenal systems.

Anti-inflammatories:Anti-inflammatory herbs help alleviate inflammation of the large and small intestine, an important first step in the healing process.

Antispasmodics:Anti-spasmodic herbs prevent, reduce and ease stomach cramps by relaxing contractions of the smooth muscle of the intestinal system.

Anti-microbial:Anti-microbial herbs fight infections; they also help to strengthen the body's natural defence system.

Astringents:Astringent herbs cause contraction of the body's tissues and make them stronger. They are useful for people with diarrhoea predominant IBS.

Bitters:Bitter herbs are used to strengthen the digestive system. They stimulate production of digestive enzymes and enhance the break down and absorption of food.

Carminatives:Carminatives are traditionally used to dispel gas, reduce nausea and improve digestion. They work by reducing the amount of gas formed in the gut, increasing peristalsis within the gut and by increasing blood flow through the gut wall to encourage transportation of gas from the gut.

Mucilaginous:Mucilaginous herbs soothe and coat irritated mucosal tissue of the intestines to prevent irritation of the nerve endings and promote healing.

*** The following herbs can be used to support IBS ***

Meadowsweet - (Filipendula ulmaria)

Actions:Antacid, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, anti-spasmodic, astringent.

Therapeutic properties:An excellent antacid and antispasmodic that can relieve the pain, irritation and cramping associated with IBS. Astringent properties help to heal and protect the gut lining.

Cautions:Do not take Meadowsweet if allergic to salicylates or aspirin, warfarin.

German Chamomile- (Matricaria recutita)

Actions:Relaxant, anti-inflammatory, anti-spasmodic.

Therapeutic properties:Traditionally known as the "mother of the gut" German chamomile alleviates flatulence, muscle contractions and irritation of the gut and is useful in treating stress-related IBS. It also contains anti-inflammatory properties.

Cautions:Can cause dermatitis i.e. irritation of the skin if you have an allergy to the Asteraceae plant family.

Cinnamon- (Cinnamomum zeylanicum)

Actions:Antibacterial, antifungal, astringent, antibacterial, carminative.

Therapeutic properties:Helpful for stomach upsets, flatulence, nausea, bloating and diarrhoea. Enhances digestion and protects the gut lining.

Cautions:Avoid during pregnancy.

Licorice- (Glycyrrhiza glabra)

Actions:Adaptogen, carminative, antispasmodic, anti-inflammatory (similar action to cortisone), antiviral, demulcent.

Therapeutic properties:Calms irritated mucous membranes. Useful for heartburn and indigestion as it lowers stomach acid.

Cautions:Avoid if you have high blood pressure and during pregnancy.

Agrimony - (Agrimonia eupatoria)

Actions:Astringent, anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic.

Therapeutic properties:Enhances digestion and improves bowel function. Protects the gut lining from irritation. Useful for treating diarrhoea.

Cautions:Avoid with blood thinning drugs such as warfarin. Proceed with caution with diabetes drugs.

Aloe Vera For Magical Cure Of Skin Diseases

Aloe vera is one of the most important medicinal plants in the world. It is a magical plant that cures innumerable number of diseases.it is used in a variety of products. It can be taken in raw as well as processed. It cold nature can be a relief to heat burns and suntans. Gel form of the plant is available for application on the skin.

It is a well-known moisturizer that gives instant relief to dry skin and other skin irritations. It can be used in sunscreens, soaps, perfumes etc for its smell as well as its medicinal use. Aloe vera's medicinal value extends to even animals. It is used in cats and dogs to cure symptoms of cancer. It is also used in the artificial fertilization of sheep.

It can be consumed as well. It is used to make desserts and juices. It is used as an additional ingredient in yogurts. In some parts of India, it is used to make curries. The juice of this medicine is used to cure irritations in the bowel. It is an excellent remedy for Ulcerative colitis and also Crohn's disease. It works by flushing out unwanted substances that might be poisonous to the body which might result in less absorption of essential nutrients. This can in turn lead to loss of energy, weight fluctuations and various other body illnesses.

Aloe vera plant acts as a natural immune booster. The extract from the leaf is known for increasing the natural immunity of the body. Digestive disorders like constipation, irregular bowel movements etc due to toxic residues are best reduces by drinking its juice or other processed products that removes aloin content from it. Sores that are formed in the stomach are cured if this medicinal plant is used. The cooling effect produced by the medicinal plant is used to treat conditions caused due to excessive amount of stomach acid produced.

Insomnia Facts

Insomnia is a growing problem for many people around the world. 30% of the US population now suffer from some sort of sleep deprivation. With a huge 17% of the world's population suffering from some degree of insomnia. Insomnia is described as the inability to sleep. In this article I am going to go through some of the top causes for insomnia as if you can eliminate the causes this can be the best cure for insomnia. So if you have insomnia or you simply want to prevent yourself from getting it read through the top causes for insomnia in this article.

The cause for insomnia that strikes around 78% of all insomnia victims is stress, no surprise there. To avoid stress is very difficult in modern life as you control so little over your environment. Getting to work can often be a stressful experience, if you wake up a bit late you are then stressed as you have to rush around, you then wait for the train which may be delayed or your car may have a problem all leading to growing stress. And this stress is felt by your body as well as your mind.

The other 22% of insomniacs usually get some sort of hereditary insomnia gene. This simply means that they will naturally struggle with sleep more than the average person. This cannot be cured by any normal methods as there is a genetic cause which cannot be reversed. The most effective method for curing genetic insomnia is hypnotherapy, this is because if you have never slept for longer than 4 hours a night and you are taking pills to keep you alive pretty much then you need to first of all get out of the mindset that you can never sleep and then you can move on to other methods.

Some of these other methods can include getting into a fixed routine, such as setting your biological clock correctly so that when you need to get to sleep you will be able to as you will tell your body that it is "sleep time" this is a very difficult technique but can be achieved. Other methods include stretching the major muscle groups before you go to bed as this not only relaxes you but also puts you into a sleep ready state. Yoga and meditational exercises can also be very effective if you suffer from insomnia.

Sudden Hearing Loss - What You Need to Know?

One of the most devastating hearing losses is the sudden hearing loss (SHL). This occurs relatively quickly in a matter of hours or days and can affect one or both ears. Many specialists state that this type of loss is frequent in people between the age group of 30-60 years and has an equal occurrence rates in both men and women. It is important to note that SHL affect people differently but it is often accompanied with other conditions like vertigo or tinnitus or both. The condition may be mild or server and may affect various parts of the hearing frequency range. It may also be temporary or permanent.

There are two types of this condition: sudden conductive and sudden sensorineural hearing. These conditions will be treated differently because they are of different natures. The sudden conductive condition is relatively easy to diagnose and fix and are therefore not considered a medical emergency. On the other hand the sudden sensorineural condition is a medical emergency and patients need to see an otologist or a neurologist. This condition usually occurs within three days and the loss is more than 30DB as shown on the audiogram. In other situations, the condition may be instantaneous and the patients may hear a loud sound or a pop sound before their hearing disappears.

The condition is not idiopathic as there are quite a number of known causes. One of them is autoimmune conditions such as lupus, relapsing polychodritis and Ulcerative colitis among others. Vascular conditions like red blood cell deformity, sickle cell and blood dyscrasias; Neurological Neoplastic like acoustic Neuroma, leukemia and multiple sclerosis are also some of the causes of this condition. People who have undergone trauma or have infections due to viruses and toxins in the body may also suffer from sudden hearing loss. Sometimes it may be difficult for the ear specialists to determine the cause of the condition and may render it as idiopathic.

For those patients with history of SSHL associated with situations look straining, diving or recent surgery it is important to see a specialist as it will require a surgery. Patients diagnosed with idiopathic SSHL usually recover completely without treatment but others may require some treatment options in order to regain their ears while others do not recover whether they have been treated or not.

Crohn's Disease and Ulcerative Colitis - Two Different Diseases

The inflammatory bowel disease is a grouping of chronic gastrointestinal disorders that cause inflammation and ulceration on the digestive tract or bowels and can lead to many medical symptoms and signs, including abdominal pain, tiredness, fever, watery stools, blood in the stool, loss of appetite, and weight loss. The ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease are the two most commonly occurring inflammatory bowel diseases. Although most of the symptoms of both these abdominal diseases are more or less same, these two diseases are two different medical conditions and require different treatment modalities. A brief explanation of the symptoms and other characteristics can be greatly helpful to understand the differences between these two inflammatory bowel diseases.

The Crohn's disease is a persistent inflammatory condition of the digestive tract and can affect anyplace from the mouth to the anus. Ulcerative colitis, on the other hand, mostly causes inflammation in the innermost lining of the colon and the rectum. In some individuals it affects the ileum, the last part of the intestine.

Ulcerative colitis normally causes pain in the left lower quadrant of the abdomen. Patients with Crohn's disease usually feel pain in their right lower abdominal quadrant. It typically creates patches of inflammation in an intermittent pattern in one or more organs of the alimentary canal, while colitis produces continuous inflammation in the colon and rectum.

A gastroenterologist performs a sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy to identify whether the patient suffers from these bowel diseases. If the colon shows a thickened, cobblestone appearance, it can be concluded that the patient is having Crohn's disease. Likewise, granulomas or lesions of inflamed cells are commonly found in Crohn's while they are absent in ulcerative colitis.

In the patients with ulcerative colitis, ulcers occur only on the inner lining of the large intestine. The Crohn's disease ulcerations are deep and can penetrate into all layers of intestinal walls. Similarly, this disease can sometimes lead to many other complications, such as fissures, traumas, and fistulas.

Another interesting difference between these two diseases is that when smoking is a risk factor for the Crohn's disease and can lead to relapse of this disease, ulcerative colitis is regarded as no-smoker's disease as in some people smoking can be protective against it.

Sometimes, the inflammatory bowel disease is confused with another common gastrointestinal disorder, irritable bowel syndrome or IBS. The irritable bowel syndrome also has symptoms like abdominal bloating, pain, intestinal discomfort, diarrhea, and weight loss. However, this medical condition is not as serious as inflammatory bowel disease, but it can affect the quality of life of a patient.

Crohn's Disease and Colitis - 5 Helpful Foods

Many Crohn's Disease and Colitis patients claim that a regular diet of raw food works wonders for them. This healthy choice helps to control symptoms. In fact, sufferers say that they have eliminated their symptoms in many cases by participating in a water fast and choosing a raw food plan. Of course, patients should always check with their doctor before they embark on an intense fast or make a drastic change to their diet. Vegetables and fruits can, however, offer amazing benefits.

5 Helpful Foods - Crohn's Disease and Colitis

1. Broccoli

Recent research has caused plenty of excitement about broccoli and its role as a blocker. UK researchers believe that broccoli can be used to halt the development of Crohn's Disease and Colitis. During one of the key stages in these conditions, the lining of the bowel gets attacked by an E-coli type virus.

Liverpool scientists used the fibers of broccoli, plantains, leeks, and apples to determine if either food acted as a blocker. Apples and leeks had little effect but broccoli and plantains played an effective part in blocking the virus. Plantain and broccoli decreased the transfer of E-coli between forty-two per cent and eighty-two per cent. This latest development is welcomed because 1 out of 800 in the UK develops these conditions.

Broccoli has always been known for its numerous health benefits. Broccoli is rich in fiber and full of vitamins. It is thought to help with hormone-related cancers as well as increase the level of enzymes that block cancer. Since it is believed to enhance the gastrointestinal tract, broccoli is a must for Crohn's Disease and Colitis patients. This development is welcomed because 1 in 800 in the UK develops these conditions.

2. Plantains

Plantains, a type of banana, have been proven to play a role in halting the development of Crohn's Disease and Colitis. Plantain works just the opposite way as fat emulsifiers in processed foods. Plantains slow down transfer of a virus into the lining of the bowel. Processed foods speed up the action. Plantains have always been seen as a help in the process of digestion. In addition, plantains have no cholesterol and just a dash of sodium.

3. Carrots

Everybody knows about the goodness of carrots. Actually, they have been referred to as 'the most helpful of all vegetables' for Crohn's Disease and Colitis sufferers. Carrots are the richest vegetable sources of pro-vitamin A carotenes. This tasty vegetable contains outstanding antioxidants. Many Crohn's and Colitis patients enjoy a daily drink of fresh carrot juice. A high carotene diet is believed to decrease the chances of bladder and colon cancer by fifty per cent.

4. Avocado

Avocado is a 'fatty' fruit. Although that phrase sounds like an oxymoron, avocado is suitable for Crohn's Disease and Colitis sufferers. Avocados are 74% water. They are digested easily by the body. Avocados are a good source of healthy fats and protein.

5. Squash

Winter and summer squash make a healthy choice. These vegetables are known to be high in Vitamin A. At present, scientists are studying the effects of this vitamin on Crohn's Disease and Colitis sufferers.

Ulcerative Colitis Diet: Do's And Don'ts

If you want to reduce irritation in the colon then you need to follow the recommended ulcerative colitis diet.

Inflammatory diseases like ulcerative colitis occur in the large intestine region of our body. Ulcerative colitis only affects the colon. This type of inflammatory condition flares up unpredictably, but individuals who are suffering from this disease experience prolonged periods of remission. This disease can be managed and controlled with focus on minimal stress and adequate diet. Irritable bowel syndrome and Crohn's disease, which are also inflammatory diseases, can also be controlled with proper diet.

One should always remember that ulcerative colitis is not caused by diet but proper diet can make the life of the sufferer comfortable. One should stick to nutritious and well balanced diet because it is extremely beneficial. You can also take supplements because supplements can balance the nutrient intake and prevent malnutrition that is commonly associated with colitis. More than anyone else, patients who are suffering from ulcerative disease should include vegetables, fruits, dairy products, meats and grains in their diet.

We do require calcium for bone and teeth, iron for energy, protein for tissue repair and growth, fruits and vegetables for fiber, minerals and vitamins. But, some of these items can cause problems for colitis patients. The main aim of the diet for colitis is to reduce the irritation in the colon region. The preliminary stage is to find out which one of the diets or foods can increase the inflammatory symptoms and then eliminate them from the diet list as much as possible.

Some of the food items that are eliminated from the ulcerative colitis diet are:
- Dairy or milk products
- Saturated fats that are found in dairy products and animal products
- Inflammatory foods and beverages like caffeine, alcohol and refined sugar
- Brussels sprouts, cabbage, kale, broccoli and cauliflower which are intestinal irritants
- Products from corn
- Food items that contain gluten such as foods that are produced from barley, wheat, oats and triticale
- Soy, eggs and peanuts which are usual allergenic suspects
- Grapes, watermelon and pineapple which have high sugar content

Ulcerative colitis diet is prepared keeping in mind the general benefits that a patient will enjoy and not just a reduction in the frequency of the flare-ups and symptoms. The recommended foods are healthy and nutritious and the general population will be enjoying it. Drink plenty of fluids like water and vegetable juices. You can take protein in the form of lean meats, legumes, and dried beans, complex carbohydrates from oat bran, whole grains, vegetables and fruits. Fish oil is also helpful because it contains omega 3 fatty acids and potassium rich foods like potatoes and nuts are also helpful in the treatment of ulcerative colitis, crohn's disease and irritable bowel syndrome.

Do You Know This Important Information About Colon Disease

The colon is a very important organ that performs a very vital function in the human body. The colon is responsible for eliminating a large bulk of wastes formed from the digestive process, and is sort of the sewerage system in a person. It is thus important to maintain the health of the colon because improperly functioning bowels can cause disastrous problems in the body. Knowing about diseases that the colon may acquire can help in keeping one's colon health in check.

Colon disease vary in their gravity, some may just be mild irritation while others can be a threat to life. The four most common kinds of colon disease include non-cancerous polyps, ulcerative colitis, diverticular disease and Crohn's disease.

Polyps

Colon polyps are basically abnormal growths of tissue that appear in the lining of the colon, protruding into intestine's canal. While polyps are normally not serious, they can develop cancer cells later if not detected early. There are three subtypes of polyps and polyp-related diseases: ordinary polyps, familial adenomatous polposis, and Lynch Syndrome.

Ordinary polyps occur sporadically among people aged 40 to 60. These polyps may progress into cancer within ten years, and thus they are often removed with colonoscopy. Familial adenomatous polyposis or FAP is a hereditary disease that is characterized by the occurrence polyps in the colon by the hundreds or even thousands, with great chances of developing cancer and thus treatment entails removal of the colon. Lynch Syndrome is another hereditary condition that is more common than FAP, although less common than ordinary polyps, and unlike FAP, which occurs as early as age ten, Lynch Syndrome usually appears as late as the 40s or as early as the 20s.

Ulcerative Colitis

Ulcerative colitis is characterized by the inflammation in the mucosa, the deepest lining of the colon or rectum. Ulcers or small open sores would form on the lining's surface, producing blood, pus and mucus. Around 500,000 to about two million people in America suffer this disease and most of the patients are below the age 30.

Ulcerative Colitis usually manifests with abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, constipation, bloating, diarrhea, fatigue, fevers, or weight loss. Patients who experience excessive bleeding may also develop anemia and malnutrition, especially for children. The symptoms of this disease can disappear and reappear within months or years.

Diverticular Disease

Some people develop pockets in the walls of their colon, these pockets are called dierticula and their presence is what doctors refer to as diverticulosis while their inflammation is called diverticulitis. Complications can happen when infection reaches diverticula. The pockets may rupture causing bowel blockage or leaking of the bowel wall. Another great danger is the introduction of harmful bacteria causing abscesses and even small tears in the colon walls that could lead to life threatening abscesses in the abdomen.

Many people who have diverticular disease may not know about it because diverticulosis usually do not have symptoms. At most, people have mild cramps, constipation and bloating. Diverticulitis on the other hand manifests with abdominal pain, soreness around the lower left side of the abdomen, fever, vomiting, nausea, chills, and cramping. The gravity of these symptoms greatly depends on the extent of complications and infection.

Crohn's Disease

Crohn's disease, which is also known as enteritis or ileitis, is a digestive tract disease characterized by the chronic inflammation of the colon and other parts of the digestive tract. It affects about 500,000 to two million Americans and can recur over a patient's lifetime. Oftentimes, Crohn's Disease is hard to detect because it has similar symptoms to other colon disorders like ulcerative colitis and irritable bowel syndrome.

The usual symptoms of Crohn's disease are abdominal pain, cramping, diarrhea, weight loss, fever, anal pain, bloating, anal drainage, rectal abscesses, joint pain, skin lesions and fissure. Some patients bleed to the extent of developing anemia. Crohn's disease may stunt the growth and development of children due to the malabsorption of protein and other important nutrients.

Crohn's disease may sometimes result into ulcers that could tunnel to surrounding tissues and areas such as the vagina, and bladder. Fistulas, or abnormal tunnels, may also result from Crohn's disease.

Knowing about colon diseases is just a small part of keeping one's digestive health on the right track. Regular checkups for colon disease or other illnesses are necessary to ensure good health and general well being.

Blueberries Help Prevent Intestinal Disease

Introduction

Blueberries are well-recognized to be super healthy food. Organic blueberries are high in fiber, packed with nutrients, and low-calories and sugar. They are among the select few group of super healthy foods. They have been ranked blueberries at the top in terms of antioxidant ability, ahead of 40 other fruits and vegetables tested by USDA. Blueberries contain influential phytochemicals such as anthocyanin, the antioxidant bioflavonoids that gives the fruit its deep color. Naturally occurring plant pigments, flavonoids are one of the reasons fruits and vegetables are so good for you. Blueberries also have fiber to aid in digestion.

Digestive troubles affect millions of people every year. In fact, digestive suffering disorders were accountable for over 40 million doctor visits in the US in 2008.

Most health professionals agree that there is no set cause of digestive problems. Being immune compromised can lead to digestive problems along with other problems. Blueberries are well-known for aiding the immune system.

Factors such as diet, food allergies/sensitivities, stress, medications, hormone changes, infections, parasites, dehydration, probiotics, enzymes, stomach acid, lactose intolerance, laxatives, genetics and antibiotic abuse could all be a contributing factor to digestive problems.

New research results

New research suggests that the fiber in a blueberry is good for your intestines. They may help lessen and defend against inflammation of the intestine, such as ulcerative colitis.

Eating blueberries can ease and guard against intestinal inflammation.The reason for this tremendously helpful effect that blueberries have may be because the fiber in the blueberry is not degraded very much in the large intestine. The result is that inflammation causing substances become trapped in the blueberry fiber and preventing them from making contact with the intestines mucous lining. These substances are then carried out of the body along with the stool.

The rye bran is broken down in the large intestine in the same location that large intestinal cancer and ulcerative colitis frequently occur. The rye bran provides a good supply of butyric acid and proponic acid.

When fiber is broken down Butyric acid and propionic acid are two products produced. These acids are a well-known significant source of essential energy for the intestinal cells.

Grow your own

A natural way to help goodbye to digestive problems is to regularly eat blueberries. It is recommended that you eat a cup or two of blueberries every day. You can purchase them or better yet grow your own in your yard or patio. Get pesticide free plants from a reputable nursery and grow your own for year around use. You can freeze blueberries without loss of any of their health benefits.

Stress Has Been Proved to Be Beneficial

The Stress Response is a physiological event giving rise to physiological and psychological outcomes. Stress has evolved as a way of coping with events that might compromise our well-being. Without stress we would probably die. With stress we would probably die. Stress is our best friend and worst enemy, why? Read on....

The Oxford English Dictionary defines Stress as "a state of mental, emotional, or other strain".

The Health and Safety Executive (UK) looks at the definition from a work perspective: "The adverse reaction people have to excessive pressures or other types of demand placed on them at work."

Work related stress is the process that arises where work demands of different types and combinations exceed the person's capacity and capability to cope.

Stress is not an illness - it is a state. However, if stress becomes too excessive and prolonged, mental and physical illness may develop.

How does this happen, what causes stress and what are the results?

The Stress Response or Fight, Flight and Fright Response has evolved with us as an inbuilt system to cope with crises. These crises may be minor or major and everyday events. Regardless of the severity of the crisis, the body takes the same actions.

The stress response is initiated by our senses, which our brain sees as a threat on homeostasis and instructs the body to take appropriate action. Homeostasis is the body functioning at its normal rates, for example, normal blood pressure, breathing rate, pulse rate, perspiration output, heart output, etc. The brain ensures we maintain those "normal rates" throughout each and every day. If, however, we encounter a "stressor", which can be minor or major, the brain initiates the Stress Response.

The stress response initially involves the release of Adrenalin and Noradrenalin into the bloodstream. The hormones are synthesised and released from the Adrenal Glands, located just on top of the kidneys.

The hormones have the following effects, they:

increase heart rate, increase blood pressure, increase breathing rate, increase blood glucose levels, increase metabolic rate, decrease digestive activity, decrease excretory activity, decrease reproductive activity.

What is behind this response?

The results of the hormones' activities ensure that all available energy is shunted away from many of the major organs and transferred to the muscles, along with additional oxygen in readiness for "Fight or Flight".

It is a self-survival system that has evolved with us over tens of thousands of years. During the Stone Age a human encounters a lion or tiger or bear (oh my!!) (Wizard of Oz). The stress response immediately kicks in. Oxygen and glucose rush to the arm and leg muscles ready for the human to either fight or run away. This has stayed with us ever since.

There are two types of stress, short term, which is described above and long term stress.

During long term stress, apart from adrenalin and noradrenalin, cortisol and aldosterone are released into the bloodstream. These hormones are also produced in the adrenal glands and have a similar effect to adrenalin and noradrenalin:

Aldosterone increases salt/water retention, increases blood volume which increases blood pressure.

Cortisol increases blood glucose levels, increases catabolism of fat/protein, decreases inflammatory response and decreases immune response.

The overall effect of the stress response is to shunt blood away from the skin, digestive system, kidneys, liver and send it to the brain, Heart and skeletal muscles in readiness to fight or flight. So you can see that long term stress produces additional hormones which duplicate the efforts of the first hormones. This is not a good thing. One of the things that cortisol does is to catabolise (break down) fat and protein, so that these can further be broken down into additional glucose. However, as the fats and proteins are being broken down, particles break off and travel through the blood stream. These particles are known as plaques, and can attach to walls of arteries, eventually blocking them and causing artherosclerosis and coronary heart disease (CHD).

Scientists have found that short term stress is an effective method for coping with a short term crisis and provides beneficial effects:

o It enhances alertness

o It increases memory formation

o It activates the immune system.

However, long term stress has the opposite effect:

o It reduces immune system functioning and increases susceptibility to infectious diseases

o CHD can be caused by hastening formation of artherosclerotic plaques

o Stomach ulcers are more likely due to the interaction of the physiological changes of stress and the bacteria Helicobacter pylori, which are present in many peoples' stomachs

o Suppresses reproductive function

o There is a loss of memory function

o Weight loss or obesity.

Long term stress also causes many behavioural symptoms, people:

find it hard to sleep, they change their eating habits, they smoke or drink more alcohol, they avoid friends and family, they encounter sexual problems.

Physical Symptoms include:

o tiredness

o indigestion and nausea, gastrointestinal disturbances

o headaches, dizziness, earache

o aching muscles, swollen ankles, back pains

o trouble with gums, mouth and teeth

o shortness of breath

o palpitations

o poor mental health

o heart disease

Psychologically people become more indecisive, find it hard to concentrate, suffer loss of memory, have feelings of inadequacy, develop low self esteem, get irritable or angry more easily, are anxious, feel numb, are hypersensitive and feel drained or listless.

Therefore short term stress has been shown to be beneficial and is good for you, whilst long term stress has the opposite effect and is bad for you. Long term stress can, then, kill you. How can the lack of stress kill you?

Addison's disease prevents the normal release of stress hormones during encounters with stressors. Therefore, if a person is unable to sense danger, as no adrenalin or noradrenalin are released, their safety can quite easily be compromised and their existence put at risk.

Who are more susceptible to stress?

In 1985 a study was taken of civil servants at different grades to determine which group suffered more stress related illnesses. The grades were lower, middle and upper. The Whitehall II study found that the lower grades showed more prevalence of CHD due to stress than the middle or upper grades.

This has also been found to be true with other species of animals; the more subordinate the animal in a particular group, the more likely they are to be suffering from stress-related disorders.

Although cortisol is not our best friend it has beneficial effects on people with post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). It has been found that treating people with cortisol injections after traumatic events, such as recovery from operations, were less likely to develop PTSD than those not provided with the injection. Studies have also been undertaken on car accident victims. Benzodiazepines (sedatives) are usually given to trauma patients to help them relax and sleep. A study was undertaken in 2002. Traffic accident volunteers were given either benzodiazepine or a placebo. Those given placebos showed fewer tendencies to develop PTSD than those given the sedative. Therefore sedatives may slow trauma recovery compared to those relying on their natural stress response.

What is a stressor? Stressors are different things to different people. A car cutting you up on the motorway, somebody verbally abusing you, a fright, somebody leaves a trolley in the middle of a supermarket aisle instead of pushing it to the side (my particular stressor!)

In 1967 two psychiatrists, Holmes and Rahe, developed a list of stressors, or "Life Changing Units. The higher the LCU the more "severe" the stressor is.

Death of a spouse 100

Marital separation 65

Death of a close family member 63

Personal injury or illness 53

Marriage 50

Loss of job 47

Marital reconciliation 45

Marital reconciliation 45

Retirement 45

Change in health of a family member 44

Wife's pregnancy 40

Sex difficulties 39

Gain of new family member 39

Change in financial status 38

Death of a close friend 37

Change to a different kind of work 36

arguments with spouse 35

Taking out a bigger mortgage on home 31

Foreclosure of mortgage or loan 30

Change in work responsibilities 30

Son or daughter leaving home 29

Trouble with in-laws 29

Outstanding personal achievement 29

Wife beginning or stopping work 29

Revision of personal habits 24

Trouble with business superior 23

Change in work hours or conditions 20

Change in residence 20

Change in schools 20

Change in recreation 19

Change in social activities 18

Taking out a small mortgage on your home 17

Change in sleeping habits 16

Change in number of family get-togethers 15

Change in eating habits 15

Holiday 13

Minor violations of law 11

Work-related stress.

So what causes stress at work?

Poor management culture:

Examples of good management culture are when:

o an organisation is committed to promoting the well-being of employees through good management practice;

o the people who work in the organisation are valued and respected; and

o they receive support from the organisation if they wish to raise problems affecting their work.

Too many demands

Examples of demands being at the right level are when:

o staff are able to cope with the volume and complexity of the work.

o the work is scheduled sensibly so that there is enough time to do the allocated tasks; shift work systems are agreed with employees or their representatives; and people are not expected to work long hours over an extended period.

Lack of control

examples of where people feel in control are when:

o they are given a say in how they do their work;

o the amount of control they have is balanced against the demands placed upon them.

Poor relationships

examples of good relationships are when:

o there is good communication between employer and employees - so that the employees understand what's expected; and the employer reacts to any problems being experienced by the employees.

o employees are not bullied or harassed.

Poor management of change

examples of good change management include

o the organisation communicating to employees the reason why change is essential

o the organisation having a clear understanding of what it wants change to achieve

o the organisation having a timetable for implementing change, which includes realistic first steps

o the organisation ensures a supportive climate for employees

Lack of training, support and failure to take account of individual factors

examples of good practice:

o employees receive suitable and sufficient training to do their jobs.

o employees receive support from their immediate line management, even when things go wrong.

o the organisation encourages people to share their concerns about health and safety and, in particular, work-related stress.

o the individual is fair to the employer - they discuss their concerns and work towards agreed solutions

Role uncertainty

examples of where people understand their role are when:

o they know why they are undertaking the work and how this fits in with the organisations wider aims and objectives.

o jobs are clearly defined to avoid confusion.

Work-related stress can also lead to:

An increase in sickness absence, which can have a domino effect - one person goes sick which leads to their workload being shared among the remaining staff.

They are unable to cope, which affects their health, and this leads to greater sickness absence.

A reduction in staff morale, poor staff performance, staff seeking alternative employment.

Organisations then have the expense of recruiting, inducting, and training new members of staff.

There are many ways we can manage stress, as shown above in the workplace. We can also try other strategies such as yoga, meditation, hypnosis and stress and management books/courses.

Conclusions

Stress is our best friend and worst enemy. Too little stress can kill as can too much. Short term stress is a very effective method in response to a short term crisis, whilst long term stress can have serious debilitating consequences. Long term stress at work can seriously affect health, staff morale and productive output.

Ensure You Know About Steroids For Colitis Symptoms

When being treated for colitis symptoms it is the norm to be prescribed steroids. These are powerful drugs used for the reduction of inflammation that is present in the large colon during the period of a flare up plus they also have the effect of suppressing the body's immune system. Whilst they are an effective treatment, the patient requires being aware of their effects on the body.

The use of steroids will be prescribed where the patient is suffering from moderate-to-severe colitis symptoms. It is important to realise and accept that there are no benefits to be had by the continual use of them as a form of maintaining periods of remission and thus the sufferer of colitis must be weaned off their use as soon as practically possible. They are either applied by way of an enema which has the benefit of ensuring the steroid, in this instance such as foam, gets to work on the inflammation immediately and has less influence on the rest of the body, or taken by mouth in the form of tablets several times per day.

To start with, the prescribed amount will be high so that the steroids strength can be built up rapidly in order to start the process of reducing the ulceration found on the colon walls and tempering the inflammation. Once this can be achieved, the symptoms will then start to subside. Once this has been achieved, the prescribed dosage will then be gradually reduced until the symptoms, such as bloodied stools and diarrhea have appeared to stop. Once this point is reached, the sufferer should not presume that all is well again and the use of the steroids can be ceased. The course of the medication requires to be finished and this can take up to two months after the symptoms have calmed down in order to be safely weaned off the medication and to ensure that the inflammation has been effectively reduced.

It is common knowledge that with the use of steroids, there is a risk of encountering side effects. This risk has to be balanced against the effective role that they play in bringing a colitis attack under control and achieving good health again. The short term side effects that will undoubtedly happen include gaining of weight, nausea, sleep loss, mood swings including perhaps coming over as irrational. Some longer term effects which do happen when suffering from a colitis attack include "mooning" of the face, appearance of acne, sweating, and distinctive change in personality. There are also conditions such as increased blood pressure and osteoporosis that should be looked out for if the prescribed medication is used for long periods then repeated as such over a period of years.

It is without doubt that the use of steroids for the effective reduction of colitis symptoms does bring benefits to the sufferer yet there does require being an awareness of the consequences of taking such medication. What drawbacks that can happen are, though, a small price to pay in order to bring welcome relief when faced with all that a colitis attack can throw at those that have been diagnosed with the disease.

Ulcerative Colitis Medication

Ulcerative colitis is a concern for both male and female sufferers in the quest to become pregnant. This chronic inflammatory bowel disease is more of a problem in women, as it can reduce ovulation and the malnutrition and weight loss which accompanies the condition, can indirectly impair the chances of conception. There is also a higher risk of iron deficiency and infections with the disease when active. Previous surgery to treat this disorder may result in lowered fertility as a result of abdominal organ scarring.

An increase in symptoms of u. colitis may be experienced in both the first trimester and shortly after birth, both probably related to hormone changes. There is a higher risk of having a premature baby and even a small chance of increasing the likelihood of birth defects, so wherever possible, women should go off their ulcerative colitis medication during pregnancy.

Flare ups during pregnancy increase the risk of miscarriage, but fortunately most ulcerative colitis medication (corticosteroids sulphasalazine and salazosulphadimidine) is not contra indicated for pregnancy. Methotrexate and Thalidomide, both immunosuppressive drugs, are completely banned for pregnancy usage and treatment with them is only prescribed in conjunction with rigorous birth control.

For a full list of what medication is safe and what isn't when trying to conceive and when pregnant, please consult a medical specialist.

In men, malnutrition may impact on fertility and some of the ingredients in prescribed sulfa medication (e.g. sulfasalazine) may alter sperm and cause lower sperm motility and sperm count. It is important to get the disease into remission or to go off this medication temporarily, before trying to impregnate your partner. Sperm return to normal within two months of not taking the sulfa component in ulcerative colitis medication.

Other medication is also available e.g. olsalazine and mesalamine as well as corticosteroids which may prove as effective as sulfasalazine but without the negative effects on sperm production and quality.

Apart from ulcerative colitis medication, much can be done to maintain and improve the disorder with a diet tailored to your allergies and food sensitivities, and the reduction of stress and anxiety in your life.you can relate to and confide in. Support groups whether on or offline are also really helpful for suggestions which worked for others.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome May Be Due To Missed Celiac Disease Or Food Intolerance

Irritable bowel syndrome is the most common gastrointestinal diagnosis yet it is not really a disease nor does it have confirmatory diagnostic tests. Rather, it is diagnosed based on a constellation of symptoms and the absence of other diagnoses. Common symptoms attributed to IBS are abdominal pain, cramping, diarrhea, bloating and excess gas. Celiac disease or gluten sensitivity is a common but frequently missed gastrointestinal diagnosis. Ingestion of gluten containing foods in affected individuals commonly causes symptoms attributed to IBS that are relieved with gluten-free diet in at least 10-20% of people misdiagnosed with IBS. Other food intolerances are also a likely a cause of IBS symptoms that may improve with avoidance of certain foods.

IBS is a diagnosis of exclusion. Other causes of symptoms of abdominal pain, diarrhea, constipation, or alternating constipation and diarrhea should be excluded by doctor's review of medical history, a physical exam and some screening laboratory tests and arguably a colonoscopy. The other conditions that traditionally doctors are most concerned about excluding include inflammatory bowel diseases (ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease) and cancer. Less worrisome but treatable conditions that need to be excluded include lactose intolerance, intestinal infections especially parasites like giardia, and food intolerance. Celiac disease though now known to be very common, affecting approximately one percent of the U.S. population, has been largely ignored as a possible cause of IBS symptoms. Most primary care physicians are aware that diarrhea is a common symptom of Celiac disease but not that it may present in adults and be associated with constipation. Most doctors are unaware that the prevalence of Celiac disease in IBS patients may be as high as 20%.

Typical lab tests ordered by doctors screening for more serious intestinal diseases that may mimick IBS include a complete blood count (CBC) looking for signs of blood loss or anemia (low hemoglobin or hematocrit), signs of inflammation or infection (high white blood cell count and/or platelet count) and stool tests for blood (fecal occult blood test or FOBT) or white blood cells (WBCs or fecal leukocytes). The stool tests are looking for signs of bleeding, infection or inflammation of the intestine. IBS does not cause bleeding or intestinal inflammation whereas inflammatory bowel disease, infection or cancer may. Normal tests are reassurring though do not exclude more serious disease. Most gastroenterologists believe a colonoscopy should be performed.

However, most doctors, even many gastroenterologists, fail to test for Celiac disease though it is common and screening blood tests exist. The reasons for this are many and are more fully explained elsewhere. However, the common incidence, presence of screening tests, and available treatment should make screening for Celiac disease part of the standard evaluation of all patients presenting with symptoms suggestive of IBS before that diagnosis is established.

More recently, food intolerance other than gluten or wheat have been suggested as a treatable cause of IBS. Blood tests for a type of antibody known as IgG have been advocated by several researchers as being helpful for advising people about eliminating or avoiding certain foods as a treatment of IBS. Recent evidence suggests that a significant reduction of IBS symptoms can be achieved in people who avoid foods based on elevated IgG antibodies to foods. Atkinson et. al 2004 reported 10-26% improvement in symptoms in patients compared with controls. Deterioration was noted in those who relaxed their dietary restriction of foods they had avoided because of elevated antibody levels. These findings require further validation and are facing significant resistance to acceptance by many in the medical community, especially in the U.S. However, elimination diets have long been reported effective by many people. The possibility of food intolerance as a reversible cause of symptoms attributed to a syndrome with little other effective treatments (except mostly ineffective treatments in the past and very new medications with limited efficacy and unproven long term safety) should prompt further studies and an openness to dietary trials.

If you have been diagnosed with irritable bowel syndrome I recommend you confirm that Celiac disease has been excluded. Food intolerance should also be considered though testing may not be covered by your insurance and/or accepted by your doctor as valid. Elimination of common foods and their proteins causing intolerance, wheat, barley and rye (gluten); cow's milk protein (casein); soy; and peanuts is worth a try. Be sure to keep a food-symptom diary and re-introduce one food or food protein back into your diet at a time. One diet that effectively eliminates all the major food proteins causing intolerances but may be difficult to follow is the paleo diet (www.thepaleodiet.com).

1. Hoey. "Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Could it be Celiac Disease?" Can Med J. 2002; 166:479-80

2. Sander et al, "Association of Adult Coeliac Disease with Irritable Bowel Syndrome: A Case-Control Study in Patients Fulfilling Rome II Criteria Referred to Secondary Care." Lancet. 2001; 358:1504-8

2. Atkinson W; Sheldon TA; Shaath N; Wharwell PJ. "Food elimination bsed on IgG antibodies in irritable bowel syndrome; a randomised controlled trial." Gut 2004; 53:1459-1464.

3. Isolauri E; Rautava S; Kalliamaki M. "Food allergy in irritable bowel syndrome: new facts and old fallacies." Gut 2004; 53:1391-3.