cephalosporins http://www.artwoo.com Returned search results for cephalosporins Copyright 2008 Sat, 22 Nov 2008 13:25:16 +0000 http://www.artwoo.com/rss/cephalosporins The Inappropriate Use Of Antibiotics For Strep Throat http://www.artwoo.com/article/the-inappropriate-use-of-antibiotics-for-strep-throat http://www.artwoo.com/article/the-inappropriate-use-of-antibiotics-for-strep-throat#comments Mon, 26 Feb 2007 14:27:10 +0000 symptoms of strep throatpharingitisbeta hemolytic streptococcuscephalosporinsaccurate diagnosiserythromycinamoxicillin http://www.artwoo.com/article/the-inappropriate-use-of-antibiotics-for-strep-throat pharingitis that requires antibiotic treatment and is caused by group A beta-hemolytic streptococcus bacteria. There are also viral forms of acute pharingitis -- the common throat sores, which may have the same : difficulty to swallow, soreness, inflammation of the throat and discomfort. This similarity between their symptoms leads to confusion, in absence of accurate and proper investigation: although they are generated by different factors, strep throat can be taken for sore throat and the other way around. Usually sore throats don't need treatment, so there are cases in which the proper medication is not given to people that have strep throat because of diagnosis errors. The same errors may lead to the administering of strong antibiotics to patients that don't need them. So it is vital to have an in order to prevent such situations.

Cases of erroneous diagnosis have been recently investigated and the results were worrying: 50 % of the children that have strep throat are prescribed antibiotics they don't need while 33 % of the children with strep throat are not prescribed the necessary treatment (they either receive the wrong treatment or not receive medications at all). The persons to blame for that are the physicians and pediatricians, because there are very efficient methods to diagnose and distinguish viral from bacterial pharingitis, which makes their error unjustifiable.

Antibiotics are very effective when properly used but they may also cause strong side effects. in case of proper administration, these side effects may be: allergies, nausea, weakness of the immune system. When they are not needed but still prescribed, they have no positive effects; they may be damaging for the patient instead. In case a patient with strep throat receives other antibiotic prescription than one of the spectrum of , penicillin derivates, or , or if the doses are not correct, side effects may appear. One of the risks of such situation is that of bacterial resistance to the treatment. Inappropriate treatment induces the person the tendency to have lower response to future antibiotics administration, which makes necessary for that person to take higher doses.

The available methods to obtain the exact diagnosis of strep throat are effective enough so that many erroneous diagnoses are not excusable.

One such method is the simple, but very effective and reliable pharyngeal exudate test, which consists in the culture of a secretion sample by means of a spatula rubbed against the walls of the throat. Laboratory tests will then be performed on the sample and will identify whether the infection is caused by viruses or bacteria. In case the streptococcus bacteria results to be the cause, antibiotics are prescribed in order to eradicate the infection.

Antibiotics are not recommended for viral infections of the throat. The pharyngeal exudate will thus help to avoid their needless prescription. It is a simple, rapid and inexpensive test so you should take it to make sure you receive the correct diagnosis and treatment. For more information visit http://www.strepthroatinfection.com ]]> Facts You Should Know About Bladder Infection http://www.artwoo.com/article/facts-you-should-know-about-bladder-infection http://www.artwoo.com/article/facts-you-should-know-about-bladder-infection#comments Sat, 22 Jul 2006 00:27:09 +0000 bladder infectionsbladder infectioncloudy urinepainful sexual intercoursekidney stonesstrong urine odoruti http://www.artwoo.com/article/facts-you-should-know-about-bladder-infection UTI) can be in any part of the urinary tract -- The urethra, the bladder, the ureters and the kidneys. Of these, the most common infections occur in the bladder. s are also known as cystitis, which literally means an inflammation of the bladder.

Risk Factors Some people are more likely than others to get bladder infections. Women tend to get them more often than men due to their urethra being shorter and closer to the anus. Among the women most likely to get bladder infections are women who are pregnant, going through menopause and using a diaphragm for birth control. Men who have prostate inflammation or enlargement will also be more likely to have bladder infections. Risk factors that apply to both men and women are; , sexual intercourse with multiple partners, narrowed urethra, immobility such as recovering from hip fracture, not drinking enough fluids, bowel incontinence and catheterization. Elderly people and people with diabetes are also at higher risk of bladder infections.

Children can also be at risk for bladder infections. They are most common in boys before the first birthday and among uncircumcised boys. Girls are most likely to get bladder infections at around three years old when toilet training is usually in progress. Children under five years old who have bladder infections will need follow-up care to prevent later kidney damage.

Symptoms The symptoms of a bladder infection are varied. A person can have any or all of them. Young children may have only a fever or no symptoms at all. For adults, the symptoms can include; pressure in the lower pelvis, pain or burning with urination, frequent or urgent need to urinate, need to urinate at night, , blood in the urine, foul or , , penis pain, flank pain, vomiting, fever and chills and mental changes or confusion.

Causes Bacteria entering the urethra cause bladder infections. The bacteria, more often than not, come from the anus. In some children, an abnormality in the anatomy of the urinary tract contributes to frequent infections.

Treatment Sometimes, a mild bladder infection will clear up on its own. Antibiotics are usually recommended, though, because there is a risk of the infection spreading to the kidneys. In order to protect their developing kidneys, children should be treated promptly with antibiotics. Elderly people should also be treated with antibiotics as soon as possible. If prompt treatment is not started, there is a greater chance of fatal complications.

There are many antibiotics that can be used to treat a bladder infection. They are: Nitrofurantoin, Cephalosporins, Sulfa drugs, Amoxicillin, Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, Doxycycline and Quinolones.

The last two should not be used in children. Women who are not elderly usually only need three days of antibiotics. No matter how many doses are prescribed, the full course of antibiotics must be taken or the infection could return and be harder to clear up. A severe bladder infection may require hospitalization to re-hydrate and receive antibiotics intravenously.

Prevention Bladder infections can usually be prevented. By following these suggestions, bladder infection can be prevented or the frequency reduced. Keep your genital area clean and wipe from front to back. Drink plenty of fluids and avoid fluids that irritate the bladder, like alcohol and caffeine. Drink cranberry juice unless you have a family history of kidney stones. Wear cotton or some other breathable cloth underwear. Do not douche or use similar feminine hygiene products. Urinate soon after sexual intercourse.

Disclaimer The information presented here should not be taken as medical advice. If you need more information, please consult a qualified physician.

Permission is granted to reprint this article as long as no changes are made, and the entire resource box is included. This article is Copyright © 2006, Heather Colman. Find more bladder infection resources at: http://www.bladder-infection-press.info ]]> The Stinging Information About Anaphylaxis http://www.artwoo.com/article/the-stinging-information-about-anaphylaxis http://www.artwoo.com/article/the-stinging-information-about-anaphylaxis#comments Fri, 21 Jul 2006 16:27:09 +0000 anaphylaxisanaphylactic shockfood allergenscontactdiclofenacinsect bitescephalosporins http://www.artwoo.com/article/the-stinging-information-about-anaphylaxis Anaphylaxis is a serious type of allergy that usually happens when a person takes a triggering substance that is often called allergen. The exposure and its resulting reaction, anaphylaxis, occurs when the person become sensitized to that substance.

Sometimes even if the person is exposed to allergens, even how little the allergens are and the time of exposure, the resulting allergy can really be serious and life-threatening.

Anaphylaxis attacks can happen after the substance is inhaled, injected or ingested. Physical or skin to the substance can sometimes also lead to anaphylaxis attacks.

Beware, because medical records around the world show that in several instances, anaphylaxis can lead to shock or that can really be fatal and deadly if untreated or uncured.

An example of a substance that can lead to anaphylaxis is bee sting. Bee stings contain minimal amounts of toxins that sensitizes a person's immune system. If the person is exposed to subsequent bee stings, certainly, an allergic reaction will follow.

Take note that reaction to bee stings can be severe, sudden, and sometimes involving the entire body.

During anaphylaxis attacks, take note that the victim's airways can be constricted. This reaction will sometimes be serious especially if breathing difficulties, wheezing and gastrointestinal discomfort occurs, like cramps, diarrhea, vomiting and abdominal pain.

Causes of anaphylaxis

Other substances that may trigger an onset of anaphylaxis include several drugs, , horse serum which are contained in vaccines and other especially if there are stinging sensations. Insects like wasps, hornets and several species of ants can cause these sensations.

Foods that commonly cause anaphylaxis include eggs, wheat, shellfish, fish, legumes, soybeans, milk, cheese, peanuts and other nuts.

Drugs like pain relievers including and ibuprofen, and anti-infection like penicillin and can trigger anaphylaxis attacks on several people.

Do you know that regular and prolonged exercises can also lead to anaphylaxis attacks? Yes, it is true because exercises affect the flow of air in your breathing system, especially if the surroundings is unclean.

Symptoms to look out for

Basically, anaphylaxis attack by constricting the passage of the airways. The disease can be indicated by respiratory distress, and low blood pressure or hypotension (the opposite of the common hypertension).

Other indications include hives or in medical terms urticaria, itching, vomiting, uncontrolled tears due to stress and difficulty in breathing, swelling of the face, neck, throat and other body parts, blushing and fainting.

These symptoms can immediately show up upon exposure to triggering allergens or substances. However, in some cases, symptoms for anaphylaxis occur after about 30 minutes to up to about a few hours after the exposure or ingestion of allergens.

Take note that several of the symptoms are also symptoms for incompatible blood transfusion and should not be mistaken for such.

Treatment

Anaphylaxis attacks will require utmost and serious professional medical attention. Because the attacks involve breathing difficulties, it is important to rush the person to the hospital to avoid serious problems, especially if no one around knows some first aid treatments for such.

In several attacks, artificial resuscitation, like the methods used when first aiding a drowned person, should be administered. Drugs like epinephrine and antihistamine will also help.

Prevention is better than cure

Because prevention is always better than cure, it is important if you have a history of anaphylaxis to know and identify the triggering substances.

Avoid insect bites and bee stings, because they are the common cause of anaphylaxis. Food allergens, especially some types od sea foods should definitely scrapped from the diet.

Allergies to drugs should also be known so you will never have the trouble of treating one disease and contracting anaphylaxis in the future. Remember, presence of mind and cautiousness can save you from a lot of trouble. Charlene J. Nuble 2006. For answers to All your frequently asked questions about anaphylaxis, please go to: http://anaphylaxis.allergyanswers.net/ ]]> Symptoms Of Candidiasis http://www.artwoo.com/article/symptoms-of-candidiasis http://www.artwoo.com/article/symptoms-of-candidiasis#comments Sat, 19 Jan 2008 22:30:00 +0000 antibiotics and birth control pillsbirth control pillsantibiotics and birth controlsymptoms of yeast infectionyeast problemyeast productsyeast connection http://www.artwoo.com/article/symptoms-of-candidiasis
Historical examination will show the influence of , antibiotics and cortisone and other immunosuppressant drugs. The onset of local in relation to the use of these drugs is especially significant and usually precedes a systemic Candida response. Repeated courses of pills lead to ever increasing symptoms of mucosal infections in the vagina and gastrointestinal tract.

These infections are often the secondary result of inflamed mucous membranes caused by allergic responses to . Amongst the resultant symptoms are repeated infections of the respiratory tract, urethra and bladder. The normal procedure of prescribing antibiotics for these symptoms, frequently aggravates and perpetuates the underlying cause, if it is systemic candidiasis.

A classic symptom is depression, associated with difficulty in memory, reasoning and concentration. Loss of confidence and explosive irritability may follow. Evidently, endometriosis in women who have undergone hysterectomy is also common. A further complication is the development of multiple tolerances to food and chemicals, making it extremely difficult for the individual to lead a normal life. Once the is brought under control, many, or all of the accompanying allergies disappear.

According to Dr William Crook, in his book The , common symptoms, resulting from infection by Candida albicans (candidiasis), are as follows:

1 Feel 'bad all over' yet the cause cannot be identified and treatment of many kinds has not helped. 2 Craving for sweets. 3 Craving for other carbohydrates such as bread and pizza. 4 Sweets either make symptoms worse or give initial relief followed by worsening. 5 Craving for alcohol. 6 Bothered by persistent or recurrent athletes food, fungus infection of the nails or 'jock itch'. 7 Feel bad on damp days or in mouldy places. Humidity also causes problems. 8 Tobacco smoke, perfumes and chemical smells make you ill. 9 Persistent and recurrent infections of the nose, throat, sinuses, ears, bronchials, bladder and kidneys. 10 Fatigue, headache or depression.

Usually these symptoms are accompanied by the following historical scenario:

1 Prolonged courses of broad-spectrum antibiotic drugs including tetracyclines, ampicillin, amoxycillin, the cephalosporins, and sulphonamides such as septra and bactrim. 2 Diet has contained a lot of yeast and sugar. 3 Signs of hypo glycaemia which tests fail to confirm. 4 History of taking birth control pills or other corticosteroid drugs. 5 Have had multiple pregnancies. 6 Recurrent problems affecting the reproductive organs such as abdominal pain, prostatitis, impotence, vaginal infection, premenstrual tension or irregularities.

Other recurring symptoms, such as tiredness, runny nose, canker sores, dizziness, nausea, frequent urination, irritability, numbness and tingling are experienced regularly and, in some cases, more or less constantly. Author sites: http://shabi-home-remedies.blogspot.com , http://www.herbalremedieslk.com , http://myshabi.blogspot.com ]]> Antibiotic-Resistant Disease Killing Humans And Swine http://www.artwoo.com/article/antibiotic-resistant-disease-killing-humans-and-swine http://www.artwoo.com/article/antibiotic-resistant-disease-killing-humans-and-swine#comments Mon, 06 Oct 2008 05:01:49 +0000 e coli bacteriaantibiotic resistant bacteriamethicillin resistant staphylococcus aureusresistant staphylococcus aureusbeta lactamaseamerican medical associationhealth protection agency http://www.artwoo.com/article/antibiotic-resistant-disease-killing-humans-and-swine Beta Lactamase (ESBL) is killing both people and swine in Denmark.

Health officials said the bacteria is being transmitted to humans through pigs. The increased use of antibiotics in agriculture may be behind the spread of the resistant strain.

What are ESBLs?

Extended-Spectrum Beta-Lactamases (ESBLs) are actually enzymes produced by certain types of bacteria, which renders the bacteria resistant to the antibiotics commonly used to treat them.

ESBLs were first discovered in the mid-1980s. At the time they were mostly found in the Klebsiella species of bacteria, in hospital intensive care units. Until recently, few people were affected by these mutated bacteria and it didn't appear to be a major growing concern.

That has changed, however. According to the British (HPA), a new class of ESBL (called CTX-M enzymes) has emerged, which are now being widely detected among E.Coli bacteria. These ESBL-producing E. Coli are resistant to penicillins and cephalosporins, and are becoming more frequent in urinary tract infections.

Other species of bacteria that can now produce ESBLs include:

K. pneumoniae
Salmonella
Proteus mirabilis
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
The Problem is Worse Than You Think!

According to a study published October 2007 in the Journal of the (JAMA), there were close to 100,000 cases of invasive methicillin- (MRSA) infections in the United States in 2005, which lead to more than 18,600 deaths.

To put that number into perspective, HIV/AIDS killed 17,000 people that year.

Antibiotic-resistant disease IS a major man-made problem.

This was the study that propelled MRSA into the news last year, combined with a number of school outbreaks that took place around the same time. Discussions focused largely on reducing medical over-use of antibiotics, and proper hygiene such as washing your hands with soap and water to reduce the spread of infectious disease.

But little has been said about the rampant over-use of antibiotics in agriculture, which is a MAJOR source of human antibiotic consumption, and hence increased antibiotic resistance.

Agriculture as a Source of Antibiotic Resistance

Both MRSA and ESBL are being traced back to animals raised for food production, especially pigs.

These animals are often fed antibiotics at low doses for disease prevention and growth promotion. Animals receiving antibiotics in their feed gain 4 to 5 percent more body weight than animals that do not receive antibiotics, but the price is high for you, the end consumer, because this practice also creates the perfect conditions for antibiotic resistance to flourish.

Denmark's health officials claim they're unsure of how farmers and veterinarians, who have not consumed infected meat, are becoming infected. However, according to research cited on Johns Hopkins website, the main reservoir of these organisms is in the lower digestive tract, and they can persist within the gastrointestinal tract for months. So perhaps the answer doesn't have to be all that complicated.

So, the meat industry practice of using antibiotics is indeed a driving force behind the development of antibiotic resistance in a now wide variety of bacteria that cause human disease.

The long stalemate on this issue constitutes a struggle between strong science and bad politics. The FDA finally banned the use of fluoroquinolones - a widely used class of antimicrobials -- from agricultural use August 1997, but not without the Bayer Corporation kicking and screaming in vehement opposition. After all, antibiotics for livestock use is big business. It constitutes about 70 percent of ALL antibiotic use! They couldn't replace that market with human consumers even if they tried.

Other Agricultural Sources of Antibiotics

Another heavily tainted meat product you should stay away from is conventionally raised chicken. A 2006 study published in the Journal of Infectious Diseases found that bacteria from conventional chicken and from people who ate the chicken became resistant to Synercid, a strong antibiotic used to treat antibiotic-resistant bacteria. In essence, it can cause resistance to the last lines of defense currently available in the modern medicine cabinet.

It also found that it was rare to find resistant bacteria among antibiotic-free chicken, while the majority of bacterial isolates from conventional poultry were resistant.

But, the ramifications of using antibiotics in agriculture don't end there. Antibiotics filter down through the food chain in sometimes non-suspecting ways.

Antibiotics are also being transferred, via manure, into your food supply.

A 2007 study in the Journal of Environmental Quality looked at whether food crops will accumulate antibiotics from soil covered with antibiotic-containing manure.

In a greenhouse setting, corn, lettuce and potatoes were grown on soil that contained hog manure with a commonly used veterinary antibiotic added.

The antibiotics were absorbed by all three crops, into both their leaves and tissue. Meanwhile, the antibiotics also transferred to the potato tubers, suggesting that root crops like carrots, radishes and potatoes may be particularly at risk of antibiotic accumulation.

These findings unfortunately also have implications for organic farmers, who often use manure as their main source of fertilizer. And, as it stands, manure that contains antibiotics is still allowed under the organic label.

How to Avoid Excessive Antibiotic Exposure

So how can you ensure that the food you feed to yourself and your family is pure and healthy?

Apart from growing it yourself, your best option is to get to know a local farmer near you -- one who uses non-toxic farming methods. If you live in an urban area, there are increasing numbers of community-supported agriculture programs available that give you access to healthy, locally grown foods even if you live in the heart of the city.

If you are looking for a safer alternative to commercially raised beef please be sure to check out grass-fed beef. Grass-fed cattle are not routinely fed antibiotics. They may occasionally receive them for an infection, but that would be the rare exception, and even then they are only used for a few days."Natural" is best, organic superior, and to learn how you can undo the negative effects already suffered you, visit www.healthyweightworks.com]]>