http://www.artwoo.com Returned search results for pelvic inflammatory disease Copyright 2008 Mon, 01 Dec 2008 16:30:41 +0000 http://www.artwoo.com/rss/pelvic+inflammatory+disease http://www.artwoo.com/article/symptoms-similar-to-appendicitis-other-disease http://www.artwoo.com/article/symptoms-similar-to-appendicitis-other-disease#comments Mon, 23 Apr 2007 17:45:03 +0000 appendicitisright abdomenpelvic inflammatory diseaseupper abdomenappendixduodenal ulceraffections http://www.artwoo.com/article/symptoms-similar-to-appendicitis-other-disease appendicitis has a high degree of difficulty, due to the resemblance of appendicitis's symptoms to those indicating other inflammations. Thus, a frequent method is to keep under observation the patients with appendicitis suspicion for a temporal interval, to see their evolution. The problem may disappear, or develop to classic appendicitis or other disease.

It is the duty of the surgeon to eliminate the suspicion for any other condition similarly to appendicitis or that has similar symptoms. Such conditions are:

* - Meckel's diverticulitis represents little excrescences of the small intestine which are usually found in the lower right abdomen right next to the appendix. Same as the appendix, the diverticulum can rupture or inflame and it is necessary to take it out by surgical intervention.

* - Pelvic inflammatory disease. Found closely to the appendix, the ovary and the right fallopian tube may be affected by sexually transmitted affections of infectious nature, but in most of the cases medication using antibiotics can successfully replace surgery.

* - Right upper abdomen conditions of inflammatory nature. Diseases like duodenal ulcer, gallbladder disease or affections of the liver may generate fluids drain from upper to lower right abdomen and cause a very similar inflammation to that of the appendix.

* - Right =96 side diverticulitis. By exception from the common situation of the left sided diverticulitis of the colon, there can also appear on the right side and, when rupturing, have a strong similarity to appendicitis.

* - Affections of the right kidney such as abscess which, due to the close position of the kidney to the appendix may simulate appendicitis.

Because many conditions of the abdomen share the same symptoms, the causes are in more than one case difficult to determine, but the good thing is that only few abdominal affections are so serious to require more than medication at home. So, the nature of pain is more likely to be determined by severity, location or other aspects. For more information visit http://www.whatcausesappendicitis.com ]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/what-are-the-causes-of-crohns-disease http://www.artwoo.com/article/what-are-the-causes-of-crohns-disease#comments Fri, 11 Jul 2008 15:50:11 +0000 inflammatory bowel diseasesimmunological factorsinflammatory bowel diseasecrohn s diseasedegree relativesdisease statisticsulcerative colitis http://www.artwoo.com/article/what-are-the-causes-of-crohns-disease
One of the most common theories on the cause of Crohn's Disease has to do with the reaction of the body's immune system to certain viruses. The theory is that the immune system reacts to a virus or bacteria within the digestive system. Some evidence shows that the body protects itself from a perceived threat to the digestive system by causing inflammation within the intestines. Those who suffer from inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn's Diseas and Ulcerative colitis do typically show a high instance of abnormalities in their immune systems. Doctors, however cannot confirm at this time whether the immune system abnormalities are a cause of the diseases, or a result of them.

There are a number of other factors that may figure strongly in the role of the development of Crohn's Disease. Infection, family medical history, genetics, diet, immunological factors, measles, MMR vaccine, and psychological factors all may all play a role in the development of Crohn's Disease. Some people develop Crohn's Disease after suffering gastroenteritis, yet the infection itself is not regarded as a cause of Crohn's Disease.

There have been studies that show that genetics may play a role in the cause of Crohn's Disease. Statistics show that if one member of the family suffers from Crohn's Disease, then there is an increased chance for other family members to develop the disease as well. First degree relatives, that is, parents, siblings, or children of an individual with any Inflammatory Bowel Disease will have a much higher risk of developing such Crohn's or other Inflammatory Bowel Diseases. The risk of developing Crohn's Disease is increased with identical twins.

Diet is another area that is looked at as a cause of Crohn's Disease, since it is often used by patients to address the symptoms of Crohn's Disease, and dietary changes will be inexpensive. Treatments involving an individual's diet vary in their results, but there is a consensus that certain foods should be avoided. Even though a particular diet doesn't cause Crohn's Disease in and of itself, there may be certain foods in the diet may trigger symptoms of Crohn's or make the symptoms worse.

Some vaccines, particularly measles and MMR vaccines have been looked at recently regarding a link between the vaccines and various diseases including Crohn's. There is not enough evidence, however to link these vaccines to Crohn's disease.

Psychological factors are not the cause of an Inflammatory Bowel Disease such as Crohn's disease and that there is no hard proof to support the link between those psycholigical factors and the disease itself. However, the stress of living with such a disease can make the symptoms of Crohn's Disease worse.Visit Digestive System Disorders for more information on Crohn's Disease and other digestive problems.]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/ovarian-cysts-symptoms-that-cannot-be-neglected http://www.artwoo.com/article/ovarian-cysts-symptoms-that-cannot-be-neglected#comments Wed, 15 Oct 2008 05:36:24 +0000 symptoms of ovarian cystsectopic pregnancy symptomspelvis painpelvic girdlepain in the abdomenstomach infectionultrasound exam http://www.artwoo.com/article/ovarian-cysts-symptoms-that-cannot-be-neglected stomach infection will manifest itself with abdominal pain and loose motion or a gastrointestinal acid reflux will produce severe heartburn. But a woman having ovarian cysts will develop no such express symptoms to indicate that her ovaries are affected by cysts. Routine abdominal exam or an ultrasound exam, performed for some other ailment may help detect cysts in the ovary. However, there are plenty of latent symptoms that often point towards affirmative ovarian cysts.

Some prominent symptoms of ovarian cyst

Some of the outstanding symptoms are pain in the abdomen or in the lower pelvic region -- this pain is abrupt, beginning and ending all of a sudden, and this can also be severe, sudden and sharp, irregular and untimely menstrual periods; a feeling of fullness in the lower pelvic region and abdominal area. Ovarian cysts symptoms also comprise of pain for a long time around her pelvic girdle during menstrual period (usually felt at the lower back); pelvis pain after having sex or straining such as in exercise; pain or pressure while passing bowel; a feeling of nausea or vomiting tendency; vaginal uneasiness or blood spots in the vagina; painful sexual union, tenderness in the breast, problems in passing urine; frequent urination due to cystic pressure on the bladder and weight gain.

It may however, be kept in mind those symptoms of ovarian cysts that have been mentioned here are actually generic. They can be also present due to some other disease such as pelvic inflammatory ailments, endometriosis and ectopic pregnancy.

Symptoms relating to more complex cases

In some cases the ovarian cyst can take a turn for the worse and in such cases the symptoms can also be different such as light-headedness or dizziness, abdominal pain that cannot be accounted for, fever, shortness in breathing or rapid breathing, general debility or exhaustion. If any or a few of such problems are present in the person for long, it may be time to see a specialist or getting the matter diagnosed through ultrasound or laparoscopy.

Complications

If the size of the cyst is quite large, then it may cause discomfort in the abdomen. For example, it will end up pressing the bladder and as a result, the person will need to urinate often as the ability of the bladder to hold urine becomes restricted. In some cases however the symptoms may not be there -- particularly when the cyst is of an uncommon kind. But even if that is the case, the doctor should be able to find it out with a simple inspection of the pelvic region. Some people get cysts after menopause -- this might mean cancerous -- so take note. Thus, it is a good idea to get a pelvic inspection regularly. And do watch out for these symptoms.

Here's some caution

Understanding the symptoms is fine -- but do not depend solely on them. Because as mentioned above, in some cases, there may not be any symptoms at all. Often the symptoms get misdiagnosed too as something else, such as ovarian cancer, inflammatory pelvic disease, ectopic pregnancy or even endometriosis. Appendicitis and diverticulitis can also show similar symptoms. But this does not mean that you should not be in the lookout for the symptoms of ovarian cyst as this is fairly common among females. Understanding the symptoms is the first step in diagnosing the condition and also understanding how serious it is. If there is associated fever, a sudden abnormal pain in the pelvic region or vomiting, then it can be a serious case.

Holistic approach and ovarian cysts symptoms

Holistic remedies have become quite popular in recent years, and this is the case for many diseases. Ovarian cysts can also be treated using holistic remedies. But such remedies are nothing new as holism has been a concept that has been around for centuries. Its only recently however that holistic remedies have found a place in mainstream medical science. This approach is indeed very effective in ovarian cysts -- but it also allows a person to become healthy mentally, physically and helps her attain peace too. The holistic system is not merely a way of treatment -- it is an approach of treatment and its application. So with an early diagnosis, ovarian cysts can be wonderfully cured with this approach.

'Healthy Mind in a Healthy body' -- this is the approach of holistic remedies. This approach prevents occurring of ovarian cysts in keeping the person healthy in both body and mind. Contemporary medical science has admitted the significance of strong mental force in curing difficult disease conditions, appreciating the influence of yoga and holistic approach in treating such cases. In fact, holistic approach can help prevent the occurrence of the ovarian cyst, and in case they appear, then they can be cured. Often the holistic approach's first step is to regulate the diet. A balanced and wholesome diet is very important here to maintain good health because it enhances the power of resistance in the person. A balance diet according to holistic remedies includes proteins, fruits, leafy vegetables and minerals. All those foods that is rich in fat need to be avoided. It is also best to avoid excess carbohydrates. Ovarian cysts cannot cause problems if the body and the surroundings are cleaned and maintained.Mary Parker is an author of the best-selling e-book, "Ovarian Cysts No More- The Secrets Of Curing Ovarian Cysts Holistically ". To Learn More About Her Unique 3-Step Holistic Ovarian Cysts Cure System Visit: Ovarian Cysts No More . For further information visit: Ovarian Cysts ]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/understanding-the-autoimmune-disorder-crohns-disease http://www.artwoo.com/article/understanding-the-autoimmune-disorder-crohns-disease#comments Sat, 15 Jul 2006 20:27:06 +0000 crohn s diseasecrohns diseaseanal discomfortflare upsulcerative colitisautoimmune disordersibd http://www.artwoo.com/article/understanding-the-autoimmune-disorder-crohns-disease IBD) of unknown cause, that results in chronic inflammation of the intestinal tract.

It can affect the entire gastrointestinal tract from mouth to anus, and can also cause complications outside of the gastrointestinal tract.

The incidence of Crohn's disease in North America is 6:100 000, and is thought to be similar in Europe, but lower in Asia and Africa Unlike the other major inflammatory bowel disease, ulcerative colitis, there is no known medical or surgical cure for Crohn's disease.

Many medical treatments are however available for Crohn's disease with a goal of keeping the disease in remission.

Many patients with Crohn's disease have symptoms for years prior to the diagnosis. Because of the patchy nature of the gastrointestinal disease and the depth of tissue involvement, initial symptoms can be more vague than with ulcerative colitis.

Common initial symptoms of Crohn's disease include the following; Abdominal pain, diarrhea, bloody diarrhea, and peri anal discomfort.

Typically, Crohn's disease only affects areas of the large intestine. Because Crohn's disease is most commonly associated with the large intestine, the most common symptoms are diahrea or constipation, and abdominal pain and cramping.

Like all autoimmune disorders, Crohn's disease is a pretty serious condition, and there isn't really any cure for it. There are some new treatments available, but nothing that will cure it outright.

Some people seem to get occassionaly flare ups from their Chorn's disease, but more or less live normal lives. Others suffer from chronic flare ups their entire lives, which can sometimes lead to more serious complications.

The medications you take if you are having a flare up are basically immunosuppressant sorts of drugs and of course steroids, neither of which aren't really all that pleasant to take. They both have a lot of side effects, and the immunosupressants boost your chances of getting some kind of opportunistic infection. Crohn's disease is a progressive disease of the gastro-intestinal tract that is considered an autoimmune disorder. http://1crohnsdisease.info ]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/some-causes-of-infertility-in-woman http://www.artwoo.com/article/some-causes-of-infertility-in-woman#comments Wed, 25 Oct 2006 16:27:03 +0000 male infertilitysymptoms of infertilityinfertility casespolycystic ovarian syndromepelvic inflammatory diseasesalpingitisendometriosis http://www.artwoo.com/article/some-causes-of-infertility-in-woman
Infertility is definitely not a physical disease. Unlike simpler conditions like flu or the more complex ones such as those of cancer, symptoms of infertility are not focused on the obvious signs.

In fact, a woman need not undergo a series of comprehensive tests and examinations before she can truly be diagnosed of infertility. The same goes with men only differing in one thing, male infertility is much more difficult to be spotted unless obvious presentations of erectile dysfunction are seen.

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease or PID This is presumed to be the most common cause of infertility. This arises from internal infections that are caused by bacteria penetrating into the internal reproductive organs of a female. The typical organs affected are those surrounding the pelvic area but when aggravated, infections may also radiate into the neighboring intestines. Infertility associated with PID is definite if the portion affected is the fallopian tube, a condition that is medically termed as salpingitis.

Endometriosis According to data gathered from medical literature, nearly 30% of all infertility cases in women is covered by this condition. This is characterized with the presence of the endometrial tissue in parts other than the uterus. This tissue is the one women discharge during menstrual cycle.

Having this condition however does not actually suggest the likelihood of being unable to conceive. But it may largely contribute to the development of the disease

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome This is the condition characterized by the over-production of androgens in the female's system. This occurrence will drive the lowering in the release of other hormones such as Follicle Stimulating Hormone and Luteinizing Hormone which will eventually caused the stoppage of mature egg production.

Early Menopause or Premature Ovarian Failure This is the premature depletion of follicles in women during ages prior to her 40th years. This is characterized by long periods of irregular menstrual flow. This condition is very much comparable with true menopause since both impede a woman to produce eggs.

Idiopathic Hypogonadotropic Hypogonadism This is rarely the case among infertile women. This is identified when there is 'no' production of LH and FSH. Thus, the impossibility of developing egg cells. There are actually no physical symptoms that will help conclude the presence of this condition. Most cases of Idiopathic Hypogonadotropic Hypogonadism fall under unknown infertility cases. This content is provided by Low Jeremy. It may be used only in its entirety with all links included. For more information on infertility, what causes it andamp; where to get advice, please visit http://infertility.articlekeep.com ]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/5-pelvic-floor-exercise-mistakes-and-how-to-avoid-them http://www.artwoo.com/article/5-pelvic-floor-exercise-mistakes-and-how-to-avoid-them#comments Mon, 04 Aug 2008 18:08:17 +0000 pelvic floor muscleskegel exercisesperineometerabdominal muscleship bonesvaginal probeexercise technique http://www.artwoo.com/article/5-pelvic-floor-exercise-mistakes-and-how-to-avoid-them
Let's look at the most common mistakes you are likely to make when you begin to exercise your pelvic floor muscles:

1. Incorrect exercise technique. Some studies have suggested that up to half of all women bear downwards when they first try to contract their pelvic floor muscles, especially if their muscles are seriously weakened. This is an easy mistake to make, but it is also a dangerous one, since pushing downwards with your pelvic floor muscles can weaken them still further. You can improve your exercise technique by careful, focused practice, but if in doubt, seek help from your doctor or from a women's health physical therapist. Appropriate exercise devices can also help. A vaginal probe with an indicator attached or a perineometer can provide feedback on a correct contraction and be valuable learning tools.

2. Using the wrong muscles. If you put some of your effort into the wrong muscles, your exercises will be less successful. Avoid tightening the muscles in the front of your tummy, or in your thighs or bottom. Concentrate on contracting your pelvic floor muscles only. Visualisation may help with this. Try imagining that you are trying to lift a marble up your vagina using the muscles of your pelvic floor.

3. Failing to use all the right muscles. Although you don't want to tighten the abdominal muscles down the front of your body, your deeper lower abdominal muscle (called the transversus abdominis or TA) is linked to the pelvic floor and should be contracted simultaneously with the pelvic floor muscles for maximum benefit. To locate the TA muscle, try visualizing a piece of string connecting the two points of your hip bones and drawing them together. A tightening deep in your abdomen, just above your pubic bone, will signal that you've found the right spot.

4. Holding your breath while you squeeze. This is another common mistake, which will prevent you from holding the contraction effectively. Try to continue relaxed breathing whilst focusing your full attention on your pelvic floor muscles.

5. Not having a regular exercise timetable. There's a lot of unhelpful advice around suggesting that you don't need a timetable for pelvic floor exercises, but can just fit them in when you are doing something else. The problem with that approach is that the exercises generally get forgotten, and if they do get done, they don't get your full attention. Ten effective contractions, done with full concentration and held for a count of 10 are far more effective than 30 half-hearted squeezes while you are waiting for a train. At least in the early days of your exercise program, allocate a fixed exercise time and stick to it. Research has shown that women who use an alarm to remind them are more likely to exercise regularly than those who don't.

So, to give yourself the best chance of success, make sure you know the correct exercise techniques, and give yourself the time to devote to your exercises.

Remember, technique plus time equals a stronger pelvic floor.Linda McClelland is the founder of Pelvic Floor Exercise, providing information, links, services and products to help both women and men worldwide achieve a stronger, healthier pelvic floor. Visit her at http://www.pelvicfloorexercise.com.au]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/what-you-should-know-before-using-aloe-to-manage-crohns-disease-symptoms http://www.artwoo.com/article/what-you-should-know-before-using-aloe-to-manage-crohns-disease-symptoms#comments Fri, 19 Jan 2007 12:27:20 +0000 aloe veraaloe plantaloe barbadensiscrohns diseasetargetnatural anti inflammatorywreak havoc http://www.artwoo.com/article/what-you-should-know-before-using-aloe-to-manage-crohns-disease-symptoms aloe vera.

It has been scientifically proven that aloe vera is a natural anti-inflammatory. It is the belief of many medical and scientific researchers that a natural anti-inflammatory is safer and has a better effect on the body than a synthetic anti-inflammatory. The reason is because natural anti-inflammatory treatments appear to target various inflammatory responses, instead of only targeting one as is the case with many synthetic types.

In addition, a natural anti-inflammatory is usually gentler on the body and does not wreak havoc on the immune system causing the negative side effects often resulting from prescription anti-inflammatory meds that are typically recommended for Crohn's disease.

What is aloe vera? Aloe vera (Aloe barbadensis) is the most common form of the aloe plant and it has been used as a medicinal treatment for centuries, starting with the Ancient Egyptians. The only part of the aloe plant that is used for medicinal purposes is the sap and the gel located within the leaves. The sap is better known as aloe latex.

How is aloe used as a treatment? Aloe can be used in two different ways. The first, and most common, is to externally treat skin wounds caused by dryness, cuts or burns. Gel is applied to the injured area and provides pain relief, sooths the skin and promotes healing.

The second form of treatment is when aloe is ingested to treat internal problems such as constipation, stomach disorders, diabeties, and many other problems. Sometimes aloe vera is even used to aid in digestion. When taken internally, aloe is available in powder and liquid forms.

Aloe latex and Crohn's disease -- Although aloe is generally safe when used externally as a gel, ingesting aloe, especially aloe latex when you suffer from Crohn's disease is contraindicated. Aloe latex is an extremely powerful laxative and is contraindicated with Crohn's because it decreases the effectiveness of any medication that is taken with it simultaneously.

Aloe latex will cause other medications to move through the digestive track far too quickly to have any effect as treatment. In addition, aloe latex is not generally used as a laxative to treat constipation due to the fact that it often causes painful cramps in the abdomen.

Aloe latex has other risks including: •It is habit-forming •Prolonged use of aloe latex will require higher doses to work effectively which eventually leads to permanent damage to the intestinal muscle. •Large doses result in kidney damage •Aloe latex is not safe for pregnant women or mothers who are breast feeding.

Even though aloe latex is not an ideal treatment for Crohn's, ingesting another form of aloe, such as aloe gel may be an alternative. Nevertheless, always check with your doctor before using aloe vera to treat Crohn's disease. Furthermore, you can always ask your doctor about other alternative treatments that may be effective. If you are looking for more http://www.natural-crohns-disease-relief.com/blog symptoms please visit http://www.natural-crohns-disease-relief.com and sign up for a free newsletter. ]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/common-symptoms-of-bladder-endometriosis http://www.artwoo.com/article/common-symptoms-of-bladder-endometriosis#comments Fri, 10 Aug 2007 12:20:02 +0000 symptoms of endometriosisendometriosis symptomspremenstrual syndromefrequent urinationcellspelvic areaendometrium http://www.artwoo.com/article/common-symptoms-of-bladder-endometriosis
Endometriosis is a gynecological condition in which the cells lining the uterus, called endometrium, grow in areas where they are not supposed to grow. The usual locations of endometriosis are the vagina, ovaries, fallopian tubes and other areas in the pelvic region.

However, these misplaced cells are also sometimes found outside the pelvic area, in areas like the bladder and rarely the lungs. When endometrium cells grow inside the bladder, the condition is called bladder endometriosis.

Symptoms of Endometriosis of the Bladder

Not all cases of endometriosis are reported because sometimes women do not associate any symptoms they have with the condition or they may be unaware they have endometriosis.

However, most women with bladder endometriosis complain of pain, which can either be mild or acute, in the pelvic area, especially during their monthly period. Most women only find out that they have this disease five to seven years after its onset because many believe the pains they are feeling are from premenstrual syndrome. A lot of women only begin to consider the seriousness of the situation when they experience other symptoms of the disease.

Other indications that you have bladder endometriosis are difficulty in urination and sometimes you may even have pus or blood in your urine, especially during menstruation. You may also experience painful intercourse, frequent urination, and soreness in the kidneys or bladder area, extreme fatigue and even fever. Bladder endometriosis is a serious illness because it can lead to complications such as damage to the kidneys and bladder.

Bladder endometriosis versus urinary tract infection and interstitial cystitis .

This illness is quite difficult to detect. If the symptoms are just painful urination, cause can be misdiagnosed as a urinary tract infection. However, you will realize that you don't have a urinary tract infection if antibiotics don't seem to work and symptoms continue to manifest. Moreover, laboratory results will show nonexistence of bacteria in your urine.

Another disease that has very similar symptoms to bladder endometriosis is interstitial cystitis. In fact, over 70 % of women suffering from bladder endometriosis are misdiagnosed and told they have interstitial cystitis.

Women suffering from interstitial cystitis have inflammation in the area between the lining of the bladder and the bladder muscle. That is why the sufferers of this disease also complain of pain in the pelvic region, blood or pus in the urine, difficulty in urination, pain during intercourse and frequent urination.

In order to determine if you're suffering from either bladder endometriosis or interstitial cystitis, you need to undergo cystoscopy, a procedure in which a doctor will insert a device called a cystoscope into your urethra. This will enable the doctor to view the bladder and get cell samples for biopsy.

One glaring difference between bladder endometriosis and interstitial cystitis is that only women suffer from bladder endometriosis, whereas men can also have interstitial cystitis, generally around 10% of IC suffers are men.

Sign up below for our free newsletter that covers the symptom of endometriosis in detail and also provides natural ways to reduce symptoms. Sign up for Shelley Ross' free Endometriosis newsletter - Overflowing with easy to implement methods to help you discover more about bladder endometriosis at http://www.treatendometriosis.com?source=is ]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/hidden-dangerwho-else-with-rheumatoid-arthritis-has-anemia http://www.artwoo.com/article/hidden-dangerwho-else-with-rheumatoid-arthritis-has-anemia#comments Sat, 13 Sep 2008 04:36:27 +0000 iron deficiency anemiaerythrocyte sedimentation ratered blood cellsc reactive proteinanemia of chronic diseasesystemic autoimmune diseaseanti inflammatory drugs http://www.artwoo.com/article/hidden-dangerwho-else-with-rheumatoid-arthritis-has-anemia
Because it is a systemic condition, it affects more than joints. Like other inflammatory conditions, RA causes anemia. The anemia is not the result of bleeding (although some patients treated with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can develop gastrointestinal bleeding), or deficiency of vitamin B12, folate, or iron.

This type of anemia is called the anemia of chronic disease (ACD).

Patients with RA who develop anemia are more likely to have more severe joint disease, worse quality of life indicators, and more severe disease.

As mentioned earlier, while some patients with RA can develop an iron deficiency anemia as a result of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug therapy and subsequent gastrointestinal blood loss, most anemia (60%) associated with RA is due to ACD.

While it is difficult sometimes to differentiate iron deficiency anemia from ACD, there are laboratory characteristics that separate them. The key differentiating feature is that iron deficiency anemia is due to an absolute lack of iron. ACD is not due to iron deficiency- there's plenty of iron available; ACD is due to an inability to unlock the iron that is available.

Another complicating problem is that some patients with RA have both types of anemia.

ACD is due to systemic inflammation. The severity of ACD can be predicted by the amount of elevation of laboratory markers of inflammation such as the erythrocyte sedimentation rate ("sed rate") and the C- reactive protein (CRP).

In RA, many chemical mediators of inflammations, called cytokines, are overproduced. These cytokines inhibit the ability of iron stores to be used.

These inflammatory cytokines affect the production of red blood cells at different levels.

One inflammatory cytokine, interleukin-6 (IL-6) adversely affects iron utilization by causing increased production of hepcidin. Hepcidin is an inflammatory protein that prevents release of iron from cells called macrophages. It also reduces absorption of iron from the small intestine.

Other cytokines such as interferon-y and tumor necrosis factor (TNF) block the production of erythropoietin, a hormone that is critically needed for the production of red blood cells. In addition, TNF and interleukin-1 (IL-1) prevent the maturation of red blood cells.

The net effect is a marked reduction of iron available to make red cells.

Studies on anemia in rheumatoid arthritis have produced interesting data. Patients with ACD have more severe disease. If patients have a good response to RA treatment, the anemia improves at the same time. Some data exists that treatment of the ACD will also help improve the symptoms of RA.

The association of inflammatory mediators with the development of ACD indicates that anemia should be monitored during the course of therapy in patients with RA.

Newer biologic agents such as tocilizumab which block the effects of interleukin-6 may help with the resolution of ACD. Preliminary pilot data has shown that blockade of IL-6 in RA patients helps improve quality of life and improves fatigue coincident with the resolution of anemia.Nathan Wei, MD FACP FACR is a rheumatologist and Director of the Arthritis and Osteoporosis Center of Maryland. He is a Clinical Assistant Professor of Medicine at the University of Maryland School of Medicine. For more info: Arthritis Treatment]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/what-crohns-disease-sufferers-need-to-know-about-omega-3-fatty-acids http://www.artwoo.com/article/what-crohns-disease-sufferers-need-to-know-about-omega-3-fatty-acids#comments Sat, 06 Jan 2007 16:27:05 +0000 omega 3 fatty acidsfish oilalpha linolenic aciddocosahexaenoic acidoil supplementsbeneficial treatmentdha http://www.artwoo.com/article/what-crohns-disease-sufferers-need-to-know-about-omega-3-fatty-acids fish oil, have anti-inflammatory properties that can have a therapeutic effect on Crohnandamp;#8217;s disease.

There are three major types of omega-3 fatty acids:

1. Eicosapentaenoic (EPA) 2. Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) 3. Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA)

When eaten, ALA is converted into EPA and DHA, the two fatty acids that are primarily used by the body for different process such as improving cardiovascular function, lowering blood pressure and brain function. Moreover, as was previously mentioned, the EPA and DHA have anti-inflammatory properties.

When it comes to treating Crohnandamp;#8217;s disease with omega-3 fatty acids, fish oil supplements have been used as an alternative or complimentary treatment in a number of medical studies over the course of several years. The results of these studies have varied.



For instance, some researchers have discovered that while fish oil may help reduce preexisting inflammation, it does not actually help prevent inflammation from occurring. Furthermore, omega-3 fatty acids only appear to be a beneficial treatment for those who suffer from mild to moderate cases of Crohnandamp;#8217;s disease.

In addition, studies have found that due to the positive influence fish oil has on intestinal cell growth, fish oil supplements may eventually increase the intestinal mucosal surface area. This would result in the increase of nutrient absorption, and improve a personandamp;#8217;s overall nutrition.

The studies that have been conducted on the anti-inflammatory effect of fish oil show a promising future. More research must be done before it can be determined just how effective fish oil is in treating chronic inflammatory conditions such as Crohnandamp;#8217;s disease. Before you talk to your doctor about taking fish oil supplements, you should first try the natural method of ingesting food rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Good sources included the following: andamp;#8226; EPA and DHA - Cold water fish (IE halibut, herring, mackerel, salmon and sardines) andamp;#8226; ALA andamp;#8211; canola oil, flaxseeds and oil, pumpkin seeds and oil, perilla seed oil, purslane, walnuts and oil. andamp;#8226; Enriched foods andamp;#8211; Itandamp;#8217;s also not a bad idea to eat foods that have had omega-3 included in their ingredients such as omega-3 margarine and omega-3 eggs.

In order to ensure you are receiving the recommended amount of omega-3 in your diet to help treat your Crohnandamp;#8217;s condition, you should eat two-three servings of fish each week (approximately 1,250 mg of EPA and DHA a day). If you find it difficult to eat this amount of fish in a week, talk to your doctor about taking fish oil supplements.

Finally, although omega-3 fatty acids can help improve many of the symptoms in Crohnandamp;#8217;s disease sufferers, remember that medical research is still being conducted to find out how beneficial fish oil supplements are for inflammatory bowel disease. While it has shown many positive side effects, some patients in studies concerning the anti-inflammatory affects of fish oils encountered symptoms of halitosis (bad breath), belching, diarrhea and constipation. Sharon Dobson has an interest in Crohn's Disease. Further information on Crohn's Disease please visit http://www.natural-crohns-disease-relief.com/crohnsdisease.html or http://www.natural-crohns-disease-relief.com/blog/2006/12/21/what-crohns-disease-sufferers-need-to-know-about-omega-3-fatty-acids .. ]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/hidden-dangerwho-else-with-rheumatoid-arthritis-has-anemia http://www.artwoo.com/article/hidden-dangerwho-else-with-rheumatoid-arthritis-has-anemia#comments Fri, 14 Dec 2007 02:35:01 +0000 iron deficiency anemiaerythrocyte sedimentation ratered blood cellsc reactive proteinanemia of chronic diseasesystemic autoimmune diseaseanti inflammatory drugs http://www.artwoo.com/article/hidden-dangerwho-else-with-rheumatoid-arthritis-has-anemia
Because it is a systemic condition, it affects more than joints. Like other inflammatory conditions, RA causes anemia. The anemia is not the result of bleeding (although some patients treated with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can develop gastrointestinal bleeding), or deficiency of vitamin B12, folate, or iron.

This type of anemia is called the anemia of chronic disease (ACD).

Patients with RA who develop anemia are more likely to have more severe joint disease, worse quality of life indicators, and more severe disease.

As mentioned earlier, while m some patients with RA can develop an iron deficiency anemia as a result of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug therapy and subsequent gastrointestinal blood loss, most anemia (60%) associated with RA is due to ACD.

While it is difficult sometimes to differentiate iron deficiency anemia from ACD, there are laboratory characteristics that separate them. The key differentiating feature is that iron deficiency anemia is due to an absolute lack of iron. ACD is not due to iron deficiency- there's plenty of iron available; ACD is due to an inability to unlock the iron that is available.

Another complicating problem is that some patients with RA have both types of anemia.

ACD is due to systemic inflammation. The severity of ACD can be predicted by the amount of elevation of laboratory markers of inflammation such as the erythrocyte sedimentation rate ("sed rate") and the C- reactive protein (CRP).

In RA, many chemical mediators of inflammations, called cytokines, are overproduced. These cytokines inhibit the ability of iron stores to be used.

These inflammatory cytokines affect the production of red blood cells at different levels.

One inflammatory cytokine, interleukin-6 (IL-6) adversely affects iron utilization by causing increased production of hepcidin. Hepcidin is an inflammatory protein that prevents release of iron from cells called macrophages. It also reduces absorption of iron from the small intestine.

Other cytokines such as interferon-y and tumor necrosis factor (TNF) block the production of erythropoietin, a hormone that is critically needed for the production of red blood cells. In addition, TNF and interleukin-1 (IL-1) prevent the maturation of red blood cells.

The net effect is a marked reduction of iron available to make red cells.

Studies on anemia in rheumatoid arthritis have produced interesting data. Patients with ACD have more severe disease. If patients have a good response to RA treatment, the anemia improves at the same time. Some data exists that treatment of the ACD will also help improve the symptoms of RA.

The association of inflammatory mediators with the development of ACD indicates that anemia should be monitored during the course of therapy in patients with RA.

Newer biologic agents such as tocilizumab which block the effects of interleukin-6 may help with the resolution of ACD. Preliminary pilot data has shown that blockade of IL-6 in RA patients helps improve quality of life and improves fatigue coincident with the resolution of anemia. Nathan Wei, MD FACP FACR is a rheumatologist and Director of the Arthritis and Osteoporosis Center of Maryland. He is a Clinical Assistant Professor of Medicine at the University of Maryland School of Medicine. For more info: http://www.arthritis-treatment-and-relief.com/arthritis-treatment.html ]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/ovarian-cyst-symptoms-timely-diagnosis-is-crucial-to-your-health http://www.artwoo.com/article/ovarian-cyst-symptoms-timely-diagnosis-is-crucial-to-your-health#comments Sun, 03 Aug 2008 01:50:31 +0000 ovarian cyst symptomspain in the vaginaovarian cystsroutine physical examinationpelvic girdledetectable symptomsirregular periods http://www.artwoo.com/article/ovarian-cyst-symptoms-timely-diagnosis-is-crucial-to-your-health ovarian cysts hardly produce any detectable symptoms, it is difficult to lay down a list of what ovarian cyst symptoms are. In most cases, such symptoms come to light when the woman concerned is going through a routine physical examination or sometimes by chance on ultrasound, which might have been performed for totally different reasons. In any event, let us take you through some of these symptoms.

Prominent symptoms

Prominent ovarian cyst symptoms include abdominal pain or pain in the lower pelvis which might be sharp and sudden and also very severe; irregular periods; a feeling of fullness or pressure in the pelvic or lower abdominal regions; long-term pain on the pelvic girdle which extends to the lower back during menstrual periods; pain in the pelvic region after sexual intercourse or strenuous exercise; pain or a feeling of pressure at the time of bowel movements or urination; nausea and vomiting; vaginal blood spotting or pain in the vagina; tenderness of the breasts and gaining of weight.

However, it must be noted that the ovarian cyst symptoms which we have quoted above are all quite generic and may be caused by conditions totally unconnected with ovarian cysts such as endometriosis, ectopic pregnancy or inflammatory disease of the pelvis or some other illnesses. So what you need to do is visit your doctor if you have any of the above mentioned symptoms to obtain an accurate diagnosis as to the presence of ovarian cysts.

Serious cases

In cases of a more serious nature, where ovarian cysts turn hazardous to the patient's health, symptoms of their presence in the body is exhibited by dizziness or light-headedness, severe abdominal pains, fatigue, fever, rapid breathing and/or shortness of breath and other symptoms also. If you happen to be facing any of the problems mentioned above, consult a doctor immediately. With medical sciences having reached such glorious heights, medication is bound to be available for curing all manners of ovarian cysts.

There are a large number of treatments available nowadays for the curing of ovarian cysts, but most women prefer to rely on home based remedies which includes a number of steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as Tylenol (acetaminophen) or Motrin (ibuprofen) and other medicines which tackle narcotic pain. It might help if the patient restricts all strenuous activities as that would reduce torsion or cyst rupture. But it is a recognized truth that the best way of treating ovarian cysts in an effective manner is through the Holistic Approach. The monitoring of the cysts is carried out through what is called endovaginal ultrasound or ultrasonic observation.

Complications

A very large ovarian cyst is likely to cause abdominal discomfort, and if a cyst which is sizeable presses against your bladder, you are likely to urinate quite often as the capacity of your bladder will get reduced. Some women develop cysts which are of an uncommon nature and do not produce any symptoms. But their doctors will find out about these cysts while carrying out a pelvic examination. Ovarian cysts which form after a woman reaches menopause could be cancerous, so it is very important to take medical checks on your pelvic region regularly. You can now understand why it would be wholly incorrect for you to ignore any of the symptoms that have been mentioned here.

A word of caution

It would of course be unwise to depend only on the symptoms to come to the conclusion that you are suffering from ovarian cysts because you might not exhibit any symptoms at all. Even if you do show symptoms, there is a likelihood of these symptoms being the same as those exhibited by other illnesses such as the pelvic disease relating to inflammation, ovarian cancer, endometriosis, or ectopic pregnancy. Also, diseases such as appendicitis and Diverticulitis can produce symptoms which mimic the symptoms of ovarian cysts which have ruptured. But despite these uncertainties, it is imperative to keep a careful watch on symptoms or changes in the body to ensure that nothing serious is taking place. If indeed you are suffering from the problem of ovarian cysts, the symptoms we have enumerated in the two paragraphs at the beginning will help you in diagnosing this disease. Symptoms which call for immediate medical attention include those relating to pain followed with vomiting or feeling feverish and also shooting and severe pain in the abdominal or pelvic regions.

Holistic approach

The holistic approach is being preferred nowadays in dealing with all forms of diseases and this also holds true for ovarian cysts. Holism as a "Health Concept" has been in existence for many years. But it is only recently that the holistic approach has begun to be integrated with the mainstream system of health care. This approach will not only help counter the problem of ovarian cysts completely, but will also provide a patient with physical and mental peace. The holistic approach should not be misunderstood to mean that it is a form of treatment. What it is is an approach which explains the way treatment should be applied. This means that if a sufferer gets to detect the symptoms of ovarian cysts soon enough, the holistic approach can work wonders.

"A Healthy Mind In A Healthy Body" is the principle on which the holistic approach works. This approach can help prevent ovarian cysts from even appearing and, if they do, it can cure this condition. The primary step of the holistic approach is to deal with the diet. It believes that a balanced and wholesome diet is essentially what will give a person a sound physique and build her resistance. The diet which it considers as balanced includes fruits, minerals, leafy vegetables and proteins. What have to be avoided strictly are fatty substances as well as excessive amounts taken of carbohydrates. If the body and also its surroundings are maintained in a proper state of cleanliness, ovarian cysts will cease to be a cause of worry and ovarian cyst symptoms will not prove troublesome anymore.Mary Parker is an author of the best-selling e-book, "Ovarian Cysts No More- The Secrets Of Curing Ovarian Cysts Holistically ". To Learn More About Her Unique 3-Step Holistic Ovarian Cysts Cure System Visit: Ovarian Cysts No More . For further information visit: Ovarian Cysts Symptoms]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/why-pelvic-floor-exercises-benefit-men-as-well-as-women http://www.artwoo.com/article/why-pelvic-floor-exercises-benefit-men-as-well-as-women#comments Tue, 22 Jan 2008 17:35:00 +0000 http://www.artwoo.com/article/why-pelvic-floor-exercises-benefit-men-as-well-as-women ]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/the-nature-of-crohns-disease http://www.artwoo.com/article/the-nature-of-crohns-disease#comments Sat, 09 Dec 2006 14:27:05 +0000 crohn s diseaseulcerative colitisinflammatory bowel diseasesuperficial layerssmall intestinewhite blood cellsgastrointestinal tract http://www.artwoo.com/article/the-nature-of-crohns-disease small intestine. Crohn's disease is chronic and causes inflammation of the digestive or gastrointestinal tract. Crohn's belongs to a category of illnesses known as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). One disease related to Crohn's is known as ulcerative colitis, and also belongs to IBD category of disease. The symptoms of both diseases are very similar and it is often difficult to accurately diagnose. Nearly one in ten of ulcerative colitis and misdiagnosed as indeterminate colitis. The strong, and to some what, identical symptoms of the two diseases both show signs or cause the response of the bodies immune system to be described as abnormal.

in our immune system we have cells and proteins to protect us. attacks often occur on intestinal bacteria or microbes thinking they are foreign and so begin attacking what is in fact cells that occur naturally in our bodies. This process inevitably causes ulcerations and bowel injury. This occurs because the white blood cells that move in to affected area produce chronic inflammation. These are the symptoms of Inflammatory Bowel Disease.

Crohn's disease can affect the gastrointestinal tract and is most commonly found at the beginning of the large intestine and the end of the small intestine. The other disease mentioned earlier, ulcerative colitis, is only seen to occur in the colon, and only affects the superficial layers of the colon. It usually begins at the anus and moves progressively towards the colon. In Crohn's disease, all layers of the bowel can be involved and the disease can affect different isolated areas within the bowel.

What the exact cause of IBD is still unknown. It seems to appear that the immune system once turned on, knows not how to turn it's self back off. Some studies suggest that foreign particles trigger the immune system defenses, but there is no conclusive evidence to back up this theory. You may be wondering just how safe are you from developing an IBD disorder. Again there is very little known about this but it can be caused by a complex interaction of factors. Some of the factors that may contribute to someone developing Crohn's disease are environmental factors, human genetics, possibly hereditary, and the immune system itself. Many scientists now believe that it is foreign bodies (virus or bacteria) that trigger a response of the immune system to fight, and then lead to the disease it's self when immune system is unable to stop. Janie Jonah http://www.perfectdrugrx.com (c) 2006, PerfectDrugRx. All rights in all media reserved. Reprints must include byline, contact information and copyright. ]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/pelvic-floor-exercises-for-men-facing-prostate-surgery-the-sooner-the-better http://www.artwoo.com/article/pelvic-floor-exercises-for-men-facing-prostate-surgery-the-sooner-the-better#comments Tue, 05 Aug 2008 20:44:26 +0000 pelvic floor musclescorrect exercise techniquespelvic floor exercisesprostate cancer surgeryincontinence parispelvic floor muscleparis 2008 http://www.artwoo.com/article/pelvic-floor-exercises-for-men-facing-prostate-surgery-the-sooner-the-better prostate cancer surgery should begin a program of pelvic floor muscle exercises (also known as kegel exercises) before surgery, and continue afterwards. That's the new recommendation from the Expert Committees on the Adult Conservative Management of Incontinence at the International Consultation on Incontinence, Paris, 2008.

This expert recommendation follows a number of research studies that have shown that the sooner men begin pelvic floor exercises after surgery, the less likely they are to experience the very common side effects of long-term incontinence and erectile dysfunction. Men who have learned and practised the correct exercise techniques prior to surgery are able to start exercises immediately after surgery, and therefore give themselves a head start in recovery.

Prostate surgery, for both benign and malignant conditions, has common side-effects of urinary incontinence and erectile dysfunction. Most patients suffer from these side-effects immediately after surgery, and whilst some experience a gradual improvement, studies show that a substantial proportion are still suffering from these distressing problems five years later. In the longer term, sufferers often resort to drugs, mechanical devices and even more surgery in their efforts to find solutions, but easy exercises immediately after surgery, and continued for the following months, are a much less expensive and damaging option.

So what is the correct technique for men wanting to exercise their pelvic floor muscles?

Identify the pelvic floor muscles:

Firstly, find the appropriate muscles around the anus and the urethra (the "tube' that carries the urine from the bladder when passing urine).

Sit or lie down comfortably with the muscles of the thighs, bottom and stomach relaxed. Tighten the ring of muscle around the anus, but do not squeeze the "cheeks" of the backside.

To feel these muscles around the urethra, try to stop the flow of urine mid-stream, and then restart it. It is very important that this is done only in order to identify the muscles in the first place. If done frequently, this could affect the ability to pass urine.

Exercise the pelvic floor muscles:

Once the pelvic floor muscles have been located, try to exercise them:

• Tighten and pull in the muscles around the anus and urethra, lifting up the muscles inside at the same time

• Count to five, then release the muscles, and relax. There should be a definite feeling of letting go.

• Repeat this contraction for no more than 8 to 10 squeezes, resting for 10 seconds after each contraction.

• Finish with 5 to 10 short, strong squeezes in quick succession.

• Repeat the slow and quick squeezes around four to five times a day.

Whilst some men find it easy to exercise these muscles, others find it very hard to identify, isolate and contract their pelvic floor muscles without help. Professional help is available from your medical practitioner or from a physical therapist who specializes in pelvic floor work. Exercise programs on DVD, and exercise aids and devices can also be useful for men who prefer to exercise in privacy at home.

So if you, or someone you care about, is facing prostate surgery, follow the recommendation of the experts and make sure that pelvic floor (kegel) exercises are on the agenda. Start sooner, not later, and maximize the chance of a full recovery and a return to a high quality of life after surgery.Linda McClelland is the founder of Pelvic Floor Exercise, providing information, links, services and products to help both women and men worldwide achieve a stronger, healthier pelvic floor. Visit her at http://www.pelvicfloorexercise.com.au.]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/fit-women-are-at-higher-risk-of-stress-incontinence-but-help-is-available http://www.artwoo.com/article/fit-women-are-at-higher-risk-of-stress-incontinence-but-help-is-available#comments Thu, 14 Aug 2008 23:08:20 +0000 pelvic floor musclespelvic floor exercisepelvic floor musclestress incontinenceexercise aidstime leaksexercise regime http://www.artwoo.com/article/fit-women-are-at-higher-risk-of-stress-incontinence-but-help-is-available stress incontinence than other women. Research has shown that 80% of elite trampolinists suffer from this problem, and at least 30% of women over 45 admit that it happens to them during physical activity. If you engage in any activity that increases abdominal pressure, such as jumping, jogging and skipping, it is quite likely that you will experience the small leaks of urine known as "stress incontinence".

Because physically active women are more likely to be engaged in these high-impact activities, they are more likely to experience these leaks, and they need stronger pelvic floor muscles than the average woman to withstand the effects of their exercise programs.

Women are frequently tempted to give up jogging, and similar activities, in order to avoid these embarrassing leaks. But the problem with simply avoiding high impact activities is that avoidance doesn't fix the underlying problem that is causing the urine leakage. Over time, leaks can become more frequent and occur even during low impact activities.

Fortunately there is an answer.

For the great majority of women, stress incontinence responds extremely well to pelvic floor exercises. Building pelvic floor muscle strength has been identified as a successful approach by countless researchers, and is recommended internationally as the first line of therapy. If you are already an active woman with a lifestyle that includes regular exercise, it's just a question of incorporating some additional exercises into your existing program.

If your pelvic floor muscles are already badly weakened, you may need the advice of a health professional before embarking on a pelvic floor exercise program. But if you only experience occasional leaks, you may prefer to try a simple exercise regime for yourself initially. You may also find that easy-to-use and affordable exercise aids can help you to develop correct exercise technique, and provide feedback on your increasing muscle strength. Exercise aids are also useful if you are one of the 50% of women who find pelvic floor exercises too difficult to do from verbal or written instructions.

Start exercising your pelvic floor muscles by trying two simple exercises.

Firstly, tighten the muscles around your back passage, vagina and front passage and lift up inside as if trying to stop passing wind and urine at the same time. It is very easy to bring other, irrelevant muscles into play, so try to isolate your pelvic floor muscles as much as possible by not pulling in your tummy, not squeezing your legs together, not tightening your buttocks and not holding your breath.

The effort should be coming from the pelvic floor muscles themselves.

Hold the contraction for as long as you can, building up to a maximum of 10 seconds. Rest for 4 seconds and then repeat the contraction as many times as you can up to a maximum of 10 contractions.

Try to do these exercises in a slow and controlled way with a rest of 4 seconds between each muscle contraction. Practise your maximum number of held contractions (up to 10) about six times each day.

The second exercise uses the same muscles but works them quickly to help them react to sudden stresses. Practise some quick contractions, drawing in the pelvic floor and holding for just one second before releasing the muscles. Do these steadily, aiming for a strong muscle tightening with each contraction up to a maximum of 10 times.

Try to do one set of slow contractions, followed by one set of quick contractions, six times each day.

Do these exercises regularly and you will see results within 3 to 6 months, but you should continue them for life to keep your pelvic floor muscles as fit as possible.Linda McClelland is the founder of Pelvic Floor Exercise, providing information, links, services and products to help both women and men worldwide achieve a stronger, healthier pelvic floor. Visit her at http://www.pelvicfloorexercise.com.au]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/what-are-ectopic-pregnancies-tubal-pregnancies-and-what-are-the-risks-for-the-mother http://www.artwoo.com/article/what-are-ectopic-pregnancies-tubal-pregnancies-and-what-are-the-risks-for-the-mother#comments Mon, 30 Jul 2007 17:40:00 +0000 signs of tubal pregnancyectopic pregnancypregnancy signspelvic inflammatory diseasemissed periodsfrequent urinationfertilized egg http://www.artwoo.com/article/what-are-ectopic-pregnancies-tubal-pregnancies-and-what-are-the-risks-for-the-mother Ectopic pregnancy The word ectopic literally means `out if place'. Basically during an ectopic pregnancy, a completely fertilized egg is simply places itself outside the uterus for gestation. The slightly developed foetus then reconciles in the sac that is enclosed by the fallopian tube. This happens almost 95% of the times and hence due to this sole reason it is also called tubal pregnancy. The various cavities like abdomen, ovary or even the cervix cannot be as good as the uterus for the nurturing of the foetus. During an ectopic pregnancy, in the very initial stage the growing foetus tend to burst the placental bag that contains it. This ends up in excessive internal bleeding and the mother and child both are at equivalent risk. It is believed that a conventional tubal pregnancy never results in childbirth.

Symptoms and signs of tubal pregnancy - The ectopic pregnancy is extremely difficult to detect. The difference between the normal and tubal pregnancy is marginal and hence diagnosing an ectopic pregnancy is not very easy. The symptoms of this kind of pregnancy simply resemble normal pregnancy signs like missed periods, tender breasts, nausea, morning sickness and frequent urination. - The prospective mother may experience severe abdomen pain and pelvic aches during this period. The blood clot due to the rupture of the tissues during the ectopic pregnancy can harm the surrounding nerves. - The internal bleeding generally results in vaginal spotting and bleeding. This blood loss results in giddiness and seizures.

- The blood pressure lowers considerably. This is again due to the external blood loss.

Causes of a Ectopic pregnancy The primary cause for an ectopic pregnancy is the inefficiency of the fertilized egg to place itself in its decided place. It is unable to move through to the uterus through the fallopian tubes. This situation arises if there is any obstruction in the passage due to some infection or disease. The PID (Pelvic inflammatory disease) results in a barricade in the passage and the baby foetus hence starts developing somewhere near the fallopian tube. Even some past surgical operations and endometriosis results in the fallopian tube being jammed those results in the path being blocked.

Treatment and Remedies The treatment for the tubal pregnancy is subjective to the situation and the condition of the mother and the fertilized egg. Injections of methotrexate are available. If vaccinated initially, one can directly diffuse all the cells and reabsorb them. This way is useful as it prevents any surgical complications. A laparoscopic operation is the prevalent way to treat such abnormalities during the gestation period.

Effects on prospective mother It becomes quite critical for almost 30% women to conceive again. The future pregnancies basically depend on the extent of damage that is caused to the fallopian tube and the uterine sac. The mother even after a tubal pregnancy or a mishap, with specialized advice and prenatal care can afford to experience a healthy pregnancy. Chris Puetz is providing a discussion platform for women to talk about pregnancy, parenting, and health related topics. The women's forum can be found at http://www.6eggs.com ]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/how-you-combated-pelvic-congestion http://www.artwoo.com/article/how-you-combated-pelvic-congestion#comments Tue, 19 Aug 2008 11:29:20 +0000 pelvic congestioncongestion problemsannoying conditionvaricose veinsbiological childtrying to have a babyhormone treatment http://www.artwoo.com/article/how-you-combated-pelvic-congestion
Oh, those were the days -- the days before you started suffering from pelvic congestion. You have no idea how the condition started, but the fact is that you're pretty upset it has. Your pelvic congestion problems came to light a year or two ago, when you and your husband started trying for a baby.

You'd never given it too much thought when you experienced discomfort during sex with your husband -- you thought it was just because he was so well-endowed. Oh, if only it were that! You had a couple of what you thought were varicose veins from your gymnast days, and they were treated as such, until a second opinion landed you with the pelvic congestion diagnosis.

Specifically, you were told that pelvic congestion is caused by pelvic vein leakage, which constricts blood flow to the heart. This condition can also end up affecting your uterus and ovaries, and you definitely don't want that happening. You've always said that (aside from being a gymnast -- yeah right) motherhood was the vocation you most wanted to do.

So, the doctor (such a lovely man) that diagnosed this annoying condition has now referred you to a specialist. The specialist tells you that, as it stands, hormone treatment might help, as might radiation. Well, that would be fine, you think, if you weren't trying to have a baby!

The news gets a tad bit worse, when the specialist informs you that, as a last resort, a hysterectomy might be needed. Your legs twitch (hey, they're still flexible!). You can tell that they desperately want to kick this specialist in the face.

Well, no way are your dreams of having a biological child going to be dashed because of this. You take no precautions, and have some of your eggs frozen before treatment starts. As for your husband, well, it will be quite easy to get him to contribute. Who knew that those dirty magazines he tried to hide in his nightstand drawer could actually be of some help!

You begin the hormone treatment. You'd always had terrible PMS, so you wonder if it will only exacerbate the problem. You think about getting your husband a suit of armor just in case. Well, the hormone treatment worked only a little, and so it's on to radiation.

Thankfully, this treatment has worked, and your specialist has informed you that a hysterectomy won't be needed. You consider hugging him (hey, those arms are still kind of toned!). Oh, what the heck, you do hug him. Once the treatment is safely eliminated from your body, it's back to baby making, and maybe gymnastics.More information on varicose veins, spider veins and a Scottsdale vein center in your area is just a click away.]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/mum-i-have-std http://www.artwoo.com/article/mum-i-have-std#comments Thu, 18 May 2006 09:32:04 +0000 sexually transmitted diseasesvenereal diseasessexually transmitted diseasestd testingstd clinicgenital wartssexual contact http://www.artwoo.com/article/mum-i-have-std sexually transmitted diseases have been called the 21st century plague.

Sexually transmitted disease includes well-known diseases like gonorrhea and syphilis, but also genital warts, genital herpes and chlamydia.

The stigma of what used to be called venereal diseases has largely gone, partly because everyone knows someone who has had to visit the STD clinic. Nice girls catch STDs, too.

STDs are transmitted by sexual contact. The more people you have sexual contact with, the greater your chance of having sex with someone who has STD and the greater the chance that you will be infected too. You can catch STD if the first person you have sexual intercourse with is infected, so it is not necessarily a sign of sexual license. Check out http://www.std-testing.info for more information.

Most sexually transmitted diseases respond to treatment if caught in the early stages. Some, like syphilis and gonorrhea respond to antibiotics. Genital warts may need to be frozen off with liquid nitrogen. Not all hepatitis infections are treatable.

Many of these diseases have no symptoms. Gonorrhea may cause painful urination in males, but no immediate symptoms in females. Chlamydia has no immediate symptoms in males or females, yet if left untreated will cause infertility and pelvic inflammatory disease in females.

Because of the lack of symptoms, it is advisable for any adult who is sexually active to be tested for STDs. The consequences of a night of passion could be life-long and result in insanity or death at an early age if STDs are not detected and treated.

Diagnosis is simple; a swab is taken and sent for analysis. If the laboratory finds a positive result you will be asked back for treatment. If the result is positive you may be asked for a list of sexual contacts, or be asked to contact anyone you have had sexual relations with, so those people can also be treated.

AIDS/HIV is the sexually transmitted disease that everyone is aware of, but many people forget the older and more common diseases that also kill. Condoms help reduce the risk of STD transmission; they do not remove the risk entirely. Ciara McGrath is a full time mother to four teenage daughters between 13 and 19, including 17 year old twins. For more information for parents of teenagers check out http://www.abortion-help-now.info or http://www.hiv-aids-testing.info ]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/common-medications-for-crohns-disease http://www.artwoo.com/article/common-medications-for-crohns-disease#comments Sat, 02 Sep 2006 00:27:05 +0000 crohns diseaseanti inflammatory drugsanti inflammatory medicationsflare upscorticosteroidsantibioticsimmunomodulators http://www.artwoo.com/article/common-medications-for-crohns-disease
Oftentimes, the first medicines called upon in the fight against Crohn's Disease are anti-inflammatory drugs. This should come as no surprise as Crohn's manifests itself as inflammation in the intestinal lining. There are various types of anti-inflammatory medications available. Not every drug is effective for every person. Some of the medications work well for mild cases while others work better for more severe flare-ups.

Corticosteroids are amazing when dealing with severe episodes of Crohn's Disease. However, since they work by lowering the effectiveness of the immune system the effect is like taking your goalie out in a hockey game. This is why corticosteroids are not normally given to those with mild flare-ups. The side-effects can be severe so medical doctors normally are cautious when prescribing them.

Immunomodulators are not as powerful as corticosteroids, but they work in the same fashion. However, immunomodulators do not come with the side-effects that their close cousins bring. These drugs are great for helping those in remission stay in that stable state.

Since infections have been closely tied to Crohn's Disease it makes sense that antibiotics are often effective in the good fight. One of the major concerns about using antibiotics is the tendency for them to become less effective as time goes on. The more a person uses a certain antibiotic the greater resistance the bacteria in the body will build up a resistance to it. In addition, using antibiotics can also destroy good bacteria that aid the body in digestion.

Another weapon in the arsenal against Crohn's Disease is through the use of biologic therapy. This type of therapy is normally reserved for the most severe flare-ups. This form of therapy is like a nuclear bomb to the immune system -- minus the radiation. It results in a knock-out of the immune system's ability to produce TNF-alpha -- a protein associated with inflammation.

Surprisingly, antidepressants are also used to battle Crohn's Disease -- but not in the way you are thinking. Antidepressants do not battle inflammation or eliminate fistulas. Actually, they work on beating back the psychological effects of the disease which can be highly disconcerting. One of the worst symptoms of Crohn's is depression. The pain, worry, and discomfort of the disease can often drive someone with Crohn's into deep depression. When depressed, people usually do not respond as well to treatments and the immune system may also be compromised. There are many medications available for the treatment of Crohn's Disease. The best plan of action is to visit your doctor and discuss available treatments. Remember, defeating Crohn's Disease is possible but it will be a lifelong cause. Sharon Dobson has an interest in Crohn's Disease. For further information on Crohn's Disease please visit http://www.natural-crohns-disease-relief.com/crohnsdisease.html or http://natural-crohns-disease-relief.com/blog/2006/08/26/common-medications-for-crohn%e2%80%99s-disease/ .. ]]>