sigmoidoscopy http://www.artwoo.com Returned search results for sigmoidoscopy Copyright 2008 Sun, 23 Nov 2008 04:55:45 +0000 http://www.artwoo.com/rss/sigmoidoscopy Hemorrhoids Tests http://www.artwoo.com/article/hemorrhoids-tests http://www.artwoo.com/article/hemorrhoids-tests#comments Mon, 06 Nov 2006 16:27:10 +0000 internal hemorrhoidsproctoscopysigmoidoscopyproctoscoperectal areahollow tubeaccurate diagnosis http://www.artwoo.com/article/hemorrhoids-tests accurate diagnosis and reduce your hemorrhoid-related pain.

An anoscope is the first type of commonly-used test for hemorrhoids. The doctor will use the anoscope to make verify that hemorrhoids are the problem. The anoscope, essentially a short with a light on the end of it, is inserted approximately two inches into the anal canal. The light will allow the doctor to see the blood vessels, if they are swollen and to what degree. It is not necessary to fast before this procedure.

is the second test used for hemorrhoid diagnosis. A is very similar to the anoscope. It also consists of a hollow tube that is inserted into the colon. The light at the end, however, extends farther into the . This is usually required if you having problems with . It allows the physician to ascertain whether the bleeding is from hemorrhoids or is resultant from other digestive problems.

A third type of test is called a . With this specific type of test, as with the two previous, there will be a hollow tube with a light on the end that is inserted into your rectal area. The sigmoidoscope is more flexible and allows the doctor to examine further into the rectal area. During the course of a sigmoidoscopy, the doctor will not only be able to examine the rectal area, but also remove any growth taking place in your digestive system that may be causing the hemorrhoids. The main reason a doctor would choose to use a sigmoidoscope is to bend around the colon to view the edges that may have the hemorrhoids attached to them. With a sigmoidoscopy, it is important that the colon is empty. In order to clean out the colon, you may be required to take a laxative, use an enema or both, depending on your needs. This allows them better identify problems within the colon or in the rectal area. Linda Williams contributes articles to several online magazines, especially http://bosiv.com and http://nedod.com ]]> Diagnosing Hemorrhoids http://www.artwoo.com/article/diagnosing-hemorrhoids http://www.artwoo.com/article/diagnosing-hemorrhoids#comments Sat, 06 Jan 2007 22:27:05 +0000 internal hemorrhoidssigmoidoscopyrectumproctoscopecolonoscopylumpsrectal bleeding http://www.artwoo.com/article/diagnosing-hemorrhoids rectal bleeding and discomfort and think that you may have hemorrhoids, you may want to have your symptoms checked out by a doctor. Knowing what to expect of your visit can help you to feel more comfortable during your examination. Also, by understanding what will occur, you will be better prepared to get the help that you need for your hemorrhoids.

The first thing to consider is that is important to get a proper diagnoses. Even if you are certain that you have hemorrhoids, even if it is not the first time that you have had them, you should still see your physician and be examined. There are several other digestive disorders that could be contributing to the problem -- some of them serious. Rectal bleeding can even be due to cancer, so it is important that you get it checked out.

The first thing your doctor will do is examine the anus and the rectal area. He or she will look for swollen blood vessels. These are a major symptom of hemorrhoids. Your physician will check for in the skin close to the anus. He or she will then will then use a lubricated glove to examine you internally. Your physician will feel for lumps or abnormalities along the wall of the . These lumps and abnormalities can be signs of hemorrhoids.

One of the tools that doctors will often use when examining for hemorrhoids is a . This is a hollow tube with a light on it. It is inserted into the rectum and allows the doctor to more easily see any problems in that area. This instrument is most often used if are suspected. Your doctor will be able to examine the lining of the rectum, determine if there is anything unusual or abnormal on the lining of the rectum, and determine if these abnormalities are hemorrhoids.

If your doctor is unable to determine the cause of the hemorrhoids, he ore she has the option of performing a or . In this procedure, your doctor inserts a hollow tube (similar to the proctoscope) into your rectum and colon. In this manner he or she can examine not only the frontal area of the rectum, but into the intestinal area as well. This same tool is what doctors use to diagnose bleeding and discomfort not related to hemorrhoids.

If you have been experiencing symptoms of hemorrhoids, it is important to be examined by a physician to determine that there is not a larger problem. By knowing the cause of your problem, you can treat the bleeding and discomfort and get on with your life. Hemorrhoids don't have to interfere with your life if you seek treatment now. William Brown writes for several Internet magazines, including http://online-healthy.com and http://healthy-zone.com ]]> Colon Cancer - Diagnosis, Causes, Symptoms, Treatement, and Prognosis http://www.artwoo.com/article/colon-cancer-diagnosis-causes-symptoms-treatement-and-prognosis http://www.artwoo.com/article/colon-cancer-diagnosis-causes-symptoms-treatement-and-prognosis#comments Sun, 03 Aug 2008 05:22:23 +0000 symptoms of colon cancersigns and symptoms of colon cancercolon tumourscolon tumorscolon cancerstomach cancerlarge intestine http://www.artwoo.com/article/colon-cancer-diagnosis-causes-symptoms-treatement-and-prognosis Colon cancer is cancer of the (colon), the lower part of your digestive system. Colon cancer is the second most common cancer in the USA with equal distribution between men and women. usually affect people over the age of 40, with the majority of people who are diagnosed with the condition being over 60 years of age. Colon cancer may affect any racial or ethnic group; however, some studies suggest that Americans of northern European heritage have a higher-than-average risk of .

INCIDENCE OF COLON CANCER

Colon cancer is more common in industrialized nations and in those societies where red meat is a major part of the diet, although evidence tends to suggest that merely changing your diet to white meat and seafood as in for instance Japan, tends to just swap for colon cancer. In almost all cases colon cancer is a treatable disease if caught early.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS

Colon cancer usually begins with the appearance of benign growths such as polyps. Often there are no early symptoms. If signs and do appear, they may include: a change in your bowel habits, including diarrhea or constipation or a change in the consistency of your stool for more than a couple of weeks, rectal bleeding or blood in your stool, persistent abdominal discomfort, such as cramps, gas or pain, abdominal pain with a bowel movement, a feeling that your bowel doesn't empty completely, weakness or fatigue and unexplained weight loss.

CAUSES OF COLON CANCER

Colon cancer's exact cause is unknown, but it appears to be influenced by both inherited and environmental factors. Studies show a concentration in areas of higher economic development suggesting a relationship to diet, particularly excess animal fat and low fiber. Other factors that increase the risk of developing colon tumors are: age over 40, the presence of other diseases of the digestive tract, family history and ulcerative colitis.

Development of colon cancer at an early age, or at multiple sites, or recurrent colon cancer, suggests a genetically transmitted form of the disease as opposed to the sporadic form. There also is a slight increased risk for colon carcinoma in the individual who smokes.

The most common colon cancer cell type is adenocarcinoma which accounts for 95% of cases.

DIAGNOSIS

The development of polyps of the colon usually precedes the development of colon cancer by five or more years. The American Gastroenterologial Association revised its screening guidelines in 2003 to recommend that people with two or more first-degree relatives with colorectal cancer or a first-degree relative with colon or rectal cancer before age 60 should have a screening colonoscopy beginning at age 40 or beginning 10 years prior to the age of the earlier colon cancer diagnosis in their family (whichever is earliest). Those with a first-degree relative diagnosed with colon cancer after age 60 or two second-degree relative with colon or rectal cancer should begin screening at age 40 with one of the methods listed above, such as annual sigmoidoscopy. The most common colon cancer screening tests are colonoscopy, sigmoidoscopy, and fecal occult blood test.

CT scans and Barium enemas are also routinely used for diagnosis of colon and rectal cancers.

TREATMENT OF COLON CANCER

Almost all colon tumors are treated with surgery first, regardless of stage. The malignant tumor, adjacent tissues and any lymph nodes that may contain cancer cells are removed.

In colon cancer, chemotherapy after surgery is usually only given if the cancer has spread to the lymph nodes (Stage III). Radiation therapy may also be used to induce tumor regression. As with other cancer treatments, the incidence of side effects varies with patient health and the exact nature of the treatment.

PREVENTION

There is not an absolute method for preventing colon cancer. Still, there are steps an individual can take to dramatically lessen the risk or to identify the precursors of colon cancer so that it does not manifest itself. People who turn age 50, and all of those with a history of colon cancer in their families, should speak with their physicians about the most recent screening recommendations from physician and cancer organizations. They should watch for symptoms and attend all recommended screenings to increase the likelihood of catching colon cancer early. Exercise is believed to reduce the risk of colon cancer. Apparently, no association exists between frequency of bowel movement or laxative use and risk of colon cancer.

PROGNOSIS

Prognosis depends on the stage of the disease and the overall health of the patient. If diagnosed early, before the tumor has spread from the bowel, these treatments are very effective, with about 90% of patients alive five years after diagnosis. If the colon cancer does not come back (recur) within 5 years, it is considered cured. Prognosis is poor in patients with liver and lung metastases.Dick Aronson has been involved in the healthcare industry for 35 years. He has written numerous articles on the subject and runs a number of informative websites, viz: Go to Cancer Information-online , Go to Gastrointestinal Cancer Information and Go to Health Innovations]]> Get Regular With This Constipation Remedy Guide http://www.artwoo.com/article/get-regular-with-this-constipation-remedy-guide http://www.artwoo.com/article/get-regular-with-this-constipation-remedy-guide#comments Fri, 09 Feb 2007 00:27:04 +0000 constipation remedieshigh fiber foodsmagnesium citratepreferablymagnesium hydroxidesorbitalsigmoidoscopy http://www.artwoo.com/article/get-regular-with-this-constipation-remedy-guide sigmoidoscopy or through a colonoscopy.

However there are number of around which should hopefully help to improve the situation as well as remove the problem.

A good one to use is to train your bowel. If you can attempt to have a bowel movement at the same time each day ( first thing in the morning) as this is when your colon activity is at its highest and you can practice this quite easily.

Ensure that you improve your eating habits but including plenty of (cereals), and lots of fresh fruit and vegetables. It is important that if you suffer from constipation you limit the amount of ice cream, cheese, meat and processed foods that you consume.

Drink plenty of water (about 1.5-2 litres each day) and avoid those drinks which can cause dehydration such as coffee and alcohol.

Also take up some form of regular exercise and not only will it help to alleviate the problems associated with constipation it will provide you with other health benefits as well.

However, if you find that are still not having regular bowel movements even if you have made the changes above then you wish to consider using a bulk forming laxative such Psyllium or Methylcellulose and they can be used for a long time without any side effects.

There are also other medications that can be used to remedy constipation such as Hyprosmotics, Lactulose, Polyethylene Glycol, Glycerin and as well as salines like , and Sodium Phosphate.

However if you have found that neither of the above methods work for you then you may try such medications as Anthraquinones such as Cascara Sagrada, Emollients such as Docusates, Senna and Mineral Oil.

There are also stimulants such as Phenolphthalein, Castor Oil or Bisacodyl which may also help to remedy the problems associated with constipation but such medications as these need to be used under strict supervision of a doctor or healthcare worker and only as a short term measure as most of these have some side effects.



People who are using laxatives should discontinue use slowly and after some time the colon will be restored to its normal working balance.

Finally, you should only use enemas or suppositories as an emergency treatment and if all else fails then surgery may be your only alternative. Lee Dobbins writes for http://www.colon-articles.com where you can learn more about having a healthy colon and read about more constipation remedies. ]]> Regular Check-up For Prevention Of Cancer http://www.artwoo.com/article/regular-check-up-for-prevention-of-cancer http://www.artwoo.com/article/regular-check-up-for-prevention-of-cancer#comments Mon, 31 Mar 2008 13:15:00 +0000 detecting breast cancercervical cancer screeningcancer of the rectumdigital rectal examinationcancer of the cervixcancer of the coloncervical lesions http://www.artwoo.com/article/regular-check-up-for-prevention-of-cancer detecting breast cancer while a tumour is very small, less than 1.00 cm, before it can be felt. More frequent mammography is required in women who have a family history of breast cancer. It may be noted that with this procedure breast cancer can be detected almost three years earlier than it would otherwise be detected on physical I clinical examination. It involves a very low I limited as well as safe exposure to radiation. Mass realization in this respect is urgently required.

2. Self-examination of the testes should be done by men every month after the age of 40.

3. A Papanicolaou's smear (commonly called Pap smear) is recommended, every year, after the age of 40, for the exclusion of the in females. This test plays an effective role in detecting precancerous and cancerous . It is valuable in a programme. An ultrasound, preferably transvaginal sonography, should also be carried out to rule out the malignancy of the uterus, especially of the cervix.

4. Both in men and women, digital-rectal examination (DRE) and proctoscopy examination, should be done every year after the age of 40, to exclude the possibility of and the anal canal. DRE examination will also be useful for diagnosing the cancer of the prostate (especially those with a family history of prostate cancer). If possible, even though it is a bit cumbersome, a colonoscopy I sigmoidoscopy examination should be carried out every 3-5 years, to exclude and of the rectum. A simple test of stool for blood or RBC, and if need be occult blood, is also required, at least yearly.

5. Examination of the urine for blood/RBC, or occult blood should be done every year in both sexes after the age of 40, for an early detection of cancer of the urinary tract. In females, urine tests should not be done during menstruation period as the blood may then contaminate the urine. More precisely, ultrasonography of the urinary tract is required.

6. Ultrasonographic examination of the abdomen may be done every year, especially after the age of 40, to exclude malignancy of the various organs of the abdomen, including prostate. It is a safe test and has no radiation hazards, unlike X-ray ICT scan.

7. Chest X-rays may be carried out yearly after middle age, especially of those who are prone to the cancer of the lings like chronic smokers, to exclude asymptomatic lesion of this disease.

It is important to discuss here some of the related topics, and provide some relevant information about the female breast and the use of female hormones with special reference to malignancy. However, it is no less important to study some of the details about the male breast, including carcinoma of the male breast, which, if it develops, spreads much more rapidly than cancer of the female breast. Author sites: http://www.herbalremedieslk.com , http://shabi-home-remedies.blogspot.com , http://www.e-self-help.com ]]> The Telling Signs Of Irritable Bowel Syndrome http://www.artwoo.com/article/the-telling-signs-of-irritable-bowel-syndrome http://www.artwoo.com/article/the-telling-signs-of-irritable-bowel-syndrome#comments Fri, 14 Sep 2007 08:15:01 +0000 irritable bowel syndromesymptoms of irritable bowel syndromeibs symptomsprescription medicationsstress managementnick of timeorgans http://www.artwoo.com/article/the-telling-signs-of-irritable-bowel-syndrome Irritable bowel syndrome, IBS, is defined as a medical health disorder most often characterized by cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, constipation, and diarrhea.

Causing a significant amount of pain and distress, irritable bowel syndrome can interrupt your life to the point that you stop participating in those things that you have always enjoyed, such as family outings, social activities or even traveling. Unfortunately for many, irritable bowel syndrome is completely debilitating. This is a depressing health fact.

Irritable bowel syndrome is not thought to permanently harm your intestines and is not currently known to lead to more serious conditions, such as cancer. However, with the life control that this disease can claim, it can be a serious threat to your health. There are many IBS sufferers who have learned to control with lifestyle changes such as and dietary changes as well as when necessary.



While it is not a pleasant thought to consider, the signs and occur as a result of the muscles of the intestinal or either the nerves that control the organs do not function properly. With the malfunction of the muscles or the nerves, the organs themselves stop functioning normally.



Irritable bowel syndrome can certainly take over your life. There are far too many stories of patients being at a party or a lovely dinner out with family and friends with the IBS begins to act up causing your gut to begin to rumble and then you have to rush out knocking others out of your way in a mad dash to the reach the bathroom in the !



Not a pretty sight.

While the cause of irritable bowel syndrome is not particularly well understood, it does seem that with IBS the actual movement of the digestive tract is impaired.

But there does not to appear to be any change in the physical structure of the digestive tract such as inflammation or growths. The symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome are related to the miscommunication between the brain and the intestinal tract. It is this miscommunication which causes the abnormal muscle contractions in the gut.

The primary symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome are abdominal pain or discomfort that is accompanied by diarrhea or constipation, or at times both. Mucus in the stools and abdominal bloating are also often seen in IBS.



The signs and symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome are generally easy to describe and certainly get your attention. These signs are typically used by your healthcare provider to diagnose this intestinal disorder. Additional tests such as a flexible sigmoidoscopy are used to rule out other possible causes for your symptoms.



If you are looking to improve your health and to get control of your IBS, then it is important to work with your physician to custom design a treatment plan just for your symptoms. IBS is a manageable condition.



Working with your physician, learning to manage your lifestyle and avoiding foods that are known to trigger your symptoms is a great way to start. Some foods known to be trigger foods for IBS are dairy products, chocolate, caffeine and fatty foods.



There is no cure for irritable bowel syndrome but there are definitely some lifestyle changes that you can make if you are looking to restore your health and learn to manage your IBS. For more important information on health topics sure to visit http://www.the-health-hub.com where you will find information and resources on personal health such as aches and pains, conditions and diseases, diet and nutrition, fitness and many other articles that you can view at http://the-health-hub.com ]]> Crohn's Disease The Basics http://www.artwoo.com/article/crohns-disease-the-basics http://www.artwoo.com/article/crohns-disease-the-basics#comments Fri, 12 Jan 2007 12:27:29 +0000 crohns diseasecrohn s diseasechronic inflammationulcerative colitisirritable bowel syndromediarrheacolonoscopy http://www.artwoo.com/article/crohns-disease-the-basics chronic inflammation of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract.



Although Crohn's disease can affect any area of the GI tract, from the mouth to the anus it most commonly affects the ileum or the lowest part of the small intestine.

The chronic inflammation can cause pain and can cause the intestines to empty quickly and frequently resulting in . This disease can be quite painful and at times debilitating and even more concerning is the fact that Crohn's can also lead to life-threatening complications.



, , and Crohn's disease all have very similar symptoms making the diagnosis of these diseases difficult at best.



Signs and symptoms of Crohn's can range from mild to severe symptoms and may develop gradually or appear suddenly, and without warning. Abdominal pain, often in the lower right area, and diarrhea are the most common symptoms of Crohn's disease.



Other symptoms can include weight loss, rectal bleeding, cramping, diarrhea, bloating, gas, skin lesions, joint pain and fever. Rectal bleeding is a serious issue and can be persistent, leading to anemia. The severity of symptoms varies from person to person.

Crohn's disease is diagnosed usually after your physician has ruled out other diseases. In order to diagnose CD, your physician may order blood tests to look for a low red cell count which may indicate anemia, an increased white blood cell count which indicates an infection, and a high sedimentation rate indicates inflammation.



A is one of the commonly utilized tests for diagnosing Crohn's disease. With this exam, your physician will insert a thin, flexible, lighted tube with an attached camera into your rectum.



This exam allows your physician direct visualization of your entire colon. It also allows your physician to take a biopsy, in which a small tissue sample is taken from the colon and studied further.



Your physician may also order a barium enema. This diagnostic test allows your doctor to evaluate your large intestine with the use of an X-ray.



Another exam is known as a flexible sigmoidoscopy. It is often used in conjunction with a barium enema. In this procedure, your doctor inserts a slender, flexible, lighted tube into the rectum to examine the sigmoid, the last 2 feet of your colon. Both of these tests can be uncomfortable and are not as reliable as a colonoscopy but fortunately are over fairly quickly.



Although there is currently no specific medication designed just for the treatment of Crohn's disease most treatment options focus on treating the symptoms of CD.



If you are suffering with an infection or abscess, medication specific to those conditions are generally ordered. Besides medications, other treatments include nutritional supplements, surgery, or a combination of these options. Treatment goals focus on reducing inflammation, pain, diarrhea and rectal bleeding.



Even though there is currently no known cure, this often difficult to manage disease can be improved by working with your physician to design a treatment plan just for you. For more important information on stomach pain be sure to visit http://a-stomach-pain.com where you will find advice and tips on common stomach pain causes such as Crohn's disease, constipation, and other articles that you can view at http://www.a-stomach-pain.com ]]> Cancerand#9474;On The Front Line: Options In Prevention, Detection And Treatment Of Cancer http://www.artwoo.com/article/canceron-the-front-line-options-in-prevention-detection-and-treatment-of-cancer http://www.artwoo.com/article/canceron-the-front-line-options-in-prevention-detection-and-treatment-of-cancer#comments Tue, 19 Jun 2007 05:34:57 +0000 breast cancerprostate cancerslows tumor growthbreast self examsmrismost common typeamerican cancer society http://www.artwoo.com/article/canceron-the-front-line-options-in-prevention-detection-and-treatment-of-cancer most common types of cancer=97and what might be available in the next five years.



Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women and results in some 178,000 new cases and 40,000 deaths annually.

* Prevention

Maintaining a healthy weight through menopause, exercising, and limiting alcohol consumption may reduce a woman's risk. As for hormone replacement therapy, there are differing opinions; talk with your doctor about the risks and benefits.

* Detection

If there's a family history of breast cancer, get tested to see whether you carry the BRCA-1 and BRCA-2 genes. Perform breast self-exams and have regular mammograms. These can catch precancerous cells and small tumors before they spread.

* Treatment

The options include surgery and radiation; chemotherapy; anti-estrogen medications such as tamoxifen; aromatase inhibitors such as anastrozole; and targeted drugs such as trastuzumab.

* Coming next

Breast and ultrasound may become the standard for early detection. Treatment may be more focused, with less-invasive surgical techniques and better, more targeted radiation treatments.



Some 219,000 cases of prostate cancer=97the most common type of cancer in men and the second-leading cause of all cancer deaths=97are diagnosed every year.

* Prevention

Restricting fat intake may help prevent the disease. The ACS says a diet high in fruits, vegetables and whole grains and low in red meat may cut the risk.

* Detection

The recommends regular prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood tests and digital rectal exams starting at age 50=97age 45 for African-American men and those with a first-degree relative diagnosed with the disease before age 65. But it's not a perfect test.

* Treatment

Hormonal therapy that reduces the production of testosterone and may prolong survival. Surgery, radiation and chemotherapy are also used.

* Coming next

New drugs currently in trials could reach the market within five years.

LUNG CANCER

Lung cancer is responsible for nearly 30 percent of all cancer deaths. In 2007, new cases may exceed 213,000, while deaths may top 160,000.

* Prevention

The biggest risk factor is smoking, which accounts for about 87 percent of new cases. Next on the list: exposure to secondhand smoke, asbestos and radon gas.

* Detection

A spiral computer tomography (CT) scan is being tested to see if it can pick up tumors at an earlier, more treatable stage. Scientists are also studying whether early detection prolongs survival.

* Treatment

Surgery, radiation and conventional chemotherapy are used. Two targeted drug therapies, erlotinib and bevacizumab, attack cancer cells only, leaving most healthy ones alone.

* Coming next

In about five years they may have a genetic test ("lung metagene model") to predict a person's prognosis.

COLORECTAL CANCER

In the U.S., more than 52,000 deaths related to cancer of the colon or rectum occur each year; almost 154,000 new cases are diagnosed.

* Prevention

Most colon cancer arises from polyps. But it takes 8 to 12 years for a polyp to turn into cancer, so the earlier polyps can be removed, the more colon cancer risk is reduced.

* Detection

Colorectal screenings should begin at 50, along with an annual fecal occult blood test and a flexible sigmoidoscopy every 5 years or a colonoscopy every 10 years. African-Americans should begin colorectal screening at 45.

* Treatment

Surgery=97alone or in conjunction with chemotherapy and radiation=97is the common treatment. Newer targeted drugs, such as bevacizumab and cetuximab, keep cancer cells from growing and improve overall survival rates.

* Coming next

Fecal DNA analysis, in which stool is tested to identify genetic mutations, may help in prevention and diagnosis. The test is expected to be available in two to four years.

Researchers continue to make progress in preventing, managing and treating cancer-- and that's welcome news for all of us.

Writer: Jo Cavallo =A9REMEDY, Summer 2007 Get a FREE 2-year health magazine subscription to REMEDY-- http://www.healthisnow.com REMEDY is an award-winning magazine published by MediZine, LLC. Sign up today! Also check out http://www.HealthyUpdates.com -- a health education web site produced by MediZine, LLC. ]]>