ulcerative colitis http://www.artwoo.com Returned search results for ulcerative colitis Copyright 2008 Sat, 22 Nov 2008 05:07:38 +0000 http://www.artwoo.com/rss/ulcerative+colitis Ulcerative Colitis The Bowel Disease Of Chronic Inflammation http://www.artwoo.com/article/ulcerative-colitis-the-bowel-disease-of-chronic-inflammation http://www.artwoo.com/article/ulcerative-colitis-the-bowel-disease-of-chronic-inflammation#comments Tue, 30 Jan 2007 12:27:10 +0000 ulcerative colitiscolonproctitisinflammationdiarrheahallmarkileitis http://www.artwoo.com/article/ulcerative-colitis-the-bowel-disease-of-chronic-inflammation colon or bowel) and rectum become inflamed, is a serious disorder which is characterized by recurrent episodes of abdominal pain, fever, chills and profuse .



Ulcerative colitis causes both and sores, also called ulcers, in the lining of the colon and rectum. The ulcerated areas occur in the areas where inflammation has killed off the protective cells that usually line the colon. The inflammation and ulcers lead to pain, bleeding, and the symptom of profuse and nearly uncontrollable diarrhea.



The inflammation of Ulcerative colitis typically begins in the rectum and the sigmoid or lower colon. It may then spreads upward throughout the entire colon. However, except for the lower section, call the ileum, this disease rarely invades the small intestine. Other names for ulcerative colitis include , enteritis, and colitis.



Currently the cause of ulcerative colitis is unknown, although many theories exist. Some researchers believe that it is hereditary; others believe that it is due to a bacteria or viral invasion, and still others believe it is a defect in the immune system in which the body's antibodies actually attack the colon.



The most common symptoms of ulcerative colitis are abdominal pain and bloody or pus-filled diarrhea.



Other symptoms include loss of appetite, fatigue, weight loss, rectal bleeding, anemia, loss of body fluids and nutrients and fever.



Patients may also experience joint pain, rashes, skin lesions, and abscesses. Typically the onset of ulcerative colitis is gradual. However, in some cases the onset can be rather severe with the diarrhea and bleeding being much more significant. Because many of these symptoms can mimic other disorders it is important to see your physician so that an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment can begin.



There is currently no known cure for ulcerative colitis except for removal of the colon.



Some helpful treatments include medications such as steroids designed to control or lessen the inflammation of the colon can help to improve the diarrhea and cramping. Antibiotics may also be used to help control the disorder.



Other medications may be used to control the pain and diarrhea of ulcerative colitis. Dietary changes can also help. For example, during an acute attack of ulcerative colitis, your physician may suggest that you avoid milk, milk products and bulky, heavy fiber foods.



A healthy diet with sufficient calories and adequate protein will help in overall well being. Hospitalization may be necessary in order to correct malnutrition, dehydration or mineral imbalances and to stop the diarrhea.



Surgery may also be required for difficult cases of ulcerative colitis. In cases of excessive bleeding, a perforation of the colon or even a debilitating lifestyle impact from the disease may all be appropriate reasons for surgery to remove the colon.

Surgery is generally looked to as a last resort option after all other treatment options have failed.



Ulcerative colitis mimics several other bowel disorders and must be aggressively managed in order to avoid long term damage to the colon and a significant impact on the overall health of the sufferer.



Talk with your physician today and determine the best and most aggressive course of treatment for your disease. 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 acid stomach ulcer, Crohn's disease, and other articles that you can view at http://www.a-stomach-pain.com ]]> Chrones -- The Other IBD http://www.artwoo.com/article/chrones-the-other-ibd http://www.artwoo.com/article/chrones-the-other-ibd#comments Tue, 30 May 2006 18:32:12 +0000 ulcerative colitischronesibdinflammationbowel wallinflammatory bowel disorderlarge intestine http://www.artwoo.com/article/chrones-the-other-ibd Inflammatory Bowel Disorder (), most people are aware of . This is a disorder in which the damage occurs in the colon as a result of of the tissue. However, is a prevalent disorder that is often misdiagnosed as ulcerative colitis, as they share many of the same symptoms.

Basically chrones and ulcerative colitis are very similar disorders. They are both forms of IBD in which the body's immune system overreacts and causes tissue to swell excessively. Ulcerative colitis, though, is only found in the colon. On the other hand, chrones can literally be anywhere in the digestive tract. It is, however, most often found at the beginning of the and the end of the small intestine.

With chrones, when the wall of the bowel becomes swollen and inflamed, it is easily damaged by waste as it travels through the system. This damage sometimes results in scare tissue, which steadily narrows the passages even more than the original inflammation. The primary problem with chrones is this domino reaction -- inflammation occurs, damage is done, scare tissue is formed, more damage is done, more scare tissue is formed, so on and so forth. The ending result is often blocked passages in which no waste can pass. When a blockage occurs, the threat of a rupture is a very serious concern for chrones sufferers. For this reason, if blockages are not resolved quickly, surgery is often used to remove the damaged area and the blockage.

On the other hand, there is still quite a threat even before any scar tissue forms. When damage is done to the , ulcers and/or fistulas may form. An ulcer is a type of sore on the tissue which can easily become infected. On the other hand, a fistula is a severe ulcer that tunnels into surrounding tissue, such as the vagina or bladder. If an infection occurs, it could be deadly if not treated properly. Meanwhile, feces may pass through the fistulas which only compound the problem.

Patients with chrones are not necessarily sick all the time. They tend to have bouts of inflammation followed by calm times in which their system works fine, or at least as well as a damaged system can. However, this roller coaster often makes it difficult for someone with chrones to function and deal with daily life, as interruptions are always a possibility. Julia Tanner is a professional writer. More articles can be found at: http://www.chronesdiseasepage.com , http://www.breastcancerwristbandspage.com , http://www.adultaddpage.com ]]> The Nature Of Crohn's Disease 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 . Crohn's belongs to a category of illnesses known as (IBD). One disease related to Crohn's is known as , 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 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 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. ]]> Understanding The Autoimmune Disorder Crohn's Disease 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, , 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 .

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 , 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 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 ]]> Colitis Explained http://www.artwoo.com/article/colitis-explained http://www.artwoo.com/article/colitis-explained#comments Thu, 24 Aug 2006 20:27:18 +0000 colitisirritable bowl syndromecrohns diseaseirritable bowel diseaseibdulcerscolon http://www.artwoo.com/article/colitis-explained irritable bowel disease (), are indistinguishable from other similar diseases like Crohn's Disease and , thus, diagnosis is often a complicated and must adopt a trial-and-error approach.

is a disease that results in the inflammation of the lining of the large intestine, or . Researchers have estimated that as many as two million people in the United States may suffer from colitis, many of them undiagnosed. The majority of cases manifest rather early in life -- before the age of thirty -- although it is not uncommon for people of any age to develop the disease. Research on colitis has revealed that prevalence is not affected by gender.

The disease can either be acute or chronic and results in being formed in the upper membrane layers of the colon. Colitis, like other forms of IBD, wreaks havoc on the digestive tract. When the colon becomes inflamed many of the cells die and this tissue death spurs the production of ulcers. Ulcers may bleed and generate pus leading to severe abdominal cramping, diarrhea, painful abdominal sensations, reduced appetite, infections, fatigue, weight loss, and fever.

As is the case with other forms of IBD, the causes of colitis are shrouded in mystery. There are a number of competing theories as to the cause, but none have been proven as of yet. Since colitis is believed to be spurred through inflammation, many scientists point to infection as the leading cause. There is also some evidence that genetics and family connection plays a part. There is also research into colitis as potentially being related to an autoimmune response by the body. It appears that colitis may be triggered by the body attacking itself. Various bacterial, viral, and protozoan infections have also been bandied about as possible triggers of colitis. According to research, smokers are twice as likely to develop colitis then are non-smokers.

If left untreated, colitis can lead to severe medical problems. As stated previously, the diagnosis of colitis can be tricky since many forms of IBD may appear similar upon cursory examination. It can take some time to achieve an accurate diagnosis. Fortunately, even though the causes of colitis are not fully understood, there are treatments available for the disease. Treatment often varies due to the severity of the flare up. Colitis, like other forms of IBD, is usually treated via prescription drugs. In advanced cases, surgery to remove the colon may be required, and as of this time is the only cure.

It is important to remember that colitis is a disease that will affect each person differently. There is no standard procedure that can be followed for every case. Furthermore, the psychological ramifications from the disease cannot be ignored. Many people experience depression due to the impact of physical symptoms on quality of life. If you are suffering from colitis it is important to schedule regular medical visits to monitor the disease. Sharon Dobson has an interest in Crohn's Disease topics. For 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/2006/08/11/colitis-explained/ ]]> Crohn's Disease And You http://www.artwoo.com/article/crohns-disease-and-you http://www.artwoo.com/article/crohns-disease-and-you#comments Sun, 10 Dec 2006 10:27:13 +0000 crohn s diseaseulcerative colitisibdsouthern hemispherenorthern hemispherejews in americaloss of appetite http://www.artwoo.com/article/crohns-disease-and-you IBD), such as you are not alone. As many as one million Americans have Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis. There is no gender divide in those that it strikes, but develops more commonly among those who are between 15 and 35. Unfortunately like most diseases it can actually strike at any age. Some figures suggest that about 10% or 100,000 sufferers inAmerica are under the age of 18.

Genes play a major role, 200 - 25 found in family, this increases the risk of developing IBD at 10 times the norm and with a brother or sister thelikelihood of developing it increases to t300 times the norm. Strangely, when we look at the disease from a racial perspective, it seems somewhat selective. The disease occurs more often in whites, and in particular Jews. are 5 times more likely to develop the disease than any other ethnic or racial group in the US. IBD is also more prevalent in 1st world countries than others, inparticularly in the Europe and the U.S. More common in built-up urban areas than in rural areas, it is also strangely more common in the than the .

Let us now look at the symptoms of Crohn's disease. Symptoms of Crohn's disease, like most other illnesses, differ from one person to another as well as their severity. There are some symptoms which occur in all sufferers, which are persistent diarrhea, abdominal pains,rectal bleeding and fever. Other symptoms include fatigue, leading to marked weight loss. In adolescents and children it can affect growth, delaying it and sexual development. Given the symptoms, one would be forgiven for thinking that Crohn's can be a debilitating disease, butin fact that is not the case. Crohn's disease is chronic but the person can go through periods of remission where symptoms can be reduced or disappear completely, allowing them to lead productive and happy lives.

Crohn's disease has no known cure. Medication is used to reduce the inflammation associated with the disease. This helps the damaged tissue to heal, reducing the abdominal pain associated with the disease, and also reduces fever and the pain caused by the disease. Once this medication has placed thepatent's disease into remission, therapy is then used to reduce the chances of relapse. Surgery is something that most sufferers will have to face at some point or another. Medication can only help so far as to control the symptoms, but they may progress to the point where medication is ineffective. Surgery is used most commonly to remove a segment of the bowel including an abscess or intestinal obstruction.Re-sectioning the bowel is completed when the two healthy ends of the bowel are joined together. This procedure can allow the person to lead years of trouble free healthy lives, it is not considered a cause for Crohn's disease. Janie Jonah http://www.perfectdrugrx.com (c) 2006, PerfectDrugRx. All rights in all media reserved. Reprints must include byline, contact information and copyright. ]]> About Self Healing Colitis And Crohns http://www.artwoo.com/article/about-self-healing-colitis-and-crohns http://www.artwoo.com/article/about-self-healing-colitis-and-crohns#comments Wed, 19 Sep 2007 15:25:00 +0000 colitisirritable bowel syndromecrohn s diseasecrohnsself healingbleeding from the rectumibs http://www.artwoo.com/article/about-self-healing-colitis-and-crohns self healing and is possible some background on the two conditions is needed.

Those who have Crohn's disease or Colitis often don't know it right away. These two conditions are often confused with because the early symptoms are quite similar. Both conditions usually start out with diarrhea and abdominal pains, and that can indeed mimic .

However, things can get much more serious, and can occur. Both Colitis and Crohn's are caused by inflammation in the digestive system, though Colitis is always in the rectum or colon only. This inflammation can be very severe, and can lead to bleeding, among other symptoms.

For many with these conditions it means taking drugs for the rest of their lives, and even surgery is a very real possibility. This leads many to wonder self healing colitis and crohns is a reality.

If you are lucky, you will have a mild case of Crohn's or Colitis, and the symptoms will come and go. There may even be times when you are in remission, feeling perfectly healthy. When symptoms do come on, they may be mild and easily managed. However, some sufferers have symptoms so bad that their lives are altered completely, and they can no longer do the things they used to do. When that happens, a whole new way of living, and eating must be learned. These patients often have to take medications to help manage their pain and other complication.

No matter how severe or how infrequent your symptoms might be, you might ne interested if there is anything you can do to heal yourself. Your doctor might want you to have an operation, and that might clear up some of the problems, but it is rarely a cure-all for these conditions. You can a self healing colitis and crohns approach, but you should know that it might not work for everyone, and there are many different variables that you have to consider. For some, the path to healing lies with the foods that you eat, and even more importantly, the ones you don't eat.

The belief behind self healing for these two conditions is that our bodies are fighting back against the over-processed foods that are so common today. In order to encourage healing and combat the cause of the condition a vegan diet is recommended. This means eliminating all meats, and focuses on eating more fresh fruits and vegetables. It is thought that once your body is getting the foods it was built do handle, it can work more effectively, and the problems with inflammation will melt away.

If you are interested in trying this, you can go out and find the book Self Healing Colitis And Crohns to see if it will work for you. There are many who say it helped them, and some that say they were completely healed after a few years. Your results will depend on how well you can stick to the program and the severity of your condition. You should always remain under physician care while you are doing anything like this, and remember to continue your medications if your doctor insists that you do so.

Hopefully, there may come a day when your self healing colitis and crohns regime has been successful and you can finally throw the drugs away for good. By Sharon Dobson. Sign up for a free newsletter about managing Crohn's Disease naturally at http://natural-crohns-disease-relief.com?source=is or to find more on ways to start a self healing colitis and crohns regime visit http://www.natural-crohns-disease-relief.com/crohnsdisease.html?source=is= .. ]]> Autoimmune Hepatitis http://www.artwoo.com/article/autoimmune-hepatitis http://www.artwoo.com/article/autoimmune-hepatitis#comments Tue, 07 Aug 2007 08:25:01 +0000 autoimmune hepatitisautoimmune disordersautoimmune diseasesliver biopsyenlarged liverliver failureliver tissue http://www.artwoo.com/article/autoimmune-hepatitis Autoimmune Hepatitis is a disease in which the body's immune system attacks the liver cells. Like Ulcerative Colitis, and other , Autoimmune Hepatits causes inflammation of the affected organ. If left untreated over time, this disease can lead to cirrhosis pf the liver, and eventually . This chronic condition is potentially fatal. Type 1 Autoimmune Hepatitis, in, many cases, also occurs with other such as Ulcerative Colitis, type 1 diabetes, autoimmune anemia, Graves' disease, Sj=F6gren's syndrome, thyroiditis and proliferative glomerulonephritis. Type 2 Autoimmune Hepatitis is less common and mostly affects girls ages 2 to 14; however this type can also be found in adults.

Symptoms of autoimmune hepatitis range from mild to severe. The symptoms may include fatigue, abdominal discomfort, joint pain, skin rash, , jaundice, itching, nausea, vomiting, dark urine, loss of appetite, abnormal blood vessels on the skin, fatigue and pale or gray colored stools. Mental confusion and fluid in the abdomen can sometimes be found in patients with advanced stages of the disease. Please note that the symptoms of viral hepatitis and other forms of hepatitis that are caused by a drug are very similar. With this in mind, other tests may be needed by a physician to rule out these other forms of disease, and to confirm Autoimmune Hepatitis.

Diagnosis of autoimmune hepatitis is based on symptoms as well as a and blood tests. For a liver biopsy, the patient goes to an outpatient surgical center or to a hospital. The doctor will take a small sample of to examine under a microscope. This examination will accurately diagnose autoimmune hepatitis and it's seriousness. While a routine blood test can reveal a patterns that are typical in a hepatitis case, further blood test are needed to diagnose autoimmune hepatitis especially for autoantibodies. The pattern and the level of antibodies in the blood help define if the disease is a type 1 or type 2 classification. These tests will also help distinguish autoimmune hepatitis from other forms of hepatitis.

Treatment for autoimmune hepatitis is most effective when the disease is diagnosed early. Treatment consists primarily of medications that suppress the immune system. To treat the disease, the doctor may prescribe prednisone, which is a corticosteroid. Prednisone, or other corticosteroids may have some unpleasant side effects. These side effects increased acne, filling or rounding out of the face, weight gain, thinning of bones, thinning of hair and skin, high blood pressure, diabetes, cataracts, glaucoma, depression, anxiety and confusion. Athzathioprine (Imuran) is another medication that is prescribed in the treatment of autoimmune hepatitis. Like prednisone, this medicine is also used to suppress the immune system as well as helping lower the doses of prednisone needed while reducing it's side effects. Once the disease is under control, the physician may prescribe azathioprine, in addition to prednisone. Possible side effects of azathioprine may include lowered blood cell count, nausea and poor appetite. Rare side effects include an allergic reaction, pancreatitis and liver damage. The duration of treatment varies from individual to individual in that some may eventually stop treatment followed by close monitoring or in some cases it may be necessary to contintue the treatments for life. However, for those whose treatment has been stopped, it is possible that the disease may return even worse than before, especially during the first few months after stopping treatment. Within 2 years of starting treatment, 7 out of 10 people will have the disease go into remission. However, the symptoms will return within 3 years, so treatment for autoimmune hepatitis is an ongoing process. Other treatments are also possible for those patients who do not respond to standard immune therapy or who have severe side effects. These include medicines such as tacrolimus, cyclosporine or mycophenylate mofetil, which are also immunosuppressive agents. Liver transplants are needed for those with cirrhosis and or end stage liver disease. Lisa is a survivor of Ulcerative Colitis and other digestive disorders. Learn more about digestive disorders at http://www.digestive-system-disorders.com ]]> 10 Tips For Self Healing Of Colitis And Crohns http://www.artwoo.com/article/10-tips-for-self-healing-of-colitis-and-crohns http://www.artwoo.com/article/10-tips-for-self-healing-of-colitis-and-crohns#comments Wed, 21 Mar 2007 05:24:00 +0000 crohns and colitisself healinginflammatory bowel diseasesomega 3 fatty acidsherbal remediesgastrointestinal disordersacupuncture http://www.artwoo.com/article/10-tips-for-self-healing-of-colitis-and-crohns self healing colitis and crohns if you suffer from either of these (IBD). Self healing remedies, which are essentially non-drug alternative treatments, are the preferred choice of treatment for many IBD sufferers because most of these remedies are free of negative side effects and encourage the body to heal itself.

The following are 10 self healing colitis and crohns methods you can look into --

1. Diet -- Many IBD symptoms are triggered by food products. Therefore, it's a good idea to create a food diary and eliminate the foods that aggravate your condition (I.E. fat, sugar, acid foods) and increase those that lower the risk (I.E. most fruits, vegetables, and foods high in omega-3 fatty acids).

Talk to a dietician or your doctor about good food choices and to start a diet plan that works for you.

2. --

There are many herbal remedies for self healing colitis and crohns treatments. Herbs from plant have been used for thousands of years for medicinal purposes including treating such as . Popular herbal remedies that may be used as treatment for inflammation include: cat's claw, green tea, ginkgo, slippery elm, wild indigo, etc. Herbs may be taken as supplements, added to recipes, in tea, or eaten whole, depending on the herb. It's in your best interest to talk with a professional herbalist.

3. -- Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine that involves the insertion of hair-thin needles into specific acupoints in the body to help bring balance back to the body. Acupuncture can help treat painful symptoms as well as, diarrhea and constipation. This treatment should be sought from a professional acupuncturist.



4. Hypnosis -- Known as body/mind medicine, this form of self healing colitis and crohns is a treatment that helps to increase relaxation, improve immune function, decrease stress and ease feelings of anxiety. Hypnosis improves conditions by allowing a patient to use their subconscious to gain control over their symptoms. Hypnosis should be sought from a psychologist or psychiatrist.

5. Homeopathy -- This is a type of treatment that focuses on treating individuals as a whole. The course of treatment is determined after a person's physical, psychological and emotional makeup is studied. This form of treatment is given by a homeopath.

6. Naturopathy -- Naturopathy treats a person as a whole - mind, body and spirit. Naturopathy does not treat the illness, and promotes self-healing by determining what lifestyle changes a person needs in order to achieve and maintain good health. Many alternative treatments may be recommended including acupuncture, homeopathy, massage therapy, herbs, etc.

7. Probiotics -- Some research has found that probiotics, also known as good gut bacteria (I.E. lactobacillus) can improve the symptoms of crohns and colitis. By providing the stomach with beneficial bacteria it helps to keep other "bad" bacteria under control and bring more balance to the gut flora.

8. Reduce Stress -- Anxiety and stress have been shown to trigger and worsen symptoms related to IBD. Therefore, part of a good self healing colitis and crohns treatment plan is to make sure you find ways to reduce stress. Stress can be reduced through meditation exercises such as Yoga and Tai Chi, and massage therapy.

9. Reduce bad habits -- If you have bad habits such as smoking, overeating, and drinking alcohol, it is imperative you put a stop to these habits right away to avoid triggering and worsening symptoms.

10. Joining a support group --Suffering from crohn's and ulcerative colitis can be difficult and embarrassing to live with. It helps to talk with people who understand your physical and emotional conditions. Treating emotional and psychological symptoms of IBD helps to reduce stress and is an important part of the self healing process.

Despite which self healing colitis and crohns remedies interest you, make sure you consult with your doctor before starting any treatment. It is important to first obtain his/her advice, and it is a good idea to allow your doctor to monitor your condition to see how you respond to self healing treatments. Sharon Dobson - Sign up for a free newsletter at http://natural-crohns-disease-relief.com?source=is with proven ways of managing Crohn's Disease naturally and discover methods that encourage self healing colitis and crohns at http://natural-crohns-disease-relief.com/crohnsdisease.html?source=is ]]> What Exactly Is Irritable Bowel Syndrome? http://www.artwoo.com/article/what-exactly-is-irritable-bowel-syndrome http://www.artwoo.com/article/what-exactly-is-irritable-bowel-syndrome#comments Sat, 01 Mar 2008 13:30:01 +0000 irritable bowel syndromesymptoms of irritable bowel syndromenervous stomachibs symptomssources of stressunexplained weight lossphysical obstruction http://www.artwoo.com/article/what-exactly-is-irritable-bowel-syndrome Irritable bowel syndrome or IBS as is it commonly called is a very common disorder that affects at least 15% of the general population. This disease is sometimes called spastic colitis, , spastic colon or mucous colitis. Irritable bowel syndrome should not be mistaken for other diseases of the bowel such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis.

Irritable bowel syndrome is a functional disorder which means that there is an abnormality in the functioning of the bowels but no structural abnormalities are present.

What causes IBS?

seem to occur as a result of an abnormality of communication between the muscles of the bowel and the nervous system. This may result in the bowel becoming more sensitive or "irritated". The muscles which are located in the bowel wall may contract either too weakly or too forcefully, too rapidly or too slowly at certain times. There is no in the bowel, yet a patient may experience cramps or a functional blockage.

What role does stress play in IBS?

Stress does not cause IBS. It is not a psychiatric or a psychological disorder. However, one contributor to IBS is emotional stress. When a person becomes nervous or anxious, he or she may experience diarrhea or nausea. It may be impossible to control stress's effect on our intestines, but if we are able to reduce the in our daily lives, then this may help to reduce or alleviate the symptoms of IBS.

Is this IBS or something else?

You must have a comprehensive physical examination and medical history by a physician or a specialized colon and rectal surgeon in order to eliminate more serious disorders. You may have to have certain tests such as stool tests, blood tests, perhaps a colonoscopy and x-ray studies done. Fever, rectal bleeding, anemia, and are not and need to be assessed by your physician.

How is IBS treated?

If the patient understands that IBS is not a life-threatening or a serious condition, this may help to relieve stress and anxiety which are often contributors to IBS. Different techniques can be incorporated to reduce stress such as biofeedback, behavioral therapy, relaxation or even pain management techniques may all help to relieve IBS symptoms is certain individuals. The patient may wish to make use of a journal or diary to help identify certain factors or foods that may cause symptoms of IBS.

When can I expect relief of symptoms?

Relieving symptoms of IBS is often a very slow process. It may take as long as six months and sometimes longer to see any noticeable improvement of symptoms. It is extremely important for one to have patience when dealing with IBS.

Symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome can be greatly reduced or even eliminated with the proper diet and even with the use of appropriate medications. Irritable bowel syndrome does not lead to bleeding, cancer or inflammatory bowel diseases.

I hope this article answers your question of what exactly is irritable bowel syndrome? Article written by Jessica Bradbury, she has a site dedicated to bottom line information on IBS at http://www.ibs-information.com ]]> Crohn's Or Colitis? http://www.artwoo.com/article/crohns-or-colitis http://www.artwoo.com/article/crohns-or-colitis#comments Sat, 19 Aug 2006 12:27:11 +0000 crohns diseaseflare upscolitisirritable bowel diseasediseasesibddrugs http://www.artwoo.com/article/crohns-or-colitis irritable bowel disease () from another, diagnosis is often a time-consuming procedure wrought with the painstaking approach of trial-and-error.

Two forms of IBD that are frequently confused are Crohn's Disease and . Each of these is strikingly similar in symptomology. Each condition can result in severe diarrhea, extensive episodes of abdominal cramping, loss of energy, fever, reduced appetite, and weight loss. Each of these diseases is caused by tissue inflammation. According to current data up to two million people in the United States have either Crohn's Disease or colitis.

Crohn's Disease usually affects the small intestine, however, it can manifest in other places throughout the body including the esophagus, stomach, appendix, anus, duodenum, and large intestine, colitis, on the other hand, strictly affects the colon.

Sufferers of both Crohn's Disease and colitis experience periods where the respective diseases fade into remission. Each, however, is marked by the tendency to experience sudden flare-ups which can drastically reduce quality of life. While the physical symptoms are similar, the psychological effects from the diseases also mimic one another. Many sufferers fall into depression and withdraw from social situations due to the fear of sudden flare-ups. Surprisingly, one of the most commonly prescribed medications for Crohn's and colitis is antidepressants.

Treatment, disregarding the emotional impact of these forms of IBD, is also similar. are generally the first option. The classes of these drugs include antibiotics, immune suppressants, biologic therapy, immunomodulators, and corticosteroids.

Drugs will not cure either disease. Colitis can be cured, but surgery to remove the colon is required. Since Crohn's can affect a wider region of the body, surgery can alleviate some of the more severe symptoms, but this does not mean that the disease cannot spring up in other places, thus it remains incurable.

Experts on IBDs recommend similar methods of approaching the maintenance of each disease on a daily basis. Exercise, reducing stress levels, maintaining a healthy diet and avoiding certain foods, taking various vitamins and supplements, and keeping a food diary can all be excellent ways of keeping the diseases in check. With either condition it is important to schedule regular medical check ups to ensure serious damage to the digestive tract is avoided. Sharon Dobson has an interest in Health related topics. For further information on Crohn's Disease please visit http://www.natural-crohns-disease-relief.com/crohnsdisease.html or on http://natural-crohns-disease-relief.com/blog/2006/08/04/crohn%e2%80%99s-or-colitis/ .. ]]> In There A Link Between Irritable Bowel Syndrome And Bleeding In The Gi Tract? http://www.artwoo.com/article/in-there-a-link-between-irritable-bowel-syndrome-and-bleeding-in-the-gi-tract http://www.artwoo.com/article/in-there-a-link-between-irritable-bowel-syndrome-and-bleeding-in-the-gi-tract#comments Sun, 09 Sep 2007 15:30:00 +0000 irritable bowel syndromesymptoms of irritable bowel syndromeibs symptomsspastic coloncomplete physical examinationconsult your physicianinflammation of the colon http://www.artwoo.com/article/in-there-a-link-between-irritable-bowel-syndrome-and-bleeding-in-the-gi-tract Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a condition, which is characterized by abdominal pain, indigestion, and changes in bowel habits including constipation and diarrhea. Irritable bowel syndrome and bleeding are not considered as linked conditions.

Irritable bowel syndrome occurs more often in women than in men. The condition is believed to result from abnormal muscular activity of the intestinal wall. The are similar to that of some more serious conditions. Therefore, you are advised to for a if you suspect you are experiencing irritable bowel syndrome or you notice blood in your stools.

Irritable bowel syndrome is sometimes mistaken as colitis, mucous colitis, , spastic bowel, and functional bowel disease. However, most of these terms are not correct. For example, colitis is a condition in which (large intestine) occurs. However, IBS does not cause inflammation.

Different people experience different symptoms with IBS. Some people report constipation and cramps when trying to have a bowel movement. On the other hand, some people with IBS report diarrhea. They frequently feel an urgent need to have a bowel movement. Some people alter between experiencing constipation and suffering from diarrhea.

IBS is called a functional disorder, as when the colon is examined, there is no sign of a disease. IBS is believed to occur due to a number of reasons including emotional conflict or stress, infections and allergies. Stress is a factor that can worsen the .

Bleeding is not a symptom of irritable bowel syndrome. If a person reports bleeding, it can be due to other conditions, some of which may be life threatening, which is why it's important to see your doctor as quickly as possible. Continue reading to discover more about how to identify the symptoms of IBS and effective methods to overcome IBS by signing up for our Free IBS newsletter below.

The most common reasons for bleeding in GI tract are related to conditions that can be successfully treated or controlled sometimes through making amendments to lifestyle and diet. However, not all causes are as benign.

Bleeding in GI tract can occur in the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, rectum or anus. Different causes for bleeding in GI tract include esophagitis, enlarged veins, tear (Mallory-Weiss syndrome), cancer, liver disease, stomach ulcers, gastritis, duodenal ulcer, hemorrhoids, infections, ulcerative colitis, colorectal polyps, and colorectal cancer.



To treat the bleeding in the GI tract, the site of the bleeding needs to be located. Physicians generally go through the complete medical history of the patient to diagnose the problem. They normally perform physical exams and ask questions about the symptoms such as color and consistency of stool, any changes in bowel habits, and the presence of pain or tenderness. This helps them to locate the affected area of the GI tract. Physicians also test the stool for the presence of blood.

Treatment of irritable bowel syndrome and bleeding involve different medications and procedures. To control bleeding, chemicals can be injected through an endoscope into the bleeding site if the bleeding is occurring in the upper GI tract. In special cases, laser therapy is also used. Once bleeding is controlled, physicians prescribe often medication to prevent the recurrence of bleeding. Treatment of irritable bowel syndrome varies from person to person. Doctors focus on managing the stress and suggest changes in the diet. Fiber supplements, laxatives, and medicines are prescribed based on the symptoms of the patients, including anti depressants and antispasmodics. Sign up for the free Irritable Bowel Syndrome Newsletter and discover new and natural methods to manage your I IBS >>> http://www.natural-irritable-bowel-syndrome-relief.com/index.html?source== is ]]> What The Nutritionists Have To Say About Colon Cleansing http://www.artwoo.com/article/what-the-nutritionists-have-to-say-about-colon-cleansing http://www.artwoo.com/article/what-the-nutritionists-have-to-say-about-colon-cleansing#comments Fri, 21 Jul 2006 00:27:31 +0000 colon cleanserscolon cleansingcolon healthpsyllium husksulcerative colitishydrogenated fatsmalaise http://www.artwoo.com/article/what-the-nutritionists-have-to-say-about-colon-cleansing
You're undoubtedly aware of any ongoing problems with constipation, for example. You know when your intestines feel bloated or achy.

When there is a general that you sense comes from these problems.

Did you know that proper can not only alleviate chronic constipation, but headaches, and hemorrhoids? Did you know colon cleansing can ultimately help prevent cancer?

Most doctors won't tell you about these facts because they simply don't know them. The AMA is not nutritionist-oriented, it is disease-oriented.

A good preventative plan for colon cleansing and the overall health of your digestive tract, then, is called for. And whose responsibility is it?

Yours!

Some of the suggestions a doctor is liable to make will overlap with those of the nutritionist, however. For example, drinking lots of water and doing at least 20 minutes of exercise at least three times a week are standard.

Bulk-producing fiber supplements like are also standard to help cleanse the colon and lower bowel.

Nutritionists go deeper. They advocate improving our diets as well as more intense methods of colon cleansing.

The nutritionists tell us over and over to stop eating junk. Do you listen? Why don't we as a population listen to what these nutritionists have to say? Ridding our diets of processed foods, chemicals, sugar and is only the tip of the iceberg. To really get it right requires some extended research.

Colonic irrigation and oxygen-based can actually help melt impacted built-up wastes and carry them away. These processes can actually cleanse your whole system.

When all is said and done, it's your body, your colon... and your life...always be careful what you put into your body. Bill Johnson - http://www.colon-health-01.com ]]> Do I Have Crohn's Disease? http://www.artwoo.com/article/do-i-have-crohns-disease http://www.artwoo.com/article/do-i-have-crohns-disease#comments Wed, 11 Jul 2007 12:20:01 +0000 crohn s diseaseseveral different typeslarge intestineterminal ileitiscolitissmall intestinessmall intestine http://www.artwoo.com/article/do-i-have-crohns-disease
The symptoms of Crohn's disease can vary in intensity from mild to severe to even life altering. Your health can suffer greatly if you are experiencing intestinal disorder. Some Crohn's sufferers find themselves giving up some of their basic daily activities just in case of an episode of Crohn's disease eruption.

Crohn's disease is an inflammation or ulceration of the digestive tract and is most often seen in the lowest portion of the known as the ileum. Crohn's disease can also be seen in the or colon.

Symptoms of Crohn's disease include abdominal pain, diarrhea, weight loss, poor appetite, fever, night sweats, rectal pain and rectal bleeding. These Crohn's disease symptoms can vary in severity and can show themselves all together or a few at a time. Regardless any of these symptoms can make you feel horribly and can invade your plans for the day.

There are of Crohn's disease which include Crohn's , Crohn's enteritis, Crohn's terminal iletis, Crohn's entero-colitis and ileo-colitis.

The two most common types of Crohn's disease are Crohn's and Crohn's ileo-colitis.

Crohn's terminal ileitis is an inflammation that invades, as its names suggests, only the very end of the . Most commonly with terminal ileitis, symptoms experienced are often seen as abdominal pain and diarrhea.

Crohn's ileo-colitis is one of the other most common types of Crohn's disease seen today. With ileo-colitis, the colon and small intestine become horribly inflamed and show up as abdominal pain and bloody diarrhea.

If you see these symptoms then it is important to see your healthcare provider to determine if you have a definitive diagnosis of Crohn's disease. To determine if you have Crohn's disease, your healthcare provider will take a complete medical history and perform a physical exam. Your physician may also order imaging test such as a barium x-ray to look at the intestine and the colon. It is also rather common for physicians to order a colonoscopy to determine a definitive diagnosis of Crohn's disease. This allows your physician to look directly into the colon to see exactly what is going on.

Unfortunately at this time, Crohn's disease cannot be cured. However, there are many medications on today's market that can help manage the disease. Medications can reduce the inflammation and infection often seen in conjunction with the worsening symptoms of Crohn's disease.

Remember, if you are suffering from health issues involving your intestinal function, it is important to seek medical care so that you can receive the proper treatment. Crohn's disease is a serious health issue and one that deserves your attention. 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 Crohn's Disease, conditions and diseases, diet and nutrition, fitness and many other articles that you can view at http://the-health-hub.com ]]> Colon Surgery - What Are Your Options? http://www.artwoo.com/article/colon-surgery-what-are-your-options http://www.artwoo.com/article/colon-surgery-what-are-your-options#comments Thu, 20 Jul 2006 08:27:11 +0000 colon surgeryulcerative colitislaparoscopic surgerydiverticulitiscolorectal cancerinconvenienceslymph glands http://www.artwoo.com/article/colon-surgery-what-are-your-options
It is particularly true of colon related problems, where little surgical intervention can make for dramatic improvement, but people just shy away from the problem in their apathy for undergoing surgery. But suppose you get a chance to repair your colonic problems by surgical procedure minus the associated with a conventional surgery, what you will do? Yes, of course you will opt for the surgery and you are not alone in your choice. Increasing number of Americans are undergoing laparoscopic every year to get rid of the colon related diseases like , , Crohn's colitis and hemorrhage. In most of these cases parts of colon are removed and two ends are stitched up and in case of , the cancerous parts and surrounding tissue and are removed to reduce the chance of recurrence.

The minimally invasive colon surgery popularly known as has been increasingly viewed as an alternative to traditional or open colon surgery. The conventional colon surgery can not promise a fast and easy recovery as they are highly invasive. Incision is made over a large area of the abdomen and you have to stay at hospital for 5-8 days and recovery period spans to an average of 6 weeks.

On the other hand, the laparoscopic colon surgery ensures you not only quicker recovery and shorter hospital stay, it also ensures your colon's getting back to its normal bowel function quicker. Then in this surgery, you feel less pain and the scar is also much smaller. You can resume the solid-food diet in laparoscopic colon surgery and also can return to your normal routine.

Laparoscopic colon surgery is a comparatively new technique in which a laparoscope or tiny telescope with a video camera connection is inserted into one of the openings. Through the video camera the surgeon gets to see the inside of your abdomen and he inserts his surgical instruments through another small incision to remove the damaged portion of the colon. Then in the same way, the healthier portions are stitched up.

So if you are among those who want a healthier colon to enjoy life in its fullest, but get nervous at the very thought of a traditional surgery, then Laparoscopic colon surgery is the ideal solution for you; it repairs your colon but causing you minimum discomfort. Cristal Sandblom enjoys writing on health and wellness. Learn more about colon surgery at http://colon-surgery-experts.info. Also, check out http://colon-irrigation-secrets.info and http://colon-cancer-resource.info for more advice. ]]> Tequila Straight - Make Mine Agave http://www.artwoo.com/article/tequila-straight-make-mine-agave http://www.artwoo.com/article/tequila-straight-make-mine-agave#comments Fri, 25 May 2007 02:14:51 +0000 blue agave plantagave nectarnatural sweeteneredible flowersulcerative colitisleaf teatreacle http://www.artwoo.com/article/tequila-straight-make-mine-agave edible flowers, leaves, stalk and of course the sap, used the procurement of tequila. The sap is steamed and distilled to make Mexico's favourite drink but Agave can give you the same benefits of Tequila without the hangover.

The of the Agave is said to be useful for constipation, excess gas and can be useful as a diuretic. Tea derived from the root is said to be good for arthritis.

There have been some tests done which show that a derivative of the is effective in delivering drugs to the colon which could help in the treatment of , irritable bowel and Crohn's disease.

The or syrup can be used as a without damaging the properties of other ingredients, thus making it a great additive to liquid nutrient supplements while enhancing the properties of those ingredients with its natural sweetness. Because it is naturally occurring it does not cause an insulin reaction, having no sugar, making it a great alternative for diabetics. It is also a great alternative for those watching their weight which is all of us.

Agave is also a great source of soluble fiber.

Agave nectar does not need any intervention such as heat or distillation as it is naturally occurring nectar which remains in state through hot or cold temperatures. This makes it another great choice for liquid nutrition as it has its own preservation built in.

It has been recommended as the only sweetener for raw foodists as its rich taste goes a long way without other harmful effects on the body's metabolism. Its taste has been compared to that of so think of it as maple syrup without the calories, sugars or human intervention of boiling to enhance its properties. Kathy Hassed is a freelance writer and team leader for Sisel International Australia. http://www.sizzletheworld.com ]]> What Exactly is Celiac Disease? http://www.artwoo.com/article/what-exactly-is-celiac-disease http://www.artwoo.com/article/what-exactly-is-celiac-disease#comments Sat, 15 Nov 2008 09:15:30 +0000 non tropical spruechronic fatigue syndromeirritable bowel syndromeceliac sprueenamel defectsfoul smelling stoolscomplete blood count http://www.artwoo.com/article/what-exactly-is-celiac-disease celiac sprue and .

The symptoms of Celiac disease can vary widely from person to person; ranging from no symptoms to many severe symptoms. The most common symptoms include vitamin and mineral deficiency, bloating, gas, bone and joint pain, depression and irritability, anemia, dental discoloration and , bruising easily, seizures, bone disease, indigestion, diarrhea, weight loss, nausea, abdominal pain, and constipation. A failure to thrive is also a symptom in children with the disease. If you are experiencing these symptoms, it is important that you seek medical attention as soon as possible.

Diagnosing celiac disease is very difficult because the symptoms involved often mimic those of other diseases such as Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, diverticulosis, , , depression and intestinal infections. In diagnosing celiac disease, your doctor may order several tests such as a (CBC), a couple of tests to evaluate inflammation called an ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate) and a CRP (C-Reactive protein). Other tests ordered help determine electrolyte, protein, and calcium levels, and to verify the status of the kidney and liver as well as vitamin deficiencies and malabsorbtion.

In the treatment of Celiac disease, a lifelong gluten free diet is often required to require the intestinal villi to heal. A gluten free diet consists of avoiding wheat, barley, rye and possibly oats. These ingredients are often found in foods, beverages, and medications, the treatment is challenging but achievable with education and planning. However, despite diet restrictions, people with celiac disease can still have a well balanced diet. Instead of using wheat flour as an ingredient, people can use rice, potato, bean or soy flour. They also need to look for "hidden" sources of gluten and their derivatives in medication and other foods by reading labels. To correct any vitamin and mineral deficiencies, your doctor may also prescribe supplements. By completely removing gluten from their diet, people who suffer from celiac disease will begin to see improvement within three to six months. Within a year, symptoms will all but disappear by following a gluten free diet.Get information and resources about colitis, crohn's disease, IBS, GERD, and other disorders and diseases of the digestive system at Digestive Disorders Blog at http://www.digestivedisordersblog.com and Digestive System Disorders at http://www.digestive-system-disorders.com .]]> Coconut Oil - A Natural Mouth Ulcer Cure http://www.artwoo.com/article/coconut-oil-a-natural-mouth-ulcer-cure http://www.artwoo.com/article/coconut-oil-a-natural-mouth-ulcer-cure#comments Tue, 16 Jan 2007 10:27:09 +0000 mouth ulcerscoconut oilcrohns diseaseulcerative colitismouth ulcergum diseasebacteria http://www.artwoo.com/article/coconut-oil-a-natural-mouth-ulcer-cure mouth ulcer is an open wound in the mouth where tender nerve endings are exposed and can often cause extreme pain to the person who is affected with them especially when they can become irritated. Often a person suffering from will find it difficult to eat, drink and sometimes even talk and unfortunately these exposed ulcers are vulnerable to infection by that is find in our mouth and unfortunately create even more pain.

Many mouth ulcers often seem to start off as a small bubble or blister which then becomes open and ulcerated and this is when the pain really starts. However, they can be caused accidentally by someone biting themselves or there lips are so dry that they crack and then the ulcers begin to form on their lips.

Normally mouth ulcers are caused by either virus, bacteria or fungus and may result in the body's own immune system attacking the mucosal lining of the mouth. In some cases people who suffer from either or Crohn's Disease (intestinal conditions) may find themselves suffering from mouth ulcers also.

A good way of treating mouth ulcers is with which kills the bacteria that causes them. It is also good for treating throat infections, and cavities. Certainly the Pacific Islanders who have a coconut based diet have excellent dental health and rarely suffer from mouth ulcers even when they have never brushed their teeth or used floss or anti-bacterial mouthwash.

Certainly coconut oil is ideal for helping to relieve the pain felt from mouth ulcers instantly all you need is get a tablespoon of coconut oil and hold it for a minute on the mouth ulcer. Soon you will feel the pain going away and this relief seems to last for quite a while because of the MCFA's (medium chain fatty acids) find in coconut oil which are rapidly absorbed in to the body and thus the healing process is accelerated.

The way coconut oil works is that it has anti-viral, anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties and which can help to combat viruses, bacteria and fungus that can be found in a persons mouth and will cause ulcers. The MCFA's which are in coconut oil also help to enhance the body's own immune system and thus help it to fight viruses, fungus and bacterial problems. Also coconut oil is great for helping a person's intestinal system by killing any fungi found in the intestinal tract.

Above are a number of reasons as to why coconut oil can not only help to treat and heal mouth ulcers but also to help prevent them from forming. Also coconut oil is not messy to apply to the ulcer and is completely edible and natural. Lee Dobbins writes for http://ulcers.health-g8way.com where you can learn about treating ulcers and find more mouth ulcer cures. ]]> How To Choose A Herbal Detox Diet? http://www.artwoo.com/article/how-to-choose-a-herbal-detox-diet http://www.artwoo.com/article/how-to-choose-a-herbal-detox-diet#comments Sun, 23 Jul 2006 22:27:07 +0000 detox dietconventional health carefood groupssymptoms of heartburnfood additivesfood sensitivitiesulcerative colitis http://www.artwoo.com/article/how-to-choose-a-herbal-detox-diet food additives, oral contraceptives, and cleaning supplies. Toxins are transformed chemically to less harmful compounds that can be excreted via stools or urine.

Is there anyone who should not try a ?

Consult your primary care provider to find out if a detox diet is appropriate for you. A detox diet should not be used by pregnant or nursing women, children, or people with anemia, eating disorders, heart problems, lowered immunity, low blood pressure, ulcers, diabetes, epilepsy, cancer, , unless recommended and supervised by your primary care provider.

There are endless detox plans you can follow, so chose carefully. Some will advocate complete fasting or juice-only days, but beware of the health implications and never start such an extreme plan without consulting your doctor or a qualified nutritionist.

Detox Benefits

1. Improves , constipation and gas and treats digestive disorders; 2. Boosts the immune system.

Allergies or sensitivies?

By and large, only deals with masking the symptoms of allergies and , rather than attempting to resolve them. The first step that many alternative practitioners recommend is a change of diet that cuts out wheat and dairy foods, two common allergens. To do so is also the first step in andquot;detoxing.andquot; Higher levels of detoxing, as well as additional immune support through nutritional supplementation, have been known to help many allergy sufferers. Allergies are, however, almost by definition, a very individualized condition.

What happens after the detox?

Many of the foods that were eliminated during this diet can be allergenic. A natural health practitioner can help to systematically reintroduce (wheat, dairy, gluten, corn) and note reactions to identify the food groups that may be aggravating health conditions such as sinus congestion, fatigue, skin conditions, arthritis and bloating and constipation. Flare-ups can occur, so supervision is recommended. Detoxification is the process of eliminating harmful compounds (toxins) from the body. Find out about Herbal Detox at http://HerbalDetox.eabout.info ]]> Symptoms Of Irritable Bowel Syndrome http://www.artwoo.com/article/symptoms-of-irritable-bowel-syndrome http://www.artwoo.com/article/symptoms-of-irritable-bowel-syndrome#comments Wed, 26 Dec 2007 08:25:04 +0000 irritable bowel syndromemucus in the stoolchronic diarrheacolon cancerphysical signscrohn s diseasebowel habits http://www.artwoo.com/article/symptoms-of-irritable-bowel-syndrome irritable bowel syndrome, the signs and symptoms may vary greatly from one person to the next. These symptoms may often mimic those of other diseases. The most common symptoms are:

=95 Cramping or abdominal pain =95 Feeling bloated =95 Gas =95 Constipation or diarrhea =96 one can sometimes have alternating bouts of both =95

Sometimes you may have only mild symptoms of IBS. At other times, they can be quite disabling for people. Sometimes these signs and symptoms will not respond well to medical treatment. It may happen that symptoms of IBS will be present with other diseases. Therefore, it is best to consult your doctor about your concerns.

For most people, irritable bowel syndrome is a chronic condition. However, there may be periods when your signs and symptoms are quite bad and even times when your symptoms seem to improve dramatically or disappear altogether. When to seek medical advice

Approximately one in five adults who live in the United States has signs and symptoms of IBS. Less than half of these seek any kind of medical help. If you happen to have a constant change in your or if you have other symptoms or signs of irritable bowel syndrome, it is important that you seek the help of your physician because such symptoms may indicate that you have a more serious underlying condition such as .

Your doctor might find ways to help you obtain relief from your symptoms as well as eliminate some of the other more serious conditions of the colon such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis as well as colon cancer. Your doctor may also help you to avoid possible complications from symptoms such as .

IBS Screening and diagnosis

In order to come to the conclusion that you have IBS, it is very important to have a comprehensive physical examination as well as a complete medical history.

Criteria for making a diagnosis

Usually there are no to definitely indicate that a person has irritable bowel syndrome. Therefore, the diagnosis of IBS becomes a process of elimination. To help with this process, a diagnostic criteria has been developed by researchers known as Rome criteria that is use to diagnose IBS along with other functional gastrointestinal disorders. These are conditions that are characterized by an abnormality in bowel function but normal bowel appearance.

You should have certain symptoms and signs according to these criteria before your doctor will diagnose you with IBS. The most important of these symptoms are discomfort and abdominal pain that lasts for approximately twelve weeks. However, these weeks do not have to occur consecutively. Two of the other symptoms must also be present:

=95 Change in the consistency or frequency of your stools. =95 Urgency, straining or feeling that you are not able to empty your bowels completely. =95 Abdominal distention or bloating =95 Mucus in the stool

If you happen to fit the IBS criteria but you do not seem to have any of the red flag symptoms or signs, then your doctor may prescribe a course of treatment with your having to undergo any additional testing. Article written by Jessica Bradbury, she has a site dedicated to bottom line information on IBS at http://www.ibs-information.com ]]>