Top Travellers Diseases

When going on a trip whether overseas or just a state away, there is always the chance that you may get sick. There are several diseases that you should avoid contracting while traveling. Here we will cover the 10 most common diseases you can get while traveling.
10. Hepatitis A

Hepatitis A is a viral disease that attacks the liver. This disease is prominent in Africa, Latin America, India, and Mexico. Although it is rarely fatal, getting Hepatitis A can still be a miserable experience. Common symptoms include fever, nausea, abdominal discomfort, and a few days later jaundice.

In order to prevent contracting this disease, there is a vaccine that you should take about 4 weeks before taking a trip; follow up with the booster shot 6-12 months later.
9. Hepatitis B

Hepatitis B is similar to Hepatitis A in that it attacks the liver. However it is a far more dangerous strain of Hepatitis and can cause death among other things if not treated. This disease is found in Africa, Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and the Pacific Islands; however, in rare cases, people have been diagnosed with the disease in America, meaning there is an extreme outside chance you might catch it during your next Richmond extended stay or Houston lodging excursion. When the disease is found in the U.S., it is generally because someone has traveled abroad and brought the disease back with them to the States, much like an unwelcome foreign step aunt.

The symptoms are the same as Hepatitis A as well, but the prevention is a larger series of shots. Three doses of the vaccine should be gotten 6 months before you travel anywhere where you are likely to contract this disease.
8. Cholera

cholera-boy

Cholera is a bacterial disease which affects the intestines. This disease is found in Indonesia, Asia, Eastern Europe, and Africa. Some of the symptoms of Cholera include vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration.

There are several things you can do to avoid getting Cholera. There is a vaccine you can get before you travel that is at least 50 percent affective. Another thing you can do to avoid getting cholera is to avoid eating uncooked food and to boil all your drinking water.
7. Japanese Encephalitis

Japanese Encephalitis is a very fatal disease attacks your central nervous system. This disease can be gotten when traveling in the agricultural regions of Asia. You contract this disease from the bite of an infected mosquito. The symptoms for this disease are tricky. They can either be nonexistent or they can resemble the flu with vomiting, chills, headache, tiredness, and diarrhea.

There are a couple things you can do to avoid getting this disease. You can try to avoid being around anywhere that has standing water, especially if you see bugs around it. There is also a vaccine that is over 90 percent affective if taken in two doses.
6. Meningitis

meningitis

Meningitis is a bacterial disease that infects the blood stream or the lining of the spinal cord and brain. It is most commonly found in the sub Saharan Africa although it has been known to be in Saudi Arabia. You can catch this disease if you come into direct contact with infected people’s coughing or sneezing. Some of the symptoms of meningitis include fever, headache, nausea and vomiting, and a stiff neck.

You can avoid getting this disease by steering clear of people who are sick, so they cannot cough or sneeze on you. There is also a vaccine and some antibiotics that will help.
5. Tetanus

Tetanus, also called lock jaw, is a bacterial disease that affects all of your central nervous system. This disease can happen anywhere. You can get tetanus if you have an open wound that becomes contaminated with the bacterial organism. Some signs that you have tetanus include a stiff jaw, stiff neck,, fever, hard time swallowing, tight abdomen, and sometimes spasms.

A way to avoid this disease is to make sure that any open wounds you have are cleaned out and bandaged well, to avoid getting anything in them until they heal. The vaccine you can get is one hundred percent effective. It is best if you get the vaccine every ten years, if you do a lot of traveling. This disease can be fatal if left untreated.
4. Typhoid Fever

Typhoid Fever is a disease that infects the intestinal tract and sometimes also your bloodstream. You are at greater risk of getting this disease if you travel to India or the lower income countries of Asia, Africa, and Central and South America. Some of the symptoms are a sudden fever, nausea, loss of appetite, and can sometimes follow with a hoarse cough and diarrhea.
If you want to avoid getting this disease, stay away from any food or water that may have salmonella. You can make sure of this by always boiling any water you drink or use and cooking your food thoroughly before you eat it. There is also a vaccine that is pretty effective in preventing you from contracting this disease.
3. Yellow Fever

You can get yellow fever from the bite of an infected mosquito. Yellow fever is a viral disease found in Sub Saharan Africa, and tropical South America. Common symptoms of this disease are fever, headache, vomiting, and backache. As the disease gets worse your pulse will get weaker, your gums may bleed, and you may find blood in your urine.

Some obvious ways to avoid getting this disease are to stay away from standing water and avoid areas that are prevalent with insects. There is also a vaccine that lasts up to 15 days each time you get it.
2. Diarrhea

diarrhea-comic

This disease can happen anywhere, in fact you have probably already had it at least once in your life. As you may well know, diarrhea is when your bowel movements are less solid than normal. You can actually catch this disease if you drink or eat something that is contaminated with it.
You can avoid getting diarrhea by not eating uncooked food or drinking non boiled water. If you do get diarrhea, make sure you have Pepto-Bismol or Imodium with you.
1. Malaria

You can get Malaria from more than forty percent of the world. Some countries where this disease is more common are Sub Saharan Africa, Central and South America, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East. Malaria is a severe disease caused by a parasite and it can be fatal. This disease is transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito. Malaria symptoms are flulike in nature and include fever, chills, headache, muscle aches, and tiredness.

To avoid getting malaria, stay away from standing water. Also try to avoid places that are prone to having insects. There are also four different drugs that can be taken before and during your trip to help you avoid getting this disease.

There you have it, the top ten most common traveling diseases. Do not let this scare you into not taking your business trip or vacation. Merely make sure you are prepared so that if something does happen to you, you will only suffer mildly.

The Most Common Disease Caused by Smoking

5 Common Diseases cause by smoking 5 Common Diseases Caused by Smoking

The most common disease that smoking causes is cancer. Many people mistakenly think that only lung cancer is caused by smoking, but this is not correct. Many different types of cancer can be brought on by smoking tobacco, or from inhaling second hand smoke.
Fatal Diseases Caused by Smoking

Naturally, cancer can be fatal – and often is, but there are other conditions that smoking causes which are also fatal. One such disease is Asthma. Most people don’t realize that Asthma can indeed be fatal – rescue inhalers don’t always do the trick.

Another fatal disease that is caused by this bad habit is stroke. A stroke may not initially kill you – or it may – but if it doesn’t, it definitely shortens your life, and of course changes the quality of your life as well.

Additional respiratory problems that are caused by smoking include Chronic Bronchitis, Emphysema, and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, or COPD. You may continue smoking because you enjoy it. Inhaling that smoke and exhaling it relaxes you. You might ask yourself how relaxing or enjoyable it is going to be when you can’t pull in a good breath of air at all, including cigarette smoke.
Non-Fatal Diseases Caused by Smoking

Surprisingly, there is a non-fatal problem that is caused by smoking, although few people realize it. Smoking can contribute to impotence issues in men. This is because nicotine narrows the arteries significantly, and in order to get an erection, blood must be able to flow through the arteries efficiently. In terms of smoking blocking arteries, too many people think this only pertains to the arteries that lead to the heart, and never consider the other important arteries in the body.

In the end, you have to ask yourself, honestly, if the potential health issues related to smoking are worth it. If you believe that they are, you might want to take time out to visit someone who is currently suffering from one of these diseases caused by smoking, to get a better sense of the consequences, and just how those consequences affect your life – or your ability to stay alive.
Most of the people who decide to quit smoking do so because they realize how much damage it brings to their health. This is a reasonable concern, because half of smokers die from a smoking-related disease.

Here are the types of health problems which devoted smokers can expect:

• Lung problems

It is obvious that an individual’s lungs suffer severely from smoking. Almost all smokers cough a lot; the reason is that smoke blocks air in small air cells. This disease is called emphysema. It shortens one’s breath and limits their physical activity. Another serious lung problem is chronic bronchitis. When these two diseases occur together, they are called “chronic obstructive pulmonary disease” or COPD for short. As a rule, it develops in a smoker’s body by the age of 40, and worsens with time, sometimes becoming fatal.

In 2004 it was discovered that even pneumonia can be a result of smoking. Pneumonia is an inflammation of the lungs which can be mild, but often develops into a serious life-threatening condition.

The primary reason for the development of lung cancer is smoking. Ninety percent of people that die from lung cancer originally contracted it from smoking.

• Cancer

Even though lung cancer is often caused by smoking, it is not the only kind you can acquire by smoking. Cancers of the mouth, throat (pharynx), voice-box (larynx), esophagus, kidney, pancreas, bladder, cervix, or stomach can also be a possible result of long-term smoking. In fact, 30% of all cancer deaths are caused by smoking.

An interesting study has been published by The Lancet science journal. It says if a girl starts smoking in her teens she has a higher chance of developing breast cancer before she reaches menopause. Her risk even doubles when she initiates smoking within 5 years of her first menstrual cycle.

• Heart attacks and blood-connected diseases

The greatest damage to smokers’ bodies is done to their blood vessels, not to their lungs as many people believe. Carbon monoxide that people inhale while smoking takes the place of pure oxygen in the blood, damaging cells and helping fat and plaque to stick to the vessel’s walls, clogging them.

The human brain considers nicotine as a poison, therefore when it enters the body, the brain gives a command to release stored fat into the blood, in order to release more energy for fighting the poison. Since regular smokers breathe in nicotine constantly, blood vessels get filled with fat, becoming unable to carry blood efficiently.

Smoking also hardens the arteries: new vessels grow inside of the existing ones which makes the process of clogging and narrowing even easier. This is called vascularization.

The most common result of the processes mentioned above is either a heart attack or stroke. Smoking is in fact a dangerous habit!

• Risks for women and babies

Smoking brings even more damage to women’s bodies than it does to men’s. Breast cancer is not their only risk. Studies show that smoking shortens women’s lives by 14.5 years (men’s are shortened by 13). As a rule, female smokers have a higher risk of heart attack, strokes and blood clots in their legs than do men.

Smoking also affects pregnancy and childbirth functions. The percentage of miscarriage or low birth-weight is substantially higher.

Your Appropriate Blood Pressure

The traditional reading for a “normal” blood pressure” is 120/80. Anything above it is considered high blood pressure. For example, if your reading is 140/90, your doctor would prescribe blood pressure tablets (or medication) in an effort to bring your blood pressure back down to 120/80. Many developed countries have since made an adjustment to the 120/80 criteria; unfortunately the U.K sticks to 120/80 as the criteria.

I disagree with 120/80 as the criteria. To put a patient on prescribed medication (blood pressure pills) simply because his blood pressure chart is 140/90 without investigating if it was his/her appropriate blood pressure is definitely wrong.

 Your blood pressure can be as high as 160/100 and if it is your appropriate blood pressure, do not do anything to disrupt it or try to bring it down with drugs (prescribed medication) What I am trying to say is this: If your chart reads 160/100 and you also have other complications, you should have it checked out by your doctor. True high blood pressure must be attended to by your G.P or specialist until such time you are able to adjust your life style with dietary adjustments and supplements.

 High blood pressure and if it is not your appropriate blood pressure can be extremely dangerous; it can cause stroke and other health complications. Bear in mind too that here is also such a thing as secondary high blood pressure. This usually happens when the kidneys are not well or that there is a general hardening of the renal artery. Also, if there is hypothyroidism, there is a tendency to have secondary high blood pressure. Therefore, it is wrong diagnosis to automatically put a patient on high blood pressure medication without first ascertaining if it was secondary high blood pressure to start with! Space & time does not allow us to write more on secondary high blood pressure.

To reinforce the point, let me cite an example. There is no such thing that if you are 5 feet 8”, you must be ten stone in weight. Our body density and bone mass varies from one individual to another; again it can vary from sex to race.

Your appropriate pulse pressure.
 We place more emphasis on pulse pressure than high blood pressure. Pulse pressure is the true measurement of how far gone your arteries are. The higher it is the stiffer your arteries are; the more strain on your heart, hence the higher likelihood of health problems.

Measurement of pulse pressure
Subtract your bottom blood pressure number (diastolic pressure) from the top number (systolic pressure).

"Say your blood pressure is 170/110 and Ray is 170/70. Ray is likely to have cardiac failure. (Heart failure, stroke or some other adverse event). In this example your pulse pressure would be 60 Ray would be an alarming 100."

What’s normal pulse pressure?
40 or lower is fine. Higher reading to that can be indicated as having stiff arteries. Conventional blood measurements are ideal for selling drugs. In order to reduce your pulse pressure meaningfully all you need is physical exercise, generous intake of fish oil alpha lipoic acid, folic acid, vitamin b3,   L-Arginine and intelectol. These supplements’ will only make your arteries softer and reduce the pulse pressure but will give you a general feeling of well being and good health. Intelectol is a powerful memory enhancer that will increase blood flow to your brain.

Cholesterol
Most people would hurry to take prescription drugs to lower their cholesterol upon learning that that they have high cholesterol. This is a gross mistake and a folly. Not all cholesterol is bad – unfortunately, space limit does not enable me to delve into details. Suffice to add, not all fats are bad. There are the saturated fats ( bad fats) and unsaturated fats (good fats) Most people and even doctors do not realize that cholesterol is essential to the body for many functions. It forms part of the cell membrane, the outer layer of every cell in your body. It helps transport and packs the major components of the cell membrane, called “phospholipids” that are made from essential fatty acids (EFAs). Without sufficient cholesterol, we would die because our tissues are constantly being repaired and replaced with new cells. Our body produces several thousand milligrams of cholesterol per day to carry out these essential functions, and each day the excess of cholesterol is supposed to be naturally recycled. If your body does not have sufficient new cholesterol each day, you cannot repair and replace your cell membrane and they will eventually degenerate.

 

The Dangers of Cholesterol lowering drugs.
Serious side effects have been reported for most cholesterol lowering drugs – the so called STATINS. The prescription of these drugs is based on the discredited hypothesis that high cholesterol can cause heart attacks.

This is false and misleading! Read on! The cholesterol myth has been one of the most long lived falsehood around – probably it has been excellent business for the big pharma - drug industry (“Big Pharma” for short)

Side Effects
In an article that appeared in “Life After Lipitor” in the newspaper “Tahoe World” on January 27th, 2004, Tahoe City (California) resident Doug Peterson began having serious neuromuscular problems after taking Statins for two years. He began losing muscular co-ordination and slurring words when he spoke. Then he lost balance, followed by loss of fine motor skills – he also had difficulty writing! These adverse side effects have begun appearing in peer-reviewed medical journals and numerous people have reported similar symptoms at public adverse websites such as medications.com. People have reported trouble at swallowing, trouble talking, feeling fatigued all the time, motor neuropathy which mimics ALS, nausea, vertigo, disorientation, memory loss, extremely dry eyes, muscle pain and so on.

How could Statins and the other cholesterol lowering drugs have so much of side effects? Statin drugs inhibit the production of cholesterol in order to lower LDL cholesterol counts. By limiting the production of cholesterol, statins may be directly causing membrane degeneration in neural and muscle tissues. Plus, statins may also inhibit of the liver to produce good cholesterol.
There are twenty million people in the U.S alone on all types of statin drugs. Statin drugs can actually increase heart disease and can cause extensive damage to one’s liver!

Your doctor could have advised you that, 2000 – 3000 milligrams of good vitamin C plus Fish oil in higher dosage could be the answer to lowering bad cholesterol without the side effects. L-Arginine besides helping to boost sex drive would complement Vitamin C to help reduce bad cholesterol.

Recommended Nutritional Therapy:  Depending on your weight,  We recommend Esterol, Ester C or a good brand of Vitamin C with bioflavonoid. Supplemented this with Eskimo 3(a good fish oil), Niacin (Vitamin B3) and also L’Arginine.  Alpha Lipoic acid will also help.

Anti-depressant drugs: On December 13th, 2006, the FDA announced that anti-depressant drugs prescribed to young adults are risky. Besides the enormous side effects, they cause suicidal thoughts in young adults. The Agency proposed a change to include a new label warning with a suggestion that patients of all age groups be carefully monitored, particularly when starting antidepressant treatment.


Urinary Incontinence: Cymbalta and some types of anti depressant drugs have been used by doctors for chronic liver diseases and urinary incontinence.  On October 17th 2005, Eli Lilly expanded its warning about liver related problems with the use of its drug, Cymbalta and cautioned doctors about using it for chronic liver disease. The warning came after a review of cymbalta found that 11 of nearly 9000 women taking it for urinary incontinence tried to commit suicide. But the lists of side effects are too many to mention.
The FDA approved of cymbalta in August of 2004 as an anti-depressant but it is not approved in the United States to treat urinary incontinence.

If your prescribed medication for depression and urinary incontinence is not mentioned in the list here, you can take it from me that they still carry an enormous amount of side effects. Please refer to the internet; all you need to do is to click onto the name of the drug. Google is a better search engine. Also all prescribed drugs for urinary incontinence carries with it an enormous amount of side effects.

It is my view that all anti depressant drugs can be habit forming. In addition, they blur the brain. For those taking statin drugs, proper blood testing is of paramount importance because an excessive dose and abusive use can cause permanent muscle and liver damage

In general, most forms of prescribed medication can deplete nutrients in the body. Classic example of this are diuretic drugs used to treat hypertension (blood pressure) whilst diuretic drugs are cost effective in reducing blood pressure, they deplete the body of essential minerals like magnesium and potassium.

As the side effects of urinary incontinence drugs are enormous and the list too many to mention, I would encourage you to research the internet for further information.

A further Word of caution:  Coumadin is a drug prescribed by cardiologists to prevent blood clots. Prednisone one of the NSAID (Non Steroid Anti-Inflammatory drug) is prescribed by doctors to relieve an inflammatory process for example, asthma and other flu like conditions.  Lupron is prescribed for prostate problems. Abusive use of each of these drugs can deplete bone mineral density but when all three are taken together, rapid osteoporosis can be induced.

The harsh reality today is that today’s large pharmacies sell anything that is legal. They are in the business to make money – they are not in the business to better humankind.

If you are observant, just pay attention to those who frequent the pharmacies. They look sickly; on the other hand if you pay close attention to those who frequents a health food shop, they look better and healthier. Do not trust your doctor to know everything about nutrition, nutritional therapy is usually not within the scope of their training. If you pay close attention to many of our obese doctors and nurses with a pot belly and who light up in the hospital’s corridors or car parks, you would know what I mean. This comment is not intended to discourage you from staying away from your doctor.

Recommended Supplements for a depressive disorder:  Before I start talking about heart problems and cancer, I want to let you know that 5 HTP which improves the serotonin level in your blood can be very effective in mood balancing. It may also help you to sleep better. It has virtually no side effects. When I lost my mother almost four years ago, I was on 5HTP nightly @ 50 mg per capsule x 4 (200 mg) for almost a year to help me get over with the extremely difficult period of my life. Another most advanced mood elevating therapy available today is SAMe (S-Adenosylmethionine).

We carry 5HTP but not SAMe but we can order it for you. SAMe has shown efficacy to relieving depressive symptoms but can also help in fighting liver’s disease, relieving arthritis pain and even supporting healthy endothelial functions. Never take sleeping pills or anti-histamine to help you sleep. If you wish, you may try 5HTP and melatonin together. It will help you sleep very soundly.

          


Heart Problems: When we hear about a sudden cardiac (heart) death in an adult, it is generally linked to atherosclerosis or clogging of the arteries. During vigorous exercises, if the blood flow to the heart muscle becomes blocked, the heart can stop working resulting in death. In children, however, the problem is usually due to a congenital abnormality of the heart muscle. A child may play sports for many years without any apparent problem. But these defects which often involve abnormal rhythm can cause the heart to stop pumping at anytime – particularly during heavy exercises. I would recommend that all young children be given an EKG (electro cardiogram) – the typical examination by your doctor using a mere stethoscope won’t be able to detect most congenital heart defects. Here at our Clinic, we use both the stethoscope and The Chinese pulse diagnosis. If we are uncertain, we would refer the client back to his G.P with an explanation that he/she should be referred to a cardiologist.

Having said that, we have seen many patients who are needlessly prescribed heart tablets. When we examine the patient, we often find that the patient has heart burn, acid reflux or aortic aneurysm and these conditions often transmit a false signal that there is a heart problem. These may include distant murmurs, irregular heartbeats and angina. Before we forget, oral chelation is extremely effective in removing a blockage in a heart artery or any arteries. We do not stock chelation tablets but we shall be happy to order it for you.

Recommended Nutritional Therapy for the heart:  Again, it’s good fish oil (Eskimo 3), Co-Enzyme Q 10, at least 100 mg per day, alpha lipoic acid, Vitamin E & L’Arginine, folic acid, niacin. Oral Chelation is a very effective therapy.

On the co-relationship between cholesterol and heart problems, do bear in mind that the majority of people who have heart attacks have normal cholesterol levels. Cholesterol in itself doesn’t cause heart disease and it won’t stop a heart attack.  It has never been conclusively shown that lowering of cholesterol saves lives. In fact, several studies have shown that that lowering cholesterol into the range currently recommended is co-related with an increased risk of dying, especially of cancer.

Cancer

CANCER AND WHAT YOU CAN DO ABOUT IT

Diagnosis of cancer can be shattering leaving the victim with the feeling that the end is near. It is like having a time bomb in the body not knowing when it will explode. But cancer does not always necessarily have to be fatal; so much depends on the grade (type of cancer and how dangerous it is) and stage (meaning whether it’s the beginning stage, intermediate or final) Even when your doctor advises that it is terminal, does not always necessarily mean that death is imminent. It does not always have to be hopeless.

In this article, we will discuss about what cancer really is and what causes cancer and more importantly what can you do about it.

No doubt, the initial shock of the diagnosis can be nerve shattering. But try to overcome it. After the initial shock, try to be calm because a confused mind will not help. The internet offers a wealth of information on the more appropriate and more effective type of conventional treatment and or alternative therapies for your condition. Creating a strong positive mental attitude can help a lot. Never, out of fear; rush into any treatment suggested by your doctors or specialist. They only know one type of treatment and that is invariably chemotherapy, radiation and surgery.

Most importantly, follow a structured holistic health programme with the right type of nutritional supplements to improve your health and well being on the healing journey.

You have to take control:
In another word, you have to take charge and although you cannot dispense with hospital’s treatments, you would also have to do your own research and understand the real meaning of cancer.

WHAT IS CANCER?
Cancer is a process within the body and it normally takes years for a tumour to develop. Cancer is therefore not a lump or a simple tumour! It is that process which was started by a weakening of the body and or the immune system to start with that can affect or infect the adjacent part of the body and unless properly addressed will eventually overtake or overcome one’s body.

The fundamental difference between a healthy tissue and a cancerous tissue is that healthy tissues respond well to adjacent or neighbouring tissues and undergoes apoptosis. When a cell does not respond to apoptosis meaning that it is not “obedient”, or does not comply with the rules of the programmed cellular system, other functioning of the cells become defective.

Understand the immune system

The cells are regulated by a system located in the pancreas. The pancreas excretes proteolytic enzymes which are the backbone of the immune system and the rest of the body. But our bodies also produce defective cells daily. Fortunately, such cells are destroyed by the pancreatic enzymes which in addition to killing off the defective cells are also used to digest foods. Simply put, cancer is therefore the failure of one’s pancreas to produce adequate enzymes and the failure of one’s body to deliver

Natural Fear of Cancer? The word cancer strikes fear in the heart of everybody. Having it is like having a time bomb in the human body. Even animals have it. It has been around for centuries but only during the second half of the 20th Century did we witness an explosion. But it is definitely on the rampage over the last few years of the 21st century. At least one out of every three persons in developed countries is a potential candidate for cancer. Contributing to this explosion are the enormous amount of stress, toxins, pollutants, processed foods that robbed them of their enzymes, electromagnetic stress, junk foods and prolonged use of certain types of prescribed medication that was not around a decade ago.

Cancer is not a mysterious disease that suddenly appears; it is a process (emphasis added) that takes many years to happen. It has definite causes and one can correct it if one has enough time and if one takes positive action to change the internal environment to one that creates health and not cancer while at the same time attacking cancerous cells by capitalising on their weaknesses.

Cancer starts when more cancerous cells are created than an overworked, depleted immune system can destroy.

Has anyone stricken with cancer ever wondered or enquired why their oncologists never or hardly ever bothered to recommend a range of supplements to help them improve their chances of recovery whilst on cancer treatment such as chemotherapy or radiotherapy?

The scope of this chapter does not enable or entitle us to go into the actual reasons but suffice to add, nutritional supplements especially those that increase the strength of the immune system and those with cancer destroying abilities would double your chances of a successful recovery. Having said that, it is not the simple taking of supplements; it matters how to take them in their appropriate dosage coupled with the right quality combined with the appropriate treatment that one's chances can be assured!

Please ensure that the supplements and enzymes that you take are of pharmaceutical quality.

The operation is a success! Time and again, we hear surgeons announcing that the operation is a "success". What is really meant is that the surgeon has "successfully" removed the tumour. Much of the time, the operation is always a "success" but the successful removal of a tumour or any tumour is no indication that the patient who is already weakened by the cancer and who will undergo weeks or months of either chemotherapy or radiation will survive or have a speedy recovery. The body continues to weaken by the onslaught of chemotherapy and the already battered immune system give way to more cancers that quickly spread to the other parts of the body. Second time around, the cancer usually bounce back with a vengeance, that is to say, it has already developed some sort of an immunity against the chemo drugs that was used in the first place. As a result stronger chemo- drugs have to be used and as a further consequence the human body cannot stand the further onslaught and finally give way. Most cancer patients die this way! Let’s ask if the "successful" removal of a tumour will in itself cure the cancer? To reiterate, cancer is a process and it is not confined to a tumour alone. The "successful" removal of a tumour therefore will not in itself solve the problem; on the other hand all forms of operations carry with it a certain degree of risks. In the first place, it involves cutting into deep tissues and is therefore invasive but what is important and pertinent to note that is surgery in itself could promote or increase the chance of further metastasis (spreading) and that is because there is no way the surgeon can prevent the cancerous cells within the tumour to spread into the blood stream once it is surgically cut.

Unless the tumour obstructs or impedes the body's vital functions or disrupt the organ's functions, we would prefer to leave it alone. That remains our philosophy! We are not saying that surgery is not necessary. We are saying that until and unless absolutely necessary, we would prefer to leave it alone and that is also because after a major surgery, the body will be weakened further by the onslaught of a major operation. Consider this further. Conventional wisdom regards cancer as a tumour and continues to attack it with chemotherapy or radiation. When a tumour is reduced by 10%, conventional wisdom would regard it as a failure and continues to attack it with more chemotherapy. When the tumour is finally reduced by 50% in size and the patient dying, conventional wisdom would consider it a "success". On the other hand, if there is a reduction in size no matter how slight and there is a response, say 10% and so long as the patient remains generally healthy without any metastasis (spreading) and the size of the tumour contained, we would regard the treatment as a success. This accounts for the difference in approach and thinking.

Similarly, let’s ask if total removal of a breast in breast cancer is the answer? To do so, we would have to go back to the root cause of the cancer. What causes the breast cancer in the first place? There are no hard and fast rules because many a times, it is necessary to have a mastectomy (total removal of the breast) and in certain cases a lumpectomy, a partial removal. We have our reservations about a total mastectomy or even a lumpectomy when the tumour is at zero stage or even Stage One, that is to say at its very earliest stage and that is because surgery at this earliest stage without addressing the root cause of the problem is not addressing the problem! Hyperthermia or some other less invasive therapies coupled with nutritional therapy may be the best solution at this very stage. On the other hand, surgery with follow up of chemotherapy and radiation will simply postpone the inevitable!

We are not saying that conventional methods such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy are useless when it comes to fighting cancer. On the contrary, chemotherapy and radiotherapy are often necessary to weaken the tumour or the cancer to enable the immune system to take over. Insofar as this is concerned, there is no hard and fast rule.

Is There A Cure for Cancer?

The ideal situation is to have a good hospital that practise the best in conventional and Chinese medicine and Nutritional Therapy. We know of many such good hospitals in China that would allow or encourage a patient to be on nutritional therapy in addition to conventional treatments.

Some recommended therapies include:

•  immunotherapy and interventional therapy
•  cryosurgery
•  iodine seeds implantation
•  gene therapy
•  hyperthermia (sending deep heat into the tumour)

 The above routinely practiced in most cancer hospitals in China. These modalities are not unknown in the developed countries but they are not routinely practised because of political reasons. We also have to ask ourselves why they are not routinely practised or administered. Combined with the nutritional therapy that we practise on a regular basis and our extensive and practical knowledge, the patient's chance of a survival can be doubled if not trebled.

Pain Relief and Management

Pain be it acute or chronic can be a terrible thing in life. It reduces the quality of life.
Indeed, we have seen all sorts of pain some of which can lead any person to contemplate suicide because only death can bring about the needed relief.  Please refer to chapter on Prevention of suicide.

We can be very effective with pain management without resorting to drugs like pain killers or morphine. We do not camouflage the symptoms. When pain is excruciatingly painful, morphine is often used by doctors and the hospitals. Morphine is very powerful; it can help a person with unbearable pain get almost instant relief. But of course, we do know that morphine is used only as an absolute last resort. But one ought to be aware that morphine also has an enormous amount of side effects like slowing your heart beat down; besides it can dull the brain. Plus morphine is highly addictive.

Whenever there is pain, there is invariably an inflammatory process. Mega dosage of fish oil, turmeric and our Protease IFC are extremely effectively in pain management. Having said that, we strive to find out what causes the pain in the first instance.

Our Therapies for pain management
Indeed at Beyond Medicine, pain management is a simple process, straightforward and highly effective. It does not have to be complicated and there are no pain killers of any sorts to take. Depending on the nature of the pain and what causes it, our modalities would include the use of acupuncture, heat treatment, electro muscle stimulation or electro massage. If there is a trapped nerve in the spine, manipulative therapy is routinely used to free the trapped nerve.  The neck and the spine are often manipulated to release the tension and to enhance blood flow. Instant relief is often felt after the first session.

Supplements as a front line attack
Therapies are good at providing the patient with instant relief.  But therapies alone do not provide a total cure; very often the pain comes back within days. The use of certain types of nutritional supplements may provide a long term cure.

Without delving into the history and the need, the following supplements are routinely used as a front line attack and may together without therapies long term relief and a possible cure.

Fish Oil
High dosages of good grade fish oil is anti-inflammatory: Whenever there is pain, there is invariably an inflammatory process. Fish oil is not only anti-inflammatory has but other health benefits. At high dosage, it lubricates the tissues and joints. The fish oil that we carry is Eskimo 3.

Alpha Lipoic Acid
 Alpha lipoic acid serves as a powerful antioxidant and modulates cholesterol, blood pressure and helps with congestive heart problems.

MSM
 This is critical sulphur required for proper repair of injured cartilage, ligaments and tendons. Reports show that strategic uses of MSM increase the therapeutic efficiency of glucosamine because of the presence of sulphur.

Turmeric This is one of the oldest anti-inflammatory and pain relievers known to mankind.

Protease IFC
 This is an enzyme which we carry. As the name suggests, IFC stands for inflammatory control.

Prevention Of Suicide

It saddens us to learn that there are many people in the U.K crippled with pain and who are contemplating assisted suicide. It seems to us that most types of pain are inadequately treated and that morphine and pain killers are not the only solutions.

This chapter does not delve into the ethics of assisted suicide; such discussions are outside the ambit of what we are trying to achieve. Death is inevitable. But if we can minimise some of the pain and help somebody improve his quality of life that would in itself be a great privilege and our greatest satisfaction.

It seems to us that the United States is the only country in the World where a patient's ability to pay will determine his access to the quality of health care. Assisted suicide in Switzerland is not a cheap thing either; although we have no knowledge of the precise figures, common sense suggests that it will cost several thousand pounds. But there is another emotional aspect to it. Such patients are also deprived and denied of the satisfaction of dying in one's home. First of all, it involves a trip to Switzerland with the full knowledge that one is going there to die! Given a choice, most if not all would prefer to pass away peacefully in the comfort of one's home.

We also appreciate that there is no magic bullet or universally accepted formula for the relief of pain and suffering but it is also true that many doctors are not sufficiently trained to handle the emotional aspect of it all! Therefore, if terminally ill people are given adequate treatment which includes the emotional aspect, requests for physician assisted suicide can be greatly reduced.

It also saddens us to know that the greater majority of conventionally trained physicians only know how to prescribe pain killers and are either very concerned with their addictions or show a callous attitude towards them. Two of the pain killers with extremely addictive properties are morphine and heroin. We know with a fair degree of certainty that many people would want to continue living if their pain is almost manageable and with emotional encouragement would want to continue to live. There is another aspect to it. Pain killers which cause addictions and side effects are not the only solutions.

Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism is a condition where structural or functional abnormalities lead to insufficient synthesis of thyroid hormone. Hypothyroidism is more prevalent in women than in men; in the United States, incidence is rising significantly in people ages 40 to 50. Hypothyroidism results from inadequate production of thyroid hormone, usually because of dysfunction of the thyroid gland due to surgery (thyroidectomy), radiation therapy, inflammation, chronic autoimmune thyroiditis (Hashimoto's disease) or, rarely, conditions such as amyloidosis and sarcoidosis. In rare cases, hypothyroidism occurs in infants and children. Infants will grow and develop normally if hypothyroidism is treated within the first month of life. Hypothyroidism seldom causes symptoms in the early stages, but over time, untreated hypothyroidism can cause a number of health problems, such as obesity, joint pain, infertility and heart disease. Hypothyroidism is the most common thyroid disorder. Severe hypothyroidism can lead to a condition called myxedema, characterized by dry, thickened skin and coarse facial features.
Hypothyroidism is the disease state in humans and domestic animals caused by insufficient production of thyroid hormone by the thyroid gland .It helps to keep the body's functions (the metabolism) working at the correct pace. Many cells and tissues in the body need thyroxine to keep them going correctly. With proper treatment, a teen will catch up in weight and height to healthy teens of the same age.Your thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located at the base of your neck, just below your Adam's apple. Hypothyroidism is the condition in which the thyroid is underactive (i.e., it is producing an insufficient amount of thyroid hormones). The hypothalamus is a brain structure that normally signals the pituitary gland to make thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), which causes the thyroid to make thyroid hormones. Some medical problems can affect either the hypothalamus or the pituitary gland, and interrupt the chain of signals from the brain to the thyroid. The disease may also be caused by a lack of thyroid gland or pituitary hormone. Treatment comes in the form of thyroid hormone replacement therapy. Hypothyroidism caused by Hashimoto's thyroiditis a disease in which the body's natural defense (immune) system attacks the thyroid gland occasionally will disappear on its own. The good news is that accurate thyroid function tests are available to diagnose hypothyroidism, and treatment of hypothyroidism with synthetic thyroid hormone is usually simple and effective once the proper dosage is established.
Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland fails to produce enough thyroid hormone. Historically, iodine deficiency was the most common cause of hypothyroidism world-wide. Secondary hypothyroidism occurs if the pituitary gland is damaged by a tumor, radiation, or surgery so that it is no longer able to instruct the thyroid to make enough hormone Hormones produced by the thyroid gland have an enormous impact on your health, affecting all aspects of your metabolism - from the rate at which your heart beats to how quickly you burn calories. Hypothyroidism is also known as an underactive thyroid. Thyroid hormones regulate the body's energy. When levels of thyroid hormones are abnormally low, the body burns energy more slowly, and vital functions, such as heartbeat and temperature regulation, slow down. It occurs when the thyroid gland does not make enough thyroxine. The risk of developing hypothyroidism tends to increase with age; older women have the highest risk.

Causes of Hypothyroidism

The common Causes of Hypothyroidism :

• The most common cause of hypothyroidism is Hashimoto's thyroiditis, a disease of the thyroid gland where the body's immune system attacks the gland.
• The body recognizes the thyroid antigens as foreign, and a chronic immune reaction ensues, resulting in lymphocytic infiltration of the gland and progressive destruction of functional thyroid tissue.
• Failure of the pituitary gland to secrete a hormone to stimulate the thyroid gland ( secondary hypothyroidism ) is a less common cause of hypothyroidism.
• Drugs such as amiodarone, interferon alpha, thalidomide, and stavudine have also been associated with primary hypothyroidism.
• External beam radiation, which is used to treat some cancers, such as Hodgkin's lymphoma this radiation treatment can destroy the thyroid gland.
• Other types of 'thyroiditis' (thyroid inflammation) caused by infection or other rare conditions.
• One such medication is lithium, which is used to treat certain psychiatric disorders. If you're taking medication, ask your doctor about its effect on your thyroid gland.
• Radiation used to treat cancers of the head and neck can affect your thyroid gland and may lead to hypothyroidism.

Symptoms of Hypothyroidism

Some common Symptoms of Hypothyroidism :

• Weakness
• Weight gain
• Slow body movements.
• Fatigue
• Inability to tolerate cold.
• Constipation
• Weight gain (unintentional)
• Cold skin.
• Sparse, coarse
• Lack of energy
• Muscle cramps

Treatment of Hypothyroidism

Here is the list of the methods for treating Hypothyroidism :

• Hypothyroidism in pregnancy is associated with preeclampsia, anemia, postpartum hemorrhage, cardiac ventricular dysfunction, spontaneous abortion, low birthweight, impaired cognitive development, and fetal mortality even mild disease may be associated with adverse affects for offspring.
• Myxedema coma is a medical emergency that occurs when the body's level of thyroid hormones becomes extremely low.
• Sometimes hypothyroidism is a temporary condition in older children. (This is not so for children who are born with an underactive thyroid.)
• If a serious illness or infection triggered your hypothyroidism, your thyroid function most likely will return to normal when you recover.
• It is treated with intravenous thyroid hormones replacement and steroid therapy
• Surgery is indicated for large goiters that compromise tracheoesophageal function; surgery is rarely needed in patients with hypothyroidism and is more common in the treatment of hyperthyroidism.
• After replacement therapy has begun, report any symptoms of increased thyroid activity ( hyperthyroidism ) such as restlessness, rapid weight loss, and sweating.
• If you have mild (subclinical) hypothyroidism , you may not need treatment but should be watched for signs of worsening hypothyroidism current research does not provide clear evidence to support treatment, and many health professionals disagree about whether mild hypothyroidism should be treated.

Graves Disease

Grave's disease is a disease of unknown cause, although fairly common. It is suspected to have a genetic origin. In this case the thyroid gland is diffusely enlarged, soft, non-tender. All the tissues within are also enlarged. Although it may develop at any age and in either men or women, Graves' disease is more common in women and usually begins after age 20. The most common symptoms of GD are nervousness and anxiety, although not all patients complain of being nervous. In fact, in elderly patients, the primary symptoms are apathy and depression, leading to the term "apathetic hyperthyroidism." There's no way to stop your immune system from attacking the thyroid gland, but treatments can decrease the production of thyroxine.
Graves' disease is the most common form of hyperthyroidism. This over-activity is also sometimes called "toxic diffuse goiter." The thyroid gland helps set the rate of metabolism, which is the rate at which the body uses energy. Once the disorder has been correctly diagnosed, it is quite easy to treat. Graves - Basedow disease , also known simply as Graves' disease , is a medical disorder that may manifest several different conditions, including goitre and hyperthyroidism (over-activity of thyroid hormone production), infiltrative exophthalmos (protuberance of one or both eyes and associated problems) and infiltrative dermopathy (a skin condition usually of the lower extremities). When you have too much thyroid hormone in your system, your body's metabolism rate can increase by 60 percent to 100 percent because thyroxine regulates your cells' metabolism. The goal in treating GD is to reduce thyroid hormone levels in the blood. Graves' Disease also tends to affect women between the ages of 20 and 40, although it occurs in infants, children, and the elderly .This can be accomplished with both conventional and alternative medicine, although patients with moderate to severe hyperthyroidism may initially require conventional treatment until their symptoms are in control.
First described by Sir Robert Graves in the early 19th century, Graves' disease is one of the most common of all thyroid problems. When the thyroid is too active, it makes more thyroid hormones than the body needs. This abnormal immune response can also affect the tissue behind your eyes as well as your skin, usually on your lower legs and feet. This disorder is the most common cause of hyperthyroidism. It is known to be related to an antibody mediated type of auto-immunity, but the trigger for the reaction is unknown. In some cases, Graves' disease goes into remission or disappears completely after several months or years. Left untreated, however, it can lead to serious complications even death. The anti–sodium-iodide symporter, antithyroglobulin, and antithyroid peroxidase antibodies appear to have little role in the etiology of hyperthyroidism in Graves disease Graves' disease is rarely life-threatening.

Causes of Graves Disease

The common Causes of Graves Disease :

• The production of thyroid hormone is increased, causing a wide range of symptoms from anxiety and restlessness to insomnia and weight loss.
• Graves disease is caused by an abnormal immune system response that attacks the thyroid gland, and causes too much production of thyroid hormones.
• Eye muscles weakened by long periods of inflammation can lose their ability to control movement, resulting in double vision.
• Environmental factors associated with susceptibility are largely unproven other factors include infection, iodide intake, stress, steroids, and toxins. Smoking has been implicated in the worsening of Graves ophthalmopathy.
• In addition, the eyeballs may begin to stick out ( exophthalmos ), causing eye irritation and tearing.
• Chronic thyroiditis (Hashimoto thyroiditis) - Although the primary cause of hypothyroidism, the disease process occasionally presents initially with thyrotoxicosis

Symptoms of Graves Disease

Some common Symptoms of Graves Disease :

• Weight loss
• Abnormal breast enlargement (men)
• Increased appetite
• Muscle wasting
• Nervousness
• Restlessness
• Anxiety
• Light menstrual periods
• Increased eye tearing
• Difficulty sleeping
• Fatigue
• Infrequent or absent menstrual periods

Treatment of Graves Disease

Here is the list of the methods for treating Graves Disease :

• These medications, which include propranolol (Inderal), atenolol (Tenormin), metoprolol (Lopressor) and nadolol (Corgard), often relieve hyperthyroid signs and symptoms, such as a rapid heart rate, nervousness and tremors these medications aren't a cure for Graves' because your body will still produce too much thyroxine, but beta blockers block some of the action of the thyroid hormone.
• If you can't tolerate an anti-thyroid drug and don't want to have radioactive iodine therapy, surgery to remove your thyroid gland (thyroidectomy) is an option after the surgery, you'll likely need thyroxine treatment to supply your body with normal amounts of thyroid hormones.
• Sometimes use of prednisone (a steroid medication, which suppresses the immune system) is required to reduce eye irritation and swelling.
• Hyperthyroidism is treated with antithyroid medications, radioactive iodine, or surgery.
• Both radiation and surgery result in the need for lifelong use of replacement thyroid hormones, because these treatments destroy or remove the gland.
• Atrial fibrillation due to thyroid storm may be refractory to rate control, and conversion to sinus rhythm may be impossible until after antithyroid therapy has been initiated.
• Patients with severe thyrotoxicosis must be placed on a cardiac monitor the patient should be intubated if profoundly altered supplemental oxygen may be required. Aggressive fluid resuscitation may be indicated.

Addison's Disease

Addison's Disease is primarily a deficiency of hormones produced by the adrenal glands. There is increased excretion of salt. In Addison's disease, your adrenal glands produce too little cortisol, which is one of the hormones in a group called the glucocorticoids. It helps maintain blood pressure and water and salt balance in the body by helping the kidney retain sodium and excrete potassium. When aldosterone production falls too low, the kidneys are not able to regulate salt and water balance, causing blood volume and blood pressure to drop. Addison's disease occurs when the adrenal glands do not produce enough of the hormone cortisol and, in some cases, the hormone aldosterone.Treatment for Addison's disease involves taking hormones to replace the insufficient amounts being made by your adrenal glands.
Addison's disease is a hormone deficiency (not enough hormone) caused by damage to the outer layer of the adrenal gland (the part known as the adrenal cortex). These glands are part of your endocrine system, and they produce hormones that give instructions to virtually every organ and tissue in your body. The condition was first described by British physician Thomas Addison in his 1855 publication, On the Constitutional and Local Effects of Disease of the Suprarenal Capsules . Cortisol mobilizes nutrients, modifies the body's response to inflammation, stimulates the liver to raise the blood sugar, and also helps to control the amount of water in the body. Aldosterone regulates salt and water levels which affects blood volume and blood pressure. Cortisol production is regulated by another hormone, adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH), made in the pituitary gland which is located just below the brain. Because cortisol is so vital to health, the amount of cortisol produced by the adrenals is precisely balanced. Like many other hormones, cortisol is regulated by the brain's hypothalamus and the pituitary gland, a bean-sized organ at the base of the brain. First, the hypothalamus sends "releasing hormones" to the pituitary gland.
Addison's disease is an endocrine or hormonal disorder that occurs in all age groups and afflicts men and women equally. The inner part of the adrenal ( called the medulla ) produces epinephrine ( also called adrenaline ) which is produced at times of stress and helps the body respond to "fight or flight" situations by raising the pulse rate, adjusting blood flow, and raising blood sugar.Addison's disease (also known as chronic adrenal insufficiency , or hypocortisolism ) is a rare endocrine disorder which results in the body not producing sufficient amounts of certain adrenal hormones Sometimes, Addison's disease also involves insufficient production of aldosterone, one of the mineralocorticoid hormones. It belongs to a class of hormones called glucocorticoids, which affect almost every organ and tissue in the body. In cases in which the electrolyte levels are normal this is the only test for the problem and it will be missed unless it is looked for specifically.

Causes of Addison's Disease

The common Causes of Addison's Disease :

• The immune system mistakenly attacking the gland (autoimmune disease)
• Chronic infections, such as fungal infections.
• Infections such as tuberculosis , HIV, or fungal infections.
• Hemorrhage, blood loss.
• Tumors.
• Invasion of the adrenal glands by cancer cells from another part of the body.
• Use of blood-thinning drugs (anticoagulants) .
• The symptoms of Addison's disease are caused by the failure of the adrenal glands, seated above the kidneys , to produce enough of the hormone cortisol and, in some cases, the hormone aldosterone .

Symptoms of Addison's Disease

Some common Symptoms of Addison's Disease :

• Weight loss and loss of appetite.
• Fatigue.
• Sweating.
• Unintentional weight loss.
• Low blood pressure, even fainting.
• Muscle weakness.
• Salt craving.
• Nausea and vomiting .
• Loss of appetite.
• Chronic diarrhea.
• Darkening of your skin (hyperpigmentation).

Corneal Abrasion

Corneal abrasion is a painful scrape or scratch of the surface of the clear part of the eye. This transparent window covers the iris, the circular colored portion of the eye. The cornea has several layers that protect the eye. Some corneal abrasions may form a scar and permanently impair vision. A corneal abrasion is an injury (a scratch, scrape or cut) to the epithelium. Abrasions are commonly caused by fingernail scratches, paper cuts, makeup brushes, scrapes from trees or limbs, and rubbing the eye. Some eye conditions, such as dry eye, increase the chance of an abrasion. It is comprised of three layers and the membranes that separate these layers. It is very difficult to penetrate past the epithelium or top layer of the cornea. The cornea is normally devoid of blood vessels yet has many sensory nerves. When any trauma to the corneal epithelium occurs, cells are lost or destroyed and pain is immediately sensed. When a corneal abrasion occurs, the conjunctiva, or the white of the eye, turns red, as new blood vessels form and those present enlarge, in an attempt to increase blood flow to the eye as it attempts to bring to the eye those cells needed for the healing of the cornea. A corneal abrasion heals by the movement of neighboring epithelial cells, which slide over the wounded area, and through a cell division process called mitosis, which fill in the abraded area with new epithelial cells. Within two to three days of trauma to the cornea, these new cells start to adhere to the underlying membrane of the epithelium, called the basement membrane and within seven to eight days the abraded area usually heals completely without scarring.

Causes of Corneal Abrasion

The common Causes of Corneal Abrasion :

• Minor injury.
• Occurs when a foreign object is scraped across the cornea.
• Chemicals.
• Contact lenses.
• Blow to the eye.

Symptoms of Corneal Abrasion

Some common Symptoms of Corneal Abrasion :

• Tearing .
• Discharge of tears.
• Sensitivity to light.
• Eye pain.
• Blurred vision.
• Redness.
• Discomfort in the eye.
• Headache.

Treatment of Corneal Abrasion

• Antibiotic eye ointment, such as Polymyxin-bacitracin.
• Occlusion of the eyelid with a patch (keep the eye closed).
• Examination is done after using an anaesthetic.
• A 'patch' may be put on the eyes.
• Antibiotic used to prevent infection.
• Relief of pain with medication.
• At times, cycloplegic drops (paralyzes the ciliary muscle that controls the iris size).
• In selected cases, other medication such as steroids might be used.

Hemolytic Anemia

Hemolytic anemia is anemia due to hemolysis , the abnormal breakdown of red blood cells either in the blood vessels (intravascular hemolysis) or elsewhere in the body (extravascular). The mechanism by which the immune system mistakes the red blood cells for a "foreign invader" varies somewhat according to the cause. It usually involves adherence of the offending agent (parasite, drug or toxin) to the surface of the red blood cells.Autoimmune hemolytic anemia can also be caused by or occur with another disease, such as systemic lupus erythematosus, and rarely it follows the use of certain drugs, such as penicillin. Though much attention has been given recently to AIHA due to evidence linking the process of vaccinating with the manifestation of this sometimes life-threatening disease, immunization is only one potential cause for this condition. In particular, a form of damaged red blood cell known as a spherocyte occurs. Finding spherocytes on a blood smear almost guarantees that some form of hemolytic anemia is occurring Blood transfusions can be used in dogs with IMHA if necessary but they can make the condition worse so most vets reserve this approach for dogs that appear to be in imminent danger of dying due to severe anemia. It is necessary to treat most dogs for a fairly long time to prevent recurrence of the disease and some dogs seem to require lifelong use of corticosteroids or other immunosuppressants. Splenectomy is done in resistant cases since it is a major site of red blood cell destruction.
Idiopathic autoimmune hemolytic anemia results from an abnormality of the immune system that destroys red blood cells prematurely. It has numerous possible causes, ranging from relatively harmless to life-threatening. The immune system wishes to attack the offending agent, but manages to injure the red blood cells as well. When the spleen and the rest of the immune system is working to rid the body of the old, diseased or damaged red blood cells, it is doing its job properly. Whenever hemolytic anemia is present it is wise to carefully rule out initiating causes that might be treatable. Examples of problems that can lead to hemolytic anemia include ehrlichiosis (a blood parasite), reactions to sulfa antiseptics or penicillin antibiotics, zinc toxicosis - which can occur due to the ingestion of pennies. In some people, the destruction may stop after a period of time; whereas in other people, it persists and becomes chronic. There are two main types of autoimmune hemolytic anemia: warm antibody hemolytic anemia and cold antibody hemolytic anemia. In acquired hemolytic anemia, the person develops the condition from some other cause. Hemolytic anemia can begin rapidly or come on gradually and can range from mild to severe.

Causes of Hemolytic Anemia

The common Causes of Hemolytic Anemia :

• Autoimmune disorders, such as systemic lupus erythematous (SLE, or lupus), rheumatoid arthritis, Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome, or ulcerative colitis
• Drugs such as penicillin, antimalaria medications, sulfa medications or acetaminophen
• surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy and/or immunotherapy...
• Blood loss excessive bleeding such as hemorrhages or abnormal menstrual bleeding.
• Penicillin and its derivatives .
• Cephalosporins.
• Levodopa.
• Tumors.
• AIHA and hereditary spherocytosis are classified as examples of extravascular hemolysis because the RBCs are destroyed in the spleen and other reticuloendothelial organs.
• Hereditary spherocytosis.

Symptoms of Hemolytic Anemia

Some are common Symptoms of Hemolytic Anemia :

• Abnormal paleness or lack of color of the skin.
• Jaundice, or yellowing of the skin, eyes, and mouth.
• weakness.
• Dizziness.
• Pale color.
• Dark urine.
• Rapid heartbeat.
• Enlarged spleen.
• Confusion.
• Heart murmur.

Treatment of Hemolytic Anemia

• your age, overall health, and medical history
• vitamin and mineral supplements
• extent of the disease
• Surgical removal of the spleen generally is reserved for children who do not respond to other therapies.
• Administer packed RBC slowly to avoid cardiac stress.
• Corticosteroid medications, which are synthetic versions of natural hormones produced by the body's adrenal glands
• Blood transfusions are given with caution, if indicated for severe anemia , because of the potential that blood may not be compatible and may bring on a reaction.
• corticosteroid medications
• splenectomy - surgery to remove the spleen.
• Administer folic acid because active hemolysis may consume folate and cause megaloblastosis.

Lung abscess

lung abscess is a pus-filled cavity in the lung surrounded by inflamed tissue and caused by an infection. A common mechanism is aspiration of stomach contents by vomiting and aspiration of part of the vomitus with all the bacteria from the pharynx, or gastrointestinal tract. Infections and neoplasms are the most common causes. The formation of multiple small (<2 cm) abscesses is occasionally referred to as necrotizing pneumonia or lung gangrene. Before the availability of antibiotics, the etiology of a typical abscess was complications after oral surgical procedures (ie, tonsillectomy), resulting in aspiration of infected material into the lungs. Both lung abscess and necrotizing pneumonia are manifestations of a similar pathologic process. The process is usually surrounded by a fibrous reaction, forming the abscess wall. Multiple small abscess formation may occur and is sometimes referred to as necrotising pneumonia. In children, the most vulnerable patients are those with weakened immune systems, malnutrition , or blunt injuries to the chest.
Lung Abscess is defined as a localized suppurative necrotizing collection occurring within the pulmonary parenchyma. Acute abscesses are less than 4-6 weeks old, whereas chronic abscesses are of longer duration. Several processes, either respiratory or systemic, can lead to abscess formation. Most abscesses are primary, meaning they result from necrosis in an existing parenchymal process (usually an infectious pneumonia). Lung abscesses can be classified based on the duration and the likely etiology. Aspiration into the lungs may be due to impaired normal swallowing mechanisms, esophageal disorders (e.g., acid Reflux ), altered consciousness levels, or absent gag reflex. Signs and symptoms usually begin at least 2 weeks before presentation and include cough, hemoptysis, fever, chills, night sweats, anorexia, pleuritic chest pain, and weight loss. The availability of effective antibiotic therapy for primary lung abscess has drastically modified the natural history of the disease and diminished the role of surgery. A pneumonitis develops which progresses to abscess formation over a period of 1–2 weeks.

Causes of Lung Abscess

The comman causes of Lung Abscess include the following :

• A lung abscess is usually caused by bacteria that normally live in the mouth or throat and that are inhaled into the lungs, resulting in an infection.
• Choking/near-drowning/ aspiration.
• Individuals with an inability to protect their airways because of an absent gag reflex, such as during coma, loss of consciousness, or general anesthesia and sedation.
• Severe periodontal disease.
• The remaining cases are caused by a mixture of anaerobic and aerobic (air breathing) bacteria.
• An abscess may occur secondary to carcinoma of the bronchus; the bronchial obstruction causes postobstructive pneumonia, which may lead to abscess formation.
• Stroke / cerebral palsy /cognitive impairment/impaired consciousness leading to increased risk of aspiration.

Symptoms of Lung Abscess

Some sign and symptoms related to Lung Abscess are as follows :

• The patient usually is sick for several weeks or months with a lack of appetite and the resulting weight loss.
• Cough with foul smelling sputum.
• Coughing pus.
• Poor dental hygiene is common.
• Chills and fever.
• Sweating.
• Productive cough.
• Rapid pulse ( heart rate).
• Foul-smelling cough.
• Bluish discoloration of the skin caused by lack of oxygen.

Treatment of Lung Abscess

Here is list of the methods for treating Lung Abscess:

• Lung abscess is treated with a combination of antibiotic drugs, oxygen therapy, and surgery.
• Penicillin intravenously.
• Cefoxitin is a second-generation cephalosporin that has gram-positive, gram-negative, and anaerobic coverage. This agent may be used when a polymicrobial infection is suspected as cause of lung abscess.
• Clindamycin intravenously.
• Standard treatment of an anaerobic lung infection is clindamycin (600 mg IV q8h followed by 150-300 mg PO qid).
• Patients may receive special antibiotics to treat organisms that may live in the mouth.
• Surgery is very rarely required for patients with uncomplicated lung abscesses.

Pleural effusion

Pleural effusion is defined as an abnormal accumulation of fluid in the pleural space. The pleura produces a fluid which acts as a lubricant that helps you to breathe easily, allowing the lungs to move in and out smoothly. The most common causes are disease of the heart or lungs, and inflammation or infection of the pleura. A pleural effusion is an accumulation of fluid between the layers of the membrane that lines the lungs and chest cavity. Approximately 1 million pleural effusions are diagnosed in the United States each year. Pleural effusion itself is not a disease as much as a result of many different diseases. If blood is in the accumulating fluid, the condition is called "hemothorax"; if pus is present, it is called "empyema"; if air enters the space, it is called "pneumothorax"; and if there is chyle (milky fluid consisting of lymph and fat), it is called "chylothorax." When certain disorders occur, excessive pleural fluid may accumulate and cause pulmonary signs and symptoms. Effusions may be the presenting sign of cancer or they may develop after the cancer is diagnosed.
Parietal pleurae cover the inner surface of the thoracic cavity, including the mediastinum, diaphragm, and ribs. Any extra fluid is taken up by blood and lymph vessels, maintaining a balance. A pulmonary embolism is a blood clot that has floated through the bloodstream and lodged in the lungs. There are two types of pleural effusion: the transudate and the exudate. When either too much fluid forms or something prevents its removal, the result is an excess of pleural fluid--an effusion. Thus, there are in fact two layers of pleura between the outer surface of the lung and the chest wall. One is adherent to the lung, whereas the other layer follows the outline of the chest wall. The two layers press up against one another, and in the healthy chest, there is no air or significant fluid between them. Cancer is responsible for 40% of all pleural effusions, which are then called malignant pleural effusions. Blood in the pleural space (hemothorax) usually results from a chest injury. Rarely, a blood vessel ruptures into the pleural space when no injury has occurred, or a bulging area in the aorta (aortic aneurysm) leaks blood into the pleural space. Any significant increase in the quantity of pleural fluid is a pleural effusion.

Causes of Pleural Effusion

• Pericarditis. This is an inflammation of the pericardium, the membrane covering the heart.
• Cirrhosis (hepatic hydrothorax).
• Autoimmune disease such as systemic lupus erythematosus , bleeding (often due to chest trauma), chylothorax (most commonly caused by trauma), and accidental infusion of fluids.
• Intraabdominal abscess.
• The most common causes of transudative pleural effusions in the United States are left ventricular failure , pulmonary embolism , and cirrhosis.
• Asbestos pleural effusion.
• Atelectasis (which may be due to malignancy or pulmonary embolism).
• The most common causes of exudative pleural effusions are bacterial pneumonia , cancer (with lung cancer , breast cancer), viral infection, and pulmonary embolism .

Symptoms of Pleural Effusion

Some sign and symptoms related to Pleural Effusion are as follows:

• The key symptom of a pleural effusion is shortness of breath.
• Hemoptysis.
• Fever and chills, depending on the cause.
• Weight loss.
• The pain may start and remain in one specific area of the chest wall, or it may spread to the shoulder or back.
• Breathlessness.
• A cough that brings up small amounts of blood.
• Hiccups.
• Night sweats.
• Rapid breathing.
• Swelling in several joints.

Treatment of Pleural Effusion

Here is list of the methods for treating Pleural Effusion:

• Rheumatic fever is treated with antibiotics (usually penicillin) to kill strep bacteria, together with aspirin or other anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce inflammation.
• Large pleural effusions, causing severe breathlessness, are drained, by needle in an acute emergency, or otherwise by chest drain inserted under local anaesthetic.
• Tube thoracostomy. A tube is inserted through the chest and into the pleural space to drain pleural fluid. When used alone, recurrence is very common.
• A small pulmonary embolism can be treated with anticoagulants, drugs that thin the blood and prevent future blood clots.
• Therapeutic thoracentesis may be done if the fluid collection is large and causing pressure or shortness of breath.
• Surgical intervention is most often required for parapneumonic effusions.

Pneumothorax

Pneumothorax is defined as a collection of gas in the pleural space that results in complete or partial collapse of the lung. Normally the pressure in the normal pleural sac is sub atmospheric. With leakage of air into the pleural space the pressure approaches atmospheric, which leads to the collapse of the lung. If pressure in a pneumothorax rises above atmospheric as may occur in a one way (ball valve) leak into the pleural space, a tension pneumothorax is present. This is an emergency.
A pneumothorax is defined as free air (pneumo) trapped within the chest cavity (thorax) - but not within the lungs themselves. Pneumothoraces are divided into tension and non-tension pneumathoraces. A pneumothorax may occur for no identifiable reason; doctors call this a spontaneous pneumothorax. Pneumothorax is considered one of the most common forms of thoracic disease and is classified as spontaneous (not caused by trauma), traumatic, or iatrogenic. Pneumothorax may occur after resuscitation of the baby with oxygen with a pressure bag and mask, as a complication of meconium aspiration syndrome , or most often simply spontaneously when the baby takes its first big breaths. It affects close to 9,000 persons in the United States each year- most often among tall, thin men between 20 and 40 years old.  Spontaneous pneumothorax usually occurs when a small weakened area of lung (bulla) ruptures (primary spontaneous pneumothorax). A pneumothorax may become life-threatening if the pressure in your chest prevents the lungs from getting enough oxygen into the blood.
Pneumothorax is one type of lung disorders called air leak syndrome. A baby can have more than one form of air leak. Signs of pneumothorax include respiratory distress in general - grunting, flaring of the nostrils (nares) , and rapid breathing (tachypnea). The intrapleural space is normally just a 'potential space' that exists between two layers of 'pleura' - thin tissue layers, one of which covers lungs, and one of which lines the chest cavity. If a pneumothorax is severe or the baby is otherwise compromised (for example with respiratory distress syndrome), surgical placement of a plastic suction tube may be done to suck out the air as it leaks out into the pleural space around the lung. A non-tension pneumothorax by contrast is a less severe pathology because the air in the pneumothorax is able to escape. A tension pneumothorax results from any lung parenchymal or bronchial injury that acts as a one-way valve and allows free air to move into an intact pleural space but prevents the free exit of that air. Because of the underlying lung disease, the symptoms and outcome are generally worse in secondary spontaneous pneumothorax; the recurrence rate is similar to that of primary spontaneous pneumothorax.

Causes of Pneumothorax

The comman causes of Pneumothorax include the following :

• A pneumothorax is usually caused by an injury to the chest, such as a broken rib or puncture wound.
• Air leaks occur when the alveoli (tiny air sacs) become overdistended and burst.
• Drugs and toxins.
• Chemotherapy for malignancy.
• People who smoke cigarettes are much more likely to suffer a spontaneous pneumothorax than those who don't.
• Tension pneumothorax is caused when excessive pressure builds up around the lung, forcing it to collapse.
• Paraquat poisoning.
• Spontaneous pneumothorax can result from damage to the lungs caused by conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) , asthma , cystic fibrosis , and pneumonia.
• Tension pneumothorax may be the result of blunt trauma with or without associated rib fractures.
• Spontaneous pneumothorax can also occur in people who don't have lung disease.

Symptoms of Pneumothorax

Some sign and symptoms related to Pneumothorax are as follows:

• Sudden sharp chest pain , made worse by a deep breath or a cough.
• Bluish color of the skin caused by lack of oxygen.
• Chest tightness.
• Primary pneumothorax is usually associated with pain and shortness of breath.
• Rapid respiratory rate.
• Secondary pneumothorax in patients with associated lung disease causes severe shortness of breath; pain is also common.
• Easy fatigue.
• Rapid heart rate.
• Splinting - bending over or holding the chest to protect against pain.

Treatment of Pneumothorax

Here is list of the methods for treating Pneumothorax:

• A chest tube ( chest tube insertion ) placed between the ribs into space surrounding the lungs helps clear the air and allows the lung to re-expand.
• Supplemental oxygen may be needed to help air around the lung be reabsorbed more quickly.
• A tension pneumothorax is a contraindication to the use of military antishock trousers.
• A procedure called pleurodesis can help prevent air and fluid buildup around the lungs and prevent collapses.
• High frequency ventilation is sometimes used for babies with PIE.
• Surgery may be needed to prevent recurrent episodes.

Emphysema

Emphysema condition is defined as the distention of the air spaces distal to the terminal bronchioles withdestruction of alveolar septa within the lungs. It is generally present in both lungs. Air sacs distend and rupture to form large emphysematous sacs, which are not available for exchange of oxygen with blood resulting in less oxygen being available for the body.
Emphysema is a chronic lung disease that can get worse over time. The air sacs are unable to completely deflate, and are therefore unable to fill with fresh air to ensure adequate oxygen supply to the body. It's usually caused by smoking. The tiny air sacs in the lungs called alveoli, through which oxygen is absorbed into the bloodstream, lose their natural elasticity, meaning spent air is pushed back out into the lungs. Emphysema and chronic bronchitis are the two most common forms of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and they often occur together. In the United States, cigarette smoking is by far the most important risk factor for emphysema. Symptoms of emphysema include shortness of breath, cough and a limited exercise tolerance. In emphysema, there is permanent enlargement of the tiny air sacs in the lungs (called alveoli) due to the destruction of the walls between the small alveoli. Medical scientists have defined emphysema as "a condition of the lung characterized by abnormal, permanent enlargement of airspaces distal to the terminal bronchioles, accompanied by the destruction of their walls, and without obvious fibrosis".
Emphysema is a serious condition and can be life-threatening. Unlike heart disease and other more common causes of death, the death rate for COPD appears to be rising. Two million Americans are affected, largely those who are over age 50. Centrilobular emphysema, the most common of the three, is usually caused by cigarette smoking. This group of diseases ranks as the fourth leading cause of death in the United States. Pathologists recognize three major types of emphysema: localized (distal acinar, paraseptal), centrilobular (centriacinar), and panlobular (panacinar). Emphysema is part of a lung disease known as COPD. When emphysema is advanced, you must work so hard to expel air from your lungs that breathing can consume up to 20 percent of your resting energy. COPD is the fourth most common and the most rapidly increasing cause of death in the United States. As the disease gets worse, breathing becomes more difficult, and it may become hard to carry out everyday activities. Although COPD can be managed, it cannot be cured at this time. Men are more likely than women to develop emphysema, but female cases are increasing as the number of female smokers rises.

Causes of Emphysema

The comman causes of Emphysema include the following :

• Most cases of emphsyema are caused by cigarette smoking. Cigarette smoke reaches deep into the lungs and causes permanent damage .
• Close relatives of people with emphysema are more likely to develop the disease themselves.
• There is some evidence that air pollution can contribute to people getting emphysema, especially if the person also smokes.
• A viral infection may also cause a COPD exacerbation.
• Abnormal airway reactivity, such as bronchial asthma , has been shown to be a risk factor for the development of emphysema.
• A naturally occurring substance in the lungs called alpha-1 antitrypsin may protect against this damage. People with alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency are at an increased risk for this disease.

Symptoms of Emphysema

Some sign and symptoms related to Emphysema are as follows:

• Shortness of breath is the most common symptom of emphysema.
• Feeling tired (fatigue).
• Losing weight without trying.
• Cough, sometimes caused by the production of mucus, and wheezing may also be symptoms of emphysema.
• Ankle, feet, and leg swelling.
• Destruction of capillaries feeding the alveoli.
• A barrel-shaped chest.
• Destruction of structures supporting the alveoli.
• Swelling of the ankles
• Lethargy or difficulty concentrating
• Wheezing may occur in some patients, particularly during exertion and exacerbations.

Treatment of Emphysema

Here is list of the methods for treating Emphysema:

• The number one treatment for emphysema is to quit smoking and stay away from smoky places .
• There are other treatments for emphysema, including medications, supplemental oxygen, and more.
• Antibiotics may be prescribed when respiratory infections occur. Influenza (flu) vaccines and Pneumovax (pneumonia vaccine) are recommended for people with emphysema.
• Protein therapy. Infusions of AAt may help slow lung damage in people with an inherited deficiency of the protein.
• Medications used to improve breathing include bronchodilators (hand-held inhaler or nebulizer), diuretics, and corticosteroids.
• Low-flow oxygen can be used during exertion, continuously, or at night.
• Lung transplantation is an option for patients with severe disease.

Rheumatic Fever

Rheumatic Fever is an inflammatory disease, which occurs as a delayed sequel to pharyngeal infection with streptococcal bacteria. It involves principally the heart, joints, central nervous system and skin. About half of the children who previously had rheumatic fever will develop it again with another streptococcal throat infection. Rheumatic fever follows streptococcal infections of the throat but not those of the skin (impetigo) or other areas of the body; the reasons are not known. Symptoms of rheumatic fever generally appear within five weeks after an untreated streptococcal (strep) throat infection.There's no cure for rheumatic fever. But it can be prevented by prompt and thorough treatment of a strep throat infection with antibiotics.When it seemed to disappear, people thought it had become a disease of the past. After its resurgence, we learned that rheumatic fever comes and goes in waves. It can cause serious illness wherever strep throat occurs.
Rheumatic fever is a serious inflammatory condition that can affect many parts of your body - heart, joints, nervous system and skin. Rather, it is an inflammatory reaction to the infection. Studies in the 1950s during an epidemic on a military base demonstrated 3% incidence of RF in adults with streptococcal pharyngitis not treated with antibiotics. Rheumatic fever can damage body tissues by causing them to swell, but its greatest danger lies in the damage it can do to your heart. More than half of the time, rheumatic fever leads to scarring of the heart's valves. In fact, even in untreated cases, only a small percentage of people with strep throat develop rheumatic fever.Overcrowded living conditions seem to increase the risk of rheumatic fever, and heredity seems to play a part. In the United States, a child who has a streptococcal throat infection but is not treated has only a 0.4 to 1% chance of developing rheumatic fever. But it can be prevented by prompt and thorough treatment of a strep throat infection with antibiotics. In many cases, rheumatic fever may affect the heart valves (rheumatic carditis) and interfere with normal blood flow through the heart.Because of antibiotics, rheumatic fever is now rare in developed countries.  In recent years, though, it has begun to make a comeback in the United States, particularly among children living in poor, inner-city neighborhoods.
A rare but potentially life-threatening disease, rheumatic fever is a complication of untreated strep throat, by bacteria called Group A Streptococcus. The disease is twice as common in females as it is in males. Although rheumatic fever can occur at any age, it most frequently occurs in children between the ages of 6 and 15 years. Before antibiotic medicines became widely used, rheumatic fever was the single biggest cause of valve disease .Rheumatic fever is a condition that is a complication of untreated strep throat.However, the greatest danger from the disease is the damage it can do to the heart.In more than half of all cases, rheumatic fever scars the valves of the heart, forcing this vital organ to work harder to pump blood. In the United States, rheumatic fever rarely develops before age 4 or after age 18 and is much less common than in developing countries, probably because antibiotics are widely used to treat streptococcal infections at an early stage.

Causes of Rheumatic Fever

The common Causes of Rheumatic Fever :

• Rheumatic fever primarily affects children between ages 6 and 15 and occurs approximately 20 days after strep throat or scarlet fever.
• The rate of development of rheumatic fever in individuals with untreated strep infection is estimated to be 3%.
• Streptococcal antigens, which are structurally similar to those in the heart, include hyaluronate in the bacterial capsule, cell wall polysaccharides (similar to glycoproteins in heart valves), and membrane antigens that share epitopes with the sarcolemma and smooth muscle.
• The antibodies begin with the joints and often move on to the heart and surrounding tissues.
• Persons who have suffered a case of rheumatic fever have a tendency to develop flare-ups with repeated strep infections.
• One possible cause for this is the similarities between streptococcal antigens and heart valve proteins and heart muscle cells
• RF only develops in children and adolescents following GABHS pharyngitis, and only infections of the pharynx initiate or reactivate RF.
• If the antibodies attack your heart, they can cause your heart valves to swell, which can lead to scarring of the valve "doors."

Symptoms of Rheumatic Fever

Some are common Symptoms of Rheumatic Fever :

• Joint pain, migratory arthritis - involving primarily knees, elbows, ankles, and wrists
• Stomach pain or feeling less hungry.
• Sore throat
• weight loss
• A raised, red rash on your chest, back, or stomach.
• Joint swelling; redness or warmth
• Small bumps under the skin over your elbows or knees (called nodules).
• Abdominal pain
• stomach pains
• Fever
• Joint pain
• Headache

Treatment of Rheumatic Fever

Here is the list of the methods for treating Rheumatic Fever :

• The management of acute rheumatic fever is geared towards the reduction of inflammation with anti-inflammatory medications such as aspirin or corticosteroids.
• Individuals with positive cultures for strep throat should also be treated with antibiotics.
• Continue prednisone for 2-6 weeks depending on the severity of the carditis, and taper prednisone during the last week of therapy.
• Another important cornerstone in treating rheumatic fever includes the continuous use of low dose antibiotics (such as penicillin, sulfadiazine, or erythromycin) to prevent recurrence.
• Anti-inflammatory doses of aspirin may be associated with abnormal liver function tests and GI toxicity, and adjusting the aspirin dosage may be necessary.
• To reduce inflammation of your heart or joints, your doctor may recommend specific doses of aspirin or an over-the-counter or prescription nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication.
• Treatment for rheumatic fever can involve several approaches, including antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medications, bed rest and, in the most serious cases, surgical repair of damaged heart valves.
• The length of bed rest will be determined by your child's physician, based on the severity of your child's disease and the involvement of the heart and joints. Bed rest may range from two to twelve weeks.