Omaha District UMC

Author: RHendersen

High cholesterol seems to be on everyone’s mind these days. We see commercials on television advertising medicines we can take to lower our cholesterol level. We hear our doctor talk about lowering our cholesterol level. What exactly is cholesterol? How do you get it? Why is it bad for you? Are there any ways other than prescription medications to lower it?

First, cholesterol is a lipid which is naturally produced by the body to maintain cell membranes. The body actually makes all the cholesterol it needs for its functions. Our cholesterol level becomes high when either our bodies overproduce cholesterol or we take in too much cholesterol through the foods we eat.

High levels of cholesterol are bad for you because this excess cholesterol can build up in your arteries, causing heart disease and heart attack. High cholesterol is also responsible for strokes. All three of these conditions can be debilitating and in some cases, deadly.

How do you know if your cholesterol level is high? Your doctor can perform a blood test to determine what the level of cholesterol is in your blood. Sometimes your doctor may want you to take a fasting blood test, which means he will test the cholesterol level in your blood after you have gone without eating for a specified number of hours.

A high cholesterol level is medically defined as more than 240 mg/DL total. Your doctor may also divide your cholesterol level into “good” cholesterol or HDL cholesterol and “bad” cholesterol or LDL cholesterol. If your HDL cholesterol is above 40 mg/Dl this is considered ideal. Your LDL cholesterol level, however, should be less than 100 mg/DL. Any reading above this puts you at a greater risk for heart disease or heart attack. HDL cholesterol is considered good because it is this type that is carried out of the blood stream to the liver where it is broken down and expelled from the body. LDL cholesterol, however, is the kind that builds up in your blood vessels and arteries.

If your doctor deems your cholesterol level is high, there are several things you can do to lower this level. These things include eating a healthy low-fat diet and exercising regularly. Not only does the healthy diet and exercise help lower you cholesterol level, it can also help lower your weight which in turn decreases you chances of heart disease. If you are a smoker you should consider stopping. Also, limit your intake of alcohol and sugar. After trying all these things, if your cholesterol level is still not ideal, your doctor can put you on cholesterol lowering prescription medication. Remember, though, cholesterol medications can damage your liver, so they should be used only after other options have been exhausted.

As you can see, your cholesterol level has a very important impact on your total body health. It can even be life threatening if not controlled. See your doctor for a cholesterol test. If your cholesterol level is not within normal ranges, take action to lower it.

Author: bimka

Fat postponed mainly in the subcutaneous tissue, it is heavily imbued with numerous blood vessels in their own food. This creates additional pressure on the circulatory system. Moreover, obesity is and the heart, which could double his weight and fitness significantly decrease.

However, the blood is not only reducing the heart muscle. They have enough muscle tone, rhythmic cuts and relax muscles during her work, movement in joints, breathing tour chest and diaphragm. But obesity is also listed as broken, but because the entire burden for the body’s blood supply is at the heart of that as a result of premature wear.
people weighing more than four times more likely than people of normal weight has varicose veins and venous blood violation that led to stagnation in the blood and makes the heart.

From the respiratory system obesity are small in relation to body weight slightly, moving the chest and diaphragm. In light frequent stoppages, a life-size reduction, developed shortness of breath.

In addition, there are human secretion of gastric function and pancreas (as a result of developing diabetes). The liver is the disintegration of the connective tissue, a violation of bile, leading to cholelithiasis a disease.

Increased pressure on the leg joints, especially the knee and hip.

Of course, all this is more related to a high degree of obesity. During the early stages, when we have extra weight, you can not daunted by those diseases. But do not forget that this is only the beginning, and then everything will depend on you.

It is to relax, to reassure themselves and not take any action, as once again, or not very day, looking in the mirror, you flatly say that your lean figure nothing left. And you already one step closer to the problem known as obesity.

Though the cause of high blood pressure, in the majority of cases, is unknown. This type of high blood pressure is known as “primary or essential hypertension” and ninety five percent of sufferers, more than 70 million Americans, have “primary or essential Hypertension”.

Normal blood pressure has a reading below 120/80. Blood pressure between 120/80 and 139/89 is referred to as “pre-hypertension”. High blood pressure has a reading of 140/90 or above.

Fortunately some of the contributing factors to high blood pressure are known.

Arteriosclerosis is the hardening of plaque along the walls of the arteries is one contributing factor. Another is the thickening of the artery wall and yet another contributing factor for high blood pressure is small arteries.

The other causes are not a single underlying problem but a combination of various factors that have been concluded to be the causes of high blood pressure include:

* Excess alcohol – Alcohol also plays a direct part in your blood pressure. It has been found in several studies, that the higher the alcohol consumption, the higher the blood pressure. However similar studies have also shown that moderate drinkers appear to have a lower blood pressure than non drinkers.

Moderation is the key.

* Excess salt – There is little doubt that salt intake has a direct effect on blood pressure. Both this and the ingestion of dietary potassium have been found to have adverse effects on a person’s health.

High salt intake is considered to be anything more than 5.8 grams per day.

* Diet and Being Overweight – Obesity is another major problem. Overweight people are more liable to have a higher blood pressure than their slim counterpart. The heart and other vital organs have to work harder which leads to added strain.

* Stress – At work or home.

The two most important and affecting factors are high salt intake and genetic tendencies. The first is easily controlled, for the second, diligent monitoring is key.

The only true way of ascertaining whether you have high blood pressure or not is by having it checked by a doctor or even self monitored at home. This is a an easy procedure and every adult should have their blood pressure taken at least on an annual basis if not more often.

Secondary Hypertension

There are a few cases of high blood pressure in which the underlying problem from which it stems is known. This type of high blood pressure is known as ‘secondary hypertension’.

Secondary hypertension is said to be caused by kidney abnormality, a tumor or tumors in the adrenal gland, or a congenital defect of the aorta. Treating the underlying cause will usually return the blood pressure back to normal.

Unfortunately of all high blood pressure patients only five percent of people with high blood pressure have ‘secondary hypertension’

Adopting healthy lifestyle habits is an essential and effective in both preventing and controlling high blood pressure. Lifestyle changes alone, however, may not be enough it may be necessary to take blood pressure medications.

Fibromyalgia is a term that is used to diagnose individuals who suffer from chronic muscular irritation. Individuals who suffer from fibromyalgia experience very tender muscular points that cause intense pain. There are other symptoms as well that they suffer such as, extreme fatigue, irritable bowl syndrome, headaches, insomnia, and depression.Fibromyalgia can be debilitating to those who suffer from it. The onset of fibromyalgia is often seen in individuals who have gone through an extreme emotional or physical trauma. It appears that those who have been diagnosed with this disease also do not enter into deep sleep cycles and when this happens, the muscles do not have a chance to rest and recover properly. Back pain is increased when a person does not get adequate rest. Individuals who experience this disease may also suffer from other forms of muscle problems such as tendonitis, bursitis, muscle strain, cramping, and spasms.

Along with the many symptoms of fibromyalgia, back pain is often a primary complaint among those who suffer with the disease. Whether the pain is in the upper or lower portion of the back, there is extreme discomfort. Many times, it is impossible to sit or stand for extended periods. Here are some methods of back pain relief for those who suffer fromfibromyalgia.

Heat is an exceptional therapy for the majority of muscle aches and pains, and it works especially well for the upper and lower back. Heat works to loosen up the muscles and stimulate circulation, allowing your body to heal itself. Different types of heat therapies include:

Heat wraps: Many heat wraps today are made to wrap around portions of your lower back or any section of your back that is in pain. They can be warmed in a microwave or in a sink of warm water. Many of these wraps are designed so that you can wear them during the night and up to eight hours.

Heating pad: These are great and simple to use. You can place them on the back of your chair or whatever surfaces you may be lying on. They are excellent at targeting specific areas of pain in your back.

Warm baths: Besides being a great stress reliever, they are excellent for relieving back pain associated with fibromyalgia.

Back supports are an excellent tool to help alleviate back pain (upper and lower). They are excellent if you have to sit for extended periods in front of a computer or desk. When purchasing a back support look for one that has a curve that will fit into the lower back region. It should have a high back that will ensure that your neck and shoulders are also in alignment and that it has an adjustable back (this way you can use it with a variety of different chairs).

You may want to consider exercises that are designed to eliminate (or at least minimize) back pain. Back exercises will help to strengthen your back muscles and helping to bring your spine into alignment. Be careful and only do these according to your level of comfort.

Curl up: Curls strengthen the abdominal and lower back muscles.

Upper body extension: These extensions strengthen the muscles in your upper back

Arm-leg Extension: This exercise will help keep your spine in alignment, which will relieve the pressure on your lower back.

Electric stimulation is effective pain relief for those suffering back pain from fibromyalgia. The electric stimulation is used to block the pain receptors that cause the nerves to become irritated. This micro-current stimulates healing to the area of tissue that is injured. It can also be used to charge the muscles to contract. If you want to try this method, find a practitioner who is licensed with this type of therapy treatment. You may want to look into alternative treatments for both your back pain andfibromyalgia . Many therapies available help to relieve muscle soreness while at the same time increasing circulation, which will enhance muscle repair. Always look for a qualified practitioner before beginning any type of alternative therapy treatments. Some other alternative treatments to consider include acupuncture, massage therapy, and hydrotherapy.

There are many forms of treatment available for those who suffer from back pain due to fibromyalgia. Always consult with your medical professional and they can help you on your journey to experiencing less pain in your life.

Author: uplander

How long has it been since you ‘ran’ instead of ‘shuffled’?
How long has it been since you didn’t need a nap to get through the day?

The challenge started in the 80′s. Having moved to an unfamiliar region, some adjustments are made easier than others. I was moving from Southern Florida to New Mexico for business purposes. The move involved a double trip situating vehicles and ‘stuff’ in the new home, quite a long driving trip compared to anything I was used to. It wore me down more than I had anticipated allowing my health to degrade, nothing serious, but it was slowing me down. Eventually a Doctor prescribed anti-biotics because of something that was trying to gain a foothold. That worked and life returned to normal, for awhile. Somewhere along the line fatigue, sleepiness and body aches set in. This was a slow progression kind of coming and going and a little worse each time. It didn’t seem like much. Was that a wrong statement. While not a life threatening malady I was to find over time that it can be much more than an inconvenience.

The education in what was happening was very slow because the progression of this condition was extremely slow. It was probably 1 to 2 years before I noticed that I was adapting parts of my life and everyday actions to this ‘challenge’. At some point outbreaks would cause consequences in my work.

My customers were understanding, but occasionally deadlines could be impacted.

One of the most disquieting aspects of this was the feeling, almost a fear, that this was ‘all in my head’ as was proposed by one Physician. This tends to at least discourage healthy dialogue and can divert resources from useful diagnoses. A Physician was found that didn’t go for the easy out and realized ‘something’, some pathology was involved.

This went on for years, actually 10 or more.

Various Doctors had treated these ‘symptoms’. Some even treated this with antibiotics think it could be a ‘low grade’ infection. Even when a Doctor would treat this as more than a collection of symptoms the results were nowhere near a return to the symptom free past.

The situation went on, getting slowly worse until a common link was discovered with other seemingly unrelated minor maladies, and some maybe not so minor.

I know what you’re saying; yeah, sure.

Naturally I had tried Homeopathic remedies and supplements over these years figuring ‘something has to work’. There were over time, hundreds of nutritional supplements tried, various lotions and creams many of which seemed to effect a change. The changes were usually temporary and ultimately disappointing.

Through prolonged research over years it became more obvious that this challenge may well be related to other symptoms. Most related symptoms were minor: curious allergies, various digestive disruptions, food allergies, minor aches and pains, brain fog, chronic fatigue, dandruff even. Many symptoms were accepted as part of ‘getting older’. But I’m not old yet!

For a period of time food allergies became quite challenging. They eventually led to 2 years of allergen treatments using hypodermic needles. I had actually become allergic to everyday foods. Allergies to corn, wheat, rice, and dairy products mean there are few meals that you can eat without disturbing effects.

The research eventually brought me to develop sites and article repositories to bring this collected information together for access from one place. Many other sites describing seemingly unrelated symptoms can be accessed through these resources.

Our self-education continues.

I eventually began a regimen using some of the solutions explained on these sites, some in a daily regimen and some as needed. You can benefit from my long trial and error education avoiding the ‘dead ends’ and ‘false starts’.

The first step, although seemingly unrelated is an intestinal purge. Followed by a comprehensive attack on the underlying pathology and then the regimen shows you how to maintain your newly restored health and energy with its new possibilities.

Some of these supplement and nutritional programs require a membership, but don’t require a purchase.

Check with your Physician and if acceptable to them, the regimen will have you feeling better than you thought you could feel again in a few months.

You will be able to maintain this new found level of health easily once attained.

P. S. It’s time to take your life, energy and social life back. Are You Ready?

P. S. S. This is the First Step to your new outlook. Don’t deny yourself the good health that you remember.
Copyright 2006

Source: Free Articles

Author: Jack Sands

Research shows that there are about five to eight percent of young children who is inflicted with food allergy. A food allergy is an immunologic reaction of the body when an individual is hypersensitive to a particular food protein.

With the growing number of children getting food allergies, more parents and caregivers are seeking help from a lot of resources such as books. Nowadays, there are several books which tackle information on food allergies in children. However, do not be overwhelmed by books which have tempting titles which says that theirs is the best allergy-friendly book for your child. It is only in rare occasions that you can find a book which contains everything you need to know about food allergy in children. Hence, it is best to evaluate the reading material that you are about to acquire by the following standards:

1. Overview of Food Allergy

The book must contain a general idea of what food allergy is all about. The definition of food allergy must be well-defined in a manner where even children can understand them. Additionally, the root cause of the food allergy in children should be explained.

The signs and symptoms of food allergy in children must be well-discussed. There are instances that the general signs and symptoms are different from those experienced by children. Moreover, the different treatment and prevention methods must be thoroughly talked about in your preferred reading material.

It is equally important to for any author to include food allergy related by-laws which may be helpful to you and your child. “Labeling law” is an example of state rule implemented for food allergy.

2. Types of Food Allergy in Children

The types of food allergy in children differ from those on adults. The common food allergies in children are:

Milk – this is considered to be a common “allergen” to children especially infant.
Peanut – severe allergic reaction may result with this type of allergy to children who have asthma.
Egg- allergies to this type of food may cause other illness to children such as asthma and nasal allergy.
Seafood – seafood allergy includes hypersensitivity to fish and shellfish.
Wheat – there are children who outgrow their allergies to wheat at an early age.
Peanut – this is said to be a life-threatening type of food allergy especially if left unsupervised.
Soy – this is said to be the least type of food allergy to cause life-threatening situations.

3. Diagnosis, Treatment and Prevention

It is important for food allergy books to discuss apt diagnosis, treatment and prevention for children.

There are several methods to diagnose the presence of food allergy to children. Some examples are close observation to symptoms, elimination diet test, skin prick test and blood test.

Studies show that the best way to treat and prevent food allergy is to prevent consumption of allergens or triggers. For children with severe allergies in food are given emergency treatment such as wearing allergy bracelet or card information or carrying EpiPen.

4. Food Recipes

Parents are sometimes anxious that their children may not be getting the recommended amount of nutrition due to food allergy. However, there are means and ways to deal with it such as preparing food substitutes to the type of food allergy.

Recipes may also be helpful for parents or caregivers to prepare delectable meals.
(ArticlesBase ID #467957)

Source: articlesbase.com

If you suffer with fibromyalgia, you are very well aware of what is intensive and long-term pain feels like. You are also aware about the nature of fatigue seems that you have to overcome. They may not be about the different ways to most of fibromyalgia pain relief.
For most people, the idea of improving health by changing the diet sounds like the takeover of a kind of suffering a less persistent nature of suffering. For those with persistent pain of fibromyalgia, it is quite the contrary. Read the rest of this entry »

A look at the multitude of headaches and headache sufferers, it should not come as a surprise that the causes of headaches are as varied. There are many possible causes for headaches including underlying medical problems, like the fortunately rare cases of cerebral aneurysms and brain tumors. However, even the most common causes of headaches.
In many cases, just like eyes that at work too long at the computer can lead to headaches. In other cases, a sinus infection, which consists of a head cold or allergies may be the perpetrators. Taking certain medications may also be headaches. Read the rest of this entry »

During my 27-year-old private practice, many patients have asked me when they need to heat the ice. I always start the conversation, by stating some basic facts. The main use of ice is to reduce the swelling or inflammation, not necessarily to reduce the pain. Ice can reduce the pain by dulling or numbing the injured, but it is not primarily a pain reducer. Heat, on the other hand, has a calming influence on the most muscular skeletal conditions. Read the rest of this entry »

Disability and pain often hold hands. Those of us who are disabled are less able to move our bodies and more and more sedentary. This creates the vicious circle of declining endorphin release from the lack of exercise increases the pain further reduced mobility, and on you go.
The only way to breaking the cycle and pain under control is to find a way around our body in space. This can be done safely, especially under the guidance of an experienced physiotherapist, yoga therapist and Tai Chi teacher. Water exercise is especially a great opportunity for people with mobility issues to exercise against the resistance safe. Read the rest of this entry »