Don't Let Your Anger Kill You

Don't Let Your Anger Kill You

What You Must Know About Saw Palmetto as a Herbal Treatment for Prostate Disease

What You Must Know About Saw Palmetto as a Herbal Treatment for Prostate Disease

VITAMIN D & COLORECTAL CANCER SURVIVAL

Image credit: www.womenshealth.gov

The information in this column is intended for informational purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice or recommendations by the author. Please consult with your physician before making any lifestyle or medication changes, or if you have any other concerns regarding your health.

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VITAMIN D & COLORECTAL CANCER SURVIVAL

Vitamin D is increasingly being looked at as a cancer prevention nutrient, as multiple prior clinical research studies have linked higher blood levels of this hormone-like vitamin, and calcium (which is regulated by Vitamin D), with a decreased risk of colon and rectal cancer, as well as other cancers.

Less well understood is the role of Vitamin D as a survival factor in patients who have already been diagnosed with colorectal cancer. Now, a newly updated clinical research study from Harvard University, just published in the British Journal of Cancer, suggests that higher Vitamin D levels in colorectal cancer survivors may be associated with a significantly greater likelihood of surviving the third most common cause of cancer death in the United States.

The authors of this clinical research study analyzed volunteers within the massive Nurses' Health Study. A total of 1,107 volunteers were diagnosed with colon or rectal cancer, between 1986 and 2004, after joining this long-term prospective public health study. Using a previously validated scoring system that accurately predicts Vitamin D levels in the blood, the researchers assessed the survival rates of these colorectal cancer patients as a function of their Vitamin D scores. (It is important to note that Vitamin D scores were calculated prior to the diagnosis of colorectal cancer in these patient volunteers.) The results were rather profound.

The Vitamin D scores for these 1,017 colorectal cancer patients were broken up into a five different ranges, and the patients with the highest Vitamin D scores were then compared with those in the lowest "quintile" with respect to cancer-related mortality and overall mortality. This analysis revealed that patients with the highest Vitamin D scores were 50 percent less likely to die of colorectal cancer during the course of this study, and 38 percent less likely to die from all causes, when compared to the patients with the lowest Vitamin D scores.

While the exact mechanisms whereby Vitamin D and calcium may decrease the risk of colorectal cancer, and the risk of death following a diagnosis of colorectal cancer, are still being studied, there is already intriguing data showing that Vitamin D supplementation can "up-regulate" the activity of genes in both premalignant and malignant colon and rectal tumors that, in turn, increase the death rate of the abnormal cells that make up such tumors (through a pathway known as apoptosis).

While no nutrient or medication has been shown to prevent all colorectal cancers, or to cure all colon and rectal cancers once they develop, there is an increasing amount of high-quality clinical data suggesting that higher levels of Vitamin D in the blood are associated with a decreased risk of both premalignant and malignant colon and rectal tumors. Now, based upon this new study's results, it appears that higher Vitamin D levels may also be associated with improved survival following the diagnosis of colorectal cancer as well. The impact of Vitamin D levels on colorectal cancer survival also mirror similar findings that I have recently reported on with respect to breast cancer (Breast Cancer Recurrence, Death & Vitamin D).

Look for a much more detailed discussion of the role of Vitamin D, and other dietary and nutritional factors, in cancer prevention in my forthcoming book, "A Cancer Prevention Guide for the Human Race."

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Disclaimer: As always, my advice to readers is to seek the advice of your physician before making any significant changes in medications, diet, or level of physical activity

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Dr. Wascher is an oncologic surgeon, a professor of surgery, a widely published author, and a Surgical Oncologist at the Kaiser Permanente healthcare system in Orange County, California

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http://doctorwascher.com

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Copyright 2007 - 2009 Robert A. Wascher, MD, FACS All rights reserved

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Asthma and Exercise – Anyone for Golf ?

Exercise Is Important For Health Maintenance

Asthma is a common disease with a prevalence of up to 10% of some populations. Exercise limitation may be documented with symptomatic disease but at the same time, exercise is important for health maintenance. A study in Chest 2003 showed that about 30% of participants with current asthma, 24% with former asthma patients and 27% who never had asthma were considered to be inactive. Participants with asthma were less likely to engage in running, basketball, golf and weightlifting, but were more likely to use an exercise bicycle than were participants without asthma. The authors concluded that like most US adults, the majority of those with asthma were not meeting the current recommendations for physical activity.

Inflammatory Disease & Symptoms

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) Asthma guidelines 1997 expert panel report define asthma as a ‘chronic inflammatory disease of the airways in which many cells play a role, in particular mast cells, eosinophils and T-lymphocytes. In susceptible individuals this inflammation causes recurrent episodes of wheezing, breathlessness, chest tightness and cough particularly at night and/or in the early morning. These symptoms are usually associated with widespread but variable airflow limitation that is at least partially reversible either spontaneously or with treatment. This inflammation also causes an associated increase in airways hyper responsiveness to a variety of stimuli.’

Airway Allergy Symptoms

The treatment of asthma is dictated by disease severity and numerous guidelines exist with recommendations on stepwise treatment; stepping up or higher-level treatment for more severe disease with increased associated exercise limitation. The more recent GINA 2006 Asthma Guidelines (December 2008 update) classify asthma severity by level of control.

Controlled & Exacerbation

Controlled is achieving freedom from exacerbations and night awakenings and having minimal daytime symptoms and requiring minimal need for reliever each week. One exacerbation in a year means patients are at best partly controlled but patients can have minor symptoms and use rescue on up to 100 days per year and can still be considered as controlled. Thus exacerbations are seen as being of greater importance. This explains a bolder line separating symptoms and exacerbations in the above table.

GINA Identifies Four Components of Asthma Care

1. Develop patient doctor partnership.
2. Identify and reduce exposure to risk factor.
3. Assess, treat and monitor asthma.
4. Manage exacerbations.

Exercise-Induced Asthma

A variety of asthma syndromes are recognised and include exercise-induced asthma, nocturnal asthma, aspirin-induced asthma, occupational, cough variant and fatal / near fatal asthma. In exercise-induced asthma, patients are frequently inhibited from participating in physical activities because of the degree of pulmonary limitation on exertion during exercise.

Golf Courses, Thunderstorms and Asthma

The golf course can be a relatively exposed environment prone to the elements and weather conditions including thunderstorms. A link between asthma and thunderstorms has been reported in England and Australia. Thunderstorm asthma also happens in Canada, according to a study in Chest (2003; 123: 745-50). The number of patients with asthma visiting one emergency department in Ontario went up (in line with atmospheric concentrations of fungal spores) by 15% during the 151 thunderstorms between 1993 and 1997.

Other Triggers To Allergic Asthma

Other triggers for an asthma attack may also be found on the golf course environment. Tree, grass and weed pollens and certain environmental moulds may trigger allergic reactions in susceptible individuals. Atopic asthma is akin to allergic asthma and has much in common with allergic rhinitis which manifests as hay fever on the golf course. During the spring, tree pollens such as birch are common triggers, others may be sensitive to grasses and weeds, pollen counts of which are highest during late summer in the evenings. In desert environments, Alternaria is a mould to which sensitised individuals may react.

Articles written by Dr. Edwin Poon

Image credit: www.schladming-dachstein.at/.../golf/

Bone Health for Ladies

Osteoporosis is Bone Loss
Our bones are living tissues containing collagen proteins, calcium phosphate and living cells. We keep on losing bone tissues and producing new bone tissues in our lives. Bone generation occurs most rapidly during childhood and adolescence and the bone mass is rising continuously during this period. Our bone mass usually peaks at around 18 to 25 years of age and bone production usually begins to slow down after this period. The rate of bone loss usually increases after middle age and this rate speeds up significantly after menopause. Osteoporosis occurs when our bones have lost too much tissue; thus, they become very fragile and can be broken by minor impact or stress. The occurrence of osteoporosis can be prevented or delayed, but we need to act early to minimize the negative impact and disruption.

Exercise and Prevention of Osteoporosis
During childhood and adolescence, we encourage high impact and weight bearing exercises which can help bones attain their peak density. These exercises may include, but are not limited to: jumping, running, hiking, dancing or ball games. Exercise training should begin before puberty.

After adolescence, ladies should practice both weight bearing and resistance training together. Resistance exercises can increase muscle mass and strength, and also improve balance.

For postmenopausal women, they should focus on resistance exercises. Improving balance may reduce the risk of falls and possibly, the effects from the resulting bone fractures. Balance training such as Tai Chi has also been proven to reduce the risk of falls in the middle-aged and the elderly.

Diet and Prevention of Osteoporosis

• Calcium is the basic element in bone generation. Adequate absorption is important throughout our lives. It is especially important during adolescence, pregnancy and breast feeding because calcium needs tend to be highest at these times. Dairy products including milk, cheese and yogurt can be good sources of calcium for our bodies. Certain calcium added foods, such as green vegetables and nuts can be other sources of calcium. If dietary intake of calcium is inadequate, calcium supplements bought over the counter can be considered as an additional source.
  
• Vitamin D is essential to calcium absorption. Our bodies can produce vitamin D through sunlight exposure. However, excessive sunlight exposure can increase the risk of skin cancer. We can absorb vitamin D from certain foods such as milk, liver, oily fish and egg yolk. Vitamin D supplements can be yet another source of vitamin D.

Smoking and Drinking Increases Osteoporosis
Much research has shown that cigarette smoking and heavy drinking can be related to the occurrence of osteoporosis. Alcohol can affect balance and increase the chances of injuries due to falls and bone fractures.

Bone Mineral Density (BMD) Scan in Osteoporosis
Ladies over 65 are encouraged to undergo a BMD scan. Ladies over 50 with a history of bone fractures, a family history of osteoporosis, smokers or women who are grossly underweight are also recommended to do BMD scans. The test results are classified into normal, osteopenia and osteoporosis. Life style and adequate calcium and vitamin D absorption are reinforced in the stage of osteopenia, which is a warning that significant bone loss is imminent leading to the development of osteoporosis. If you are suffering from osteoporosis, medicines which can slow the rate of bone loss may be prescribed by your doctor.

Complications of Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is a common disease causing significant disfigurement and in extreme cases, may even fracture our skeletons. Fractures can be devastating or even fatal to the elderly because of immobilization and the sheer length of recovery time. Ladies should carry out appropriate preventive measures at appropriate times in order to prevent osteoporosis in the future.

Article written by Dr. Kenny Kam Leung TANG,

MBBS, Family Physician, Canossa Hospital Hong Kong

Copyright of this article belongs to doctorshealthtips.com

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Smoking and Not Only Lung Cancer

14.8% of HK’s population >15 years old are smokers (2006) compared with 23.3% in 1982 and 12.4% in 2000. 85% are males, 24.5 % of males and 4% of females. There was a doubling of form 3 female smokers between 1994 and 1999 (6-12%).

Smoking and Premature Death
Smoking is the single largest cause of premature and preventable death in developed countries. In developing countries, smoking ranks third after infectious diseases and malnutrition. In 1999, 3.2 million deaths were from smoking related diseases. By 2020, there will be 10 million deaths/year (70% in developing countries). 20% of deaths are attributable to smoking. 50% of long-term users will die of a tobacco related disease. Long-term smokers lose 10 years on average (10 minutes per cigarette). There are more than 4,000 chemicals including poisons, toxins and other irritants in cigarette smoke. A smoker’s risk of heart attack is more than twice that of nonsmokers.

Smoking Causes Sudden Cardiac Death
Cigarette smoking is the biggest risk factor for sudden cardiac death. Whereas hyperlipidemia contributes to 20% excess risk of coronary artery disease and diabetes mellitus and hypertension each contribute 50% excess risk, smoking accounts for 200%. Cigarette smoking doubles the risk of a stroke. Smoking damages the cardiovascular system. Cigarette smoke makes clotting more likely. Smoking cessation today would significantly cut risk of stroke within two years.

Smoking and Pregnancy
For women planning a pregnancy smoking causes reduced fertility, early menopause, increased likelihood of delayed pregnancy, complications of pregnancy, reduced oxygen to placenta and significantly increased risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Smoking during pregnancy causes 20 - 30% of low birth-weight babies, up to 14% of preterm deliveries, 10% of all infant deaths and 4 times the incidence of negative behavior in toddlers

Passive Smoking and Children
Passive smoking increases the following in children: asthma, pneumonia, bronchitis, fluid in the middle ear. Third hand smoke exposure in children (smoke absorbed onto clothes, upholstery etc.) impairs brain development and increases the risk of later malignancy.

Why do People Smoke
A HK study showed that people smoke because of:

Influence of friends – 51%
Out of curiosity – 16%
Refreshing one’s mind – 7.2%
Influence of family members – 7.1%
Necessary at social functions – 5.6%
Look mature / stylish – 3.2%
Deal with stress – 3.1%

Smoking and Cancer
Tobacco causes 80-90% of all cancers. There is a clear dose-response relationship between the number of cigarettes smoked per day and the incidence of lung cancer. Cigarette smoking causes damage to the DNA in the cells of the bronchial epithelium. The risk of lung cancer increases in cigar and pipe smokers, depending on inhalation practices. Smokeless tobacco (chewing tobacco and snuff) are carcinogenic for the upper aero digestive tract but not for the lungs. It is estimated that 25% of lung cancer in non smokers comes from passive exposure to cigarette smoke. Passive smoke differs significantly from mainstream smoke inhaled by the active smoker and may be even more carcinogenic. Several studies show that spouses of smokers have a two to three fold increased risk of developing lung cancer. Other carcinogens include asbestos, radon, polycyclic hydrocarbons, cadmium, ethers, nickel, chromium and inorganic arsenic. It has been conjectured that air pollution may promote the action of other carcinogens but is not carcinogenic alone.


Symptoms of Lung Cancer
Symptoms of lung cancer may be local or generalised; local symptoms include cough, shortness of breath, chest pain and coughing up blood. 75% of patients are inoperable at presentation. Lung cancer often presents with non specific symptoms such as tiredness or symptoms of advanced or metastatic disease that can involve the bones, brain and pericardium.

Lung Cancer and Physical Activity
Data drawn from the ß-Carotene and Retinol Efficacy Trial, a lung cancer chemoprevention trial suggest that cancer incidence may be more attenuated by physical activity for men and mortality more attenuated for women. Effects may be more pronounced for younger people and may differ inconsistently by pack-years of smoking. The authors concluded that physical activity may play a role in reducing cancer risk and mortality among those with significant tobacco exposure.


Key Messages:
Smoking is the single largest cause of premature and preventable death in developed countries.
Cigarette smoking is the biggest risk factor for sudden cardiac death
Third hand smoke exposure in children impairs brain development and increases the risk of later malignancy.

Article Written by Dr Edwin Poon
Image credit: http://www.andrew.cmu.edu

Alcohol and Health

Drinking alcohol is a very popular hobby. Alcohol is involved in many social activities such as parties, ceremonies, etc. Some people have a more regular habit of alcohol consumption or even alcoholism. However, alcohol can have a lot of influence on our health and we must consider the impact carefully.

1) Alcohol and Cardiovascular Disease

The American Heart Association (AHA) recommends no more than moderate consumption of alcohol daily. Moderate alcohol consumption is equivalent to 1 to 2 drinks per day for man and 1 drink per day for women. 1 drink is equal to 12 oz. of beer, 4 oz. of wine, 1.5 oz of 800-proof spirits or 1 oz of 100-proof spirits) Moderate consumption of alcohol may offer some protection to cardiovascular disease, however, AHA does not recommend the use of any form of alcohol to achieve such protection. Therapeutic lifestyle including adequate regular exercise, healthy diet and weight control are always the best measures to prevent cardiovascular disease.

2) Alcohol and Driving

Drink and drive is dangerous. Drivers will be prosecuted if their blood alcohol concentrations are more than the upper limited set by the law. Different countries have difference blood alcohol concentration limits. However, driving is a complicated activity that requires coordination of different skills and tasks. Alcohol can impair performance of certain skills and concentration, even if the blood alcohol concentration is below the limit. Therefore, no matter how little the driver drinks, drinking and driving is still very dangerous and accidents can happen.

3) Alcohol and Medicine

Concomitant use of alcohol and medicine together can enhance and prolong the drug effect. Alcohol may compete with the medicine for the metabolizing enzyme and impair the elimination of medicine. Therefore, the medicine can stay inside the blood stream for a longer time to exert more drug effect to the body. However, chronic alcohol consumption may reduce the drug effect and duration. It is because chronic alcohol use can activate the drug metabolizing enzyme and enhancing the drug elimination from the blood.

4) Alcohol and Pregnancy

Alcohol is harmful to the fetus at all stages of pregnancy and there is no single alcoholic drink which is safer than the others. Alcohol can cause the small baby hearing and visual impairment, various brain defects, etc. These defects are life long and irreversible. Ladies who plan to be pregnant should avoid alcohol even at the preconception stage. Lady with a habit of alcohol consumption should quit immediate once they are pregnant.

5) Alcohol and Sleep

Alcohol can initiate sleep by reducing the time required to fall asleep. Some people suffering from insomnia may drink at bedtime for better sleep. However, chronic alcohol consumption increases the time required to fall asleep, cause frequent awakening and reducing quality of sleep. Therefore, alcohol should never be the only agent used to initiate sleep.

The Last Note
Moderate consumption of alcohol is tolerable to our body. However, alcoholism can cause a lot of physical problems including high blood pressure, obesity, breast cancer and accidents. Alcohol also causes many social and family problems. There is evidence that consumption of alcohol at an early age increases the chance of alcoholism. Teenagers can develop alcohol dependencies more easily than adult. Therefore, sale of alcohol to teenagers must be strictly prohibited and parents should educate their children about the harmful effects of alcohol and alcoholism at an early age.
Author: Dr Kenny Kam Leung TANG,
MBBS, Family Phycician, Canossa Hospital, Hong Kong
Copyright of this article belongs to doctorshealthtips.com
Photo copyright: Healthwise, inc.

Contributors' Biography

Dr Edwin Poon


Dr Edwin Poon graduated from University College in London with a Science and Medical Degree. He furthered his training in the UK and in Hong Kong and has special interests in Smoking Cessation, Allergy and Immunotherapy, Lung Cancer screening and Sleep disordered breathing. He has published in many international Medical Journals and was part of the team that devised the SARS treatment protocol that was adopted by the WHO. He has advised the Hospital Authority’s Working Group on Doctors’ hours, Central Training Advisory Committee, the Hong Kong East Smoking Cessation and Counselling Centre, the Hong Kong Amateur Swimming Association and numerous Private Hospital advisory committees.

Professional Qualifications
FCCP : 2007
FHKCP (Respiratory Medicine) : 2002
FHKAM (Medicine) : 2002
MRCP (UK) : 1998
MBBS (Lond) : 1994
BSc (Lond) : 1991

Special Interests
Immunotherapy in respiratory allergy, rhinitis and asthma
Sleep disordered breathing
Lung cancer screening and diagnosis
Smoking cessation
Air pollution
Hypoxic training
Medical conditions and air travel

Voluntary Services:
Doctors’ Advisory Committee; the Canossa Hospital (2008-9)
Honorary Consultant – Kowloon Region School Heads Association (2006,2007)
Voluntary Medical Officer – Asia Women’s League Self Financing Home for the Elderly (2006), Jockey Club Lutheran Home for the Elderly
Member – ICU Management committee, St Teresa’s Hospital (2004)
Member – Drugs & Therapeutics committee, St Teresa’s Hospital (2004)
Hospital Authority appointment – SARS expert (12th August 2003)
Member – Inspection Team, HK East Cluster workplace inspections on SARS precautions (May 2003)
Medical Advisor to HK East Cluster Smoking Cessation and Counselling Centre (Inception May 2002 – 2003)
Vice Chairman, Steering Committee - HK East Cluster Smoking Cessation and Counselling Centre (Inception April 2002 – 2003)
Provider – Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS), American Heart Association – May 2003
Hong Kong Lung Foundation Fellow (2001)
Medical Advisor to HK Amateur Swimming Association


Dr Norman Chan

Dr Norman Chan graduated from Liverpool University, UK, in 1991. He underwent postgraduate training in London. He obtained his MRCP in 1994 and he went on to complete his specialist training in Diabetes & Endocrinology & Metabolism in Northwest Thames, London, UK, in 2001. Dr Chan was awarded the Junior British Heart Foundation grant to conduct a 2-year research project, titled ‘Endothelial dysfunction, coronary artery calcification in type 1 diabetes’ This study formed the basis of his MD thesis, which was completed in 2002. Dr Chan returned to Hong Kong in 2001 and obtained specialist registration in 2003. With a group of professors from The Chinese University of Hong Kong and GenRx of HKR International, Dr Chan helped to establish Qualigenics Diabetes Centre in November 2002. He is Secretary of the Hong Kong Atherosclerosis Society, as well as a member of the scientific committee of the Hong Kong Foundation of Diabetes Research and Development. He is a regular speaker, locally and internationally. He is currently actively involved in several clinical trials. Dr Chan also serves on the advisory boards of several pharmaceutical companies. He has authored more than 70 publications and several book chapters.

Intima-Media Thickness, a New Accurate Tool to Assess Cardiovascular Risk

Cardiovascular disease predictors: more than just the conventional risk factors

Cardiovascular disease is a major cause of death worldwide. Conventional cardiovascular risk factors such as diabetes, hypertension, hyperlipidaemia, family history of premature coronary heart disease and cigarette smoking do not fully explain the high rate of coronary heart disease and stroke globally. Direct assessment of vascular health in conjunction with conventional risk factor may give greater predictive value in future development of premature coronary heart disease and stroke.

What is Intima-Media Thickness
Over recent years, it is becoming increasingly clear that direct measurement of the blood vessel wall thickness, medically known as the intima-media thickness (IMT) of the neck arteries (common carotid arteries) by B-mode ultrasound is a useful method in cardiovascular risk assessment. Common carotid IMT has been shown to correlate with traditional vascular risk factors and may predict the likelihood of heart attacks and stroke. Measurement of carotid IMT is convenient, non-invasive, painless, accurate, reproducible and inexpensive.

How does Intima-Media Thickness Help You
Early detection of hardening of arteries, medically known as “atherosclerosis” in high risk individuals is unquestionably beneficial. First, it gives a visual warning signal to the high risk individuals and this may aid certain behavioral changes such as quitting smoking and weight reduction. Second, it alerts both the patient and the physician the need to treat traditional vascular risk factors (such as LDL-cholesterol) to target. Third, early pharmacological intervention may change the outcome and several drugs may even decrease IMT in high risk populations. For example, statin drugs which are used to lower cholesterol, have been shown to decrease carotid IMT.

Can We Do Something to Decrease the Intima-Media Thickness and Our Cardiovascular Risk
In patients with type 2 diabetic patients, cilostazol significantly decreases carotid IMT after one year. Furthermore, thiazolidinediones (a group of anti-diabetic drugs) have been shown to have positive effects on carotid arterial wall thickness in people with diabetes. The gold standard first line anti-diabetic drug, metformin, has been shown to decrease IMT progression in Japanese type 2 diabetic patients over a period of 2 years. Similarly, acarbose slows the progression of IMT over 3 years in subjects with impaired glucose tolerance.

The Way Forward
In the present day and age, measurement of the carotid artery IMT should be part of cardiovascular risk assessment in addition to the conventional risk factors. The visual impact of these scans would clearly help behavioral modification and drug compliance in high-risk individuals.



Dr. Norman N. Chan FRCP, MD

Clinical Director, Qualigenics Diabetes Centre (http://qualigenics.com)
Norman Chan is a specialist in Endocrinology and Clinical Director of Qualigenics Diabetes Centre, GenRx of HKR International, in Hong Kong. More on Dr Norman Chan's biography here.

Calculate Your Heart Attack Risk Now

Calculate Your Heart Attack Risk Now
By Davis Liu, M.D.

You can easily calculate your risk of having a heart attack or dying from a heart attack by going to the National Cholesterol Education Program's website. All you need to know is your cholesterol (total and HDL - good cholesterol), your latest blood pressure, and whether you are on medication to control blood pressure. The other information you need you should know already - your age, gender, and whether you smoke.

The number generated is your risk of having a heart attack over the next ten years. If your risk is 5 percent, that means if 100 people with the same risk profile, i.e. same cholesterol, blood pressure, age, gender, etc., were followed over 10 years, five of those individuals would die or suffer from a heart attack over that time. The other 95 individuals would do just fine.

The calculator should not be used for people who have diabetes or who have had a heart attack or heart disease (coronary artery disease) in the past as these individuals are already considered high risk.

While you cannot change risk factors like age or gender, other risk factors for heart disease are modifiable. Blood pressure and cholesterol can be lowered. For one thing, you can decide whether or not to smoke, and whether or not to eat well. If, after taking the test, you discover that your risk is 10 to 20 percent or 20 percent or higher, you should check with your doctor. He may suggest that diet and exercise are enough or if a cholesterol-lowering medication needs to be prescribed to further decrease your risk.

Remember that this is only a tool and is not a substitute for sound medical advice. Even if your number is low, you still need to do the right things to stay healthy. Heart disease is the leading cause of death in this country, but don't ignore the second leading cause of death, cancer, either. You should, however, review your numbers with your doctor at a future visit.

The calculation is based on the information and findings from the famous Framingham Heart Study. This research study initially started in 1948 and followed a group of over five thousand adults, ages thirty to sixty-two, with extensive physical examinations, history taking, and blood work every two years to determine risk factors and patterns for heart disease. In 1971, the study followed a similar number of the original participants' adult children and their spouses. Though the data was based on thousands of people over a period of years, the calculation may not be entirely accurate for individuals who are non-white (the study was performed on people living in Framingham, Massachusetts, which at the time of the study was predominately Caucasian). Nevertheless, we can thank the study for our current understanding that addressing high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, obesity, diabetes, and physical inactivity decreases the risk for heart disease.

When you use the calculator, you are in fact using evidence-based research to determine your risk of heart disease. See if your doctor uses the same way to determine your risk next time you see him or her. Find the calculator at http://hp2010.nhlbihin.net/atpiii/calculator.asp?usertype=prof

Davis Liu, M.D., is a practicing board-certified family physician and author of the book Stay Healthy, Live Longer, Spend Wisely - Making Intelligent Choices in America's Healthcare System. He graduated summa cum laude and Phi Beta Kappa from the Wharton School of Business at the University of Pennsylvania. He received his medical degree from the University of Connecticut School of Medicine. Learn more about what you must do to stay well at http://www.davisliumd.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Davis_Liu,_M.D.
http://EzineArticles.com/?Calculate-Your-Heart-Attack-Risk-Now&id=1065033

photo credit: www.yoursuperhealthguide.com

What to Do About Styes and Chalazia

Photo of a Stye from http://distractible.org

What to Do About Styes and Chalazia
By Mark Rosenberg, M.D.

You probably remember your mother telling you to take your vitamins or munch on carrots for healthy eyes. I'm not disputing this wisdom, but I have studied many eye conditions that can't be prevented with vitamins alone. For instance, most patients who suffer from styes and chalazia don't know about the natural treatments for these common eye ailments. Fortunately, there are several ways to make yourself more comfortable as you wait for eye trouble to run its course.

Lumps and Bumps on the Eyelids

Though the treatment of styes and chalazia is similar, they are two separate conditions with different causes. Styes are pimple-like bumps on the edge of the eyelid caused by a bacterial infection, usually staphylococcus bacterium. Though rarely serious, they can be irritating or painful. Chalazia are larger lumps inside the eyelid resulting from blocked oil glands. They are not often painful, but can cause vision problems if they grow large.

The lifespan of a stye is relatively short. Starting as a small pimple on the edge of the eyelid, it swells for approximately three days before it breaks open and drains on its own. You may experience irritation or pain as the stye grows, but it often heals on its own within one week. The evolution of a chalazion is more gradual, usually taking place over two to three months. As it grows, a firm lump forms under the skin, which may hamper vision. Swelling may spread to the area surrounding the eye. Like a stye, a chalazion will eventually clear up on its own over time.

Promote Quick Healing

Although both styes and chalazia tend to heal on their own, the waiting process can be less than pleasant. You can soothe irritation and encourage speedier healing by applying warm compresses to the eye area. A soft washcloth soaked in warm water is effective, but soaking your compress in herbal solutions can do even more to ease inflammation and pain. Make a "tea" from herbs like Goldenseal, Oregon Grape Root and acacia leaves and soak your compress in the warm liquid. Apply to the eye area for at least 5 minutes, 3 to 6 times per day. This will help a stye break open naturally or clear the oil glands.

Another remedy to ease swelling is a poultice made from grated potato. Place this on the eye and relax for several minutes. You can also soothe itchy and inflamed eyes with another pantry item. Boil whole coriander seeds in one cup of water to make an eye rinse that you can use 3 to 4 times per day.

It is very important not to pick or pop a stye or chalazion, as this could exacerbate the infection or inflammation. Rather, let nature take its course. In the meantime, refrain from wearing makeup or contact lenses, which could irritate the eye, until it is healed. To prevent these problems from recurring, avoid rubbing your eyes and wash your hands before touching your face so you don't transfer infection-causing bacteria to the area. You should also replace makeup at least every 6 months so bacteria doesn't have a chance to grow.

If you have chronic inflammation of the eyes that causes recurring styes and chalazia, do not hesitate to see your doctor. If a bump grows very quickly, bleeds or fails to improve, your doctor should be consulted right away. Lumps and bumps on the eyes are indeed a nuisance, but with proper natural care they can be treated effectively.

The article What to Do About Styes and Chalazia was Submitted by Mark Rosenberg, M.D. through Articles.GetACoder.com network. Here's the additional information: Mark Rosenberg, M.D. Institute For Healthy Aging http://www.vitalmaxvitamins.com http://www.vitalmaxvitamins.com/blog

Healthy Habits: 5 Easy Ways to Relieve Stress

Healthy Habits: 5 Easy Ways to Relieve Stress by Dr. Davon Jacobson, MD





One of the biggest problems I have seen throughout my medical career to date is that many people suffer with stress. I noticed that they do not even fully realize that stress is a major factor in their overall health. Here are my five best suggestions as to how you can relieve any level of stress.

1) Eat Healthy Organic Foods

Although this may seem like one of those basic suggestions, people do not fully realize the power of good food. Back when I was in college, I would regularly eat deep fried foods. I always remembered feeling full and disgusted. This in effect, made me feel very uneasy when I would participate in activities with my friends, or even when I was to give presentations. Those foods were not only bad for my physical health, but they also hurt my mental health as well.

Organic raw vegetables and fruits are what I began to eat after I graduated. I noticed that I felt ten times better than I ever felt before. Not only was my physical well being improved, but I felt more enthusiastic and outgoing. The fatty fried foods of the past made me feel ill and I always wanted to lounge around like a couch potato. I have found that I really love to eat fruits and certain vegetables like celery and lettuce. Aside from helping to relieve stress, there are many other benefits to eating raw organic foods.

2) Create a To-Do List

By far, this is one of my favorite tips to give anyone. When I used to create to-do lists in college, I noticed that I got things done faster and more efficiently. Not only were my tasks being completed, I also felt more relaxed knowing that these things were being crossed off my list and I did not have to worry about them. I highly suggest this tactic because it will help you in the long run with stress relief. Many people I have dealt with tend to worry about the little things. They do not realize that those "little" things will add up and contribute to their overall stress.

3) Engage in Enjoyable Physical Exercises

When I used to get stressed out, I would always love to go for a relaxing swim or a jog with my friends. This played a tremendous part in my stress relief. I found out that after I completed these activities, I was less tense and more relaxed. It is almost like venting your frustrations in a constructive and safe way. Give it a try and you will notice a huge difference.

4) Try Aromatherapy and Meditation

I recently started to get into aromatherapy and meditation. I have sometimes taken for granted certain smells and their affect on the human mind. Aromatherapy is a form of alternative medicine that uses essential oils from plants for the purpose of affecting a person in terms of their mood and health. My favorite scent by far is vanilla. I always buy vanilla scented oils and candles for my home. I am not going to lie, but I feel so relaxed that I doubt anything can bother me when I am at home burning these scents.

Meditation is relatively new to me and I have spent the past few months really getting into it. For example, just the other day I felt really stressed after work and decided to meditate in my bedroom. When I was finished, I felt much better and less tense than before. Do your own research into the different methods of meditation and give it a try.

5) Enjoy Yourself and Laugh

I have often heard the phrase, "laughter is the best medicine" and discarded it as some poetic form of guidance. From my personal perspective, laughter is the ultimate form of stress relief. I do not mean snickering; I mean a nice full body jolting laugh. I have seen many people who love to use laughter as their "medicine" to de-stressing. The beautiful thing is that all laughs are free of charge and anyone can use them.

Overall, stress plays a bigger factor in your health than you can image. Over my years dealing with it, both in my profession and personal life, I can honestly say that stress needs to be checked at all times. Whether it is just a small amount or a large amount that causes your head to hurt, you really need to be sure that your stress levels are kept to a minimum. I really hope this information has helped you and good luck to your health.

About the Author

My name is Dr. Davon Jacobson, and I have decided to create a website dedicated strictly to health. There are way too many websites promoting false health and nutrition information. You can visit my site at this web address: http://healthy-nutrition-facts.blogspot.com
Photo credit: http://www.bioteams.com

Managing Low Back Pain

Managing Low Back Pain by Lisa Hill MD

All of us know someone who has suffered with low back pain; sometimes for a few days and sometimes for weeks. Low back pain is defined as soreness or discomfort anywhere in the lower back or buttocks. Three out of four people suffer from low back pain sometime in their lives.

You may wonder why back pain is so common and what causes it. Most often, back pain is caused by a muscle strain. This is the case more than 70% of the time with back pain. Muscle strains usually happen because you are using your back muscles to do something you don't usually do. Often people injure their backs by lifting furniture, playing sports, or gardening. Back pain may also be caused by a slipped (or herniated) disk. This generally happens when you are twisting while lifting. Disk degeneration, fractures of the spine, infection and cancer are other causes of back pain. Some back pain does not originate in the back.

It is a good idea to see your doctor for back pain if:

* Your pain was caused by an injury
* Your pain goes below your knee
* You have numbness in your leg, foot, groin, or rectal area
* You have fever, nausea or vomiting, abdominal pain, weakness or sweating
* You lose the control over going to the bathroom
* Your pain is too intense to move around or it wakens you at night
* Your pain doesn't improve after 2-3 weeks

Most studies show that back pain will resolve spontaneously in six weeks. However, relapses are common. With an acute episode of back pain, you may rest your back for 1-2 days after the pain begins. Resting longer than this can lead to weak muscles and a slower recovery. During recovery you should avoid heavy lifting, bending, twisting, and prolonged sitting.

Several different medications and therapies have been tried to help the person suffering with back pain to stay active. Because back pain is caused by injured, overused, or spasming muscles a majority of the time, therapies are generally aimed at treating this issue. Myo-Med is a non-toxic topical pain cream that may help manage the inflammation that often causes back pain. It may help heal injured muscles, aiding in quick recovery. Anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS), muscle relaxants, and acetaminophen are also possibilities for pain management. Heat therapy has been found to be helpful in decreasing pain and increasing function in acute back pain. Spinal manipulative therapy may offer short term improvements in pain. Exercise therapy has not been shown to be helpful. There is insufficient evidence to recommend massage therapy, but it is considered safe.

About the Author

Dr. Hill is a practicing physician and mother.

Photo credit: http://paramountchiro.com

How to Lower Your Risk of Developing Arthritis

How to Lower Your Risk of Developing Arthritis by Dr. Davon Jacobson, MD

After many years of researching arthritis, I have finally seen that it tends to present a problem for many adults over 30 years of age. Even my parents suffer with arthritis from time to time. It really pains me to see my mother struggling to open a simple jar and experiencing pain and stress in her hands. Through this article I will give you tips on how to lower your risk of developing arthritis.

By definition, arthritis is a group of conditions involving damage to the joints of the body. The most damage I have seen is to the hands and knees. Emerging research based evidence suggests that abnormal anatomy might contribute to the early development of certain forms of arthritis, mainly osteoarthritis. There are more than 100 different types of arthritis affecting people everyday.

Now, here is the list of tips I want you to take a careful look at. As a medical doctor, I suggest that you talk to your own personal physician and see what works best for your particular situation.

1) Eat a lot more organic foods than you are now.

The big reason I keep saying this in all my articles is because the power of a healthy body is immeasurable. Some of my patients do not fully know that their bodies are capable of operating by themselves without constant medications. My personal passion is alternative health. I really want people to understand that they do not need to by fully dependent on expensive pills and supplements. If you keep your insides clean, then you do not have to worry about much in the long run.

2) Relaxation will help in the long run.

I bet that most people do not realize that stress plays a big role in arthritis pain. If you are stressed out, your body will have a hard time functioning properly. On my personal website, I provide articles that go into great detail on the problem stress causes your body. One thing to keep in mind is that your immune system takes heavy damage with bad mental health. A few things I would suggest include laughing with friends and family, meditation, or even soothing relaxation music.

3) Consume steam distilled water.

All throughout my medical career I have always told my patients about distilled water. Most people do not drink enough water each day. Instead, they will drink a lot of coffee and sodas. If you really want to prevent or fight arthritis, then distilled water is a very important part of your diet. Simply put the more you drink steam distilled water, the healthier you will be.

4) Regular exercise is the key in this fight.

I use the term "fight" because when arthritis pain strikes, it is sometimes unbearable. I hate to see the look in my mother's face when she is hit with random arthritis pain. It looks as though she is in a fight for her life. She often times tells me that it feels like someone is cutting into her flesh with a hot tool. Usually after her exercise routine, she will feel a lot better. Exercises I encourage my arthritis patients to do are swimming, yoga, and even jogging.

These are a few of the main things I go over with to my patients. They all do well after a certain amount of time and can cope with the arthritis better. If you follow those four basic principles, you will be able to lower your risk of developing arthritis. On the other hand, if you already have it, these same exact principles will help you to control it and handle the pain better. Like I always say, do your own research and look for what works in your particular situation.

About the Author

My name is Dr. Davon Jacobson, and I have decided to create a website dedicated strictly to health. I provide highly detailed health articles along with nutritional advice. You can visit my site at this web address: http://healthy-nutrition-facts.blogspot.com

Photo credit: http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/4/4d/SOA-arthritis.jpg

How to Make Your Gastroscopy Feel Like a Breeze

photo credit:
http://www.nlm.nih.gov

How to Make Your Gastroscopy Feel Like a Breeze
By Benson Yeung

Preparing For Gastroscopy
Gastroscopy is also called upper GI (gastro-intestinal) endoscopy. This investigation is helpful for upper abdominal pain, heartburn, upper abdominal distension, problems with swallowing, vomiting, belching and suspected upper gastrointestinal (gut) bleeding.

To prepare for the test, you need to fast for six hours. It is also important that you tell your doctor or other health professionals attending you about the medications that you take and allergies. You also need to inform that about your past and present medical illnesses. Some medications and medical conditions can make the procedure more difficult, or even dangerous for you, if your medical attendants are not informed. Problems with past operations or anesthesia are also essential information to make your procedure smoother and safer.

On the day of your procedure, you will be asked to change into a gown. You will be placed on an operating table which can be elevated or lowered. Your attendants will assist you to lie on your left side. They will put up a needle for intravenous access in your arm. Through this, sedative drugs will be given to make the procedure easily tolerable to you. The drugs often also make you forget the process of the procedure as well, which is a plus. They will also put plastic clips on your finger and blood pressure cuffs on your arm to monitor your blood pressure, pulse rate and blood oxygen content. The next step is to have your throat sprayed with a local anesthetic. This often leaves a spicy, stinging sensation before it numbs the throat. Your doctor then puts a flexible endoscope into your throat and instructs you to swallow. This is often the last thing that you'd remember before finding yourself slowly waking up thirty minutes later.

When you wake up, the procedure would have finished minutes ago. Your doctor will examine you briefly and explain to you the essential findings. You will be allowed to go home when you are completely clear-headed, or sooner if you have a responsible escort. You should refrain from driving, operating machinery and making important legal (e.g. buying yourself a business), commercial (e.g. buying a property) or social (e.g. asking your partner to marry you) decisions while still under residual influence of the sedative medications.

Your doctor will instruct you on further medications and time to return for follow up.

http://bensonyeung.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Benson_Yeung
http://EzineArticles.com/?How-to-Make-Your-Gastroscopy-Feel-Like-a-Breeze&id=1332088

6 Secrets To A Painless Mammogram

6 Secrets To A Painless Mammogram
By Benson Yeung

Mammograms can be life-saving. They can also be prohibitively painful to some women. Here are six tips to make your mammogram hurt less.

1. Have your mammogram when you don't have much breast engorgement. (For most women, this means the two weeks after menstruation has finished but the time varies with the individual. Other women might find day 18 to 22 after the first day of menstruation more appropriate)

2. Use as little salt as possible for a week before the test. Again, this will reduce the extent of breast engorgement for most women and hence the pain associated with the compression required for the test.

3.Taking 400 international units of vitamin E for 3 weeks before the test. Why this works has not been documented. However, this works frequent enough for you to try out.

4. Using simple analgesics like paracetamol, aspirin, diclofenac one hour before the test, provided you don't have an allergy to these. These have to be taken after food.

5. Drink green juice, made from green apples, capsicums, celery, bitter melons and cucumbers on alternate days for a week before the test. This is a little secret one of my patients shared with me. This green juice is also helpful for breast pain in general. Make sure you don't drink this more frequent than suggested as it may lead to hypotension or even dizziness.

6. Tell the radiographer when you feel pain during the test. The radiographer does have some lee-way to adjust the degree of compression of the breasts against the x-ray plates.

Whatever you do, don't skip the mammogram if advised by your doctor.

http://bensonyeung.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Benson_Yeung
http://EzineArticles.com/?6-Secrets-To-A-Painless-Mammogram&id=1200545

Why Should We Worry About Breast Fibroadenomas

Even though fibroadenomas of the breast are ten times more common than breast cancer, the management of these can be associated with significant pitfalls. These tumors typically present as smooth mobile masses to the patient, often spherical or oval in shape. They are occasionally tender to touch. More often, they are asymptomatic and not detectable by touch alone, and are incidental findings on screening ultrasounds and mammagrams.
Read my article on suite101.com: Why Should We Worry About Breast Fibroadenomas: Pitfalls of Observing Breast Masses for Prolonged Periods - http://breast-health.suite101.com/article.cfm/why_should_we_worry_about_breast_fibroadenomas#ixzz0Bual4EUT


Photo shows an MRI picture of a "phyllodes tumor".

Welcome to Doctors' Health Tips

Dear reader,
I have been blogging and engaged in online publishing for a year now. I am now ready to come up with this new blog to serve you better. On top of my own posts, here you'll find writing and tips from other qualified medical practitioners. Some of them are freely sharing what they want to talk about. Others have had their arms twisted by your web-master (me) to churn out page after page of useful information.

All this is happening for this one particular purpose:
better health tips -> better knowledge about health -> better health habits -> better health

I should probably add that this blog also exists for my wish to involve similar minded physicians to build something bigger and better than my own blog. You can be reassured that all the articles you read here are written by medically qualified doctors and edited by myself, a specialist surgeon and an experienced online publisher.

Disclaimer:
Where as all effort is taken to ascertain the accuracy of the information provided here, the writers and publisher cannot be held legally responsible for the reader's loss in health in any form as a result of his / her personal application of this information.