A Simple Guide to Diabetes Part 2
----------------------------------------
What is the treatment of Diabetes?
-----------------------------------------
Control of Diabetes
-----------------------
Diabetes is a chronic disease which cannot be cured.
It can be controlled to prevent the development of the above serious complications by :
Living a healthy lifestyle
--------------------------
1.diet -
Reduce your intake of sugar and sweet food
Increase intake of more high fibre and wholegrain food like brown rice, wholemeal bread and oats
Take food with less fat content like lean meat, fish, skinless poultry and low fat milk
Have at least 2 servings of vegetables and 2 servings of fruits a day
Use healthier methods of cooking such as grilling and steaming rather than deep frying and use less salt and sauces
Take multiple (4-6) small meals a day that contains enough complex carbohydrates (e.g. rice), some lean meat or fish and vegetables.
Have regular meals and avoid skipping meals
Do not overeat
2.regular exercise-
This helps your body to use glucose more efficiently
Frequency: 3-5 days per week(daily if low intensity)
Intensity: 60-85% of maximum heart rate till the patient feels warm or sweats and breathes deeply but easily
Time: 20-60 mins each time
Type: aerobic exercises like walking, jogging, swimming, cycling
For those who have not been active for some time should start with walking first, then increase to more active exercises
3.weight control -
lose extra body weight by proper dieting and exercise
Aim for half kg loss per week
Aim for a BMI of 18.5-22.9kg/m2
Insulin works better in a lean healthy body.
4.Avoid smoking-
smoking increases all the risks associated with diabetes
5.Avoid stress -
by meditation, yoga, deep breathing exercises
Medication for Diabetes
-----------------------------
1.oral tablets:
a. Insulin secretagogues - drugs that increase insulin release from pancreas
eg. glibenclamide, repaglinide
Side effects: low blood sugar
b.Insulin sensitisers- drugs that make insulin work better especially in muscles and liver
eg.metformin
side effects: gastric discomfort, metallic taste in mouth
eg. rosiglitazone
side effect: water retention
c. Alpha-glucosidase blocker -slows digestion of carbohydrates in the intestine
eg. acarbose
side effect: stomach discomfort, bloating, diarrhea
If the oral medicines even in combination cannot bring down the blood sugar, the insulin injection may be required either alone or together with oral medication.
2.insulin injections
Insulin is destroyed in the stomach so it cannot be taken orally and has to be given as an injection.
Best place to inject the insulin is in the abdominal area where there is a lot of subcutaneous fat.
Avoid 2 fingers around the navel and below the rib cage where there is a rich nerve supply and therefore more painful.
Injection is usually done in the morning and evening.
Night injection controls the glucose when the patient sleep and avoid early morning high glucose.
a.Rapid and short acting insulin
eg. regular soluble insulin
onset 30-60min, peak 2-4 hrs, duration 6-8 hrs
b.intermediate and long acting insulin
eg. NPH insulin
onset 1-4 hrs, peak 8-12 hrs, duration 12-20hr
c.premixed or biphasic insulin
eg. NPH/regular 70/30
more convenient and less injections
Important hygience tips:
Use needles once only
Mix well by shaking bottle or injection pen 20 times
Store all unused insulin in fridge(will keep until expiry date).
Do not freeze insulin.
Insulin in use can be kept at room temprature away from sunlight and direct heat and must be discarded 4-6 weeks after use
Follow the instructions very carefully and keep detailed records of your treatment.
Home blood glucose monitoring
--------------------------------------
1. monitor your progress with the help of your daily home blood glucose records.
Monitor;
a. before and after meals
b. before and after exercise
c. when feeling giddy to confirm low blood glucose
d. when sick and not eating well
Type 1 diabetes should be monitored 3-4 times a day
Type 2 non-insulin diabetes 1-2 times a day followed by 1 every 2-3 days
Type 2 insulin diabetes 2-3 times a day followed by 2-3 days a week.
Pregnant diabetic patient should also monitor their blood glucose daily
Aim for a Fasting Blood glucose 4.0 -7.0mmol/l
Blood HbA1c 4.5 -7.0
This will check if your diabetes is under control.
If not, you need more medicines or further change in diet.
High blood pressure and high blood cholesterol level
---------------------------------------------------------------
Reducing high blood pressure and high cholesterol level help to keep diabetes under control and protect against its complications.
Aim for a blood pressure of 130/80 or less
LDL cholesterol of 2.6mmol/l
Regular checkups is important in the treatment of Diabetes
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
1. Regular monthly checkups for diabetes until fully controlled, bimonthly after that.
2. Check for hypertension and heart disease at the same time
3. Check for high blood cholesterol once a year.
4. Check eyes once a year.
5. Check for kidney problems at least once a year.
6. Check teeth once a year
7. Check you feet for signs of infection, gangrene and neuropathy.
Foot care:
-------------
1. wash feet daily with soap and water
2. After washing ,dry thoroughly especially betwwen the toes
3. keep yor toe nails short,trimming them straight across to avoid ingrowing toenails
4. moisturise feet daily to prevent dryness and cracking of skin
5. examine feet daily for scratches, cuts, blisters and corn
6. use a mirror to check the sole of your feet
7. wear shoes that fit well and wear clean cotton socks which has loose fitting elastic tops
8.Avoid going barefoot
9.Seek prompt treatment for cuts and sores
10.annual review for foot ulcers,risk of neuropathy(poor sensation), blood circiulation( palpable pulses)
Health education
---------------------
It is important to increase your knowledge of diabetes and its complications.
With knowledge, diabetes can be more easily controlled.
A well controlled diabetic patient can live a normal life.
Showing posts with label healthy lifestyle. Show all posts
Showing posts with label healthy lifestyle. Show all posts
Tuesday, December 11, 2007
Friday, November 2, 2007
A Simple Guide to Depression
A Simple Guide to Depression
-----------------------------------
What is Depression?
------------------------
Depression is a very common mental ilness with an alteration of mood which exceeds normal sadness.
How common is Depression?
----------------------------------
Everyone has felt sad at one time or another.
It may be due to a disappointment, frustration or losing someone.
But time heals, the mood lifts and people continue to get on with their lives.
In some people, depression can be so severe that it dominates their lives, preventing them from living their lives as they used to.
Depression of this degree is a medical illness and needs treatment.
What Are The Types Of Depression?
------------------------------------------
1.Major depression is manifested by a combination of symptoms that affect our work, interests and feelings towards family and friends.
These disabling episodes can occur twice or several times in a lifetime.
2.Dysthymia is a less severe type of depression.
People with dysthymia have long-term depressive symptoms and it prevents them from functioning at an optimal level.
What Are The Causes Of Depression?
--------------------------------------------
1.hereditary or genetic factors in the transmission of depressive disorders.
In some families, major depression seems to occur generation after generation.
2.biological component in depression.
It may be associated with having too little or too much chemicals in the brain.
3. medications have mood altering properties.
Some medication act by altering the biochemical imbalances in the brain causing depression.
4. Life events such as loss of a job, retirement, divorce, death of a loved one or moving to a new house can precipitate a depressive illness.
5.Social circumstances also play a part.
If we are alone, have few or no friends, suffer from a chronic illness, then we may be more vulnerable to depression.
6. People with life threatening or long-term physical illness such as cancer, stroke, arthritis or heart disease are also more vulnerable to depression.
7. Personality may also play a part in depression. Some of us are more vulnerable than others because of the individual make-up or early life experiences.
Very often, a combination of genetic, psychological and environmental factors is involved in the onset of depression.
The good news is that whatever the cause, depression is treatable.
What are the Symptoms Of Depression?
----------------------------------------------
Certain characteristic symptoms can give you or your family a clue that you are depressed:
1.Depressed mood
2.lethargy and fatigue
3.loss of interest and enjoyment in life
4.lack of drive or motivation that makes even simple tasks or decisions difficult or impossible
5.loss of concentration
6.Loss of self confidence, avoiding people
7.Sleeplessness or excessive sleeping
8.Agitation or restlessness
9.ideas of being useless, inadequate, helpless or hopeless
10.Feeling guilty or worthless
11.Loss or gain in appetite, libido with loss or gain in weight
12.Thoughts of suicide;
These symptoms are very common in depression.
It is much better admitted to friends or relatives than to keep them hidden.
How is Depression Treated?
---------------------------------
Reassurance and support is most important in treatment of depression.
Recognition of suicide risk must be remembered when treating a depressed person.
Treatment for depression is well established.
Majority up to 90% of people with major depression have fairly good treatment outcome.
Treatment consists of
drug (antidepressant medication) and
non-drug therapy.
Usually, a combined treatment is best:
1.medication to gain relatively quick relief and
2.psychotherapy to learn more effective ways to deal with life stresses.
Antidepressant Medication
---------------------------------
All antidepressant medications are equally effective but they have different side effects.
The most often used antidepressants include tricyclics, monoamine oxidase inhibitors, lithium and selective serotonin inhibitors (SSRI).
Antidepressant medications do not begin working the day you take them but your mood will improve after one to two weeks.
However, you may notice some improvement on the first day, especially in your sleep and feeling less tense and anxious.
The medications are compatible with painkillers, antibiotics and contraceptives. However, you should avoid alcohol as the medication and alcohol combined can make you too drowsy.
Do not stop the medication once you start to feel better as you may relapse into depression again.
You should discuss this with your doctor and let him advise you when to stop.
Antidepressants like all drugs have some side effects, though these are usually mild and tend to wear off as treatment goes on.
The common side effects and their remedies are:
Dry mouth - drink more water
Constipation - eat more fruits, cereals, prunes and vegetables
Drowsiness - this will pass soon; do not drive or operate heavy machinery if feeling sedated Dizziness - rise from bed or chair slowly
Some side effects with the newer medications:
Headache - this will usually go away
Nausea and stomach discomfort - transient; take medication with food
Nervousness and insomnia - these may occur during the first few weeks, reducing the dose will usually resolve them.
Non Drug Therapy
-----------------------
Psychotherapy
Psychotherapy involves talking things through with a trained counselor or therapist.
Talking to someone who can really listen and understand you without passing judgement can be a tremendous relief.
You learn how to solve problems and cope with life stresses better.
Exercise
Exercise not only improves your health but it also gives you a sense of accomplishment. Endorphins ('feel good' hormones) are released during exercise and this can elevate your mood.
Relaxation Therapy
This involves deep breathing exercises and progressive muscle relaxation.
Support Groups
Support groups offer fellowship and you get to hear first hand accounts of how others with depression, like you, have learnt to cope.
There is also a psychoeducation group which help you learn about the depressive illness and methods of coping.
Electroconvulsive Theraphy (ECT)
ECT is only indicated for those with severe depression who have not responded to treatment or are highly suicidal.
It involves giving a light general anaesthetic and an electric current is passed through the brain for a few seconds. The whole procedure takes only about 15 minutes and the patient is only aware of having gone to sleep.
How Can You Prevent Depression ?
-----------------------------------------
1.try to talk to close friends about bad news
2. Be realistic about your goals. Do not aim too high. Set priorities and do what you can.
3. Do something - get out of the house for a walk or some exercise.
While you may not be able to work, it is always good to try to keep up with some light activities such as housework.
This will help take your mind off those painful feelings.
4. Eat a good balanced diet, even though you may not feel like eating.
5. Resist the temptation to drown your sorrows with alcohol.
Alcohol can depresses the mood, so while it may give you immediate relief by making you forget your problems, this is very temporary and you may end up more depressed.
It is also bad for your liver and general physical health.
6. Remind yourself that you are suffering from depression, something that many other people have gone through, and that you will eventually come out of it, as they do
7.Remember your appointments to see the doctor , take your medicine regularly and do not be afraid to ask for help from your friends and support groups.
-----------------------------------
What is Depression?
------------------------
Depression is a very common mental ilness with an alteration of mood which exceeds normal sadness.
How common is Depression?
----------------------------------
Everyone has felt sad at one time or another.
It may be due to a disappointment, frustration or losing someone.
But time heals, the mood lifts and people continue to get on with their lives.
In some people, depression can be so severe that it dominates their lives, preventing them from living their lives as they used to.
Depression of this degree is a medical illness and needs treatment.
What Are The Types Of Depression?
------------------------------------------
1.Major depression is manifested by a combination of symptoms that affect our work, interests and feelings towards family and friends.
These disabling episodes can occur twice or several times in a lifetime.
2.Dysthymia is a less severe type of depression.
People with dysthymia have long-term depressive symptoms and it prevents them from functioning at an optimal level.
What Are The Causes Of Depression?
--------------------------------------------
1.hereditary or genetic factors in the transmission of depressive disorders.
In some families, major depression seems to occur generation after generation.
2.biological component in depression.
It may be associated with having too little or too much chemicals in the brain.
3. medications have mood altering properties.
Some medication act by altering the biochemical imbalances in the brain causing depression.
4. Life events such as loss of a job, retirement, divorce, death of a loved one or moving to a new house can precipitate a depressive illness.
5.Social circumstances also play a part.
If we are alone, have few or no friends, suffer from a chronic illness, then we may be more vulnerable to depression.
6. People with life threatening or long-term physical illness such as cancer, stroke, arthritis or heart disease are also more vulnerable to depression.
7. Personality may also play a part in depression. Some of us are more vulnerable than others because of the individual make-up or early life experiences.
Very often, a combination of genetic, psychological and environmental factors is involved in the onset of depression.
The good news is that whatever the cause, depression is treatable.
What are the Symptoms Of Depression?
----------------------------------------------
Certain characteristic symptoms can give you or your family a clue that you are depressed:
1.Depressed mood
2.lethargy and fatigue
3.loss of interest and enjoyment in life
4.lack of drive or motivation that makes even simple tasks or decisions difficult or impossible
5.loss of concentration
6.Loss of self confidence, avoiding people
7.Sleeplessness or excessive sleeping
8.Agitation or restlessness
9.ideas of being useless, inadequate, helpless or hopeless
10.Feeling guilty or worthless
11.Loss or gain in appetite, libido with loss or gain in weight
12.Thoughts of suicide;
These symptoms are very common in depression.
It is much better admitted to friends or relatives than to keep them hidden.
How is Depression Treated?
---------------------------------
Reassurance and support is most important in treatment of depression.
Recognition of suicide risk must be remembered when treating a depressed person.
Treatment for depression is well established.
Majority up to 90% of people with major depression have fairly good treatment outcome.
Treatment consists of
drug (antidepressant medication) and
non-drug therapy.
Usually, a combined treatment is best:
1.medication to gain relatively quick relief and
2.psychotherapy to learn more effective ways to deal with life stresses.
Antidepressant Medication
---------------------------------
All antidepressant medications are equally effective but they have different side effects.
The most often used antidepressants include tricyclics, monoamine oxidase inhibitors, lithium and selective serotonin inhibitors (SSRI).
Antidepressant medications do not begin working the day you take them but your mood will improve after one to two weeks.
However, you may notice some improvement on the first day, especially in your sleep and feeling less tense and anxious.
The medications are compatible with painkillers, antibiotics and contraceptives. However, you should avoid alcohol as the medication and alcohol combined can make you too drowsy.
Do not stop the medication once you start to feel better as you may relapse into depression again.
You should discuss this with your doctor and let him advise you when to stop.
Antidepressants like all drugs have some side effects, though these are usually mild and tend to wear off as treatment goes on.
The common side effects and their remedies are:
Dry mouth - drink more water
Constipation - eat more fruits, cereals, prunes and vegetables
Drowsiness - this will pass soon; do not drive or operate heavy machinery if feeling sedated Dizziness - rise from bed or chair slowly
Some side effects with the newer medications:
Headache - this will usually go away
Nausea and stomach discomfort - transient; take medication with food
Nervousness and insomnia - these may occur during the first few weeks, reducing the dose will usually resolve them.
Non Drug Therapy
-----------------------
Psychotherapy
Psychotherapy involves talking things through with a trained counselor or therapist.
Talking to someone who can really listen and understand you without passing judgement can be a tremendous relief.
You learn how to solve problems and cope with life stresses better.
Exercise
Exercise not only improves your health but it also gives you a sense of accomplishment. Endorphins ('feel good' hormones) are released during exercise and this can elevate your mood.
Relaxation Therapy
This involves deep breathing exercises and progressive muscle relaxation.
Support Groups
Support groups offer fellowship and you get to hear first hand accounts of how others with depression, like you, have learnt to cope.
There is also a psychoeducation group which help you learn about the depressive illness and methods of coping.
Electroconvulsive Theraphy (ECT)
ECT is only indicated for those with severe depression who have not responded to treatment or are highly suicidal.
It involves giving a light general anaesthetic and an electric current is passed through the brain for a few seconds. The whole procedure takes only about 15 minutes and the patient is only aware of having gone to sleep.
How Can You Prevent Depression ?
-----------------------------------------
1.try to talk to close friends about bad news
2. Be realistic about your goals. Do not aim too high. Set priorities and do what you can.
3. Do something - get out of the house for a walk or some exercise.
While you may not be able to work, it is always good to try to keep up with some light activities such as housework.
This will help take your mind off those painful feelings.
4. Eat a good balanced diet, even though you may not feel like eating.
5. Resist the temptation to drown your sorrows with alcohol.
Alcohol can depresses the mood, so while it may give you immediate relief by making you forget your problems, this is very temporary and you may end up more depressed.
It is also bad for your liver and general physical health.
6. Remind yourself that you are suffering from depression, something that many other people have gone through, and that you will eventually come out of it, as they do
7.Remember your appointments to see the doctor , take your medicine regularly and do not be afraid to ask for help from your friends and support groups.
Sunday, October 14, 2007
A Simple Guide to Acne
A Simple Guide to Acne
----------------------------
What is Acne?
-----------------
Acne is a skin condition which is characterised by papules, pustules and inflamed sebaceous oil glands.
It typically occurs on the face, neck, upper back, chest, or shoulders where the concentration of these glands are normally located.
What is the cause of Acne?
--------------------------------
It is a disease caused by the overactivity of the skin's sebaceous glands which are located at the base of the hair follicles.
Sebaceous glands produce an oily moisturising secretion (sebum)which helps to wax the hair growing from the hair follicle.
The sebum then empties into the skin's hair follicles which cover most of the body. Normally tiny skin cells shed so that new skin can replace the ones on the surfaces. When the shedding of such cells is abnormal, the opening of the hair follicle can be blocked. The result is a accumulation of sebum in the follicle which can easily become infected.
Bacteria Infection of the accumulated sebum produce pus and toxins which then resulted in a infected swollen gland or infected pimple.
The infected pimples if severe may result in scars.
What are the Symptoms of Acne?
---------------------------------------
The severity of symptoms depends on the individual.
Acne usually occurs during puberty when the production of male hormone in teenagers both male & female are higher.
1.Small bumps which appear under the skin and have no opening are known as whiteheads.
2.Dark spots with plugged pores in the centre are blackheads.
3.Persistent, recurrent red spots or swellings on the skin, filled with pus, are pustules.
4.Lumps under the skin which are inflamed and solid are nodules, or if fluid filled are cysts.
Often the acne become worse during stress or using oily cosmetics or hair creams.
In girls the acne may be aggravated during menses or during pregnancy
What is the Treatment of Acne?
-------------------------------------
Reassurance of worries about their looks in teenagers is very important because it reduces stress and the production of more male hormones.
Fresh air, enough rest and a healthy lifestyle will help physically and psychologically.
A small amount of sun exposure may also help acne problems because of drying effect on the oily skin.
Avoid touching the acne spots with dirty hands because of increased risk to infections.
Do not try to squeeze the pimples.
Patients with minimal symptoms:
1. simple healthy skin care can resolve the problem.
Oily skin can washed with simple soap and water.
Topical medications that help to dry up the oil and promote skin peeling can be applied on the skin. Such products may contain benzoyl peroxide, sulfur, resorcinol, salicylic acid or tretinoin, or retinoic acid (Retin-A).
2.antibiotics (such as tetracycline or erythromycin) is prescribed if the skin lesions appear infected.
Topical antibiotics (applied to a localized area of the skin) such as clindamycin or erythromycin are also used to control infection.
3.New treatment with synthetic vitamin A analogues (isotretinoin, Accutane) have been shown to be beneficial in the treatment of severe acne.
This medication is not to be taken by pregnant women and sexually active adolescent females because of the danger of deformity to the foetus.
4. Sometime oestrogen therapy (Diane 35) on a short term may benefit girls with very severe acne and whose menses are not regular.
It is important to remember that every person who has gone through puberty has some form of acne and usually do not have any complications or bad scarring with the condition.
Prognosis is very good for 99% of cases.
----------------------------
What is Acne?
-----------------
Acne is a skin condition which is characterised by papules, pustules and inflamed sebaceous oil glands.
It typically occurs on the face, neck, upper back, chest, or shoulders where the concentration of these glands are normally located.
What is the cause of Acne?
--------------------------------
It is a disease caused by the overactivity of the skin's sebaceous glands which are located at the base of the hair follicles.
Sebaceous glands produce an oily moisturising secretion (sebum)which helps to wax the hair growing from the hair follicle.
The sebum then empties into the skin's hair follicles which cover most of the body. Normally tiny skin cells shed so that new skin can replace the ones on the surfaces. When the shedding of such cells is abnormal, the opening of the hair follicle can be blocked. The result is a accumulation of sebum in the follicle which can easily become infected.
Bacteria Infection of the accumulated sebum produce pus and toxins which then resulted in a infected swollen gland or infected pimple.
The infected pimples if severe may result in scars.
What are the Symptoms of Acne?
---------------------------------------
The severity of symptoms depends on the individual.
Acne usually occurs during puberty when the production of male hormone in teenagers both male & female are higher.
1.Small bumps which appear under the skin and have no opening are known as whiteheads.
2.Dark spots with plugged pores in the centre are blackheads.
3.Persistent, recurrent red spots or swellings on the skin, filled with pus, are pustules.
4.Lumps under the skin which are inflamed and solid are nodules, or if fluid filled are cysts.
Often the acne become worse during stress or using oily cosmetics or hair creams.
In girls the acne may be aggravated during menses or during pregnancy
What is the Treatment of Acne?
-------------------------------------
Reassurance of worries about their looks in teenagers is very important because it reduces stress and the production of more male hormones.
Fresh air, enough rest and a healthy lifestyle will help physically and psychologically.
A small amount of sun exposure may also help acne problems because of drying effect on the oily skin.
Avoid touching the acne spots with dirty hands because of increased risk to infections.
Do not try to squeeze the pimples.
Patients with minimal symptoms:
1. simple healthy skin care can resolve the problem.
Oily skin can washed with simple soap and water.
Topical medications that help to dry up the oil and promote skin peeling can be applied on the skin. Such products may contain benzoyl peroxide, sulfur, resorcinol, salicylic acid or tretinoin, or retinoic acid (Retin-A).
2.antibiotics (such as tetracycline or erythromycin) is prescribed if the skin lesions appear infected.
Topical antibiotics (applied to a localized area of the skin) such as clindamycin or erythromycin are also used to control infection.
3.New treatment with synthetic vitamin A analogues (isotretinoin, Accutane) have been shown to be beneficial in the treatment of severe acne.
This medication is not to be taken by pregnant women and sexually active adolescent females because of the danger of deformity to the foetus.
4. Sometime oestrogen therapy (Diane 35) on a short term may benefit girls with very severe acne and whose menses are not regular.
It is important to remember that every person who has gone through puberty has some form of acne and usually do not have any complications or bad scarring with the condition.
Prognosis is very good for 99% of cases.
Monday, October 8, 2007
A Simple guide to Stress
A Simple guide to Stress
----------------------------
What is Stress?
-----------------
Stress is a very common condition characterised by exaggerated worry and tension.
People with stress worry excessively about money, health, family, or work, even though there are no signs of trouble.
They are unable to relax and may suffer from insomnia.
What are the common warning signs of stress?
------------------------------------------------------
The signs vary from person to person.
Some of them are:
1. Headaches
2. fast heartbeats
3. Muscle tension; muscle aches
4. muscle tremors
5. Inability to concentrate
6. Stomach ache
7. Diarrhoea
8. Chest pain
9. Breathlessness; hyperventilation
10.Dry mouth
11.Excessive sweating
12.Cold clammy hands
13.Under eating or overeating
14.Anxiety or panic
15.Irritability
16.Hyperactivity
17.Loss of sex drive
18.Fatigue
19.Sense of impending doom
20.Difficulty in falling asleep or frequent nightmares
Other signs may include chills, thirst, dizziness, nausea, fainting, twitches, vomiting, weakness, stuttering,shaky and strained voice,high-pitch laughter and higher blood pressure.
Even for children of school-going age, there are stress.
Symptoms include:
1.Fear of being away from the family
2.Refusal to go to school
3.Fear of strangers
4.Fear of falling asleep or having recurrent nightmares
5.Unnecessary worry
What can we do to lower our stress level?
------------------------------------------------
There are some ways to manage Stress:
1.Be more organised.
Plan your time well.
Do a list of all the things you need to do.
Arrange them in order of importance.
Decide how much time you need for each job.
Keep to your plan.
2.Give yourself time to adjust from one change to another.
Spread out the changes in your life.
Don't do too many things at one time.
3.Always do your work according to your own ability and interest.
Be realistic about what you can do.
Do not ask for the impossible.
Set goals which are achievable so that you don't feel frustrated or discouraged.
4.Think before making decisions.
Get all the relevant information first.
Don't decide blindly.
Consider all the pros and cons of each choice.
Get the people who will be affected by the decision involved in the process.
5.Learn to like yourself.
Don't worry about your external appearance and other faults.
Make the best of what you have.
Accept what you cannot change.
6.AlwaysThink positively.
Prevent negative feelings from building up.
Try to find the source of these feelings.
Always deal constructively with them.
Do not blow things out of proportion.
7.Do not keep all your problems and worries to yourself.
Remember you are not alone.
Share your problems with your spouse, friend or supervisor .
They may have had experience with similar situations.
They may be able to solve your problem.
8.Always build a happy family.
Be kind and loving to your family.
They will provide you with love and support in your times of need.
Always set aside some time each day to talk, play or relax together.
Your home should be a happy place to return to after a hard day's work.
9.Have good friends.
You also need good friends to talk to and laugh with.
They will visit you, go out with you and help you in times of need.
Treat others the way you would like them to treat you.
Respect their views and be patient with their faults.
Always try to give and take.
10.A healthy body is important to overcome stress.
Keep healthy by exercising regularly, eating wisely and getting enough sleep.
Do not smoke or drink to relieve your stress.
Smoking and drinking do not solve anything.
They will cause more problems for your health.
11.Spend some time on yourself.
Do something that you really enjoy like a hobby or an exercise.
Take a short break when you feel tensed or tired.
You deserve to have a little fun sometimes.
12.Try to learn some Relaxation Techniques:
Deep breathing exercise,
meditation,
massage and
muscle relaxation techniques
can be helpful in relieving stress.
What is the Treatment of Stress?
---------------------------------------
Stress can be treated with conventional medicine, psychotherapy and alternative approaches.
A combination of conventional and alternative methods has been shown to be effective.
Conventional Medicine
Psychotherapy and psychoanalysis helps to identify the buried conflicts and worries that may be causing the stress.
Behaviour modification, on the other hand, focuses on changing patterns of behaviour to help the patient avert stress or to cope better with it.
Cognitive therapy similarly concentrates on changing ways of thinking.
One of the best forms of treatment for stress is daily exercise and a healthy lifestyle.
Medication relieves symptoms of stress and is often prescribed in conjunction with other therapies.
Alternative Medicine:
--------------------------
music therapy,
yoga,
herbs and
aromatherapy
are some ways that have helped stress sufferers to relax.
"Remember that you are not alone.
There are always people who are willing to help you.
In this life you must always give and take.
Be happy! Don't worry unnnecessarily!"
----------------------------
What is Stress?
-----------------
Stress is a very common condition characterised by exaggerated worry and tension.
People with stress worry excessively about money, health, family, or work, even though there are no signs of trouble.
They are unable to relax and may suffer from insomnia.
What are the common warning signs of stress?
------------------------------------------------------
The signs vary from person to person.
Some of them are:
1. Headaches
2. fast heartbeats
3. Muscle tension; muscle aches
4. muscle tremors
5. Inability to concentrate
6. Stomach ache
7. Diarrhoea
8. Chest pain
9. Breathlessness; hyperventilation
10.Dry mouth
11.Excessive sweating
12.Cold clammy hands
13.Under eating or overeating
14.Anxiety or panic
15.Irritability
16.Hyperactivity
17.Loss of sex drive
18.Fatigue
19.Sense of impending doom
20.Difficulty in falling asleep or frequent nightmares
Other signs may include chills, thirst, dizziness, nausea, fainting, twitches, vomiting, weakness, stuttering,shaky and strained voice,high-pitch laughter and higher blood pressure.
Even for children of school-going age, there are stress.
Symptoms include:
1.Fear of being away from the family
2.Refusal to go to school
3.Fear of strangers
4.Fear of falling asleep or having recurrent nightmares
5.Unnecessary worry
What can we do to lower our stress level?
------------------------------------------------
There are some ways to manage Stress:
1.Be more organised.
Plan your time well.
Do a list of all the things you need to do.
Arrange them in order of importance.
Decide how much time you need for each job.
Keep to your plan.
2.Give yourself time to adjust from one change to another.
Spread out the changes in your life.
Don't do too many things at one time.
3.Always do your work according to your own ability and interest.
Be realistic about what you can do.
Do not ask for the impossible.
Set goals which are achievable so that you don't feel frustrated or discouraged.
4.Think before making decisions.
Get all the relevant information first.
Don't decide blindly.
Consider all the pros and cons of each choice.
Get the people who will be affected by the decision involved in the process.
5.Learn to like yourself.
Don't worry about your external appearance and other faults.
Make the best of what you have.
Accept what you cannot change.
6.AlwaysThink positively.
Prevent negative feelings from building up.
Try to find the source of these feelings.
Always deal constructively with them.
Do not blow things out of proportion.
7.Do not keep all your problems and worries to yourself.
Remember you are not alone.
Share your problems with your spouse, friend or supervisor .
They may have had experience with similar situations.
They may be able to solve your problem.
8.Always build a happy family.
Be kind and loving to your family.
They will provide you with love and support in your times of need.
Always set aside some time each day to talk, play or relax together.
Your home should be a happy place to return to after a hard day's work.
9.Have good friends.
You also need good friends to talk to and laugh with.
They will visit you, go out with you and help you in times of need.
Treat others the way you would like them to treat you.
Respect their views and be patient with their faults.
Always try to give and take.
10.A healthy body is important to overcome stress.
Keep healthy by exercising regularly, eating wisely and getting enough sleep.
Do not smoke or drink to relieve your stress.
Smoking and drinking do not solve anything.
They will cause more problems for your health.
11.Spend some time on yourself.
Do something that you really enjoy like a hobby or an exercise.
Take a short break when you feel tensed or tired.
You deserve to have a little fun sometimes.
12.Try to learn some Relaxation Techniques:
Deep breathing exercise,
meditation,
massage and
muscle relaxation techniques
can be helpful in relieving stress.
What is the Treatment of Stress?
---------------------------------------
Stress can be treated with conventional medicine, psychotherapy and alternative approaches.
A combination of conventional and alternative methods has been shown to be effective.
Conventional Medicine
Psychotherapy and psychoanalysis helps to identify the buried conflicts and worries that may be causing the stress.
Behaviour modification, on the other hand, focuses on changing patterns of behaviour to help the patient avert stress or to cope better with it.
Cognitive therapy similarly concentrates on changing ways of thinking.
One of the best forms of treatment for stress is daily exercise and a healthy lifestyle.
Medication relieves symptoms of stress and is often prescribed in conjunction with other therapies.
Alternative Medicine:
--------------------------
music therapy,
yoga,
herbs and
aromatherapy
are some ways that have helped stress sufferers to relax.
"Remember that you are not alone.
There are always people who are willing to help you.
In this life you must always give and take.
Be happy! Don't worry unnnecessarily!"
Saturday, October 6, 2007
A Simple Guide to Cancer
A Simple Guide to Cancer
------------------------------
A person's body is made up of many types of cells which normally grow, divide and die. Sometimes, the cells mutate (change to abnormal cells) and begin to grow and divide more quickly than normal cells.
Rather than dying, these abnormal cells clump together to form tumors.
If these tumors are cancerous (also called "malignant"), the cancer cells can invade and kill your body's own healthy tissues becoming a "villian" in the process.
By contrast, noncancerous tumors (also called "benign") do not spread to other parts of the body.
What are the dangers of Cancer?
--------------------------------------
Normal healthy cells grow and multiply in an orderly, controlled manner.
Cancer cells on the other hand multiply uncontrollably.
They do not function normally and instead form a growth or tumour which can enter the blood and spread to nearby tissues and organs as well as to other parts of the body.
Cancer kills by:
Destroying important organs
Disturbing normal body functions
Blocking important blood vessels or air passages.
Cancer is really a group of diseases. There are many types of cancer which can arise from the different types of cells in the body.
What are the most common cancers?
--------------------------------------------
MOST COMMON TYPES OF CANCER IN THE WORLD ARE:
Lung
Colon & rectum(large intestine)
Breast
Ovary
Stomach
Cervix(neck of the womb)
Liver
Prostate
Nasopharynx(back of the nose)
Lymphomas
What are the causes of Cancer?
-------------------------------------
1. Genetic -family history,chromosonal abnormality
2. Viruses & Bacteria -hepatitis B, Epstein Barr, HIV : Helicobacter pyrori
3. Smoking - chemicals from cigarette smoke
4. Alcohol - liver cirrhosis
5. Chemicals -pesticides, asbestos,preservatives,chemotherapy, aflatoxins
6. Radiation -from sun rays, x-rays, radiotherapy,nuclear plants
7. Obesity - fat can cause breast, ovarian cancer
8. Age - mutations increase with age
How can you prevent yourself from cancer?
---------------------------------------------------
Cancer can be prevented.
Cancer is not contagious like the flu or chickenpox.
About one-third of all cancers can be prevented from occurring:
1. A healthy lifestyle
------------------------
get some exercise, a well balanced diet and avoid stress.
2. Smoking
-------------
avoid cigarettes and cigarette smoke.
Smoking also causes cancers of the mouth, throat, larynx , oesophagus, stomach, pancreas, kidney and bladder.
Breathing in other people's smoke can increase your risk of developing lung cancer, so ask any smokers not to smoke in your presence.
What you can do
Don't smoke.
If you do, then stop.
Ask your family and friends to support your efforts to quit.
Get rid of all your cigarettes and lighters.
Enrol in a programme that helps smokers to quit.
Spend less time with friends who smoke.
Spend more time with non-smoking friends in smoke-free places.
There are chewing gum and skin patches with nicotine to help you to stop smoking.
3.Food and chemicals
--------------------------
avoid any cancer causing chemicals such as asbestos or nitrosamines from preserved food.
The chemicals used to preserve foods like ham, bacon, luncheon meat may form cancer-causing substances when they are digested.
These substances have also been found in salted or preserved foods (such as salted fish or pickled vegetables) and may lead to cancer of the stomach and nasopharynx.
Eat them less often.
Peanuts, seeds and grains that are not stored properly often become mouldy.
Some of these moulds produce toxins(aflatoxins) that can cause liver cancer.
What you can do:
1.Have some fresh fruits and vegetables at every meal. Fruits and vegetables contain vitamins and fibre which help to reduce the risk of developing colorectal and stomach cancer.
Choose dark-green leafy vegetables and orange-yellow fruits as these contain greater amounts of vitamins and minerals.
2.Take more fibre by eating wholemeal bread or wholegrain cereals such as brown rice.
3.Eat less salted, pickled, preserved and processed foods.
Store nuts in air-tight containers to prevent them from going mouldy.
4.Obesity
-----------
People who are overweight are more likely to develop cancers of the colon, rectum, breast and prostate.
What you can do
Exercise regularly .
To maintain a healthy weight, take up a regular exercise or sport.
Aim to stay in the healthy weight range.
Exercise for at least 20 minutes three times a week.
Play a game or sport that you enjoy and can do with your friends or family.
Eat less foods high in fat or sugar.
Trim away fat from meat and skin from poultry before cooking.
Change to foods low in fat like skimmed milk, reduced fat cheese or low-fat yoghurt.
Use low-fat cooking methods like stewing, baking, steaming or boiling instead of deep frying.
Choose healthier snacks like fresh fruit or wholemeal crackers.
5.Radiation
--------------
radiation from sun, x-rays, nuclear plants can cause damage to the skin,bones and other organs of the body resulting in cancer.
What you can do
Avoid sunburn and prevent overexposure to the sun.
The ultraviolet rays from the sun damage the skin.
Sunburn may lead to skin cancer.
Avoid overexposure to the sun, especially if you are fair-skinned.
Stay in the shade whenever possible.
Wear a hat or a cap.
Use a sunscreen or sunblock with a sun protection factor of at least 15 on any exposed areas of skin.
6. Workplace chemicals
----------------------------
exposure to cancer-causing substances at work can lead to cancer of lungs, liver, kidneys, skin. Always follow the safety regulations as they are meant to protect you.
What you can do
Hide behind protective shields or stay in the "safe" area.
Remember to wear protective equipment (like gloves, masks or goggles).
Be careful when you handle the equipment or the chemicals.
Learn about safety drills and what to do in case of emergencies.
6.Alcohol
-----------
People who frequently drink large amounts of alcohol are likely to develop liver cancer.
They are also at risk of developing cancer of the mouth, throat and oesophagus .
What you can do
Limit yourself to not more than two standard drinks a day.
One standard drink is roughly equal to:
One can of beer(285 mls)
One glass of wine (120 mls)
One measure of spirits(30 mls)
Alternate your drinks with non-alcoholic ones.
Drink them slowly so they last longer.
How to screen for Cancer:
-------------------------------
Mneumonics for Warning Signs of Cancer
-------------------------------------------------
Be on the alert for: CANCERS
1.Changes in bowel or bladder
2.A lump in breast or elsewhere
3.Nagging cough, hoarseness,
4.Changes in the size, shape or colour of a mole on the skin
5.Extraordinary bleeding from the nose or any other part of the body, and blood in the stools.
6.Reccuring Indigestion
7.Sore or an ulcer anywhere on the body, including the mouth, which does not heal properly.
Look out for these early warning signs and let your doctor know.
What you can do
Inform your doctor about it right away.
He can examine you and do some tests to find out if your problem is serious.
Regular breast self examination (BSE) helps to detect breast cancer at a stage when it can still be treated and even cured.
Learn how to do BSE properly and then do it every month.
See your doctor for a breast examination once every two years.
Women over 40 should see their doctor once a year.
Mammograms are special X-rays of the breasts to look for lumps.
They are usually recommended for women over 50.
Certain medical conditions may increase your risk of developing some cancers.
Examples are people who are carriers of the Hepatitis B virus are more likely to develop liver cancer.
Some cancers (like breast and colorectal cancers) tend to run in families.
If your parents, brothers or sisters have had cancer, discuss it with your doctor.
If you have any risks of cancer, the doctor can tell you what steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing cancer.
He may recommend some screening tests to help determine your risk for developing the same cancer.
In fact, about one-third of all cancers can be cured if they are detected and treated early enough.
Recognising the early warning signs and going for regular check-ups can save your life if cancer strikes.
What are the Treatment of Cancers ?
-------------------------------------------
------------------------------
This is a summary of all the articles that I have done on the different types of Cancer.
There is a common thread which runs through all the articles such as the risk factors, causes and treatments.
What is Cancer?
-------------------
A normal cell can be compared to a "hero" because it saves the body by repairing any damage or injury to the tissues of the body.A person's body is made up of many types of cells which normally grow, divide and die. Sometimes, the cells mutate (change to abnormal cells) and begin to grow and divide more quickly than normal cells.
Rather than dying, these abnormal cells clump together to form tumors.
If these tumors are cancerous (also called "malignant"), the cancer cells can invade and kill your body's own healthy tissues becoming a "villian" in the process.
By contrast, noncancerous tumors (also called "benign") do not spread to other parts of the body.
What are the dangers of Cancer?
--------------------------------------
Normal healthy cells grow and multiply in an orderly, controlled manner.
Cancer cells on the other hand multiply uncontrollably.
They do not function normally and instead form a growth or tumour which can enter the blood and spread to nearby tissues and organs as well as to other parts of the body.
Cancer kills by:
Destroying important organs
Disturbing normal body functions
Blocking important blood vessels or air passages.
Cancer is really a group of diseases. There are many types of cancer which can arise from the different types of cells in the body.
What are the most common cancers?
--------------------------------------------
MOST COMMON TYPES OF CANCER IN THE WORLD ARE:
Lung
Colon & rectum(large intestine)
Breast
Ovary
Stomach
Cervix(neck of the womb)
Liver
Prostate
Nasopharynx(back of the nose)
Lymphomas
What are the causes of Cancer?
-------------------------------------
1. Genetic -family history,chromosonal abnormality
2. Viruses & Bacteria -hepatitis B, Epstein Barr, HIV : Helicobacter pyrori
3. Smoking - chemicals from cigarette smoke
4. Alcohol - liver cirrhosis
5. Chemicals -pesticides, asbestos,preservatives,chemotherapy, aflatoxins
6. Radiation -from sun rays, x-rays, radiotherapy,nuclear plants
7. Obesity - fat can cause breast, ovarian cancer
8. Age - mutations increase with age
How can you prevent yourself from cancer?
---------------------------------------------------
Cancer can be prevented.
Cancer is not contagious like the flu or chickenpox.
About one-third of all cancers can be prevented from occurring:
1. A healthy lifestyle
------------------------
get some exercise, a well balanced diet and avoid stress.
2. Smoking
-------------
avoid cigarettes and cigarette smoke.
Cigarette smoke contains about 40 different cancer-causing substances.
Almost all of those who develop lung cancer are smokers.Smoking also causes cancers of the mouth, throat, larynx , oesophagus, stomach, pancreas, kidney and bladder.
Breathing in other people's smoke can increase your risk of developing lung cancer, so ask any smokers not to smoke in your presence.
What you can do
Don't smoke.
If you do, then stop.
Ask your family and friends to support your efforts to quit.
Get rid of all your cigarettes and lighters.
Enrol in a programme that helps smokers to quit.
Spend less time with friends who smoke.
Spend more time with non-smoking friends in smoke-free places.
There are chewing gum and skin patches with nicotine to help you to stop smoking.
3.Food and chemicals
--------------------------
avoid any cancer causing chemicals such as asbestos or nitrosamines from preserved food.
The chemicals used to preserve foods like ham, bacon, luncheon meat may form cancer-causing substances when they are digested.
These substances have also been found in salted or preserved foods (such as salted fish or pickled vegetables) and may lead to cancer of the stomach and nasopharynx.
Eat them less often.
Peanuts, seeds and grains that are not stored properly often become mouldy.
Some of these moulds produce toxins(aflatoxins) that can cause liver cancer.
What you can do:
1.Have some fresh fruits and vegetables at every meal. Fruits and vegetables contain vitamins and fibre which help to reduce the risk of developing colorectal and stomach cancer.
Choose dark-green leafy vegetables and orange-yellow fruits as these contain greater amounts of vitamins and minerals.
2.Take more fibre by eating wholemeal bread or wholegrain cereals such as brown rice.
3.Eat less salted, pickled, preserved and processed foods.
Store nuts in air-tight containers to prevent them from going mouldy.
4.Obesity
-----------
People who are overweight are more likely to develop cancers of the colon, rectum, breast and prostate.
What you can do
Exercise regularly .
To maintain a healthy weight, take up a regular exercise or sport.
Aim to stay in the healthy weight range.
Exercise for at least 20 minutes three times a week.
Play a game or sport that you enjoy and can do with your friends or family.
Eat less foods high in fat or sugar.
Trim away fat from meat and skin from poultry before cooking.
Change to foods low in fat like skimmed milk, reduced fat cheese or low-fat yoghurt.
Use low-fat cooking methods like stewing, baking, steaming or boiling instead of deep frying.
Choose healthier snacks like fresh fruit or wholemeal crackers.
5.Radiation
--------------
radiation from sun, x-rays, nuclear plants can cause damage to the skin,bones and other organs of the body resulting in cancer.
What you can do
Avoid sunburn and prevent overexposure to the sun.
The ultraviolet rays from the sun damage the skin.
Sunburn may lead to skin cancer.
Avoid overexposure to the sun, especially if you are fair-skinned.
Stay in the shade whenever possible.
Wear a hat or a cap.
Use a sunscreen or sunblock with a sun protection factor of at least 15 on any exposed areas of skin.
6. Workplace chemicals
----------------------------
exposure to cancer-causing substances at work can lead to cancer of lungs, liver, kidneys, skin. Always follow the safety regulations as they are meant to protect you.
What you can do
Hide behind protective shields or stay in the "safe" area.
Remember to wear protective equipment (like gloves, masks or goggles).
Be careful when you handle the equipment or the chemicals.
Learn about safety drills and what to do in case of emergencies.
6.Alcohol
-----------
People who frequently drink large amounts of alcohol are likely to develop liver cancer.
They are also at risk of developing cancer of the mouth, throat and oesophagus .
What you can do
Limit yourself to not more than two standard drinks a day.
One standard drink is roughly equal to:
One can of beer(285 mls)
One glass of wine (120 mls)
One measure of spirits(30 mls)
Alternate your drinks with non-alcoholic ones.
Drink them slowly so they last longer.
How to screen for Cancer:
-------------------------------
Mneumonics for Warning Signs of Cancer
-------------------------------------------------
Be on the alert for: CANCERS
1.Changes in bowel or bladder
2.A lump in breast or elsewhere
3.Nagging cough, hoarseness,
4.Changes in the size, shape or colour of a mole on the skin
5.Extraordinary bleeding from the nose or any other part of the body, and blood in the stools.
6.Reccuring Indigestion
7.Sore or an ulcer anywhere on the body, including the mouth, which does not heal properly.
Look out for these early warning signs and let your doctor know.
What you can do
Inform your doctor about it right away.
He can examine you and do some tests to find out if your problem is serious.
Regular breast self examination (BSE) helps to detect breast cancer at a stage when it can still be treated and even cured.
Learn how to do BSE properly and then do it every month.
See your doctor for a breast examination once every two years.
Women over 40 should see their doctor once a year.
Mammograms are special X-rays of the breasts to look for lumps.
They are usually recommended for women over 50.
Regular Pap Smears at least once in 2 years should be done for women who are sexually active. A Pap smear is a simple, quick and painless test that detects cervical cancer at an early stage when it has a good chance of cure.
Women infected with certain sexually transmitted diseases have a higher chance of getting cervical cancer.
Speak to your doctor about your personal and family medical history of cancer.Certain medical conditions may increase your risk of developing some cancers.
Examples are people who are carriers of the Hepatitis B virus are more likely to develop liver cancer.
Some cancers (like breast and colorectal cancers) tend to run in families.
If your parents, brothers or sisters have had cancer, discuss it with your doctor.
If you have any risks of cancer, the doctor can tell you what steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing cancer.
He may recommend some screening tests to help determine your risk for developing the same cancer.
In fact, about one-third of all cancers can be cured if they are detected and treated early enough.
Recognising the early warning signs and going for regular check-ups can save your life if cancer strikes.
What are the Treatment of Cancers ?
-------------------------------------------
Basic treatments for cancer are traditionally surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy.
However with the advancement of medical treatment, there are more choices of treatments.
Surgery - is still the mainstay of cancer treatment in the early stages and other stages except for leukemia, nasopharyngeal and some rare cancer.
Radiotherapy-standard, intensity modulated radiotherapy, stereotactic radiotherapy, interventional radiotherapy.
Radiotherapy is used particularly in nasopharyngeal cancer, brain cancer and in conjuction with surgery. It can be curative as well as palliative( help to relieve pain)
Chemotherapy - standard,molecular targetted therapy is fast becoming the choice for many cancers because of newer drugs with lesser effects and more effective than before.
Hormonotherapy - espcially for breast,ovary,uterine,prostate, testicular cancer
Immunotherapy - immune systems are boosted with vaccines against certain viruses such as HPV(Human Papilloma Virus)
Stem cells - can help in replacing killed cancer cells with normal cells usually used in conjunction with chemotherapy
Bone marrow transplant - similar to stem cells therapy
Organ transplant especially in liver cancer
Other ways of treatments:
Healthy life style will help to strengthen the patient during the cancer treatment
Well balanced Diet will also help to improve the healing process
Meditation and avoidance of stress reduce the reduced immunity of patients and pyschological effect of cancer treatment
Finally:
Cancer can be cured.
Many people are afraid of cancer because they think it is incurable.
In fact, about one-third of all cancers can be cured if they are detected and treated early enough.
Modern medicine has also improved the survival rates of most cancers.
Saturday, September 15, 2007
A Simple Guide to Mouth Ulcers
A Simple Guide to Mouth Ulcers
--------------------------------------
What are Mouth Ulcers?
------------------------------
Mouth ulcers are painful open sores or lesions in the mouth. They may appear white or yellow surrouded by red inflamed tissue.
Mouth ulcers occur either singly or in clusters, causing a lot of discomfort or pain.
They usually heal within 7 to 10 days.
What are the Causes of Mouth Ulcers?
--------------------------------------
There are many disorders which can cause mouth ulcers:
1. canker sore (aphthous),
2.leukoplakia,
3.gingivostomatitis,
4.oral cancer,
5.oral lichen planus and
5.oral thrush.
The most common mouth ulcer is Aphthous ulcer.
It is an open sore in the mouth, which appears as a painful white or yellow ulcer surrounded by a bright red area.
Who gets Mouth Ulcers?
---------------------------
Mouth ulcers may occur at any age, but usually first appear between the ages of 10 -40.
Women are more prone than men.
The cause is unknown.
There may be an inherited tendency or an immune system link.
Mouth injury such as dental procedures or aggressive tooth cleaning may cause mouth ulcers.
They may occur at the site of a bite when the tongue or cheek is bitten.
They can also triggered by stress, dietary deficiencies (especially iron, folic acid, or vitamin B12), menstrual periods, hormonal changes, food allergies, and similar situations.
What are the types of Mouth Ulcers?
-------------------------------------------
There are different types of mouth ulcers.
1.A single mouth ulcer is usually caused by damage to the mouth, like biting the cheek, or damage to the gum with a toothbrush or a sharp tooth or filling. They usually go away once the source of the problem is treated.
2.A recurrent ulcer is one that comes and goes, sometimes every few weeks.
Minor ulcers are the most common.
They usually appear inside the cheeks, on the lips, tongue, and gums.
Most of these ulcers are small, round and can sometimes come in clusters(four to six) at any one time.
Large ulcers are more severe, have an irregular border, and can last for 5-10 weeks. They usually appear near the tonsils and can be very painful, especially when swallowing. You usually only get one at a time.
Very rarely,some patients have up to 100 very small painful ulcers (herpetiform type), which last for one to two weeks.
Mouth Ulcers are very common.
About 20% of the population have recurrent mouth ulcers at some time in their lives.
Often they begin in childhood or adolescence.
Most people grow out of them by their late twenties.
What are the Symptoms of Mouth Ulcers?
-------------------------------------------------
Mouth ulcers usually appear on the inner surface of the cheeks and lips, tongue, soft palate, and the base of the gums.
They may begin with a tingling or burning sensation, followed by a red spot or bump that ulcerates.
Pain spontaneously decreases in 7 to 10 days, with complete healing in 1 to 3 weeks.
Occasionally, a severe occurrence may be accompanied by fever or lethargy.
Recurrence is common and may continue for years.
Most mouth ulcers are not infectious.
What is theTreatment of Mouth Ulcers?
-----------------------------------------------
The exact treatment will depend on the cause of the ulcer.
Sometimes all that is required is to remove the cause of the ulcer, such as a sharp tooth.
The following measures may help to reduce pain from mouth ulcers:
1.keep your mouth clean at all times,
2.avoid foods that are spicy, acidic, salty or particularly hot or cold, which can make the symptoms worse,
3.eat a healthy diet that includes fresh fruit and vegetables,
4.gargle with warm salt water,
5.use a diluted chlorhexidine mouthwash once a day to help reduce the length of time the ulcers last
6.sprays and rinses are also available for pain relief.
Medical treatment:
The main treatment of the mouth ulcer is application of topical corticosteroids (Kenalog in orabase or Oracorte E), or other soothing preparations.
Dry the area first with a cotton wool bud and then use a wet finger or the back of a spoon to put the cream on the sore area. You can use it up to four times a day after meals.
However, it is most effective to use this cream late at night as it stays there for longer.
What are the Prevention measures in Mouth Ulcers?
-------------------------------------------------------------
Good oral hygiene may help in the prevention of some types of mouth ulcers or complications from mouth ulcers. This includes brushing the teeth at least twice per day, flossing at least daily, and going for regular dental checkup and cleaning.
Healthy life style to avoid getting run down by making sure you eat a balanced diet, take regular exercise and learn to manage stress.
--------------------------------------
What are Mouth Ulcers?
------------------------------
Mouth ulcers are painful open sores or lesions in the mouth. They may appear white or yellow surrouded by red inflamed tissue.
Mouth ulcers occur either singly or in clusters, causing a lot of discomfort or pain.
They usually heal within 7 to 10 days.
What are the Causes of Mouth Ulcers?
--------------------------------------
There are many disorders which can cause mouth ulcers:
1. canker sore (aphthous),
2.leukoplakia,
3.gingivostomatitis,
4.oral cancer,
5.oral lichen planus and
5.oral thrush.
The most common mouth ulcer is Aphthous ulcer.
It is an open sore in the mouth, which appears as a painful white or yellow ulcer surrounded by a bright red area.
Who gets Mouth Ulcers?
---------------------------
Mouth ulcers may occur at any age, but usually first appear between the ages of 10 -40.
Women are more prone than men.
The cause is unknown.
There may be an inherited tendency or an immune system link.
Mouth injury such as dental procedures or aggressive tooth cleaning may cause mouth ulcers.
They may occur at the site of a bite when the tongue or cheek is bitten.
They can also triggered by stress, dietary deficiencies (especially iron, folic acid, or vitamin B12), menstrual periods, hormonal changes, food allergies, and similar situations.
What are the types of Mouth Ulcers?
-------------------------------------------
There are different types of mouth ulcers.
1.A single mouth ulcer is usually caused by damage to the mouth, like biting the cheek, or damage to the gum with a toothbrush or a sharp tooth or filling. They usually go away once the source of the problem is treated.
2.A recurrent ulcer is one that comes and goes, sometimes every few weeks.
Minor ulcers are the most common.
They usually appear inside the cheeks, on the lips, tongue, and gums.
Most of these ulcers are small, round and can sometimes come in clusters(four to six) at any one time.
Large ulcers are more severe, have an irregular border, and can last for 5-10 weeks. They usually appear near the tonsils and can be very painful, especially when swallowing. You usually only get one at a time.
Very rarely,some patients have up to 100 very small painful ulcers (herpetiform type), which last for one to two weeks.
Mouth Ulcers are very common.
About 20% of the population have recurrent mouth ulcers at some time in their lives.
Often they begin in childhood or adolescence.
Most people grow out of them by their late twenties.
What are the Symptoms of Mouth Ulcers?
-------------------------------------------------
Mouth ulcers usually appear on the inner surface of the cheeks and lips, tongue, soft palate, and the base of the gums.
They may begin with a tingling or burning sensation, followed by a red spot or bump that ulcerates.
Pain spontaneously decreases in 7 to 10 days, with complete healing in 1 to 3 weeks.
Occasionally, a severe occurrence may be accompanied by fever or lethargy.
Recurrence is common and may continue for years.
Most mouth ulcers are not infectious.
What is theTreatment of Mouth Ulcers?
-----------------------------------------------
The exact treatment will depend on the cause of the ulcer.
Sometimes all that is required is to remove the cause of the ulcer, such as a sharp tooth.
The following measures may help to reduce pain from mouth ulcers:
1.keep your mouth clean at all times,
2.avoid foods that are spicy, acidic, salty or particularly hot or cold, which can make the symptoms worse,
3.eat a healthy diet that includes fresh fruit and vegetables,
4.gargle with warm salt water,
5.use a diluted chlorhexidine mouthwash once a day to help reduce the length of time the ulcers last
6.sprays and rinses are also available for pain relief.
Medical treatment:
The main treatment of the mouth ulcer is application of topical corticosteroids (Kenalog in orabase or Oracorte E), or other soothing preparations.
Dry the area first with a cotton wool bud and then use a wet finger or the back of a spoon to put the cream on the sore area. You can use it up to four times a day after meals.
However, it is most effective to use this cream late at night as it stays there for longer.
What are the Prevention measures in Mouth Ulcers?
-------------------------------------------------------------
Good oral hygiene may help in the prevention of some types of mouth ulcers or complications from mouth ulcers. This includes brushing the teeth at least twice per day, flossing at least daily, and going for regular dental checkup and cleaning.
Healthy life style to avoid getting run down by making sure you eat a balanced diet, take regular exercise and learn to manage stress.
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