What Causes Prostate Problems?

Are you really aware what causes prostate problems? The prostate gland has the responsibility of providing nutrients and liquid for ejaculation purposes that is the most important part of reproduction. Due to some irregular and processes going out of hand, it develops swells and pockets filled with fluids. As a normal process of growth, the prostate gland too continues growing with us till adulthood. This growth process picks up pace especially after age group of 40. In normal cases, this growth is not dangerous but might impact heavily if appropriate actions are not taken. The methodology is as simple as closing one end of a pine and supplying fluid from the other. The pipe starts swelling suddenly.

Actual cause: Since the problem is not special and might occur to anyone, it is necessary to know what causes prostate problems. With increase in age, the production of testosterone decreases gradually. This enhances the secretion of other hormones that tends to wind up the excess testosterone in the prostate glands. This conversion process is done by the enzyme known as 5-alpha-reductase. This increase in the levels of estrogen the DHT process gets slowed down that causes growth of prostate. This is slow process and takes time to reflect in swelling. The worst part is that they are not easily detected at initial levels.

When the prostate gland starts swelling suddenly, it gets oversized and tends to develop pockets containing fluids. These enlargements press the urinary tract against the walls causing them to narrow down. What happens eventually is that the movement of the toxic material through the urinary tract becomes difficult and causes lot of pain. Even there are problems with bowel movements. The feeling of burning sensation can be felt and the pressure from the urinary tract is lowered down. These effected cells have a tendency of multiplying and subsequently spreading to other cells which is quite dangerous for anyone.

In many cases, people are not aware of the prostate gland swelling as they are not quite aware of it and do not feel the pain too much. While there are also cases reported where small swellings have caused immense pain. These facts like what causes prostate problems are important to know so that we take precautionary action and can remain abstained from it.

Congestive Heart Failure and Its Treatment

Congestive heart failure treatment by traditional methods usually includes a regimen of medicine, proper diet, and modified daily activities. There are a range of options for congestive heart failure treatment. In a lot of cases the best congestive heart failure treatment is surgery. Heart Valve Surgery becomes a necessary congestive heart failure treatment when a heart valve ceases to open and close in the correct manner. Valve replacement is the most invasive congestive heart failure treatment and is classified as open heart surgery.

Congestive heart failure is precisely what it sounds like; it is a failure of the heart to properly function, and its effects on the body can be disastrous. Doctors do their best to treat the symptoms and give the patient the best prognosis possible; however, no real and conclusive cure for congestive heart failure exists currently.

Heart failure happens when the heart is unable to properly pump blood throughout the body; as a result of this, including distributing nutrients and oxygen to the tissues and then excreting the excess fluid into the urine the blood pools. This results in either a systemic or local edema as fluid builds up in the veins and organs, causing swelling of the extremities as well as the organs themselves (this fluid gathering is responsible for an excessive amount of stress on the heart as fluid accumulates in the pleural cavity as well as the dyspnea, or difficulty breathing, often symptomatic of heart failure). The swelling and lack of oxygen and nutrients can result in permanent damage to the organs if left untreated, providing a very poor outlook for the patient.

The first stage of treatment for congestive heart failure generally consists of the administration of extra oxygen to attempt to return the oxygen levels in the tissues to normal. Once oxygen has been administered and a pulse oximeter reveals blood oxygen levels to be acceptable the focus will shift to attempting to treat the fluid accumulation in the body. Diuretics will be given to assist the excess fluid on its path via the urinary tract out of the body, and nitrates are administered to cause the vessels to dilate, allowing blood to flow more freely without the heart having to work as hard. Treatment with diuretics is frequently accompanied by supplemental potassium, as the body will excrete potassium in the urine and long term hypokalemia can result in muscle weakness or paralysis, as well as an increased risk of fatal cardiac arrhythmia.

Patients will often be sent home from the hospital with diuretics, as well as a medication known as an ACE inhibitor (an angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor) which stops the body from making angiotensin, a substance that raises blood pressure and causes the blood vessels to constrict. An angiotensin II receptor blocker may also be given if the patient continues to make angiotensin. Patients may also be treated with vasodilators other than ACE inhibitors, especially if they have responded badly to treatments with ACE inhibitors in the past. Nitroglycerin is a commonplace example of this kind of medication.

Digitalis, or Digoxin, can also be prescribed to strengthen the force of the heart's contractions, aiding it to send blood through the entire body. Treatment with a beta blocker is also advantageous in cases of congestive heart failure, preventing the heart from beating more rapidly in an effort to compensate for the poor movement of the blood in the body and placing more stress on the weakened muscle.

Blood thinners are administered to help stop the formation of clots in the body that may be caused by the decreased movement of the blood in the vessels. Coumadin and heparin are the most commonly prescribed blood thinners in use; however, due to an increased risk of bleeding, patients taking these medications must undergo coagulation tests often.

Lifestyle changes are as important as medications in the long term treatment of congestive heart failure. Patients should consult with their physician to create an appropriate (low sodium) diet and exercise program, and should do a minimum of some moderate exercise every day. Just as important is taking enough time to rest daily. The heart pumps more easily when the body is resting, which is vital to an already overstressed muscle. The nicotine from cigarettes causes an increase in the heart rate, blood pressure, and the tendency for clumping in the blood vessels; patients with congestive heart failure should refrain from smoking. Flu or pneumonia can be very hard for hearts that are failing as they try to compensate for the lack of oxygen in the bloodstream. It is very vital that patients receive an annual Flu vaccine, as well as a dose of the pneumococcal vaccine, which will protect them from the pneumococcal bacteria that cause over eighty percent of cases of bacterial pneumonia. Wearing loose clothing will help in preventing blood clots and easing blood flow to the extremeties, and in cases of very warm or very cold temperatures it is important that the patient take all precautions necessary to keep the body at an appropriate temperature..

Researchers are still looking for a cure for congestive heart failure; however, until then it is very important that patients suffering from congestive heart failure follow the treatment plan outlined by their doctor. With careful attention to maintaining their condition, the outlook associated with congestive heart failure increases dramatically.

Different Types of Rheumatoid Arthritis Treatment

Rheumatoid arthritis is a serious autoimmune disorder that causes widespread inflammation in the body, primarily in the joints, but it can also affect organs and tissues. There is pain and swelling in the affected area that can sometimes lead to deformity in more serious cases. This incurable disease is often debilitating, so there are a number of treatments available to help people cope with the disease: 

DMARDs-Most patients who suffer with rheumatoid arthritis use drug treatment to manage the disease to help reduce the inflammation and discomfort. Disease anti-rheumatic drugs or DMARDs, are used to slow down the effects of joint damage on the bones and cartilage. This type of treatment has been available for several years and can sometimes prevent damage in the early phases of the disease and bring more advanced cases into stages of remission. Anti-inflammatory drugs-There are a couple of drugs that are often used to help to reduce the inflammation in the joints, tissues and organs, which come in the form of steroid or non-steroid treatment. Steroids are a strong medication that is very effective in reducing painful inflammation. This type of drug must be carefully taken to reduce the possibility of serious side effects if it is not taken or prescribed. Non-steroid drugs are such things are NSAIDS that are prescribed in appropriate dosages to control the pain and reduce inflammation. Biologics-This is a newer form of treatment that is composed of genetically engineered proteins from human genes that targets the parts of the immune system that cause inflammation. The medication is often prescribed when other treatment options have not helped to slow the progression of the disease. The medication is administered in the form of an injection or intravenous infusion, but must be carefully monitored by a specialist because it can cause other serious health conditions.  Physical and Occupational Therapy-Some people choose to try exercises to reduce the pain and inflammation associated with rheumatoid arthritis. An exercise regiment can be used to strengthen weak, painful joints as well as help disabled patients to find ways to manage the painful symptoms. Occupational therapists can work with rheumatoid arthritis patients to give them the tools needed to carry out their everyday activities as best they can.

The different kinds of rheumatoid arthritis treatment give patients a number of options to choose from as they consult with their specialist. Every treatment option has its advantages and disadvantages, so it is important to weight the options as they pertain to each unique case. Although rheumatoid arthritis cannot be cured, it can be managed with an effective treatment.

Folliculitis - Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

Folliculitis is the name given to a group of skin conditions. Folliculitis is defined histologically as the presence of inflammatory cells. Folliculitis is the infection of hair follicles. This can occur anywhere on the skin or scalp. It may be superficial or deep, and it causes the formation of a pustule or inflammatory nodule surrounding the hair. The inflammation can be either limited to the superficial aspect of the follicle with primary involvement of the infundibulum or the inflammation can affect both the superficial and deep aspects. Severe cases may cause permanent hair loss and scarring, and even mild folliculitis can be uncomfortable and embarrassing. Folliculitis may arise as hairs regrow after shaving, waxing, electrolysis or plucking. Swabs taken from the pustules are sterile i.e. there is no growth of bacteria or other organisms.

It is usually caused by bacteria. Common superficial form of infectious folliculitis is known as impetigo of Bockhart or barbers itch and is caused by Staphylococcus aureus. It can also be caused by yeast and another type of fungus. Folliculitis caused by a fungus is most often seen in people who have trouble fighting infections because they have an impaired immune system. There are also forms of folliculitis which are non-infectious such as those caused by tars, oils and greases that come into contact with the skin. The lesions are seen in the bearded area, often on the upper lip near the nose, as erythematous follicular-based papules or pustules that may rupture and leave a yellow crust. The pustule is often pierced by a hair that is easily extracted from the follicle. This form of folliculitis may occur more commonly in staphylococcal nasal carriers.

Causes of Folliculitis

1. Friction from shaving.

2. Follicular trauma.

3. Excessive perspiration.

4. Occlusion.

5. Inflammatory skin conditions.

Symptoms of Folliculitis

1. Pain.

2. Erythema (inflammation and redness of the skin).

3. Edema.

4. Yellow pus-filled lesions.

5. Small pimples.

Treatment of Folliculitis

Hot tub folliculitis rarely requires treatment, although your doctor may prescribe an oral or topical medication to help relieve itching (anti-pruritic). If the patient is immunocompromised or the lesions are persistent oral ciprofloxacin may be given. Topical antibiotics, such as bacitracin with polymyxin B, may be administered. Fusidic acid is available both as a cream and as an ointment. You should apply it thinly on to the infected area 3-4 times daily.Mupirocin is available both as a cream and an ointment. You should apply it thinly on the affected area 3 times a day for up to 10 days. It may be used on all ages except for in the USA where the Bactroban nasal ointment is not recommended for children under the age of 12. Eosinophilic folliculitis therapies are effective against eosinophilic folliculitis, but topical corticosteroids are often the treatment of choice. Applying moist heat compresses to the local area helps promote vasodilation (dilation of the blood vessels) and drainage from the lesions. Keeping skin clean, dry, and free from abrasions or irritation can help prevent folliculitis. More severe cases may require treatment with isotretinoin (Accutane) for several months.

Lymphedema Surgery - What You Need to Know Before You Go Under the Knife

Though it is not popular in the U.S., lymphedema surgery is being tested as a treatment for lymphedema Asia and Europe. Surgery is a fairly recent option for the effects of lymphedema, and it's still being tested to find a cure for the problems associated with this condition. Though surgical methods have not been widely adopted in the U.S., there are new procedures that are less invasive and gaining in popularity among doctors. Ablative procedures, also called debulking, and lymphaticovenular bypass are the two main types of procedures being tested to find a quick, long-term solution to the symptoms of lymphedema.

Lymphaticovenular bypass is being tested as a solution for lymphedema, specifically among breast cancer patients. This procedure places a few incisions in the affected arm to redirect fluid away from the damaged lymph vessels. A couple of microsurgical tools redirect the vessels in the affected area in order to prevent the buildup of the lymph fluids. The procedure does not last very long, and usually the patient can be released from the hospital within a day of the surgery.

Though this lymphedema surgery is effective within a few months after it's complete, the patient is still required or encouraged to continue the use of compression bandages as an additional method of treating the lymphedema.

And although this procedure is beginning to show that is effective at reducing swelling and the collection of fluids over periods longer than 1 year, it does not cure the causes of lymphedema. It is only a way to reduce the swelling and weight. Continued use of compression and massage are still needed. There are no surgical or medical treatments available yet that will cure the root causes of swelling, which is why these methods of controlling the symptoms are not readily endorsed or practiced yet in the United States.

The second type of surgery mentioned in connection with treating lyphedema is called debulking. Debulking is fairly controversial surgery, and a rarely used one, because of the damage it can do to the tissues. It is one of the oldest types of lymphedema surgery, and is not without its own set of complications. Debulking involves opening up the affected areas and removing the engorged tissues. There can be a few problems that develop during this procedure. In certain instances, it can cause paralysis of the affected limbs.

The risks associated with this second type of lymphedema surgery are the main reason why it's not commonly used anymore. But, with the development and testing of Lymphaticovenular bypass, new procedures are coming out that suggest doctors and surgeons are getting closer to a cure for the symptoms of lymphedema. However, with all the progress that's being made to help the symptoms subside, little progress is being made in curing the causes of lymphedema.

Anasarca - What is This Form of Generalized Swelling?

Anasarca is a form of swelling which is generalized in the body of the patient. It is considered as a massive edema. A minor amount of swelling in one localized spot on the body is not considered the same as anasarca. The swollen area itself occurs by means of fluid build up in the tissue.

Different causes can lead to anasarca, as well as swelling in general. Below are some conditions and issues that can lead to one type or the other, or potentially both. This list is not exhaustive and does not contain all potential underlying medical causes.

Congestive heart failure - Typically occurring in instances of low cardiac output, or when the body begins to require more resources than the heart is able to give.

Kidney disease - This can occur due to chronic conditions like diabetes mellitus or high blood pressure, as well as others.

Clarkson syndrome - A rare condition involving the pores of the capillaries, this is also known as capillary leak syndrome.

Different measures can be used for diagnosis in the case of anasarca or more localized swelling. Some tests used may include electrolyte levels and blood albumin levels. Tests of the liver and kidney function, as well as measurements via urinalysis, might also be done. Echocardiogram and electrocardiogram, along with X-ray procedures, are a few other options.

Once the condition has been diagnosed, treatment may be considered. Depending upon the underlying medical issue or issues, as well as other factors, different selections for treatment may be chosen.

Edema - Discover Simple Natural Remedies To Deal With It (Part 2)

The article deals with simple natural remedies to deal with edema. However, you should visit your doctor to discuss any healing procedure you are going to perform. It is due to the side effects the method might cause.

The methods described below are proven to possess curative effect when dealing with edema. However, the peculiarities of each organism might either increase or decrease their efficiency.

Infuse 1-2 teaspoons of herbs of cornflower blossoms with a glass of boiling water. Leave the tincture to brew for an hour and decant it. Drink one fourth of a glass of the decoction 3 times a day 10-15 minutes before meal. Infuse a tablespoon of herbs of the new sprouts of juniper with a glass of boiling water. Continue to boil the tincture for 10 minutes and decant it. Drink a glass of the decoction per day to treat ascites (accumulation of serous fluid in peritoneal cavity). Infuse a tablespoon of herbs of water-pepper tops with 2 glasses of boiling water and continue to boil the tincture for 3 minutes. Afterwards, decant the decoction and drink it within a day. Infuse a tablespoon of herbs of charlock tops with a glass of boiling water. Let the tincture brew for 2 hours and decant it. Take a tablespoon of the decoction mixed with sugar 4-5 times a day. Infuse a tablespoon of herbs of field horsetail tops with 2 glasses of boiling water and leave the tincture to brew for 2-3 hours. Afterwards, decant it and take a tablespoon of the decoction 5-6 times a day. Mix equal quantities of birch buds and leaves. Infuse 2 tablespoons of the mix herbs with half a liter of boiling water and leave the tincture to brew for an hour. Afterwards, decant it and drink half a glass of the decoction 4 times a day before meal. Mix herbs of restharrow root (1 part), birch leaves (2 parts) and red rose fruits (1 part). Infuse a tablespoon of the mix of herbs with a glass of cold boiled water and leave the tincture to brew for 6 hours. Afterwards, boil the decoction for 15 minutes and decant it. Drink the tincture within a day.

When suffering from edema, you should restrict the consumption of liquid and salt. Try to use products, which contain vitamins and proteins. You should use vegetables, greens and berries, which possess diuretic quality, such as, celery, parsley, onion, garlic, pumpkin, strawberry, black currant and etc. In addition, you should consume diary products - Greek yoghurt, curds and sour milk.

Clothing For Breast Cancer Survivors With Lymphedema

At age 43 I underwent a lumpectomy and radiation for treatment of my breast cancer. After recovery I found that knitted and spandex tops did not lie as well on my chest. Nor did swimsuits. They accented the asymmetry of my busts. When I developed lymphedema in my left arm, stretchy apparel looked worse due to my swollen arm. In addition to sweaters I shunned garments with deeper necklines and shallow armholes. Further, since I couldn't lift anything heavy with my left arm, I was limited in how I could tote bags with shoulder straps.

All these limitations made me feel like a fashion flop.

When I had a recurrence, I opted for a double mastectomy without reconstruction. I use prostheses for both breasts, making asymmetry less of a challenge. Still I have remained self-conscious of my appearance, wanting to disguise my new-normal body with something at least halfway attractive.

Solutions to these problems do exist. I'm not referring to pink-hued or pink-ribbon-adorned attire to promote breast cancer awareness, although wearing these items is a wonderful way to express support for a loved one afflicted with cancer. Rather I'm referring to practical, stylish clothing that disguises flaws and emphasizes the good features of a breast cancer survivor's figure, while not appearing to be designed for medical purposes.

Swimwear is one such example. I'm a big proponent of mastectomy bathing suits, since swimming is such a great exercise, and more importantly, I love to get in the water. The swimsuits I've seen with pockets for prostheses are both functional and fashionable these days. According to some experts, the most contemporary--albeit more expensive-mastectomy swimsuit styling comes from a line called Anita. Another brand, Amoena, offers a large selection of elegant beachwear to flatter any figure. Other lines of mastectomy bathing suits and caftans include It Figures, T.H.E. and Gottex.

According to WebMD's Breast Cancer Guide, the most popular swimsuit style for women who've undergone a mastectomy is the tankini, a two-piece suit that completely covers the torso. These come in a variety of designs, including a blouson top. I can attest to the practicality and versatility of this type of beachwear.

For arm lymphedema, compression braces have come a long way. Fashionable yet medically functional garments are offered by such innovators as Lymphedivas LLC and Slice of Fashion LLC. There's nothing like a black lacy gauntlet or zebra-zag armsleeve to turn heads and stop conversation at a cocktail party.

At least one company has developed apparel designed specifically for breast cancer survivors with lymphedema. Sansu Function Designs for Living, established through collaboration between Princess Margaret Hospital and Ryerson University School of Fashion in Toronto, Canada, provides an array of innovative products.

One of Sansu's most noted items is a modular bag with a belt to enable the wearer to hold her arm comfortably in a sling design or use the bag as a stylish waist pack. After I had lymphedema, I went back to using my "fanny packs." Even though out of style, they were extremely practical for my active lifestyle. This trendy Sansu bag would never be a fashion faux pas.

Sansu also developed a carry-all coat with dropped shoulders and removable lining, a fleece scarf cape, a dolman-style knitted top with kangaroo pocket for resting the arms or carrying items, and an oxford blouse with dropped shoulders, loose cuffs and magnetic button closures. This company is currently designing patterns to allow seamstresses to make their own clothing for patients with upper body and arm lymphedema.

I am encouraged by how far companies have come in making breast cancer survivors with lymphedema feel less conspicuous in their clothing and more confident in their appearance. While attractiveness may not be every survivor's focus, the availability of chic attire goes a long way to help many survivors, especially younger women, recover emotionally and psychosocially from their cancer treatments. I challenge more in the garment industry to be avant-garde in their approach to this subpopulation of women who love donning trendy outfits. Can athletic garb geared for the cancer survivor with lymphedema be far behind?

How to Cure or Alleviate Edema, Including Lymphedema

By edema excessive fluid gather in body parts or greater areas of the body, making the areas swollen. Edema is most often a problem in the legs, but can occur anywhere in the body.

There are several types of edema, and many cases are also a mixture of more than one type. By lymphedema the drainage from the tissues through the lymph vessels are impaired or excessive fluid goes through the blood capillary walls into the spaces between the cells in a tissue. Edema can also occur because of poor drainage of blood through the veins towards the heart. Edema can further be caused by general accumulation of excessive fluid in the body.

The causes of edema are many. Edema is a symptom by most inflammations. Insufficient heart action by congestive heart failure can cause edema. A too high intake of salt can cause general water retention in the body. Sitting and standing long in the same position can cause edema in the lower limbs. A still sitting life without exercise can cause or aggravate edema.

Insufficiencies of the liver or kidneys can cause fluid retention and thereby edema. Edema can be a side effect of antihypertensive drugs, steroids surgery and radiation therapy. Further causes of different types of edema are varicose veins, cancer, hypothyroidism, blood clots, constipation and physical injuries.

To treat edema, it is important to treat the underlying disease or injury. However, medical treatment does not always cure the underlying condition or the cause is wholly or partially lifestyle aspects. Therefore various measures targeted directly against the edema are useful. These are presented here:

Pharmacological treatments: The physician will sometimes prescribe diuretics to reduce fluid retention in the body and thereby reduce edema. This treatment should however be used for serious edema or edema persistent when other measures do not work.

Salt intake restriction: Restriction of salt intake is an important measure by edema. People suffering from edema should avoid adding great amount of salt into their food or consume preprocessed food with a salty taste.

Diet: A good general diet that alleviates chronic inflammation is useful. The diet should especially contain enough sources of omega-3-fatty acids and monounsaturated fatty acids, like: Fat fish, seafood, flax oil, olive oil, almonds, rape oil and canola oil. Also vegetables and fruit in a natural shape are useful.

Avoiding constipation: Constipation should be treated, since a stomach engorged by excessive content can cause impairment of fluid circulation.

Variation of corporeal position: You should avoid sitting or standing still a long time during the day. When sitting during work or rest, you should change position with regular intervals.

Exercise: Every day you should have some exercise adjusted to your health condition. This could be walking, cycling, swimming, running or any other sport activity where you use greater parts of your body. Doing regular stretching exercises or yoga is useful. By severe edema special therapeutic exercises should be prescribed by a professional.

High position of limb: When you are sleeping or resting the swollen body parts can be placed in an elevated position by means of pillows, pads or by resting in an adjustable bed or chair.

Massage: By minor edema yourself, your spouse or a friend can massage the affected body part to alleviate the edema. The massage should be done in the direction of natural flow of blood and lymph that is towards the heart. You should however avoid massaging distinctly injured or distinctly inflamed body parts. By severe edema a professional massager should be engaged to perform the massage type called "manual lymphatic drainage".

Elastic bandaging: You can use elastic gloves, stockings, tapes or bandages around the swollen body parts during the day or during physical activities after instruction from a professional person.

Inflatable garments: There are inflatable garments to be found that can be used around the engorged body parts some times of the day. Also these should be used after professional instruction.

Sequential gradient pump therapy: One can get special electric pumps connected to inflatable garments. The pump inflates and deflates the garments repeatedly. Each garment has several rooms that are inflated sequentially in the direction of the natural fluid stream towards the heart. In this way the fluid is dynamically pumped the right way out of the engorged body part. This type of therapy is used in professional settings or at home after instruction from a professional.

Skin care: The skin on a body part affected by severe edema should attain special care to avoid and treat sores. Proper cleaning, daily use of moisturizing creams, proper rinsing of skin injuries, antiseptic creams by injuries.

Complete decongestive therapy: This is a complete set of edema treatment techniques done by a professional person combined with self-care instructed by the professional. The techniques used are: Manual lymphatic drainage, compression bandaging, therapeutic exercise and skin care.

Herbal and natural products: Many herbs and products composed of a blending of these herbs are used against edema. Such herbs are: Dandelion, Gingko biloba, horse chestnut, buchu, goldenrod, corn silk, horsetail, juniper, butchers broom, cleaver and ginger. Some people have experienced a good effect from using apple cider vinegar.

The flavonide rich product pycnognenol extracted from the bark of the French maritime pine has shown promising effects against edema according to scientific studies. The flavonides hydroxyethylrutosides also seem to have good effect against edema. Other natural substances that may help to treat edema are the flavonids diosmin and hesperidin and vitamin C.

OIL PULLING: The procedure called "oil pulling" may help for edema. It consists of rinsing the mouth with one tablespoon of natural oil for 15-20 minutes and then spitting the oil out. It is done in the morning before eating. Sesame or sunflower oils are usually recommended for this use.