Get Rid of Bad Breath Naturally

What can be more embarrassing than seeing the person you are talking to wriggle their noses because they smell your breath? Bad breath, or medically termed as halitosis, is caused by odor-producing bacteria in a person's mouth. When people do not clean or brush their teeth properly after their meals, left over food can get stuck between their teeth. Bacteria can enter the mouth and can develop on the left over food and can even thrive between teeth. When this happens, the bacteria releases sulfur compounds and this is what causes the bread to smell bad.
There are different causes of bad breath. It may be because of some foods and drinks like orange juice, garlic, cheese, or onion. It may also be the outcome of smoking and eating tobacco. Other factors responsible for halitosis are gum diseases, tooth decay, leftover food between teeth, throat infections, worms in the intestines, or even constipation and stomach disorders like gastritis.
Luckily, there are available treatments which can cure bad breath. If one is too embarrassed to go visit the doctor or just find it too bothersome, then they should try using natural cures for bad breath. The following are good remedies that have been known to cure halitosis.
1. Mint leaves, when chewed, instantly freshens one's breath.
2. After meals, brushing can prevent the accumulation of food between teeth.
3. Drinking unsweetened tea helps in curing halitosis.
4. Baking soda, when dissolved in warm water cleans the tongue as you gargle.
5. Some people chew sunflower seeds and drink water afterwards after meals.
6. Eat yogurt for six weeks. This is proven to remove bad breath completely.
7. Another natural remedy is tea which is made from Fenugreek or methi seeds.
8. Gargling a glass of water squeezed with lemon frequently is a good remedy for halitosis.
9. Apples, when eaten daily, are believed to eliminate the bacteria which causes halitosis.
10. Pineapple juice also acts as a remedy and can instantly remove the foul odor in one's mouth.
11. Cardamom seeds are known as breath fresheners because they sweeten the breath because of its aromatic flavor.
12. Parsley can also reduce halitosis.
13. Mouthwash is a good remedy. However, avoid those with ingredients like alcohol and dyes.
14. Hydrogen peroxide can be gargled and is considered a good remedy.
15. Apple cider vinegar is also a considered to aid in a person's digestion and can be a cure for bad breath brought about by stomach problems.
16. Five grams daily of activated charcoal is effective in cleansing the intestines and stomach as it absorbs toxins.
17. Toothpastes containing the active ingredient tea tree oil are considered a powerful antiseptic.
 There are still a lot of food and natural remedies which are believed to cure bad breath. However, it is not advisable to try everything out. If possible, always heed the advice of a doctor to know which natural remedy is most reliable.
By Timothy I Ng

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Fatty Liver Treatment - Eating the Right Foods to Lose That Fatty Liver

Eating the right foods and losing weight are one of the things we should do to lose that fatty liver. Fatty liver of course can be treated, but how? this article will help you.When you eat right and lose weight, fat build ups will disappear, together with the help of doctors prescription. So What foods must we eat in order to prevent fatty liver and lose weight at the same time?
Here are the foods one must eat:
1. Vegetables-
These foods can help you lose that fatty liver, since vegetables are healthy foods, it can also help you prevent the risk of having heart problems, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, diabetes, kidney infections and obesity. specifically you must eat vegetables that are rich in vitamins and minerals to help correct the digestion flow of your digestive system so that big bellies can be prevented.
2. Eat fruits that are rich in fibers-
We all know that fruits such as pineapple, apples etc. are rich in fibers which can help burn fat also and increase your metabolism, since a fatty liver are excess fat build ups that build in your liver, when metabolism boosts, results will follow.Pineapple juice is one of the fruits that is rich in fiber, so try to drink at least once a day.
3. Drink freshly squeezed Juice, not the powdered one or with preservatives-
Freshly squeezed juice are one of the healthiest way of living, in the past people live longer because there were no preservatives back then, all were fresh that is one of the reasons why they live longer than us.
4. Drink lots of water-
8 glasses per day is the standard requirement to drink water, the more you drink the better, but try to drink it luke warm, not cold because study show drinking cold water are one of the causes why you do not have a flat stomach, although that has not officially been proven and address to the world, still we must take precautions right?
Eating the right foods and at the same time losing weight can help you lose that fatty liver, since the liver is one of the most important part of our body, we must treat it well, 80% of people today have a fatty liver, whether you are as skinny as olive or as muscular as Popeye, or as fat as Brutus, you will never know unless you will go to a doctor and have an ultra sound, there you will find out if you have a fatty liver.

So do whatever it takes to lose that fatty liver, because if you don't things might be bad and might lead to other things. Lose that weight, and have a strict diet.
By Wendy Witter 

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How To Cure Indigestion And Get Rid Of Stomach Pain In One Day

In today's busy world of processed foods, eating what is convenient and eating on the go, there are many common indigestion problems that people deal with. Indigestion is so common that some of the hottest selling products in America for many years have been various types of antacid remedies. If you are like many people, you would like to know how to cure indigestion and get rid of stomach pain, acid reflux and everything that goes with them. There is a very good chance that you can get relief by simply changing the way you eat. More specifically, by changing the way you combine your food types. As a matter of fact so many of the following ailments can be completely cured by changing the way you combine your foods, and they have very little to do with what kind of foods you are eating. Look at the list below. Do you suffer from any of these?

• Indigestion
• Acid reflux
• Bloating and stomach rumbling after eating
• Heartburn
• Stomach pain
• Gastritis
• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Diverticulitis
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Chances are that nearly everyone you know suffers from one or more of these energy stealing ailments. There are some very simple things you can do, without medication and without denying yourself the foods you love. It comes down to how you combine your different types of food.

All of the symptoms listed above in most cases are brought on by difficulties digesting your food. Your digestive process plays an extremely important role in maintaining a high energy level. If your foods do not digest efficiently and properly, you will pay with a loss of energy and most likely you will eventually suffer from one or more of the problems listed above. Digestion is one of the most important functions your body performs. Here are three simple things that can dramatically change your body's ability to digest food efficiently.

• Don't eat fruit with other types of food. Only eat fruit alone or twenty to thirty minutes before you eat any other type of food. If you think back to sometime when you may have eaten fruit for dessert, you may remember feeling bloated. There is a scientific explanation for why this happens, but the quick explanation is this: when fruit is eaten before previously eaten foods are digested, the fruit sort of sits on top and begins to ferment. It then creates gas and discomfort and slows down your digestive process..
• Don't mix meat and carbohydrates. This may almost seem un-American. The fact of the matter is however those meat and potatoes don't mix well. Here's why. The enzymes that your body secretes to digest carbohydrates is alkaline. The enzyme your body secretes to digest animal protein is acidic. When you combine an alkaline and an acid they neutralize and the result is: not much. In other words the meat and potatoes in your belly just kind of sit there and do all kinds of weird things except digest quickly. You now have the rumbles.
• Eat more fiber and drink more water every day. One of the most effective ways to improve your digestion is to eat a lot more fiber. You should have at least 25 grams of fiber a day. Good quality fiber found in vegetables and whole grains. If you are eating the right amounts of fiber than it's real important to drink lots of water throughout the day. The water is important because among other things, it kind of keeps things moving, if you know what I mean. One way to determine if you are getting enough water and fiber is if your visits to the "sandbox" are quick and satisfying. Most nutritionists recommend at least eight to ten large glasses of water per day minimum.

By Ron Stephens

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Sarcoidosis Cure - Natural Treatments For Sarcoid

Looking for a sarcoidosis cure? It is often true that nothing works better than natural treatments when it comes to finding a sarcoid cure. There is an array of contemporary medicines available these days, however, they all come with their share of side effects, many of which can actually make the condition worse.
Alternative Sarcoidosis Treatment Methods
People suffering with chronic Sarcoidosis often respond better to alternative sarcoidosis treatments, especially the natural and ayurvedic ones which are very good in treating this problem.
Sarcoidosis is a disease which starts by inflammation of different body organs. The lungs are normally the first part to get affected, however, the issue gradually spreads to other parts of the body. Inherited strain and extreme pollution levels may cause sarcoidosis, though the precise cause of sarcoid remains largely unknown.
Herbal Solutions for Natural Sarcoidosis Relief
Herbal solutions for natural sarcoidosis treatments include home made and natural treatments. There have been instances when patients may see small lumps in their stomach. These usually cannot be treated without the use of medicines. Through natural sarcoidosis cure these medicines can be treated and you can stay away from harsh medical treatments.
Sarcoidosis patients usually witness symptoms like:

• Breathlessness
• Unrelenting cough
• Low feeling or depression
• Pain in chest
• Lack of appetite

Physical exercises is one of the most suggested natural solutions or sarcoidosis cures. This way you can stay fit and avoid many other diseases also. Through exercising immunity levels of the body improve, which helps as a sarcoidosis cure.
Always consult a doctor before you start off with any kind of exercise regime. There are many simple techniques that you can try here like sleeping in a well-ventilated room. A room with fresh air allows lot of oxygen to enter the patient's lungs
Some herbal medicines and natural sarcoidosis cures include ayurvedic herbs:

• Ginger
• Peppermint
• Milk thistle
• Chinese herbs that balance immunity levels
• Maha-Manjishthadi-Qadha
• Ras-Sindoor
• Guduchyadi-Qadha
• Saarivasav

These are herbs that help often help people suffering with sarcoid. Using them may further enhance the immunity status of your body and reduce inflammation of the tissue.
More Natural Herbal Remedies That You Can Use to Treat Sarcoid

• Shatavari and Asperagus racemosus
• Ashwagandha or Withania somnifera
• Tulsi or Ocimum sanctum

Before trying any natural approach to reducing sarcoidosis symptoms you should consult your doctor. An initial examination by a chest physician or even a Rheumatologist is suggested to ensure that the condition is not at a serious stage. Even though herbal treatments are affective in treating the disorder, it is always safer to get a second opinion

By Jeff D

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Heart Disease Natural Home Remedy With Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Diet

It is widely recognized that the omega-3 fatty acids, DHA, EPA and ALA, are vital nutrients. Medical literature contains volumes of research data that underscore the advantages of omega-3 fatty acids as a natural home remedy for preventing and combating heart disease. Omega-3s have demonstrated their ability to lower pulse pressure, improve the regulation of blood pressure, improve levels of lipids, reduce inflammation, prevent the accumulation of arterial plaque and lower the possibility of sudden death by heart attack. Because of these proven advantages, the American Heart Association suggests having two servings of fatty fish each week. However, this is not the healthiest method for getting our omega-3 dose.

Are Fish the Best Source of Omega-3s?

The first thing to consider is that fish, especially fatty fish, are contaminated with mercury and dioxin. This is so problematic that pregnant women are advised not to eat fish in order to prevent damage to the baby's brain from mercury poisoning. Fish are high in cholesterol (cholesterol comes only from animal products). Many persons experience problems in digesting oils from fish because they easily become rancid and have an unpleasant fishy taste. Fish oils that have been purified are one solution to this. However, the elevated demand for fish oils is putting our ocean fish at risk. An excellent alternative to fish oil is flax seed oil which is plant based. Supplemental algae-based DHA is yet another option. Both of these omega-3 sources offer one of the best natural home remedies for heart disease.

Omega-3s Are More Than a Natural Heart Disease Remedy - These Are Some of the Additional Advantages:

1. They are essential for nursing and pregnant women as well as children to promote healthy fetal and childhood vision and brain development.

2. A number of studies on animals have demonstrated that omega-3s have curative and preventative effect on Parkinson's disease.

3. The occurrence of depression is reduced.

4. Memory is improved and risk of Alzheimer's disease and dementia is decreased.

Some Things You Can Do To Get Enough Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Due to the fact that a limited quantity of ALA is converted to EPA and even a smaller amount to DHA, one can take a DHA supplement that is derived from algae. Include plant derived sources of omega-3s in your diet such as ground flax seeds, cold pressed flax seed oil, walnuts, hempseeds and chia seeds. You can add one tablespoon of ground flaxseeds to your diet every day.

Heart Disease and Inflammation

It has been shown by medical research that the cause of most heart attacks is not from hardened plaque deposits. Heart attacks are caused by inflammation throughout the vascular system. Small pustules form and erupt which, in turn, cause a clot which then breaks loose causing the heart attack. Omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to have a significant anti-inflammatory effect throughout the body including the cardio-vascular system. The ultimate cure and prevention of heart disease is diet. A plant based diet which avoids processed foods such as oil, sugar and white flour, will actually reverse heart disease. A number of studies have demonstrated this including work by Dr. Dean Ornish, MD and Dr. John McDougall, MD.

By Ethan A Walker

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Tips To Keep Your Nails Beautiful

Nails can attract people if you keep them in shape. Girls have started growing nails in their fingers and also maintain its beauty. There are many things you should keep in mind while growing your finger nails. First you should clean your nails after taking bath. This should be done everyday because there are chances for dirt for getting staged in your nails.
o There are some easy ways to maintain your nails.
o First remove your old nail polish using a good nail polish remover.
o Avoid using some ruff surfaces to remove it; it may affect your nail layers. Use cotton balls to remove the nail polish.
o Use a file to shape your nails. The shape of the nails should not be sharp. The length of all the nails should be equal.
o Use orange wood stick to clean your nails and then soak your fingers in warm water to remove the dirt.
o Leave the cuticle intact so that it will help to prevent infection of the nail growing tissue.
o Now coat your nails with the nail polish, it is not necessary to use top coat and a base coat. You can use a single nail polish for top coat. After applying the polish dry it for some time.
o After this apply some moisturizing cream to the cuticles and hands to prevent splitting up of nails.
There are 10 tricks to keep your manicure looking great for longer
o Keeping short nails are safe then growing nails.
o Be careful with your cuticles. Apply oil to the cuticles. Use cotton to remove the nail polish. Clean the nails daily.
o To keep your nails healthy eat calcium and magnesium rich foods.
o You can also protect your nails by using artificial nails.
o Do not to remove and reapply nail polish more than once or twice a week as these causes in drying your nails.
Follow these steps to prevent biting your nails.
Biting your nails will cause you
o Split and fractured nails
o Bleeding around the nails
o Infections
o Pain
Starting eat carrots or some chocolate bars to avoid biting your nails.
o You can also put on a nail polish with a bad odor on and as it tastes bad you won't be able to bite your nails.
o As your nails/skin grows, they will look swollen and there will be an irritating sensation on the skin which is normal. This sensation will vanish away with time.
o Biting your nails will cause many damages to your health. If the dirt in the nails go into your body it will upset your digestive system, will lead to vomiting.
By Victor Thomas

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Tea Tree Oil Safe Treatment for Lice

Essential oils are becoming a popular method to deal with childhood head lice.The pesticide treatments commonly used contain toxins that pose serious health threats. Because the scalp has many blood vessels close to the skin, these toxic substances are absorbed directly into the bloodstream.
Pesticide treatments which are commonly used to repel lice contain toxins that pose serious health threats. Because the scalp has many blood vessels close to the skin, these toxic substances are absorbed directly into the bloodstream.
Harmful side effects from chemical lice treatments include nervous system damage, convulsions, seizures, nausea, vomiting, headaches, mental confusion and even death. To make matters worse, these pesticides are becoming less effective as lice are developing a resistance to them. This often leads to repeated treatments. The additional exposure adds to the potential harm.
Head lice are highly contagious and very common among children. Because certain essential oils are highly effective against lice, there is absolutely no reason to expose children to dangerous pesticide treatment.
Laboratory tests (Veal 1996) show the essential oils of aniseed, cinnamon leaf, red thyme, tea tree, peppermint, nutmeg and oregano to be effective in killing live lice and their eggs. Other essential oils used to repel lice include lavender, rosemary, eucalyptus, juniper berry, bergamot, clary sage, and lemongrass.
Tea tree oil may be the best choice for several reasons. Tea tree oil was found to be 93% effective against killing adult lice and 83% effective in killing their eggs. It is generally safe and is one of the only essential oils that can be used neat (undiluted) on the skin (in small amounts.) Tea tree oil can be used on children as young as one year old. Tea tree oil is so versatile that it should be on hand in every household. Having it on hand for other uses will prevent having to search for ingredients when dealing with a lice infestation that requires prompt action.
Many of the essential oils listed above should not be used on children. It is important to check safety data before using any essential oil. Oregano oil and red thyme oil should not be used at all. All essential oils, including tea tree should only be used by children on an "as needed" basis, and must be properly diluted.
Essential oils can be used both to rid the scalp of lice when an infestation is present and as a preventative measure when there is a potential threat.
To rid the scalp of lice the essential oils must be diluted in a vegetable oil or alcohol. Vegetable oil may be the best choice for smothering lice and to soothe scalp that may be sore or itchy from infestation.
Olive oil or vodka is fine if you have it on hand. Sweet almond oil, jojoba or grape seed oil are other good choices.
4 TBS (2oz) vegetable oil (or vodka)
1 tsp castor oil (optional)
20 drops tea tree oil
Blend well. Have child sit on a chair in the bathtub. Apply mixture to scalp and hair. Use only the necessary amount to make sure entire scalp and hair is coated. Cover with plastic shower cap. Leave on for several hours. Then wash and condition hair. Comb hair thoroughly with nit comb. Then rinse hair with the following rinse.
FINAL RINSE
1-quart warm water
¼ cup cider vinegar
2-5 drops tea tree oil
Shake well to disperse essential oil. Pour over clean hair. Do not rinse out. When hair dries, saturate a nit comb with tea tree oil and re-comb.
LAUNDRY
Lice can remain alive for up to 72 hours after they have left the human host. Re-infestation can occur if lice remain on pillows, bed linen, combs, clothes and towels. Completely wash all clothing and bedding. One teaspoon of tea tree oil can be added to each wash load. A few drops can be added to a washcloth and placed in the dryer with clothes and bedding. Dry on hottest setting available.
SHAMPOO
During the weeks following lice infestation use the following shampoo formula. Add 2-4 drops of tea tree oil to your normal amount of shampoo for one use. Leave shampoo in for five minutes before rinsing out. Finish with final rinse. Comb with nit comb.
PREVENTATIVE MEASURES
To prevent lice from infesting your child's hair, especially if there is a potential threat, several precautions can be taken. The shampoo and rinse formula described above can be used for precautionary measures. Another quick method to deter potential lice infestation is to dab a few drops of tea tree oil on your fingertips and run your finger through child's hair.
Warn your child about head to head contact with other children. Advise them not to share hats, helmets, brushes and hair accessories. If they are in day care or elementary school get in a habit of checking their scalp for nits on a regular basis. Early detection will allow quicker relief with fewer side effects such as itching and scabbing.
Tea tree oil is known as a "first aid kit in a bottle". If you keep a bottle on hand for possible lice infections, you will soon discover it's many other uses and benefits.

By Melanie Vonzabuesnig

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How Can You Know if You Have TB?

Tuberculosis is an infectious disease caused by the Koch bacillus, a germ that belongs to the Mycobacterium family. It primarily affects the lungs and it is contagious. Besides the lungs, TB can also affect lymph nodes, intestinal tract, kidneys, bones, and brain.

If you have a strong immune system you could not get ill of TB even if you come in contact with infected subjects. You could also inactivate the virus and keep it locked in your lungs by creating with the help of macrophages a scar tissue all around the infected area, but in the moment you get a weaker immune system (like those people who have HIV) the bacillus could reactivate and manifest and even infect other organs.

Symptoms of TB infection are: cough that lasts longer than three weeks, fever, breathing problems, night sweats, fatigability, chest pains, and loss of weight and appetite.

TB is transmittable from mother to fetus and symptoms of the infection appear during the first year of life: fever, poor feeding, breathing problems, failure to thrive and even swollen liver and spleen.

Healthy persons receive the infection if living or working in the same place with the infected person. By coughing, shouting or sneezing, the infected person spreads the germs into the air, and others inhale them. Shaking hands or touching clothes does not infect others.

Another form of tuberculosis is transmitted by drinking unpasteurized milk. The responsible bacterium for this form of TB infection is called Mycobacterium bovis. Years before, this bacterium was a major cause of TB in children, but now since most milk is pasteurized (a heating process that kills the bacteria) it does not cause TB any more.

There are some tests doctors do to find out if one is infected. First of all, they perform a skin test, meaning that they inject into your skin a purified protein derived for the TB germ. After more then 48 hours the injected skin area will present a bump. If the bump is large, the test is considered to be positive, meaning that the TB infection has occurred.
If this test does not convince doctors about your condition, they will ask you to do a thoracic X-ray which shows where in the lungs the infection could be localized and how greatly it is expanded.
If the suspected person coughs, doctors take the sputum and with the help of the microscope they search for the TB germs in the sputum. This is quite an accurate method of diagnosing TB.

The HIV patients are at high risk of developing TB, due to their weakened immune system. Some of them are infected with TB and the virus is not active, but at any moment the virus can wake up and manifest. In the world, there are about 38 million people living with AIDS and about one-third of them also have TB. Very often tuberculosis affects the HIV patients long before other problems correlated with HIV develop.

Tuberculosis seems to appear more frequent in crowded, non-hygienic places like: prisons, juvenile detention centers, and homeless shelters.

General preventing methods of spreading the TB is hospitalizing the infected person, and practically isolating it from those who are healthy. Treatment must be followed at least 6 months constantly because interrupting the treatment could lead to spreading the disease in other organs, like: kidneys, intestinal tract, and lymph nodes, and even leading to the death of the infected person.

For the treatment to be effective, patients must take their prescribed dugs during all the period of time they were advised by the doctor, otherwise the bacillus could get multiple drug resistant and this would only lead to a crisis of effective drugs against tuberculosis, and to a possible epidemic.

By Groshan Fabiola

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Mesothelioma Cancer and Asbestos

Mesothelioma is a form of cancer which occurs in thin membranes (called the mesothelium) lining the chest, lungs, abdomen and sometimes the heart. Although quite rare, mesothelioma symptoms strike more than 200 people each year in the United States. The majority of mesothelioma cases are directly linked to asbestos exposure.

Because of the long latency period of mesothelioma, the average age of patients is between 50 and 70 years. Mesothelioma affects men most due to the high exposure of asbestos in industrial typed jobs. Mesothelioma symptoms include respiratory problems, shortness of breath, continual cough and pneumonia. Other mesothelioma symptoms include weight loss, abdominal problems and swelling. In some mesothelioma patients, the mesothelioma symptoms are quite muted, making it hard for mesothelioma doctors to diagnose.

Mesothelioma doctors specialize in the study, research, and treatments of Mesothelioma cancers.

Mesothelioma (or the cancer of the mesothelium) is a disease in which cells become abnormal and replicate without control. During Mesothelioma, these cells will invade and damage tissues and organs. Mesothelioma cancer cells can spread throughout the body causing death.

Mesothelioma treatments and Mesothelioma clinical trials and tests

There are many mesothelioma treatment options available. Treatments include surgery, radiation therapy and chemotherapy and the mesothelioma treatment depends on the patient’s age, general health and stage of the cancer. There has been much mesothelioma research conducted throughout the past two years to find new treatment methods. Click here to read more about mesothelioma treatment techniques.

Through mesothelioma research, The National Cancer Institute has sponsored mesothelioma tests and clinical trials that are designed to find new treatment methods. Because of the increase in number of mesothelioma cases in the United States, both governments have increased funding for mesothelioma research. Mesothelioma research and clinical trials have been successful in developing new techniques to fight this cancer and the outlook for more advanced mesothelioma treatments is promising.

Surgery is the most common treatment method for malignant mesothelioma. Tissues and linings affected by mesothelioma are removed by the doctor and may include the lung or even diaphragm.

A second mesothelioma treatment method is radiation therapy through the use of high energy x-rays that kill the cancer cells. Radiation therapy can be outside or inside the body.

A third mesothelioma treatment method is chemotherapy. Through pills or drugs through needles, chemotherapy drugs are used to kill cancer cells.

A new mesothelioma treatment method is called intraoperative photodynamic therapy. In this treatment, light and drugs are used to kill cancer cells during surgery for early stages of mesothelioma in the chest. Although there are numerous treatments and drugs for mesothelioma, doctors are losing the battle against this deadly disease. Most mesothelioma treatments involve old techniques combined with different drug cocktails. However, in most cases, these mesothelioma treatments have many side effects including organ damage, nausea, increase in heart failure etc. The rush to find a more effective mesothelioma treatment or even cure is ongoing at numerous clinical labs across the nation. Let's hope that the mesothelioma treatments will one day erradicate mesothelioma cancer and asbestosis.

Mesothelioma is such a harsh disease. Not only does it take years for symptoms to appear, but there are limited treatements and drugs that will prolong the lives of workers stricken with mesothelioma. In many cases, the death rate of mesothelioma is unfortunately very high. However, with increased funding in mesothelioma research through the government and private grants, the outlook for a mesothelioma cure is quite possible. In the meantime, mesothelioma support groups and local discussions provide the ongoing support for mesothelioma patients.

By Michael Wong

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Asthma, "Hidden" Asthma, And Allergies

During the winter months, colds, flu, sore throats, and respiratory illnesses become more prevalent, outdoor activities decline, family members are in closer contact with one another, and our homes are sealed up against the wintry elements. Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) declines as indoor airborne pollutants and indoor allergens increase. The accumulation of built-up antigens (allergens) within a home, typically cause family members to suffer adverse health effects. Recent research confirms the EPA's claim that indoor air quality can be 100 times, or even in some cases, 500 times worse, than the outdoor air quality. Those persons prone to allergies and asthma suffer severely at this time of the year. Until the general public becomes aware of the dangers of polluted indoor air and then begins to demand the services, Home Indoor Allergen Control services, specializing in improving indoor air quality, will remain limited in numbers. The EPA, utilizing public service announcements, is presently promoting campaigns to educate the public on the dangers to health from poor indoor air quality.
Coinciding with the energy conservation practices initiated in the late 1970's, including better insulated home-building construction methods, asthma (and asthma related deaths) among children has continued to increase, year after year, since 1980. Asthma cannot be cured, but it can be controlled through;

• patient/parent education
• allergy injections
• medications, and
• avoidance of "triggers"

Symptoms of Allergies
Symptoms ranging from itchy skin, stuffed up nasal cavities, runny noses, head or sinus aches, bouts of sneezing, sinusitis, irritated, watery and reddish eyes, puffy, swollen or discolored eyelids, wheezing, a "tight" chest, scratchy throats, raspy voices, dry unproductive coughs, feelings of lethargy, mental fatigue and even depression are not uncommon. These symptoms may only result in temporary, or day to day, discomforts for some. Yet these discomforts, even if minimal, can now be controlled, at a low cost and without over-the-counter allergy medications, a huge revenue source for the pharmaceutical companies.
More importantly, without utilizing the benefits of home indoor allergen control, the nearly 50 to 60 million American's (one in five) who suffer from allergies are at great risk of becoming afflicted with even more permanent, life long, ill-health effects including; asthma, bronchitis, perennial rhinitis (hay fever), eczema, dermatitis, sinus infections and other serious health issues, looming in their future.
Asthma and the Differing Types of Asthma
By overlooking the need for home indoor allergen control, children, the elderly, and persons with weak immune systems (even if just temporary) are at a high risk of developing long term medical afflictions. Although 4 to 5 million children, knowingly suffer asthma attacks yearly, asthma remains one of the more common chronic diseases of childhood and is often undiagnosed amongst children. There are as many types of asthma as there are "triggers" that can cause asthma attacks, but basically asthma is classified as either "intermittent or "persistent" asthma.
What is very important for parents to realize is the possibility of your child having "hidden" asthma a condition that exists before wheezing, coughing and rapid breathing become noticeable. Since infants and toddlers cannot verbalize how, or what, they are feeling, "hidden" asthma may be very hard to diagnose, even by your family physician. Irritability in very young children can mean many different things but, like a guttural cough or rapid breathing, could also be a sign of respiratory difficulties.
So how do you know if your child has signs of developing asthma or "hidden" asthma?
Pay attention! Become knowledgeable of the symptoms and alert to the possible triggers. Although it may be difficult to notice any tell-tale signs with children under the age of 18 or 24 months, there are definitive symptoms to look for in older children. Wheezing, for one you may think...but not necessarily so, is a prime characteristic found in asthmatics, yet it's not necessarily the most common symptom. Coughing is a particularly prominent indicator and wheezing may not be readily noticeable to parents or the family physician, even through a stethoscope. Children with a history of bronchitis, pneumonia, respiratory infections, numerous and constant bouts of coughing (particularly at night or in cold weather when asthma conditions tend to worsen) should be thoroughly checked for asthma. Coughing immediately after vigorous activities such as running, or even a long-lasting spell of crying, are also signs that should be noted and may require a physician's evaluation for asthma. Family history, especially a history of allergies or asthma, genetics, the child's moods and actions, responses to foods and possible allergy triggers, must all be communicated to a physician in assisting to determine whether a child may be susceptibility to asthma.
Infants and toddlers with a past histories that include chest colds, bronchitis, pneumonia, chronic coughing or unusual breathing patterns, either shortness of breath or rapid breathing, should be tested for asthma as well as other respiratory diseases. Keep in mind, as active as toddlers and pre-schooler's tend to be, it may be very difficult to discern the limitations of physical activities. Pulmonologist's, performing lung function tests on very young children, still find it difficult to ascertain an asthma diagnosis, but these tests may still reveal airway obstructions. Asthma, brought under control, allows children to live more active lives without frequent asthma attacks.
Common Home Indoor Air Pollutants Resulting in Asthma and Allergies
Through education and knowledge, basic common sense, and recent technological innovations, the removal, reduction, and control of the following worst pollutants and allergens, will greatly improve Home Indoor Air Quality and the health of the home occupants. Of the nearly 50 - 60 million American's suffering from allergies, 20 million or so, are allergic to household dust and/or the particulates that make up household dust. Guanine, a potent and harmful allergen produced by dust mites and found in their fecal pellets and exoskeletons, is a major contributor. The most common indoor allergens include:

• Dust and Dust mite allergens
• Second-hand cigarette smoke
• Pet dander
• Cockroaches
• Molds and mildew

Education will allow homeowners to gain the knowledge of just how these allergens accumulate. By simply changing practices and habits, methods can be easily integrated into the present home lifestyle to minimize the amount of unhealthy allergens and thereby improving the quality of health for the home occupants. To a degree, housekeeping practices have evolved over the past generation or two. Kitchen areas have tested to be the most bacteria ridden parts of a home.
Our bedrooms, especially within the mattresses that we sleep upon one-third of our life, are the dirtiest and nastiest. Mattresses and the micro-climatic ecosystem within them, provide all the creature comforts that allow dust mites to live, thrive and breed while producing the antigen guanine, the worst offender and most harmful of all indoor allergens. Our grandparents can recall the days when mattresses were carried outside to have the "dust" literally beaten out of them and then placed in the sunlight for a naturally cleansing. Nowadays, aside from both parents working full-time jobs, mattress technology has evolved to the point that mattresses are too heavy or too bulky, to tote outside even if there is an area that exists where the mattress can be placed for "cleansing". Carpeting accumulates many allergens as well, however carpeting does not provide the micro-climatic ecosystem that dust mites require. Regular vacuuming assists in controlling built-up allergens in carpeting, but only if the proper vacuum is used.
Home Indoor Allergen Control Technicians
Mattress cleaning technicians, trained in the removal, reduction, and control of home indoor allergens are in an excellent position to not only offer their much needed services, but to also help educate the general public on methods of improving and sustaining healthier lives by simply improving home indoor air quality.
The above information is not intended as medical advice. If you or your family members experience any of the above symptoms, please see a medical professional. Excellent information is available from either the American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology (ACAAI) or the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology (AAAAI).

By Tom Hefter

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Symptoms of Dust Mites, Allergies, and the Adverse Health Effects of DMA's

Do You, or Your Family Members, Suffer from One or More of These Symptoms?

Recent clinical studies indicate that the symptoms listed below prominently appear directly after awakening from an expected good night's sleep, in you're supposedly, comfortable and cozy bed! Dust mites have been known to be associated with allergies since the 1960's and have in recent years become a "focal point" due to their involvement with respiratory ailments. The dust mite by itself is not harmful to humans...

BUT dust mites produce a very potent allergen called "guanine" which is harmful to EVERYONE'S health, to varying degrees. Dust mites live, thrive, and breed, in the micro-habitat (visualize a little eco-system) that we create while sleeping in our beds. They also thrive wherever we spend our leisure time, such as lying on our upholstered sofas or sitting on our upholstered chairs watching television, doing homework, or entertaining. Dust mites do not bite or sting but constant contact with the allergens they produce can trigger respiratory and dermatological complaints in humans. There are other species of dust mites such as the itch mite, as well as predatory mites that share the same dusty environment.

Just some of the symptoms of dust mite allergens (DMA's) include:

• itchy skin (little bumps and rashes),
• stuffy nasal cavities,
• sneezing,
• puffy, swollen or discolored eyelids,
• irritated, watery, and reddish eyes,
• wheezing
• "tight" chest,
• head or sinus aches,
• a raspy voice,
• dry, unproductive cough,
• feelings of lethargy (no "get up and go"),
• mental fatigue,
• depression

The above symptoms are just the mild, temporary ill-health effects (temporary, if you want to call the first few hours, of each morning of your life...temporary!) associated with household dust, the #1 dominant home indoor air pollutants. But, the long-term ill-health effects are truly much worse and can result in permanent, life-long illnesses such as:

• asthma,
• bronchitis,
• perennial rhinitis (hay fever),
• eczema,
• dermatitis,
• sinus infections

and other serious health issues, affecting millions of people. House dust contains a mixture of approximately 28 allergenic components. Typically, dust mite allergens account for the majority of the harmful components of dust, more than any other single particulate.Due to their microscopic size, (the fecal pellets are about 20 microns in size and the ever disintegrating exoskeletons are even much smaller) dust mite allergens can become airborne simply by walking across a room, opening a door, "fluffing" a pillow as you attempt to fall asleep, or rolling over in bed (an act that occurs on average 50 to 60 times per night), and of course, during such activities as bed making. These are just a few of the activities that cause dust mites and their associated allergens to become and remain airborne for up to two hours at a time before settling throughout the entire house. A single dust mite, due to its heavier weight, can remain airborne for fifteen minutes. This negates the effectiveness of costly dust mite-proof mattress covers and bedding which attempts to solve the problem by simply "covering up" or placing a "band-aid" over the problem as the dust and allergens that are not inhaled, simply continue to "float about" the indoor air and accumulate on your bedding, as well as everywhere else.

While airborne, the allergens are easily inhaled and become attached to the living cells that line the "walls" of your lungs. Once attached, they suffocate and kill your healthy lung cells causing permanent damage. Dust mites practice coprophagia, meaning, in lean times they will use their own fecal pellets as a food source. Dust mite fecal pellets, which contain "guanine" and their digestive enzymes, are a major cause of allergies across the world. The powerful enzymes in the fecal pellets break down hard-to-digest food for later nourishment. It is these enzymes that cause and trigger allergies in humans by breaking down delicate living tissue including healthy lung cells.

Dust mites are living, thriving, and breeding by the millions, in your mattresses, pillows, upholstered furniture, draperies, fluffy stuffed toys, and to a lesser extent (only because, hopefully, it is frequently vacuumed) carpeting. Pillows, alone, may gain 15-25% in weight over a two year span, from the accumulation of dust mite allergens and a host of other contaminants.

Children, especially those who breathe rapidly such as newborns and those up to 5 years of age, are particularly susceptible to the health hazards from inhaling the allergens (especially the potent allergen "guanine") found in the fecal matter, secretions, shed (molted) skins, and the exoskeletons of dead dust mites. The elderly, chronically ill persons, and persons with a weak immune system (even if just temporary) are also very susceptible to ill-health effects of dust mite allergens and poor indoor air quality.

Dust mites are nocturnal, dislike strong light and will take refuge in the seams, ledges, cording and framework of furniture when exposed to light. A single dust mite can produce up to 20 to 30 fecal pellets per day (therefore, an average-sized colony of 2 million dust mites living within a mattress will produce 40 to 60 million fecal pellets per day). A single dust mite produces approximately 2000 to 3000 fecal pellets during its active lifetime of up to 3 or 4 months (that equates to a total of 4 trillion fecal pellets, in your mattress, produced by a single generation of an average-sized dust mite colony). Your unhygienic mattress, where you spend 1/3 of your life, is the nastiest, grungiest, item in your home and contains huge amounts of dead skin, dust mites, dust mite allergens, molds, mildew, pollens (transported inside from outdoors), spores, pet dander, bacteria and viruses.

Have you noticed how many corporations are touting their products for addressing the problem caused by dust mites? However, the solutions they offer are simply more "band-aids" to the problem and do not confront the problem (source) "head-on", the micro-habitats found in mattresses, pillows, and the "soft furnishings" in our homes. Should you choose to go the dust mite-proof mattress pad route, ask the salesperson what they sell to "protect" you from the dust mites in your upholstered sofa and chairs?

Mattress covers, pharmcotherapy (medications), and immunotherapy (skin prick tests, more testing and more meds) have been the usual methods of addressing the symptomatic problems and each of these methods generate huge sums of income. However, this is akin to placing a "band-aid" over a festering wound and then selling you more "band-aids". Perhaps the huge multi-billion dollar revenues generated by the aforementioned industries, is the reason why American's have not been properly informed and educated. But now, and unfortunately due to the annual increases in asthma, asthma deaths (especially among children), allergenic rhinitis, and other respiratory illnesses, the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has initiated a public awareness campaign through public service announcements (PSA's) and their new website (www.noattacks.org) beginning in January 2007.

Should you or any of your family members exhibit any of the aforementioned symptoms, please seek the advice of your family physician, especially if the symptoms are evident among children.

By Tom Hefter

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Turmeric - The One-Stop Home Remedy

The present day situation brings numerous health problems, some related to pollution and some to a hectic life style. Would we not like to have a remedy to most, if not all, day-to-day health issues, many resulting later on in major health problems? Turmeric could be such a solution.
Turmeric is a type of herb and belongs to the ginger family. It is widely cultivated in India. Known commonly as Haldi in the Hindi language, it is a widely cultivated tropical plant having reddish yellow flowers. It is used as a condiment, a medicine and a dye. It is an integral part of food in India. It has so many medicinal properties that it can easily be considered the best herb. Turmeric alone can cure many diseases. Keep turmeric in your home and the doctor stays away. Its importance in daily life has been known in India since ages gone by. The Chinese also using for the treatment of ailments. In Unani (the ancient Persian system of medicine) Hakeems (medicine practitioner) consider it to be the safest herb. It is only recently that modern science is becoming aware of it.
1-2 spoons of turmeric powder mixed in a glass of hot milk after injury greatly helps in relieving pain and swelling. It works well on internal injury to the muscles and even to the bones. It is good for tendons and ligaments. It is applied as an ointment for injuries by combining turmeric, pieces of onion and hot mustard oil with a bandage over it. It is a great healer of wounds as it has anti-inflammatory and antibiotic properties. It is an important ingredient of burn ointment. It has haemostatic ability and helps in stopping bleeding from an injury as well as being very helpful to those suffering from arthritis and stiffness in the body. Turmeric is also a very good medicine after surgery, which works by decreasing pain and increasing the rate of healing. It is beneficial for all blood disorders since it purifies, stimulates and builds blood. Such are its benefits in cases related to blood that it is specially recommended after childbirth. Turmeric used during the menstruation cycle helps in removing stagnant blood. Turmeric protects the liver from toxins and cholesterol.
Turmeric is considered so pious that it is an integral part of Hindu marriages and other rituals. Turmeric paste mixed with almond oil and honey is applied on the skin to purify and nourish it. The skin glows and all the blemishes and impurities are removed, particularly on the face. It inhibits all skin related diseases and is beneficial for eczema due to its anti-inflammatory properties.
Turmeric has one very important benefit in today's lifestyle. Alcohol intake is on the increase nowadays, which results in excessive fat in the body. The liver, which is supposed to detoxify poisonous substances and take care of the extra fat, itself gets affected and consequently fails to perform its function of removing the excessive fats. Turmeric taken with water of curds or the remaining water from coagulated milk can be used for treating liver disease. It is also good for Anemia. Turmeric is taken along with ghee (clarified butter) for treatments of coughs and colds, asthma cases and blocked nose. It is a great reliever of one of the major modern age problem - piles. A paste of turmeric, onion and mustard oil applied locally in the rectal area is helpful. It can be taken internally to stop bleeding. Turmeric taken with yogurt treats diarrhea.
Turmeric lowers the chances of heart attack by inhibiting the platelets from sticking together. Turmeric and ghee taken with warm water is a good home remedy for asthma attacks. It is equally beneficial if boiled with milk for decongestion. Turmeric taken with fresh garlic is a home remedy for general respiratory infections.
These uses are only from a medicinal point of view. It has another use as spice. It is a vital ingredient in every kitchen in India. It gives taste and color to food.
To sum up, turmeric is a one-stop home remedy for most modern illnesses. It can cure wounds, purify blood, help the liver to recover, inhibit heart attacks, help in eye care, improve skin conditions. the list is endless. The best thing is you do not have to search for it. It is usually available right in your home - ready for use. Turmeric has traditionally been in use as a multi-purpose home remedy in India.
It is important to note that this information is in no way intended to be an alternative to traditional medicine. It is always advisable to consult the doctor.

By Michael Russell

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