The Benefits and Risks of Barefoot Running

It's safe to say that resorting to the primitive practices of our prehistoric ancestors is typically viewed as a bad thing. We evolved, discovered, and invented our way into a life in which we are no longer dependent on the hunt to bring us food, nor do we fear being stalked by predators. Suffice it to say, we've progressed in a way that's made life much easier.

Why, then, is the barefoot running movement gaining popularity? Is it simply a fad popularized by a few outspoken naturalists? Or is there science that backs a more natural approach to running?

Championed by Christopher McDougall's national bestseller Born to Run, the barefoot, or minimalist, running movement has been gaining some traction due to recent studies. In a paper published in 2010 in the journal Nature, Daniel E. Lieberman, professor of human evolutionary biology at Harvard University, notes the difference in form between running barefoot and running in conventional sneakers. Leiberman found that minimalist runners tend to avoid landing on their heel, or "heel striking," and instead land on the ball or the middle of the foot. By doing this, Leiberman says barefoot runners "have almost no impact collision."

This "impact collision" can generate real problems for those who strike heavily on their heels. In a study published in the 2009 issue of PM&R, the researchers found that modern running shoes wielded more stress on knee, hip, and ankle joints compared to those who ran barefoot. The study found that the reasoning for these increases have much to do by the high arches and elevated heels associated with your conventional running shoe.

Simply put, running barefoot, or in minimalist shoes, forces you to find a more natural form. By landing on the balls of your feet, our natural shock absorbers are able to displace any stress caused by your foot striking the pavement. Conversely, landing heavily on your heel results in increased stress on your joints. This can be translated in knee, ankle, hip, or even lower back pain.

Before you dive head first into your Paleolithic past, be sure you understand the risks. While there is evidence that barefoot running will strengthen your legs and feet, there have also been findings correlated with an increased risk of calf strain, Achilles tendinitis, plantar pain, and blisters.

When in doubt, consult a podiatrist before making the change and communicate any concerns you may have.

Sources:

Daniel E. Lieberman, Madhusudhan Venkadesan, Adam I. Daoud, William A. Werbel

Biomechanics of Foot Strikes & Applications to Running Barefoot or in Minimal Footwear

http://www.barefootrunning.fas.harvard.edu/

ScienceDaily. Retrieved May 16, 2011, from http://www.sciencedaily.com­ /releases/2010/01/100127134241.htm

ScienceDaily. Retrieved May 16, 2011, from http://www.sciencedaily.com­ /releases/2010/01/100104122310.htm

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Want to Be a Hospice Volunteer? Here's What's Involved

If you want to make a difference to a terminally ill person and her family, consider becoming a hospice volunteer. You'll be in good company: The Hospice Foundation of America estimates that there are more than 460,000 hospice volunteers in the U.S. But what exactly do you do as a hospice volunteer? And do you need any special qualifications? Here's what you need to know before taking on this important job.

Generally, hospice volunteers fall into two categories: those who work directly with patients and their families and those who do background work that supports the hospice. If you are going to work in an administrative or general support capacity, such as assisting in the office, doing kitchen work, or helping to raise money and plan events for the hospice, you don't need any skills other than what's necessary for those particular jobs. If, however, you're going to interact directly with a dying person and his or her loved ones, you will need specialized training to learn communication techniques and methods of dealing with very sensitive issues. The hospice will generally provide this training, which will take about 20-30 hours spread out over several weeks.

What are some of the duties you'll perform as a volunteer interacting with patients? You might be asked to sit and visit with patients in their rooms, read to them, write letters for them, take them for walks in their wheelchairs, supervise visits with pets or therapy animals, and even provide massage if you have that skill. Also important is care for the patient's family. You might go grocery shopping or run other errands for a stressed-out family, help take care of children or pets, or simply be a shoulder to cry on when a loved one needs to vent. As bereavement-support programs are an important part of any hospice, you also might be called on to facilitate a bereavement-support group or assist with correspondence to families

Hospices rely quite heavily on their volunteers, who come from all walks of life and range in age from teenagers to the elderly. While most people can become hospice volunteers if they so desire, a hospice may discourage you from volunteering if you've recently suffered the loss of someone important to you. Grieving for your own loved one may prevent you from being fully present for the patients and their families who need you. You'll certainly be encouraged to apply to volunteer anywhere from six months to a year later, when you may have achieved some closure and are ready to take on the job.

Sources:

Hospice Foundation of American, www.hospicefoundation.org

Hospice Volunteer Association, www.hospicevolunteerassociation.org

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Can Stress Make You Dumb?

You're a smart person. So why, when you're under the most stress, does it seem your brain shuts down and your intelligence disappears?

You know stress causes numerous physical problems and even serious disease. But did you know that prolonged or extreme stress might also impair your mental faculties, leaving you feeling...well, kind of dumb.

Under stress, our body increases levels of cortisol and other hormones. In the short term, this helps you fight real threats (the classic fight-or-flight response). Over time, or in the absence of real life threats, these biological changes disrupt the energy supply to parts of your brain involved with memory and higher level thinking processes, such as logic, analytical ability, and decision-making. Stress turns these critical thinking processes off and replaces them with an oversensitive, heightened emotional state.

Scientists have observed this response in baboons and other highly social animals. And experts specializing in workplace dynamics warn that stress interferes in important relationships with colleagues and individual performance, especially for leaders.

Former professor Henry L. Thompson, Ph.D. says stress impacts leaders' cognitive and emotional abilities and contributes to what he calls Catastrophic Leadership Failures (CLF). CLF occurs when leaders experience enough stress to cause a dramatic drop in their intellectual and emotional intelligence. The result: they don't listen well, they over-analyze things, flip-flop, and generally, make reactive rather than well-considered decisions.

In fact, Dr. Steven Stein, an expert in emotional intelligence, says emotional intelligence-or the ability to sense other's feelings, convey your own feelings, and effectively communicate-is more important than IQ (intelligence). He, too, says stress harms workers by affecting their decision-making skills, increasing mistakes, lowering productivity, interfering in workplace relationships, and causing workers to ignore important cues in others.

Fortunately, you can reverse these stress-related effects, and, by boosting your overall emotional intelligence, manage stress more effectively.

To help you increase your emotional intelligence, experts recommend you learn to assess the world properly. Instead of experiencing stress because you have unrealistic demands and expectations from the world, correctly observe, analyze, and assess people, situations, and the environment. Take an inward, rather than an outward view, by observing what you have, without focusing on what you don't have.

Learning effective stress management techniques will also help you stay focused and in control, regardless of the challenges you face.

The world is stressful and many things are beyond our control. However, you can take steps to prevent stress from making you feel dumb.

Sources:

Cullen, Lisa. "Stress makes you stupid." Time Magazine. Web. 6 August 2007.

http://workinprogress.blogs.time.com/2007/08/06/stress_makes_you_stupid/#ixzz1OcLYwOMc

Thompson, Henry L., Ph.D. "Research Uncovers Causes of Catastrophic Leadership Failure." Web. 2007.

http://www.hpsys.com/Articles/Stress,%20Emotional%20Intelligence%20and%20Leader%20Performance.html

Jain, Gautam. "Stress and the Mind." Medscape Medical News. Web. 5 July 2007.

http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/557634

Helpguide.com. "Five Key Skills for Raising Your Emotional Intelligence." Web.

http://helpguide.org/mental/eq5_raising_emotional_intelligence.htm

Angier, Natalie. "Brain Is a Co-Conspirator in a Vicious Stress Loop." NYTimes.com. Web. 17 August 2009.

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/08/18/science/18angier.html

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Stressed Out? Take a Hike

When faced with a 40 plus hour work week, bills to pay, and trekking the kids to-and-fro, how do you let loose? This summer, make it a point to relieve your stress by utilizing the great outdoors.

Exercise has long been touted as an excellent and natural way to manage stress. According to Harvard Public Health, exercise can help improve your mood, combat depression, and boost your self-esteem. But where you exercise makes a difference, too. A study conducted by the College of Forestry at Virginia Tech in Blacksburg, VA, found that nature-based recreation had a significant effect on improving one's mood.

What's more, researchers at Loyola University Chicago's Marcella Niehoff School of Nursing (MNSON) found that vitamin D-a vitamin produced in the skin after exposure to the sun's rays-improves mood and prevents depression when more time is spent indoors.

With the right approach and know how, you can reap all the benefits of getting outside and shaking the anxiety of the daily grind. 

Look locally. Access your town's recreation commission for information about local parks and forests as well as any organized activities they may offer. Also, the U.S. Forest Service can provide information about national parks in your area. For more information, visit http://www.fs.fed.us/Take a hike.  Remove yourself from all air, noise, and light pollution and immerse yourself in the call of native birds and bubbling brooks. Free your mind of the sensory overload associated with city life by taking a day trip to tackle the trails with a loved one.Go camping. For some, the thought of sleeping on the ground, cooking meals over an open flame, and a weekend spent without electricity sounds like heaven. For others, it sounds hellish. However, slowing things down and getting away from it all with your family may provide you with some much needed respite from the rigors of the week.Hop on a bike. Cycling can be an excellent, low-impact way for you to connect with the outdoors. Can't dedicate a whole weekend to taking the family on a getaway? Designate an evening each week for a family bike ride. Not only will you spend quality time together, but you may find out something new about your neighborhood.Exercise outdoors. Now that the warm weather has melted the freeze of winter, many gyms and town parks offer exercise classes outdoors. Whether it's yoga in the park, tai chi in the public garden, or a local charity's 5k, the opportunities for outdoor calorie burning are plenty.

Sources: 

Illinois Department of Public Health
"Environmental Health Fact Sheet"
http://www.idph.state.il.us/envhealth/factsheets/airquality.htm 

Harvard Health Publications
Exercise and Depression
http://www.health.harvard.edu/newsweek/Exercise-and-Depression-report-excerpt.htm

Paul Finnicum, Jeffrey B. Zeiger
Managing stress through outdoor recreation. (Cover Story): An article from: Parks & Recreation 

R.B. Hull
Nature-based Recreation, mood change, and stress restoration
Leisure Sciences: An Interdisciplinary Journal
Volume 17, Issue 1, 1995, Pages 1 - 14 

The Cleveland Clinic
"What is Seasonal Depression?"
http://my.clevelandclinic.org/disorders/seasonal_affective_disorder_sad/hic_what_is_seasonal_depression.aspx

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What is Exercise-Induced Anaphylaxis?

If you're one of the few people who suffer from exercise-induced anaphylaxis, participating in strenuous activities can put your health at serious risk.

While this form of severe allergy reaction is quite rare, researchers believe that a particular food allergy could be to blame for setting the problem into gear. This means that you aren't likely to experience an anaphylactic attack every time you're active, unless you've had something to eat or drink that-when coupled with exercise-sets off an unfortunate chain reaction.

The medical community doesn't fully understand exactly how the food allergy and exercise connection occurs to cause exercise-induced anaphylaxis, but one possible theory is that when you exercise, the activity changes the way your body digests the food. As a result, you can be exposed to higher levels of proteins that spark a reaction.

If you suffer from exercise-induced anaphylaxis, it's important to recognize the signs, which can occur anytime within a few minutes to about a half hour after starting an exercise routine. These include:

Large hives (a centimeter or more)Asthma symptoms, including difficulty breathingNausea, dizziness, light headedness, and headacheSwelling of the throatDrop in blood pressureLoss of consciousness

If you believe you're having an exercise-induced anaphylaxis reaction, you'll need to use an EpiPen® and summon emergency medical treatment immediately.

If you have severe food allergies and think you could be at risk for exercise-induced anaphylaxis, it's important to talk to your doctor about the best way to protect yourself. If you can pinpoint the food(s) that could be prompting the reaction, avoid the culprit for 24 hours before you engage in exercise. Foods like wheat, nuts, and shellfish can be common triggers of this serious condition, so if you're trying to narrow in on a cause, your doctor may want to see if you could be reacting to any of them.

When you do exercise with this condition, pay close attention to how you feel. Stop exercising and use your medication at the first sign of hives and itching. It's also a good idea to have a partner with you who, in the event of an emergency, can administer an EpiPen® and summon medical care immediately.

Sources:

Castells MC, Horan RF, Sheffer AL. "Exercise-Induced Anaphylaxis (EIA)." Clinical Review of Allergy and Immunology, Winter 1999;17(4):413-24. Web. 16 May 2011.

Hosey, Robert, et. al. "Exercise-Induced Anaphylaxis and Urticaria." American Family Physician. American Academy of Family Physicians, 15 Oct. 2001. Web. 11 May 2011.

"Tips to Remember: Anaphylaxis." American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology. AAAAI, n.d. Web. 11 May 2011.

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Can Sublingual Immunotherapy Ease Your Allergies?

Wish there was a magic formula that could make your allergies go away? While no medication can completely erase your immune system's response to allergens, a form of treatment called sublingual immunotherapy may provide some welcome relief.

Sublingual immunotherapy is available as tablets or drops that you place under your tongue to build up your body's tolerance to allergens. The treatment works in the same way as allergy injections, except you can take the allergy drops yourself, making it much more convenient.

Most patients use sublingual immunotherapy on a daily basis, starting with a formula that contains very small doses of their allergens and working up to larger amounts as their immune system gains an increased tolerance. Once the maximum amount is reached, this maintenance dosage is usually continued for three to five years to achieve optimal results.

While the concept of immunotherapy tablets or drops holds much promise, the exact dosage recommended and effectiveness of this method has been a topic of debate in recent medical journals.

For instance, some studies reported that patients experienced similar relief from sublingual immunotherapy tablets as they did from allergy injections, while others cited that it was less effective. In addition, some researchers raise the concern that sublingual immunotherapy can put a patient at risk for developing new sensitivities, which is also a possibility with injection immunotherapy. And if a reaction were to occur with sublingual immunotherapy, the patient wouldn't be in a supervised medical setting.

However, a review of 60 studies published in the March 2011 journal Allergy concludes that this method is safe and effective.

If you're considering this option, you may be interested to know that the World Health Organization (WHO) recommends sublingual immunotherapy as a viable approach to treating persistent allergies, and this method is popular in Europe and other countries. Nonetheless, sublingual immunotherapy hasn't yet received formal approval by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), although it's available in investigative form in the United States.  The downside is that without FDA approval, most insurance companies won't cover the procedure. So if you want to try sublingual immunotherapy, you'll probably have to pay out of pocket. Some allergists estimate the cost to be approximately $1.50 per day.

Keep in mind that when you compare this to the price of your allergy medications and the reduced productivity you probably experience at times due to your allergy symptoms, you may find sublingual immunotherapy to be a convenient and cost-effective health strategy.

Sources:

"Efficacy, Dosage Concerns Unresolved On Sublingual Immunotherapy." Medical News Today, 7 Nov. 2008. Web. 24 May 2011.

"O'Hehir, Robyn et al. "House Dust Mite Sublingual Immunotherapy." American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Vol. 180; 2009: 936-947.

Radulovic S, Wilson D, Calderon M, Durham S. "Systematic Reviews of Sublingual Immunotherapy (SLIT)."  Allergy; 66, 2011: 740-752. Web. 26 May 2011.

"Sublingual Immunotherapy." Johns Hopkins Medicine.  Johns Hopkins Sinus Center, n.d. Web. 19 May 2011.
Wilson DR, et al. "Sublingual Immunotherapy for Allergic Rhinitis: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis." Allergy, Jan. 2005; 60 )1: 4-12. Web. 24 May 2011.

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Is a Heart Stent Right for You?

If you're experiencing shortness of breath and chest pain (angina) and your doctor says the cause is due to blockages in your heart arteries, she may recommend angioplasty with stenting.

During an angioplasty procedure, a tiny balloon is inserted in the affected artery or arteries through a catheter that's placed in an artery, typically in the groin. The balloon is then inflated to widen the artery and a small wire mesh tube (stent) is used to prop open the artery. The stent stays in place permanently, holding open the narrowed arteries, improving blood flow to the heart muscle and relieving symptoms.

Stenting procedures are so common, there are more than one million performed each year in the U.S. But is stenting right for you? It depends on whether you have unstable or chronic stable angina, both of which are caused by a narrowing of the arteries. Unstable angina is a serious situation and a warning sign of a heart attack and requires emergency treatment, which usually involves angioplasty with stents.

Chronic stable angina is a form of chest pain that happens when your heart is working hard, for example, during exercise, but the pain goes away when you rest. If you have this type of angina, you may have to decide between angioplasty with stenting or medications as your treatment options. Or, if the blockage is severe, your doctor may recommend coronary bypass surgery in which the blocked arteries are replaced with blood vessels grafted from another part of your body.

Treating Stable Angina

If you have stable angina, you may be able to treat the problem with medications and lifestyle changes alone. Some medications used to treat stable angina include:

AspirinBeta blockersNitratesStatinsCalcium channel blockersAngiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitorsRanolazine (Ranexa)

Regardless of the type of angina you have and whether you and your doctor choose angioplasty with stenting or medication to treat the problem, your doctor will also recommend that you make some lifestyle changes, including:

Quitting smokingEating a healthy diet of whole grains and fruits and vegetablesGetting physical exercise. Your doctor will help you develop a safe exercise plan that doesn't overly tax your heartLosing weightTreating underlying conditions that can increase your risk of angina, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and high blood cholesterolRelieving stress

Sources:
mayoclinic.com/health/angina-treatment/HB00091/METHOD=print

americanheart.org/presenter.jhtml?identifier=4721

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Should You Take Digestive Enzymes?

If you've ever experienced indigestion, bloating, gas, stomach pain, or diarrhea, it may be because you have a shortage of digestive enzymes, which assist the body in breaking down food. Enzymes are secreted along the gastrointestinal tract where food is broken down, allowing nutrients to be absorbed by the blood. When there's a shortage of digestive enzymes, undigested food may pass from the small intestine to the large intestine, leading to problems like indigestion, bloating, gas, stomach pain, or diarrhea. Digestive enzymes may also help reduce the severity of allergic reactions to food and assist in digesting protein, fats, and carbohydrates, allowing you to eat foods that normally cause gas. If you suffer from mild digestive disorders, talk to you doctor to see if over-the-counter digestive enzyme supplements could be helpful to you and which ones are most effective for your digestive problem. Digestive enzyme supplements worth a try include:

Amylase: This digestive enzyme aids in the digestion of carbohydrates, such as white flours, whole grains, and other starches. Amylase also helps to break down complex sugars, including lactase and sucrose. Taking amylase supplements may help reduce symptoms associated with food allergies. Beano®: This over-the-counter digestive aid contains the sugar-digesting enzyme that the body lacks to break down the complex carbohydrates found in gassy foods including cabbage, broccoli, and cauliflower; whole grain breads, nuts, seeds, and beans. Beano® comes in liquid and tablet form. Sprinkle five drops over the food giving you trouble or take one tablet before eating to break down the gas-producing sugars. Just keep in mind that Beano® is not effective on gas caused by lactose or fiber.Lactaid® and Lactrase®: As you get older, you may find that you have an increasing intolerance for milk and milk products, which can cause gas, bloating, and constipation. Lactaid® and Lactrase® are available in both caplet and chewable tablet forms without a prescription. Taking lactase supplements just before eating helps digest foods that contain lactose. You may also want to try lactose-reduced milk and other products, such as Dairy Ease®, which are available at many grocery stores. Usually, there are no side effects from these supplements, although in some instances, people may experience an allergic reaction such as rash, hives, or difficulty swallowing if enzyme supplements are taken in excessive amounts.

Source:

http://www.digestive.niddk.nih.gov/ddiseases/pubs/gas/

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Can Dogs Sniff Out Cancer?

You may have heard stories about someone's four-legged companion saving his life by alerting him to an impending health crisis, such as an epileptic seizure or heart attack. Dogs may be man's best friend in cancer detection as well. In several different studies, dogs have detected cancer at a high rate of accuracy.

In a well-publicized double-blind experiment in 2006, dogs distinguished lung and breast cancer patients from healthy controls. In a 2008 study, dogs not only detected ovarian cancer, they differentiated ovarian cancer from other gynecological malignancies. The canines were equally successful in detecting early and late stage ovarian cancer.

Most recently, a study published in the journal Gut reported that dogs were about 95 percent accurate in detecting colon cancer from breath samples and 98 percent accurate in detecting colon cancer from stool samples. Their success rate was highest in people who had early stage cancer. Smoking and other gastrointestinal issues did not interfere in the dogs' ability to detect cancer.

So, is it time for your pooch to apply to medical school?

Since dogs have highly tuned olfactory abilities and far more smell nerves than humans do, it's not surprising they can smell cancer-emitting odors. After all, we use dogs for other scent-related tasks, such as hunting and tracking, search and rescue, and for detecting drugs and explosives. While it's not likely that you'll see dogs in the examining room any time soon, the idea of using odor as a diagnostic tool is gaining traction.

Oncologists know that cancers produce biomarkers, or physiological changes, they can measure in patients' urine, blood, or exhaled breath. These biomarkers are useful as a complementary tool for detecting and diagnosing cancer. Further, malignant tumors exude tiny amounts of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). We have roughly 200 VOCs in a single breath sample, although some VOCs, such as alkanes (which result from oxidative stress), are not present in healthy tissue. Oncologists are already using VOCs as tumor markers in lung cancer.

Scientists need to identify which chemical compounds among the many most accurately identify the presence of cancer. While physicians currently use diagnostic sniffing tools to help ferret out disease states, these manmade tools can't yet detect many of the telltale chemicals. Researchers are working to develop detection tools that are better able to identify cancer-specific compounds.

Sources:
Johnson, David A., MD. "The Nose Knows: Dog Sniffs Out Colon Cancer." Medscape Medical News. Web. 10 February 2011. http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/737130

Chustecka, Zosia. " Dog Sniffing Out Cancer May Lead to Early Detection Test." Gut. Medscape Medical News. Web. 31 January 2011.
http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/736558

Phillips, Michael, MD, Cataneo, Renee N., MA, Cummin, Andrew R.C., DM, Gagliardi, Anthony J., MD, FCCP, Gleeson, Kevin, MD, Greenberg, Joel, BS, Maxfield, Roger A., MD, FCCP, and Rom, William N., MD, MPH, FCCP. "Detection of Lung Cancer With Volatile Markers in the Breath."  CHEST 123(6) (2003). Medscape Medical News. Web. 27 June 2003.
http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/457244

Nelson, Roxanne. "Smelling' Skin Cancer: A Potential Tool for Detection and Diagnosis." Medscape Medical News. Web. 21 August 2008. http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/579408

Tachibana, Chris. "Can dogs smell disease in humans?" Research Penn State. Web. 13 April 2010.
http://www.rps.psu.edu/probing/sniffing.html

McCulloch, Michael, Jezierski, Tadeusz, Broffman, Michael, Hubbard, Alan, Turner, Kirk, and Janecki, Teresa. "Diagnostic Accuracy of Canine Scent Detection in Early- and Late-Stage Lung and Breast Cancers." Integrative Cancer Therapies 5(1) (2006): 30-39. Web.
http://ict.sagepub.com/content/5/1/30.full.pdf+html

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What Color Is Your Bedroom?

If you are sensitive to your environment, the color of your curtains, your rug, your bedding and the walls that surround you can influence how you feel when you're trying to relax before falling asleep.

The psychological effects of color have not been studied extensively and the results of those studies performed have not always been consistent. But psychologists and artists alike agree that color can have a powerful impact on your emotions, and that impact may be positive or negative.

For instance, red is an intense color that some people associate with passion and eroticism, but color experts at Cornell University point out that red can also evoke uncomfortable feelings of anger and aggression. Either way, red is not what anyone would call a calming, restful color.

Violet is another passionate color, associated with fantasy and playfulness but since it's a mixed color, it may or may not be conducive to sleep. Red-violet may have too much "fire" whereas a blue-violet may have a more calming effect. Yellow may not be passionate or deep, but it is a lively, "sunshiny" color that is more likely to convey feelings of arousal and wakefulness than serenity and restfulness.

Green, because of its predominance in nature, represents life, stability, and restfulness. Most people consider green a pleasant color that evokes calm feelings. Blue is also considered a tranquil color that has a quieting effect on most people. Many people paint their bedroom walls white because it is a neutral, pure, and clean "non-color" that evokes passive feelings, if any at all.

The psychological effect of a particular color can change if the shade of that color is changed, or if that color is used with other colors that make it appear brighter or more intense. For instance, a yellow wall might appear much brighter if it is contrasted with royal blue curtains than if the curtains are an earthier shade of green. The shade and saturation of a color also affects how it is perceived.

In general, cool colors such as blue, green, blue-green, and blue-violet are considered peaceful and calming, while warm colors such as red, orange, orange-red, yellow, and yellow-orange are considered to be more festive and arousing.

However, a study on the psychological effects of color, published in a 2007 issue of the Journal of Experimental Psychology, pointed out that, for some people, a particular color may provoke a sense memory from some long-ago association, or have a strong cultural or religious meaning. That can explain why your perception of a color, and how it affects you, may be very different from someone else's experience of that same hue.

Sources:
Brown University: The How and Why of Optical Illusions-Color Effects. Web. 18 May 2011
http://www.cs.brown.edu/~deus/courses/optical/Color1.htm

Elliot, AJ et al; "Color and Psychological Functioning: The Effect of Red on Performance Attainment." Journal of Experimental Psychology: General 2007 136(1):154-168. Web. 18 May 2011
http://www.psych.rochester.edu/faculty/elliot/documents/2007_ElliotMaierMollerFriedmanMeinhardt_Color.pdf

Jirousek, C. Art, Design & Visual Thinking: Color, Value and Hue-Psychological Implications of Color. Cornell University. 1995 Web. 18 May 2011
http://char.txa.cornell.edu/language/element/color/color.htm

Meola, K. "The Psychology of Color." Hohonu. University of Hawai'I at Hilo/Hawai'I Community College. 2005: 3(3). Web.  18 May 2011
http://www.uhh.hawaii.edu/academics/hohonu/writing.php?id=73

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What Does the Polypill Promise?

If you haven't heard about the polypill yet, chances are you will soon. Research is showing that a once-a-day single pill that combines aspirin, blood pressure, and cholesterol drugs to reduce heart disease risk and treat the problem once it develops may be safe and effective.

In addition to offering patients a way to limit the amount of pills they have to take every day, the polypill is also presenting a viable treatment option for heart disease patients in developing countries that don't have easy access to medical care or who have trouble adhering to a treatment protocol.

Researchers at the Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, opened a polypill study in Sri Lanka, where they enrolled 216 healthy participants. Half the study volunteers received "standard" treatment for cardiovascular disease (CVD) prevention and the other half were given the polypill.

At the end of the study, no safety issues were reported and the majority of the participants who completed the trial—90 percent—said that they would take the polypill "for life" if the medication proved to be effective in reducing CVD risk.

In addition to proving the safety of the polypill, researchers say they also have to determine which patient population would benefit most from the medication: those at risk for developing CVD or those who have already had a heart attack or stroke. In addition, researchers are still studying what exact combinations of medications should be included in a polypill. It's believed that low doses of each of the following medications could be effective:

AspirinWater pills (diuretics)Cholesterol-lowering medications (statins)Medications to make your heart beat with less force (beta blockers)Medications to help keep your blood vessels open (ACE inhibitors)

Although heart disease is a leading cause of death in this country for both men and women, there are many steps you can take to prevent heart disease. Here are five:

1. Don't smoke

2. Get regular exercise—at least 30 to 60 minutes of moderately intense physical activity—on most or all days of the week

3. Eat a heart-healthy diet that includes foods that are low in fat, cholesterol and salt and rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and low-fat dairy products and fish high in omega 3-fatty acids, such as salmon.

4. Maintain a healthy weight

5. Get regular health screenings, including blood pressure, cholesterol levels and diabetes screenings

Sources:
ScienceDaily. "Cardiovascular Disease: Polypill Appears Safe and Accepted by Physicians and Patients in Developing Countries."
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2011/03/110321162016.htm

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Make This Summer the Summer of Love

The weather's not all that heats up in the summer. This can also be the season of love, whether you're single and looking for a relationship or in a committed partnership.
"Summer's a great time to develop a new relationship or to spice up the one that you already have," says Terri Orbuch, Ph.D., author of 5 Simple Steps to Take Your Marriage from Good to Great. "Summer brings with it such a sense of optimism."
Here's how to make this the steamiest summer ever in terms of romance.

1. Make the weather work to your advantage. Open your doors and windows to the warm breezes, put flowers everywhere, and inhale deeply. "Summer has such wonderful smells," Orbuch says. "And positive smells can increase the attraction between two people."

2. Shed those winter blues and resolve to be optimistic. "Just waking up to sunshine can have a positive effect on mood," Orbuch says. "And that optimism rubs off on other people as well." It's natural to want to be close to someone who's got a sunny, positive outlook on life, so strive for an upbeat attitude.

3. Summer's the perfect opportunity to show a little more skin, so make every inch count. Wear strapless tops in flattering colors, flirty sundresses, strappy sandals, and, of course, bathing suits.  And there's nothing wrong with adding a fun, floppy hat to your outfit.

4. If you can afford it, take a weekend share in a summer rental with a group of singles. "A summer house is a great way to meet people," says Brooke Wise, MBA, founder of Wise Matchmaking. "You're all in a house together by the beach, and weekend relationships can turn into serious relationships when the fall comes."

5. Use your creative juices to add an element of surprise into activities that can increase passion and romance. Plan a couples massage night, go to a wine tasting together, or stay up late watching erotic videos together.

6. If you're going out on a first date with someone, schedule something that takes advantage of the gorgeous weather. "Plan a picnic outside, or go to an arboretum," Orbuch says. "It's a little out of the ordinary and chances are it will help you reach your goal, which is a second date."

7. If you're single, take advantage of outdoor activities, like rooftop bars, movies in the park, and hiking clubs.

8. If you're a couple, take advantage of slower work schedules to do something together that you've been putting off due to lack of time. "Plan a getaway to a bed and breakfast," Wise says. "Or take a picnic to the park, just the two of you."

9. If you're a couple and you're feeling as if things are getting ho-hum and stale, plan something exciting together. Take a road trip, go up in a hot air balloon, or take a plane ride that lasts for at least two hours before you reach your destination, Wise says. That way, you'll feel far enough away from the kids to really relax together. (There's no time like the summer, when the kids are out of school, to leave them with grandparents for a few days.)

10. If you're single, save up and go on a singles trip, Wise suggests. "A trip to a faraway land, where you're traveling with others who are single, is a great way to meet someone," she says.

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Alarm Clocks for a Gentler Wake-Up

If you're tired of being jolted from your sleep by the sudden sound of a jarring alarm clock, there's a more pleasant way. Try beginning your day with a simulated sunrise, emanating from a natural light clock or enticing aromas to soothe you into the world of the awake.

How it Works
Usually starting 30 minutes before your set wake-up time, the light from a natural light alarm clock starts to mimic sunrise, gradually getting brighter. On some models, you can set a timer that allows you to wake up gradually over a period of time as short as 10 minutes or as long as an hour and a half. At the same time, natural sounds such as those of a jungle, rainforest or ocean, wind chimes, or songs from a selected radio station, start out at low volume and gradually reach a pre-set higher volume. So with a 30-minute wake-up, if you need to be out of bed by 6:30 a.m., the light and music start at 6:00.

Plug In
Natural light alarm clocks have built in radios with speakers. Some also come with docks for iPods, iPhones, and USBs. There are even brands that contain aromatherapy beads that wake you to the soothing scent of lavender or familiar smell of freshly brewed coffee. In some models, you can add your own essential aromatherapy oils.

Pick a Style
A variety of designs from robotic to light box to lamp-like. Some are spherical, presumably to resemble the sun. Others have a more clinical appearance, and when they are not lit, could be mistaken for a personal humidifier or vaporizer with a built-in clock.

Choose Well
If you have a hard time getting up no matter how well an alarm works, look for a natural light clocks that also comes with a snooze button or even a beeper that goes off when all else fails. The bottom line is: do some research to find a wake-up light that works best for you. Be sure to try out the sound effects before you buy. Not everyone likes to fall asleep or wake up to simulated sounds of birds chirping or rain falling, or to the smell of perfume and flowers. On the other hand, if you don't get good radio reception where you sleep, you may need those nature sounds or that iPod dock.

Sleep Tight
Just as natural alarm clocks help you wake up to gentle sounds and gradually increasing light, some can also be set to provide gradually decreasing light and sounds to help you fall asleep at night. Some models include white noise and low-intensity night light options.

Sources:

Shattell, Mona M. "Peaceful Awakenings: Taking the "Alarm" out of the Alarm Clock" Issues in mental Health Nursing, 2007 28:1271-1272. Web 11 May 2011

http://uncg.academia.edu/MonaShattell/Papers/304141/Peaceful_Awakenings_Taking_the_Alarm_out_of_the_Alarm_Clock

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TMJ: Causes, Symptoms, Treatments

Temporomandibular joint disorder, or TMJ, is a jaw disorder that at its most basic may cause minor pain and at its most involved may include myriad overlapping conditions such as chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia. Because pain in the jaw can result from so many things, it's critical to have a thorough physical exam to figure out the root cause before a diagnosis is made. Yet doctors admit that much of the time, TMJ has them stumped. Here's what to know about this mysterious malady:

TMJ is fairly common. About 35 million people in this country suffer from some form of TMJ problem. And while it can affect anyone, most TMJ sufferers are women of childbearing age.

TMJ can have a multitude of symptoms. A person with TMJ typically experiences jaw pain upon chewing or opening the mouth. This pain can radiate to other areas, including the ears, neck and shoulders. The person may also experience a popping, clicking or grating sound when opening or closing the mouth, jaw stiffness or an inability to open the mouth all the way, a bite that doesn't feel aligned, and difficulty speaking and swallowing. But jaw trouble isn't always present-there are other signs of TMJ that may at first glance have little to do with the jaw. These include headaches, difficulty hearing, dizziness, and vision troubles.

Doctors aren't always sure what causes TMJ. A common cause of TMJ is arthritis, which may simultaneously affect other areas of the body. TMJ also may result from injury. Or it could be a result of genes, your own particular hormonal mix, infection, and even certain dental treatments.

Hypersensitivity to pain is typical in TMJ sufferers. Doctors believe this characteristic of TMJ patients is linked to the fact that they frequently suffer from other chronic pain conditions.

TMJ's progress varies from person to person. Many TMJ sufferers have mild or moderate symptoms. These often resolve on their own or after the patient practices self care such as eating soft foods, avoiding opening the mouth wide, and applying heat or ice. Unfortunately, some TMJ sufferers experience a progressive worsening of the condition and long-term pain. In such cases, jaw surgery may be recommended.

Sources:

The TMJ Association, www.tmj.org
Mayo Clinic, www.mayoclinic.com

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Timing Matters in a Delayed Allergic Reaction

Timing is everything when it comes to suffering a serious allergic reaction.

Until recently, most doctors believed that an anaphylactic response always occurred within minutes of exposure to an allergen. But now some experts from the medical community have discovered that for a small group of people, the window for experiencing an allergic response can be much wider than expected.

Scientists from the University of Virginia have discovered a new phenomenon called "delayed anaphylactic reaction" or "delayed anaphylaxis." This condition, which can occur between three and six hours after exposure to an allergen, doesn't seem to be widespread. It only affects people with certain blood types, including A and O, who have recently been bitten by a common tick. (People with other blood types seem to be immune to the problem.) The tick bite seems to kick-start the allergy process by changing the way a person's immune system responds to red meats such as beef and lamb.

The symptoms of a delayed allergic reaction are usually progressive, starting with itching, then moving into hives, swelling, and intestinal distress. In some cases, swelling of the airways and difficulty breathing, rapid heart rate, and a drop in blood pressure can also occur, and can even be life threatening. 

The findings, reported in The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology in 2008, reveal that the way red meat triggers a delayed allergic reaction is different from what scientists have always expected. In regular allergic reactions, the body responds to the protein contained in the allergen. But with delayed anaphylaxis, the response seems to be triggered by the sugar, or alpha gals, that are contained in the meat. This finding sheds new light on the allergic reaction process and as such, may help to shape future treatment options.

If you have type A or O blood and are worried about your risk for delayed anaphylaxis, just knowing it exists is an important first step. You should always try to avoid being bitten by a tick, regardless of your blood type. The best way to protect yourself is to wear long sleeves and pants when hiking or traveling in wooded areas. It's also a good idea to use insect repellent as an extra precaution. After spending time outside, check yourself carefully for ticks and if you do find any and could be vulnerable to a delayed allergic reaction, be sure to call your doctor for advice.

If in doubt, you may want to swear off red meat and stick to eating chicken and fish for a while. You should also ask your doctor if it's necessary to carry an EpiPen® in case of an emergency. If you do notice any unusual symptoms, always seek medical treatment immediately.

Sources:

Commins, SP, et al. "JACI Highlights - December 2008: Delayed Anaphylaxis, Angioedema or Urticaria After Consumption of Red Meat in Patients with IgE Antibodies Specific for Galactose-a-,3-Galactose (alpha-gal)." American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology. AAAAI, Dec. 2008. Web. 19 May 2011.

Commins SP, et al "Testing for IgE Antibody to the Carbohydrate Galactose-a-1,3- Galactose (alpha-gal) in Patients with Recurrent, Idiopathic Anaphylaxis: How Many Cases are We Missing?" American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology. AAAAI, 2010. Web. 19 May 2011.

"Study describes "delayed anaphylaxis," a new notion in diagnosing food allergies." University of Virginia Health System. Healthsystem.virginia.edu. May 14 2009. Web. 19 May 2011.

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What You Need to Know About Barrett�s Esophagus

Barrett's esophagus is a rare disorder-affecting about one percent of adults in the U.S.-in which the lining of the esophagus (the tube, also called the food pipe, which carries food from the throat to the stomach) is damaged by stomach acid. Although the condition itself doesn't cause symptoms, the acid reflux that causes Barrett's esophagus frequently leads to heartburn and is commonly found in people with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). In rare instances, Barrett's esophagus may develop into esophageal cancer.

When you eat, the food you put in your mouth passes down your throat to the stomach through the esophagus. Once the food is in your stomach, a ring of muscles keeps it from leaking backward into the esophagus. If the muscles don't close tightly, stomach acid can leak back, or reflux, into the esophagus. When this reflux damages the lining of the esophagus, it's referred to as Barrett's esophagus. The condition occurs more commonly in men than women, and is more likely to be found in people who have had GERD for a long time. In fact, treatment for GERD may prevent Barrett's esophagus from developing.

Because Barrett's esophagus itself doesn't cause symptoms, many doctors recommend that adults over 40 who have had GERD for many years undergo an endoscopy, a test in which a thin tube with a camera on the end is inserted through your mouth and passes into your esophagus and stomach. While the test is being performed, your doctor may take tissue biopsies from different parts of the esophagus to make a positive diagnosis of Barrett's and to look for changes that could lead to cancer.

If a tissue biopsy shows cell changes in the esophagus, called high-grade dysplasia-which  may lead to cancer-your  doctor may recommend surgery or other procedures to remove the damaged tissue where the cancer is most likely to develop. Treatment may include:

Surgery to remove most of the esophagus if you have severe dysplasia or cancer. A portion of the stomach is then pulled up into the chest and attached to the remaining portion of the esophagus.Photodynamic therapy, which involves the use of a laser device called an esophageal balloon along with a drug called Photofrin®.Other procedures using different types of high energy to destroy the precancerous tissue.

See your doctor if your heartburn symptoms last longer than a few days, if you have pain or difficulty swallowing, if your GERD symptoms get worse, or new symptoms such as weight loss or problems swallowing develop.

Sources:

http://www.digestive.niddk.nih.gov/ddiseases/pubs/barretts/

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0002128/

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Omega-3, Omega-6, Omega-9: The Basics

Three-six-nine, the goose drank wine... or was it fish oil? If it was fish oil, or certain vegetable oils, that would be one healthy goose because the omega-3, omega-6, and omega-9 fatty acids found in these oils confer a variety of medical benefits when they are consumed on a regular basis and in the right amounts.

Omega-3

You need omega-3 fatty acids because they are a vital part of the membrane that surrounds every cell in your body. Omega-3 fatty acids are called "essential fatty acids" because, unlike other types of fat, your body cannot produce them on its own. You must get omega-3's from your diet.

Omega-3's help reduce your risk of developing heart disease or having a stroke by decreasing LDL (bad) cholesterol levels in your body and also by decrease triglycerides (blood fats) that circulate throughout your body. Omega-3's help keep your arteries "elastic" and prevent fatty plaque from building up in your artery walls. They thin your blood, decreasing your risk of developing blood clots. In addition, omega-3 fatty acids reduce inflammation and may help control rheumatoid arthritis, eczema and other autoimmune condition.

The most functional forms of omega-3 fatty acids are called EPA and DHA. They are found in oily fish, such as salmon, bluefish, herring, sardines, mackerel, and tuna. DHA is linked to brain development and brain and nerve tissue. Another omega-3 fatty acid, known as ALA is found in vegetable oils, flaxseed, soybeans and walnuts. ALA can be converted by your body into EPA and DHA.

Omega-6
Omega-6 fatty acid-found in vegetable oils, nuts and seeds—help reduce your risk of heart disease by reducing total and LDL cholesterol when they are used in place of animal fats in your diet. However, too many omega-6 fatty acids can have the opposite effect and increase your risk of developing heart disease and other conditions by promoting inflammation in your body. They may also decrease your blood levels of HDL cholesterol and interfere with your body's ability to use ALA and convert it to EPA and DHA.

Omega-9
Food sources of omega-9 fatty acids include canola oil olive oil, peanut oil, and safflower oil. But your body produces sufficient amounts of its own omega-9 fatty acids so, unlike the other omegas, "9's" are not considered essential and therefore don't get the same amount of attention as "3's" and "6's."  But whether they come from within your body or from your diet, omega-9's are also known to help reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke by lowering LDL cholesterol and raising HDL cholesterol levels in the blood.

The Bottom Line
Omega fatty acids are only good for you when consumed in the right balance, and that balance is 2:1 to 4:1, omega-6 to omega 3. Unfortunately, the typical American diet has contained anywhere from 10 to 30 times more omega 6 than omega 3. To counter this imbalance, the American Heart Association and other medical experts recommend eating oily seafood at least twice a week to increase your omega-3 intake. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, the Mediterranean diet is a good example of a diet that provides a better balance of the three omega fatty acids. It is a diet that is rich in fruits and vegetables, whole grains, seafood and poultry and emphasizes olive and vegetable oils while at the same time de-emphasizing red meat, butter and heavy cream.

If you are considering taking fish oil supplements to increase your omega-3's, and especially if you have been diagnosed with heart disease, speak with your doctor first to find out which type of supplements, and in what dose, is best for you.

Sources:

Candelaria, S. "Omega 3-6-9: What Does It All Add Up To?" University of Miami Health System. May 19, 2009 Web. May 18, 2011.
http://wellness.med.miami.edu/documents/Omega%203.6.9.pdf

Oregon State University: Essential Fatty Acids. 2009 Web. May 18, 2011
http://lpi.oregonstate.edu/infocenter/othernuts/omega3fa/

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Timing Matters in a Delayed Allergic Reaction

Timing is everything when it comes to suffering a serious allergic reaction.

Until recently, most doctors believed that an anaphylactic response always occurred within minutes of exposure to an allergen. But now some experts from the medical community have discovered that for a small group of people, the window for experiencing an allergic response can be much wider than expected.

Scientists from the University of Virginia have discovered a new phenomenon called "delayed anaphylactic reaction" or "delayed anaphylaxis." This condition, which can occur between three and six hours after exposure to an allergen, doesn't seem to be widespread. It only affects people with certain blood types, including A and O, who have recently been bitten by a common tick. (People with other blood types seem to be immune to the problem.) The tick bite seems to kick-start the allergy process by changing the way a person's immune system responds to red meats such as beef and lamb.

The symptoms of a delayed allergic reaction are usually progressive, starting with itching, then moving into hives, swelling, and intestinal distress. In some cases, swelling of the airways and difficulty breathing, rapid heart rate, and a drop in blood pressure can also occur, and can even be life threatening. 

The findings, reported in The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology in 2008, reveal that the way red meat triggers a delayed allergic reaction is different from what scientists have always expected. In regular allergic reactions, the body responds to the protein contained in the allergen. But with delayed anaphylaxis, the response seems to be triggered by the sugar, or alpha gals, that are contained in the meat. This finding sheds new light on the allergic reaction process and as such, may help to shape future treatment options.

If you have type A or O blood and are worried about your risk for delayed anaphylaxis, just knowing it exists is an important first step. You should always try to avoid being bitten by a tick, regardless of your blood type. The best way to protect yourself is to wear long sleeves and pants when hiking or traveling in wooded areas. It's also a good idea to use insect repellent as an extra precaution. After spending time outside, check yourself carefully for ticks and if you do find any and could be vulnerable to a delayed allergic reaction, be sure to call your doctor for advice.

If in doubt, you may want to swear off red meat and stick to eating chicken and fish for a while. You should also ask your doctor if it's necessary to carry an EpiPen® in case of an emergency. If you do notice any unusual symptoms, always seek medical treatment immediately.

Sources:

Commins, SP, et al. "JACI Highlights - December 2008: Delayed Anaphylaxis, Angioedema or Urticaria After Consumption of Red Meat in Patients with IgE Antibodies Specific for Galactose-a-,3-Galactose (alpha-gal)." American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology. AAAAI, Dec. 2008. Web. 19 May 2011.

Commins SP, et al "Testing for IgE Antibody to the Carbohydrate Galactose-a-1,3- Galactose (alpha-gal) in Patients with Recurrent, Idiopathic Anaphylaxis: How Many Cases are We Missing?" American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology. AAAAI, 2010. Web. 19 May 2011.

"Study describes "delayed anaphylaxis," a new notion in diagnosing food allergies." University of Virginia Health System. Healthsystem.virginia.edu. May 14 2009. Web. 19 May 2011.

View the original article here

How to Manage Allergic Asthma

Do you know exactly what triggers your asthma? If you notice that you're coping with increased flare-ups in your bronchial tubes during certain times of the year, it's likely that seasonal allergens such as mold, pollen, and ragweed could be sparking your symptoms.

Allergic asthma is the most common form of asthma, according to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology (AAAAI). And the spring and summer months can be particularly difficult if you're among the many sufferers.  Yet you don't have to hide until the season changes. You just need to do some careful planning so you can weather your allergic asthma and keep it from interfering with your regular activities.

As the name implies, allergic asthma is really just asthma that occurs when you become exposed to allergens that set your immune system into overdrive. Seasonal factors can be big triggers, but so can other allergens including dust, pets, cleaning supplies, and scented bath products. This type of asthma occurs when you inhale in particles, which irritates your airways and causes them to become inflamed. Your body has an immune-system response to these triggers, releasing a chemical that causes inflammation and airway swelling

The symptoms of allergic asthma are usually the same as with asthma not triggered by allergens, including:

CoughingChest tightness Difficulty breathing or shortness of breathWheezing

If you suspect you have allergic asthma, keep track of your symptoms and note when they occur, so you can begin to make some connections. You may also need to undergo allergy testing.

Once you understand the cause of your condition, the best way to manage it is by working with your doctor to develop a comprehensive asthma action plan. Your plan should include essential information to help you head off problems. Your plan should include:

Identifying your allergic asthma triggers and how to avoid themUse of a peak flow meter to monitor your breathing capacity and help you identify any changes in your breathingA list of early warning signs that indicate you're getting into troubleA list of your allergy and asthma control medications and how to use them properly.

Sources:

"Diseases 101: Asthma." American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology. AAAAI, n.d. Web. 24 May 2011.

"Topic of the Month - March - Is Your Asthma Allergic?" American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology. AAAAI, 1 March 2008. Web. 24 May 2011.

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Pulmonary Embolism: Causes, Symptoms, Treatments

Pulmonary embolism is a frightening condition that often comes on suddenly. You can go from feeling fine one moment to coughing and gasping for breath the next. And it can happen to anyone, although certain people are more prone to it than others. What exactly causes pulmonary embolism, and is there a way to lower your risk? Read on for some insight into this frightening malady:

What is pulmonary embolism? Pulmonary embolism results from a blockage in an artery that feeds the lungs. Most often, this blockage is caused by a blood clot that has traveled from elsewhere in the body such as the leg. It's common to have multiple blockages resulting from several clots that may lodge in more than one artery.

How do I know I have pulmonary embolism? A sudden pain in the chest, a feeling of weakness, coughing (sometimes with blood) all indicate the possibility of pulmonary embolism. You may find the pain worsening if you bend over, inhale deeply, or cough. You may be convinced you're having a heart attack. You may also feel faint, have an irregular or rapid heartbeat, be sweating, and have swelling in the legs.

How quickly should I get to a doctor? As fast as possible. Pulmonary embolism can be deadly if not treated—in fact, about a third of all people who don't seek treatment will die. Some of the tests that will help doctors and hospital personnel determine whether you're suffering from pulmonary embolism include chest x-rays, lung scan, CT scan, blood tests, and pulmonary angiogram. Pulmonary angiogram usually is the test of last resort if other tests are inconclusive. With this test, a small tube is put into a large groin vein and threaded through the heart into your pulmonary arteries. A special dye is then injected into the tube so doctors can see any blockages.

How is pulmonary embolism treated? The first line of defense is to break up any clots that exist. A clot-dissolving medication is administered, and surgery may be necessary if the clot is unusually large or hard to dissolve. It's common to stay on blood-thinning medication for long periods of time after having pulmonary embolism.

Can I prevent this condition? You can definitely reduce your risk by avoiding long periods of immobility. When flying, get up and move around the cabin. Don't sit with your legs crossed. If you must lie or sit for long periods, such as when you're confined to bed rest, talk to your doctor about your risk and if there's any medication you can take to prevent clots from forming.

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The Alexander Technique

Most of us move without giving it much thought. We balance, walk, sit, dance and work the way we always have. But what if we discovered we'd been doing it wrong and could improve our health and wellbeing by relearning to move properly? That's the concept behind the Alexander Technique, which teaches that changing your moving habits could decrease pain and improve your posture, outlook and productivity. Could the Alexander Technique work for you?

The Alexander Technique was developed by Austrian actor, Frederick Matthias Alexander (1869-1955). When doctors failed to cure his chronic voice problems, Alexander investigated other methods to relieve tension in his neck and use his voice differently. He successfully solved his own voice problems, and went on to teach how tension affects other areas of the body. This developed into The Alexander Technique, a more than 100-year-old educational method taught by trained instructors all over the world. 

The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine defines the Alexander Technique as a movement therapy that uses guidance and education to improve posture and movement and use muscles more efficiently. It's frequently used as an approach to treating low back pain, but isn't considered a pain-relief therapy.

The American Society for the Alexander Technique says, "By teaching how to change faulty postural habits, the Alexander Technique enables improved mobility, posture, performance and alertness and relief of chronic stiffness, tension and stress."

Much of this posture-focused technique involves learning how to properly align the head, neck and spine for the most fluid, least tiring movement. Children do this naturally, but as people grow older, they spend more time sitting and walking with their head slumped forward. They bend improperly and carry their weight in unnatural ways. These movements become ingrained habits that eventually cause wear and tear.

During a series of six to twenty-four individualized sessions, trained Alexander Technique instructors evaluate students' posture and movements and help them relearn healthier habits. The Alexander Technique teaches these basic concepts:

Recognizing habits developed over a lifetime (some healthy and some not) is a first step towards change.Faulty Sensory Appreciation happens when habits interfere with a person's ability to interpret physical feedback and change things that may be causing harm.Inhibition allows a person to choose how they'll act and move instead of simply repeating a habit.Direction teaches a person to intentionally relay a message from the brain through the nervous system to the muscles so they can use the muscular system more efficiently.Primary Control determines the quality of movement through the relationship of the head, neck and back. That relationship is either compressed (slumped) or free.

Does it work? Many Alexander Technique students say they've eliminated pain and improved their energy levels and productivity. A study published in the British Medical Journal says one-to-one lessons in the Alexander technique from registered teachers provide long-term benefits for patients with chronic back pain.  

Other than the expense associated with individualized instructional sessions, there are no adverse side effects to improving posture and reducing tension. The benefits may be life changing.

Sources:

American Society for the Alexander Technique

http://www.amsatonline.org/

British Medical Journal

Randomized controlled trial of Alexander technique lessons, exercise, and massage (ATEAM) for chronic and recurrent back pain

Paul Little

BMJ 2008; 337:a884 doi: 10.1136/bmj.a884 (Published 19 August 2008)

http://www.bmj.com/content/337/bmj.a884.full

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Chronic Cough and Asthma

Got a cough that's keeping you up all night? Most of us cough when we have a cold, as it's the body's way of clearing the bronchial passages. But when a cough lingers long after your cold has gone, it could be time to see if it's related to asthma.

There are several possible reasons that a chronic cough and asthma go hand in hand. For instance, an asthma cough can occur when the nerves of the airways become irritated by cold air, allergens, or other issues. Many asthmatics also find that their airways fill with mucus during an asthma attack, and they need to cough to clear the passages. In addition, in people with allergic asthma, the allergies can cause post nasal drip, which is when mucus drips down the back of the nose into the throat, prompting the coughing reflex.

Cough related to asthma often occurs along with other symptoms, including wheezing, chest tightness, and trouble breathing.  However, for a smaller group of asthmatics who suffer from a condition called cough variant asthma, a dry cough may exist without other effects, making it more difficult to diagnose.

If you have a chronic cough, with or without other symptoms, it's important to see your doctor. If she thinks that you could have either traditional asthma or cough variant asthma, you'll need to identify what things could set off your condition, such as exercise, cold air, or seasonal allergens.

Both traditional and cough variant asthma can be treated using asthma control medications to reduce inflammation. In addition, you'll want to carry a fast-acting relief inhaler to treat your asthma cough and/or other symptoms when they do occur.

When your asthma cough is interfering with your rest, try some simple remedies, such as drinking warm liquid to soothe your throat and thin the mucus, running a cool mist humidifier to moisten the air, and steering clear of carbonated drinks, which can irritate your throat and make coughing worse.

Pay attention to your symptoms. You can do this by checking your peak flow readings regularly and following your asthma action plan when you notice signs you could be heading into your danger zone. With proper care, you can put your asthma cough to bed so you can get some rest.

Sources:

"Adult Onset Asthma: What is Asthma?" Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. AAFA.org, 2005. Web. 19 May 2011.

"Chronic Cough: Causes and Cures." American Academy of Family Physicians. Familydoctor.org, Sept. 2010. Web. 19 May 2011.

"Diseases and Conditions Index: What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Asthma?" National Heart Lung and Blood Institute. NHLBI, Feb. 2011. Web. 19 May 2011.

"Diseases and Conditions Index: What Is Cough?" National Heart Lung and Blood Institute. NHLBI, Oct. 2010. Web. 19 May 2011.

Martin, Richard J et al. "Cough Variant Asthma." Medscape Pulmonary Medicine. Medscape Today, 11 Dec. 2003. Web. 19 May 2011.

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6 Sun Smarts for Babies and Toddlers

Sunshine warms our bodies, improves our mood and even gives us vitamin D—especially beneficial for strong bones and a healthy immune system. But the bright light has a dark side, too.

Too much sun damages our skin and causes premature wrinkling, spotting, and can cause skin cancer, the most serious of which is melanoma. There are two other types of skin cancer: basal cell and squamous cell carcinoma, and these can also be caused by sun exposure.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the U.S. More than 3.5 million skin cancers are diagnosed each year and melanoma causes more than 75 percent of skin cancer deaths.

Dawn Davis, MD, a board-certified pediatric dermatologist at the Mayo Clinic reports that the incidence of melanoma in childhood is rising. "Pediatric melanoma accounts for 18 percent of all melanoma cases," she says.

Taking steps now to protect their skin from the harmful effects of the sun could save their life later. Here, Dr. Davis' advice:

1. Keep infants under 6 months old out of the sun, period. Infants should be covered up in light clothing. Shield them from the sun by seeking shade and covering them with the hood of the baby carrier. Use a sun hat, too.

2. Sunscreen can be used on babies older than 6 months. The best sunscreens for young children contain zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. "Both chemicals are natural ingredients and act as sun blockers-reflecting the sun away from the skin-as opposed to sunscreens which cause a chemical reaction that diffuses the light and provide protection from the sun's harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays," explains the expert. "These products have a thick consistency and go on white."

3. Avoid products with oxybenzone. "It's the ingredient that will most likely trigger an allergic reaction in children," says Davis. If your child has an allergic reaction (skin that turns red and irritated at the site of the application), it will occur almost immediately. "Wash off the lotion and take the bottle to your physician or dermatologist who can do the detective work necessary to determine which ingredient(s) caused the sensitivity, but more often than not oxybenzone is the culprit."

4. Dress your kids in protective clothing if they hate sunscreen. Dr. Davis says the protection offered by the sun protective clothing is often higher than popular sunscreen products. Sun protective clothing typically has an SPF of 50 or more and is comfortable to wear. An ordinary cotton T-shirt by comparison has an SPF of 4. "If you don't want to make the investment in clothing they may soon grow out of, there is also a chemical rinse on the market that can be added directly to the laundry," advises the dermatologist. "It stays on the clothing for 4 to 5 washes. The trouble is you have to remember which clothes have been treated and how many times they've been washed."

5. Follow directions on the sunscreen label carefully. "People make two major mistakes when using sunscreen: they don't apply it correctly or neglect to reapply it," says Dr. Davis. "This is especially true of sunscreen sprays. Many parents don't stand close enough when applying and aren't even with the application so it can be tricky to use correctly. Still, it's an effective alternative for kids who don't like the feel of lotion on their skin or are in a big hurry to get to the pool."

6. If you have a family history of skin cancer or if your child has an excessive amount of moles, take him to a dermatologist. Moles can be cancerous and should be carefully monitored for rapid growth or changes. "Any time there is a suspicious spot on the skin-by that I mean a mole or blemish with a strange color or symptoms that can't be explained such as persistent itching, oozing, bleeding, it should be seen by a doctor," says Davis adding that a dermatologist also has the ability to conduct allergy testing. "A painless patch test which is performed on the child's back can be done to quickly determine which sunscreen ingredients are causing sensitivity."

Sources:
Dawn Davis, MD and board-certified pediatric dermatologist
Mayo Clinic in Cleveland, OH

National Institutes of Health
www.nlm.nih.gov

The American Academy of Dermatology
www.aad.org

The Skin Cancer Foundation
www.skincancer.org

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
www.CDC.org

View the original article here

The Stress and Longevity Connection

Certainly, good genes count when it comes to living to 100. And staying active, not smoking, and eating well all help you make it to a ripe old age. But new research shows that your mental habits might be just as important as your physical habits when it comes to longevity.

Geriatricians refer to a trait known as adaptive competence that they say is particularly evident in their very oldest patients. Loosely defined, adaptive competence is the ability to bounce back from stressful situations. The older you get, the more likely you are to suffer setbacks that may include losing friends and loved ones, suffering from bouts of ill health, and witnessing or being involved in traumatic events. In fact, tough times are all but inevitable. The key to staying alive, according to doctors who treat the elderly, is being able to get through these difficulties and then shrug them off.

A recent study at Yale University shed some light on the connection between positive mental attitude and longevity. A team there followed people in their fifties, tracking their health while at the same time having them answer questions about their perceptions of getting older. Even after controlling for medical problems, the subjects who agreed with statements such as "Things keep getting worse as I get older" or "As I get older I'm less useful" died an average of 7.5 years younger than subjects who had no use for such negativity.

A prominent gerontologist frequently mentions his oldest patient, a 109-year-old woman, who has a fondness for chocolate and beer and is a former smoker. She suffered a stroke several years ago but put herself through an intensive rehabilitation program and is no worse for the wear.

What else counts in the quest for old age besides resilience? A good sense of humor and an engagement in the world around you. There's a profound difference between simply existing and really living. And why bother trying to make it to age 100 or beyond if you're not going to take full advantage of your gift of years?

Source:

National Public Radio, www.npr.org

View the original article here

6 Sun Smarts for Babies and Toddlers

Sunshine warms our bodies, improves our mood and even gives us vitamin D—especially beneficial for strong bones and a healthy immune system. But the bright light has a dark side, too.

Too much sun damages our skin and causes premature wrinkling, spotting, and can cause skin cancer, the most serious of which is melanoma. There are two other types of skin cancer: basal cell and squamous cell carcinoma, and these can also be caused by sun exposure.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the U.S. More than 3.5 million skin cancers are diagnosed each year and melanoma causes more than 75 percent of skin cancer deaths.

Dawn Davis, MD, a board-certified pediatric dermatologist at the Mayo Clinic reports that the incidence of melanoma in childhood is rising. "Pediatric melanoma accounts for 18 percent of all melanoma cases," she says.

Taking steps now to protect their skin from the harmful effects of the sun could save their life later. Here, Dr. Davis' advice:

1. Keep infants under 6 months old out of the sun, period. Infants should be covered up in light clothing. Shield them from the sun by seeking shade and covering them with the hood of the baby carrier. Use a sun hat, too.

2. Sunscreen can be used on babies older than 6 months. The best sunscreens for young children contain zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. "Both chemicals are natural ingredients and act as sun blockers-reflecting the sun away from the skin-as opposed to sunscreens which cause a chemical reaction that diffuses the light and provide protection from the sun's harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays," explains the expert. "These products have a thick consistency and go on white."

3. Avoid products with oxybenzone. "It's the ingredient that will most likely trigger an allergic reaction in children," says Davis. If your child has an allergic reaction (skin that turns red and irritated at the site of the application), it will occur almost immediately. "Wash off the lotion and take the bottle to your physician or dermatologist who can do the detective work necessary to determine which ingredient(s) caused the sensitivity, but more often than not oxybenzone is the culprit."

4. Dress your kids in protective clothing if they hate sunscreen. Dr. Davis says the protection offered by the sun protective clothing is often higher than popular sunscreen products. Sun protective clothing typically has an SPF of 50 or more and is comfortable to wear. An ordinary cotton T-shirt by comparison has an SPF of 4. "If you don't want to make the investment in clothing they may soon grow out of, there is also a chemical rinse on the market that can be added directly to the laundry," advises the dermatologist. "It stays on the clothing for 4 to 5 washes. The trouble is you have to remember which clothes have been treated and how many times they've been washed."

5. Follow directions on the sunscreen label carefully. "People make two major mistakes when using sunscreen: they don't apply it correctly or neglect to reapply it," says Dr. Davis. "This is especially true of sunscreen sprays. Many parents don't stand close enough when applying and aren't even with the application so it can be tricky to use correctly. Still, it's an effective alternative for kids who don't like the feel of lotion on their skin or are in a big hurry to get to the pool."

6. If you have a family history of skin cancer or if your child has an excessive amount of moles, take him to a dermatologist. Moles can be cancerous and should be carefully monitored for rapid growth or changes. "Any time there is a suspicious spot on the skin-by that I mean a mole or blemish with a strange color or symptoms that can't be explained such as persistent itching, oozing, bleeding, it should be seen by a doctor," says Davis adding that a dermatologist also has the ability to conduct allergy testing. "A painless patch test which is performed on the child's back can be done to quickly determine which sunscreen ingredients are causing sensitivity."

Sources:
Dawn Davis, MD and board-certified pediatric dermatologist
Mayo Clinic in Cleveland, OH

National Institutes of Health
www.nlm.nih.gov

The American Academy of Dermatology
www.aad.org

The Skin Cancer Foundation
www.skincancer.org

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
www.CDC.org

View the original article here

Rock Climbing: A Growing Fitness Trend

If scrambling over boulders, climbing walls, and reaching new heights is your idea of a good time, then rock climbing may be your next sport.  Rock climbing gyms, classes, and groups are springing up all over. Whether you live in the city or country, mountains or desert, you can be a part of this fun and growing trend.

Rock climbing is getting a lot of attention as the latest fitness craze, but it's actually been considered a sport for centuries. New and safer equipment and a renewed interest in the great outdoors mean more people are gearing up, joining climbing gyms and rediscovering the joy of rocks. Rock climbing is nothing short of adventurous, making it perfect for thrill seekers, extreme sports enthusiasts, and anyone looking for one heck of a total-body workout.

Why do people rock climb? 

It's fun and challenging.  It offers a sense of community as climbers work together to create a safe experience and achieve their goal.  Outdoor climbing offers a way to explore nature, enjoy fresh air and sunshine, and scale heights in a truly unique and hands-on adventure.  It provides functional strength, cardio, balance, and flexibility training.  It requires problem solving and high level concentration to puzzle out the best strategies for tackling a climbing route.

Where do you start?

Rock climbing beginners should learn the ropes at an indoor climbing gym or on a climbing wall with plenty of padding on the ground.  Safety is crucial with this sport as mistakes can cause critical injuries.  Find a certified rock-climbing instructor to teach you about basic equipment, holds, climbing techniques, and to provide safe back-up to prevent falls.  Classes are available at gyms all over the world. 

Instructors teach you how to inspect your gear, buckles, harnesses, and ropes and where to place your feet and hands on pre-determined holds.  You'll study the basics of top-roping (a rope is threaded through a pre-set anchor at the top of a climbing route, then attached to a climber's harness) and how to belay a climbing partner (by holding a rope and applying tension to prevent your partner from falling too far). 

Once you've mastered beginner's techniques, you're ready to join an outdoor climbing group.  There are a variety of climbing styles to explore in all kinds of natural settings, including bouldering, scrambling, mountain climbing, ice climbing and competitive climbing.  You can go as far as you want with this indoor-outdoor sport, but never go it alone.  Always climb with an experienced partner. The sense of accomplishment climbers feel when they reach the top is a major motivator, but serious climbers will tell you, "It's not the summit, it's the climb."

View the original article here

Don't Let Chronic Pain Result in Social Isolation

People connect with friends and family through social activities and community events, sports and family gatherings.  When it hurts to be active, however, it's hard to stay connected. Friendships slip away and family members burn out. Chronic pain has a huge impact on people's social lives and often leaves them isolated, lonely and feeling socially rejected. Whether the person in pain is you or a loved one, we've got tips for staying connected.

If This Sounds Like You...

It's easy to feel alone and misunderstood when you live with chronic pain. It's also understandable if you don't feel like being social. Chronic pain actually changes the way your brain and body work together and frequently causes depression, anxiety, grief, fatigue, and loneliness.  New studies reveal that social isolation and feelings of rejection also translate to real physical feelings of pain. It's a catch-22 that you have to take control of.  What can you do? 

Talk to your doctor. If you aren't receiving proper medical support, you may not be getting readily available pain relief. Getting the right medications and therapies can make all the difference in your lifestyle and social life.Get support. Make sure your family and friends understand you're dealing with a medical condition, but don't make them your only support system. No matter how sympathetic they are, it's impossible for someone who hasn't "been there" to really get what you're going through. Investigate support groups and therapists who specialize in your medical condition.Don't get stuck being sick. Don't let your health condition take center stage in all your activities and relationships. Limit the time you spend talking about your condition and engaging in activities that are focused on illness. Cultivate hobbies, activities and friendships that support the healthy part of you.Just do it. Commit to staying connect with friends and family regularly and don't let yourself off the hook unless you're really unwell. Sometimes getting out the door is the hardest part. Once you're engaged in an event, it's fun. Try to:
- Schedule regular coffee dates. 
- Volunteer at church functions or community organizations
- Sign up for classes at a community center Exercise. Hit two birds with one stone and join an exercise class. You'll feel better physically and connect with other people. Choose classes like yoga, designed for your age group and abilities. Be a cheerleader. If you can't play sports or take part in another activity, sit on the sidelines and support your friends.Go online. The Internet makes keeps you connected even when you need to stay home. Some outlets include:
- Join online support groups. 
- Join Facebook or other social networking sites
- Stay in touch through email.

Staying close to someone with chronic pain is no easy feat. They can be irritable, tired, depressed, anxious and clingy.  That can wear down even the most supportive person. How can you help without burning out?

Insist your family member gets medical and psychological support.Consider joining a support group- Having a network that truly understands can be a lifesaver.Don't lose site of your own life - Stay connected to your other friends, family and priorities.Set reasonable limits so your "painful friend" knows when to lean on someone else. Ask your family member for appropriate help and support when you need it. Despite their pain, they still have valuable insights and contributions to make to your relationship.

View the original article here

Don't Let Chronic Pain Result in Social Isolation

People connect with friends and family through social activities and community events, sports and family gatherings.  When it hurts to be active, however, it's hard to stay connected. Friendships slip away and family members burn out. Chronic pain has a huge impact on people's social lives and often leaves them isolated, lonely and feeling socially rejected. Whether the person in pain is you or a loved one, we've got tips for staying connected.

If This Sounds Like You...

It's easy to feel alone and misunderstood when you live with chronic pain. It's also understandable if you don't feel like being social. Chronic pain actually changes the way your brain and body work together and frequently causes depression, anxiety, grief, fatigue, and loneliness.  New studies reveal that social isolation and feelings of rejection also translate to real physical feelings of pain. It's a catch-22 that you have to take control of.  What can you do? 

Talk to your doctor. If you aren't receiving proper medical support, you may not be getting readily available pain relief. Getting the right medications and therapies can make all the difference in your lifestyle and social life.Get support. Make sure your family and friends understand you're dealing with a medical condition, but don't make them your only support system. No matter how sympathetic they are, it's impossible for someone who hasn't "been there" to really get what you're going through. Investigate support groups and therapists who specialize in your medical condition.Don't get stuck being sick. Don't let your health condition take center stage in all your activities and relationships. Limit the time you spend talking about your condition and engaging in activities that are focused on illness. Cultivate hobbies, activities and friendships that support the healthy part of you.Just do it. Commit to staying connect with friends and family regularly and don't let yourself off the hook unless you're really unwell. Sometimes getting out the door is the hardest part. Once you're engaged in an event, it's fun. Try to:
- Schedule regular coffee dates. 
- Volunteer at church functions or community organizations
- Sign up for classes at a community center Exercise. Hit two birds with one stone and join an exercise class. You'll feel better physically and connect with other people. Choose classes like yoga, designed for your age group and abilities. Be a cheerleader. If you can't play sports or take part in another activity, sit on the sidelines and support your friends.Go online. The Internet makes keeps you connected even when you need to stay home. Some outlets include:
- Join online support groups. 
- Join Facebook or other social networking sites
- Stay in touch through email.

Staying close to someone with chronic pain is no easy feat. They can be irritable, tired, depressed, anxious and clingy.  That can wear down even the most supportive person. How can you help without burning out?

Insist your family member gets medical and psychological support.Consider joining a support group- Having a network that truly understands can be a lifesaver.Don't lose site of your own life - Stay connected to your other friends, family and priorities.Set reasonable limits so your "painful friend" knows when to lean on someone else. Ask your family member for appropriate help and support when you need it. Despite their pain, they still have valuable insights and contributions to make to your relationship.

View the original article here

Could You Have Spinal Stenosis?

If you're like millions of other Americans, your lower back hurts. This pain may be intermittent or it may be more constant. And if you're like a lot of other Americans, you throw back some ibuprofen and resign yourself to living with the discomfort. It's simple arthritis, you tell yourself, or perhaps the result of overdoing it at the gym. And while that may be true, you also may be suffering from a condition known as spinal stenosis.

Spinal stenosis is a classic disease of aging. It's a narrowing of the spinal column resulting from the simultaneous shrinking and drying out of the spinal discs and the swelling or growth of the spinal bones and ligaments, perhaps due to arthritis. But it also may be caused be an injury to the spinal cord or a past herniated or slipped disc. Other possible causes of this condition are congenital spinal defects or tumors in the spine.

When your spinal column narrows, it can cause a variety of symptoms. Typically, you'll notice them on one side of the body. These can include weakness or numbness in the back, buttocks, or legs, as well as similar sensations in the neck, shoulders, or arms. The discomfort tends to worsen when you stand or walk and lessens when you're seated. This is why many people with spinal stenosis have trouble walking for too long but can ride a bicycle without complaint. More serious cases can cause difficulty maintaining balance while walking and urinary and bowel problems.

How does your doctor determine that you have spinal stenosis? A series of tests demonstrating how easily you walk, bend, sit, stand, and lift and lower your legs may be administered. Depending on the results, you may also need an x-ray and MRI or CT scan of the spine.

Doctors generally prefer that people with spinal stenosis manage it gently as opposed to aggressively. Pain medication and physical therapy are the treatments of choice, with steroid injections employed at times. If your pain worsens or is not helped by these first-line treatments, surgery may be an option to explore. Generally, people with spinal stenosis can live normal, active lives with some modifications.

Source:

National Center for Biotechnology Information, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

View the original article here