Alternative Healing

AIDS

2008-05-10T06:32:00.000-07:00

Definition
Acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) is an infectious disease caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). It was first recognized in the United States in 1981. AIDS is the advanced form of infection with the HIV virus, which may not cause disease for a long period after the initial exposure (latency). Infection with HIV weakens the immune system which makes infected people susceptible to infection and cancer.

Description
AIDS is considered one of the most devastating public health problems in recent history. In 1996, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimated that one million persons in the United States were HIV-positive, and 223,000 are living with AIDS. Of these patients, 44% were gay or bisexual men, 26% are heterosexual intravenous drug users, and 18% were women. In addition, approximately 1,000-2,000 children are born each year with HIV infection. In 2002, the CDC reported 42,136 new AIDS diagnoses in the United States, a 2.2% increase from the previous year. AIDS cases rose among gay and bisexual men (7.1% in 25 states that report regularly). The disease also seems to be rising among older Americans. From 1990 to 2001, the number of cases in Americans age 50 years or older rose from 16,288 to 90,153.
The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that 40 million people worldwide were infected with AIDS/HIV as of 2001. Most of these cases are in the developing countries of Asia and Africa. In 2003, WHO cautioned that if treatment were not delivered soon to nearly 6 million people with AIDS in developing countries, there could be 45 million cases by 2010.
Risk factors
AIDS can be transmitted in several ways. The risk factors for HIV transmission vary according to category:

Sexual contact. Persons at greatest risk are those who do not practice safe sex, are not monogamous, participate in anal intercourse, and have sex with a partner with symptoms of advanced HIV infection and/or other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). In the United States and Europe, most cases of sexually transmitted HIV infection have resulted from homosexual contact, whereas in Africa, the disease is spread primarily through sexual intercourse among heterosexuals.
Transmission in pregnancy. High-risk mothers include women married to bisexual men or men who have an abnormal blood condition called hemophilia and require blood transfusions, intravenous drug users, and women living in neighborhoods with a high rate of HIV infection among heterosexuals. The chances of transmitting the disease to the child are higher in women in advanced stages of the disease. Breast feeding increases the risk of transmission by 10-20% and is not recommended. The use of zidovudine (AZT) during pregnancy and delivery, however, can decrease the risk of transmission to the baby.
Exposure to contaminated blood or blood products. With the introduction of blood product screening in the mid-1980s, the incidence of HIV transmission in blood transfusions has dropped to 1 in 100,000.
Needle sticks among health care professionals. Present studies indicate that the risk of HIV transmission by a needle stick is about 1 in 250. This rate can be decreased if the injured worker is given AZT or triple therapy (HAART), the current standard.

HIV is not transmitted by handshakes or other casual non-sexual contact, coughing or sneezing, or by bloodsucking insects such as mosquitoes.
AIDS in women
AIDS in women is a serious public health concern. Women exposed to HIV infection through heterosexual contact are the most rapidly growing risk group in the United States. The percentage of AIDS cases diagnosed in women has risen from 7% in 1985 to 18% in 1996. For unknown reasons, women with AIDS do not live as long as men with AIDS.
AIDS in children
Because AIDS can be transmitted from an infected mother to her child during pregnancy, during the birth process, or through breast milk, all infants born to HIV positive mothers are at risk. As of 1997, it was estimated that 84% of HIV-positive women are of childbearing age; 41% of them are drug abusers. Between 15-30% of children born to HIV-positive women will be infected with the virus.
AIDS is one of the 10 leading causes of death in children between one and four years of age worldwide. The interval between exposure to HIV and the development of AIDS is shorter in children than in adults. Infants infected with HIV have a 20-30% chance of developing AIDS within a year and dying before age three. In the remainder, AIDS progresses more slowly; the average child patient survives to seven years of age. Some survive into early adolescence.

Causes & symptoms
Because HIV destroys immune system cells, AIDS is a disease that can affect any of the body’s major organ systems. HIV attacks the body through three disease processes: immunodeficiency, autoimmunity, and nervous system dysfunction.
Immunodeficiency describes the condition in which the body’s immune response is damaged, weakened, or is not functioning properly. In AIDS, immunodeficiency results from the way that the virus binds to a protein called CD4, which is found on certain white blood cells, including helper T cells, macrophages, and monocytes. Once HIV attaches to an immune system cell, it can
replicate within the cell and kill the cell. In addition to killing some lymphocytes directly, the AIDS virus disrupts the functioning of other CD4 cells. Because the immune system cells are destroyed, infections and cancers that take advantage of a person’s weakened immune system (opportunistic) can develop.
Autoimmunity is a condition in which the body’s immune system produces antibodies that work against its own cells. Antibodies are specific proteins produced in response to exposure to a specific, usually foreign, protein or particle called an antigen. In this case, the body produces antibodies that bind to blood platelets that are necessary for proper blood clotting and tissue repair. Once bound, the antibodies mark the platelets for removal from the body, and they are filtered out by the spleen. Some AIDS patients develop a disorder, called immune-related thrombocytopenia purpura (ITP), in which the number of blood platelets drops to abnormally low levels.
The course of AIDS generally progresses through three stages, although not all patients will follow this progression precisely:
Acute retroviral syndrome
Acute retroviral syndrome is a term used to describe a group of symptoms that can resemble mononucleosis and that may be the first sign of HIV infection in 50-70% of all patients and 45-90% of women. The symptoms may include fever, fatigue, muscle aches, loss of appetite, digestive disturbances, weight loss, skin rashes, headache, and chronically swollen lymph nodes (lymphadenopathy). Approximately 25-33% of patients will experience a form of meningitis during this phase, in which the membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord become inflamed. Acute retroviral syndrome develops between one and six weeks after infection and lasts two to four weeks, sometimes up to six weeks. Blood tests during this period will indicate the presence of virus (viremia) and the appearance of the viral p24 antigen in the blood.
Latency period
After the HIV virus enters a patient’s lymph nodes during the acute retroviral syndrome stage, the disease becomes latent for as many as 10 years or more before symptoms of advanced disease develop. During latency, the virus continues to replicate in the lymph nodes, where it may cause one or more of the following conditions.
PERSISTENT GENERALIZED LYMPHADENOPATHY (PGL). Persistent generalized lymphadenopathy, or PGL, is a condition in which HIV continues to produce chronic painless swellings in the lymph nodes during the latency period. The lymph nodes most frequently affected by PGL are those in the areas of the neck, jaw, groin, and armpits. PGL affects between 50-70% of patients during latency.
CONSTITUTIONAL SYMPTOMS. Many patients will develop low-grade fevers, chronic fatigue, and general weakness. HIV also may cause a combination of food malabsorption, loss of appetite, and increased metabolism that contribute to the so-called AIDS wasting or wasting syndrome.
OTHER ORGAN SYSTEMS. At any time during the course of HIV infection, patients may suffer from a yeast infection in the mouth called thrush, open sores or ulcers, or other infections of the mouth; diarrhea and other gastrointestinal symptoms that cause malnutrition and weight loss; diseases of the lungs and kidneys; and degeneration of the nerve fibers in the arms and legs. HIV infection of the nervous system leads to general loss of strength, loss of reflexes, and feelings of numbness or burning sensations in the feet or lower legs.
Late-stage AIDS
Late-stage AIDS usually is marked by a sharp decline in the number of CD4+ lymphocytes (a type of white blood cell), followed by a rise in the frequency of opportunistic infections and cancers. Doctors monitor the number and proportion of CD4+ lymphocytes in the patient’s blood in order to assess the progression of the disease and the effectiveness of different medications. About 10% of infected individuals never progress to this overt stage of the disease.
OPPORTUNISTIC INFECTIONS. Once the patient’s CD4+ lymphocyte count falls below 200 cells/mm3, he or she is at risk for opportunistic infections. The infectious organisms may include:

Fungi. Fungal infections include a yeast infection of the mouth (candidiasis or thrush) and cryptococcal meningitis.
Protozoa. The most common parasitic disease associated with AIDS is Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia (PCP). About 70-80% of AIDS patients will have at least one episode of PCP prior to death. PCP is the immediate cause of death in 15-20% of AIDS patients. It is an important measure of a patient’s prognosis. Toxoplasmosis is another common infection in AIDS patients that is caused by a protozoan. Other diseases in this category include amebiasis and cryptosporidiosis.
Mycobacteria. AIDS patients may develop tuberculosis or MAC infections. MAC infections are caused by Mycobacterium avium-intracellulare, and occur in about 40% of AIDS patients.
Bacteria. AIDS patients are likely to develop bacterial infections of the skin and digestive tract.
Viruses. AIDS patients are highly vulnerable to cytomegalovirus (CMV), herpes simplex virus (HSV), varicella zoster virus (VZV), and Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infections. Another virus, JC virus, causes progressive destruction of brain tissue in the brain stem, cerebrum, and cerebellum (multifocal leukoencephalopathy or PML), which is regarded as an AIDS defining illness by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

AIDS DEMENTIA COMPLEX AND NEUROLOGIC COMPLICATIONS. AIDS dementia complex is a late complication of the disease. It is unclear whether it is caused by the direct effects of the virus on the brain or by intermediate causes. AIDS dementia complex is marked by loss of reasoning ability, loss of memory, inability to concentrate, apathy and loss of initiative, and unsteadiness or weakness in walking. Some patients also develop seizures.
MUSCULOSKELETAL COMPLICATIONS. Patients in late-stage AIDS may develop inflammations of the muscles, particularly in the hip area, and may have arthritislike pains in the joints.
ORAL SYMPTOMS. Patients may develop a condition called hairy leukoplakia of the tongue. This condition also is regarded by the CDC as an indicator of AIDS. Hairy leukoplakia is a white area of diseased tissue on the tongue that may be flat or slightly raised. It is caused by the Epstein-Barr virus.
AIDS-RELATED CANCERS. Patients with late-stage AIDS may develop Kaposi’s sarcoma (KS), a skin tumor that primarily affects homosexual men. KS is the most common AIDS-related malignancy. It is characterized by reddish-purple blotches or patches (brownish in African-Americans) on the skin or in the mouth. About 40% of patients with KS develop symptoms in the digestive tract or lungs. KS appears to be caused by a herpes virus.
The second most common form of cancer in AIDS patients is a tumor of the lymphatic system (lymphoma).
AIDS-related lymphomas often affect the central nervous system and develop very aggressively.
Invasive cancer of the cervix is an important diagnostic marker of AIDS in women.

Diagnosis
Because HIV infection produces such a wide range of symptoms, the CDC has drawn up a list of 34 conditions regarded as defining AIDS. The physician will use the CDC list to decide whether the patient falls into one of these three groups:

definitive diagnoses with or without laboratory evidence of HIV infection
definitive diagnoses with laboratory evidence of HIV infection
presumptive diagnoses with laboratory evidence of HIV infection

Physical findings
Almost all symptoms of AIDS can occur with other diseases. The general physical examination may range from normal findings to symptoms that are closely associated with AIDS. These symptoms are hairy leukoplakia of the tongue and Kaposi’s sarcoma. When the doctor examines the patient, he or she will look for the overall pattern of symptoms rather than any one finding.
Laboratory tests for HIV infection
BLOOD TESTS (SEROLOGY). The first blood test for AIDS was developed in 1985. At present, patients who are being tested for HIV infection usually are given an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) test for the presence of HIV antibody in their blood. Positive ELISA results then are tested with a Western blot or immunofluorescence (IFA) assay for confirmation. The combination of the ELISA and Western blot tests is more than 99.9% accurate in detecting HIV infection within four to eight weeks following exposure. The polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test can be used to detect the presence of viral nucleic acids in the very small number of HIV patients who have false-negative results on the ELISA and Western blot tests. In 2003, a one-step test that was quicker and cheaper was shown effective for detecting HIV in the physician office setting. However, further research was ongoing as to its effectiveness in replacing current tests as a first check for HIV.
OTHER LABORATORY TESTS. In addition to diagnostic blood tests, there are other blood tests that are used to track the course of AIDS. These include blood counts, viral load tests, p24 antigen assays, and measurements of 2-microglobulin (2M).
Doctors will use a wide variety of tests to diagnose the presence of opportunistic infections, cancers, or other disease conditions in AIDS patients. Tissue biopsies, samples of cerebrospinal fluid, and sophisticated imaging techniques, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography scans (CT) are used to diagnose AIDS-related cancers, some opportunistic infections, damage to the central nervous system, and wasting of the muscles. Urine and stool samples are used to diagnose infections caused by parasites. AIDS patients also are given blood tests for syphilis and other sexually transmitted diseases.
Diagnosis in children
Diagnostic blood testing in children older than 18 months is similar to adult testing, with ELISA screening confirmed by Western blot. Younger infants can be diagnosed by direct culture of the HIV virus, PCR testing, and p24 antigen testing.
In terms of symptoms, children are less likely than adults to have an early acute syndrome. They are, however, likely to have delayed growth, a history of frequent illness, recurrent ear infections, a low blood cell count, failure to gain weight, and unexplained fevers. Children with AIDS are more likely to develop bacterial infections, inflammation of the lungs, and AIDS-related brain disorders than are HIV-positive adults.

Treatment
AIDS patients turn to alternative medicine when conventional treatments are ineffective, and to supplement conventional treatment, reduce disease symptoms, counteract drug effects, and improve quality of life. Because alternative medicines may interact with conventional medicines, it is important for the patient to inform his or her doctor of all treatments being used.
A report released in 2003 showed trends in increased use of alternative medicine among HIV-positive individuals. Based on 1997 figures, the study reported that 79% of those seeking alternative therapy to help with AIDS treatment or symptom relief were men and 63% were women. The types of therapies they used most were relaxation techniques, massage, chiropractic care, self-help groups, commercial diets, and acupuncture.
Supplements

Lauric oils (coconut oil) are used by the body to make monolaurin, which inactivates HIV.
Selenium deficiency increases the risk of death due to AIDS-related illness. One study found that 250 micrograms of selenomethionin daily for one year showed no improvement in CD4 cell counts or disease symptoms. Greater than 1,000 micrograms daily is toxic.
Vitamin C has antioxidant and antiretroviral activities. One study found that treatment caused a trend to decrease viral load.
DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone) is commonly used by AIDS patients to counteract wasting. One study found that DHEA had no effect on lymphocytes or p24 antigen levels. However, a 2002 study found that it was associated with a significant increase in measures that indicate mental health improvement.
Vitamin A deficiency is associated with increased mortality. One study of pregnant women with AIDS found that 5000 IU of vitamin A daily led to stabilized viral load as compared to a placebo group. Another study found that 60 mg of vitamin A had no effect on CD4 cells or viral load. Vitamin A has been associated with faster disease progression. Excessive vitamin A during pregnancy can cause birth defects.
Beta-carotene supplementation for AIDS is controversial as studies have shown both beneficial and detrimental effects. Beta-carotene supplementation has led to elevation in white blood cell counts and changes in the CD4 cell count. Some studies have found that betacarotene supplementation led to an increase in deaths due to cancer and heart disease.

Naturopathic doctors often recommend the following supplements for AIDS:

beta-carotene, 150,000 IU daily
vitamin C, 2,000 mg thrice daily
vitamin E, 400 IU twice daily
cod liver oil, 1 tablespoon daily
• multivitamin, as directed
coenzyme Q10, 50-60 mg twice daily

Herbals and Chinese medicine
One small study of the effectiveness of Chinese herbal treatment in AIDS showed promise. AIDS patients took a tablet that contained 31 herbs that was based on the formulas Enhance and Clear Heat. Disease symptoms were reduced in the herbal treatment group as compared to the placebo group.
Herbals used in treating AIDS include:

Maitake mushroom extract. Recommended dose is 10 drops twice daily
Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) solid extract. Recommended dose is one quarter to one half teaspoon twice daily
Boxwood extract (SPV-30) has antiviral activity. Recommended dose is one capsule thrice daily.
Garlic concentrate (Allicin) helped reduce bowel movements, stabilized or increased body weight, or cured Cryptosporidium parvum infection in affected AIDS patients. However, a 2002 National Institutes of Health study cautioned that garlic supplements could reduce levels of a protease inhibitor that is used to treat AIDS patients, so patients should discuss using garlic supplements with their physicians.
Tea tree oil (Malaleuca) improves or cures infection of the mouth by the yeast Candida. Tea tree oil is available as soap, dental floss, toothpick, and mouthwash.
Marijuana is used to treat wasting. Studies have found that patients who use marijuana had increased food intake and weight gain. The active ingredient delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol is licensed for treating AIDS wasting.

Psychotherapy and stress reduction
Many therapies that are directed at improving mental state can have a direct impact on disease severity and quality of life. The effectiveness of many have been proven in clinical studies. These include:

massage
laughter/humor
stress management training
visualization
cognitive therapy
aerobic exercise
prayer

Other treatments for AIDS include homeopathy, naturopathy, acupuncture, and chiropractic.

Allopathic treatment
Treatment for AIDS covers four categories:
Antiretroviral treatment
In recent years researchers have developed drugs that suppress HIV replication. The drugs are used in combination with one another and fall into four classes:

Nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors. These drugs work by interfering with the action of HIV reverse transcriptase, thus ending the virus replication process. These drugs include zidovudine (sometimes called Zidovudine or AZT, trade name Retrovir), didanosine (ddi, Videx), emtricitabine (FTC, Emtriva), zalcitabine (ddC, Hivid), stavudine (d4T, Zerit), abacavir (Ziagen), tenofovir (df, Viread), and lamivudine (3TC, Epivir).
Protease inhibitors. Protease inhibitors are effective against HIV strains that have developed resistance to nucleoside analogues, and often are used in combination with them. These compounds include saquinavir (Fortovase), ritonavir (Norvir), indinavir (Crixivan), amprenavir (Agenerase), lopinavir plus ritonavir (Reyataz), and nelfinavir (Viracept).
Non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors. This is a newer class of antiretroviral agents. Three are available, nevirapine (Viramune), efavirenz (Sustiva), and delavirdine (Rescriptor).
Fusion inhibitors. These drugs are less common, expensive and difficult to use. They block infection early by preventing HIV from fusing with and entering a human cell. This class includes only one compound: Enfuvirtide (Fuzeon).

Treatment guidelines for these agents are in constant change as new medications are developed and introduced. In mid-2003, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services revised its guidelines for the use of these agents to help clinicians better choose the best combinations. The new guidelines offer a list of suggested combination regimens classified as either “preferred” or “alternative”.
Treatment of opportunistic infections and malignancies
Most AIDS patients require complex long-term treatment with medications for infectious diseases. This treatment often is complicated by the development of resistance in the disease organisms. AIDS-related malignancies in the central nervous system usually are treated with radiation therapy. Cancers elsewhere in the body are treated with chemotherapy.
Prophylactic treatment for opportunistic infections
Prophylactic treatment is treatment that is given to prevent disease. AIDS patients with a history of Pneumocystis pneumonia; with CD4+ counts below 200 cells/mm3 or 14% of lymphocytes; weight loss; or thrush should be given prophylactic medications. The three drugs given are trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, dapsone, or pentamidine in aerosol form.
STIMULATION OF BLOOD CELL PRODUCTION. Because many patients with AIDS suffer from abnormally low levels of both red and white blood cells, they may be given medications to stimulate blood cell production. Epoetin alfa (erythropoietin) may be given to anemic patients. Patients with low white blood cell counts may be given filgrastim or sargramostim.
Treatment in women
Treatment of pregnant women with HIV is particularly important because antiretroviral therapy has been shown to reduce transmission to the infant by 65%.

Expected results
At the present time, there is no cure for AIDS. Treatment stresses aggressive combination drug therapy when possible. The use of multi-drug therapies has significantly reduced the number of U.S. deaths resulting from AIDS. The potential exists to possibly prolong life indefinitely using these and other drug therapies to boost the immune system, keep the virus from replicating, and ward off opportunistic infections and malignancies.
Prognosis after the latency period depends on the patient’s specific symptoms and the organ systems affected by the disease. Patients with AIDS-related lymphomas of the central nervous system die within two to three months of diagnosis; those with systemic lymphomas may survive for eight to ten months. In America, the successful treatment of AIDS patients with HAART has actually led to a growing number of people living with HIV. About 25,000 infected people per year are added to the list of HIV-infected Americans.
However, not only does HAART and other treatment prolong AIDS patients’ lives, it has led to some improvement in quality of life too. A recent study shows that HAART therapy substantially reduces risk of AIDSrelated pneumonia (PCP), although PCP still remains the most common AIDS-defining illness among opportunistic infections. Other recent studies show that these protease inhibitors may result in high cholesterol and put AIDS patients at eventual risk for heart disease. Further research must be done, since long-term effects of HAART treatment are just now being studied. Most clinicians would say the benefits outweigh the risks anyway.

Prevention
As of 2000, there is no vaccine effective against AIDS. Several vaccines to prevent initial HIV infection and disease progression are being tested. In 2002, reports showed a new “library” vaccine showed potential. The vaccine is composed of up to 32 HIV gene fragments that can induce a number of immune responses. In the same year, the British government worked with five African countries in a trial to find an effective gel that would protect women against HIV during sex. The study leaders believed if they could find a lotion that could be applied before intercourse that would help prevent HIV transmission, they would give women the ability to better protect themselves from HIV. In 2003, the first human test of a vaccine against the most common subtype of HIV was underway.
Precautions to take to prevent the spread of AIDS include:

Monogamy and practicing safe sex. Besides avoiding the risk of HIV infection, condoms are successful in preventing other sexually transmitted diseases and unwanted pregnancies.
Avoiding needle sharing among intravenous drug users.
Although blood and blood products are carefully monitored, those individuals who are planning to undergo major surgery may wish to donate blood ahead of time to prevent a risk of infection from a blood transfusion.
Healthcare professionals should wear gloves and masks when handling body fluids and avoid needle-stick injuries.
A person who suspects that he or she may have become infected should get tested. If treated aggressively and early, the development of AIDS can sometimes be postponed indefinitely. If HIV infection is confirmed, it also is vital to inform sexual partners.

Aging

2008-05-08T03:06:00.000-07:00

Definition
Starting at what is commonly called middle age, operations of the human body become more vulnerable to daily wear and tear. There is a general decline in physical, and possibly mental, functioning. In the Western countries, the length of life often extends into the 70s. However, the upward limit of the life span can be as high as 120 years. During the latter half of life, an individual is more prone to problems with the various functions of the body, and to a number of chronic or fatal diseases. The cardiovascular, digestive, excretory, nervous, reproductive, and urinary systems are particularly affected. The most common diseases of aging include Alzheimer’s, arthritis, cancer, diabetes, depression, and heart disease.

Description
Human beings reach a peak of growth and development during their mid 20s. Aging is the normal transition time after that flurry of activity. Although there are quite a few age-related changes that tax the body, disability is not necessarily a part of aging. Health and lifestyle factors, together with the genetic makeup of the individual, determine the response to these changes. Body functions that are most often affected by age include:

Hearing, which declines especially in relation to the highest pitched tones.
The proportion of fat to muscle, which may increase by as much as 30%. Typically, the total padding of body fat directly under the skin thins out and accumulates around the stomach. The ability to excrete fats is impaired, and therefore the storage of fats increases, including cholesterol and fat-soluble nutrients.
The amount of water in the body, which decreases, reducingthe body’s ability to absorb water-soluble nutrients. Also, there is less saliva and other lubricating fluids.
Liver and kidney activities, which become less efficient, thus affecting the elimination of wastes.
The ease of digestion, which is decreased, resulting in a reduction in stomach acid production.
Muscle strength and coordination, which lessens, with an accompanying loss of mobility, agility, and flexibility.
Sexual hormones and sexual function, which both decline.
Sensations of taste and smell, which decrease.
Cardiovascular and respiratory systems, with changes leading to decreased oxygen and nutrients throughout the body.
Nervous system, which experiences changes that result in less efficient nerve impulse transmission, reflexes that are not as sharp, and diminished memory and learning.
Bone strength and density, which decrease.
Hormone levels, which gradually decline. The thyroid and sexual hormones are particularly affected.
Visual abilities, which decline. Age-related changes may lead to diseases such as macular degeneration.
A compromised ability to produce vitamin D from sunlight.
Protein formation, which is reduced, leading to shrinkage in muscle mass and decreased bone formation, possibly contributing to osteoporosis.

Causes & symptoms
There are several theories on why the aging body loses functioning. It may be that several factors work together or that one particular factor is the culprit in a given individual. These theories include:

Programmed senescence, or aging clock, theory. The aging of the cells for each individual is programmed into the genes, and there is a preset number of possible rejuvenations in the life of a given cell. When cells die at a rate faster than they are replaced, organs do not function properly, and they become unable to maintain the functions necessary for life.
Genetic theory. Human cells maintain their own seed of destruction at the chromosome level.
Connective tissue, or cross-linking theory. Changes in the makeup of the connective tissue alter the stability of body structures, causing a loss of elasticity and functioning, and leading to symptoms of aging.
Free-radical theory. The most commonly held theory of aging, is based on the fact that ongoing chemical reactions of the cells produce free radicals. In the presence of oxygen, these free radicals cause the cells of the body to break down. As time goes on, more cells die or lose the ability to function, and the body ceases to function as a whole.
Immunological theory. There are changes in the immune system as it begins to wear out, and the body is more prone to infections and tissue damage, which may ultimately cause death. Also, as the system breaks down, the body is more apt to have autoimmune reactions, in which the body’s own cells are mistaken for foreign material and are destroyed or damaged by the immune system.

Diagnosis
Many problems can arise due to age-related changes in the body. Although there is no individual test to measure these changes, a thorough physical exam and a basic blood screening and blood chemistry panel can point to areas in need of further attention. When older people become ill, the first signs of disease are often nonspecific. Further exams should be conducted if any of the following occur:

diminished, or lack of, desire for food
increased confusion
failure to thrive
urinary incontinence
dizziness
weight loss
falling

Treatment
Nutritional supplements
Consumption of a high-quality multivitamin is recommended. Common nutritional deficiencies connected with aging include B vitamins, vitamin A and vitamin C, folic acid, calcium, magnesium, zinc, iron, chromium, and trace minerals. Since stomach acids may be decreased, powdered multivitamin formula in gelatin capsules are suggested, as this form is the easiest to digest. Such formulas may also contain enzymes for further help with digestion.
Antioxidants can help neutralize damage caused by free radical actions, which are thought to contribute to problems of aging. They are also helpful in preventing and treating cancer, and in treating cataracts and glaucoma. Supplements that serve as antioxidants include:

Vitamin E, 400–1,000 IUs daily. Protects cell membranes against damage. It shows promise in preventing heart disease, and Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases.
Selenium, 50 mg taken twice daily. Research suggests that selenium may play a role in reducing cancer risk.
Beta-carotene, 25,000–40,000 IUs daily. May help in treating cancer, colds and flu, arthritis, and immune support.
Vitamin C, 1,000–2,000 mg per day. It may cause diarrhea in large doses. The dosage should be decreased if this occurs.

Other supplements that are helpful in treating agerelated problems include:

B12/B-complex vitamins. Studies show that B12 may help reduce mental symptoms, such as confusion, memory loss, and depression.
Coenzyme Q10 may be helpful in treating heart disease. Up to 75% of cardiac patients have been found to lack this heart enzyme.

Hormones
The following hormone supplements may be taken to prevent or treat various age-related problems. However, caution should be taken before beginning treatment, and the patient should consult his or her health care professional prior to hormone use.
DHEA improves brain functioning and serves as a building block for many other important hormones. It may be helpful in restoring hormone levels that have declined, building muscle mass, strengthening bones, and maintaining a healthy heart.
Melatonin may be helpful for insomnia. It has also been used to help fight viruses and bacterial infections, reduce the risk of heart disease, improve sexual function, and to protect against cancer.
Human growth hormone (hGH) has been shown to regulate blood sugar levels and to stimulate bone, cartilage, and muscle growth while reducing fat.
Herbs
Garlic (Allium sativa) is helpful in preventing heart disease, and improving the tone and texture of skin. Garlic stimulates liver and digestive system functions, and also helps manage heart disease and high blood pressure.
Siberian ginseng (Eleutherococcus senticosus) supports the adrenal glands and immune functions. It is believed to be helpful in treating problems related to stress. Siberian ginseng also increases mental and physical performance, and may be useful in treating memory loss, chronic fatigue, and immune dysfunction.
Ginkgo biloba works particularly well on the brain and nervous system. It is effective in reducing the symptoms of such conditions as Alzheimer’s disease, depression, visual disorders, and problems of blood circulation. It may also help treat heart disease, strokes, dementia, Raynaud’s disease, head injuries, leg cramps, macular degeneration, tinnitus, impotence due to poor blood flow, and diabetes-related nerve damage.
Proanthocyanidins, or PCO, (brand name Pycnogenol), are derived from grape seeds and skin, as well as pine tree bark. They may help prevent cancer and poor vision.
Green tea has powerful antioxidant qualities, and has been used for centuries as a natural medicine in China, Japan, and other Asian cultures. In alternative medicine, it aids in treating cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, high cholesterol, heart disease, infection, and impaired immune function. Several scientific studies have shown that antioxidant benefits are obtained by drinking
two cups of green tea each day.
In Ayurvedic medicine, aging is described as a process of increased vata, in which there is a tendency to become thinner, drier, more nervous, more restless, and more fearful, while experiencing declines in both sleep and appetite. Bananas, almonds, avocados, and coconuts are some of the foods used in correcting such conditions. One of the main herbs used to treat these problems is gotu kola (Centella asiatica). It is taken to revitalize the nervous system and brain cells, and to fortify the immune system. Gotu kola is also used to treat memory loss, anxiety, and insomnia.
In Chinese medicine, most symptoms of aging are regarded as signs of a yin deficiency. Moistening foods are recommended, and include barley soup, tofu, mung beans, wheat germ, spirulina, potatoes, black sesame seeds, walnuts, and flax seeds. Jing tonics may also be used. These include deer antler, dodder seeds, processed rehmannia, longevity soup, mussels, and chicken.

Allopathic treatment
For the most part, doctors prescribe medications to control the symptoms and diseases of aging. In the United States, about two-thirds of people age 65 and over take medications for various conditions. More women than men use these medications. The most common drugs used by the elderly are painkillers, diuretics or water pills, sedatives, cardiac medications, antibiotics, and mental health remedies.
Estrogen replacement therapy (ERT) is commonly prescribed to alleviate the symptoms of aging in postmenopausal women. It is often used in conjunction with progesterone. These drugs help keep bones strong, reduce the risk of heart disease, restore vaginal lubrication, and improve skin elasticity. Evidence suggests that they may also help maintain mental functions.

Expected results
Aging is unavoidable, but major physical impairment is not. People can lead healthy, disability-free lives throughout their later years. A well-established support system of family, friends, and health care providers, along with a focus on good nutrition and lifestyle habits, and effective stress management, can prevent disease and lessen the impact of chronic conditions.

Prevention
Preventive health practices such as healthy diet, daily exercise, stress management, and control of lifestyle habits, such as smoking and drinking, can lengthen the life span and improve the quality of life as people age. Exercise can improve appetite, bone health, emotional and mental outlook, digestion, and circulation.
Drinking plenty of fluids aids in maintaining healthy skin, good digestion, and proper elimination of wastes. Up to eight glasses of water should be consumed daily, along with plenty of herbal teas, diluted fruit and vegetable juices, and fresh fruits and vegetables that have a high water content.
Because of a decrease in the sense of taste, older people often increase their salt intake, which can contribute to high blood pressure and nutrient loss. Use of sugar is also increased. Seaweeds and small amounts of honey can be used as replacements.
Alcohol, nicotine, and caffeine all have potential damaging effects, and consumption should be limited or completely eliminated.
A diet high in fiber and low in fat is recommended. Processed foods should be replaced by such complex carbohydrates as whole grains. If chewing becomes a problem, there should be an increased intake of protein drinks, freshly juiced fruits and vegetables, and creamed cereals.

Agastache

2008-05-07T04:15:00.000-07:00

Description
Agastache is a genus of plants found almost worldwide. Different species are used in several native cultures for healing. The best know of these is Agastache rugosa, also called the giant hyssop, wrinkled giant hyssop, Korean mint, or in Chinese Huo xiang.
Agastache rugosa is a perennial or biennial plant that grows to a height of 4 ft (1.2 m). It is native to China, but has spread to Japan, Korea, Laos, and Russia. It grows wild on sunny hillsides and along roads, but also can be cultivated in backyard gardens. The highly aromatic leaves and purple or red flowers are used for healing.
Several other species of agastache found in other parts of the world are used in healing. These include A. nepetoides (yellow giant hyssop), A. foeniculum (anise hyssop), and A. mexicana. Leaf and flower color vary considerably among the different species. Many species of agastache also are grown commercially in the United States for landscaping. In southern China and Taiwan, Pogostemon cablin, a relative of Pogostemon patchouli, the Indian plant that produces patchouli oil, is used interchangeably with A. rugosa.

General use
A. rugosa is used extensively in Chinese herbalism. It’s first recorded use dates from about 500 A.D. It is associated with the lungs, spleen, and stomach and is classified as having a warm nature and an acrid and aromatic taste. Traditionally, agastache has been associated the treatment of several different sets of symptoms. It has long been used to treat stomach flu, stomachache, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal bloating, and abdominal pain. It is combined with Scutellaria (skullcap) to treat morning sickness in pregnant women. It is also a component of formulas that improve digestive balance by aiding the absorption of nutrients and intestinal function.
In Chinese herbalism, A. rugosa is also used to treat summer flu or summer colds with accompanying low fever, feelings of fullness in the chest, and headache. It is also used to treat dark urine and a feeling of heaviness in the arms and legs. A lotion containing A. rugosa is applied
externally to treat fungal infections.
Other cultures independently have discovered similar uses for other species of agastache. A. mexicana is grown in Mexico and used to treat gastrointestinal upsets, nervous, and cardiovascular ailments. The leaves of A. nepetoides are used by Native Americans to treat skin rashes caused by poison ivy. A. foeniculum leaves have a strong licorice taste (accounting for its English name, anise hyssop). These leaves can be brewed in a tea to treat coughs, fever, and colds.
Although rigorous scientific testing of the healing claims made for agastache is scarce, one 1999 study done at Seoul National University in Korea has shown that in test tube experiments an extract of the root of A. rugosa significantly inhibited the action of certain proteins associated with the reproduction of the HIV virus.

Preparations
Agastache can be prepared alone as a tea, incorporated into a lotion, or prepared as a pill. The leaves are strongly aromatic, but lose this quality with prolonged boiling (over 15 minutes). Therefore agastache is added last in formulas that must be boiled.
The best know formulas using agastache are agastache formula and Huo Xiang Zheng Qi Wan, or agastache qi-correcting formula. Agastache formula is used to harmonize the stomach. It is given as treatment for gastrointestinal upsets with chills, fever, and diarrhea.
Huo Xiang Zheng Qi Wan regulates qi and treats seasonal gastric disorders, especially those occurring during hot, humid weather. This formula is commercially available in both tablet and liquid form. Other cultures prepare agastache either as a tea to be drunk, or use the leaves externally.

Precautions
Agastache has a long history of use with no substantial reported problems.

Side effects
No side effects have been reported with the use of agastache.

Interactions
Agastache is often used in conjunction with other herbs with no reported interactions. Since agastache has been used almost exclusively in Chinese medicine, there are no studies of its interactions with Western pharmaceuticals.

African pygeum

2008-05-05T21:48:00.000-07:00

Description
African pygeum (Prunus africana), also known as pygeum africanum, pygeum, and African plum tree, is an evergreen tree native to higher elevations of southern Africa. A 150 ft (46 m) tall member of the Rose family (Rosacea), pygeum has been found to be useful in treating prostate problems, particularly benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH), a condition affecting many men.
The tree’s bark contains an oil with many active ingredients; waxes, fatty acids, and other less familiar compounds. Pygeum’s principal biological activity is traced to a “phytosterol” compound known as beta-sitosterol. Phyto (plant) sterols are structurally similar to, but much less efficiently absorbed from the diet than, cholesterol. The biological strength of phytosterols, however, is similar to that of hormones; therefore, a very small amount seems sufficient to initiate a response. Pygeum’s phytosterols are anti-inflammatory. Pygeum also reduces edema (the swelling caused by an excess of fluids), reduces levels of the hormone prolactin, lowers and inhibits cholesterol activity within the prostate. Prolactin, whose levels are increased by drinking beer, stimulates testosterone uptake by the prostate, reportedly increasing levels of a metabolite responsible for prostatic cell increases, dihydrotestosterone (di-hydro-testosterone), (DHT). Cholesterol is reported to increase the influence of DHT. BPH imlies two prostate changes: increased size and increase tissue density. These changes cause symptoms of frequent urge to urinate small volumes, reduced prostatic secretions, reduced bladder emptying. Incomplete bladder emptying increases risk of bladder infections, edema and inflammation, and possibly, prostatic cancer. Blood sugar levels and immune function have also been found to improve.
In summary, african pygeum’s medicinal actions include:

anti-inflamation
reducing edema of the prostate
inhibit cellular increase
improving the natural flow of prostatic secretions
lowering cholesterol
regulating insulin activity, thereby affecting blood sugar levels
regulating the immune system

Although pygeum’s use is relatively new to the United States, it has been imported from Africa to Europe since the 1700s, and is still used today as a major treatment for BPH. Europeans learned of this plant’s usefulness in treating what was then known as “old man’s disease”. It continues to be a widely popular in Europe as a remedy for BPH, especially in France where the use of African pygeum for BPH is reported to be about 80%.

General use
Pygeum is Primarily used to treat benign prostatic hypertrophy or BPH, a condition which affects men as early as their 40s, but increasingly with age: 30% of fifty year olds; 50% of sixty year olds; and nearly 80% of men 70 and older. It has been found to be of use in the related condition of chronic prostatitis, with and without prostate related sexual dysfunction, and infertility due to reduced prostatic secretions. Due to actions as an immune system “up regulator” and anti-inflammatory, pygeum is also being studied for use with other treatments for hepatitis C and HIV.
According to one source, in a double blind placebo controlled study involving 263 men on a dose of 100 mg per day of African pygeum extract for 60 days, the following improvements versus controls were observed:

31% decrease in “nocturia,” or night-time frequency
24.5% decrease in “residual urine,” the amount of urine left in the bladder after urination
17.2% increase in urine flow
50% increase in overall relief and feeling of wellbeing.

Two-thirds of the group using Pygeum reported feeling satisfaction. This was twice the improvement reported by the control group on placebo.
In a study on chronic prostatitis, 60% of men with urinary tract infections and nearly 80% of men without infections reported improvements using 100 mg of Pygeum extract for five to seven weeks. In the treatment of sexual dysfunction due to chronic prostatitis, a dose of 200 mg for 60 days, with or without an antibiotic, produced improvements in urination and sexual function. The few small and relatively short clinical trials of pygeum in the treatment of Hepatitis C and HIV+ infections have been statistically significant; further trials are under way in South Africa.

Preparations
Since the 1960s, in Europe, the most commonly used form is the standardized herbal extract. The process is highly technical and, for Pygeum, is designed to target extraction of the active oils using a sequence of laboratory extraction procedures. Standardization is the process whereby the targeted active ingredients are quantified and concentrated to a consistent therapeutic dose. The widely modern use of the extract form of African pygeum instead of the whole plant may derive from the discovery that the plant’s activity is primarily due to its alcohol soluble phytosterols. A month’s supply in capsules at a daily dosage of 100 mg, standardized to contain approximately 14% of the active beta-sitosterol ingredient, costs between $40 and $50. In some preparations, synergistic ingredients such as amino acids, other herbs, and vitamins or minerals, may be included. Studies cited used dosages of 100 mg daily; however, one study compared and found two dosages of 50 mg versus one dose of 100 mg per day had the same therapeutic effect.

Precautions
Precautions noted include recommendations to seek the guidance of a healthcare professional, and not to self treat. Pygeum may cause a hormonal shift, and is not recommended for children. Also noted: pygeum may require several weeks to months to make a noticeable difference; studies noted reported benefits at ranges of five to eight weeks. One source reported pygeum relieves symptoms but does not reduce prostatic size. Another study specifically stated that the active components of pygeum have symptom reversal and prevention characteristics.

Side effects
Pygeum appears to be relatively safe and non-toxic. One report noted rare occurrences of diarrhea, dizziness, disturbed vision, gastric pain and constipation. One study reported satisfactory safety profiles after 12 months of using 100 mg daily in 174 subjects. In animal studies it was reported that dogs and rats given amounts equivalent to more than 500 times the therapeutic dose showed no adverse effects, and amounts equivalent to 50 times the therapeutic dose had no effect on fertility. In vivo and in vitro studies showed no carcinogenic effects, In fact,
pygeum’s constituents have been found to be anti-carcinogenic. The National Institute of Health (NIH), in 2002, established a grant for a randomized controlled clinical study involving 3,100 men, in order to learn more about the medical potential of this alternative therapy, due to increased BPH diagnoses as the population ages.

Interactions
Synergistic supplements may facilitate benefits. One report advised dietary adjustments to enhance beneficial result. Dietary recommendations to improve prostatic health included avoiding the irritants of coffee and tobacco; eating pumpkin seeds for their zinc and Omega 3 anti-inflammatory content; increasing other dietary sources of Omega 3s, including the cold water fishes salmon, sardines, and mackerel; taking antioxidants and a good multiple vitamin; and the synergistic herb saw palmetto (Serenoa repens), said to be more effective than the pharmaceutical for BPH, Proscar, at inhibiting the conversion of testosterone to its metabolite DHT, implicated in prostatic cell increases. Vitamins E (400 IU) and B6 (50–100mg) were suggested to synergistically reduce prolactin levels. It was also noted that 200 mcg of selenium daily reduce the risk of prostate cancer.
No unfavorable interactions were noted. Common sense might suggest that any lifestyle habit that aggravates prostate health, for example, a high cholesterol, high fat, high red meat, low fiber diet, frequent and high intake of beer, and lack of exercise may decrease the effectiveness of pygeum or other medications indicated for prostate health. Because pygeum has been found to upregulate immunity, its use may be contra-indicated where immune system upregulation is undesirable. No unfavorable herb-drug interactions have been noted.

Adie’s pupil

2008-05-04T20:18:00.000-07:00

Definition

Adie’s pupil is a neurological condition of unknown origin with an unusual, asymmetric presentation known as anisocoria, an inequality in the size of the pupils of the eyes. It is believed to be a result of damage to the nerve innervating a muscle of the eye known as the ciliary body. Alternately, the problem may be located at the ciliary ganglion, a kind of nerve junction structure from which the nerve to the ciliary body runs. Accommodation, or the adjustment of the eye for distance, is affected, as well as pupillary dilation and contraction, the ability of the eye’s iris to open or close in response to ambient light. Adie’s pupil primarily affects women from 20 to 40 years of age. It is considered to be a benign condition with no known cure. When Deep Tendon Reflexes (DTRs) of the legs—knee and ankle jerks—are also affected, accompanied by symptoms including localized, discreet areas of the skin that do not sweat, postural hypotension (low blood pressure related to sudden standing or rising), and unsteady heart rhythms, the condition is referred to as Adie’s syndrome.

Description
The eyes are a complex anatomical and neurological unit. The outer surface of each eye is protected by a cornea—a normally clear cover that initiates the bending of light rays into the eye. Beneath the cornea lies the colorful iris, a membrane containing two muscles capable of contracting and dilating like the diaphragm of a camera as it floats in the “aqueous humor.” Beneath the iris, the lens, under the influence of the ciliary body, further bends and directs the incoming light back to the retina, where it is received and transferred through the optic nerve at the back of the eye to the visual center of the brain (the visual cortex) at the back of the head. From the visual cortex, instruction based on whether the object of vision is near or far, and whether the surrounding light is bright or dim, goes back to the muscles of the eye—the ciliary body—through the ciliary ganglion, and results in a re-shaping of the lens (accommodation) and an opening or closing of the pupil (pupillary reaction), as needed, in order to focus more sharply. Under normal circumstances, brightness and accommodation for near vision will result in contracture of the ciliary body and the pupil, whereas darkness and accommodation for distance normally results in a relaxation of the ciliary body and dilation of the pupil. For a person with Adie’s pupil, however, nerve signals arriving at the ciliary body of one eye are weaker than to the other eye, believed to be a result of damage to or degeneration of the ciliary ganglion or the ciliary body. The affected eye muscle is unable to contract, dilate, or focus with the same strength and speed as the unaffected eye. Relative to the opposite, unaffected eye, in normal daylight the pupil of the affected eye will be larger whereas, in a quickly darkened room, the affected eye will be smaller. Furthermore, the nerve from the ciliary ganglion to the ciliary body has 30 fibers dedicated to changing the shape of the lens and only one fiber dedicated to dilating
the iris. As a result, a person with Adie’s pupil is even less able to dilate their pupil than to focus. Some research suggests that as the person ages, the ability to dilate gradually lessens to the point that the eye may have a smaller (constricted) pupil almost all the time.
The list of other names by which Adie’s Pupil is known includes: Adie’s Tonic Pupil; Tonic Pupil Syndrome; Holmes-Adie Syndrome and Adie-Holmes Syndrome; Psuedotabes, Papillotonic Psuedotabes, and Psuedotabes pupillotonica; Kehrer-Adie Syndrome; Markus’ Syndrome; Weill’s Syndrome, Weill-Reys Syndrome, and Weill-Reys-Adie Syndrome; Psuedo-Argyll Robertson Pupil, Psuedo-Argyll Robertson Syndrome, and Nonluetic Argyll-Robertson Pupil; Myotonic Pupil and Myotonic Pupillary Reaction; Saenger’s Syndrome; and, Constitutional areflexy-tridoplegia interna. These many names derive from the lengthy history of study of this condition, beginning in 1813, when James Ware, a London ophthalmologist, or medical doctor specializing in the eyes, described some of these symptoms. Dr. Adie added to an already long list of doctors who had studied it, when in 1931 he described the condition as self-generating. It was first referred to as Adie’s syndrome in 1934 by the French neurologist, Jean-Alexandre Barré.

Causes & symptoms
Some external causes such as trauma or surgery to the eye, and some internal causes such as an unknown virus, an inflammatory condition, or a familial tendency have been suggested. In the case of trauma or surgery, it is believed that the damaged or cut nerve fails to regrow with all fibers running in the same direction for proper reattachment to the ciliary body. The propensity to affect women between 20 and 40 years of age more than men of all ages promoted one doctor to speculate that it may be, or related to, an autoimmune disorder, especially when the individual lives a stressful lifestyle and other related family members have suffered neurological diseases or disorders. Caffeine, a high sugar diet, or an imbalance in essential fatty acids that are important in maintaining nerve health may also be factors, but no studies have been identified supporting this hypothesis. Occasionally similar symptoms are seen in syphilitic persons; however, one source notes that as early as 1914, syphilis was ruled out as the cause of this condition. This unusual pupillary reflex, also known as “tonic pupil,” because it is slow to change, may also be associated with diabetes, alcoholism, a herpes viral infection, or a cranial arterial condition known as giant cell arteritis. Symptoms, in addition to the slow-to-respond, differently sized pupil of the affected eye, may include headache, as a result of the strain on the vision, a sensitivity to bright lights, and loss of some reflexes, especially the knee-jerk.

Diagnosis
Diagnosis is made on the basis of a thorough history and physical examination, followed by tests to rule out other suspected causes according to the persons history. An examination of the eye using a “slit lamp”—an intensely bright lamp shielded by a shade with a slit it it—reveals undulating, irregular, worm-like movements with a segmented or ratcheted appearance in the iris of the affected eye, uncoupled to movements in the iris of the unaffected eye. A positive (hypersensitive) reaction to pilocarpine drops, an alkaloid substance from the jaborandi tree that causes the otherwise slow-to-constrict pupil to constrict intensely, is considered diagnostically additive.

Treatment
No specific treatments were noted; however, treatments that strengthen or protect the nervous system might be helpful, treatments such as the B complex of vitamins, antioxidants including Vitamins C and E, alpha lipoic acid, and Superoxidedismutase (S.O.D.), and dietary modifications of fat that have been found helpful in multiple sclerosis, another condition due to damage to nerve pathways affecting nerve transmission, including intake of essential fatty acids and reduced intake of trans-fatty acids and hydrogenated fats. Dietary reductions in caffeine and sugar, including sugar substitutes like aspartame, may be helpful. Lifestyle practices that reduce stress and tone the parasympathetic nervous system, such as yoga or massage, may be helpful.

Allopathic treatment
No specific treatments were noted, however cosmetic use of dilute pilocarpine drops to constrict the tonic pupil was suggested.

Prognosis
Partial recovery of function is more likely if the initiating damage was to the ciliary body rather than to the ciliary ganglion. As a result of the number of fibers dedicated to each from the ciliary ganglion, recovery of innervation to the lens controlling function is more likely than recovery of the pupillary reactive function. One source noted also that reinnervation may be slow, segmental and irregular, similar to the ocular symptoms themselves.

Prevention
No preventative measures were noted.

Ademetionine

2008-05-04T20:10:00.000-07:00

Description

Ademetionine, also known as SAMe, is a specific form of the amino acid methionine known as S-adenosyl-methionine. The body manufactures it, and it is found in most tissues of the body. Ademetionine is essential for the formation of glutathione, a water-soluble peptide that helps the body fight free radicals. SAMe also helps the liver to process fats (protecting against a fatty liver) and is believed to play a role in protecting the body from heart disease. SAMe is a methyl donor, which means that it provides other molecules with methyl groups that are critical to their metabolism. In general, ademetionine raises the level of functioning of other amino acids in the body. Severe deficiencies of SAMe can cause problems with other important body functions, such as secretion of important hormones like melatonin, which plays a key role in regulating sleep and circadian rhythms.

General use
The synthetic formula of ademetionine has been hailed as an anti-aging formula because it is such a powerful antioxidant. Antioxidants are substances that counteract the damaging effects of free radicals in human tissue. Ademetionine has been widely popularized recently, but it is not a recent discovery. In fact it was discovered in Italy in 1952, and has been widely researched over the past few decades. In the 1970s, Italian researchers investigating its properties as a treatment for schizophrenia discovered that it also had definite antidepressant properties. Ademetionine became a useful treatment only during the 1990s, however, when scientists found a way to stabilize it for research purposes. After that technological development, ademetionine could be sold as a medical supplement.
Ademetionine has been used successfully to treat depression, arthritis, schizophrenia, liver disease, peripheral neuropathy, and other illnesses. Many people who have these illnesses, particularly schizophrenia, peripheral neuropathy, and myelopathy, may have low blood levels of folic acid, vitamin B12, and certain amino acids, particularly SAMe and those with which it interacts.
Pain relief
The effectiveness of ademetionine has been studied in clinical trials with human subjects. One six-week study compared SAMe to transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), which is a popular form of pain relief in Europe. SAMe proved to be a more effective treatment.
Liver function
SAMe has been found to restore normal liver function in patients suffering from a variety of liver disease, both alcohol induced and other. It has also been found to reverse liver damage resulting from the ingestion of various drugs and chemical agents (paracetamol and others).
Depression
Several clinical trials found that ademetionine has a rapid effect on depression. Within double blind trials, ademetionine was found to have a markedly greater effect than placebos, with only mild side effects. Although the substance seems to work surprisingly well on most forms of depression, a study done at Northwick Park Hospital in Harrow, England, suggests that it is more effective for endogenous depression (depression that does not have an obvious external cause) than for neurotic depression (depression that has an identifiable cause).
These findings may be related to the fact that patients suffering from endogenous forms of depression are often found to have low levels of this amino acid. This is a particularly exciting discovery, because endogenous depression is the most difficult form to treat. Ademetionine was found to be particularly helpful to postmenopausal women suffering from depression. Some practitioners are suggesting the use of ademetionine in conjunction with other antidepressants to shorten the period between the beginning of antidepressant treatment and the patient’s sense of improvement. Since ademetionine generally has fewer side effects than many antidepressants, it may be preferable to use it alone.

Peripheral neuropathy

Ademetionine has been used successfully to treat cases of peripheral neuropathy that had not previously responded to treatment with vitamin B12 (cyanocobalamin). This is an important discovery, because peripheral neuropathy is difficult to treat.

Migraine
Ademetionine has been found to be a useful painkiller. Over the long term, it may work less rapidly than some other analgesics, but it does not have the high incidence of gastrointestinal disturbance that results from taking ibuprofen, for example. Ademetionine may be the answer for patients who also suffer from GI tract diseases and cannot safely take other analgesics.
Fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia is characterized by persistent muscle pain and aching that has no apparent cause. One Scandinavian study noted that patients with fibromyalgia who took SAMe showed some improvement.
Osteoarthritis
Studies have shown that osteoarthritis patients not only experienced less pain while taking ademetionine, but that the depression that often accompanies the disease was less evident. Ademetionine is also less toxic than the allopathic drugs used to treat such diseases.
Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases
Ademetionine has been shown to treat nerve damage and depression sometimes as effectively as standard pharmaceutical drugs without serious side effects. Some believe that SAMe may increase the effectiveness of levodopa, which is the drug most often prescribed for Parkinson’s disease.

Preparations
Ademetionine is available in preparations for oral, intravenous, and intramuscular administration. Treatment with ademetionine should always be monitored by a qualified practitioner.
For liver function: 200 mg of ademetionine can be taken twice daily, gradually raising the dosage to 400 mg three times daily. Patients with peripheral neuropathy have been given dosages as high as 1600 mg daily.
For depression the following program may be effective: 200 mg taken twice daily for the first two days. For the third to the ninth day, dosage may be increased to 400 mg twice daily, and for days ten to nineteen, 400 mg should be taken three times daily. After the twentieth day, the dosage should be stabilized at 400 mg four times daily. Some practitioners recommend doses as high as 1600 mg daily.
Migraine and fibromyalgia sufferers can take 200 mg of ademetionine twice daily, increasing to 600 mg doses. Osteoarthritis patients may be advised to take as much as 1200 mg daily for effective treatment.

Precautions
Patients with serious diseases such as those mentioned above should seek the help of a qualified practitioner. It is significant, however, that no patient has ever dropped out of studies related to ademetionine testing due to side effects, even though it has been administered in high doses and in all forms, i.e., orally, intravenously, and intramuscularly. In addition, antidepressants, particularly the tricyclics, may cause accidental or intentional overdoses. SAMe is also free of the hazard of potential addiction.
One possible drawback to ademetionine treatment is its cost. A month’s supply may cost between $60 and $100. This is about the same as the cost of many antidepressants, but ademetionine is less likely to be covered by medical insurance.

Side effects
SAMe is not suitable for patients with bipolar disorder, as it may amplify the manic phase of the condition.
The only side effects observed with SAMe in clinical trials were mild gastrointestinal distress.
In patients who are deficient in the B vitamins, notably B6 and B12, there is a danger that SAMe may break down to form homocysteine, an amino acid that has been linked to heart disease and stroke. If the patient’s levels of B vitamins are maintained, however, the body will be able to convert the homocysteine back into methionine and glutathione, and the use of SAMe will not increase the risk of heart disease.

Interactions
Ademetionine should not be used in conjunction with prescription medications for depression, as it increases their effects. It should also not be taken with MAO inhibitors, as it may produce a toxic reaction. Lastly, it should not be given to pregnant or lactating women.

Acupuncture

2008-05-02T03:20:00.000-07:00

Definition

Acupuncture is one of the main forms of treatment in traditional Chinese medicine. It involves the use of sharp, thin needles that are inserted in the body at very specific points. This process is believed to adjust and alter the body’s energy flow into healthier patterns, and is used to treat a wide variety of illnesses and health conditions.

Origins
The original text of Chinese medicine is the Nei Ching, The Yellow Emperor’s Classic of Internal Medicine, which is estimated to be at least 2,500 years old. Thousands of books since then have been written on the subject of Chinese healing, and its basic philosophies spread long ago to other Asian civilizations. Nearly all of the forms of Oriental medicine which are used in the West today, including acupuncture, shiatsu, acupressure massage, and macrobiotics, are part of or have their roots in Chinese medicine. Legend has it that acupuncture developed when early Chinese physicians observed unpredicted effects of puncture wounds in Chinese warriors. The oldest known text on acupuncture, the Systematic Classic of Acupuncture, dates back to 282 A.D. Although acupuncture is its best known technique, Chinese medicine traditionally utilizes herbal remedies, dietary therapy, lifestyle changes and other means to treat patients.
In the early 1900s, only a few Western physicians who had visited China were fascinated by acupuncture, but outside of Asian-American communities it remained virtually unknown until the 1970s, when Richard Nixon became the first U.S. president to visit China. On Nixon’s trip, journalists were amazed to observe major operations being performed on patients without the use of anesthetics. Instead, wide-awake patients were being operated on with only acupuncture needles inserted into them to control pain. During that time, a famous columnist for the New York Times, James Reston, had to undergo surgery and elected to use acupuncture instead of pain medication, and he wrote some convincing stories on its effectiveness.
Today acupuncture is being practiced in all 50 states by more than 9,000 practitioners, with about 4,000 MDs including it in their practices. Acupuncture has shown notable success in treating many conditions, and more than 15 million Americans have used it as a therapy. Acupuncture, however, remains largely unsupported by the medical establishment. The American Medical Association has been resistant to researching it, as it is based on concepts very different from the Western scientific model.
Several forms of acupuncture are being used today in America. Japanese acupuncture uses extremely thin needles and does not incorporate herbal medicine in its practice. Auricular acupuncture uses acupuncture points only on the ear, which are believed to stimulate and balance internal organs. In France, where acupuncture is very popular and more accepted by the medical establishment, neurologist Paul Nogier developed a system of acupuncture based on neuroendocrine theory rather than on traditional Chinese concepts, which is gaining some use in America.

Benefits
The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends acupuncture as an effective treatment for over forty medical problems, including allergies, respiratory conditions, gastrointestinal disorders, gynecological problems, nervous conditions, and disorders of the eyes, nose and throat, and childhood illnesses, among others. Acupuncture has been used in the treatment of alcoholism and substance abuse. In 2002, a center in Maine received a unique grant to study acupuncture treatment for substance abuse. Although recognizing that acupuncture had been used before for helping those with abuse, this study sought to show that ear acupuncture’s effects on relaxation response helped those abusing drugs and alcohol better deal with the anxiety and life circumstances thought to lead them to substance abuse.
Acupuncture is an effective and low-cost treatment for headaches and chronic pain, associated with problems like back injuries and arthritis. It has also been used to supplement invasive Western treatments like chemotherapy and surgery. Acupuncture is generally most effective when used as prevention or before a health condition becomes acute, but it has been used to help patients suffering from cancer and AIDS. In 2002, the National Institutes of health announced that pain from certain musculoskeletal conditions like fibromyalgia could be helped by acupuncture. Acupuncture is limited in treating conditions or traumas that require surgery or emergency care (such as for broken bones).
Description
Basic ideas of Chinese medicine
Chinese medicine views the body as a small part of the universe, and subject to universal laws and principles of harmony and balance. Chinese medicine does not draw a sharp line, as Western medicine does, between mind and body. The Chinese system believes that emotions and mental states are every bit as influential on disease as purely physical mechanisms, and considers factors like work, environment, lifestyle, and relationships as fundamental to the overall picture of a patient’s health. Chinese medicine also uses very different symbols and ideas to discuss the body and health. While Western medicine typically describes health in terms of measurable physical processes made up of chemical reactions, the Chinese use ideas like yin and yang, chi, the organ system, and the five elements to describe health and the body. To understand the ideas behind acupuncture, it is worthwhile to introduce some of these basic terms.
YIN AND YANG. According to Chinese philosophy, the universe and the body can be described by two separate but complementary principles, that of yin and yang. For example, in temperature, yin is cold and yang is hot. In gender, yin is female and yang is male. In activity, yin is passive and yang is active. In light, yin is dark and yang is bright; in direction yin is inward and downward and yang is outward and up, and so on. Nothing is ever completely yin or yang, but a combination of the two. These two principles are always interacting, opposing, and influencing each other. The goal of Chinese medicine is not to eliminate either yin or yang, but to allow the two to balance each other and exist harmoniously together. For instance, if a person suffers from symptoms of high blood pressure, the Chinese system would say that the heart organ might have too much yang, and would recommend methods either to reduce the yang or to increase the yin of the heart, depending on the other symptoms and organs in the body. Thus, acupuncture therapies seek to either increase or reduce yang, or increase or reduce yin in particular regions of the body.
CHI. Another fundamental concept of Chinese medicine is that of chi (pronounced chee, also spelled qi). Chi is the fundamental life energy of the universe. It is invisible and is found in the environment in the air, water, food and sunlight. In the body, it is the invisible vital force that creates and animates life. We are all born with inherited amounts of chi, and we also get acquired chi from the food we eat and the air we breathe. The level and quality of a person’s chi also depends on the state of physical, mental and emotional balance. Chi travels through the body along channels called meridians.
THE ORGAN SYSTEM. In the Chinese system, there are twelve main organs: the lung, large intestine, stomach, spleen, heart, small intestine, urinary bladder, kidney, liver, gallbladder, pericardium, and the “triple warmer,” which represents the entire torso region. Each organ has chi energy associated with it, and each organ interacts with particular emotions on the mental level. As there are twelve organs, there are twelve types of chi which can move through the body, and these move through twelve main channels or meridians. Chinese doctors connect symptoms to organs. That is, symptoms are caused by yin/yang imbalances in one or more organs, or by an unhealthy flow of chi to or from one organ to another. Each organ has a different profile of symptoms it can manifest.
THE FIVE ELEMENTS. Another basis of Chinese theory is that the world and body are made up of five main elements: wood, fire, earth, metal, and water. These elements are all interconnected, and each element either generates or controls another element. For instance, water controls fire and earth generates metal. Each organ is associated with one of the five elements. The Chinese system uses elements and organs to describe and treat conditions. For instance, the kidney is associated with water and the heart is associated with fire, and the two organs are related as water and fire are related. If the kidney is weak, then there might be a corresponding fire problem in the heart, so treatment might be made by acupuncture or herbs to cool the heart system and/or increase energy in the kidney system.
The Chinese have developed an intricate system of how organs and elements are related to physical and mental symptoms, and the above example is a very simple one. Although this system sounds suspect to Western scientists, some interesting parallels have been observed. For instance, Western medicine has observed that with severe heart problems, kidney failure often follows, but it still does not know exactly why. In Chinese medicine, this connection between the two organs has long been established.
MEDICAL PROBLEMS AND ACUPUNCTURE. In Chinese medicine, disease as seen as imbalances in the organ system or chi meridians, and the goal of any remedy or treatment is to assist the body in reestablishing its innate harmony. Disease can be caused by internal factors like emotions, external factors like the environment and weather, and other factors like injuries, trauma, diet, and germs. However, infection is seen not as primarily a problem with germs and viruses, but as a weakness in the energy of the body that is allowing a sickness to occur. In Chinese medicine, no two illnesses are ever the same, as each body has its own characteristics of symptoms and balance. Acupuncture is used to open or adjust the flow of chi throughout the organ system, which will strengthen the body and prompt it to heal itself.
A VISIT TO THE ACUPUNCTURIST. The first thing an acupuncturist will do is get a thorough idea of a patient’s medical history and symptoms, both physical and emotional. This is done with a long questionnaire and interview. Then the acupuncturist will examine the patient to
find further symptoms, looking closely at the tongue, the pulse at various points in the body, the complexion, general behavior, and other signs like coughs or pains. From this, the practitioner will be able to determine patterns of symptoms which indicate which organs and areas are imbalanced. Depending on the problem, the acupuncturist will insert needles to manipulate chi on one or more of the twelve organ meridians. On these twelve meridians, there are nearly 2,000 points that can be used in acupuncture, with around 200 points being most frequently used by traditional acupuncturists. During an individual treatment, one to 20 needles may be used, depending on which meridian points are chosen.
Acupuncture needles are always sterilized and acupuncture is a very safe procedure. The depth of insertion of needles varies, depending on which chi channels are being treated. Some points barely go beyond superficial layers of skin, while some acupuncture points require a depth of 1-3 in (2.5-7.5 cm) of needle. The needles generally do not cause pain. Patients sometimes report pinching sensations and often pleasant sensations, as the body experiences healing. Depending on the problem, the acupuncturist might spin or move the needles, or even pass a slight electrical current through some of them. Moxibustion may be sometimes used, in which an herbal mixture (moxa or mugwort) is either burned like incense on the acupuncture point or on the end of the needle, which is believed to stimulate chi in a particular way. Also, acupuncturists sometimes use cupping, during which small suction cups are placed on meridian points to stimulate them.
How long the needles are inserted also varies. Some patients only require a quick in and out insertion to clear problems and provide tonification (strengthening of health), while some other conditions might require needles inserted up to an hour or more. The average visit to an acupuncturist takes about 30 minutes. The number of visits to the acupuncturist varies as well, with some conditions improved in one or two sessions and others requiring a series of six or more visits over the course of weeks or months.
Costs for acupuncture can vary, depending on whether the practitioner is an MD. Initial visits with non-MD acupuncturists can run from $50-$100, with followup visits usually costing less. Insurance reimbursement also varies widely, depending on the company and state. Regulations have been changing often. Some states authorize Medicaid to cover acupuncture for certain conditions, and some states have mandated that general coverage pay for acupuncture. Consumers should be aware of the provisions for acupuncture in their individual policies.

Precautions
Acupuncture is generally a very safe procedure. If a patient is in doubt about a medical condition, more than one physician should be consulted. Also, a patient should always feel comfortable and confident that their acupuncturist is knowledgable and properly trained.

Research & general acceptance
Mainstream medicine has been slow to accept acupuncture; although more MDs are using the technique, the American Medical Association does not recognize it as a specialty. The reason for this is that the mechanism of acupuncture is difficult to scientifically understand or measure, such as the invisible energy of chi in the body. Western medicine, admitting that acupuncture works in many cases, has theorized that the energy meridians are actually part of the nervous system and that acupuncture relieves pain by releasing endorphins, or natural pain killers, into the bloodstream. Despite the ambiguity in the biochemistry involved, acupuncture continues to show effectiveness in clinical tests, from reducing pain to alleviating the symptoms of chronic illnesses, and research in acupuncture is currently growing. The Office of Alternative Medicine of the National Institute of Health is currently funding research in the use of acupuncture for treating depression and attention-deficit disorder.

Training & certification
Medical acupuncture has evolved in America which uses traditional methods mainly as surgical techniques and pain management, and not as part of Chinese medicine overall. Medical acupuncture is performed by an MD or an osteopathic physician (DO). Currently 23 states allow only this type of acupuncture. Practitioners get their training as part of conventional medical school programs. As any MD can legally perform acupuncture, The American Academy of Medical Acupuncture (AAMA) was chartered in 1987 to support the education and correct practice of physician-trained acupuncturists. Its members must be either MDs or DOs who have completed proper study of acupuncture techniques. Address: 5820 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 500, Los Angeles, CA 90036, (323) 937-5514, http://medicalcupuntcture.org
For traditional acupuncturists, The National Commission for Certification of Acupuncturists (NCCA) conducts certification exams, promotes national standards, and registers members. Most states that license acupuncturists use the NCCA standards as certification. Address: 11 Canal Center Plaza, Ste. 300, Alexandra, VA 22314, (703) 548-9004, http://www.nccaim.org.
The American Association of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (AAAOM) is the largest organization for practitioners, with more than 1,600 members. Address: 1925 W. County Rd B2, Roseville, MN 55113, (651) 631-0204, http://www.aaaom.org.

Acupressure

2008-05-01T20:59:00.000-07:00

Definition

Acupressure is a form of touch therapy that utilizes the principles of acupuncture and Chinese medicine. In acupressure, the same points on the body are used as in acupuncture, but are stimulated with finger pressure instead of with the insertion of needles. Acupressure is used to relieve a variety of symptoms and pain.

Origins

One of the oldest text of Chinese medicine is the Huang Di, The Yellow Emperor’s Classic of Internal Medicine, which may be at least 2,000 years old. Chinese medicine has developed acupuncture, acupressure, herbal remedies, diet, exercise, lifestyle changes, and other remedies as part of its healing methods. Nearly all of the forms of Oriental medicine that are used in the West today, including acupuncture, acupressure, shiatsu, and Chinese herbal medicine, have their roots in Chinese medicine. One legend has it that acupuncture and acupressure evolved as early Chinese healers studied the puncture wounds of Chinese warriors, noting that certain points on the body created interesting results when stimulated. The oldest known text specifically on acupuncture points, the Systematic Classic of Acupuncture, dates back to 282 A.D. Acupressure is the non-invasive form of acupuncture, as Chinese physicians determined that stimulating points on the body with massage and pressure could be effective for treating certain problems.

Outside of Asian-American communities, Chinese medicine remained virtually unknown in the United States until the 1970s, when Richard Nixon became the first U.S. president to visit China. On Nixon’s trip, journalists were amazed to observe major operations being performed on patients without the use of anesthetics. Instead, wide-awake patients were being operated on, with only acupuncture needles inserted into them to control pain. At that time, a famous columnist for the New York Times, James Reston, had to undergo surgery and elected to use acupuncture for anesthesia. Later, he wrote some convincing stories on its effectiveness. Despite being neglected by mainstream medicine and the American Medical Association (AMA), acupuncture and Chinese medicine became a central to alternative medicine practitioners in the United States. Today, there are millions of patients who attest to its effectiveness, and nearly 9,000 practitioners in all 50 states.

Acupressure is practiced as a treatment by Chinese medicine practitioners and acupuncturists, as well as by massage therapists. Most massage schools in American include acupressure techniques as part of their bodywork programs. Shiatsu massage is very closely related to acupressure, working with the same points on the body and the same general principles, although it was developed over centuries in Japan rather than in China. Reflexology is a form of bodywork based on acupressure concepts. Jin Shin Do is a bodywork technique with an increasing number of practitioners in America that combines acupressure and shiatsu principles with qigong, Reichian theory, and meditation.

Benefits
Acupressure massage performed by a therapist can be very effective both as prevention and as a treatment for many health conditions, including headaches, general aches and pains, colds and flu, arthritis, allergies, asthma, nervous tension, menstrual cramps, sinus problems, sprains, tennis elbow, and toothaches, among others. Unlike acupuncture which requires a visit to a professional, acupressure can be performed by a layperson. Acupressure techniques are fairly easy to learn, and have been used to provide quick, cost-free, and effective relief from many symptoms. Acupressure points can also be stimulated to increase energy and feelings of well-being, reduce stress, stimulate the immune system, and alleviate sexual dysfunction.

Description
Acupressure and Chinese medicine
Chinese medicine views the body as a small part of the universe, subject to laws and principles of harmony and balance. Chinese medicine does not make as sharp a destinction as Western medicine does between mind and body. The Chinese system believes that emotions and mental states are every bit as influential on disease as purely physical mechanisms, and considers factors like work, environment, and relationships as fundamental to a patient’s health. Chinese medicine also uses very different symbols and ideas to discuss the body and health. While Western medicine typically describes health as mainly physical processes composed of chemical equations and reactions, the Chinese use ideas like yin and yang, chi, and the organ system to describe health and the body.
Everything in the universe has properties of yin and yang. Yin is associated with cold, female, passive, downward, inward, dark, wet. Yang can be described as hot, male, active, upward, outward, light, dry, and so on. Nothing is either completely yin or yang. These two principles always interact and affect each other, although the body and its organs can become imbalanced by having either too much or too little of either.
Chi (pronounced chee, also spelled qi or ki in Japanese shiatsu) is the fundamental life energy. It is found in food, air, water, and sunlight, and it travels through the body in channels called meridians. There are 12 major meridians in the body that transport chi, corresponding to the 12 main organs categorized by Chinese medicine.
Disease is viewed as an imbalance of the organs and chi in the body. Chinese medicine has developed intricate systems of how organs are related to physical and mental symptoms, and it has devised corresponding treatments using the meridian and pressure point networks that are classified and numbered. The goal of acupressure, and acupuncture, is to stimulate and unblock the circulation of chi, by activating very specific points, called pressure points or acupoints. Acupressure seeks to stimulate the points on the chi meridians that pass close to the skin, as these are easiest to unblock and manipulate with finger pressure.
Acupressure can be used as part of a Chinese physician’s prescription, as a session of massage therapy, or as a self-treatment for common aches and illnesses. A Chinese medicine practitioner examines a patient very thoroughly, looking at physical, mental and emotional activity, taking the pulse usually at the wrists, examining the tongue and complexion, and observing the patient’s demeanor and attitude, to get a complete diagnosis of which organs and meridian points are out of balance. When the imbalance is located, the physician will recommend specific pressure points for acupuncture or acupressure. If acupressure is recommended, the patient might opt for a series of treatments from a massage therapist.
In massage therapy, acupressurists will evaluate a patient’s symptoms and overall health, but a massage therapist’s diagnostic training isn’t as extensive as a Chinese physician’s. In a massage therapy treatment, a person usually lies down on a table or mat, with thin clothing on. The acupressurist will gently feel and palpate the abdomen and other parts of the body to determine energy imbalances. Then, the therapist will work with different meridians throughout the body, depending on which organs are imbalanced in the abdomen. The therapist will use different types of finger movements and pressure on different acupoints, depending on whether the chi needs to be increased or dispersed at different points. The therapist observes and guides the energy flow through the patient’s body throughout the session. Sometimes, special herbs (Artemesia vulgaris or moxa) may be placed on a point to warm it, a process called moxibustion. A session of acupressure is generally a very pleasant experience, and some people experience great benefit immediately. For more chronic conditions, several sessions may be necessary to relieve and improve conditions.
Acupressure massage usually costs from $30–70 per hour session. A visit to a Chinese medicine physician or acupuncturist can be more expensive, comparable to a visit to an allopathic physician if the practitioner is an MD. Insurance reimbursement varies widely, and consumers should be aware if their policies cover alternative treatment, acupuncture, or massage therapy.
Self-treatment
Acupressure is easy to learn, and there are many good books that illustrate the position of acupoints and meridians on the body. It is also very versatile, as it can be done anywhere, and it’s a good form of treatment for spouses and partners to give to each other and for parents to perform on children for minor conditions.
While giving self-treatment or performing acupressure on another, a mental attitude of calmness and attention is important, as one person’s energy can be used to help another’s. Loose, thin clothing is recommended. There are three general techniques for stimulating a pressure point.

Tonifying is meant to strengthen weak chi, and is done by pressing the thumb or finger into an acupoint with a firm, steady pressure, holding it for up to two minutes.
Dispersing is meant to move stagnant or blocked chi, and the finger or thumb is moved in a circular motion or slightly in and out of the point for two minutes.
Calming the chi in a pressure point utilizes the palm to cover the point and gently stroke the area for about two minutes.

There are many pressure points that are easily found and memorized to treat common ailments from headaches to colds.

For headaches, toothaches, sinus problems, and pain in the upper body, the “LI4” point is recommended. It is located in the web between the thumb and index finger, on the back of the hand. Using the thumb and index finger of the other hand, apply a pinching pressure until the point is felt, and hold it for two minutes. Pregnant women should never press this point.
To calm the nerves and stimulate digestion, find the “CV12” point that is four thumb widths above the navel in the center of the abdomen. Calm the point with the palm, using gentle stroking for several minutes.
To stimulate the immune system, find the “TH5” point on the back of the forearm two thumb widths above the wrist. Use a dispersing technique, or circular pressure with the thumb or finger, for two minutes on each arm.
For headaches, sinus congestion, and tension, locate the “GB20” points at the base of the skull in the back of the head, just behind the bones in back of the ears. Disperse these points for two minutes with the fingers or thumbs. Also find the “yintang” point, which is in
the middle of the forehead between the eyebrows. Disperse it with gentle pressure for two minutes to clear the mind and to relieve headaches.

Precautions
Acupressure is a safe technique, but it is not meant to replace professional health care. A physician should always be consulted when there are doubts about medical conditions. If a condition is chronic, a professional should be consulted; purely symptomatic treatment can exacerbate chronic conditions. Acupressure should not be applied to open wounds, or where there is swelling and inflammation. Areas of scar tissue, blisters, boils, rashes, or varicose veins should be avoided. Finally, certain acupressure points should not be stimulated on people with high or low blood pressure and on pregnant women.

Research & general acceptance
In general, Chinese medicine has been slow to gain acceptance in the West, mainly because it rests on ideas very foreign to the scientific model. For instance, Western scientists have trouble with the idea of chi, the invisible energy of the body, and the idea that pressing on certain points can alleviate certain conditions seems sometimes too simple for scientists to believe.
Western scientists, in trying to account for the action of acupressure, have theorized that chi is actually part of the neuroendocrine system of the body. Celebrated orthopedic surgeon Robert O. Becker, who was twice nominated for the Nobel Prize, wrote a book on the subject called Cross Currents: The Promise of Electromedicine; The Perils of Electropollution. By using precise electrical measuring devices, Becker and his colleagues showed that the body has a complex web of electromagnetic energy, and that traditional acupressure meridians and points contained amounts of energy that non-acupressure points did not.
The mechanisms of acupuncture and acupressure remain difficult to document in terms of the biochemical processes involved; numerous testimonials are the primary evidence backing up the effectiveness of acupressure and acupuncture. However, a body of research is growing that verifies the effectiveness in acupressure and acupuncture techniques in treating many problems and in controlling pain.

Training & certification
There are two routes to becoming trained in the skill of acupressure. The first is training in traditional acupuncture and Chinese medicine, which has many schools and certifying bodies around the country. The majority of acupressure practitioners are trained as certified massage therapists, either as acupressure or shiatsu specialists.
The Acupressure Institute provides certification and resources for acupressure practitioners. Address: 1533 Shattuck Ave., Berkeley, CA 94709, (800) 442-2232 or (510) 845-1059, http://www.acupressure.com.
The American Oriental Bodywork Therapy Association (AOBTA) certifies acupressure practitioners and has over 1,400 members. It also provides a list of schools and training programs. Address: 1010 Haddonfield-Berlin Road, Suite 408, Voorhees, NJ 08043, phone (856) 782-1616, email: office@aobta.org. ttp://222.aobta.org
The Jin Shin Do Foundation for Body/Mind Acupressure is an international network of teachers and practitioners. Address: P.O. Box 416, Idyllwild, CA 92549. phone: (909) 659-5707
The largest organization that certifies massage therapists, with over 40,000 members worldwide, is the American Massage Therapy Association. It also has a member directory and lists of training programs. Website: www.amtamassage.org.

Aconite

2008-05-01T20:51:00.000-07:00

Description

Aconite is the common name for any of 100 or more related species in the Aconitum genus. Two of the species, Aconitum napellus and Aconitum carmichaeliare used medicinally. The more popular remedy, Aconitum napellus, is a plant that grows in mountainous regions of Central Asia, Russia, Europe, and Great Britain. This perennial plant from the Ranunculaceae family grows to a height of 3 ft (1 m) and has dark green, glossy leaves and dark blue flowers.
Other names for aconite are wolf’s bane, monkshood, blue rocket, and friar’s cap. Wolf’s bane is a direct translation of the Greek word Lycotonum. The Greeks left the plant as poisonous bait for wolves or anointed arrows with the juice of the herb in order to kill wolves. The plant was nicknamed monkshood and friar’s cap because of the shape of the flowers.
The plant in its fresh form is highly poisonous. The poison comes from the toxic alkaloid aconitine. Aconitine is found in the whole plant but is mainly concentrated in the root. Symptoms of poisoning include tingling, numbness of the tongue and mouth, nausea and vomiting, labored breathing, a weak and irregular pulse, and cold, clammy skin. Even the smallest amounts of aconitine inside the mouth cause burning, tingling, and numbness. As little as 2 mg of aconitine can cause death in as little as 4 hours, which may be one reason why aconite is often chosen by people attempting suicide by poison. The Australian government has declared all species of aconite “unfit for human consumption.”

General use
Western herbology
Herbalists have used aconite as a medicine for hundreds of years. However, in ancient times the herb was known more for its power to kill rather than heal; it was often used in ancient Rome to commit murders.
The herb acts as a diuretic (a substance that promotes urination) and diaphoretic (a substance that causes sweating). Tinctures are taken internally to slow fevers, pneumonia, laryngitis, and acute tonsillitis. Liniments or ointments made from the herb are applied externally to relieve the pain of neuralgia and rheumatism.
Traditional Chinese medicine
Aconitum carmichaeli is used in traditional Chinese medicine. It is called Fu Zi (sometimes Fu Tzu) in Mandarin; in other parts of China and in Hong Kong it is known as chuan wou tou.. This herb is used to treat rheumatism, bruises, arthritis, acute hypothermia, diarrhea, and impotence. The herb is very hot and has a sweet, spicy taste.
The main function of Fu Zi is to warm the interior. It also works to restore collapsed yang, warm Kidney fire, warm the Kidney and Spleen, drive out the cold, warm the meridians, and relieve pain. Fu Zi is also used by traditional Chinese herbalists in conditions marked by deficient Kidney and Spleen yang or in conditions with early morning diarrhea or lack of appetite.
Aconitum carmichaeli also contains the toxic alkaloid aconitine. After cooking the herb, the alkaloid is converted to aconine, which is not as toxic.
This herb is poisonous. When it is properly prepared as recommended by a Chinese medicine practitioner, there are rarely any adverse effects. Chinese pharmacies do not sell raw, untreated aconite, as the plant should be dried and then brewed for long periods of time. There have been, however, cases of aconite poisoning reported in Asian countries, including some that ended in the patient’s death from heart arrhythmias. It appears that most of these cases are due either to the herbalist’s prescribing a larger dose of aconite than is needed, or to the patient’s attempting to prepare the remedy at home.
Homeopathy
Homeopaths prescribe aconite for conditions that come on suddenly as a result of grief, fear, anger, shock, or exposure to cold, dry wind. It is also recommended for people troubled by suicidal thoughts. The remedy is shortacting and is indicated at the onset of acute conditions such as croup, colds, cough, bronchitis, eye and ear infections, headaches, and rheumatism. This remedy is one of the best for measles, arthritis, and pneumonia when all of the symptoms are present. Aconite is also useful at the beginning of a fever, in early stages of inflammation, and following shock caused by an injury or surgery.

Preparations
Aconite is available as a homeopathic remedy or in dried bulk form, as an ointment or liniment, and as a tincture. Pharmacies, health food stores, and Chinese herbal stores carry the various preparations. They are also available as prescribed by a herbalist, homeopathic doctor, or Chinese medicine practitioner.
The whole plant is used in Western herbal medicine. The leaves and flowers are cut when the flowers are in blossom in June. The roots are collected after the stem has died off, usually in August. The root is dried before use while the leaves, stems, and flowers are used fresh.
The homeopathic preparation of aconite is created in the following manner. The whole plant—but not the root—is collected when the flowers are in full bloom and pounded to a pulp. The juice from the pulp is pressed and mixed with alcohol. The mixture is then strained and diluted. The final homeopathic remedy is created after the diluted mixture is repeatedly succussed (poundedagainst a hard surface to break down and mix the substance). The remedy is available at health-food and drug stores in various potencies in the form of tinctures, tablets, and pellets.
In traditional Chinese medicine, the aconite root is generally used in small amounts in combination with other herbs.

Precautions
If symptoms do not improve after the recommended time period, consult your homeopath or other healthcare practitioner.
Do not exceed the recommended dosage.
Use Aconitum carmichaeli only under supervision of a Chinese medical practitioner.
Aconite is poisonous and should not be consumed in its raw state. Persons who gather wild plants to eat should be very careful in identifying what they are gathering; cases have been reported of aconite poisoning in people who thought they were gathering “mountain chicory.”
Women who are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or who are breast-feeding should not use Aconitum carmichaeli.

Side effects
Symptoms of poisoning by the fresh aconite plant include tingling, numbness of the tongue and mouth, nausea, vomiting, labored breathing, a weak and irregular pulse, and cold, clammy skin. In cases of severe poisoning, aconite can produce extreme symptoms that include severe pain, convulsions, paralysis, confusion, seizures, and heart failure. The only established treatment for aconite poisoning is supportive; that is, there is no antidote.
Most liniments or lotions made with aconite for external use contain a 1.3% concentration of the herb. Use of these preparations must be limited to unbroken skin, as aconite can be absorbed through the skin and cause toxic symptoms. If a skin reaction occurs, use of the liniment must be discontinued immediately.

Interactions
When taking any homeopathic remedy, do not use peppermint products, coffee, or alcohol. These products will make the remedy ineffective.
Aconitum carmichaeli should not be used in those having a deficiency of yin, or coolness, or with signs of heat such as fever, redness, and agitation.

Acne

2008-05-01T08:38:00.000-07:00

Definition

Acne is a common inflammatory skin disease characterized by pimples on the face, chest, and back. It occurs when the pores of the skin become clogged with oil, dead skin cells, and/or bacteria.

Description
Acne vulgaris, the medical term for common acne, is the most common skin disease. It affects nearly 17 million people in the United States. While acne can arise at any age, it usually begins at puberty and worsens during adolescence. Nearly 85% of people develop acne some time between the ages of 12 and 25 years old. Up to 20% of women develop mild acne. It is also found in some newborns.
The sebaceous glands lie just beneath the skin’s surface. They produce sebum, an oily secretion that helps to preserve the flexibility of the hair and moisturizes the skin. These glands and the hair follicles within which they are found are called sebaceous follicles. These follicles open onto the skin through pores that allow the sebum to reach the hair shaft and the skin. In certain situations, the glands excrete excess sebum and it cannot be cleared from the pores efficiently. This happens, for instance, at puberty when increased levels of the androgen hormones cause overproduction of sebum. In addition, cells lining the follicle are shed too quickly and begin to clump together. The excess sebum combines with the dead cells and forms a plug, or comedo (also called comedones), that blocks the pore, which is not usually seen. When the follicle begins to bulge and show up as a small whitish bump mostly under the skin, it is called a whitehead. If the comedo opens up, the top surface of the plug darkens, and it is referred to as a blackhead.
Infection results when a plugged follicle is invaded by Propionibacterium acnes, a bacteria that normally lives on the skin, and possibly other microorganisms. The bacteria produce chemicals and enzymes that bring on inflammation. Pimples are the result of infected blackheads or whiteheads that rupture, releasing sebum, bacteria, dead skin, and white blood cells onto the surrounding tissues. Inflamed pimples near the skin’s surface are called papules; they are red and raised, and may be quite tender to the touch. The papules may become filled with pus, and are then called pustules. If the follicle continues to enlarge rather than rupture, it forms a closed sac, called a cyst, which can be felt as a lump under the skin. Large hard swellings deep within the skinare called nodules. Both nodules and cysts may cause pain and scarring.

Causes & symptoms
The exact cause of acne is mostly unknown. Sometimes when acne in women is due to excess male hormone production, it is diagnosed by an onset of the condition in adulthood; excessive growth of hair, especially in places not usual on a female, called hirsuitism; irregular menstrual cycles; and premenstrual flare-ups of acne. A 2001 study demonstrated that menstrual cycle does affect acne. Surprisingly, the study revealed that 53% of women over age 33 experienced a higher premenstrual acne rate than women under age 20.
Many alternative practitioners assert that acne is often related to a condition of toxicity in the intestines or liver. This may be due to the presence of bacteria such as Clostridia spp. and Yersinia enterocolitica, a low-fiber diet; a lack of friendly gut flora such as Lactobacillus spp.; an intestinal overgrowth of Candida albicans; and food allergies.
The interaction between the body’s hormones, skin protein, skin secretions, and bacteria determines the course of acne. Several other factors have also been shown to affect the condition:

Age. Teenagers are more likely than anyone to develop acne.
Gender. Boys have more severe acne and develop it more often than girls.
Disease. Hormonal disorders can complicate acne in girls.
Heredity. Individuals with a family history of acne have greater susceptibility to the condition.
Hormonal changes. Acne can flare up before menstruation, during pregnancy, and menopause.
Diet. Although they are not the primary cause of acne, certain foods may bring on flare-ups or make the condition worse.
Drugs. Acne can be a side effect of antibiotics, oral contraceptives, and anabolic steroids.
Personal hygiene. Use of abrasive soaps, hard scrubbing of the face, or handling pimples will often make them worse.
Cosmetics. Oil-based makeup and hair sprays worsen acne.
Environment. Exposure to oils and greases, polluted air, and sweating in hot weather can all aggravate acne.
Stress. Emotional stress may contribute to acne.
Friction. Continual pressure or rubbing on the skin by such things as bicycle helmets, backpacks, or tight clothing, as well as hard scrubbing of the skin, can worsen acne.

The most common sites of acne are the face, chest, shoulders, and back, since these are the parts of the body where the most sebaceous follicles are found. In teenagers, acne is often found on the forehead, nose, and chin. As people get older, it tends to appear towards the outer part of the face. Adult women may have acne on their chins and around their mouths. The elderly often develop whiteheads and blackheads on the upper cheeks and skin around the eyes. Inflamed lesions may cause redness, pain, tenderness, itching, or swelling in affected areas.

Diagnosis
Acne has a characteristic appearance and is, therefore, not difficult to diagnose. A complete medical history should be taken, including questions about skin care, diet, factors that improve or worsen the condition, medication use, and prior treatment. Physical examination includes the face, upper neck, chest, shoulders, back, and other affected areas. Under good lighting, the doctor can determine what types and how many blemishes are present, whether they are inflamed, whether they are deep or superficial, and whether there is scarring or skin discoloration. Blood tests are done when the patient appears to have hormonal or other medical problems. Stool tests
can be helpful in determining whether there is a bacterial or yeast overgrowth contributing to the condition. Food allergy testing should also be considered.

Treatment
Alternative treatments for acne focus on proper cleansing to keep the skin oil-free; intermittent fasting; eating a good diet; an elimination diet where the individual avoids alcohol, dairy products, smoking, caffeine, sugar, processed foods, and foods high in iodine, a mineral which appears to contribute to acne.
Supplementation with herbs that are blood cleansers or blood purifiers is recommended. These herbs strengthen the action of the liver and the kidneys, helping with detoxification and excretion. Dandelion root tincture (Taraxacum officinale) is recommended. Others include burdock root (Arctium lappa), also known as gobo, and can be purchased fresh at health food grocers or in Asian markets. It can be used either raw or cooked in salads, stir-fries, or other vegetable dishes. Burdock root tincture can also be used. Red clover (Trifolium pratense) makes a pleasant tea that can be consumed throughout the day. Milk thistle seed (Silybum marianum) can either be taken in tincture form or the seeds can be ground up and eaten in combination with hot cereal, granola, or other foods.
Other herbs useful in the treatment of acne include Echinacea spp. and goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis). Goldenseal is particularly helpful in clearing up underlying conditions of intestinal toxicity. Herbal remedies used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) for acne include cnidium seed, (Cnidium monnieri), and honeysuckle flower (Lonicera japonica). Supplementation nutrients, such as essential fatty acids (EFAs), vitamin B complex, zinc, vitamin A or beta-carotene, and chromium are also recommended.
Bowel toxicity may contribute to acne flare-ups, and should be addressed. Lactobacillus acidophilus and Lactobacillus bulgaricus should be taken in yogurt or in capsules to maintain a healthy balance of intestinal flora. Goldenseal can be used to kill toxic bacteria. Allergic foods should be identified and removed from the diet. Dietary fiber, such as oats and wheat bran, beans, fruits and vegetables and their skins, and psyllium seed, should be increased in the diet. The fiber will absorb toxins and carry them through the colon to be excreted.
In addition, those with acne may want to participate in movement therapy, such as yoga or t’ai chi, or begin an exercise regimen. The person may also consider stress reduction or meditation.

Allopathic treatment
Acne treatment consists of reducing sebum and keratin production, encouraging the shedding of dead skin cells to help unclog the pores, and killing or limiting bacteria. Treatment choice depends upon whether the acne is mild, moderate, or severe. Complicated cases are referred to a dermatologist, or an endocrinologist, who treats diseases of the glands and the hormones. Counseling may be necessary to clear up misconceptions about the condition and to offer support regarding the negative effect of acne on the physical appearance.
Topical drugs
Treatment for mild acne consists of reducing the formation of new comedones with over-the-counter acne medications containing benzoyl peroxide (e.g., Clearasil, Fostex), salicylic acid (Stridex), sulfur (Therac lotion), resorcinol (Acnomel cream). Treatment with stronger medications requires a doctor’s supervision. Such medications include comedolytics, which are agents that loosen hard plugs and open pores. Adapalene (Differin), the vitamin A acid tretinoin (Retin-A), and concentrated versions of salicylic acid, resorcinol, and sulfur are in this group. Topical antibiotics, such as erythromycin, clindamycin (Cleocin-T), and meclocycline (Meclan), may be added to the treatment regimen. Drugs that act as both comedolytics and antibiotics, such as benzoyl peroxide, azelaic acid (Azelex), or benzoyl peroxide plus erythromycin (Benzamycin), are also used.
After washing with a mild soap, the acne medications are applied alone or in combination, once or twice a day over the entire affected area of skin. It may take many months to years to control the condition with these medications. Possible side effects include mild redness, peeling, irritation, dryness, and an increased sensitivity to sunlight that requires use of a sunscreen.
Oral drugs
When acne is severe and the lesions are deep, oral antibiotics may be taken daily to reduce the spread of bacteria. Tetracycline is the medication most often used. Minocycline, however, may be more preferable because it has fewer side effects. Erythromycin and doxycycline are also used, and they also have side effects, including dizziness, photosensitivity, gastrointestinal problems, and darkening of the skin. Other possible side effects include allergic reactions, yeast infections, dizziness, tooth discoloration, and folliculitis. It is necessary for antibiotics to be used for up to three months to clear up the condition.
Isotretinoin (Accutane) can be used in cases of very severe acne, or if antibiotic therapy proves unsuccessful. It may clear up resistant cysts and nodules in up to 90% of people and prevent scarring. Some do require a second course of treatment before this happens, however. Although the medication can be quite helpful, women who might become pregnant should use it with care. Isotretinoin can cause birth defects up to a month after it has stopped being used. Therefore, strict attention is paid to pregnancy tests and contraceptive requirements for women of child-bearing age who take this medication.
The course of treatment with isotretinoin lasts about four to five months. If dosage is kept low, a longer course of therapy is needed. Isotretinoin is a strong medication. Side effects are very common, mostly dryness of the eyes, genital mucosa, and lips. Other effects may include increases in cholesterol, tryglicerides, and abnormal liver enzymes. Blood tests taken each month should be monitored during the course of treatment to ensure that the medication is not causing serious harm.
Anti-androgens, drugs that inhibit androgen production, are used to treat women who are unresponsive to other therapies. Oral contraceptives such as norgestimate/ethinyl estradiol (Ortho-Tri-Cyclen) have been shown to improve acne. In late 2001, a clinical trial demonstrated that ultra low-dose birth control pills (Alesse) prove as effective in treating acne as do pills with higher doses of estrogen. Improvement may take up to four months.
Other drugs, such as spironolactone and corticosteroids, may be used to reduce hormone activity in the adrenal glands, reducing production of sebum. This is the treatment of choice for an extremely severe, but rare type of acne called acne fulminans, found mostly in adolescent males. Acne conglobata, a more common form of severe inflammation, is characterized by numerous, deep, inflammatory nodules that heal with scarring. It is treated with oral isotretinoin and corticosteroids.
Other types of treatment
Several surgical or medical treatments are available to alleviate acne or the resulting scars:

Comedone extraction. The comedo is removed from the pore with a special tool.
Chemical peels. Glycolic acid is applied to peel off the top layer of skin to reduce scarring.
Dermabrasion. The affected skin is frozen with a chemical spray, and removed by brushing or planing.
Punch grafting. Deep scars are excised and the area repaired with small skin grafts.
Intralesional injection. Corticosteroids are injected directly into inflamed pimples.
Collagen injection. Shallow scars are elevated by collagen protein injections.
Laser treatments. Two types of laser treatments are proving effective in treating acne scars. Laser-treated skin heals in three to 10 days, depending on the treatment chosen.

Expected results
Most dermatologists now use a combination of therapies to treat acne, depending on the individual. Results of specific treatments will vary. Acne is not a serious health threat. The most troubling aspects of this condition are the negative cosmetic effects and potential for permanent scarring. Some people, especially teenagers, become emotionally upset about their condition, and this may contribute to social or emotional problems.
Acne is not considered curable, although it can be controlled by proper treatment, with improvement possibly taking many months. Acne tends to reappear when treatment stops, but it often spontaneously improves over time. Inflammatory acne may leave scars that require further treatment.

Prevention

There are no sure ways to prevent acne, but the following steps may be taken to minimize flare-ups:

Gentle washing of affected areas once or twice every day.
Avoidance of abrasive cleansers.
Limited use of makeup and moisturizers; with avoidance of oil-based brands altogether.
Oily hair should be shampooed often and worn up, away from the face.
A healthy, well-balanced diet should be eaten. Fresh fruits and vegetables should be stressed, and foods that seem to trigger flare-ups should be avoided.
The face can be washed gently, twice daily with a soap compounded of sulfur, Calendula officinalis, or other substances that are useful against acne.
Affected areas should not be handled excessively. Pimples should not be squeezed or prodded, as this may contribute to scarring, as well as spreading the acne lesions.
Emotional stress should be kept in check.

Acidophilus

2008-04-30T06:19:00.000-07:00

Description

Lactobacillus acidophilus, commonly referred to simply as acidophilus, is a friendly inhabitant of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. It, as well as some related strains of bacteria, is known as a probiotic. Probiotic organisms secrete enzymes that support healthy digestion. They keep the flora of the intestines and vagina balanced, and compete with some pathogenic organisms. When the probiotic population of the body is severely decreased, as can occur with treatment by many antibiotics, yeasts and harmful bacteria may take over and cause illness. Normal and healthy amounts of acidophilus can also be decreased by chronic diarrhea, stress, infections, and poor diet.
The species of Lactobacilli that inhabit the GI tract cause an increase of acidity. The bacteria do this by producing lactic acid from milk sugar (lactose). The increased acidity may promote the absorption of calcium, as well as of some other minerals. Lowered pH also discourages the growth of many pathogenic species of bacteria and yeasts. The hydrogen peroxide produced by the acidophilus also helps to suppress pathogens.
Acidophilus may function in the production of some of the B vitamins, such as niacin, pyridoxine, biotin, and folic acid.

General use
Yeast infections

Acidophilus may be used to reduce susceptibility to vaginal yeast infections, which are quite common. Symptoms including itching, burning, inflammation, and discharge occur due to an overgrowth of the yeast Candida albicans, which is part of the normal vaginal flora. Some women are more prone to yeast infections than others. Antibiotics destroy the normal probiotic flora, and may lead to yeast infections. High sugar levels are another predisposing factor. Diabetics, who tend to have high blood sugar, and persons who consume a processed diet that is high in sugar have more frequent problems with yeast as well. The hormonal states created by pregnancy or the use of oral contraceptives also contribute to yeast infections. IUD users can also have an increased rate of infection. In rare cases, Candida is sexually transmitted, and both partners may require treatment in order to control repeated overgrowth. Anyone who has AIDS or any other condition causing immunosuppression has increased susceptibility to Candida and other types of infections too. Acidophilus is one of the organisms that competes with Candida and decreases its population. Many studies have shown that oral and topical use (by douching) of acidophilus are effective to prevent and treat this condition.
Systemic candidiasis, or yeast hypersensitivity syndrome, is a condition that is not recognized by many allopaths. It is acknowledged by some practitioners of alternative and complementary medicine as a problem with broad-ranging consequences. This theory holds that some people have an allergic reaction to the yeast and/or its toxins, and that they can experience serious symptoms when the organism multiplies in the body to an abnormal degree. Fatigue, diarrhea, constipation, muscle pain, thrush, itching, mood changes, endocrine dysfunction, headaches, and tingling or numbness of the extremities are some of the symptoms that are reportedly associated with systemic candidiasis. A weak immune system may be more prone to allowing yeast to multiply, and large numbers of yeast can act to further suppress the immune function. Acidophilus, in combination with such nutritional supplements as essential fatty acids, is often recommended for the prevention and treatment of this syndrome.
Gastrointestinal disorders
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a functional disturbance of the lower intestine that can cause bloating, cramping, abdominal pain, diarrhea, constipation, and painful bowel movements. This condition is also known as spastic colon. One small study of the use of acidophilus to treat IBS showed more improvement in the treated group than in those who took a placebo. This is not conclusive evidence, but in view of the safety of the treatment and the scarcity of effective alternatives, acidophilus may be worth trying.

Traveler’s diarrhea is sometimes suffered by people who consume contaminated food or water in other countries. Some evidence shows that regular use of acidophilus and other probiotics may prevent this condition.
High cholesterol levels
Recent evidence suggests that consuming Lactobacillus acidophilus L1 can be effective in lowering blood cholesterol. The February 1999 issue of the Journal of the American College of Nutrition reports on two studies done at the University of Kentucky. Subjects who consumed the yogurt containing L. acidophilus L1 had cholesterol levels drop by 2.4% in one study and 3.2% in the other. Although the percentages are small, the effect on the risk of heart disease could be significant.
Immune response
A study published in the December 1998 issue of the Brazilian Journal of Medical and Biological Research found that acidophilus induced a nonspecific immune response in experimental mice. Acidophilus is sometimes recommended as an immune booster for people, although the effect has not yet been documented in humans.
Other uses
Acidophilus may possibly be helpful in the treatment of canker sores, fever blisters, hives, and adolescent acne. Its use has also been suggested as a preventative for colon cancer.

Preparations
Acidophilus is taken by mouth. It is available as powder, liquid, tablets, or capsules, and is also present in some types of milk, kefir, yogurt, and some cheeses. Frozen yogurt does not contain live probiotics. Check product labels to see whether live organisms are present. The bacteria are killed by pasteurization. Probiotic products are most potent when kept refrigerated. The potency of a given preparation is usually expressed as the number of organisms per capsule. A usual dose of acidophilus is 1–10 billion organisms, divided into three doses per day.

Precautions
People who are lactose-intolerant may also not tolerate acidophilus.

Side effects
The initial use of acidophilus may cause an increase in intestinal gas, which decreases with continued use of the product.

Interactions
Taking acidophilus in conjunction with some antibiotics, including ampicillin (Amcill, Ampicin) and amoxicillin (Amoxil, Novamoxin), can prevent the diarrhea that is sometimes caused by their use.

Abscess

2008-04-28T20:28:00.000-07:00

Definition

An abscess is a place of accumulation of the creamy white, yellow, or greenish fluid, known as pus, surrounded by reddened tissue. It is the result of the body’s inflammatory response to a foreign body or a bacterial, viral, parasitic, or fungal infection. An abscess usually dries out and resolves when it is drained of pus. The most common parts of the body affected by abscesses are the face, armpits, arms and legs, rectum, sebaceous glands (oil glands), and the breast during lactation.

Description

Most abscesses are septic, which means they are the result of an infection. Abscesses occur when white blood cells (WBCs) gather in response to an infection. They produce oxidants (for example, superoxide radical) and enzymes to digest the invading bacteria, viruses, parasites, or fungi. The infective agents are then broken down by the WBCs into small pieces that can be transported through the bloodstream and eliminated from the body. Unfortunately, the enzymes may also digest part of the body’s tissues along with the infective agents. The resulting liquid of this digestion is pus, which contains the remains of the infective agents, tissue, white blood cells, and enzymes.
A sterile abscess is one that is not produced by an infection. It is caused by irritants, such as foreign bodies or injected drugs, and medications that have not been totally absorbed. Sterile abscesses quite often heal into hardened scar tissue.
Common types of abscesses:

Boils and carbuncles. Sebaceous glands and superficial skin are the places usually infected.
Dental abscess. An abscess that develops along the root of a tooth.
Pilonidal abscess. People who have a birth defect involving a tiny opening in the skin just above the anus may have fecal bacteria enter this opening, causing an infection and a subsequent abscess.
Retropharyngeal, parapharyngeal, peritonsillar abscess. As a result of throat infections like strep throat and tonsillitis, bacteria invade the deeper tissues of the throat and cause a parapharyngeal or peritonsillar abscess. A retropharyngeal abscess is a result of something usually blood-borne, and not from a direct spread of tonsillitis. These abscesses can compromise swallowing and even breathing.
Lung abscess. During or after pneumonia, an abscess can develop as a complication.
Liver abscess. Bacteria, parasites, or amoeba from the intestines can spread through the blood to the liver and cause abscesses.
Psoas abscess. An abscess can develop in the psoas muscles, when an infection spreads from the appendix, the large intestine, or the fallopian tubes.
Butin abscess. Any blood-borne feeding off bacteria that stimulate pus production (pyogenic organisms). Can cause abscesses in possibly many sites.

Causes & symptoms

Many different agents cause abscesses. The most common are the pyogenic, or pus-forming bacteria, such as Staphylococcus aureus, which is nearly always the cause of abscesses directly under the skin. Abscesses are usually caused by organisms that normally inhabit nearby structures or that infect them. For example, abscesses around the anus may be caused by any of the numerous bacteria found within the large intestine. Brain abscesses and liver abscesses are caused by the bacteria, amoeba, and fungi that are able to travel there through circulation.
Symptoms of an abscess are the general signs of inflammation. Symptoms that identify superficial abscesses include heat, redness, swelling, and pain over the affected area. Abscesses in other places may produce only generalized symptoms, such as fever and discomfort. A sterile abscess may present as painful lump deep under the site of an injection. A severe infection may bring on fever, fatigue, weight loss, and chills. Recurrent abscesses may indicate undiscovered allergies or decreased immune functioning.

Diagnosis

A general physical examination and a detailed patient history are used to diagnose an abscess. Recent or chronic disease or dysfunction in an organ suggests it may be the site of an abscess. Pain and tenderness on physical examination are common findings. There may also be a leakage of pus from a sinus tract connected to an abscess deep in the body tissue.

Treatment
Bentonite clay packs with a small amount of goldenseal powder (Hydrastis canandensis) can be placed on the site of a superficial abscess and used to draw out the infection. Tea tree oil (Melaleuca spp.) and garlic (Allium sativa) directly applied to abscesses may also help to clear them.
Applications of a hot compress to the skin over the abscess will hasten the draining or the reabsorption of the abscess. Contrast hydrotherapy, using alternating hot and cold compresses, can also be used. Additionally, localized warm/hot soaks three to five times daily frequently brings an abscess to heal.
Homeopathic remedies that can be taken to help diminish abscess formation include belladonna, silica, Hepar sulphuris, and calendula. Also, acupuncture may be recommended to help treat pain caused by an abscess. In addition, vitamins A and C, beta-carotene, zinc, liquid chlorophyll, and garlic are useful as supportive daily nutrients to help clear up abscesses.

Allopathic treatment

Often, the pus of an abscess must be drained by a physician. Ordinarily, the body will handle the remaining infection. Sometimes antibiotics are prescribed. The doctor may often put a piece of cloth or rubber, called a drain, in the cavity of the abscess to prevent it from closing until all the pus has drained.

Expected results
Once the abscess is properly drained, it should clear up in a few days. Any underlying diseases will determine the overall outcome of the condition. Recurrent abscesses, especially those on the skin, return due to either defective/altered immunity, or staph overgrowth, where there is high bacterial colonization on the skin. The patient should consult a physician for treatment with which to wash the skin areas, and treatment to eradicate colonization.
If the abscess ruptures into neighboring areas or if the infectious agent spills into the bloodstream, serious consequences are likely. Abscesses in and around the nasal sinuses, face, ears, and scalp may spread the infection into the brain. Abscesses in the abdominal cavity, such as in the liver, may rupture into that cavity. Blood poisoning, or septicemia, is an infection that has spilled into the bloodstream and then spreads throughout the body. These are emergency situations where the patient needs to be seen by a physician as soon as possible.
It is important to take note that abscesses in the hand may be more serious than they might appear. Due to the intricate structure and the overriding importance of the hand, any hand infection must be treated promptly and competently.

Prevention

Infections that are treated early with heat, if superficial, or antibiotics, if deeper, will often resolve without the formation of an abscess. It is even better to avoid infections altogether by promptly cleaning and irrigating open injuries, particularly bites and puncture wounds.