Blood in Stool - 7 Reasons Found in the Colon

Blood in stool is often discovered with some perplexity, accompanied appropriately by exclamations of 'bloody' (not expletive). Dots of blood, scarlet red, stand out unmistakably on excrement. Maroon red blotches of blood besmirches the toilet tissue. Bright red spots of blood dribble into the toilet bowl or down the legs. Quite naturally, a sudden bout of fear causes our hearts to jump a beat or two.

No undue alarm is warranted yet as the hemorrhaging (technical word for bleeding) could be any one of 7 possible causes arising from the colon. Mindful attention to ensure early diagnosis and correct treatment will reduce any unsettling lifestyle changes as the best part of the 7 causes are treatable. Do not be unconcerned. Commence close monitoring. Without delay, consult your doctor if bleeding and pain lingers for more than a week.

Appropriate treatment following proper diagnosis can often quickly resolve the problem. More critically, blood in stool may be the consequence of some type of cancer.

Melena or Hematochezia

Hematochezia (maroon or bright red colored blood) or melena (black sticky or tarry stools) are two medical categorizations for the less technical term rectal bleeding. Whilst recognised as rectal bleeding as the exit is the rectum, the origins of the blood may be any of 7 causes in the colon (large intestine). Cancer, colon polyps, diverticulosis, Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, intestinal ischemia and peptic ulcer are the 7 known causes in the colon.

Colorectal Cancer

This is the third most frequent form of cancer on earth and the third most frequent reason for of cancer-related death with a fatality toll of around 640,000 annually. It is the reason why one should see a medical specialist for continual blood in stool.

Tumours in the colon, appendix and rectum are classified as colorectal cancer. Colonoscopy (visual inspection by micro-camera inserted via the anus) is the chief means of ascertaining colorectal cancer. Treatment focuses on surgical excision and chemotherapy. Timely discovery often leads to a total cure. Those over 50 and those with family history of cancers are classified under the higher risk group. Colorectal cancer is gender blind, affecting both women and men, with no conspicuous bias for either sex.

This next point bears taking note. Quite in contrast to what is reported elsewhere, colorectal cancer commonly produces occult (not visible to the naked eye) blood in feces i.e it is NOT a regular reason for visible blood in stool! According to the University of Michigan Health System, colorectal cancer does cause bleeding but special tests are requisite to confirm the presence of occult blood. Crucial accompanying symptoms to watch out for are diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain, weight loss, appetite loss and incessant fatigue.

Colon Polyp

Affixing on the walls of the intestines or the rectum, polyps are frequently benign and may be raised or flat. Those above 50 years of age and with a family history of polyps and colorectal cancer are prone to polyps. Contributory factors include lack of exercise, obesity, alcohol and smoking. It would seem that no one knows the real cause.

Whilst benign, polyps are usually excised during colonoscopy as they can become malignant. Polyps do not usually cause noticeable symptoms. But in others, blood in stool is present.

Diverticulosis

Pouches (diverticula) stretching from the colon wall is distinctive of diverticulosis. Diverticula growth is postulated to be a result of abnormal colon pressure, the causes of which are not entirely distinct. Contributory factors include deprivation of dietary fiber. If food gets embedded in diverticula, infection may set in leading to diverticulitis. Complications from diverticulitis can ensue if an infected diverticulum ruptures and disseminates bacteria to the abdominal cavity lining. The possibly deadly peritonitis can materialise.

Diverticulosis do not cause distinct symptoms in most people. Mild cramps, constipation and bloating are some noted symptoms. Yet others suffer more acutely, including nausea, vomiting and rectal bleeding as the most common symptoms. The peril of peritonitis emphasizes the need that blood in stool should first be examined by a doctor. A CT (computed tomography) scan is 98% efficacious in diagnosing diverticulitis.

Ulcerative Colitis

IBD or inflammatory bowel disease, under which colitis is classified, affects the large intestine (colon) and the small intestine. Inflammation by itself is a healthy bodily response to heal damaged tissue. Like a tap that must be turned off, inflammation sets off curing of injured tissue but must terminate thereafter or greater tissue harm may ensue. Ulcerative colitis is caused by ulcers which are erosion of the mucous membrane lining.

Apart from other symptoms, blood in stool is frequent. The risk of peritonitis from colitis is the key reason for diagnosing it as the cause of rectal bleeding.

Crohn's Disease

Crohn's disease is an auto-immune disease whereby the body's immune system provokes harmful inflammation by assailing the gastrointestinal tract. It can develop in any part of of the gastrointestinal tract, from the mouth to the anus. But it usually affects the small and large intestine (colon).

Smoking, genetic makeup and industrial environmental exposure are believed to be contributory causal factors even though definitive causes are unknown. The symptoms are blood in stool, abdominal cramps, severe bloody diarrhea, blood on toilet tissue or in the toilet bowl, fever and weight loss.

Often termed as granulomatous colitis, Crohn's disease can go into abeyance and happen again periodically throughout life. Currently, there is no known surgical or pharmaceutical solution for Crohn's disease. Early detection is important for efficacious control of the symptoms and checking recurrences.

Intestinal Ischemia

Ischemia is a suppression in blood supply to any part of the body. Dysfunctional arteries result in tissue damage due to the deprivation of blood nutrients and oxygen. Intestinal ischemia is the depletion blood supply causing inflammation of the large intestine; a result of blood clots, blood vessel constriction and general high blood pressure.

Symptoms include blood in stool, urgent and violent bowel movements, weight loss, nausea, diarrhea, abdominal pain and cramps, abdominal bloating and fever. Urgent medical attention is needed to rejuvenate intestinal blood supply if there is serious consistent pain. It may be crucial to surgically circumvent blocked blood vessels and remove blood clots and damaged tissue. To arrest clots and infections, respective medication includes anticoagulants and antibiotics.

Peptic Ulcer

An exceedingly painful ulcer, this is located in the gastrointestinal tract. An erosion of the mucosal membrane that is at least 0.5cm in diameter is an ulcer. Commonly mistaken to occur in the stomach, peptic ulcers are actually prevalent in the duodenum (initial part of the small intestine). Peptic ulcers are largely presumed to be caused by a bacterium that inflicts chronic gastritis.

Symptoms include blood in stool (melena), abdominal pain, bloating, nausea, appetite and weight loss, vomiting of blood and at the extreme, perforation of the intestine. This can lead to possibly deadly peritonitis and requires emergency surgery. Antibiotics and antacids can be used to cure milder cases.

Hemorrhoids

The above 7 causes is the rationale why rectal bleeding demands the skills of a medical doctor who can render a precise diagnosis. Appropriate treatment and medication, possibly including surgery, can accelerate the path to recovery.

Lest you be too distressed by the above narrated causes, blood in stool is most usually due to the relatively innocuous internal or external hemorrhoids.

Pau D'Arco A Natural Antibiotic & Powerful Anti-Fungal

We can be grateful to American Indians for a multitude of herbal and natural medicines. Pau d'arco has a been used as a medicine by the indigenous people of the rainforest. The Pau d'arco tree is a broad-leaf evergreen that grows to a height of 125 feet and produces violet colored flowers which accounts for it's often being called the "trumpet tree". It grows well in Peru and Argentina high in the Andes. It can be found growing in the low-lying areas of Paraguay and Brazil. It's use goes back in history to before the Incas. Pau d'arco tree was used to make hunting bows and as a medicine. It was observed by indigenous people that when the tree was alive and even after it was cut down, it never developed growth of mold, mildew, or fungi.

The Guarani and Topi Indians refer to the tree as "tajy, which means "to have strength and vigor" i.e. good health. Tribal medicine people peeled off the tree's bark in long strips. They then separated the inner and outer layers and used the inner bark to make healing teas. Pau d' arco has crystalline oxygen infused in it's inner bark, which is rich in iron, calcium, selenium, vitamins A, B-complex and C., magnesium potassium and sodium. These pau d'arco nutrients make give it antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal action which stimulates the immune system and fights disease. Indigenous people of South America have used pau d'arco for treating malaria, anemia, colitis, respiratory problems, colds, cough, flu, fungal infections, fever, arthritis and rheumatism, poor circulation, skin irruptions and sexually transmitted disease.

Lapachol, which is a photochemical, is present in the inner bark of pau d'arco trees has been documented as an effective natural medicine for use in treating abscesses and tumors. However, for it to be used to treat conditions such as cancer, the amount of lapachol, found in pau d' arco, required to provide and effective dosage, would be toxic if used as the exclusive treatment. It can however, be used along with other cancer treatments. Pau d'arco is given free by the Argentina government to cancer patients and also leukemia patients because of it's blood purifying qualities and because it has been know to reduce pain caused by cancer and it's treatment because of pau 'd arco's anti-inflammatory effect.

Pau d'arco contains selenium which is one of our body's natural defenses against yeast infections, vaginally as well as for topical skin treatment. It's antifungal action aids in the elimination of candida. Because of it's antifungal properties, it is useful for fighting fungi that promotes athlete's foot and other skin infections caused by fungi. It has also been shown to be effective in treating other infections such as tuberculosis, pneumonia, strep, and dysentery. Pau d'arco has a cleansing ability so is very useful for relieving intestinal infections, destroying parasites, and restoring colon health. A number of infection fighting substances known as napthoquinones seem to destroy certain disease causing bacteria, without destroying beneficial bacteria. This makes it an excellent natural antibiotic.

As a preventative, pau d'arco has been shown to help build our immune system with the stimulation of macrophages that fight disease. Pau d'arco has a high iron content that contributes to the elimination of wastes, the assimilation of nutrients and increasing oxygen supply to needed areas of the body. It helps improve hemoglobin and red blood cell corpuscles.. It therefore can be used for relief from chronic fatigue. Pau d'arco blood cleaning qualities makes it an excellent anti-allergy, anti-rhumatic, astringent, and cardiotonic. It is also often used to balance high blood pressure. It helps tone, balance and strengthen the heart. Pau d'arco helps to neutralize the poisons involving the liver which aids the liver in it's blood cleansing function.. By improving the health of our blood and it's flow we greatly increase the effectiveness of our immune system.

Pau d'arco is very useful in treatment and relief of colds, flu, herpes and hepatitis because of it's antiviral qualities. It therefore is an excellent alternative or synthetic prescription or over-the -counter cold and flu "treatments" that often only suppress symptoms without actually curing the cause or may carry the risk of unwanted, sometimes harmful, side effects e.g drowsiness, etc.

With our concern about the undesired side effects of prescription antibiotics i.e. destroying beneficial bacteria or becoming ineffective because of bacterial mutation, we can find in pau d'arco ,a powerfully effective natural antibiotic alternative. As is true of many natural health care remedies, pau d'arco has many general health care benefits beyond the specific intended purpose. For example, if we use pau d'arco for relieving a cold, we will also benefit from it's cleansing action of our blood and liver, fighting of yeast infection, elimination of intestinal parasites, etc. We an also benefit from it's general immune building properties while treating a specific health condition. Once again, we benefit from the experience and wisdom of indigenous people, as they discovered and developed the use of pau d'arco another of Nature's powerful gifts, a natural antibiotic.

Digestive System Disorders

The function of the digestive system is to take the food and liquids that we put into our mouths and then either turn them into nutrients and energy needed by the cells of our body, turning what the body doesn't absorb into waste products to be expelled by our body as bowel movements. Digestive system disorders happen when there is a faulty function during the process of digestion which prevents some part of the digestive system from working as it should do. There are many common digestive system disorders.

Colon and Rectal cancer is a malignant cell in large intestine, which consists of the colon and the rectum. Colon and rectal cancers share so many common features that they are referred to as the same cancer which is how the name colorectal cancer came about. Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of death by cancer in the U.S.A. If you have symptoms of colorectal cancer you should consult your doctor right away. Common symptoms include: a change in normal bowel habits, blood on or in the stool that is either bright or dark, unusual abdominal or gas pains, very narrow stool, a feeling that the bowel has not emptied completely after passing stool, unexplained weight loss, and fatigue.

Stomach cancer, or gastric cancer, affected approximately 21,700 Americans in their 60s and 70s in 2001. The risk factors for developing stomach cancer are increased by a diet that consists of eating large amounts of smoked foods, salted fish and meat, foods that are high in starch and low in fiber, pickled vegetables, and foods and beverages that contain nitrates and nitrites.

Diarrhea is watery stool, or an increased frequency in bowel movements, or both as compared to the normal amount of stool passed by the individual. Diarrhea can be short-term, which can be related to a bacterial or viral infection, or it can be long-term which is usually related to a functional disorder or intestinal disease.

Diverticulitis is an inflammation or infection which occurs in small pouches that bulge out in the colon. There is a tendency for these patches to catch and trap food particles, which can lead to infection.

Gas in your digestive tract is often caused by swallowing air or during the breakdown process of certain foods by the bacteria that is present in the colon. Everyone has gas, but if you have a gas problem it can be uncomfortable and certainly embarrassing to pass the gas.

Heartburn is what most of us get from time to time. Chronic, problematic heartburn is a digestive disorder called gastro esophageal reflux disease (GERD). GERD is caused by gastric acid that backs up from the stomach and into the esophagus, where it can burn sensitive tissue, and can lead to cancer.

There are several different diseases that fall under the category of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), all of which require a doctor for treatment. Ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease are two of these diseases. Ulcerative colitis can be difficult to diagnose because its symptoms are similar to other intestinal disorders and to Crohn's disease. Crohn's disease differs because it causes inflammation deeper within the intestinal wall and can occur in other parts of the digestive system including the small intestine, mouth, esophagus, and stomach. Crohn's disease symptoms can be different for each person. The most common symptoms of Crohn's disease are abdominal pain and diarrhea. Some people have bleeding in the rectum, which is the lower end of the GI tract, just before the anus, which can be serious and may not stop without medical help. Bleeding can lead to anemia, the loss of too many red blood cells. Anemia makes a person feel tired. People can also have weight loss, skin problems, and fevers. Children with Crohn's disease may develop and grow slower than most other children or they may not reach their expected full height.

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS, also called spastic colon, irritable colon, or nervous stomach) is a condition in which the colon muscle contracts more readily than in people without IBS. A number of factors can trigger IBS including certain foods, medicines, and emotional stress. Symptoms of IBS include abdominal pain and cramps, excess gas, bloating, and a change in bowel habits such as harder, looser, or more urgent stools than normal. Often people with IBS have alternating constipation and diarrhea. The primary causes for IBS include: eating a diet low in fiber, not drinking enough water or other fluids , not getting enough exercise, traveling or other changes in routine, eating large amounts of dairy products, being stressed, resisting the urge to have a bowel movement, overusing laxatives that, over time, weaken the bowel muscles, taking antacid medicines containing calcium or aluminum, taking certain medicines (especially antidepressants, iron pills, and narcotic pain medicines), and pregnancy.

Lactose intolerance is a condition caused by the lack of an enzyme called lactase, which is needed by the body to digest lactose (a sugar found in milk products). Adults and children can be affected by this intolerance. Digestive diseases or injuries to the small intestine can cause this intolerance. Individuals can experience different symptoms but the common ones are: cramping, bloating, gas, diarrhea, and nausea. The symptoms will worsen when milk products are consumed.

Stomach ulcers, or gastric ulcers, and duodenal ulcers are open sores or lesions found in the mucous membranes of areas of the body. Lifestyle, stress and diet may have a role in ulcer formation; however they are not the main cause of them. Scientists now know that ulcers are caused by hydrochloric acid and pepsin that are contained in our stomach and duodenal parts of our digestive system and that these acids contribute to ulcer formation; many stomach ulcers are caused by the bacteria H. pylori, and can be cured with antibiotics.

Constipation is the difficult passage of stools or the infrequent (less than three times a week) or incomplete passage of stools. Constipation is usually caused by inadequate roughage, or fiber, in the diet, or a disruption of the regular routine or diet. Constipation causes a person to strain during a bowel movement. It sometimes causes anal problems such as fissures and hemorrhoids. The body needs two types of fiber: soluble fiber (dissolves and acts like a sponge) and insoluble (does not dissolve and acts like a wisk broom). We have recently recognized the need for a third kind of fiber, macrofiber; macrofiber is not only insoluble, it is indigestible, and it carries water through the digestive tract with your food. We used to get a lot of macrofiber 100 years ago; we called it chaff, and a little dirt from the garden, and bug parts....

Structural disorders are those in which the bowel looks abnormal and doesn't work properly. Sometimes, the structural abnormality needs to be removed surgically. The most common structural disorders are those affecting the anus, as well as Diverticulitis and cancer.

Hemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels that line the anal opening caused by excess pressure from straining during a bowel movement, persistent diarrhea, or pregnancy. There are two types of hemorrhoids: internal and external. Internal hemorrhoids are normal structures cushioning the lower rectum and protecting it from damage by stool. When they fall down into the anus as a result of straining, they become irritated and start to bleed. Ultimately, internal hemorrhoids can fall down enough to sink or protrude out of the anus. External hemorrhoids are veins that lie just under the skin on the outside of the anus. Sometimes, after straining, the external hemorrhoidal veins burst and a blood clot forms under the skin. This very painful condition is called a pile.

Anal fissures are splits or cracks in the lining of the anal opening. The most common cause of an anal fissure is the passage of very hard or watery stools. The crack in the anal lining exposes the underlying muscles that control the passage of stool through the anus and out of the body. An anal fissure is one of the most painful problems because the exposed muscles become irritated from exposure to stool or air, and leads to intense burning pain, bleeding, or spasm after bowel movements.

Colitis is a condition that causes an inflammation of the bowel. There are several types, including infectious colitis (caused by bacteria), ischemic colitis (caused by not enough blood going to the colon), radiation colitis (after radiotherapy), ulcerative colitis (cause not known), and Crohn's disease (cause not known). Colitis causes diarrhea, rectal bleeding, abdominal cramps, and urgency (frequent and immediate need to empty the bowels).

Celiac disease is a condition of intolerance to gluten, a protein found in wheat, rye, and barley, and in some medicines. In people with celiac disease, the body's immune system reacts to gluten by attacking and damaging the lining of the small intestine. Eating foods containing gluten can produce severe abdominal pain. When the lining is damaged, the body cannot get the nutrients it needs. Over time, celiac disease can cause anemia, infertility, weak and brittle bones, and other health problems. Celiac disease tends to run in families.

Rapid gastric emptying, or dumping syndrome, occurs when undigested food empties too quickly into the small intestine. Early rapid gastric emptying begins either during or right after a meal. Symptoms can include nausea, vomiting, bloating, cramping, diarrhea, dizziness, and fatigue. Late rapid gastric emptying occurs 1 to 3 hours after eating. Symptoms include hypoglycemia, also called low blood sugar; weakness; sweating; and dizziness. Experiencing both forms of gastric emptying is not uncommon.

Smoking can harm all parts of the digestive system, contributing to such common disorders as heartburn and peptic ulcers. Smoking increases the risk of Crohn's disease, and possibly gallstones, which form when liquid stored in the gallbladder hardens into pieces of stone-like material. Smoking also damages the liver.

Many diseases of the colon and rectum can be prevented or minimized by maintaining a healthy lifestyle and practicing good eating, exercise, and bowel habits:

Eat to live, rather than living to eat. Choose foods that will nourish your body, the fresher the better; keep prepackaged foods and snacks down to a minimum; there are healthy snacks!

When you eat, stop, sit, relax, slow down, and chew well. Try not to overeat; many small eatings are much better for our digestive system than three large ones, especially if you also snack.

To get the most out of the foods you eat, it is best to avoid drinking lots of liquids 20-30 minutes before and after your meals. Drinking too much liquid with meals dilutes the concentration of hydrochloric acid and enzymes needed for proper digestion.

Find your best time of day to have a bowel movement, usually a half hour to an hour after breakfast or after lunch.

Eat all of your meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) at a predictable time each day. The bowel functions best when food is introduced at the same regular intervals.

Eat a high fiber diet.

Drink plenty of fluids, ideally 64 ounces a day or 8 glasses of water. Keep caffeine to a minimum; it is a diuretic which draws fluid from your colon and leaving your stools hard.

Exercise daily. Bowel function is helped most when exercise is at a consistent daily time.

It is generally accepted that you should take only a minute or so to empty your bowel. Never strain or hold your breath. Hemorrhoids can result from straining.

Avoid relying on laxatives and use them only when needed - ask your doctor or continence adviser for help.

Regular exercise, drinking plenty of water and eating plenty of fresh high fiber foods should keep your bowel healthy. Believe it or not, try chicken soup; it is not just a Jewish myth. Half a cup or so of chicken broth sipped with meals is a great digestive aid.

Disclaimer: The above article is educational in nature, and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. If you have a medical condition, please consult your physician.

Crohns Disease Diet To Gain Weight

If you are a sufferer, finding a suitable Crohns disease diet to gain weight can be a serious challenge. It is vital to stick to a nutritious diet and avoid any foods that seem to worsen the symptoms.

Until now no Crohns disease diet treatment has been proven effective for preventing or treating the disease and reliable dietary rules to improve a sufferer's symptoms have been difficult to find. Some people find that their symptoms can be made worse by drinking milk or alcohol, eating hot or fried food for example.

However, a new book written by Mark Anastasi offers a completely new approach. Instead of medication and fighting the symptoms, you start thinking about health and treating the cause.
This new holistic approach looks very promising and focuses on the modern human diet. For centuries our diet consisted of basic, natural foodstuffs such as water, seeds, nuts, grasses, herbs, roots, fruits, vegetables and cereals.

In our twenty-first century diet, sugar, sweets, biscuits, crisps, chocolate, cola and soft drinks, fats & oils, cigarettes and alcohol, pharmaceutical drugs, chemicals, pesticides, and preservatives have replaced many of these.

For those unfortunate people who are suffering from Crohn's disease, this new approach through dietary change may, at last, offer a long-term cure. Instead of treating the symptoms it may be better to treat the root cause.

Conventional medical research into the treatment Crohn's disease has also taken an interesting step forward due to work being carried out in the U.K. If a new theory being researched at the University College in London is confirmed then the widely accepted theory that an overactive immune system causes the damaging inflammation, could be turned on its head and that the opposite may be correct.

Their research suggests a weaker-than-normal immune response triggers the bowel inflammation that leads to Crohn's disease. If this is the case then they believe that the use of medications like the drug Viagra may prove beneficial in treating the bowel disorder by stimulating an increase in blood flow to the affected area.

This debilitating disease is often diagnosed in late teens or early twenties and can have a dramatic effect on the quality of life enjoyed by the sufferer. With no clearly definable cause and no absolute cure there is still much work needed. Statistics indicate that heredity plays a part in some 20% - 25% of cases and incidences are higher in some more isolated communities with higher levels of inter-marriage.

Earlier research carried out also indicated that a relative of the tuberculosis germ, Mycobacterium avium paratuberculosis, or MAP, might be implicated. This theory goes back to 1913 when a similarity between human Crohn's disease and the animal disease known as Johne's disease was highlighted.

In 1996 the discovery of a gene known as NOD2 was found to play a significant part in incidences of Crohn's in some people. Exactly what role this gene plays is still unclear, but it appears to play some part in disturbing the balance between intestinal flora and the immune system.

In conventional medical treatment of the disease, drugs are prescribed to control the disease, rather than provide the elusive cure. When severe flair-ups occur cortisone based drugs are used, but they do often cause severe side effects and should only be used for short periods. Biological agents that stimulate a particular part of the immune system are also being tested in a bid to replace steroids.

How to Create a Diet For Ulcerative Colitis

Creating a Diet for Ulcerative Colitis

If you are reading this chances are you have Ulcerative Colitis or you know somebody who does. The first thing I want to tell you is not to worry. Ulcerative Colitis can usually be treated so effectively through changes in diet and medications that the symptoms become extremely manageable. In fact certain medications could cause a remission that lasts for years. Medication is just one piece of the puzzle however. Diet also plays a very large role. Some say diet is the most important factor of all. That has yet to be proven but it is clear if you properly alter your diet for Ulcerative Colitis the symptoms can become much more bearable.

Whether you are taking medicine or not it is important to change your diet for Ulcerative Colitis. It will help you eliminate the foods that cause flare-ups as well as help you maintain proper nutrition. It may be a difficult undertaking at first but creating your diet for Ulcerative Colitis will be well worth it. It is a way for you to take control of your disease and regain power.

The general guidelines for Ulcerative Colitis diet:

Avoid dairy: Dairy is a food group notorious for causing gas which can be very painful when dealing with UC. Try reducing your dairy intake for a few days and see how you feel. This simple change can make a big difference. Additionally it is possible that you may be lactose intolerant which can cause many symptoms including diarrhea, abdominal pain and gas. People with Ulcerative Colitis are more likely to have food allergies so it is important that you seek the services of a dietician to determine your food allergies. Otherwise you will continue to unwittingly consume the foods that cause you harm.

Avoid greasy food: Greasy foods, such as fried food, or anything with a high fat content, can trigger Ulcerative Colitis symptoms. This includes abdominal cramping, diarrhea and gas. If you suffer from these symptoms after eating fried foods it's possible you are suffering from malabsorption, a condition in which fat is not easily absorbed and passes quickly through the intestine. If you believe this to be the case consult a dietitian.

Experiment with fiber: There are two types of fiber: soluble and insoluble. People tend to find that soluble fibers help with their symptoms while insoluble fiber exasperates them. Insoluble fiber can be found in many fresh foods such as fruits and vegetables. Since fiber affects different people with Ulcerative Colitis differently it's possible your body will only be able to handle a very small amount. It is important for you to experiment and find your personal quota.

There is no one-size-fits-all diet for Ulcerative Colitis

A large part of dealing with Ulcerative Colitis learning about your body. You must listen to it to figure out what you can and cannot eat. Everybody is different. What might be right for you may not be right for some. That's why the single most important part of developing a diet for Ulcerative colitis is maintaining a dietary journal. In your journal you should catalog everything you eat throughout the day as well as any flare-ups you have. This will help you form a correlation between certain foods and flare-ups so you can eliminate them from your diet. If you are not sure what foods are causing the flare-ups doctors recommend you try the elimination method. The elimination method is very simple. All you do is eliminate the suspected food from your diet while keeping the rest of your diet the same. If there is a noticeable decrease in flare-ups then that food is probably to blame. It is important to not make any other changes to your diet while implementing the elimination method or else you will not get accurate results.

The role of Supplements

It is difficult to maintain a completely balanced and nutritious diet for Ulcerative Colitis. That is simply the nature of the disease. Supplements are an important tool that will help you maintain a balanced diet. Without supplements it would be very difficult to maintain a completely balanced diet. It is important to note however that supplements are just that, supplements. They are not a substitute for eating healthy.

How Caffeine Can Affect Your Health

In a regular cup of coffee there are about 170 mg of caffeine and in decaffeinated coffee there are about 30/40 mg of caffeine.

On the stock market, Coffee is a 90 billion dollar industry but what is significant is that just in North America 85%+ drink 3 to 5 cups of coffee per day. A huge number of people are at risk for many of the issues surrounding coffee consumption.

Top Ten Reasons why you should consider switching to a "Healthy Coffee"

Top 10 Caffeine-Related Health Problems

Cardiovascular Problems

Caffeine increases your heart rate, elevates your blood pressure, and can contribute to the development of heart disease. Both decaf and regular coffee increase your cholesterol and homocysteine, the biochemical that science has linked to increased risk for heart attack. Caffeine is also linked to coronary vasospasms, the cause for 20% of all fatal heart attacks which kill otherwise perfectly healthy people.
Stress

Caffeine stimulates the excretion of stress hormones which can produce increased levels of anxiety, irritability, muscular tension and pain, indigestion, insomnia, and decreased immunity. Increased levels of stress from caffeine can keep you from being able to make healthy responses to the normal daily stress everyone is subjected to in their lives.

Emotional Disturbances

Anxiety and irritability are hallmark mood disturbances associated with caffeine consumption, but equally important is depression and attention disorders. Depression may occur as part of the let down after the stimulant effects of caffeine wears off. It may also appear during the recovery period after quitting caffeine while the brain's chemistry is readjusted. Caffeine rather than increasing mental activity actually decreases blood flow to the brain by as much as 30% and negatively effects memory and mental performance.

Blood Sugar Swings

Diabetics and hypoglycemics should avoid caffeine because it stimulates a temporary surge in blood sugar which is then followed by an overproduction of insulin that causes a blood sugar crash within hours. If you're trying to loose weight, this rollercoaster will actually cause weight gain since insulin's message to the body is to store excess sugar as fat.

Gastrointestinal Problems

Many people experience a burning sensation in their stomach after drinking coffee because coffee increases the secretion of hydrochloric acid leading to an increased risk for ulcers. Coffee, including decaf, reduces the pressure on the valve between the esophagus and the stomach so that the highly acidic contents of the stomach pass up to the esophagus leading to heartburn and gastro-esophageal reflux disease. With America 's high consumption of coffee, its no wonder the best selling over-the-counter drugs are the so-called antacids.

Nutritional Deficiencies

Caffeine inhibits the absorption of some nutrients and causes the urinary excretion of calcium, magnesium, potassium, iron and trace minerals, all essential elements necessary for good health.
Male Health Problems

Male Health Issues

Coffee is an irritant to the urinary tract and bladder. It is also a diuretic that aggravates conditions associated with frequent urination. Eliminating coffee and caffeine often relieves symptoms associated with frequent urination due to enlarged prostate glands.

Dr. Milton Krisiloff, M.D. has found that in the majority of cases, men can significantly reduce their risk for urinary and prostate problems by making dietary changes which include eliminating coffee and caffeine.

Female Health Problems

Fibrocystic breast disease, PMS, osteoporosis, infertility problems, miscarriage, low birth weight infants, and menopausal problems such as hot flashes are all exacerbated by caffeine consumption. Women on birth control pills are particularly at risk since they have a decreased ability to detoxify caffeine.

Adrenal Exhaustion

Caffeine consumption leads to eventual adrenal exhaustion which can leave you vulnerable to a variety of health disorders related to inflammation, autoimmunity, and fatigue.
Aging

Many people find in their forties that they can no longer tolerate the same level of caffeine consumption as they could in their twenties and thirties. The production of DHEA, melatonin, and other vital hormones start to decline and caffeine speeds up that downhill drop. Caffeine dehydrates the body and contributes to the aging of the skin and kidneys. It has been shown to inhibit DNA repair and slow the ability of the liver to detoxify foreign toxins.

Exhausted Adrenal Glands

Caffeine is a central nervous system stimulant. It causes the adrenal glands to secrete adrenaline, the hormone your body depends on in emergencies to elevate your heart rate, increase your respiration and blood pressure for a rapid flight-or-fight response. When you overuse stimulants, the adrenals become exhausted. If your caffeine sensitivity has diminished or you're one of those who claims you can drink 3 shots of espresso and go right to sleep, guess what? Your adrenals have given up responding. This means you have less resistance to stress, which leaves you vulnerable to health hazards such as environmental pollutants and disease pathogens

Severe Blood Sugar Swings

Caffeine forces the liver to release glycogen into the blood stream. The pancreas responds to the sudden rise in blood sugar by releasing insulin, the hormone which causes excess carbohydrates to be stored as fat. Within the span of an hour or two, the result is a sharp blood sugar drop resulting in a state of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). That's when you think it's time for another cup of coffee and the whole cycle starts up again.

Acid Imbalance

Over 208 acids in coffee can contribute to indigestion and a wide variety of health problems resulting from over-acidity associated with arthritic, rheumatic and skin irritations. Many people experience a burning sensation in their stomach after drinking coffee because coffee increases the secretion of acid in the stomach. Optimal health calls for an alkaline pH balance in the body.

Essential Mineral Depletion

Coffee inhibits the absorption of some nutrients and causes the urinary excretion of calcium, magnesium, potassium, iron and trace minerals, all essential elements necessary for good health. Women need to be concerned about osteoporosis as menopause sets in. Studies show that women who drink coffee have an increased incidence of osteoporosis compared to non-coffee drinkers. Men are not immune to osteoporosis either.

These are a number of health conditions for which doctors advise their patients to eliminate coffee and all caffeine from their diet.

Acid indigestion
Anxiety, irritability and nervousness
Candida or yeast problems
Colitis, diverticulitis, diarrhea and other irritable bowel symptoms
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and other auto-immune disorders
Diabetes or hypoglycemia (low blood sugar)
Dizziness, Meniere's syndrome or tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
Gout (Elevated Uric Acid levels)
Heart disease or heart palpitations
High blood pressure
High cholesterol
Insomnia and interrupted or poor quality sleep
Liver disease and gallbladder problems such as gallstones
Kidney or bladder problems including kidney stones
Migraines or other vascular headaches
Osteoporosis
Skin irritations, rashes and dryness
Ulcers, heartburn, and stomach problems such as hiatal hernias
Urinary tract irritation

IS THERE A HEALTHY COFFEE, BECAUSE I LIKE MY COFFEE?!?

Gano Healthy Coffee Products reduce the caffeine to about 7 or 8 mg per cup and give you the same energy boost without the health risks. De-caf Gano Cafe, Cafe Mocha and Tea, all blended with Ganoderma Mushroom extract, are available online at www.Healthy-Coffee-Shop.com. Ask for a free sample and try it for yourself.

Ulcerative Colitis Diet - Will Changing the Way You Eat Help?

Anyone who has Colitis knows in spite of what the Doctors tell us that Diet has a huge effect on our symptoms. Eating the wrong foods can make symptoms get much worse and may even trigger a full blown flare up. I've done loads of research in to diet, read loads of books and tried many different ways of eating in order to recover from my Colitis fully. The best type of diet I have found is a type of Paleolithic eating plan, which is basically eating in the same way as our hunter gatherer ancestors did. We evolved and thrived as humans over millions of years being hunter gatherers, and it is only in the last 10,000 years that our diet has changed.

Benefits of Paleolithic Eating

o It is how you are designed to eat, perfected over millions of years of evolution.

o It is highly nutritious and covers all major dietary components.

o A Paleo diet has been shown to be an anti-inflammatory diet.

o People with autoimmune diseases have been shown to get much better when they eat a Paleo diet.

o Your weight will naturally normalize to a healthy level for you.

o Insulin response is normalized and so you don't get energy dips in the day.

o It makes you feel great! Mood is improved and Energy levels are more even.

So how do you eat like Paleolithic Man did? Well its remarkably simple and easy to do. You can basically eat everything except for any Refined Sugar, Dairy, Grains, Beans or Potatoes. Thats the basics of it. When I first started eating in this way it helped my symptoms enormously, especially with wind bloating and stomach cramps. It also had a positive effect on my stool consistency and I now only need to go once a day. There are some additional adjustments to the basic Paleo diet which help even more for people with autoimmune diseases like Colitis. They are avoiding eggs, tomatoes and peppers.

A Book Review: Overcoming Arthritis - Holistic Treatments for Arthritis, Fibromyalgia, and CFS

As with other books I have reviewed (Iodine and Overcoming Thyroid Disorders), Brownstein provides his readers with valuable information regarding the nature of a number of related conditions including arthritis, fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome and others. He explains the various symptoms and underlying causes. Based on the particular underlying causes, he uses a combination of therapies including natural hormones, vitamins and minerals, allergy elimination, detoxification, diet and water.

One unique aspect of his approach to treating arthritis is that he has observed a connection between arthritis and infection. So in addition to a number of natural therapies, he may combine with them a low dose of antibiotics. He listed a number of diseases that he suspects of having an infectious etiology (cause): Rheumatoid Arthritis, Scleroderma, Fibromyalgia, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Gulf War Syndrome, Vasculitis, Reither's Syndrome, Hashimoto's Thyroiditis, Graves Disease, Polymyalgia Rheumatica, Polymyositis, Juvenile Arthritis, Sjogren's Syndrome, Lupus, Multiple Sclerosis, Crohn's Disease and Ulcerative Colitis. In addition, he lists 14 different infectious causes of arthritis.

From the Greek, arthritis means inflammation of the joints. Also a chronic disorder, fibromyalgia is a condition of poor sleep, muscle pain, stiffness and tender trigger points on the body. Those with fibromyalgia often have the diagnosis of other disorders including arthritis and chronic fatigue syndrome. Chronic fatigue syndrome symptoms include: impairment of short-term memory or concentration, sore throat, tender cervical or axillary nodes, muscle pain, multi joint pain without redness or swelling, headaches of a new pattern or severity, unrefreshing sleep, and postexertional malaise lasting more than 24 hours.

Brownstein tests his patients' hormonal levels (thyroid, adrenal, ovarian and testicular), for infection, nutritional deficiencies, heavy metal toxicity and allergies. Dr. Brownstein devotes two chapters on Natural Hormones and refers the reader to his own book, The Miracles of Natural Hormones.

In his chapter on diet, he talks of the macronutrients (fat, carbohydrates and proteins) and points out how Americans have become obese from the pyramid recommendation of low fat and high carbohydrate diet. (Now replaced with http://www.ChooseMyPlate.gov). While he does not agree with Dr. Barry Sears in every point, he recommends much of what he says in Enter the Zone. Brownstein also recommends Sally Fallon's treatment of dietary fats in her book, Nourishing Traditions.

Dr. Brownstein refers to a study that lists the food allergies that can cause arthritic symptoms (listed from most frequent to less frequent): Corn, Wheat, Pork, Oranges, Milk, Oats, Rye, Egg, Beef and Coffee. Environmental allergies include animals, pollens from trees, grass, weeds etc., chemicals and others. He uses NAET (Nambudripod's Allergy Elimination Technique) to diagnosis and treat allergies. It is a combination of applied kinesiology and acupuncture. I believe that allergies may result from consuming these foods or from ingredients used in the growth/production of these foods. There may be multiple reasons why this happens.

Further, Dr. Brownstein outlines general guidelines for nutritional supplements and ways to detox heavy metals. Truly, Brownstein's approach to arthritis and related conditions is holistic, in that it is comprehensive.

In addition to his own extensive medical practice and the data he has gathered over the years, he references other esteemed medical colleagues. In his chapter on Water, he recommends and quotes: F. Batmanghelidj, M.D author of Your Body's Many Cries for Water and ABC of Asthma, Allergies and Lupus. Further, he references Jonathan V. Wright M.D. who wrote the Foreword of this book and is author of numerous books. Throughout the book, Brownstein gives ample case studies to illustrate his approach. He also quotes Thomas Edison who said, "The doctor of the future will give no medicine, but will interest the patient in the care of the human frame, in diet and in the cause and prevention of disease."

Books mentioned in the review can be purchased on http://www.amazon.com.

History of Crohns Disease

Crohn?s disease, a disease belonging to the larger group of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), is named after an American gastroenterologist, Dr. Burrill B. Crohn. Crohn's disease initially came to be known as a medical entity when it was referred to by Dr. Crohn, Dr. Leon Ginzburg, and Dr. Gordon D. Oppenheimer in 1932. The first description of this condition was earlier made by the Italian physician Giovanni Battista Morgagni (1682?1771) in 1769, when he diagnosed a young man with a chronic, debilitating illness and diarrhea.

Successive cases were reported in 1898 by John Berg and by Polish surgeon Antoni Lesniowski in 1904. In 1913, Scottish physician T. Kennedy Dalziel, at the meeting of the British Medical Association, described nine cases in which the patients suffered from intestinal obstruction. On close examination of the inflamed bowel, the transmural inflammation that is characteristic of the disease was clearly evident. Abdominal cramps, fever, diarrhea and weight loss were observed in most patients, particularly young adults, in the 1920s and 1930s. In 1923, surgeons at the Mt Sinai Hospital in New York identified 12 patients with similar symptoms. Dr. Burrill B. Crohn, in 1930, pointed out similar findings in two patients whom he was treating.

On May 13, 1932, Dr. Crohn and his colleagues, Oppenheimer and Ginzburg, presented a paper on ?Terminal Ileitis?, describing the features of Crohn?s disease to the American Medical Association. This was published later that year as a landmark article in the Journal of the American Medical Association with the title "Regional Ileitis: A Pathologic and Chronic Entity." The JAMA article was published at a time when the medical community was interested in new findings. The findings were given significant recognition, while the Dalziel article in the British Medical Journal of 1913 was not. It is by virtue of alphabetization rather than contribution that Crohn's name appeared as the first author. This was the first time the condition was reported in a widely-read journal, and the disease came to be known as Crohn's disease.

Are You Breaking Down? Signs and Symptoms of Nervous Breakdown

Having a mental breakdown is a mental illness triggered by depression or anxiety and is faced by people worldwide. It is also termed as a mental breakdown. There are a lot of factors contributing to such a dilemma but social isolation is the major cause and is quite irreparable.

A person might feel one or more of the symptoms listed below simultaneously or in an exaggerated form depending from one infidel to the next, from one's mental stability and past history of mental disorders.

Symptoms of a Nervous Breakdown

1. Physical. A brain that is experiencing excessive stress like, feeling of lethargy, constant pains and aches is showing signs of a nervous breakdown. Skin feels scratchy and inflamed, lowered body resistance and repeated sensations of vomiting. Major gastric problems come about like stomach cramps, gastrointestinal ulcers, colitis and diarrhea over extended periods of time are indicative of a nervous breakdown.

2. Hostile behavior. An individual exhibiting signs of a nervous breakdown displays antisocial behavior like gambling, vandalism and alcoholism. Some might even use drugs as an escape to lessen the pressure, though not a rule.

3. Amnesia. Cases of short term memory loss like forgetting appointments and schedules, showing signs of confusion on the past order of events that describes amnesia, if left untreated leads to frustration, an added pressure to the brain, which results to rage and powerful displays of outbursts.

4. Delirium. People show signs of delusions and visualize hallucination by tasting, seeing, feeling and hearing things that are not there. They make have extreme cases of nightmares and are obsessed with terrors. Panic attacks, sleepwalking and morbid thoughts like harming or destroying other people, even committing suicide. Being very vain to the point of adoring oneself also is a person suffering from a nervous breakdown.

A person suffering from a nervous breakdown has a totally different personality from what he used to be. This absolute disruption of personality from a fixed normal and functional routine switches to a chaotic and disruptive lifestyle. They cry and feel sad the whole time; they have low energy levels that are why they feel desolate. They suffer from insomnia so they can't think

Straight and they have lost the will to find pleasure in mundane jobs. They feel insignificant and are very sad people.

Having a nervous breakdown is not a disease; they just need to be comforted a lot.

Herbal Remedies and Treatments You Might Want to Try For Crohn's Disease

Crohn's disease is a chronic inflammatory disease, which affects the alimentary tract, anywhere from the mouth to the anus. This inflammation can extend throughout all the layers of the stomach wall and can occur in patches, or in normal tissue. The exact cause of Crohn's disease is yet unknown, but many have recognized a link to stress and family history. Crohn's disease is a chronic disease for which there is no cure, but only treatments.

Diet is an important factor in Crohn's disease and with the right food and supplements, your body can begin to heal itself naturally, causing your Crohn's disease to go into remission for an extended period of time, sometimes even permanently. In conjunction with natural treatments from your Ontario chiropractor, and the right diet, together with natural herbs and supplements, your body may be able to heal itself naturally from this chronic disease altogether. Here are some natural treatments and supplements for the treatment of Crohn's disease.

Herbal and homeopathic remedies can be effective in treating symptoms of Crohn's disease and address the underlying causes of the illness, while aiming to restore the body's natural healing properties. They can help to restore harmony and equilibrium in the body, and provide a supportive platform to bring natural healing remedies into the affected body systems. These remedies will be specifically tailored by your Ontario wellness physician, to meet your specific needs, and to address specific symptoms.

Some examples of these herbal remedies used in conjunction with treating Crohn's disease include Filipendula ulmaria, Ulmus fulva, and Matricaria recutita just to name a few. These herbs may be recommended alone, or in combination with another, depending on the individual's specific health needs. These herbs can help to strengthen the digestive health of the patient, as well as decrease inflammation in the bowel walls. These herbs can be a natural option for the treatment of Crohn's disease, without all the dangerous side effects associated with prescription drugs and steroids currently used for the treatment of this illness.

Another herbal treatment that has shown to have success in treating Crohn's disease is green tea. Green tea has been well known for thousands of years for its soothing qualities as well as its miraculous healing properties. But only until recently, has green tea been used in the treatment of Crohn's disease. Green tea has natural anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce inflammation in Crohn's patients, as well as reduce pain and provide temporary relief. Green tea has also, in some cases, been found to ward off cancer with long term use, which can be a major concern down the line, with patients with Crohn's disease.

Ginko biloba has also been seen to have positive effects in the treatment of Crohn's disease, and other inflammatory-related illnesses like colitis, and IBS. Ginko biloba is particularly effective in treating inflammatory diseases like Crohn's because of it's rich antioxidant properties. These antioxidant properties help to clear out bacteria in the intestinal wall, reducing inflammation and pain associated with Crohn's disease. Consult your Ontario wellness physician for more information about herbal remedies and treatments available for Crohn's disease.

If you liked this article about an Ontario chiropractor, tell all your friends about it. They'll thank you for it. If you have a blog or website, you can link to it or even post it to your own site (don't forget to mention total wellness solution as the original source).

Ulcerative Colitis - Symptoms

Ulcerative colitis and crohn's disease both of which are disorders that come under the category of irritable bowel syndrome have certain common symptoms. The three most frequent symptoms are persistent diarrhea, abdominal pain and fever.

Ulcerative colitis is a disorder that is caused due to inflammation of the inner lining of the colon. It is one of the two disorders that fall under the irritable bowel syndrome with the other being crohn's disease.

The symptoms of this condition are similar to crohn's disease and hence, it is difficult to diagnose which disorder of the irritable bowel syndrome a patient suffers from unless detailed medical screening is done. Here is a list of symptoms, some of which are common to both these disorders. These symptoms are also likely to vary depending on the severity of the inflammation or the extent to which the colon is inflamed.

Recurrent diarrhea - Quite often patients refer to loose stools three or four times a day as irritable bowel syndrome. However, it is essential to diagnose the condition to receive proper treatment. Anyone suffering from recurrent diarrhea three or four times a day for several days on end should consult a physician and undergo the prescribed tests for diagnosis of ulcerative colitis.

Abdominal pain - Patients suffering from ulcerative colitis often suffer from cramping in the left side of their abdomen. This is one point of difference from crohn's disease where the pain is usually experienced in the right abdominal region. Persistent abdominal pain in left side warrants medical evaluation to diagnose or at least rule out the disorder.

Fever/fatigue - Since this disorder is caused by an inflammation in the body, a common symptom is fever that could either be mild or very high, but persistent. In some cases, patients suffering from ulcerative colitis could also experience constant fatigue, which is caused by the inflammation and aggravated by diarrhea.

These are the three most common symptoms of the irritable bowel syndrome. Additionally, there could be symptoms such as rectal bleeding, loss of appetite, and urgent need to pass stool after every meal. It is important to address the symptoms early as medication can help control the disorder. Common technique used for diagnosis of ulcerative colitis includes colonoscopy based on which a biopsy of the tissue is carried out. Certain other tests could also be prescribed. Once the physician is able to identify which disorder of the irritable bowel syndrome the patient suffers from and rules out crohn's disease, he can prescribe medication to control the inflammation.

Diarrhoea and Vomiting (D&V) - Some Common Causative Agents and Their Management (Part 3)

Antibiotic Associated Diarrhoea (Clostridium difficile Infection):

A history of any antibiotic therapy in the 6weeks prior to the onset of diarrhoea can be related to the finding of Clostridium difficile or its toxins in the stool.

This is a potent cause of diarrhoea and can produce life threatening pseudomembranous colitis.

This diagnosis is common in the elderly and treated often with metronidazole (Flagyl) for 10days.

Vancomycin may be used where the organism is unresponsive to metronidazole.

Cholera:

Aetiology & Epidemiology:

Cholera is caused by Vibrio cholera, a bacterium. Serotype 01 causes acute watery diarrhoea plus vomiting.

Following its origin in the Gangs valley, devastating epidemics have occurred, especially during large religious festivals.

Pandemics have spread worldwide.

The 7th pandemic due to the El Tor biotype began in 1961 and spread via the Middle East to become endemic in Africa.

In 1990 it surfaced in Peru and spread throughout South and Central America.

Since August 2000, there has been a massive outbreak in South Africa.

The El Tor biotype is more resistant than the classical vibrio and can cause prolonged carriage in about 5% of infections.

A new classical toxigenic strain, serotype 0139, established itself in Bangladesh in 1992 and started a new pandemic.

Mode of Infection/Transmission:

The infection spreads via the stools and vomitus of symptomatic individuals or through the much larger number of subclinical cases (asymptomatic carriers).

Transmission is through infected drinking water, foods contaminated by flies or through the hands of carriers.

The vibrio microorganism survives for up to 2weeks in fresh water and 8weeks in salt water.

Signs and Symptoms (Clinical Features):

Severe diarrhoea starts all of a sudden without abdominal pain or colic and is soon followed by torrential vomiting.

After evacuation of normal gut faecal contents typical "rice water" stools follow, consisting of clear fluid with flecks of mucous.

Classical cholera produces enormous loss of body fluids and electrolytes leading to intense dehydration with muscular cramps. Shock and oliguria develop but mental alertness remains.

Death from acute circulatory failure may occur rapidly unless fluids and electrolytes are replaced quickly. This is why the disease is more dangerous in children.

Improvement however is rapid with proper treatment.

It is to be noted however, that majority of infections cause mild illness, with slight diarrhoea and vomiting.

Occasionally, a very intense illness "cholera sicca" occurs, with massive loss of fluids into dilated bowel, killing the patient before typical gastrointestinal symptoms appear.

Diagnosis:

Clinical diagnosis is easy during an epidemic.

At other times, diagnosis is confirmed bacteriologically from rectal or stool swab cultures.

*Cholera is a notifiable disease under international health regulations.

Treatment/Management:

Quick, early restoration of the circulation by replacement of water and electrolytes is very important and is the key to survival.

Early intervention improves the prognosis.

Oral rehydration solution (ORS) is effective and safe where vomiting has been controlled by initial intravenous fluid therapy.

The addition of resistant starch to ORS reduces faecal fluid loss and shortens the duration of diarrhoea in adolescents and adults.

Total fluid requirements may exceed 50litres over a period of 2-5days. Ringer lactate is the best fluid for intravenous replacement.

Careful attention to fluid balance is especially important in children and they are prone to low blood sugar (hypoglycaemia) during the illness.

3-5days treatment with Tetracycline, or Doxycycline or Ciprofloxacin in adults and children helps to reduce the duration of excretion of vibrio and the total volume of fluids needed for replacement.

*Children should not be given Tetracycline because of discolouration of their dentition.

Prevention:

• Strict personal hygiene


• Clean drinking water (pipe borne or boiled)


• Proper food hygiene to deny flies access.


• Parental and oral vaccines provide limited protection (6months at most)


• In epidemics, mass single dose vaccination and treatment with Tetracycline are valuable.


• Public education, control of water sources and population movement are very important.


• Disinfection of discharges and soiled clothing.

Meticulous hand washing by medical personnel reduces danger of spread.

Using Baking Soda to Relieve Acid Reflux

Bad eating habits and eating the wrong types of food, are usually attributed to the large number of Acid Reflux Suffers. Acid Reflux, or Heart Burn, as it is more commonly known, is not a terminal condition. However, if it is left untreated, the condition may become chronic, which in turn may lead to future complications that can be dangerous for a sufferer. There are many types of over-the-counter (OTC) medicines available to help with Acid Reflux problems. Although most of them, offer only short-term relief, as they are designed to calm the stomach's acids on a short-term basis only.

One of the oldest known methods to relieve Acid Reflux, is with the use of Aluminum Free Baking Soda (Bicarbonate of Soda). Although at first the idea of using the kitchen sink cleaner to relieve an Acid Reflux problem may seem unappealing, it is actually one of the most safe and efficient substances that a human can use. Used correctly, Baking Soda will not only put a sparkle on the kitchen sink, but it will also neutralize the acid in the stomach in a more efficient way than if one of the many OTC medicines were used.

Baking Soda is completely safe to be consumed, and will give almost instant relief to any Acid Reflux Sufferer. Although commonly found in the home, Baking Soda is relatively unknown to many sufferers as probably being a better option to relieve Heart Burn than if Antacid tablets were used. Many of the foods that we eat do not get digested properly, and remain in the stomach. This in turn causes the acid in the stomach to rise through the esophagus, resulting in an unpleasant burning sensation in the chest, throat and jaw. Baking Soda neutralizes this acid helping to give the sufferer a sense of relief.

The correct amount of Baking Soda to use, to relieve the symptoms of Acid Reflux, is about one half of a teaspoon mixed into half of a glass of drinking water. The Baking Soda should be left to dissolve completely in the water for a few minutes before drinking it. It is then advisable to drink the water while standing, and stay standing for a couple of minutes while gently walking about. This will allow the gasses that are in the stomach to be released, once they have been neutralized. Much in the same way as when a baby burps after eating.

Although Baking Soda will relieve the symptoms of Acid Reflux in the short-term, it is not a permanent cure. However, many sufferers of Colitis who use Baking Soda on a daily basis as a means to control their condition, have also reported that when they eat in a responsible manner, they no longer suffer from Acid Reflux problems either.

The FMLA and Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and other functional digestive diseases are significant contributors to workplace absenteeism. IBS in particular is a pervasive disease with estimates placing the number of those affected at 25 to 55 million people in the United States alone. Though I do not suffer from a digestive disease myself, I have become familiar with IBS through the experiences of a friend who was facing termination from work due to chronic lateness. He came to me for legal advice on how to handle the situation. This prompted me to look into what legal protections may be available to someone having attendance issues at work due to the symptoms of IBS and other digestive diseases. I previously wrote on the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) with a special focus on digestive diseases.

The Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA) allows employees with a serious medical condition to take up to 12 weeks of unpaid but JOB PROTECTED leave in a 12 month-period. FMLA has several advantages to someone suffering from IBS, Crohn's Disease or other digestive diseases. First, although the leave is unpaid, the employee's position is protected while on leave. Second, the leave does not have to be taken all at once but may be taken intermittently, and even on an hour by hour basis. For my friend who had particular difficulty with getting to work on time due to the IBS flaring up most frequently in the morning, being able to take a hour here or there to cover lateness would obviously be a helpful protection. Third, all-too-important health insurance benefits are continued during the period of leave.

For an employee suffering with IBS to qualify for leave under the FMLA, there are several fact-specific criteria that must be met. First, the person's employer must be covered by the FMLA. All public entities, including Federal, State, County and Local agencies (including schools) are covered. In regard to private (e.g. non-government) businesses, an employer is covered so long as it employed 50 or more employees in 20 or more work weeks within either of the last 2 calendar years.

For the employee to be covered by the FMLA, he or she must have worked at least 1,250 hours within the last 12 months for his or her employer. The employee must also work at a location where 50 or more employees of that employer work within a 75 mile radius.

Finally, in order to qualify for Family Medical Leave, the employee's IBS or other digestive disease must meet the definition of a "serious medical condition" as defined in the FMLA. This means a condition which prevents the employee from working, and which resulted in an in-patient stay at a hospital or other medical care facility, or is the subject of ongoing treatment by a medical professional. The FMLA regulations also specifically recognize chronic health conditions that can qualify for leave. These conditions occur over a period of time and "may cause episodic rather than continuing periods of incapacity." This would certainly seem to describe the situation faced by most sufferers of IBS.

The reader should understand that the Family Medical Leave Act is a complex statute which is supported by voluminous and complex regulations. There are going to be rules, exceptions to those rules, and then exceptions to the exceptions. The entitlement to leave is a fact specific determination made on a case-by-case basis and there is the potential for confusion and/or conflict. If you feel you are being treated unfairly by your employer, or you have questions or concerns, I recommend speaking with an employment attorney to discuss your specific set of circumstances.

Ulcerative Colitis, the Bowel Disease of Chronic Inflammation

A chronic inflammatory bowel disease in which the inner lining of the large intestine (colon or bowel) and rectum become inflamed, Ulcerative colitis is a serious disorder which is characterized by recurrent episodes of abdominal pain, fever, chills and profuse diarrhea.

Ulcerative colitis causes both inflammation and sores, also called ulcers, in the lining of the colon and rectum. The ulcerated areas occur in the areas where inflammation has killed off the protective cells that usually line the colon. The inflammation and ulcers lead to pain, bleeding, and the hallmark symptom of profuse and nearly uncontrollable diarrhea.

The inflammation typically begins in the rectum and the sigmoid or lower colon. It may then spreads upward throughout the entire colon. However, except for the lower section, call the ileum, this disease rarely invades the small intestine. Other names for ulcerative colitis include proctitis, enteritis, ileitis and colitis.

Currently the cause is unknown, although many theories exist. Some researchers believe that it is hereditary; others believe that it is due to a bacteria or viral invasion, and still others believe it is a defect in the immune system in which the body's antibodies actually attack the colon.

The most common symptoms of ulcerative colitis are abdominal pain and bloody or pus-filled diarrhea. Other symptoms include loss of appetite, fatigue, weight loss, rectal bleeding, anemia, loss of body fluids and nutrients and fever.

Patients may also experience joint pain, rashes, skin lesions, and abscesses. Typically the onset of ulcerative colitis is gradual. However, in some cases the onset can be rather severe with the diarrhea and bleeding being much more significant. Because many of these symptoms can mimic other disorders it is important to see your physician so that an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment can begin.

There is currently no known cure for ulcerative colitis except for removal of the colon. Some helpful treatments include medications such as steroids designed to control or lessen the inflammation of the colon can help to improve the diarrhea and cramping. Antibiotics may also be used to help control the disorder.

Other medications may be used to control the pain and diarrhea of ulcerative colitis. Dietary changes can also help. For example, during an acute attack of ulcerative colitis, your physician may suggest that you avoid milk, milk products and bulky, heavy fiber foods.

A healthy diet with sufficient calories and adequate protein will help in overall well being. Hospitalization may be necessary in order to correct malnutrition, dehydration or mineral imbalances and to stop the diarrhea.

Surgery may also be required for difficult cases of ulcerative colitis. In cases of excessive bleeding, a perforation of the colon or even a debilitating lifestyle impact from the disease may all be appropriate reasons for surgery to remove the colon. Surgery is generally looked to as a last resort option after all other treatment options have failed.

Ulcerative colitis mimics several other bowel disorders and must be aggressively managed in order to avoid long term damage to the colon and a significant impact on the overall health of the sufferer.

Talk with your physician today and determine the best and most aggressive course of treatment for your disease.

Fistulizing Crohns Disease

Fistulizing crohn usually happens around the anal area. It's normally the first sign to manifest as a sign of crohn's disease. Patients are known to experience pus, stool and drainage of mucus from this opening. Fistula creates tunnels from places affected by ulceration to the surface of the organ or the surface of a nearby skin. It also forms between parts of the intestine and another organ.

Organs affected include the bladder, vagina and the skin. These abnormal connections allow the bacteria that normally live in the intestine to enter other areas of the body, causing potentially serious infections.This terrible illness occurs in 25 to 33% of people with Crohn's disease. Fistula can effect the quality of life of its victims. It's known to be one of the most troublesome aspects of crohn's disease and often requires surgery in most cases.

Symptoms of Fistulizing Crohn
Symptoms are dependent on the segment of the bowel involved. In some patients these fistulae do not cause symptoms but they can lead to malabsorption or dehydration, abdominal pain and bloody diarrhea. These symptoms vary depending on the location of the inflammation. Due to inadequate absorption of dietary nutrients, patients with fistula experience weight loss and nutritional deficiencies. Instances where fistulas causes no symptoms does not require treatments.

Fistulizing Crohn's Treatment

Treatment with medication is the first therapeutic option for people with fistulizing crohn. However, about two-thirds to three-quarters of people with Crohn's will eventually undergo surgery as part of the therapeutic management of their illness. Treatment of fistulas varies with the cause, location, size, and type. Some small fistulas resulting from injury heal on their own after a while.

Infliximab is approved for patients with fistulous disease. Other related drugs are being studied. This drug targets the inflammatory protein tumor necrosis factor (TNF).This protein is what causes inflammation that leads to fistula. Infliximab finds TNF in your bloodstream and removes it before it causes inflammation in your intestinal tract and which contributes to the formation of fistulas. Infliximab has been shown in research to reduce symptoms in patients and to heal fistulas over a limited period of time.

Infliximab Side Effects

All anti inflammatory drugs has side effects, including infliximab. Infliximab suppresses the immune system to enable it to control imflammation. In so doing patients experience weak immune system that makes them vulnerable to infections. Infections such as TB has been reported in patients using Infliximab over a period of time.

Crohn's Disease and Colitis - The Danger of Ignoring Symptoms

People with Crohn's Disease and Colitis can expect to live a normal life span. When properly diagnosed, sufferers can get help for these conditions. Although there is no medical cure at present for the diseases, individuals can learn to manage, control, and even eliminate their symptoms.

The danger surrounding Crohn's Disease and Colitis comes from ignoring the symptoms and letting them go untreated for an extended period. Symptoms can vary but include diarrhea, stomach pain, bloating, considerable weight loss, and often blood and pus in the stool. Untreated symptoms can lead to serious complications.

The Danger of Ignoring Symptoms

. Malnutrition

The longer a person with Crohn's Disease and Colitis goes without treatment, the more chance of severe malnutrition. If the body does not have the ability to absorb nutrients, it cannot function properly and will not repair itself.

. Anemia

Bleeding from the rectum can be a symptom of Crohn's Disease. This unpleasant symptom can also lead to anemia.

. Compromised Immune System

Untreated symptoms cause continuous damage. If a sufferer ignores symptoms, they can compromise their body's immune system. Many people with these conditions share specific abnormalities of the immune system. Ignoring one's symptoms continues to interfere with the ability of the immune system to protect your body.

. Blockage in Intestines

A thickening of the intestinal wall is the cause of blockages in the intestine. Thickening can be a result of scar tissue and swelling that narrow the bowel passage and impede digestion.

. Damage to Organs

Tears in linings, as well as lesions, can cause spillage. As a result, surrounding organs might be damaged to the extent that surgery is the only solution. Affected areas can also develop fistulas that lead to infections and damage to nearby organs. The bowel, anus, or even the surface of the skin can be harmed by these infections.

. Chronic Disease

Since Crohn's Disease and Colitis?is a chronic disease, ignoring the symptoms is an unwise move. Sufferers cannot go down to the doctor's office and get a prescription to rid themselves of the disease. There is no cure and the conditions will not just disappear on their own. ?

Yet sufferers can get to the stage where they live symptom-free and stress-free lives. People can manage (and even eliminate) the symptoms but they need to be proactive about their health. Many researchers are convinced that water fasts followed by a regular raw food diet will wipe out and heal Crohn's Disease and Colitis symptoms. Of course, individuals must always check with their doctor before they make dramatic changes to their diet or start intense fasts.

. Individual Health

Paying no attention to symptoms means that you are paying no attention to your health. Good health is priceless and it would be unfortunate if sufferers did not seek help. Different people can experience varied symptoms. In modern times, people can receive treatment for their individual symptoms. Do not ignore symptoms that are associated with Crohn's Disease and Colitis.

How to Find Valuable Advice From Another Colitis Symptoms Sufferer

When first diagnosed with colitis, the sufferer will be anxious to seek out advice to fill their knowledge gap and how colitis symptoms will impact on their health and everyday life. The normal source of this advice will be from their doctor and subsequent hospital consultant yet something is missing. Something very important indeed.

What they require to be aware of is that there is a valuable source of knowledge that any newly diagnosed sufferer cannot afford to miss. And the source of such knowledge is from someone who has experienced everything that the newly diagnosed person will most likely face in the future. It is through their fellow colitis sufferers that they must seek out the real life impacting answers which will make a difference.

It comes as no surprise that when colitis is newly diagnosed a quick solution for all the new problems and challenges soon to be faced will be sought. But there has to be a very quick recognition that the characteristics of the disease do not fit easily into the quick solution formula. There are unfortunately no ready made, easy black and white answers. The most important aspect of how to live with colitis is the fact that each person must seek out, by trial and error, what works and does not work for them individually. To compliment this, the basic care guidelines for effective colitis management must be followed.

One of the most asked questions with regard to living with colitis is the role of diet. To put it in simple terms, review then change your diet immediately. During periods of relapse it is very important to just snack but only when really hungry, which means eliminating meals. Don't forget, no roughage in the diet or anything that will antagonise the bowel. In fact, if symptoms are being experienced, the best course of action is no or very little plain food. Take medicated drinks as a substitute for food as they contain all minerals and supplements required. You will loose weight but that is not the problem facing you. Maintaining a healthy diet does not matter when symptoms are being experienced. Would you rather accept taking small snacks of bland and boring food or alternatively a dozen trips to the toilet in a two hour period? Remember, there is always a choice to be made.

Don't forget that you must give your body a chance to find a way of controlling the disease. During the first few years of diagnosis surgery for colitis is not the answer. It has to be faced up to, surgery is complicated, difficult and ultimately, irreversible. All energies require concentrating on testing, varying, trying, eliminating and finding what works for you. Get back into remission then find out how your body adapts to normal life again. Then experience going back into a relapse in order for you to experience this before any thoughts of surgery arise.

Nobody said it is going to be easy dealing with colitis symptoms. Yet with an acceptance that the diagnosis has happened and with a mind receptive to using knowledge from those who have experienced colitis, the sufferer can create an effective colitis management plan to reduce the impact colitis has on their life.

How To Cure Candida Albicans Naturally

Candida Albicans is a type of parasitic yeast-like fungus that inhabits the intestines, genital tract, mouth, esophagus and throat. Normally this fungus lives in healthy balance with the other bacteria and yeasts in the body, however, certain conditions can cause it to multiply weakening the immune system and causing the infection known as Candidiasis. When Candida infects the vagina it results in Vaginitis characterized by large amounts of white, cheesy discharge and intense itching and burning.

When the fungus infects the oral cavity, white sores may form on the tongue, gums and inside the cheeks. In a baby, the white spots of oral thrush may resemble milk spots. It is most common in babies and in persons with compromised immune symptoms. Virtually all people with AIDS have some type of fungal infection. Anyone who has been on long term antibiotic therapy, or has taken antibiotics often, probably has an overgrowth of Candida somewhere in the body. Antibiotics weaken the immune system and also destroy the "friendly" bacteria that normally keep Candida under control. As Candida spreads the fungus releases toxins that weaken the immune system further.

Symptoms:

Constipation, diarrhea, colitis, abdominal pain, headaches, bad breath, impotence, memory loss, canker sores, muscle and joint pain, sore throat, nagging cough, acne, night sweats, burning tongue, and white spots on the tongue and in the mouth

Recommendations:

• Raw, organic garlic inhibits and destroys Candida Albicans. Two separate studies showed that that garlic inhibited the growth of candida albicans in vitro. Appl Environ Microbiol, 53(3), march 1987, p. 615-617. AND Antimicrob Agents Chemother, 30(3), September 1986, p.499-501


• Eat plenty of raw vegetables and gluten-free grains such as brown rice and millet. See foods that heal.


• Drink distilled water only.


• To prevent re-infection, replace your toothbrush every 30 days and wear white cotton underwear as synthetic fibers lead to increased perspiration which creates a hospitable environment for Candida.


• Herbal colon formulas may be helpful in cleansing the intestinal tract which can help eliminate a yeast infection. If interested, click here to take a look at a high quality colon cleanse.


• If you have chronic and/or unusually persistent Candida infections, consult your healthcare provider.

Things to Avoid:

• Avoid foods that destroy, including aged cheeses, alcohol, baked goods, chocolate, dried fruits, ham, pickles, soy sauce, raw mushrooms, and nut butters.


• Eliminate citrus and acidic fruits such as orange, grapefruit, lemon, tomato and limes from your diet for one month.

References:

1) James F. Balch, M.D, Phyllis A. Balch, C.N.C, "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," (1997)

2) S. yoshida, et al., "Antifungal Activity of Ajoene Derived from Garlic," Appl Environ Microbiol, 53(3), march 1987, p. 615-617.

3) M. Adetumbi, et al., "Allium Satvium (garlic) Inhibits Lipid Synthesis by Candida Albicans," Antimicrob Agents Chemother, 30(3), September 1986, p.499-501

Difference Between Wheat and Gluten Intolerance

Do you have wheat or gluten intolerance? Wheat is a staple and nutritious diet consumed by many people around the world. Is it possible to have wheat intolerance?

Many people do not realise that the underlying cause for some of their ailments like bloating, abdominal cramp, eczema could be due to wheat intolerance. Wheat intolerance occurs when the person does not have the digestive enzymes to digest wheat thus making the person feel unwell. The symptoms of wheat intolerance are often similar with other ailments and are often overlooked. Symptoms such as aching joints, bloating, flatulence, fluid retention, eczema and joint pains can be relieved with medical help and by eliminating wheat from our diet. Many people find it difficult to eliminate wheat as it is found in many food products.

Wheat are made into bread, noodles, pasta and pies which is a staple diet for many, it is also found in sauces, thickening agent, tin soups, sausage and more. Though wheat is one of the main problems for people who suffer from gluten intolerance, wheat intolerance is not necessarily linked to gluten intolerance. People suffering from gluten intolerance are sensitive to the gluten, a protein found commonly in wheat, barley, rye and oats. A person with gluten intolerance could develop a inflammatory condition called Coeliac (Celiac) disease.

Coeliac disease is an autoimmune disorder caused by a reaction to gliadin, one of the main proteins in gluten Coeliac disease is a lifelong inflammatory condition. It can affect a person at any age. You will be more susceptible to coeliac disease if it runs in the family. People with suffer from Type 1 Diabetes, thyroid problems and ulcerative colitis have an increased chance of developing coeliac disease. Diarrhoea, weight loss, fatigue are some of the common symptom of gluten intolerant. Poor absorption of iron, folic acid and vitamin B12 could give rise to anaemia. Consult your doctor if you have some of the symptoms or if you are worried about coeliac disease. Coeliac disease can be diagnosed through blood test which is test to check for anaemia and test to detect antibodies which are often found in coeliac disease.

Wheat and gluten intolerance can be controlled with a proper wheat/gluten free diet. There is many other type of food available to substitute the sensitive food. With a desire to feel better and careful planning, you can have a normal lifestyle.

Cancer of the Gastrointestinal Tract

Together cancer of the gullet, stomach, bowel and pancreas are the commonest group of cancers, especially in the sixties onwards but they do occur before then.

Cancer of the colon or rectum is the third most common cancer in men, causing about 8,500 deaths a year.

It is more likely if there is a family history of bowel cancer or in sufferers of ulcerative colitis. Cancer of the pancreas causes 8,000 deaths a year, especially in smokers and diabetics.

Cancer of the gullet or stomach affect an older age group and are more common in smokers.

The symptoms of bowel cancer are a change in bowel habit - for example, unusual constipation or persistent diarrhoea or blood in the motions.

Cancer of the gullet causes difficulty swallowing. Stomach cancer begins as persistent indigestion, upper abdominal pain and loss of appetite, possibly with vomiting of blood.

Pain or weight loss are features of more advanced disease of any of the above.

Cancer of the pancreas is notoriously difficult to diagnose early; it may cause a vague abdominal pain, jaundice - and weight loss.

Prevention

See a doctor if your bowel habit alters for more than two weeks without some good reason. Always take seriously any difficulty in swallowing.

Indigestion beginning for the first time above the age of forty-five should be investigated, even though stomach cancer is relatively uncommon until the sixties.

Never ignore persistent weight loss and loss of appetite.

Treatment

Surgical removal of early bowel and stomach cancers gives excellent long-term results; this is why you should not delay in having any suspicious symptoms investigated.

The outlook for cancer of the gullet and pancreas is much poorer; even so much can be done to relieve discomfort.

Understanding Crohn's Disease: Worse Than Most People Think but no Reason to Despair

The numerous medical details behind the ailment commonly known as "Crohn's Disease" are rather complex; especially to those of us who don't have dozens of years of clinical training in our professional past. In the simplest terms, Crohn's Disease results from an inflammation often located in the small intestine (a.k.a. "the ileum"). There is some strong evidence that suggests that this inflammation is caused by a virus. Though generally localized in the small intestine, this inflammation has the potential to adversely affect any area of the entire digestive tract. As a result, the bowels are constantly agitated and often compelled to empty, leading to diarrhea, discomfort, and pain.

Indeed, this is a very simple way of grasping the essence of Crohn's Disease, and to truly understand the details, a great deal of medical study and experience is necessary. Yet with this being said, there's one thing that can be concluded without hesitation; something that doesn't take years to study or grasp. For the millions of people who suffer from Crohn's Disease, their life is unfairly filled with pain, often constant discomfort, and a looming fear of being unable to control their bowel movements.

It's fair to say - in fact, it's an understatement to say - that people who suffer from Crohn's Disease are forced to dramatically change their entire lifestyle. Some people - and this is not dramatic at all - have been forced to quit their jobs, or cancel vacations simply because of the tremendous stress that the disease places on a sufferers physical and emotional health.

Treatment Options

The US National Institute of Health (NIH) outlines the treatment "options" that Crohn's Disease sufferers are often forced to choose from: drugs or surgery. The NIH also points out, very clearly, that according to them there is no cure for Crohn's Disease. As a result, pharmaceutical and surgical treatment methods focus on symptom management; they do not and cannot cure the disease. At the very most, they can mitigate some of the pain and discomfort; though, naturally, with the introduction of side effects that can adversely affect other biological systems, including emotional health. Some of the side effects include:

· nausea

· vomiting

· heartburn

· diarrhea

· headache

Drugs

The NIH points out that pharmaceutical remedies (for lack of a better word) containing the ingredient mesalamine are common prescribed to people suffering from Crohn's Disease. Mesalamine is an anti-inflammatory, and seeks to target the inflammation in the ileum. However, drugs containing mesalamine (such as Sulfasalazine) are not curative; they can not treat the inflammation. They can merely mask it to some extent. The body is still suffering and the problem still remains, but the drug controls some of the felt inflammation.

If the problem is more severely felt, some patients may be prescribed steroids (corticosteroids). These drugs, as can be assumed, lead to severe side effects if taken over a longer period of time, including those noted above. Steroids can also make a person more vulnerable to infection, which can thus expose them to additional health problems aside from the Crohn's Disease that they're trying to address.
Other drugs, such as Infliximab, have been approved by the FDA for those suffering from more severe Crohn's Disease. But it is not free from side-effects either and for the common Crohn's sufferer it is prohibitively expensive. And some people develop antibodies rendering its effect void.

Surgery

One of the most remarkable things about the human body is its regenerative properties; break some skin, and new cells rush to the exposed area. Break a bone, and immediately the body sends in reinforcements to start the healing process. Generally, this is seen as a wonderful - indeed mysterious - quality of the inexplicable intelligence of the human body.

Ironically, however, this is not always such a positive thing. For example, Crohn's Disease sufferers sometimes opt for surgery to remove the inflammed area of the ileum. Yet, remarkably, it often grows back in some other part of the intestine. In this light, surgical options for Crohn's Disease sufferers is not always a method of releving pain and suffering; it's a last resort measure to address an even more serious problem in the area, such as intestinal bleeding or the formation of an abscess. In such dire situations, surgery may take place; but it is only temporary, and done to treat the bigger problem. The Crohn's Disease remains.

Some Crohn's Disease sufferers also opt (or are persuaded to opt by their doctor) a surgical solution called a colectomy. A colectomy literally cuts off the entire colon, and body waste is expelled through a small opening near the abdomen. The fact that some people in the medical community consider this a "solution" - forcing people to wear a pouch around their stomach to collect waste that previously flowed through their (now surgically removed) colon -- is a testament to the fact that people with Crohn's Disease are not provided with the real solution that they deserve: one that actually treats the problem at the source.

Over-The-Counter Remedies

When comparing Crohn's disease to other ailments it might surprise that there exist only very few herbal products and over-the-counter medications for Crohn's disease. And most of these are just tablets containing vitamins or minerals which are meant to replenish any deficits which can result as a consequence of Crohn's disease. To some extent these products can alleviate secondary symptoms but they do not address the cause of the disease. Aloe vera products have been quite popular but by now the scientific community has debunked its efficacy except for skin related disorders.
The only herbal product on the market which is designed only for Crohn's disease is SedaCrohn. It is still relatively new on the market but reports from Crohn's sufferers are promising. SedaCrohn acts by two separate mechanisms. First of all it has immune-modulating properties which apparently are able to inhibit the inflammation. And secondly, perhaps more interestingly, it has proven antiviral properties and thus attack what many researchers believe is the underlying cause of Crohn's Disease: a virus.
As a consequence, many users of SedaCrohn report that their flare-ups have disappeared for much longer intervals or even copmletely after taking SedaCrohn for several months. If this is the long awaited natural relief remains to be seen.

Drugs, Surgery, or Natural Remedies?

The best way to deal with Crohn's differs from person to person. There is probably no way to avoid prescription drugs completely for all the time. But at the same time its certainly advisable to take one's fate in its own hand and try to find the dietary changes or natural products which work best for himself or herself.

Bleeding Hemorrhoids - The Solution

Many sufferers of hemorrhoids will not follow up their case of hemorrhoids until they are in a lot of discomfort, or are displaying serious symptoms - bloodloss is such a symptom. Bloodloss is indicative of a worsening condition, but it's in your best interests never to get to this point. This piece will explore the symptoms of bleeding hemorrhoids. (This is a common spelling but it should really be spelt 'Bleeding Hemorrhoids'). Blood loss is started by internal and external hemorrhoids alike. But what really creates this frustrating condition?

See below, for the the different symptoms leading up to blood loss:

The Different Faces of Piles/Notes:

1. Hemorrhoids spring to life generally as a result of your lifestyle - your eating choices, your daily activities and your general health. All of these factors culminate in the strain that is placed on your varicose veins - examples could be recently giving birth, your diet, your weight and whether your suffer from bowel problems (constipation).


2. These elements cause the veins to swell and grow into hemorrhoids - Can be either internal or external


3. With unrelenting pressure the vein expands so much that after forming into a hemorrhoid, it can't do anything but effectively 'explode,' thereby starting to bleed and become sore.

Most often, piles can be healed far before the point of bleeding. However, what can you do if you realise you have hemorrhoids after you begin bleeding? If you are that person don't be too concerned. Early symptoms of hemorrhoids can easily be mistaken as other concerns. 9 times out of 10, you'll be surprised to discover that hemorrhoids 'lurk in the dark' before letting you know they are there - usually with a jolt of pain. And if you're someone who quietly knew there was something not quite right but didn't have the courage to confront your doctor, also don't worry.

Natural Cures For Bleeding Hemorrhoids:

Choices For Cures/ Further Reading

• Comfrey - Comfrey is a popular herb that heals wounds and regenerates new cell growth.


• Mango Seed (Dried) - Not only is this great for you but it tastes delicious with honey. 1/2 gram is the ideal amount to have at once.


• Apple Cider Vinegar - You could do a lot worse than having apple cider vinegar with meals.


• Cotton Ball Douse In Vinegar - Apply this to lessen itching and burning sensations.


• Aloe Vera - Aloe Vera is an anti-inflammatory you can apply to the soreness for pain relief.


• Witch Hazel - Witch hazel is a also very good for inflamed areas of your body.


• Dry Figs - Drenching dry figs in water over night and consumed on an empty stomach in the morning is a good home remedy.


• Herbal Sitz Baths - If you was to try any ONE remedy for hemorrhoids I would recommend you to try this option - and I daresay your physician would too. Effective and well proven.


• Kegel Exercises - Age, surgery, pregnancy, being overweight and specific health conditions can cause muscles in your pelvic area to lose their form. Kegel exercises have been gaining in popularity as they build the muscles around the pelvic area. This leads to better urine retention and wards off hemorrhoids.


• Lastly, eat your fiber!

Other Approaches/Notes:

• Surgery - Surgery should always be the last option when it comes to curing hemorrhoids. For this article, surgery is too big of a topic to give it justice here.


• Creams/Ointments - These are often the first choice for people when they come down with hemorrhoids. Namely, because they are available over-the-counter and many don't require a prescription from your physician. Once again, this topic is fairly large but you can find other articles online easily enough if you wish to explore further.

Bleeding Detailed...

• Habitual Constipation - Constipation is a large factor for people suffering hemorrhoids. Over time the results can be compared to pregnancy, which I outline in just a minute. It boils down to excess physical stress.


• Giving Birth - As noted above, the culprit here is strain. There is always a lot of physical strain throughout child birth. However, Women have evolved to be able to cope with this kind of stress. But only up to a certain point. There are limits to what we can do and the birth of a child is one of natures challenges of putting us to the test.


• Little Exercise - I suspect that this is the main reason for people coming down with hemorrhoids in the first place. By the way, I'm not referring to that day you missed a trip to the track and field with friends. I would argue that unless you make daily exercise a part of your daily routine, it's benefits will be wasted on you. Enjoy it! It can be a lifestyle you've designed at work or it can be a habit you've developed in going to the gym 5 times a week. Whatever it is, it's so important exercise becomes a lifestyle for you, not just a one-off wonder.


• Bad Circulation - Bad circulation has more than one negative consequence. It causes pain in your fingers and toes, it slows down your reflexes, and your muscles deteriorate over time. Of course, poor blood circulation can also result in hemorrhoids but you can alleviate the issue with prescription drugs by seeing your physician.

Other Tips:

• Drink more water


• Wear clothes with plenty of give


• Stand up every now and then if you are sitting down for long periods of time; especially on the toilet. Being on the lavatory for a long time puts more pressure on the rectal veins than normal sitting - this increases the chances for piles!

Symptoms That Lead To Rectal Bleeding:

Problems/Explanation

• Veins (varicose) - Piles can be prompted by over-stressed varicose veins, as I've already explained.


• Inflammatory Bowel Disease - 1) Diverticulitis, the formation of intestinal pouches or pockets. 2) Colitis, pain and bleeding result from ulcers formed due to the eroding away of the rectal/colon wall.


• Celiac Disease - The small intestine is damaged leaving nutrient intake difficult.


• Fistulas - A fistula is an unusual relationship between two cell-lined vessels or organs that don't normally connect. The best solution to these is to change your eating habits but see your doctor first is there are any issues.


• Fissures - These are deep furrows within the mucous membrane of the innermost intestinal lining.


• Polyps - These are potentially cancerous growths within the body.


• Prolapses - External hemorrhoids and prolapses are one and the same. The varicose vein becomes set under so much strain it's retraction is lost and it dips to a level where you can actually see it in the flesh.

I won't be looking farther into these but if they concern you, a quick search on Google will find a wealth of helpful guidance. If you are on concerned with piles, however, focus your energies on varicose veins and prolapses alone. The best course of action for bleeding of an unknown kind is to see your doctor first and foremost.